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500 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``IDEA Full Funding Act''.
SEC. 2. AMENDMENTS TO IDEA.
Section 611(i) of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
(20 U.S.C. 1411(i)) is amended to read as follows:
``(i) Funding.--For the purpose of carrying out this part, other
than section 619, there are authorized to be appropriated--
``(1) $12,955,841,000 for fiscal year 2015, and there are
hereby appropriated, out of any money in the Treasury not
otherwise appropriated, $1,377,986,000 for fiscal year 2015,
which shall become available for obligation on July 1, 2015,
and shall remain available through September 30, 2016;
``(2) $14,497,834,000 for fiscal year 2016, and there are
hereby appropriated, out of any money in the Treasury not
otherwise appropriated, $2,919,979,000 for fiscal year 2016,
which shall become available for obligation on July 1, 2016,
and shall remain available through September 30, 2017;
``(3) $16,223,354,000 for fiscal year 2017, and there are
hereby appropriated, out of any money in the Treasury not
otherwise appropriated, $4,645,499,000 for fiscal year 2017,
which shall become available for obligation on July 1, 2017,
and shall remain available through September 30, 2018;
``(4) $18,154,243,000 for fiscal year 2018, and there are
hereby appropriated, out of any money in the Treasury not
otherwise appropriated, $6,576,388,000 for fiscal year 2018,
which shall become available for obligation on July 1, 2018,
and shall remain available through September 30, 2019;
``(5) $20,314,946,000 for fiscal year 2019, and there are
hereby appropriated, out of any money in the Treasury not
otherwise appropriated, $8,737,091,000 for fiscal year 2019,
which shall become available for obligation on July 1, 2019,
and shall remain available through September 30, 2020;
``(6) $22,732,813,000 for fiscal year 2020, and there are
hereby appropriated, out of any money in the Treasury not
otherwise appropriated, $11,154,958,000 for fiscal year 2020,
which shall become available for obligation on July 1, 2020,
and shall remain available through September 30, 2021;
``(7) $25,438,452,000 for fiscal year 2021, and there are
hereby appropriated, out of any money in the Treasury not
otherwise appropriated, $13,860,597,000 for fiscal year 2021,
which shall become available for obligation on July 1, 2021,
and shall remain available through September 30, 2022;
``(8) $28,466,114,000 for fiscal year 2022, and there are
hereby appropriated, out of any money in the Treasury not
otherwise appropriated, $16,888,259,000 for fiscal year 2022,
which shall become available for obligation on July 1, 2022,
and shall remain available through September 30, 2023;
``(9) $31,854,127,000 for fiscal year 2023, and there are
hereby appropriated, out of any money in the Treasury not
otherwise appropriated, $20,276,272,000 for fiscal year 2023,
which shall become available for obligation on July 1, 2023,
and shall remain available through September 30, 2024; and
``(10) $35,645,377,000 for fiscal year 2024, and there are
hereby appropriated, out of any money in the Treasury not
otherwise appropriated, $24,067,522,000 for fiscal year 2024,
which shall become available for obligation on July 1, 2024,
and shall remain available through September 30, 2025.''.
SEC. 3. FAIR SHARE TAX ON HIGH-INCOME TAXPAYERS.
(a) In General.--Subchapter A of chapter 1 of the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986 is amended by adding at the end the following new part:
``PART VIII--FAIR SHARE TAX ON HIGH-INCOME TAXPAYERS
``Sec. 59B. Fair share tax.
``SEC. 59B. FAIR SHARE TAX.
``(a) General Rule.--
``(1) Phase-in of tax.--In the case of any high-income
taxpayer, there is hereby imposed for a taxable year (in
addition to any other tax imposed by this subtitle) a tax equal
to the product of--
``(A) the amount determined under paragraph (2),
and
``(B) a fraction (not to exceed 1)--
``(i) the numerator of which is the excess
of--
``(I) the taxpayer's adjusted gross
income, over
``(II) the dollar amount in effect
under subsection (c)(1), and
``(ii) the denominator of which is the
dollar amount in effect under subsection
(c)(1).
``(2) Amount of tax.--The amount of tax determined under
this paragraph is an amount equal to the excess (if any) of--
``(A) the tentative fair share tax for the taxable
year, over
``(B) the excess of--
``(i) the sum of--
``(I) the regular tax liability (as
defined in section 26(b)) for the
taxable year, determined without regard
to any tax liability determined under
this section,
``(II) the tax imposed by section
55 for the taxable year, plus
``(III) the payroll tax for the
taxable year, over
``(ii) the credits allowable under part IV
of subchapter A (other than sections 27(a), 31,
and 34).
``(b) Tentative Fair Share Tax.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) In general.--The tentative fair share tax for the
taxable year is 30 percent of the excess of--
``(A) the adjusted gross income of the taxpayer,
over
``(B) the modified charitable contribution
deduction for the taxable year.
``(2) Modified charitable contribution deduction.--For
purposes of paragraph (1)--
``(A) In general.--The modified charitable
contribution deduction for any taxable year is an
amount equal to the amount which bears the same ratio
to the deduction allowable under section 170 (section
642(c) in the case of a trust or estate) for such
taxable year as--
``(i) the amount of itemized deductions
allowable under the regular tax (as defined in
section 55) for such taxable year, determined
after the application of section 68, bears to
``(ii) such amount, determined before the
application of section 68.
``(B) Taxpayer must itemize.--In the case of any
individual who does not elect to itemize deductions for
the taxable year, the modified charitable contribution
deduction shall be zero.
``(c) High-Income Taxpayer.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) In general.--The term `high-income taxpayer' means,
with respect to any taxable year, any taxpayer (other than a
corporation) with an adjusted gross income for such taxable
year in excess of $1,000,000 (50 percent of such amount in the
case of a married individual who files a separate return).
``(2) Inflation adjustment.--
``(A) In general.--In the case of a taxable year
beginning after 2016, the $1,000,000 amount under
paragraph (1) shall be increased by an amount equal
to--
``(i) such dollar amount, multiplied by
``(ii) the cost-of-living adjustment
determined under section 1(f)(3) for the
calendar year in which the taxable year begins,
determined by substituting `calendar year 2015'
for `calendar year 1992' in subparagraph (B)
thereof.
``(B) Rounding.--If any amount as adjusted under
subparagraph (A) is not a multiple of $10,000, such
amount shall be rounded to the next lowest multiple of
$10,000.
``(d) Payroll Tax.--For purposes of this section, the payroll tax
for any taxable year is an amount equal to the excess of--
``(1) the taxes imposed on the taxpayer under sections
1401, 1411, 3101, 3201, and 3211(a) (to the extent such tax is
attributable to the rate of tax in effect under section 3101)
with respect to such taxable year or wages or compensation
received during such taxable year, over
``(2) the deduction allowable under section 164(f) for such
taxable year.
``(e) Special Rule for Estates and Trusts.--For purposes of this
section, in the case of an estate or trust, adjusted gross income shall
be computed in the manner described in section 67(e).
``(f) Not Treated as Tax Imposed by This Chapter for Certain
Purposes.--The tax imposed under this section shall not be treated as
tax imposed by this chapter for purposes of determining the amount of
any credit under this chapter (other than the credit allowed under
section 27(a)) or for purposes of section 55.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of parts for subchapter A of
chapter 1 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by adding at
the end the following new item:
``Part VIII--Fair Share Tax on High-Income Taxpayers''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2015. | IDEA Full Funding Act - Amends the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to reauthorize and make appropriations through FY2024 for the grant program to assist states and outlying areas to provide special education and related services to children with disabilities. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to require an individual taxpayer whose adjusted gross income exceeds $1 million to pay a minimum tax rate of 30% of the excess of the taxpayer's adjusted gross income over the taxpayer's modified charitable contribution deduction for the taxable year (tentative fair share tax). Establishes the amount of such tax as the excess (if any) of the tentative fair share tax over the excess of: (1) the sum of the taxpayer's regular tax liability, the alternative minimum tax (AMT) amount, and the payroll tax for the taxable year; over (2) certain tax credits. Provides for a phase-in of such tax. Requires an inflation adjustment to the $1 million income threshold for taxable years beginning after 2016. | IDEA Full Funding Act |
501 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Ambulatory Surgical Center Access
Act of 2009''.
SEC. 2. MEDICARE PAYMENT FOR AMBULATORY SURGICAL CENTER SERVICES.
(a) In General.--Section 1833(i) of the Social Security Act (42
U.S.C. 1395l(i)) is amended by striking paragraphs (2) through (6) and
inserting the following:
``(2)(A) Subject to subparagraphs (B) and (C), the amount of
payment to be made under this subsection for facility services
furnished to an individual in an ambulatory surgical center in
accordance with paragraph (1) shall be equal to 59 percent of the fee
schedule amount determined under paragraph (3)(D) of subsection (t) for
payment of the same service furnished in hospital outpatient
departments, as adjusted under paragraphs (4)(A), (6), and (15) of such
subsection, less a 20 percent beneficiary copayment, except that in no
case shall the copayment amount for a procedure performed in a year
exceed the amount of the inpatient hospital deductible established
under section 1813(b) for that year.
``(B) For covered ambulatory surgical center services furnished
during calendar year 2010, the amount of payment under this subsection
shall be equal to the sum of--
``(i) 25 percent of the ambulatory surgical center payment
amount payable under this subsection in 2007; and
``(ii) 75 percent of the payment amount under subparagraph
(A) for 2010.
``(C)(i) Notwithstanding subparagraphs (A) and (B), if a facility
service furnished to an individual in an ambulatory surgical center
includes an implantable medical device, the amount of payment for that
service shall be equal to the sum of--
``(I) 100 percent of the hospital OPD fee schedule amount
under subsection (t) that the Secretary determines is
associated with the device; and
``(II) 59 percent of non-device-related component of such
OPD fee schedule amount;
less a 20 percent beneficiary copayment.
``(ii) For purposes of clause (i), the term `implantable medical
device' means a device that--
``(I) is an integral and subordinate part of the service
furnished;
``(II) is used for one patient only;
``(III) comes in contact with human tissue; and
``(IV) is surgically implanted or inserted, whether or not
it remains with the patient when the patient is released from
the ambulatory surgical center.''.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Section 1832(a)(2)(F)(i) of such Act (42 U.S.C.
1395k(a)(2)(F)(i)) is amended--
(A) by striking ``the standard overhead amount as
determined under section 1833(i)(2)(A)'' and inserting
``the amount determined under section 1833(i)(2)''; and
(B) by striking all that follows ``as full payment
for such services'' and inserting ``, or''.
(2) Section 1833(a)(1)(G) of such Act (42 U.S.C.
1395l(a)(1)(G)) is amended--
(A) by striking ``for services furnished
beginning'' and all that follows through ``subsection
(i)(2)(D),''; and
(B) by striking ``such revised payment system'' and
inserting ``subsection (i)(2)''.
(3) Section 1833(a)(4) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 1395l(a)(4))
is amended by striking ``or (3)''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to ambulatory surgical center services furnished on or after
January 1, 2010.
SEC. 3. QUALITY REPORTING AND COMPARISON.
(a) In General.--Paragraph (7) of section 1833(i) of the Social
Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395l(i)) is amended--
(1) by redesignating such paragraph as paragraph (3);
(2) in subparagraph (A)--
(A) by striking ``For purposes of paragraph
(2)(D)(iv), the'' and inserting ``The'';
(B) by striking ``established under paragraph
(2)(D)'' and inserting ``described in paragraph (2)'';
and
(C) by adding at the end the following: ``Data
required to be submitted on measures selected under
this paragraph must be on measures that have been
selected by the Secretary after consideration of public
comments and that have consensus endorsement from
affected parties.'';
(3) in subparagraph (B)--
(A) by striking ``Except as the Secretary may
otherwise provide, the'' and inserting ``The''; and
(B) by inserting before the period at the end the
following: ``, except that the form and manner of
reporting by ambulatory surgical centers shall include
the option of submitting data with claims for
payment''; and
(4) by adding at the end the following new subparagraphs:
``(C) To the extent that quality measures implemented by the
Secretary under this paragraph for ambulatory surgical centers and
under section 1833(t)(17) for hospital outpatient departments are
applicable to the provision of surgical services in both ambulatory
surgical centers and hospital outpatient departments, the Secretary
shall--
``(i) require that both ambulatory surgical centers and
hospital outpatient departments report data on such measures;
and
``(ii) make reported data available on the website
`Medicare.gov' in a manner that will permit side-by-side
comparisons on such measures for ambulatory surgical centers
and hospital outpatient departments in the same geographic
area.
``(D) For each procedure covered for payment in an ambulatory
surgical center, the Secretary shall publish, along with the quality
reporting comparisons provided for in subparagraph (C), comparisons of
the Medicare payment and beneficiary copayment amounts for the
procedure when performed in ambulatory surgical centers and hospital
outpatient departments in the same geographic area.''.
(b) MedPAC Study.--
(1) In general.--The Medicare Payment Advisory Commission
shall conduct a study of outpatient surgical services covered
under section 1833 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C.
1395l). The study shall compare beneficiaries' use of different
settings across geographic areas, spending implications for the
Medicare program for such services when provided in different
settings, and out-of-pocket liability for beneficiaries for
such services when provided in different settings.
(2) Report.--Not later than one year after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Commission shall submit to Congress
a report on the findings of the study conducted under paragraph
(1). Where appropriate, such report shall include
recommendations on modifications in coverage and payment
policies under part B of title XVIII of the Social Security Act
needed to optimize the economical utilization of outpatient
surgical services.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall take
effect on January 1, 2010.
SEC. 4. APC PANEL REPRESENTATION.
(a) ASC Representative.--The second sentence of section
1833(t)(9)(A) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395l(t)(9)(A)) is
amended by inserting ``and suppliers subject to the prospective payment
system (including at least one ambulatory surgical center
representative)'' after ``an appropriate selection of representatives
of providers''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by subsection (a) shall
take effect on the date of the enactment of this Act.
SEC. 5. ENSURING ACCESS TO SAME DAY SERVICES.
The conditions for coverage of ambulatory surgical center services
specified by the Secretary of Health and Human Services pursuant to
section 1832(a)(2)(F)(i) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C.
1395k(a)(2)(F)(i)) shall not prohibit ambulatory surgical centers from
providing individuals with any notice of rights or other required
notice on the date of a procedure if more advance notice is not
feasible under the circumstances, including when a procedure is
scheduled and performed on the same day. | Ambulatory Surgical Center Access Act of 2009 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to revise the requirements and the formula for payments for services, including an implantable medical device, furnished to individuals in ambulatory surgical centers.
Revises requirements for the reporting of data by ambulatory surgical centers and hospital outpatient departments.
Directs the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MEDPAC) to study and report to Congress on outpatient surgical services.
Requires the expert outside advisory panel the Secretary of Health and Human Services is required to consult with respect to the clinical integrity of the groups and payment weights to include at least one ambulatory surgical center representative.
States that the conditions for coverage of ambulatory surgical center services specified by the Secretary shall not prohibit ambulatory surgical centers from providing individuals with any notice of rights or other required notice on the date of a procedure if more advanced notice is not feasible under the circumstances, including when a procedure is scheduled and performed on the same day. | To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to modernize payments for ambulatory surgical centers under the Medicare Program. |
502 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Prescription Drug Affordability
Act''.
TITLE I--AMENDMENTS TO INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 1986
SEC. 101. INCOME TAX CREDIT FOR PRESCRIPTION DRUGS PURCHASED BY
INDIVIDUALS WHO HAVE ATTAINED RETIREMENT AGE.
(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 25A the
following new section:
``SEC. 25B. PRESCRIPTION DRUGS PURCHASED BY INDIVIDUALS WHO HAVE
ATTAINED SOCIAL SECURITY RETIREMENT AGE.
``(a) In General.--In the case of an individual who has attained
social security retirement age, there shall be allowed as a credit
against the tax imposed by this chapter for the taxable year an amount
equal to 80 percent of the amount paid by the taxpayer during the
taxable year (and not compensated for by insurance or otherwise) for
any prescribed drug (as defined in section 213(d)(3)) for use by such
individual.
``(b) Social Security Retirement Age.--For purposes of this
section, the term `social security retirement age' means retirement age
(as defined in section 216(l)(1) of the Social Security Act).
``(c) Denial of Double Benefit.--
``(1) Coordination with medical expense deduction.--The
amount which would (but for this subsection) be taken into
account by the taxpayer under section 213 for the taxable year
shall be reduced by the credit (if any) allowed by this section
to the taxpayer for such year.
``(2) Coordination with medical savings accounts.--No
credit shall be allowed under this section for amounts paid
from any medical savings account (as defined in section
220(d)).
``(d) Election Not To Have Credit Apply.--This section shall not
apply to a taxpayer for a taxable year if the taxpayer elects not to
have this section apply for such year.''
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections 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 25A the following new
item:
``Sec. 25B. Prescription drugs purchased
by individuals who have
attained social security
retirement age.''
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning more than 1 year after the date of the
enactment of this Act.
TITLE II--AMENDMENTS TO FEDERAL FOOD, DRUG, AND COSMETIC ACT
SEC. 201. FACILITATION OF IMPORTATION OF DRUGS APPROVED BY FOOD AND
DRUG ADMINISTRATION.
(a) In General.--Chapter VIII of the Federal Food, Drug, and
Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 381 et seq.) is amended--
(1) by striking section 804 (as added by section 745(c)(2)
of Public Law 106-387); and
(2) in section 801(d)--
(A) by striking paragraph (2); and
(B) by striking ``(d)(1)'' and all that follows
through the end of paragraph (1) and inserting the
following:
``(d)(1)(A) A person who meets applicable legal requirements to be
an importer of drugs described in subparagraph (B) may import such a
drug (without regard to whether the person is a manufacturer of the
drug) if the person submits to the Secretary an application to import
the drug and the Secretary approves the application.
``(B) For purposes of subparagraph (A), the drugs described in this
subparagraph are drugs that are subject to section 503(b)(1) or that
are composed wholly or partly of insulin.
``(C) The Secretary shall approve an application under subparagraph
(A) if the application demonstrates that the drug to be imported meets
all requirements under this Act for the admission of the drug into the
United States, including demonstrating that--
``(i) an application for the drug has been approved under
section 505, or as applicable, under section 351 of the Public
Health Service Act; and
``(ii) the drug is not adulterated or misbranded.
``(D) Not later than 60 days after the date on which an application
under subparagraph (A) is submitted to the Secretary, the Secretary
shall--
``(i) approve the application; or
``(ii) refuse to approve the application and provide to the
person who submitted the application the reason for such
refusal.
``(E) This paragraph may not be construed as affecting any right
secured by patent.''.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--Section 801(d) of the Federal Food,
Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 381(d)) is amended--
(1) by redesignating paragraphs (3) and (4) as paragraphs
(2) and (3), respectively; and
(2) in paragraph (3) (as so redesignated) by striking
``paragraph (3)'' each place such term appears and inserting
``paragraph (2)''.
SEC. 202. INTERNET SALES OF PRESCRIPTION DRUGS.
Section 503(b) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21
U.S.C. 353(b)) is amended by adding at the end the following paragraph:
``(6)(A) With respect to the interstate sale of a prescription drug
through an Internet site, the Secretary may not with respect to such
sale take any action under this Act against any of the persons involved
if--
``(i) the sale was made in compliance with this Act and
with State laws that are applicable to the sale of the drug;
and
``(ii) accurate information regarding compliance with this
Act and such State laws is posted on the Internet site.
``(B) For purposes of subparagraph (A), the sale of a prescription
drug by a person shall be considered to be an interstate sale of the
drug through an Internet site if--
``(i) the purchaser of the drug submits the purchase order
for the drug, or conducts any other part of the sales
transaction for the drug, through an Internet site; and
``(ii) pursuant to such sale, the person introduces the
drug into interstate commerce or delivers the drug for
introduction into such commerce.
``(C) Subparagraph (A) may not be construed as authorizing the
Secretary to enforce any violation of State law.
``(D) For purposes of this paragraph, the term `prescription drug'
means a drug that is subject to paragraph (1).''.
SEC. 203. REGULATIONS OF SECRETARY OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES;
EFFECTIVE DATE.
(a) Regulations.--Before the expiration of the period specified in
subsection (b), the Secretary of Health and Human Services shall
promulgate regulations to carry out the amendments to the Federal Food,
Drug, and Cosmetic Act that are made by sections 201 and 202.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendments to the Federal Food, Drug, and
Cosmetic Act that are made by sections 201 and 202 take effect upon the
expiration of the one-year period beginning on the date of the
enactment of this Act, without regard to whether the regulations
required in subsection (a) have been promulgated. | Prescription Drug Affordability Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide that, in the case of an individual who has attained Social Security retirement age, there shall be allowed a tax credit equal to 80 percent of the amount paid by the taxpayer (and not compensated for by insurance or otherwise) for any prescribed drug the individual uses.Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FDCA) and the Medicine Equity and Drug Safety Act of 2000 to repeal certain drug reimportation provisions and authority for the importation of a prohibited drug required for emergency medical care. Permits a person who meets applicable legal requirements to be an importer of drugs to import (without regard to whether the person is a manufacturer of the drug) certain Food and Drug Administration-approved new drugs, which are neither adulterated nor misbranded, and which require a prescription, if the person submits an drug import application and the Secretary approves the application.Prohibits the Secretary from taking any action under the FDCA with respect to the interstate sale of a prescription drug through an Internet site, if the sale was made in compliance with the FDCA and with applicable State laws, and accurate information regarding compliance with the FDCA and such State laws is posted on the site. | To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 with respect to the purchase of prescription drugs by individuals who have attained retirement age, and to amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act with respect to the importation of prescription drugs and the sale of such drugs through Internet sites. |
503 | SECTION 1. 15-YEAR RECOVERY PERIOD FOR DEPRECIATION OF DESIGNATED LOW-
INCOME BUILDINGS.
(a) In General.--Subparagraph (E) of section 168(e)(3) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to 15-year property) is amended
by striking ``and'' at the end of clause (vii), by striking the period
at the end of clause (viii) and inserting ``, and'', and by adding at
the end the following new clause:
``(ix) any designated low-income
building.''
(b) Designated Low-Income Building.--Subsection (e) of section 168
of such Code (relating to classification of property) is amended by
adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(8) Designated low-income building.--
``(A) In general.--The term `designated low-income
building' means any building which is a qualified low-
income building (as defined in section 42(c)(2)) if--
``(i) no housing credit dollar amount has
been allocated to such building under section
42(h), and
``(ii) the taxpayer has made the election
described in subparagraph (B) with respect to
such building.
``(B) Election.--An election is described in this
subparagraph if made by the taxpayer at such time and
in such manner as the Secretary may prescribe. Any
election under the preceding sentence, once made, shall
be irrevocable.
``(C) Coordination with low-income housing
credit.--No credit shall be allowed under section 42
with respect to any designated low-income building.
``(D) Recapture of accelerated depreciation.--A
designated low-income building which ceases to be a
qualified low-income building (as defined in section
42(c)(2)) at any time during the recapture period
shall, under regulations prescribed by the Secretary,
be treated as though paragraph (3)(E)(iv) were never
enacted. The statutory period for the assessment of any
deficiency attributable to this subparagraph shall not
expire before the expiration of the 1-year period
beginning on the date the Secretary is notified by the
taxpayer (in such manner as the Secretary may
prescribe) of the change in status of such building.
For purposes of this subparagraph, the term `recapture
period' has the meaning given the term `compliance
period' under section 42(i)(1) except `20 taxable
years' shall be substituted for `15 taxable years'.''.
(c) Alternative Depreciation System.--The table contained in
section 168(g)(3)(B) of such Code is amended by inserting after the
item relating to subparagraph (E)(viii) the following:
``(E)(ix)...................................................... 20''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to property placed in service after the date of the enactment of
this Act.
SEC. 2. QUALIFIED LOW-INCOME BUILDINGS NOT SUBJECT TO LIMITATION ON
PASSIVE ACTIVITY LOSSES AND CREDITS.
(a) In General.--Section 469 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
(relating to passive activity losses and credits limited) is amended by
redesignating subsections (l) and (m) as subsections (m) and (n),
respectively, and by inserting after subsection (k) the following new
subsection:
``(l) Special Rule for Qualified Low-Income Buildings.--Subsection
(a) shall not apply to that portion of the passive activity loss and
passive activity credit for any taxable year which is attributable to
any qualified low-income building (as defined in section 42(c)(2)).''.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Paragraph (3) of section 469(i) of such Code is amended
by striking subparagraph (D) and by redesignating subparagraphs
(E) and (F) as subparagraphs (D) and (E), respectively.
(2) Subparagraph (D) of section 469(i) of such Code (as so
redesignated) is amended to read as follows:
``(D) Ordering rules to reflect exceptions and
separate phase-outs.--If subparagraph (B) or (C)
applies for a taxable year, paragraph (1) shall be
applied--
``(i) first to the portion of the passive
activity loss to which subparagraph (C) does
not apply,
``(ii) second to the portion of such loss
to which subparagraph (C) applies,
``(iii) third to the portion of the passive
activity credit to which subparagraph (B) does
not apply, and
``(iv) fourth to the portion of such credit
to which subparagraph (B) applies.''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to property placed in service after the date of the enactment of
this Act. | Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) allow a 15-year recovery period for depreciation of designated low-income buildings eligible for the low-income housing tax credit; and (2) waive limitations on passive activity losses and credits for such buildings. | To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to establish a 15-year recovery period for depreciation of designated low-income buildings and to allow passive losses and credits attributable to qualified low-income buildings. |
504 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia
Research Amendments Act of 2003''.
SEC. 2. RETENTION OF TASK FORCE.
Section 603 of the Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and
Control Act of 1998 (16 U.S.C. 1451 note) is amended by striking
subsection (e).
SEC. 3. SCIENTIFIC ASSESSMENTS AND RESEARCH PLANS.
Such section 603 is further amended--
(1) in subsection (a) by adding at the end the following:
``In developing the assessments and research plans described in
subsections (b), (c), (d), (e), and (f), the Task Force shall work with
appropriate State, Indian tribe, and local governments to ensure that
the assessments and research plans fulfill the requirements of
subsections (b)(2), (c)(2), (d)(2), (e)(2), and (f)(2). Additionally,
the Task Force shall consult with appropriate industry, academic
institutions, and non-governmental organizations throughout the
development of the assessments and research plans.''; and
(2) by striking subsections (b) and (c) and inserting the
following:
``(b) Scientific Assessments of Harmful Algal Blooms.--(1) Not less
than once every 5 years the Task Force shall complete and submit to the
Committee on Science of the House of Representatives and the Committee
on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a scientific
assessment of harmful algal blooms in United States coastal waters. The
first such assessment shall be completed not later than 24 months after
the date of enactment of the Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research
Amendments Act of 2003 and should consider only marine harmful algal
blooms. All subsequent assessments shall examine both marine and
freshwater harmful algal blooms, including those in the Great Lakes and
upper reaches of estuaries.
``(2) The assessments under this subsection shall--
``(A) examine the causes and ecological consequences, and
economic costs, of harmful algal blooms;
``(B) describe the potential ecological and economic costs
and benefits of possible policy and management actions for
preventing, controlling, and mitigating harmful algal blooms;
``(C) evaluate progress made by, and the needs of, Federal
research programs on the causes, characteristics, and impacts
of harmful algal blooms; and
``(D) identify ways to improve coordination and to prevent
unnecessary duplication of effort among Federal agencies and
departments with respect to research on harmful algal blooms.
``(c) Scientific Assessment of Freshwater Harmful Algal Blooms.--
(1) Not later than 24 months after the date of enactment of the Harmful
Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research Amendments Act of 2003 the Task Force
shall complete and submit to the Committee on Science of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and
Transportation of the Senate a scientific assessment of current
knowledge about harmful algal blooms in freshwater locations such as
the Great Lakes and upper reaches of estuaries, including a research
plan for coordinating Federal efforts to better understand freshwater
harmful algal blooms.
``(2) The freshwater harmful algal bloom scientific assessment
shall--
``(A) examine the causes and ecological consequences, and
the economic costs, of harmful algal blooms with significant
effects on freshwater locations, including estimations of the
frequency and occurrence of significant events;
``(B) establish priorities and guidelines for a
competitive, peer-reviewed, merit-based interagency research
program, as part of the Ecology and Oceanography of Harmful
Algal Blooms (ECOHAB) project, to better understand the causes,
characteristics, and impacts of harmful algal blooms in
freshwater locations; and
``(C) identify ways to improve coordination and to prevent
unnecessary duplication of effort among Federal agencies and
departments with respect to research on harmful algal blooms in
freshwater locations.
``(d) National Scientific Research Plan Into Reducing Impacts From
Harmful Algal Blooms.--(1) Not later than 12 months after the date of
enactment of the Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research Amendments
Act of 2003, the Task Force shall develop and submit to the Committee
on Science of the House of Representatives and the Committee on
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a research plan
providing for a comprehensive and coordinated national research program
to develop prevention, control, and mitigation methods to reduce the
impacts of harmful algal blooms on coastal ecosystems (including the
Great Lakes), public health, and the economy.
``(2) The research plan shall--
``(A) establish priorities and guidelines for a
competitive, peer-reviewed, merit-based interagency research
program on methods for the prevention, control, and mitigation
of harmful algal blooms;
``(B) identify ways to improve coordination and to prevent
unnecessary duplication of effort among Federal agencies and
departments with respect to the actions described in paragraph
(1); and
``(C) ensure, through consultation with Sea Grant Programs,
that the results and findings of the research program are
communicated to State, Indian tribe, and local governments, and
to the general public.
``(e) Scientific Assessments of Hypoxia.--(1) Not less than once
every 5 years the Task Force shall complete and submit to the Committee
on Science of the House of Representatives and the Committee on
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a scientific
assessment of hypoxia in United States coastal waters including the
Great Lakes. The first such assessment shall be completed not less than
24 months after the date of enactment of the Harmful Algal Bloom and
Hypoxia Research Amendments Act of 2003.
``(2) The assessments under this subsection shall--
``(A) examine the causes and ecological consequences, and
the economic costs, of hypoxia;
``(B) describe the potential ecological and economic costs
and benefits of possible policy and management actions for
preventing, controlling, and mitigating hypoxia;
``(C) evaluate progress made by, and the needs of, Federal
research programs on the causes, characteristics, and impacts
of hypoxia, including recommendations of how to eliminate
significant gaps in hypoxia modeling and monitoring data; and
``(D) identify ways to improve coordination and to prevent
unnecessary duplication of effort among Federal agencies and
departments with respect to research on hypoxia.
``(f) Local and Regional Scientific Assessments.--(1) The Secretary
of Commerce, in coordination with the Task Force and appropriate State,
Indian tribe, and local governments, shall provide for local and
regional scientific assessments of hypoxia or harmful algal blooms, as
requested by State, Indian tribe, or local governments, or for affected
areas as identified by the Secretary. If the Secretary receives
multiple requests, the Secretary shall ensure, to the extent
practicable, that assessments under this subsection cover
geographically and ecologically diverse locations with significant
ecological and economic impacts from hypoxia or harmful algal blooms.
The Secretary shall establish a procedure for reviewing requests for
local and regional assessments. The Secretary shall ensure, through
consultation with Sea Grant Programs, that the findings of the
assessments are communicated to the appropriate State, Indian tribe,
and local governments, and to the general public.
``(2) The scientific assessments under this subsection shall
examine--
``(A) the causes and ecological consequences, and the
economic costs, of hypoxia or harmful algal blooms in that
area;
``(B) methods to prevent, control, and mitigate hypoxia or
harmful algal blooms in that area and the potential ecological
and economic costs and benefits of such methods; and
``(C) other topics the Task Force consider appropriate.''.
SEC. 4. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
Section 605 of such Act is amended--
(1) by striking ``and $19,000,000 for fiscal year 2001''
and inserting ``$19,000,000 for fiscal year 2001, $27,200,000
for fiscal year 2004, $28,700,000 for fiscal year 2005, and
$29,200,000 for fiscal year 2006'';
(2) in paragraph (1) by striking ``and'' after ``2000,''
and by inserting ``, and $3,000,000 for each of fiscal years
2004, 2005, and 2006'' after ``2001'';
(3) in paragraph (2) by striking ``and'' after ``2000,''
and by inserting ``, and $10,200,000, of which $2,000,000 shall
be used for the research program described in section
603(c)(2)(B), for each of fiscal years 2004, 2005, and 2006''
after ``2001'';
(4) in paragraph (3) by striking ``and'' after ``2000,''
and by inserting ``, $2,000,000 for fiscal year 2004,
$3,000,000 for fiscal year 2005, and $3,000,000 for fiscal year
2006'' after ``2001'';
(5) in paragraph (4) by striking ``2001'' and inserting
``2001, and $6,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2004, 2005, and
2006,'';
(6) in paragraph (4) by inserting ``the Monitoring and
Event Response for Harmful Algal Blooms (MERHAB) project
under'' after ``administered by'';
(7) by striking ``and'' after the semicolon at the end of
paragraph (4);
(8) in paragraph (5) by striking ``and'' after ``2000,''
and by inserting ``, $5,000,000 for fiscal year 2004,
$5,500,000 for fiscal year 2005, and $6,000,000 for fiscal year
2006'' after ``2001'';
(9) in paragraph (5) by striking ``Administration.'' and
inserting ``Administration; and''; and
(10) by adding at the end the following:
``(6) $3,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2004, 2005, and
2006 to carry out the activities described in section
603(f).''. | Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research Amendments Act of 2003 - Amends the Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control Act of 1998 (Harmful Algal Act) to repeal the President's authority to disestablish the Interagency Task Force (thus retaining it).Requires the Task Force to: (1) work with the appropriate State, Indian tribe, and local governments to ensure that the assessment and research plans fulfill the requirements of the Harmful Algal Act; and (2) complete and submit to specified congressional committees not less than once every five years scientific assessments of harmful algal blooms and of hypoxia. Specifies amended assessment requirements.Requires the Task Force to: (1) make a specified scientific assessment of freshwater algal blooms; and (2) develop and submit to specified congressional committees a research plan providing for a comprehensive and coordinated national research program to develop prevention, control, and mitigation methods to reduce the impacts of harmful algal blooms on coastal ecosystems, public health, and the economy. Specifies research program requirements.Requires the Secretary of Commerce, in coordination with the Task Force and appropriate State, Indian tribe, and local governments, to provide for local and regional scientific assessments of hypoxia or harmful algal blooms, as requested by State, Indian tribe, and local governments. Specifies assessment requirements. | A bill to reauthorize the Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control Act of 1998, and for other purposes. |
505 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Virginia Jobs and Energy Act''.
SEC. 2. LEASE SALE 220 AND OTHER OCS OIL AND GAS LEASE SALES OFFSHORE
VIRGINIA.
(a) Conduct of Lease Sale.--Notwithstanding inclusion in the
current 5-year oil and gas leasing program under section 18 of the
Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1344), the Secretary of
the Interior shall conduct lease sale 220 (as defined in the Draft
Proposed Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) Oil and Gas Leasing Program for
2010-2015 as published in the Federal Register on January 21, 2009 (74
Fed. Reg. 3631)) under section 8 of such Act (43 U.S.C. 1337) as soon
as practicable, but not later than 1 year after the date of enactment
of this Act.
(b) Inclusion in Future Leasing Programs.--Notwithstanding
inclusion in the 2017-2022 OCS Oil and Gas Leasing Program, the
Secretary of the Interior shall include at least 2 lease sales in the
Virginia lease sale planning area (as defined in section 4(c)(4)) in
each 5-year oil and gas leasing program that applies after the current
leasing program.
SEC. 3. PROTECTION OF MILITARY OPERATIONS.
(a) Prohibition.--No person may engage in any exploration,
development, or production of oil or natural gas off the coast of
Virginia that would conflict with any military operation, as determined
in accordance with the Memorandum of Agreement between the Department
of Defense and the Department of the Interior on Mutual Concerns on the
Outer Continental Shelf signed July 20, 1983, and any revision or
replacement for that agreement that is agreed to by the Secretary of
Defense and the Secretary of the Interior after that date but before
the date of issuance of the lease under which such exploration,
development, or production is conducted.
(b) Review and Updating of MOA.--The Secretary of the Interior and
the Secretary of Defense shall periodically review and revise such
memorandum of agreement to account for new offshore energy production
technologies, including those that use wind energy.
SEC. 4. DISPOSITION OF REVENUE.
(a) Payment of New Leasing Revenues to States.--Notwithstanding
section 9 of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1338), of
the amount of new leasing revenues received by the United States each
fiscal year under any lease issued under this Act, 37.5 percent shall
be allocated and paid in accordance with subsection (b) to States that
are affected States with respect to the leases under which those
revenues are received by the United States.
(b) Allocation of Payments.--
(1) In general.--The amount of new leasing revenues
received by the United States with respect to a leased tract
that are required to be paid to States in accordance with this
subsection each fiscal year shall be allocated among and paid
to States that are within 200 miles of the leased tract, in
amounts that are inversely proportional to the respective
distances between the point on the coastline of each such State
that is closest to the geographic center of the lease tract, as
determined by the Secretary.
(2) Minimum and maximum allocation.--The amount allocated
to a State under paragraph (1) each fiscal year with respect to
a leased tract shall be--
(A) in the case of a State that is the nearest
State to the geographic center of the leased tract, not
less than 25 percent of the total amounts allocated
with respect to the leased tract; and
(B) in the case of any other State, not less than
10 percent, and not more than 15 percent, of the total
amounts allocated with respect to the leased tract.
(3) Administration.--Amounts allocated to a State under
this subsection--
(A) shall be available to the State without further
appropriation;
(B) shall remain available until expended; and
(C) shall be in addition to any other amounts
available to the State under the Outer Continental
Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1331 et seq.).
(4) Use of funds.--
(A) In general.--Except as provided in subparagraph
(B), a State may use funds allocated and paid to it
under this subsection for any purpose as determined by
the laws of that State.
(B) Restriction on use for matching.--Funds
allocated and paid to a State under this subsection may
not be used as matching funds for any other Federal
program.
(c) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Affected state.--The term ``affected State'' has the
meaning that term has under section 2 of the Outer Continental
Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1331).
(2) New leasing revenues.--The term ``new leasing
revenues'' means amounts received by the United States as
bonuses, rents, and royalties under leases for oil and gas,
wind, tidal, or other energy exploration, development, and
production on areas of the Outer Continental Shelf that are
authorized to be made available for leasing as a result of
enactment of this Act.
(3) Virginia lease sale planning area.--The term ``Virginia
lease sale planning area'' means the area of the outer
Continental Shelf (as that term is defined in the Outer
Continental Shelf Lands Act (33 U.S.C. 1331 et seq.)) that
has--
(A) a boundary consisting of a straight line
extending from the northernmost point of Virginia's
seaward boundary to the point on the seaward boundary
of the United States exclusive economic zone located at
37 degrees 17 minutes 1 second North latitude, 71
degrees 5 minutes 16 seconds West longitude; and
(B) a southern boundary consisting of a straight
line extending from the southernmost point of
Virginia's seaward boundary to the point on the seaward
boundary of the United States exclusive economic zone
located at 36 degrees 31 minutes 58 seconds North
latitude, 71 degrees 30 minutes 1 second West
longitude.
SEC. 5. OFFSHORE METEOROLOGICAL SITE TESTING AND MONITORING PROJECTS.
(a) Offshore Meteorological Project Permitting.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of the Interior shall by
regulation require that any applicant seeking to conduct an
offshore meteorological site testing and monitoring project on
the outer Continental Shelf (as that term is defined in the
Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1331 et seq.))
must obtain a permit and right of way for the project in
accordance with this subsection.
(2) Permit and right-of-way timeline and conditions.--
(A) Deadline for approval.--The Secretary shall
decide whether to issue a permit and right of way for
an offshore meteorological site testing and monitoring
project within 30 days after receiving an application.
(B) Public comment and consultation.--During the
period referred to in subparagraph (A), the Secretary
shall--
(i) provide an opportunity for submission
of comments by the public; and
(ii) consult with the Secretary of Defense,
the Commandant of the Coast Guard, and the
heads of other Federal, State, and local
agencies that would be affected by issuance of
the permit and right of way.
(C) Denial of permit; opportunity to remedy
deficiencies.--If the application is denied, the
Secretary shall provide the applicant--
(i) in writing, clear and comprehensive
reasons why the application was not approved
and detailed information concerning any
deficiencies in the application; and
(ii) an opportunity to remedy such
deficiencies.
(b) NEPA Exclusion.--Section 102(2)(C) of the National
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4332(2)(C)) shall not apply
with respect to an offshore meteorological site testing and monitoring
project.
(c) Protection of Information.--The information provided to the
Secretary of the Interior pursuant to subsection (d)(3) shall be
treated by the Secretary as proprietary information and protected
against disclosure.
(d) Definition of an Offshore Meteorological Site Testing and
Monitoring Project.--In this section, the term ``offshore
meteorological site testing and monitoring project'' means a project
carried out on or in the waters of the Outer Continental Shelf
administered by the Department of the Interior to test or monitor
weather (including wind, tidal, current, and solar energy) using
towers, buoys, or other temporary ocean infrastructure, that--
(1) causes--
(A) less than 1 acre of surface or seafloor
disruption at the location of each meteorological tower
or other device; and
(B) not more than 5 acres of surface or seafloor
disruption within the proposed area affected by the
project (including hazards to navigation);
(2) is decommissioned not more than 5 years after the date
of commencement of the project, including--
(A) removal of towers, buoys, or other temporary
ocean infrastructure from the project site; and
(B) restoration of the project site to
approximately the original condition of the site; and
(3) provides meteorological information obtained by the
project to the Secretary of the Interior. | Virginia Jobs and Energy Act Directs the Secretary of the Interior to: (1) conduct lease sale 220 within one year after enactment of this Act, and (2) include at least two lease sales in the Virginia lease sale planning area in each five-year oil and gas leasing program that applies after the current leasing program. Prohibits any oil or natural gas exploration, development, or production off the Virginia coast that would conflict with a military operation. Directs the Secretary and the Secretary of Defense (DOD) periodically to review and revise a specified Memorandum of Agreement concerning such operations to account for new offshore energy production technologies, including those using wind energy. Allocates 37.5% of new leasing revenues received by the United States each fiscal year under any lease issued under this Act for payment to states affected with respect to the leases under which those revenues are received by the United States. Sets forth a payments allocation schedule for states within 200 miles of the leased tract. Exempts from environmental impact statement requirements under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) any project determined by the Secretary to be an offshore meteorological site testing and monitoring project. Defines such project as one administered by the Department of the Interior and carried out on or in the waters of the Outer Continental Shelf to test or monitor weather (including wind, tidal, current, and solar energy) using towers, buoys, or other temporary ocean infrastructure and that: (1) causes less than one acre of surface or seafloor disruption at the location of each meteorological tower or other device and no more than five acres of surface or seafloor disruption within the proposed area affected by the project (including hazards to navigation); (2) is decommissioned within five years of its commencement; and (3) provides meteorological information to the Secretary. Directs the Secretary to: (1) require that any applicant seeking to conduct such a project obtain a permit and right of way; (2) determine, within 30 days after receiving an application, whether to issue such a permit and right of way; (3) provide an opportunity for public comment; (4) consult with DOD, the Commandant of the Coast Guard, and the heads of other federal, state, and local agencies affected by issuance of the permit and right of way; and (5) provide an applicant the opportunity to remedy deficiencies in an application that was denied. | Virginia Jobs and Energy Act |
506 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Taxpayer Browsing Protection Act''.
SEC. 2. PENALTY FOR UNAUTHORIZED INSPECTION OF TAX RETURNS OR TAX
RETURN INFORMATION.
(a) In General.--Part I of subchapter A of chapter 75 of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to crimes, other offenses, and
forfeitures) is amended by adding after section 7213 the following new
section:
``SEC. 7213A. UNAUTHORIZED INSPECTION OF RETURNS OR RETURN INFORMATION.
``(a) Prohibitions.--
``(1) Federal employees and other persons.--It shall be
unlawful for--
``(A) any officer or employee of the United States, or
``(B) any person described in section 6103(n) or an officer
or employee of any such person,
willfully to inspect, except as authorized in this title, any
return or return information.
``(2) State and other employees.--It shall be unlawful for any
person (not described in paragraph (1)) willfully to inspect,
except as authorized in this title, any return or return
information acquired by such person or another person under a
provision of section 6103 referred to in section 7213(a)(2).
``(b) Penalty.--
``(1) In general.--Any violation of subsection (a) shall be
punishable upon conviction by a fine in any amount not exceeding
$1,000, or imprisonment of not more than 1 year, or both, together
with the costs of prosecution.
``(2) Federal officers or employees.--An officer or employee of
the United States who is convicted of any violation of subsection
(a) shall, in addition to any other punishment, be dismissed from
office or discharged from employment.
``(c) Definitions.--For purposes of this section, the terms
`inspect', `return', and `return information' have the respective
meanings given such terms by section 6103(b).''.
(b) Technical Amendments.--
(1) Paragraph (2) of section 7213(a) of such Code is amended by
inserting ``(5),'' after ``(m)(2), (4),''.
(2) The table of sections for part I of subchapter A of chapter
75 of such Code 1986 is amended by inserting after the item
relating to section 7213 the following new item:
``Sec. 7213A. Unauthorized inspection of returns or return
information.''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to violations occurring on and after the date of the enactment of
this Act.
SEC. 3. CIVIL DAMAGES FOR UNAUTHORIZED INSPECTION OF RETURNS AND RETURN
INFORMATION; NOTIFICATION OF UNLAWFUL INSPECTION OR
DISCLOSURE.
(a) Civil Damages for Unauthorized Inspection.-- Subsection (a) of
section 7431 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended--
(1) by striking ``Disclosure'' in the headings for paragraphs
(1) and (2) and inserting ``Inspection or disclosure'', and
(2) by striking ``discloses'' in paragraphs (1) and (2) and
inserting ``inspects or discloses''.
(b) Notification of Unlawful Inspection or Disclosure.--Section
7431 of such Code is amended by redesignating subsections (e) and (f)
as subsections (f) and (g), respectively, and by inserting after
subsection (d) the following new subsection:
``(e) Notification of Unlawful Inspection and Disclosure.--If any
person is criminally charged by indictment or information with
inspection or disclosure of a taxpayer's return or return information
in violation of--
``(1) paragraph (1) or (2) of section 7213(a),
``(2) section 7213A(a), or
``(3) subparagraph (B) of section 1030(a)(2) of title 18,
United States Code,
the Secretary shall notify such taxpayer as soon as practicable of such
inspection or disclosure.''.
(c) No Damages for Inspection Requested by Taxpayer.--Subsection
(b) of section 7431 of such Code is amended to read as follows:
``(b) Exceptions.--No liability shall arise under this section with
respect to any inspection or disclosure--
``(1) which results from a good faith, but erroneous,
interpretation of section 6103, or
``(2) which is requested by the taxpayer.''.
(d) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Subsections (c)(1)(A), (c)(1)(B)(i), and (d) of section
7431 of such Code are each amended by inserting ``inspection or''
before ``disclosure''.
(2) Clause (ii) of section 7431(c)(1)(B) of such Code is
amended by striking ``willful disclosure or a disclosure'' and
inserting ``willful inspection or disclosure or an inspection or
disclosure''.
(3) Subsection (f) of section 7431 of such Code, as
redesignated by subsection (b), is amended to read as follows:
``(f) Definitions.--For purposes of this section, the terms
`inspect', `inspection', `return', and `return information' have the
respective meanings given such terms by section 6103(b).''.
(4) The section heading for section 7431 of such Code is
amended by inserting ``inspection or'' before ``disclosure''.
(5) The table of sections for subchapter B of chapter 76 of
such Code is amended by inserting ``inspection or'' before
``disclosure'' in the item relating to section 7431.
(6) Paragraph (2) of section 7431(g) of such Code, as
redesignated by subsection (b), is amended by striking ``any use''
and inserting ``any inspection or use''.
(e) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to inspections and disclosures occurring on and after the date of
the enactment of this Act.
Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Vice President of the United States and
President of the Senate. | Taxpayer Browsing Protection Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to make it unlawful for Federal employees, State employees, or other specified persons to willfully inspect, except as authorized, any tax return or return information. Provides for a monetary penalty, imprisonment, or both for violators. (Current law imposes penalties only for the unlawful disclosure of such information.) Permits civil damages for the unauthorized inspection or disclosure (currently, only for the unauthorized disclosure) of tax returns and return information. Requires the taxpayer to be notified as soon as practicable if any person is criminally charged by indictment with inspecting or disclosing the taxpayer's return or return information. | Taxpayer Browsing Protection Act |
507 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``George C. Marshall Commemorative
Coin Act''.
SEC. 2. COIN SPECIFICATIONS.
(a) Denominations.--The Secretary of the Treasury (hereafter in
this Act referred to as the ``Secretary'' shall mint and issue the
following coins in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the
Marshall Plan and George Catlett Marshall:
(1) $1 silver coins.--Not more than 700,000 1 dollar coins,
which shall--
(A) weigh 26.73 grams;
(B) have a diameter of 1.500 inches; and
(C) contain 90 percent silver and 10 percent
copper.
(2) Half dollar clad coins.--Not more than 500,000 half
dollar coins which shall--
(A) weigh 11.34 grams;
(B) have a diameter of 1.205 inches; and
(C) be minted to the specifications for half dollar
coins contained in section 5112(b) of title 31, United
States Code.
(b) Legal Tender.--The coins minted under this Act shall be legal
tender, as provided in section 5103 of title 31, United States Code.
(c) Numismatic Items.--For purposes of section 5134 of title 31,
United States Code, all coins minted under this Act shall be considered
to be numismatic items.
SEC. 3. SOURCES OF BULLION.
The Secretary shall obtain silver for minting coins under this Act
only from stockpiles established under the Strategic and Critical
Materials Stock Piling Act.
SEC. 4. DESIGN OF COINS.
(a) Design Requirements.--
(1) In general.--The design of the coins minted under this
Act shall be emblematic of the 50th anniversary of the Marshall
Plan, which gave Europe's war-ravaged countries the economic
strength by which they might choose freedom, and George C.
Marshall, the author of the plan.
(2) Designation and inscriptions.--On each coin minted
under this Act there shall be--
(A) a designation of the value of the coin;
(B) an inscription of the year ``1997''; and
(C) inscriptions of the words ``Liberty'', ``In God
We Trust'', ``United States of America'', and ``E
Pluribus Unum''.
(3) Obverse side.--The obverse side of each coin minted
under this Act shall bear the likeness of George C. Marshall.
(b) Selection.--The design for the coins minted under this Act
shall be--
(1) selected by the Secretary after consultation with the
George C. Marshall Foundation, the Friends of George C.
Marshall, and the Commission of Fine Arts; and
(2) reviewed by the Citizens Commemorative Coin Advisory
Committee.
SEC. 5. ISSUANCE OF COINS.
(a) Quality of Coins.--Coins minted under this Act shall be issued
in uncirculated and proof qualities.
(b) Mint Facility.--Only 1 facility of the United States Mint may
be used to strike any particular combination of denomination and
quality of the coins minted under this Act.
(c) Commencement of Issuance.--The Secretary may issue coins minted
under this Act beginning January 1, 1997.
(d) Termination of Minting Authority.--No coins may be minted under
this Act after December 31, 1997.
SEC. 6. SALE OF COINS.
(a) Sale Price.--The coins issued under this Act shall be sold by
the Secretary at a price equal to the sum of--
(1) the face value of the coins;
(2) the surcharge provided in subsection (d) with respect
to such coins; and
(3) the cost of designing and issuing the coins (including
labor, materials, dies, use of machinery, overhead expenses,
marketing, and shipping).
(b) Bulk Sales.--The Secretary shall make bulk sales of the coins
issued under this Act at a reasonable discount.
(c) Prepaid Orders.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall accept prepaid orders
for the coins minted under this Act before the issuance of such
coins.
(2) Discount.--Sale prices with respect to prepaid orders
under paragraph (1) shall be at a reasonable discount.
(d) Surcharges.--All sales shall include a surcharge of--
(1) $12 per coin for the $1 coin; and
(2) $4 per coin for the half dollar coin.
SEC. 7. GENERAL WAIVER OF PROCUREMENT REGULATIONS.
(a) In General.--Except as provided in subsection (b), no provision
of law governing procurement or public contracts shall be applicable to
the procurement of goods and services necessary for carrying out the
provisions of this Act.
(b) Equal Employment Opportunity.--Subsection (a) shall not relieve
any person entering into a contract under the authority of this Act
from complying with any law relating to equal employment opportunity.
SEC. 8. DISTRIBUTION OF SURCHARGES.
(a) In General.--All surcharges received by the Secretary from the
sale of coins issued under this Act shall be promptly paid by the
Secretary in equal portions to--
(1) the George C. Marshall Foundation for the purpose of
supporting the Foundation's educational and outreach programs
to promote the ideals and values of George C. Marshall; and
(2) the Friends of George C. Marshall for the sole purpose
of constructing and operating the George C. Marshall Memorial
and Visitor Center in Uniontown, Pennsylvania.
(b) Audits.--The Comptroller General of the United States shall
have the right to examine such books, records, documents, and other
data of the George C. Marshall Foundation and the Friends of George C.
Marshall as may be related to the expenditures of amounts paid under
subsection (a).
SEC. 9. FINANCIAL ASSURANCES.
(a) No Net Cost to the Government.--The Secretary shall take such
actions as may be necessary to ensure that minting and issuing coins
under this Act will not result in any net cost to the United States
Government.
(b) Payment for Coins.--A coin shall not be issued under this Act
unless the Secretary has received--
(1) full payment for the coin;
(2) security satisfactory to the Secretary to indemnify the
United States for full payment; or
(3) a guarantee of full payment satisfactory to the
Secretary from a depository institution whose deposits are
insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or the
National Credit Union Administration. | George C. Marshall Commemorative Coin Act - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue one-dollar silver coins and half-dollar clad coins in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Marshall Plan and George C. Marshall, its author. Directs the Secretary to pay surcharges received from coin sales to: (1) the George C. Marshall Foundation to be used to support its educational and outreach programs; and (2) the Friends of George C. Marshall to be used solely for the construction of the George C. Marshall Memorial and Vistor Center in Uniontown, Pennsylvania. | George C. Marshall Commemorative Coin Act |
508 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Recreational Fishing and Hunting
Heritage and Opportunities Act''.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Federal public land.--
(A) In general.--Except as provided in subparagraph
(B), the term ``Federal public land'' means any land or
water that is--
(i) owned by the United States; and
(ii) managed by a Federal agency (including
the Department of the Interior and the Forest
Service) for purposes that include the
conservation of natural resources.
(B) Exclusions.--The term ``Federal public land''
does not include--
(i) land or water held or managed in trust
for the benefit of Indians or other Native
Americans;
(ii) land or water managed by the Director
of the National Park Service or the Director of
the United States Fish and Wildlife Service;
(iii) fish hatcheries; or
(iv) conservation easements on private
land.
(2) Hunting.--
(A) In general.--Except as provided in subparagraph
(B), the term ``hunting'' means use of a firearm, bow,
or other authorized means in the lawful--
(i) pursuit, shooting, capture, collection,
trapping, or killing of wildlife; or
(ii) attempt to pursue, shoot, capture,
collect, trap, or kill wildlife.
(B) Exclusion.--The term ``hunting'' does not
include the use of skilled volunteers to cull excess
animals (as defined by other Federal law).
(3) Recreational fishing.--The term ``recreational
fishing'' means--
(A) an activity for sport or for pleasure that
involves--
(i) the lawful catching, taking, or
harvesting of fish; or
(ii) the lawful attempted catching, taking,
or harvesting of fish; or
(B) any other activity for sport or pleasure that
can reasonably be expected to result in the lawful
catching, taking, or harvesting of fish.
(4) Recreational shooting.--The term ``recreational
shooting'' means any form of sport, training, competition, or
pastime, whether formal or informal, that involves the
discharge of a rifle, handgun, or shotgun, or the use of a bow
and arrow.
SEC. 3. RECREATIONAL FISHING, HUNTING, AND RECREATIONAL SHOOTING.
(a) In General.--Subject to valid existing rights, and in
cooperation with the respective State and fish and wildlife agency, a
Federal public land management official shall exercise the authority of
the official under existing law (including provisions regarding land
use planning) to facilitate use of and access to Federal public land
for recreational fishing, hunting, and recreational shooting except as
limited by--
(1) any law that authorizes action or withholding action
for reasons of national security, public safety, or resource
conservation;
(2) any other Federal law that precludes recreational
fishing, hunting, or recreational shooting on specific Federal
public land or water or units of Federal public land; and
(3) discretionary limitations on recreational fishing,
hunting, and recreational shooting determined to be necessary
and reasonable as supported by the best scientific evidence and
advanced through a transparent public process.
(b) Management.--Consistent with subsection (a), the head of each
Federal public land management agency shall exercise the land
management discretion of the head--
(1) in a manner that supports and facilitates recreational
fishing, hunting, and recreational shooting opportunities;
(2) to the extent authorized under applicable State law;
and
(3) in accordance with applicable Federal law.
(c) Planning.--
(1) Effects of plans and activities.--
(A) Evaluation of effects on opportunities to
engage in recreational fishing, hunting, or
recreational shooting.--Federal public land planning
documents (including land resources management plans,
resource management plans, travel management plans, and
energy development plans) shall include a specific
evaluation of the effects of the plans on opportunities
to engage in recreational fishing, hunting, or
recreational shooting.
(B) Other activity not considered.--
(i) In general.--Federal public land
management officials shall not be required to
consider the existence or availability of
recreational fishing, hunting, or recreational
shooting opportunities on private or public
land that is located adjacent to, or in the
vicinity of, Federal public land for purposes
of--
(I) planning for or determining
which units of Federal public land are
open for recreational fishing, hunting,
or recreational shooting; or
(II) setting the levels of use for
recreational fishing, hunting, or
recreational shooting on Federal public
land.
(ii) Enhanced opportunities.--Federal
public land management officials may consider
the opportunities described in clause (i) if
the combination of those opportunities would
enhance the recreational fishing, hunting, or
shooting opportunities available to the public.
(2) Use of volunteers.--If hunting is prohibited by law,
all Federal public land planning document described in
paragraph (1)(A) of an agency shall, after appropriate
coordination with State fish and wildlife agencies, allow the
participation of skilled volunteers in the culling and other
management of wildlife populations on Federal public land
unless the head of the agency demonstrates, based on the best
scientific data available or applicable Federal law, why
skilled volunteers should not be used to control overpopulation
of wildlife on the land that is the subject of the planning
document.
(d) Bureau of Land Management and Forest Service Land.--
(1) Land open.--
(A) In general.--Land under the jurisdiction of the
Bureau of Land Management or the Forest Service
(including a component of the National Wilderness
Preservation System, land designated as a wilderness
study area or administratively classified as wilderness
eligible or suitable, and primitive or semiprimitive
areas, but excluding land on the outer Continental
Shelf) shall be open to recreational fishing, hunting,
and recreational shooting unless the managing Federal
public land agency acts to close the land to such
activity.
(B) Motorized access.--Nothing in this paragraph
authorizes or requires motorized access or the use of
motorized vehicles for recreational fishing, hunting,
or recreational shooting purposes within land
designated as a wilderness study area or
administratively classified as wilderness eligible or
suitable.
(2) Closure or restriction.--Land described in paragraph
(1) may be subject to closures or restrictions if determined by
the head of the agency to be necessary and reasonable and
supported by facts and evidence for purposes including resource
conservation, public safety, energy or mineral production,
energy generation or transmission infrastructure, water supply
facilities, protection of other permittees, protection of
private property rights or interests, national security, or
compliance with other law, as determined appropriate by the
Director of the Bureau of Land Management or the Chief of the
Forest Service, as applicable.
(3) Shooting ranges.--
(A) In general.--Except as provided in subparagraph
(C), the head of each Federal public land agency may
use the authorities of the head, in a manner consistent
with this Act and other applicable law--
(i) to lease or permit use of land under
the jurisdiction of the head for shooting
ranges; and
(ii) to designate specific land under the
jurisdiction of the head for recreational
shooting activities.
(B) Limitation on liability.--Any designation under
subparagraph (A)(ii) shall not subject the United
States to any civil action or claim for monetary
damages for injury or loss of property or personal
injury or death caused by any recreational shooting
activity occurring at or on the designated land.
(C) Exception.--The head of each Federal public
land agency shall not lease or permit use of Federal
public land for shooting ranges or designate land for
recreational shooting activities within including a
component of the National Wilderness Preservation
System, land designated as a wilderness study area or
administratively classified as wilderness eligible or
suitable, and primitive or semiprimitive areas.
(e) Report.--Not later than October 1 of every other year,
beginning with the second October 1 after the date of enactment of this
Act, the head of each Federal public land agency who has authority to
manage Federal public land on which recreational fishing, hunting, or
recreational shooting occurs shall submit to the Committee on Natural
Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy
and Natural Resources of the Senate a report that describes--
(1) any Federal public land administered by the agency head
that was closed to recreational fishing, hunting, or
recreational shooting at any time during the preceding year;
and
(2) the reason for the closure.
(f) Closures or Significant Restrictions of 1,280 or More Acres.--
(1) In general.--Other than closures established or
prescribed by land planning actions referred to in subsection
(d)(2) or emergency closures described in paragraph (3), a
permanent or temporary withdrawal, change of classification, or
change of management status of Federal public land or water
that effectively closes or significantly restricts 1,280 or
more contiguous acres of Federal public land or water to access
or use for recreational fishing or hunting or activities
relating to fishing or hunting shall take effect only if,
before the date of withdrawal or change, the head of the
Federal public land agency that has jurisdiction over the
Federal public land or water--
(A) publishes appropriate notice of the withdrawal
or change, respectively;
(B) demonstrates that coordination has occurred
with a State fish and wildlife agency; and
(C) submits to the Committee on Natural Resources
of the House of Representatives and the Committee on
Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate written
notice of the withdrawal or change, respectively.
(2) Aggregate or cumulative effects.--If the aggregate or
cumulative effect of separate withdrawals or changes
effectively closes or significant restrictions affects 1,280 or
more acres of land or water, the withdrawals and changes shall
be treated as a single withdrawal or change for purposes of
paragraph (1).
(3) Emergency closures.--
(A) In general.--Nothing in this Act prohibits a
Federal public land management agency from establishing
or implementing emergency closures or restrictions of
the smallest practicable area of Federal public land to
provide for public safety, resource conservation,
national security, or other purposes authorized by law.
(B) Termination.--An emergency closure under
subparagraph (A) shall terminate after a reasonable
period of time unless the temporary closure is
converted to a permanent closure consistent with this
Act.
(g) No Priority.--Nothing in this Act requires a Federal agency to
give preference to recreational fishing, hunting, or recreational
shooting over other uses of Federal public land or over land or water
management priorities established by other Federal law.
(h) Consultation With Councils.--In carrying out this Act, the
heads of Federal public land agencies shall consult with the
appropriate advisory councils established under Executive Order 12962
(16 U.S.C. 1801 note; relating to recreational fisheries) and Executive
Order 13443 (16 U.S.C. 661 note; relating to facilitation of hunting
heritage and wildlife conservation).
(i) Authority of States.--
(1) In general.--Nothing in this Act interferes with,
diminishes, or conflicts with the authority, jurisdiction, or
responsibility of any State to manage, control, or regulate
fish and wildlife under State law (including regulations) on
land or water within the State, including on Federal public
land.
(2) Federal licenses.--
(A) In general.--Except as provided in subparagraph
(B), nothing in this section authorizes the head of a
Federal public land agency head to require a license,
fee, or permit to fish, hunt, or trap on land or water
in a State, including on Federal public land in the
State.
(B) Migratory bird stamps.--This paragraph shall
not affect any migratory bird stamp requirement of the
Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp Act (16
U.S.C. 718a et seq.). | Recreational Fishing and Hunting Heritage and Opportunities Act - Requires a federal public land management official, in cooperation with the respective state and fish and wildlife agency, to exercise the authority of the official under law, including regarding land use planning, to facilitate the use of, and access to, federal public land for hunting, recreational fishing, and recreational shooting, except as described in this Act. Requires the heads of federal public land management agencies to exercise their discretion in a manner that supports and facilitates hunting, recreational fishing, and recreational shooting opportunities, to the extent authorized under applicable law. Requires that Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Forest Service land, excluding land on the Outer Continental Shelf, be open to hunting, recreational fishing, or recreational shooting unless the managing agency acts to close lands to such activity. Permits closures or restrictions on such land for purposes including resource conservation, public safety, energy or mineral production, energy generation or transmission infrastructure, water supply facilities, national security, or compliance with other law. Allows agencies to: (1) lease or permit use of federal public land for recreational shooting ranges, and (2) designate specific land for recreational shooting activities. Excepts from such use or designation land including a component of the National Wilderness Preservation System, land designated as a wilderness study area or administratively classified as wilderness eligible or suitable, and primitive or semiprimitive areas. Requires annual reports on closures of federal public lands to hunting, recreational fishing, or recreational shooting. Sets forth requirements for specified closures or significant restrictions involving 1280 or more contiguous acres of federal public land or water to hunting or recreational fishing or related activities. Instructs federal public land agencies to consult with the advisory councils specified in Executive Orders 12962 (relating to recreational fisheries) and 13443 (relating to the facilitation of hunting heritage and wildlife conservation) in carrying out this Act. | Recreational Fishing and Hunting Heritage and Opportunities Act |
509 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Captive Primate Safety Act''.
SEC. 2. ADDITION OF NONHUMAN PRIMATES TO DEFINITION OF PROHIBITED
WILDLIFE SPECIES.
Section 2(g) of the Lacey Act Amendments of 1981 (16 U.S.C.
3371(g)) is amended by inserting before the period at the end ``or any
nonhuman primate''.
SEC. 3. CAPTIVE WILDLIFE AMENDMENTS.
(a) Prohibited Acts.--Section 3 of the Lacey Act Amendments of 1981
(16 U.S.C. 3372) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) in paragraph (2)--
(i) in subparagraph (A), by inserting
``or'' after the semicolon;
(ii) in subparagraph (B)(iii), by striking
``; or'' and inserting a semicolon; and
(iii) by striking subparagraph (C); and
(B) in paragraph (4), by inserting ``or subsection
(e)'' before the period; and
(2) in subsection (e)--
(A) by striking ``(e)'' and all that follows
through paragraph (1) and inserting the following:
``(e) Captive Wildlife Offense.--
``(1) In general.--It is unlawful for any person to import,
export, transport, sell, receive, acquire, or purchase in
interstate or foreign commerce, or in a manner substantially
affecting interstate or foreign commerce, any live animal of
any prohibited wildlife species.''; and
(B) in paragraph (2)--
(i) by striking so much as precedes
subparagraph (A) and inserting the following:
``(2) Limitation on application.--Paragraph (1) does not
apply to any person who--'';
(ii) in subparagraph (A), by inserting
before the semicolon at the end ``and does not
allow direct contact between the any member of
the public and a live bear, tiger, lion,
jaguar, cougar, African leopard, snow leopard,
ape, gibbon, siamang, monkey, or loris,
regardless of the age of the animal'';
(iii) in subparagraph (B), by striking
``State-licensed wildlife rehabilitator,'';
(iv) in subparagraph (C)--
(I) by striking ``an accredited''
and inserting ``a'';
(II) in clauses (ii) and (iii), by
striking ``animals listed in section
2(g)'' each place it appears and
inserting ``prohibited wildlife
species''; and
(III) in clause (iv), by striking
``animals'' and inserting ``prohibited
wildlife species''; and
(v) in subparagraph (D), by striking
``animal'' each place it appears and inserting
``prohibited wildlife species''.
(b) Civil Penalties.--Section 4(a)(1) of the Lacey Act Amendments
of 1981 (16 U.S.C. 3373(a)(1)) is amended--
(1) by inserting ``(e),'' after ``subsections (b), (d),'';
and
(2) by inserting ``, (e),'' after ``subsection (d)''.
(c) Criminal Penalties.--Section 4(d) of the Lacey Act Amendments
of 1981 (16 U.S.C. 3373(d)) is amended--
(1) in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (1), by
inserting ``(e),'' after ``subsections (b), (d),'' each place
it appears;
(2) in paragraph (2), by inserting ``(e),'' after
``subsections (b), (d),''; and
(3) in paragraph (3), by inserting ``, (e),'' after
``subsection (d)''.
(d) Effective Date; Regulations.--
(1) Effective date.--Subsections (a) through (c), and the
amendments made by those subsections, shall take effect on the
earlier of--
(A) the date of promulgation of regulations under
paragraph (2); and
(B) the expiration of the period referred to in
paragraph (2).
(2) Regulations.--Not later than 180 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Interior shall
promulgate regulations implementing the amendments made by this
section.
SEC. 4. APPLICABILITY PROVISION AMENDMENT.
Section 3 of the Captive Wildlife Safety Act (117 Stat. 2871;
Public Law 108-191) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by striking ``(a) In General.--
Section 3'' and inserting ``Section 3''; and
(2) by striking subsection (b).
SEC. 5. REGULATIONS.
Section 7(a) of the Lacey Act Amendments of 1981 (16 U.S.C.
3376(a)) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(3) The Secretary shall, in consultation with other
relevant Federal and State agencies, promulgate any regulations
necessary to implement section 3(e).''. | Captive Primate Safety Act This bill amends the Lacey Act Amendments of 1981 to prohibit importing, exporting, transporting, selling, receiving, acquiring, or purchasing in interstate or foreign commerce any live animal of a non-human primate species. The bill also limits any licensed or registered person from allowing direct contact between any member of the public and a live bear, tiger, lion, jaguar, cougar, African leopard, snow leopard, ape, gibbon, siamang, monkey, or loris. The Lacey Act prohibition applies to state-licensed wildlife rehabilitators. | Captive Primate Safety Act |
510 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Chief Manufacturing Officer Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS; SENSE OF CONGRESS.
(a) Findings.--The Congress finds the following:
(1) The manufacturing sector consists of establishments
that are primarily engaged in the transformation of materials,
substances, or components into products.
(2) The Federal Government supports manufacturing in a
variety of ways; manufacturing related activities are scattered
in several agencies in the executive branch.
(3) Manufacturing employment, output and exports are
impacted by tax policies, state of infrastructure and
transportation, small business regulations, environmental
regulations, trade policies, innovation ecosystems, workforce
development, and education initiatives, with national security
implications.
(4) Manufacturers account for 12 percent of the total gross
domestic product output in the United States, employing 9
percent of the workforce. Total output from manufacturing was
more than 2 trillion dollars in 2014. In addition, there were
more than 12 million manufacturing employees in the United
States in 2015, with an average annual compensation of about
$80,000.
(5) Legislative policies and executive actions often result
in unintended, inconsistent, and conflicting outcomes with
respect to the growth of manufacturing in the United States.
(b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that a well-
designed national manufacturing strategy would benefit the United
States economy in several important ways:
(1) A revitalized manufacturing sector enables the United
States to derive more of its economic growth from exports and
domestic production than it has in the past two decades.
(2) Average domestic wages would rise in response to
growing manufacturing output, as manufacturing jobs
historically have paid higher wages and benefits than
nonmanufacturing jobs.
(3) A growing manufacturing sector would help lay a
foundation for future United States economic growth, since
manufacturing industries perform the vast share of private-
sector research and development, which fuels the innovation
that serves as a primary engine of economic growth.
(4) The United States would expand its long-standing
leadership in advanced manufacturing technologies with Federal
investments in manufacturing research and development,
education, and workforce training.
(5) There has always been a strong connection between
domestic manufacturing and national defense and homeland
security. A strong and innovative manufacturing industry will
maintain the United States military superiority and will allow
for an unquestionable ability to respond quickly to threats and
catastrophes.
SEC. 3. UNITED STATES CHIEF MANUFACTURING OFFICER.
(a) Appointment.--Not later than 6 months after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the President shall appoint a United States
Chief Manufacturing Officer, by and with the advise and consent of the
Senate. The position of the Officer shall be in the Executive Office of
the President and report to the President through the Chief of Staff.
Such appointment shall not be construed to authorize an increase in the
number of full-time equivalent employees within the Executive Office of
the President.
(b) Pay.--The annual rate of pay for the United States Chief
Manufacturing Officer shall be an Executive Schedule rate of pay
(subchapter II of chapter 53 of title 5, United States Code), as
determined by the President, commensurate with the qualifications and
expertise of the individual appointed to be such Officer.
(c) Duties.--The primary duty of the United States Chief
Manufacturing Officer is to develop the national manufacturing strategy
described in subsection (d) and the other duties include the following:
(1) Advise the President on policy issues that impact the
economic activities and the workforce in the manufacturing
sector.
(2) Chair the Committee on Technology under the National
Science and Technology Council.
(3) Foster the coordination of manufacturing-related
policies and activities across agencies by--
(A) encouraging the use of best innovative
manufacturing practices across the Federal Government;
(B) ensuring the use of best information
technologies and cybersecurity practices for
manufacturing; and
(C) analyzing the status of manufacturing
technology needs across agencies.
(4) Conduct technology policy analyses to improve United
States manufacturing productivity, technology, and innovation,
and cooperate with United States manufacturing industry in the
improvement of its productivity, technology, and ability to
compete successfully in world markets.
(5) Determine the influence of economic, labor, and other
conditions, industrial structure and management, and government
policies on technological developments in manufacturing sectors
worldwide.
(6) Identify technological needs, problems, and
opportunities within and across the manufacturing sector that,
if addressed, could make a significant contribution to the
economy of the United States.
(7) Assess whether the capital, technical, and other
resources being allocated to manufacturing are likely to
generate new technologies, are adequate to meet private and
social demands for goods and services, and are sufficient to
promote productivity and economic growth.
(8) Propose studies and policy experiments, in cooperation
with agencies, to determine the effectiveness of measures with
the potential of advancing United States technological
innovation in manufacturing.
(9) Encourage the creation of joint initiatives by State
and local governments, regional organizations, private
businesses, institutions of higher education, nonprofit
organizations, or Federal laboratories to encourage technology
transfer, to stimulate innovation, and to promote an
appropriate climate for investment in manufacturing-related
industries.
(10) Propose manufacturing-related cooperative research
involving appropriate Federal entities, State or local
governments, regional organizations, institutions of higher
education, nonprofit organizations, or private industry to
promote the common use of resources, to improve training
programs and curricula, to stimulate interest in high
technology manufacturing careers, and to encourage the
effective dissemination of manufacturing technology skills
within the wider community.
(11) Serve as a focal point for discussions among companies
that manufacture in the United States on topics of interest to
the manufacturing industry and workforce, including discussions
regarding emerging and advanced technologies.
(12) Promote Government measures, including legislation,
regulation, and policies with the potential of advancing United
States technological innovation in manufacturing and exploiting
manufacturing innovations of foreign origin.
(13) Develop strategies and policies that would encourage
manufacturing enterprises to maintain production facilities and
retain manufacturing jobs in the United States and use
manufacturing supply chains based in the United States.
(14) Support communities negatively impacted by the closure
or relocation of manufacturing facilities by promoting efforts
to revitalize communities for new manufacturing enterprises.
(15) Assist States in their economic development plans for
manufacturing and in their efforts to relocate manufacturing
facilities within the United States rather than moving
manufacturing outside of the United States.
(16) Promote the goals of Network for Manufacturing
Innovation Program established under section 34 of the National
Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278s).
(17) Encourage participation of public and private
organizations, State educational agencies, and institutions of
higher education in the annual celebration of National
Manufacturing Day to enhance the public perception of
manufacturing.
(18) Any other function and activity assigned by the
President.
(d) National Manufacturing Strategy.--The national manufacturing
strategy shall contain a summary of the current state of manufacturing
in the Federal Government and comprehensive strategies for--
(1) innovation policies and initiatives and investments in
research and development;
(2) identifying and addressing the anticipated workforce
needs of the manufacturing sector;
(3) strengthening education and the required training and
certifications for manufacturing;
(4) creating training and appropriate career paths to
manufacturing jobs for qualified veterans and others that have
become unemployed;
(5) promoting the development of quality control and other
technical standards;
(6) maintaining reliable physical and telecommunications
infrastructure, and the required investments in infrastructure
projects as needed for manufacturing;
(7) analyzing the status of manufacturing technology needs
in the industrial sector and providing recommendations for
economic and labor force expansions;
(8) monitoring technology directions and analyzing
strengths, weaknesses, threats, and opportunities in the United
States manufacturing sector;
(9) implementing appropriate tax incentives and credits to
assist manufacturing enterprises improve their competitiveness;
(10) recommending Federal and State regulations to reduce
cost of manufacturing and improve productivity;
(11) promoting the export of United States manufactured
goods and enforcement of fair trading rules;
(12) developing plans to strengthen the manufacturing
ecosystems that would continuously foster the growth of
advanced manufacturing;
(13) identifying other forms of assistance to companies
that manufacture in the United States to successfully compete
in global markets;
(14) coordinating the United States national manufacturing
strategy with manufacturing strategy from each State to ensure
a well-integrated national strategy; and
(15) such other issues determined to be necessary by the
President.
(e) Reports.--Not later than 24 months after the date of the
enactment of this Act, every 24 months thereafter, and upon request by
the President or the Congress for an updated or interim report, the
United States Chief Manufacturing Officer, in consultation with the
Director of the Office of Management and Budget, shall submit to the
President and Congress a report on the national manufacturing strategy
described in subsection (d). The report shall address strategies to
promote innovation and investment in domestic manufacturing, support
the development of a skilled and diverse manufacturing workforce,
promote equitable trade policies, expand exports of manufactured goods,
enable global competitiveness, encourage sustainability, and support
national security.
(f) Conforming Amendment.--Section 102 of the America COMPETES
Reauthorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 6622) is amended by adding at
the end the following new subsection:
``(d) Chair.--The Chair of the Committee shall be the United States
Chief Manufacturing Officer.''.
(g) Definitions.--In this Act:
(1) Agency.--The term ``agency'' has the meaning given that
term in section 551 of title 5, United States Code.
(2) Institution of higher education.--The term
``institution of higher education'' has the meaning given that
term in section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20
U.S.C. 1001).
(3) Nonprofit organization.--The term ``nonprofit
organization'' means an organization that is described under
section 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and exempt
from tax under section 501(a) of such Code.
(4) State.--The term ``State'' means each of the several
States, the District of Columbia, each commonwealth, territory,
or possession of the United States, and each federally
recognized Indian tribe.
(h) No Additional Funds Authorized.--No additional funds are
authorized to be appropriated to carry out this Act. This Act shall be
carried out using amounts otherwise made available for such purposes. | Chief Manufacturing Officer Act This bill expresses the sense of Congress that a well-designed national manufacturing strategy would benefit the U.S. economy. The President shall appoint a United States Chief Manufacturing Officer whose primary duty is to develop the national manufacturing strategy using the criteria set forth in this bill. The bill amends the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 to designate the United States Chief Manufacturing Officer as the chair of the Committee on Technology under the National Science and Technology Council. | Chief Manufacturing Officer Act |
511 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Lumbee Recognition Act''.
SEC. 2. PREAMBLE.
The preamble to the Act of June 7, 1956 (70 Stat. 254), is amended
as follows:
(1) By striking ``and'' at the end of each clause.
(2) By striking ``: Now, therefore,'' at the end of the
last clause and inserting a semicolon.
(3) By adding at the end the following new clauses:
``Whereas the Lumbee Indians of Robeson and adjoining counties in North Carolina
are descendants of coastal North Carolina Indian tribes, principally
Cheraw, and have remained a distinct Indian community since the time of
contact with white settlers;
``Whereas since 1885 the State of North Carolina has recognized the Lumbee
Indians as an Indian tribe;
``Whereas in 1956 the Congress of the United States acknowledged the Lumbee
Indians as an Indian tribe, but withheld from the Lumbee Tribe the
benefits, privileges and immunities to which the Tribe and its members
otherwise would have been entitled by virtue of the Tribe's status as a
federally recognized tribe; and
``Whereas the Congress finds that the Lumbee Indians should now be entitled to
full Federal recognition of their status as an Indian tribe and that the
benefits, privileges and immunities that accompany such status should be
accorded to the Lumbee Tribe: Now, therefore,''.
SEC. 3. FEDERAL RECOGNITION.
The Act of June 7, 1956 (70 Stat. 254), is amended as follows:
(1) By striking the last sentence of the first section.
(2) By striking section 2 and inserting the following new
sections:
``Sec. 2. (a) Federal recognition is hereby extended to the Lumbee
Tribe of North Carolina, as designated as petitioner number 65 by the
Office of Federal Acknowledgement. All laws and regulations of the
United States of general application to Indians and Indian tribes shall
apply to the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina and its members.
``(b) Notwithstanding the first section, any group of Indians in
Robeson and adjoining counties, North Carolina, whose members are not
enrolled in the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina as determined under
section 3(c), may petition under part 83 of title 25 of the Code of
Federal Regulations for acknowledgement of tribal existence.
``Sec. 3. (a) The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina and its members
shall be eligible for all services and benefits provided to Indians
because of their status as members of a federally recognized tribe. For
the purposes of the delivery of such services, those members of the
Tribe residing in Robeson, Cumberland, Hoke, and Scotland counties in
North Carolina shall be deemed to be residing on or near an Indian
reservation.
``(b) Upon verification by the Secretary of the Interior of a
tribal roll under subsection (c), the Secretary of the Interior and the
Secretary of Health and Human Services shall develop, in consultation
with the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina, a determination of needs to
provide the services to which members of the Tribe are eligible. The
Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Health and Human
Services shall each submit a written statement of such needs to
Congress after the tribal roll is verified.
``(c) For purposes of the delivery of Federal services, the tribal
roll in effect on the date of the enactment of this section shall,
subject to verification by the Secretary of the Interior, define the
service population of the Tribe. The Secretary's verification shall be
limited to confirming compliance with the membership criteria set out
in the Tribe's constitution adopted on November 16, 2001, which
verification shall be completed within 2 years after the date of the
enactment of this section.
``Sec. 4. (a) The Secretary may take land into trust for the Lumbee
Tribe pursuant to this Act. An application to take land located within
Robeson County, North Carolina, into trust under this section shall be
treated by the Secretary as an `on reservation' trust acquisition under
part 151 of title 25, Code of Federal Regulation (or a successor
regulation).
``(b) The tribe may not conduct gaming activities as a matter of
claimed inherent authority or under the authority of any Federal law,
including the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (25 U.S.C. 2701 et seq.) or
under any regulations thereunder promulgated by the Secretary or the
National Indian Gaming Commission.
``Sec. 5. (a) The State of North Carolina shall exercise
jurisdiction over--
``(1) all criminal offenses that are committed on; and
``(2) all civil actions that arise on, lands located within
the State of North Carolina that are owned by, or held in trust
by the United States for, the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina,
or any dependent Indian community of the Lumbee Tribe of North
Carolina.
``(b) The Secretary of the Interior is authorized to accept on
behalf of the United States, after consulting with the Attorney General
of the United States, any transfer by the State of North Carolina to
the United States of any portion of the jurisdiction of the State of
North Carolina described in subsection (a) pursuant to an agreement
between the Lumbee Tribe and the State of North Carolina. Such transfer
of jurisdiction may not take effect until 2 years after the effective
date of the agreement.
``(c) The provisions of this section shall not affect the
application of section 109 of the Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25
U.S.C. 1919).
``Sec. 6. There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as are
necessary to carry out this Act.''.
Passed the House of Representatives June 3, 2009.
Attest:
LORRAINE C. MILLER,
Clerk. | (This measure has not been amended since it was reported to the House on May 12, 2009. The summary of that version is repeated here.)
Lumbee Recognition Act - Extends federal recognition to the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina.
Prohibits the tribe from conducting gaming activities as a matter of claimed inherent authority or under the authority of any federal law.
Requires North Carolina to exercise jurisdiction over all criminal offenses committed, and all civil actions that arise, on North Carolina lands owned by, or held in trust by the United States for, the Lumbee Tribe or any dependent Indian community of the Tribe. | To provide for the recognition of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina, and for other purposes. |
512 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Dam Rehabilitation and Repair Act of
2012''.
SEC. 2. REHABILITATION AND REPAIR OF DEFICIENT DAMS.
(a) Definitions.--Section 2 of the National Dam Safety Program Act
(33 U.S.C. 467) is amended--
(1) by striking paragraph (3);
(2) by redesignating paragraphs (1) and (2) as paragraphs
(2) and (3), respectively;
(3) by inserting before paragraph (2) (as redesignated by
paragraph (2) of this subsection) the following:
``(1) Administrator.--The term `Administrator' means the
Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency.'';
(4) by redesignating paragraphs (4), (5), (6), (7), (8),
(9), (10), (11), (12), and (13) as paragraphs (5), (6), (7),
(8), (9), (10), (13), (14), (15), and (16), respectively;
(5) by inserting after paragraph (3) (as redesignated by
paragraph (2) of this subsection) the following:
``(4) Deficient dam.--The term `deficient dam' means a dam
that the State within the boundaries of which the dam is
located determines--
``(A) fails to meet minimum dam safety standards of
the State; and
``(B) poses an unacceptable risk to the public.'';
and
(6) by inserting after paragraph (10) (as redesignated by
paragraph (4) of this subsection) the following:
``(11) Publicly-owned dam.--
``(A) In general.--The term `publicly-owned dam'
means a dam that is owned by 1 or more State agencies
or governments, local governments, municipal
governments, or tribal governments.
``(B) Inclusions.--The term `publicly-owned dam'
includes a dam owned by a nonprofit organization that--
``(i) is established by 1 or more State,
local, municipal, or tribal governments; and
``(ii) provides public benefits, such as--
``(I) local flood control
districts;
``(II) regional public water
utilities; and
``(III) local irrigation districts.
``(12) Rehabilitation.--The term `rehabilitation' means the
repair, replacement, reconstruction, or removal of a dam that
is carried out to meet applicable State dam safety
standards.''.
(b) Program for Rehabilitation and Repair of Deficient Dams.--The
National Dam Safety Program Act is amended by inserting after section 8
(33 U.S.C. 467f) the following:
``SEC. 8A. REHABILITATION AND REPAIR OF DEFICIENT DAMS.
``(a) Establishment of Program.--The Administrator shall establish,
within FEMA, a program to provide grant assistance to States for use in
rehabilitation of deficient dams that are publicly-owned dams.
``(b) Award of Grants.--
``(1) Application.--
``(A) In general.--A State interested in receiving
a grant under this section may submit to the
Administrator an application for the grant.
``(B) Requirements.--An application submitted to
the Administrator under this section shall be submitted
at such time, be in such form, and contain such
information as the Administrator may prescribe by
regulation.
``(2) Grant.--
``(A) In general.--The Administrator may make a
grant in accordance with this section for
rehabilitation of a deficient dam to a State that
submits an application for the grant in accordance with
the regulations prescribed by the Administrator.
``(B) Project grant agreement.--The Administrator
shall enter into a project grant agreement with the
State to establish the terms of the grant and the
project, including the amount of the grant.
``(C) Grant assurance.--As part of a project
agreement entered into under subparagraph (B), the
Administrator shall require a State to provide an
assurance, with respect to the dam to be rehabilitated
under the project, that the owner of the dam has
developed and will carry out a plan for maintenance of
the dam during the expected life of the dam.
``(3) Applicability of requirements.--The Administrator
shall require recipients of grants under this section to assure
compliance with the standards set forth in section 611(j)(9) of
the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance
Act (42 U.S.C. 5196(j)(9)), as in effect on the date of
enactment of this section, in the same manner that recipients
of financial contributions under section 611(j) of such Act are
required to assure compliance with such standards.
``(c) Priority System.--The Administrator, in consultation with the
Board, shall develop a risk-based priority system for use in
identifying deficient dams for which grants may be made under this
section.
``(d) Allocation of Funds.--The total amount of funds appropriated
pursuant to subsection (h)(1) for a fiscal year shall be allocated for
making grants under this section to States applying for the grants for
that fiscal year as follows:
``(1) \1/3\ divided equally among applying States.
``(2) \2/3\ divided among applying States based on the
proportion that--
``(A) the number of non-Federal publicly-owned dams
that the Secretary of the Army identifies in the
national inventory of dams maintained under section 6
as constituting a danger to human health and that are
located within the boundaries of the State; bears to
``(B) the number of non-Federal publicly-owned dams
that are so identified and that are located within the
boundaries of all applying States.
``(e) Use of Funds.--None of the funds provided in the form of a
grant or otherwise made available under this section shall be used--
``(1) to rehabilitate a Federal dam;
``(2) to perform routine operation or maintenance of a dam;
``(3) to modify a dam to produce hydroelectric power;
``(4) to increase water supply storage capacity; or
``(5) to make any other modification to a dam that does not
also improve the safety of the dam.
``(f) Cost Sharing.--The Federal share of the cost of
rehabilitation of a deficient dam for which a grant is made under this
section may not exceed 65 percent of the cost of the rehabilitation.
``(g) Contractual Requirements.--
``(1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2), as a condition
on the receipt of a grant under this section, a State that
receives the grant shall require that each contract and
subcontract for program management, construction management,
planning studies, feasibility studies, architectural services,
preliminary engineering, design, engineering, surveying,
mapping, and related services entered into using funds from the
grant be awarded in the same manner as a contract for
architectural and engineering services is awarded under--
``(A) chapter 11 of title 40, United States Code;
or
``(B) an equivalent qualifications-based
requirement prescribed by the State.
``(2) No proprietary interest.--A contract awarded in
accordance with paragraph (1) shall not be considered to confer
a proprietary interest upon the United States.
``(h) Authorization of Appropriations.--
``(1) In general.--There are authorized to be appropriated
to carry out this section--
``(A) $10,000,000 for fiscal year 2013;
``(B) $15,000,000 for fiscal year 2014;
``(C) $25,000,000 for fiscal year 2015;
``(D) $50,000,000 for fiscal year 2016; and
``(E) $100,000,000 for fiscal year 2017.
``(2) Staff.--There is authorized to be appropriated to
provide for the employment of such additional staff of FEMA as
are necessary to carry out this section $400,000 for each of
fiscal years 2013 through 2017.
``(3) Period of availability.--Amounts made available under
this section shall remain available until expended.''.
SEC. 3. RULEMAKING.
(a) Proposed Rulemaking.--Not later than 90 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Emergency
Management Agency shall issue a notice of proposed rulemaking regarding
the amendments made by section 2 to the National Dam Safety Program Act
(33 U.S.C. 467 et seq.).
(b) Final Rule.--Not later than 120 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Emergency
Management Agency shall promulgate a final rule regarding the
amendments described in subsection (a). | Dam Rehabilitation and Repair Act of 2012 - Amends the National Dam Safety Program Act to require the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to establish a program to provide grant assistance to states for use in rehabilitating publicly-owned dams that fail to meet minimum safety standards and pose an unacceptable risk to the public (deficient dams).
Sets forth provisions regarding procedures for grant awards and fund allocation. Requires the FEMA Administrator to: (1) require a state to provide an assurance that the owner of the dam to be rehabilitated has developed and will carry out a maintenance plan during the expected life of the dam, (2) require a recipient of a grant under this Act to comply with requirements applicable to contributions of federal funds under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, and (3) develop a risk-based priority system for identifying deficient dams for which such grants may be made. Limits the federal share of rehabilitation costs to 65%.
Prohibits funds from being used to: (1) rehabilitate a federal dam, (2) perform routine operation or maintenance, (3) modify a dam to produce hydroelectric power, (4) increase water supply storage capacity, or (5) make any other modification that does not also improve safety.
Conditions the receipt of grants by states upon compliance with specified requirements regarding contracts for architectural and engineering services. Provides that such contracts shall not be considered to confer a proprietary interest upon the United States. | To amend the National Dam Safety Program Act to establish a program to provide grant assistance to States for the rehabilitation and repair of deficient dams. |
513 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Teen Pregnancy Prevention,
Responsibility, and Opportunity Act of 2005''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds as follows:
(1) The United States has the highest teen-pregnancy rate
and teen birth rate in the western industrialized world,
costing the United States at least $7 billion annually.
(2) About one out of three of all young women in America
become pregnant before they reach the age of 20.
(3) Teen pregnancy has serious consequences for young
women, their children, and communities as a whole. Too-early
childbearing increases the likelihood that a young woman will
drop out of high school and that she and her child will live in
poverty.
(4) Statistically, the sons of teen mothers are more likely
to end up in prison. The daughters of teen mothers are more
likely to end up teen mothers too.
(5) Teens that grow up in disadvantaged economical, social,
and familial circumstances are more likely to engage in risky
behavior and have a child during adolescence.
(6) Teens with strong emotional attachments to their
parents are more likely to become sexually active at a later
age. Seven out of ten teens say that they are prepared to
listen to things parents thought they were not ready to hear.
(7) 78 percent of white and 70 percent of African American
teenagers report that lack of communication between a teenage
girl and her parents is frequently a reason a teenage girl has
a baby.
(8) One study found that the likelihood of teens having sex
for the first time increased with the number of unsupervised
hours teens have during a week.
(9) After-school programs reduce teen risky behavior by
involving teens in activities that provide alternatives to sex.
Teenage girls who play sports, for instance, are more likely to
delay sex and have fewer partners and less likely to become
pregnant.
(10) After-school programs help prevent teen pregnancy by
advancing good decision-making skills and providing teens
health education and positive role models in a supervised
setting.
(11) Eight in 10 girls and six in 10 boys report that they
wish they had waited until they were older to have sex.
SEC. 3. EDUCATION PROGRAM FOR PREVENTING TEEN PREGNANCIES.
(a) In General.--The Secretary of Health and Human Services
(referred to in this Act as the ``Secretary'') may make grants to local
educational agencies, State and local public health agencies, and
nonprofit private entities for the purpose of carrying out projects to
provide education on preventing teen pregnancies.
(b) Preference in Making Grants.--In making grants under subsection
(a), the Secretary shall give preference to applicants that will carry
out the projects under such subsection in communities for which the
rate of teen pregnancy is significantly above the average rate of such
pregnancies.
(c) Certain Requirements.--A grant may be made under subsection (a)
only if the applicant for the grant meets the following conditions with
respect to the project involved:
(1) The applicant agrees that information provided by the
project on pregnancy prevention will be age-appropriate,
factually and medically accurate and complete, and
scientifically-based.
(2) The applicant agrees that the project will give
priority to preventing teen pregnancies by--
(A) encouraging teens to delay sexual activity;
(B) providing educational services and
interventions for sexually active teens or teens at
risk of becoming sexually active;
(C) educating both young men and women about the
responsibilities and pressures that come along with
parenting;
(D) helping parents communicate with teens about
sexuality; or
(E) teaching young people responsible decision-
making.
(d) Matching Funds.--
(1) In general.--With respect to the costs of the project
to be carried out under subsection (a) by an applicant, a grant
may be made under such subsection only if the applicant agrees
to make available (directly or through donations from public or
private entities) non-Federal contributions toward such costs
in an amount that is not less than 25 percent of such costs ($1
for each $3 of Federal funds provided in the grant).
(2) Determination of amount contributed.--Non-Federal
contributions required in paragraph (1) may be in cash or in
kind, fairly evaluated, including plant, equipment, or
services. 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.
(e) Maintenance of Effort.--With respect to the activities for
which a grant under subsection (a) is authorized to be expended, such a
grant may be made for a fiscal year only if the applicant involved
agrees to maintain expenditures of non-Federal amounts for such
activities at a level that is not less than the level of such
expenditures maintained by the entity for the fiscal year preceding the
first fiscal year for which the entity received such a grant.
(f) Evaluation of Projects.--The Secretary shall establish criteria
for the evaluation of projects under subsection (a). A grant may be
made under such subsection only if the applicant involved--
(1) agrees to conduct evaluations of the project in
accordance with such criteria;
(2) agrees to submit to the Secretary such reports
describing the results of the evaluations as the Secretary
determines to be appropriate; and
(3) submits to the Secretary, in the application under
subsection (g), a plan for conducting the evaluations.
(g) Application for Grant.--A grant may be made under subsection
(a) only if an application for the grant is submitted to the Secretary
and the application is in such form, is made in such manner, and
contains such agreements, assurances, and information, including the
agreements under subsections (c) through (f) and the plan under
subsection (f)(3), as the Secretary determines to be necessary to carry
out this section.
(h) Report to Congress.--Not later than October 1, 2011, the
Secretary shall submit to the Congress a report describing the extent
to which projects under subsection (a) have been successful in reducing
the rate of teen pregnancies in the communities in which the projects
have been carried out.
(i) Definitions.--For purposes of this section:
(1) The term ``age-appropriate'', with respect to
information on pregnancy prevention, means topics, messages,
and teaching methods suitable to particular ages or age groups
of children and adolescents, based on developing cognitive,
emotional, and behavioral capacity typical for the age or age
group.
(2) The term ``factually and medically accurate and
complete'' means verified or supported by the weight of
research conducted in compliance with accepted scientific
methods and--
(A) published in peer-reviewed journals, where
applicable; or
(B) comprising information that leading
professional organizations and agencies with relevant
expertise in the field recognize as accurate,
objective, and complete.
(3) The term ``local educational agency'' has the meaning
given such term in section 9101 of the Elementary and Secondary
Education Act of 1965.
(j) Authorization of Appropriations.--For the purpose of carrying
out this section, there is authorized to be appropriated $20,000,000
for each of the fiscal years 2006 through 2010.
SEC. 4. REAUTHORIZATION OF CERTAIN AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS.
(a) 21st Century Community Learning Centers.--Section 4206 of the
Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7176) is
amended--
(1) in paragraph (5), by striking ``$2,250,000,000'' and
inserting ``$2,500,000,000''; and
(2) in paragraph (6), by striking ``$2,500,000,000'' and
inserting ``$2,750,000,000''.
(b) Carol M. White Physical Education Program.--Section 5401 of the
Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7241) is
amended--
(1) by striking ``There are'' and inserting ``(a) In
General.--There are''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(b) Physical Education.--In addition to the amounts authorized to
be appropriated by subsection (a), there are authorized to be
appropriated $73,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2006 and 2007 to
carry out subpart 10.''.
(c) Federal TRIO Programs.--Section 402A(f) of the Higher Education
Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070a-11(f)) is amended by striking
``$700,000,000 for fiscal year 1999, and such sums as may be necessary
for each of the 4 succeeding fiscal years'' and inserting
``$883,000,000 for fiscal year 2006 and such sums as may be necessary
for each of the 5 succeeding fiscal years''.
(d) GEARUP.--Section 404H of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20
U.S.C. 1070a-28) is amended by striking ``$200,000,000 for fiscal year
1999 and such sums as may be necessary for each of the 4 succeeding
fiscal years'' and inserting ``$325,000,000 for fiscal year 2006 and
such sums as may be necessary for each of the 5 succeeding fiscal
years''.
SEC. 5. DEMONSTRATION GRANTS TO ENCOURAGE CREATIVE APPROACHES TO TEEN
PREGNANCY PREVENTION AND AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS.
(a) In General.--The Secretary may make grants to public or
nonprofit private entities for the purpose of assisting the entities in
demonstrating innovative approaches to prevent teen pregnancies.
(b) Certain Approaches.--Approaches under subsection (a) may
include approaches such as the following:
(1) Encouraging teen-driven approaches to pregnancy
prevention.
(2) Exposing teens to realistic simulations of the
physical, emotional, and financial toll of pregnancy and
parenting.
(3) Facilitating communication between parents and
children, especially programs that have been evaluated and
proven effective.
(c) Matching Funds.--
(1) In general.--With respect to the costs of the project
to be carried out under subsection (a) by an applicant, a grant
may be made under such subsection only if the applicant agrees
to make available (directly or through donations from public or
private entities) non-Federal contributions toward such costs
in an amount that is not less than 25 percent of such costs ($1
for each $3 of Federal funds provided in the grant).
(2) Determination of amount contributed.--Non-Federal
contributions required in paragraph (1) may be in cash or in
kind, fairly evaluated, including plant, equipment, or
services. 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.
(d) Evaluation of Projects.--The Secretary shall establish criteria
for the evaluation of projects under subsection (a). A grant may be
made under such subsection only if the applicant involved--
(1) agrees to conduct evaluations of the project in
accordance with such criteria;
(2) agrees to submit to the Secretary such reports
describing the results of the evaluations as the Secretary
determines to be appropriate; and
(3) submits to the Secretary, in the application under
subsection (e), a plan for conducting the evaluations.
(e) Application for Grant.--A grant may be made under subsection
(a) only if an application for the grant is submitted to the Secretary
and the application is in such form, is made in such manner, and
contains such agreements, assurances, and information, including the
agreements under subsections (c) and (d) and the plan under subsection
(d)(3), as the Secretary determines to be necessary to carry out this
section.
(f) Report to Congress.--Not later than October 1, 2011, the
Secretary shall submit to the Congress a report describing the extent
to which projects under subsection (a) have been successful in reducing
the rate of teen pregnancies in the communities in which the projects
have been carried out. Such reports shall describe the various
approaches used under subsection (a) and the effectiveness of each of
the approaches.
(g) Authorization of Appropriations.--For the purpose of carrying
out this section, there is authorized to be appropriated $5,000,000 for
each of the fiscal years 2006 through 2010. | Teen Pregnancy Prevention, Responsibility, and Opportunity Act of 2005 - Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make grants to: (1) local educational agencies, state and local public health agencies, and nonprofit private entities for projects to provide education on preventing teen pregnancies; and (2) public or nonprofit private entities for demonstrating innovative approaches to prevent teen pregnancies.
Reauthorizes appropriations for: (1) 21st Century Community Learning Centers and the Carol M. White physical education program, under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965; and (2) TRIO programs and GEARUP, under the Higher Education Act of 1965. | To authorize grants to carry out projects to provide education on preventing teen pregnancies, and for other purposes. |
514 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Hyde and Related Amendments
Codification Act''.
SEC. 2. PROHIBITING TAXPAYER FUNDED ABORTIONS AND PROVIDING FOR
CONSCIENCE PROTECTIONS.
(a) In General.--Title 1, United States Code is amended by adding
at the end the following new chapter:
``CHAPTER 4--PROHIBITING TAXPAYER FUNDED ABORTIONS AND PROVIDING FOR
CONSCIENCE PROTECTIONS
``Sec.
``301. Prohibition on funding for abortions.
``302. Prohibition on funding for health benefits plans that cover
abortion.
``303. Limitation on Federal facilities and employees.
``304. Construction relating to separate coverage.
``305. Construction relating to the use of non-Federal funds for health
coverage.
``306. Non-preemption of other Federal laws.
``307. Construction relating to complications arising from abortion.
``308. Treatment of abortions related to rape, incest, or preserving
the life of the mother.
``309. Application to District of Columbia.
``310. No government discrimination against certain health care
entities.
``Sec. 301. Prohibition on funding for abortions
``No funds authorized or appropriated by Federal law, and none of
the funds in any trust fund to which funds are authorized or
appropriated by Federal law, shall be expended for any abortion.
``Sec. 302. Prohibition on funding for health benefits plans that cover
abortion
``None of the funds authorized or appropriated by Federal law, and
none of the funds in any trust fund to which funds are authorized or
appropriated by Federal law, shall be expended for health benefits
coverage that includes coverage of abortion.
``Sec. 303. Limitation on Federal facilities and employees
``No health care service furnished--
``(1) by or in a health care facility owned or operated by
the Federal Government; or
``(2) by any physician or other individual employed by the
Federal Government to provide health care services within the
scope of the physician's or individual's employment,
may include abortion.
``Sec. 304. Construction relating to separate coverage
``Nothing in this chapter shall be construed as prohibiting any
individual, entity, or State or locality from purchasing separate
abortion coverage or health benefits coverage that includes abortion so
long as such coverage is paid for entirely using only funds not
authorized or appropriated by Federal law and such coverage shall not
be purchased using matching funds required for a federally subsidized
program, including a State's or locality's contribution of Medicaid
matching funds.
``Sec. 305. Construction relating to the use of non-Federal funds for
health coverage
``Nothing in this chapter shall be construed as restricting the
ability of any non-Federal health benefits coverage provider from
offering abortion coverage, or the ability of a State or locality to
contract separately with such a provider for such coverage, so long as
only funds not authorized or appropriated by Federal law are used and
such coverage shall not be purchased using matching funds required for
a federally subsidized program, including a State's or locality's
contribution of Medicaid matching funds.
``Sec. 306. Non-preemption of other Federal laws
``Nothing in this chapter shall repeal, amend, or have any effect
on any other Federal law to the extent such law imposes any limitation
on the use of funds for abortion or for health benefits coverage that
includes coverage of abortion, beyond the limitations set forth in this
chapter.
``Sec. 307. Construction relating to complications arising from
abortion
``Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to apply to the
treatment of any infection, injury, disease, or disorder that has been
caused by or exacerbated by the performance of an abortion. This rule
of construction shall be applicable without regard to whether the
abortion was performed in accord with Federal or State law, and without
regard to whether funding for the abortion is permissible under section
308.
``Sec. 308. Treatment of abortions related to rape, incest, or
preserving the life of the mother
``The limitations established in sections 301, 302, and 303 shall
not apply to an abortion--
``(1) if the pregnancy is the result of an act of rape or
incest; or
``(2) in the case where a woman suffers from a physical
disorder, physical injury, or physical illness that would, as
certified by a physician, place the woman in danger of death
unless an abortion is performed, including a life-endangering
physical condition caused by or arising from the pregnancy
itself.
``Sec. 309. Application to District of Columbia
``In this chapter:
``(1) Any reference to funds appropriated by Federal law
shall be treated as including any amounts within the budget of
the District of Columbia that have been approved by Act of
Congress pursuant to section 446 of the District of Columbia
Home Rule Act (or any applicable successor Federal law).
``(2) The term `Federal Government' includes the government
of the District of Columbia.
``Sec. 310. No government discrimination against certain health care
entities
``(a) Nondiscrimination.--A Federal agency or program, and any
State or local government that receives Federal financial assistance
(either directly or indirectly), may not subject any individual or
institutional health care entity to discrimination on the basis that
the health care entity does not provide, pay for, provide coverage of,
or refer for abortions.
``(b) Health Care Entity Defined.--For purposes of this section,
the term `health care entity' includes an individual physician or other
health care professional, a hospital, a provider-sponsored
organization, a health maintenance organization, a health insurance
plan, or any other kind of health care facility, organization, or plan.
``(c) Remedies.--
``(1) In general.--The courts of the United States shall
have jurisdiction to prevent and redress actual or threatened
violations of this section by issuing any form of legal or
equitable relief, including--
``(A) injunctions prohibiting conduct that violates
this section; and
``(B) orders preventing the disbursement of all or
a portion of Federal financial assistance to a State or
local government, or to a specific offending agency or
program of a State or local government, until such time
as the conduct prohibited by this section has ceased.
``(2) Commencement of action.--An action under this
subsection may be instituted by--
``(A) any health care entity that has standing to
complain of an actual or threatened violation of this
section; or
``(B) the Attorney General of the United States.
``(d) Administration.--The Secretary of Health and Human Services
shall designate the Director of the Office for Civil Rights of the
Department of Health and Human Services--
``(1) to receive complaints alleging a violation of this
section;
``(2) subject to paragraph (3), to pursue the investigation
of such complaints in coordination with the Attorney General;
and
``(3) in the case of a complaint related to a Federal
agency (other than with respect to the Department of Health and
Human Services) or program administered through such other
agency or any State or local government receiving Federal
financial assistance through such other agency, to refer the
complaint to the appropriate office of such other agency.''.
(b) Amendment to Table of Chapters.--The table of chapters for
title 1, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the
following new item:
``4. Prohibiting taxpayer funded abortions and providing for 301''.
conscience protections. | Hyde and Related Amendments Codification Act- Prohibits the expenditure of funds authorized or appropriated by federal law or funds in any trust fund to which funds are authorized or appropriated by federal law (federal funds) for any abortion.
Prohibits federal funds from being used for any health benefits coverage that includes coverage of abortion. (Currently, federal funds cannot be used for abortion services and plans receiving federal funds must keep federal funds segregated from any funds for abortion services.)
Prohibits the inclusion of abortion in any health care service furnished by a federal or District of Columbia health care facility or by any physician or other individual employed by the federal government or the District.
Excludes from such prohibitions an abortion if: (1) the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest; or (2) the woman suffers from a physical disorder, injury, or illness, including a life-endangering physical condition caused by or arising from the pregnancy itself, that would place her in danger of death unless an abortion is performed, as certified by a physician.
Makes such prohibitions applicable to District of Columbia funds.
Codifies the prohibition against a federal agency or program or any state or local government that receives federal financial assistance from subjecting any individual or health care entity to discrimination on the basis that the health care entity does not provide, pay for, provide coverage of, or refer for abortions. Creates a cause of action for any violations of such provisions. Gives federal courts jurisdiction to prevent and redress actual or threatened violations of such provisions by issuing any form of legal or equitable relief, including an injunction or order preventing the disbursement of all or a portion of federal financial assistance until the prohibited conduct has ceased. Gives standing to institute an action to affected health care entities and the Attorney General. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to designate the Director of the Office for Civil Rights of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to receive, investigate, and refer to the appropriate federal agency complaints alleging a violation of such provisions. | A bill to prohibit taxpayer funded abortions and to provide for conscience protections, and for other purposes. |
515 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``NATO Enlargement Facilitation Act of
1996''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress makes the following findings:
(1) Since 1949, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization
(NATO) has played an essential role in guaranteeing the
security, freedom, and prosperity of the United States and its
partners in the Alliance.
(2) The NATO Alliance is, and has been since its inception,
purely defensive in character, and it poses no threat to any
nation. The enlargement of the NATO Alliance to include as full
and equal members emerging democracies in Central and Eastern
Europe does not threaten any nation. America's security,
freedom, and prosperity remain linked to the security of the
countries of Europe.
(3) The sustained commitment of the member countries of
NATO to a mutual defense has made possible the democratic
transformation of Eastern Europe. Members of the Alliance can
and should play a critical role in addressing the security
challenges of the post-Cold War era and in creating the stable
environment needed for those emerging democracies in Central
and Eastern Europe to successfully complete political and
economic transformation.
(4) NATO has enlarged its membership on 3 different
occasions since 1949.
(5) Congress has sought to facilitate the further
enlargement of NATO at an early date by enacting the NATO
Participation Act of 1994 (title II of Public Law 103-447; 22
U.S.C. 1928 note) and the NATO Participation Act Amendments of
1995 (section 585 of Public Law 104-107).
(6) As new members of NATO assume the responsibilities of
Alliance membership, the costs of maintaining stability in
Europe will be shared more widely. Facilitation of the
enlargement process will require current members of NATO, and
the United States in particular, to demonstrate the political
will needed to build on successful ongoing programs such as the
Warsaw Initiative and the Partnership for Peace by making
available the resources necessary to supplement efforts
prospective new members are themselves undertaking.
(7) New members will be full members of the Alliance,
enjoying all rights and assuming all the obligations under the
Washington Treaty.
(8) Cooperative regional peacekeeping initiatives involving
emerging democracies in Central and Eastern Europe that have
expressed interest in joining NATO, such as the Baltic
Peacekeeping Battalion, the Polish-Lithuanian Joint
Peacekeeping Force, and the Polish-Ukrainian Peacekeeping
Force, can make an important contribution to European peace and
security and international peacekeeping efforts, assist those
countries preparing to assume the responsibilities of possible
NATO membership, and accordingly should receive appropriate support
from the United States.
(9) The United States continues to regard the political
independence and territorial integrity of all emerging
democracies in Central and Eastern Europe as vital to European
peace and security.
(10) NATO remains the only multilateral security
organization capable of conducting effective military
operations and preserving security and stability of the Euro-
Atlantic region.
(11) NATO is an important diplomatic forum and has played a
positive role in defusing tensions between members of the
Alliance and, as a result, no military action has occurred
between two Alliance member states since the inception of NATO
in 1949.
(12) The admission to NATO of emerging democracies in
Central and Eastern Europe that meet specific criteria for NATO
membership would contribute to international peace and enhance
the security of the region.
(13) A number of Eastern European countries have expressed
interest in NATO membership, and have taken concrete steps to
demonstrate this commitment; including their participation in
Partnership for Peace activities.
(14) In recognition that not all countries which have
requested membership in NATO will necessarily qualify at the
same pace, the accession date for each new member will vary.
(15) The eventual membership of Austria, Finland, and
Sweden is fully expected and is not precluded by this Act.
(16) The provision of additional NATO transition assistance
should include those emerging democracies most ready for closer
ties with NATO and should be designed to assist other countries
meeting specified criteria of eligibility to move forward
toward eventual NATO membership.
(17) The Congress of the United States finds that Poland,
Hungary, and the Czech Republic have made the most progress
toward achieving the stated criteria and should be eligible for
the additional assistance described in this bill.
(18) The evaluation of future membership in NATO for
emerging democracies in Central and Eastern Europe should be
based on the progress of those nations in meeting criteria for
NATO membership, which require enhancement of NATO's security
and the approval of all NATO members.
SEC. 3. UNITED STATES POLICY.
It should be the policy of the United States--
(1) to join with the NATO allies of the United States to
redefine the role of the NATO Alliance in the post-Cold War
world;
(2) to actively assist the emerging democracies in Central
and Eastern Europe in their transition so that such countries
may eventually qualify for NATO membership; and
(3) to work to define a constructive and cooperative
political and security relationship between an enlarged NATO
and the Russian Federation.
SEC. 4. SENSE OF THE CONGRESS.
It is the sense of the Congress that in order to promote economic
stability and security in Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovenia,
Slovakia, Bulgaria, Romania, Albania, Moldova, and Ukraine--
(1) the United States should support the full and active
participation of these countries in activities appropriate for
qualifying for NATO membership;
(2) the United States Government should use all diplomatic
means available to press the European Union to admit as soon as
possible any country which qualifies for membership; and
(3) the United States Government and the North Atlantic
Treaty Organization should support military exercises and
peacekeeping initiatives between and among these nations,
nations of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, and Russia.
SEC. 5. DESIGNATION OF COUNTRIES ELIGIBLE FOR NATO ENLARGEMENT
ASSISTANCE.
(a) In General.--The following countries are designated as eligible
to receive assistance under the program established under section
203(a) of the NATO Participation Act of 1994: Poland, Hungary, and the
Czech Republic.
(b) Designation of Other Countries.--The President shall designate
other emerging democracies in Central and Eastern Europe as eligible to
receive assistance under the program established under section 203(a)
of such Act if such countries--
(1) have expressed a clear desire to join NATO;
(2) have begun an individualized dialogue with NATO in
preparation for accession;
(3) are strategically significant to an effective NATO
defense; and
(4) have met the other criteria outlined in section 203(d)
of the NATO Participation Act of 1994 (title II of Public Law
103-447; 22 U.S.C. 1928 note).
(c) Rule of Construction.--Subsection (a) does not preclude the
designation by the President of Slovakia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania,
Romania, Slovenia, or any other emerging democracy in Central and
Eastern Europe pursuant to section 203(d) of the NATO Participation Act
of 1994 as eligible to receive assistance under the program established
under section 203(a) of such Act.
SEC. 6. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS FOR NATO ENLARGEMENT
ASSISTANCE.
(a) In General.--There are authorized to be appropriated
$60,000,000 for fiscal year 1997 for the program established under
section 203(a) of the NATO Participation Act of 1994.
(b) Availability.--Of the funds authorized to be appropriated by
subsection (a)--
(1) $20,000,000 shall be available for the subsidy cost, as
defined in section 502(5) of the Credit Reform Act of 1990, of
direct loans pursuant to the authority of section 203(c)(4) of
the NATO Participation Act of 1994 and section 23 of the Arms
Export Control Act (relating to the ``Foreign Military
Financing Program'');
(2) $30,000,000 shall be available for assistance on a
grant basis pursuant to the authority of section 203(c)(4) of
the NATO Participation Act of 1994 and section 23 of the Arms
Export Control Act (relating to the ``Foreign Military
Financing Program''); and
(3) $10,000,000 shall be available for assistance pursuant
to the authority of section 203(c)(3) of the NATO Participation
Act of 1994 and chapter 5 of part II of the Foreign Assistance
Act of 1961 (relating to international military education and
training).
(c) Rule of Construction.--Amounts authorized to be appropriated
under this section are authorized to be appropriated in addition to
such amounts as otherwise may be available for such purposes.
SEC. 7. EXCESS DEFENSE ARTICLES.
(a) Priority Delivery.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law,
the provision and delivery of excess defense articles under the
authority of section 203(c) (1) and (2) of the NATO Participation Act
of 1994 and section 516 of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 shall be
given priority to the maximum extent feasible over the provision and
delivery of such excess defense articles to all other countries except
those countries referred to in section 541 of the Foreign Operations,
Export Financing, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 1995 (Public
Law 103-306; 108 Stat. 1640).
(b) Cooperative Regional Peacekeeping Initiatives.--The Congress
encourages the President to provide excess defense articles and other
appropriate assistance to cooperative regional peacekeeping initiatives
involving emerging democracies in Central and Eastern Europe that have
expressed an interest in joining NATO in order to enhance their ability
to contribute to European peace and security and international
peacekeeping efforts.
SEC. 8. MODERNIZATION OF DEFENSE CAPABILITY.
The Congress endorses efforts by the United States to modernize the
defense capability of Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic, and any
other countries designed by the President pursuant to section 203(d) of
the NATO Participation Act of 1994, by exploring with such countries
options for the sale or lease to such countries of weapons systems
compatible with those used by NATO members, including air defense
systems, advanced fighter aircraft, and telecommunications
infrastructure.
SEC. 9. TERMINATION OF ELIGIBILITY.
(a) In General.--Section 203(f) of the NATO Participation Act of
1994 (title II of Public Law 103-447; 22 U.S.C. 1928 note) is amended
to read as follows:
``(f) Termination of Eligibility.--(1) The eligibility of a country
designated under subsection (d) for the program established in
subsection (a) shall terminate 60 days after the President makes a
certification under paragraph (2) unless, within the 60-day period, the
Congress enacts a joint resolution disapproving the termination of
eligibility.
``(2) Whenever the President determines that the government of a
country designated under subsection (d)--
``(A) no longer meets the criteria set forth in subsection
(d)(2)(A);
``(B) is hostile to the NATO Alliance; or
``(C) poses a national security threat to the United
States,
then the President shall so certify to the appropriate congressional
committees.
``(3) Nothing in this Act affects the eligibility of countries to
participate under other provisions of law in programs described in this
Act.''.
(b) Congressional Priority Procedures.--Section 203 of such Act is
amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(g) Congressional Priority Procedures.--
``(1) Applicable procedures.--A joint resolution described
in paragraph (2) which is introduced in a House of Congress
shall be considered in accordance with the procedures set forth
in paragraphs (3) through (7) of section 8066(c) of the
Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 1985 (as contained in
Public Law 98-473; 98 Stat. 1936), except that--
``(A) references to the `resolution described in
paragraph (1)' shall be deemed to be references to the
joint resolution; and
``(B) references to the Committee on Appropriations
of the House of Representatives and the Committee on
Appropriations of the Senate shall be deemed to be
references to the Committee on International Relations
of the House of Representatives and the Committee on
Foreign Relations of the Senate, respectively.
``(2) Text of joint resolution.--A joint resolution under
this paragraph is a joint resolution the matter after the
resolving clause of which is as follows: `That the Congress
disapproves the certification submitted by the President on
__________ pursuant to section 203(f) of the NATO Participation
Act of 1994.'.''.
SEC. 10. AMENDMENTS TO THE NATO PARTICIPATION ACT.
(a) Conforming Amendment.--The NATO Participation Act of 1994
(title II of Public Law 103-447; 22 U.S.C. 1928 note) is amended in
sections 203(a), 203(d)(1), and 203(d)(2) by striking ``countries
emerging from communist domination'' each place it appears and
inserting ``emerging democracies in Central and Eastern Europe''.
(b) Definitions.--The NATO Participation Act of 1994 (title II of
Public Law 103-446; 22 U.S.C. 1928 note) is amended by adding at the
end the following new section:
``SEC. 206. DEFINITIONS.
``The term `emerging democracies in Central and Eastern Europe'
includes, but is not limited to, Albania, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic,
Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Moldova, Poland, Romania,
Slovakia, Slovenia, and Ukraine.''.
SEC. 11. DEFINITIONS.
As used in this Act:
(1) Emerging democracies in central and eastern europe.--
The term ``emerging democracies in Central and Eastern Europe''
includes, but is not limited to, Albania, Bulgaria, the Czech
Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Moldova, Poland,
Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Ukraine.
(2) NATO.--The term ``NATO'' means the North Atlantic
Treaty Organization. | NATO Enlargement Facilitation Act of 1996 - Declares that it should be the policy of the United States to: (1) assist the transition to full membership in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) of emerging democracies in Central and Eastern Europe; and (2) work to construct a political and security relationship between an enlarged NATO and the Russian Federation.
Expresses the sense of the Congress that in order to promote security in Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Bulgaria, Romania, Albania, Moldova, and Ukraine: (1) the United States should support the full and active participation of these countries in activities that will qualify them for NATO membership; (2) the U.S. Government should press the European Union to admit as soon as possible any country qualifying for membership; and (3) the United States and NATO should support military and peacekeeping initiatives between and among such countries, NATO countries, and Russia.
Designates Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic as eligible to receive certain assistance for transition to full membership in NATO. Requires the President to designate as eligible for such assistance other emerging democracies in Central and Eastern Europe that meet specified criteria.
Authorizes appropriations for NATO enlargement assistance.
Declares that the transfer of excess defense articles to countries intending to participate in NATO (including countries of NATO's southern flank) shall be given priority, to the maximum extent feasible, over the delivery of such articles to other countries, except certain countries specified under the Foreign Operations, Export Financing, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 1995.
Amends the NATO Participation Act of 1994 to establish a presidential and congressional procedure for termination of eligibility for assistance for Partnership for Peace countries which: (1) no longer meet certain eligibility criteria; (2) are hostile to the NATO alliance; or (3) pose a national security threat to the United States. | NATO Enlargement Facilitation Act of 1996 |
516 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Agricultural Export Facilitation Act
of 2007''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSE.
(a) Findings.--Congress makes the following findings:
(1) The export sector of United States agriculture makes an
important positive contribution to this country's trade
balance.
(2) According to the United States Department of
Agriculture, Foreign Agricultural Service, the total value of
United States exports of agricultural products shipped to Cuba
since 2000 when such sales were first authorized by Congress is
approximately $1,426,300,000, excluding transportation, port
fees, and insurance costs beyond the port of exportation. In
December 2001, Cuba purchased approximately $4,600,000 in food
and agricultural products. In 2002, Cuba purchased
approximately $139,800,000 in food and agricultural products.
In 2003, Cuba purchased approximately $247,600,000 in food and
agricultural products. In 2004, Cuba purchased approximately
$383,900,000 in food and agricultural products. In 2005, Cuba
purchased approximately $346,000,000 in food and agricultural
products. Cuba is therefore an important source of revenue for
United States agriculture and its affiliated industries, such
as manufacturers and distributors of value-added food products.
(3) To be competitive in sales to Cuban purchasers, United
States exporters of agricultural products and their
representatives, including representatives of United States air
or sea carriers, ports, and shippers, must have ready and
reliable physical access to Cuba. Such access is currently
uncertain because, under existing regulations, United States
exporters and their representatives must apply for and receive
special Department of the Treasury licenses to travel to Cuba
to engage in sales-related activities. The issuance of such
licenses is subject to both administrative delays and periodic
denials. A blanket statutory authorization for sales and
transport-related travel to Cuba by United States exporters
will remove the current bureaucratic impediment to agricultural
product sales endorsed by Congress when it passed the Trade
Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act of 2000.
(4) On many occasions visas to enter the United States have
been delayed and often denied to prospective Cuban purchasers
of products authorized under the Trade Sanctions Reform and
Export Enhancement Act of 2000. The result has been that family
farmers and other small producers and distributors of
agricultural products who lack the resources to fund sales
delegations to Cuba have been denied access to potential
purchasers in that country. A simple solution is to issue visas
to Cuban nationals who demonstrate an itinerary of meetings
with prospective United States exporters of products authorized
under the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act of
2000. In addition, visas should be issued to Cuban
phytosanitary inspectors who require entry into the United
States to conduct on-premise inspections of production and
processing facilities and the products of potential United
States exporters.
(5) The Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act
of 2000 requires ``payment of cash in advance'' for United
States agricultural exports to Cuba. Some Federal agencies
responsible for the implementation of the Trade Sanctions
Reform and Export Enhancement Act of 2000 have expressed the
view that ``cash in advance'' requires that payment be received
by a United States exporter in advance of shipment of goods to
Cuba. Indeed, in late 2004 payments due United States exporters
from purchasers in Cuba were frozen in United States banks
while the terms of those payments were reviewed unnecessarily.
This action by the Department of the Treasury has created a
climate of commercial uncertainty that has inhibited
agricultural sales to Cuba under the Trade Sanctions Reform and
Export Enhancement Act of 2000.
(6) There is nothing in either the Trade Sanctions Reform
and Export Enhancement Act of 2000 itself or its legislative
history to support the view that Congress intended payment to
be made in advance of the shipment of goods from the United
States to Cuba. It was and is the intent of Congress that a
seller of a product authorized under the Trade Sanctions Reform
and Export Enhancement Act of 2000 receive payment only before
a Cuban purchaser takes physical possession of that product.
(7) At present it is the policy of the United States
Government to prohibit direct payment between Cuban and United
States financial institutions. As a result, Cuban purchasers of
products authorized under the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export
Enhancement Act of 2000 must route their payments through third
country banks that charge a fee for this service. Allowing
direct payments between Cuban and United States financial
institutions will permit the United States exporters to receive
payment directly to their financial institutions within hours
instead of days and will eliminate an unnecessary transactional
fee, thereby allowing Cuban purchasers to purchase more United
States origin agricultural products.
(b) Purpose.--The purpose of this Act is to restate the intent of
Congress with respect to the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export
Enhancement Act of 2000, to remove impediments to present and future
sales of United States agricultural products to Cuba under such Act,
and to otherwise facilitate such sales.
SEC. 3. TRAVEL TO CUBA IN CONNECTION WITH AUTHORIZED SALES ACTIVITIES
UNDER THE TRADE SANCTIONS REFORM AND EXPORT ENHANCEMENT
ACT OF 2000.
Section 910 of the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement
Act of 2000 (22 U.S.C. 7209) is amended by adding at the end the
following:
``(c) General License Authority for Travel-Related Expenditures in
Cuba by Persons Engaging in Sales and Marketing Activities and
Transportation Activities.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary of the Treasury shall
authorize under a general license the travel-related
transactions listed in subsection (c) of section 515.560 of
title 31, Code of Federal Regulations, for travel to, from, or
within Cuba in connection with--
``(A) sales and marketing activities of products
pursuant to this Act, including the organization and
participation in product exhibitions; and
``(B) transportation by sea or air of products
pursuant to this Act.
``(2) Sales and marketing activities defined.--
``(A) In general.--In paragraph (1), the term
`sales and marketing activities' means any activity
with respect to travel to, from, or within Cuba that is
undertaken by a United States person in order to
explore the market in that country for the sale of
products pursuant to this Act or to engage in sales
activities with respect to such products.
``(B) Other definitions.--In subparagraph (A)--
``(i) the term `sales activities' includes
exhibiting, negotiating, marketing, surveying
the market, and delivering and servicing
products pursuant to this Act; and
``(ii) the term `United States person'
includes a full-time employee, executive, sales
agent or consultant of a producer,
manufacturer, distributor, shipper, United
States air or seaport, or a carrier of products
authorized for sale pursuant to this Act, as
well as an exhibitor, representative, or member
of a national or State trade organization that
promotes the interests of a producer,
manufacturer, or distributor of such products.
``(3) Regulations.--The Secretary of the Treasury shall
promulgate such rules and regulations as are necessary to carry
out the provisions of this subsection.''.
SEC. 4. ISSUANCE OF VISAS TO CONDUCT ACTIVITIES IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE
TRADE SANCTIONS REFORM AND EXPORT ENHANCEMENT ACT OF
2000.
(a) Issuance of Visas.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law,
in the case of a Cuban national whose itinerary documents an intent to
conduct activities, including phytosanitary inspections, related to
purchasing United States agricultural goods under the provisions of the
Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act of 2000, a consular
officer (as defined in section 101(a)(9) of the Immigration and
Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(9))) may issue a nonimmigrant visa
under section 101(a)(15)(B) of such Act (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)(B)) to
the national, if the national is not inadmissible to the United States
under section 212 of such Act (8 U.S.C. 1182).
(b) Periodic Reports.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 45 days after the date of
enactment of this Act and every 3 months thereafter the
Secretary of State shall submit to the Committees on Finance,
Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, and Foreign Relations of
the Senate and the Committees on Agriculture, Ways and Means,
and Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives a report on
the issuance of visas described in subsection (a).
(2) Content of reports.--Each report shall contain a full
description of each application received from a Cuban national
to travel to the United States to engage in purchasing
activities pursuant to the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export
Enhancement Act of 2000 and shall describe the disposition of
each such application.
SEC. 5. CLARIFICATION OF PAYMENT TERMS UNDER THE TRADE SANCTIONS REFORM
AND EXPORT ENHANCEMENT ACT OF 2000.
Section 908(b)(4) of the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export
Enhancement Act of 2000 (22 U.S.C. 7207(b)(4)) is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(2) in subparagraph (C), by striking the period at the end
and inserting ``; and''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(D) the term `payment of cash in advance' means,
notwithstanding any other provision of law, the payment
by the purchaser of an agricultural commodity or
product and the receipt of such payment by the seller
prior to--
``(i) the transfer of title of such
commodity or product to the purchaser; and
``(ii) the release of control of such
commodity or product to the purchaser.''.
SEC. 6. AUTHORIZATION OF DIRECT TRANSFERS BETWEEN CUBAN AND UNITED
STATES FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS UNDER THE TRADE SANCTIONS
REFORM AND EXPORT ENHANCEMENT ACT OF 2000.
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the President may not
restrict direct transfers from a Cuban financial institution to a
United States financial institution executed in payment for a product
authorized for sale under the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export
Enhancement Act of 2000 (22 U.S.C. 7201 et seq.). | Agricultural Export Facilitation Act of 2007 - Amends the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act of 2000 (TSREEA of 2000) to require the Secretary of the Treasury to authorize, under a general license, certain travel-related transactions for travel to, from, or within Cuba in connection with: (1) sales and marketing activities, including organization and participation in product exhibitions; and (2) sea or air transportation of products.
Authorizes a consular official to issue a temporary tourist/business visa for a Cuban national (who is not otherwise inadmissible) whose itinerary documents an intent to conduct activities, including phytosanitary inspections, related to purchasing U.S. agricultural goods under the provisions of TSREEA of 2000.
Defines "payment in cash" with respect to certain prohibitions on financing of U.S. agricultural sales to Cuba.
Prohibits the President from restricting direct transfers from a Cuban financial institution to a U.S. financial institution executed in payment for a product authorized for sale under TSREEA of 2000. | To facilitate the sale of United States agricultural products to Cuba, as authorized by the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act of 2000. |
517 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Dietary Supplement Access and
Awareness Act''.
SEC. 2. DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS; PRODUCT LISTING; REPORTING, POSTMARKET
SURVEILLANCE, AND OTHER PROVISIONS REGARDING SAFETY.
(a) In General.--Chapter IV of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic
Act (21 U.S.C. 341 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the
following section:
``SEC. 416. DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS; PRODUCT LISTING; REPORTING, POSTMARKET
SURVEILLANCE, AND OTHER PROVISIONS REGARDING SAFETY.
``(a) Limitation on Applicability.--Notwithstanding the other
subsections of this section, this section does not apply to any dietary
supplement that meets the conditions described in paragraphs (1) and
(2), as follows:
``(1) The supplement bears or contains one or more of the
following dietary ingredients:
``(A) A vitamin.
``(B) A mineral.
``(C) A concentrate, metabolite, constituent,
extract, or combination of any vitamin or mineral.
``(2) The supplement does not bear or contain--
``(A) an herb or other botanical, an amino acid, or
a dietary substance for use by man to supplement the
diet by increasing the total dietary intake; or
``(B) a concentrate, metabolite, constituent,
extract, or combination of any ingredient specified in
subparagraph (A).
``(b) Product Listing.--Every person who is required under section
415 to register with the Secretary with respect to manufacturing or
processing a dietary supplement shall, in the form and manner
prescribed by the Secretary, report to the Secretary twice each year,
once during the month of June and once during the month of December,
the following information:
``(1) A list of each dietary supplement manufactured or
processed by the person for commercial distribution in the
United States, other than dietary supplements previously
included on a list reported under this subsection by the
person.
``(2) The labeling for each of the dietary supplements on
the list.
``(3) A listing of the major ingredients of each dietary
supplement on the list (including active ingredients, as
applicable), except that the Secretary may require the
submission of a quantitative listing of all ingredients in such
a supplement if the Secretary finds that such submission is
necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.
``(4) If, since the date the person last made a report
under this subsection (or if the person has not previously made
such a report, since the effective date of this section), the
person has discontinued the manufacture or processing of a
dietary supplement included on a list reported under this
subsection by the person--
``(A) notice of such discontinuance;
``(B) the date of such discontinuance; and
``(C) the identity of such supplement.
``(5) Such other information describing the dietary
supplements as the Secretary may by regulation require.
``(c) Reporting of Information on Adverse Experiences.--
``(1) Serious experiences.--Each person who is a
manufacturer or distributor of a dietary supplement shall
report to the Secretary any information received by such person
on serious adverse experiences regarding the supplement. Such a
report shall be submitted to the Secretary not later than 15
days after the date on which the person receives such
information.
``(2) Investigation and follow-up.--A person submitting a
report under paragraph (1) on a serious adverse experience
shall promptly investigate the experience, and if additional
information is obtained, shall report the information to the
Secretary not later than 15 days after obtaining the
information. If no additional information is obtained, records
of the steps taken to seek additional information shall be
maintained by the person.
``(3) Authority of secretary.--In addition to requirements
established in this subsection, the Secretary may establish
such requirements regarding the reporting of information on
adverse experiences as the Secretary determines to be
appropriate to protect the public health. The Secretary may
establish waivers from requirements under this subsection
regarding such information if the Secretary determines that
compliance with the requirement involved is not necessary to
protect the public health regarding such supplements.
``(4) Definitions.--For purposes of this subsection:
``(A) The term `adverse experience regarding a
dietary supplement' means any adverse event associated
with the use of such supplement in humans, whether or
not such event is considered to be related to the
supplement by a person referred to in paragraph (1) who
obtains the information.
``(B) The term `serious', with respect to an
adverse experience regarding a dietary supplement,
means an adverse experience that--
``(i) results in death; a life-threatening
condition; inpatient hospitalization or
prolongation of hospitalization; a persistent
or significant disability or incapacity; or a
congenital anomaly, birth defect, or other
effect regarding pregnancy, including premature
labor or low birth weight; or
``(ii) requires medical or surgical
intervention to prevent one of the outcomes
described in clause (i).
``(d) Postmarket Surveillance.--The Secretary may by order require
a manufacturer of a dietary supplement to conduct postmarket
surveillance for the supplement if the Secretary determines that there
is a reasonable possibility that a use or expected use of the
supplement may have serious adverse health consequences.
``(e) Authority to Order Demonstration of Safety.--
``(1) In general.--If the Secretary has reasonable grounds
for believing that a dietary supplement may be adulterated
under section 402(f)(1), the Secretary may by order require the
manufacturer to demonstrate to the Secretary that the
supplement is not so adulterated.
``(2) Distribution of product pending completion of
process.--
``(A) In general.--Subject to subparagraph (B), a
dietary supplement may not be considered adulterated
under section 402(f)(1) during the pendency of a
demonstration under paragraph (1) by the manufacturer
of the supplement and during the pendency of the review
under paragraph (4) by the Secretary with respect to
the demonstration.
``(B) Imminent hazard to public health or safety.--
This subsection does not affect the authority of the
Secretary under section 402(f)(1)(C).
``(3) Timeframe for demonstration.--
``(A) In general.--An order under paragraph (1)
shall provide that the demonstration under such
paragraph by a manufacturer is required to be completed
not later than the expiration of 180 days after the
date on which the order is issued, except that the
Secretary may extend such period if the Secretary
determines that an extension is appropriate. Any
information submitted for such purpose by the
manufacturer after the expiration of the applicable
period under the preceding sentence may not be
considered by the Secretary, except to the extent that
the Secretary requests the manufacturer to provide
additional information after such period.
``(B) Completion date of demonstration.--A
demonstration under paragraph (1) shall be considered
complete on the expiration of the applicable period
under subparagraph (A), or on such earlier date as the
manufacturer informs the Secretary that the
manufacturer has completed the demonstration, or on
such earlier date as the Secretary reasonably concludes
that the manufacturer has no further information to
provide to the Secretary as part of the demonstration
or that the manufacturer is not in substantial
compliance with the order under paragraph (1).
``(4) Review by secretary.--Once a demonstration under
paragraph (1) by a manufacturer is completed, the Secretary
shall review all relevant information received by the Secretary
pursuant to the demonstration or otherwise available to the
Secretary and make a determination of whether the Secretary
considers the dietary supplement involved to be adulterated
under section 402(f)(1). Such determination shall be made not
later than 180 days after the completion of the demonstration.
``(5) Requirements regarding demonstrations.--The Secretary
may, by order or by regulation, establish requirements for
demonstrations under paragraph (1).
``(6) Relation to other procedures.--In the case of a
dietary supplement with respect to which the Secretary has not
issued an order under paragraph (1), this subsection may not be
construed as preventing the Secretary from acting pursuant to
section 402(f)(1) to the same extent and in the same manner as
would apply in the absence of this subsection. In the case of a
dietary supplement with respect to which the Secretary has
issued an order under paragraph (1), a determination under
paragraph (4) that the supplement is not adulterated under
section 402(f)(1) does not prevent the Secretary from making a
determination, on the basis of additional information obtained
by the Secretary, that the supplement is so adulterated.
``(f) Sales to Minors; Significant Risk.--
``(1) Criteria.--Not later than the expiration of the two-
year period beginning on the date of the enactment of the
Dietary Supplement Access and Awareness Act, the Secretary
shall by regulation establish criteria for making a
determination that a dietary supplement may pose a significant
risk to individuals who are under the age of 18 (referred to in
this section individually as a `minor').
``(2) Product determination; prohibited act.--The Secretary
may, by order or by regulation, make a determination described
in paragraph (1) with respect to a dietary supplement.
Effective upon the expiration of a period designated by the
Secretary in publishing such determination in the Federal
Register, the act of selling the dietary supplement to a minor
shall be deemed to be an act which results in such supplement
being misbranded while held for sale. During the two-year
period referred to in paragraph (1), an order making such a
determination may be issued notwithstanding that criteria have
not yet been established in accordance with such paragraph.
``(g) Recordkeeping on Safety Issues.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall by regulation
require manufacturers of dietary supplements to maintain
records regarding reports of serious adverse experiences under
subsection (c) and records regarding compliance with section
402.
``(2) Retention period.--Regulations under paragraph (1)
shall specify the number of years for which records required in
such paragraph are required to be retained, except that, if
under section 402(g)(1) the Secretary makes a determination
that expiration date labeling is necessary for dietary
supplements, records regarding dietary supplements in a lot
shall be retained for not less than one year after the
expiration date of supplements in the lot.''.
(b) Prohibited Acts.--
(1) In general.--Section 301 of the Federal Food, Drug, and
Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 331) is amended by adding at the end
the following:
``(hh) The failure of a person to comply with any requirement under
section 416, other than an order under subsection (e)(1) of such
section.''.
(2) Adulterated dietary supplements.--
(A) Order regarding demonstration of safety.--
Section 402 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
(21 U.S.C. 342) is amended by adding at the end the
following:
``(i) If it is a dietary supplement and the manufacturer of the
supplement fails to comply with an order of the Secretary under section
416(e)(1) that is issued with respect to the supplement.''.
(B) Certain court procedures; determination of
unreasonable risk.--Section 402(f) of the Federal Food,
Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 342(f)) is amended--
(i) in subparagraph (1), by striking the
matter after and below clause (D) of such
subparagraph; and
(ii) by adding at the end the following
subparagraph:
``(3)(A) For purposes of clause (A) or (B) of subparagraph (1), the
Secretary shall consider a dietary supplement or dietary ingredient as
presenting an unreasonable risk of illness or injury if the Secretary
determines that the risks of such product outweighs its benefits, as
indicated by a relative weighing of the known and reasonably likely
risks of the product against its known and reasonably likely benefits.
In the absence of a sufficient benefit, the presence of even a
relatively small risk of a serious adverse health effect to a user may
be considered by the Secretary as unreasonable.
``(B) A determination by the Secretary under clause (A) with
respect to the risk of a product may be made on the basis of any
science-based evidence of risk, without the need to prove that the
substance has actually caused harm in particular cases. The Secretary
shall consider any relevant evidence including but not limited to
scientific data about the toxicological properties of a dietary
ingredient or its mechanism of action; known effects of
pharmacologically related compounds, including those regulated as
drugs; the results of clinical studies, including observational
studies; and adverse event reports.
``(C) A determination that a product presents an unreasonable risk
may be made under clause (A) by the Secretary even though there are
uncertainties as to the levels of a dietary ingredient that may present
a risk.''.
(3) Trade secrets.--Section 301(j) of the Federal Food,
Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 331(j)) is amended by
inserting ``416,'' after ``414,''.
(c) Inspection Authority.--Section 704(a) of the Federal Food,
Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 374(a)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1), by inserting after the second
sentence the following: ``In the case of any person who
manufactures, processes, packs, transports, distributes, holds,
or imports a dietary supplement with respect to which an order
under section 416(e)(1) has been issued, the inspection shall
extend to all records, files, papers, processes, controls, and
facilities bearing on whether the dietary supplement is
adulterated under section 402(f)(1).''; and
(2) in paragraph (2), in the matter preceding subparagraph
(A), by striking ``third sentence'' and inserting ``fourth
sentence''.
SEC. 3. EDUCATION PROGRAMS REGARDING DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS.
(a) Health Care Professionals.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of Health and Human Services
(referred to in this section as the ``Secretary''), acting
through the Commissioner of Food and Drugs, shall carry out a
program to educate health professionals on the importance of
reporting to the Food and Drug Administration adverse health
experiences that are associated with dietary supplements.
(2) Authorization of appropriations.--For the purpose of
carrying out paragraph (1), there is authorized to be
appropriated $5,000,000 for fiscal year 2006, in addition to
any other authorization of appropriations that is available
with respect to such purpose.
(b) Consumers.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary, acting through the
Commissioner of Food and Drugs, shall carry out a program to
educate consumers of dietary supplements on the importance of
informing their health professionals of the dietary supplements
and drugs the consumers are taking.
(2) Authorization of appropriations.--For the purpose of
carrying out paragraph (1), there is authorized to be
appropriated $5,000,000 for fiscal year 2006, in addition to
any other authorization of appropriations that is available
with respect to such purpose. | Dietary Supplement Access and Awareness Act - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to require manufacturers and processors of dietary supplements to report certain information to the Secretary of Health and Human Services annually, including a list of supplements manufactured and the labeling and major ingredients for such supplements.
Requires manufacturers and distributors to report to the Secretary any serious adverse experiences regarding a supplement.
Authorizes the Secretary to require a manufacturer to: (1) conduct postmarket surveillance if there is a reasonable possibility of a supplement causing adverse health consequences; and (2) demonstrate that a supplement is not adulterated.
Requires the Secretary to establish criteria for making a determination that a dietary supplement may pose a significant risk to minors. Deems the act of selling a dietary supplement to a minor after the Secretary has made such a determination to be an act which results in a supplement being misbranded while held for sale.
Deems a dietary supplement to be adulterated if the manufacturer fails to comply with the Secretary's order to demonstrate the drug's safety.
Requires the Secretary to consider a dietary supplement or ingredient as presenting an unreasonable risk of injury or illness if the Secretary determines that the risks of such product outweighs its benefits. Allows the Secretary to consider even a relatively small risk of a serious adverse health effect to be unreasonable.
Directs the Secretary, acting through the Commissioner of Food and Drugs, to carry out dietary supplement education programs for health care professionals and consumers. | To amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act with respect to dietary supplements. |
518 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Summer and Year-Round Jobs for Youth
Stimulus Act of 2009''.
SEC. 2. SUMMER AND YEAR-ROUND YOUTH JOBS.
(a) Findings.--Congress finds that--
(1) a $1,000,000,000 investment in summer and year-round
employment for youth, through the program supported under this
section, can create up to 1,000,000 jobs for economically
disadvantaged youth and stimulate local economies;
(2) there is a serious and growing need for employment
opportunities for economically disadvantaged youth (including
young adults), as demonstrated by statistics from the Bureau of
Labor Statistics stating that, in December 2008--
(A) the unemployment rate increased to 7.2 percent,
as compared to 4.9 percent in December 2007;
(B) the unemployment rate for 16- to 19-year-olds
rose to 20.8 percent, as compared to 16.9 percent in
December 2007; and
(C) the unemployment rate for African-American 16-
to 19-year-olds increased to 33.7 percent, as compared
to 28 percent in December 2007;
(3) research from Northwestern University has shown that
every $1 a youth earns has an accelerator effect of $3 on the
local economy;
(4) summer and year-round jobs for youth help supplement
the income of families living in poverty;
(5) summer and year-round jobs for youth provide valuable
work experience for economically disadvantaged youth;
(6) often, a summer job provided under the Workforce
Investment Act of 1998 is an economically disadvantaged youth's
introduction to the world of work;
(7) according to the Center for Labor Market Studies at
Northeastern University, early work experience is a very
powerful predictor of success and earnings in the labor market,
and early work experience raises earnings over a lifetime by 10
to 20 percent;
(8) participation in a youth jobs program can contribute to
a reduction in criminal and high-risk behavior for youth; and
(9)(A) youth jobs programs benefit both youth and
communities when designed around principles that promote
mutually beneficial programs;
(B) youth benefit from jobs that provide them with work
readiness skills and that help them make the connection between
responsibility on the job and success in adulthood; and
(C) communities benefit when youth are engaged
productively, providing much-needed services that meet real
community needs.
(b) Definition.--In this section, the term ``green-collar
industries'' means industries throughout the economy of the United
States--
(1) that promote energy efficiency, energy conservation,
and environmental protection, including promoting renewable
energy and clean technology;
(2) that offer jobs with substantial pay and benefits; and
(3) that are industries in which there is likely to be
continued demand for workers.
(c) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be
appropriated to the Secretary of Labor for youth activities under the
Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C. 2801 et seq.),
$1,000,000,000, which shall be available for the period of January 1,
2009 through December 31, 2010, under the conditions described in
subsection (d).
(d) Conditions.--
(1) Use of funds.--The funds appropriated under subsection
(c) shall be used for youth jobs and training programs, to
provide opportunities referred to in subparagraphs (C), (D),
(E), and (F) of section 129(c)(2) of such Act (29 U.S.C.
2854(c)(2)) and, as appropriate, opportunities referred to in
subparagraphs (A) and (G) of such section, except that no such
funds shall be spent on unpaid work experiences.
(2) Limitation.--Such funds shall be distributed in
accordance with sections 127 and 128 of such Act (29 U.S.C.
2852, 2853), except that no portion of such funds shall be
reserved to carry out 128(a) or 169 of such Act (29 U.S.C.
2853(a), 2914).
(3) Priority.--In using funds made available under this
section, a local area (as defined in section 101 of such Act
(29 U.S.C. 2801)) shall give priority to providing--
(A) work experiences in public and nonprofit sector
green-collar industries;
(B) work experiences in other viable industries,
including health care; and
(C) job referral services for youth to work
experiences in green-collar industries in the private
sector or work experiences in other viable industries
in the private sector, for which the employer involved
agrees to pay the wages and benefits, consistent with
Federal and State child labor laws.
(4) Measure of effectiveness.--The effectiveness of the
activities carried out with such funds shall be measured, under
section 136 of such Act (29 U.S.C. 2871), only with performance
measures based on the core indicators of performance described
in section 136(b)(2)(A)(ii)(I) of such Act (29 U.S.C.
2871(b)(2)(A)(ii)(I)), applied to all youth served through the
activities.
(e) Age-Related.--As used in this Act, and in the provisions
referred to in subsections (c) and (d) for purposes of this Act--
(1) a reference to a youth refers to an individual who is
not younger than age 14 and not older than age 24, and meets
any other requirements for that type of youth; and
(2) a reference to a youth activity refers to an activity
covered in subsection (d)(1) that is carried out for a youth
described in paragraph (1). | Summer and Year-Round Jobs for Youth Stimulus Act of 2009 - Authorizes appropriations to the Secretary of Labor for summer and year-round youth jobs and training programs for individuals aged 14 to 24 under the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 which are directly linked to academic and occupational learning for calendar 2009-2010. Prohibits the use of such funds for unpaid jobs, statewide workforce investment activities, or the award of certain youth opportunity grants.
Requires local areas receiving such funds to give priority to providing: (1) work experiences in public and nonprofit sector green-collar jobs and in other viable industries such as health care; and (2) job referral services for youth to work jobs in green-collar industries.
Defines "green-collar industries" as those industries that offer jobs for compensation that promote energy efficiency, energy conservation (including renewable energy and clean technology), and environmental protection. | A bill to provide funding for summer and year-round youth jobs and training programs. |
519 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Children's Act for Responsible
Employment of 2011'' or the ``CARE Act of 2011''.
SEC. 2. AMENDED DEFINITIONS.
Section 3(l) of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (29 U.S.C.
203(l)) is amended to read as follows:
``(l) `Oppressive child labor' means a condition of employment
under which--
``(1) any employee who is 16 or 17 years of age is employed
by an employer in any occupation found by the Secretary and by
order declared to be particularly hazardous for the employment
of children between such ages or detrimental to their health or
well-being;
``(2) any employee who is 14 or 15 years of age is employed
by an employer, unless the Secretary has determined that the
employment is confined to periods which will not interfere with
the schooling of the employee, and that the conditions of
employment will not interfere with the health and well-being of
the employee; or
``(3) any employee who is under 14 years of age is employed
by an employer.''.
SEC. 3. REVISED AGE REQUIREMENT FOR CHILD AGRICULTURAL EMPLOYMENT;
REPEAL OF WAIVER PROVISION FOR HAND HARVEST LABORERS.
(a) Revised Age Requirement.--Section 13(c) of the Fair Labor
Standards Act of 1938 (29 U.S.C. 213(c)) is amended by striking
paragraphs (1) and (2) and inserting the following:
``(1) The provisions of section 12 relating to child labor
shall not apply to any employee under 18 years of age who is
employed in agriculture by his or her parent, or by a person
standing in the place of the parent, on a farm owned by the
parent or person.
``(2) The provisions of section 12 relating to child labor
shall not apply to any employee under 16 years of age who is
employed by his or her parent, or by a person standing in the
place of the parent, in employment other than agricultural
employment, manufacturing, mining, or any other employment the
Secretary finds to be particularly hazardous for the employment
of a child 16 or 17 years of age or detrimental to their health
or well being.''.
(b) Repeal of Waiver Provision.--Section 13(c) of such Act (29
U.S.C. 213(c)) is further amended by striking paragraph (4) and
redesignating paragraphs (5) through (7) as paragraphs (4) through (6),
respectively.
SEC. 4. INCREASED CIVIL PENALTIES FOR CHILD LABOR VIOLATIONS.
Paragraph (1) of section 16(e) of the Fair Labor Standards Act of
1938 (29 U.S.C. 216(e)(1)) is amended--
(1) by striking ``person'' each place it appears and
inserting ``employer'';
(2) in subparagraph (A)--
(A) by striking ``not to exceed'' and inserting
``of''; and
(B) by amending clauses (i) and (ii) to read as
follows:
``(i) not less than $500 and not more than $15,000 for each
employee who was the subject of such a violation; or
``(ii) not less than $15,000 and not more than $50,000 with
regard to each such violation that causes the serious injury,
serious illness, or death of any employee under the age of 18
years, which penalty may be doubled where the violation is a
repeated or willful violation.''; and
(3) in subparagraph (B) by striking ``the term `serious
injury' means'' and inserting ``the terms `serious injury' and
`serious illness' mean''.
SEC. 5. SPECIAL CRIMINAL PENALTIES FOR CERTAIN AGGRAVATED CHILD LABOR
VIOLATIONS.
Section 16 of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (29 U.S.C. 216)
is amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by striking ``Any person'' and
inserting ``Except as provided in subsection (f), any person'';
and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(f) Any person who repeatedly or willfully violates any of the
provisions of section 12, and such violations result in or cause the
death or serious injury or serious illness of an employee under 18
years of age at the time of such violation, shall be subject to
imprisonment for not more than 5 years or a fine under title 18, United
States Code, or both.''.
SEC. 6. PESTICIDE-RELATED WORKER PROTECTION STANDARD.
Congress finds and declares that the employment of children under
the age of 18 in the occupation of a pesticide handler as defined in
the worker protection standard for workers exposed to pesticides in
part 170 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations, is particularly
hazardous to such children and detrimental to their health and well-
being. The Secretary of Labor shall revise part 570 of title 29, Code
of Federal Regulations, to prohibit the employment of a child under the
age of 18 to perform any of the tasks or duties described in the
definition of the term ``handler'' in section 170.3 of title 40, Code
of Federal Regulations.
SEC. 7. APPLICATION OF FAIR LABOR STANDARDS AMENDMENTS.
(a) Rulemaking.--The Secretary of Labor may prescribe rules as
necessary to implement the amendments made by sections 2 through 5 and
the revision required by section 6. Any such rules issued shall take
effect not later than 30 days after the date on which such rules are
published in the Federal Register.
(b) Violations.--The amendments made by sections 2, 3, 4, and 5 and
the revision required by section 7 shall apply to violations of the
Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (29 U.S.C. 201 et seq.) that occur
after the date on which the rules issued under subsection (a) take
effect.
(c) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in the amendments made by
section 3, 4, or 5 or in the revision required by section 7 shall be
construed to preempt any State law that provides protections or
remedies for employees that are greater than the protections or
remedies provided under such amendments or such revision. | Children's Act for Responsible Employment of 2011 or the CARE Act of 2011 - Amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to define "oppressive child labor," for purposes of the Act's child labor prohibitions, as the employment of any employee who is: (1) 16 or 17 in any occupation found by the Secretary of Labor to be particularly hazardous for their employment or detrimental to their health or well-being; (2) 14 or 15, unless the employment is confined to periods which do not interfere with the employee's schooling, health, or well-being; or (3) under 14.
Revises the Act's exemptions to make the restrictions on oppressive child labor inapplicable to the following: (1) employment in agriculture of an employee under 18 years of age by his or her parent, or by a person standing in the place of the parent, on a farm owned by the parent or person (current law uses an age- and consent-based scheme); and (2) employment of an employee under age 16 by a parent, or a person standing in place of a parent, other than in agriculture, manufacturing, mining, or any other employment the Secretary finds to be particularly hazardous for the employment of children age 16 or 17 or detrimental to their health or well-being (current law applies the child labor restrictions to particularly hazardous agricultural employment, except where the child is employed by a parent or a person standing in place of the parent on a farm owned or operated by such person).
Eliminates any waiver of such prohibitions for hand-harvesting of certain crops.
Increases civil and establishes criminal penalties for child labor violations.
Directs the Secretary to revise federal child labor regulations to prohibit the employment of children under 18 in duties involving the handling of pesticides. | To amend the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to strengthen the provisions relating to child labor. |
520 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Developing Innovation and Growing
the Internet of Things Act'' or ``DIGIT Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS; SENSE OF CONGRESS.
(a) Findings.--Congress finds that--
(1) the Internet of Things refers to the growing number of
connected and interconnected devices;
(2) estimates indicate that more than 50,000,000,000
devices will be connected to the Internet by the year 2020;
(3) the Internet of Things has the potential to generate
trillions of dollars in new economic activity around the world;
(4) businesses across the United States can develop new
services and products, improve operations, simplify logistics,
cut costs, and pass savings on to consumers by utilizing the
Internet of Things and related innovations;
(5) the United States leads the world in the development of
technologies that support the Internet and the United States
technology sector is well-positioned to lead in the development
of technologies for the Internet of Things;
(6) the United States Government can implement this
technology to better deliver services to the public; and
(7) the United States Senate unanimously passed Senate
Resolution 110, 114th Congress, agreed to March 24, 2015,
calling for a national strategy for the development of the
Internet of Things.
(b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that policies
governing the Internet of Things should maximize the potential and
development of the Internet of Things to benefit all stakeholders,
including businesses, governments, and consumers.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Appropriate committees of congress.--The term
``appropriate committees of Congress'' means--
(A) the Committee on Commerce, Science, and
Transportation of the Senate; and
(B) the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the
House of Representatives.
(2) Commission.--The term ``Commission'' means the Federal
Communications Commission.
(3) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of Commerce.
(4) Steering committee.--The term ``steering committee''
means the steering committee established under section 4(e)(1).
(5) Working group.--The term ``working group'' means the
working group convened under section 4(a).
SEC. 4. FEDERAL WORKING GROUP.
(a) In General.--The Secretary shall convene a working group of
Federal stakeholders for the purpose of providing recommendations and a
report to Congress related to the aspects of the Internet of Things
described in subsection (b).
(b) Duties.--The working group shall--
(1) identify any Federal regulations, statutes, grant
practices, budgetary or jurisdictional challenges, and other
sector-specific policies that are inhibiting or could inhibit
the development of the Internet of Things;
(2) consider policies or programs that encourage and
improve coordination among Federal agencies with jurisdiction
over the Internet of Things;
(3) consider any findings or recommendations made by the
steering committee and, where appropriate, act to implement
those recommendations; and
(4) examine--
(A) how Federal agencies can benefit from utilizing
the Internet of Things;
(B) the use of Internet of Things technology by
Federal agencies as of the date the working group
performs the examination;
(C) the preparedness and ability of Federal
agencies to adopt Internet of Things technology in the
future; and
(D) any additional security measures that Federal
agencies may need to take to--
(i) safely and securely use the Internet of
Things; and
(ii) enhance the resiliency of Federal
systems against cyber threats to the Internet
of Things.
(c) Agency Representatives.--In convening the working group under
subsection (a), the Secretary shall have discretion to appoint
representatives and shall specifically consider seeking representation
from--
(1) the Department of Commerce, including--
(A) the National Telecommunications and Information
Administration;
(B) the National Institute of Standards and
Technology; and
(C) the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration;
(2) the Department of Transportation;
(3) the Department of Homeland Security;
(4) the Office of Management and Budget;
(5) the National Science Foundation;
(6) the Commission;
(7) the Federal Trade Commission;
(8) the Office of Science and Technology Policy; and
(9) the Department of Energy.
(d) Nongovernmental Stakeholders.--The working group shall consult
with nongovernmental stakeholders, including--
(1) the steering committee;
(2) information and communications technology
manufacturers, suppliers, service providers, and vendors;
(3) subject matter experts representing industrial sectors
other than the technology sector that can benefit from the
Internet of Things, including the agriculture and health care
sectors;
(4) small, medium, and large businesses;
(5) think tanks and academia;
(6) nonprofits and consumer groups;
(7) rural stakeholders; and
(8) other stakeholders with relevant expertise, as
determined by the Secretary.
(e) Steering Committee.--
(1) Establishment.--There is established within the
Department of Commerce a steering committee to advise the
working group.
(2) Duties.--The steering committee shall advise the
working group with regard to--
(A) the identification of any Federal regulations,
statutes, grant practices, programs, budgetary or
jurisdictional challenges, and other sector-specific
policies that are inhibiting or could inhibit the
development of the Internet of Things;
(B) whether adequate spectrum is available to
support the growing Internet of Things and what legal
or regulatory barriers may exist to providing any
spectrum needed in the future;
(C) policies or programs that--
(i) promote or are related to the privacy
of individuals who use or are affected by the
Internet of Things;
(ii) may enhance the security of the
Internet of Things;
(iii) may protect users of the Internet of
Things; and
(iv) may encourage coordination among
Federal agencies with jurisdiction over the
Internet of Things;
(D) the opportunities and challenges associated
with the use of Internet of Things technology by small
businesses; and
(E) any international proceeding, international
negotiation, or other international matter affecting
the Internet of Things to which the United States is or
should be a party.
(3) Membership.--The Secretary shall appoint to the
steering committee members representing a wide range of
stakeholders outside of the Federal Government with expertise
relating to the Internet of Things, including--
(A) information and communications technology
manufacturers, suppliers, service providers, and
vendors;
(B) subject matter experts representing industrial
sectors other than the technology sector that can
benefit from the Internet of Things, including the
agriculture and health care sectors;
(C) small, medium, and large businesses;
(D) think tanks and academia;
(E) nonprofit organizations and consumer groups;
(F) rural stakeholders; and
(G) other stakeholders with relevant expertise, as
determined by the Secretary.
(4) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of
enactment of this Act, the steering committee shall submit to
the working group a report that includes any findings or
recommendations of the steering committee.
(5) Independent advice.--
(A) In general.--The steering committee shall set
the agenda of the steering committee in carrying out
the duties of the steering committee under paragraph
(2).
(B) Suggestions.--The working group may suggest
topics or items for the steering committee to study,
and the steering committee shall take such suggestions
into consideration in carrying out the duties of the
steering committee.
(C) Report.--The steering committee shall ensure
that the report submitted under paragraph (4) is the
result of the independent judgment of the steering
committee.
(6) Termination.--The steering committee shall terminate on
the date on which the working group submits the report under
subsection (f) unless, on or before that date, the Secretary
files a new charter for the steering committee under section
9(c) of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.).
(f) Report to Congress.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 18 months after the date of
enactment of this Act, the working group shall submit to the
appropriate committees of Congress a report that includes--
(A) the findings and recommendations of the working
group with respect to the duties of the working group
under subsection (b);
(B) the report submitted by the steering committee
under subsection (e)(4), as the report was received by
the working group;
(C) recommendations for action or reasons for
inaction, as applicable, on each recommendation made by
the steering committee in the report submitted under
subsection (e)(4); and
(D) an accounting of any progress made by Federal
agencies to implement recommendations made by the
working group or the steering committee.
(2) Copy of report.--Any committee of Congress, upon
request, may obtain a copy of the report submitted under
paragraph (1).
SEC. 5. ASSESSING SPECTRUM NEEDS.
(a) In General.--The Commission, in consultation with the National
Telecommunications and Information Administration, shall issue a notice
of inquiry seeking public comment on the current, as of the date of
enactment of this Act, and future spectrum needs of the Internet of
Things.
(b) Requirements.--In issuing the notice of inquiry under
subsection (a), the Commission shall seek comments that consider and
evaluate--
(1) whether adequate spectrum is available to support the
growing Internet of Things;
(2) what regulatory barriers may exist to providing any
needed spectrum for the Internet of Things; and
(3) what the role of licensed and unlicensed spectrum is
and will be in the growth of the Internet of Things.
(c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of
this Act, the Commission shall submit to the appropriate committees of
Congress a report summarizing the comments submitted in response to the
notice of inquiry issued under subsection (a). | Developing Innovation and Growing the Internet of Things Act or the DIGIT Act This bill requires the Department of Commerce to convene a working group of federal stakeholders to provide recommendations and a report to Congress regarding the growing number of connected and interconnected devices known as the Internet of Things (IoT). The bill establishes a steering committee to be composed of stakeholders outside the federal government to advise the working group. The Federal Communications Commission must: (1) seek public comment on the IoT's spectrum needs, regulatory barriers, and growth with licensed and unlicensed spectrum; and (2) submit a summary of those comments to Congress. | Developing Innovation and Growing the Internet of Things Act |
521 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Stop Militarizing Law Enforcement
Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress makes the following findings:
(1) Under section 2576a of title 10, United States Code,
the Department of Defense is authorized to provide excess
property to local law enforcement agencies. The Defense
Logistics Agency, administers such section by operating the Law
Enforcement Support Office program.
(2) New and used material, including mine-resistant ambush-
protected vehicles and weapons determined by the Department of
Defense to be ``military grade'' are transferred to local law
enforcement agencies through the program.
(3) As a result local law enforcement agencies, including
police and sheriff's departments, are acquiring this material
for use in their normal operations.
(4) The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have led to an
increase in the transfer of military equipment to local law
enforcement agencies.
(5) According to public reports, approximately 12,000
police organizations across the country were able to procure
nearly $500,000,000 worth of excess military merchandise
including firearms, computers, helicopters, clothing, and other
products, at no charge during fiscal year 2011 alone.
(6) More than $4,000,000,000 worth of weapons and equipment
have been transferred to police organizations in all 50 states
and four territories through the program.
(7) In May 2012, the Defense Logistics Agency instituted a
moratorium on weapons transfers through the program after
reports of missing equipment and inappropriate weapons
transfers.
(8) Though the moratorium was widely publicized, it was
lifted in October 2013 without adequate safeguards.
(9) As a result, Federal, State, and local law enforcement
departments across the country are eligible again to acquire
free ``military-grade'' weapons and equipment that could be
used inappropriately during policing efforts in which citizens
and taxpayers could be harmed.
(10) Pursuant to section III(J) of a Defense Logistics
Agency memorandum of understanding, property obtained through
the program must be placed into use within one year of receipt,
possibly providing an incentive for the unnecessary and
potentially dangerous use of ``military grade'' equipment by
local law enforcement.
SEC. 3. LIMITATION ON DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE TRANSFER OF PERSONAL
PROPERTY TO LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES.
(a) In General.--Section 2576a of title 10, United States Code, is
amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) in paragraph (1)(A), by striking ``counter-drug
and''; and
(B) in paragraph (2), by striking ``and the
Director of National Drug Control Policy'';
(2) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraph (3), by striking ``and'' at the
end;
(B) in paragraph (4), by striking the period and
inserting a semicolon; and
(C) by adding at the end the following new
paragraphs:
``(5) the recipient certifies to the Department of Defense
that it has the personnel and technical capacity, including
training, to operate the property;
``(6) the recipient submits to the Department of Defense a
description of how the recipient expects to use the property;
``(7) the recipient certifies to the Department of Defense
that if the recipient determines that the property is surplus
to the needs of the recipient, the recipient will return the
property to the Department of Defense; and
``(8) with respect to a recipient that is not a Federal
agency, the recipient certifies to the Department of Defense
that the recipient notified the local community of the request
for personal property under this section by--
``(A) publishing a notice of such request on a
publicly accessible Internet website;
``(B) posting such notice at several prominent
locations in the jurisdiction of the recipient; and
``(C) ensuring that such notices were available to
the local community for a period of not less than 30
days.'';
(3) by striking subsection (d); and
(4) by adding at the end the following new subsections:
``(d) Annual Certification Accounting for Transferred Property.--
(1) For each fiscal year, the Secretary shall submit to Congress
certification in writing that each Federal or State agency to which the
Secretary has transferred property under this section--
``(A) has provided to the Secretary documentation
accounting for all personal property, including arms and
ammunition, that the Secretary has transferred to the agency,
including any item described in subsection (f) so transferred
before the date of the enactment of the Stop Militarizing Law
Enforcement Act; and
``(B) with respect to a non-Federal agency, carried out
each of paragraphs (5) through (8) of subsection (b).
``(2) If the Secretary cannot provide a certification under
paragraph (1) for a Federal or State agency, the Secretary may not
transfer additional property to that agency under this section.
``(e) Annual Report on Excess Property.--Before making any property
available for transfer under this section, the Secretary shall annually
submit to Congress a description of the property to be transferred
together with a certification that the transfer of the property would
not violate this section or any other provision of law.
``(f) Limitations on Transfers.--(1) The Secretary may not transfer
the following personal property of the Department of Defense under this
section:
``(A) Automatic weapons not generally recognized as
particularly suitable for law enforcement purposes.
``(B) Any weapons that are .50 caliber or greater.
``(C) Tactical vehicles, including highly mobile multi-
wheeled vehicles, armored vehicles, and mine-resistant ambush-
protected vehicles.
``(D) Drones that are armored, weaponized, or both.
``(E) Aircraft that--
``(i) are combat configured or combat coded; or
``(ii) have no established commercial flight
application.
``(F) Grenades and similar explosives, including flash-bang
grenades and stun grenades, and grenade launchers.
``(G) Silencers.
``(H) Long range acoustic devices.
``(2) The Secretary may not require, as a condition of a transfer
under this section, that a Federal or State agency demonstrate the use
of any small arms or ammunition.
``(3) The Secretary shall take such steps as may be necessary to
ensure that no item referred to in paragraph (1) is transferred under
this section from one Federal or State agency to another such agency.
``(g) Conditions for Extension of Program.--Notwithstanding any
other provision of law, amounts authorized to be appropriated or
otherwise made available for any fiscal year may not be obligated or
expended to carry out this section unless the Secretary submits to
Congress certification that for the preceding fiscal year that--
``(1) each Federal or State agency that has received
property under this section has--
``(A) demonstrated 100 percent accountability for
all such property, in accordance with paragraph (2) or
(3), as applicable; or
``(B) been suspended from the program pursuant to
paragraph (4);
``(2) with respect to each non-Federal agency that has
received property under this section, the State coordinator
responsible for each such agency has verified that the
coordinator or an agent of the coordinator has conducted an in-
person inventory of the property transferred to the agency and
that 100 percent of such property was accounted for during the
inventory or that the agency has been suspended from the
program pursuant to paragraph (4);
``(3) with respect to each Federal agency that has received
property under this section, the Secretary of Defense or an
agent of the Secretary has conducted an in-person inventory of
the property transferred to the agency and that 100 percent of
such property was accounted for during the inventory or that
the agency has been suspended from the program pursuant to
paragraph (4);
``(4) the eligibility of any agency that has received
property under this section for which 100 percent of the
equipment was not accounted for during an inventory described
in paragraph (2) or (3), as applicable, to receive property
transferred under this section has been suspended;
``(5) each State coordinator has certified, for each non-
Federal agency located in the State for which the State
coordinator is responsible that--
``(A) the agency has complied with all requirements
under this section; or
``(B) the eligibility of the agency to receive
property transferred under this section has been
suspended; and
``(6) the Secretary of Defense has certified, for each
Federal agency that has received property under this section
that--
``(A) the agency has complied with all requirements
under this section; or
``(B) the eligibility of the agency to receive
property transferred under this section has been
suspended.
``(h) Website.--The Defense Logistics Agency shall maintain an
Internet website on which the following information shall be made
publicly available:
``(1) A description of each transfer made under this
section, including transfers made before and after the date of
the enactment of the Stop Militarizing Law Enforcement Act,
broken down by State, county, and recipient.
``(2) During the 30-day period preceding the date on which
any property is transferred under this section, a description
of the property to be transferred and the recipient of the
transferred items.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendments made by subsection (a) shall
apply with respect to any transfer of property made after the date of
the enactment of this Act. | Stop Militarizing Law Enforcement Act - Amends the program under which the Secretary of Defense is authorized to transfer excess personal property of the Department of Defense (DOD) to federal and state agencies for law enforcement activities. Excludes counter-drug activities from the categories of law enforcement activities for which DOD property may be transferred under such program. Requires recipients of DOD property to certify that they: (1) have personnel, technical capacity, and training to operate the property; and (2) will return to the DOD any property that is surplus to the recipient's needs. Requires recipients that are not federal agencies to certify that they have notified their local community of requests for DOD property with a notice on a publicly accessible Internet website and postings at prominent locations in the jurisdiction. Requires the Secretary to submit annually to Congress a description of property to be transferred along with a certification that the transfers are not prohibited by law. Prohibits transfers of: automatic weapons that are not suitable for law enforcement purposes; weapons of .50 caliber or greater; tactical vehicles, including highly mobile multi-wheeled vehicles, armored vehicles, and mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicles; armored or weaponized drones; aircraft that are combat configured or combat coded, or that have no established commercial flight application; grenades and similar explosives; silencers; and long range acoustic devices. Prohibits transfers conditioned upon the agency demonstrating the use of any small arms or ammunitions. Requires the Secretary to ensure that certain items are not transferred from one federal or state agency to another such agency. Prohibits obligations or expenditures of appropriations to carry out the DOD's property transfer program unless specified conditions have been met, including requirements to verify: (1) that in-person inventories of transferred property have been conducted at each agency, and (2) that 100% of such property was accounted for during the inventories or that agencies unable to account for such property have been suspended from the program. Requires the Defense Logistics Agency to maintain an Internet website that makes available publicly a description of: (1) each transfer broken down by state, county, and recipient; and (2) during the 30-day period preceding the date on which any property is transferred, the property to be transferred and the recipient. | Stop Militarizing Law Enforcement Act |
522 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Geothermal Production Expansion Act
of 2013''.
SEC. 2. NONCOMPETITIVE LEASING OF ADJOINING AREAS FOR DEVELOPMENT OF
GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES.
Section 4(b) of the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970 (30 U.S.C.
1003(b)) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(4) Adjoining land.--
``(A) Definitions.--In this paragraph:
``(i) Fair market value per acre.--The term
`fair market value per acre' means a dollar
amount per acre that--
``(I) except as provided in this
clause, shall be equal to the market
value per acre (taking into account the
determination under subparagraph
(B)(iii) regarding a valid discovery on
the adjoining land) as determined by
the Secretary under regulations issued
under this paragraph;
``(II) shall be determined by the
Secretary with respect to a lease under
this paragraph, by not later than the
end of the 180-day period beginning on
the date the Secretary receives an
application for the lease; and
``(III) shall be not less than the
greater of--
``(aa) 4 times the median
amount paid per acre for all
land leased under this Act
during the preceding year; or
``(bb) $50.
``(ii) Industry standards.--The term
`industry standards' means the standards by
which a qualified geothermal professional
assesses whether downhole or flowing
temperature measurements with indications of
permeability are sufficient to produce energy
from geothermal resources, as determined
through flow or injection testing or
measurement of lost circulation while drilling.
``(iii) Qualified federal land.--The term
`qualified Federal land' means land that is
otherwise available for leasing under this Act.
``(iv) Qualified geothermal professional.--
The term `qualified geothermal professional'
means an individual who is an engineer or
geoscientist in good professional standing with
at least 5 years of experience in geothermal
exploration, development, or project
assessment.
``(v) Qualified lessee.--The term
`qualified lessee' means a person that may hold
a geothermal lease under this Act (including
applicable regulations).
``(vi) Valid discovery.--The term `valid
discovery' means a discovery of a geothermal
resource by a new or existing slim hole or
production well, that exhibits downhole or
flowing temperature measurements with
indications of permeability that are sufficient
to meet industry standards.
``(B) Authority.--An area of qualified Federal land
that adjoins other land for which a qualified lessee
holds a legal right to develop geothermal resources may
be available for a noncompetitive lease under this
section to the qualified lessee at the fair market
value per acre, if--
``(i) the area of qualified Federal land--
``(I) consists of not less than 1
acre and not more than 640 acres; and
``(II) is not already leased under
this Act or nominated to be leased
under subsection (a);
``(ii) the qualified lessee has not
previously received a noncompetitive lease
under this paragraph in connection with the
valid discovery for which data has been
submitted under clause (iii)(I); and
``(iii) sufficient geological and other
technical data prepared by a qualified
geothermal professional has been submitted by
the qualified lessee to the applicable Federal
land management agency that would lead
individuals who are experienced in the subject
matter to believe that--
``(I) there is a valid discovery of
geothermal resources on the land for
which the qualified lessee holds the
legal right to develop geothermal
resources; and
``(II) that thermal feature extends
into the adjoining areas.
``(C) Determination of fair market value.--
``(i) In general.--The Secretary shall--
``(I) publish a notice of any
request to lease land under this
paragraph;
``(II) determine fair market value
for purposes of this paragraph in
accordance with procedures for making
those determinations that are
established by regulations issued by
the Secretary;
``(III) provide to a qualified
lessee and publish, with an opportunity
for public comment for a period of 30
days, any proposed determination under
this subparagraph of the fair market
value of an area that the qualified
lessee seeks to lease under this
paragraph; and
``(IV) provide to the qualified
lessee and any adversely affected party
the opportunity to appeal the final
determination of fair market value in
an administrative proceeding before the
applicable Federal land management
agency, in accordance with applicable
law (including regulations).
``(ii) Limitation on nomination.--After
publication of a notice of request to lease
land under this paragraph, the Secretary may
not accept under subsection (a) any nomination
of the land for leasing unless the request has
been denied or withdrawn.
``(iii) Annual rental.--For purposes of
section 5(a)(3), a lease awarded under this
paragraph shall be considered a lease awarded
in a competitive lease sale.
``(D) Regulations.--Not later than 270 days after
the date of enactment of the Geothermal Production
Expansion Act of 2013, the Secretary shall issue
regulations to carry out this paragraph.''. | Geothermal Production Expansion Act of 2013 - Amends competitive lease provisions of the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970 to allow an area of qualified federal land (land that is otherwise available for leasing under that Act) that adjoins other land for which a qualified lessee holds a legal right to develop geothermal resources to be available for a noncompetitive lease to such lessee at fair market value per acre if: (1) the area of qualified federal land consists of not less than one acre and not more than 640 acres and is not already leased or nominated to be leased, (2) the qualified lessee has not previously received a noncompetitive lease in connection with the valid discovery for which data has been submitted, and (3) sufficient technical data prepared by a qualified geothermal professional has been submitted by the qualified lessee to the applicable federal land management agency that would lead individuals who are experienced in the subject matter to believe that there is a valid discovery of geothermal resources on the land and that such thermal feature extends into the adjoining areas. Defines "fair market value per acre" as a dollar amount per acre that shall be: (1) equal to the market value per acre as determined by the Secretary of the Interior within 180 days after the Secretary receives an application for a lease, and (2) not less than the greater of 4 times the median amount paid per acre for all land leased under such Act during the preceding year or $50. Directs the Secretary to: (1) publish a notice of any request for such a lease; (2) determine fair market value in accordance with procedures established by the Secretary; (3) provide to a qualified lessee and publish, with an opportunity for public comment for a period of 30 days, any proposed determination of the fair market value of the area the qualified lessee seeks to lease; and (4) provide the lessee and any adversely affected party an opportunity to appeal the final determination of fair market value in an administrative proceeding before the applicable federal land management agency. Prohibits the Secretary from accepting any nomination of land for leasing after publication of a notice of request to lease such land unless the request has been denied or withdrawn. | Geothermal Production Expansion Act of 2013 |
523 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Utilizing DNA Technology to Solve
Cold Cases Act of 2010''.
SEC. 2. ENHANCED SEARCHES.
(a) Familial Searches.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the date of
the enactment of this Act, the Attorney General shall adopt
policies and procedures in accordance with this section to
ensure that--
(A) the Federal Bureau of Investigation may conduct
familial searches for DNA samples collected from crime
scenes in Federal investigations;
(B) a State law enforcement agency may request that
the Federal Bureau of Investigation conduct familial
searches for DNA samples collected from crime scenes in
State investigations; and
(C) the privacy interests of persons identified in
familial searches are carefully protected.
(2) Search requirements.--Familial searches conducted by
the Federal Bureau of Investigation under this section shall be
conducted only under the following circumstances:
(A) No identical match for the DNA sample collected
from a crime scene can be identified in the offender
index.
(B) The investigation for which DNA samples are
collected at a crime scene involves one or more of the
following offenses under Federal or State law:
(i) An offense of murder, voluntary
manslaughter, or any attempt to commit murder
or voluntary manslaughter.
(ii) A specified offense against a minor
(as such term is defined in section 111(7) of
the Sex Offender Registration and Notification
Act (42 U.S.C. 16911(7))), or an attempt to
commit such a specified offense.
(iii) An offense or attempt to commit an
offense that--
(I) involves a sexual act or sexual
contact with another; and
(II) is punishable by imprisonment
for more than one year.
(3) Requesting state law enforcement agency.--A State law
enforcement agency making a request for a familial search under
this section shall--
(A) before making such request, have in place a
written policy that--
(i) establishes the criteria and procedures
for requesting a familial search and for
evaluating a familial match; and
(ii) is consistent with any regulations
issued by the Attorney General pursuant to this
section; and
(B) each time a familial search request is made,
make such policy available to the Attorney General.
(4) Reporting of matches.--Any familial match resulting
from a request for a familial search that complies with the
requirements of this section shall be reported to a laboratory
authorized as a Combined DNA Index System laboratory in the
jurisdiction of the State law enforcement agency requesting
information related to such match.
(b) Report.--Not later than one year after the date of the
enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the Attorney General
shall submit to the chair and ranking member of the Committee on the
Judiciary of the House of Representatives and the Committee on the
Judiciary of the Senate a report on compliance with this section. Each
such report shall contain the following information:
(1) The number of familial searches requested by State law
enforcement agencies.
(2) The number of familial searches conducted under this
section.
(3) The number of familial matches found as a result of
such searches.
(4) The status of any case in which such a familial match
was found.
(c) Regulations.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Attorney General shall issue regulations to
carry out this section.
(d) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``familial search'' means a search of the
offender index in which a DNA sample from an unknown source
collected from a crime scene is compared to such offender index
to determine if a familial match exists between the DNA profile
contained in such index and the DNA sample collected from the
crime scene.
(2) The term ``familial match'' means--
(A) a match of at least 1 shared allele at 15 loci
between a DNA profile in the offender index and a DNA
sample collected at a crime scene; or
(B) any other genetic association the Attorney
General determines is sufficient to constitute such a
match.
(3) The term ``offender index'' means the database
containing information on individuals convicted of sex offenses
and other violent crimes in the National DNA Index System
established under section 210304 of the Violent Crime Control
and Law Enforcement Act of 1994 (Public Law 103-322, 108 Stat.
1796).
(4) The term ``State'' means each of the several States,
the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the
United States Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Guam, and the
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. | Utilizing DNA Technology to Solve Cold Cases Act of 2010 - Requires the Attorney General to adopt policies and procedures to ensure that: (1) the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) may conduct familial searches for DNA samples collected from crime scenes; (2) state law enforcement agencies may request that the FBI conduct such searches in state investigations; and (3) the privacy interests of persons identified in familial searches are protected. Defines "familial search" as a search of the offender index in the National DNA Index System in which a DNA sample from an unknown source collected from a crime scene is compared to such index to determine if a familial match exists between the DNA profile contained in such index and the DNA sample collected from the crime scene.
Allows FBI familial searches to be conducted only if: (1) no identical match for a DNA sample collected from a crime scene can be identified in the offender index; and (2) the investigation for which DNA samples are collected involves murder, manslaughter, a sex offense against a minor, sexual assault, or an offense that involves a sexual act or sexual contact with another and that is punishable by imprisonment for more than one year. | To direct the Attorney General to design and implement a procedure to permit enhanced searches of the National DNA Index System. |
524 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Children's Hope Act of 2005''.
SEC. 2. TAX CREDIT FOR CONTRIBUTIONS TO EDUCATION INVESTMENT
ORGANIZATIONS.
(a) In General.--Subpart B of part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to other credits) is
amended by inserting after section 30C the following new section:
``SEC. 30D. CONTRIBUTIONS TO EDUCATION INVESTMENT ORGANIZATIONS.
``(a) In General.--There shall be allowed as a credit against the
tax imposed by this chapter for the taxable year the aggregate amount
of qualified contributions for the taxable year.
``(b) Limitation.--The amount allowed as a credit under subsection
(a) for a taxable year shall not exceed $100 ($200 in the case of a
joint return).
``(c) Qualified Contributions.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) In general.--The term `qualified contribution' means
a charitable contribution (as defined by section 170(c)) to an
education investment organization.
``(2) Education investment organization.--The term
`education investment organization' means any organization
described in section 170(c)(2) if--
``(A) normally not less than 90 percent of the
annual cash contributions to such organization are
disbursed in the form of grants to students for
qualified elementary and secondary education expenses,
and
``(B) not less than \1/2\ of such disbursements are
to students who are eligible for free or reduced-cost
lunches under the school lunch program established
under the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act.
``(3) Qualified elementary and secondary education
expenses.--The term `qualified elementary and secondary
education expenses' has the meaning given such term by section
530(b)(4), except that `child' shall be substituted for
`beneficiary' and `a child' shall be substituted for `the
designated beneficiary of the trust' in clauses (i) and (iii)
of subparagraph (A).
``(4) State credit must be taken first.--
``(A) No credit shall be allowed to a taxpayer
under this section for a taxable year unless, for the
taxable year, the taxpayer is allowed on the taxpayer's
State tax return the minimum State qualified
scholarship tax credit (as defined in section 3 of the
Children's Hope Act of 2003).
``(B) No credit shall be allowed to a taxpayer
under this section for such taxable year for any
contributions that were taken into account for purposes
of such State qualified scholarship tax credit.
``(d) Special Rules.--
``(1) Denial of double benefit.--No deduction shall be
allowed under any provision of this chapter for any expense for
which a credit is allowed under this section.
``(2) Time when contributions deemed made.--For purposes of
this section, a taxpayer shall be deemed to have made a
contribution to an education investment organization on the
last day of the preceding taxable year if the contribution is
made on account of such taxable year and is made not later than
the time prescribed by law for filing the return for such
taxable year (not including extensions thereof).''.
(b) Scholarships From Education Investment Organizations Excluded
From Income.--Section 74 of such Code (relating to prizes and awards)
is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(d) Scholarships From Education Investment Organizations.--Gross
income does not include amounts received as a scholarship from an
education investment organization (as defined in section 30D(c)(2)) for
qualified elementary and secondary education expenses (as defined in
section 30D(c)(3)). Such scholarship shall not be taken into account
for purposes of determining eligibility for any Federal program.''.
(c) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for such subpart B
is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 30C the
following new item:
``Sec. 30D. Contributions to education investment organizations.''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2004.
SEC. 3. FEDERAL SCHOLARSHIP TAX CREDIT CONDITIONED ON STATE QUALIFIED
SCHOLARSHIP TAX CREDIT.
(a) In General.--For purposes of section 30D(e) of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986 (as added by section 2 of this Act) a scholarship
tax credit shall not be treated as a State qualified scholarship tax
credit unless the requirements of subsection (b) are met.
(b) Requirements Relating to State Qualified Scholarship Tax
Credit.--
(1) In general.--For purposes of subsection (a), the
requirements of this subsection are met only if--
(A) the tax credit is for an amount of not less
than $250 per taxpayer and is allowed against the State
income tax (property tax for those States that don't
have income tax) for the amount of voluntary cash
contributions made by the taxpayer during the taxable
year to a school tuition organization described in
paragraph (2),
(B) the excess of such credit over tax liability
may be carried forward for not more than five years,
(C) if the taxpayer does not require, as a
condition of the contribution, that the contribution
must benefit a specific child, and
(D) such credit is not allowable for direct
donations to private schools.
(2) School tuition organization.--For purposes of paragraph
(1), a school tuition organization is described in this
paragraph if such organization--
(A) is an organization operating in the State and
is described in section 501(c)(3), and is exempt from
tax under section 501(a), of the Internal Revenue Code
of 1986,
(B) expends at least 90 percent of its annual cash
contributions for educational scholarships or tuition
grants to children to allow them to attend any
qualified school chosen at the sole discretion of their
parents, and
(C) disburses at least 90 percent of its annual
cash contributions within one year of their receipt.
(3) Qualified school.--For purposes of paragraph (2), the
term ``qualified school'' means any elementary school or
secondary school that is located in the State in which the
taxpayer resides and does not discriminate on the basis of
race, color, handicap, familial status, or national origin and
that satisfies the requirements prescribed by State law for
such schools as of December 31, 2004.
(4) Educational scholarships or tuition grants.--The term
``educational scholarship or a tuition grant'' means any
scholarship or grant awarded for qualified elementary and
secondary education expenses (as defined in section 530(b)(4)
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986).
(c) State.--For purposes of this section, the term ``State'' means
any of the several States. | Children's Hope Act of 2005 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a tax credit, up to $100 ($200 for joint returns), for charitable contributions to an education investment organization that disburses 90% of its contributions to provide grants to students for elementary and secondary education expenses, if at least 50% of such disbursements go to students who qualify for free or reduced-cost school lunches. Requires a taxpayer claiming such credit to first claim a state qualified scholarship tax credit, as defined by this Act, as a condition of eligibility for the federal tax credit. | To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide for a credit which is dependent on enactment of State qualified scholarship tax credits and which is allowed against the Federal income tax for charitable contributions to education investment organizations that provide assistance for elementary and secondary education. |
525 | SECTION 1. GRANTS TO ENCOURAGE USE OF SABBATICAL LEAVE FOR PROFESSIONAL
DEVELOPMENT.
(a) In General.--Part B of title II of the Elementary and Secondary
Education Act of 1965 is amended by adding at the end the following:
``SEC. 2212. GRANTS FOR SALARY DURING SABBATICAL LEAVE.
``(a) Program Authorized.--The Secretary may make grants to State
educational agencies and local educational agencies to pay such
agencies for one-half of the amount of the salary that otherwise would
be earned by an eligible teacher described in subsection (b), if, in
lieu of fulfilling the teacher's ordinary teaching assignment, the
teacher completes a course of study described in subsection (c) during
a sabbatical term described in subsection (d).
``(b) Eligible Teachers.--An eligible teacher described in this
subsection is a teacher who--
``(1) is employed by an agency receiving a grant under this
section to provide classroom instruction to children at an
elementary or secondary school that provides free public
education;
``(2) has secured from such agency, and any other person or
agency whose approval is required under State law, approval to
take sabbatical leave for a sabbatical term described in
subsection (d);
``(3) has submitted to the agency an application for a
subgrant at such time, in such manner, and containing such
information as the agency may require, including--
``(A) written proof--
``(i) of the approval described in
paragraph (2); and
``(ii) of the teacher's having been
accepted for enrollment in a course of study
described in subsection (c); and
``(B) assurances that the teacher--
``(i) will notify the agency in writing
within a reasonable time if the teacher
terminates enrollment in the course of study
described in subsection (c) for any reason;
``(ii) in the discretion of the agency,
will reimburse to the agency some or all of the
amount of the subgrant if the teacher fails to
complete the course of study; and
``(iii) otherwise will provide the agency
with proof of having completed such course of
study not later than 60 days after such
completion; and
``(4) has been selected by the agency to receive a
subgrant based on the agency's plan for meeting its
classroom needs.
``(c) Course of Study.--A course of study described in this
subsection is a course of study at an institution of higher education
that--
``(1) requires not less than one academic semester and not
more than one academic year to complete;
``(2) is open for enrollment for professional development
purposes to an eligible teacher described in subsection (b);
and
``(3) is designed to improve the classroom teaching of such
teachers through academic and child development studies.
``(d) Sabbatical Term.--A sabbatical term described in this
subsection is a leave of absence from teaching duties granted to an
eligible teacher for not less than one academic semester and not more
than one academic year, during which period the teacher receives--
``(1) one-half of the amount of the salary that otherwise
would be earned by the teacher, if the teacher had not been
granted a leave of absence, from State or local funds made
available by a State educational agency or a local educational
agency; and
``(2) one-half of such amount from Federal funds received
by such agency through a grant under this section.
``(e) Payments.--
``(1) To eligible teachers.--In making a subgrant to an
eligible teacher under this section, a State educational agency
or a local educational agency shall agree to pay the teacher,
for tax and administrative purposes, as if the teacher's
regular employment and teaching duties had not been suspended.
``(2) Repayment of secretary.--A State educational agency
or a local educational agency receiving a grant under this
section shall agree to pay over to the Secretary the Federal
share of any amount recovered by the agency pursuant to
subsection (b)(3)(B)(ii).
``(f) Funding.--For the purpose of carrying out this section, there
are authorized to be appropriated $200,000,000 for fiscal year 2000 and
such sums as may be necessary for fiscal years 2001 through 2004. Such
sums shall be in addition to the amount authorized to be appropriated
to carry out this part under section 2003.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by subsection (a) shall
take effect beginning with fiscal year 2000. | Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to authorize the Secretary of Education to make grants to State and local educational agencies to pay for one-half of the salaries of teachers who use approved sabbatical leave to pursue courses of study to improve their classroom teaching.
Authorizes appropriations. | To amend the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to provide grants to State and local educational agencies to pay such agencies for one-half of the salary of a teacher who uses approved sabbatical leave to pursue a course of study that will improve his or her classroom teaching. |
526 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Equitable
Compensation Amendments Act of 2005''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
(a) Findings.--Congress finds that--
(1) the Pick-Sloan Missouri River Basin program, authorized
by section 9 of the Act of December 22, 1944 (commonly known as
the ``Flood Control Act of 1944'') (58 Stat. 891), was intended
to promote the general economic development of the United
States;
(2) the Oahe Dam and Reservoir Project--
(A) is a major component of the Pick-Sloan Missouri
River Basin program; and
(B) contributes to the national economy;
(3) the Oahe Dam and Reservoir Project flooded the fertile
bottom land of the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation, which
greatly damaged the economy and cultural resources of the
Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe and caused the loss of many homes
and communities of members of the Tribe;
(4) Congress has provided compensation to several Indian
tribes, including the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, that border
the Missouri River and suffered injury as a result of 1 or more
of the Pick-Sloan projects;
(5) on determining that the compensation paid to the
Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe was inadequate, Congress enacted the
Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Equitable Compensation Act (Public
Law 106-511; 114 Stat. 2365), which created the Cheyenne River
Sioux Tribal Recovery Trust Fund; and
(6) that Act did not provide for additional compensation to
members of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe that lost land as a
result of the Oahe Dam and Reservoir Project.
(b) Purposes.--The purposes of this Act are--
(1) to provide that the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribal
Recovery Trust Fund may be used to provide compensation to
members of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe that lost land as a
result of the Oahe Dam and Reservoir Project; and
(2) to provide for the capitalization of the Cheyenne River
Sioux Tribal Recovery Trust Fund.
SEC. 3. CHEYENNE RIVER SIOUX TRIBE EQUITABLE COMPENSATION.
(a) Findings and Purposes.--Section 102 of the Cheyenne River Sioux
Tribe Equitable Compensation Act (Public Law 106-511; 114 Stat. 2365)
is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)(3), by striking subparagraphs (A) and
(B) and inserting the following:
``(A) the United States did not justify, or fairly
compensate the Tribe and member landowners for, the
Oahe Dam and Reservation project, under which the
United States acquired 104,492 acres of land of the
Tribe and member landowners; and
``(B) the Tribe and member landowners should be
adequately compensated for that land;''; and
(2) in subsection (b)(1), by inserting ``and member
landowners'' after ``Tribe'' each place it appears.
(b) Definitions.--Section 103 of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe
Equitable Compensation Act (Public Law 106-511; 114 Stat. 2365) is
amended--
(1) by redesignating paragraphs (1) and (2) as paragraphs
(4) and (3), respectively, and moving the paragraphs so as to
appear in numerical order; and
(2) by inserting before paragraph (3) (as redesignated by
paragraph (1)) the following:
``(1) Member landowner.--The term `member landowner' means
a member of the Tribe (or an heir of such a member) that owned
land (including land allotted under the Act of February 8, 1887
(24 Stat. 388, chapter 119)) located on the Cheyenne River
Sioux Reservation that was acquired by the United States for
the Oahe Dam and Reservoir Project.
``(2) Power program.--The term `power program' means the
power program under the Pick-Sloan Missouri River Basin
program.''.
(c) Cheyenne River Sioux Tribal Recovery Trust Fund.--Section 104
of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Equitable Compensation Act (Public
Law 106-511; 114 Stat. 2365) is amended--
(1) by striking subsection (b) and inserting the following:
``(b) Funding.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary of the Treasury shall
deposit into the Fund an amount equal to 25 percent of the
amount deposited into the Treasury from the power program
during the preceding fiscal year for the period--
``(A) beginning on October 1, 2004; and
``(B) ending on the last date of the fiscal year
during which the total amount deposited into the
Treasury from the power program equals the amount
described in paragraph (2).
``(2) Description of amount.--
``(A) In general.--The amount referred to in
paragraph (1)(B) is an amount equal to the sum of--
``(i) $290,722,958; and
``(ii) an amount equal to the amount of
interest or earnings that would have accrued on
the amount described in clause (i) if that
amount had been invested in accordance with
subsection (c) as of October 1, 2001.
``(B) Calculation of interest.--The amount of
interest and earnings described in subparagraph (A)(ii)
shall be determined by applying the Lehman Government
Bond Index (or a similar index, as determined by the
Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the
Tribal Council).'';
(2) in subsection (d)(1), by striking ``Beginning on the
first day of the 11th fiscal year after the date of enactment
of this Act'' and inserting ``Beginning on October 1, 2005,'';
and
(3) in subsection (f)--
(A) by redesignating paragraphs (3) and (4) as
paragraphs (4) and (5), respectively; and
(B) by inserting after paragraph (2) the following:
``(3) Member landowners.--
``(A) In general.--The plan may provide for the
payment of additional compensation to member landowners
for acquisition of land by the United States for use in
the Oahe Dam and Reservoir Project.
``(B) Provision of records.--To assist the Tribe in
processing claims of heirs of member landowners for
land acquired by the United States for use in the Oahe
Dam and Reservoir Project, the Secretary of the
Interior shall provide to the Tribe any record
requested by the Tribe to identify the heirs of member
landowners by the date that is 60 days after the date
of receipt of a request from the Tribe.''.
(d) Eligibility of Tribe for Certain Programs and Services.--
Section 105 of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Equitable Compensation
Act (Public Law 106-511; 114 Stat. 2365) is amended in the matter
preceding paragraph (1) by inserting ``or any member landowner'' after
``Tribe''. | Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Equitable Compensation Amendments Act of 2005 - Amends the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Equitable Compensation Act to make member landowners eligible for the additional financial compensation provided to the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe for the acquisition by the federal government of 104,492 acres of land of the Tribe and member landowners for the Oahe Dam and Reservoir project. Defines member landowner as a member of the Tribe (or an heir of such a member) that owned land on the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation that was acquired by the United States for the Oahe Dam and Reservoir Project.
Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to deposit into the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribal Recovery Trust Fund an amount equal to 25% of the amount deposited into the Treasury from the power program during the preceding fiscal year for the period between October 1, 2004, and the last date of the fiscal year during which the total amount deposited into the Treasury from the power program equals a specified amount.
Authorizes the plan prepared for the use of payments to the Tribe to provide for payment of additional compensation to member landowners.
Requires the Secretary of the Interior to assist the Tribe in claims processing by providing any record requested to identify the heirs of member landowners within 60 days after receiving a request. | To amend the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Equitable Compensation Act to provide compensation to members of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe for damage resulting from the Oahe Dam and Reservoir Project, and for other purposes. |
527 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Wellness and Prevention Act of
2007''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds as follows:
(1) Improving the health of the population and reducing
medical costs requires implementation of preventive methods.
(2) Organizations throughout the United States have
expressed the need for an increase of public health
professionals.
(3) There are only approximately 6,000 physicians board
certified in preventive medicine.
(4) Many health care costs are spent on chronic conditions
that could be avoided by implementing preventive methods.
(5) The number of preventive medicine residency programs
and individuals pursuing preventive medicine has significantly
decreased in recent years.
(6) Preventive medicine physicians are uniquely trained to
serve patients and communities.
(7) A strong public health system requires a strong
preventive medicine workforce.
SEC. 3. LOAN PAYMENT ASSISTANCE FOR PREVENTIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIANS.
(a) Payments.--On behalf of any eligible preventive medicine
physician, the Secretary of Health and Human Services may pay up to
$20,000 of the medical education loans incurred by the physician.
(b) Application.--To request a payment under this section, an
eligible preventive medicine physician shall submit an application to
the Secretary at such time, in such manner, and containing such
information as the Secretary may require.
(c) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``eligible preventive medicine physician''
means a practicing physician who receives board certification
in preventive medicine during the period of fiscal years 2008
through 2012.
(2) The term ``medical education loan'' means the
outstanding principal of and interest on a loan incurred for
the cost of attendance (including tuition, other reasonable
educational expenses, and reasonable living costs) at a school
of medicine.
(3) The term ``school of medicine'' has the meaning given
to that term in section 799B of the Public Health Service Act
(42 U.S.C. 295p).
(4) The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of Health
and Human Services.
(d) Authorization of Appropriations.--To carry out this section,
there are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary
for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2012.
SEC. 4. WELLNESS PROGRAM EMPLOYER CREDIT.
(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 inserting after section 45N the following new
section:
``SEC. 45O. WELLNESS PROGRAM EMPLOYER CREDIT.
``(a) General Rule.--For purposes of section 38, the wellness
program employer credit determined under this section for any taxable
year is an amount equal to 25 percent of the expenses paid or incurred
by the eligible employer during the taxable year to develop and
implement a qualified wellness program.
``(b) Dollar Limitation.--The amount of the credit determined under
this section for any taxable year shall not exceed $200 per qualified
employee employed by the eligible employer during the taxable year.
``(c) Definitions.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) Eligible employer.--With respect to a taxable year,
the term `eligible employer' means an employer who--
``(A) develops and implements a qualified wellness
program, and
``(B) keeps accurate records of the preventive
services and other programs in which the eligible
employer's employees have participated during the
taxable year.
``(2) Qualified wellness program.--With respect to an
eligible employer, the term `qualified wellness program' means
a program--
``(A) that is developed and implemented by the
eligible employer, in consultation with an individual
who has implemented a wellness program for a different
employer and who will ensure compliance with
appropriate measures to protect the privacy of program
participants,
``(B) that conducts health risk assessments for
each of the program's participants,
``(C) that offers at least 2 of the preventive
services strongly recommended by the U.S. Preventive
Services Task Force on an annual basis,
``(D) that offers annual counseling sessions and
seminars related to at least 3 of the following:
``(i) smoking,
``(ii) obesity,
``(iii) stress management,
``(iv) physical fitness,
``(v) nutrition,
``(vi) substance abuse,
``(vii) depression,
``(viii) mental health,
``(ix) heart disease, and
``(x) maternal and infant health, and
``(E) whose qualified participants include not less
than 50 percent of the eligible employer's full-time
employees.
``(3) Qualified employee.--With respect to an eligible
employer, the term `qualified employee' means an individual who
is--
``(A) a full-time employee of the eligible
employer, and
``(B) a qualified participant in the eligible
employer's qualified wellness program.
``(4) Qualified participant.--With respect to a taxable
year, the term `qualified participant' means an individual--
``(A) who participates in at least 2 of the annual
preventive services or other programs offered through a
qualified wellness program during the taxable year, and
``(B) with respect to whom a health risk assessment
has been conducted during the taxable year,
as determined by the eligible employer who has developed and
implemented such qualified wellness program.
``(d) Termination.--This section shall not apply in taxable years
beginning after December 31, 2012.''.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Section 38(b) of such Code is amended by striking
``plus'' at the end of paragraph (30), by striking the period
at the end of paragraph (31) and inserting ``, plus'', and by
adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(32) the wellness program employer credit determined
under section 45O(a).''.
(2) 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 45N the following new item:
``Sec. 45O. Wellness program employer credit.''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2007.
SEC. 5. WELLNESS PROGRAM PARTICIPANT 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. WELLNESS PROGRAM PARTICIPANT CREDIT.
``(a) Allowance of Credit.--In the case of a qualified employee,
there shall be allowed as a credit against the tax imposed by this
subtitle for the taxable year an amount equal to $200.
``(b) Definitions.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) Qualified employee.--With respect to an eligible
employer, the term `qualified employee' means an individual who
is--
``(A) a full-time employee of the eligible
employer, and
``(B) a qualified participant in the eligible
employer's qualified wellness program.
``(2) Qualified participant.--With respect to a taxable
year, the term `qualified participant' means an individual--
``(A) who participates in at least 2 of the annual
preventive services or other programs offered through a
qualified wellness program during the taxable year, and
``(B) with respect to whom a health risk assessment
has been conducted during the taxable year,
as determined by the eligible employer who has developed and
implemented such qualified wellness program.
``(3) Qualified wellness program.--With respect to an
eligible employer, the term `qualified wellness program' means
a program--
``(A) that is developed and implemented by the
eligible employer, in consultation with an individual
who has implemented a wellness program for a different
employer and who will ensure compliance with
appropriate measures to protect the privacy of program
participants,
``(B) that conducts health risk assessments for
each of the program's participants,
``(C) that offers at least 2 of the preventive
services strongly recommended by the U.S. Preventive
Services Task Force on an annual basis,
``(D) that offers annual counseling sessions and
seminars related to at least 3 of the following:
``(i) smoking,
``(ii) obesity,
``(iii) stress management,
``(iv) physical fitness,
``(v) nutrition,
``(vi) substance abuse,
``(vii) depression,
``(viii) mental health,
``(ix) heart disease, and
``(x) maternal and infant health, and
``(E) whose qualified participants include not less
than 50 percent of the eligible employer's full-time
employees.
``(4) Eligible employer.--With respect to a taxable year,
the term `eligible employer' means an employer who--
``(A) develops and implements a qualified wellness
program, and
``(B) keeps accurate records of the preventive
services and other programs in which the eligible
employer's employees have participated during the
taxable year.
``(c) Termination.--This section shall not apply in taxable years
beginning after December 31, 2012.''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--The table of sections 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. Wellness program participant credit.''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2007. | Wellness and Prevention Act of 2007 - Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to pay up to a specified amount of the medical education loans incurred by any physician who receives board certification in preventive medicine from FY2008-FY2012.
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for a wellness program tax credit for employers that develop and implement a program that: (1) conducts health risk assessments for each program participant; (2) offers annually at least two preventive health screenings; (3) offers annual counseling sessions on at least three preventive health topics; and (4) includes as participants not less than 50% of full-time employees. Provides a tax credit for qualified employees that participate in their employer's qualified wellness program. | To promote preventive health care for Americans. |
528 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Standard Merger and Acquisition
Reviews Through Equal Rules Act of 2015''.
SEC. 2. AMENDMENTS TO THE CLAYTON ACT.
The Clayton Act (15 U.S.C. 12 et seq.) is amended--
(1) by striking section 4F and inserting the following:
``SEC. 4F. ACTIONS BY ATTORNEY GENERAL OF THE UNITED STATES OR THE
FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION.
``(a) Whenever the Attorney General of the United States has
brought an action under the antitrust laws or the Federal Trade
Commission has brought an action under section 7, and the Attorney
General or Federal Trade Commission, as applicable, has reason to
believe that any State attorney general would be entitled to bring an
action under this Act based substantially on the same alleged violation
of the antitrust laws or section 7, the Attorney General or Federal
Trade Commission, as applicable, shall promptly give written
notification thereof to such State attorney general.
``(b) To assist a State attorney general in evaluating the notice
described in subsection (a) or in bringing any action under this Act,
the Attorney General of the United States or Federal Trade Commission,
as applicable, shall, upon request by such State attorney general, make
available to the State attorney general, to the extent permitted by
law, any investigative files or other materials which are or may be
relevant or material to the actual or potential cause of action under
this Act.'';
(2) in section 5--
(A) in subsection (a) by inserting ``(including a
proceeding brought by the Federal Trade Commission with
respect to a violation of section 7)'' after ``United
States under the antitrust laws''; and
(B) in subsection (i) by inserting ``(including a
proceeding instituted by the Federal Trade Commission
with respect to a violation of section 7)'' after
``antitrust laws'';
(3) in section 11, by adding at the end the following:
``(m)(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), in enforcing
compliance with section 7, the Federal Trade Commission shall enforce
compliance with that section in the same manner as the Attorney General
in accordance with section 15.
``(2) If the Federal Trade Commission approves an agreement with
the parties to the transaction that contains a consent order with
respect to a violation of section 7, the Commission shall enforce
compliance with that section in accordance with this section.'';
(4) in section 13, by inserting ``(including a suit,
action, or proceeding brought by the Federal Trade Commission
with respect to a violation of section 7)'' before
``subpoenas''; and
(5) in section 15, by inserting ``and the duty of the
Federal Trade Commission with respect to a violation of section
7,'' after ``General,''.
SEC. 3. AMENDMENTS TO THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION ACT.
The Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 41) is amended--
(1) in section 5(b), by inserting ``(excluding the
consummation of a proposed merger, acquisition, joint venture,
or similar transaction that is subject to section 7 of the
Clayton Act (15 U.S.C. 18), except in cases where the
Commission approves an agreement with the parties to the
transaction that contains a consent order)'' after ``unfair
method of competition'';
(2) in section 9, by inserting after the fourth
undesignated paragraph the following:
``Upon the application of the commission with respect to any
activity related to the consummation of a proposed merger, acquisition,
joint venture, or similar transaction that is subject to section 7 of
the Clayton Act (15 U.S.C. 18) that may result in any unfair method of
competition, the district courts of the United States shall have
jurisdiction to issue writs of mandamus commanding any person or
corporation to comply with the provisions of this Act or any order of
the commission made in pursuance thereof.''.
(3) in section 13(b)(1), by inserting ``(excluding section
7 of the Clayton Act (15 U.S.C. 18) and section 5(a)(1) with
respect to the consummation of a proposed merger, acquisition,
joint venture, or similar transaction that is subject to
section 7 of the Clayton Act (15 U.S.C. 18))'' after
``Commission''; and
(4) in section 20(c)(1), by inserting ``or under section 7
of the Clayton Act (15 U.S.C. 18), where applicable,'' after
``Act,''.
SEC. 4. EFFECTIVE DATE; APPLICATION OF AMENDMENTS.
(a) Effective Date.--Except as provided in subsection (b), this Act
and the amendments made by this Act shall take effect on the date of
the enactment of this Act.
(b) Application of Amendments.--The amendments made by this Act
shall not apply to any of the following that occurs before the date of
enactment of this Act:
(1) A violation of section 7 of the Clayton Act (15 U.S.C.
18).
(2) A transaction with respect to which there is compliance
with section 7A of the Clayton Act (15 U.S.C. 18a).
(3) A case in which a preliminary injunction has been filed
in a district court of the United States.
Passed the House of Representatives March 23, 2016.
Attest:
KAREN L. HAAS,
Clerk. | . Standard Merger and Acquisition Reviews Through Equal Rules Act of 2015 (Sec. 2) This bill amends the Clayton Act with respect to notice to a state by the Department of Justice (DOJ) about federal actions brought for violations of antitrust laws. Currently DOJ must: notify a state attorney general about an antitrust action regarding which DOJ has reason to believe that the state attorney general would also be entitled to bring an action based substantially on the same alleged violation of the antitrust laws; and upon request make available to the state attorney general, to the extent permitted by law, any investigative files or other materials which are or may be relevant or material to the actual or potential cause of action. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) shall exercise the same authority and procedures as DOJ under the Clayton Act if the FTC has brought an action under Section 7 of the same Act with respect to the prohibition against acquisition by one corporation of the stock of another (merger) that may substantially lessen competition or tend to create a monopoly. Also in cases brought by the FTC that result in final judgments against a defendant, those judgments shall be prima facie evidence of antitrust violations under substantially similar facts in actions brought by other parties. The statute of limitations shall be tolled during a proceeding brought by the FTC under Section 7, and for one year thereafter, for any private and state rights of action based on the conduct in question during the proceeding. The FTC shall enforce compliance with section 7 in the same manner as DOJ in acting to prevent or restrain antitrust violations. The FTC shall enforce a consent order, however, in the same manner it does already. (Sec. 3) The Federal Trade Commission Act (FTCA) is amended to exclude proposed mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, or similar transactions from ordinary FTC proceedings, except in cases where the FTC approves an agreement with the parties to the transaction that contains a consent order. U.S. district courts shall have jurisdiction to issue writs of mandamus commanding compliance with the FTCA or any FTC order, if the FTC applies to such courts with respect to any activity related to consummation of a merger, acquisition, joint venture, or similar transaction that may result in an unfair method of competition. | Standard Merger and Acquisition Reviews Through Equal Rules Act of 2015 |
529 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Keep America Healthy Act of 2001''.
SEC. 2. OPTIONAL MEDICAID COVERAGE OF UNINSURED, POOR ADULTS.
(a) Availability of Medicaid Coverage for Uninsured, Poor Adults.--
(1) Addition of optional coverage group.--Section
1902(a)(10)(A)(ii) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C.
1396a(a)(10)(A)(ii)) is amended--
(A) by striking ``or'' at the end of subclause
(XVII);
(B) by striking the semicolon at the end of
subclause (XVIII) and inserting ``, or''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following new
subclause:
``(XIX) described in subsection
(cc);''.
(2) Eligibility standards for new eligibility group.--
Section 1902 of such Act is further amended by adding at the
end the following new subsection:
``(cc) For purposes of subsection (a)(10)(A)(ii)(XIX), individuals
described in this subsection are individuals who meet the following
requirements:
``(1) The individual is at least 21 years of age but is
under 65 years of age.
``(2) The income of the individual's family does not exceed
a percentage (not to exceed 200 percent) specified by the State
of the poverty line (as defined in section 2110(c)(5))
applicable to a family of the size involved and, at the option
of a State, the individual's resources do not exceed such
resource level as the State may establish, so long as such
resource level is not more restrictive than the resources an
individual may have and obtain benefits under the supplemental
security income program under title XVI.''.
(b) Provision of Enhanced Federal Medical Assistance as Incentive
for States To Increase Coverage.--
(1) Application of enhanced federal medical assistance
percentage.--Section 1905(b)(4) of such Act (42 U.S.C.
1396d(b)(4)) is amended by inserting ``or section
1902(a)(10)(A)(ii)(XIX)'' after ``section
1902(a)(10)(A)(ii)(XVIII)''.
(2) Increase in medicaid payment limit for territories to
accommodate expanded coverage for residents of puerto rico, the
virgin islands, guam, american samoa, and the northern mariana
islands.--Section 1108 of such Act (42 U.S.C. 1308) is
amended--
(A) in subsection (f), by striking ``subsection
(g)'' and inserting ``subsections (g) and (h)''; and
(B) by adding at the end the following new
subsection:
``(h) Increase in Medicaid Payment Limit To Accommodate Expanded
Coverage Under the Keep America Healthy Act.--(1) With respect to
fiscal year 2002 and each succeeding fiscal year, if Puerto Rico, the
Virgin Islands, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, or American Samoa
provides for coverage of individuals under section
1902(a)(10)(A)(ii)(XIX) in a fiscal year, the amounts otherwise
determined for the respective territory under subsections (f) and (g)
for such fiscal year shall be increased by a percentage (estimated by
the Secretary) equal to 120 percent of the State average Keep America
Healthy percentage, estimated by the Secretary under paragraph (2) for
the fiscal year involved.
``(2) For each such fiscal year the Secretary shall estimate a
State average Keep America Healthy percentage equal to (A) the total
Federal payments under title XIX for the fiscal year for the 50 States
and the District of Columbia that are attributable to individuals made
eligible for benefits under section 1902(a)(10)(A)(ii)(XIX), divided by
(B) the total Federal payments under such title the fiscal year for
such States and District.''.
(c) Conforming and Technical Amendments.--(1) Section 1903(f)(4) of
such Act (42 U.S.C. 1396b(f)(4)) is amended by inserting
``1902(a)(10)(A)(ii)(XIX),'' after ``1902(a)(10)(A)(ii)(XVIII),''.
(2) Section 1905(a) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 1396d(a)) is amended, in
the matter before paragraph (1)--
(A) by striking ``or'' at the end of clause (xi);
(B) by adding ``or'' at the end of clause (xii); and
(C) by inserting after clause (xii) the following new
clause:
``(xiii) individuals described in section 1902(cc),''.
(3) Section 1905(u)(4) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 1396d(u)(4)) is
amended by inserting before the period at the end the following: ``for
individuals not covered under section 1902(a)(10)(A)(ii)(XIX)''.
(4)(A) Section 1902 of such Act (42 U.S.C. 1396a), as amended by
section 702(b) of the Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP Benefits
Improvement and Protection Act of 2000 (as enacted into law by section
1(a)(6) of Public Law 106-554), is amended by redesignating the
subsection (aa) added by such section as subsection (bb).
(B) Section 1902(a)(15) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(15)), as
added by section 702(a)(2) of the Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP
Benefits Improvement and Protection Act of 2000 (as so enacted into
law), is amended by striking ``subsection (aa)'' and inserting
``subsection (bb)''.
(C) Section 1915(b) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 1396n(b)), as amended by
section 702(c)(2) of the Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP Benefits
Improvement and Protection Act of 2000 (as so enacted into law), is
amended by striking ``1902(aa)'' and inserting ``1902(bb)''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall take
effect on October 1, 2001. | Keep America Healthy Act of 2001 - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to make a new optional Medicaid eligibility group for individuals between ages 21 and 65 whose family income does not exceed a State-specified percentage up to 200 percent of the applicable poverty line. Authorizes the State also to require the individual's resources not to exceed whatever level the State may establish, so long as it is not more restrictive than the requirements of the Supplemental Security Income program under SSA title XVI (Supplemental Security Income). Provides for the application to such new group of the enhanced Federal medical assistance percentage described under SSA title XXI (State Children's Health Insurance Program).Amends SSA title XI to provide for an increase in the Medicaid payment limit for territories to accommodate expanded coverage for residents of Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands. | To amend title XIX of the Social Security Act to permit States to expand Medicaid eligibility to uninsured, poor adults. |
530 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Infant Crib Safety Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS; PURPOSE.
(a) Findings.--Congress makes the following findings:
(1) The disability and death of infants resulting from
injuries sustained in crib incidents are a serious threat to
the public health, welfare, and safety of people of this
country.
(2) The design and construction of a baby crib must ensure
that it is safe to leave an infant unattended for extended
periods of time. A parent or caregiver has a right to believe
that the crib in use is a safe place to leave an infant.
(3) Each year more than 12,000 children ages 2 and under
are injured in cribs seriously enough to require hospital
treatment.
(4) Each year at least 50 children ages 2 and under die
from injuries sustained in cribs.
(5) The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission
estimates that the cost to society resulting from deaths due to
cribs is at least $225,000,000 per year.
(6) Secondhand, hand-me-down, and heirloom cribs pose a
special problem. There are nearly 4 million infants born in
this country each year, but only one million new cribs sold. As
many as 2 out of 4 infants are placed in secondhand, hand-me-
down, or heirloom cribs.
(7) Most crib deaths occur in secondhand, hand-me-down, or
heirloom cribs.
(8) Existing State and Federal legislation is inadequate to
deal with the hazard presented by secondhand, hand-me-down, or
heirloom cribs.
(9) Prohibiting the contracting to sell, resell, lease,
sublease of unsafe cribs that are not new, or otherwise place
in the stream of commerce unsafe secondhand, hand-me-down, or
heirloom cribs, will prevent injuries and deaths caused by
cribs.
(b) Purpose.--The purpose of this Act is to prevent the occurrence
of injuries and deaths to infants as a result of unsafe cribs by making
it illegal--
(1) to manufacture, sell, or contract to sell any crib that
is unsafe for any infant using it; or
(2) to resell, lease, sublet, or otherwise place in the
stream of commerce, after the effective date of this Act, any
unsafe crib, particularly any unsafe secondhand, hand-me-down,
or heirloom crib.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
As used in this Act:
(1) Commercial user.--The term ``commercial user'' means
any person--
(A) who manufactures, sells, or contracts to sell
full-size cribs or nonfull-size cribs; or
(B) who--
(i) deals in full-size or nonfull-size
cribs that are not new or who otherwise by
one's occupation holds oneself out as having
knowledge or skill peculiar to full-size cribs
or nonfull-size cribs, including child care
facilities and family child care homes; or
(ii) is in the business of contracting to
sell or resell, lease, sublet, or otherwise
placing in the stream of commerce full-size
cribs or nonfull-size cribs that are not new.
(2) Crib.--The term ``crib'' means a full-size crib or
nonfull-size crib.
(3) Full-size crib.--The term ``full-size crib'' means a
full-size baby crib as defined in section 1508.1 of title 16 of
the Code of Federal Regulations.
(4) Infant.--The term ``infant'' means any person less than
35 inches tall or less than 2 years of age.
(5) Nonfull-size crib.--The term ``nonfull-size crib''
means a nonfull-size baby crib as defined in section 1509.2(b)
of title 16 of the Code of Federal Regulations (including a
portable crib and a crib-pen described in paragraph (2) of
subsection (b) of that section).
SEC. 4. PROHIBITIONS.
(a) In General.--It shall be unlawful for any commercial user--
(1) to manufacture, sell, or contract to sell, any full-
size crib or nonfull-size crib that is unsafe for any infant
using it; or
(2) to sell, contract to sell or resell, lease, sublet, or
otherwise place in the stream of commerce, any full-size or
nonfull-size crib that is not new and that is unsafe for any
infant using the crib.
(b) Lodgings.--It shall be unlawful for any hotel, motel, or
similar transient lodging facility to offer or provide for use or
otherwise place in the stream of commerce, on or after the effective
date of this Act, any full-size crib or nonfull-size crib that is
unsafe for any infant using it.
SEC. 5. CRIB STANDARDS.
A crib shall be presumed to be unsafe under this Act if it does not
conform to all of the following:
(1) Part 1508 (commencing with section 1508.1) of title 16
of the Code of Federal Regulations.
(2) Part 1509 (commencing with section 1509.1) of title 16
of the Code of Federal Regulations.
(3) Part 1303 (commencing with section 1303.1) of title 16
of the Code of Federal Regulations.
(4) American Society for Testing Materials Voluntary
Standard F.406.
(5) American Society for Testing Materials Voluntary
Standards F966.
(6) American Society for Testing Materials Voluntary
Standards F1169.
(7) American Society for Testing Materials Voluntary
Standards F1822.
(8) Any regulations or standards that are adopted in order
to amend or supplement the regulations described in paragraphs
(1) through (7).
SEC. 6. EXCEPTIONS.
This Act shall not apply to a full-size crib or nonfull-size crib
that is not intended for use by an infant, including a toy or display
item, if at the time it is manufactured, made subject to a contract to
sell or resell, leased, subletted, or otherwise placed in the stream of
commerce, as applicable, it is accompanied by a notice to be furnished
by each commercial user declaring that the crib is not intended to be
used for an infant and is dangerous to use for an infant.
SEC. 7. ENFORCEMENT.
(a) Civil Penalty.--Any commercial user, hotel, motel, or similar
transient lodging facility that knowingly violates section 4 is subject
to a civil penalty not exceeding $1,000.
(b) Injunction.--Any person may bring an action in a district court
of the United States against any commercial user, hotel, motel, or
similar transient lodging facility to enjoin any act or omission that
violates section 4, and for reasonable attorneys fees and costs
incurred in bringing the action.
SEC. 8. REMEDIES.
Penalties or other remedies available under this Act are in
addition to any other fines, penalties, remedies, or procedures under
any other provision of law.
SEC. 9. EFFECTIVE DATE.
This Act shall become effective 90 days after the date of its
enactment. | Infant Crib Safety Act - Makes it unlawful for any commercial user to: (1) manufacture, sell, or contract to sell any full-size or nonfull-size crib which is unsafe for any infant; or (2) sell, contract to sell or resell, lease, sublet, or otherwise place in the stream of commerce any such crib which is not new and is unsafe for any infant. Makes it unlawful for any lodging facility to offer or provide such an unsafe crib. Presumes as unsafe a crib which does not conform to specified standards in the Code of Federal Regulations and the American Society for Testing Materials Voluntary Standards, unless labeled as dangerous for an infant and not intended to be used for one.Authorizes a fine and injunction against violators of this Act. | A bill to provide for infant crib safety, and for other purposes. |
531 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``National Baseball Hall of Fame
Commemorative Coin Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds the following:
(1) On June 12, 1939, the National Baseball Hall of Fame and
Museum opened in Cooperstown, New York. Ty Cobb, Walter Johnson,
Christy Mathewson, Babe Ruth, and Honus Wagner comprised the
inaugural class of inductees. This class set the standard for all
future inductees. Since 1939, just one percent of all Major League
Baseball players have earned induction into the National Baseball
Hall of Fame.
(2) The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum is dedicated
to preserving history, honoring excellence, and connecting
generations through the rich history of our national pastime.
Baseball has mirrored our Nation's history since the Civil War, and
is now an integral part of our Nation's heritage.
(3) The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum chronicles
the history of our national pastime and houses the world's largest
collection of baseball artifacts, including more than 38,000 three
dimensional artifacts, 3,000,000 documents, 500,000 photographs,
and 12,000 hours of recorded media. This collection ensures that
baseball history and its unique connection to American history will
be preserved and recounted for future generations.
(4) Since its opening in 1939, more than 14,000,000 baseball
fans have visited the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum to
learn about the history of our national pastime and the game's
connection to the American experience.
(5) The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum is an
educational institution, reaching 10,000,000 Americans annually.
Utilizing video conference technology, students and teachers
participate in interactive lessons led by educators from the
National Baseball Hall of Fame Museum. These award-winning
educational programs draw upon the wonders of baseball to reach
students in classrooms nationwide. Each educational program uses
baseball as a lens for teaching young Americans important lessons
on an array of topics, including mathematics, geography, civil
rights, women's history, economics, industrial technology, arts,
and communication.
SEC. 3. COIN SPECIFICATIONS.
(a) Denominations.--In recognition and celebration of the National
Baseball Hall of Fame, the Secretary of the Treasury (hereafter in this
Act referred to as the ``Secretary'') shall mint and issue the
following coins:
(1) $5 gold coins.--Not more than 50,000 $5 coins, which
shall--
(A) weigh 8.359 grams;
(B) have diameter of 0.850 inches; and
(C) contain 90 percent gold and 10 percent alloy.
(2) $1 silver coins.--Not more than 400,000 $1 coins, which
shall--
(A) weigh 26.73 grams;
(B) have a diameter of 1.500 inches; and
(C) contain 90 percent silver and 10 percent copper.
(3) Half-dollar clad coins.--Not more than 750,000 half-dollar
coins which shall--
(A) weigh 11.34 grams;
(B) have a diameter of 1.205 inches; and
(C) be minted to the specifications for half-dollar coins
contained in section 5112(b) of title 31, United States Code.
(b) Legal Tender.--The coins minted under this Act shall be legal
tender, as provided in section 5103 of title 31, United States Code.
(c) Numismatic Items.--For purposes of sections 5134 and 5136 of
title 31, United States Code, all coins minted under this Act shall be
considered to be numismatic items.
(d) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that, to the
extent possible without significantly adding to the purchase price of
the coins, the $1 coins and $5 coins minted under this Act should be
produced in a fashion similar to the 2009 International Year of
Astronomy coins issued by Monnaie de Paris, the French Mint, so that
the reverse of the coin is convex to more closely resemble a baseball
and the obverse concave, providing a more dramatic display of the
obverse design chosen pursuant to section 4(c).
SEC. 4. DESIGN OF COINS.
(a) In General.--The design for the coins minted under this Act
shall be--
(1) selected by the Secretary after consultation with--
(A) the National Baseball Hall of Fame;
(B) the Commission of Fine Arts; and
(2) reviewed by the Citizens Commemorative Coin Advisory
Committee.
(b) Designations and Inscriptions.--On each coin minted under this
Act there shall be--
(1) a designation of the value of the coin;
(2) an inscription of the year ``2014''; and
(3) inscriptions of the words ``Liberty'', ``In God We Trust'',
``United States of America'', and ``E Pluribus Unum''.
(c) Selection and Approval Process for Obverse Design.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall hold a competition to
determine the design of the common obverse of the coins minted
under this Act, with such design being emblematic of the game of
baseball.
(2) Selection and approval.--Proposals for the design of coins
minted under this Act may be submitted in accordance with the
design selection and approval process developed by the Secretary in
the sole discretion of the Secretary. The Secretary shall encourage
3-dimensional models to be submitted as part of the design
proposals.
(3) Proposals.--As part of the competition described in this
subsection, the Secretary may accept proposals from artists,
engravers of the United States Mint, and members of the general
public.
(4) Compensation.--The Secretary shall determine compensation
for the winning design under this subsection, which shall be not
less than $5,000. The Secretary shall take into account this
compensation amount when determining the sale price described in
section 6(a).
(d) Reverse Design.--The design on the common reverse of the coins
minted under this Act shall depict a baseball similar to those used by
Major League Baseball.
SEC. 5. ISSUANCE OF COINS.
(a) Quality of Coins.--Coins minted under this Act shall be issued
in uncirculated and proof qualities.
(b) Period for Issuance.--The Secretary may issue coins minted
under this Act only during the 1-year period beginning on January 1,
2014.
SEC. 6. SALE OF COINS.
(a) Sale Price.--The coins issued under this Act shall be sold by
the Secretary at a price equal to the sum of--
(1) the face value of the coins;
(2) the surcharge provided in section 7(a) with respect to such
coins; and
(3) the cost of designing and issuing the coins (including
labor, materials, dies, use of machinery, winning design
compensation, overhead expenses, marketing, and shipping).
(b) Bulk Sales.--The Secretary shall make bulk sales of the coins
issued under this Act at a reasonable discount.
(c) Prepaid Orders.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall accept prepaid orders for
the coins minted under this Act before the issuance of such coins.
(2) Discount.--Sale prices with respect to prepaid orders under
paragraph (1) shall be at a reasonable discount.
SEC. 7. SURCHARGES.
(a) In General.--All sales of coins minted under this Act shall
include a surcharge as follows:
(1) A surcharge of $35 per coin for the $5 coin.
(2) A surcharge of $10 per coin for the $1 coin.
(3) A surcharge of $5 per coin for the half-dollar coin.
(b) Distribution.--Subject to section 5134(f) of title 31, United
States Code, all surcharges received by the Secretary from the sale of
coins issued under this Act shall be promptly paid by the Secretary to
the National Baseball Hall of Fame to help finance its operations.
(c) Audits.--The National Baseball Hall of Fame shall be subject to
the audit requirements of section 5134(f)(2) of title 31, United States
Code, with regard to the amounts received under subsection (b).
(d) Limitation.--Notwithstanding subsection (a), no surcharge may
be included with respect to the issuance under this Act of any coin
during a calendar year if, as of the time of such issuance, the
issuance of such coin would result in the number of commemorative coin
programs issued during such year to exceed the annual commemorative
coin program issuance limitation under section 5112(m)(1) of title 31,
United States Code (as in effect on the date of the enactment of this
Act). The Secretary of the Treasury may issue guidance to carry out
this subsection.
SEC. 8. FINANCIAL ASSURANCES.
The Secretary shall take such actions as may be necessary to ensure
that--
(1) minting and issuing coins under this Act will not result in
any net cost to the United States Government; and
(2) no funds, including applicable surcharges, are disbursed to
any recipient designated in section 7 until the total cost of
designing and issuing all of the coins authorized by this Act
(including labor, materials, dies, use of machinery, winning design
compensation, overhead expenses, marketing, and shipping) is
recovered by the United States Treasury, consistent with sections
5112(m) and 5134(f) of title 31, United States Code.
SEC. 9. BUDGET COMPLIANCE.
The budgetary effects of this Act, for the purpose of complying
with the Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010, shall be determined by
reference to the latest statement titled ``Budgetary Effects of PAYGO
Legislation'' for this Act, submitted for printing in the Congressional
Record by the Chairman of the Committee on the Budget of the House of
Representatives, provided that such statement has been submitted prior
to the vote on passage.
Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Vice President of the United States and
President of the Senate. | National Baseball Hall of Fame Commemorative Coin Act - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue not more than 50,000 $5 gold coins, 400,000 $1 silver coins, and 750,000 half-dollar coins in recognition of the National Baseball Hall of Fame during the one-year period beginning on January 1, 2014.
Directs the Secretary to: (1) hold a competition to determine the design of the common obverse of the coins, with such design being emblematic of the game of baseball; and (2) determine compensation for the winning design, which shall be not less than $5,000 and which shall be taken into account when determining the sale price. Requires the design on the common reverse side to depict a baseball similar to those used by Major League Baseball.
Requires all sales of such coins to include specified surcharges, which shall be paid by the Secretary to the National Baseball Hall of Fame to help finance its operations after the total cost of designing and issuing the coins is recovered by the Treasury.
Directs the Secretary to ensure that minting and issuing coins under this Act will not result in any net cost to the U.S. government. | To require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in recognition and celebration of the National Baseball Hall of Fame. |
532 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Commission on the Advancement of
Women in the Science and Engineering Work Forces Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds that--
(1) despite a consistently high presence of women in the
professional and total work forces of the United States, women
continue to be underrepresented in the science and engineering
work forces;
(2) women scientists and engineers have higher rates of
unemployment and underemployment than their male counterparts,
although the number of women receiving degrees in scientific
and engineering disciplines has increased since 1981;
(3) artificial barriers exist in the recruitment,
retention, and advancement of women in the science and
engineering work forces;
(4) academia, industry, and government are increasingly
aware of the necessity of and the advantages derived from
diverse science and engineering work forces;
(5) initiatives of the White House Task Force on Women,
Minorities, and the Handicapped in Science and Technology and
of the Federal Coordinating Council on Science, Engineering,
and Technology have been instrumental in raising public
awareness of--
(A) the underrepresentation of women in the science
and engineering work forces; and
(B) the desirability of eliminating artificial
barriers to the recruitment, retention, and advancement
of women in such work forces; and
(6) the establishment of a commission to examine issues
raised by these initiatives would help to--
(A) focus greater attention on the importance of
eliminating artificial barriers to the recruitment,
retention, and advancement of women in the science and
engineering work forces and in all employment sectors
of the United States;
(B) promote work force diversity;
(C) sensitize employers to the need to recruit and
retain women scientists and engineers in order to
overcome projected shortfalls within the science and
engineering work forces of the United States during the
next 20 years; and
(D) encourage the replication of successful
recruitment and retention programs by universities,
corporations, and Federal agencies having difficulties
in employing women scientists and engineers.
SEC. 3. ESTABLISHMENT.
There is established a commission to be known as the ``Commission
on the Advancement of Women in the Science and Engineering Work
Forces'' (hereinafter in this Act referred to as the ``Commission'').
SEC. 4. DUTY OF COMMISSION.
The Commission shall conduct a study to--
(1) identify the number of women in the United States in
the science and engineering work forces, the specific types of
occupations in such workforces in which women scientists and
engineers are underrepresented;
(2) examine the preparedness of women to--
(A) pursue careers in the science and engineering
work forces; and
(B) advance to positions of greater responsibility
within academia, industry, and government;
(3) describe the practices and policies of employers and
labor unions relating to the recruitment, retention, and
advancement of women scientists and engineers;
(4) identify the opportunities for, and artificial barriers
to, the recruitment, retention, and advancement of women
scientists and engineers in academia, industry, and government;
(5) describe the employment situations in which the
recruitment, retention, and advancement of women scientists and
engineers are comparable to their male counterparts, and
identify those situations in which such comparability does not
exist;
(6) compile a synthesis of available research on practices,
policies, and programs that have successfully led to the
recruitment, retention, and advancement of women in the science
and engineering work forces, including training programs,
rotational assignments, developmental programs, reward
programs, employee benefit structures, and family leave
policies;
(7) examine such other issues and information relating to
the advancement of women in the science and engineering work
forces as determined by the Commission to be appropriate; and
(8) issue recommendations that government (including
Congress and appropriate Federal agencies), academia, and
private industry can follow to assist in the recruitment,
retention, and advancement of women in science and engineering.
SEC. 5. MEMBERSHIP.
(a) Number and Appointment.--The Commission shall be composed of 17
members as follows:
(1) 5 members appointed by the President.
(2) 3 members appointed jointly by the Speaker of the House
of Representatives and the majority leader of the Senate.
(3) 1 member appointed by the majority leader of the House
of Representatives.
(4) 1 member appointed by the minority leader of the House
of Representatives.
(5) 1 member appointed by the majority leader of the
Senate.
(6) 1 member appointed by the minority leader of the
Senate.
(7) 2 Members of the House of Representatives, appointed
jointly by the majority leader and the minority leader of the
House of Representatives.
(8) 2 Senators appointed jointly by the majority leader and
the minority leader of the Senate.
(9) The Director of the Office of Science and Technology
Policy.
(b) Additional Qualifications.--Initial appointments shall be made
under subsection (a) not later than 180 days after the date of the
enactment of this Act. In making each appointment under subsection (a),
the appointing authority shall consider (among other factors) whether
the individual--
(1) is a member of an organization representing women and
minorities;
(2) holds executive management or senior decision-making
positions in any business entity; and
(3) possesses academic expertise or other recognized
abilities relating to employment and employment discrimination
issues.
(c) Political Affiliation.--Not more than \1/2\ of the members
appointed from individuals who are officers or employees of the United
States may be of the same political party.
(d) Continuation of Membership.--If a member was appointed to the
Commission because the member was an officer or employee of any
government and later ceases to be such an officer or employee, that
member may continue as a member of the Commission for not longer than
the 60-day period beginning on the date the member ceases to be such an
officer or employee.
(e) Terms.--
(1) In general.--Each Member shall be appointed for the
life of the Commission.
(2) Vacancies.--A vacancy in the Commission shall be filled
in the manner in which the original appointment was made.
(f) Basic Pay.--
(1) Rates of pay.--Except as provided in paragraph (2),
each member of the Commission shall receive compensation at the
daily equivalent of the maximum rate of pay payable under
section 5376 of title 5, United States Code, for each day the
member is engaged in the performance of duties for the
Commission, including attendance at meetings and conferences of
the Commission, and travel to conduct 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.
(g) 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.
(h) Quorum.--A majority of the members of the Commission shall
constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.
(i) Chairperson.--The Director of the Office of Science and
Technology Policy shall serve as the Chairperson of the Commission.
(j) Meetings.--
(1) Meetings prior to completion of report.--The Commission
shall meet not fewer than 5 times in connection with and
pending the completion of the reports described in subsections
(a) and (b) of section 8. The Commission shall hold additional
meetings for such purpose if the Chairperson or a majority of
the members of the Commission requests the additional meetings
in writing.
(2) Meetings after completion of report.--The Commission
shall meet at least once, but not more than twice after the
completion of the report described in section 8(b), in
connection with and pending completion of the report required
by section 8(c).
(k) Employment Status.--A member of the Commission, who is not
otherwise an officer or employee of the Federal Government, shall not
be deemed to be an employee of the Federal Government except for the
purposes of--
(1) the tort claims provisions of chapter 171 of title 28,
United States Code; and
(2) subchapter I of chapter 81 of title 5, United States
Code, relating to compensation for work injuries.
SEC. 6. DIRECTOR AND STAFF OF COMMISSION; EXPERTS AND CONSULTANTS.
(a) Director.--The Commission shall have a Director who shall be
appointed by the Chairperson. The Director shall be paid at a rate not
to exceed the maximum annual rate of basic pay payable under section
5376 of title 5, United States Code.
(b) Staff.--Subject to rules prescribed by the Commission, the
Chairperson may appoint and fix the pay of additional personnel as the
Chairperson considers appropriate.
(c) Applicability of Certain Civil Service Laws.--The Director and
staff of the Commission may be appointed without regard to the
provisions of title 5, United States Code, governing appointments in
the competitive service, and may be paid without regard to the
provisions of chapter 51 and subchapter III of chapter 53 of that title
relating to classification and General Schedule pay rates, except that
an individual so appointed may not receive pay in excess of the maximum
annual rate of basic pay payable under section 5376 of title 5, United
States Code.
(d) Experts and Consultants.--The Commission may procure temporary
and intermittent services under section 3109(b) of title 5, United
States Code, at rates for individuals not to exceed the maximum annual
rate of basic pay payable under section 5376 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. 7. 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. The Commission may administer oaths or affirmations to
witnesses appearing before it.
(b) Powers of Members and Agents.--Any member or agent of the
Commission may, if authorized by the Commission, take any action which
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. Upon request of the
Chairperson of the Commission, the head of that department or agency
shall furnish that information to the Commission.
(d) Gifts, Bequests, and Devises.--The Commission may accept, use,
and dispose of gifts, bequests, or devises of services or property,
both real and personal, for the purpose of aiding or facilitating the
work of the Commission. Gifts, bequests, or devises of money and
proceeds from sales of other property received as gifts, bequests, or
devises shall be deposited in the Treasury and shall be available for
disbursement upon order of the Commission.
(e) 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.
(f) 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.
(g) Contract Authority.--To the extent provided in advance in
appropriations Acts, the Commission may contract with and compensate
government and private agencies or persons for the purpose of
conducting research or surveys necessary to enable the Commission to
carry out its duties under this Act.
SEC. 8. REPORTS.
(a) Status Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date on which
the initial appointments under section 5(a) are completed, the
Commission shall submit to the President and the Congress a written
report describing the current activities and findings of the Commission
and the direction of the Commission.
(b) Recommendation Report.--Not later than 18 months after the date
on which the initial appointments under section 5(a) are completed, the
Commission shall submit to the President and the Congress a written
report containing--
(1) the findings and conclusions of the Commission
resulting from the study conducted under section 4; and
(2) recommendations, including specific proposed
legislation and administrative action, based on the findings
and conclusions referred to in paragraph (1).
(c) Follow-Up Report.--After submission of the report required by
subsection (b) and before the termination of the Commission, the
Commission shall submit to the President and to the Congress a written
report--
(1) identifying which of the recommendations included in
such report have been implemented; and
(2) containing any additional information the Commission
considers to be appropriate.
SEC. 9. TERMINATION.
The Commission shall terminate 1 year after submitting the report
required by section 8(b).
SEC. 10. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There are authorized to be appropriated for fiscal years 1995,
1996, and 1997 such sums as may be necessary to carry out this Act. | Commission on the Advancement of Women in the Science and Engineering Work Forces Act - Establishes the Commission on the Advancement of Women in the Science and Engineering Work Forces. Authorizes appropriations.
Terminates the Commission one year after submission of a report required by this Act. | Commission on the Advancement of Women in the Science and Engineering Work Forces Act |
533 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Health Care Paperwork Reduction and
Fraud Prevention Act of 2001''.
SEC. 2. NATIONAL BIPARTISAN COMMISSION ON BILLING CODES AND FORMS
SIMPLIFICATION.
(a) Establishment.--There is hereby established the Commission on
Billing Codes and Forms Simplification (in this section referred to as
the ``Commission'').
(b) Duties.--The Commission shall make recommendations regarding
the following:
(1) Standardized forms.--Standardizing credentialing and
billing forms respecting health care claims, that all Federal
Government agencies would use and that the private sector is
able (and is encouraged, but not required) to use.
(2) Reduction in billing codes.--A significant reduction
and simplification in the number of billing codes.
(3) Regulatory and appeals process reform.--Reforms in the
medicare regulatory and appeals processes in order to ensure
that the Secretary of Health and Human Services provides
appropriate guidance to physicians, providers of services, and
ambulance providers that are attempting to properly submit
claims under the medicare program and to ensure that the
Secretary does not target inadvertent billing errors.
(c) Membership.--
(1) Number and appointment.--The Commission shall be
composed of 17 members, of whom--
(A) four shall be appointed by the President;
(B) six shall be appointed by the Majority Leader
of the Senate, in consultation with the Minority Leader
of the Senate, of whom not more than 4 shall be of the
same political party;
(C) six shall be appointed by the Speaker of the
House of Representatives, in consultation with the
Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, of
whom not more than 4 shall be of the same political
party; and
(D) one, who shall serve as Chairman of the
Commission, appointed jointly by the President,
Majority Leader of the Senate, and the Speaker of the
House of Representatives.
(2) Appointment.--Members of the Commission shall be
appointed by not later than 90 days after the date of the
enactment of this Act.
(d) Incorporation of Bipartisan Commission Provisions.--The
provisions of paragraphs (3) through (8) of subsection (c) and
subsections (d), (e), and (h) of section 4021 of the Balanced Budget
Act of 1997 shall apply to the Commission under this section in the
same manner as they applied to the National Bipartisan Commission on
the Future of Medicare under such section.
(e) Report.--Not later than December 31, 2001, the Commission shall
submit a report to the President and Congress which shall contain a
detailed statement of only those recommendations, findings, and
conclusions of the Commission that receive the approval of at least 11
members of the Commission.
(f) Termination.--The Commission shall terminate 30 days after the
date of submission of the report required in subsection (e).
SEC. 3. EDUCATION OF PHYSICIANS AND PROVIDERS CONCERNING MEDICARE
PROGRAM PAYMENTS.
(a) Written Requests.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of Health and Human Services
shall establish a process under which a physician may request,
in writing from a carrier, assistance in addressing
questionable codes and procedures under the medicare program
under title XVIII of the Social Security Act and then the
carrier shall respond in writing within 30 business days
respond with the correct billing or procedural answer.
(2) Use of written statement.--
(A) In general.--Subject to subparagraph (B), a
written statement under paragraph (1) may be used as
proof against a future audit or overpayment under the
medicare program.
(B) Limit on application.--Subparagraph (A) shall
not apply retroactively and shall not apply to cases of
fraudulent billing.
(b) Restoration of Toll-Free Hotline.--
(1) In general.--The Administrator of the Health Care
Financing Administration shall restore the toll-free telephone
hotline so that physicians may call for information and
questions about the medicare program.
(2) Authorization of appropriations.--There are authorized
to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out
paragraph (1).
(c) Definitions.--For purposes of this section:
(1) Physician.--The term ``physician'' has the meaning
given such term in section 1861(r) of the Social Security Act
(42 U.S.C. 1395x(r)).
(2) Carrier.--The term ``carrier'' means a carrier (as
defined in section 1842(f) of the Social Security Act (42
U.S.C. 1395u(f))) with a contract under title XVIII of such Act
to administer benefits under part B of such title.
SEC. 4. POLICY DEVELOPMENT REGARDING E&M GUIDELINES UNDER THE MEDICARE
PROGRAM.
(a) In General.--HCFA may not implement any new evaluation and
management guidelines (in this section referred to as ``E&M
guidelines'') under the medicare program, unless HCFA--
(1) has provided for an assessment of the proposed
guidelines by physicians;
(2) has established a plan that contains specific goals,
including a schedule, for improving participation of
physicians;
(3) has carried out a minimum of 4 pilot projects
consistent with subsection (b) in at least 4 different HCFA
regions (to be specified by the Secretary) to test such
guidelines; and
(4) finds that the objectives described in subsection (c)
will be met in the implementation of such guidelines.
(b) Pilot Projects.--
(1) Length and consultation.--Each pilot project under this
subsection shall--
(A) be of sufficient length to allow for
preparatory physician and carrier education, analysis,
and use and assessment of potential E&M guidelines; and
(B) be conducted, throughout the planning and
operational stages of the project, in consultation with
national and State medical societies.
(2) Peer review and rural pilot projects.--Of the pilot
projects conducted under this subsection--
(A) at least one shall focus on a peer review
method by physicians which evaluates medical record
information for statistical outlier services relative
to definitions and guidelines published in the CPT
book, instead of an approach using the review of
randomly selected medical records using non-clinical
personnel; and
(B) at least one shall be conducted for services
furnished in a rural area.
(3) Study of impact.--Each pilot project shall examine the
effect of the E&M guidelines on--
(A) different types of physician practices, such as
large and small groups; and
(B) the costs of compliance, and patient and
physician satisfaction.
(4) Report on how met objectives.--HCFA shall submit a
report to the Committees on Commerce and Ways and Means of the
House of Representatives, the Committee on Finance of the
Senate, and the Practicing Physicians Advisory Council, six
months after the conclusion of the pilot projects. Such report
shall include the extent to which the pilot projects met the
objectives specified in subsection (c).
(c) Objectives for E&M Guidelines.--The objectives for E&M
guidelines specified in this subsection are as follows (relative to the
E&M guidelines and review policies in effect as of the date of the
enactment of this Act):
(1) Enhancing clinically relevant documentation needed to
accurately code and assess coding levels accurately.
(2) Reducing administrative burdens.
(3) Decreasing the level of non-clinically pertinent and
burdensome documentation time and content in the record.
(4) Increased accuracy by carrier reviewers.
(5) Education of both physicians and reviewers.
(6) Appropriate use of E&M codes by physicians and their
staffs.
(7) The extent to which the tested E&M documentation
guidelines substantially adhere to the CPT coding rules.
(d) Definitions.--For purposes of this section and sections 5 and
6:
(1) Physician.--The term ``physician'' has the meaning
given such term in section 1861(r) of the Social Security Act
(42 U.S.C. 1395x(r)).
(2) Carrier.--The term ``carrier'' means a carrier (as
defined in section 1842(f) of the Social Security Act (42
U.S.C. 1395u(f))) with a contract under title XVIII of such Act
to administer benefits under part B of such title.
(3) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of Health and Human Services.
(4) HCFA.--The term ``HCFA'' means the Health Care
Financing Administration.
(5) Medicare program.--The term ``medicare program'' means
the program under title XVIII of the Social Security Act.
SEC. 5. OVERPAYMENTS UNDER THE MEDICARE PROGRAM.
(a) Individualized Notice.--If a carrier proceeds with a post-
payment audit of a physician under the medicare program, the carrier
shall provide the physician with an individualized notice of billing
problems, such as a personal visit or carrier-to-physician telephone
conversation during normal working hours, within 3 months of initiating
such audit. The notice should include suggestions to the physician on
how the billing problem may be remedied.
(b) Repayment of Overpayments Without Penalty.--The Secretary shall
permit physicians to repay medicare overpayments within 3 months
without penalty or interest and without threat of denial of other
claims based upon extrapolation. If a physician should discover an
overpayment before a carrier notifies the physician of the error, the
physician may reimburse the medicare program without penalty and the
Secretary may not audit or target the physician on the basis of such
repayment, unless other evidence of fraudulent billing exists.
(c) Treatment of First-Time Billing Errors.--If a physician's
medicare billing error was a first-time error and the physician has not
previously been the subject of a post-payment audit, the carrier may
not assess a fine through extrapolation of such an error to other
claims, unless the physician has submitted a fraudulent claim.
(d) Timely Notice of Problem Claims Before Using Extrapolation.--A
carrier may seek reimbursement or penalties against a physician based
on extrapolation of a medicare claim only if the carrier has
informed the physician of potential problems with the claim within one
year after the date the claim was submitted for reimbursement.
(e) Submission of Additional Information.--A physician may submit
additional information and documentation to dispute a carrier's charges
of overpayment without waiving the physician's right to a hearing by an
administrative law judge.
(f) Limitation on Delay in Payment.--Following a post-payment
audit, a carrier that is conducting a pre-payment screen on a physician
service under the medicare program may not delay reimbursements for
more than one month and as soon as the physician submits a corrected
claim, the carrier shall eliminate application of such a pre-payment
screen.
SEC. 6. ENFORCEMENT PROVISIONS UNDER THE MEDICARE PROGRAM.
If a physician is suspected of fraud or wrongdoing in the medicare
program, inspectors associated with the Office of Inspector General of
the Department of Health and Human Services--
(1) may not enter the physician's private office with a gun
or deadly weapon to make an arrest; and
(2) may not make such an arrest without a valid warrant of
arrest, unless the physician is fleeing or deemed dangerous. | Health Care Paperwork Reduction and Fraud Prevention Act of 2001 - Establishes the Commission on Billing Codes and Forms Simplification which shall make recommendations regarding: (1) standardized forms; and (2) reduction in billing codes; and (3) regulatory and appeals process reform.Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a process under which a physician may request, in writing from a carrier, assistance in addressing questionable codes and procedures under the medicare program.Sets forth provisions concerning: (1) policy development regarding evaluation and management guidelines under Medicare; and (2) Medicare overpayments. | To reduce the amount of paperwork and improve payment policies for health care services, to prevent fraud and abuse through health care provider education, and for other purposes. |
534 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Product Safety Notification and
Recall Effectiveness Act of 2002''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSES.
(a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
(1) The Consumer Product Safety Commission conducts
approximately 300 recalls of hazardous, dangerous, and
defective consumer products each year.
(2) In developing comprehensive corrective action plans
with recalling companies, the Consumer Product Safety
Commission staff greatly relies upon the media and retailers to
alert consumers to the dangers of unsafe consumer products,
because the manufacturers do not generally possess contact
information regarding the purchasing consumers. Based upon
information received from companies maintaining customer
registration lists, such contact information is known for
generally less than 7 percent of the total consumer products
produced and distributed.
(3) The Consumer Product Safety Commission staff has found
that most consumers do not return purchaser identification
cards because of requests for marketing and personal
information on the cards, and the likelihood of receiving
unsolicited marketing materials.
(4) The Consumer Product Safety Commission staff has
conducted research demonstrating that direct consumer contact
is one of the most effective ways of motivating consumer
response to a consumer product recall.
(5) Companies that maintain consumer product purchase data,
such as product registration cards, warranty cards, and rebate
cards, are able to effectively notify consumers of a consumer
product recall.
(6) The Consumer Product Safety Commission staff has found
that a consumer product safety owner card, without marketing
questions or requests for personal information, that
accompanied products such as small household appliances and
juvenile products would increase consumer participation and
information necessary for direct notification in consumer
product recalls.
(7) The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has,
since March 1993, required similar simplified, marketing-free
product registration cards on child safety seats used in motor
vehicles.
(b) Purpose.--The purpose of this Act is to reduce the number of
deaths and injuries from defective and hazardous consumer products
through improved recall effectiveness, by--
(1) requiring the Consumer Product Safety Commission to
promulgate a rule to require manufacturers of juvenile
products, small household appliances, and certain other
consumer products, to include a simplified product safety owner
card with those consumer products at the time of original
purchase by consumers, or develop effective electronic
registration of the first purchasers of such products, to
develop a customer database for the purpose of notifying
consumers about recalls of those products; and
(2) encouraging manufacturers, private labelers, retailers,
and others to use creativity and innovation to create and
maintain effective methods of notifying consumers in the event
of a consumer product recall.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
For purposes of this Act:
(1) Terms defined in consumer product safety act.--The
definitions set forth in section 3 of the Consumer Product
Safety Act (15 U.S.C. 2052) shall apply to this Act.
(2) Covered consumer product.--The term ``covered consumer
product'' means--
(A) a juvenile product;
(B) a small household appliance; and
(C) such other consumer product as the Commission
considers appropriate for achieving the purpose of this
Act.
(3) Juvenile product.--The term ``juvenile product''--
(A) means a consumer product intended for use, or
that may be reasonably expected to be used, by children
under the age of 5 years; and
(B) includes--
(i) full-size cribs and nonfull-size cribs;
(ii) toddler beds;
(iii) high chairs, booster chairs, and
hook-on chairs;
(iv) bath seats;
(v) gates and other enclosures for
confining a child;
(vi) playpens;
(vii) stationary activity centers;
(viii) strollers;
(ix) walkers;
(x) swings;
(xi) child carriers; and
(xii) bassinets and cradles.
(4) Product safety owner card.--The term ``product safety
owner card'' means a standardized product identification card
supplied with a consumer product by the manufacturer of the
product, at the time of original purchase by the first
purchaser of such product for purposes other than resale, that
only requests that the consumer of such product provide to the
manufacturer a minimal level of personal information needed to
enable the manufacturer to contact the consumer in the event of
a recall of the product.
(5) Small household appliance.--The term ``small household
appliance'' means a consumer product that is a toaster, toaster
oven, blender, food processor, coffee maker, or other similar
small appliance as provided for in the rule promulgated by the
Consumer Product Safety Commission.
SEC. 4. RULE REQUIRING SYSTEM TO PROVIDE NOTICE OF RECALLS OF CERTAIN
CONSUMER PRODUCTS.
(a) In General.--The Commission shall promulgate a rule under
section 16(b) of the Consumer Product Safety Act (15 U.S.C. 2065(b))
that requires that the manufacturer of a covered consumer product shall
establish and maintain a system for providing notification of recalls
of such product to consumers of such product.
(b) Requirement To Create Database.--
(1) In general.--The rule shall require that the system
include use of product safety owner cards, Internet
registration, or an alternative method, to create a database of
information regarding consumers of covered consumer products,
for the sole purpose of notifying such consumers of recalls of
such products.
(2) Use of technology.--Alternative methods specified in
the rule may include use of on-line product registration and
consumer notification, consumer information data bases,
electronic tagging and bar codes, embedded computer chips in
consumer products, or other electronic and design strategies to
notify consumers about product recalls, that the Commission
determines will increase the effectiveness of recalls of
covered consumer products.
(c) Use of Commission Staff Proposal.--In promulgating the rule,
the Commission shall consider the staff draft for an Advanced Notice of
Proposed Rulemaking entitled ``Purchaser Owner Card Program'', dated
June 19, 2001.
(d) Exclusion of Low-Price Items.--The Commission shall have the
authority to exclude certain low-cost items from the rule for good
cause.
(e) Deadlines.--
(1) In general.--The Commission--
(A) shall issue a proposed rule under this section
by not later than 90 days after the date of enactment
of this Act; and
(B) shall promulgate a final rule under this
section by not later than 270 days after the date of
enactment of this Act.
(2) Extension.--The Commission may extend the deadline
described in paragraph (1) if the Commission provides timely
notice to the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and
Transportation of the Senate. | Product Safety Notification and Recall Effectiveness Act of 2002 - Directs the Consumer Product Safety Commission to promulgate a rule requiring the manufacturer of specified juvenile products and small household appliances to establish and maintain a product recall notification system for consumers.Requires such system to create a database for the sole purpose of notifying such consumers of product recalls through the use of product safety owner cards (or an alternative method). | A bill to direct the Consumer Product Safety Commission to promulgate a rule that requires manufacturers of certain consumer products to establish and maintain a system for providing notification of recalls of such products to consumers who first purchase such a product. |
535 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Home Buyer Tax Credit Act of 2009''.
SEC. 2. CREDIT FOR CERTAIN HOME PURCHASES.
(a) Allowance of Credit.--Subpart A of part IV of subchapter A of
chapter 1 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by inserting
after section 25D the following new section:
``SEC. 25E. CREDIT FOR CERTAIN HOME PURCHASES.
``(a) Allowance of Credit.--
``(1) In general.--In the case of an individual who is a
purchaser of a principal residence during the taxable year,
there shall be allowed as a credit against the tax imposed by
this chapter an amount equal to 10 percent of the purchase
price of the residence.
``(2) Dollar limitation.--The amount of the credit allowed
under paragraph (1) shall not exceed $15,000.
``(3) Allocation of credit amount.--At the election of the
taxpayer, the amount of the credit allowed under paragraph (1)
(after application of paragraph (2)) may be equally divided
among the 2 taxable years beginning with the taxable year in
which the purchase of the principal residence is made.
``(b) Limitations.--
``(1) Date of purchase.--The credit allowed under
subsection (a) shall be allowed only with respect to purchases
made--
``(A) after the date of the enactment of the Home
Buyer Tax Credit Act of 2009, and
``(B) on or before the date that is 1 year after
such date of enactment.
``(2) Limitation based on amount of tax.--In the case of a
taxable year to which section 26(a)(2) does not apply, 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
subpart (other than this section) for the taxable year.
``(3) One-time only.--
``(A) In general.--If a credit is allowed under
this section in the case of any individual (and such
individual's spouse, if married) with respect to the
purchase of any principal residence, no credit shall be
allowed under this section in any taxable year with
respect to the purchase of any other principal
residence by such individual or a spouse of such
individual.
``(B) Joint purchase.--In the case of a purchase of
a principal residence by 2 or more unmarried
individuals or by 2 married individuals filing
separately, no credit shall be allowed under this
section if a credit under this section has been allowed
to any of such individuals in any taxable year with
respect to the purchase of any other principal
residence.
``(c) Principal Residence.--For purposes of this section, the term
`principal residence' has the same meaning as when used in section 121.
``(d) Denial of Double Benefit.--No credit shall be allowed under
this section for any purchase for which a credit is allowed under
section 36 or section 1400C.
``(e) Special Rules.--
``(1) Joint purchase.--
``(A) Married individuals filing separately.--In
the case of 2 married individuals filing separately,
subsection (a) shall be applied to each such individual
by substituting `$7,500' for `$15,000' in subsection
(a)(1).
``(B) Unmarried individuals.--If 2 or more
individuals who are not married purchase a principal
residence, the amount of the credit allowed under
subsection (a) shall be allocated among such
individuals in such manner as the Secretary may
prescribe, except that the total amount of the credits
allowed to all such individuals shall not exceed
$15,000.
``(2) Purchase.--In defining the purchase of a principal
residence, rules similar to the rules of paragraphs (2) and (3)
of section 1400C(e) (as in effect on the date of the enactment
of this section) shall apply.
``(3) Reporting requirement.--Rules similar to the rules of
section 1400C(f) (as so in effect) shall apply.
``(f) Recapture of Credit in the Case of Certain Dispositions.--
``(1) In general.--In the event that a taxpayer--
``(A) disposes of the principal residence with
respect to which a credit was allowed under subsection
(a), or
``(B) fails to occupy such residence as the
taxpayer's principal residence,
at any time within 24 months after the date on which the
taxpayer purchased such residence, then the tax imposed by this
chapter for the taxable year during which such disposition
occurred or in which the taxpayer failed to occupy the
residence as a principal residence shall be increased by the
amount of such credit.
``(2) Exceptions.--
``(A) Death of taxpayer.--Paragraph (1) shall not
apply to any taxable year ending after the date of the
taxpayer's death.
``(B) Involuntary conversion.--Paragraph (1) shall
not apply in the case of a residence which is
compulsorily or involuntarily converted (within the
meaning of section 1033(a)) if the taxpayer acquires a
new principal residence within the 2-year period
beginning on the date of the disposition or cessation
referred to in such paragraph. Paragraph (1) shall
apply to such new principal residence during the
remainder of the 24-month period described in such
paragraph as if such new principal residence were the
converted residence.
``(C) Transfers between spouses or incident to
divorce.--In the case of a transfer of a residence to
which section 1041(a) applies--
``(i) paragraph (1) shall not apply to such
transfer, and
``(ii) in the case of taxable years ending
after such transfer, paragraph (1) shall apply
to the transferee in the same manner as if such
transferee were the transferor (and shall not
apply to the transferor).
``(D) Relocation of members of the armed forces.--
Paragraph (1) shall not apply in the case of a member
of the Armed Forces of the United States on active duty
who moves pursuant to a military order and incident to
a permanent change of station.
``(3) Joint returns.--In the case of a credit allowed under
subsection (a) with respect to a joint return, half of such
credit shall be treated as having been allowed to each
individual filing such return for purposes of this subsection.
``(4) Return requirement.--If the tax imposed by this
chapter for the taxable year is increased under this
subsection, the taxpayer shall, notwithstanding section 6012,
be required to file a return with respect to the taxes imposed
under this subtitle.
``(g) Basis Adjustment.--For purposes of this subtitle, if a credit
is allowed under this section with respect to the purchase of any
residence, the basis of such residence shall be reduced by the amount
of the credit so allowed.
``(h) Election To Treat Purchase in Prior Year.--In the case of a
purchase of a principal residence after December 31, 2009, and on or
before the date described in subsection (b)(1)(B), a taxpayer may elect
to treat such purchase as made on December 31, 2009, for purposes of
this section.''.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Section 24(b)(3)(B) of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986 is amended by striking ``and 25B'' and inserting ``, 25B,
and 25E''.
(2) Section 25(e)(1)(C)(ii) of such Code is amended by
inserting ``25E,'' after ``25D,''.
(3) Section 25B(g)(2) of such Code is amended by striking
``section 23'' and inserting ``sections 23 and 25E''.
(4) Section 904(i) of such Code is amended by striking
``and 25B'' and inserting ``25B, and 25E''.
(5) Section 1016(a) of such Code is amended by striking
``and'' at the end of paragraph (36), by striking the period at
the end of paragraph (37) and inserting ``, and'', and by
adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(38) to the extent provided in section 25E(g).''.
(c) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for subpart A of
part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1 of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986 is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 25D the
following new item:
``Sec. 25E. Credit for certain home purchases.''.
(d) Sunset of Current First-Time Homebuyer Credit.--
(1) In general.--Subsection (h) of section 36 of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by striking ``before
December 1, 2009'' and inserting ``on or before the date of the
enactment of the Home Buyer Tax Credit Act of 2009''.
(2) Election to treat purchase in prior year.--Subsection
(g) of section 36 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is
amended by striking ``before December 1, 2009'' and inserting
``on or before the date of the enactment of the Home Buyer Tax
Credit Act of 2009''.
(e) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to purchases after the date of the enactment of this Act.
SEC. 3. RESCISSION OF ARRA APPROPRIATIONS.
(a) In General.--Effective on the date of the enactment of this
Act, of the discretionary appropriations made available by division A
of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Public Law 111-
5), the applicable percentage of unobligated balances are rescinded.
(b) Applicable Percentage.--For purposes of this section, the term
``applicable percentage'' means the percentage that the Secretary of
the Treasury estimates will result in an increase in revenue to the
Treasury equal to the decrease in revenue by reason of the amendments
made by section 2 of this Act. | Home Buyer Tax Credit Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to replace the current tax credit for first-time homebuyers with a one-time credit for 10% of the purchase price of a principal residence, up to $15,000. Requires the repayment of such credit if the taxpayer sells or fails to occupy the residence within 24 months after the date of purchase.
Rescinds certain discretionary appropriations made available by division A of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 to cover the cost of this Act. | To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide a Federal income tax credit for certain home purchases. |
536 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``John R. Justice Prosecutors and
Defenders Incentive Act of 2007''.
SEC. 2. LOAN REPAYMENT FOR PROSECUTORS AND DEFENDERS.
Title I of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968
(42 U.S.C. 3711 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``PART JJ--LOAN REPAYMENT FOR PROSECUTORS AND PUBLIC DEFENDERS
``SEC. 3111. GRANT AUTHORIZATION.
``(a) Purpose.--The purpose of this section is to encourage
qualified individuals to enter and continue employment as prosecutors
and public defenders.
``(b) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) Prosecutor.--The term `prosecutor' means a full-time
employee of a State or local agency who--
``(A) is continually licensed to practice law; and
``(B) prosecutes criminal cases at the State or
local level.
``(2) Public defender.--The term `public defender' means an
attorney who--
``(A) is continually licensed to practice law; and
``(B) is--
``(i) a full-time employee of a State or
local agency or a nonprofit organization
operating under a contract with a State or unit
of local government, that provides legal
representation to indigent persons in criminal
cases; or
``(ii) employed as a full-time Federal
defender attorney in a defender organization
established pursuant to subsection (g) of
section 3006A of title 18, United States Code,
that provides legal representation to indigent
persons in criminal cases.
``(3) Student loan.--The term `student loan' means--
``(A) a loan made, insured, or guaranteed under
part B of title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965
(20 U.S.C. 1071 et seq.), excluding a loan under
section 428C of such Act, except as provided under
subparagraph (C);
``(B) a loan made under part D or E of title IV of
the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1087a et
seq. and 1087aa et seq.), excluding a loan under
section 455(g) of such Act, except as provided under
subparagraph (C); and
``(C) a loan made under section 428C or 455(g) of
the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1078-3 and
1087e(g)) to the extent that such loan was used to
repay a Federal Direct Stafford Loan, a Federal Direct
Unsubsidized Stafford Loan, or a loan made under
section 428 or 428H of such Act.
``(c) Program Authorized.--The Attorney General shall establish a
program by which the Department of Justice shall assume the obligation
to repay a student loan, by direct payments on behalf of a borrower to
the holder of such loan, in accordance with subsection (d), for any
borrower who--
``(1) is employed as a prosecutor or public defender; and
``(2) is not in default on a loan for which the borrower
seeks forgiveness.
``(d) Terms of Agreement.--
``(1) In general.--To be eligible to receive repayment
benefits under subsection (c), a borrower shall enter into a
written agreement that specifies that--
``(A) the borrower will remain employed as a
prosecutor or public defender for a required period of
service of not less than 3 years, unless involuntarily
separated from that employment;
``(B) if the borrower is involuntarily separated
from employment on account of misconduct, or
voluntarily separates from employment, before the end
of the period specified in the agreement, the borrower
will repay the Attorney General the amount of any
benefits received by such employee under this section;
``(C) if the borrower is required to repay an
amount to the Attorney General under subparagraph (B)
and fails to repay such amount, a sum equal to that
amount shall be recoverable by the Federal Government
from the borrower (or such borrower's estate, if
applicable) by such methods as are provided by law for
the recovery of amounts owed to the Federal Government;
``(D) the Attorney General may waive, in whole or
in part, a right of recovery under this subsection if
it is shown that recovery would be against equity and
good conscience or against the public interest; and
``(E) the Attorney General shall make student loan
payments under this section for the period of the
agreement, subject to the availability of
appropriations.
``(2) Repayments.--
``(A) In general.--Any amount repaid by, or
recovered from, a borrower or the estate of a borrower
under this subsection shall be credited to the
appropriation account from which the amount involved
was originally paid.
``(B) Merger.--Any amount credited under
subparagraph (A) shall be merged with other sums in
such account and shall be available for the same
purposes and period, and subject to the same
limitations, if any, as the sums with which the amount
was merged.
``(3) Limitations.--
``(A) Student loan payment amount.--Student loan
repayments made by the Attorney General under this
section shall be made subject to such terms,
limitations, or conditions as may be mutually agreed
upon by the borrower and the Attorney General in an
agreement under paragraph (1), except that the amount
paid by the Attorney General under this section shall
not exceed--
``(i) $10,000 for any borrower in any
calendar year; or
``(ii) an aggregate total of $60,000 in the
case of any borrower.
``(B) Beginning of payments.--Nothing in this
section shall authorize the Attorney General to pay any
amount to reimburse a borrower for any repayments made
by such borrower prior to the date on which the
Attorney General entered into an agreement with the
borrower under this subsection.
``(e) Additional Agreements.--
``(1) In general.--On completion of the required period of
service under an agreement under subsection (d), the borrower
and the Attorney General may, subject to paragraph (2), enter
into an additional agreement in accordance with subsection (d).
``(2) Term.--An agreement entered into under paragraph (1)
may require the borrower to remain employed as a prosecutor or
public defender for less than 3 years.
``(f) Award Basis; Priority.--
``(1) Award basis.--Subject to paragraph (2), the Attorney
General shall provide repayment benefits under this section on
a first-come, first-served basis, and subject to the
availability of appropriations.
``(2) Priority.--The Attorney General shall give priority
in providing repayment benefits under this section in any
fiscal year to a borrower who--
``(A) received repayment benefits under this
section during the preceding fiscal year; and
``(B) has completed less than 3 years of the first
required period of service specified for the borrower
in an agreement entered into under subsection (d).
``(g) Regulations.--The Attorney General is authorized to issue
such regulations as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of
this section.
``(h) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section $25,000,000 for fiscal year 2008
and such sums as may be necessary for each succeeding fiscal year.''. | John R. Justice Prosecutors and Defenders Incentive Act of 2007- Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to direct the Attorney General to assume the obligation to repay student loans for borrowers who agree to remain employed, for at least three years, as: (1) state or local criminal prosecutors; or (2) state, local, or federal public defenders in criminal cases. Allows a borrower and the Attorney General to enter into an additional loan repayment agreement, after the required three-year period, for a successive period of service which may be less than three years. Limits the amount paid under such program on behalf of any borrower to $10,000 per calendar year and $60,000 total. | To provide for loan repayment for prosecutors and public defenders. |
537 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Beaches Environmental Assessment,
Closure, and Health Act of 1993''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSES.
(a) Findings.--The Congress finds that--
(1) the Nation's beaches are a valuable public resource
used for recreation by millions of people annually;
(2) the beaches of coastal States are hosts to many out-of-
State and international visitors;
(3) tourism in the coastal zone generates billions of
dollars annually;
(4) increased population has contributed to the decline in
the environmental quality of coastal waters;
(5) pollution in coastal waters is not restricted by State
and other political boundaries;
(6) each coastal State has its own method of testing the
quality of its coastal recreation waters, providing varying
degrees of protection to the public; and
(7) the adoption of standards by coastal States for
monitoring the quality of coastal recreation waters, and the
posting of signs at beaches notifying the public during periods
when the standards are exceeded, would enhance public health
and safety.
(b) Purpose.--The purpose of this Act is to require uniform
procedures for beach testing and monitoring to protect public safety
and improve the environmental quality of coastal recreation waters.
SEC. 3. WATER QUALITY CRITERIA AND STANDARDS.
(a) Issuance of Criteria.--Section 304(a) of the Federal Water
Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1314(a)) is amended by adding at the
end the following:
``(9) Coastal recreation waters.--(A) The Administrator,
after consultation with appropriate Federal and State agencies
and other interested persons, shall issue within 18 months
after the effective date of this paragraph (and review and
revise from time to time thereafter) water quality criteria for
pathogens in coastal recreation waters. Such criteria shall--
``(i) be based on the best available scientific
information;
``(ii) be sufficient to protect public health and
safety in case of any reasonably anticipated exposure
to pollutants as a result of swimming, bathing, or
other body contact activities; and
``(iii) include specific numeric criteria
calculated to reflect public health risks from short-
term increases in pathogens in coastal recreation
waters resulting from rainfall, malfunctions of
wastewater treatment works, and other causes.
``(B) For purposes of this paragraph, the term `coastal
recreation waters' means Great Lakes and marine coastal waters
commonly used by the public for swimming, bathing, or other
similar primary contact purposes.''.
(b) Standards.--
(1) Adoption by states.--A State shall adopt water quality
standards for coastal recreation waters which, at a minimum,
are consistent with the criteria published by the Administrator
under section 304(a)(9) of the Federal Water Pollution Control
Act (33 U.S.C. 1314(a)(9)), as amended by this Act, not later
than 3 years following the date of such publication. Such water
quality standards shall be developed in accordance with the
requirements of section 303(c) of the Federal Water Pollution
Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1313(c)). A State shall incorporate such
standards into all appropriate programs into which such State
would incorporate water quality standards adopted under section
303(c) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C.
1313(c)).
(2) Failure of states to adopt.--If a State has not
complied with paragraph (1) by the last day of the 3-year
period beginning on the date of publication of criteria under
section 304(a)(9) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act
(33 U.S.C. 1314(a)(9)), as amended by this Act, the
Administrator shall promulgate water quality standards for
coastal recreation waters for the State under applicable
provisions of section 303 of the Federal Water Pollution
Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1313). The water quality standards for
coastal recreation waters shall be consistent with the criteria
published by the Administrator under section 304(a)(9) of the
Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1314(a)(9)), as
amended by this Act. The State shall use the standards issued
by the Administrator in implementing all programs for which
water quality standards for coastal recreation waters are used.
SEC. 4. COASTAL BEACH WATER QUALITY MONITORING.
Title IV of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C.
1341-1345) is amended by adding at the end thereof the following new
section:
``SEC. 406. COASTAL BEACH WATER QUALITY MONITORING.
``(a) Monitoring.--Not later than 9 months after the date on which
the Administrator publishes revised water quality criteria for coastal
recreation waters under section 304(a)(9), the Administrator shall
publish regulations specifying methods to be used by States to monitor
coastal recreation waters, during periods of use by the public, for
compliance with applicable water quality standards for those waters and
protection of the public safety. Monitoring requirements established
pursuant to this subsection shall, at a minimum--
``(1) specify the frequency of monitoring based on the
periods of recreational use of such waters;
``(2) specify the frequency of monitoring based on the
extent and degree of use during such periods;
``(3) specify the frequency of monitoring based on the
proximity of coastal recreation waters to pollution sources;
``(4) specify methods for detecting short-term increases in
pathogens in coastal recreation waters; and
``(5) specify the conditions and procedures under which
discrete areas of coastal recreation waters may be exempted by
the Administrator from the monitoring requirements of this
subsection, if the Administrator determines that an exemption
will not impair--
``(A) compliance with the applicable water quality
standards for those waters; and
``(B) protection of the public safety.
``(b) Notification Requirements.--Regulations published pursuant to
subsection (a) shall require States to notify local governments and the
public of violations of applicable water quality standards for State
coastal recreation waters. Notification pursuant to this subsection
shall include, at a minimum--
``(1) prompt communication of the occurrence, nature, and
extent of such a violation, to a designated official of a local
government having jurisdiction over land adjoining the coastal
recreation waters for which a violation is identified; and
``(2) posting of signs, for the period during which the
violation continues, sufficient to give notice to the public of
a violation of an applicable water quality standard for such
waters and the potential risks associated with body contact
recreation in such waters.
``(c) Floatable Materials Monitoring Procedures.--The Administrator
shall--
``(1) issue guidance on uniform assessment and monitoring
procedures for floatable materials in coastal recreation
waters; and
``(2) specify the conditions under which the presence of
floatable material shall constitute a threat to public health
and safety.
``(d) Delegation of Responsibility.--A State may delegate
responsibility for monitoring and posting of coastal recreation waters
pursuant to this section to local government authorities.
``(e) Review and Revision of Regulations.--The Administrator shall
review and revise regulations published pursuant to this section
periodically.
``(f) Definitions.--For the purposes of this section--
``(1) the term `coastal recreation waters' means Great
Lakes and marine coastal waters commonly used by the public for
swimming, bathing, or other similar body contact purposes; and
``(2) the term `floatable materials' means any matter that
may float or remain suspended in the water column and includes
plastic, aluminum cans, wood, bottles, and paper products.''.
SEC. 5. STUDY TO IDENTIFY INDICATORS OF HUMAN-SPECIFIC PATHOGENS IN
COASTAL RECREATION WATERS.
(a) Study.--The Administrator, in cooperation with the Under
Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere, shall conduct an
ongoing study to provide additional information to the current base of
knowledge for use for developing better indicators for directly
detecting in coastal recreation waters the presence of bacteria and
viruses which are harmful to human health.
(b) Report.--Not later than 4 years after the date of the enactment
of this Act, and periodically thereafter, the Administrator shall
submit to the Congress a report describing the findings of the study
under this section, including--
(1) recommendations concerning the need for additional
numerical limits or conditions and other actions needed to
improve the quality of coastal recreation waters;
(2) a description of the amounts and types of floatable
materials in coastal waters and on coastal beaches and of
recent trends in the amounts and types of such floatable
materials; and
(3) an evaluation of State efforts to implement this Act,
including the amendments made by this Act.
SEC. 6. PARTICIPATION OF STATE COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS.
(a) Technical Assistance.--Each coastal zone management agency of a
State with an approved coastal zone management program under section
306 of the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 (16 U.S.C. 1455) shall
provide technical assistance to local governments within the State for
ensuring that coastal recreation waters and beaches are as free as
possible from floatable materials.
(b) Clean-up of Coastal Recreation Waters and Beaches.--Section
306A of the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 (16 U.S.C. 1455a) is
amended--
(1) by adding at the end of subsection (b) the following:
``(4) Reduction of floatable materials in the State's
coastal recreation waters by--
``(A) managing adjacent land uses so that floatable
materials are not introduced into those waters;
``(B) encouraging public participation in reducing
the amount of floatable materials that enter coastal
recreation waters; and
``(C) sponsoring clean-up events at public
beaches.'';
(2) in subsection (c)(2)--
(A) by striking ``and'' at the end of subparagraph
(D);
(B) by striking the period at the end of
subparagraph (E) and inserting ``; and''; and
(C) by inserting after subparagraph (E) the
following:
``(F) the acquisition of beach and coastal
recreation water clean-up equipment.''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(g) Definitions.--For the purposes of this section--
``(1) the term `coastal recreation waters' means Great
Lakes and marine coastal waters commonly used by the public for
swimming, bathing, or other similar body contact purposes; and
``(2) the term `floatable materials' means any matter that
may float or remain suspended in the water column and includes
plastic, aluminum cans, wood, bottles, and paper products.''.
SEC. 7. GRANTS TO STATES.
(a) Grants.--The Administrator may make grants to States for use in
fulfilling requirements established pursuant to section 3 and 4.
(b) Cost Sharing.--The total amount of grants to a State under this
section for a fiscal year shall not exceed 50 percent of the cost to
the State of implementing requirements established pursuant to section
3 and 4.
SEC. 8. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act--
(1) the term ``Administrator'' means the Administrator of
the Environmental Protection Agency;
(2) the term ``coastal recreation waters'' means Great
Lakes and marine coastal waters commonly used by the public for
swimming, bathing, or other similar body contact purposes; and
(3) the term ``floatable materials'' means any matter that
may float or remain suspended in the water column and includes
plastic, aluminum cans, wood, bottles, and paper products.
SEC. 9. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There is authorized to be appropriated to the Administrator--
(1) for use in making grants to States under section 7 not
more than $3,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 1994 and
1995; and
(2) for carrying out the other provisions of this Act not
more than $1,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 1994 and
1995. | Beaches Environmental Assessment, Closure, and Health Act of 1993 - Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to issue water quality criteria for pathogens in coastal recreation waters. Requires States to adopt consistent water quality standards.
Requires the Administrator to publish regulations specifying methods to be used by States to monitor coastal recreation waters, during periods of use by the public, for compliance with standards. Requires notification of local governments and the public of water quality standards violations.
Requires the Administrator to: (1) issue guidance on uniform assessment and monitoring procedures for floatable materials in coastal recreation waters; and (2) specify the conditions under which the presence of floatable material constitutes a threat to public health and safety.
Requires an ongoing study and report to the Congress on developing better indicators for detecting harmful bacteria and viruses in coastal recreation waters.
Requires State coastal zone management agencies to provide technical assistance to local governments to ensure that coastal recreation waters and beaches are as free as possible from floatable materials.
Amends the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 to authorize grants to eligible coastal States for the reduction of floatable materials in coastal recreation waters.
Authorizes the Administrator to make grants to States to fulfill requirements under this Act.
Authorizes appropriations. | Beaches Environmental Assessment, Closure, and Health Act of 1993 |
538 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; FINDINGS.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Social Security
and Medicare Lock-Box Act''.
(b) Findings Regarding Social Security and Medicare Part A.--The
Congress finds the following:
(1)(A) Long term projections show serious problems facing
the fiscal health of the trust funds associated with Social
Security and Medicare Hospital Insurance.
(B) According to the 2012 Annual Report of the Board of
Trustees of the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance and
Federal Disability Insurance Trust Funds, the assets of the
combined Federal Old Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund and
the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund will be exhausted
by 2033, and the Disability Insurance Trust Fund alone will be
depleted by 2016.
(C) According to the 2012 Annual Report of the Board of
Trustees of the Federal Hospital Insurance and Federal
Supplementary Medical Insurance Trust Funds, the assets of the
Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund will be exhausted by
2024.
(2)(A) The Trustees of these trust funds strongly encourage
action to protect the solvency of the trust funds.
(B) In their message to the public, included in the 2012
Annual Reports, the Social Security and Medicare Boards of
Trustees wrote, ``Lawmakers should not delay addressing the
long-run financial challenges facing Social Security and
Medicare. If they take action sooner rather than later, more
options and more time will be available to phase in changes so
that the public has adequate time to prepare.''.
(3) Social Security and Medicare are meant to provide a
secure and stable base so that older Americans can live in
dignity.
(4) Protecting the future surpluses of these trust funds
can only occur when meaningful reform has been enacted by
Congress. Any path to solvency must include the protection of
future surpluses.
SEC. 2. INTERIM PROTECTIONS FOR SOCIAL SECURITY TRUST FUND SURPLUS.
Section 201(d) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 402(d)) is
amended--
(1) by striking ``It shall be the duty'' and inserting
``(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), it shall be the
duty''; and
(2) by striking ``(1) on original issue at the issue price,
or (2)'' and inserting ``(A) on original issue at the issue
price, or (B)''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(2)(A) There is established in the Federal Old-Age and Survivors
Insurance Trust Fund a Social Security Surplus Protection Account. As
soon as practicable after each fiscal year after fiscal year 2013, the
Managing Trustee shall transfer to the Account, from amounts otherwise
available in the Trust Fund, amounts equivalent to the social security
surplus for such fiscal year. Such amounts shall be transferred from
time to time to the Account, such amounts to be determined on the basis
of estimates by the Managing Trustee, and proper adjustments shall be
made in amounts subsequently transferred to the extent prior estimates
were in excess of or were less than the correct amount.
``(B) For purposes of subparagraph (A), the term `social security
surplus' means, for any fiscal year, the excess, if any, of--
``(i) the sum of--
``(I) the taxes imposed for such fiscal year by
chapter 21 (other than sections 3101(b) and 3111(b)) of
the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 with respect to wages
(as defined in section 3121 of such Code) reported to
the Secretary of the Treasury or his delegates pursuant
to subtitle F of such Code, as determined by the
Secretary of the Treasury by applying the applicable
rates of tax under such chapter 21 (other than sections
3101(b) and 3111(b)) to such wages, less the amounts
specified in clause (1) of subsection (b) of this
section for such fiscal year,
``(II) the taxes imposed by chapter 2 (other than
section 1401(b)) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
with respect to self-employment income (as defined in
section 1402 of such Code) reported to the Secretary of
the Treasury on tax returns under subtitle F of such
Code, as determined by the Secretary of the Treasury by
applying the applicable rate of tax under such chapter
(other than section 1401(b)) to such self-employment
income, less the amounts specified in clause (2) of
subsection (b) of this section for such fiscal year,
and
``(III) the amount equivalent to the aggregate
increase in tax liabilities under chapter 1 of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 which is attributable to
the application of sections 86 and 871(a)(3) of such
Code to payments from the Trust Fund, over
``(ii) the sum of--
``(I) benefits paid from the Trust Fund during the
fiscal year, and
``(II) amounts authorized to be made available from
the Trust Fund under subsection (g) of this section
which are paid from the Trust Fund during such fiscal
year.
``(C) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), the balance in the Account
shall not be available for investment by the Managing Trustee.
``(D)(i) The preceding provisions of this paragraph shall not apply
with respect to fiscal years commencing with or after the first fiscal
year, after fiscal year 2013, for which a provision of Federal law
takes effect and authorizes, for amounts in the Trust Fund, an
investment vehicle other than obligations of the United States
resulting in the transfer of Trust Fund assets to the general fund of
the Treasury.
``(ii) A provision of Federal law shall be deemed to meet the
requirements of clause (i) if such provision includes the following:
`This Act shall be considered to be a provision of Federal law meeting
the requirements of section 201(d)(2)(D)(i) of the Social Security
Act.'.''.
SEC. 3. INTERIM PROTECTIONS FOR MEDICARE PART A TRUST FUND SURPLUS.
(a) In General.--Section 1817(c) of the Social Security Act (42
U.S.C. 1395i(c)) is amended--
(1) by striking ``It shall be the duty'' and inserting
``(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), it shall be the
duty'';
(2) by striking ``(1) on original issue at the issue price,
or (2)'' and inserting ``(A) on original issue at the issue
price, or (B)''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(2)(A) There is established in the Federal Hospital Insurance
Trust Fund a Medicare Surplus Protection Account (in this paragraph
referred to as the `Account'). As soon as practicable after each fiscal
year after fiscal year 2013, the Managing Trustee shall transfer to the
Account, from amounts otherwise available in the Trust Fund, amounts
equivalent to the Medicare part A surplus for such fiscal year. Such
amounts shall be transferred from time to time to the Account, such
amounts to be determined on the basis of estimates by the Managing
Trustee, and proper adjustments shall be made in amounts subsequently
transferred to the extent prior estimates were in excess of or were
less than the correct amount.
``(B) For purposes of subparagraph (A), the term `Medicare part A
surplus' means, for any fiscal year, the excess, if any, of--
``(i) the sum of--
``(I) the taxes imposed for such fiscal year by
sections 3101(b) and 3111(b) of the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986 with respect to wages (as defined in
section 3121 of such Code) reported to the Secretary of
the Treasury or his delegates pursuant to subtitle F of
such Code, as determined by the Secretary of the
Treasury by applying the applicable rates of tax under
such sections to such wages; and
``(II) the taxes imposed by section 1401(b) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 with respect to self-
employment income (as defined in section 1402 of such
Code) reported to the Secretary of the Treasury on tax
returns under subtitle F of such Code, as determined by
the Secretary of the Treasury by applying the
applicable rate of tax under such section 1401(b) to
such self-employment income; over
``(ii) the sum of--
``(I) benefits paid from the Trust Fund during the
fiscal year; and
``(II) amounts authorized to be made available from
the Trust Fund under subsection (f) of this section (or
section 201(g)) which are paid from the Trust Fund
during such fiscal year.
``(C) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), the balance in the Account
shall not be available for investment by the Managing Trustee.
``(D)(i) The preceding provisions of this paragraph shall not apply
with respect to fiscal years commencing with or after the first fiscal
year, after fiscal year 2013, for which a provision of Federal law
takes effect and authorizes, for amounts in the Trust Fund, an
investment vehicle other than obligations of the United States
resulting in the transfer of Trust Fund assets to the general fund of
the Treasury.
``(ii) A provision of Federal law shall be deemed to meet the
requirements of clause (i) if such provision includes the following:
`This Act shall be considered to be a provision of Federal law meeting
the requirements of section 1817(c)(2)(D)(i) of the Social Security
Act.'.''.
SEC. 4. SOCIAL SECURITY AND MEDICARE PART A INVESTMENT COMMISSION.
(a) Establishment.--There is established in the executive branch of
the Government a Social Security and Medicare Part A Investment
Commission (in this section referred to as the ``Commission'').
(b) Study and Report.--As soon as practicable after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Commission shall conduct a study to
ascertain the most effective vehicles for investment of the Federal
Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund and the Federal Hospital
Insurance Trust Fund, other than investment in the form of obligations
of the United States resulting in the transfer of Trust Fund assets to
the general fund of the Treasury. Not later than October 1, 2014, the
Commission shall submit a report to the President and to each House of
the Congress setting forth its recommendations for such vehicles for
investment, together with proposals for such administrative and
legislative changes as the Commission determines necessary to authorize
and implement such recommendations.
(c) Composition.--The Commission shall be composed of--
(1) 3 members appointed by the President, of whom 1 shall
be designated by the President as Chairman;
(2) 2 members appointed by the Speaker of the House of
Representatives;
(3) 1 member appointed by the minority leader of the House
of Representatives;
(4) 2 members appointed by the majority leader of the
Senate; and
(5) 1 member appointed by the minority leader of the
Senate.
(d) Membership Requirements.--Members of the Commission shall have
substantial experience, training, and expertise in the management of
financial investments and pension benefit plans.
(e) Length of Appointments.--Members of the Commission shall serve
for the life of the Commission. A vacancy on the Commission shall be
filled in the manner in which the original appointment was made and
shall be subject to any conditions that applied with respect to the
original appointment.
(f) Administrative Provisions.--
(1) Meetings.--The Commission shall meet--
(A) not less than once during each month; and
(B) at additional times at the call of the
Chairman.
(2) Exercise of powers.--
(A) In general.--The Commission shall perform the
functions and exercise the powers of the Commission on
a majority vote of a quorum of the Commission. Three
members of the Commission shall constitute a quorum for
the transaction of business.
(B) Vacancies.--A vacancy on the Commission shall
not impair the authority of a quorum of the Commission
to perform the functions and exercise the powers of the
Commission.
(g) Compensation.--
(1) In general.--Each member of the Commission who is not
an officer or employee of the Federal Government shall be
compensated at the daily rate of basic pay for level IV of the
Executive Schedule for each day during which such member is
engaged in performing a function of the Commission.
(2) Expenses.--A member of the Commission shall be paid
travel, per diem, and other necessary expenses under subchapter
I of chapter 57 of title 5, United States Code, while traveling
away from such member's home or regular place of business in
the performance of the duties of the Commission.
(h) Termination.--The Commission shall terminate 90 days after the
date of the submission of its report pursuant to subsection (b). | Social Security and Medicare Lock-Box Act - Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) (OASDI) of the Social Security Act to establish in the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund a Social Security Surplus Protection Account to hold the Social Security surplus for the fiscal year of the sum of Social Security taxes collected, as well as the aggregate increase in certain tax liabilities, over the sum of benefits paid. Establishes in the Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund a Medicare Surplus Protection Account to hold amounts equivalent to the Medicare part A surplus for the fiscal year of the sum of hospital insurance taxes collected over the sum of Medicare part A benefits paid. Denies the availability of the balance in either Account for investment by the Managing Trustee. Establishes in the executive branch a Social Security and Medicare Part A Investment Commission to study the most effective vehicles for investment of the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund and the Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund (other than investment in the form of U.S. obligations resulting in the transfer of Trust Fund assets to the general fund of the Treasury). | Social Security and Medicare Lock-Box Act |
539 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Rural Housing Tax Credit Act of
2005''.
SEC. 2. CREDIT FOR PURCHASE OF PRINCIPAL RESIDENCES BY FIRST-TIME RURAL
HOMEBUYERS.
(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 25B the
following:
``SEC. 25C. PURCHASE OF PRINCIPAL RESIDENCES BY FIRST-TIME RURAL
HOMEBUYERS.
``(a) Allowance of Credit.--In the case of an individual who is a
first-time homebuyer of a principal residence in a rural area during
any taxable year, there shall be allowed as a credit against the tax
imposed by this chapter for the taxable year an amount equal to the
lesser of--
``(1) 10 percent of the purchase price of the residence, or
``(2) $5,000.
``(b) Limitations.--
``(1) Limitation based on adjusted gross income.--
``(A) In general.--The amount allowed as a credit
under subsection (a) for any taxable year shall be
reduced (but not below zero) by the amount which bears
the same ratio to such amount as--
``(i) the excess of--
``(I) the taxpayer's modified
adjusted gross income for such taxable
year, over
``(II) $30,000 ($60,000 in the case
of a joint return), bears to
``(ii) $10,000 ($20,000 in the case of a
joint return).
``(B) Modified adjusted gross income.--For purposes
of subparagraph (A), the term `modified adjusted gross
income' means the adjusted gross income of the taxpayer
for the taxable year increased by any amount excluded
from gross income under section 911, 931, or 933.
``(2) Limitation based on amount of tax.--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
subpart (other than this section) and section 27 for
the taxable year.
``(3) Married individuals filing jointly.--In the case of a
husband and wife who file a joint return, the credit under this
section is allowable only if the residence is a qualified
residence with respect to both the husband and wife, and the
amount specified under subsection (a)(2) shall apply to the
joint return.
``(4) Married individuals filing separately.--In the case
of a married individual filing a separate return, subsection
(a)(2) shall be applied by substituting `$2,500' for `$5,000'.
``(5) Other taxpayers.--If 2 or more individuals who are
not married purchase a qualified residence, the amount of the
credit allowed under subsection (a) shall be allocated among
such individuals in such manner as the Secretary may prescribe,
except that the total amount of the credits allowed to all such
individuals shall not exceed $5,000.
``(c) Definitions.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) Rural area.--The term `rural area' has the meaning
given such term by section 520 of the Housing Act of 1949.
``(2) First-time homebuyer.--The term `first-time
homebuyer' has the meaning given such term by section
72(t)(8)(D)(i).
``(3) Principal residence.--The term `principal residence'
has the same meaning as when used in section 121.
``(4) Purchase and purchase price.--The terms `purchase'
and `purchase price' have the meanings provided by section
1400C(e).
``(d) Carryforward of Unused Credit.--If the credit allowable under
subsection (a) for any taxable year exceeds the limitation imposed by
subsection (b)(2) for such taxable year reduced by the sum of the
credits allowable under this subpart (other than this section), such
excess shall be carried to the succeeding taxable year and added to the
credit allowable under subsection (a) for such taxable year.
``(e) Reporting.--If the Secretary requires information reporting
under section 6045 by a person described in subsection (e)(2) thereof
to verify the eligibility of taxpayers for the credit allowable by this
section, the exception provided by section 6045(e)(5) shall not apply.
``(f) Recapture of Credit in Case of Certain Sales.--
``(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (5), if
the taxpayer--
``(A) fails to use a qualified residence as the
principal residence of the taxpayer, or
``(B) disposes of a qualified residence,
with respect to the purchase of which a credit was allowed
under subsection (a) at any time within 5 years after the date
the taxpayer acquired the property, then the tax imposed under
this chapter for the taxable year in which the disposition
occurs is increased by the credit recapture amount.
``(2) Credit recapture amount.--For purposes of paragraph
(1), the credit recapture amount is an amount equal to the sum
of--
``(A) the applicable recapture percentage of the
amount of the credit allowed to the taxpayer under this
section, plus
``(B) interest at the overpayment rate established
under section 6621 on the amount determined under
subparagraph (A) for each prior taxable year for the
period beginning on the due date for filing the return
for the prior taxable year involved.
No deduction shall be allowed under this chapter for interest
described in subparagraph (B).
``(3) Applicable recapture percentage.--
``(A) In general.--For purposes of this subsection,
the applicable recapture percentage shall be determined
from the following table:
The applicable
recapture
``If the sale occurs in:
percentage is:
Year 1............................... 100
Year 2............................... 80
Year 3............................... 60
Year 4............................... 40
Year 5............................... 20
Years 6 and thereafter............... 0.
``(B) Years.--For purposes of subparagraph (A),
year 1 shall begin on the first day of the taxable year
in which the purchase of the qualified residence
described in subsection (a) occurs.
``(4) 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.
``(5) Death of owner; casualty loss; involuntary
conversion; etc.--The provisions of paragraph (1) do not apply
to--
``(A) a disposition of a qualified residence made
on account of the death of any individual having a
legal or equitable interest therein occurring during
the 5-year period to which reference is made under
paragraph (1),
``(B) a disposition of the old qualified residence
if it is substantially or completely destroyed by a
casualty described in section 165(c)(3) or compulsorily
or involuntarily converted (within the meaning of
section 1033(a)), or
``(C) a disposition pursuant to a settlement in a
divorce or legal separation proceeding where the
qualified residence is sold or the other spouse retains
such residence.
``(g) Basis Adjustment.--For purposes of this subtitle, if a credit
is allowed under this section with respect to the purchase of any
residence, the basis of such residence shall be reduced by the amount
of the credit so allowed.''.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Subsection (a) of section 1016 of such Code (relating
to general rule for adjustments to basis) is amended by
striking ``and'' at the end of paragraph (30), by striking the
period at the end of paragraph (31) and inserting ``, and'',
and by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(32) in the case of a residence with respect to which a
credit was allowed under section 25C, to the extent provided in
section 25C(g).''.
(2) Section 23(b)(4)(B) of such Code is amended by
inserting ``and section 25C'' after ``this section''.
(3) Section 24(b)(3)(B) of such Code is amended by striking
``23 and 25B'' and inserting ``23, 25B, and 25C''.
(4) Section 25(e)(1)(C) of such Code is amended by
inserting ``25C'' after ``25B''.
(5) Section 25B of such Code is amended by striking
``section 23'' and inserting ``sections 23 and 25C''.
(6) Section 26(a)(1) of such Code is amended by striking
``and 25B'' and inserting ``25B, and 25C''.
(7) Section 904(i) of such Code is amended by striking
``and 25B'' and inserting ``25B, and 25C''.
(8) Section 1400C(d) of such Code is amended by striking
``and 25B'' and inserting ``25B, and 25C''.
(9) The table of sections for subpart A of part IV of
subchapter A of chapter 1 of such Code is amended by inserting
before the item relating to section 26 the following:
``Sec. 25C. Purchase of principal residences by first-time rural
homebuyers.''.
(c) Effective Dates.--
(1) In general.--The amendments made by subsections (a) and
(b)(9) shall apply to purchases after the date of the enactment
of this Act, in taxable years ending after such date.
(2) Subsection (b).--
(A) The amendments made by subsection (b) (other
than paragraph (9) thereof) shall apply to taxable
years beginning after December 31, 2005.
(B) In the case of taxable years beginning before
January 1, 2006, for purposes of applying the
provisions of subpart A of part IV of subchapter A of
chapter 1 of such Code relating to limitations based on
amount of tax and carryovers of credit and of section
904(i)--
(i) section 25C(b)(2) of such Code, as
added by subsection (a), shall not apply, and
(ii) section 25C of such Code (as so added)
shall be stacked after section 23 of such Code. | Rural Housing Tax Credit Act of 2005 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a nonrefundable tax credit (the lesser of ten percent of the purchase price or $5,000) for the purchase of a principal residence in a rural area by a first-time homebuyer. Limits the amount of such credit based on taxpayer modified adjusted gross income.
Requires the recapture of credit amounts if a taxpayer fails to use a residence for which a tax credit is allowed as a principal residence or sells such residence within five years of purchase. | To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow a first time homebuyer credit for the purchase of principal residences located in rural areas. |
540 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Pulmonary Hypertension Research Act
of 2003''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds as follows:
(1) In order to take full advantage of the tremendous
potential for finding a cure or effective treatment, the
Federal investment in pulmonary hypertension must be expanded,
and coordination among the national research institutes of the
National Institutes of Health must be strengthened.
(2) Primary, or unexplained, pulmonary hypertension
(``PPH'') is a rare lung disorder which occurs for no apparent
reason. It has been historically chronic and incurable with a
poor survival rate.
(3) In the United States it has been estimated that 300 new
cases of PPH are diagnosed each year, or about two persons per
million population per year; the greatest number are reported
in women between the ages of 21 and 40. While at one time the
disease was thought to occur among young women almost
exclusively; we now know, however, that men and women in all
age ranges, from very young children to elderly people, can
develop PPH. It also affects people of all racial and ethnic
origins equally.
(4) The low prevalence of PPH makes learning more about the
disease extremely difficult. Studies of PPH also have been
difficult because a good animal model of the disease has not
been available.
(5) In about 6 to 10 percent of cases, PPH is familial.
(6) In the more advanced stages of PPH, the patient is able
to perform only minimal activity and has symptoms even when
resting. The disease may worsen to the point where the patient
is completely bedridden.
(7) PPH remains a diagnosis of exclusion and is rarely
picked up in a routine medical examination. Even in its later
stages, the signs of the disease can be confused with other
conditions affecting the heart and lungs.
(8) In 1981, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
established the first PPH-patient registry in the world. The
registry followed 194 people with PPH over a period of at least
1 year and, in some cases, for as long as 7.5 years. Much of
what we know about the illness today stems from this study.
(9) Because we still do not understand the cause or have a
cure for PPH, basic research studies are focusing on the
possible involvement of immunologic and genetic factors in the
cause and progression of PPH, looking at agents that cause
narrowing of the pulmonary blood vessels, and identifying
factors that cause growth of smooth muscle and formation of
scar tissue in the vessel walls.
(10) During the period January 1996 through December 1997
almost 6,000,000 Americans took anorexic drugs, which can cause
PPH in some people. Thousands now have PPH and are in terminal
stages or have already succumbed to the disease. It is
anticipated that many more cases of PPH from diet drugs will be
diagnosed within the coming years.
(11) Secondary pulmonary hypertension (``SPH'') means the
cause is known. Common causes of SPH are the breathing
disorders emphysema and bronchitis. Other less frequent causes
are the inflammatory or collagen vascular diseases such as
scleroderma, CREST syndrome or systemic lupus erythematosus
(``SLE''). Other causes include congenital heart diseases that
cause shunting of extra blood through the lungs like
ventricular and atrial septal defects, chronic pulmonary
thromboembolism, HIV infection, liver disease and certain diet
drugs.
SEC. 3. EXPANSION, INTENSIFICATION, AND COORDINATION OF ACTIVITIES OF
NATIONAL HEART, LUNG, AND BLOOD INSTITUTE WITH RESPECT TO
RESEARCH ON PULMONARY HYPERTENSION.
Subpart 2 of part C of title IV of the Public Health Service Act
(42 U.S.C. 285b et seq.) is amended by inserting after section 424B the
following section:
``pulmonary hypertension
``Sec. 424C. (a) In General.--
``(1) Expansion of activities.--The Director of the
Institute shall expand, intensify, and coordinate the
activities of the Institute with respect to research on
pulmonary hypertension.
``(2) Coordination with other institutes.--The Director of
the Institute shall coordinate the activities of the Director
under paragraph (1) with similar activities conducted by other
national research institutes and agencies of the National
Institutes of Health to the extent that such Institutes and
agencies have responsibilities that are related to pulmonary
hypertension.
``(b) Centers of Excellence.--
``(1) In general.--In carrying out subsection (a), the
Director of the Institute shall make grants to, or enter into
contracts with, public or nonprofit private entities for the
development and operation of centers to conduct research on pulmonary
hypertension.
``(2) Research, training, and information and education.--
``(A) In general.--With respect to pulmonary
hypertension, each center assisted under paragraph (1)
shall--
``(i) conduct basic and clinical research
into the cause, diagnosis, early detection,
prevention, control, and treatment of such
disease;
``(ii) conduct training programs for
scientists and health professionals;
``(iii) conduct programs to provide
information and continuing education to health
professionals; and
``(iv) conduct programs for the
dissemination of information to the public.
``(B) Stipends for training of health
professionals.--A center under paragraph (1) may use
funds under such paragraph to provide stipends for
scientists and health professionals enrolled in
programs described in subparagraph (A)(ii).
``(3) Coordination of centers; reports.--The Director
shall, as appropriate, provide for the coordination of
information among centers under paragraph (1) and ensure
regular communication between such centers, and may require the
periodic preparation of reports on the activities of the
centers and the submission of the reports to the Director.
``(4) Organization of centers.--Each center under paragraph
(1) shall use the facilities of a single institution, or be
formed from a consortium of cooperating institutions, meeting
such requirements as may be prescribed by the Director.
``(5) Number of centers; duration of support.--The Director
shall, subject to the extent of amounts made available in
appropriations Acts, provide for the establishment of not less
than three centers under paragraph (1). Support of such a
center may be for a period not exceeding 5 years. Such period
may be extended for one or more additional periods not
exceeding 5 years if the operations of such center have been
reviewed by an appropriate technical and scientific peer review
group established by the Director and if such group has
recommended to the Director that such period should be
extended.
``(c) Data System; Clearinghouse.--
``(1) Data system.--The Director of the Institute shall
establish a data system for the collection, storage, analysis,
retrieval, and dissemination of data derived from patient
populations with pulmonary hypertension, including where
possible, data involving general populations for the purpose of
identifying individuals at risk of developing such condition.
``(2) Clearinghouse.--The Director of the Institute shall
establish an information clearinghouse to facilitate and
enhance, through the effective dissemination of information,
knowledge and understanding of pulmonary hypertension by health
professionals, patients, industry, and the public.
``(d) Public Input.--In carrying out subsection (a), the Director
of the Institute shall provide for means through which the public can
obtain information on the existing and planned programs and activities
of the National Institutes of Health with respect to primary
hypertension and through which the Director can receive comments from
the public regarding such programs and activities.
``(e) Reports.--The Director of the Institute shall prepare
biennial reports on the activities conducted and supported under this
section, and shall include such reports in the biennial reports
prepared by the Director under section 407.
``(f) Authorization of Appropriations.--For the purpose of carrying
out this section, there are authorized to be appropriated such sums as
may be necessary up to $25,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2004
through 2008. Such authorizations of appropriations are in addition to
any other authorization of appropriations that is available for such
purpose.''. | Pulmonary Hypertension Research Act of 2003 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Director of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute to expand, intensify, and coordinate the activities of the Institute with respect to research on pulmonary hypertension and to coordinate the Director's activities with related activities of other national research institutes and National Institutes of Health agencies. Requires the Director to make grants to, or enter into contracts with, public or nonprofit private entities for the development and operation of centers to conduct research and programs on pulmonary hypertension, including: (1) basic and clinical research into the cause, diagnosis, early detection, prevention, control, and treatment of the disease; (2) training programs for scientists and health professionals; (3) programs to provide information and continuing education to health professionals; and (4) programs for the dissemination of information to the public. Requires the Director to establish: (1) a data system for the collection, storage, analysis, retrieval, and dissemination of data derived from patient populations with pulmonary hypertension; and (2) an information clearinghouse to facilitate and enhance knowledge and understanding of pulmonary hypertension by health professionals, patients, industry, and the public. | To amend the Public Health Service Act to provide for the expansion, intensification, and coordination of the activities of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute with respect to research on pulmonary hypertension. |
541 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Next Generation Hispanic-Serving
Institutions Act''.
SEC. 2. POSTBACCALAUREATE OPPORTUNITIES FOR HISPANIC AMERICANS.
(a) Establishment of Program.--Title V of the Higher Education Act
of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1101 et seq.) is amended--
(1) by redesignating part B as part C;
(2) by redesignating sections 511 through 518 as sections
521 through 528, respectively; and
(3) by inserting after section 505 (20 U.S.C. 1101d) the
following new part:
``PART B--PROMOTING POSTBACCALAUREATE OPPORTUNITIES FOR HISPANIC
AMERICANS
``SEC. 511. FINDINGS AND PURPOSES.
``(a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
``(1) According to the United States Census, by the year
2050 one in four Americans will be of Hispanic origin.
``(2) Despite the dramatic increase in the Hispanic
population in the United States, the National Center for
Education Statistics reported that in 1999, Hispanics accounted
for only 4 percent of the master's degrees, 3 percent of the
doctor's degrees, and 5 percent of first-professional degrees
awarded in the United States.
``(3) Although Hispanics constitute 10 percent of the
college enrollment in the United States, they comprise only 3
percent of instructional faculty in colleges and universities.
``(4) The future capacity for research and advanced study
in the United States will require increasing the number of
Hispanics pursuing postbaccalaureate studies.
``(5) Hispanic-serving institutions are leading the Nation
in increasing the number of Hispanics attaining graduate and
professional degrees.
``(6) Among Hispanics who received master's degrees in
1999-2000, 25 percent earned them at Hispanic-serving
institutions.
``(7) Between 1991 and 2000, the number of Hispanic
students earning master's degrees at Hispanic-serving
institutions grew 136 percent, the number receiving doctor's
degrees grew by 85 percent, and the number earning first-
professional degrees grew by 47 percent.
``(8) It is in the national interest to expand the capacity
of Hispanic-serving institutions to offer graduate and
professional degree programs.
``(b) Purposes.--The purposes of this part are--
``(1) to expand postbaccalaureate educational opportunities
for, and improve the academic attainment of, Hispanic students;
and
``(2) to expand and enhance the postbaccalaureate academic
offerings, and program quality, that are educating the majority
of Hispanic college students and helping large numbers of
Hispanic students and other low-income individuals complete
postsecondary degrees.
``SEC. 512. PROGRAM AUTHORITY AND ELIGIBILITY.
``(a) Program Authorized.--Subject to the availability of funds
appropriated to carry out this part, the Secretary shall award
competitive grants to Hispanic-serving institutions that offer
postbaccalaureate certifications or degrees.
``(b) Eligibility.--In this part, an `eligible institution' means
an institution of higher education that--
``(1) is an eligible institution under section 502; and
``(2) offers a postbaccalaureate certificate or degree
granting program.
``SEC. 513. AUTHORIZED ACTIVITIES.
``Grants awarded under this part shall be used for 1 or more of the
following activities:
``(1) Purchase, rental, or lease of scientific or
laboratory equipment for educational purposes, including
instructional and research purposes.
``(2) Construction, maintenance, renovation, and
improvement in classroom, library, laboratory, and other
instructional facilities, including purchase or rental of
telecommunications technology equipment or services.
``(3) Purchase of library books, periodicals, technical and
other scientific journals, microfilm, microfiche, and other
educational materials, including telecommunications program
materials.
``(4) Support for needy postbaccalaureate students
including outreach, academic support services, mentoring,
scholarships, fellowships, and other financial assistance to
permit the enrollment of such students in postbaccalaureate
certificate and degree granting programs.
``(5) Support of faculty exchanges, faculty development,
faculty research, curriculum development, and academic
instruction.
``(6) Creating or improving facilities for Internet or
other distance learning academic instruction capabilities,
including purchase or rental of telecommunications technology
equipment or services.
``(7) Collaboration with other institutions of higher
education to expand postbaccalaureate certificate and degree
offerings.
``(8) Other activities proposed in the application
submitted pursuant to section 514 that--
``(A) contribute to carrying out the purposes of
this part; and
``(B) are approved by the Secretary as part of the
review and acceptance of such application.
``SEC. 514. APPLICATION AND DURATION.
``(a) Application.--Any eligible institution may apply for a grant
under this part by submitting an application to the Secretary at such
time and in such manner as determined by the Secretary. Such
application shall demonstrate how the grant funds will be used to
improve postbaccalaureate education opportunities for Hispanic and low-
income students and will lead to greater financial independence.
``(b) Duration.--Grants under this part shall be awarded for a
period not to exceed 5 years.
``(c) Limitation.--The Secretary shall not award more than 1 grant
under this part in any fiscal year to any Hispanic-serving
institution.''.
(b) Cooperative Arrangements.--Section 524(a) of the Higher
Education Act of 1965 (as redesignated by subsection (a)(2)) is amended
by inserting ``and section 513'' after ``section 503''.
(c) Authorization of Appropriations.--Section 528(a) of the Higher
Education Act of 1965 (as redesignated by subsection (a)(2)) is amended
to read as follows:
``(a) Authorizations.--
``(1) Part a.--There are authorized to be appropriated to
carry out part A of this title $175,000,000 for fiscal year
2008 and such sums as may be necessary for each of the 4
succeeding fiscal years.
``(2) Part b.--There are authorized to be appropriated to
carry out part B of this title $125,000,000 for fiscal year
2008 and such sums as may be necessary for each of the 4
succeeding fiscal years.''. | Next Generation Hispanic-Serving Institutions Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to revise requirements for Hispanic-serving institutions (HSIs) under title V (Developing Institutions).
Establishes a program of competitive grants to eligible HSIs that offer postbaccalaureate certifications or degrees (part B grants). Limits a part B grant award's duration to not more than five years. Prohibits the Secretary of Education from awarding more than one part B grant to an HSI in any one fiscal year.
Authorizes appropriations for: (1) the current part A program of grants to HSIs that offer baccalaureate degrees or are junior or community colleges; and (2) the new part B program of grants to HSIs that offer postbaccalaureate certifications or degrees. | A bill to expand and enhance postbaccalaureate opportunities at Hispanic-serving institutions, and for other purposes. |
542 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Kate Mullany
National Historic Site Act''.
(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents of this Act is as
follows:
Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
Sec. 2. Definitions.
Sec. 3. Findings and purposes.
Sec. 4. Establishment of Kate Mullany National Historic Site.
Sec. 5. Acquisition of property.
Sec. 6. Administration of historic site.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
As used in this Act:
(1) The term ``historic site'' means the Kate Mullany
National Historic Site established by section 4 of this Act.
(2) The term ``plan'' means the general management plan
developed pursuant to section 6(d).
(3) The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of the
Interior.
SEC. 3. FINDINGS AND PURPOSES.
(a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
(1) The Kate Mullany House in Troy, New York, is listed on
the National Register of Historic Places and has been
designated as a National Historic Landmark.
(2) The National Historic Landmark Theme Study on American
Labor History concluded that the Kate Mullany House appears to
meet the criteria of national significance, suitability, and
feasibility for inclusion in the National Park System.
(3) The city of Troy, New York--
(A) played an important role in the development of
the collar and cuff industry and the iron industry in
the 19th century, and in the development of early men's
and women's worker and cooperative organizations; and
(B) was the home of the first women's labor union,
led by Irish immigrant Kate Mullany.
(4) The city of Troy, New York, with 6 neighboring cities,
towns, and villages, entered into a cooperative arrangement to
create the Hudson-Mohawk Urban Cultural Park Commission to
manage their valuable historic resources and the area within
these municipalities has been designated by the State of New
York as a heritage area to represent industrial development and
labor themes in the State's development.
(5) This area, known as the Hudson-Mohawk Urban Cultural
Park or RiverSpark, has been a pioneer in the development of
partnership parks where intergovernmental and public and
private partnerships bring about the conservation of our
heritage and the attainment of goals for preservation,
education, recreation, and economic development.
(6) Establishment of the Kate Mullany National Historic
Site and cooperative efforts between the National Park Service
and the Hudson-Mohawk Urban Cultural Park Commission will
provide opportunities for the illustration and interpretation
of important themes of the heritage of the United States, and
will provide unique opportunities for education, public use, and
enjoyment.
(b) Purposes.--The purposes of this Act are--
(1) to preserve and interpret the nationally significant
home of Kate Mullany for the benefit, inspiration, and
education of the people of the United States; and
(2) to interpret the connection between immigration and the
industrialization of the Nation, including the history of Irish
immigration, women's history, and worker history.
SEC. 4. ESTABLISHMENT OF KATE MULLANY NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE.
(a) Establishment.--There is established, as a unit of the National
Park System, the Kate Mullany National Historic Site in the State of
New York.
(b) Description.--The historic site shall consist of the home of
Kate Mullany, comprising approximately 0.05739 acre, located at 350
Eighth Street in Troy, New York, as generally depicted on the map
entitled __________ and dated ____________.
SEC. 5. ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY.
(a) Real Property.--The Secretary may acquire lands and interests
therein within the boundaries of the historic site and ancillary real
property for parking or interpretation, as necessary and appropriate
for management of the historic site. Such acquisitions may be by
donation, purchase from willing sellers with donated or appropriated
funds, or exchange.
(b) Personal Property.--The Secretary may acquire personal property
associated with, and appropriate for, the interpretation of the
historic site using the methods provided in subsection (a).
SEC. 6. ADMINISTRATION OF HISTORIC SITE.
(a) In General.--The Secretary shall administer the historic site
in accordance with this Act and all laws generally applicable to units
of the National Park System, including the Act of August 25, 1916 (16
U.S.C. 1 et seq.; commonly known as the National Park Service Organic
Act), and the Act of August 21, 1935 (16 U.S.C. 461 et seq.; commonly
known as the Historic Sites, Buildings, and Antiquities Act).
(b) Cooperative Agreements.--To further the purposes of this Act,
the Secretary may consult with and enter into cooperative agreements
with the State of New York and the Hudson-Mohawk Urban Cultural Park
Commission, and other public and private entities to facilitate public
understanding and enjoyment of the life and work of Kate Mullany
through the development, presentation, and funding of exhibits and
other appropriate activities related to the preservation,
interpretation, and use of the historic site and related historic
resources.
(c) Exhibits.--The Secretary may display, and accept for the
purposes of display, items associated with Kate Mullany, as may be
necessary for the interpretation of the historic site.
(d) General Management Plan.--Not later than 2 complete fiscal
years after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall
develop a general management plan for the historic site. Upon its
completion, the Secretary shall submit the plan to the Committee on
Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate and the Committee on
Resources of the House of Representatives. The plan shall include
recommendations for regional wayside exhibits, to be carried out
through cooperative agreements with the State of New York and other
public and private entities. The plan shall be prepared in accordance
with section 12(b) of Public Law 91-383 (16 U.S.C. 1a-1 et seq.;
commonly known as the National Park System General Authorities Act). | Kate Mullany National Historic Site Act - (Sec. 4) Establishes the Kate Mullany National Historic Site in Troy, New York.(Sec. 5) Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to acquire lands within the Site's boundaries, and ancillary real property for parking or interpretation, as necessary and appropriate for management of the Site, and personal property associated with and appropriate for interpretation of the Site, by donation, purchase from wiling sellers, or exchange.(Sec. 6) Requires the Secretary to administer the Site in accordance with this Act and all laws generally applicable to units of the National Park System. Allows the Secretary to consult and enter into cooperative agreements with New York State, the Hudson-Mohawk Urban Cultural Park Commission, and other public and private entities to facilitate public understanding and enjoyment of the life and work of Kate Mullany through exhibits and other appropriate activities. Permits the Secretary to accept and display items associated with Mullany for interpretation.Requires the Secretary to develop and submit to specified congressional committees a general management plan for the Site, including recommendations for regional wayside exhibits, to be carried out through cooperative agreements with New York State and other public and private entities. | To establish the Kate Mullany National Historic Site in the State of New York, and for other purposes. |
543 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``United States Ports of Entry Threat
and Operational Review Act''.
SEC. 2. PORTS OF ENTRY THREAT AND OPERATIONAL ANALYSIS.
(a) In General.--
(1) Requirement.--Not later than 180 days after the date of
the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Homeland Security,
acting through the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border
Protection, shall submit to the Committee on Homeland Security
and the Committee on Ways and Means of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Homeland Security and
Governmental Affairs and the Committee on Finance of the Senate
a threat and operational analysis of ports of entry.
(2) Contents.--The threat and operational analysis required
under paragraph (1) shall include an assessment of the
following:
(A) Current and potential threats posed by
individuals and organized groups seeking--
(i) to exploit security vulnerabilities at
ports of entry; or
(ii) to unlawfully enter the United States
through such ports of entry.
(B) Methods and pathways used to exploit security
vulnerabilities at ports of entry.
(C) Improvements needed at ports of entry to
prevent the unlawful movement of people, illicit drugs,
and other contraband across the borders of the United
States.
(D) Improvements needed to enhance travel and trade
facilitation and reduce wait times at ports of entry,
including--
(i) security vulnerabilities associated
with prolonged wait times;
(ii) current technology at ports of entry
that can be adapted to handle more volume,
increase efficiency, and improve accuracy of
detection efforts; and
(iii) infrastructure additions and
upgrades.
(E) Processes conducted at ports of entry that do
not require law enforcement training and could be--
(i) filled with--
(I) non-law enforcement staff; or
(II) the private sector, for
processes or activities determined to
not be inherently governmental (as such
term is defined in section 5 of the
Federal Activities Inventory Reform Act
of 1998 (Public Law 105-270)); or
(ii) automated.
(F) Improvements needed during secondary
inspections to meet food safety standards defined by
applicable statutes for the commodities being
inspected.
(3) Analysis requirements.--In compiling the threat and
operational analysis required under paragraph (1), the
Secretary of Homeland Security, acting through the Commissioner
of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, shall consider and
examine the following:
(A) Personnel needs, including K-9 Units, and
estimated costs, at each port of entry, including such
needs and challenges associated with recruitment and
hiring.
(B) Technology needs, including radiation portal
monitors and non-intrusive inspection technology, and
estimated costs at each port of entry.
(C) Infrastructure needs and estimated costs at
each port of entry.
(b) Ports of Entry Strategy and Implementation Plan.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 270 days after the
submission of the threat and operational analysis required
under subsection (a) and every 5 years thereafter for 10 years,
the Secretary of Homeland Security, acting through the
Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), shall
provide to the Committee on Homeland Security and the Committee
on Ways and Means of the House of Representatives and the
Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs and the
Committee on Finance of the Senate a ports of entry strategy
and implementation plan.
(2) Contents.--The ports of entry strategy and
implementation plan required under paragraph (1) shall include
a consideration of the following:
(A) The ports of entry threat and operational
analysis required under subsection (a), with an
emphasis on efforts to mitigate threats and challenges
identified in such analysis.
(B) Efforts to reduce wait times at ports of entry
and standards against which the effectiveness of such
efforts may be determined.
(C) Efforts to prevent the unlawful movement of
people, illicit drugs, and other contraband across the
borders of the United States at the earliest possible
point at ports of entry and standards against which the
effectiveness of such efforts may be determined.
(D) Efforts to focus intelligence collection and
information analysis to disrupt transnational criminal
organizations attempting to exploit vulnerabilities at
ports of entry and standards against which the
effectiveness of such efforts may be determined.
(E) Efforts to verify that any new port of entry
technology acquisition can be operationally integrated
with existing technologies in use by the Department of
Homeland Security.
(F) Lessons learned from reports on the business
transformation initiative under section 802(i)(1) of
the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of
2015 (Public Law 114-125).
(G) CBP staffing requirements for all ports of
entry.
(H) Efforts to identify and detect fraudulent
documents at ports of entry and standards against which
the effectiveness of such efforts may be determined.
(I) Efforts to prevent, detect, investigate, and
mitigate corruption at ports of entry and standards
against which the effectiveness of such efforts may be
determined.
(c) Ports of Entry Described.--In this section, the term ``ports of
entry'' means United States air, land, and sea ports of entry. | United States Ports of Entry Threat and Operational Review Act This bill directs U.S. Customs and Border Protection to submit to the congressional homeland security and tax committees a threat and operational analysis of U.S. air, land, and sea ports of entry. | United States Ports of Entry Threat and Operational Review Act |
544 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Ethanol Reform and Deficit Reduction
Act''.
SEC. 2. VARIABLE VEETC RATE BASED ON PRICE OF CRUDE OIL.
(a) Excise Tax Credit.--
(1) In general.--Subparagraph (A) of section 6426(b)(2) of
the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended--
(A) by striking ``and'' at the end of clause (i),
(B) by striking ``calendar years beginning after
2008, 45 cents.'' in clause (ii) and inserting
``calendar quarters beginning after 2008 and before
July 1, 2011, 45 cents, and'', and
(C) by adding at the end the following new clause:
``(iii) in the case of calendar quarters
beginning after June 30, 2011, the applicable
rate determined in accordance with the
following table:
``If the average price of crude oil The applicable rate for
during the preceding calendar the calendar quarter is:
quarter is:
Not more than $50/barrel........................... 30 cents
More than $50 but not more than $60/barrel......... 24 cents
More than $60 but not more than $70/barrel......... 18 cents
More than $70 but not more than $80/barrel......... 12 cents
More than $80 but not more than $90/barrel......... 6 cents
More than $90/barrel............................... 0 cents.
For purposes of the preceding table, the
average price of crude oil for any calendar
quarter shall be the average 3-month futures
price on the New York Mercantile Exchange for
light sweet crude oil for such calendar
quarter. Each applicable rate under the
preceding table shall be reduced by 2 cents for
each calendar year beginning after 2011.''.
(2) Extension of tax credit or payment.--Sections
6426(b)(6) and 6427(e)(6)(A) of such Code are each amended by
striking ``2011'' and inserting ``2014''.
(b) Income Tax Credit.--
(1) In general.--The table contained in section 40(h)(2) of
the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended--
(A) by striking ``calendar year'' in the heading
for the first column,
(B) by inserting ``Calendar year'' before ``2001'',
(C) by inserting ``Calendar year'' before ``2003'',
(D) by inserting ``Calendar year'' before ``2005'',
(E) by inserting ``Calendar years'' before
``2009'',
(F) by striking ``2011'' and inserting ``the last
calendar quarter beginning before July 1, 2011'',
(G) by striking the period at the end of the table,
and
(H) by adding at the end the following:
``Any calendar quarter beginning after 1st 2d applicable rate.''.
June 30, 2011, and before 2015. applicable
rate
(2) Applicable rates.--Paragraph (3) of section 40(h) of
such Code is amended to read as follows:
``(3) Applicable rates.--For purposes of this subsection,
the 1st applicable rate and the 2d applicable rate shall be
determined in accordance with the following table:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The 1st
``If the average price of crude oil during applicable rate The 2d applicable rate for the calendar quarter
the preceding calendar quarter is: for the calendar is:
quarter is:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Not more than $50/barrel................... 30 cents 22.20 cents
More than $50 but not more than $60/barrel. 24 cents 17.76 cents
More than $60 but not more than $70/barrel. 18 cents 13.33 cents
More than $70 but not more than $80/barrel. 12 cents 8.88 cents
More than $80 but not more than $90/barrel. 6 cents 4.44 cents
More than $90/barrel....................... 0 cents 0 cents.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For purposes of the preceding table, the average price of crude
oil for any calendar quarter shall be the average 3-month
futures price on the New York Mercantile Exchange for light
sweet crude oil for such calendar quarter. Each 1st applicable
rate under the preceding table shall be reduced by 2 cents for
each calendar year beginning after 2011 and each 2d applicable
rate under such table shall be reduced by 1.48 cents for each
such year.''.
(3) Extension of tax credit.--Section 40 of such Code is
amended--
(A) by striking ``2011'' in subsection (e)(1)(A)
and inserting ``2014'',
(B) by striking ``2012'' in subsection (e)(1)(B)
and inserting ``2015'', and
(C) by striking ``2011'' in subsection (h)(1) and
inserting ``2014''.
(c) Repeal of Deadwood.--Section 6426(b)(2) of the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986 is amended by striking subparagraph (C).
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to any sale, use, or removal for any period after June 30, 2011.
SEC. 3. EXTENSION AND MODIFICATION OF ALTERNATIVE FUEL VEHICLE
REFUELING PROPERTY CREDIT.
(a) Extension.--Subsection (g) of section 30C of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by striking ``placed in service--'' and
all that follows and inserting ``placed in service after the earlier of
December 31, 2016, or the date on which the Secretary certifies that at
least 53,000 qualified alternative fuel refueling properties (other
than properties described in subsection (c)(2)(C)) have been placed in
service.''.
(b) Only Certain Ethanol Blends Eligible for Credit.--Subparagraph
(A) of section 30C(c)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is
amended to read as follows:
``(A) Any fuel--
``(i) at least 85 percent of the volume of
which consists of one or more of the following:
natural gas, compressed natural gas, liquified
natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas, or
hydrogen, or
``(ii) at least 85 percent of the volume of
which consists of--
``(I) ethanol, or
``(II) ethanol and gasoline or one
or more of the fuels described in
clause (i), but only if at least 15
percent and not more than 85 percent of
the volume of such fuel consists of
ethanol.''.
(c) Credit for Dual-Use Refueling Property.--Subsection (e) of
section 30C of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by adding
at the end the following new paragraph:
``(6) Dual-use refueling property.--
``(A) In general.--In the case of any dual-use
refueling property, 100 percent of the cost of such
property shall be treated as qualified alternative fuel
refueling property if the taxpayer certifies, in such
time and manner as the Secretary shall prescribe, that
such property will be used in more than a de minimis
capacity for the purposes described in section
179A(d)(3)(A) (applied as specified in subsection
(c)(2)).
``(B) Recapture.--If at any time within 5 years
after the date of the certification under subparagraph
(A) the dual-use refueling property ceases to be used
as required under such subparagraph, 100 percent of the
cost of such property shall be subject to recapture
under paragraph (5).
``(C) Dual-use refueling property.--For purposes of
this paragraph, the term `dual-use refueling property'
means property that is both qualified alternative fuel
vehicle refueling property and property used--
``(i) to store or dispense fuels not
described in subsection (c)(2), or
``(ii) to store fuels described in
subsection (c)(2) for any purpose other than
delivery of such fuel into the fuel tank of a
motor vehicle.''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to property placed in service after June 30, 2011.
SEC. 4. EXTENSION OF CELLULOSIC BIOFUEL PRODUCER CREDIT THROUGH 2014.
(a) In General.--Section 40(b)(6) of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986 is amended by striking subparagraph (H).
(b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 40(e) of the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986 is amended by striking paragraph (3).
SEC. 5. EXTENSION OF SPECIAL DEPRECIATION ALLOWANCE FOR CELLULOSIC
BIOFUEL PLANT PROPERTY.
Subparagraph (D) of section 168(l)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code
of 1986 is amended by striking ``January 1, 2013'' and inserting
``January 1, 2015''.
SEC. 6. ALGAE TREATED AS A QUALIFIED FEEDSTOCK FOR PURPOSES OF THE
CELLULOSIC BIOFUEL PRODUCER CREDIT, ETC.
(a) In General.--Subclause (I) of section 40(b)(6)(E)(i) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended to read as follows:
``(I) is derived solely by, or
from, qualified feedstocks, and''.
(b) Qualified Feedstock; Special Rules for Algae.--Paragraph (6) of
section 40(b) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended by this
Act, is amended by redesignating subparagraphs (F) and (G) as
subparagraphs (H) and (I), respectively, and by inserting after
subparagraph (E) the following new subparagraphs:
``(F) Qualified feedstock.--For purposes of this
paragraph, the term `qualified feedstock' means--
``(i) any lignocellulosic or hemicellulosic
matter that is available on a renewable or
recurring basis, and
``(ii) any cultivated algae, cyanobacteria,
or lemna.
``(G) Special rules for algae.--In the case of fuel
which is derived by, or from, feedstock described in
subparagraph (F)(ii) and which is sold by the taxpayer
to another person for refining by such other person
into a fuel which meets the requirements of
subparagraph (E)(i)(II)--
``(i) such sale shall be treated as
described in subparagraph (C)(i),
``(ii) such fuel shall be treated as
meeting the requirements of subparagraph
(E)(i)(II) in the hands of such taxpayer, and
``(iii) except as provided in this
subparagraph, such fuel (and any fuel derived
from such fuel) shall not be taken into account
under subparagraph (C) with respect to the
taxpayer or any other person.''.
(c) Algae Treated as a Qualified Feedstock for Purposes of Bonus
Depreciation for Biofuel Plant Property.--
(1) In general.--Subparagraph (A) of section 168(l)(2) of
the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by striking
``solely to produce cellulosic biofuel'' and inserting ``solely
to produce second generation biofuel (as defined in section
40(b)(6)(E))''.
(2) Conforming amendments.--Subsection (l) of section 168
of such Code, as amended by this Act, is amended--
(A) by striking ``cellulosic biofuel'' each place
it appears in the text thereof and inserting ``second
generation biofuel'',
(B) by striking paragraph (3) and redesignating
paragraphs (4) through (8) as paragraphs (3) through
(7), respectively,
(C) by striking ``Cellulosic'' in the heading of
such subsection and inserting ``Second Generation'',
and
(D) by striking ``cellulosic'' in the heading of
paragraph (2) and inserting ``second generation''.
(d) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Section 40 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as
amended by this Act, is amended--
(A) by striking ``cellulosic biofuel'' each place
it appears in the text thereof and inserting ``second
generation biofuel'',
(B) by striking ``Cellulosic'' in the headings of
subsections (b)(6), (b)(6)(E), and (d)(3)(D) and
inserting ``Second generation'', and
(C) by striking ``cellulosic'' in the headings of
subsections (b)(6)(C), (b)(6)(D), (b)(6)(H), (d)(6),
and (e)(3) and inserting ``second generation''.
(2) Clause (ii) of section 40(b)(6)(E) of such Code is
amended by striking ``Such term shall not'' and inserting ``The
term `second generation biofuel' shall not''.
(3) Paragraph (1) of section 4101(a) of such Code is
amended by striking ``cellulosic biofuel'' and inserting
``second generation biofuel''.
(e) Effective Date.--
(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2), the
amendments made by this section shall apply to fuels sold or
used after the date of the enactment of this Act.
(2) Application to bonus depreciation.--The amendments made
by subsection (c) shall apply to property placed in service
after the date of the enactment of this Act.
SEC. 7. BUDGETARY EFFECTS.
(a) PAYGO Scorecard.--The budgetary effects of this Act shall not
be entered on either PAYGO scorecard maintained pursuant to section
4(d) of the Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010.
(b) Senate PAYGO Scorecard.--The budgetary effects of this Act
shall not be recorded on any PAYGO scorecard maintained for purposes of
section 201 of S. Con. Res. 21 (110th Congress). | Ethanol Reform and Deficit Reduction Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) link the amount of the volumetric ethanol excise tax credit (VEETC) for calendar quarters beginning after June 30, 2011, to the average price of crude oil in a calendar quarter, (2) modify the rates of the income tax credit for alcohol used as fuel and extend such credit through 2014, (3) extend the alternative fuel refueling property tax credit and the special depreciation allowance for cellulosic biofuel plant property, and (4) make permanent the cellulosic biofuel producer tax credit.
Modifies the definition of "cellulosic biofuel" for purposes of the cellulosic biofuel producer tax credit and the special depreciation allowance to mean any liquid fuel that is derived solely by or from qualified feedstocks. Defines "qualified feedstocks" as any lignocellulosic or hemicellulosic matter that is available on a renewable or recurring basis and any cultivated algae, cyanobacteria, or lemna. | A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide for a variable VEETC rate based on the price of crude oil, and for other purposes. |
545 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Good Samaritan Search and Recovery
Act''.
SEC. 2. EXPEDITED ACCESS TO CERTAIN FEDERAL LANDS.
(a) In General.--The Secretary shall develop and implement a
process to expedite access to Federal lands under the administrative
jurisdiction of the Secretary for eligible organizations and eligible
individuals to request access to Federal lands to conduct good
Samaritan search-and-recovery missions. The process developed and
implemented pursuant to this subsection shall include provisions that
clarify that--
(1) an eligible organization or eligible individual granted
access under this section shall be acting for private purposes
and shall not be considered a Federal volunteer;
(2) an eligible organization or eligible individual
conducting a good Samaritan search-and-recovery mission under
this section shall not be considered a volunteer under section
3 of the Volunteers in the Parks Act of 1969 (16 U.S.C. 18i);
(3) the Federal Torts Claim Act shall not apply to an
eligible organization or eligible individual carrying out a
privately requested good Samaritan search-and-recovery mission
under this section; and
(4) the Federal Employee Compensation Act shall not apply
to an eligible organization or eligible individual conducting
good Samaritan search-and-recovery mission under this section
and such activities shall not constitute civilian employment.
(b) Release of the Federal Government From Liability.--The
Secretary shall not require an eligible organization or an eligible
individual to have liability insurance as a condition of accessing
Federal lands under this section if the eligible organization or
eligible individual--
(1) acknowledges and consents, in writing, to the
provisions listed in paragraphs (1) through (4) of subsection
(a); and
(2) signs a waiver releasing the Federal Government from
all liability related to the access granted under this section.
(c) Approval and Denial of Requests.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall notify an eligible
organization and eligible individual of the approval or denial
of a request by that eligible organization and eligible
individual to carry out a good Samaritan search-and-recovery
mission under this section not more than 48 hours after the
request is made.
(2) Denials.--If the Secretary denies a request from an
eligible organization or eligible individual to carry out a
good Samaritan search-and-recovery mission under this section,
the Secretary shall notify the eligible organization or
eligible individual of--
(A) the reason for the denial request; and
(B) any actions that eligible organization or
eligible individual can take to meet the requirements
for the request to be approved.
(d) Partnerships.--The Secretary shall develop search-and-recovery
focused partnerships with search-and-recovery organizations to--
(1) coordinate good Samaritan search-and-recovery missions
on Federal lands under the administrative jurisdiction of the
Secretary; and
(2) expedite and accelerate good Samaritan search-and-
recovery mission efforts for missing individuals on Federal
lands under the administrative jurisdiction of the Secretary.
(e) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit a joint report to
Congress describing--
(1) plans to develop partnerships described in subsection
(d)(1); and
(2) efforts being taken to expedite and accelerate good
Samaritan search-and-recovery mission efforts for missing
individuals on Federal lands under the administrative
jurisdiction of the Secretary pursuant to subsection (d)(2).
(f) Definitions.--For the purposes of this section, the following
definitions apply:
(1) Eligible organization and eligible individual.--The
terms ``eligible organization'' and ``eligible individual''
means an organization or individual, respectively, that--
(A) is acting in a not-for-profit capacity; and
(B) is certificated in training that meets or
exceeds standards established by the American Society
for Testing and Materials.
(2) Good samaritan search-and-recovery mission.--The term
``good Samaritan search-and-recovery mission'' means a search
for one or more missing individuals believed to be deceased at
the time that the search is initiated.
(3) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture, as
appropriate.
Passed the House of Representatives January 27, 2014.
Attest:
KAREN L. HAAS,
Clerk. | Good Samaritan Search and Recovery Act - Directs the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture (USDA) to implement a process to provide eligible organizations and individuals expedited access to federal lands to conduct good Samaritan search-and-recovery missions. Requires such process to include provisions that clarify that: (1) an eligible organization or eligible individual granted access shall be acting for private purposes and shall not be considered a federal volunteer, (2) an eligible organization or eligible individual shall not be considered a volunteer under the Volunteers in the Parks Act of 1969, and (3) neither the Federal Torts Claim Act nor the Federal Employee Compensation Act shall apply to an eligible organization or eligible individual. Bars the Secretaries from requiring an eligible organization or eligible individual to have liability insurance as a condition of accessing federal lands under this Act if it: (1) acknowledges and consents, in writing, to these clarifying provisions; and (2) signs a waiver releasing the federal government from all liability related to the access granted. Sets forth procedures for the approval or denial of requests made by eligible organizations or individuals to carry out a good Samaritan search-and-recovery mission. Requires the Secretaries to develop search-and-recovery focused partnerships with search-and-recovery organizations to: (1) coordinate good Samaritan search-and-recovery missions on such lands, and (2) expedite and accelerate mission efforts for missing individuals on such lands. Requires the Secretaries to submit a joint report to Congress that describes: (1) their plans for developing such partnerships, and (2) the efforts being taken to expedite and accelerate such mission efforts. | Good Samaritan Search and Recovery Act |
546 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Building, Renovating, Improving, and
Constructing Kids' Schools Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress make the following findings:
(1) According to a 1999 issue brief prepared by the
National Center for Education Statistics, the average public
school in America is 42 years old, and school buildings begin
rapid deterioration after 40 years. In addition, 29 percent of
all public schools are in the oldest condition, meaning that
the schools were built before 1970 and have either never been
renovated or were renovated prior to 1980.
(2) According to reports issued by the General Accounting
Office (GAO) in 1995 and 1996, it would cost $112,000,000,000
to bring the Nation's schools into good overall condition, and
one-third of all public schools need extensive repair or
replacement.
(3) Many schools do not have the appropriate infrastructure
to support computers and other technologies that are necessary
to prepare students for the jobs of the 21st century.
(4) Without impeding on local control, the Federal
Government appropriately can assist State, regional, and local
entities in addressing school construction, renovation, and
repair needs by providing low-interest loans for purposes of
paying interest on related bonds and by supporting other State-
administered school construction programs.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Bond.--The term ``bond'' includes any obligation.
(2) Governor.--The term ``Governor'' includes the chief
executive officer of a State.
(3) Local educational agency.--The term ``local educational
agency'' has the meaning given to such term by section 14101 of
the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
8801).
(4) Public school facility.--The term ``public school
facility'' shall not include--
(A) any stadium or other facility primarily used
for athletic contests or exhibitions, or other events
for which admission is charged to the general public;
or
(B) any facility that is not owned by a State or
local government or any agency or instrumentality of a
State or local government.
(5) Qualified school construction bond.--The term
``qualified school construction bond'' means any bond (or
portion of a bond) issued as part of an issue if--
(A) 95 percent or more of the proceeds attributable
to such bond (or portion) are to be used for the
construction, rehabilitation, or repair of a public
school facility or for the acquisition of land on which
such a facility is to be constructed with part of the
proceeds;
(B) the bond is issued by a State, regional, or
local entity, with bonding authority; and
(C) the issuer designates such bond (or portion)
for purposes of this section.
(6) Stabilization fund.--The term ``stabilization fund''
means the stabilization fund established under section 5302 of
title 31, United States Code.
(7) State.--The term ``State'' means each of the several
States of the United States, the District of Columbia, the
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the United States Virgin Islands,
Guam, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana
Islands, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated
States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau.
SEC. 4. LOANS FOR SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION BOND INTEREST PAYMENTS AND OTHER
SUPPORT.
(a) Loan Authority and Other Support.--
(1) Loans and state-administered programs.--
(A) In general.--Except as provided in subparagraph
(B), from funds made available to a State under section
5(b) the State, in consultation with the State
educational agency--
(i) shall use not less than 50 percent of
the funds to make loans to State, regional, or
local entities within the State to enable the
entities to make annual interest payments on
qualified school construction bonds that are
issued by the entities not later than December
31, 2003; and
(ii) may use not more than 50 percent of
the funds to support State revolving fund
programs or other State-administered programs
that assist State, regional, and local entities
within the State in paying for the cost of
construction, rehabilitation, repair, or
acquisition described in section 3(5)(A).
(B) States with restrictions.--If, on the date of
enactment of this Act, a State has in effect a law that
prohibits the State from making the loans described in
subparagraph (A)(i), the State, in consultation with
the State educational agency, may use the funds
described in subparagraph (A) to support the programs
described in subparagraph (A)(ii).
(2) Requests.--The Governor of each State desiring
assistance under this Act shall submit a request to the
Secretary of the Treasury at such time and in such manner as
the Secretary of the Treasury may require.
(3) Priority.--In selecting entities to receive funds under
paragraph (1) for projects involving construction,
rehabilitation, repair, or acquisition of land for schools, the
State shall give priority to entities with projects for schools
with greatest need, as determined by the State. In determining
the schools with greatest need, the State shall take into
consideration whether a school--
(A) is among the schools that have the greatest
numbers or percentages of children whose education
imposes a higher than average cost per child, such as--
(i) children living in areas with high
concentrations of low-income families;
(ii) children from low-income families; and
(iii) children living in sparsely populated
areas;
(B) has inadequate school facilities and a low
level of resources to meet the need for school
facilities; or
(C) meets such criteria as the State may determine
to be appropriate.
(b) Repayment.--
(1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2), a State that
uses funds made available under section 5(b) to make a loan or
support a State-administered program under subsection (a)(1)
shall repay to the stabilization fund the amount of the loan or
support, plus interest, at an annual rate of 4.5 percent. A
State shall not be required to begin making such repayment
until the year immediately following the 15th year for which
the State is eligible to receive annual distributions from the
fund (which shall be the final year for which the State shall
be eligible for such a distribution under this Act). The amount
of such loan or support shall be fully repaid during the 10-
year period beginning on the expiration of the eligibility of
the State under this Act.
(2) Exceptions.--
(A) In general.--The interest on the amount made
available to a State under section 5(b) shall not
accrue, prior to January 1, 2006, unless the amount
appropriated to carry out part B of the Individuals
with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1411 et
seq.) for any fiscal year prior to fiscal year 2006 is
sufficient to fully fund such part for the fiscal year
at the originally promised level, which promised level
would provide to each State 40 percent of the average
per-pupil expenditure for providing special education
and related services for each child with a disability
in the State.
(B) Applicable interest rate.--Effective January 1,
2006, the applicable interest rate that will apply to
an amount made available to a State under section 5(b)
shall be--
(i) 0 percent with respect to years in
which the amount appropriated to carry out part
B of the Individuals with Disabilities
Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1411 et seq.) is not
sufficient to provide to each State at least 20
percent of the average per-pupil expenditure
for providing special education and related
services for each child with a disability in
the State;
(ii) 2.5 percent with respect to years in
which the amount described in clause (i) is not
sufficient to provide to each State at least 30
percent of such average per-pupil expenditure;
(iii) 3.5 percent with respect to years in
which the amount described in clause (i) is not
sufficient to provide to each State at least 40
percent of such average per-pupil expenditure;
and
(iv) 4.5 percent with respect to years in
which the amount described in clause (i) is
sufficient to provide to each State at least 40
percent of such average per-pupil expenditure.
(c) Federal Responsibilities.--The Secretary of the Treasury and
the Secretary of Education--
(1) jointly shall be responsible for ensuring that funds
provided under this Act are properly distributed;
(2) shall ensure that funds provided under this Act only
are used to pay for--
(A) the interest on qualified school construction
bonds; or
(B) a cost described in section 4(a)(1)(A)(ii); and
(3) shall not have authority to approve or disapprove
school construction plans assisted pursuant to this Act, except
to ensure that funds made available under this Act are used
only to supplement, and not supplant, the amount of school
construction, rehabilitation, and repair, and acquisition of
land for school facilities, in the State that would have
occurred in the absence of such funds.
SEC. 5. AMOUNTS AVAILABLE TO EACH STATE.
(a) Reservation for Indians.--
(1) In general.--From $20,000,000,000 of the funds in the
stabilization fund, the Secretary of the Treasury shall make
available $400,000,000 to provide assistance to Indian tribes.
(2) Use of funds.--An Indian tribe that receive assistance
under paragraph (1)--
(A) shall use not less than 50 percent of the
assistance for a loan to enable the Indian tribe to
make annual interest payments on qualified school
construction bonds, in accordance with the requirements
of this Act that the Secretary of the Treasury
determines to be appropriate; and
(B) may use not more than 50 percent of the
assistance to support tribal revolving fund programs or
other tribal-administered programs that assist tribal
governments in paying for the cost of construction,
rehabilitation, repair, or acquisition described in
section 3(5)(A), in accordance with the requirements of
this Act that the Secretary of the Treasury determines
to be appropriate.
(b) Amounts Available.--
(1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (3) and from
$20,000,000,000 of the funds in the stabilization fund that are
not reserved under subsection (a), the Secretary of the
Treasury shall make available to each State submitting a
request under section 4(a)(2) an amount that bears the same
relation to such remainder as the amount the State received
under part A of title I of the Elementary and Secondary
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6311 et seq.) for fiscal year
2000 bears to the amount received by all States under such part
for such year.
(2) Disbursal.--The Secretary of the Treasury shall
disburse the amount made available to a State under paragraph
(1) or (3), on an annual basis, during the period beginning on
October 1, 2000, and ending September 30, 2017.
(3) Small state minimum.--
(A) Minimum.--No State shall receive an amount
under paragraph (1) that is less than $100,000,000.
(B) States.--In this paragraph, the term ``State''
means each of the several States of the United States,
the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto
Rico.
(c) Notification.--The Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary
of Education jointly shall notify each State of the amount of funds the
State may receive for loans and other support under this Act. | Sets forth requirements for loan repayment and interest rate. Exempts a State entity or local government from such repayment and interest rate accrual prior to January 1, 2006, unless the amount appropriated to carry out assistance for education of all children with disabilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act for any fiscal year before FY 2006 is sufficient to fully fund such assistance for the fiscal year at the originally promised level, which promised level would provide to each State 40 percent of the average per-pupil expenditure for providing special education and related services for each child with a disability in the State.
Directs the Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary of Education to: (1) ensure that funds provided under this Act are properly distributed, and are used to pay the interest on qualified school construction bonds or costs of school construction, rehabilitation, repair, or related land acquisition; and (2) notify each State of the amount of funds it may receive for loans and other support under this Act. Provides that the Secretaries shall not have authority to approve or disapprove school construction plans assisted pursuant to this Act, except to ensure that funds made available under this Act are used only to supplement, and not supplant, the amount of school construction, rehabilitation, and repair, and related land acquisition in the State that would have occurred in the absence of such funds. | Building, Renovating, Improving, and Constructing Kids' Schools Act |
547 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Jackson Multi-Agency Campus Act of
1999''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSES.
(a) Findings.--Congress finds that--
(1) the management of public land and natural resources and
the service of the public in the area of Jackson, Wyoming, are
responsibilities shared by--
(A) the Department of Agriculture, including the
Forest Service;
(B) the Department of the Interior, including--
(i) the National Park Service; and
(ii) the United States Fish and Wildlife
Service;
(C) the Game and Fish Commission of the State of
Wyoming;
(D) Teton County, Wyoming;
(E) the town of Jackson, Wyoming;
(F) the Jackson Chamber of Commerce; and
(G) the Jackson Hole Historical Society; and
(2) it is desirable to locate the administrative offices of
several of the agencies and entities specified in paragraph (1)
on 1 site to--
(A) facilitate communication between the agencies
and entities;
(B) reduce costs to the Federal, State, and local
governments; and
(C) better serve the public.
(b) Purposes.--The purposes of this Act are to--
(1) authorize the Federal agencies specified in subsection
(a) to--
(A) develop and maintain the Project in Jackson,
Wyoming, in cooperation with the other agencies and
entities specified in subsection (a); and
(B) provide resources and enter into such
agreements as are necessary for the planning, design,
construction, operation, maintenance, and fixture
modifications of all elements of the Project;
(2) direct the Secretary to convey to the town of Jackson,
Wyoming, certain parcels of federally owned land located in
Teton County, Wyoming, in exchange for construction of
facilities for the Bridger-Teton National Forest by the town of
Jackson;
(3) direct the Secretary to convey to the Game and Fish
Commission of the State of Wyoming certain parcels of federally
owned land in the town of Jackson, Wyoming, in exchange for
approximately 1.35 acres of land, also located in the town of
Jackson, to be used in the construction of the Project; and
(4) relinquish certain reversionary interests of the United
States in order to facilitate the transactions described in
paragraphs (1) through (4).
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Commission.--The term ``Commission'' means the Game and
Fish Commission of the State of Wyoming.
(2) Construction cost.--The term ``construction cost''
means any cost that is--
(A) associated with building improvements to
Federal standards and guidelines; and
(B) open to a competitive bidding process approved
by the Secretary.
(3) Federal parcel.--The term ``Federal parcel'' means the
parcel of land, and all appurtenances to the land, comprising
approximately 15.3 acres, depicted as ``Bridger-Teton National
Forest'' on the Map.
(4) Map.--The term ``Map'' means the map entitled ``Multi-
Agency Campus Project Site'', dated March 31, 1999, and on file
in the offices of--
(A) the Bridger-Teton National Forest, in the State
of Wyoming; and
(B) the Chief of the Forest Service.
(5) Master plan.--The term ``master plan'' means the
document entitled ``Conceptual Master Plan'', dated July 14,
1998, and on file at the offices of--
(A) the Bridger-Teton National Forest, in the State
of Wyoming; and
(B) the Chief of the Forest Service.
(6) Project.--The term ``Project'' means the proposed
project for construction of a multi-agency campus, to be
carried out by the town of Jackson, Wyoming, in cooperation
with the other agencies and entities described in section
2(a)(1), to provide, in accordance with the master plan--
(A) administrative facilities for various agencies
and entities; and
(B) interpretive, educational, and other facilities
for visitors to the greater Yellowstone area.
(7) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of Agriculture (including a designee of the Secretary).
(8) State parcel.--The term ``State parcel'' means the
parcel of land comprising approximately 3 acres, depicted as
``Wyoming Game and Fish'' on the Map.
(9) Town.--The term ``town'' means the town of Jackson,
Wyoming.
SEC. 4. MULTI-AGENCY CAMPUS PROJECT, JACKSON, WYOMING.
(a) Construction Offers for Exchange of Property.--
(1) In general.--The town may offer to construct, as part
of the Project, an administrative facility for the Bridger-
Teton National Forest.
(2) Conveyance.--If the offer described in paragraph (2) is
made not later than 5 years after the date of enactment of this
Act, the Secretary shall convey the Federal land described in
section 5(a)(1) to the town, in exchange for the completed
administrative facility described in this paragraph, in
accordance with this Act.
(b) Offer To Convey State Parcel.--
(1) In general.--The Commission may offer to convey a
portion of the State parcel, depicted on the Map as ``Parcel
Three'', to the United States to be used for construction of an
administrative facility for the Bridger-Teton National Forest.
(2) Conveyance.--If the offer described in paragraph (2) is
made not later than 5 years after the date of enactment of this
Act, the Secretary shall convey, through a simultaneous
conveyance, the Federal land described in section 5(a)(2) to
the Commission, in exchange for the portion of the State parcel
described in paragraph (2), in accordance with this Act.
SEC. 5. CONVEYANCE OF FEDERAL LAND.
(a) In General.--In exchange for the consideration described in
section 3, the Secretary shall convey--
(1) to the town, the portion of the Federal parcel,
comprising approximately 9.3 acres, depicted on the Map as
``Parcel Two''; and
(2) to the Commission, the portion of the Federal parcel
comprising approximately 3.2 acres, depicted on the Map as
``Parcel One''.
(b) Reversionary Interests.--As additional consideration for
acceptance by the United States of any offer described in section 4,
the United States shall relinquish all reversionary interests in the
State parcel, as set forth in the deed between the United States and
the State of Wyoming, dated February 19, 1957, and recorded on October
2, 1967, in Book 14 of Deeds, Page 382, in the records of Teton County,
Wyoming.
SEC. 6. EQUAL VALUE OF INTERESTS EXCHANGED.
(a) Valuation of Land To Be Conveyed.--
(1) In general.--The fair market and improvement values of
the land to be exchanged under this Act shall be determined--
(A) by appraisals acceptable to the Secretary,
utilizing nationally recognized appraisal standards;
and
(B) in accordance with section 206 of the Federal
Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C.
1716).
(2) Appraisal report.--Each appraisal report shall be
written to Federal standards, as defined in the Uniform
Appraisal Standards for Federal Land Acquisitions developed by
the Interagency Land Acquisition Conference.
(3) No effect on value of reversionary interests.--An
appraisal of the State parcel shall not take into consideration
any reversionary interest held by the United States in the
State parcel as of the date on which the appraisal is
conducted.
(b) Value of Federal Land Greater Than Construction Costs.--If the
value of the Federal land to be conveyed to the town under section
5(a)(1) is greater than the construction costs to be paid by the town
for the administrative facility described in section 4(a), the
Secretary shall reduce the acreage of the Federal land conveyed so that
the value of the Federal land conveyed to the town closely approximates
the construction costs.
(c) Value of Federal Land Less Than Construction Costs.--If the
value of the Federal land to be conveyed to the town under section
5(a)(1) is less than the construction costs to be paid by the town for
the administrative facility described in section 4(a), the Secretary
may convey to the town additional Federal land administered by the
Secretary for national forest administrative site purposes in Teton
County, Wyoming, so that the total value of the Federal land conveyed
to the town closely approximates the construction costs.
(d) Value of Federal Land Equal to Value of State Parcel.--
(1) In general.--The value of any Federal land conveyed to
the Commission under section 5(a)(2) shall be equal to the
value of the State parcel conveyed to the United States under
section 4(b).
(2) Boundaries.--The boundaries of the Federal land and the
State parcel may be adjusted to equalize values.
(e) Payment of Cash Equalization.--Notwithstanding subsections (b)
through (d), the values of Federal land and the State parcel may be
equalized by payment of cash to the Secretary, the Commission, or the
town, as appropriate, in accordance with section 206(b) of the Federal
Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1716(b)), if the
values cannot be equalized by adjusting the size of parcels to be
conveyed or by conveying additional land, without compromising the
design of the Project.
SEC. 7. ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS.
(a) Construction of Federal Facilities.--The construction of
facilities on Federal land within the boundaries of the Project shall
be--
(1) supervised and managed by the town; and
(2) carried out to standards and specifications approved by
the Secretary.
(b) Access.--The town (including contractors and subcontractors of
the town) shall have access to the Federal land until completion of
construction for all purposes related to construction of facilities
under this Act.
(c) Administration of Land Acquired by United States.--Land
acquired by the United States under this Act shall be governed by all
laws applicable to the administration of national forest sites.
(d) Wetland.--
(1) In general.--There shall be no construction of any
facility after the date of conveyance of Federal land under
this Act within any portion of the Federal parcel delineated on
the map as ``wetlands''.
(2) Deeds and conveyance documents.--A deed or other
conveyance document executed by the Secretary in carrying out
this Act shall contain such reservations as are necessary to
preclude development of wetland on any portion of the Federal
parcel. | Jackson Multi-Agency Campus Act of 1999 - Provides for the exchange of certain federally owned land in Wyoming by the Secretary of Agriculture to: (1) the Game and Fish Commission of Wyoming for certain State land to be used for construction of a multi-agency administrative facility (for use by specified Federal, State, and local agencies) for the Bridger-Teton National Forest; and (2) the town of Jackson, Wyoming, for construction of such facility. | Jackson Multi-Agency Campus Act of 1999 |
548 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Family Abduction Prevention Act of
2006''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress findings that--
(1) each year more than 203,000 children in the United
States (approximately 78 percent of all abducted children) are
abducted by a family member, usually a parent;
(2) more than half of the parents who abduct their children
have a history of alcohol or substance abuse, a criminal
record, or a history of violence;
(3) the most common motive for family abduction is revenge
against the other parent, not protecting the child's safety;
(4) children who are abducted by family members suffer
emotional, psychological, and often physical abuse at the hands
of their abductors;
(5) children who are victims of family abductions are
forced to leave behind family, friends, their homes, their
neighborhoods, their schools, and all that is familiar to them;
(6) children who are victims of family abductions are often
told that the parent who did not abduct the child has died,
does not love them, or will harm them;
(7) children who are abducted by their parents or other
family members are sometimes forced to live in fear of
discovery and may be compelled to conceal their true identity,
including their real names, family histories, and even their
gender;
(8) children who are victims of family abductions are often
denied the opportunity to attend school or to receive health
and dental care;
(9) child psychologists and law enforcement authorities now
classify family abduction as a form of child abuse;
(10) approximately 70 percent of local law enforcement
agencies do not have written guidelines for what to do in the
event of a family abduction or how to facilitate the recovery
of an abducted child;
(11) the first few hours of a family abduction are crucial
to recovering an abducted child, and valuable hours are lost
when law enforcement is not prepared to employ the most
effective techniques to locate and recover abducted children;
(12) when parents who may be inclined to abduct their own
children receive counseling and education on the harm suffered
by children under these circumstances, the incidence of family
abductions is greatly reduced; and
(13) where practiced, the flagging of school records has
proven to be an effective tool in assisting law enforcement
authorities find abducted children.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Family abduction.--The term ``family abduction'' means
the taking, keeping, or concealing of a child or children by a
parent, other family member, or person acting on behalf of the
parent or family member, that prevents another individual from
exercising lawful custody or visitation rights.
(2) Flagging.--The term ``flagging'' means the process of
notifying law enforcement authorities of the name and address
of any person requesting the school records of an abducted
child.
(3) Indian tribe.--The term ``Indian tribe'' means any
Indian tribe, band, nation, or other organized group or
community, including any Alaska Native village or regional or
village corporation as defined in or established pursuant to
the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (43 U.S.C. 1601 et
seq.), which is recognized as eligible for the special programs
and services provided by the United States to Indians because
of their status as Indians.
(4) State.--The term ``State'' means each of 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 territory or
possession of the United States, and any Indian tribe.
SEC. 4. GRANTS TO STATES.
(a) Matching Grants.--The Attorney General shall make grants to
States for projects involving--
(1) the extradition of individuals suspected of committing
a family abduction;
(2) the investigation by State and local law enforcement
agencies of family abduction cases;
(3) the training of State and local law enforcement
agencies in responding to family abductions and recovering
abducted children, including the development of written
guidelines and technical assistance;
(4) outreach and media campaigns to educate parents on the
dangers of family abductions; and
(5) the flagging of school records.
(b) Matching Requirement.--Not less than 50 percent of the cost of
a project for which a grant is made under this section shall be
provided by non-Federal sources.
SEC. 5. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
For the purpose of carrying out this Act, there are authorized to
be appropriated to the Attorney General $500,000 for fiscal year 2008,
and such sums as may be necessary for each of fiscal years 2009 and
2010.
Passed the Senate November 16, 2006.
Attest:
EMILY J. REYNOLDS,
Secretary. | Family Abduction Prevention Act of 2006 - Directs the Attorney General to make grants to states for projects involving: (1) the extradition of individuals suspected of committing a family abduction; (2) the investigation by state and local law enforcement agencies of family abduction cases; (3) the training of such law enforcement agencies in responding to family abductions and recovering abducted children; (4) outreach and media campaigns to educate parents on the dangers of family abductions; and (5) the flagging (i.e., notifying law enforcement authorities of the name and address of any person requesting the school records of an abducted child) of school records.
Defines "family abduction" as the taking, keeping, or concealing of a child by a parent or other family member to prevent another individual from exercising lawful custody or visitation rights.
Requires that not less than 50% of the cost of a project for which a grant is made under this Act be provided by non-federal sources.
Authorizes appropriations for FY2008-FY2010. | A bill to authorize the Attorney General to make grants to improve the ability of State and local governments to prevent the abduction of children by family members, and for other purposes. |
549 | SECTION 1. REPORTS ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF NAFTA ON JOBS AND THE
ENVIRONMENT.
(a) Report on Domestic Manufacturing and Jobs.--The Secretary of
Commerce, after consultation with the appropriate government agencies,
shall determine the levels of exports of United States manufactured
goods to the NAFTA parties and imports into the United States of
manufactured goods from NAFTA parties, and the number of jobs that have
resulted from increased exports of manufactured goods to NAFTA parties
and the loss of jobs that have resulted from increased imports into the
United States of manufactured goods from NAFTA parties since January 1,
1994. The Secretary of Commerce shall submit to the Congress a report
on the determinations made under this paragraph not later than 6 months
after the date of the enactment of this Act.
(b) Report Relating to Health and Environmental Impacts of NAFTA.--
The Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, in
consultation with the Secretariat for the NAFTA Commission on
Environmental Cooperation, shall conduct investigations of whether
pollution and health hazards in the United States have worsened since
January 1, 1994, to the extent they may be attributable to the
implementation of NAFTA, and specifically in and around the United
States-Mexico border and the United States-Canada border, and shall
report to the Congress on the results of those investigations not later
than 6 months after the date of the enactment of this Act.
SEC. 2. PRESIDENTIAL CERTIFICATIONS.
(a) Certifications Regarding Environmental Agreement.--
(1) Annual certifications.--The President shall, on the
basis of the reports prepared under paragraph (2), submit to
the Congress, not later than May 31 of each year, a report that
certifies whether or not each NAFTA country is meeting
commitments made in the North American Agreement on
Environmental Cooperation--
(A) to ensure that the regulations of that country
establish and enforce levels of environmental
protection that meet the requirements of its
constitution and other laws setting forth the country's
policy on environmental protection; and
(B) to effectively enforce the laws referred to in
paragraph (1).
(2) Basis of certification.--The Administrator of the
Environmental Protection Agency shall prepare for the President
an annual report on the enforcement by each NAFTA country of
its laws governing environmental protection, and its progress
in protecting the environment in accordance with its
development. In doing so, the Administrator shall consider the
country's--
(A) air quality standards;
(B) water effluent standards; and
(C) hazardous waste disposal standards.
Each report under this paragraph shall be transmitted to the
President not later than 30 days before the date on which the
President is required to submit his report under paragraph (1).
(b) Certifications Regarding Labor Agreement.--
(1) Annual certifications.--The President shall, on the
basis of the reports prepared under paragraph (2), submit to
the Congress, not later than May 31 of each year, a report that
certifies whether or not each NAFTA country is meeting
commitments made in the North American Agreement on Labor
Cooperation to comply with the objectives of that Agreement to
promote and improve laws protecting worker rights and to
promote compliance with these laws by using appropriate methods
such as--
(A) monitoring and on-site inspection by persons
trained to do so;
(B) encouragement of voluntary compliance by
employers;
(C) mandatory reporting by employers to appropriate
governmental authorities; and
(D) enforcement actions.
(2) Basis of certification.--The Secretary of Labor shall
prepare for the President an annual report on the enforcement
by each NAFTA country of its laws protecting worker rights. In
doing so, the Secretary shall consider the country's
enforcement of such laws in accordance with the following labor
principles (as stated in the Preamble of the North American
Agreement on Labor Cooperation):
(A) Freedom of association.
(B) The right to bargain collectively.
(C) The right to strike.
(D) Prohibition on forced labor.
(E) Restrictions on labor by children and young
people.
(F) Minimum employment standards.
(G) Elimination of employment discrimination.
(H) Equal pay for men and women.
(I) Prevention of occupational accidents and
diseases.
(J) Compensation in cases of work accidents and
occupational diseases.
Each report under this paragraph shall be transmitted to the
President not later than 30 days before the date on which the
President is required to submit his report under paragraph (1).
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
As used in this Act:
(1) International financial institution.--The term
``international financial institution'' has the meaning given
that term in section 1701(c)(2) of the International Financial
Institutions Act (22 U.S.C. 262r(c)(2)).
(2) NAFTA.--The term ``NAFTA'' means the North American
Free Trade Agreement entered into by the United States, Canada,
and Mexico on December 17, 1992.
(3) NAFTA country.--The term ``NAFTA country'' has the
meaning given that term in section 2(4) of the North American
Free Trade Agreement Implementation Act (19 U.S.C. 3301(4)).
(4) NAFTA party.--The term ``NAFTA party'' means the United
States, Canada, or Mexico.
(5) North american agreement on environmental
cooperation.--The term ``North American Agreement on
Environmental Cooperation'' has the meaning given that term in
section 532(b)(2) of the North American Free Trade Agreement
Implementation Act (19 U.S.C. 3472(b)(2)).
(6) North american agreement on labor cooperation.--The
term ``North American Agreement on Labor Cooperation'' has the
meaning given that term in section 531(b)(2) of the North
American Free Trade Agreement Implementation Act (19 U.S.C.
3471(b)(2)). | Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to investigate, and report to the Congress on, whether pollution and health hazards in the United States have worsened since January 1, 1994, to the extent that may be attributable to NAFTA, and specifically in and around the U.S.-Mexico and the U.S.-Canada borders.
Directs the President to certify annually to Congress whether or not each NAFTA country is meeting certain commitments made with respect to: (1) environmental protection in the North American Agreement on Environmental Cooperation; and (2) workers' rights in the North American Agreement on Labor Cooperation. | To assess the impact of the North American Free Trade Agreement on domestic job loss and the environment, and for other purposes. |
550 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Broadband Antitrust Restoration and
Reform Act''.
SEC. 2. AMENDMENT TO THE CLAYTON ACT.
The Clayton Act (15 U.S.C. 12 et seq.) is amended by adding at the
end the following:
``SEC. 28. COMPETITION IN TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES.
``(a) Application Prerequisite To Providing High Speed Data Service
or Internet Backbone Service; Attorney General Reinstatement of Pro-
Competitive Regulations.--
``(1) Requirement to file application with attorney general
of the united states.--A Bell operating company or an affiliate
of a Bell operating company may not provide any interLATA
service in any of its in-region States under the authority of
any amendment to section 271 of the Communications Act of 1934
(47 U.S.C. 271) enacted after June 13, 2001--
``(A) unless it files with the Attorney General of
the United States an application to provide such
service; and
``(B) until the Attorney General--
``(i) approves such application before the
expiration of the 90-day period beginning on
the date such application is filed; or
``(ii) fails to approve or to disapprove
such application during such 90-day period.
``(2) Authority of attorney general.--The Attorney General
of the United States--
``(A) may issue rules to establish requirements
applicable to the form and contents of applications
filed under paragraph (1);
``(B) may make recommendations to an applicant
regarding--
``(i) withdrawal of an application filed
under paragraph (1); or
``(ii) filing of an application under
paragraph (1), with or without modifications,
subsequent to the withdrawal of an application
filed under such paragraph; and
``(C) may not approve an application filed in
compliance with this subsection if the Attorney General
determines that the applicant--
``(i) has monopoly power in the local
exchange market; and
``(ii) is using or is likely to use its
monopoly power in order to engage in
exclusionary or other anticompetitive conduct.
``(3) Withdrawal of application.--An application filed
under paragraph (1) may be withdrawn by the applicant at any
time before the Attorney General approves or disapproves such
application, but may not be modified after being filed.
``(4) Reinstatement of regulation.--If the Attorney
General, sua sponte, determines that the conditions specified
in paragraph (2)(C) have been met with respect to a Bell
operating company or an affiliate of a Bell operating company,
then the Attorney General may reinstate, as to such company or
such affiliate, any Federal regulation in effect as of June 13,
2001, which the Attorney General determines was designed to
protect against exclusionary conduct or other abusive monopoly
power.
``(5) Exclusion.--Nothing in this subsection shall apply to
two-percent carriers.
``(b) Continuing Operation of the Antitrust Laws.--The rights,
obligations, powers, and remedies provided under the antitrust laws are
in addition to, and are--
``(1) not preempted by;
``(2) not inconsistent with; and
``(3) not incompatible with;
any of the rights, obligations, powers, and remedies provided under the
Communications Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 151 et seq.), under the
Telecommunications Act of 1996 (Public Law 104-104; 110 Stat. 56), or
under any law amended by either such Act, regardless of the progress of
competition in any market.
``(c) Definitions.--For purposes of this section:
``(1) Affiliate.--The term `affiliate' means a person that
(directly or indirectly) owns or controls, is owned or
controlled by, or is under common ownership or control with,
another person. For purposes of this paragraph, the term `own'
means to own an equity interest (or equivalent thereof) of more
than 10 percent.
``(2) Bell operating company.--The term `Bell operating
company' has the meaning given such term in section 3 of the
Communications Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 153).
``(3) In-region state.--The term `in-region State' has the
meaning given to such term in section 271(i) of the
Communications Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 271(i)).
``(4) InterLATA service.--The term `interLATA service' has
the meaning given such term in section 3 of the Communications
Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 153).
``(5) Two-percent carrier.--The term `two-percent carrier'
means an incumbent local exchange carrier within the meaning of
section 251(h) of the Communications Act (47 U.S.C. 254(h))
whose access lines, when aggregated with the access lines of
any local exchange carrier that such incumbent local exchange
carrier directly or indirectly controls, is controlled by, or
is under common control with, are fewer than two percent of the
Nation's subscriber lines installed in the aggregate
nationwide.''. | Broadband Antitrust Restoration and Reform Act - Amends the Clayton Act to prohibit a Bell operating company (BOC) or an affiliate thereof from providing interLATA service in any of its in-region States under the authority of any amendment to the Communications Act of 1934 enacted after June 13, 2001: (1) unless it files with the Attorney General an application to provide such service; and (2) until the Attorney General either approves or fails to act on such application within 90 days.Authorizes the Attorney General to issue rules to establish requirements applicable to the form and contents of applications, and to make recommendations regarding withdrawal of applications or the filing of an application subsequent to withdrawal.Prohibits the Attorney General from approving an application upon determining that the applicant: (1) has monopoly power in the local exchange market; and (2) is using or is likely to use its monopoly power in order to engage in exclusionary or other anti-competitive conduct. Authorizes the Attorney General, upon making such determination, to reinstate with respect to such applicant any Federal regulation in effect as of June 13, 2001, which the Attorney General determines was designed to protect against exclusionary conduct or other abusive monopoly power. | To ensure the application of the antitrust laws to local telephone monopolies, and for other purposes. |
551 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; FINDINGS.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Children's
Hospitals Education and Research Act of 1998''.
(b) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
(1) Freestanding children's teaching hospitals receive
almost no Federal graduate medical education funding.
(2) Increasingly, Federal graduate medical education
funding, through the medicare program, has become the major
source of support for the academic missions of all teaching
hospitals as the medical marketplace has led to a growing
inability to gain such support from other payers.
(3) With few medicare patients, these children's teaching
hospitals receive less than $400 in Federal funds for each
medical resident they train, while other teaching hospitals
receive on average more than $79,000 for each resident they
train, creating a very serious inequity in the competitive
market for these children's hospitals.
(4) Children's teaching hospitals make an essential
contribution to training our children's doctors. Although less
than one percent of all hospitals, they train 5 percent of all
physicians, 25 percent of all pediatricians, and the majority
of most pediatric specialists.
(5) They serve as regional and national pediatric referral
centers and provide research discoveries and technological
advancements which benefit all children, conducting along with
their affiliated departments of pediatrics almost 20 percent of
all pediatric research sponsored by the National Institutes of
Health.
(6) Their ability to sustain their academic and patient
care missions is increasingly threatened by the lack of
graduate medical education funding, which represents the major
source of shortfall between patient costs and patient revenues
for many children's hospitals with significant teaching
programs, even as these hospital strive to reduce their costs.
SEC. 2. PROGRAM OF PAYMENTS TO CHILDREN'S HOSPITALS THAT OPERATE
GRADUATE MEDICAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS.
(a) Payments.--The Secretary shall make payment under this section
to each children's hospital for each hospital cost reporting period
beginning during fiscal year 1999 or fiscal year 2000 for the direct
and indirect expenses associated with operating approved medical
residency training programs.
(b) Amount of Payment.--
(1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (3), the amount
payable under this section to a children's hospital for direct
and indirect expenses relating to approved medical residency
training programs for a cost reporting period is equal to the
product of--
(A) the per resident rate, as determined under
paragraph (2); and
(B) the weighted average number of full-time
equivalent residents in the hospital's approved medical
residency training programs (as determined under
section 1886(h)(4) of the Social Security Act) for the
cost reporting period.
(2) Per resident rate.--
(A) In general.--The per resident rate under this
paragraph for a cost reporting period is equal to the
sum of the direct medical education component (computed
under subparagraph (B)), and the indirect medical
education component (computed under subparagraph
(C)(iii).
(B) Direct medical education component.--The
Secretary shall compute the direct medical education
component described in this subparagraph for a hospital
as follows:
(i) Computation of base national dme
average per resident rate.--The Secretary shall
compute a base national DME average per resident rate equal to the
simple average of the per resident rates computed under section
1886(h)(2) of the Social Security Act for cost reporting periods ending
during fiscal year 1997.
(ii) Updating rate.--The Secretary shall
update such rate by the estimated percentage
increase in the consumer price index for all
urban consumers during the period beginning
October 1997 and ending with the midpoint of
the hospital's cost reporting period that
begins during fiscal year 1999.
(iii) Adjustment for variations in labor-
related costs.--For each hospital the Secretary
shall adjust the portion of such updated rate
that is related to labor and labor-related
costs to account for variations in wage costs
in the geographic area in which the hospital is
located using the factor determined under
section 1886(d)(4)(E) of the Social Security
Act for discharges occurring during fiscal year
1998.
(iv) Direct medical education component.--
The direct medical education component
described in this subparagraph for a hospital
is the updated rate, computed under clause
(ii), as adjusted under clause (iii) for the
hospital.
(C) Indirect medical education component.--The
Secretary shall compute the indirect medical education
component described in this subparagraph for a hospital
as follows:
(i) Computation of hospital average ime per
resident payments.--The Secretary shall
determine, for each hospital with a graduate
medical education program which is paid under
section 1886(d) of the Social Security Act, the
amount paid to that hospital pursuant to
section 1886(d)(5)(B) of such Act for its cost
reporting period ending during fiscal year
1997, and shall divide such amount by the
number of FTE residents participating in its
approved residency programs and used to
calculate the amount of payment under such
section in that cost reporting period.
(ii) Computing national average.--The
Secretary shall take the sum of the amounts
determined under clause (i) for all the
hospitals described in such clause and divide
that sum by the number of hospitals so
described.
(iii) Updating.--The Secretary shall update
the amount computed under clause (ii) for a
hospital by applicable percentage increase (as
defined in section 1886(b)(3)(B)(i) of the
Social Security Act) during the period between
October 1997 and ending with the midpoint of
the hospital's cost reporting period that
begins during fiscal year 1999.
(iv) Indirect medical education
component.--The indirect medical education
component described in this subparagraph for a
hospital is the average computed under clause
(ii), updated under clause (iii).
(3) Pro rata reductions.--If the Secretary
determines that the amount of funds provided under
subsection (d) for cost reporting periods ending in a
fiscal year is insufficient to provide the total amount
of payments otherwise due for such periods, the Secretary shall reduce
the amount payable under this section for such period on a pro rata
basis to the extent to assure that the aggregate of such payments does
not exceed the amount of funds provided under subsection (d) for such
cost reporting periods.
(c) Making of Payments.--
(1) Interim payments.--The Secretary shall estimate, before
the beginning of each cost reporting period for a hospital for
which a payment may be made under this section, the amount of
payment to be made under this section to the hospital for such
period and shall make payment, in 26 equal interim installments
during such period, of the amounts obligated to be paid.
(2) Final payment.--At the end of each such period, the
hospital shall submit to the Secretary such information as the
Secretary determines to be necessary to determine the final
payment amount due under this section for the hospital for the
period. Based on such determination, the Secretary shall recoup
any overpayments made, or payment balances due. The final
amount so determined shall be considered a final intermediary
determination for purposes of applying section 1878 of the
Social Security Act and shall be subject to review under that
section in the same manner as the amount of payment under
section 1886(d) of such Act is subject to review under such
section.
(d) Limitation on Expenditures.--
(1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2), there are hereby
appropriated, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise
appropriated, for payments under this section for cost
reporting periods ending in each of fiscal years 1999 and 2000
$285,000,000.
(2) Carryover of excess.--If the amount of payments under
this section for cost reporting periods ending in fiscal year
1999 is less than the amount provided under this subsection for
such payments for such periods, then the amount available under
this subsection for cost reporting periods ending in fiscal
year 2000 shall be increased by the amount of such difference.
(e) Relation to Medicare and Medicaid Payments.--Notwithstanding
any other provision of law, payments under this section to a hospital
for a cost reporting period--
(1) are in lieu of any amounts otherwise payable to the
hospital under section 1886(h) or 1886(d)(5)(F) of the Social
Security Act to the hospital for such cost reporting period,
but
(2) shall not affect the amounts otherwise payable to such
hospitals under a State medicaid plan under title XIX of such
Act.
(f) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Approved medical residency training program.--The term
``approved medical residency training program'' has the meaning
given such term in section 1886(h)(5)(A) of the Social Security
Act (42 U.S.C. 1395ww(h)(5)(A)).
(2) Children's hospital.--The term ``children's hospital''
means a hospital described in section 1886(d)(1)(B)(iii) of the
Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395ww(d)(1)(B)(iii)).
(3) Direct graduate medical education costs.--The term
``direct graduate medical education costs'' has the meaning
given such term in section 1886(h)(5)(C) of the Social Security
Act (42 U.S.C. 1395ww(h)(5)(C)).
(4) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of Health and Human Services. | Children's Hospitals Education and Research Act of 1998 - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make payment as specified to each children's hospital for each hospital cost reporting period beginning during FY 1999 or 2000 for the direct and indirect expenses associated with operating approved medical residency training programs. States that such payments are in lieu of certain Medicare payments to hospitals for inpatient hospital services, but shall not affect the amounts otherwise payable to such hospitals under a State Medicaid plan. Makes appropriations for such payments for such fiscal years. | Children's Hospitals Education and Research Act of 1998 |
552 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Native American Education
Opportunity Act''.
SEC. 2. PURPOSE.
The purpose of this Act is to provide an additional education
option in certain States for Native American students served by schools
funded by the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
SEC. 3. NATIVE AMERICAN EDUCATION OPPORTUNITY PROGRAM.
Part B of title XI of the Education Amendments of 1978 (25 U.S.C.
2000 et seq.) is amended--
(1) by redesignating section 1141 as section 1142; and
(2) by inserting after section 1140 the following:
``SEC. 1141. BUREAU FUNDING OF STATE-BASED EDUCATION SAVINGS ACCOUNT
PROGRAMS.
``(a) Program Authorized.--
``(1) Bureau reimbursements.--From amounts made available
to carry out sections 1127 and 1130, the Secretary shall, for
the 2017-2018 school year and each subsequent school year,
reimburse a State with an education savings account program for
each grant that the State has made to an education savings
account for an ESA eligible student for such school year, in
accordance with subsection (b).
``(2) Applicability.--This section shall apply with respect
to ESA eligible students who have submitted their application
for an education savings account program to the State in which
the student lives or in which the reservation of the student is
located (as the case may be) on or after January 1, 2017.
``(b) Amount of Reimbursements.--
``(1) Amount.--The amount of the reimbursement made by the
Secretary under this subsection for an ESA eligible student
participating in an education savings account program for a
school year shall be the lesser of--
``(A) the amount of the grant provided by the State
for the education savings account of the ESA eligible
student for the applicable school year; and
``(B) 90 percent of the amount that the Secretary
would provide to a Bureau-funded school on behalf of
such student for the applicable school year under
sections 1127 and 1130.
``(2) Notification to states if additional reimbursement is
available.--In any case where the reimbursement available for
an ESA eligible student for a school year exceeds the amount of
the grant provided by the State under the education savings
account program, the Secretary shall notify the State of the
higher amount of reimbursement that the student could have
qualified for under paragraph (1)(B) for such school year.
``(3) Timing of reimbursements.--
``(A) Notification.--A State that provides an
education savings account program grant to an ESA
eligible student and desires a reimbursement under this
subsection shall submit a request for reimbursement and
notify the Secretary that includes the amount of the
grant.
``(B) Reimbursement.--Not later than 30 days after
the Secretary receives a request for reimbursement
under subparagraph (A) from a State, the Secretary will
reimburse a State for the grant.
``(4) Return of overpayments.--A State shall return to the
Secretary any overpayment made to the State under this section
by not later than 30 days after the final determination that
the State was overpaid pursuant to this section.
``(c) Affect on Allotments.--
``(1) In general.--For purposes of any calculation
regarding the total number of eligible Indian students under
section 1127, the Secretary shall include all ESA eligible
students who participate in an education savings account
program.
``(2) Availability of remainder.--In any case where the
reimbursement provided by the Secretary under subsection (b)(1)
is less than the amount that would be provided for the student
under subsection (b)(1)(B), the remaining amount shall remain
available to the Secretary to be used in accordance with this
part.
``(d) Information.--The Secretary shall work with Bureau-funded
schools located in each State with an education savings account program
to inform all parents of ESA eligible students about the education
savings account program of the State and the students' opportunity to
participate in the program.
``(e) Rule of Construction.--The reimbursement provided through an
education savings account program on behalf of an ESA eligible student
under this section shall be considered assistance to the student and
shall not be considered assistance to a school that enrolls the
eligible student or any other educational service provider from which
the eligible student receives services. The amounts provided on behalf
of an ESA eligible student under this section shall not be treated as
income of the parents for purposes of Federal tax laws or for
determining eligibility for any other Federal program.
``(f) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) ESA eligible student.--
``(A) In general.--The term `ESA eligible student'
means an individual who--
``(i) is--
``(I) an elementary school or
secondary school student who attended a
Bureau-funded school in the semester
preceding the date on which the student
first applies for an education savings
account program; or
``(II) a child who will be eligible
to attend a Bureau-funded school for
kindergarten or any other elementary
school grade in the next semester that
will start after the date on which the
student first applies for an education
savings account program;
``(ii) lives on the reservation of a tribe;
``(iii) will not be attending a Bureau-
funded school, or other public elementary
school or secondary school, for the school year
for which the student is participating in an
education savings account program of a State;
and
``(iv) meets any eligibility requirements
of the State education savings account program
in which the student will participate.
``(B) Period of eligibility.--A student who meets
the requirements of clause (i) of subparagraph (A) for
a school year shall be deemed to meet the requirements
of such clause until the date on which the student
graduates high school or reaches the age of 21 years,
whichever occurs first.
``(2) Education savings account program.--The term
`education savings account program' means an educational option
offered in a State to families of elementary and secondary
school students in which the State provides a grant to an
account controlled by a parent from which the parent may
purchase goods and services needed for the education of the
student.
``(3) Parent.--The term `parent' means a parent, guardian,
custodian, or other person--
``(A) with the authority to act on behalf of an ESA
eligible student; and
``(B) who is a resident of the State where the ESA
eligible student resides.''. | Native American Education Opportunity Act This bill amends the Education Amendments of 1978 to require the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) to reimburse states for grants made to education savings accounts for eligible students who: (1) attended or will be eligible to attend a BIA-funded school, (2) live on the reservation of a tribe, (3) will not be attending a BIA-funded school or other public elementary or secondary school for the applicable school year, and (4) meet applicable eligibility requirements. From education savings accounts, parents may purchase goods and services related to students' educational needs. | Native American Education Opportunity Act |
553 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Truth in Lending Act Amendments of
1995''.
SEC. 2. CERTAIN CHARGES.
(a) Third Party Fees.--Section 106(a) of the Truth in Lending Act
(15 U.S.C. 1605(a)) is amended by adding after the 2d sentence the
following new sentence: ``The finance charge shall not include fees and
amounts imposed by third party closing agents (including settlement
agents, attorneys, and escrow and title companies) if the creditor does
not require the imposition of the charges or the services provided and
does not retain the charges.''.
(b) Borrower-Paid Mortgage Broker Fees.--
(1) Inclusion in finance charge.--Section 106(a) of the Truth
in Lending Act (15 U.S.C. 1605(a)) is amended by adding at the end
the following new paragraph:
``(6) Borrower-paid mortgage broker fees, including fees paid
directly to the broker or the lender (for delivery to the broker)
whether such fees are paid in cash or financed.''.
(2) Effective date.--The amendment made by paragraph (1) shall
take effect on the earlier of--
(A) 60 days after the date on which the Board of Governors
of the Federal Reserve System issues final regulations under
paragraph (3); or
(B) the date that is 12 months after the date of the
enactment of this Act.
(3) Regulations implementing borrower-paid mortgage broker
fees.--The Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System shall
promulgate regulations implementing the amendment made by paragraph
(1) by no later than 6 months after the date of the enactment of
this Act.
(c) Taxes on Security Instruments or Evidences of Indebtedness.--
Section 106(d) of the Truth in Lending Act (15 U.S.C. 1605(d)) is
amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(3) Any tax levied on security instruments or on documents
evidencing indebtedness if the payment of such taxes is a
precondition for recording the instrument securing the evidence of
indebtedness.''.
(d) Preparation of Loan Documents.--Section 106(e)(2) of the Truth
in Lending Act (15 U.S.C. 1605(e)(2)) is amended to read as follows:
``(2) Fees for preparation of loan-related documents.''.
(e) Fees Relating to Pest Infestations, Inspections, and Hazards.--
Section 106(e)(5) of the Truth in Lending Act (15 U.S.C. 1605(e)(5)) is
amended by inserting ``, including fees related to any pest infestation
or flood hazard inspections conducted prior to closing'' before the
period.
(f) Ensuring Finance Charges Reflect Cost of Credit.--
(1) Report.--
(A) In general.--Not later than 6 months after the date of
the enactment of this Act, the Board of Governors of the
Federal Reserve System shall submit to the Congress a report
containing recommendations on any regulatory or statutory
changes necessary--
(i) to ensure that finance charges imposed in
connection with consumer credit transactions more
accurately reflect the cost of providing credit; and
(ii) to address abusive refinancing practices engaged
in for the purpose of avoiding rescission.
(B) Report requirements.--In preparing the report under
this paragraph, the Board shall--
(i) consider the extent to which it is feasible to
include in finance charges all charges payable directly or
indirectly by the consumer to whom credit is extended, and
imposed directly or indirectly by the creditor as an
incident to the extension of credit (especially those
charges excluded from finance charges under section 106 of
the Truth in Lending Act as of the date of the enactment of
this Act), excepting only those charges which are payable
in a comparable cash transaction; and
(ii) consult with and consider the views of affected
industries and consumer groups.
(2) Regulations.--The Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve
System shall prescribe any appropriate regulation in order to
effect any change included in the report under paragraph (1), and
shall publish the regulation in the Federal Register before the end
of the 1-year period beginning on the date of enactment of this
Act.
SEC. 3. TOLERANCES; BASIS OF DISCLOSURES.
(a) Tolerances for Accuracy.--Section 106 of the Truth in Lending
Act (15 U.S.C. 1605) is amended by adding at the end the following new
subsection:
``(f) Tolerances for Accuracy.--In connection with credit
transactions not under an open end credit plan that are secured by real
property or a dwelling, the disclosure of the finance charge and other
disclosures affected by any finance charge--
``(1) shall be treated as being accurate for purposes of this
title if the amount disclosed as the finance charge--
``(A) does not vary from the actual finance charge by more
than $100; or
``(B) is greater than the amount required to be disclosed
under this title; and
``(2) shall be treated as being accurate for purposes of
section 125 if--
``(A) except as provided in subparagraph (B), the amount
disclosed as the finance charge does not vary from the actual
finance charge by more than an amount equal to one-half of one
percent of the total amount of credit extended; or
``(B) in the case of a transaction, other than a mortgage
referred to in section 103(aa), which--
``(i) is a refinancing of the principal balance then
due and any accrued and unpaid finance charges of a
residential mortgage transaction as defined in section
103(w), or is any subsequent refinancing of such a
transaction; and
``(ii) does not provide any new consolidation or new
advance;
if the amount disclosed as the finance charge does not vary
from the actual finance charge by more than an amount equal to
one percent of the total amount of credit extended.''.
(b) Basis of Disclosure for Per Diem Interest.--Section 121(c) of
the Truth in Lending Act (15 U.S.C. 1631(c)) is amended by adding at
the end the following new sentence: ``In the case of any consumer
credit transaction a portion of the interest on which is determined on
a per diem basis and is to be collected upon the consummation of such
transaction, any disclosure with respect to such portion of interest
shall be deemed to be accurate for purposes of this title if the
disclosure is based on information actually known to the creditor at
the time that the disclosure documents are being prepared for the
consummation of the transaction.''.
SEC. 4. LIMITATION ON LIABILITY.
(a) In General.--Chapter 2 of the Truth in Lending Act (15 U.S.C.
1631 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following new
section:
``SEC. 139. CERTAIN LIMITATIONS ON LIABILITY.
``(a) Limitations on Liability.--For any consumer credit
transaction subject to this title that is consummated before the date
of the enactment of the Truth in Lending Act Amendments of 1995, a
creditor or any assignee of a creditor shall have no civil,
administrative, or criminal liability under this title for, and a
consumer shall have no extended rescission rights under section 125(f)
with respect to--
``(1) the creditor's treatment, for disclosure purposes, of--
``(A) taxes described in section 106(d)(3);
``(B) fees described in section 106(e)(2) and (5);
``(C) fees and amounts referred to in the 3rd sentence of
section 106(a); or
``(D) borrower-paid mortgage broker fees referred to in
section 106(a)(6);
``(2) the form of written notice used by the creditor to inform
the obligor of the rights of the obligor under section 125 if the
creditor provided the obligor with a properly dated form of written
notice published and adopted by the Board or a comparable written
notice, and otherwise complied with all the requirements of this
section regarding notice; or
``(3) any disclosure relating to the finance charge imposed
with respect to the transaction if the amount or percentage
actually disclosed--
``(A) may be treated as accurate for purposes of this title
if the amount disclosed as the finance charge does not vary
from the actual finance charge by more than $200;
``(B) may, under section 106(f)(2), be treated as accurate
for purposes of section 125; or
``(C) is greater than the amount or percentage required to
be disclosed under this title.
``(b) Exceptions.--Subsection (a) shall not apply to--
``(1) any individual action or counterclaim brought under this
title which was filed before June 1, 1995;
``(2) any class action brought under this title for which a
final order certifying a class was entered before January 1, 1995;
``(3) the named individual plaintiffs in any class action
brought under this title which was filed before June 1, 1995; or
``(4) any consumer credit transaction with respect to which a
timely notice of rescission was sent to the creditor before June 1,
1995.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for chapter 2 of the
Truth in Lending Act is amended by inserting after the item relating to
section 138 the following new item:
``139. Certain limitations on liability.''.
SEC. 5. LIMITATION ON RESCISSION LIABILITY.
Section 125 of the Truth in Lending Act (15 U.S.C. 1635) is further
amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(h) Limitation on Rescission.--An obligor shall have no
rescission rights arising solely from the form of written notice used
by the creditor to inform the obligor of the rights of the obligor
under this section, if the creditor provided the obligor the
appropriate form of written notice published and adopted by the Board,
or a comparable written notice of the rights of the obligor, that was
properly completed by the creditor, and otherwise complied with all
other requirements of this section regarding notice.''.
SEC. 6. CALCULATION OF DAMAGES.
Section 130(a)(2)(A) of the Truth in Lending Act (15 U.S.C.
1640(a)(2)(A)) is amended--
(1) by striking ``or (ii)'' and inserting ``(ii)''; and
(2) by inserting before the semicolon at the end the following:
``, or (iii) in the case of an individual action relating to a
credit transaction not under an open end credit plan that is
secured by real property or a dwelling, not less than $200 or
greater than $2,000''.
SEC. 7. ASSIGNEE LIABILITY.
(a) Violations Apparent on the Face of Transaction Documents.--
Section 131 of the Truth in Lending Act (15 U.S.C. 1641) is amended by
adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(e) Liability of Assignee for Consumer Credit Transactions
Secured by Real Property.--
``(1) In general.--Except as otherwise specifically provided in
this title, any civil action against a creditor for a violation of
this title, and any proceeding under section 108 against a
creditor, with respect to a consumer credit transaction secured by
real property may be maintained against any assignee of such
creditor only if--
``(A) the violation for which such action or proceeding is
brought is apparent on the face of the disclosure statement
provided in connection with such transaction pursuant to this
title; and
``(B) the assignment to the assignee was voluntary.
``(2) Violation apparent on the face of the disclosure
described.--For the purpose of this section, a violation is
apparent on the face of the disclosure statement if--
``(A) the disclosure can be determined to be incomplete or
inaccurate by a comparison among the disclosure statement, any
itemization of the amount financed, the note, or any other
disclosure of disbursement; or
``(B) the disclosure statement does not use the terms or
format required to be used by this title.''.
(b) Servicer Not Treated as Assignee.--Section 131 of the Truth in
Lending Act (15 U.S.C. 1641) is further amended by adding after
subsection (e) (as added by subsection (a) of this section) the
following new subsection:
``(f) Treatment of Servicer.--
``(1) In general.--A servicer of a consumer obligation arising
from a consumer credit transaction shall not be treated as an
assignee of such obligation for purposes of this section unless the
servicer is or was the owner of the obligation.
``(2) Servicer not treated as owner on basis of assignment for
administrative convenience.--A servicer of a consumer obligation
arising from a consumer credit transaction shall not be treated as
the owner of the obligation for purposes of this section on the
basis of an assignment of the obligation from the creditor or
another assignee to the servicer solely for the administrative
convenience of the servicer in servicing the obligation. Upon
written request by the obligor, the servicer shall provide the
obligor, to the best knowledge of the servicer, with the name,
address, and telephone number of the owner of the obligation or the
master servicer of the obligation.
``(3) Servicer defined.--For purposes of this subsection, the
term `servicer' has the same meaning as in section 6(i)(2) of the
Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act of 1974.
``(4) Applicability.--This subsection shall apply to all
consumer credit transactions in existence or consummated on or
after the date of the enactment of the Truth in Lending Act
Amendments of 1995.''.
SEC. 8. RESCISSION RIGHTS IN FORECLOSURE.
Section 125 of the Truth in Lending Act (15 U.S.C. 1635) is amended
by inserting after subsection (h) (as added by section 5 of this Act)
the following new subsection:
``(i) Rescission Rights in Foreclosure.--
``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding section 139, and subject to
the time period provided in subsection (f), in addition to any
other right of rescission available under this section for a
transaction, after the initiation of any judicial or nonjudicial
foreclosure process on the primary dwelling of an obligor securing
an extension of credit, the obligor shall have a right to rescind
the transaction equivalent to other rescission rights provided by
this section, if--
``(A) a mortgage broker fee is not included in the finance
charge in accordance with the laws and regulations in effect at
the time the consumer credit transaction was consummated; or
``(B) the form of notice of rescission for the transaction
is not the appropriate form of written notice published and
adopted by the Board or a comparable written notice, and
otherwise complied with all the requirements of this section
regarding notice.
``(2) Tolerance for disclosures.--Notwithstanding section
106(f), and subject to the time period provided in subsection (f),
for the purposes of exercising any rescission rights after the
initiation of any judicial or nonjudicial foreclosure process on
the principal dwelling of the obligor securing an extension of
credit, the disclosure of the finance charge and other disclosures
affected by any finance charge shall be treated as being accurate
for purposes of this section if the amount disclosed as the finance
charge does not vary from the actual finance charge by more than
$35 or is greater than the amount required to be disclosed under
this title.
``(3) Right of recoupment under state law.--Nothing in this
subsection affects a consumer's right of rescission in recoupment
under State law.
``(4) Applicability.--This subsection shall apply to all
consumer credit transactions in existence or consummated on or
after the date of the enactment of the Truth in Lending Act
Amendments of 1995.''.
Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Vice President of the United States and
President of the Senate. | Truth in Lending Act Amendments of 1995 - Amends the Truth in Lending Act (TILA) to exclude from the determination of finance charge for any consumer credit transaction fees imposed by third party closing agents, including settlement agents, attorneys, escrow and title companies, that are neither required nor retained by the creditor (thereby exempting such fees from TILA disclosure requirements).
Modifies the determination of finance charge to include borrower-paid mortgage broker fees.
Exempts from the required computation of finance charge: (1) certain taxes on security instruments or evidences of indebtedness if they are a prerequisite for recordation; (2) fees for loan document preparation; and (3) appraisal fees related to pest infestations and flood hazard inspections.
Instructs the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System to report to the Congress on statutory or regulatory changes necessary to: (1) ensure that finance charges more accurately reflect the cost of credit; and (2) address abusive refinancing practices intended to avoid rescission.
(Sec.3) Permits finance charge disclosures to vary within specified accuracy tolerance limits for certain consumer credit transactions secured by real property or a dwelling.
Sets disclosure accuracy guidelines for per diem interest rate disclosures on consumer credit transactions.
(Sec. 4) Shields a creditor or assignee, except in certain kinds of actions, from liability in connection with disclosures of: (1) certain fees, taxes, and charges; and (2) finance charges that fall within certain statutory tolerance limits.
(Sec. 5) Restricts rescission liability arising from the form of written notice used by the creditor.
(Sec. 6) Provides for damages ranging from $200 to $2,000 for an individual consumer credit transaction not under an open end credit plan that is secured by real property or a dwelling.
(Sec. 7) Modifies assignee liability guidelines to: (1) apply them to consumer credit transactions secured by real property; and (2) provide that a violation is apparent on the face of the disclosure statement if the disclosure does not use the format required by law.
States that the servicer of a consumer obligation arising from a consumer credit transaction shall not be treated as an assignee of an obligation unless the servicer owns it.
(Sec. 8) Identifies circumstances under which a consumer has a right to rescind a consumer credit transaction after the initiation of any judicial or nonjudicial foreclosure process on the consumer's primary dwelling securing the debt. | Truth in Lending Act Amendments of 1995 |
554 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; FINDINGS.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Stop
Counterfeiting in Manufactured Goods Act''.
(b) Findings.--The Congress finds that--
(1) the United States economy is losing millions of dollars
in tax revenue and tens of thousands of jobs because of the
manufacture, distribution, and sale of counterfeit goods;
(2) the International Chamber of Commerce estimates that
seven percent of world trade is in counterfeit manufactured
goods, and the counterfeit market is worth $350,000,000,000;
(3) counterfeit automobile parts, including brake pads,
cost the auto industry alone billions of dollars in lost sales
each year;
(4) counterfeit products have invaded numerous industries
including those producing auto parts, electrical appliances,
medicines, tools, toys, office equipment, clothing, and many
other products;
(5) ties have been established between counterfeiting and
terrorist organizations that use the sale of counterfeit goods
to raise and launder money;
(6) ongoing counterfeiting of manufactured goods poses a
widespread threat to public health and safety; and
(7) strong domestic criminal remedies against
counterfeiting will permit the United States to seek stronger
anticounterfeiting provisions in bilateral and international
agreements with trading partners.
SEC. 2. TRAFFICKING IN COUNTERFEIT MARKS.
Section 2320 of title 18, United States Code, is amended as
follows:
(1) Subsection (a) is amended by inserting after ``such
goods or services'' the following: ``or intentionally traffics
or attempts to traffic in counterfeit marks''.
(2) Subsection (b) is amended to read as follows:
``(b)(1) Upon a determination by a preponderance of the evidence
that any articles in the possession of a defendant in a prosecution
under this section bear or are counterfeit marks, the court shall order
the forfeiture and destruction of such articles, regardless of the
criminal culpability of the defendant.
``(2) The court, in imposing a sentence upon a person convicted of
a violation of this section, or upon a person who pleads guilty or nolo
contendre to a violation of this section, shall order, in addition to
any other sentence imposed, that the person forfeit to the United
States--
``(A) any property constituting or derived from any
proceeds the person obtained, directly or indirectly, as the
result of such violation; and
``(B) any of the person's property used, or intended to be
used, in any manner or part, to commit, facilitate, aid, or
abet the commission of such violation,
if the court in its discretion so determines, taking into account the
nature, scope, and proportionality of the use of the property in the
offense.
``(3) When a person is convicted of a violation of this section, or
pleads guilty or nolo contendre to a violation of this section, the
court, pursuant to sections 3556, 3663A(c)(1)(A)(ii), and 3664, shall
order the person to pay restitution to the owner of the mark and any
other victim of the offense.
``(4) The term `victim', as used in paragraph (3), shall have the
meaning given that term in section 3663A(a)(2).''.
(3) Subsection (e)(1) is amended--
(A) in subparagraph (A)(iii), by striking ``or''
after the semicolon; and
(B) by inserting after subparagraph (B) the
following:
``(C) a spurious mark--
``(i) that is identical with, or
substantially indistinguishable from, a mark
registered on the principal register in the
United States Patent and Trademark Office under
section 1 of the Lanham Act and in use, whether
or not the defendant knew such mark was so
registered; and
``(ii) that is applied to or consists of a
label, patch, sticker, wrapper, badge, emblem,
medallion, charm, box, container, can, case,
hangtag, documentation, or packaging of any
type or nature that is designed to be affixed
to, distributed with, consist of, or otherwise
accompany goods or services; or
``(D) a spurious mark--
``(i) that is used in connection with the
trafficking of goods or services; and
``(ii) that is identical with, or
substantially indistinguishable from, a famous
mark that is registered on the principal
register in the United States Patent and
Trademark Office under section 1 of the Lanham
Act and in use, regardless of the goods or
services or class of goods or services for
which the famous mark is registered, and
regardless of whether or not the defendant knew
such mark was so registered and famous;''.
(4) Section 2320 is further amended--
(A) by redesignating subsection (f) as subsection
(g); and
(B) by inserting after subsection (e) the
following:
``(f)(1) In determining whether a particular mark is a `famous
mark' under this section, the court may consider information, data,
testimony, and documentation regarding factors such as, but not limited
to--
``(A) the degree of inherent or acquired distinctiveness of
the mark;
``(B) the duration and extent of use of the mark;
``(C) the duration and extent of advertising and publicity
of the mark;
``(D) the geographical extent of the trading area in which
the mark is used;
``(E) the channels of trade in which the mark is used;
``(F) the degree of general public recognition of the mark;
``(G) the nature and extent of use of the same or similar
marks by third parties;
``(H) survey evidence; and
``(I) the record of successful criminal, civil, or
administrative enforcement of rights in the mark, including, in
particular, the extent to which the mark has been recognized as
being famous by Federal or State courts or administrative
authorities.
``(2) In order to qualify as a famous mark under this section, the
mark must be registered on the principal register of the United States
Patent and Trademark Office under section 1 of the Lanham Act.
``(3) The United States shall bear both the burden of proof and
persuasion with respect to the determination of whether a particular
mark is a famous mark under this section. Evidence, in the form of a
certified copy of a published court or administrative opinion, of a
prior determination, on the merits, by a Federal or State court or
administrative authority, holding that a particular mark is a famous
mark (regardless of whether the proceedings leading to the
determination were civil, criminal, or administrative in nature), shall
create a rebuttable presumption that the mark in question is a famous
mark.
``(4) A person may not be prosecuted under this section by virtue
of a mark that is a counterfeit mark if the person has, or is the agent
or employee of a legal entity that has, lawfully registered that mark
on the principal register of the United States Patent and Trademark
Office under section 1 of the Lanham Act and that registration is valid
at the time of the alleged offense.''. | Stop Counterfeiting in Manufactured Goods Act - Modifies Federal criminal code provisions regarding trafficking in counterfeit goods or services to prohibit trafficking in counterfeit marks. Directs the court: (1) upon a determination by a preponderance of the evidence that any articles in a defendant's possession bear or are counterfeit marks, to order the forfeiture and destruction of such articles, regardless of the defendant's criminal culpability; and (2) in imposing sentence, to order a person convicted of, or who pleads guilty or nolo contendre to, a violation to forfeit any property derived from proceeds of, or used in the commission of, the violation.
Modifies the definition of "counterfeit mark" to include a spurious mark that is applied to, or consists of, a label, patch or medallion.
Authorizes the court, in determining whether a particular mark is a "famous mark," to consider information, data, testimony, and documentation regarding specified factors, such as the degree of inherent or acquired distinctiveness and the degree of general public recognition of the mark, and the record of successful criminal, civil, or administrative enforcement of rights in the mark. Places upon the United States the burden of proof and persuasion regarding the determination of whether a particular mark is a famous mark.
Prohibits prosecution of a person by virtue of a counterfeit mark that has been lawfully registered and that is valid at the time of the alleged offense. | To amend title 18, United States Code, to provide criminal penalties for trafficking in counterfeit marks. |
555 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``El Camino Real de los Tejas National
Historic Trail Act of 2001''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds that--
(1) El Camino Real de los Tejas (the Royal Road to the
Tejas), served as the primary route between the Spanish
viceregal capital of Mexico City and the Spanish provincial
capital of Tejas at Los Adaes (1721-1773) and San Antonio
(1773-1821);
(2) the seventeenth, eighteenth, and early nineteenth
century rivalries among the European colonial powers of Spain,
France, and England and after their independence, Mexico and
the United States, for dominion over lands fronting the Gulf of
Mexico, were played out along the evolving travel routes in
this immense area;
(3) the future of several American Indian nations, whose
prehistoric trails were later used by the Spaniards for
exploration and colonization, was tied to these larger forces
and events and the nations were fully involved in and affected
by the complex cultural interactions that ensued;
(4) the Old San Antonio Road was a series of routes
established in the early 19th century sharing the same corridor
and some routes of El Camino Real, and carried American
immigrants from the east, contributing to the formation of the
Republic of Texas, and its annexation to the United States;
(5) the exploration, conquest, colonization, settlement,
migration, military occupation, religious conversion, and
cultural exchange that occurred in a large area of the
borderland was facilitated by El Camino Real de los Tejas as it
carried Spanish and Mexican influences northeastward, and by
its successor, the Old San Antonio Road, which carried American
influence westward, during a historic period which extended
from 1689 to 1850; and
(6) the portions of El Camino Real de los Tejas in what is
now the United States extended from the Rio Grande near Eagle
Pass and Laredo, Texas and involved routes that changed through
time, that total almost 2,600 miles in combined length,
generally coursing northeasterly through San Antonio, Bastrop,
Nacogdoches, and San Augustine in Texas to Natchitoches,
Louisiana, a general corridor distance of 550 miles.
SEC. 3. AUTHORIZATION AND ADMINISTRATION.
Section 5(a) of the National Trails System Act (16 U.S.C. 1244(a)
is amended as follows:
(1) By designating the paragraph relating to the Ala
Kahakai National Historic Trail as paragraph (21).
(2) By adding at the end the following:
``(23) El camino real de los tejas.--
``(A) In general.--El Camino Real de los Tejas (The
Royal Road to the Tejas) National Historic Trail, a
combination of routes totaling 2,580 miles in length
from the Rio Grande near Eagle Pass and Laredo, Texas
to Natchitoches, Louisiana, and including the Old San
Antonio Road, as generally depicted on the maps
entitled `El Camino Real de los Tejas', contained in
the report prepared pursuant to subsection (b) entitled
`National Historic Trail Feasibility Study and
Environmental Assessment: El Camino Real de los Tejas,
Texas-Louisiana', dated July 1998. A map generally
depicting the trail shall be on file and available for
public inspection in the Office of the National Park
Service, Department of the Interior. The trail shall be
administered by the Secretary of the Interior.
``(B) Coordination of activities.--The Secretary of
the Interior may coordinate with United States and
Mexican public and non-governmental organizations,
academic institutions, and, in consultation with the
Secretary of State, the Government of Mexico and its
political subdivisions, for the purpose of exchanging
trail information and research, fostering trail
preservation and educational programs, providing
technical assistance, and working to establish an
international historic trail with complementary
preservation and education programs in each nation.''.
SEC. 4. PRIVATE PROPERTY RIGHTS PROTECTION.
Designation of El Camino Real de los Tejas under this Act does not
itself confer any additional authority to apply other existing Federal
laws and regulations on non-Federal lands along the trail. Laws or
regulations requiring public entities and agencies to take into
consideration a national historic trail shall continue to apply
notwithstanding the foregoing. On non-Federal lands, the national
historic trail shall be established only when landowners voluntarily
request certification of their sites and segments of the trail
consistent with section 3(a)(3) of the National Trails System Act.
Notwithstanding section 7(g) of such Act, the United States is
authorized to acquire privately-owned real property or an interest in
such property for purposes of the trail only with the willing consent
of the owner of such property and shall have no authority to condemn or
otherwise appropriate privately-owned real property or an interest in
such property for the purposes of El Camino Real de los Tejas National
Historic Trail.
Passed the House of Representatives September 10, 2001.
Attest:
JEFF TRANDAHL,
Clerk. | El Camino Real de los Tejas National Historic Trail Act of 2001 - Amends the National Trails System Act to designate El Camino Real de los Tejas (from near Eagle Pass and Laredo, Texas, to Natchitoches, Louisiana) as a National Historic Trail. Sets forth protections for private property owners, including that privately-owned real property or property interests may be acquired only with the owner's willing consent. | To amend the National Trails System Act to designate El Camino Real de los Tejas as a National Historic Trail. |
556 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Mailing Support to Troops Act of
2004''.
SEC. 2. FREE MAILING PRIVILEGES.
Chapter 34 of title 39, United States Code, is amended by adding at
the end the following:
``Sec. 3407. Free postage for personal correspondence and parcels sent
by family members to members of the Armed Forces of the
United States serving in Iraq or Afghanistan
``(a) In General.--Any mail matter to which this section applies
may be mailed free of postage if such mail matter--
``(1) is addressed to an individual who--
``(A) is a member of the Armed Forces of the United
States on active duty (as defined in section 101 of
title 10); and
``(B)(i) is serving in Iraq or Afghanistan; or
``(ii) is hospitalized at a facility under the
jurisdiction of the Armed Forces of the United States
as a result of a disease or injury incurred as a result
of service in Iraq or Afghanistan; and
``(2) is sent--
``(A) by a family member (as defined in section
411h of title 37) of the individual referred to in
paragraph (1); and
``(B) from within an area served by a United States
post office.
``(b) Applicability.--The free mailing privilege made available by
this section--
``(1) shall apply with respect to--
``(A) letter mail or sound- or video-recorded
communications having the character of personal
correspondence; and
``(B) parcels not exceeding the maximum size
allowed by the Postal Service and the Department of
Defense for parcels sent to members of the Armed Forces
serving in Iraq or Afghanistan; and
``(2) shall not apply with respect to mail matter that
contains any advertising.
``(c) Rate of Postage.--Any mail matter mailed under this section
shall be mailed at the equivalent rate of postage which assures that
such mail matter will be sent by the most economical means practicable.
``(d) Marking.--All mail matter mailed under this section shall
bear, in the upper right-hand corner of the address area, the words
`Free Matter for Member of the Armed Forces of the United States' or
words to that effect specified by the Postal Service.
``(e) Regulations.--Not later than 30 days after the date of the
enactment of this section, the Postal Service shall, in consultation
with the Secretary of Defense, prescribe any regulations necessary to
carry out this section.
``(f) Duration.--The free mailing privilege made available by this
section shall apply with respect to mail matter sent during the 1-year
period beginning on the date on which the regulations under subsection
(e) take effect.''.
SEC. 3. FUNDING.
(a) In General.--Sections 2401(c) and 3627 of title 39, United
States Code, are amended by striking ``3406'' and inserting ``3407''.
(b) Air Transportation.--
(1) In general.--Section 2401 of title 39, United States
Code, is amended by redesignating subsections (d) through (g)
as subsections (e) through (h), respectively, and by inserting
after subsection (c) the following:
``(d) There are authorized to be appropriated to the Postal Service
each year a sum determined by the Postal Service to be equal to the
expenses incurred by the Postal Service in providing air transportation
for mail sent to members of the Armed Forces of the United States free
of postage under section 3407, not including the expense of air
transportation that is provided by the Postal Service at the same
postage rate or charge for mail which is not addressed to an Armed
Forces post office.''.
(2) Amendment to prevent duplicative funding.--Section
3401(e) of title 39, United States Code, is amended--
(A) by striking ``transportation or (2)'' and
inserting ``transportation, (2)''; and
(B) by striking ``office.'' and inserting ``office,
or (3) for which amounts are authorized to be
appropriated to the Postal Service under section
2401(d).''.
SEC. 4. TECHNICAL AND CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.
(a) Annual Budget.--Section 2009 of title 39, United States Code,
is amended in the next to last sentence by striking ``(b) and (c)'' and
inserting ``(b), (c), and (d)''.
(b) Comprehensive Plan References.--Sections 2803(a) and 2804(a) of
title 39, United States Code, are amended by striking ``2401(g)'' and
inserting ``2401(f)''.
(c) Chapter Analysis.--The analysis for chapter 34 of title 39,
United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
``3407. Free postage for personal correspondence and parcels sent by
family members to members of the Armed
Forces of the United States serving in Iraq
or Afghanistan.''. | Mailing Support to Troops Act of 2004 - Authorizes free mailing privileges for mail matter sent by a family member from within an area served by a U.S. post office to members of the Armed Forces on active duty in Iraq or Afghanistan, or hospitalized at an Armed Forces facility as a result of such service. | To amend title 39, United States Code, to provide for free mailing privileges for personal correspondence and parcels sent by family members from within the United States to members of the Armed Forces serving on active duty in Iraq or Afghanistan. |
557 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Milk Import Tariff Equity Act''.
SEC. 2. IMPOSITION OF TARIFF-RATE QUOTAS ON CERTAIN CASEIN AND MILK
CONCENTRATES.
(a) Casein and Casein Products.--
(1) In general.--The Additional U.S. notes to chapter 35 of
the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States are
amended--
(A) by striking ``Additional U.S. Note'' and
inserting ``Additional U.S. Notes'';
(B) in note 1, by striking ``subheading
3501.10.10'' and inserting ``subheadings 3501.10.05,
3501.10.15, and 3501.10.20''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following new note:
``2. The aggregate quantity of casein, caseinates, milk protein
concentrate, and other casein derivatives entered under subheadings
3501.10.15, 3501.10.65, and 3501.90.65 in any calendar year shall not
exceed 110 percent of the average quantity of such articles imported
into the United States during the preceding 3 calendar years, as
determined by the Secretary of Agriculture. Articles originating in a
country with which the United States has a free trade agreement in
force shall not be permitted or included under this quantitative
limitation and no such article shall be classifiable therein.''.
(2) Rates for certain caseins, caseinates, and other
derivatives and glues.--Chapter 35 of the Harmonized Tariff
Schedule of the United States is amended by striking
subheadings 3501.10 through 3501.90.60 and inserting the
following new subheadings, with the article descriptions for
subheadings 3501.10 and 3501.90 having the same degree of
indentation as the article description for subheading
3502.20.00:
``3501.10 Casein: ............................
Milk protein concentrate: ............................
3501.10.05 Described in general note 15 to 0.37 cent Free (A*, CA, CL, E, IL, J, 12 cents/
the tariff schedule and entered s/kg JO, MX, SG) 0.2 kg
pursuant to its provisions..... cents/kg (AU)
3501.10.15 Described in additional U.S. 0.37 cent Free (A*, CA, CL, E, IL, J, 12 cents/
note 2 to this chapter and s/kg JO, SG) 0.2 kg
entered according to its cents/kg (AU)
provisions.....................
3501.10.20 Other........................... $2.16/kg Free (MX) $2.81/kg
Other: ............................
3501.10.55 Suitable only for industrial Free ............................ Free
uses other than the manufacture
of food for humans or other
animals or as ingredients in
such food......................
Other: ............................
3501.10.60 Described in general note 15 to 0.37 cent Free (A*, CA, CL, E, IL, J, 12 cents/
the tariff schedule and s/kg JO, MX, SG) 0.2 kg
entered pursuant to its cents/kg (AU)
provisions....................
3501.10.65 Described in additional U.S. 0.37 cent Free (A*, CA, CL, E, IL, J, 12 cents/
note 2 to this chapter and s/kg JO, SG) 0.2 kg
entered according to its cents/kg (AU)
provisions....................
3501.10.70 Other.......................... $2.16/kg Free (MX) $2.81/kg
3501.90 Other: ............................
3501.90.05 Casein glues..................... 6% Free (A*, CA, CL, E, IL, J, 30%
JO, MX) 3% (SG)
4.5% (AU)
Other: ............................
3501.90.30 Suitable only for industrial 6% Free (A*, CA, CL, E, IL, J, 30%
uses other than the manufacture JO, MX, SG) 0.2
of food for humans or other cents/kg (AU)
animals or as ingredients in
such food......................
Other:.......................... ............................
3501.90.55 Described in general note 15 to 0.37 cent Free (A*, CA, CL, E, IL, J, 12.1 cent
the tariff schedule and s/kg JO, MX, SG) 0.2 s/kg
entered pursuant to its cents/kg (AU)
provisions....................
3501.90.65 Described in additional U.S. 0.37 cent Free (A*, CA, CL, E, IL, J, 12.1 cent
note 2 to this chapter and s/kg JO, SG) 0.2 s/kg
entered according to its cents/kg (AU)
provisions....................
3501.90.70 Other.......................... $2.16/kg Free (MX) $2.81/kg ''
.
(b) Milk Protein Concentrates.--
(1) In general.--The Additional U.S. notes to chapter 4 of
the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States are
amended--
(A) in note 13, by striking ``subheading
0404.90.10'' and inserting ``subheadings 0404.90.05,
0404.90.15, and 0404.90.20''; and
(B) by adding at the end the following new note:
``27. The aggregate quantity of milk protein concentrates entered
under subheading 0404.90.15 in any calendar year shall not exceed 110
percent of the average quantity of such articles imported into the
United States during the preceding 3 calendar years, as determined by
the Secretary of Agriculture. Articles originating in a country with
which the United States has a free trade agreement in force shall not
be permitted or included under this quantitative limitation and no such
article shall be classifiable therein.''.
(2) Rates for certain milk protein concentrates.--Chapter 4
of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States is
amended by striking subheadings 0404.90 through 0404.90.10 and
inserting the following new subheadings, with the article
description for subheading 0404.90 having the same degree of
indentation as the article description for subheading 0404.10
and with the article descriptions for subheadings 0404.90.05,
0404.90.15, and 0404.90.20 having the same degree of
indentation as the article description for subheading
0405.20.40:
``0404.90 Other: ............................
Milk protein concentrates: ............................
0404.90.05 Described in general note 15 to 0.37 cent Free (A*, CA, CL, E, IL, J, 12 cents/
the tariff schedule and entered s/kg JO, MX, SG) 0.2 cents/kg kg
pursuant to its provisions..... (AU)
0404.90.15 Described in additional U.S. 0.37 cent Free (A*, CA, CL, E, IL, J, 12 cents/
note 27 to this chapter and s/kg JO, SG) 0.2 kg
entered pursuant to its cents/kg (AU)
provisions.....................
0404.90.20 Other........................ $1.56/kg Free (MX) $2.02/kg ''
.
(c) Effective Date.--
(1) In general.--The amendments made by this section apply
to--
(A) goods entered, or withdrawn from warehouse for
consumption, on or after the first day of the first
month after the date that is 90 days after the date of
the enactment of this Act; or
(B) if the President notifies Congress that the
international obligations of the United States require
the President to enter into negotiations pursuant to an
existing trade agreement under section 3(a)(1), goods
entered, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption,
on or after the first day of the first month after the
date that is 150 days after the date of the enactment
of this Act.
(2) Transitional provisions.--
(A) Chapter 35.--Notwithstanding Additional U.S.
note 2 to chapter 35 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule
of the United States (as added by subsection (a)(1)(C)
of this section), in the case of any calendar year that
includes the effective date described in paragraph (1),
the aggregate amount of casein, caseinates, milk
protein concentrate, and other casein derivatives
entered under subheadings 3501.10.15, 3501.10.65, and
3501.90.65 shall not exceed an amount equal to--
(i) 110 percent of the average quantity of
such articles imported into the United States
during the preceding 3 calendar years, as
determined by the Secretary of Agriculture;
multiplied by
(ii) the quotient of--
(I) the number of calendar days
remaining in such calendar year
beginning with such effective date;
divided by
(II) 365 days.
(B) Chapter 4.--Notwithstanding Additional U.S.
note 27 to chapter 4 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule
of the United States (as added by subsection (b)(1)(B)
of this section), in the case of any calendar year that
includes the effective date described in paragraph (1),
the aggregate amount of milk protein concentrates
entered under subheading 0404.90.15 shall not exceed an
amount equal to--
(i) 110 percent of the average quantity of
such articles imported into the United States
during the preceding 3 calendar years, as
determined by the Secretary of Agriculture;
multiplied by
(ii) the quotient of--
(I) the number of calendar days
remaining in such calendar year
beginning with such effective date;
divided by
(II) 365 days.
SEC. 3. COMPENSATION AUTHORITY.
(a) In General.--If the provisions of section 2 require, the
President--
(1) may enter into a trade agreement, or enter into
negotiations pursuant to an existing trade agreement, with any
foreign country or instrumentality for the purpose of granting
new concessions as compensation in order to maintain the
general level of reciprocal and mutually advantageous
concessions; and
(2) may proclaim such modification or continuance of any
general rate of duty, or such continuance of duty-free or
excise treatment, or any quantitative limitation, as the
President determines to be required or appropriate to carry out
any such agreement.
(b) Limitations.--
(1) In general.--No proclamation shall be made pursuant to
subsection (a) decreasing any general rate of duty to a rate
which is less than 70 percent of the existing general rate of
duty.
(2) Special rule for certain duty reductions.--If the
general rate of duty in effect is an intermediate stage under
an agreement in effect before August 6, 2002, under section
1102(a) of the Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness Act of 1988 or
under an agreement entered into under section 2103 (a) or (b)
of the Bipartisan Trade Promotion Authority Act of 2002, the
proclamation made pursuant to subsection (a) may provide for
the reduction of each general rate of duty at each such stage
by not more than 30 percent of such general rate of duty, and
may provide for a final general rate of duty which is not less
than 70 percent of the general rate of duty proclaimed as the
final stage under such agreement.
(3) Rounding.--If the President determines that such action
will simplify the computation of the amount of duty computed
with respect to an article, the President may exceed the
limitations provided in paragraphs (1) and (2) by not more than
the lesser of--
(A) the difference between such limitation and the
next lower whole number, or
(B) one-half of 1 percent ad valorem. | Milk Import Tariff Equity Act - Amends the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States to impose tariff-rate quotas (quantitative import limits) and provide various duty rates on certain casein, caseinates, milk protein concentrate, and other casein derivatives and glues imported into the United States (except imports from a country which has entered into a free trade agreement with the United States).
Authorizes the President to: (1) enter into a trade agreement, or enter into negotiations pursuant to an existing trade agreement, with a foreign country to grant new concessions as compensation in order to maintain the general level of reciprocal and mutually advantageous concessions; and (2) proclaim any necessary modification or continuance of any existing duty, or continuance of existing duty-free or excise treatment, or any quantitative limitation. Sets forth certain limits on the reduction of duties on such products. | To impose tariff-rate quotas on certain casein and milk protein concentrates. |
558 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``527 Transparency Act of 2005''.
SEC. 2. REPORTING FREQUENCY IN NON-ELECTION YEARS INCREASED TO
QUARTERLY.
(a) In General.--Clause (ii) of section 527(j)(2)(A) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to required disclosure) is
amended to read as follows:
``(ii) quarterly reports, which shall be
filed not later than the fifteenth 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 not later than January 31 of the
following calendar year.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by subsection (a) shall
apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2005.
SEC. 3. FAILURE OF 527 ORGANIZATION TO COMPLY WITH DISCLOSURE
REQUIREMENTS.
(a) Excise Tax on Managers.--
(1) In general.--Subchapter C of chapter 42 of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by adding at the end the
following new section:
``SEC. 4956. TAX ON FAILURE OF POLITICAL ORGANIZATIONS TO MEET
DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS.
``(a) Tax Imposed.--In the case of a failure of a political
organization to meet the disclosure requirements of section 527(j) with
respect to any contribution to or expenditure from the political
organization, there is hereby imposed on the political organization a
tax for each such failure.
``(b) Amount of Tax.--The tax imposed by subsection (a) shall be 30
percent of the total amount of the contribution or expenditure with
respect to which such failure occurred.
``(c) Liability for Tax.--
``(1) In general.--Except as provided by paragraph (2), the
tax imposed by subsection (a) shall be paid by the political
organization.
``(2) Joint and several liability of organization
managers.--Each organization manager of the political
organization shall be jointly and severally liable for any tax
imposed under subsection (a).
``(d) Organization Manager.--For purposes of this section, the term
`organization manager' means any officer, director, or trustee of the
political organization (or individual having powers or responsibilities
similar to those of an officer, director, or trustee).
``(e) Political Organization.--The term `political organization'
shall have the meaning given such term by section 527(e)(1).''.
(2) Conforming amendments.--
(A) The heading for subchapter C of chapter 42 of
such Code is amended by adding at the end the
following: ``; Failure of Political Organizations to
Meet Reporting Requirements''.
(B) The table of sections for such subchapter C is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 4956. Tax on failure of political organizations to meet
disclosure requirements.''.
(C) The item in the table of subchapters of such
chapter 42 relating to subchapter C is amended to read
as follows:
``subchapter c. political expenditures of section 501(c)(3)
organizations; failure of political organizations to meet reporting
requirements''.
(3) Effective date.--The amendments made by this subsection
shall apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2005.
(b) Denial of Gift Tax Exclusion.--
(1) In general.--Paragraph (4) of section 2501(a) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to taxable transfers)
is amended to read as follows:
``(4) Transfers to political organizations.--
``(A) In general.--Paragraph (1) shall not apply to
the transfer of money or other property to a political
organization (within the meaning of section 527(e)(1))
for the use of such organization.
``(B) Exception for failure of organization to meet
disclosure requirements.--Subparagraph (A) shall not
apply to any transfer in a calendar year for which the
political organization fails to make the disclosures
required by section 527(j).''.
(2) Notice to contributors of denial of gift tax exception
for failure to disclose.--Section 527(j) of such Code is
amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(8) Notice to contributors of denial of gift tax
exception for failure to disclose.--In the case of a final
determination by the Secretary that a failure described in
paragraph (1)(A) with respect to an organization occurred, the
organization shall, not later than 90 days after the date of
such determination, provide written notice of such failure to
each contributor to the organization for the calendar year in
which such failure occurred. Such notice shall include a
statement that the exception under section 2501(a)(4)(A) does
not apply to any contribution to the organization in such
calendar year.''.
(3) Effective date.--The amendments made by this subsection
shall apply to transfers made after December 31, 2005. | 527 Transparency Act of 2005 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise disclosure requirements for tax-exempt political organizations (527 organizations) to require quarterly (instead of semiannual) reporting of contributions and expenditures in non-election years. Imposes a penalty tax on political organizations that fail to meet disclosure requirements. Denies a gift tax exclusion for donations to political organizations that fail to meet disclosure requirements. | To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to impose penalties for the failure of 527 organizations to comply with disclosure requirements. |
559 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Improving No Child Left Behind
Act''.
SEC. 2. REFERENCES.
Except as otherwise specifically provided, whenever in this Act an
amendment or repeal is expressed in terms of an amendment to, or a
repeal of, a section or other provision, the reference shall be
considered to be made to a section or other provision of the Elementary
and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6301 et seq.).
SEC. 3. ADEQUATE YEARLY PROGRESS.
(a) Accountability.--Section 1111(b)(2) (20 U.S.C. 6311(b)(2)) is
amended--
(1) in subparagraph (I)(ii)--
(A) by striking ``95 percent'' the first place the
term appears and inserting ``90 percent (which
percentage shall be based on criteria established by
the State in the State plan)''; and
(B) by striking ``95 percent'' the second place the
term appears and inserting ``90 percent'';
(2) by redesignating subparagraph (K) as subparagraph (N);
and
(3) by inserting, after subparagraph (J), the following:
``(K) Single count of students.--In meeting the
definition of adequate yearly progress under
subparagraph (C), a student who may be counted in 2 or
more groups described in subparagraph (C)(v)(II), may
be counted as an equal fraction of 1 for each such
group.
``(L) Students with disabilities requiring
alternate assessments.--Notwithstanding any other
provision of this part, a State may implement the
amendments made to part 200 of title 34, Code of
Federal Regulations on December 9, 2003 (68 Fed. Reg.
68698) (related to achievement of students with
significant cognitive disabilities) as if such
amendments--
``(i) permitted the proficient or advanced
scores on alternate assessments of not more
than 3.0 percent of all tested students to be
considered as proficient or advanced,
respectively, for the purposes of determining
adequate yearly progress, except that--
``(I) any assessment given to any
such so considered student for the
purposes of determining such adequate
yearly progress shall be required by
the individualized education program of
such so considered student;
``(II) the individualized education
program shall reflect the need for any
such alternate assessment based on the
evaluation of such so considered
student and the services provided such
so considered student under section 614
of the Individuals with Disabilities
Education Act; and
``(III) the individualized
education program shall include written
consent from the parent of such so
considered student prior to such
alternate assessment being
administered;
``(ii) used the term `students requiring
alternate assessments' in lieu of the term
`students with the most significant cognitive
disabilities'; and
``(iii) permitted the eligibility, of such
so considered students to have the students'
scores of proficient or advanced on alternate
assessments counted as proficient or advanced
for purposes of determining adequate yearly
progress, to be determined by the State
educational agency, except that such
eligibility shall, at a minimum, include--
``(I) such so considered students
who are receiving services pursuant to
a plan required under section 504 of
the Rehabilitation Act of 1973;
``(II) the students described in
subclause (I) who are assessed at a
grade level below the grade level in
which the students are enrolled (out of
level assessments); and
``(III) the students described in
subclause (I) who are considered
students with the most significant
cognitive disabilities, as defined by
the State educational agency, on the
day before the date of enactment of the
Improving No Child Left Behind Act.
``(M) Other measures of adequate yearly progress.--
Notwithstanding any other provision of this paragraph,
a State may establish in the State plan an alternative
definition of adequate yearly progress, subject to
approval by the Secretary under subsection (e). Such
alternative definition may--
``(i) include measures of student
achievement over a period of time (such as a
value added accountability system) or the
progress of some or all of the groups of
students described in subparagraph (C)(v) to
the next higher level of achievement described
in subparagraph (II) or (III) of paragraph
(1)(D)(ii) as a factor in determining whether a
school, local educational agency, or State has
made adequate yearly progress, as described in
this paragraph; or
``(ii) use the measures of achievement or
the progress of groups described in clause (i)
as the sole basis for determining whether the
State, or a local educational agency or school
within the State, has made adequate yearly
progress, if--
``(I) the primary goal of such
definition is that all students in each
group described in subparagraph (C)(v)
meet or exceed the proficient level of
academic achievement, established by
the State, not later than 12 years
after the end of the 2001-2002 school
year; and
``(II) such definition includes
intermediate goals, as required under
subparagraph (H).''.
(b) Assessments.--Section 1111(b)(3)(C) (20 U.S.C. 6311(b)(3)(C))
is amended--
(1) in clause (ix), by striking subclause (III) and
inserting the following:
``(III) the inclusion of limited
English proficient students, who--
``(aa) may, consistent with
paragraph (2)(M), be assessed,
as determined by the local
educational agency, through the
use of an assessment which
requires achievement of
specific gains for up to 3
school years from the first
year the student is assessed
for the purposes of this
subsection;
``(bb) may, at the option
of the State educational
agency, be assessed in the
first year the student attends
school in the United States
(not including the Commonwealth
of Puerto Rico); and
``(cc) shall not be
included in any calculation of
an adequate yearly progress
determination when the student
is in the first year of
attendance at a school in the
United States (not including
the Commonwealth of Puerto
Rico).''; and
(2) in clause (x), by inserting ``of clause (ix)'' after
``subclause (III)''.
(c) Regulations Affecting Limited English Proficient Children and
Children With Disabilities.--Section 1111 (20 U.S.C. 6311) is amended
by adding at the end the following:
``(n) Codification of Regulations Affecting Limited English
Proficient Children.--Notwithstanding any other provision of this part,
this part shall be implemented consistent with the amendments proposed
to part 200 of title 34 of the Code of Federal Regulations on June 24,
2004 (69 Fed. Reg. 35462) (relating to the assessment of limited
English proficient children and the inclusion of limited English
proficient children in subgroups) as if such amendments permitted
students who were previously identified as limited English proficient
to be included in the group described in subsection
(b)(2)(C)(v)(II)(dd) for 3 additional years, as determined by a local
educational agency (based on the individual needs of a child) for the
purposes of determining adequate yearly progress.''.
SEC. 4. SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT AND PUBLIC SCHOOL CHOICE.
Section 1116(b) (20 U.S.C. 6316(b)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)--
(A) in subparagraph (A), by inserting ``(in the
same subject for the same group of students, as
described in section 1111(b)(2)(C)(v))'' after ``2
consecutive years'';
(B) in subparagraph (E)(i)--
(i) by striking ``In the case'' and
inserting ``Except as provided in subparagraph
(G), in the case''; and
(ii) by striking ``all students enrolled in
the school with the option to transfer to
another public school'' and inserting
``students who failed to meet the proficient
level of achievement on the assessments
described in section 1111(b)(3), are enrolled
in the school, and are in the group whose
academic performance caused the identification
under this paragraph, with the option to
transfer to one other public school identified
by and''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(G) Options.--A local educational agency may
offer supplemental educational services as described in
subsection (e) in place of the option to transfer to
another public school described in subparagraph (E),
for the first school year a school is identified for
improvement under this paragraph.'';
(2) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A) of paragraph
(5), by inserting ``(in the same subject for the same group of
students)'' after ``adequate yearly progress''; and
(3) in the matter preceding clause (i) of paragraph (7)(C),
by inserting ``(in the same subject for the same group of
students)'' after ``adequate yearly progress''. | Improving No Child Left Behind Act - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to alter requirements for adequate yearly progress (AYP) assessments of student groups by: (1) lowering, from 95% to 90%, the minimum percentage of students in each group in a school that must take such assessments; (2) allowing the fractional counting of students who are in more than one group, for each such group; (3) allowing states to treat as proficient or advanced specified scores on alternate assessments for disabled students and those not proficient in English; and (4) allowing states to use alternative methods of defining AYP.
Revises criteria for local educational agency identification of schools needing improvement. Declares that only those meet such criteria that fail AYP standards, for two consecutive school years (as under current law), in the same subject for the same group of students.
Revises eligibility criteria for school transfers after a school is identified as needing improvement. Declares that only failing students in the failing group, instead of all students in such a school, may transfer. Allows such schools to provide students with supplemental services rather than transfers during that school year. | A bill to improve the amendments made by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001. |
560 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Adoption Awareness Act of 1999''.
SEC. 2. GRANTS FOR CERTAIN ACTIVITIES TOWARD PROMOTING ADOPTION
COUNSELING.
Subpart I of part D of title III of the Public Health Service Act
(42 U.S.C. 254b et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following
section:
``SEC. 330D. CERTAIN SERVICES FOR PREGNANT WOMEN.
``(a) Adoption Counseling.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall make grants to
national adoption organizations for the purpose of developing
and implementing programs to train the staff of eligible health
centers in providing adoption counseling to pregnant women and
infertile married couples. With respect to such a grant--
``(A) a national adoption organization may expend
the grant to carry out the programs directly or through
grants to or contracts with other adoption
organizations;
``(B) the purposes for which the national adoption
organization expends the grant may include the
development of a training curriculum; and
``(C) a condition for the receipt of the grant is
that, with respect to an eligible health center for
which such training is to be provided, the national
adoption organization agree to make reasonable
efforts--
``(i) to provide such training at the
center or at a site that is near the center;
and
``(ii) to provide the training through
individuals who are experienced in providing
adoption counseling in the geographic area in
which the center is located.
``(2) Adoption organizations; eligible health centers;
other definitions.--For purposes of this section:
``(A) The term `adoption organization' means an
organization--
``(i) whose primary purpose is the
promotion of adoption;
``(ii) that is knowledgeable on the process
for adopting a child and on providing adoption
counseling to pregnant women; and
``(iii) that is a nonprofit private entity.
``(B) The term `eligible health centers' means
public and nonprofit private entities that provide
health-related services to pregnant women.
``(C) The term `married couples' means couples who
have entered into marriage as defined in section 7 of
title 1, United States Code.
``(3) Training for certain eligible health centers.--A
condition for the receipt of a grant under paragraph (1) is
that the national adoption organization involved agree to make
reasonable efforts to ensure that the eligible health centers
with respect to which training under the grant is provided
include--
``(A) eligible health centers that receive grants
under section 1001 (relating to voluntary family
planning projects);
``(B) eligible health centers that receive grants
under section 330 (relating to community health
centers, migrant health centers, and centers regarding
homeless individuals and residents of public housing);
``(C) eligible health centers that receive grants
under this Act for the provision of services in
schools; and
``(D) eligible health centers that do not perform
or make referrals for abortions, or provide or make
referrals for counseling that presents abortion as an
option.
``(4) Participation of certain eligible health clinics.--In
the case of eligible health centers that receive grants under
section 330 or 1001, the Secretary shall provide for the
training of the staff of such centers through the program under
paragraph (1), subject to subsection (c)(4).
``(b) Requirements Regarding Federally-Funded Family Planning
Services.--The Secretary shall require that each program providing
voluntary family planning services with a grant from the Secretary
provide nondirective counseling and referrals regarding--
``(1) prenatal care and delivery;
``(2) infant care;
``(3) foster care; and
``(4) adoption.
``(c) Religious Organizations.--
``(1) In general.--Religious organizations may receive
grants under subsection (a) on the same basis as any other
nongovernmental provider without impairing the religious
character of such organizations, and without diminishing the
religious freedom of beneficiaries of assistance funded under
such program.
``(2) Nondiscrimination against religious organizations.--
Religious organizations are eligible for grants under
subsection (a) on the same basis as any other nonprofit private
entity as long as the programs are implemented consistent with
the Establishment Clause of the United States Constitution. The
Federal Government shall not discriminate against an
organization that applies to receive such a grant on the basis
that the organization has a religious character.
``(3) Religious character and freedom.--
``(A) Religious organizations.--A religious
organization receiving a grant under subsection (a)
shall retain its independence from Federal, State, and
local governments, including such organization's
control over the definition, development, practice, and
expression of its religious beliefs.
``(B) Additional safeguards.--The Federal
Government shall not require a religious organization
receiving a grant under subsection (a)--
``(i) to alter its form of internal
governance; or
``(ii) to remove religious art, icons,
scripture, or other symbols;
in order to be eligible for a grant under subsection
(a).
``(4) Rights of beneficiaries of assistance.--
``(A) In general.--If an individual described in
subparagraph (B) has an objection to the religious
character of the organization from which the individual
receives services pursuant to a grant under subsection
(a), the organization shall provide such individual,
within a reasonable period of time after the date of
such objection, with services from an alternative
provider that is accessible to the individual and the
value of which is not less than the value of the
services that the individual would have received from
such organization.
``(B) Individual described.--An individual
described in this subparagraph is an individual who
receives, applies for, or requests to apply for,
services under a program carried out with a grant under
subsection (a).
``(5) Employment practices.--A religious organization's
exemption provided under section 702 of the Civil Rights Act of
1964 regarding employment practices shall not be affected by
its participation in, or receipt of funds from, a program
carried out with a grant under subsection (a).
``(6) Nondiscrimination against beneficiaries.--Except as
otherwise provided in law, a religious organization shall not
discriminate against an individual in regard to providing
services under a grant under subsection (a) on the basis of
religion, a religious belief, or refusal to actively
participate in a religious practice.
``(7) Fiscal accountability.--
``(A) In general.--Except as provided in
subparagraph (B), any religious organization receiving
a grant under subsection (a) shall be subject to the
same regulations as other grantees under such
subsection to account in accord with generally accepted
auditing principles for the expenditure of the grant.
``(B) Limited audit.--If a religious organization
receiving a grant under subsection (a) segregates the
grant funds into separate accounts, then only such
funds shall be subject to audit.
``(8) Compliance.--Any party which seeks to enforce its
rights under this subsection may assert a civil action for
injunctive relief exclusively in an appropriate State court
against the entity or agency that allegedly commits such
violation.
``(9) Preemption.--Nothing in this subsection shall be
construed to preempt any provision of a State constitution or
State statute that prohibits or restricts the expenditure of
State funds in or by religious organizations.
``(10) Limitations on use of funds for certain purposes.--A
grant under subsection (a) may not be expended for sectarian
worship, instruction, or proselytization.
``(d) Application for Grant.--The Secretary may make a grant under
subsection (a) only if an application for the grant is submitted to the
Secretary and the application is in such form, is made in such manner,
and contains such agreements, assurances, and information as the
Secretary determines to be necessary to carry out this section.
``(e) Authorization of Appropriations.--For the purpose of carrying
out this section, there are authorized to be appropriated $7,000,000
for fiscal year 2000, and such sums as may be necessary for each of the
fiscal years 2001 through 2004.''. | Makes it a condition for receipt of such a grant that the national adoption organization involved agree to make reasonable efforts to ensure that the eligible health centers with respect to which training under the grant is provided include centers that: (1) receive grants relating to voluntary family planning projects; (2) receive grants relating to community health centers, migrant health centers, and centers regarding homeless individuals and residents of public housing; (3) receive grants for the provision of services in schools; and (4) do not perform or make referrals for abortions, or provide or make referrals for counseling that presents abortion as an option.
Directs the Secretary to require programs providing voluntary family planning services with such a grant to provide nondirective counseling and referrals regarding prenatal care and delivery, infant care, foster care, and adoption.
Makes religious organizations eligible for such grants without discrimination and mandates their independence from Federal, State, and local governments, providing certain safeguards to ensure such independence.
Provides the beneficiaries of assistance from religious organizations with certain rights, including the right not to be discriminated against by the religious organization.
Authorizes appropriations. | Adoption Awareness Act of 1999 |
561 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Oregon Caves Revitalization Act of
2011''.
SEC. 2. PURPOSE.
The purpose of this Act is to add surrounding land to the
Monument--
(1) to enhance the protection of the resources associated
with the Monument; and
(2) to increase public recreation opportunities.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Map.--The term ``map'' means the map titled ``Oregon
Caves National Monument and Preserve'' numbered 150/80,023, and
dated May 2010.
(2) Monument.--The term ``Monument'' means the Oregon Caves
National Monument established by Presidential Proclamation
Number 876 (36 Stat. 2497), dated July 12, 1909.
(3) National preserve.--The term ``National Preserve''
means the National Preserve designated by section 4(a).
(4) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of the Interior.
(5) Secretary concerned.--The term ``Secretary concerned''
means--
(A) the Secretary of Agriculture (acting through
the Chief of the Forest Service), with respect to
National Forest System land; and
(B) the Secretary of the Interior, with respect to
land managed by the Bureau of Land Management.
(6) State.--The term ``State'' means the State of Oregon.
SEC. 4. DESIGNATION; LAND TRANSFER; BOUNDARY ADJUSTMENT.
(a) In General.--The Monument shall be known and designated as the
``Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve''. The land identified on
the map as ``Proposed Addition Lands'' shall be designated as a
National Preserve.
(b) Land Transfer.--The Secretary of Agriculture shall--
(1) transfer approximately 4,070 acres of land identified
on the map as the ``Proposed Addition Lands'' to the Secretary
to be administered as part of the Oregon Caves National
Monument and Preserve; and
(2) adjust the boundary of the Rogue River-Siskiyou
National Forest to exclude the land transferred under paragraph
(1).
(c) Boundary Adjustment.--The boundary of the National Monument is
modified to exclude approximately 4 acres of land--
(1) located in the City of Cave Junction; and
(2) identified on the map as the ``Cave Junction Unit'', as
depicted on the map.
(d) Availability of Map.--The map shall be on file and available
for public inspection in the appropriate offices of the National Park
Service.
(e) References.--Any reference in a law, map, regulation, document,
paper, or other record of the United States to the Monument shall be
considered to be a reference to the ``Oregon Caves National Monument
and Preserve''.
SEC. 5. ADMINISTRATION.
(a) In General.--The Secretary, acting through the Director of the
National Park Service, shall administer the National Monument and
Preserve in accordance with--
(1) this Act;
(2) Presidential Proclamation Number 876 (36 Stat. 2497),
dated July 12, 1909; and
(3) any law (including regulations) generally applicable to
units of the National Park System, including the National Park
Service Organic Act (16 U.S.C. 1 et seq.).
(b) Fire Management.--As soon as practicable after the date of
enactment of this Act, in accordance with subsection (a), the Secretary
shall revise the fire management plan for the Monument to include the
National Preserve and, in accordance with the revised plan, carry out
hazardous fuel management activities within the boundaries of the
National Monument and Preserve.
(c) Existing Forest Service Contracts.--The Secretary shall allow
for the completion of existing Forest Service stewardship and service
contracts executed as of the date of enactment of this Act and shall
recognize the authority of the Secretary of Agriculture for the purpose
of administering the existing Forest Service contracts through their
completion. All terms and conditions of existing Forest Service
contracts shall remain in place for the duration of those contracts.
Any such liability existing at the time of enactment of this Act shall
be that of the Forest Service.
(d) Grazing.--The Secretary may allow the grazing of livestock
within the preserve to continue where authorized under permits or
leases in existence as of the date of enactment of this Act. Grazing
shall be at no more than the current level, as measured in Animal Unit
Months, and subject to applicable laws and National Park Service
regulations.
SEC. 6. VOLUNTARY GRAZING LEASE OR PERMIT DONATION PROGRAM.
(a) Donation of Lease or Permit.--
(1) Acceptance by secretary concerned.--The Secretary
concerned shall accept the donation of a grazing lease or
permit from a leasee or permittee for--
(A) the Big Grayback Grazing Allotment located in
the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest; and
(B) the Billy Mountain Grazing Allotment located on
a parcel of land that is managed by the Secretary
(acting through the Director of the Bureau of Land
Management).
(2) Termination.--With respect to each permit or lease
donated under subparagraph (a), the Secretary shall--
(A) terminate the grazing permit or lease; and
(B) ensure a permanent end to grazing on the land
covered by the permit or lease.
(b) Effect of Donation.--A lessee or permittee that donates a
grazing lease or grazing permit (or a portion of a grazing lease or
grazing permit) under this section shall be considered to have waived
any claim to any range improvement on the associated grazing allotment
or portion of the associated grazing allotment, as applicable.
SEC. 7. HUNTING, FISHING, AND TRAPPING.
(a) In General.--Except as provided in subsection (b), the
Secretary shall permit hunting, fishing, and trapping on land and water
within the National Preserve in accordance with each applicable law
(including regulations) of the Federal Government and the State.
(b) Administrative Exceptions.--In accordance with subsection (c),
the Secretary may designate areas in which, and establish limited
periods during which, no hunting, fishing, or trapping may be permitted
within the National Preserve due to concerns relating to--
(1) public safety;
(2) the administration of the National Preserve; or
(3) the compliance by the Secretary with any applicable law
(including regulations).
(c) Consultation With Appropriate State Agency.--Except to respond
to a situation that the Secretary determines to be an emergency, the
Secretary shall consult with the appropriate agency of the State before
taking any act to close any area within the National Preserve to
hunting, fishing, or trapping.
SEC. 8. EFFECT.
Nothing in this Act affects the authority or responsibility of the
State to carry out any law or duty of the State relating to fish and
wildlife on areas located within the National Preserve.
SEC. 9. WILD AND SCENIC RIVER DESIGNATION, RIVER STYX, OREGON.
Section 3(a) of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act (16 U.S.C. 1274(a))
is amended by inserting the following paragraph:
``(__) River styx, oregon.--The subterranean segment of
Cave Creek, known as the River Styx, to be administered by the
Secretary of the Interior as a scenic river.''.
SEC. 10. WILD AND SCENIC RIVER DESIGNATION FOR STUDY.
Section 5(a) of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act (16 U.S.C. 1276(a))
is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(__) Oregon caves national monument and preserve,
oregon.--
``(A) Cave creek, oregon.--The 2.6-mile segment of
Cave Creek from the headwaters at the River Styx to the
boundary of the Rogue River Siskiyou National Forest.
``(B) Lake creek, oregon.--The 3.6-mile segment of
Lake Creek from the headwaters at Bigelow Lakes to the
confluence with Cave Creek.
``(C) No name creek, oregon.--The 0.6-mile segment
of No Name Creek from the headwaters to the confluence
with Cave Creek.
``(D) Panther creek.--The 0.8-mile segment of
Panther Creek from the headwaters to the confluence
with Lake Creek.
``(E) Upper cave creek.--The segment of Upper Cave
Creek from the headwaters to the confluence with River
Styx.''.
SEC. 11. STUDY AND REPORT.
Section 5(b) of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act (16 U.S.C. 1276(b))
is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(__) Oregon caves national monument and preserve,
oregon.--Not later than 3 years after funds are made available
to carry out this paragraph, the Secretary shall complete the
study of the Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve
segments designated for study in subsection (a), and shall
submit to Congress a report containing the results of the
study.''. | Oregon Caves Revitalization Act of 2011 - Redesignates the Oregon Caves National Monument as the Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve.
Directs the Secretary of Agriculture (USDA) to transfer certain land identified as proposed addition lands to the Secretary of the Interior (the Secretary) and adjust the boundary of the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest to exclude such lands transferred by the Secretary.
Directs the Secretaries to accept the donation of a grazing lease or permit from a lessee or permittee for the Big Grayback Grazing Allotment located in the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest or the Billy Mountain Grazing Allotment located on a parcel of BLM-managed land.
Amends the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to designate the subterranean segment of the Cave Creek in Oregon known as the River Styx as a component of the national wild and scenic rivers system and certain additional segments of the Monument and Preserve for study for potential addition to the system. | To modify the boundary of the Oregon Caves National Monument, and for other purposes. |
562 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Red River National Wildlife Refuge
Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds the following:
(1) The area of Louisiana known as the Red River Valley,
located along the Red River Waterway in Caddo, Bossier, Red River,
Natchitoches, and De Soto Parishes, is of critical importance to
over 350 species of birds (including migratory and resident
waterfowl, shore birds, and neotropical migratory birds), aquatic
life, and a wide array of other species associated with river basin
ecosystems.
(2) The bottomland hardwood forests of the Red River Valley
have been almost totally cleared. Reforestation and restoration of
native habitat will benefit a host of species.
(3) The Red River Valley is part of a major continental
migration corridor for migratory birds funneling through the mid
continent from as far north as the Arctic Circle and as far south
as South America.
(4) There are no significant public sanctuaries for over 300
river miles on this important migration corridor, and no
significant Federal, State, or private wildlife sanctuaries along
the Red River north of Alexandria, Louisiana.
(5) Completion of the lock and dam system associated with the
Red River Waterway project up to Shreveport, Louisiana, has
enhanced opportunities for management of fish and wildlife.
(6) The Red River Valley offers extraordinary recreational,
research, and educational opportunities for students, scientists,
bird watchers, wildlife observers, hunters, anglers, trappers,
hikers, and nature photographers.
(7) The Red River Valley is an internationally significant
environmental resource that has been neglected and requires active
restoration and management to protect and enhance the value of the
region as a habitat for fish and wildlife.
SEC. 3. ESTABLISHMENT AND PURPOSES OF REFUGE.
(a) Establishment.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall establish the Red River
National Wildlife Refuge, consisting of approximately 50,000 acres
of Federal lands, waters, and interests therein within the
boundaries depicted upon the map entitled ``Red River National
Wildlife Refuge--Selection Area'', dated September 5, 2000.
(2) Boundary revisions.--The Secretary shall make such minor
revisions of the boundaries of the Refuge as may be appropriate to
carry out the purposes of the Refuge or to facilitate the
acquisition of property within the Refuge.
(3) Availability of map.--The Secretary shall keep the map
referred to in paragraph (1) available for inspection in
appropriate offices of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.
(b) Purposes.--The purposes of the Refuge are the following:
(1) To provide for the restoration and conservation of native
plants and animal communities on suitable sites in the Red River
basin, including restoration of extirpated species.
(2) To provide habitat for migratory birds.
(3) To provide technical assistance to private land owners in
the restoration of their lands for the benefit of fish and
wildlife.
(c) Effective Date.--The establishment of the Refuge under
paragraph (1) of subsection (a) shall take effect on the date the
Secretary publishes, in the Federal Register and publications of local
circulation in the vicinity of the area within the boundaries referred
to in that paragraph, a notice that sufficient property has been
acquired by the United States within those boundaries to constitute an
area that can be efficiently managed as a National Wildlife Refuge.
SEC. 4. ADMINISTRATION OF REFUGE.
(a) In General.--The Secretary shall administer all lands, waters,
and interests therein acquired under section 5 in accordance with--
(1) the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of
1966 (16 U.S.C. 668dd et seq.) and the Act of September 28, 1962
(76 Stat. 653; 16 U.S.C. 460k et seq.; commonly known as the Refuge
Recreation Act);
(2) the purposes of the Refuge set forth in section 3(b); and
(3) the management plan issued under subsection (b).
(b) Management Plan.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 18 months after the date of the
establishment of the Refuge, the Secretary shall issue a management
plan for the Refuge.
(2) Contents.--The management plan shall include provisions
that provide for the following:
(A) Planning and design of trails and access points.
(B) Planning of wildlife and habitat restoration, including
reforestation.
(C) Permanent exhibits and facilities and regular
educational programs throughout the Refuge.
(D) Ensuring that compatible hunting, fishing, wildlife
observation and photography, and environmental education and
interpretation are the priority general public uses of the
Refuge, in accordance with section 4(a)(3) and (4) of the
National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966 (16
U.S.C. 668ee(a)(3), (4)).
(3) Public participation.--
(A) In general.--The Secretary shall provide an opportunity
for public participation in developing the management plan.
(B) Local views.--The Secretary shall give special
consideration to views by local public and private entities and
individuals in developing the management plan.
(c) Wildlife Interpretation and Education Center.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall construct, administer, and
maintain, at an appropriate site within the Refuge, a wildlife
interpretation and education center.
(2) Purposes.--The center shall be designed and operated--
(A) to promote environmental education; and
(B) to provide an opportunity for the study and enjoyment
of wildlife in its natural habitat.
(d) Assistance to Red River Waterway Commission.--The Secretary
shall provide to the Red River Waterway Commission--
(1) technical assistance in monitoring water quality, noxious
plants, and exotic organisms, and in preventing siltation of prime
fisheries habitat; and
(2) where appropriate and available, fish for stocking.
SEC. 5. ACQUISITION OF LANDS, WATERS, AND INTERESTS THEREIN.
(a) In General.--The Secretary may acquire up to 50,000 acres of
lands, waters, or interests therein within the boundaries of the Refuge
described in section 3(a)(1).
(b) Inclusion in Refuge.--Any lands, waters, or interests acquired
by the Secretary under this section shall be part of the Refuge.
SEC. 6. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary such sums
as may be necessary to carry out this Act.
SEC. 7. DEFINITIONS.
For purposes of this Act:
(1) Refuge.--The term ``Refuge'' means the Red River National
Wildlife Refuge established under section 3.
(2) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of
the Interior.
Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Vice President of the United States and
President of the Senate. | Requires the Secretary to issue a management plan for the Refuge which includes provisions for: (1) the planning and design of trails and access points; (2) the planning of wildlife and habitat restoration, including reforestation; (3) permanent exhibits and facilities and regular educational programs throughout the Refuge; and (4) ensuring that hunting, fishing, wildlife observation and photography and environmental education and interpretation are priority general public uses. Requires that the Secretary: (1) provide an opportunity for public participation in developing such plan; and (2) give special consideration to views by local public and private entities and individuals.
Directs the Secretary to construct, administer, and maintain within the Refuge, a wildlife interpretation and education center to promote environmental education and to provide an opportunity for the study and enjoyment of wildlife in its natural habitat.
Requires the Secretary to provide to the Red River Waterway Commission: (1) technical assistance in monitoring water quality, noxious plants, and exotic organisms and in preventing siltation of prime fisheries habitat; and (2) fish for stocking.
Authorizes appropriations. | Red River National Wildlife Refuge Act |
563 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; AMENDMENT OF 1986 CODE.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Good Government
Contractor Act of 2007''.
(b) Amendment of 1986 Code.--Except as otherwise expressly
provided, 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 Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
SEC. 2. REPEAL OF IMPOSITION OF WITHHOLDING ON CERTAIN PAYMENTS MADE TO
VENDORS BY GOVERNMENT ENTITIES.
The amendment made by section 511 of the Tax Increase Prevention
and Reconciliation Act of 2005 is repealed and the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986 shall be applied as if such amendment had never been
enacted.
SEC. 3. FAR CONTRACTOR QUALIFICATIONS.
(a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Civilian Agency Acquisition Council and the
Defense Acquisition Regulations Council shall amend the Federal
Acquisition Regulation issued under sections 6 and 25 of the Office of
Federal Procurement Policy Act (41 U.S.C. 405 and 421) to provide that
for a prospective contractor to be determined responsible, such
contractor must not have any tax debt.
(b) Tax Debt.--For purposes of this section, the term ``tax debt''
means an outstanding debt under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 which
has not been paid within 180 days after an assessment of a tax,
penalty, or interest and which is not subject to further appeal or a
petition for redetermination under such Code. Such term does not
include a debt that is being paid in a timely manner pursuant to an
agreement under section 6159 or section 7122 of such Code.
SEC. 4. FINAL RULE PROMULGATION.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this
Act, the Civilian Agency Acquisition Council and the Defense
Acquisition Regulations Council shall make final the proposed rule FAR
Case 2006-011 (Representations and Certifications--Tax Delinquency).
SEC. 5. NATIONAL TAX LIEN FILING SYSTEM.
(a) Filing of Notice of Lien.--Subsection (f) of section 6323
(relating to validity and priority against certain persons) is amended
to read as follows:
``(f) Filing of Notice; Form.--
``(1) Filing of notice.--The notice referred to in
subsection (a) shall be filed in the national Federal tax lien
registry established under subsection (k). The filing of a
notice of lien, or a certificate of release, discharge,
subordination, or nonattachment of lien, in the national
Federal tax lien registry shall be effective for purposes of
determining lien priority regardless of the nature or location
of the property interest to which the lien attaches.
``(2) Form.--The form and content of the notice referred to
in subsection (a) shall be prescribed by the Secretary. Such
notice shall be valid notwithstanding any other provision of
law regarding the form or content of a notice of lien.
``(3) Other national filing systems.--The filing of a
notice of lien shall be governed by this title and shall not be
subject to any other Federal law establishing a place or places
for the filing of liens or encumbrances under a national filing
system.''.
(b) Refiling of Notice.--Paragraph (2) of section 6323(g) (relating
to refiling of notice) is amended to read as follows:
``(2) Refiling.--A notice of lien may be refiled in the
national Federal tax lien registry established under subsection
(k).''.
(c) Release of Tax Liens or Discharge of Property.--
(1) In general.--Section 6325(a) (relating to release of
lien) is amended by inserting ``, and shall cause the
certificate of release to be filed in the national Federal tax
lien registry established under section 6323(k),'' after
``internal revenue tax''.
(2) Release of tax liens expedited from 30 to 10 days.--
Section 6325(a) (relating to release of lien) is amended by
striking ``not later than 30 days'' and inserting ``not later
than 10 days''.
(3) Discharge of property from lien.--Section 6325(b)
(relating to discharge of property) is amended--
(A) by inserting ``, and shall cause the
certificate of discharge to be filed in the national
Federal tax lien registry established under section
6323(k),'' after ``under this chapter'' in paragraph
(1),
(B) by inserting ``, and shall cause the
certificate of discharge to be filed in such national
Federal tax lien registry,'' after ``property subject
to the lien'' in paragraph (2),
(C) by inserting ``, and shall cause the
certificate of discharge to be filed in such national
Federal tax lien registry,'' after ``property subject
to the lien'' in paragraph (3), and
(D) by inserting ``, and shall cause the
certificate of discharge of property to be filed in
such national Federal tax lien registry,'' after
``certificate of discharge of such property'' in
paragraph (4).
(4) Discharge of property from estate or gift tax lien.--
Section 6325(c) (relating to estate or gift tax) is amended by
inserting ``, and shall cause the certificate of discharge to
be filed in the national Federal tax lien registry established
under section 6323(k),'' after ``imposed by section 6324''.
(5) Subordination of lien.--Section 6325(d) (relating to
subordination of lien) is amended by inserting ``, and shall
cause the certificate of subordination to be filed in the
national Federal tax lien registry established under section
6323(k),'' after ``subject to such lien''.
(6) Nonattachment of lien.--Section 6325(e) (relating to
nonattachment of lien) is amended by inserting ``, and shall
cause the certificate of nonattachment to be filed in the
national Federal tax lien registry established under section
6323(k),'' after ``property of such person''.
(7) Effect of certificate.--Paragraphs (1) and (2)(B) of
section 6325(f) (relating to effect of certificate) are each
amended by striking ``in the same office as the notice of lien
to which it relates is filed (if such notice of lien has been
filed)'' and inserting ``in the national Federal tax lien
registry established under section 6323(k)''.
(8) Release following administrative appeal.--Section
6326(b) (relating to certificate of release) is amended--
(A) by striking ``and shall include'' and insert
``, shall include'', and
(B) by inserting ``, and shall cause the
certificate of release to be filed in the national
Federal tax lien registry established under section
6323(k),'' after ``erroneous''.
(9) Conforming amendments.--Section 6325 is amended by
striking subsection (g) and by redesignating subsection (h) as
subsection (g).
(d) National Federal Tax Lien Registry.--
(1) In general.--Section 6323 is amended by adding at the
end the following new subsection:
``(k) National Registry.--The national Federal tax lien registry
referred to in subsection (f)(1) shall be established and maintained by
the Secretary and shall be accessible to and searchable by the public
through the Internet at no cost to access or search. The registry shall
identify the taxpayer to whom the Federal tax lien applies and reflect
the date and time the notice of lien was filed, and shall be made
searchable by, at a minimum, taxpayer name, the State of the taxpayer's
address as shown on the notice of lien, the type of tax, and the tax
period, and, when the Secretary determines it is feasible, by property.
The registry shall also provide for the filing of certificates of
release, discharge, subordination, and nonattachment of Federal tax
liens, as authorized in sections 6325 and 6326, and may provide for
publishing such other documents or information with respect to Federal
tax liens as the Secretary may by regulation provide.''.
(2) Administrative action.--The Secretary of the Treasury
shall issue regulations or other guidance providing for the
maintenance and use of the national Federal tax lien registry
established under section 6323(k) of the Internal Revenue Code
of 1986. The Secretary of the Treasury shall take appropriate
steps to secure and prevent tampering with the data recorded
therein. Prior to implementation of such registry, the
Secretary of the Treasury shall review the information
currently provided in public lien filings and determine whether
any such information should be excluded or protected from
public viewing in such registry.
(e) Transition Rules.--The Secretary of the Treasury may by
regulation prescribe for the continued filing of notices of Federal tax
lien in the offices of the States, counties and other governmental
subdivisions after December 31, 2008, for an appropriate period to
permit an orderly transition to the national Federal tax lien registry
established under section 6323(k) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
(f) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to notices of lien filed after December 31, 2008. The national
Federal tax lien registry (established under section 6323(k) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986) shall be made operational as of January
1, 2009, whether or not the Secretary of the Treasury has promulgated
final regulations establishing such registry.
SEC. 6. FEDERAL TAX CONVICTION DATABASE.
(a) In General.--The Attorney General of the United States shall
establish and maintain a database containing the names of individuals
and entities with convictions for Federal tax offenses under the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986. Such database shall be accessible and
searchable by the head of any Federal agency for purposes of verifying
information provided by prospective contractors.
(b) Administrative Action.--The Attorney General shall issue
regulations or other guidance providing for the maintenance and use of
the database established under subsection (a). The Attorney General
shall take appropriate steps to secure and prevent tampering with the
data recorded therein.
SEC. 7. REQUIRED ACCESS TO REGISTRY AND DATABASE.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this
Act, the Civilian Agency Acquisition Council and the Defense
Acquisition Regulations Council shall amend the Federal Acquisition
Regulation issued under sections 6 and 25 of the Office of Federal
Procurement Policy Act (41 U.S.C. 405 and 421) to require a contracting
officer making a determination of responsibility with respect to any
prospective contractor to access the national Federal tax lien registry
established under section 6323(k) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
and the Federal tax conviction database established under section 6 of
this Act.
SEC. 8. CAUSES FOR DEBARMENT AND SUSPENSION.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this
Act, the Civilian Agency Acquisition Council and the Defense
Acquisition Regulations Council shall amend the Federal Acquisition
Regulation issued under sections 6 and 25 of the Office of Federal
Procurement Policy Act (41 U.S.C. 405 and 421)--
(1) to provide as a cause for either contractor debarment
or suspension the knowingly making of false statements
regarding Federal tax information, including on the Online
Representations and Certifications Application or to the
Central Contractor Registry, incurring a tax debt (as defined
in section 3(b)), or the conviction or imposition of a civil
judgment for the commission of Federal tax evasion or any other
Federal tax offense, and
(2) to require the debarring official or suspending
official to provide a statement of explanation for the
nondebarment or non-suspension of any contractor in any
determination involving any cause for debarment or suspension
described in paragraph (1). | Good Government Contractor Act of 2007 - Repeals provisions of the Tax Increase Prevention and Reconciliation Act of 2005 requiring government agencies to withhold 3% of payments due contractors providing goods and services to such agencies.
Requires the Civilian Agency Acquisition Council and the Defense Acquisition Regulations Council to (1) amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to require prospective contractors to be free of any tax debt, to require contracting officers to access the national federal tax lien registry and the federal tax conviction database established by this Act in making a determination of responsibility with respect to any prospective contractor, and to establish as cause for contractor debarment and suspension the making of false statements regarding federal tax information; and (2) make final the proposed rule FAR Case 2006-011 (Representations and Certifications - Tax Delinquency).
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) direct the Secretary of the Treasury to establish and maintain a federal tax lien registry, in lieu of filing tax liens in local jurisdictions, which would be accessible to and searchable by the public through the Internet at no cost; (2) establish the priority of a federal tax lien based upon the date and time of the filing of a notice of lien in the federal tax lien registry; and (3) reduce the period for releasing satisfied or unenforceable tax liens from 30 to 10 days.
Requires the Attorney General to establish and maintain a database of individuals and entities with convictions for federal tax offenses. | A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to simplify, modernize, and improve public notice of and access to tax lien information by providing for a national, Internet accessible, filing system for Federal tax liens, and for other purposes. |
564 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Bonuses for Cost-Cutters Act of
2017''.
SEC. 2. COST SAVINGS ENHANCEMENTS.
(a) In General.--
(1) Definitions.--Section 4511 of title 5, United States
Code, is amended--
(A) in the section heading, by striking
``Definition'' and inserting ``Definitions''; and
(B) in subsection (a)--
(i) by striking ``this subchapter, the
term'' and inserting the following: ``this
subchapter--
``(1) the term'';
(ii) by striking the period at the end and
inserting ``; and''; and
(iii) by adding at the end the following:
``(2) the term `surplus salaries and expenses funds' means
amounts made available for the salaries and expenses account,
or equivalent account, of an agency--
``(A) that are identified by an employee of the
agency under section 4512(a) as unnecessary;
``(B) that the Inspector General of the agency or
other agency employee designated under section 4512(b)
determines are not required for the purpose for which
the amounts were made available;
``(C) that the Chief Financial Officer of the
agency determines are not required for the purpose for
which the amounts were made available; and
``(D) the rescission of which would not be
detrimental to the full execution of the purposes for
which the amounts were made available.''.
(2) Authority.--Section 4512 of title 5, United States
Code, is amended--
(A) in subsection (a)--
(i) in the matter preceding paragraph (1),
by inserting ``or identification of surplus
salaries and expenses funds'' after
``mismanagement'';
(ii) in paragraph (2), by inserting ``or
identification'' after ``disclosure''; and
(iii) in the matter following paragraph
(2), by inserting ``or identification'' after
``disclosure''; and
(B) by adding at the end the following:
``(c)(1) The Inspector General of an agency or other agency
employee designated under subsection (b) shall refer to the Chief
Financial Officer of the agency any potential surplus salaries and
expenses funds identified by an employee that the Inspector General or
other agency employee determines meets the requirements under
subparagraphs (B) and (D) of section 4511(a)(2), along with any
recommendations of the Inspector General or other agency employee.
``(2)(A) If the Chief Financial Officer of the agency determines
that potential surplus salaries and expenses funds referred under
paragraph (1) meet the requirements under section 4511(a)(2), except as
provided in subsection (d), the head of the agency shall transfer the
amount of the surplus salaries and expenses funds from the applicable
appropriations account to the general fund of the Treasury.
``(B) Any amounts transferred under subparagraph (A) shall be
deposited in the Treasury and used for deficit reduction, except that
in the case of a fiscal year for which there is no Federal budget
deficit, such amounts shall be used to reduce the Federal debt (in such
manner as the Secretary of the Treasury considers appropriate).
``(3) The Inspector General or other agency employee designated
under subsection (b) for each agency and the Chief Financial Officer
for each agency shall issue standards and definitions for purposes of
making determinations relating to potential surplus salaries and
expenses funds identified by an employee under this subsection.
``(d)(1) The head of an agency may retain not more than 10 percent
of amounts to be transferred to the general fund of the Treasury under
subsection (c)(2).
``(2) Amounts retained by the head of an agency under paragraph (1)
may be--
``(A) used for the purpose of paying a cash award under
subsection (a) to one or more employees who identified the
surplus salaries and expenses funds; and
``(B) to the extent amounts remain after paying cash awards
under subsection (a), transferred or reprogrammed for use by
the agency, in accordance with any limitation on such a
transfer or reprogramming under any other provision of law.
``(e)(1) Not later than October 1 of each fiscal year, the head of
each agency shall submit to the Secretary of the Treasury a report
identifying the total savings achieved during the previous fiscal year
through disclosures of possible fraud, waste, or mismanagement and
identifications of surplus salaries and expenses funds by an employee.
``(2) Not later than September 30 of each fiscal year, the head of
each agency shall submit to the Secretary of the Treasury a report
that, for the previous fiscal year--
``(A) describes each disclosure of possible fraud, waste,
or mismanagement or identification of potentially surplus
salaries and expenses funds by an employee of the agency
determined by the agency to have merit; and
``(B) provides the number and amount of cash awards by the
agency under subsection (a).
``(3) The head of each agency shall include the information
described in paragraphs (1) and (2) in each budget request of the
agency submitted to the Office of Management and Budget as part of the
preparation of the budget of the President submitted to Congress under
section 1105(a) of title 31.
``(4) The Secretary of the Treasury shall submit to the Committee
on Appropriations of the Senate, the Committee on Appropriations of the
House of Representatives, and the Government Accountability Office an
annual report on Federal cost saving and awards based on the reports
submitted under paragraphs (1) and (2).
``(f) The Director of the Office of Personnel Management shall--
``(1) ensure that the cash award program of each agency
complies with this section; and
``(2) submit to Congress an annual certification indicating
whether the cash award program of each agency complies with
this section.
``(g) Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of this
subsection, and every 3 years thereafter, the Comptroller General of
the United States shall submit to Congress a report on the operation of
the cost savings and awards program under this section, including any
recommendations for legislative changes.''.
(3) Technical and conforming amendment.--The table of
sections for subchapter II of chapter 45 of title 5, United
States Code, is amended by striking the item relating to
section 4511 and inserting the following:
``4511. Definitions and general provisions.''.
(4) Sunset.--Effective 6 years after the date of enactment
of this Act--
(A) section 4511 of title 5, United States Code, is
amended--
(i) in the section heading, by striking
``Definitions'' and inserting ``Definition'';
and
(ii) in subsection (a)--
(I) in paragraph (1), by striking
``; and'' and inserting a period;
(II) by striking ``this
subchapter--'' and all that follows
through ``the term `agency' means'' and
inserting ``this subchapter, the term
`agency' means''; and
(III) by striking paragraph (2);
(B) section 4512 of title 5, United States Code, is
amended--
(i) in subsection (a)--
(I) in the matter preceding
paragraph (1), by striking ``or
identification of surplus salaries and
expenses funds'';
(II) in paragraph (2), by striking
``or identification''; and
(III) in the matter following
paragraph (2), by striking ``or
identification''; and
(ii) by striking subsections (c) through
(g); and
(C) the table of sections for subchapter II of
chapter 45 of title 5, United States Code, is amended
by striking the item relating to section 4511 and
inserting the following:
``4511. Definition and general provisions.''.
(b) Officers Eligible for Cash Awards.--
(1) In general.--Section 4509 of title 5, United States
Code, is amended to read as follows:
``Sec. 4509. Prohibition of cash award to certain officers
``(a) Definitions.--In this section, the term `agency'--
``(1) has the meaning given that term under section 551(1);
and
``(2) includes an entity described in section 4501(1).
``(b) Prohibition.--An officer may not receive a cash award under
this subchapter if the officer--
``(1) serves in a position at level I of the Executive
Schedule;
``(2) is the head of an agency; or
``(3) is a commissioner, board member, or other voting
member of an independent establishment.''.
(2) Technical and conforming amendment.--The table of
sections for chapter 45 of title 5, United States Code, is
amended by striking the item relating to section 4509 and
inserting the following:
``4509. Prohibition of cash award to certain officers.''. | Bonuses for Cost-Cutters Act of 2017 This bill temporarily expands the awards program for cost-saving identifications by federal employees of fraud, waste, or mismanagement to include identifications of surplus salaries-and-expenses funds. Savings resulting from such identifications shall generally be used for deficit reduction, but agencies may retain up to 10% of such savings for the purpose of paying cash awards to employees for making the identifications. | Bonuses for Cost-Cutters Act of 2017 |
565 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Salt Cedar and Russian Olive Control
Demonstration Act''.
SEC. 2. SALT CEDAR AND RUSSIAN OLIVE CONTROL DEMONSTRATION PROGRAM.
(a) Establishment.--The Secretary of the Interior (referred to in
this Act as the ``Secretary''), acting through the Commissioner of
Reclamation and in cooperation with the Secretary of Agriculture and
the Secretary of Defense, shall carry out a salt cedar (Tamarix spp)
and Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia) assessment and demonstration
program--
(1) to assess the extent of the infestation by salt cedar
and Russian olive trees in the western United States;
(2) to demonstrate strategic solutions for--
(A) the long-term management of salt cedar and
Russian olive trees; and
(B) the reestablishment of native vegetation; and
(3) to assess economic means to dispose of biomass created
as a result of removal of salt cedar and Russian olive trees.
(b) Assessment.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date on
which funds are made available to carry out this Act, the
Secretary shall complete an assessment of the extent of salt
cedar and Russian olive infestation on public and private land
in the western United States.
(2) Requirements.--In addition to describing the acreage of
and severity of infestation by salt cedar and Russian olive
trees in the western United States, the assessment shall--
(A) consider existing research on methods to
control salt cedar and Russian olive trees;
(B) consider the feasibility of reducing water
consumption by salt cedar and Russian olive trees;
(C) consider methods of and challenges associated
with the revegetation or restoration of infested land;
and
(D) estimate the costs of destruction of salt cedar
and Russian olive trees, related biomass removal, and
revegetation or restoration and maintenance of the
infested land.
(c) Long-Term Management Strategies.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall identify and document
long-term management and funding strategies that--
(A) could be implemented by Federal, State, and
private land managers in addressing infestation by salt
cedar and Russian olive trees; and
(B) should be tested as components of demonstration
projects under subsection (d).
(2) Grants.--The Secretary shall provide grants to
institutions of higher education to develop public policy
expertise in, and assist in developing a long-term strategy to
address, infestation by salt cedar and Russian olive trees.
(d) Demonstration Projects.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the date on
which funds are made available to carry out this Act, the
Secretary shall establish a program that selects and funds not
less than 5 projects proposed by and implemented in
collaboration with Federal agencies, units of State and local
government, national laboratories, Indian tribes, institutions
of higher education, individuals, organizations, or soil and
water conservation districts to demonstrate and evaluate the
most effective methods of controlling salt cedar and Russian
olive trees.
(2) Project requirements.--The demonstration projects under
paragraph (1) shall--
(A) be carried out over a time period and to a
scale designed to fully assess long-term management
strategies;
(B) implement salt cedar or Russian olive tree
control using 1 or more methods for each project in
order to assess the full range of control methods,
including--
(i) airborne application of herbicides;
(ii) mechanical removal; and
(iii) biocontrol methods, such as the use
of goats or insects;
(C) individually or in conjunction with other
demonstration projects, assess the effects of and
obstacles to combining multiple control methods and
determine optimal combinations of control methods;
(D) assess soil conditions resulting from salt
cedar and Russian olive tree infestation and means to
revitalize soils;
(E) define and implement appropriate final
vegetative states and optimal revegetation methods,
with preference for self-maintaining vegetative states
and native vegetation, and taking into consideration
downstream impacts, wildfire potential, and water
savings;
(F) identify methods for preventing the regrowth
and reintroduction of salt cedar and Russian olive
trees;
(G) monitor and document any water savings from the
control of salt cedar and Russian olive trees,
including impacts to both groundwater and surface
water;
(H) assess wildfire activity and management
strategies;
(I) assess changes in wildlife habitat;
(J) determine conditions under which removal of
biomass is appropriate (including optimal methods for
the disposal or use of biomass); and
(K) assess economic and other impacts associated
with control methods and the restoration and
maintenance of land.
(e) Disposition of Biomass.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date on
which funds are made available to carry out this Act, the
Secretary, in cooperation with the Secretary of Agriculture,
shall complete an analysis of economic means to use or dispose
of biomass created as a result of removal of salt cedar and
Russian olive trees.
(2) Requirements.--The analysis shall--
(A) determine conditions under which removal of
biomass is economically viable;
(B) consider and build upon existing research by
the Department of Agriculture and other agencies on
beneficial uses of salt cedar and Russian olive tree
fiber; and
(C) consider economic development opportunities,
including manufacture of wood products using biomass
resulting from demonstration projects under subsection
(d) as a means of defraying costs of control.
(f) Costs.--
(1) In general.--With respect to projects and activities
carried out under this Act--
(A) the assessment under subsection (b) shall be
carried out at a cost of not more than $4,000,000;
(B) the identification and documentation of long-
term management strategies under subsection (c) shall
be carried out at a cost of not more than $2,000,000;
(C) each demonstration project under subsection (d)
shall be carried out at a Federal cost of not more than
$7,000,000 (including costs of planning, design,
implementation, maintenance, and monitoring); and
(D) the analysis under subsection (e) shall be
carried out at a cost of not more than $3,000,000.
(2) Cost-sharing.--
(A) In general.--The assessment under subsection
(b), the identification and documentation of long-term
management strategies under subsection (c), a
demonstration project or portion of a demonstration
project under subsection (d) that is carried out on
Federal land, and the analysis under subsection (e)
shall be carried out at full Federal expense.
(B) Demonstration projects carried out on non-
federal land.--
(i) In general.--The Federal share of the
costs of any demonstration project funded under
subsection (d) that is not carried out on
Federal land shall not exceed--
(I) 75 percent for each of the
first 5 years of the demonstration
project; and
(II) for the purpose of long-term
monitoring, 100 percent for each of
such 5-year extensions as the Secretary
may grant.
(ii) Form of non-federal share.--The non-
Federal share of the costs of a demonstration
project that is not carried out on Federal land
may be provided in the form of in-kind
contributions, including services provided by a
State agency or any other public or private
partner.
(g) Cooperation.--In carrying out the assessment under subsection
(b), the demonstration projects under subsection (d), and the analysis
under subsection (e), the Secretary shall cooperate with and use the
expertise of Federal agencies and the other entities specified in
subsection (d)(1) that are actively conducting research on or
implementing salt cedar and Russian olive tree control activities.
(h) Independent Review.--The Secretary shall subject to independent
review--
(1) the assessment under subsection (b);
(2) the identification and documentation of long-term
management strategies under subsection (c);
(3) the demonstration projects under subsection (d); and
(4) the analysis under subsection (e).
(i) Reporting.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall submit to Congress an
annual report that describes the results of carrying out this
Act, including a synopsis of any independent review under
subsection (h) and details of the manner and purposes for which
funds are expended.
(2) Public access.--The Secretary shall facilitate public
access to all information that results from carrying out this
Act.
(j) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this Act--
(1) $20,000,000 for fiscal year 2006; and
(2) $15,000,000 for each subsequent fiscal year. | Salt Cedar and Russian Olive Control Demonstration Act - Directs the Secretary of the Interior (the Secretary), acting through the Commissioner of Reclamation and in cooperation with the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of Defense, to carry out a salt cedar (Tamarix spp) and Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia) assessment and demonstration program to: (1) assess the extent of the infestation by salt cedar and Russian olive trees in the western United States; (2) demonstrate strategic solutions for the long-term management of such trees and the reestablishment of native vegetation; and (3) assess economic means to dispose of biomass created as a result of removal of those trees.
Requires the Secretary to: (1) complete an assessment of the extent of the infestation on public and private land; (2) identify and document long-term management and funding strategies that could be implemented by Federal, State, and private land managers in addressing the infestation and that should be tested as components of specified demonstration projects; and (3) establish a program that selects and funds at least five projects proposed by and implemented in collaboration with Federal agencies, State and local governments, national laboratories, Indian tribes, institutions of higher education, individuals, organizations, or soil and water conservation districts to demonstrate and evaluate the most effective methods of controlling salt cedar and Russian olive trees.
Directs the Secretary, in cooperation with the Secretary of Agriculture, to complete an analysis of economic means to use or dispose of biomass created as a result of removal of salt cedar and Russian olive trees.
Sets forth requirements regarding cost limitations and cost-sharing. Requires the Secretary to: (1) subject to independent review the assessment, identification and documentation of long-term management strategies, demonstration projects, and analysis; and (2) report annually to Congress. Authorizes appropriations for FY 2006 and beyond. | A bill to further the purposes of the Reclamation Projects Authorization and Adjustment Act of 1992 by directing the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Commissioner of Reclamation, to carry out an assessment and demonstration program to control salt cedar and Russian olive, and for other purposes. |
566 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Genetically Engineered Food Right-
to-Know Act''.
SEC. 2. PURPOSE AND FINDINGS.
(a) Purpose.--The purposes of this Act are to--
(1) establish a consistent and enforceable standard for
labeling of foods produced using genetic engineering, thereby
providing consumers with knowledge of how their food is
produced; and
(2) prevent consumer confusion and deception by prohibiting
the labeling of products produced from genetic engineering as
``natural'', and by promoting the disclosure of factual
information on food labels to allow consumers to make informed
decisions.
(b) Findings.--Congress finds that--
(1) the process of genetically engineering food organisms
results in material changes and the fact that foods are
genetically engineered is of material importance to consumers;
(2) the Food and Drug Administration requires the labeling
of more than 3,000 ingredients, additives, and processes;
(3) individuals in the United States have a right to know
if their food was produced with genetic engineering for a
variety of reasons, including health, economic, environmental,
religious, and ethical;
(4) more than 60 countries, including the United Kingdom
and all other countries of the European Union, South Korea,
Japan, Brazil, Australia, India, China, and other key United
States trading partners have laws or regulations mandating
disclosure of genetically engineered food on food labels;
(5) in 2011, Codex Alimentarius, the food standards
organization of the United Nations, adopted a text that
indicates that governments can decide on whether and how to
label foods produced with genetic engineering;
(6) mandatory identification of food produced with genetic
engineering can be a critical method of preserving the economic
value of exports or domestically sensitive markets with
labeling requirements for genetically engineered foods; and
(7) the cultivation of genetically engineered crops can
have adverse effects on the environment in the form of cross-
pollination of native plants, increased herbicide usage, and
impacts on non-target and beneficial organisms, including the
Monarch butterfly.
SEC. 3. AMENDMENTS TO THE FEDERAL FOOD, DRUG, AND COSMETIC ACT.
(a) In General.--Section 403 of the Federal Food, Drug, and
Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 343) is amended by adding at the end the
following:
``(z)(1) If it is a food that has been genetically engineered or
contains 1 or more genetically engineered ingredients, unless the
ingredients label clearly states that the food has been genetically
engineered or identifies any genetically engineered ingredients, as
applicable.
``(2) This paragraph does not apply to food that--
``(A) is served in restaurants or other similar eating
establishments, such as cafeterias and carryouts;
``(B) is a medical food (as defined in section 5(b) of the
Orphan Drug Act);
``(C) would be subject to this paragraph solely because it
was produced using a genetically engineered vaccine or drug;
``(D) is a food or processed food that would be subject to
this paragraph solely because it includes the use of a
genetically engineered processing aid (including yeast) or
enzyme; or
``(E) is a packaged food consisting of materials produced
through genetic engineering that do not account for more than
nine-tenths of 1 percent of the total weight of the packaged
food.
``(3) In this paragraph and in paragraph (aa):
``(A) The term `genetic engineering' means a process--
``(i) involving the application of in vitro nucleic
acid techniques, including recombinant deoxyribonucleic
acid (DNA) and direct injection of nucleic acid into
cells or organelles;
``(ii) involving the application of fusion of cells
beyond the taxonomic family; or
``(iii) that overcomes natural physiological,
reproductive, or recombinant barriers and that is not a
process used in traditional breeding and selection.
``(B) The term `genetically engineered', used with respect
to a food, means a material intended for human consumption that
is--
``(i) an organism that is produced through the
intentional use of genetic engineering; or
``(ii) the progeny of intended sexual or asexual
reproduction (or both) of 1 or more organisms that is
the product of genetic engineering.
``(C) The term `genetically engineered ingredient' means a
material that is an ingredient in a food that is derived from
any part of an organism that has been genetically engineered,
without regard to whether--
``(i) the altered molecular or cellular
characteristics of the organism are detectable in the
material; and
``(ii) the organism is capable for use as human
food.''.
(b) Restrictions on the Term ``Natural''.--Section 403 of the
Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 343), as amended by
subsection (a), is further amended by adding at the end the following:
``(aa) If it is a food intended for human consumption that has been
produced using genetic engineering or that contains one or more
genetically engineered ingredients and it bears a label, or for which
there is signage or advertising, containing a claim that the food is
`natural', `naturally made', `naturally grown', `all natural', or using
any similar words that would be misleading to a consumer.''.
(c) Guaranty.--
(1) In general.--Section 303(d) of the Federal Food, Drug,
and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 333(d)) is amended--
(A) by striking ``(d)'' and inserting ``(d)(1)'';
and
(B) by adding at the end the following:
``(2)(A) No person shall be subject to the penalties of
subsection (a)(1) for a violation of subsection (a), (b), or
(c) of section 301 involving food that is misbranded within the
meaning of paragraph (z) or (aa) of section 403 if such person
(referred to in this paragraph as the `recipient') establishes
a guaranty or undertaking that--
``(i) is signed by, and contains the name and
address of, a person residing in the United States from
whom the recipient received in good faith the food
(including the receipt of seeds to grow raw
agricultural commodities); and
``(ii) contains a statement to the effect that the
food is not genetically engineered or does not contain
a genetically engineered ingredient.
``(B) In the case of a recipient who, with respect to a
food, establishes a guaranty or undertaking in accordance with
subparagraph (A), the exclusion under such subparagraph from
being subject to penalties applies to the recipient without
regard to the manner in which the recipient uses the food,
including whether the recipient is--
``(i) processing the food;
``(ii) using the food as an ingredient in a food
product;
``(iii) repacking the food; or
``(iv) growing, raising, or otherwise producing the
food.
``(C) No person may avoid responsibility or liability for a
violation of subsection (a), (b), or (c) of section 301
involving food that is misbranded within the meaning of
paragraph (z) or (aa) of section 403 by entering into a
contract or other agreement that specifies that another person
shall bear such responsibility or liability, except that a
recipient may require a guaranty or undertaking as described in
this subsection.
``(D) For purposes of this Act, food will be considered not
to have been produced with the knowing or intentional use of
genetic engineering if--
``(i) such food is lawfully certified to be
labeled, marketed, and offered for sale as `organic'
pursuant to the Organic Foods Production Act of 1990;
or
``(ii) an independent organization has determined
that the food has not been knowingly or intentionally
genetically engineered and has been segregated from,
and not knowingly or intentionally commingled with,
foods that may have been genetically engineered at any
time, if such a determination has been made pursuant to
a sampling and testing procedure that--
``(I) is consistent with sampling and
testing principles recommended by
internationally recognized standards
organizations; and
``(II) does not rely on testing processed
foods in which no DNA is detectable.
``(E) In this subsection, the terms `genetically
engineered' and `genetically engineered ingredient' have the
meanings given the terms in section 403(z).''.
(2) False guaranty.--Section 301(h) of the Federal Food,
Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 331(h)) is amended by
inserting ``or 303(d)(2)'' after ``section 303(c)(2)''.
(d) Unintended Contamination.--Section 303(d) of the Federal Food,
Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 333(d)), as amended by subsection
(b), is further amended by adding at the end the following:
``(3)(A) No person shall be subject to the penalties of
subsection (a)(1) for a violation of subsection (a), (b), or
(c) of section 301 involving food that is misbranded within the
meaning of section 403(z) if--
``(i) such person is an agricultural producer and
the violation occurs because food that is grown,
raised, or otherwise produced by such producer, which
food does not contain a genetically engineered material
and was not produced with a genetically engineered
material, is contaminated with a food that contains a
genetically engineered material or was produced with a
genetically engineered material; and
``(ii) such contamination is not intended by the
agricultural producer.
``(B) Subparagraph (A) does not apply to an agricultural
producer to the extent that the contamination occurs as a
result of the negligence of the producer.''.
(e) Promulgation of Regulations.--Not later than 1 year after the
date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall promulgate proposed
regulations establishing labeling requirements for compliance in
accordance with section 403(z) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic
Act, as added by subsection (a). | Genetically Engineered Food Right-to-Know Act This bill amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to prohibit the sale of food that has been genetically engineered or contains genetically engineered ingredients, unless that information is clearly disclosed. This prohibition does not apply to: (1) food served in restaurants, (2) medical food, (3) packaged food that is less than 0.9% genetically engineered material, and (4) food that qualifies as genetically engineered solely because it is produced using a genetically engineered vaccine or because it includes the use of a genetically engineered processing aid (including yeast) or enzyme. Labeling or advertising foods containing genetically engineered material as “natural,” or using similar words, is prohibited. A food recipient is not subject to penalties for misbranding of genetically engineered food or ingredients if the recipient has a guaranty that is signed by the person from whom they received the food (including seeds) and the guaranty states that the food is not genetically engineered or does not contain a genetically engineered ingredient. Food is deemed to have been produced without the knowing or intentional use of genetic engineering if: (1) the food is certified as organic; or (2) an independent organization determines the food has not been knowingly or intentionally genetically engineered or commingled with genetically engineered food, with that determination being based on testing that is consistent with international standards and not reliant on processed foods with no detectable DNA. An agricultural producer is not subject to penalties for misbranding of genetically engineered food or ingredients if a violation occurs because food unintentionally becomes contaminated with genetically engineered material and the contamination is not due to the producer’s negligence. | Genetically Engineered Food Right-to-Know Act |
567 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Firefighter Investment and Response
Enhancement (FIRE) Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds that--
(1) increased demands on firefighting personnel have made
it difficult for local governments to adequately fund necessary
fire safety precautions;
(2) the Federal Government has an obligation to protect the
health and safety of the firefighting personnel of the United
States and to help ensure that the personnel have the financial
resources to protect the public;
(3) the United States has serious fire losses, including a
fire death rate that is one of the highest per capita in the
industrialized world;
(4) in the United States, fire kills more than 4,000 people
and injures more than 25,000 people each year;
(5) in any single day in the United States, on the
average--
(A) 11 people will die because of fire;
(B) 2 of those people are likely to be children
under the age of 5;
(C) 68 people will be injured because of fire; and
(D) over $9,000,000,000 in property losses will
occur from fire; and
(6) those statistics demonstrate a critical need for
Federal investment in support of firefighting personnel.
SEC. 3. REDESIGNATION OF FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY.
(a) In General.--The Federal Emergency Management Agency is
redesignated as the ``Federal Fire and Emergency Management Agency''.
(b) References.--Any reference in a law, map, regulation, document,
paper, or other record of the United States to the Federal Emergency
Management Agency shall be deemed to be a reference to the Federal Fire
and Emergency Management Agency.
(c) Conforming Amendments to Federal Fire Prevention and Control
Act of 1974.--Sections 4(4), 17, and 31(a)(5)(B) of the Federal Fire
Prevention and Control Act of 1974 (15 U.S.C. 2203(4), 2216, and
2227(a)(5)(B)) are amended by striking ``Federal Emergency Management
Agency'' each place it appears and inserting ``Federal Fire and
Emergency Management Agency''.
SEC. 4. FIREFIGHTER INVESTMENT AND RESPONSE ENHANCEMENT.
The Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974 (15 U.S.C. 2201
et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``SEC. 33. FIREFIGHTER INVESTMENT AND RESPONSE ENHANCEMENT.
``(a) Definition of Firefighting Personnel.--In this section, the
term `firefighting personnel' means individuals, including volunteers,
who are firefighters, officers of fire departments, or emergency
medical service personnel of fire departments.
``(b) Grant Program.--
``(1) Authority.--In accordance with this section, the
Director may make grants on a competitive basis to fire
departments for the purpose of protecting the health and safety
of the public and firefighting personnel against fire and fire-
related hazards.
``(2) Establishment of office for administration of
grants.--Before making grants under paragraph (1), the Director
shall establish an office in the Federal Fire and Emergency
Management Agency that shall have the duties of establishing
specific criteria for the selection of grant recipients, and
administering the grants, under this section.
``(3) Use of grant funds.--The Director may make a grant
under paragraph (1) only if the applicant for the grant agrees
to use grant funds--
``(A)(i) to train firefighting personnel in
firefighting, emergency response, arson prevention and
detection, or the handling of hazardous materials,
which shall include, at a minimum, the removal of any
hazardous substance or pollutant or contaminant
associated with the illegal manufacture of amphetamine
or methamphetamine; or
``(ii) to train firefighter personnel to provide
any of the training described in clause (i);
``(B) to make effective use of the capabilities of
the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the
Department of Commerce, the Consumer Product Safety
Commission, and other public and private sector
entities, for research and development aimed at
advancing--
``(i) the health and safety of
firefighters;
``(ii) information technologies for fire
management;
``(iii) technologies for fire prevention
and protection;
``(iv) firefighting technologies; and
``(v) burn care and rehabilitation;
``(C) to fund the creation of rapid intervention
teams to protect firefighting personnel at the scenes
of fires and other emergencies;
``(D) to certify fire inspectors;
``(E) to establish wellness and fitness programs
for firefighting personnel to ensure that the
firefighting personnel can carry out their duties;
``(F) to fund emergency medical services provided
by fire departments;
``(G) to acquire additional firefighting vehicles,
including fire trucks;
``(H) to acquire additional firefighting equipment,
including equipment for communications and monitoring;
``(I) to acquire personal protective equipment
required for firefighting personnel by the Occupational
Safety and Health Administration, and other personal
protective equipment for firefighting personnel;
``(J) to modify fire stations, fire training
facilities, and other facilities to protect the health
and safety of firefighting personnel;
``(K) to enforce fire codes;
``(L) to fund fire prevention programs; or
``(M) to educate the public about arson prevention
and detection.
``(4) Application.--The Director may make a grant under
paragraph (1) only if the fire department seeking the grant
submits to the Director an application in such form and
containing such information as the Director may require.
``(5) Matching requirement.--The Director may make a grant
under paragraph (1) only if the applicant for the grant agrees
to match with an equal amount of non-Federal funds 10 percent
of the funds received under paragraph (1) for any fiscal year.
``(6) Maintenance of expenditures.--The Director may make a
grant under paragraph (1) only if the applicant for the grant
agrees to maintain in the fiscal year for which the grant will
be received the applicant's aggregate expenditures for the uses
described in paragraph (3) at or above the average level of
such expenditures in the 2 fiscal years preceding the fiscal
year for which the grant will be received.
``(7) Report to the director.--The Director may make a
grant under paragraph (1) only if the applicant for the grant
agrees to submit to the Director a report, including a
description of how grant funds were used, with respect to each
fiscal year for which a grant was received.
``(8) Variety of grant recipients.--The Director shall
ensure that grants under paragraph (1) for a fiscal year are
made to a variety of fire departments, including, to the extent
that there are eligible applicants--
``(A) paid, volunteer, and combination fire
departments;
``(B) fire departments located in communities of
varying sizes; and
``(C) fire departments located in urban, suburban,
and rural communities.
``(9) Limitation on expenditures for firefighting
vehicles.--The Director shall ensure that not more than 25
percent of the assistance made available under paragraph (1)
for a fiscal year is used for the use described in paragraph
(3)(G).
``(c) Authorization of Appropriations.--
``(1) In general.--There are authorized to be appropriated
to the Director such sums as are necessary to carry out this
section.
``(2) Limitation on administrative costs.--Of the amounts
made available under paragraph (1) for a fiscal year, the
Director may use not more than 10 percent for the
administrative costs of carrying out this section.''. | Amends the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974 to authorize the FFEMA Director to make grants on a competitive basis for protecting the health and safety of the public and firefighting personnel against fire and fire-related hazards. Requires: (1) ten percent non-Federal matching funds; (2) each grantee to report to the Director on grant uses; and (3) grants to be made to a variety of recipients, including paid and volunteer firefighters and urban, suburban, and rural fire departments.
Authorizes appropriations. | Firefighter Investment and Response Enhancement (FIRE) Act |
568 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``End Big Oil Tax Subsidies Act of
2010''.
SEC. 2. AMORTIZATION OF GEOLOGICAL AND GEOPHYSICAL EXPENDITURES.
(a) In General.--Subparagraph (A) of section 167(h)(5) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by striking ``major integrated
oil company'' and inserting ``covered large oil company''.
(b) Covered Large Oil Company.--Paragraph (5) of section 167(h) of
such Act is amended by redesignating subparagraph (B) as subparagraph
(C) and by inserting after subparagraph (A) the following new
subparagraph:
``(B) Covered large oil company.--For purposes of
this paragraph, the term `covered large oil company'
means a taxpayer which--
``(i) is a major integrated oil company, or
``(ii) has gross receipts in excess of
$50,000,000 for the taxable year.
For purposes of clause (ii), all persons treated as a
single employer under subsections (a) and (b) of
section 52 shall be treated as 1 person.''.
(c) Conforming Amendment.--The heading for paragraph (5) of section
167(h) of such Code is amended by inserting ``and other large
taxpayers''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to amounts paid or incurred in taxable years beginning after
December 31, 2010.
SEC. 3. PRODUCING OIL AND GAS FROM MARGINAL WELLS.
(a) In General.--Section 45I of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(e) Exception for Taxpayer Who Is Not Small, Independent Oil and
Gas Company.--
``(1) In general.--Subsection (a) shall not apply to any
taxpayer which is not a small, independent oil and gas company
for the taxable year.
``(2) Aggregation rule.--For purposes of paragraph (1), all
persons treated as a single employer under subsections (a) and
(b) of section 52 shall be treated as 1 person.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by subsection (a) shall
apply to credits determined for taxable years beginning after December
31, 2010.
SEC. 4. ENHANCED OIL RECOVERY CREDIT.
(a) In General.--Section 43 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is
amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(f) Exception for Taxpayer Who Is Not Small, Independent Oil and
Gas Company.--
``(1) In general.--Subsection (a) shall not apply to any
taxpayer which is not a small, independent oil and gas company
for the taxable year.
``(2) Aggregation rule.--For purposes of paragraph (1), all
persons treated as a single employer under subsections (a) and
(b) of section 52 shall be treated as 1 person.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to amounts paid or incurred in taxable years beginning after
December 31, 2010.
SEC. 5. INTANGIBLE DRILLING AND DEVELOPMENT COSTS IN THE CASE OF OIL
AND GAS WELLS.
(a) In General.--Subsection (c) of section 263 of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by adding at the end the following new
sentence: ``This subsection shall not apply to amounts paid or incurred
by a taxpayer in any taxable year in which such taxpayer is not a
small, independent oil and gas company, determined by deeming all
persons treated as a single employer under subsections (a) and (b) of
section 52 as 1 person.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by this section shall apply
to amounts paid or incurred in taxable years beginning after December
31, 2010.
SEC. 6. PERCENTAGE DEPLETION.
(a) In General.--Section 613A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(f) Exception for Taxpayer Who Is Not Small, Independent Oil and
Gas Company.--
``(1) In general.--This section and section 611 shall not
apply to any taxpayer which is not a small, independent oil and
gas company for the taxable year.
``(2) Aggregation rule.--For purposes of paragraph (1), all
persons treated as a single employer under subsections (a) and
(b) of section 52 shall be treated as 1 person.''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 613A(c)(1) of such Code is
amended by striking ``subsection (d)'' and inserting ``subsections (d)
and (f)''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendment made by this section shall apply
to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2010.
SEC. 7. TERTIARY INJECTANTS.
(a) In General.--Section 193 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(d) Exception for Taxpayer Who Is Not Small, Independent Oil and
Gas Company.--
``(1) In general.--Subsection (a) shall not apply to any
taxpayer which is not a small, independent oil and gas company
for the taxable year.
``(2) Exception for qualified carbon dioxide disposed in
secure geological storage.--Paragraph (1) shall not apply in
the case of any qualified tertiary injectant expense paid or
incurred for any tertiary injectant is qualified carbon dioxide
(as defined in section 45Q(b)) which is disposed of by the
taxpayer in secure geological storage (as defined by section
45Q(d)).
``(3) Aggregation rule.--For purposes of paragraph (1), all
persons treated as a single employer under subsections (a) and
(b) of section 52 shall be treated as 1 person.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by this section shall apply
to expenses incurred after December 31, 2010.
SEC. 8. PASSIVE ACTIVITY LOSSES AND CREDITS LIMITED.
(a) In General.--Paragraph (3) of section 469(c) of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(C) Exception for taxpayer who is not small,
independent oil and gas company.--
``(i) In general.--Subparagraph (A) shall
not apply to any taxpayer which is not a small,
independent oil and gas company for the taxable
year.
``(ii) Aggregation rule.--For purposes of
clause (i), all persons treated as a single
employer under subsections (a) and (b) of
section 52 shall be treated as 1 person.''.
SEC. 9. INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO DOMESTIC PRODUCTION ACTIVITIES.
(a) In General.--Section 199 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(e) Exception for Taxpayer Who Is Not Small, Independent Oil and
Gas Company.--Subsection (a) shall not apply to the income derived from
the production, transportation, or distribution of oil, natural gas, or
any primary product (within the meaning of subsection (d)(9)) thereof
by any taxpayer which for the taxable year is an oil and gas company
which is not a small, independent oil and gas company.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by this section shall apply
to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2010.
SEC. 10. PROHIBITION ON USING LAST IN, FIRST-OUT ACCOUNTING FOR MAJOR
INTEGRATED OIL COMPANIES.
(a) In General.--Section 472 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(h) Major Integrated Oil Companies.--Notwithstanding any other
provision of this section, a major integrated oil company (as defined
in section 167(h)) may not use the method provided in subsection (b) in
inventorying of any goods.''.
(b) Effective Date and Special Rule.--
(1) In general.--The amendment made by subsection (a) shall
apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2010.
(2) Change in method of accounting.--In the case of any
taxpayer required by the amendment made by this section to
change its method of accounting for its first taxable year
beginning after the date of the enactment of this Act--
(A) such change shall be treated as initiated by
the taxpayer,
(B) such change shall be treated as made with the
consent of the Secretary of the Treasury, and
(C) the net amount of the adjustments required to
be taken into account by the taxpayer under section 481
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 shall be taken
into account ratably over a period (not greater than 8
taxable years) beginning with such first taxable year.
SEC. 11. NO EXPENSING FOR REFINERIES PROCESSING LIQUID FUEL FROM TAR
SANDS, SHALE, OR COAL.
(a) In General.--Subsection (f) of section 179C of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by striking ``or'' at the end of
paragraph (1), by striking the period at the end of paragraph (2) and
inserting ``, or'', and by inserting after paragraph (2) the following
new paragraph:
``(3) which is used to process liquid fuel from tar sands,
shale, or coal (including lignite).''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by subsection (a) shall
apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2010. | End Big Oil Tax Subsidies Act of 2010 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to require seven-year amortization of the geological and geophysical expenditures of covered large oil companies. Defines "covered large oil company" as a taxpayer which is a major integrated oil company or which has gross receipts in excess of $50 million in a taxable year.
Denies certain tax benefits to any taxpayer that is not a small, independent oil and gas company, including: (1) the tax credits for producing oil and gas from marginal wells and for enhanced oil recovery; (2) expensing of intangible drilling and development costs in the case of gas wells and geothermal wells; (3) percentage depletion; (4) the tax deduction for qualified tertiary injectant expenses; (5) the exemption from limitations on passive activity losses; and (6) the tax deduction for income attributable to domestic production activities.
Prohibits the use of the last-in, first-out (LIFO) accounting method by major integrated oil companies.
Denies the election to expense the cost of refinery property which is used to process liquid fuel from tar sands, shale, or coal (including lignite). | To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal fossil fuel subsidies for large oil companies. |
569 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``False Claims Amendments Act of
1993''.
SEC. 2. GOVERNMENT RIGHT TO DISMISS CERTAIN ACTIONS.
Section 3730(b) of title 31, United States Code, is amended by
adding at the end thereof the following new paragraph:
``(6)(A) No later than 60 days after the date of service
under paragraph (2), the Government may move to dismiss from
the action the qui tam relator if--
``(i) all the necessary and specific material
allegations contained in such action were derived from
an open and active fraud investigation by the
Government; or
``(ii) the person bringing the action learned of
the information that underlies the alleged violation of
section 3729 that is the basis of the action in the
course of the person's employment by the United States,
and none of the following has occurred:
``(I) In a case in which the employing
agency has an inspector general, such person,
before bringing the action--
``(aa) disclosed in writing
substantially all material evidence and
information that relates to the alleged
violation that the person possessed to
such inspector general; and
``(bb) notified in writing the
person's supervisor and the Attorney
General of the disclosure under
division (aa).
``(II) In a case in which the employing
agency does not have an inspector general, such
person, before bringing the action--
``(aa) disclosed in writing
substantially all material evidence and
information that relates to the alleged
violation that the person possessed, to
the Attorney General; and
``(bb) notified in writing the
person's supervisor of the disclosure
under division (aa).
``(III) Twelve months (and any period of
extension as provided for under subparagraph
(B)) have elapsed since the disclosure of
information and notification under either
subclause (I) or (II) were made and the
Attorney General has not filed an action based
on such information.
``(B) Prior to the expiration of the 12-month period
described under subparagraph (A)(ii)(III) and upon notice to
the person who has disclosed information and provided notice
under subparagraph (A)(ii) (I) or (II), the Attorney General
may file a motion seeking an extension of such 12-month period.
Such 12-month period may be extended by a court for not more
than an additional 12-month period upon a showing by the
Government that the additional period is necessary for the
Government to decide whether or not to file such action. Any
such motion may be filed in camera and may be supported by
affidavits or other submissions in camera.
``(C) For purposes of subparagraph (A), a person's
supervisor is the officer or employee who--
``(i) is in a position of the next highest
classification to the position of such person;
``(ii) has supervisory authority over such person;
and
``(iii) such person believes is not culpable of the
violation upon which the action under this subsection
is brought by such person.
``(D) A motion to dismiss under this paragraph shall set
forth documentation of the allegations, evidence, and
information in support of the motion.
``(E) Any person bringing a civil action under paragraph
(1) shall be provided an opportunity to contest a motion to
dismiss under this paragraph. The court may restrict access to
the evidentiary materials filed in support of the motion to
dismiss, as the interests of justice require. A motion to
dismiss and papers filed in support or opposition of such
motion shall not be--
``(i) made public without the prior written consent
of the person bringing the civil action; and
``(ii) subject to discovery by the defendant.
``(F) If the motion to dismiss under this paragraph is
granted, the matter shall remain under seal.
``(G) No later than 6 months after the date of the
enactment of this paragraph, and every 6 months thereafter, the
Department of Justice shall report to the Committee on the
Judiciary of the Senate and the Committee on the Judiciary of
the House of Representatives relating to--
``(i) the cases in which the Department of Justice
has filed a motion to dismiss under this paragraph;
``(ii) the outcome of such motions; and
``(iii) the status of false claims civil actions in
which such motions were filed.''.
SEC. 3. PROVISIONS RELATING TO ACTIONS BARRED AND QUI TAM AWARDS.
Section 3730 of title 31, United States Code, is further amended--
(1) in subsection (b)(1) by adding at the end thereof ``No
claim for a violation of section 3729 may be waived or released
by any action of any person, except insofar as such action is
part of a court approved settlement of a false claim civil
action brought under this section.'';
(2) in subsection (d)--
(A) in the first sentence by striking out ``,
subject to the second sentence of this paragraph,'';
and
(B) by striking out the second sentence; and
(3) in subsection (e) by striking out paragraph (4).
SEC. 4. WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTION.
Section 3730(h) of title 31, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by striking out ``(h)'' and inserting in lieu thereof
``(h) Whistleblower Protection.--(1)''; and
(2) by adding at the end thereof the following new
paragraphs:
``(2)(A) In any action brought by an employee under
paragraph (1), the employee shall be entitled to relief if,
based upon a preponderance of the evidence, the employee
demonstrates that a lawful act described under paragraph (1)
was a contributing factor in the action by the employer against
the employee that is alleged in the complaint.
``(B) Notwithstanding the provisions of subparagraph (A),
such employee shall not be entitled to relief, if the employer
demonstrates by clear and convincing evidence that the employer
would have taken the same action against the employee in the
absence of such lawful act.''.
SEC. 5. DEFINITION OF PERSON.
Section 3730 of title 31, United States Code, is further amended by
inserting at the end thereof the following new subsection:
``(i) Definition.--For purposes of this section the term `person'
means any natural person, partnership, corporation, association, or
other legal entity including any State or political subdivision of a
State.''.
SEC. 6. STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS.
Section 3731(b) of title 31, United States Code, is amended to read
as follows:
``(b)(1) A civil action under section 3730 may not be brought more
than 6 years after the date on which the violation of section 3729 is
committed.
``(2) For the purpose of computing the period described under
paragraph (1), there shall be excluded all periods during which facts
material to the right of action are not known and reasonably could not
be known by the official of the United States with authority to act in
the circumstances.''.
SEC. 7. AUTHORITY TO ISSUE INVESTIGATIVE DEMANDS.
Section 3733 of title 31, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)(1)--
(A) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A) by
inserting ``or an Assistant Attorney General'' after
``Attorney General'' each place it appears; and
(B) in the matter following subparagraph (D)--
(i) in the first sentence by inserting ``or
an Assistant Attorney General'' after
``Attorney General''; and
(ii) in the second sentence by striking out
``, the Deputy Attorney General,'';
(2) in subsection (a)(2)--
(A) in subparagraph (F) by striking out
``designated by the Attorney General''; and
(B) in subparagraph (G) by inserting ``or an
Assistant Attorney General'' after ``Attorney General''
each place it appears;
(3) in subsection (h)(6) by striking out ``, the Deputy
Attorney General,'';
(4) in subsection (i) by inserting ``or an Assistant
Attorney General'' after ``Attorney General'' each place it
appears; and
(5) in subsection (l)(6) by inserting ``or an Assistant
Attorney General'' after ``Attorney General''.
SEC. 8. APPLICABILITY AND EFFECTIVE DATE.
(a) In General.--(1) The amendments made by this Act shall take
effect on the date of the enactment of this Act and shall apply to
cases filed on or after the date of enactment of this Act.
(2) The provisions of section 3730(b)(6)(A)(i) of title 31, United
States Code (as added by section 2 of this Act), and section 3730 (d)
and (e) of such title (as amended by section 3 (2) and (3) of this
Act), shall apply to cases pending on the date of the enactment of this
Act. In any case that is pending on the date of the enactment of this
Act in which the Government has elected to proceed with the action
under section 3730(b)(4) of title 31, United States Code, the
Government may file a motion to dismiss a qui tam relator under section
3730(b)(6)(A)(i) of such title (as added by section 2 of this Act), no
later than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act.
(b) Prior Laws.--(1) The amendments made by the False Claims
Amendments Act of 1986 (Public Law 99-562) shall apply to cases filed
on or after the date of the enactment of such Act, and to cases pending
on such date that are still pending on the date of the enactment of
this Act.
(2) The amendments made by section 9 of the Major Fraud Act of 1988
(Public Law 100-700) shall apply to cases filed on or after the date of
the enactment of such Act, and to cases pending on such date that are
still pending on the date of enactment of this Act. | False Claims Amendments Act of 1993 - Amends the False Claims Act with respect to: (1) dismissal of qui tam actions at Government motion in specified circumstances where all material allegations derive from an open and active Federal fraud investigation or the person bringing the action based on information learned in the course of Government employment failed to take certain administrative steps; (2) waiver by private parties of the Government's rights to recover damages under such Act as part of any court approved settlement of a potential qui tam suit; (3) whistleblower protection; (4) the definition of "person" under such Act; (5) the Act's statute of limitations; and (6) the authority under such Act to issue civil investigative demands.
Requires periodic reports by the Department of Justice to specified congressional committees on cases which the Department has moved to dismiss. | False Claims Amendments Act of 1993 |
570 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Great Lakes Water Protection Act''.
SEC. 2. PROHIBITION ON SEWAGE DUMPING INTO THE GREAT LAKES.
(a) In General.--Section 402 of the Federal Water Pollution Control
Act (33 U.S.C. 1342) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(s) Prohibition on Sewage Dumping Into the Great Lakes.--
``(1) Definitions.--In this subsection:
``(A) Bypass.--The term `bypass' means an
intentional diversion of waste streams to bypass any
portion of a treatment facility that results in a
discharge into the Great Lakes.
``(B) Discharge.--
``(i) In general.--The term `discharge'
means a direct or indirect discharge of
untreated sewage or partially treated sewage
from a treatment works into the Great Lakes or
a tributary of the Great Lakes.
``(ii) Inclusions.--The term `discharge'
includes a bypass and a combined sewer
overflow.
``(C) Great lakes.--The term `Great Lakes' has the
meaning given the term in section 118(a)(3).
``(D) Partially treated sewage.--The term
`partially treated sewage' means any sewage, sewage and
storm water, or sewage and wastewater, from domestic or
industrial sources that--
``(i) is not treated to national secondary
treatment standards for wastewater; or
``(ii) is treated to a level less than the
level required by the applicable national
pollutant discharge elimination system permit.
``(E) Treatment facility.--The term `treatment
facility' includes all wastewater treatment units used
by a publicly owned treatment works to meet secondary
treatment standards or higher, as required to attain
water quality standards, under any operating
conditions.
``(F) Treatment works.--The term `treatment works'
has the meaning given the term in section 212.
``(2) Prohibition.--A publicly owned treatment works is
prohibited from performing a bypass unless--
``(A)(i) the bypass is unavoidable to prevent loss
of life, personal injury, or severe property damage;
``(ii) there is not a feasible alternative to the
bypass, such as the use of auxiliary treatment
facilities, retention of untreated wastes, or
maintenance during normal periods of equipment
downtime; and
``(iii) the treatment works provides notice of the
bypass in accordance with this subsection; or
``(B) the bypass does not cause effluent
limitations to be exceeded, and the bypass is for
essential maintenance to ensure efficient operation of
the treatment facility.
``(3) Limitation.--The requirement of paragraph (2)(A)(ii)
is not satisfied if--
``(A) adequate back-up equipment should have been
installed in the exercise of reasonable engineering
judgment to prevent the bypass; and
``(B) the bypass occurred during normal periods of
equipment downtime or preventive maintenance.
``(4) Immediate notice requirements.--
``(A) In general.--The Administrator shall work
with States having publicly owned treatment works
subject to the requirements of this subsection to
create immediate notice requirements in the event of
discharge that provide for the method, contents, and
requirements for public availability of the notice.
``(B) Minimum requirements.--
``(i) In general.--At a minimum, the
contents of the notice shall include--
``(I) the exact dates and times of
the discharge;
``(II) the volume of the discharge;
and
``(III) a description of any public
access areas impacted.
``(ii) Consistency.--Minimum requirements
shall be consistent for all States.
``(C) Additional requirements.--The Administrator
and States described in subparagraph (A) shall
include--
``(i) follow-up notice requirements that
provide a more full description of each event,
the cause, and plans to prevent reoccurrence;
and
``(ii) annual publication requirements that
list each treatment works from which the
Administrator or the State receive a follow-up
notice.
``(D) Timing.--The notice and publication
requirements described in this paragraph shall be
implemented not later than 2 years after the date of
enactment of this subsection.
``(5) Sewage blending.--Bypasses prohibited by this section
include bypasses resulting in discharges from a publicly owned
treatment works that consist of effluent routed around
treatment units and thereafter blended together with effluent
from treatment units prior to discharge.
``(6) Implementation.--As soon as practicable, the
Administrator shall establish procedures to ensure that permits
issued under this section (or under a State permit program
approved under this section) to a publicly owned treatment
works include requirements to implement this subsection.
``(7) Increase in maximum civil penalty for violations
occurring after january 1, 2035.--Notwithstanding section 309,
in the case of a violation of this subsection occurring on or
after January 1, 2035, or any violation of a permit limitation
or condition implementing this subsection occurring after that
date, the maximum civil penalty that shall be assessed for the
violation shall be $100,000 per day for each day the violation
occurs.
``(8) Applicability.--This subsection shall apply to a
bypass occurring after the last day of the 1-year period
beginning on the date of enactment of this subsection.''.
(b) Great Lakes Cleanup Fund.--
(1) Establishment.--Title V of the Federal Water Pollution
Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.) is amended--
(A) by redesignating section 519 (33 U.S.C. 1251
note) as section 520; and
(B) by inserting after section 518 (33 U.S.C. 1377)
the following:
``SEC. 519. ESTABLISHMENT OF GREAT LAKES CLEANUP FUND.
``(a) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) Fund.--The term `Fund' means the Great Lakes Cleanup
Fund established by subsection (b).
``(2) Great lakes; great lakes states.--The terms `Great
Lakes' and `Great Lakes States' have the meanings given the
terms in section 118(a)(3).
``(b) Establishment of Fund.--There is established in the Treasury
of the United States a trust fund to be known as the `Great Lakes
Cleanup Fund' (referred to in this section as the `Fund').
``(c) Transfers to Fund.--Effective January 1, 2035, there are
authorized to be appropriated to the Fund amounts equivalent to the
penalties collected for violations of section 402(s).
``(d) Administration of Fund.--The Administrator shall administer
the Fund.
``(e) Use of Funds.--The Administrator shall--
``(1) make the amounts in the Fund available to the Great
Lakes States for use in carrying out programs and activities
for improving wastewater discharges into the Great Lakes,
including habitat protection and wetland restoration; and
``(2) allocate those amounts among the Great Lakes States
based on the proportion that--
``(A) the amount attributable to a Great Lakes
State for penalties collected for violations of section
402(s); bears to
``(B) the total amount of those penalties
attributable to all Great Lakes States.
``(f) Priority.--In selecting programs and activities to be funded
using amounts made available under this section, a Great Lakes State
shall give priority consideration to programs and activities that
address violations of section 402(s) resulting in the collection of
penalties.''.
(2) Conforming amendments to state revolving fund
program.--Section 607 of the Federal Water Pollution Control
Act (33 U.S.C. 1387) is amended--
(A) by striking ``There is'' and inserting ``(a) In
General.--There is''; and
(B) by adding at the end the following:
``(b) Treatment of Great Lakes Cleanup Fund.--For purposes of this
title, amounts made available from the Great Lakes Cleanup Fund under
section 519 shall be treated as funds authorized to be appropriated to
carry out this title and as funds made available under this title,
except that the funds shall be made available to the Great Lakes States
in accordance with section 519.''. | Great Lakes Water Protection Act This bill amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (commonly known as the Clean Water Act) to prohibit a publicly owned treatment works (POTW) from discharging untreated or partially treated sewage into the Great Lakes or a tributary of the Great Lakes when the discharge is the result of the POTW intentionally diverting waste streams to bypass any portion of a treatment facility. A bypass is allowed if: (1) it is unavoidable to prevent loss of life, personal injury, or severe property damage, there is no feasible alternative, and the treatment works provides notice; or (2) it does not cause effluent (waste) limitations to be exceeded and is for essential maintenance to ensure efficient operation of the treatment facility. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) must work with relevant states to create requirements for providing immediate notice to the public about discharges. The EPA must establish procedures to ensure that permits issued to POTWs under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System include requirements to comply with this bill. This bill establishes a maximum civil penalty of $100,000 per day for violations of the bill occurring on or after January 1, 2035. The penalties must be deposited into the Great Lakes Cleanup Fund, which is established by this bill. The Fund must be used for improving wastewater discharges. | Great Lakes Water Protection Act |
571 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Small Business Protection Act of
2005''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress hereby finds that--
(1) small businesses represent more than 99 percent of all
employers,
(2) the majority of private sector employees work for small
businesses,
(3) more than half of all high-tech workers work for small
businesses,
(4) small businesses are responsible for the majority of
net job creation in the United States,
(5) more than 12 million small businesses are owned by
women or minorities,
(6) small businesses face unique challenges in accessing
capital markets,
(7) small businesses are exposed to more market volatility
than larger employers,
(8) small businesses are hurt disproportionately by costs
imposed by government regulations, and
(9) small businesses are in need of reforms to the tax code
that reflect these unique challenges.
SEC. 3. PURPOSES.
The purposes of this Act are--
(1) to provide employees salaries and benefits, and to help
ensure solvency of small businesses during times of recession,
(2) to encourage the formation, growth, and survival of
small businesses,
(3) to encourage opportunities for charitable giving by
small businesses, and
(4) to enable small businesses to stimulate the national
economy through increased employment and capital generation.
SEC. 4. SMALL BUSINESS PROTECTION ACCOUNTS.
(a) In General.--Subpart C of part II of subchapter E of chapter 1
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to taxable year for
which deductions taken) is amended by inserting after section 468B the
following:
``SEC. 468C. SMALL BUSINESS PROTECTION ACCOUNTS.
``(a) Deduction Allowed.--In the case of an individual engaged in
an eligible small business, there shall be allowed as a deduction for
any taxable year the amount paid in cash by the taxpayer during the
taxable year to a Small Business Protection Account.
``(b) Limitation.--
``(1) In general.--The amount which a taxpayer may pay into
a Small Business Protection Account for any taxable year shall
not exceed 50 percent of so much of the net profit of the
taxpayer (determined without regard to this section) which is
attributable (determined in the manner applicable under section
1301) to any trade or business.
``(2) Carryover of excess limitation.--If the limitation
under paragraph (1) for any taxable year exceeds the amount
paid by the taxpayer to the taxpayer's Small Business
Protection Account for such year, the limitation under
paragraph (1) for the following taxable year (determined
without regard to this paragraph) shall be increased by such
excess.
``(c) Eligible Small Business.--For purposes of this section, the
term `eligible small business' means any trade or business if--
``(1) such trade or business (or any predecessor thereof)
meets the gross receipts test of section 448(c) for all prior
taxable years,
``(2) such trade or business is not a passive activity
(within the meaning of section 469(c)) of the taxpayer,
``(3) such trade or business is not a farming business (as
defined in section 263A(e)(4)), and
``(4) such trade or business has never been determined by
the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission to
have engaged in job discrimination.
``(d) Small Business Protection Account.--For purposes of this
section--
``(1) In general.--The term `Small Business Protection
Account' means a trust created or organized in the United
States for the exclusive benefit of the taxpayer, but only if
the written governing instrument creating the trust meets the
following requirements:
``(A) No contribution will be accepted for any
taxable year in excess of the amount allowed as a
deduction under subsection (a) for such year.
``(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 consist entirely of
cash or of obligations which have adequate stated
interest (as defined in section 1274(c)(2)) and which
pay such interest not less often than annually.
``(D) All income of the trust is distributed
currently to the grantor.
``(E) The assets of the trust will not be
commingled with other property except in a common trust
fund or common investment fund.
``(2) Account taxed as grantor trust.--The grantor of a
Small Business Protection Account shall be treated for purposes
of this title as the owner of such Account and shall be subject
to tax thereon in accordance with subpart E of part I of
subchapter J of this chapter (relating to grantors and others
treated as substantial owners).
``(e) Inclusion of Amounts Distributed.--
``(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2),
there shall be includible in the gross income of the taxpayer
for any taxable year--
``(A) any amount distributed from a Small Business
Protection Account of the taxpayer during such taxable
year, and
``(B) any deemed distribution under--
``(i) subsection (f)(1) (relating to
deposits not distributed within 5 years),
``(ii) subsection (f)(2) (relating to
cessation in eligible small business), and
``(iii) subparagraph (A) or (B) of
subsection (f)(3) (relating to prohibited
transactions and pledging account as security).
``(2) Exceptions.--Paragraph (1)(A) shall not apply to--
``(A) any distribution to the extent attributable
to income of the Account, and
``(B) the distribution of any contribution paid
during a taxable year to a Small Business Protection
Account to the extent that such contribution exceeds
the limitation applicable under subsection (b) if
requirements similar to the requirements of section
408(d)(4) are met.
For purposes of subparagraph (A), distributions shall be
treated as first attributable to income and then to other
amounts.
``(f) Special Rules.--
``(1) Tax on deposits in account which are not distributed
within 5 years.--
``(A) In general.--If, at the close of any taxable
year, there is a nonqualified balance in any Small
Business Protection Account--
``(i) there shall be deemed distributed
from such Account during such taxable year an
amount equal to such balance, and
``(ii) the taxpayer's tax imposed by this
chapter for such taxable year shall be
increased by 10 percent of such deemed
distribution.
The preceding sentence shall not apply if an amount
equal to such nonqualified balance is distributed from
such Account to the taxpayer before the due date
(including extensions) for filing the return of tax
imposed by this chapter for such year (or, if earlier,
the date the taxpayer files such return for such year).
``(B) Nonqualified balance.--For purposes of
subparagraph (A), the term `nonqualified balance' means
any balance in the Account on the last day of the
taxable year which is attributable to amounts deposited
in such Account before the 4th preceding taxable year.
``(C) Ordering rule.--For purposes of this
paragraph, distributions from a Small Business
Protection Account (other than distributions of current
income) shall be treated as made from deposits in the
order in which such deposits were made, beginning with
the earliest deposits.
``(2) Cessation in eligible business.--At the close of the
first disqualification period after a period for which the
taxpayer was engaged in an eligible small business, there shall
be deemed distributed from the Small Business Protection
Account of the taxpayer an amount equal to the balance in such
Account (if any) at the close of such disqualification period.
For purposes of the preceding sentence, the term
`disqualification period' means any period of 2 consecutive
taxable years for which the taxpayer is not engaged in an
eligible small business.
``(3) Certain rules to apply.--Rules similar to the
following rules shall apply for purposes of this section:
``(A) Section 220(f)(8) (relating to treatment on
death).
``(B) Section 408(e)(2) (relating to loss of
exemption of account where individual engages in
prohibited transaction).
``(C) Section 408(e)(4) (relating to effect of
pledging account as security).
``(D) Section 408(g) (relating to community
property laws).
``(E) Section 408(h) (relating to custodial
accounts).
``(4) Time when payments deemed made.--For purposes of this
section, a taxpayer shall be deemed to have made a payment to a
Small Business Protection Account on the last day of a taxable
year if such payment is made on account of such taxable year
and is made on or before the due date (without regard to
extensions) for filing the return of tax for such taxable year.
``(5) Individual.--For purposes of this section, the term
`individual' shall not include an estate or trust.
``(6) Deduction not allowed for self-employment tax.--The
deduction allowable by reason of subsection (a) shall not be
taken into account in determining an individual's net earnings
from self-employment (within the meaning of section 1402(a))
for purposes of chapter 2.
``(g) Reports.--The trustee of a Small Business Protection Account
shall make such reports regarding such Account to the Secretary and to
the person for whose benefit the Account is maintained with respect to
contributions, distributions, and such other matters as the Secretary
may require under regulations. The reports required by this subsection
shall be filed at such time and in such manner and furnished to such
persons at such time and in such manner as may be required by such
regulations.''.
(b) Tax on Excess Contributions.--
(1) Subsection (a) of section 4973 of such Code (relating
to tax on excess contributions to certain tax-favored accounts
and annuities) is amended by redesignating paragraphs (4) and
(5) as paragraphs (5) and (6), respectively, and by inserting
after paragraph (3) the following:
``(4) a Small Business Protection Account (within the
meaning of section 468C(d)),''.
(2) Section 4973 of such Code is amended by adding at the
end the following:
``(h) Excess Contributions to Small Business Protection Account.--
For purposes of this section, in the case of a Small Business
Protection Account (within the meaning of section 468C(d)), the term
`excess contributions' means the amount by which the amount contributed
for the taxable year to the Account exceeds the amount which may be
contributed to the Account under section 468C(b) for such taxable year.
For purposes of this subsection, any contribution which is distributed
out of the Small Business Protection Account in a distribution to which
section 468C(e)(2)(B) applies shall be treated as an amount not
contributed.''.
(3) The section heading for section 4973 of such Code is
amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 4973. EXCESS CONTRIBUTIONS TO CERTAIN ACCOUNTS, ANNUITIES,
ETC.''.
(4) The table of sections for chapter 43 of such Code is
amended by striking the item relating to section 4973 and
inserting the following:
``Sec. 4973. Excess contributions to certain accounts, annuities,
etc.''.
(c) Tax on Prohibited Transactions.--
(1) Subsection (c) of section 4975 of such Code (relating
to tax on prohibited transactions) is amended by adding at the
end the following:
``(7) Special rule for small business protection account.--
A person for whose benefit a Small Business Protection Account
(within the meaning of section 468C(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 Small Business
Protection Account by reason of the application of section
468C(f)(3)(A) to such account.''.
(2) Paragraph (1) of section 4975(e) 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:
``(F) a Small Business Protection Account described
in section 468C(d),''.
(d) Failure to Provide Reports on Small Business Protection
Accounts.--Paragraph (2) of section 6693(a) of such Code (relating to
failure to provide reports on certain tax-favored accounts or
annuities) is amended by redesignating subparagraphs (D) and (E) as
subparagraphs (E) and (F), respectively, and by inserting after
subparagraph (C) the following:
``(D) section 468C(g) (relating to Small Business
Protection Accounts),''.
(e) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for subpart C of
part II of subchapter E of chapter 1 of such Code is amended by
inserting after the item relating to section 468B the following:
``Sec. 468C. Small Business Protection Accounts.''.
(f) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning after the date of the enactment of
this Act.
(g) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment
of this Act, the Administrator of the Small Business Administration
shall submit a report on the implementation and effectiveness of
section 468C of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (as added by this
section), with emphasis on the impact of Small Business Protection
Accounts in enterprise and similar zones, to the Committee on Small
Business of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Small
Business and Entrepreneurship of the Senate.
SEC. 5. ADMINISTRATIVE AUTHORITY.
The Administrator of the Small Business Administration shall
designate the Small Business Development Center Program as the lead
agency for assisting small businesses in establishing and operating
Small Business Protection Accounts. The Internal Revenue Service shall
provide such assistance to the Small Business Administration as
necessary for the purposes of this section. | Small Business Protection Act of 2005 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow certain small business owners a tax deduction for cash contributions to a Small Business Protection Account. Limits the amount of such deduction to 50 percent of a taxpayer's net profits.
Directs the Small Business Administration, through the Small Business Development Center Program, to assist small businesses in establishing and operating Small Business Protection Accounts. | To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide for Small Business Protection Accounts, and for other purposes. |
572 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Montgomery GI Bill Enhancement Act
of 2007''.
SEC. 2. OPPORTUNITY FOR CERTAIN ACTIVE-DUTY PERSONNEL TO ENROLL UNDER
THE MONTGOMERY GI BILL.
(a) In General.--Chapter 30 of title 38, United States Code, is
amended by inserting after section 3018C the following new section:
``Sec. 3018D. Opportunity for certain active-duty personnel to enroll
``(a)(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter,
during the one-year period beginning on the date of the enactment of
this section, a qualified individual (described in subsection (b)) may
make an irrevocable election under this section to become entitled to
basic educational assistance under this chapter.
``(2) The Secretary of each military department shall provide for
procedures for a qualified individual to make an irrevocable election
under this section in accordance with regulations prescribed by the
Secretary of Defense for the purpose of carrying out this section or
which the Secretary of Homeland Security shall provide for such purpose
with respect to the Coast Guard when it is not operating as a service
in the Navy.
``(b) A qualified individual referred to in subsection (a) is an
individual who meets each of the following requirements:
``(1) The individual first became a member of the Armed
Forces or first entered on active duty as a member of the Armed
Forces before July 1, 1985.
``(2) The individual has served on active duty without a
break in service since the date the individual first became
such a member or first entered on active duty as such a member
and continues to serve on active duty for some or all of the
one-year period referred to in subsection (a).
``(3) The individual, before applying for benefits under
this section, has completed the requirements of a secondary
school diploma (or equivalency certificate) or has successfully
completed (or otherwise received academic credit for) the
equivalent of 12 semester hours in a program of education
leading to a standard college degree.
``(4) The individual, when discharged or released from
active duty, is discharged or released therefrom with an
honorable discharge.
``(c)(1) Subject to the succeeding provisions of this subsection,
with respect to a qualified individual who makes an election under this
section to become entitled to basic educational assistance under this
chapter--
``(A) the basic pay of the qualified individual shall be
reduced (in a manner determined by the Secretary concerned)
until the total amount by which such basic pay is reduced is
$2,700; and
``(B) to the extent that basic pay is not so reduced before
the qualified individual's discharge or release from active
duty as specified in subsection (b)(4), at the election of the
qualified individual--
``(i) the Secretary concerned shall collect from
the qualified individual; or
``(ii) the Secretary concerned shall reduce the
retired or retainer pay of the qualified individual by,
an amount equal to the difference between $2,700 and the total
amount of reductions under subparagraph (A), which shall be
paid into the Treasury of the United States as miscellaneous
receipts.
``(2)(A) The Secretary concerned shall provide for an 18-month
period, beginning on the date the qualified individual makes an
election under this section, for the qualified individual to pay that
Secretary the amount due under paragraph (1).
``(B) Nothing in subparagraph (A) shall be construed as modifying
the period of eligibility for and entitlement to basic educational
assistance under this chapter applicable under section 3031 of this
title.
``(d) With respect to qualified individuals referred to in
subsection (c)(1)(B), no amount of educational assistance allowance
under this chapter shall be paid to the qualified individual until the
earlier of the date on which--
``(1) the Secretary concerned collects the applicable
amount under clause (i) of such subsection; or
``(2) the retired or retainer pay of the qualified
individual is first reduced under clause (ii) of such
subsection.
``(e) The Secretary, in conjunction with the Secretary of Defense,
shall provide for notice of the opportunity under this section to elect
to become entitled to basic educational assistance under this
chapter.''.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--Section 3017(b)(1) of such title is
amended--
(1) in subparagraphs (A) and (C), by striking ``or
3018C(e)'' and inserting ``3018C(e), or 3018D(c)''; and
(2) in subparagraph (B), by inserting ``or 3018D(c)'' after
``under section 3018C(e)''.
(c) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections at the beginning of
chapter 30 of such title is amended by inserting after the item
relating to section 3018C the following new item:
``3018D. Opportunity for certain active-duty personnel to enroll.''. | Montgomery GI Bill Enhancement of 2007 - Authorizes certain members of the Armed Forces to make an irrevocable election during the one-year period beginning on enactment of this Act to become entitled to basic educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill.
Requires a reduction in basic pay of those members electing such educational assistance or, if the member is discharged or released from active duty prior to such reduction, the collection of specified amounts from the member or an equivalent reduction in retired or retainer pay.
Provides for notice of the opportunity created by this Act to elect educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill. | To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for certain servicemembers to become eligible for educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill. |
573 | SECTION 1. DEFINITIONS.
Section 24102 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by striking paragraphs (1), (2), (3), (6), (7), (10),
and (11); and
(2) by redesignating paragraphs (4), (5), (8), and (9) as
paragraphs (1), (2), (3), and (4), respectively.
SEC. 2. ENFORCEMENT.
Section 24103 of such title is amended--
(1) by repealing subsection (b); and
(2) by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (b).
SEC. 3. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
Section 24104 of such title is amended to read as follows:
``Sec. 24104. Authorization of appropriations
``There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of
Transportation for the benefit of Amtrak--
``(1) $700,000,000 for fiscal year 1998;
``(2) $600,000,000 for fiscal year 1999;
``(3) $400,000,000 for fiscal year 2000; and
``(4) $200,000,000 for fiscal year 2001.
No funds are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary for the
benefit of Amtrak for any fiscal year after fiscal year 2001.''.
SEC. 4. CHAPTER 243 AMENDMENTS.
Chapter 243 of such title is amended--
(1) in the table of sections--
(A) by striking the items relating to sections
24302 through 24315; and
(B) by inserting after the item relating to section
24301 the following new item:
``24302. Relinquishment of rights to stock, notes, and mortgages.'';
(2) in section 24301--
(A) by repealing subsections (b), (c), (d), (e),
(f), (g), (h), (i), (j), (k), (l), and (n); and
(B) by redesignating subsection (m) as subsection
(b);
(3) by repealing sections 24302 through 25315; and
(4) by adding at the end the following new section:
``Sec. 24302. Relinquishment of rights to stock, notes, and mortgages
``The United States relinquishes any rights held by virtue of any
stock, note of indebtedness, or mortgage issued by or entered into with
Amtrak.''.
SEC. 5. CHAPTER 245 AMENDMENTS.
(a) Section 24501(g) Amendment.--Section 24501(g) of such title is
amended by striking ``Amtrak is exempt'' and inserting in lieu thereof
``Amtrak Commuter is exempt''.
(b) Section 24504(c) Repeal.--Section 24504(c) of such title is
repealed.
SEC. 6. CHAPTERS 247 AND 249 REPEALED.
Chapters 247 and 249 of such title, and the items relating thereto
in the table of chapters of subtitle V of such title, are repealed.
SEC. 7. SERVICE DISCONTINUANCE.
(a) Amendment.--Chapter 241 of such title is amended by adding at
the end the following new section:
``Sec. 24105. Service discontinuance
``(a) Wage Continuation or Severance Benefit.--Notwithstanding any
arrangement in effect before the date of enactment of this section, no
employee of a rail carrier providing rail passenger transportation
whose employment is terminated as a result of a discontinuance of
intercity rail passenger service shall receive any wage continuation or
severance benefit in excess of 6 months pay. This subsection shall not
affect the obligations of rail carriers under section 11326 of this
title.
``(b) Transfer.--Notwithstanding any arrangement in effect before
the date of enactment of this section, a rail carrier providing rail
passenger transportation may require an employee whose position is
eliminated as a result of a discontinuance of intercity rail passenger
service to transfer to any vacant position for which the employee can
be made qualified on any part of such rail carrier's system. If such
transfer requires a change in residence or seniority district, the
employee shall choose--
``(1) to transfer to the position and be covered by the
collective bargaining agreement applicable to the seniority
district to which he is transferred; or
``(2) to voluntarily furlough himself at his home location
and receive protective benefits not in excess of the amount
authorized under subsection (a).
For purposes of this subsection, a transfer shall be considered to
require a change in residence if the new employment is more than 30
miles from the employee's place of residence and is farther from that
residence than was the former work location.''.
(b) Table of Sections.--The table of sections of chapter 241 of
such title is amended by adding at the end the following new item:
``24105. Service Discontinuance.''.
SEC. 8. FEDERAL EMPLOYERS' LIABILITY ACT.
The Act entitled ``An Act relating to the liability of common
carriers by railroad to their employees in certain cases.'', enacted
April 22, 1908 (45 U.S.C. 51 et seq.; popularly referred to as the
``Federal Employers' Liability Act'' or the ``Employers' Liability
Act'') is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
``Sec. 11. This Act shall not apply to common carriers to the
extent they provide rail passenger transportation.''.
SEC. 9. CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.
(a) Employee Protective Arrangements.--Section 11326 of title 49,
United States Code, is amended by striking ``, and the terms
established under section 24706(c) of this title''.
(b) Terminal Facilities.--Section 5567 of title 49, United States
Code, and the item relating thereto in the table of sections of chapter
55 of such title, are repealed.
SEC. 10. EFFECTIVE DATES.
(a) General Rule.--Except as otherwise provided in this section,
this Act shall take effect 1 year after the date of its enactment.
(b) Exceptions.--(1) Sections 3, 7, and 8 of this Act shall take
effect immediately upon enactment.
(2) The repeal of section 24909 of title 49, United States Code,
shall take effect on October 1, 1997. | Amends Federal transportation law to repeal specified authorities with respect to the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak), eliminating intercity rail passenger transportation (while retaining Amtrak commuter services).
Repeals a provision which provides for the judicial review of the discontinuance of a route, a train, or transportation, or the reduction in the frequency of transportation by Amtrak.
Authorizes appropriations in decreasing amounts over four fiscal years.
Repeals specified laws that apply to Amtrak operations, abolishing the Board of Directors.
Declares that the United States relinquishes all rights held in any stock, note of indebtedness, or mortgage issued by or entered into with Amtrak.
Repeals: (1) certain provisions which require Amtrak to make an agreement to avoid duplicating employee functions; (2) all authority for operation of the Amtrak route system; and (3) all authority for the Northeast Corridor improvement program.
Prohibits a rail carrier employee whose employment is terminated as a result of a discontinuance of intercity rail passenger service from receiving any wage continuation or severance benefit in excess of six months pay. Authorizes a rail carrier to require an employee whose position is eliminated as a result of such discontinuance to transfer to any vacant position for which he or she can be made qualified on any part of the rail carrier's system.
(Sec. 8) Amends the Federal Employers' Liability Act (or Employers' Liability Act) to declare that it shall not apply to common carriers to the extent they provide rail passenger transportation. | To amend title 49, United States Code, to eliminate provisions of Federal law that provide special support for, or burdens on, the operation of Amtrak as a passenger rail carrier, and for other purposes. |
574 | REVOLVING FUND.
``(a) Establishment.--There is established in the Treasury of the
United States a United States Institute for Environmental Conflict
Resolution Revolving Fund to be administered by the Foundation. The
Revolving Fund shall consist of amounts appropriated to the Revolving
Fund under section 13(b) and amounts paid into the Revolving Fund under
section 11.
``(b) Expenditures.--The Foundation shall expend from the Revolving
Fund such sums as the Board determines are necessary and appropriate to
establish and operate the Institute, including such amounts as are
necessary for salaries, administration, the provision of mediation and
other services, and such other expenses as the Board determines are
reasonable and necessary.
``(c) Distinction From Trust Fund.--The Revolving Fund shall be
maintained separately from the Trust Fund established under section 8.
``(d) Program Priorities.--The Revolving Fund shall not be subject
to section 7(c) or section 9.
``(e) Investment of Amounts.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary of the Treasury shall
invest such portion of the Revolving Fund as is not, in the
judgment of the Secretary, required to meet current
withdrawals. Investments may be made only in interest-bearing
obligations of the United States.
``(2) Acquisition of obligations.--For the purpose of
investments under paragraph (1), obligations may be acquired--
``(A) on original issue at the issue price; or
``(B) by purchase of outstanding obligations at the
market price.
``(3) Sale of obligations.--Any obligation acquired by the
Revolving Fund may be sold by the Secretary of the Treasury at
the market price.
``(4) Credits to fund.--The interest on, and the proceeds
from the sale or redemption of, any obligations held in the
Revolving Fund shall be credited to and form a part of the
Revolving Fund.''.
SEC. 7. USE OF THE INSTITUTE BY A FEDERAL AGENCY.
The Morris K. Udall Scholarship and Excellence in National
Environmental and Native American Public Policy Act of 1992 (20 U.S.C.
5601 et seq.) (as amended by section 6) is amended by inserting after
section 10 the following:
``SEC. 11. USE OF THE INSTITUTE BY A FEDERAL AGENCY.
``(a) Authorization.--A Federal agency may use the Foundation and
the Institute to provide assessment, mediation, or other related
services in connection with a dispute or conflict related to the
environment, public lands, or natural resources.
``(b) Payment.--
``(1) In general.--A Federal agency may enter into a
contract and expend funds to obtain the services of the
Institute.
``(2) Payment into revolving fund.--A payment from an
executive agency on a contract entered into under paragraph (1)
shall be paid into the Revolving Fund.
``(c) Notification and Concurrence.--
``(1) Notification.--An agency or instrumentality of the
Federal Government shall notify the chairperson of the
President's Council on Environmental Quality before using the
Foundation or the Institute to provide the services described
in subsection (a).
``(2) Notification descriptions.--A notification under
paragraph (1) shall include a written description of--
``(A) the issues and parties involved;
``(B) prior efforts, if any, undertaken by the
agency to resolve or address the issue or issues; and
``(C) other relevant information.
``(3) Concurrence.--In a case that involves a dispute or
disagreement between 2 or more agencies or instrumentalities of
the Federal Government (including branches or divisions of a
single agency or instrumentality), an agency or instrumentality
of the Federal Government shall obtain the concurrence of the
chairperson of the President's Council on Environmental Quality
before using the Foundation or Institute to provide the
services described in subsection (a).''.
SEC. 8. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
(a) In General.--Section 13 of the Morris K. Udall Scholarship and
Excellence in National Environmental and Native American Public Policy
Act of 1992 (as redesignated by section 6(a)) is amended--
(1) by striking ``There are authorized to be appropriated
to the Fund'' and inserting the following:
``(a) Trust Fund.--There are authorized to be appropriated to the
Trust Fund''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(b) Revolving Fund.--There are authorized to be appropriated to
the Revolving Fund $3,000,000 for fiscal year 1998 and $2,100,000 for
each of fiscal years 1999 through 2002.''.
SEC. 9. CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.
(a) The second sentence of section 8(a) of the Morris K. Udall
Scholarship and Excellence in National Environmental and Native
American Public Policy Act of 1992 (20 U.S.C. 5606) is amended--
(1) by striking ``fund'' and inserting ``Trust Fund''; and
(2) by striking ``section 11'' and inserting ``section
13(a)''.
(b) Sections 7(a)(6), 8(b), and 9(a) of the Morris K. Udall
Scholarship and Excellence in National Environmental and Native
American Public Policy Act of 1992 (20 U.S.C. 5605(a)(6), 5606(b),
5607(a)) are each amended by striking ``Fund'' and inserting ``Trust
Fund'' each place it appears. | Environmental Policy and Conflict Resolution Act of 1997 - Amends the Morris K. Udall Scholarship and Excellence in National Environmental and Native American Public Policy Act of 1992 to include in the Board of Trustees of the Morris K. Udall Scholarship and Excellence in National Environmental Policy Foundation the chairperson of the President's Council on Environmental Quality.
Revises the purposes and authority of the Foundation to include establishment of the United States Institute for Environmental Conflict Resolution to assist the Government in implementing environmental assessment provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969.
Establishes in the Treasury a United States Institute for Environmental Conflict Resolution Revolving Fund, for establishment and operation of the Institute, to be administered by the Foundation.
Establishes procedures for use by a Federal agency of the Foundation and the Institute to provide assessment, mediation, or related services in connection with a dispute or conflict related to the environment, public lands, or natural resources.
Authorizes appropriations. | Environmental Policy and Conflict Resolution Act of 1997 |
575 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Public Transportation Systems
Vulnerability Assessment and Reduction Act of 2003''.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act, the following definitions apply:
(1) Frontline transit employee.--The term ``frontline
transit employee'' means an employee of a mass transportation
agency who is a bus driver, transit operator, transit
maintenance employee, or community representative or is
otherwise employed in a position with direct interaction with
the public.
(2) Eligible transportation agency.--The term ``eligible
transportation agency'' means a designated recipient as defined
in section 5307(a) of title 49, United States Code, and any
other transportation agency designated by the Secretary.
(3) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of Homeland Security.
SEC. 3. PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENTS.
(a) Assessment.--The Secretary, in consultation with the heads of
other appropriate Federal departments and agencies, shall--
(1) conduct a review of all government assessments
conducted after September 11, 2001, of terrorist-related
threats to all forms of public transportation, including public
gathering areas related to public transportation; and
(2) as necessary, conduct additional assessments of
vulnerabilities associated with any public transportation
system.
(b) Adequacy of Training.--In conducting the review and assessments
under subsection (a), the Secretary shall determine the percentage of
frontline transit employees who have received training in emergency
preparedness and response activities.
(c) Reports.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall transmit to the
President and Congress a report on the results of the review
and assessments conducted under this subsection (a), including
the Secretary's finding under subsection (b), and the
Secretary's recommendations for legislative and administrative
actions.
(2) Updates.--The Secretary shall update the report,
including the Secretary's finding under subsection (b),
annually for 2 years and transmit the updated reports to the
President and Congress.
SEC. 4. GRANTS FOR EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE TRAINING OF
FRONTLINE TRANSIT EMPLOYEES.
(a) In General.--The Secretary may make grants to eligible
transportation agencies for--
(1) the training of frontline transit employees in
emergency preparedness and response activities; and
(2) the acquisition of equipment and technologies, approved
by the Secretary, to assist in carrying out such training and
activities.
(b) Training Activities.--Training activities under subsection
(a)(1) may include the teaching of best practice methods, planning,
testing, drills, and the development of agency and regional emergency
preparedness and response programs.
(c) Applications.--To be eligible for a grant under this section,
an eligible transportation agency shall submit to the Secretary an
application at the time and containing the information that the
Secretary requires by regulation.
(d) Terms and Conditions.--A grant to an eligible transportation
agency in a fiscal year under this section shall be subject to the
following terms and conditions:
(1) Emergency management committee.--The agency shall
certify that the agency will establish a committee on emergency
preparedness and response training consisting of at least one
frontline transit employee representative and at least one
management employee representative. The committee shall be
composed of an equal number of frontline transit employee
representatives and management employee representatives.
Committee positions shall not be vacant for any period in the
fiscal year of more than 30 days.
(2) Report.--The agency shall agree to submit to the
Secretary before the last day of the fiscal year a report on
the use of the grant, including a statement of the number of
frontline transit employees receiving training under the grant.
(e) Allocation of Grant Amounts.--The Secretary shall allocate
amounts made available for grants under this section in a fiscal year
among eligible transportation agencies based on the needs of the
agencies for emergency preparedness and response training and
equipment. Not less than 10 percent of such amounts shall be allocated
to eligible transportation agencies in non-urban areas.
(f) Federal Share.--The Federal share of the cost of activities
funded using amounts from a grant under this section may not exceed 90
percent.
(g) Regulations.--Not later than 6 months after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall issue final regulations to
carry out this section.
SEC. 5. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this Act
$8,000,000 per fiscal year for each of fiscal years 2004, 2005, and
2006. Such amounts shall remain available until expended. | Public Transportation Systems Vulnerability Assessment and Reduction Act of 2003 - Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security (Secretary) to: (1) review all government assessments conducted after September 11, 2001, of terrorist-related threats to all forms of public transportation, including related public gathering areas; (2) conduct, as necessary, additional assessments of vulnerabilities associated with any public transportation system; and (3) determine the percentage of frontline transit employees who have received training in emergency preparedness and response activities.Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to eligible transportation agencies for the training of frontline transit employees in emergency preparedness and response activities and the acquisition of approved equipment and technologies to assist in carrying out such training and activities. Allocates grant amounts among eligible transportation agencies based on their needs for emergency preparedness and response training and equipment, requiring not less than ten percent of such amounts to eligible transportation agencies in non-urban areas. | To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to carry out activities to assess and reduce the vulnerabilities of public transportation systems. |
576 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Iran Missile Proliferation Sanctions
Act of 1997''.
SEC. 2. REPORTS ON MISSILE PROLIFERATION TO IRAN.
(a) Reports.--Except as provided in subsection (c), at the times
specified in subsection (b), the President shall submit to the
Committee on International Relations of the House of Representatives
and the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate a report
identifying every foreign person with respect to whom there is credible
evidence indicating that that person, on or after August 8, 1995--
(1) transferred goods or technology, or provided technical
assistance or facilities, that contributed to Iran's efforts to
acquire, develop, or produce ballistic missiles; or
(2) attempted to transfer goods or technology, or attempted
to provide technical assistance or facilities, that would have
contributed to Iran's efforts to acquire, develop, or produce
ballistic missiles.
(b) Timing of Reports.--The reports under subsection (a) shall be
submitted not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of
this Act, not later than 180 days after such date of enactment, not
later than 360 days after such date of enactment, and annually
thereafter.
(c) Exception for Persons Previously Identified or Sanctioned or
Subject to Waiver.--Any person who--
(1) was identified in a previous report submitted pursuant
to subsection (a);
(2) has engaged in a transfer or transaction that was the
basis for the imposition of sanctions with respect to that
person pursuant to section 73 of the Arms Export Control Act or
section 1604 of the Iran-Iraq Arms Non-Proliferation Act of
1992; or
(3) may have engaged in a transfer or transaction, or made
an attempt, that was the subject of a waiver pursuant to
section 4,
is not required to be identified on account of that same transfer,
transaction, or attempt, in any report thereafter submitted pursuant to
this section.
SEC. 3. IMPOSITION OF SANCTIONS.
(a) Requirement To Impose Sanctions.--
(1) Requirement to impose sanctions.--The sanctions
described in subsection (b) shall be imposed on--
(A) any foreign person identified under subsection
(a)(1) of section 2 in a report submitted pursuant to
that section; and
(B) any foreign person identified under subsection
(a)(2) of section 2 in a report submitted pursuant to
that section, if that person has been identified in
that report or a previous report as having made at
least 1 other attempt described in subsection (a)(2) of
that section.
(2) Effective date of sanctions.--The sanctions shall be
effective--
(A) 30 days after the date on which the report
triggering the sanction is submitted, if the report is
submitted on or before the date required by section
2(b);
(B) 30 days after the date required by section 2(b)
for submitting the report, if the report triggering the
sanction is submitted within 30 days after that date;
and
(C) immediately after the report triggering the
sanction is submitted, if that report is submitted more
than 30 days after the date required by section 2(b).
(b) Description of Sanctions.--The sanctions referred to in
subsection (a) that are to be imposed on a foreign person described in
that subsection are the following:
(1) Arms export sanction.--For a period of not less than 2
years, the United States Government shall not sell to that
person any item on the United States Munitions List as of
August 8, 1995, and shall terminate sales to that person of any
defense articles, defense services, or design and construction
services under the Arms Export Control Act.
(2) Dual use sanction.--For a period of not less than 2
years, the authorities of section 6 of the Export
Administration Act of 1979 shall be used to prohibit the export
of any goods or technology on the control list established
pursuant to section 5(c)(1) of that Act to that person.
(3) United states assistance.--For a period of not less
than 2 years, the United States Government shall not provide
any assistance in the form of grants, loans, credits,
guarantees, or otherwise, to that person.
SEC. 4. WAIVER.
The President may waive the imposition of any sanction that
otherwise would be required to be imposed pursuant to section 3 on any
foreign person 15 days after the President determines and reports to
the Committee on International Relations of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate
that, on the basis of information provided by the person, or otherwise
obtained by the President, the President is persuaded that the person
did not, on or after August 8, 1995--
(1) transfer goods or technology, or provide technical
assistance or facilities, that contributed to Iran's efforts to
acquire, develop, or produce ballistic missiles; or
(2) attempt on more than one occasion to transfer goods or
technology, or to provide technical assistance or facilities,
that would have contributed to Iran's efforts to acquire,
develop, or produce ballistic missiles.
SEC. 5. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION REGARDING ACTIONS BY GOVERNMENT OF
PRIMARY JURISDICTION.
As part of each report submitted pursuant to section 2, the
President shall include the following information with respect to each
person identified in that report:
(1) A statement regarding whether the government of primary
jurisdiction over that person was aware of the activities that
were the basis for the identification of that individual in the
report.
(2) If the government of primary jurisdiction was not aware
of the activities that were the basis for the identification of
that individual in the report, an explanation of the reasons
why the United States Government did not inform that government
of those activities.
(3) If the government of primary jurisdiction was aware of
the activities that were the basis for the identification of
that individual in the report, a description of the efforts, if
any, undertaken by that government to prevent those activities,
and an assessment of the effectiveness of those efforts,
including an explanation of why those efforts failed.
(4) If the government of primary jurisdiction was aware of
the activities that were the basis for the identification of
that individual in the report and failed to undertake effective
efforts to prevent those activities, a description of any
sanctions that have been imposed on that government by the
United States Government because of such failure.
SEC. 6. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Government of primary jurisdiction.--The term
``government of primary jurisdiction'' means the government
under whose laws a foreign person is organized, or the
government of the place where a foreign person is headquartered
or habitually resides.
(2) Foreign person.--The term ``foreign person'' means a
natural person as well as a corporation, business association,
partnership, society, trust, any other nongovernmental entity,
organization, or group, and any governmental entity operating
as a business enterprise, and any successor or subsidiary of
any such entity that is organized, headquartered, or habitually
resides outside the United States. | Iran Missile Proliferation Sanctions Act of 1997 - Directs the President to report periodically to specified congressional committees on foreign persons (except those previously identified or sanctioned or subject to waiver) who, on or after August 8, 1995, have transferred, or attempted to transfer, controlled goods or technology, or provided, or attempted to provide, technical assistance or facilities that contributed, or would have contributed, to Iran's efforts to acquire, develop, or produce ballistic missiles.
Requires imposition on such persons of minimum two-year sanctions prohibiting: (1) sales to such persons of items on the United States Munitions List (and terminating sales of any controlled U.S. arms); (2) the export to such persons of dual use goods and technology; and (3) the provision of U.S. financial assistance. Authorizes the President to waive such sanctions on the basis of additional information demonstrating that the sanctioned person did not commit the acts alleged. | Iran Missile Proliferation Sanctions Act of 1997 |
577 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Federal Agency Customer Experience
Act of 2018''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS; SENSE OF CONGRESS.
(a) Findings.--Congress finds that--
(1) the Federal Government serves the people of the United
States and should seek to continually improve public services
provided by the Federal Government based on customer feedback;
(2) the people of the United States deserve a Federal
Government that provides efficient, effective, and high-quality
services across multiple channels;
(3) many agencies, offices, programs, and Federal employees
provide excellent service to individuals, however many parts of
the Federal Government still fall short on delivering the
customer service experience that individuals have come to
expect from the private sector;
(4) according to the 2016 American Customer Satisfaction
Index, the Federal Government ranks among the bottom of all
industries in the United States in customer satisfaction;
(5) providing quality services to individuals improves the
confidence of the people of the United States in their
government and helps agencies achieve greater impact and
fulfill their missions; and
(6) improving service to individuals requires agencies to
work across organizational boundaries, leverage technology,
collect and share standardized data, and develop customer-
centered mindsets and service strategies.
(b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that all
agencies should strive to provide high-quality, courteous, effective,
and efficient services to the people of the United States and seek to
measure, collect, report, and utilize metrics relating to the
experience of individuals interacting with agencies to continually
improve services to the people of the United States.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Administrator.--The term ``Administrator'' means the
Administrator of General Services.
(2) Agency.--The term ``agency'' has the meaning given the
term in section 3502 of title 44, United States Code.
(3) Covered agency.--The term ``covered agency'' means an
agency or component of an agency that is designated as a
``covered agency'' pursuant to section 5(a).
(4) Director.--The term ``Director'' means the Director of
the Office of Management and Budget.
(5) Voluntary customer service feedback.--The term
``voluntary customer service feedback'' means a response to a
collection of information conducted by a covered agency in
accordance with this Act.
SEC. 4. APPLICATION OF CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF THE PAPERWORK REDUCTION
ACT TO COLLECTION OF VOLUNTARY CUSTOMER SERVICE FEEDBACK.
Sections 3506(c) and 3507 of title 44, United States Code
(provisions of what is commonly known as the ``Paperwork Reduction
Act'') shall not apply to a collection of voluntary customer service
feedback.
SEC. 5. GUIDELINES FOR VOLUNTARY CUSTOMER SERVICE FEEDBACK.
(a) Evaluation and Designation.--The Director shall assess
agencies, agency components, and agency programs to identify which have
the highest impact on or number of interactions with individuals or
entities. Based on the assessment, the Director shall designate
agencies, agency components, or programs as covered agencies for
purposes of this Act.
(b) Guidance.--The Director shall issue guidance that requires each
covered agency that solicits voluntary customer service feedback to
ensure that--
(1) any response to the solicitation of voluntary customer
service feedback remains anonymous, the collection method does
not include a request for or opportunity for the respondent to
provide information that could identify such respondent, and
any response is not traced to a specific individual or entity;
(2) any individual or entity who declines to participate in
the solicitation of voluntary customer service feedback shall
not be treated differently by the agency for purposes of
providing services or information;
(3) the solicitation does not include more than 10
questions;
(4) the voluntary nature of the solicitation is clear;
(5) the collection of voluntary customer service feedback
is only used to improve customer service and will not be used
for any other purpose;
(6) any solicitation of voluntary customer service feedback
is limited to 1 solicitation per interaction with an individual
or entity;
(7) to the extent practicable, the solicitation of
voluntary customer service feedback is made at the point of
service with an individual or entity;
(8) any instrument for collecting voluntary customer
service feedback is accessible to individuals with disabilities
in accordance with section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of
1973 (29 U.S.C. 794d); and
(9) internal agency data governance policies remain in
effect with respect to the collection of voluntary customer
service feedback from any individual or entity.
SEC. 6. CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE DATA COLLECTION.
(a) Collection of Responses.--The head of each covered agency (or a
designee), assisted by and in consultation with the Performance
Improvement Officer or other senior accountable official for customer
service of the covered agency, shall collect voluntary customer service
feedback with respect to any service of or transaction with the covered
agency that has been identified by the Director, in consultation with
the Administrator, in accordance with the guidance issued by the
Director under section 5.
(b) Content of Questions.--
(1) Standardized questions.--The Director, in consultation
with the Administrator, shall develop a set of standardized
questions for use by each covered agency in collecting
voluntary customer service feedback under this section that
address--
(A) overall satisfaction of individuals or entities
with the specific interaction or service received;
(B) the extent to which individuals or entities
were able to accomplish their intended task or purpose;
(C) whether the individual or entity was treated
with respect and professionalism;
(D) whether the individual or entity believes they
were served in a timely manner; and
(E) any additional metrics as determined by the
Director, in consultation with the Administrator.
(2) Additional questions.--In addition to the questions
developed pursuant to paragraph (1), the Director shall consult
with the Performance Improvement Council to develop additional
questions relevant to the operations or programs of covered
agencies.
(c) Additional Requirements.--To the extent practicable--
(1) each covered agency shall collect voluntary customer
service feedback across all platforms or channels through which
the covered agency interacts with individuals or other entities
to deliver information or services; and
(2) voluntary customer service feedback collected under
this section shall be tied to specific transactions or
interactions with customers of the covered agency.
(d) Reports.--
(1) Annual report to the director.--
(A) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the
date of the enactment of this Act, and not less
frequently than annually thereafter, each covered
agency shall publish on the website of the covered
agency and submit to the Director, in a manner
determined by the Director--
(i) a report that includes--
(I) the voluntary customer service
feedback for the previous year; and
(II) descriptions of how the
covered agency has used and plans to
use such feedback; and
(ii) a machine readable dataset that
includes--
(I) the the standardized questions
or additional questions described in
subsection (b) and the response choices
for such questions; and
(II) the response rate for each
collection of voluntary customer
service feedback for the previous year.
(B) Centralized website.--The Director shall--
(i) include and maintain on a publicly
available website links to the information
provided on the websites of covered agencies
under subparagraph (A); and
(ii) for purposes of clause (i), establish
a website or make use of an existing website,
such as the website required under section 1122
of title 31, United States Code.
(2) Aggregated report.--Each covered agency shall publish
in an electronic format and update on a regular basis an
aggregated report on the solicitation and use of voluntary
customer service feedback, which shall include--
(A) the intended purpose of each solicitation of
voluntary customer service feedback conducted by the
covered agency;
(B) the appropriate point of contact within each
covered agency for each solicitation of voluntary
customer service feedback conducted;
(C) the questions or survey instrument submitted to
members of the public as part of the solicitation of
voluntary customer service feedback; and
(D) a description of how the covered agency uses
the voluntary customer service feedback received by the
covered agency to improve the customer service of the
covered agency.
SEC. 7. CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE SCORECARD REPORT.
(a) In General.--Not later than 15 months after the date on which
all covered agencies have submitted the first annual reports to the
Director required under section 6(d)(1), and every 2 years thereafter
until the date that is 10 years after such date, the Comptroller
General of the United States shall make publicly available and submit
to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the
Senate and the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform of the
House of Representatives a scorecard report assessing the data
collected and reported by the covered agencies and each instrument used
to collect voluntary customer service feedback.
(b) Contents.--The report required under subsection (a) shall
include--
(1) a summary of the information required to be published
by covered agencies under section 6(d);
(2) a description of how each covered agency plans to use
and has used the voluntary customer service feedback received
by the covered agency; and
(3) an evaluation of each covered agency's compliance with
this Act.
SEC. 8. SENSE OF CONGRESS.
It is the sense of Congress that adequate Federal funding is needed
to ensure agency staffing levels that can provide the public with
appropriate customer service levels.
Passed the House of Representatives November 29, 2018.
Attest:
KAREN L. HAAS,
Clerk. | Federal Agency Customer Experience Act of 2017 This bill exempts an agency's authority to collect information that is voluntary feedback from the federal information resources management activities authority of the the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) under the Paperwork Reduction Act. "Voluntary feedback" is defined as any submission of information, opinion, or concern that is: (1) voluntarily made by a specific individual or entity relating to a particular service of or transaction with an agency, and (2) specifically solicited by that agency. Each agency that solicits voluntary feedback shall ensure that: responses to the solicitation remain anonymous, individuals who decline to participate shall not be treated differently by the agency for purposes of providing services or information, the voluntary nature of the solicitation is clear, and the proposed solicitation of voluntary feedback will contribute to improved customer service. Each agency shall: (1) collect voluntary feedback with respect to its services and transactions, (2) annually publish such feedback on its website and report on such feedback to OMB, and (3) publish aggregated reports on the solicitation of such feedback. OMB shall: (1) develop a set of standardized questions for use by agencies in collecting such feedback on service satisfaction, timeliness, and professionalism; and (2) include and maintain on a publicly available website links to the information provided on the agency websites. The Government Accountability Office shall make publicly available and submit to Congress a scorecard report assessing the quality of services provided to the public by each agency. | Federal Agency Customer Experience Act of 2017 |
578 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Citizen Legislature and Political
Freedom Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds as follows:
(1) The proliferation of campaign finance laws (beginning
with the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971) and the
proliferation of government regulations promulgated pursuant to
such laws have placed strict limits on contributions by
citizens to the candidates of their choice, limits which have
served to severely hinder the ability of challengers to compete
on equal terms with incumbent politicians.
(2) The contribution limits imposed by the Federal Election
Campaign Act of 1971 force candidates to raise funds in small
amounts subject to fixed limitations, inevitably fostering a
system under which wealthy candidates and long-term incumbent
politicians hold an unfair financial advantage, which in turn
serves to discourage potential candidates from seeking public
office.
(3) The current campaign finance laws have inhibited the
full and fair discussion of public policy issues, as
challengers who are not well known to the electorate are forced
by government regulation to attempt to amass contributions from
large numbers of donors at the outset of a campaign. As a
result, challengers who lack the necessary resources to bring
new issues into the public debate often are eliminated from
political campaigns before their voices are even heard.
(4) The regulation by government of political speech
through the regulation of campaign contributions and
expenditures is patently undemocratic because it favors
institutionalized special interests over grassroots and citizen
activity by imposing burdensome reporting and disclosure
requirements and stringent spending limits on the political
parties, thereby tilting the financial and tactical advantage
in political campaigns to well-financed interest groups and
wealthy individuals.
(5) The effect of the unreasonably low contribution limits
has been to force more contributors and political activists to
operate outside the system, resulting in even less
accountability and even greater encouragement of irresponsible
behavior.
(6) The only way to encourage the robust discourse of
public issues and candidates, promote the free exchange of
political speech and ideas, protect constitutional freedom, and
foster a more informed electorate is to lift all current
restrictions on political candidate and party contributions and
expenditures and to provide full, instantaneous disclosure of
all contributions and expenditures in elections for Federal
office.
SEC. 3. REMOVAL OF LIMITATIONS ON FEDERAL ELECTION CAMPAIGN
CONTRIBUTIONS.
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) The limitations established under this subsection shall not
apply to contributions made during calendar years beginning after
2004.''.
SEC. 4. TERMINATION OF TAXPAYER FINANCING OF PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION
CAMPAIGNS.
(a) Termination of Designation of Income Tax Payments.--Section
6096 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by adding at the
end the following new subsection:
``(d) Termination.--This section shall not apply to taxable years
beginning after December 31, 2003.''
(b) Termination of Fund and Account.--
(1) Termination of presidential election campaign fund.--
(A) In general.--Chapter 95 of subtitle H of such
Code is amended by adding at the end the following new
section:
``SEC. 9014. TERMINATION.
The provisions of this chapter shall not apply with respect to any
presidential election (or any presidential nominating convention) after
December 31, 2004, or to any candidate in such an election.''
(B) Transfer of excess funds to general fund.--
Section 9006 of such Code is amended by adding at the
end the following new subsection:
``(d) Transfer of Funds Remaining After 2004.--The Secretary shall
transfer all amounts in the fund after December 31, 2004, to the
general fund of the Treasury.''
(2) Termination of account.--Chapter 96 of subtitle H of
such Code is amended by adding at the end the following new
section:
``SEC. 9043. TERMINATION.
The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to any candidate
with respect to any presidential election after December 31, 2004.''
(c) Clerical Amendments.--
(1) The table of sections for chapter 95 of subtitle H of
such Code is amended by adding at the end the following new
item:
``Sec. 9014. Termination.''
(2) The table of sections for chapter 96 of subtitle H of
such Code is amended by adding at the end the following new
item:
``Sec. 9043. Termination.''
SEC. 5. DISCLOSURE BY STATE AND LOCAL POLITICAL PARTIES OF INFORMATION
REPORTED UNDER STATE LAW.
(a) In General.--Section 304 of the Federal Election Campaign Act
of 1971 (2 U.S.C. 434), as amended by section 308(b) of the Bipartisan
Campaign Reform Act of 2002, is amended by adding at the end the
following new subsection:
``(i) If a political committee of a State or local political party
is required under a State or local law, rule, or regulation to submit a
report on its disbursements to an entity of the State or local
government, the committee shall file a copy of the report with the
Commission at the time it submits the report to such an entity.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by subsection (a) shall
apply with respect to elections occurring after January 2005.
SEC. 6. PROMOTING EXPEDITED AVAILABILITY OF FEC REPORTS.
(a) Mandatory Electronic Filing for All Reports.--
(1) In general.--Section 304(a)(11) of the Federal Election
Campaign Act of 1971 (2 U.S.C. 434(a)(11)) is amended--
(A) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``a person
required to file--'' and all that follows and inserting
the following: ``each person required to file a report
under this Act shall be required to maintain and file
such report in electronic form accessible by
computers.'';
(B) in subparagraph (C), by striking
``designations, statements, and reports'' and inserting
``documents''; and
(C) in subparagraph (D), by striking ``means, with
respect to'' and all that follows and inserting the
following: ``means any report, designation, statement,
or notification required by this Act to be filed with
the Commission or the Secretary of the Senate.''.
(2) Placement of all reports on internet.--Section
304(a)(11)(B) of such Act (2 U.S.C. 434(a)(11)(B)) is amended--
(A) by striking ``a designation, statement, report,
or notification'' and inserting ``each report''; and
(B) by striking ``the designation, statement,
report, or notification'' and inserting ``the report''.
(3) Software for filing of all reports.--Section 304(a)(12)
of such Act (2 U.S.C 434a(a)(12)), as added by section 306 of
the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act of 2002, is amended--
(A) in subparagraph (A)(ii), by striking ``each
person required to file a designation, statement, or
report in electronic form'' and inserting ``each person
required to file a report (as defined in paragraph
(11)(D))''; and
(B) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``any
designation, statement, or report'' and inserting ``any
report (as defined in paragraph (11)(D))''.
(b) Requiring Reports for All Contributions Made to Any Political
Committee Within 90 Days of Election; Requiring Reports To Be Made
Within 24 Hours.--Section 304(a)(6)(A) of such Act (2 U.S.C.
434(a)(6)(A)) is amended to read as follows:
``(A) Each political committee shall notify the Secretary or the
Commission, and the Secretary of State, as appropriate, in writing, of
any contribution received by the committee during the period which
begins on the 90th day before an election and ends at the time the
polls close for such election. This notification shall be made within
24 hours (or, if earlier, by midnight of the day on which the
contribution is deposited) after the receipt of such contribution and
shall include the name of the candidate involved (as appropriate) and
the office sought by the candidate, the identification of the
contributor, and the date of receipt and amount of the contribution.''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendment made by this section shall apply
with respect to reports for periods beginning on or after January 1,
2005.
SEC. 7. WAIVER OF ``BEST EFFORTS'' EXCEPTION FOR INFORMATION ON
IDENTIFICATION OF CONTRIBUTORS.
(a) In General.--Section 302(i) of the Federal Election Campaign
Act of 1971 (2 U.S.C. 432(i)) is amended--
(1) by striking ``(i) When the treasurer'' and inserting
``(i)(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), when the
treasurer''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(2) Paragraph (1) shall not apply with respect to information
regarding the identification of any person who makes a contribution or
contributions aggregating more than $200 during a calendar year (as
required to be provided under subsection (c)(3)).''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by subsection (a) shall
apply with respect to persons making contributions for elections
occurring after January 2005. | Citizen Legislature and Political Freedom Act - Amends the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 (FECA) to terminate limitations on Federal election campaign contributions after 2004.
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to terminate after December 31, 2003, the designation of income tax payments to the Presidential Election Campaign Fund. Terminates the Fund itself and the Presidential Primary Matching Payment Account after December 31, 2004, and transfers any amounts remaining in the Fund to the general fund of the Treasury.
Amends FECA, as amended by the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act of 2002, to require any political committee of a State or local political party to file with the Federal Election Commission a copy of any report on disbursements it is required under a State or local law, rule, or regulation to submit to the State or local government.
Revises current deadlines for notification of contributions by a campaign committee. Requires a campaign committee to report within 24 hours all contributions, regardless of amount, made to any political committee within 90 days before an election.
Declares that the "best efforts" exception to noncompliance with FECA shall not apply with respect to information regarding the identification of any contributor of more than $200 in the aggregate during a calendar year (thus requiring strict observance of reporting deadlines for all such contributions). | To amend the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to reform the financing of campaigns for election for Federal office. |
579 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Community-Based Health Care
Retraining Act''.
SEC. 2. HEALTH PROFESSIONS TRAINING DEMONSTRATION PROJECT.
Section 171 of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C.
2916) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(e) Health Professions Training Demonstration Project.--
``(1) Definitions.--In this subsection:
``(A) Covered community.--The term `covered
community' means a community or region that--
``(i) has experienced a significant
percentage decline in positions in the
manufacturing or service sectors; and
``(ii) is determined by the Secretary of
Health and Human Services (in consultation with
the medical community) to be an area with a
shortage of health care professionals described
in clause (i) or (ii) of subparagraph (C).
``(B) Covered worker.--The term `covered worker'
means an individual who--
``(i)(I) has been terminated or laid off,
or who has received a notice of termination or
layoff, from employment in a manufacturing or
service sector;
``(II)(aa) is eligible for or has exhausted
entitlement to unemployment compensation; or
``(bb) has been employed for a duration
sufficient to demonstrate, to the appropriate
entity at a one-stop center referred to in
section 134(c), attachment to the workforce,
but is not eligible for unemployment
compensation due to insufficient earnings or
having performed services for an employer that
were not covered under a State unemployment
compensation law; and
``(III) is unlikely to return to a previous
industry or occupation; or
``(ii)(I) has been terminated or laid off,
or has received a notice of termination or
layoff, from employment in a manufacturing or
service sector as a result of any permanent
closure of, or any substantial layoff at, a
plant, facility, or enterprise; or
``(II) is employed in a manufacturing or
service sector at a facility at which the
employer has made a general announcement that
such facility will close within 180 days.
``(C) Health care professional.--The term `health
care professional'--
``(i) means an individual who is involved
with--
``(I) the delivery of health care
services, or related services,
pertaining to--
``(aa) the identification,
evaluation, and prevention of
diseases, disorders, or
injuries; or
``(bb) home-based or
community-based long-term care;
``(II) the delivery of dietary and
nutrition services; or
``(III) rehabilitation and health
systems management; and
``(ii) with respect to a covered community
to be served through a grant made under
paragraph (3), includes individuals in health
care professions and jobs for which there is a
shortage in the community, as determined by the
Secretary of Health and Human Services (in
consultation with the medical community),
giving consideration to the amount of training
time required to retrain the covered workers
for the health care professions and jobs.
``(D) Tribal college or university.--The term
`tribal college or university' means--
``(i) a tribally controlled college or
university, as defined in section 2 of the
Tribally Controlled College or University
Assistance Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. 1801);
``(ii) Dine College, authorized in the
Navajo Community College Act (25 U.S.C. 640a et
seq.); and
``(iii) any of the 1994 Institutions, as
defined in section 532 of the Equity in
Educational Land-Grant Status Act of 1994 (7
U.S.C. 301 note).
``(2) Establishment of project.--In accordance with
subsection (b), the Secretary shall establish and carry out a
health professions training demonstration project.
``(3) Grants.--In carrying out the project, the Secretary,
after consultation with the Secretary of Health and Human
Services, shall make grants to eligible entities to enable the
entities to carry out programs in covered communities to train
covered workers for employment as health care professionals.
The Secretary shall make each grant in an amount of not less
than $100,000 and not more than $500,000.
``(4) Eligible entities.--Notwithstanding subsection
(b)(2)(B), to be eligible to receive a grant under this
subsection to carry out a program in a covered community, an
entity shall be a partnership that is--
``(A) under the direction of a local workforce
investment board established under section 117 that is
serving the covered community; and
``(B) composed of members serving the covered
community, such as--
``(i) an institution of higher education
that provides a 4-year program of instruction;
``(ii) an accredited community college;
``(iii) an accredited vocational or
technical school;
``(iv) a tribal college or university;
``(v) a health clinic or hospital;
``(vi) a home-based or community-based
long-term care facility or program; or
``(vii) a health care facility administered
by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.
``(5) Applications.--To be eligible to receive a grant
under this subsection, an entity shall submit an application to
the Secretary at such time, in such manner, and containing such
information as the Secretary may require, including, at a
minimum--
``(A) a proposal to use the grant funds to
establish or expand a training program in order to
train covered workers for employment as health care
professionals (including paraprofessionals);
``(B) information demonstrating the need for the
training and support services to be provided through
the program;
``(C) information describing the manner in which
the entity will expend the grant funds, and the
activities to be carried out with the funds;
``(D) information demonstrating that the entity
meets the requirements of paragraph (4); and
``(E) with respect to training programs carried out
by the applicant, information--
``(i) on the graduation rates of the
programs involved;
``(ii) on the retention measures carried
out by the applicant;
``(iii) on the length of time necessary to
complete the training programs of the
applicant; and
``(iv) on the number of qualified covered
workers that are refused admittance into the
training programs because of lack of capacity.
``(6) Selection.--In making grants under paragraph (3), the
Secretary, after consultation with the Secretary of Health and
Human Services, shall--
``(A) consider the information submitted by the
eligible entities under paragraph (5)(E); and
``(B) select--
``(i) eligible entities submitting
applications that meet such criteria as the
Secretary of Labor determines to be
appropriate; and
``(ii) among such entities, the eligible
entities serving the covered communities with
the greatest need for the grants and the
greatest potential to benefit from the grants.
``(7) Use of funds.--
``(A) In general.--An entity that receives a grant
under this subsection shall use the funds made
available through the grant for training and support
services that meet the needs described in the
application submitted under paragraph (5), which may
include--
``(i) increasing capacity, subject to
subparagraph (B), at an educational institution
or training center to train individuals for
employment as health professionals, such as
by--
``(I) expanding a facility, subject
to subparagraph (B);
``(II) expanding course offerings;
``(III) hiring faculty;
``(IV) providing a student loan
repayment program for the faculty;
``(V) establishing or expanding
clinical education opportunities;
``(VI) purchasing equipment, such
as computers, books, clinical supplies,
or a patient simulator; or
``(VII) conducting recruitment; or
``(ii) providing support services for
covered workers participating in the training,
such as--
``(I) providing tuition assistance;
``(II) establishing or expanding
distance education programs;
``(III) providing transportation
assistance; or
``(IV) providing child care.
``(B) Limitation.--To be eligible to use the funds
to expand a facility, the eligible entity shall
demonstrate to the Secretary in an application
submitted under paragraph (5) that the entity can
increase the capacity described in subparagraph (A)(i)
of such facility only by expanding the facility.
``(8) Funding.--Of the amounts appropriated to, and
available at the discretion of, the Secretary or the Secretary
of Health and Human Services for programmatic and
administrative expenditures, a total of $25,000,000 shall be
used to establish and carry out the demonstration project
described in paragraph (2) in accordance with this
subsection.''. | Community-Based Health Care Retraining Act - Amends the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 to require the Secretary of Labor to establish and carry out a health professions training demonstration project that awards grants to eligible entities to train certain unemployed workers from the manufacturing or service sector for employment as health care professionals in communities with manufacturing and service sector job loss and health care professional shortages. | A bill to establish a demonstration project to train unemployed workers for employment as health care professionals, and for other purposes. |
580 | SECTION 1. FINDINGS.
The Congress makes the following findings:
(1) Ensuring secure access to energy is in the highest
national security interests of the United States.
(2) Without secure access to oil supplies, the United
States economy, which depends heavily on oil for
transportation, could be severely affected. Two-thirds of the
oil used in the United States is consumed by the transportation
sector. Passenger vehicles alone account for 40 percent of
United States oil use.
(3) In the year 2000, the United States imported 58 percent
of its oil needs, 45 percent of which came from Organization of
Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) nations.
(4) Over the next 20 years, according to the Energy
Information Administration, the United States's demand for oil
is projected to increase by 33 percent.
(5) In 1973 OPEC placed an embargo on sales of oil to the
United States, creating severe oil shortages and driving up oil
prices in the United States. OPEC's action was a major factor
in the recession which followed shortly thereafter.
(6) Under the ``Carter Doctrine'', announced by President
Carter in 1980, ``An attempt by any outside forces to gain
control of the Persian Gulf region will be regarded as an
assault on the vital interests of the United States of America,
and such an assault will be repelled by any means necessary,
including military force.''.
(7) Following the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait in 1990, the
United States sent more than 500,000 troops to the Persian Gulf
to expel the Iraqi troops, liberate Kuwait, protect Saudi
Arabia, and ensure access to Persian Gulf oil.
(8) As of March 19, 2003, the United States is on the verge
of fighting yet another war against Iraq to further ensure
access to vital oil supplies.
(9) Many major oil producing nations do not share United
States values of democracy, freedom of expression, thought, and
religion, and equality for women.
(10) During the Afghanistan conflict and the war on
terrorism, many oil producing nations did not openly support
the United States campaign to end the terror, and many of the
terrorists of September 11 came from major OPEC nations.
(11) It is in the highest national security interests of
the United States to substantially reduce our dependence on oil
as soon as possible, to secure our access to oil supplies, and
to reduce our dependence on nations which do not share our
interests and values.
(12) Because most oil is consumed by the transportation
sector, reduction of our dependence on oil can only come from
major increases in fuel efficiency in cars, sport utility
vehicles, light trucks, and other vehicles.
(13) To protect United States national security interests
after September 11, the United States Government has invested
heavily in securing many industrial sectors, including airlines
and the national health system.
SEC. 2. FUEL EFFICIENCY VEHICLE CREDIT.
(a) In General.--Subpart B of part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to foreign tax credit,
etc.) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``SEC. 30B. FUEL EFFICIENCY VEHICLE CREDIT.
``(a) Allowance of Credit.--
``(1) Fuel economy not less than 40 miles per gallon.--At
the election of the taxpayer, there shall be allowed as a
credit against the tax imposed by this chapter for the taxable
year an amount equal to 25 percent of the cost of any qualified
fuel-effi cient vehicle placed in service by the taxpayer
during the taxable year.
``(2) Fuel economy not less than 50 miles per gallon.--In
the case of a qualified fuel-efficient vehicle in which the
fuel economy (within the meaning of subsection (c)(1)) is not
less than 50 miles per gallon--
``(A) paragraph (1) shall be applied by
substituting `35 percent' for `25 percent', and
``(B) subsection (b) shall be applied by
substituting `$6,000' for $5,000'.
``(b) Limitation.--The amount of the credit allowed by subsection
(a) shall not exceed $5,000.
``(c) Qualified Fuel-Efficient Vehicle.--For purposes of this
section, the term `qualified fuel-efficient vehicle' means a motor
vehicle (as defined in section 30(c)(2))--
``(1) in which the fuel economy (determined in accordance
with section 4064) of such vehicle is rated at not less than 40
miles per gallon,
``(2) which is--
``(A) an automobile (as defined in section
4064(b)), or
``(B) a truck or van with an unloaded gross vehicle
weight rating not greater than 7,500 pounds, and
``(3) which has received a certificate that such vehicle
meets or exceeds the Bin 5 Tier II emission level established
in regulations prescribed by the Administrator of the
Environmental Protection Agency under section 202(i) of the
Clean Air Act for that make and model year vehicle.
``(d) Special Rules.--
``(1) Basis reduction.--The basis of any property for which
a credit is allowable under subsection (a) shall be reduced by
the amount of such credit.
``(2) Recapture.--The Secretary shall, by regulations,
provide for recapturing the benefit of any credit allowable
under subsection (a) with respect to any property which ceases
to be property eligible for such credit.
``(3) Property used outside united states, etc. not
qualified.--No credit shall be allowed under subsection (a)
with respect to any property referred to in section 50(b) or
with respect to the portion of the cost of any property taken
into account under section 30, 179, or 179A.
``(e) Carryforward of Unused Credits.--If the credit allowable
under subsection (a) for any taxable year exceeds--
``(1) the regular tax for the taxable year reduced by the
sum of the credits allowable under subpart A and this part
(other than this section), over
``(2) the tentative minimum tax for the 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.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for such subpart B
is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 30A the
following new item:
``Sec. 30B. Fuel-efficiency vehicle
credit.''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years ending after the date of the enactment of this
Act.
SEC. 3. FUEL EFFICIENT VEHICLE ASSEMBLY CREDIT.
(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. 45G. FUEL-EFFICIENT VEHICLE ASSEMBLY CREDIT.
``(a) General Rule.--For purposes of section 38, the fuel-efficient
vehicle assembly credit determined under this section for the taxable
year is an amount equal to the product of $2,000 and the number of
qualified fuel-efficient vehicles manufactured or produced in the
United States by the taxpayer during the taxable year for their 1st
retail sale.
``(b) Qualified Fuel-Efficient Vehicle.--For purposes of subsection
(a), the term `qualified fuel-efficient vehicle' has the meaning given
to such term by section 30B(c).
``(c) 1st Retail Sale.--For purposes of subsection (a), the term
`1st retail sale' has the meaning given to such term by section
4002.''.
(b) Credit To Be Part of General Business Credit.--Subsection (b)
of section 38 of such Code (relating to general business credit) is
amended by striking ``plus'' at the end of paragraph (14), by striking
the period at the end of paragraph (15) and inserting ``, plus'', and
by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(16) the fuel-efficient vehicle assembly credit
determined under section 45G(a).''.
(c) Conforming Amendment.--The table of sections for subpart D of
part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1 of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986 is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 45F the
following new item:
``Sec. 45G. Fuel-efficient vehicle
assembly credit.''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years ending after the date of the enactment of this
Act.
SEC. 4. LOAN GUARANTEES.
(a) General Authority.--The Secretary of Energy may provide loan
guarantees to manufacturers of motor vehicles or of motor vehicle
engines for the purposes described in subsection (b).
(b) Eligible Purposes.--Loans guaranteed under this section shall
be used for the costs of conversion from the manufacture of motor
vehicles or engines achieving less than 40 miles per gallon of gasoline
to the manufacture of motor vehicles or engines achieving more than 40
miles per gallon of gasoline. Such loans may not be used for
advertising or promotional costs.
(c) Aggregate Amount of Loan Guarantees.--The aggregate amount of
loans that may be guaranteed under this section at any one time shall
not exceed $1,000,000,000.
(d) Limitation on Loan Guarantee Size.--The Secretary shall not
guarantee a loan under this section for an amount greater than
$100,000,000.
(e) Rates of Interest.--The Secretary shall not make a loan
guarantee under this section if the interest rate for the loan exceeds
that which the Secretary determines to be reasonable, taking into
consideration the prevailing interest rates and customary fees incurred
under similar obligations in the private capital market.
(f) Ability To Repay.--The Secretary shall not make a loan
guarantee under this section unless the Secretary has made a finding in
writing that the recipient of the loan is likely to be able to repay
the loan according to its terms.
(g) Applications.--The Secretary shall prescribe the form and
contents required of applications for assistance under this section, to
enable the Secretary to determine the eligibility of the applicant's
proposal, and shall establish terms and conditions for loan guarantees
made under this section.
(h) Full Faith and Credit.--All guarantees entered into by the
Secretary under this section shall constitute general obligations of
the United States backed by the full faith and credit of the United
States.
(i) Modifications.--The Secretary may approve the modification of
any term or condition of a loan guarantee or loan guarantee commitment,
including the rate of interest, time of payment of interest or
principal, or security requirements, if the Secretary finds in writing
that--
(1) the modification is equitable and is in the overall
best interests of the United States; and
(2) consent has been obtained from the applicant and the
holder of the obligation.
(j) Default.--The Secretary shall prescribe regulations setting
forth procedures in the event of default on a loan guaranteed under
this section. The Secretary shall ensure that each loan guarantee made
under this section contains terms and conditions that provide that--
(1) if a payment of principal or interest under the loan is
in default for more than 30 days, the Secretary shall pay to
the holder of the obligation, or the holder's agent, the amount
of unpaid guaranteed interest;
(2) if the default has continued for more than 90 days, the
Secretary shall pay to the holder of the obligation, or the
holder's agent, 90 percent of the unpaid guaranteed principal;
(3) after final resolution of the default, through
liquidation or otherwise, the Secretary shall pay to the holder
of the obligation, or the holder's agent, any remaining amounts
guaranteed but which were not recovered through the default's
resolution;
(4) the Secretary shall not be required to make any payment
under paragraphs (1) through (3) if the Secretary finds, before
the expiration of the periods described in such paragraphs,
that the default has been remedied; and
(5) the holder of the obligation shall not receive payment
or be entitled to retain payment in a total amount which,
together with all other recoveries (including any recovery
based upon a security interest in equipment or facilities)
exceeds the actual loss of such holder.
(k) Rights of the Secretary.--
(1) Subrogation.--If the Secretary makes payment to a
holder, or a holder's agent, under subsection (j) in connection
with a loan guarantee made under this section, the Secretary
shall be subrogated to all of the rights of the holder with
respect to the obligor under the loan.
(2) Disposition of property.--The Secretary may complete,
recondition, reconstruct, renovate, repair, maintain, operate,
charter, rent, sell, or otherwise dispose of any property or
other interests obtained pursuant to this section. The
Secretary shall not be subject to any Federal or State
regulatory requirements when carrying out this paragraph.
(l) Action Against Obligor.--The Secretary may bring a civil action
in an appropriate Federal court in the name of the holder of the
obligation in the event of a default on a loan guaranteed under this
section. The holder of a guarantee shall make available to the
Secretary all records and evidence necessary to prosecute the civil
action. The Secretary may accept property in full or partial
satisfaction of any sums owed as a result of a default. If the
Secretary receives, through the sale or other disposition of such
property, an amount greater than the aggregate of--
(1) the amount paid to the holder of a guarantee under
subsection (j); and
(2) any other cost to the United States of remedying the
default,
the Secretary shall pay such excess to the obligor.
(m) Breach of Conditions.--The Attorney General shall commence a
civil action in an appropriate Federal court to enjoin any activity
which the Secretary finds is in violation of this section, regulations
issued hereunder, or any conditions which were duly agreed to, and to
secure any other appropriate relief.
(n) Attachment.--No attachment or execution may be issued against
the Secretary, or any property in the control of the Secretary, prior
to the entry of final judgment to such effect in any State, Federal, or
other court.
(o) Investigation Charge.--The Secretary may charge and collect
from each applicant a reasonable charge for appraisal of the value of
the equipment or facilities for which the loan guarantee is sought, and
for making necessary determinations and findings. Such charge shall not
aggregate more than one-half of 1 percent of the principal amount of
the obligation.
(p) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to the Secretary of Energy for carrying out this section
such sums as may be necessary for fiscal years 2003 through 2007.
(q) Definitions.--For purposes of this section:
(1) The term ``loan guarantee'' means any guarantee,
insurance, or other pledge with respect to the payment of all
or a part of the principal or interest on any debt obligation
of a non-Federal borrower to a non-Federal lender, but does not
include the insurance of deposits, shares, or other
withdrawable accounts in financial institutions.
(2) The term ``loan guarantee commitment'' means a binding
agreement by the Secretary of Energy to make a loan guarantee
when specified conditions are fulfilled by the borrower, the
lender, or any other party to the guarantee agreement.
(3) The term ``modification'' means any Government action
that alters the estimated cost of an outstanding loan guarantee
(or loan guarantee commitment) from the current estimate of
cash flows. This includes the sale of loan assets, with or
without recourse, and the purchase of guaranteed loans. This
also includes any action resulting from new legislation, or
from the exercise of administrative discretion under existing
law, that directly or indirectly alters the estimated cost of
outstanding loan guarantees (or loan guarantee commitments)
such as a change in collection procedures.
SEC. 5. PERMANENT EXTENSION OF RESEARCH
CREDIT.
(a) In General.--Section 41 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
(relating to credit for increasing research activities) is amended by
striking subsection (h).
(b) Conforming Amendment.--Paragraph (1) of section 45C(b) of such
Code is amended by striking subparagraph (D).
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to amounts paid or incurred after the date of the enactment of
this Act.
SEC. 6. INCREASE IN RATES OF ALTERNATIVE INCREMENTAL CREDIT.
(a) In General.--Subparagraph (A) of section 41(c)(4) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to election of alternative
incremental credit) is amended--
(1) by striking ``2.65 percent'' and inserting ``3
percent'',
(2) by striking ``3.2 percent'' and inserting ``4
percent'', and
(3) by striking ``3.75 percent'' and inserting ``5
percent''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years ending after the date of the enactment of this
Act.
SEC. 7. EXCLUSION OF QUALIFIED FUEL-EFFICIENT VEHICLES FROM CALCULATION
OF AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY OF A MANUFACTURER.
Section 32904(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by
adding at the end the following:
``(3) In calculating the average fuel economy of a manufacturer
under paragraph (1), the Administrator shall not consider any
automobile manufactured by the manufacturer for which a credit is
allowed under section 38(a)(16) of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986.''. | Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a taxpayer as credits against income tax: (1) a fuel efficiency vehicle credit equal to 25 percent of the cost of any qualified fuel-efficient vehicle placed in service during the taxable year; and (2) a fuel-efficient vehicle assembly credit equal to $2,000 for every qualified fuel-efficient vehicle manufactured or produced in the United States during such year for first retail sale.
Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to provide loan guarantees of up to $100 million per loan (and up to $1 billion over all) to manufacturers of motor vehicles or of motor vehicle engines for the costs of conversion from the manufacture of motor vehicles or engines achieving less than 40 miles per gallon of gasoline to the manufacture of such products achieving more than 40 miles per gallon
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) extend permanently the credit for increasing research activities; and (2) increase the alternative incremental credit rates. | To encourage the availability and use of motor vehicles that have improved fuel efficiency, in order to reduce the need to import oil into the United States. |
581 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``NSA Oversight Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) On September 11, 2001, acts of treacherous violence
were committed against the United States and its citizens.
(2) Such acts render it both necessary and appropriate that
the United States exercise its right to self-defense by
protecting United States citizens both at home and abroad.
(3) The Federal Government has a duty to pursue al Qaeda
and other enemies of the United States with all available
tools, including the use of electronic surveillance, to thwart
future attacks on the United States and to destroy the enemy.
(4) The President of the United States possesses the
inherent authority to engage in electronic surveillance of the
enemy outside of the United States consistent with his
authority as Commander-in-Chief under Article II of the
Constitution.
(5) Congress possesses the authority to regulate electronic
surveillance within the United States.
(6) The Fourth Amendment to the Constitution guarantees to
the American people the right ``to be secure in their persons,
houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and
seizures'' and provides that courts shall issue ``warrants'' to
authorize searches and seizures, based upon probable cause.
(7) The Supreme Court has consistently held for nearly 40
years that the monitoring and recording of private
conversations constitutes a ``search and seizure'' within the
meaning of the Fourth Amendment.
(8) The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50
U.S.C. 1801 et seq.) and chapters 119 and 121 of title 18,
United States Code, were enacted to provide the legal authority
for the Federal Government to engage in searches of Americans
in connection with criminal investigations, intelligence
gathering, and counterintelligence.
(9) The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 and
specified provisions of the Federal criminal code, were
expressly enacted as the ``exclusive means by which electronic
surveillance ... may be conducted'' domestically pursuant to
law (18 U.S.C. 2511(2)(f)).
(10) Warrantless electronic surveillance of Americans
inside the United States conducted without congressional
authorization may have a serious impact on the civil liberties
of citizens of the United States.
(11) United States citizens, such as journalists,
academics, and researchers studying global terrorism, who have
made international phone calls subsequent to the terrorist
attacks of September 11, 2001, and are law-abiding citizens,
may have the reasonable fear of being the subject of such
surveillance.
(12) Since the nature and criteria of the National Security
Agency (NSA) program is highly classified and unknown to the
public, many other Americans who make frequent international
calls, such as Americans engaged in international business,
Americans with family overseas, and others, have a legitimate
concern they may be the inadvertent targets of eavesdropping.
(13) The President has sought and signed legislation
including the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing
Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism
(USA PATRIOT ACT) Act of 2001 (Public Law 107-56), and the
Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Protection Act of 2004
(Public Law 108-458), that have expanded authorities under the
Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978.
(14) It may be necessary and desirable to amend the Foreign
Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to address new challenges
in the Global War on Terrorism. The President should submit a
request for legislation to Congress to amend the Foreign
Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 if the President desires
that the electronic surveillance authority provided by such Act
be further modified.
(15) The Authorization for Use of Military Force (Public
Law 107-40), passed by Congress on September 14, 2001,
authorized military action against those responsible for the
attacks on September 11, 2001, but did not contain legal
authorization nor approve of domestic electronic surveillance
not authorized by chapters 119 or 121 of title 18, United
States Code, or the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of
1978 (50 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.).
SEC. 3. REITERATION OF CHAPTERS 119 AND 121 OF TITLE 18, UNITED STATES
CODE, AND THE FOREIGN INTELLIGENCE SURVEILLANCE ACT OF
1978 AS THE EXCLUSIVE MEANS BY WHICH DOMESTIC ELECTRONIC
SURVEILLANCE MAY BE CONDUCTED.
(a) Exclusive Means.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law,
chapters 119 and 121 of title 18, United States Code, and the Foreign
Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.) shall be
the exclusive means by which electronic surveillance may be conducted.
(b) Future Congressional Action.--Subsection (a) shall apply until
specific statutory authorization for electronic surveillance, other
than as an amendment to chapters 119 or 121 of title 18, United States
Code, or the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C.
1801 et seq.), is enacted. Such specific statutory authorization shall
be the only exception to subsection (a).
SEC. 4. DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS.
(a) Report.--As soon as practicable after the date of the enactment
of this Act, but not later than 14 days after such date, the President
shall submit to the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence of the
House of Representatives and the Select Committee on Intelligence of
the Senate a report--
(1) on the Terrorist Surveillance Program of the National
Security Agency;
(2) on any program which involves the electronic
surveillance of United States persons in the United States, and
which is conducted by any department, agency, or other element
of the Federal Government, or by any entity at the direction of
a department, agency, or other element of the Federal
Government, without fully complying with the procedures set
forth in the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50
U.S.C. 1801 et seq.) or chapters 119 or 121 of title 18, United
States Code; and
(3) including a general description of each United States
person who has been the subject of such electronic surveillance
not authorized to be conducted under the Foreign Intelligence
Surveillance Act of 1978 or chapters 119 or 121 of title 18,
United States Code, and the basis for the selection of each
person for such electronic surveillance.
(b) Form.--The report submitted under subsection (a) may be
submitted in classified form.
(c) Access.--The Chair of the Permanent Select Committee on
Intelligence of the House of Representatives and the Chair of the
Select Committee on Intelligence of the Senate shall provide each
member of the Committees on the Judiciary of the House of
Representatives and the Senate, respectively, access to the report
submitted under subsection (a). Such access shall be provided in
accordance with security procedures required for the review of
classified information.
SEC. 5. FOREIGN INTELLIGENCE SURVEILLANCE COURT MATTERS.
(a) Authority for Additional Judges.--The first sentence of section
103(a) of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C.
1803(a)) is amended by striking ``judicial circuits'' and inserting
``judicial circuits, and any additional district court judges that the
Chief Justice considers necessary for the prompt and timely
consideration of applications under section 104,''.
(b) Consideration of Emergency Applications.--Section 105(f) of
such Act (50 U.S.C. 1805(f)) is amended by adding at the end the
following new sentence: ``The judge receiving an application under this
subsection shall review such application within 24 hours of the
application being submitted.''
SEC. 6. STREAMLINING FISA APPLICATION PROCESS.
(a) In General.--Section 104 of the Foreign Intelligence
Surveillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1804) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) in paragraph (6), by striking ``detailed
description'' and inserting ``summary description'';
(B) in paragraph (7)--
(i) in subparagraph (C), by striking
``techniques;'' and inserting ``techniques;
and'';
(ii) by striking subparagraph (D); and
(iii) by redesignating subparagraph (E) as
subparagraph (D); and
(C) in paragraph (8), by striking ``a statement of
the means'' and inserting ``a summary statement of the
means''; and
(2) in subsection (e)(1)(A), by striking ``or the Director
of National Intelligence'' and inserting ``the Director of
National Intelligence, or the Director of the Central
Intelligence Agency''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 105(a)(5) of such Act (50 U.S.C.
1805(a)(5)) is amended by striking ``104(a)(7)(E)'' and inserting
``104(a)(7)(D)''.
SEC. 7. INTERNATIONAL MOVEMENT OF TARGETS.
Section 105(d) of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978
(50 U.S.C. 1805(d)), as redesignated by section 7(4), is amended by
adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(4) An order issued under this section shall remain in force
during the authorized period of surveillance notwithstanding the
absence of the target from the United States, unless the Government
files a motion to extinguish the order and the court grants the
motion.''.
SEC. 8. EXTENSION OF PERIOD FOR APPLICATIONS FOR ORDERS FOR EMERGENCY
ELECTRONIC SURVEILLANCE.
Section 105(f) of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978
(50 U.S.C. 1805(f)) is further amended by striking ``72 hours'' each
place it appears and inserting ``168 hours''.
SEC. 9. ENHANCEMENT OF ELECTRONIC SURVEILLANCE AUTHORITY IN WARTIME.
Section 111 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978
(50 U.S.C. 1811) is amended by striking ``the Congress'' and inserting
``the Congress or an authorization for the use of military force
described in section 2(c)(2) of the War Powers Resolution (50 U.S.C.
1541(c)(2)) if such authorization contains a specific authorization for
electronic surveillance under this section.''.
SEC. 10. ACQUISITION OF COMMUNICATIONS BETWEEN PARTIES NOT IN THE
UNITED STATES.
The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1801
et seq.) is further amended--
(1) by adding at the end of title I the following new
section:
``acquisition of communications between parties not in the united
states
``Sec. 112. (a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other provision
of this Act, a court order is not required for the acquisition of the
contents of any communication between persons that are not located
within the United States for the purpose of collecting foreign
intelligence information, without respect to whether the communication
passes through the United States or the surveillance device is located
within the United States.
``(b) Treatment of Intercepted Communications Involving a Domestic
Party.--If an acquisition described in subsection (a) inadvertently
collects a communication in which at least one party to the
communication is within the United States--
``(1) in the case of a communication acquired inside the
United States, the contents of such communication shall be
handled in accordance with minimization procedures adopted by
the Attorney General that require that no contents of any
communication to which a United States person is a party shall
be disclosed, disseminated, or used for any purpose or retained
for longer than 168 hours unless a court order under section
105 is obtained or unless the Attorney General determines that
the information indicates a threat of death or serious bodily
harm to any person; and
``(2) in the case of a communication acquired outside the
United States, the contents of such communication shall be
handled in accordance with minimization procedures adopted by
the Attorney General.''; and
(2) in the table of contents in the first section, by
inserting after the item relating to section 111 the following:
``112. Acquisition of communications between parties not in the United
States.''.
SEC. 11. ADDITIONAL PERSONNEL FOR PREPARATION AND CONSIDERATION OF
APPLICATIONS FOR ORDERS APPROVING ELECTRONIC
SURVEILLANCE.
(a) Office of Intelligence Policy and Review.--
(1) In general.--The Attorney General may hire and assign
personnel to the Office of Intelligence Policy and Review as
may be necessary to carry out the prompt and timely
preparation, modification, and review of applications under
section 104 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of
1978 (50 U.S.C. 1804) for orders approving electronic
surveillance for foreign intelligence purposes under section
105 of such Act (50 U.S.C. 1805).
(2) Assignment.--The Attorney General shall assign
personnel hired and assigned pursuant to paragraph (1) to and
among appropriate offices of the National Security Agency in
order that such personnel may directly assist personnel of the
National Security Agency in preparing applications under
section 104 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of
1978 (50 U.S.C. 1804).
(b) National Security Branch of the FBI.--
(1) In general.--The Director of the Federal Bureau of
Investigation may hire and assign personnel to the National
Security Branch as may be necessary to carry out the prompt and
timely preparation of applications under section 104 of the
Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1804)
for orders approving electronic surveillance for foreign
intelligence purposes under section 105 of such Act (50 U.S.C.
1805).
(2) Assignment.--The Director of the Federal Bureau of
Investigation shall assign personnel hired and assigned
pursuant to paragraph (1) to and among the field offices of the
Federal Bureau of Investigation in order that such personnel
may directly assist personnel of the Federal Bureau of
Investigation in such field offices in preparing applications
under section 104 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act
of 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1804).
(c) National Security Agency.--The Director of the National
Security Agency may hire and assign personnel as may be necessary to
carry out the prompt and timely preparation of applications under
section 104 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50
U.S.C. 1804) for orders approving electronic surveillance for foreign
intelligence purposes under section 105 of such Act (50 U.S.C. 1805).
(d) Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court.--The presiding judge
designated under section 103(b) of such Act may hire and assign
personnel as may be necessary to carry out the prompt and timely
consideration of applications under section 104 of such Act (50 U.S.C.
1804) for orders approving electronic surveillance for foreign
intelligence purposes under section 105 of that Act (50 U.S.C. 1805).
SEC. 12. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) The term ``electronic surveillance'' has the meaning
given the term in section 101(f) of the Foreign Intelligence
Surveillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1801(f)).
(2) The term ``foreign intelligence information'' has the
meaning given the term in section 101(e) of such Act (50 U.S.C.
1801(e)). | NSA Oversight Act - States that provisions of the federal criminal code concerning wire and electronic communications and their interception and the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (FISA) are the exclusive means by which domestic electronic surveillance may be conducted until specific statutory authorization for any other such surveillance is enacted.
Requires the President to report to the congressional intelligence committees on the Terrorist Surveillance Program of the National Security Agency (NSA) as well as any other program which involves electronic surveillance of U.S. persons in the United States conducted by a federal department or agency without fully complying with FISA procedures.
Authorizes additional judges for the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court (Court).
Extends from 72 to 168 hours the period after initiating an emergency electronic surveillance to apply for a court order authorizing such surveillance.
States that a court order is not required for the acquisition of communications between persons not located within the United States for the purpose of collecting foreign intelligence information, whether the communication passes through, or the surveillance device is located within, the United States.
Authorizes the hiring of additional personnel within the Department of Justice (DOJ), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), NSA, and the Court. | To reiterate that chapters 119 and 121 of title 18, United States Code, and the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 are the exclusive means by which domestic electronic surveillance may be conducted, and for other purposes. |
582 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Anti-Gunrunning Act of 2003''.
SEC. 2. PREVENTING GUN TRAFFICKING BY RESTRICTING HANDGUN TRANSFERS TO
ONE PER MONTH.
(a) In General.--Section 922 of title 18, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``(z)(1) The Congress finds and declares that--
``(A) crime, particularly crime involving drugs and guns,
is a pervasive, nationwide problem;
``(B) crime at the local level is exacerbated by the
interstate movement of drugs, guns, and criminal gangs;
``(C) firearms and ammunition move easily in interstate
commerce;
``(D) the illegal movement of firearms, and handguns in
particular, across state lines is a widespread and pervasive
national problem;
``(E) handguns (even when lawfully purchased) are
unlawfully transported across state lines by gun traffickers
and are illegally sold to prohibited persons;
``(F) in fact, even before a firearm is illegally sold by a
trafficker, the gun, its component parts, ammunition, and the
raw materials from which it is made have moved in interstate
commerce;
``(G) law-abiding persons may fear to travel interstate or
to or through certain parts of the country due to concern about
violent crime and gun violence;
``(H) the illegal movement of handguns across state lines
substantially affects the national market for firearms, because
handguns sold in one State in which there are few restrictions
provide a convenient source for the acquisition of handguns by
gun traffickers who transport the handguns to jurisdictions
with stronger restrictions;
``(I) the unlawful sale of firearms by traffickers provides
a method by which firearms can be bought and sold anonymously,
without background checks and without record-keeping
requirements to enable gun tracing;
``(J) handguns sold by traffickers are often obtained by
criminals and other prohibited persons who frequently use guns
that cannot be traced to commit crimes;
``(K) handgun violence is a pervasive, national problem
that is exacerbated by the availability of handguns through gun
traffickers;
``(L) firearms from traffickers have been involved in
subsequent crimes including drug offenses, crimes of violence,
property crimes, and illegal possession by felons and other
prohibited persons;
``(M) because gun trafficking is often an interstate
activity, individual States and localities are often severely
hampered in combating illegal handgun purchases--even States
and localities that have made strong efforts to prevent,
detect, and punish gun-related crime and illegal trafficking of
firearms--as a result of the failure or inability of other
States or localities to take strong measures; and
``(N) the Congress has the power, under the interstate
commerce clause and other provisions of the Constitution, to
ensure, by enactment of this section, that criminals and other
prohibited persons do not obtain firearms through gun
traffickers.
``(2) It shall be unlawful for any licensed importer, licensed
manufacturer, or licensed dealer--
``(A) during any 30-day period, to sell, deliver, or
transfer 2 or more handguns to any single person (other than a
licensed importer, licensed manufacturer, or licensed dealer),
or
``(B) to sell, deliver, or transfer a handgun to any single
person (other than a licensed importer, licensed manufacturer,
or licensed dealer), knowing or having reasonable cause to
believe that the transferee has already received 1 or more
handguns within the previous 30 days.
``(3)(A) It shall be unlawful for any person (other than a licensed
importer, licensed manufacturer, or licensed dealer) to receive more
than one handgun within any 30-day period.
``(B) Under such rules and regulations as the Attorney General
shall prescribe, subparagraph (A) shall not apply to the loan or rental
of a single handgun solely for purposes of target shooting, provided
that the recipient possesses no more than one such loaned or rented
handgun at any one time.
``(4) Under such rules and regulations as the Attorney General
shall prescribe, paragraphs (2) and (3) shall not apply to--
``(A) handguns transferred to or received by qualified
private security companies licensed to do business within the
State where the transfer occurs for use by the company in its
security operations, provided that any handgun transferred
under this subsection is transferred through a licensed dealer
located in the State where the security company is licensed to
do business;
``(B) the disposition made of a handgun delivered to a
person licensed under section 923 for the sole purpose of
repair or customizing when such handgun or a replacement
handgun of the same kind and type is returned to the person
from whom it was received;
``(C) the loan or rental of a single handgun from a person
licensed under section 923, provided that the recipient
possesses no more than one such loaned or rented handgun at any
one time;
``(D) the redemption of pawned handguns from a person
licensed under section 923 by the person from whom the handguns
were received;
``(E) the receipt of curio or relic handguns by a licensed
collector;
``(F) the receipt of a single handgun from a person
licensed under section 923 to replace a lost or stolen handgun
of the same kind or type, where the transferee has submitted to
the licensee a copy of an official police report establishing
the loss or theft of a handgun or handguns;
``(G) the transfer of handguns by bequest;
``(H) the transfer of handguns to the transferor's spouse,
child, parent, stepparent, grandparent, grandchild, brother, or
sister;
``(I) the transfer of all or part of a personal firearms
collection (as that term is defined in regulations to be
prescribed by the Attorney General) that includes handguns,
provided that the handguns in the collection are transferred
through a licensed importer, manufacturer, or dealer located in
the State where the transferee resides; or
``(J) the transfer or receipt of a handgun for the use of
the United States or any department or agency thereof or of any
State or any department, agency or political subdivision
thereof.''.
(b) Penalties.--Section 924(a)(2) of such title is amended by
striking ``or (o)'' and inserting ``(o), or (z)''.
(c) Increased Penalties for Licensees Who Knowingly Make False
Statements in Required Records.--
(1) Section 924(a)(3) of such title is amended--
(A) by striking ``(A)'';
(B) by striking ``or'' after ``chapter'';
(C) by striking subsection (B); and
(D) by striking ``one year'' and inserting ``5
years''.
(2) Section 924(a) of such title is amended by adding at
the end the following:
``(7) Any licensed dealer, licensed importer, licensed
manufacturer, or licensed collector who knowingly violates section
922(m) shall be fined under this title, imprisoned not more than 1
year, or both.''.
(d) Conforming Changes to the Brady Law.--Section 922(t) of such
title is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)(B)(ii), by striking ``(g) or (n)'' and
inserting ``(g), (n), or (z)'';
(2) in paragraph (2), by striking ``(g) or (n)'' and
inserting ``(g), (n), or (z)'';
(3) in paragraph (3), by striking subparagraph (A) and
redesignating subparagraphs (B) and (C) as subparagraphs (A)
and (B), respectively;
(4) in paragraph (4), by striking ``(g) or (n)'' and
inserting ``(g), (n), or (z)''; and
(5) by adding at the end the following:
``(10) A licensee must, within three days of receiving a request
from the prospective transferee, notify the national instant criminal
background check system of any background check conducted pursuant to
this section within the previous 30 days that did not result in the
transfer of a handgun.
``(11) Information that is retained pursuant to Public Law 103-159
may be used to effectuate section 922(z) of this title.''.
(e) Effective Date.--The Attorney General shall determine, and
publish in the Federal Register, the date on which this section shall
become effective. | Anti-Gunrunning Act of 2003 - Amends the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act to prohibit any licensed firearms importer, manufacturer, or dealer from selling, delivering, or transferring: (1) two or more handguns to any single person (other than a licensed importer, manufacturer, or dealer) during any 30-day period; or (2) a handgun knowing or having reasonable cause to believe that the transferee has already received one or more handguns within the previous 30 days. Prohibits an unlicensed individual from receiving more than one handgun within any 30-day period. Specifies exceptions.Provides for imprisonment for up to five years (currently, one year) of a licensed dealer, importer, manufacturer, or collector knowingly making any false statement in connection with required firearms records.Requires a licensee, within three days of receiving a request from a prospective transferee, to notify the national instant criminal background check system of any check conducted within the previous 30 days that did not result in the transfer of a handgun. | To prevent handgun violence and illegal commerce in handguns. |
583 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Salmon Solutions and Planning Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSES.
(a) Findings.--Congress finds and declares the following:
(1) Thirteen salmon and steelhead species in the Columbia
and Snake River Basin are listed for protection under the
Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) as a
consequence of various factors, including the construction and
operation of hydroelectric projects, harvest management
practices, habitat degradation, altered in-stream flow regimes,
and unsound hatchery practices.
(2) The original range of Snake River salmon included not
only their existing habitat, but also habitat in the upper
Columbia River and the upper Snake River Basins, including
southern Idaho, southeast Oregon, and northern Nevada.
(3) Since the construction of 4 Federal dams on the lower
Snake River in Washington, all salmon and steelhead populations
in the Snake River are either already extinct or listed as an
endangered or threatened species under the Endangered Species
Act of 1973.
(4) Without action, climate change and rising water
temperatures will continue to have detrimental effects on many
North American coldwater fish species, including salmon and
steelhead populations. Due to their high-elevation spawning
grounds, Snake River salmon are key to maintaining and
rebuilding those salmon populations threatened by rising water
temperatures throughout the Columbia River Basin.
(5) Salmon and steelhead populations have major economic,
ecological, educational, recreational, scientific, cultural,
and spiritual significance to the Nation and its people. Even
at their current depressed population levels, these salmon and
steelhead populations generate hundreds of millions of dollars
in direct and indirect benefits for communities in Alaska,
Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and California; restoring these
populations is estimated to generate billions of dollars in
additional revenue for these States.
(6) The United States has signed treaties with Indian
tribes in Washington, Oregon, Montana, and Idaho and with the
Government of Canada, creating legally enforceable treaty
obligations to restore salmon populations to sustainable and
harvestable levels.
(7) Recent studies indicate that the window of time to
protect and restore the salmon and steelhead populations is
short, with scientists estimating that several of the remaining
Snake River salmon populations could be extinct in less than 20
years if action is not taken.
(8) The Federal Government, the Bonneville Power
Administration, and United States ratepayers in the Pacific
Northwest have spent more than $10,000,000,000 on salmon
recovery efforts in the Columbia and Snake River Basin to date.
(9) A federally funded group of State, tribal, Federal, and
independent scientists found that removing the 4 lower Snake
River dams in Washington is the surest way to protect and
recover these salmon and steelhead populations. Similar
conclusions have been reached by the Army Corps of Engineers
and the Department of Commerce.
(10) Significant sediment buildup behind the Lower Granite
Dam poses a flood risk to the city of Lewiston, Idaho. A study
by the Army Corps of Engineers found that nearly $2,000,000,000
worth of buildings and infrastructure face a growing threat of
major damage from levee breaching. The same Corps study
estimates that the costs of river-dredging and levee-raising
needed to protect this area could cost taxpayers hundreds of
millions of dollars.
(11) A Federal court has found that all 4 lower Snake River
dams violate water quality standards under the Federal Water
Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.).
(12) The removal of the 4 lower Snake River dams would open
up more than 100 miles of free-flowing river ways to inland
Northwest communities and provide needed resources for more
effective and efficient freight transportation systems.
(13) In the event the 4 lower Snake River dams are removed,
their electricity generation, freight shipping, and water
supply benefits must be replaced through other means in order
to protect affected communities, farms, and the regional energy
supply system; the dams' energy benefits should be replaced
with cost-effective, clean renewable sources that focus on
energy efficiency and conservation.
(14) Studies have found that the Northwest has ample
additional existing and potential clean renewable energy
sources to replace the renewable electricity produced by the 4
lower Snake River dams in an environmentally sound and cost
effective manner.
(15) By completing the planning and evaluation required
under this Act, the Northwest and the Nation will be better
prepared to efficiently manage salmon recovery and ensure
prompt implementation of Federal salmon recovery actions needed
to protect and restore wild Columbia and Snake River salmon and
steelhead.
(b) Purposes.--The purpose of this Act are--
(1) to ensure the protection and recovery of wild Columbia
and Snake River salmon and steelhead to self-sustaining,
harvestable levels, while providing for reliable, reasonably
priced, clean renewable energy in the Northwest, a reliable and
affordable freight transportation system, an economically
sustainable salmon recovery program; and
(2) to maximize the economic benefits of removal of the 4
lower Snake River dams while mitigating for its impacts.
SEC. 3. SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS OF FEDERAL SALMON RECOVERY ACTIONS.
(a) In General.--Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment
of this Act, the Secretary of Commerce shall enter into an agreement
with the National Academy of Sciences providing for a scientific
analysis of Federal salmon recovery actions.
(b) Review of Snake River Dam Removal and Other Actions.--Pursuant
to the agreement under subsection (a), the National Academy of Sciences
shall review, at minimum--
(1) the impact, if any, that removal of the 4 lower Snake
River dams would have on recovery of salmon and steelhead
populations; and
(2) any additional actions that may be necessary to achieve
recovery of salmon and steelhead populations.
(c) Report.--Pursuant to the agreement under subsection (a), the
National Academy of Sciences shall submit, not later than 10 months
after the date of enactment of this Act, a report on the results of the
scientific analysis conducted under the agreement--
(1) to the Secretary of the Army for consideration in
developing the updated feasibility study under section 8;
(2) to the Secretaries of Commerce, Transportation, Energy,
and the Interior and the Administrator of the Environmental
Protection Agency; and
(3) to Congress.
SEC. 4. STUDY OF RAIL, HIGHWAY, AND BARGE IMPROVEMENTS.
(a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation shall conduct a
peer-reviewed study of the rail, highway, and Columbia River barge
infrastructure improvements that would be necessary to ensure a cost-
effective and efficient transportation system for agricultural and
other shippers who--
(1) currently use barge transportation between Lewiston,
Idaho, and the confluence of the Snake and Columbia Rivers; and
(2) would be unable to do so if the 4 lower Snake River
dams were removed.
(b) Review of Potential Cost Increases.--In carrying out subsection
(a), the Secretary of Transportation shall review, at a minimum--
(1) increases, if any, in shipping costs that would result
if the 4 lower Snake River dams were removed; and
(2) options for addressing any such increases so as to
minimize the potential impact on shippers.
(c) Input of Interested Parties.--In carrying out subsection (a),
the Secretary of Transportation shall incorporate--
(1) input and feedback from--
(A) farmers and other shippers;
(B) the Washington, Idaho, and Oregon State
departments of transportation; and
(C) other relevant stakeholders in the
agricultural, business, and public interest
communities; and
(2) any suggestions or decisions arrived at through
consensus deliberations of the same or similar participants.
(d) Report.--Not later than 12 months after the date of enactment
of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall transmit a report on
the results of the study--
(1) to the Secretary of the Army for consideration in
developing the updated feasibility study under section 8; and
(2) to Congress.
SEC. 5. STUDY OF ENERGY REPLACEMENT.
(a) In General.--The Secretary of Energy, in consultation with the
Council on Environmental Quality, shall conduct a peer-reviewed study
of the energy replacement options that exist to replace the power
currently generated by the 4 lower Snake River dams in the event the
dams are removed.
(b) Review of Potential Clean Renewable Energy Resources and
Certain Projects.--In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary of
Energy shall review--
(1) existing, planned, and potential clean renewable energy
resources; and
(2) energy efficiency, energy conservation, and combined
heat and power projects.
(c) Report.--Not later than 12 months after the date of enactment
of this Act, the Secretary of Energy shall transmit a report on the
results of the study--
(1) to the Secretary of the Army for consideration in
developing the updated feasibility study under section 8; and
(2) to Congress.
SEC. 6. STUDY OF LOWER SNAKE RIVER RIVERFRONT REVITALIZATION.
(a) In General.--The Secretary of the Army, in consultation with
relevant State and local governments and interested parties, shall
conduct a study of--
(1) the riverfront revitalization and restoration
opportunities that would exist in the event of the removal of
the 4 lower Snake River dams; and
(2) the costs that would be incurred to implement such
revitalization and restoration measures.
(b) Riverfront Revitalization.--In carrying out subsection (a), the
Secretary of the Army shall focus on riverfront revitalization for
Lewiston, Idaho, and Clarkston, Washington, but may include a review of
other impacted communities along the 140 miles of the lower Snake
River.
(c) Peer Review.--The study shall be subject to peer review
generally in accordance with section 2034 of the Water Resources
Development Act of 2007 (33 U.S.C. 2343) to determine the accuracy of
the preferred engineering options and costs determined by the
Secretary.
(d) Report.--Not later than 12 months after the date of enactment
of this Act, the Secretary shall transmit to Congress a report on the
results of the study, including the Secretary's determinations
concerning engineering options and costs.
SEC. 7. STUDY OF IRRIGATION PROTECTIONS.
(a) In General.--The Secretary of the Interior, acting through the
Bureau of Reclamation, shall conduct a peer-reviewed study of the
options and costs regarding any modifications to affected irrigation
systems, cooling systems, and private wells that would be needed if the
4 lower Snake River dams were removed.
(b) Report.--Not later than 12 months after the date of enactment
of this Act, the Secretary of the Interior shall transmit a report on
the study--
(1) to the Secretary of the Army for consideration in
developing the updated feasibility study under section 8; and
(2) to Congress.
SEC. 8. AUTHORIZATION AND STUDY OF SALMON RECOVERY.
(a) Dam Removal Authorization.--Congress hereby determines that the
Secretary of the Army may remove the 4 lower Snake River dams.
(b) Review and Update of Feasibility Study.--The Secretary of the
Army, in consultation with the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of
the Interior, and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection
Agency, shall re-evaluate and update the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers'
Final Lower Snake River Juvenile Salmon Migration Feasibility Report/
Environmental Impact Statement (February 2002) pursuant to new
information.
(c) Considerations.--The updated feasibility study shall--
(1) take into consideration the results of the studies and
analyses carried out under this Act; and
(2) incorporate and address, at a minimum--
(A) current and expected future climate change
impacts on Columbia and Snake River salmon and
steelhead populations and their habitat;
(B) replacement of the 4 lower Snake River dams'
average energy output (not nameplate capacity) with
clean renewable energy resources, including energy
efficiency and conservation;
(C) options for keeping currently irrigated acreage
intact and under irrigation in a dam removal scenario;
(D) costs associated with Lower Granite Dam
reservoir sediment/flood risk mitigation in a non-dam-
removal scenario;
(E) Passive Use Values associated with both dam
removal and non-dam-removal scenarios; and
(F) alternate methods for removing the 4 lower
Snake River dams in addition to the method analyzed in
the 2002 environmental impact statement, including full
dam removal and removing or notching the dams' concrete
portions.
(d) Completion; Report; Peer Review.--The Secretary of the Army
shall--
(1) complete the re-evaluation and update and submit a
report thereon to Congress within 24 months after the date of
enactment of this Act;
(2) include in the report a determination of engineering
options and costs; and
(3) submit the results of the re-evaluation and update
(including such determination of engineering options and costs)
to peer review generally in accordance with section 2034 of the
Water Resources Development Act of 2007 (33 U.S.C. 2343) to
determine the accuracy of the preferred engineering options and
costs.
SEC. 9. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act, the following definitions apply:
(1) Clean renewable energy resources.--The term ``clean
renewable energy resources'' means--
(A) incremental electricity produced as the result
of efficiency improvements to existing hydroelectric
generation projects, including in irrigation pipes and
canals, where the additional generation in either case
does not result in new water diversions or
impoundments;
(B) wind;
(C) solar energy;
(D) geothermal energy;
(E) landfill gas;
(F) wave, ocean, or tidal power;
(G) gas from sewage treatment facilities;
(H) biomass energy (as defined in section 932(a) of
the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 16232(a))),
excluding energy derived from--
(i) pulping liquor from paper production;
or
(ii) forest materials from old growth
forests; or
(I) any combination of the energy resources
described in this paragraph.
(2) Federal salmon recovery actions.--The term ``Federal
salmon recovery actions'' means Federal actions required to
protect, recover, and restore salmon and steelhead in the
Columbia and Snake River basin that are listed under section
4(c) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1533(c)).
The term shall not be construed as just those actions needed to
avoid jeopardy of these salmon and steelhead populations under
the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.).
(3) 4 lower snake river dams.--The term ``4 lower Snake
River dams'' means the following dams on the Snake River,
Washington:
(A) The Ice Harbor dam.
(B) The Lower Monumental dam.
(C) The Little Goose dam.
(D) The Lower Granite dam.
(4) Peer-reviewed study.--The term ``peer-reviewed study''
means, unless otherwise specified, a study subject to peer
review in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Director
of the Office of Management and Budget under section 515 of the
Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act, 2001 (as
enacted into law by Public Law 106-554; 114 Stat. 2763A-153).
(5) Salmon and steelhead populations.--The term ``salmon
and steelhead populations'' means the evolutionarily
significant units of salmon and steelhead in the Columbia and
Snake River basin that are listed under section 4(c) of the
Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1533(c)). | Salmon Solutions and Planning Act - Directs the Secretary of Commerce to enter into an arrangement with the National Academy of Sciences for scientific analysis of federal salmon recovery actions, including the impact that removal of the four lower Snake River dams would have on recovery of salmon and steelhead populations and any additional actions that may be necessary to achieve recovery of salmon and steelhead populations.
Directs: (1) the Secretary of Transportation (DOT) to conduct a peer-reviewed study of the rail, highway, and Columbia River barge infrastructure improvements that would be necessary to ensure a cost-effective and efficient transportation system for shippers who currently use barge transportation between Lewiston, Idaho, and the confluence of the Snake and Columbia Rivers and who would be unable to do so if the four lower Snake River dams were removed; (2) the Secretary of Energy (DOE) to conduct a peer-reviewed study of the options to replace the power currently generated by such dams if they were removed; (3) the Army Corps of Engineers to analyze riverfront revitalization and restoration opportunities and costs in the event of such removal; and (4) the Bureau of Reclamation to conduct a peer-reviewed analysis of the options and costs regarding any needed modifications to affected irrigation systems, cooling systems, and private wells if the dams were removed.
Sets forth the congressional determination that the Secretary of the Army may remove the four lower Snake River dams.
Directs the Secretary to reevaluate and update the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Final Lower Snake River Juvenile Salmon Migration Feasibility Report/Environmental Impact Statement (February 2002) pursuant to new information. | To ensure that proper information gathering and planning are undertaken to secure the preservation and recovery of the salmon and steelhead of the Columbia River Basin in a manner that protects and enhances local communities, ensures effective expenditure of Federal resources, and maintains reasonably priced, reliable power, to direct the Secretary of Commerce to seek scientific analysis of Federal efforts to restore salmon and steelhead listed under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, and for other purposes. |
584 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Cell Tax Fairness Act of 2008''.
SEC. 2. MORATORIUM.
(a) In General.--No State or local jurisdiction shall impose a new
discriminatory tax on or with respect to mobile services, mobile
service providers, or mobile service property, during the 5-year period
beginning on the date of enactment of this Act.
(b) Definitions.--In this Act:
(1) Mobile service.--The term ``mobile service'' means
commercial mobile radio service, as such term is defined in
section 20.3 of title 47, Code of Federal Regulations, as in
effect on the date of enactment of this Act, or any other
service that is primarily intended for receipt on, transmission
from, or use with a mobile telephone, including but not limited
to the receipt of a digital good.
(2) Mobile service property.--The term ``mobile service
property'' means all property used by a mobile service provider
in connection with its business of providing mobile services,
whether real, personal, tangible, or intangible and includes,
but is not limited to goodwill, licenses, customer lists, and
other similar intangible property associated with such
business.
(3) Mobile service provider.--The term ``mobile service
provider'' means any entity that sells or provides mobile
services, but only to the extent that such entity sells or
provides mobile services.
(4) New discriminatory tax.--The term ``new discriminatory
tax'' means any tax imposed by a State or local jurisdiction
that--
(A) is imposed on or with respect to, or is
measured by the charges, receipts, or revenues from or
value of--
(i) any mobile service and is not generally
imposed, or is generally imposed at a lower
rate, on or with respect to, or measured by the
charges, receipts or revenues from, other
services or transactions involving tangible
personal property;
(ii) any mobile service provider and is not
generally imposed, or is generally imposed at a
lower rate, on other persons that are engaged
in businesses other than the provision of
mobile services; or
(iii) any mobile service property and is
not generally imposed, or is generally imposed
at a lower rate, on or with respect to, or
measured by the value of, other property that
is devoted to a commercial or industrial use
and subject to a property tax levy, except
public utility property owned by a public
utility subject to rate of return regulation by
a State or Federal regulatory authority; and
(B) was not generally imposed and actually enforced
on mobile services, mobile service providers, or mobile
service property prior to the date of enactment of this
Act.
(5) State or local jurisdiction.--The term ``State or local
jurisdiction'' means any of the several States, the District of
Columbia, any territory or possession of the United States, a
political subdivision of any State, territory, or possession,
or any governmental entity or person acting on behalf of such
State, territory, possession, or subdivision and with the
authority to assess, impose, levy, or collect taxes or fees.
(6) Tax.--
(A) In general.--The term ``tax'' means any charge
imposed by any governmental entity for the purpose of
generating revenues for governmental purposes, and is
not a fee imposed on an individual entity or class of
entities for a specific privilege, service, or benefit
conferred exclusively on such entity or class of
entities.
(B) Exclusion.--The term ``tax'' does not include
any fee or charge--
(i) used to preserve and advance Federal
universal service or similar State programs
authorized by section 254 of the Communications
Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 254); or
(ii) specifically dedicated by a State or
local jurisdiction for the support of E-911
communications systems.
(c) Rules of Construction.--
(1) Determination.--For purposes of subsection (b)(4), all
taxes, tax rates, exemptions, deductions, credits, incentives,
exclusions, and other similar factors shall be taken into
account in determining whether a tax is a new discriminatory
tax.
(2) Application of principles.--Except as otherwise
provided in this Act, in determining whether a tax on mobile
service property is a new discriminatory tax for purposes of
subsection (b)(4)(A)(iii), principles similar to those set
forth in section 306 of the Railroad Revitalization and
Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 (49 U.S.C. 11501) shall apply.
(3) Exclusions.--Notwithstanding any other provision of
this Act--
(A) the term ``generally imposed'' as used in
subsection (b)(4) shall not apply to any tax imposed
only on--
(i) specific services;
(ii) specific industries or business
segments; or
(iii) specific types of property; and
(B) the term ``new discriminatory tax'' shall not
include a new tax or the modification of an existing
tax that--
(i) replaces one or more taxes that had
been imposed on mobile services, mobile service
providers, or mobile service property; and
(ii) is designed so that, based on
information available at the time of the
enactment of such new tax or such modification,
the amount of tax revenues generated thereby
with respect to such mobile services, mobile
service providers, or mobile service property
is reasonably expected to not exceed the amount
of tax revenues that would have been generated
by the respective replaced tax or taxes with
respect to such mobile services, mobile service
providers, or mobile service property.
SEC. 3. ENFORCEMENT.
(a) Burden of Proof.--The burden of proof in any proceeding brought
under this Act shall be upon the party seeking relief and shall be by a
preponderance of the evidence on all issues of fact.
(b) Relief.--In granting relief against a tax which is
discriminatory or excessive under this Act with respect to tax rate or
amount only, the court shall prevent, restrain, or terminate the
imposition, levy, or collection of no more than the discriminatory or
excessive portion of the tax as determined by the court. | Cell Tax Fairness Act of 2008 - Prohibits states or local governments from imposing any new discriminatory tax on mobile services, mobile service providers, or mobile service property for five years after the enactment of this Act. Defines "new discriminatory tax" as a tax imposed on mobile services, providers, or property that is not generally imposed on other types of services or property, or that is generally imposed at a lower rate. | To restrict any State or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property. |
585 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Small System Safe Drinking Water Act
of 2007''.
SEC. 2. COMPLIANCE AND ENFORCEMENT.
(a) Guidance.--Section 1412(b)(4)(E) of the Safe Drinking Water Act
(42 U.S.C. 300g-1(b)(4)(E)) is amended by adding at the end the
following:
``(vi) Guidance.--As soon as practicable
after the date of enactment of this clause, the
Administrator shall--
``(I) convene a working group
composed of representatives from
States, small publicly owned water
systems, and treatment manufacturers,
which shall, not later than 180 days
after the date of enactment of this
clause, conduct a study of, and submit
to Congress a report on, barriers to
the use of point-of-use and point-of-
entry treatment units, package plants
(including water bottled by the public
water system), and modular units;
``(II) develop a model guidance
document based on recommendations
received from the working group under
subclause (I) and similar State
guidance documents for distribution to
States to assist States in regulating
and promoting the treatment options
described in subclause (I); and
``(III) distribute to small water
systems--
``(aa) the model guidance
document developed under
subclause (II); and
``(bb) such other
information relating to the
treatment options described in
subclause (I) as the
Administrator considers to be
appropriate.''.
(b) Enforcement of National Primary Drinking Water Regulations.--
(1) Variance technologies.--Section 1412(b)(15)(A) of the
Safe Drinking Water Act (42 U.S.C. 300g-1(b)(15)(A)) is
amended--
(A) by redesignating clauses (i) through (iii) as
subclauses (I) through (III), respectively, and
indenting appropriately;
(B) by striking ``(A) In general.--At the'' and
inserting the following:
``(A) Technologies.--
``(i) In general.--At the''; and
(C) by adding after the matter following
subparagraph (A)(i)(III) (as redesignated by
subparagraph (A)) the following:
``(B) Affordability.--In establishing affordability
criteria under this subparagraph, the Administrator
shall--
``(i) in determining whether a treatment
technology or treatment technique is
affordable, include consideration of costs
associated with complying with all relevant
regulations promulgated in accordance with this
Act and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act
(33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.) with which a
municipality or small public water system may
be required to comply;
``(ii) give extra weight to households the
total income of which is below the poverty
level, and to communities that meet the
affordability criteria of a State established
in accordance with section 1452(b)(3)(A)(iii),
as determined by the Administrator; and
``(iii) ensure that the affordability
criteria are not more costly, on a per-capita
basis, to a small public water system than the
cost, on a per-capita basis, to a large water
system of acquiring feasible technology
described in paragraph (4).''.
(2) State revolving loan funds.--Section 1452 of the Safe
Drinking Water Act (42 U.S.C. 300j-12) is amended--
(A) by redesignating subsections (n), (o), (p),
(q), and (r) as subsection (o), (p), (q), (r), and (s)
respectively; and
(B) by inserting after subsection (m) the
following:
``(n) Enforcement.--Before initiating any enforcement action, the
Administrator or the State shall ensure that sufficient funds have been
made available under this title to assist each public water system that
serves fewer than 10,000 individuals in meeting requirements under the
regulation.''.
(c) Renewal of Exemption.--Section 1416(b)(2) of the Safe Drinking
Water Act (42 U.S.C. 300g-5(b)(2)) is amended by striking subparagraph
(C) and inserting the following:
``(C) In the case of a system that does not serve
more than a population of 10,000 and that needs
financial assistance for the necessary improvements, an
exemption granted under clause (i) or (ii) of
subparagraph (B) may be renewed for such period as the
State determines to be appropriate, if the system
establishes that it is taking all practicable steps to
meet the requirements of subparagraph (B).''.
(d) Research, Technical Assistance, Information, and Training of
Personnel.--Section 1442 of the Safe Drinking Water Act (42 U.S.C.
300j-1) is amended--
(1) in subsection (e)--
(A) in the first sentence, by striking ``The
Administrator'' and inserting the following:
``(1) In general.--The Administrator'';
(B) in the second sentence, by striking ``Such
assistance'' and inserting the following:
``(2) Types of assistance.--Assistance provided under
paragraph (1)'';
(C) in the third sentence, by striking ``The
Administrator'' and inserting the following:
``(3) Availability of assistance.--The Administrator'';
(D) in the fourth sentence, by striking ``Each
nonprofit'' and inserting the following:
``(4) Consultation with state.--Each nonprofit''; and
(E) by striking the fifth sentence and all that
follows through the end of the subsection and inserting
the following:
``(5) Assistance in complying with rules.--The
Administrator shall ensure, to the maximum extent practicable,
that each water system serving fewer than 10,000 individuals
that is required to comply with Federal drinking water rules
receives adequate technical assistance and training to meet the
requirements of those final rules, including through assistance
to be provided by qualified nonprofit associations with
expertise in public water systems.
``(6) Priority.--The Administrator shall give priority for
assistance under this section to water systems that, as of the
date of enactment of this paragraph, are not in compliance
with, as determined by the Administrator--
``(A) the final rule entitled `Disinfectants and
Disinfection Byproducts' and published by the
Administrator on December 16, 1998 (63 Fed. Reg.
69390);
``(B) the final rule entitled `Arsenic and
Clarifications to Compliance and New Source
Contaminants Monitoring' and published by the
Administrator on January 22, 2001 (66 Fed. Reg. 6976);
``(C) the final rule entitled `Stage 2
Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts Rule' and
published by the Administrator on January 4, 2006 (71
Fed. Reg. 388); and
``(D) the final rule entitled `Ground Water Rule'
and published by the Administrator on November 8, 2006
(71 Fed. Reg. 65574).
``(7) Enforcement action.--Before initiating any
enforcement action, the Administrator or the State shall ensure
that sufficient funds have been made available under this title
to assist each public water system that serves fewer than
10,000 individuals in meeting requirements under the
regulation.''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(f) Research and Development Pilot Projects.--
``(1) In general.--The Administrator shall establish a
research pilot program (referred to in this subsection as the
`program') to explore new technologies or approaches that
public water systems may use to comply with a public drinking
water standard promulgated under this Act.
``(2) Responsibilities of administrator.--In carrying out
this subsection, the Administrator shall--
``(A) establish an application process that
includes criteria that may be used to assess water
systems applying for participation in the program;
``(B) based on applications received under
subparagraph (A), select 20 communities with various
populations and water sources in different regions of
the United States for participation in the program;
``(C) fund projects that develop or implement new
technologies or approaches for implementation of
Federal drinking water standards; and
``(D) coordinate projects with the Arsenic Water
Technology Partnership program of the Department of
Energy.
``(3) Technology transfer and disinfection strategies.--The
Administrator shall carry out a pilot program to conduct
research into technology transfer issues and disinfection
strategies relating to drinking water, including risks
associated with the migration to chloramines for the purpose of
water disinfection.
``(4) Funding.--
``(A) Authorization of appropriations.--There is
authorized to be appropriated to carry out this
subsection and subsection (e) $15,000,000 for each of
fiscal years 2008 through 2012.
``(B) Lobbying expenses.--No portion of any State
revolving loan fund established under section 1452, and
no portion of any funds made available under this
subsection, may be used for lobbying expenses.
``(C) Tribal assistance.--Of the amount made
available under subparagraph (A) for a fiscal year, at
least 3 percent shall be used for technical assistance
to public water systems owned or operated by Indian
Tribes.''.
(e) Contaminant Study and Report.--
(1) Establishment of panel.--The Administrator of the
Environmental Protection Agency (referred to in this subsection
as the ``Administrator'') shall establish a panel of experts
composed of not more than 6 members appointed by the
Administrator, of whom--
(A) 1 member shall be selected by the
Administrator;
(B) 1 member shall be appointed based on the
recommendation of State water administrators;
(C) 3 members shall be appointed based on the
recommendation of associations representing public
water systems; and
(D) 1 member shall be appointed based on the
recommendation of the National Academy of Sciences.
(2) Duties.--The panel of experts shall--
(A) conduct a review of studies on the health
effects of exposure to arsenic and disinfection
byproducts; and
(B) not later than 180 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, submit to the Committee on
Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the
Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of
Representatives a report that includes--
(i) the results of the review; and
(ii) an assessment of the most recent
scientific findings relating to the health
effects of exposure to the substances described
in subparagraph (A), including a comparison of
studies and research conducted after the date
on which maximum contaminant levels and maximum
contaminant level goals for those substances
were established in accordance with section
1412 of the Safe Drinking Water Act (42 U.S.C.
300g-1). | Small System Safe Drinking Water Act of 2007 - Amends the Safe Drinking Water Act to require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): (1) to convene a working group to study barriers to using specified treatments; (2) to develop model guidance to assist states in regulating and promoting such treatment options; and (3) when establishing affordability criteria for variance technology, to consider specified cost factors, to give extra weight to households below the poverty level and to communities that meet state affordability criteria, and to ensure that the criteria are not more costly, on a per-capita basis, to a small public water system than the per capita cost to a large water system of acquiring feasible technology.
Requires the Administrator or a state, before initiating any enforcement action, to ensure that sufficient funds have been made available to assist each public water system that serves fewer than 10,000 individuals in meeting regulation requirements.
Revises provisions allowing an exemption of a system from maximum containment level and treatment technique requirements to: (1) increase the population threshold; and (2) allow state determinations of a renewal period.
Revises technical assistance provisions to require water systems serving fewer than 10,000 individuals to receive adequate technical assistance and training to meet requirements of final rules. Gives priority to systems not in compliance with specified rules concerning: (1) disinfectants and disinfection byproducts; (2) arsenic and compliance and new source monitoring; and (3) groundwater.
Establishes pilot programs to: (1) explore new technologies or approaches to comply with a drinking water standard; and (2) research technology transfer issues and disinfection strategies relating to drinking water.
Requires the Administrator to establish a panel to study the health effects of exposure to arsenic and disinfection byproducts. | A bill to amend the Safe Drinking Water Act to prevent the enforcement of certain national primary drinking water regulations unless sufficient funding is available or variance technology has been identified. |
586 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Youth Mental Health Research Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) More than 100 million Americans currently have some
sort of brain-related condition. Millions of Americans, many of
whom are currently school children, have some sort of
developmental delay, autism, or learning disability.
(2) Moreover, many Americans suffer from some form of
psychotic disorder, including schizophrenia and affective
psychotic disorders.
(3) These brain disorders usually result in significant
life-long disability, and psychotic disorders in particular,
despite advances in treatment, rank among the top causes of
disability worldwide.
(4) Neuroscience research has the potential to dramatically
improve the quality of life for people facing brain disease and
injury, and to significantly improve our understanding of
learning.
(5) Because of the impact on the health and economy of the
country, the Federal Government has taken a special interest in
promoting neuroscience and mental health research. Several
Federal agencies, including the National Science Foundation,
National Institutes of Health (NIH), Veterans Administration,
and Department of Defense oversee research on the brain and
nervous system.
(6) In December 2011, Congress directed the Office of
Science and Technology Policy to establish an Interagency
Working Group on Neuroscience (IWGN). The IWGN is currently
convening representatives across the Federal Government to make
recommendations about the future of neuroscience research.
(7) Given the findings about the role of mental illness in
multiple shootings across the Nation, including Newton,
Connecticut, Aurora, Colorado, and other communities
experiencing similar tragedies, the Federal Government has an
interest in pursuing research on the early detection,
intervention, and prevention of psychosis.
(8) In line with this, the Federal Government is looking
for new ways of increasing the Nation's knowledge of the
underlying causes of psychosis.
(9) The United States commitment to furthering the early
detection of mental illness in youth was seen in its
participation in two public/private research programs that
studied the earliest stages of psychotic illness, namely--
(A) the North American Prodrome Longitudinal Study
(NAPLS); and
(B) the Recovery After an Initial Schizophrenia
Episode (RAISE) initiative.
SEC. 3. YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH NETWORK.
(a) Youth Mental Health Research Network.--
(1) Network.--The Director of the National Institutes of
Health may provide for the establishment of a Youth Mental
Health Research Network for the conduct or support of--
(A) youth mental health research; and
(B) youth mental health intervention services.
(2) Collaboration by institutes and centers.--The Director
of NIH shall carry out this Act acting--
(A) through the Director of the National Institute
of Mental Health; and
(B) in collaboration with other appropriate
national research institutes and national centers that
carry out activities involving youth mental health
research.
(3) Mental health research.--
(A) In general.--In carrying out paragraph (1), the
Director of NIH may award cooperative agreements,
grants, and contracts to State, local, and tribal
governments and private nonprofit entities for--
(i) conducting, or entering into consortia
with other entities to conduct--
(I) basic, clinical, behavioral, or
translational research to meet unmet
needs for youth mental health research;
or
(II) training for researchers in
youth mental health research
techniques;
(ii) providing, or partnering with non-
research institutions or community-based groups
with existing connections to youth to provide,
youth mental health intervention services; and
(iii) collaborating with the National
Institute of Mental Health to make use of, and
build on, the scientific findings and clinical
techniques of the Institute's earlier programs,
studies, and demonstration projects.
(B) Research.--The Director of NIH shall ensure
that--
(i) each recipient of an award under
subparagraph (A)(i) conducts or supports at
least one category of research described in
subparagraph (A)(i)(I) and collectively such
recipients conduct or support all such
categories of research; and
(ii) one or more such recipients provide
training described in subparagraph (A)(i)(II).
(C) Number of award recipients.--The Director of
NIH may make awards under this paragraph for not more
than 70 entities.
(D) Supplement, not supplant.--Any support received
by an entity under subparagraph (A) shall be used to
supplement, and not supplant, other public or private
support for activities authorized to be supported under
this paragraph.
(E) Duration of support.--Support of an entity
under subparagraph (A) may be for a period of not to
exceed 5 years. Such period may be extended by the
Director of NIH for additional periods of not more than
5 years.
(4) Coordination.--The Director of NIH shall--
(A) as appropriate, provide for the coordination of
activities (including the exchange of information and
regular communication) among the recipients of awards
under this subsection; and
(B) require the periodic preparation and submission
to the Director of reports on the activities of each
such recipient.
(b) Intervention Services for, and Research on, Severe Mental
Illness.--
(1) In general.--In making awards under subsection (a)(3),
the Director of NIH shall ensure that an appropriate number of
such awards are awarded to entities that agree to--
(A) focus primarily on the early detection and
intervention of severe mental illness in young people;
(B) conduct or coordinate one or more multisite
clinical trials of therapies for, or approaches to, the
prevention, diagnosis, or treatment of early severe
mental illness in a community setting;
(C) rapidly and efficiently disseminate scientific
findings resulting from such trials; and
(D) adhere to the guidelines, protocols, and
practices used in the North American Prodrome
Longitudinal Study (NAPLS) and the Recovery After an
Initial Schizophrenia Episode (RAISE) initiative.
(2) Data coordinating center.--
(A) Establishment.--In connection with awards to
entities described in paragraph (1), the Director of
NIH shall establish a data coordinating center for the
following purposes:
(i) To distribute the scientific findings
referred to in paragraph (1)(C).
(ii) To provide assistance in the design
and conduct of collaborative research projects
and the management, analysis, and storage of
data associated with such projects.
(iii) To organize and conduct multisite
monitoring activities.
(iv) To provide assistance to the Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention in the
establishment of patient registries.
(B) Reporting.--The Director of NIH shall--
(i) require the data coordinating center
established under subparagraph (A) to provide
regular reports to the Director of NIH on
research conducted by entities described in
paragraph (1), including information on
enrollment in clinical trials and the
allocation of resources with respect to such
research; and
(ii) as appropriate, incorporate
information reported under clause (i) into the
Director's biennial reports under section 403
of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C.
283).
(c) Definitions.--In this Act, the terms ``Director of NIH'',
``national center'', and ``national research institute'' have the
meanings given to such terms in section 401 of the Public Health
Service Act (42 U.S.C. 281).
(d) Authorization of Appropriations.--To carry out this Act, there
is authorized to be appropriated $25,000,000 for each of fiscal years
2016 through 2020. | Youth Mental Health Research Act This bill authorizes the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) to establish a Youth Mental Health Research Network for the conduct or support of youth mental health research and intervention services. The NIMH may award cooperative agreements, grants, and contracts to governments and private nonprofit entities for: (1) conducting youth mental health research or training for researchers in youth mental health research techniques; (2) providing youth mental health intervention services; and (3) collaborating with NIMH to build on the scientific findings and clinical techniques of earlier programs, studies, and demonstration projects. A number of these awards must go to entities that agree to: (1) focus primarily on the early detection and intervention of severe mental illness in young people; (2) conduct or coordinate multisite clinical trials for the prevention, diagnosis, or treatment of early severe mental illness in a community setting and rapidly disseminate their findings; and (3) adhere to the guidelines, protocols, and practices used in the North American Prodrome Longitudinal Study and the Recovery After an Initial Schizophrenia Episode initiative. The NIMH must establish a data coordinating center to assist awardees and distribute scientific findings generated by awardees. | Youth Mental Health Research Act |
587 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Truth in Regulating Act of 2000''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSES.
(a) Findings.--Congress finds that--
(1) many Federal regulations have improved the quality of
life of the American public, however, uncontrolled increases in
regulatory costs and lost opportunities for better regulation
should not be continued;
(2) the legislative branch has a responsibility to ensure
that laws passed by Congress are properly implemented by the
executive branch; and
(3) in order for the legislative branch to fulfill its
responsibilities to ensure that laws passed by Congress are
implemented in an efficient, effective, and fair manner, the
Congress requires accurate and reliable information on which to
base decisions.
(b) Purposes.--The purposes of this Act are to--
(1) increase the transparency of important regulatory
decisions;
(2) promote effective congressional oversight to ensure
that agency rules fulfill statutory requirements in an
efficient, effective, and fair manner; and
(3) increase the accountability of Congress and the
agencies to the people they serve.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act, the term--
(1) ``agency'' has the meaning given such term under
section 551(1) of title 5, United States Code;
(2) ``economically significant rule'' means any proposed or
final rule, including an interim or direct final rule, 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, or tribal governments
or communities, or for which an agency has prepared an initial
or final regulatory flexibility analysis pursuant to section
603 or 604 of title 5, United States Code; and
(3) ``independent evaluation'' means a substantive
evaluation of the agency's and the public's data, methodology,
and assumptions used in developing the economically significant
rule, and any additional evaluation that the Comptroller
General determines to be necessary, including--
(A) an explanation of how any strengths or
weaknesses in those data, methodology, and assumptions
support or detract from conclusions reached by the
agency; and
(B) the implications, if any, of those strengths or
weaknesses for the rulemaking.
SEC. 4. REPORT ON RULES.
(a) In General.--
(1) Request for review.--When an agency publishes an
economically significant rule, a chairman or ranking member of
a committee of jurisdiction of either House of Congress may
request the Comptroller General of the United States to review
the rule.
(2) Report.--The Comptroller General shall submit a report
on each economically significant rule selected under paragraph
(4) to the committees of jurisdiction in each House of Congress
not later than 180 calendar days after a committee request is
received, or in the case of a request for review of a notice of
proposed rulemaking or an interim final rulemaking, by not
later than the end of the 60-calendar-day period beginning on
the date the committee request is received, or the end of the
period for submission of comment regarding the rulemaking,
whichever is later. The report shall include an independent
evaluation of the economically significant rule by the
Comptroller General.
(3) Independent evaluation.--The independent evaluation of
the economically significant rule by the Comptroller General
under paragraph (2) shall include--
(A) an evaluation 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;
(B) an evaluation 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;
(C) an evaluation of any alternative approaches
that could achieve the same goal in a more cost-
effective manner or that could provide greater net
benefits, and, if applicable, a brief explanation of
any statutory reasons why such alternatives could not
be adopted;
(D) an evaluation of the regulatory impact
analysis, federalism assessment, or other analysis or
assessment prepared by the agency or required for the
economically significant rule; and
(E) a summary of the results of the evaluation of
the Comptroller General and the implications of those
results, including an evaluation of any changes from
the proposed rule made by the agency in the final rule.
(4) Procedures for priorities of requests.--In consultation
with the Majority and Minority Leaders of the Senate and the
Speaker and Minority Leader of the House of Representatives,
the Comptroller General shall develop procedures for
determining the priority and number of those requests for
review under paragraph (1) that will be reported under
paragraph (2). The procedures shall give the highest priority
to requests regarding a notice of proposed rulemaking, and to
requests regarding an interim final rulemaking.
(b) Authority of Comptroller General.--Each agency shall promptly
cooperate with the Comptroller General in carrying out this Act.
Nothing in this Act is intended to expand or limit the authority of the
General Accounting Office.
SEC. 5. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There are authorized to be appropriated to the General Accounting
Office to carry out this Act $5,200,000 for each of fiscal years 2001
through 2003.
SEC. 6. EFFECTIVE DATE; SUNSET PROVISION.
(a) Effective Date.--This Act shall take effect 180 days after the
date of enactment of this Act.
(b) Sunset Provision.--This Act shall not apply with respect to
rules published on or after the date that is 3 years after the
effective date of this Act. | Requires the Comptroller General to submit a report on each rule reviewed, including an independent evaluation of: (1) the costs and benefits; (2) alternative approaches that could achieve the same goal more cost-effectively or that could provide greater net benefits, and if applicable, a brief explanation of any statutory reasons why such alternatives could not be adopted; (3) the regulatory impact analysis, federalism assessment, or other analysis or assessment prepared by the agency or required for the rule; and (4) the results of the evaluation and the implication of those results, including an evaluation of any changes from the proposed rule made by the agency in the final rule. Requires the Comptroller General to develop procedures for determining the priority and number of requests for review which give the highest priority to requests regarding a notice of proposed rulemaking and to requests regarding an interim final rulemaking.
Authorizes appropriations for FY 2001 through 2003.
Provides that this Act shall not apply to rules published after three years after its effective date. | Truth in Regulating Act of 2000 |
588 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Government Customer Service
Improvement Act of 2013''.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Agency.--The term ``agency''--
(A) means an Executive agency (as defined under
section 105 of title 5, United States Code) that
provides significant services directly to the public or
other entity; and
(B) does not include an Executive agency if the
President determines that this Act should not apply to
the Executive agency for national security reasons.
(2) Customer.--The term ``customer'', with respect to an
agency, means any individual or entity that is directly served
by an agency.
SEC. 3. DEVELOPMENT OF CUSTOMER SERVICE STANDARDS.
(a) Government-Wide Standards.--
(1) In general.--The Director of the Office of Management
and Budget shall develop Government-wide standards for customer
service delivery, which shall be included in the Federal
Government Performance Plan required under section 1115 of
title 31, United States Code.
(2) Requirements.--The standards developed under paragraph
(1) shall include--
(A) Government-wide goals for continuous service
improvements and efforts to modernize service delivery;
and
(B) where appropriate, Government-wide target
response times for telephone calls, electronic mail,
mail, benefit processing, and payments.
(b) Agency Standards.--
(1) In general.--The Chief Performance Officer for each
agency shall establish customer service standards in accordance
with the Government-wide standards established under subsection
(a), which shall be included in the Agency Performance Plans
required under section 1115 of title 31, United States Code.
(2) Requirements.--Agency standards established under
paragraph (1) shall include, if appropriate--
(A) target call wait times during peak and non-peak
hours;
(B) target response times for correspondence, both
by mail and electronic mail;
(C) procedures for ensuring all applicable metrics
are incorporated into service agreements with
nongovernmental individuals and entities;
(D) target response times for processing benefits
and making payments; and
(E) recommendations for effective publication of
customer service contact information, including a
mailing address, telephone number, and email address.
(c) Customer Service Input.--The Performance Improvement Officer
for each agency shall collect information from customers of the agency
regarding the quality of customer service provided by the agency. Each
agency shall include the information collected under this subsection in
the performance report made available by the agency under section 1116
of title 31, United States Code.
(d) Annual Performance Update.--The Director of the Office of
Management and Budget shall include achievements by agencies in meeting
the customer service performance measures and standards developed under
subsection (a) in each update on agency performance required under
section 1116 of title 31, United States Code.
SEC. 4. SERVICE IMPROVEMENT UNIT PILOT PROGRAM.
(a) Established.--The Director of the Office of Management and
Budget shall establish a pilot program, to be known as the Service
Improvement Unit Pilot Program (in this section referred to as the
``pilot program''), to provide assistance to agencies that do not meet
the Government-wide standards established under section 3.
(b) Personnel.--The heads of agencies with expertise in change
management, process improvement, and information technology innovation
shall detail employees to the Office of Management and Budget to work
on the pilot program, based on the expertise and skills required to
address service improvement goals.
(c) Responsibilities.--Under the pilot program, the Office of
Management and Budget shall work with agencies that are not meeting the
customer service standards and performance measures established under
section 3 to improve and modernize service delivery to develop
solutions, including--
(1) evaluating the efforts of the agency to improve service
delivery;
(2) developing a plan to improve within existing resources
and by drawing on expertise and assistance from other agencies
(including the Office of Management and Budget) where
necessary;
(3) monitoring implementation by the agency of the plan
developed under paragraph (2) until the customer service
standards and performance measures are met; and
(4) submitting to the Director of the Office of Management
and Budget monthly reports on the progress being made to
improve service at the agency until the customer service
standards are met.
(d) Report.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of
this Act, the Director of the Office of Management and Budget shall
submit to Congress a report on the accomplishments and outcomes of the
pilot program and any recommendations relating to achieving the
customer service standards and performance measures established under
section 3.
(e) Support.--The Administrator of General Services shall provide
administrative and other support in order to implement the pilot
program under this section. The heads of agencies shall, as appropriate
and to the extent permitted by law, provide at the request of the
Director of the Office of Management and Budget up to 2 personnel
authorizations who have expertise in change management, process
improvement, and information technology innovation to support the pilot
program.
(f) Termination.--The authority to carry out the pilot program
shall terminate 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act.
SEC. 5. RETIREMENT REPORTING.
(a) Definition.--In this section, the term ``agency'' has the
meaning given that term in section 551 of title 5, United States Code.
(b) Reports.--
(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2) and
not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act,
and every month thereafter, the Director of the Office of
Personnel Management shall submit to Congress and the
Comptroller General of the United States, and issue publicly
(including on the Web site of the Office of Personnel
Management), a report that--
(A) for each agency, evaluates the timeliness,
completeness, and accuracy of information submitted by
the agency relating to employees of the agency who are
retiring; and
(B) indicates--
(i) the total number of applications for
retirement benefits, lump sum death benefits,
court ordered benefits, phased retirement, and
disability retirement that are pending action
by the Office of Personnel Management; and
(ii) the number of months each such
application has been pending.
(2) Suspension of reporting requirement.--Paragraph (1)
shall not apply to the Director of the Office of Personnel
Management for any month immediately following a 3-year period
in which there are no applications described in paragraph
(1)(B) that have been pending for more than 60 days.
(c) Modernization Timeline.--The Director of the Office of
Personnel Management shall establish--
(1) a timetable for the completion of each component of the
retirement systems modernization project of the Office of
Personnel Management, including all data elements required for
accurate completion of adjudication; and
(2) the date by which all Federal payroll processing
entities will electronically transmit all personnel data to the
Office of Personnel Management.
(d) Budget Request.--The Office of Personnel Management shall
include a detailed statement regarding the progress of the Office of
Personnel Management in completing the retirement systems modernization
project of the Office of Personnel Management and recommendations to
Congress regarding the additional resources needed to fully implement
the retirement systems modernization project of the Office of Personnel
Management in each budget request of the Office of Personnel Management
submitted as part of the preparation of the budget of the President
submitted to Congress under section 1105(a) of title 31, United States
Code.
SEC. 6. NO INCREASE IN EXPENDITURES.
It is the sense of Congress that no additional funds should be
appropriated to carry out this Act. | Government Customer Service Improvement Act of 2013 - Requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to develop government-wide standards for customer service delivery, which shall be included in the Federal Government Performance Plan. Requires such standards to include: (1) government-wide goals for continuous service improvements and efforts to modernize service delivery; and (2) government-wide target response times for telephone calls, electronic mail, mail, benefit processing, and payments. Directs: (1) the Chief Performance Officer for each executive agency to establish customer service standards in accordance with such government-wide standards, which shall be included in Agency Performance Plans; (2) the Performance Improvement Officer for each agency to collect information from customers of the agency regarding the quality of customer service provided; and (3) the Director to include agency achievements in meeting such standards and customer service performance measures in each required update on agency performance. Requires: (1) the Director to establish a two-year Service Improvement Unit Pilot Program to provide assistance to agencies that do not meet such government-wide standards, and (2) the Administrator of General Services (GSA) to provide administrative and other support to implement such Program. Requires the Director of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to: (1) submit to Congress and the Comptroller General (GAO) and issue publicly every month a report on information submitted by each federal agency regarding its employees who are retiring and pending applications for retirement benefits, (2) establish a timetable for completion of OPM's retirement systems modernization project and a deadline by which all federal payroll processing entities will electronically transmit all personnel data to OPM, and (3) include in each annual budget request a statement on OPM's progress in completing such project and resources needed to implement it. | Government Customer Service Improvement Act of 2013 |
589 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Medicare
Telehealth Enhancement Act of 2005''.
(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents of this Act is as
follows:
Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
TITLE I--MEDICARE PROGRAM
Sec. 101. Expansion and improvement of telehealth services.
Sec. 102. Increase in number of types of originating sites;
clarification.
Sec. 103. Facilitating the provision of telehealth services across
State lines.
Sec. 104. Definition of medicare program.
TITLE II--HRSA GRANT PROGRAM
Sec. 201. Grant program for the development of telehealth networks.
Sec. 202. Reauthorization of telehealth network and telehealth resource
centers grant programs.
TITLE I--MEDICARE PROGRAM
SEC. 101. EXPANSION AND IMPROVEMENT OF TELEHEALTH SERVICES.
(a) Expanding Access to Telehealth Services to All Areas.--Section
1834(m) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395m(m)) is amended in
paragraph (4)(C)(i) by striking ``and only if such site is located''
and all that follows and inserting ``without regard to the geographic
area where the site is located.''.
(b) Report to Congress on Store and Forward Technology.--
(1) Study.--The Secretary of Health and Human Services,
acting through the Director of the Office for the Advancement
of Telehealth, shall conduct a study on the use of store and
forward technologies (that provide for the asynchronous
transmission of health care information in single or multimedia
formats) in the provision of telehealth services for which
payment may be made under the medicare program in Alaska and
Hawaii and in other States. Such study shall include an
assessment of the feasibility, advisability, and the costs of
expanding the use of such technologies to other areas for use
in the diagnosis and treatment of certain conditions.
(2) Report.--Not later than 18 months after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a
report on the study conducted under subparagraph (A) and shall
include in such report such recommendations for legislation or
administration action as the Secretary determines appropriate.
SEC. 102. INCREASE IN NUMBER OF TYPES OF ORIGINATING SITES;
CLARIFICATION.
(a) Increase.--Paragraph (4)(C)(ii) of section 1834(m) of the
Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395m(m)) is amended by adding at the
end the following new subclauses:
``(VI) A skilled nursing facility
(as defined in section 1819(a)).
``(VII) A renal dialysis facility.
``(VIII) A county mental health
clinic or other publicly funded mental
health facility.''.
(b) Clarification of Intent of the Term Originating Site.--Such
section is further amended by adding at the end the following new
paragraph:
``(5) Construction.--In applying the term `originating
site' under this subsection, the Secretary shall apply the term
only for the purpose of determining whether a site is eligible
to receive a facility fee. Nothing in the application of that
term under this subsection shall be construed as affecting the
ability of an eligible practitioner to submit claims for
telehealth services that are provided to other sites that have
telehealth systems and capabilities.''.
SEC. 103. FACILITATING THE PROVISION OF TELEHEALTH SERVICES ACROSS
STATE LINES.
(a) In General.--For purposes of expediting the provision of
telehealth services, for which payment is made under the medicare
program, across State lines, the Secretary of Health and Human Services
shall, in consultation with representatives of States, physicians,
health care practitioners, and patient advocates, encourage and
facilitate the adoption of provisions allowing for multistate
practitioner licensure across State lines.
(b) Definitions.--In paragraph (1):
(1) Telehealth service.--The term ``telehealth service''
has the meaning given that term in subparagraph (F) of section
1834(m)(4) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395m(m)(4)).
(2) Physician, practitioner.--The terms ``physician'' and
``practitioner'' has the meaning given those terms in
subparagraphs (D) and (E), respectively, of such section.
SEC. 104. DEFINITION OF MEDICARE PROGRAM.
In this title, the term ``medicare program'' means the program of
health insurance administered by the Secretary of Health and Human
Services under title XVIII of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395
et seq.).
TITLE II--HRSA GRANT PROGRAM
SEC. 201. GRANT PROGRAM FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF TELEHEALTH NETWORKS.
(a) In General.--The Secretary of Health and Human Services (in
this section referred to as the ``Secretary''), acting through the
Director of the Office for the Advancement of Telehealth (of the Health
Resources and Services Administration), shall make grants to eligible
entities (as described in subsection (b)(2)) for the purpose of
expanding access to health care services for individuals in rural
areas, frontier areas, and urban medically underserved areas through
the use of telehealth.
(b) Eligible Entities.--
(1) Application.--To be eligible to receive a grant under
this section, an eligible entity described in paragraph (2)
shall, in consultation with the State office of rural health or
other appropriate State entity, prepare and submit to the
Secretary an application, at such time, in such manner, and
containing such information as the Secretary may require,
including the following:
(A) A description of the anticipated need for the
grant.
(B) A description of the activities which the
entity intends to carry out using amounts provided
under the grant.
(C) A plan for continuing the project after Federal
support under this section is ended.
(D) A description of the manner in which the
activities funded under the grant will meet health care
needs of underserved rural populations within the
State.
(E) A description of how the local community or
region to be served by the network or proposed network
will be involved in the development and ongoing
operations of the network.
(F) The source and amount of non-Federal funds the
entity would pledge for the project.
(G) A showing of the long-term viability of the
project and evidence of health care provider commitment
to the network.
The application should demonstrate the manner in which the
project will promote the integration of telehealth in the
community so as to avoid redundancy of technology and achieve
economies of scale.
(2) Eligible entities.--An eligible entity described in
this paragraph is a hospital or other health care provider in a
health care network of community-based health care providers
that includes at least two of the organizations described in
subparagraph (A) and one of the institutions and entities
described in subparagraph (B) if the institution or entity is
able to demonstrate use of the network for purposes of
education or economic development (as required by the
Secretary).
(A) The organizations described in this
subparagraph are the following:
(i) Community or migrant health centers.
(ii) Local health departments.
(iii) Nonprofit hospitals.
(iv) Private practice health professionals,
including community and rural health clinics.
(v) Other publicly funded health or social
services agencies.
(vi) Skilled nursing facilities.
(vii) County mental health and other
publicly funded mental health facilities.
(viii) Providers of home health services.
(ix) Renal dialysis facilities.
(B) The institutions and entities described in this
subparagraph are the following:
(i) A public school.
(ii) A public library.
(iii) A university or college.
(iv) A local government entity.
(v) A local health entity.
(vi) A health-related nonprofit foundation.
(vii) An academic health center.
An eligible entity may include for-profit entities so long as
the recipient of the grant is a not-for-profit entity.
(c) Preference.--The Secretary shall establish procedures to
prioritize financial assistance under this section based upon the
following considerations:
(1) The applicant is a health care provider in a health
care network or a health care provider that proposes to form
such a network that furnishes or proposes to furnish services
in a medically underserved area, health professional shortage
area, or mental health professional shortage area.
(2) The applicant is able to demonstrate broad geographic
coverage in the rural or medically underserved areas of the
State, or States in which the applicant is located.
(3) The applicant proposes to use Federal funds to develop
plans for, or to establish, telehealth systems that will link
rural hospitals and rural health care providers to other
hospitals, health care providers, and patients.
(4) The applicant will use the amounts provided for a range
of health care applications and to promote greater efficiency
in the use of health care resources.
(5) The applicant is able to demonstrate the long-term
viability of projects through cost participation (cash or in-
kind).
(6) The applicant is able to demonstrate financial,
institutional, and community support for the long-term
viability of the network.
(7) The applicant is able to provide a detailed plan for
coordinating system use by eligible entities so that health
care services are given a priority over non-clinical uses.
(d) Maximum Amount of Assistance to Individual Recipients.--The
Secretary shall establish, by regulation, the terms and conditions of
the grant and the maximum amount of a grant award to be made available
to an individual recipient for each fiscal year under this section. The
Secretary shall cause to have published in the Federal Register or the
``HRSA Preview'' notice of the terms and conditions of a grant under
this section and the maximum amount of such a grant for a fiscal year.
(e) Use of Amounts.--The recipient of a grant under this section
may use sums received under such grant for the acquisition of
telehealth equipment and modifications or improvements of
telecommunications facilities including the following:
(1) The development and acquisition through lease or
purchase of computer hardware and software, audio and video
equipment, computer network equipment, interactive equipment,
data terminal equipment, and other facilities and equipment
that would further the purposes of this section.
(2) The provision of technical assistance and instruction
for the development and use of such programming equipment or
facilities.
(3) The development and acquisition of instructional
programming.
(4) Demonstration projects for teaching or training medical
students, residents, and other health profession students in
rural or medically underserved training sites about the
application of telehealth.
(5) The provision of telenursing services designed to
enhance care coordination and promote patient self-management
skills.
(6) The provision of services designed to promote patient
understanding and adherence to national guidelines for common
chronic diseases, such as congestive heart failure or diabetes.
(7) Transmission costs, maintenance of equipment, and
compensation of specialists and referring health care
providers, when no other form of reimbursement is available.
(8) Development of projects to use telehealth to facilitate
collaboration between health care providers.
(9) Electronic archival of patient records.
(10) Collection and analysis of usage statistics and data
that can be used to document the cost-effectiveness of the
telehealth services.
(11) Such other uses that are consistent with achieving the
purposes of this section as approved by the Secretary.
(f) Prohibited Uses.--Sums received under a grant under this
section may not be used for any of the following:
(1) To acquire real property.
(2) Expenditures to purchase or lease equipment to the
extent the expenditures would exceed more than 40 percent of
the total grant funds.
(3) To purchase or install transmission equipment off the
premises of the telehealth site and any transmission costs not
directly related to the grant.
(4) For construction, except that such funds may be
expended for minor renovations relating to the installation of
equipment.
(5) Expenditures for indirect costs (as determined by the
Secretary) to the extent the expenditures would exceed more
than 15 percent of the total grant.
(g) Administration.--
(1) Nonduplication.--The Secretary shall ensure that
facilities constructed using grants provided under this section
do not duplicate adequately established telehealth networks.
(2) Coordination with other agencies.--The Secretary shall
coordinate, to the extent practicable, with other Federal and
State agencies and not-for-profit organizations, operating
similar grant programs to pool resources for funding
meritorious proposals.
(3) Informational efforts.--The Secretary shall establish
and implement procedures to carry out outreach activities to
advise potential end users located in rural and medically
underserved areas of each State about the program authorized by
this section.
(h) Prompt Implementation.--The Secretary shall take such actions
as are necessary to carry out the grant program as expeditiously as
possible.
(i) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section $10,000,000 for fiscal year
2006, and such sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years
2007 through 2012.
SEC. 202. REAUTHORIZATION OF TELEHEALTH NETWORK AND TELEHEALTH RESOURCE
CENTERS GRANT PROGRAMS.
Subsection (s) of section 330I of the Public Health Service Act (42
U.S.C. 254c-14) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)--
(A) by striking ``and'' before ``such sums''; and
(B) by inserting ``$10,000,000 for fiscal year
2007, and such sums as may be necessary for each of
fiscal years 2008 through 2012'' before the semicolon;
and
(2) in paragraph (2)--
(A) by striking ``and'' before ``such sums''; and
(B) by inserting ``$10,000,000 for fiscal year
2007, and such sums as may be necessary for each of
fiscal years 2008 through 2012'' before the semicolon. | Medicare Telehealth Enhancement Act of 2005 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act regarding telehealth services (services furnished via a telecommunication system by a physician to an enrolled individual) to: (1) remove current geographic restrictions on the provision of such services; (2) add to the facilities authorized to participate in the telehealth program; and (3) direct the Secretary to encourage and facilitate multistate practitioner licensure across state lines to facilitate the program.
Directs the Secretary to make grants for expanding access to health care services for individuals in rural areas, frontier areas, and urban medically underserved areas through the use of telehealth.
Amends the Public Health Service Act to reauthorize telehealth network and telehealth resource centers grant programs. | To improve the provision of telehealth services under the Medicare Program, to provide grants for the development of telehealth networks, and for other purposes. |
590 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Congressional Commission on the
Abolition of Modern-Day Slavery Act''.
SEC. 2. MODERN-DAY SLAVERY.
In this Act, the term ``modern-day slavery'' means the status or
condition of a person over whom any power attaching to the right of
ownership or control is exercised by means of exploitation through
involuntary servitude, forced labor, child labor, debt bondage or
bonded labor, serfdom, peonage, trafficking in persons for forced labor
or for sexual exploitation (including child sex tourism and child
pornography), forced marriage, or other similar means.
SEC. 3. FINDINGS.
Congress makes the following findings:
(1) Modern-day slavery takes many forms, including chattel
slavery or slavery by descent, and the exploitation occurs in a
myriad of situations, including in the agricultural, commercial
sex, construction, manufacturing, and service industries, as
well as in domestic servitude.
(2) The perpetrators of modern-day slavery violate the
dignity of men, women, and children, using violence that at
times results in death, sexual abuse, rape, torture, dangerous
and degrading working conditions, poor nutrition, drug and
alcohol addiction, and psychological trauma.
(3) According to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
``No one shall be held in slavery or servitude; slavery and the
slave trade shall be prohibited in all their forms.''.
(4) The United States and the international community have
acknowledged that modern-day slavery must be abolished in
accordance with the International Covenant on Civil and
Political Rights; the Slavery, Servitude, Forced Labour and
Similar Institutions and Practices Convention of 1926; the
Supplementary Convention on the Abolition of Slavery, the Slave
Trade, and Institutions and Practices Similar to Slavery; the
Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child
on the Sale of Children, Child Prostitution and Child
Pornography; the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the
Rights of the Child on the Involvement of Children in Armed
Conflicts; the Convention concerning the Prohibition and
Immediate Action for the Elimination of the Worst Forms of
Child Labour; the Abolition of Forced Labour Convention; and
the Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in
Persons, especially Women and Children, Supplementing the
United Nations Convention Against Transnational Organized
Crime.
(5) The Declaration of Independence recognizes the inherent
dignity and worth of all people and states that all people are
created equal and are endowed by their Creator with certain
unalienable rights.
(6) The 13th amendment to the Constitution of the United
States recognizes that ``Neither slavery nor involuntary
servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party
shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United
States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction.''.
(7) The United States has given particular priority to
combating trafficking in persons, a form of modern-day slavery,
through the enactment of the Trafficking Victims Protection Act
of 2000 (division A of Public Law 106-386) and the Trafficking
Victims Protection Reauthorization Acts of 2003 and 2005
(Public Laws 108-193 and 109-164).
(8) The importation into the United States of goods mined,
produced, or manufactured by forced or indentured labor,
including forced or indentured child labor, is prohibited under
the Tariff Act of 1930.
SEC. 4. ESTABLISHMENT OF COMMISSION.
(a) Establishment.--There is established a congressional Commission
on the Abolition of Modern-Day Slavery (in this Act referred to as the
``Commission'').
(b) Membership.--
(1) Composition.--The Commission shall be composed of 12
members, of whom--
(A) 3 shall be appointed by the Speaker of the
House of Representatives;
(B) 3 shall be appointed by the majority leader of
the Senate;
(C) 3 shall be appointed by the minority leader of
the House of Representatives; and
(D) 3 shall be appointed by the minority leader of
the Senate.
(2) Qualifications.--Members of the Commission shall be
individuals with demonstrated expertise or experience in
combating modern-day slavery.
(3) Date.--The appointments of the members of the
Commission shall be made not later than 30 days after the date
of enactment of this Act.
(c) Period of Appointment; Vacancies.--Members shall be appointed
for the life of the Commission. Any vacancy in the Commission shall not
affect its powers, but shall be filled in the same manner as the
original appointment.
(d) Co-Chairpersons.--The Speaker of the House of Representatives
shall designate 1 of the members appointed under subsection (b)(1)(A)
as a co-chairperson of the Commission. The majority leader of the
Senate shall designate 1 of the members appointed under subsection
(b)(1)(B) as a co-chairperson of the Commission.
(e) Initial Meeting.--Not later than 60 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Commission shall hold its first meeting.
(f) Meetings.--The Commission shall meet at the call of either Co-
chairperson.
(g) Quorum.--A majority of the members of the Commission shall
constitute a quorum, but a lesser number of members may meet or hold
hearings.
SEC. 5. DUTIES OF THE COMMISSION.
(a) Study.--
(1) In general.--The Commission shall--
(A) conduct a thorough study of modern-day slavery
in all its forms, including the factors contributing to
modern-day slavery, such as certain social structures,
the failure by authorities to enforce laws prohibiting
slavery and prosecuting the perpetrators of slavery,
corruption among officials, and the vulnerability of
certain populations, such as those in areas of conflict
and post conflict, transitioning states, or states
undergoing sudden political upheaval, economic
collapse, civil unrest, internal armed conflict,
chronic unemployment, widespread poverty, or manmade or
natural disasters;
(B) review programs of relevant governmental
agencies with respect to modern-day-slavery, including
the Office of the United States Trade Representative,
the Department of Commerce, the Department of Defense,
the Department of Health and Human Services, the
Department of Homeland Security, the Department of
Labor, the Department of the Treasury, the United
States Agency for International Development, the
Department of State, the President's Interagency Task
Force to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons, and
the Human Smuggling and Trafficking Center;
(C) examine efforts undertaken by foreign countries
and multilateral organizations to prevent or combat
modern-day slavery in all its forms, prosecute the
perpetrators or protect its victims, and identify those
countries with the most significant number of victims
of modern-day slavery; and
(D) convene additional experts from relevant
nongovernmental organizations as part of the
Commission's review.
(2) Goals.--Based on its findings under paragraph (1), the
Commission shall--
(A) advise the Congress on how the United States
could lend support to the efforts to eradicate modern-
day slavery in all its forms;
(B) provide a comprehensive evaluation of best
practices to prevent modern-day slavery in all its
forms;
(C) provide a comprehensive evaluation of the best
practices to rescue and rehabilitate victims of modern-
day slavery in all its forms;
(D) provide a comprehensive evaluation of the best
practices to ensure the prosecution of acts of modern-
day slavery and increase accountability within
countries that tolerate modern-day slavery;
(E) provide a comprehensive evaluation of the
effectiveness of United States laws prohibiting the
importation of goods manufactured or produced in whole
or in part through forced labor or child labor, as well
as policies and relations with regard to countries that
tolerate modern-day slavery;
(F) provide a comprehensive evaluation of
comparative models and strategies to prevent modern-day
slavery, rescue and rehabilitate victims of modern-day
slavery, prosecute offenders, and increase education
about modern-day slavery in all its forms;
(G) examine the economic impact on communities and
countries that demonstrate measured success in fighting
modern-day slavery in all its forms; and
(H) increase throughout the United States and among
high-risk populations education and awareness about
modern-day slavery in all its forms.
(b) Recommendations.--The Commission shall develop recommendations
for legislative and administrative actions necessary for the most
effective ways to combat and eliminate modern-day slavery in all its
forms, develop international cooperation to combat modern-day slavery
and determine the nature of what constitutes appropriate relations with
countries that tolerate modern-day slavery in any form.
(c) Report.--Not later than 11 months after the date of enactment
of this Act, the Commission shall submit to the Speaker and Minority
Leader of the House of Representatives and the Majority Leader and
Minority Leader of the Senate, a report containing the results of the
study and other activities conducted under subsection (a) and the
recommendations developed under subsection (b).
SEC. 6. POWERS OF THE COMMISSION.
(a) Hearings.--The Commission may hold such hearings, sit and act
at such times and places, take such testimony, and receive such
evidence as the Commission considers necessary to carry out this Act.
(b) Information From Governmental Agencies.--The Commission may
secure directly from any department or agency such information as the
Commission considers necessary to carry out this Act. Upon request of
either co-chairperson of the Commission, the head of such department or
agency shall furnish such information to the Commission.
SEC. 7. COMMISSION PERSONNEL MATTERS.
(a) Compensation of Members.--Each 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 5313 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. All members of the Commission who are
officers or employees of the United States shall serve without
compensation in addition to that received for their services as
officers or employees of the United States.
(b) 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.
(c) Staff.--
(1) In general.--The co-chairpersons of the Commission,
acting jointly, may, without regard to the civil service laws
and regulations, 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.
(2) Compensation.--The co-chairpersons of the Commission,
acting jointly, 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 Sates 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
such title.
(d) Detail of Government Employees.--Federal Government employees
may be detailed to the Commission without reimbursement, and such
detail shall be without interruption or loss of civil service status or
privilege.
(e) Procurement of Temporary and Intermittent Services.--The co-
chairpersons of the Commission, acting jointly, 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 such title.
SEC. 8. TERMINATION OF THE COMMISSION.
The Commission shall terminate 90 days after the date on which the
Commission submits its report under section 5(c).
SEC. 9. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
(a) In General.--There are authorized to be appropriated to the
Commission for fiscal year 2007 such sums as may be necessary to carry
out this Act.
(b) Availability.--Any sums appropriated under the authorization
contained in this section shall remain available, without fiscal year
limitation, until expended. | Congressional Commission on the Abolition of Modern-Day Slavery Act - Defines "modern-day slavery."
Establishes a congressional Commission on the Abolition of Modern-Day Slavery which shall: (1) study matters relating to modern-day slavery; (2) review programs of relevant governmental agencies; (3) examine efforts by foreign countries and multilateral organizations to combat modern-day slavery; and (4) convene additional experts from nongovernmental organizations as part of the Commission's review.
States that the Commission shall: (1) advise Congress on how the United States could support efforts to eradicate modern-day slavery; (2) provide a comprehensive evaluation of best practices to prevent modern-day slavery, to rescue and rehabilitate its victims, and to prosecute traffickers and increase accountability within countries; (3) examine the economic impact on communities and countries that demonstrate measured success in fighting modern-day slavery; (4) provide a comprehensive evaluation of the effectiveness of U.S. laws prohibiting the importation of goods produced through forced labor or child labor, as well as policies with regard to countries that tolerate modern-day slavery; and (5) increase education and awareness about modern-day slavery. | To establish a congressional Commission on the Abolition of Modern-Day Slavery. |
591 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro
National Historic Trail Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds the following:
(1) El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro (the Royal Road of the
Interior), served as the primary route between the colonial
Spanish capital of Mexico City and the Spanish provincial
capitals at San Juan de Los Caballeros (1598-1600), San Gabriel
(1600-1609) and then Santa Fe (1610-1821).
(2) The portion of El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro that
resided in what is now the United States extended between El
Paso, Texas and present San Juan Pueblo, New Mexico, a distance
of 404 miles;
(3) El Camino Real is a symbol of the cultural interaction
between nations and ethnic groups and of the commercial
exchange that made possible the development and growth of the
borderland;
(4) American Indian groups, especially the Pueblo Indians
of the Rio Grande, developed trails for trade long before
Europeans arrived;
(5) In 1598, Juan de Onate led a Spanish military
expedition along those trails to establish the northern portion
of El Camino Real;
(6) During the Mexican National Period and part of the U.S.
Territorial Period, El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro
facilitated the emigration of people to New Mexico and other
areas that would become the United States;
(7) The exploration, conquest, colonization, settlement,
religious conversion, and military occupation of a large area
of the borderlands was made possible by this route, whose
historical period extended from 1598 to 1882;
(8) American Indians, European emigrants, miners, ranchers,
soldiers, and missionaries used El Camino Real during the
historic development of the borderlands. These travelers
promoted cultural interaction among Spaniards, other Europeans,
American Indians, Mexicans, and Americans;
(9) El Camino Real fostered the spread of Catholicism,
mining, an extensive network of commerce, and ethnic and
cultural traditions including music, folklore, medicine, foods,
architecture, language, place names, irrigation systems, and
Spanish law.
SEC. 3. AUTHORIZATION AND ADMINISTRATION.
Section 5(a) of the National Trails System Act (16 U.S.C. 1244(a))
is amended--
(1) by designating the paragraphs relating to the
California National Historic Trail, the Pony Express National
Historic Trail, and the Selma to Montgomery National Historic
Trail as paragraphs (18), (19), and (20), respectively; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(21) El camino real de tierra adentro.--
``(A) El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro (the Royal Road of
the Interior) National Historic Trail, a 404 mile long trail
from the Rio Grande near El Paso, Texas to San Juan Pueblo, New
Mexico, as generally depicted on the maps entitled `United
States Route: El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro', contained in
the report prepared pursuant to subsection (b) entitled
`National Historic Trail Feasibility Study and Environmental
Assessment: El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro, Texas-New
Mexico', dated March 1997.
``(B) Map.--A map generally depicting the trail shall be on
file and available for public inspection in the Office of the
National Park Service, Department of Interior.
``(C) Administration.--The trail shall be administered by
the Secretary of the Interior.
``(D) Land acquisition.--No lands or interests therein
outside the exterior boundaries of any federally administered
area may be acquired by the Federal Government for El Camino
Real de Tierra Adentro.
``(E) Volunteer groups; consultation.--The Secretary of the
Interior shall--
``(i) encourage volunteer trail groups to
participate in the development and maintenance of the
trail; and
``(ii) consult with other affected Federal, State,
local governmental, and tribal agencies in the
administration of the trail.
``(F) Coordination of activities.--The Secretary of the
Interior may coordinate with United States and Mexican public
and non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, and,
in consultation with the Secretary of State, the Government of
Mexico and its political subdivisions, for the purpose of
exchanging trail information and research, fostering trail
preservation and educational programs, providing technical
assistance, and working to establish an international historic
trail with complementary preservation and education programs in
each nation.''.
Passed the House of Representatives September 18, 2000.
Attest:
JEFF TRANDAHL,
Clerk. | Directs the Secretary of the Interior to administer the trail.
Directs the Secretary to: (1) encourage volunteer groups to develop and maintain the trail; and (2) consult with affected Federal, State, local governmental, and tribal agencies in its administration. Authorizes the Secretary to coordinate trail activities and programs with the Government of Mexico and Mexican non-governmental organizations and academic institutions. | El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro National Historic Trail Act |
592 | SECTION 1. CREDIT FOR CERTAIN HOME PURCHASES.
(a) Allowance of Credit.--Subpart A of part IV of subchapter A of
chapter 1 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to refundable
credits) is amended by inserting after section 25D the following new
section:
``SEC. 25E. CREDIT FOR CERTAIN HOME PURCHASES.
``(a) Allowance of Credit.--
``(1) In general.--In the case of an individual who is a
purchaser of a qualified principal residence during the taxable
year, there shall be allowed as a credit against the tax
imposed by this chapter an amount equal to so much of the
purchase price of the residence as does not exceed $15,000.
``(2) Allocation of credit amount.--The amount of the
credit allowed under paragraph (1) shall be equally divided
among the 3 taxable years beginning with the taxable year in
which the purchase of the qualified principal residence is
made.
``(b) Limitations.--
``(1) Date of purchase.--The credit allowed under
subsection (a) shall be allowed only with respect to purchases
made--
``(A) after February 29, 2008, and
``(B) before March 1, 2009.
``(2) Limitation based on amount of tax.--In the case of a
taxable year to which section 26(a)(2) does not apply, 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
subpart (other than this section) for the taxable year.
``(3) One-time only.--
``(A) In general.--If a credit is allowed under
this section in the case of any individual (and such
individual's spouse, if married) with respect to the
purchase of any qualified principal residence, no
credit shall be allowed under this section in any
taxable year with respect to the purchase of any other
qualified principal residence by such individual or a
spouse of such individual.
``(B) Joint purchase.--In the case of a purchase of
a qualified principal residence by 2 or more unmarried
individuals or by 2 married individuals filing
separately, no credit shall be allowed under this
section if a credit under this section has been allowed
to any of such individuals in any taxable year with
respect to the purchase of any other qualified
principal residence.
``(c) Qualified Principal Residence.--
``(1) In general.--For purposes of this section, the term
`qualified principal residence' means an eligible single-family
residence that is purchased to be the principal residence of
the purchaser.
``(2) Eligible single-family residence.--
``(A) In general.--For purposes of this subsection,
the term `eligible single-family residence' means a
single-family structure that is--
``(i) a new previously unoccupied residence
for which a building permit is issued and
construction begins on or before September 1,
2007,
``(ii) an owner-occupied residence with
respect to which the owner's acquisition
indebtedness (as defined in section
163(h)(3)(B), determined without regard to
clause (ii) thereof) is in default on or before
March 1, 2008, or
``(iii) a residence with respect to which a
foreclosure event has taken place and which is
owned by the mortgagor or the mortgagor's
agent.
``(B) Certification.--In the case of an eligible
single-family residence described in subparagraph
(A)(i), no credit shall be allowed under this section
unless the purchaser submits a certification by the
seller of such residence that such residence meets the
requirements of such subparagraph.
``(d) Denial of Double Benefit.--No credit shall be allowed under
this section for any purchase for which a credit is allowed under
section 1400C.
``(e) Special Rules.--
``(1) Joint purchase.--
``(A) Married individuals filing separately.--In
the case of 2 married individuals filing separately,
subsection (a) shall be applied to each such individual
by substituting `$7,500' for `$15,000' in subsection
(a)(1).
``(B) Unmarried individuals.--If 2 or more
individuals who are not married purchase a qualified
principal residence, the amount of the credit allowed
under subsection (a) shall be allocated among such
individuals in such manner as the Secretary may
prescribe, except that the total amount of the credits
allowed to all such individuals shall not exceed
$15,000.
``(2) Purchase.--In defining the purchase of a qualified
principal residence, rules similar to the rules of paragraphs
(2) and (3) of section 1400C(e) (as in effect on the date of
the enactment of this section) shall apply.
``(3) Reporting requirement.--Rules similar to the rules of
section 1400C(f) (as so in effect) shall apply.
``(f) Basis Adjustment.--For purposes of this subtitle, if a credit
is allowed under this section with respect to the purchase of any
residence, the basis of such residence shall be reduced by the amount
of the credit so allowed.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for subpart A of
part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1 of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986 is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 25D the
following new item:
``Sec. 25E. Credit for certain home purchases.''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years ending after February 29, 2008. | Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow purchasers of a single-family principal residence a one-time tax credit for up to $15,000 of the purchase price. Requires such a residence to be purchased after February 29, 2008, and before March 1, 2009, and that it be: (1) a new previously unoccupied residence for which a building permit has been issued and construction began on or before September 1, 2007; (2) an owner-occupied residence with a mortgage indebtedness in default on or before March 1, 2008; or (3) in foreclosure and owned by the mortgagor or the mortgagor's agent. | To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide a Federal income tax credit for certain home purchases. |
593 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Comprehensive Comparative Study of
Vaccinated and Unvaccinated Populations Act of 2007''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds as follows:
(1) Securing the health of the Nation's children is our
most important concern as parents and stewards of the Nation's
future.
(2) The Nation's vaccine program has greatly reduced human
suffering from infectious disease by preventing and reducing
the outbreak of vaccine-preventable diseases.
(3) Total health outcomes are the best measure of the
success of any public health effort, including security from
both chronic and infectious disease.
(4) Childhood immunizations are an important tool in the
pursuit of childhood health.
(5) The number of immunizations administered to infants,
pregnant women, children, teenagers, and adults has grown
dramatically over recent years.
(6) The incidence of chronic, unexplained diseases such as
autism, learning disabilities, and other neurological disorders
appears to have increased dramatically in recent years.
(7) Individual vaccines are tested for safety, but little
safety testing has been conducted for interaction effects of
multiple vaccines.
(8) The strategy of aggressive, early childhood
immunization against a large number of infectious diseases has
never been tested in its entirety against alternative
strategies, either for safety or for total health outcomes.
(9) Childhood immunizations are the only health
interventions that are required by States of all citizens in
order to participate in civic society.
(10) Public confidence in the management of public health
can only be maintained if these State government-mandated, mass
vaccination programs--
(A) are tested rigorously and in their entirety
against all reasonable safety concerns; and
(B) are verified in their entirety to produce
superior health outcomes.
(11) There are numerous United States populations in which
a practice of no vaccination is followed and which therefore
provide a natural comparison group for comparing total health
outcomes.
(12) No comparative study of such health outcomes has ever
been conducted.
(13) Given rising concern over the high rates of childhood
neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism, the need for such
studies is becoming urgent.
SEC. 3. STUDY ON HEALTH OUTCOMES IN VACCINATED AND UNVACCINATED
AMERICAN POPULATIONS.
(a) In General.--The Secretary of Health and Human Services (in
this Act referred to as the ``Secretary'') , acting through the
Director of the National Institutes of Health, shall conduct or support
a comprehensive study--
(1) to compare total health outcomes, including risk of
autism, in vaccinated populations in the United States with
such outcomes in unvaccinated populations in the United States;
and
(2) to determine whether vaccines or vaccine components
play a role in the development of autism spectrum or other
neurological conditions.
(b) Qualifications.--With respect to each investigator carrying out
the study under this section, the Secretary shall ensure that the
investigator--
(1) is objective;
(2) is qualified to carry out such study, as evidenced by
training experiences and demonstrated skill;
(3) is not currently employed by any Federal, State, or
local public health agency; and
(4) is not currently a member of a board, committee, or
other entity responsible for formulating immunization policy on
behalf of any Federal, State, or local public health agency or
any component thereof;
(5) has no history of a strong position on the thimerosal
controversy; and
(6) is not currently an employee of, or otherwise directly
or indirectly receiving funds from, a pharmaceutical company.
(c) Target Populations.--The Secretary shall seek to include in the
study under this section populations in the United States that have
traditionally remained unvaccinated for religious or other reasons,
such as Old Order Amish, members of clinical practices (such as the
Homefirst practice in Chicago) who choose alternative medical
practices, and practitioners of anthroposophic lifestyles.
(d) Timing.--Not later than 120 days after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall issue a request for
proposals to conduct the study required by this section. Not later than
120 days after receipt of any such proposal, the Secretary shall
approve or disapprove the proposal. If the Secretary disapproves the
proposal, the Secretary shall provide the applicant involved with a
written explanation of the reasons for the disapproval. | Comprehensive Comparative Study of Vaccinated and Unvaccinated Populations Act of 2007 - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) , to conduct a comprehensive study to: (1) compare total health outcomes, including the risk of autism, between vaccinated and unvaccinated U.S. populations; and (2) determine whether vaccines or vaccine components play a role in the development of autism spectrum or other neurological conditions.
Requires the Secretary to seek to include in the study U.S. populations that have traditionally remained unvaccinated for religious or other reasons. | To direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to conduct or support a comprehensive study comparing total health outcomes, including risk of autism, in vaccinated populations in the United States with such outcomes in unvaccinated populations in the United States, and for other purposes. |
594 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Public Good IRA Rollover Act''.
SEC. 2. TAX-FREE DISTRIBUTIONS FROM INDIVIDUAL RETIREMENT ACCOUNTS FOR
CHARITABLE PURPOSES.
(a) In General.--Subsection (d) of section 408 of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to individual retirement accounts) is
amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(8) Distributions for charitable purposes.--
``(A) In general.--No amount shall be includible in
gross income by reason of a qualified charitable
distribution.
``(B) Qualified charitable distribution.--For
purposes of this paragraph, the term `qualified
charitable distribution' means any distribution from an
individual retirement account--
``(i) which is made directly by the
trustee--
``(I) to an organization described
in section 170(c), or
``(II) to a split-interest entity,
and
``(ii) which is made on or after the date
that the individual for whose benefit the
account is maintained has attained--
``(I) in the case of any
distribution described in clause
(i)(I), age 70\1/2\, and
``(II) in the case of any
distribution described in clause
(i)(II), age 59\1/2\.
A distribution shall be treated as a qualified
charitable distribution only to the extent that the
distribution would be includible in gross income
without regard to subparagraph (A) and, in the case of
a distribution to a split-interest entity, only if no
person holds an income interest in the amounts in the
split-interest entity attributable to such distribution
other than one or more of the following: the individual
for whose benefit such account is maintained, the
spouse of such individual, or any organization
described in section 170(c).
``(C) Contributions must be otherwise deductible.--
For purposes of this paragraph--
``(i) Direct contributions.--A distribution
to an organization described in section 170(c)
shall be treated as a qualified charitable
distribution only if a deduction for the entire
distribution would be allowable under section
170 (determined without regard to subsection
(b) thereof and this paragraph).
``(ii) Split-interest gifts.--A
distribution to a split-interest entity shall
be treated as a qualified charitable
distribution only if a deduction for the entire
value of the interest in the distribution for
the use of an organization described in section
170(c) would be allowable under section 170
(determined without regard to subsection (b)
thereof and this paragraph).
``(D) Application of section 72.--Notwithstanding
section 72, in determining the extent to which a
distribution is a qualified charitable distribution,
the entire amount of the distribution shall be treated
as includible in gross income without regard to
subparagraph (A) to the extent that such amount does
not exceed the aggregate amount which would be so
includible if all amounts were distributed from all
individual retirement accounts otherwise taken into
account in determining the inclusion on such
distribution under section 72. Proper adjustments shall
be made in applying section 72 to other distributions
in such taxable year and subsequent taxable years.
``(E) Special rules for split-interest entities.--
``(i) Charitable remainder trusts.--
Notwithstanding section 664(b), distributions
made from a trust described in subparagraph
(G)(i) shall be treated as ordinary income in
the hands of the beneficiary to whom is paid
the annuity described in section 664(d)(1)(A)
or the payment described in section
664(d)(2)(A).
``(ii) Pooled income funds.--No amount
shall be includible in the gross income of a
pooled income fund (as defined in subparagraph
(G)(ii)) by reason of a qualified charitable
distribution to such fund, and all
distributions from the fund which are
attributable to qualified charitable
distributions shall be treated as ordinary
income to the beneficiary.
``(iii) Charitable gift annuities.--
Qualified charitable distributions made for a
charitable gift annuity shall not be treated as
an investment in the contract.
``(F) Denial of deduction.--Qualified charitable
distributions shall not be taken into account in
determining the deduction under section 170.
``(G) Split-interest entity defined.--For purposes
of this paragraph, the term `split-interest entity'
means--
``(i) a charitable remainder annuity trust
or a charitable remainder unitrust (as such
terms are defined in section 664(d)) which must
be funded exclusively by qualified charitable
distributions,
``(ii) a pooled income fund (as defined in
section 642(c)(5)), but only if the fund
accounts separately for amounts attributable to
qualified charitable distributions, and
``(iii) a charitable gift annuity (as
defined in section 501(m)(5)).''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by this section shall apply
to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2002. | Public Good IRA Rollover Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to permit tax-free distributions from an individual retirement account made directly to a qualified charity. | A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow tax-free distributions from individual retirement accounts for charitable purposes. |
595 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Indentured Servitude Abolition Act
of 2005''.
SEC. 2. PROTECTIONS FOR WORKERS RECRUITED ABROAD.
(a) Basic Requirements.--(1) Each employer and foreign labor
contractor who engages in foreign labor contracting activity shall
ascertain and disclose to each such worker who is recruited for
employment the following information at the time of the worker's
recruitment:
(A) The place of employment.
(B) The compensation for the employment.
(C) A description of employment activities.
(D) The period of employment.
(E) The transportation, housing, and any other employee
benefit to be provided and any costs to be charged for each
benefit.
(F) The existence of any labor organizing effort, strike,
lockout, or other labor dispute at the place of employment.
(G) The existence of any arrangements with any owner or
agent of any establishment in the area of employment under
which the contractor or employer is to receive a commission or
any other benefit resulting from any sales (including the
provision of services) by such establishment to the workers.
(H) Whether and the extent to which workers will be
compensated through workers' compensation, private insurance,
or otherwise for injuries or death, including work related
injuries and death, during the period of employment and, if so,
the name of the State workers' compensation insurance carrier
or the name of the policyholder of the private insurance, the
name and the telephone number of each person who must be
notified of an injury or death, and the time period within
which such notice must be given.
(I) Any education or training to be provided or made
available, including the nature and cost of such training, who
will pay such costs, and whether the training is a condition of
employment, continued employment, or future employment.
(J) A statement, approved by the Secretary of Labor,
describing the protections of this Act for workers recruited
abroad.
(2) No foreign labor contractor or employer shall knowingly provide
false or misleading information to any worker concerning any matter
required to be disclosed in paragraph (1).
(3) The information required to be disclosed by paragraph (1) to
workers shall be provided in written form. Such information shall be
provided in English or, as necessary and reasonable, in the language of
the worker being recruited. The Department of Labor shall make forms
available in English, Spanish, and other languages, as necessary, which
may be used in providing workers with information required under this
section.
(4) No fees may be charged to a worker for recruitment.
(5) No employer or foreign labor contractor shall, without
justification, violate the terms of any working arrangement made by
that contractor or employer.
(6) The employer shall pay the transportation costs, including
subsistence costs during the period of travel, for the worker from the
place of recruitment to the place of employment and from the place of
employment to such worker's place of permanent residence.
(7)(A) It shall be unlawful for an employer or a foreign labor
contractor to fail or refuse to hire or to discharge any individual, or
otherwise discriminate against an individual with respect to
compensation, terms, conditions, or privileges of employment because
such individual's race, color, creed, sex, national origin, religion,
age, or disability.
(B) For the purposes of determining the existence of unlawful
discrimination under subclause (A)--
(i) in the case of a claim of discrimination based on race,
color, creed, sex, national origin, or religion, the same legal
standards shall apply as are applicable under title VII of the
Civil Rights Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C. 2000e et seq.);
(ii) in the case of a claim of discrimination based on
unlawful discrimination based on age, the same legal standards
shall apply as are applicable under the Age Discrimination in
Employment Act of 1967 (29 U.S.C. 621 et seq.); and
(iii) in the case of a claim of discrimination based on
disability, the same legal standards shall apply as are
applicable under title I of the Americans With Disabilities Act
(42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.).
(b) Other Worker Protections.--(1) Each employer shall notify the
Secretary of the identity of any foreign labor contractor involved in
any foreign labor contractor activity for or on behalf of the employer.
The employer shall be subject to the civil remedies of this Act for
violations committed by such foreign labor contractor to the same
extent as if the employer had committed the violation. The employer
shall notify the Secretary of the identity of such a foreign labor
contractor whose activities do not comply with this Act.
(2) The Secretary shall maintain a list of all foreign labor
contractors whom the Secretary knows or believes have been involved in
violations of this Act, and make that list publicly available. The
Secretary shall provide a procedure by which an employer, a foreign
labor contractor, or someone acting on behalf of such contractor may
seek to have a foreign labor contractor's name removed from such list
by demonstrating to the Secretary's satisfaction that the foreign labor
contractor has not violated this Act in the previous five years.
(3) No foreign labor contractor shall violate, without
justification, the terms of any written agreements made with an
employer pertaining to any contracting activity or worker protection
under this Act.
(c) Discrimination Prohibited Against Workers Seeking Relief Under
This Act.--No person shall intimidate, threaten, restrain, coerce,
blacklist, discharge, or in any manner discriminate against any worker
because such worker has, with just cause, filed any complaint or
instituted, or caused to be instituted, any proceeding under or related
to this Act, or has testified or is about to testify in any such
proceedings, or because of the exercise, with just cause, by such
worker on behalf of himself or others of any right or protection
afforded by this Act.
SEC. 3. ENFORCEMENT PROVISIONS.
(a) Criminal Sanctions.--Whoever knowingly violates this Act shall
be fined under title 18, United States Code, or imprisoned not more
than one year, or both. Upon conviction, after a first conviction under
this section, for a second or subsequent violation of this Act, the
defendant shall be fined under title 18, United States Code, or
imprisoned not more than three years, or both.
(b) Administrative Sanctions.--(1)(A) Subject to subparagraph (B),
the Secretary may assess a civil money penalty of not more than $5,000
on any person who violates this Act.
(B) In determining the amount of any penalty to be assessed under
subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall take into account (i) the
previous record of the person in terms of compliance with this Act and
with comparable requirements of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938,
and with regulations promulgated under such Acts, and (ii) the gravity
of the violation.
(2) Any employer who uses the services of a foreign labor
contractor who is on the list maintained by the Secretary pursuant to
section 2(b)(2), shall, if the actions of such foreign labor contractor
have contributed to a violation of this Act by the employer, be fined
$10,000 per violation in addition to any other fines or penalties for
which the employer may be liable for the violation.
(c) Actions by Secretary.--The Secretary may take such actions,
including seeking appropriate injunctive relief and specific
performance of contractual obligations, as may be necessary to assure
employer compliance with terms and conditions of employment under this
Act and with this Act.
(d) Waiver of Rights.--Agreements by employees purporting to waive
or to modify their rights under this Act shall be void as contrary to
public policy.
(e) Representation in Court.--Except as provided in section 518(a)
of title 28, United States Code, relating to litigation before the
Supreme Court, the Solicitor of Labor may appear for and represent the
Secretary in any civil litigation brought under this Act, but all such
litigation shall be subject to the direction and control of the
Attorney General.
SEC. 4. PROCEDURES IN ADDITION TO OTHER RIGHTS OF EMPLOYEES.
The rights and remedies provided to workers by this Act are in
addition to, and not in lieu of, any other contractual or statutory
rights and remedies of the workers, and are not intended to alter or
affect such rights and remedies.
SEC. 5. AUTHORITY TO PRESCRIBE REGULATIONS.
The Secretary of Labor shall prescribe such regulations as may be
necessary to carry out this Act.
SEC. 6. DEFINITIONS.
(a) In General.--Except as otherwise provided by this Act, for
purposes of this Act the terms used in this Act shall have the same
meanings, respectively, as are given those terms in section 3 of the
Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938.
(b) Other Definitions.--As used in this Act:
(1) The term ``United States'' means any within any State.
(2) The term ``State'' means any State of the United States
and includes the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam,
American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana
Islands, and the Virgin Islands of the United States.
(3) The term ``foreign labor contractor'' means any person
who for any money or other valuable consideration paid or
promised to be paid, performs any foreign labor contracting
activity.
(4) The term ``foreign labor contracting activity'' means
recruiting, soliciting, hiring, employing, or furnishing, an
individual who resides outside of the United States to be
employed in the United States.
(5) The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of Labor.
(6) The term ``worker'' means an individual who is the
subject of foreign labor contracting activity. | Indentured Servitude Abolition Act of 2005 - Requires foreign labor contractors (recruiters) and employers to inform foreign workers accurately of specified terms and conditions of their employment at the time they are recruited. Requires such information to be provided in written form in English or, as necessary and reasonable, in the language of the worker being recruited.
Prohibits charging fees to workers for recruitment.
Requires employers to pay such a worker's transportation costs, including subsistence costs during the period of travel: (1) from the place of recruitment to the place of employment; and (2) from the place of employment to the worker's place of permanent residence.
Prohibits discrimination in employment by an employer or a recruiter against an individual because of race, color, creed, sex, national origin, religion, age, or disability.
Requires employers to notify the Secretary of Labor of the identity of: (1) any recruiter involved in any foreign labor contractor activity for or on behalf of the employer; and (2) any such recruiter whose activities do not comply with this Act. Subjects employers to the civil remedies of this Act for violations committed by such recruiters to the same extent as if the employers had committed the violations.
Prescribes civil and criminal penalties for violations of this Act. | To provide for labor recruiter accountability, and for other purposes. |
596 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Federal Civilian and Uniformed
Services Long-Term Care Insurance Act of 1999''.
SEC. 2. LONG-TERM CARE INSURANCE.
Subpart G of part III of title 5, United States Code, is amended by
adding at the end the following:
``Chapter 90--Long-Term Care Insurance
``Sec.
``9001. Definitions.
``9002. Eligibility to obtain coverage.
``9003. Contracting authority.
``9004. Long-term care benefits.
``9005. Financing.
``9006. Regulations.
``Sec. 9001. Definitions
``For purposes of this chapter:
``(1) Employee.--The term `employee' means--
``(A) an employee as defined by section 8901(1)(A)-
(H); and
``(B) an individual described in section 2105(e).
``(2) Annuitant.--The term `annuitant' has the meaning such
term would have under paragraph (3) of section 8901 if, for
purposes of such paragraph, the term `employee' were considered
to have the meaning given to it under paragraph (1) of this
subsection.
``(3) Qualified relative.--The term `qualified relative',
as used with respect to a sponsoring individual, means--
``(A) the spouse of such sponsoring individual;
``(B) a parent or parent-in-law of such sponsoring
individual; and
``(C) any other person bearing a relationship to
such sponsoring individual specified by the Office in
regulations.
``(4) Sponsoring individual.--The term `sponsoring
individual' refers to an individual described in paragraph (1),
(2), (3), or (4) of section 9002(b).
``(5) Carrier.--The term `carrier' means a voluntary
association, corporation, partnership, or other nongovernmental
organization which is lawfully engaged in providing, paying
for, or reimbursing the cost of, qualified long-term care
services under group insurance policies or contracts, or
similar group arrangements, in consideration of premiums or
other periodic charges payable to the carrier.
``(6) Qualified long-term care services.--The term
`qualified long-term care services' has the meaning given such
term by section 7702B of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
``(7) Office.--The term `Office' means the Office of
Personnel Management.
``(8) Appropriate secretary.--The term `appropriate
Secretary' means--
``(A) except as otherwise provided in this
paragraph, the Secretary of Defense;
``(B) with respect to the Coast Guard when it is
not operating as a service of the Navy, the Secretary
of Transportation;
``(C) with respect to the commissioned corps of the
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the
Secretary of Commerce; and
``(D) with respect to the commissioned corps of the
Public Health Service, the Secretary of Health and
Human Services.
``Sec. 9002. Eligibility to obtain coverage
``(a) In General.--Any eligible individual may obtain long-term
care insurance coverage under this chapter for himself or herself, in
accordance with applicable provisions of this chapter.
``(b) Eligible Individual Defined.--For purposes of this section,
the term `eligible individual' means each of the following:
``(1) Employee.--An employee who has completed 6 months of
continuous service as an employee under other than a temporary
appointment limited to 6 months or less.
``(2) Annuitant.--An annuitant.
``(3) Member of the uniformed services.--A member of the
uniformed services on active duty for a period of more than 30
days or full-time National Guard duty (as defined in section
101(d)(5) of title 10) who satisfies such eligibility
requirements as the Office prescribes under section 9006(c).
``(4) Retired member of the uniformed services.--A member
of the uniformed services entitled to retired or retainer pay
(other than under chapter 1223 of title 10) who satisfies such
eligibility requirements as the Office prescribes under section
9006(c).
``(5) Qualified relative.--A qualified relative of a
sponsoring individual.
``(c) Certification Requirement.--As a condition for obtaining
long-term care insurance coverage under this chapter based on one's
status as a qualified relative, certification from the applicant's
sponsoring individual shall be required as to--
``(1) such sponsoring individual's status, as described in
paragraph (1), (2), (3), or (4) of subsection (b) (as
applicable), as of the time of the qualified relative's
application for coverage; and
``(2) the existence of the claimed relationship as of that
time.
Any such certification shall be submitted at such time and in such form
and manner as the Office shall by regulation prescribe.
``(d) Disqualifying Condition.--Nothing in this chapter shall be
considered to require that long-term care insurance coverage be made
available in the case of any individual who would be immediately
benefit eligible.
``Sec. 9003. Contracting authority
``(a) In General.--The Office may, without regard to section 3709
of the Revised Statutes or other statute requiring competitive bidding,
contract with qualified carriers to provide group long-term care
insurance under this chapter, except that the Office may not have
contracts in effect under this section with more than 3 qualified
carriers as of any given time.
``(b) Qualified Carriers.--To be considered a qualified carrier
under this chapter, a company must be licensed to issue group long-term
care insurance in all the States and the District of Columbia.
``(c) Terms and Conditions.--
``(1) In general.--Each contract under this section shall
contain a detailed statement of the benefits offered (including
any maximums, limitations, exclusions, and other definitions of
benefits), the rates charged (including any limitations or
other conditions on their subsequent adjustment), and such
other terms and conditions as may be mutually agreed to by the
Office and the carrier involved, consistent with the
requirements of this chapter.
``(2) Rates.--The rates charged under any contract under
this section shall reasonably reflect the cost of the benefits
provided under such contract.
``(d) Noncancelability.--The benefits and coverage made available
to individuals under any contract under this section shall be
guaranteed to be renewable and may not be canceled by the carrier
except for nonpayment of charges.
``(e) Payment of Required Benefits; Dispute Resolution.--Each
contract under this section shall require the carrier to agree--
``(1) to pay or provide benefits in an individual case if
the Office (or a duly designated third-party administrator)
finds that the individual involved is entitled thereto under
the terms of the contract; and
``(2) to participate in administrative procedures designed
to bring about the expeditious resolution of disputes arising
under such contract, including, in appropriate circumstances,
one or more alternative means of dispute resolution.
``(f) Duration.--
``(1) In general.--Each contract under this section shall
be for a term of 5 years, but may be made automatically
renewable from term to term in the absence of notice of
termination by either party. However, the rights and
responsibilities of the enrolled individual, the insurer, and
the Office (or duly designated third-party administrator) under
any such contract shall continue until the termination of
coverage of the enrolled individual.
``(2) Termination of individual coverage.--Group long-term
care insurance coverage obtained by an individual under this
chapter shall terminate only upon the occurrence of any of the
following:
``(A) Death.--The death of the insured.
``(B) Exhaustion of benefits.--Exhaustion of
benefits, as determined under the contract.
``(C) Insolvency.--Insolvency of the insurer, as
determined under the contract.
``(D) Cancellation.--Any event justifying a
cancellation under subsection (d).
``(3) Preservation of rights and responsibilities.--Each
contract under this section shall include such provisions as
may be necessary so as, except as provided in paragraph (2)--
``(A) to effectively preserve all parties' rights
and responsibilities under such contract
notwithstanding the termination of such contract
(whether due to its nonrenewal under the first sentence
of paragraph (1) or otherwise); and
``(B) to ensure that, once an individual becomes
duly enrolled, long-term care insurance coverage
obtained by such individual pursuant to that enrollment
shall not be terminated due to any change in status (as
described in section 9002(b)), such as separation from
Government service or the uniformed services, or
ceasing to meet the requirements for being considered a
qualified relative (whether due to divorce or
otherwise).
``Sec. 9004. Long-term care benefits
``(a) In General.--Benefits under this chapter shall be provided
under qualified long-term care insurance contracts, within the meaning
of section 7702B of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
``(b) Specific Matters To Be Included in All Contracts.--Each
contract under section 9003 shall, in addition to any matter otherwise
required under this chapter, provide for the following:
``(1) Adequate consumer protections (including through
establishment of sufficient reserves or reinsurance).
``(2) Adequate protections in the event of carrier
bankruptcy (or other similar event).
``(3) Availability of benefits upon appropriate
certification as to an individual's--
``(A) inability (without substantial assistance
from another individual) to perform at least 2
activities of daily living for a period of at least 90
days due to a loss of functional capacity;
``(B) having a level of disability similar (as
determined under regulations prescribed by
the Secretary of the Treasury in consultation with the Secretary of
Health and Human Services) to the level of disability described in
subparagraph (A); or
``(C) requiring substantial supervision to protect
such individual from threats to health and safety due
to severe cognitive impairment.
``(4) Choice of cash or service benefits (such as the
expense-incurred method or the indemnity method).
``(5) Inflation protection (whether through simple or
compounded adjustment of benefits).
``(6) Portability of benefits (consistent with subsections
(d) and (f) of section 9003).
``(c) Additional Specific Matters To Be Included in at Least One
Contract.--To the maximum extent practicable, as of any given time, at
least 1 of the policies being offered under this chapter shall, in
addition to any matter otherwise required under this chapter, provide
for the following:
``(1) Length-of-benefit options.
``(2) Options relating to the provision of coverage in a
variety of settings, including nursing homes, assisted living
facilities, and home and community care.
``(3) Options relating to elimination periods.
``(4) Options relating to nonforfeiture benefits.
``(5) Availability of benefits upon appropriate
certification of medical necessity (as defined by the Office in
consultation with the Secretary of Health and Human Services)
not satisfying the requirements of subsection (b)(3).
``(d) Governmentwide Plan.--
``(1) In general.--The Office shall take all practicable
measures to ensure that, of the long-term care benefits plans
available under this chapter as of any given time, at least one
of them shall be a Governmentwide long-term care benefits plan.
``(2) Definition.--For purposes of this subsection, the
term `long-term care benefits plan' means a group insurance
policy or contract, or similar group arrangement, provided by a
carrier for the purpose of providing, paying for, or
reimbursing expenses for qualified long-term care services.
``(3) Clarification.--Neither subsection (c)(5) nor the
exception set forth in the parenthetical matter under
subsection (e) shall apply with respect to any Governmentwide
plan under this subsection.
``(e) Coordination With Internal Revenue Code of 1986.--Nothing in
this chapter shall be considered to permit or require the inclusion, in
any contract, of provisions inconsistent with section 7702B or any
other provision of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (except to the
extent necessary to carry out subsection (c)(5)).
``(f) Coordination With State Requirements.--If a State (or the
District of Columbia) imposes any requirement which is more stringent
than the analogous requirement imposed by subsection (b)(1), the
requirement imposed by subsection (b)(1) shall be treated as met if the
more stringent requirement of the State (or the District of Columbia)
is met.
``(g) Definitions.--For purposes of this section:
``(1) Activities of daily living.--Each of the following is
an activity of daily living:
``(A) Eating.
``(B) Toileting.
``(C) Transferring.
``(D) Bathing.
``(E) Dressing.
``(F) Continence.
``(2) Nursing home.--The term `nursing home' has the
meaning given such term by section 1908 of the Social Security
Act.
``(3) Assisted living facility.--The term `assisted living
facility' has the meaning given such term by section 232 of the
National Housing Act.
``(4) Home and community care.--The term `home and
community care' has the meaning given such term by section 1929
of the Social Security Act.
``Sec. 9005. Financing
``(a) No Government Contribution.--Except as provided in subsection
(b)(2), each individual having long-term care insurance coverage under
this chapter shall be responsible for 100 percent of the charges for
such coverage.
``(b) Withholdings.--
``(1) In general.--The amount necessary to pay the charges
for enrollment shall--
``(A) in the case of an employee, be withheld from
the pay of such employee;
``(B) in the case of an annuitant, be withheld from
the annuity of such annuitant;
``(C) in the case of a member of the uniformed
services described in section 9002(b)(3), be withheld
from the basic pay of such member; and
``(D) in the case of a member of the uniformed
services described in section 9002(b)(4), be withheld
from the retired pay or retainer pay payable to such
member.
``(2) Voluntary withholdings for qualified relatives.--
Withholdings to pay the charges for enrollment of a qualified
relative may, upon election of the sponsoring individual
involved, be withheld under paragraph (1) in the same manner as
if enrollment were for such sponsoring individual.
``(3) Direct payments.--All amounts withheld under
paragraph (1) or (2) shall be paid directly to the carrier.
``(c) Other Forms of Payment.--Any enrollee whose pay, annuity, or
retired or retainer pay (as referred to in subsection (b)(1)) is
insufficient to cover the withholding required for enrollment (or who
is not receiving any regular amounts from the Government, as referred
to in subsection (b)(1), from which any such withholdings may be made)
shall pay an amount equal to the shortfall (or, in the case of an
enrollee not receiving any regular amounts, the full amount of those
charges) directly to the carrier.
``(d) Separate Fund Requirement.--Each carrier participating under
this chapter shall maintain all amounts received under this chapter
separate and apart from all other funds.
``(e) Reimbursements.--Contracts under this chapter shall include
appropriate provisions under which each carrier shall reimburse the
Office or other administering entity for the administrative costs
incurred by such entity under this chapter (such as for dispute
resolution) which are allocable to such carrier.
``Sec. 9006. Regulations
``(a) In General.--The Office shall prescribe regulations necessary
to carry out this chapter.
``(b) Enrollment.--The regulations of the Office shall prescribe
the time at which and the manner and conditions under which an
individual may obtain long-term care insurance under this chapter,
except that, under the regulations, an open enrollment period shall be
afforded at least once each year (similar to that afforded under
section 8905(f)).
``(c) Consultation.--Any regulations necessary to effect the
application and operation of this chapter with respect to an eligible
individual described in paragraph (3) or (4) of section 9002(b), or a
qualified relative thereof, shall be prescribed by the Office in
consultation with the appropriate Secretary.''.
SEC. 3. EFFECTIVE DATE.
The amendments made by this Act shall take effect on the date of
enactment of this Act, except that no coverage may become effective
before the first calendar year beginning after the expiration of the
18-month period beginning on the date of enactment of this Act. | Federal Civilian and Uniformed Services Long-Term Care Insurance Act of 1999 - Amends Federal civil service provisions to establish a program to provide for long-term care insurance for certain Federal employees and annuitants, current and retired members of the uniformed services, and qualified relatives of such individuals.
Authorizes the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), without regard to statutes requiring competitive bidding, to contract with up to three qualified carriers to provide group long-term care insurance under this Act. Sets forth contract terms, including a requirement that coverage may not be canceled, except for nonpayment of charges. Provides for five-year, automatically renewable insurance contracts. Describes conditions under which coverage may be terminated. Sets forth required elements of contracts, including portability of benefits. Requires OPM to ensure that at least one of the benefits plans is a Governmentwide plan.
Makes insured individuals responsible for 100 percent of the charges of coverage and allows sponsoring individuals to have amounts withheld from pay for coverage for qualified relatives.
Provides for an open enrollment period at least annually. | Federal Civilian and Uniformed Services Long-Term Care Insurance Act of 1999 |
597 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Alaska Federal Lands Management
Demonstration Project Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
(a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
(1) The Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (16
U.S.C. 3101 et seq.) established new and expanded units of the
National Park System and the National Wildlife Refuge System in
many areas of Alaska. The purposes of these conservation system
units include protection of habitat for fish and wildlife,
conservation of fish and wildlife populations, continued
opportunity for subsistence uses by local residents, and
protection of archeological sites associated with Alaska Native
cultures.
(2) Many rural Alaskan communities are in close proximity
to conservation system units and the purposes of these
conservation system units are uniquely relevant to the culture
and ways of Alaska Natives and other residents of rural Alaska
communities. Congress recognized this close relationship in
sections 1306, 1307, and 1308 of the Alaska National Interest
Lands Conservation Act, which directed the Secretary of the
Interior to establish programs whereby Alaska Native lands were
given preference for the siting of conservation system unit
facilities, Alaska Native corporations and local residents were
given preference for the provision of visitor services, and
local residents were given preference for employment.
(b) Purposes.--The purposes of this Act are as follows:
(1) To promote innovative management strategies that are
designed to lead to greater efficiency in conservation system
unit management.
(2) To expand Alaska Native contracting opportunities.
(3) To increase local employment in Alaska.
(4) To further the unique purposes of conservation system
units as they relate to subsistence practices, Alaska Native
culture, and the conservation of fish and wildlife habitat and
populations.
SEC. 3. ALASKA FEDERAL LANDS MANAGEMENT DEMONSTRATION PROJECT.
(a) In General.--The Secretary shall carry out a program within the
Department of the Interior to be known as the ``Alaska Federal Lands
Management Demonstration Project'' by which 12 Indian tribes or tribal
organizations may contract to perform construction, maintenance, data
collection, biological research, and harvest monitoring on conservation
system units in Alaska.
(b) Participation.--During each of the 2 fiscal years immediately
following the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall
select, in a manner to achieve geographic representation within Alaska,
not less than 6 eligible Indian tribes or tribal organizations per year
to participate in the demonstration project.
(c) Eligibility.--To be eligible to participate in the
demonstration project, an Indian tribe or tribal organization, shall--
(1) request participation by resolution or other official
action of the governing body of the Indian tribe or tribal
organization;
(2) demonstrate financial and management stability and
capability, as evidenced by the Indian tribe or tribal
organization having no unresolved significant and material
audit exceptions for the previous 3 fiscal years; and
(3) demonstrate significant use of or dependency upon the
relevant conservation system unit or other public land unit for
which programs, functions, services, and activities are
requested to be placed under contract.
(d) Priority.--If the Secretary receives a request to contract
specific conservation system unit programs, services, functions, and
activities, or portions thereof, from more than one Indian tribe or
tribal organization meeting the criteria set forth in subsection (c),
the Secretary shall apply the priority selection criteria applied by
the Alaska Region of the Bureau of Indian Affairs for contracting
pursuant to the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act.
If, after applying such criteria, more than one eligible Indian tribe
or tribal organization remains and such Indian tribes or tribal
organizations have overlapping requests to negotiate and contract for
the same programs, services, functions, and activities, or portions
thereof, the Secretary may require such Indian tribes or tribal
organizations to agree regarding which Indian tribe or tribal
organization shall have the ability to contract or to submit a joint
request prior to entering into negotiations.
(e) Planning Phase.--Each Indian tribe and tribal organization
selected by the Secretary to participate in the demonstration project
shall complete a planning phase prior to negotiating and entering into
a conservation system unit management contract. The planning phase
shall be conducted to the satisfaction of the Secretary, Indian tribe,
or tribal organization, and shall include--
(1) legal and budgetary research; and
(2) internal tribal planning and organizational
preparation.
(f) Contracts.--
(1) In general.--Upon request of a participating Indian
tribe or tribal organization that has completed the planning
phase pursuant to subsection (e), the Secretary shall negotiate
and enter into a contract with the Indian tribe or tribal
organization for the Indian tribe or tribal organization to
plan, conduct, and administer programs, services, functions,
and activities, or portions thereof, as described in subsection
(a), requested by the Indian tribe or tribal organization and
related to the administration of a conservation system unit
that is substantially located within the geographic region of
the Indian tribe or tribal organization.
(2) Time limitation for negotiation of contracts.--Not
later than 90 days after a participating Indian tribe or tribal
organization has notified the Secretary that it has completed
the planning phase required by subsection (e), the Secretary
shall initiate and conclude negotiations, unless an alternative
negotiation and implementation schedule is otherwise agreed to
by the parties. The declination and appeals provisions of the
Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act,
including section 110 of such Act, shall apply to contracts and
agreements requested and negotiated under this Act.
(g) Contract Administration.--
(1) Inclusion of certain terms.--At the request of the
contracting Indian tribe or tribal organization, the benefits,
privileges, terms, and conditions of agreements entered into
pursuant to titles I and IV of the Indian Self-Determination
and Education Assistance Act may be included in a contract
entered into under this Act. If any provisions of the Indian
Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act are
incorporated, they shall have the same force and effect as if
set out in full in this Act and shall apply notwithstanding any
other provision of law. The parties may include such other
terms and conditions as are mutually agreed to and not
otherwise contrary to law.
(2) Audit.--Contracts entered into under this Act shall
provide for a single-agency audit report to be filed as
required by chapter 75 of title 31, United States Code.
(3) Transfer of employees.--Any career Federal employee
employed at the time of the transfer of an operation or program
to an Indian tribe or tribal organization shall not be
separated from Federal service by reason of such transfer.
Intergovernmental personnel actions may be used to transfer
supervision of such employees to the contracting Indian tribe
or tribal organization. Such transferred employees shall be
given priority placement for any available position within
their respective agency, notwithstanding any priority
reemployment lists, directives, rules, regulations, or other
orders from the Department of the Interior, the Office of
Management and Budget, or other Federal agencies.
(h) Available Funding; Payment.--Under the terms of a contract
negotiated pursuant to subsection (f), the Secretary shall provide each
Indian tribe or tribal organization funds in an amount not less than
the Secretary would have otherwise provided for the operation of the
requested programs, services, functions, and activities. Contracts
entered into under this Act shall provide for advance payments to the
tribal organizations in the form of annual or semiannual installments.
(i) Timing; Contract Authorization Period.--An Indian tribe or
tribal organization selected to participate in the demonstration
project shall complete the planning phase required by subsection (e)
not later than 1 calendar year after the date that it was selected for
participation and may begin implementation of its requested contract no
later than the first day of the next fiscal year. The Indian tribe or
tribal organization and the Secretary may agree to an alternate
implementation schedule. Contracts entered into pursuant to this Act
are authorized to remain in effect for 5 consecutive fiscal years,
starting from the fiscal year the participating Indian tribe or tribal
organization first entered into its contract under this Act.
(j) Report.--Not later than 90 days after the close of each of
fiscal years 2003 and 2006, the Secretary shall present to the Congress
detailed reports, including a narrative, findings, and conclusions on
the costs and benefits of this demonstration project. The reports shall
identify remaining institutional and legal barriers to the contracting
of conservation system unit management to Alaska Native entities and
shall contain recommendations for improving, continuing, and expanding
the demonstration project. The reports shall be authored jointly with,
and shall include the separate views of, all participating Indian
tribes and tribal organizations.
(k) Limitations.--
(1) Revenue producing visitor services.--Contracts
authorized under this Act shall not include revenue-producing
visitor services, unless an agreement is reached with the most
directly affected Alaska Native corporations to allow such
services to be included in the contract. Such contracts shall
not otherwise repeal, alter, or otherwise modify section 1307
or 1308 of the Alaska National Interests Lands Conservation
Act.
(2) Contracts.--Contracts authorized under this Act shall
not grant or include any authority to administer or otherwise
manage or oversee permits, licenses, or contracts related to
sport hunting and fishing guiding activities.
(3) Denali national park.--The Denali National Park shall
not be subject to any of the provisions of this Act.
(4) State's management authority for fish and wildlife.--
Nothing in this Act is intended to enlarge or diminish the
responsibility and authority of the State of Alaska for
management of fish and wildlife.
(l) Planning Grants.--
(1) In general.--Subject to the availability of
appropriated funds, upon application the Secretary shall award
a planning grant in the amount of $100,000 to any Indian tribe
or tribal organization selected for participation in the
demonstration project to enable it to plan for the contracting
of programs, functions, services, and activities as authorized
under this Act and meet the planning phase requirement of
subsection (e). An Indian tribe or tribal organization may
choose to meet the planning phase requirement without applying for a
grant under this subsection. No Indian tribe or tribal organization may
receive more than 1 grant under this subsection.
(2) Authorization of appropriations.--There is authorized
to be appropriated $600,000 for each of the 2 fiscal years
immediately following the date of the enactment of this Act to
fund planning grants under this section.
SEC. 4. KOYUKUK AND KANUTI NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGES DEMONSTRATION
PROJECT.
(a) In General.--The Secretary shall enter into contracts,
compacts, or funding agreements under the Indian Self-Determination and
Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 450 et seq.) with the Koyukuk River
Basin Moose Co-Management Team, Inc., upon receipt of authorizing
resolutions from its member tribal or village councils, to establish a
demonstration project providing programs, functions, services, and
activities of the Koyukuk and Kanuti National Wildlife Refuges.
(b) Assignment of Employees.--To the maximum extent possible,
contracts and compacts under subsection (a) shall provide that the
United States Fish and Wildlife Service shall assign employees assigned
to the Koyukuk and Kanuti National Wildlife Refuges to the contractor
pursuant to the Intergovernmental Personnel Act (5 U.S.C. 3371 et seq.)
with all such employees maintained as Federal employees retaining all
benefits and status of Federal service.
SEC. 5. DEFINITIONS.
For the purposes of this Act:
(1) Conservation system unit.--The term ``conservation
system unit'' shall have the meaning given that term in section
102(4) of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act.
(2) Indian tribe.--The term ``Indian tribe'' shall have the
meaning given that term in section 4(e) of the Indian Self-
Determination and Education Assistance Act.
(3) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of the Interior.
(4) Tribal organization.--The term ``tribal organization''
shall have the meaning given that term in section 4(l) of the
Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act. | Alaska Federal Lands Management Demonstration Project Act - Directs the Secretary of the Interior to conduct an Alaska Federal Lands Management Demonstration Project under which up to 12 Indian tribes or tribal organizations may contract to perform construction, maintenance, data collection, biological research, and harvest monitoring on conservation system units in Alaska.Requires the Secretary to select no fewer than six eligible, geographically representative tribes or tribal organizations per year to participate in the Project.Specifies eligibility requirements and priority selection criteria.Requires selected tribes and tribal organizations to complete a planning phase before contracting with the Secretary to perform specified services or functions related to conservation and allocation actions by regional Federal subsistence advisory councils.Permits the inclusion in a contract, at the tribe or tribal organization's request, of benefits, privileges, terms, and conditions of agreements entered under the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act.Excludes from authorized contracts: (1) revenue-producing visitor services unless agreed to by the Alaska Native corporations most directly affected; and (2) authority to administer, manage, or oversee permits, licenses, or contracts related to sport hunting and fishing guiding activities. Declares that Denali National Park shall not be subject to this Act.Provides for planning grants, as funds permit.Authorizes appropriations.Directs the Secretary to establish a demonstration project with the Koyukuk River Basin Moose Co-Management Team, Inc., for the provision of services at the Koyukuk and Kanuti National Wildlife Refuges.Authorizes the use of intergovernmental personnel actions to assign Federal employees to the contractor while retaining their Federal employment status. | To expand Alaska Native contracting of Federal land management functions and activities and to promote hiring of Alaska Natives by the Federal Government within the State of Alaska, and for other purposes. |
598 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; REFERENCES.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``GEAR UP & GO
Act''.
(b) References.--Except as otherwise expressly provided, 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
Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001 et seq.).
SEC. 2. CONTINUUM OF SERVICES.
(a) Awards.--Section 404A(b)(2)(B) (20 U.S.C. 1070a-21(b)(2)(B)) is
amended by inserting after ``through the completion of secondary
school'' the following: ``or through the first year of attendance at a
postsecondary education institution''.
(b) Cohort Approach.--Section 404B(g)(1)(B) (20 U.S.C. 1070a-
22(g)(1)(B)) is amended by inserting after ``through the 12th grade''
the following ``or through the first year of attendance at a
postsecondary education institution to students in the participating
grade level''.
(c) Early Intervention.--
(1) Uses of funds.--Section 404D(b)(2) (20 U.S.C. 1070a-
24(b)(2)) is amended by inserting after ``through grade 12''
the following: ``or through the first year of attendance at a
postsecondary education institution''.
(2) Priority students.--Section 404D(c) is amended by
inserting after ``through grade 12'' the following ``or through
the first year of attendance at a postsecondary education
institution''.
SEC. 3. CONTINUING ELIGIBILITY.
Section 404A (20 U.S.C. 1070a-21) is amended by adding at the end
the following new subsection:
``(d) Continuing Eligibility.--An eligible entity shall not cease
to be an eligible entity upon the expiration of any grant under this
chapter (including a continuation award). The Secretary shall require
any such entity seeking a new grant to demonstrate the effectiveness of
the prior programs under this chapter in its plan submitted under
section 404C.''.
SEC. 4. FINANCIAL EDUCATION AND COUNSELING.
Section 404D (20 U.S.C. 1070a-24) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)(1)(B)(i), by inserting before the
semicolon at the end the following: ``, and counseling and
education regarding financial cost requirements for college'';
and
(2) in subsection (b)(2)(A)(ii), by striking ``career
mentoring'' inserting ``career planning and mentoring, academic
counseling, and financial literacy, education, or counseling
pertaining to the process of going to college''.
SEC. 5. SCHOLARSHIP COMPONENT.
Section 404E(b)(2) (20 U.S.C. 1070a-25(b)(2)) is amended by
inserting after ``section 401 for such fiscal year'' the following ``,
or $5,800, whichever is less''.
SEC. 6. DUAL/CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT.
(a) Amendment.--Chapter 2 of part A of title IV is amended--
(1) by redesignating section 404G and 404H (20 U.S.C.
1070a-27) as sections 404H and 404I, respectively; and
(2) by inserting after section 404F the following:
``SEC. 404G. DUAL/CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT.
``(a) Program Authority.--The Secretary is authorized to carry out
a program to be known as `GEAR UP & GO', to provide growing
opportunities for dual/concurrent enrollment, which shall be designed
to provide low-income high school students participating in GEAR UP
partnerships or State programs the opportunity to enroll in college
courses while still enrolled in high school. In such program, students
shall not be required to apply for admission to the institution of
higher education in order to participate, and may receive college
credit.
``(b) Student Eligibility.--For the purpose of this chapter, a
student shall be eligible if the student is--
``(1) is enrolled in GEAR UP partnerships or State
programs;
``(2) is enrolled 10th, 11th, or 12th grade; and
``(3) has demonstrated academic readiness for college
courses as determined by the applying entity.
``(c) Permissible Services.--An entity receiving funding under this
chapter may provide services such as--
``(1) the offering of core nonremedial college courses as
determined by the postsecondary institution in which
participating students--
``(A) receive instruction from a postsecondary
institution faculty member at the secondary site;
``(B) take courses from a postsecondary institution
faculty member on-site at the postsecondary
institution;
``(C) receive college level instruction from high
school faculty who hold the same credentials as
postsecondary faculty; and
``(D) enroll in an early college high school in
which students may earn college credit through a
coherent course of study leading to a postsecondary
degree.
``(2) assistance with the selection of core nonremedial
college courses by students;
``(3) tutorial services pertaining to the core nonremedial
college courses in which students are enrolled; and
``(4) purchasing books, supplies, and transportation.
``(d) Requirements for Approval of Applications.--In approving
applications for GEAR UP & GO under this chapter for any fiscal year,
the Secretary shall--
``(1) award funds under this program on an annual basis and
determine the average award;
``(2) take into consideration whether participating
students in a dual/concurrent enrollment program will receive
college credit;
``(3) require an assurance that an entity applying for
funding under this chapter meet the requirements of section
404A(c); and
``(4) not approve a plan unless such a plan--
``(A) details the criteria used for determining
student academic readiness or qualifications for
participation in the dual/concurrent enrollment
program; and
``(B) specifies the methods by which funds will be
spent for carrying out the program.
``(e) Authorization of Appropriations.--In addition to the sums
authorized by section 404I, there are authorized to be appropriated to
carry out this section $50,000,000 for fiscal year 2005 and such sums
necessary for each of the 5 succeeding years.''.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--Chapter 2 of part A of title IV is
further amended by striking ``section 404H'' each place it appears and
inserting ``section 404I''.
SEC. 7. EVALUATION, REPORT, AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE.
Section 404H (20 U.S.C. 1070a-27), as redesignated by section 5(1)
of this Act, is amended by adding at the end the following new
subsection:
``(e) Technical Assistance.--In order to assist current grantees in
strengthening partnerships, leveraging resources, and sustaining
programs, the Secretary shall award not more than 0.75 percent of the
funds appropriated under section 404I for a fiscal year to the national
education organization that has served as technical assistance provider
for this program.''.
SEC. 8. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
Section 404I (20 U.S.C. 1070a-28), as redesignated by section 5(1)
of this Act, is amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 404I. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
``There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this chapter
$500,000,000 for fiscal year 2005 and such sums as may be necessary for
each of the 5 succeeding fiscal years.''. | GEAR UP & GO Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to revise specified requirements for Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) to facilitate the transition of low-income high school students into postsecondary education.
Authorizes the Secretary of Education to carry out a GEAR UP & GO program to provide low-income high school students participating in GEAR UP partnerships or State programs opportunities for dual/concurrent enrollment in college courses while still enrolled in high school. Provides that students in such program: (1) shall not be required to apply for admission to the institution of higher education; and (2) may receive college credit. | To amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 by strengthening and expanding the Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) in order to facilitate the transition of low-income high school students into post-secondary education. |
599 | SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Adult Day Center Enhancement Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds the following:
(1) One in 6 people in the United States lives with a
neurological disease or condition that can often result in
disability, and which may require the individual to seek
assistance in carrying out the activities of daily living.
Neurological diseases or conditions such as multiple sclerosis
(MS), early-onset Parkinson's disease, and traumatic brain
injury (TBI) can also typically affect younger adults in the
middle of their lives.
(2) Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, often disabling
disease that attacks the central nervous system with symptoms
ranging from numbness in limbs to paralysis and loss of vision.
Most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50
years of age. MS is a leading cause of disability in young
adults. Persons living with MS who experience more severe forms
of the disease are likely to require either home care or
nursing home placement, though the vast majority would prefer
to remain at home to receive the care they need. Where home
care is concerned, approximately 80 percent of such care is
provided by unpaid caregivers who are generally family members.
(3) Parkinson's disease is a chronic, progressive
neurological disease. The four primary symptoms of Parkinson's
disease are tremor, or trembling in hands, arms, legs, jaw, and
face; rigidity, or stiffness of the limbs and trunk;
bradykinesia, or slowness of movement; and postural
instability, or impaired balance and coordination. Other
symptoms may include cognitive changes; difficulty in
swallowing, chewing, and speaking; urinary problems or
constipation; skin problems; and sleep disruptions. As these
symptoms become more pronounced, patients may have difficulty
walking, talking, or completing other simple tasks. It is
estimated that nearly 500,000 to 1,500,000 people live with
Parkinson's and of those 5 to 10 percent are diagnosed younger
than 60 and deemed ``early-onset''.
(4) Traumatic brain injury is a neurological condition that
typically results from a blow or jolt to the head or a
penetrating head injury and that can impact one or more parts
of the brain, thereby temporarily or permanently disrupting
normal brain function. The Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention estimates that 1,700,000 TBIs occur annually,
resulting in disabilities affecting up to 90,000 people among a
broad range of age groups. Traumatic brain injury is also a
serious issue that affects military servicemembers. Estimates
in prior military conflicts indicate that TBI was present in
14-20 percent of surviving casualties.
(5) Family caregivers are a crucial source of support and
assistance for individuals suffering with disabilities. Family
caregivers, the majority of whom are women, provide an
estimated $470,000,000,000 in ``free'' services annually. The
supply of family caregivers is unlikely to keep pace with
future demand. The caregiver support ratio of potential
caregivers aged 45 to 64 for each person aged 80 and older, for
instance, is 7 to 1 in 2010, 4 to 1 in 2030, and 3 to 1 in
2050.
(6) The majority of family caregivers (or 53 percent) are
caring for someone ages 18 to 74. Forty-seven percent of family
caregivers are caring for someone 75 or older.
(7) Adult day programs can offer services, including
medical care, rehabilitation therapies, dignified assistance
with the activities of daily living, nutrition therapy, health
monitoring, social interaction, stimulating activities, and
transportation to seniors, people with disabilities, and
younger adults with chronic diseases.
(8) Adult day programs geared toward people living with
neurological diseases or conditions such as MS, Parkinson's
disease, TBI, or other similar diseases or conditions provide
an important response to the needs of people living with these
conditions and their family caregivers. Adult day programs can
help to ameliorate symptoms, reduce dependency, provide
important socialization opportunities, and maintain quality of
life.
(9) Adult day programs have been shown to provide a range
of documented benefits including improvements in functional
status, social support, and reductions in fatigue, depression
and pain. Adult day programs also reduce ongoing medical care
and hospital costs and decrease admissions to nursing home
facilities, which can be costly for many families, by allowing
individuals to receive health and social services while
continuing to live at home.
(10) There are currently few adult day programs focused on
younger adult populations in the United States. Although young
people living with neurological diseases or conditions may be
able to access existing adult day programs, such programs are
not typically intended for younger adults living with chronic
diseases or conditions, and may not provide the appropriate
services to meet the age-related or disability status of these
individuals.
SEC. 3. ESTABLISHMENT OF ADULT DAY PROGRAMS.
(a) Survey of Existing Adult Day Programs.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 90 days after the date of
the enactment of this section, the Assistant Secretary for
Aging shall initiate a comprehensive survey of current adult
day programs that provide care and support to individuals
including young adults living with neurological diseases or
conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease,
traumatic brain injury, or any similar disease or condition.
(2) Survey elements.--In carrying out the survey under
paragraph (1), the Assistant Secretary for Aging may utilize
existing publicly available research on adult day programs, and
shall--
(A) identify ongoing successful adult day programs,
including by providing a brief description of how such
programs were initially established and funded;
(B) identify which adult day programs are serving
young adults living with neurological diseases or
conditions;
(C) develop a set of best practices to help guide
the establishment and replication of additional
successful adult day programs, including--
(i) program guidelines;
(ii) recommendations on the scope of
services that should be provided to individuals
with neurological diseases or conditions
including young adults (which may include
rehabilitation therapy, psychosocial support,
social stimulation and interaction, and
spiritual, educational, or other such
services); and
(iii) performance goals and indicators to
measure and analyze the outcomes generated by
the services provided and to evaluate the
overall success of the program; and
(D) evaluate the extent to which the Administration
for Community Living supports adult day programs,
either directly or indirectly, through current Federal
grant programs.
(3) Report.--Not later than 180 days after initiating the
survey under paragraph (1), the Assistant Secretary for Aging
shall produce and make publicly available a summary report on
the results of the survey. Such report shall include each of
the elements described in paragraph (2).
(b) Establishment of Grant Program.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 90 days after producing the
report required by subsection (a)(3), the Assistant Secretary
for Aging shall establish within the Administration for
Community Living a competitive grant program for awarding
grants annually to eligible entities, based on the best
practices developed under subsection (a), to fund adult day
programs serving younger people with neurological diseases or
conditions.
(2) Eligible entities.--In order to be eligible for a grant
under this subsection, an entity shall demonstrate the
following:
(A) Understanding of the special needs of younger
people living with neurological diseases or conditions
such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease,
traumatic brain injury, or other similar diseases or
conditions, including their functional abilities and
the potential complications across all types of cases
and stages of such diseases or conditions.
(B) Understanding of the issues experienced by
family caregivers who assist a family member with
neurological diseases or conditions such as multiple
sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, traumatic brain injury,
or other similar diseases or conditions.
(C) A capacity to provide the services recommended
by the best practices developed under subsection (a).
(3) Additional selection requirement.--The Assistant
Secretary for Aging shall not award a grant to an entity under
this subsection if the amount of the award would constitute
more than 40 percent of the operating budget of the entity in
the fiscal year for which funds for the grant are authorized to
be expended. For purposes of this subsection, the fair market
value of annual in-kind contributions of equipment or services
shall be considered as part of the operating budget of the
entity.
(4) Selection of grant recipients.--Not later than 90 days
after establishing the grant program under this subsection, the
Assistant Secretary for Aging shall award the first annual
series of grants under the program. In awarding grants under
this subsection, the Assistant Secretary should ensure, to the
extent practicable, a diverse geographic representation among
grant recipients and that, subject to the availability of
appropriations--
(A) a minimum of 5 entities are selected as grant
recipients for the first fiscal year for which such
grants are awarded;
(B) a minimum of 10 entities are selected as grant
recipients for the second such fiscal year;
(C) a minimum of 12 entities are selected as grant
recipients for the third such fiscal year; and
(D) a minimum of 15 entities are selected as grant
recipients for the fourth such fiscal year.
(5) Report.--No later than 1 year after the initial award
of grants under this subsection, and annually thereafter, the
Assistant Secretary for Aging shall produce and make publicly
available a brief summary report on the grant program under
this section. Each such report shall include the following:
(A) A description of the adult day programs
receiving funding under this section, including the
amount of Federal funding awarded and the expected
outcomes of each program.
(B) A description of performance goals and
indicators to monitor the progress of grant recipients
in--
(i) responding to the needs of younger
individuals living with neurological diseases
or conditions such as multiple sclerosis,
Parkinson's disease, traumatic brain injury, or
other similar diseases or conditions; and
(ii) assisting the family caregivers of
such individuals.
(C) Any plans for improving oversight and
management of the grant program.
(c) Definitions.--In this Act:
(1) The term ``adult day program'' means a program that
provides comprehensive and effective care and support services
to individuals living with neurological diseases or conditions
such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, traumatic
brain injury, or other similar diseases or conditions that may
result in a functional or degenerative disability and to their
family caregivers and that may assist participants in ways
that--
(A) maintain or improve their functional abilities,
or otherwise help them adjust to their changing
functional abilities;
(B) prevent the onset of complications associated
with severe forms of the disease or condition;
(C) promote alternatives to placement in nursing
homes;
(D) reduce the strain on family caregivers taking
care of a family member living with such diseases or
conditions;
(E) focus on supporting the emotional, social, and
intellectual needs of a younger adult population; or
(F) address the needs of veterans living with such
diseases or conditions.
(2) The term ``family caregiver'' means a family member or
foster parent who provides unpaid assistance (which may include
in-home monitoring, management, supervision, care and
treatment, or other similar assistance) to another adult family
member with a special need.
(d) Authorization of Appropriations.--To carry out this section, in
addition to amounts otherwise made available for such purpose, there
are authorized to be appropriated, and to remain available until
expended, the following:
(1) $1,000,000 for fiscal year 2017.
(2) $3,000,000 for fiscal year 2018.
(3) $6,000,000 for fiscal year 2019.
(4) $8,000,000 for fiscal year 2020.
(5) $10,000,000 for fiscal year 2021. | Adult Day Center Enhancement Act This bill requires the Administration on Aging (AOA) to initiate a comprehensive survey of current adult day programs that provide care and support to individuals with neurological diseases or conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, or traumatic brain injury. The AOA must identify ongoing successful adult day programs and which of these serve young adults with neurological conditions and develop best practices to guide the establishment of additional successful adult day programs. The AOA must award grants for adult day programs that serve younger people with neurological conditions. An "adult day program" is defined as a program that provides comprehensive care and support services to individuals with neurological conditions and to their family caregivers and that may assist participants in ways that: maintain or improve their functional abilities or otherwise help them adjust to their changing functional abilities; prevent the onset of complications associated with severe forms of the condition; promote alternatives to placement in nursing homes; reduce the strain on family caregivers of individuals with neurological conditions; focus on supporting the emotional, social, and intellectual needs of a younger adult population; or address the needs of veterans with neurological conditions. | Adult Day Center Enhancement Act |