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SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Lifetime Prosperity Act of 2005''.
SEC. 2. EXPANSION OF SAVERS CREDIT.
(a) Credit Extended and Made Permanent.--
(1) Permanent extension of credit.--Section 25B of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to elective deferrals
and IRA contributions by certain individuals) is amended by
striking subsection (h).
(2) Sunset made inapplicable.--Title IX of the Economic
Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001 shall not
apply to the amendments made by section 618 of such Act
(relating to nonrefundable credit to certain individuals for
elective deferrals and IRA contributions).
(b) Expansion of Credit.--Subsections (a) and (b) of section 25B of
such Code are amended to read as follows:
``(a) Allowance of Credit.--In the case of an eligible individual,
there shall be allowed as a credit against the tax imposed by this
subtitle for the taxable year an amount equal to 50 percent of the
qualified retirement savings contributions of the eligible individual
for the taxable year.
``(b) Limitation.--
``(1) In general.--The amount allowed as a credit under
subsection (a) for a taxable year shall not exceed the
applicable dollar limit.
``(2) Applicable dollar limit.--For purposes of paragraph
(1)--
``(A) In general.--Except as provided in
subparagraph (B), the applicable dollar limit is--
``(i) in the case of a joint return,
$3,000, and
``(ii) in the case of any other return, 50
percent of the dollar amount applicable for the
taxable year under clause (i).
``(B) Limitation based on adjusted gross income.--
The applicable dollar limit shall be zero in the case
of a taxpayer whose adjusted gross income for the
taxable year exceeds--
``(i) $150,000 in the case of a joint
return, and
``(ii) $95,000 in any other case.
``(3) Inflation adjustment.--In the case of any taxable
year beginning after 2006, the amounts contained in
subparagraph (A)(i) and clauses (i) and (ii) of subparagraph
(B) of paragraph (2) shall each be increased by an amount equal
to--
``(A) such dollar amount, multiplied by
``(B) the cost-of-living adjustment determined
under section 1(f)(3) for such calendar year by
substituting `calendar year 2005' for `calendar year
1992' in subparagraph (B) thereof.
If any amount as adjusted under the preceding sentence is not a
multiple of $100, such amount shall be rounded to the nearest multiple
of $100.''.
(c) Credit Allowed for Contributions to Roth IRAs for Children.--
(1) In general.--Paragraph (1) of section 25B(d) of such
Code (defining qualified retirement savings contributions) is
amended by striking ``and'' at the end of subparagraph (B), by
striking the period at the end of subparagraph (C) and
inserting ``, and'', and by inserting after subparagraph (C)
the following new subparagraph:
``(D) the amount of contributions made by the
eligible individual to all Roth IRAs for children under
section 408A(g).''.
(2) Limitation.--Paragraph (1) of section 25B(d) of such
Code (defining qualified retirement savings contributions) is
amended by adding at the end the following flush sentence:
``The amount taken into account under subparagraph (D) shall
not exceed the aggregate amount of contributions allowed to all
Roth IRAs of such eligible individual under section 408A(g).''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2005.
SEC. 3. ROTH IRAS FOR CHILDREN.
(a) In General.--Section 408A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
(relating to Roth IRAs) is amended by adding at the end the following
new subsection:
``(g) Special Rules for Roth IRAs for Children.--
``(1) General rule.--A Roth IRA maintained for the benefit
of an individual who has not attained age 25 before the close
of the taxable year shall be maintained under this section, as
modified by this subsection.
``(2) Contribution limits.--
``(A) In general.--For so long as a Roth IRA is
subject to this subsection, contributions to such Roth
IRA shall be subject to this paragraph and not to
subsection (c)(2), and subsection (c)(3) shall not
apply.
``(B) Limit.--The aggregate amount of contributions
for any taxable year to all child Roth IRAs maintained
for the benefit of an individual under this subsection
shall not exceed the maximum amount allowable as a
deduction under subsection (b)(1) of section 219 for
such taxable year (computed without regard to
subsections (b)(1)(B), (d)(1), and (g) of such
section).''.
(b) Enforcement of Contribution Limits.--Paragraphs (1)(B) and
(2)(B) of section 4973(f) of such Code are each amended by striking
``and (c)(3)'' and inserting ``, (c)(3), and (f)(2)''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2005. | Lifetime Prosperity Act of 2005 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) make permanent the tax credit for retirement savings contributions; (2) revise the applicable percentage and dollar limitations for such credit; (3) provide for an inflation adjustment to adjusted gross income limitations applicable to such credit; and (4) allow a tax credit for contributions to Roth IRAs for children (under age 25). | To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to expand incentives for saving. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Heart Disease Education, Analysis
Research, and Treatment for Women Act'' or the ``HEART for Women Act''.
SEC. 2. REPORT BY GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY OFFICE.
(a) In General.--The Comptroller General of the United States shall
conduct a study investigating the extent to which sponsors of clinical
studies of investigational drugs, biologics, and devices and sponsors
of applications for approval or licensure of new drugs, biologics, and
devices comply with Food and Drug Administration requirements and
follow guidance for presentation of clinical study safety and
effectiveness data by sex, age, and racial subgroups.
(b) Report by GAO.--
(1) Submission.--Not later than 12 months after the date of
the enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall
complete the study under subsection (a) and submit to the
Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Health, Education, Labor,
and Pensions of the Senate a report on the results of such
study.
(2) Contents.--The report required by paragraph (1) shall
include each of the following:
(A) A description of the extent to which the Food
and Drug Administration assists sponsors in complying
with the requirements and following the guidance
referred to in subsection (a).
(B) A description of the effectiveness of the Food
and Drug Administration's enforcement of compliance
with such requirements.
(C) An analysis of the extent to which females,
racial and ethnic minorities, and adults of all ages
are adequately represented in Food and Drug
Administration-approved clinical studies (at all
phases) so that product safety and effectiveness data
can be evaluated by gender, age, and racial subgroup.
(D) An analysis of the extent to which a summary of
product safety and effectiveness data disaggregated by
sex, age, and racial subgroup is readily available to
the public in a timely manner by means of the product
label or the Food and Drug Administration's Website.
(E) Appropriate recommendations for--
(i) modifications to the requirements and
guidance referred to in subsection (a); or
(ii) oversight by the Food and Drug
Administration of such requirements.
(c) Report by HHS.--Not later than 6 months after the submission by
the Comptroller General of the report required under subsection (b),
the Secretary of Health and Human Services shall submit to the
Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives and
the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate a
response to that report, including a corrective action plan as needed
to respond to the recommendations in that report.
(d) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``biologic'' has the meaning given to the term
``biological product'' in section 351(i) of the Public Health
Service Act (42 U.S.C. 262(i)).
(2) The term ``device'' has the meaning given to such term
in section 201(h) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
(21 U.S.C. 321(h)).
(3) The term ``drug'' has the meaning given to such term in
section 201(g) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21
U.S.C. 321(g)).
SEC. 3. REPORTING ON QUALITY OF AND ACCESS TO CARE FOR WOMEN WITH
CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES.
Part P of title III of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C.
280g et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``SEC. 399V-5. REPORTING ON QUALITY OF AND ACCESS TO CARE FOR WOMEN
WITH CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES.
``Not later than September 30, 2013, and annually thereafter, the
Secretary of Health and Human Services shall prepare and submit to the
Congress a report on the quality of and access to care for women with
heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. The report
shall contain recommendations for eliminating disparities in, and
improving the treatment of, heart disease, stroke, and other
cardiovascular diseases in women.''.
SEC. 4. EXTENSION OF WISEWOMAN PROGRAM.
Section 1509 of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 300n-4a)
is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) by striking the heading and inserting ``In
General.--''; and
(B) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by
striking ``may make grants'' and all that follows
through ``purpose'' and inserting the following: ``may
make grants to such States for the purpose''; and
(2) in subsection (d)(1), by striking ``there are
authorized'' and all that follows through the period and
inserting ``there are authorized to be appropriated $23,000,000
for fiscal year 2012, $25,300,000 for fiscal year 2013,
$27,800,000 for fiscal year 2014, $30,800,000 for fiscal year
2015, and $34,000,000 for fiscal year 2016.''.
Passed the House of Representatives September 30
(legislative day September 29), 2010.
Attest:
LORRAINE C. MILLER,
Clerk. | Heart Disease Education, Analysis Research, and Treatment for Women Act or the HEART for Women Act - (Sec. 2) Directs to the Comptroller General to study and report to specified congressional committees on the extent to which sponsors of clinical studies of investigational drugs, biologics, and devices and sponsors of applications for approval or licensure of new drugs, biologics, and devices comply with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requirements and follow guidance for presentation of clinical study safety and effectiveness data by sex, age, and racial subgroups. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to submit to such committees a response to the the Comptroller General's report, including a corrective action plan as needed to respond to the recommendations in such report.
(Sec. 3) Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary to report to Congress on the quality of, and access to, care for women with heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases, including recommendations for eliminating disparities in, and improving the treatment of, heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases in women.
(Sec. 4) Expands and reauthorizes appropriations for FY2012-FY2016 for a program to award grants for preventive heath services and referrals for medical treatment for women through entities that are screening women for breast or cervical cancer. | To amend the Public Health Service Act to improve the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases in women. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Keep Our Promise to America's
Children and Teachers Act'' or the ``Keep Our PACT Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds as follows:
(1) Children are our Nation's future and greatest treasure.
(2) A high-quality education is the surest way for every
child to reach his or her full potential.
(3) The No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 represents the
most sweeping revision of education policy in a generation.
(4) The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2005 (Pub. L. 108-
447) funded the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 at
$24,500,000,000 ($9,800,000,000 below its 2005 authorized
level), causing 2,400,000 students not to receive the extra
Title I help they were promised.
(5) The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
guarantees all children with disabilities a first-rate
education.
(6) The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
committed the Congress to providing 40 percent of the national
current average per pupil expenditure for special education
students.
(7) The fiscal year Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2005
(Pub. L. 108-447) funded the Individuals with Disabilities
Education Act at $10,700,000,000, representing only 19 percent
of the national current average per pupil expenditure for
special education students and shortchanging 6,700,000 children
with disabilities.
(8) A promise made must be a promise kept.
SEC. 3. FULL FUNDING OF THE NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND ACT OF 2001.
(a) Funding.--There are appropriated, out of any money in the
Treasury not otherwise appropriated--
(1) for fiscal year 2006, an amount that equals the
difference between the amount appropriated for fiscal year 2006
for programs under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act
of 1965, as amended by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001,
and $36,867,000,000;
(2) for fiscal year 2007, an amount that equals the
difference between the amount appropriated for fiscal year 2007
for programs under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act
of 1965, as amended by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001,
and $39,442,000,000;
(3) for fiscal year 2008, an amount that equals the
difference between the amount appropriated for fiscal year 2008
for programs under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act
of 1965, as amended by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001,
and $40,428,000,000;
(4) for fiscal year 2009, an amount that equals the
difference between the amount appropriated for fiscal year 2009
for programs under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act
of 1965, as amended by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001,
and $41,439,000,000;
(5) for fiscal year 2010, an amount that equals the
difference between the amount appropriated for fiscal year 2010
for programs under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act
of 1965, as amended by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001,
and $42,475,000,000; and
(6) for fiscal year 2011, an amount that equals the
difference between the amount appropriated for fiscal year 2011
for programs under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act
of 1965, as amended by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001,
and $45,537,000,000.
(b) Use of Funds.--Funds appropriated under subsection (a)--
(1) shall be used to carry out the programs of the
Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, as amended by
the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001; and
(2) shall be allocated among such programs in the same
ratio as funds otherwise appropriated to carry out such
programs.
SEC. 4. MANDATORY FUNDING OF THE INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES
EDUCATION ACT.
(a) In General.--Section 611(i) of the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1411(i)), as amended by the
Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004 (Public
Law 108-446), is amended to read as follows:
``(i) Mandatory Funding.--For the purpose of carrying out this
part, other than section 619, there are authorized to be appropriated,
and there are appropriated--
``(1) $13,200,000,000 for fiscal year 2006;
``(2) $15,700,000,000 for fiscal year 2007;
``(3) $18,200,000,000 for fiscal year 2008;
``(4) $20,700,000,000 for fiscal year 2009;
``(5) $23,200,000,000 for fiscal year 2010;
``(6) $25,700,000,000 for fiscal year 2011; and
``(7) for fiscal year 2012 and each subsequent fiscal year,
the amount that is the total, for all States, of the maximum
amounts described in subsection (a)(2)(B).''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by subsection (a) shall
take effect on October 1, 2005. | Keep Our Promise to America's Children and Teachers Act - Keep Our PACT Act - Makes appropriations in order to provide for the full funding of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, as amended by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (ESEA-NCLBA), and for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Makes such appropriations for ESEA-NCLBA programs in amounts for each of FY 2006 through 2011 which equal the difference between other appropriations and specified amounts for each of those fiscal years.
Amends IDEA to authorize and make appropriations for: (1) each of FY 2006 through 2011 in specified amounts; and (2) for FY 2012 and each subsequent fiscal year, in the amount that is the total for all States of the maximum amounts necessary to fully fund 40 percent of the average per pupil expenditure for IDEA part B programs of assistance for education of all children with disabilities. | To require full funding of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Fair Competition in Foreign Commerce
Act of 1999''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF PURPOSE.
(a) Findings.--The Congress finds the following:
(1) The United States makes substantial contributions and
provides significant funding for major international
development projects through international financial
institutions and bilateral nonhumanitarian assistance.
(2) These international development projects are often
plagued with fraud, corruption, waste, inefficiency, and misuse
of funding.
(3) Fraud, corruption, waste, inefficiency, misuse, and
abuse are major impediments to competition in foreign commerce
throughout the world.
(4) Identifying these impediments after they occur is
inadequate and meaningless.
(5) Detection of impediments before they occur helps to
ensure that valuable United States resources contributed to
important international development projects are used
appropriately.
(6) Independent third-party procurement monitoring is an
important tool for detecting and preventing such impediments.
(7) Third-party procurement monitoring includes evaluations
of each stage of the procurement process and assures the
openness and transparency of the process.
(8) Improving transparency and openness in the procurement
process helps to minimize fraud, corruption, waste,
inefficiency, and other misuse of funding, and promotes
competition, thereby strengthening international trade and
foreign commerce.
(b) Purpose.--The purpose of this Act is to build on the excellent
progress associated with the Organization on Economic Development and
Cooperation Agreement on Bribery and Corruption by promoting the use of
independent third-party procurement monitoring as part of United States
participation in the international financial institutions and in the
disbursement by the United States of bilateral nonhumanitarian foreign
assistance funds, so as to ensure open, efficient, and transparent
government procurement practices.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Appropriate committees.--The term ``appropriate
committees'' means the Committees on Finance and on Commerce,
Science, and Technology of the Senate and the Committees on
Ways and Means and on Commerce of the House of Representatives.
(2) Independent third-party procurement monitoring.--The
term ``independent third-party procurement monitoring'' means a
program to--
(A) eliminate bias,
(B) promote transparency and open competition, and
(C) minimize fraud, corruption, waste,
inefficiency, and other misuse of funds,
in international procurement through independent evaluation of
the technical, financial, economic, and legal aspects of the
procurement process.
(3) Independent.--The term ``independent'' means that
monitoring the procurement process does not pose a conflict of
interest for the person doing so.
(4) Each stage of procurement.--The term ``each stage of
procurement'' means the development and issuance of technical
specifications, bidding documents, evaluation reports, contract
preparation, and the delivery of goods and services.
(5) International financial institution.--The term
``international financial institution'' has the meaning given
in section 1701(c)(2) of the International Financial
Institutions Act.
SEC. 4. REQUIREMENTS FOR FAIR COMPETITION IN FOREIGN COMMERCE.
(a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Treasury shall transmit to
the President and to the appropriate committees a plan for promoting
international government procurement reforms relating to the United
States participation in international financial institutions, including
the use of third party procurement monitoring where appropriate.
(b) Plan.--The plan shall include an instruction by the Secretary
of the Treasury to the United States Executive Director of each
international financial institution to use the voice and vote of the
United States to oppose the use of funds appropriated or made available
by the United States for any non-humanitarian assistance, until--
(1) the institution has adopted an anticorruption plan that
requires the use of independent third-party procurement
monitoring services in any case in which the country receiving
such assistance lacks the necessary organization, resources,
and expertise to ensure openness, efficiency, and transparency
in government procurement; and
(2) each country receiving such assistance institutes
specific strategies for minimizing corruption and maximizing
transparency in each stage of the procurement process.
(c) Annual Reports.--Not later than June 29 of each year, the
Secretary of the Treasury shall report to the appropriate committees on
the progress in implementing procurement reforms made by each
international financial institution and each country that received non-
humanitarian assistance from such an institution during the preceding
year.
(d) Restrictions on Assistance.--Notwithstanding any other
provision of law, no funds appropriated or made available for non-
humanitarian foreign assistance programs, including the activities of
the Agency for International Development, may be expended for a
government procurement program unless each country eligible to receive
assistance under such programs and each international financial
institution involved has demonstrated that significant progess is being
made toward institutionalizing--
(1) procurement practices which are open, transparent, and
free of corruption, fraud, inefficiency, and other misuse; and
(2) independent third-party monitoring of government
procurement, in the case of such countries that lack necessary
organization, resources, and expertise.
SEC. 5. EXCEPTIONS.
(a) National Security.--Section 4 shall not apply with respect to a
country if the President determines with respect to such country that
making funds available is in the national security interests of the
United States. Any such determination shall cease to be effective 6
months after being made unless the President determines that its
continuation is in the national security interests of the United
States.
(b) Other Exceptions.--Section 4 shall not apply with respect to
assistance to--
(1) meet urgent humanitarian needs (including providing
food, medicine, disaster, and refugee relief);
(2) facilitate democratic political reform and rule of law
activities;
(3) create private sector and nongovernmental organizations
that are independent of government control; or
(4) facilitate development of a free market economic
system. | Prohibits the use of funds for nonhumanitarian foreign assistance programs (including Agency for International Development (AID) activities) unless each recipient country and each international financial institution has demonstrated that significant progress is being made toward institutionalizing: (1) procurement practices that are open, transparent, and free of corruption, fraud, inefficiency, and other misuse; and (2) independent third-party procurement monitoring of government procurement in countries that lack necessary organization, resources, and expertise.
Specifies national security, emergency humanitarian, and other exceptions to the requirements of this Act. | Fair Competition in Foreign Commerce Act of 1999 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Raw Sewage Overflow Community Right-
to-Know Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) The Centers for Disease Control estimates that there
are 7,100,000 cases of mild to moderate, and 560,000 cases of
moderate to severe, infectious waterborne disease in the United
States each year.
(2) Inadequately treated sewage is filled with bacteria,
viruses, parasites, and worms that make people sick.
(3) People who ingest or inhale inadequately treated sewage
can contract gastroenteritis, hepatitis, giardiasis,
cryptosporidiosis, dysentery, and other gastrointestinal and
respiratory diseases.
(4) Between 1,800,000 and 3,500,000 Americans become sick
every year just from swimming in waters contaminated by
sanitary sewer overflows.
(5) The loss of swimming opportunities (beach closings) due
to pathogen contamination is valued at $1,000,000,000 to
$2,000,000,000 annually in the United States.
(6) Economic losses due to swimming-related illnesses are
estimated at $28,000,000,000 annually.
(7) Many sewer systems do not routinely monitor to detect
sewer overflows or report those that do occur to environmental
or public health agencies.
(8) Better monitoring, reporting, and public notification
of sewer overflows would save millions of Americans from
getting sick every year.
(9) Public health authorities are not routinely notified of
sewer overflows that threaten public health.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
Section 502 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C.
1362) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(24) Sanitary sewer overflow.--The term `sanitary sewer
overflow' means an overflow, spill, release, or diversion of
wastewater from a sanitary sewer system. Such term does not
include combined sewer overflows or other discharges from the
combined portions of a combined sewer system and does not
include wastewater backups into buildings caused by a blockage
or other malfunction of a building lateral that is privately
owned. Such term includes overflows or releases of wastewater
that reach waters of the United States, overflows or releases
of wastewater that do not reach waters of the United States,
and wastewater backups into buildings that are caused by
blockages or flow conditions in a sanitary sewer other than a
building lateral.''.
SEC. 4. MONITORING, REPORTING, AND PUBLIC NOTIFICATION OF SEWER
OVERFLOWS.
Section 402 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C.
1342) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(r) Sanitary Sewer Overflows.--
``(1) General requirements.--Not later than 1 year after
the date of enactment of this subsection, the owner or operator
of a publicly owned treatment works (as defined in section 212)
under a permit issued under this section--
``(A) must institute and utilize a methodology,
technology, or management program that will alert the
owner or operator to the occurrence of a sanitary sewer
overflow in a timely manner;
``(B) must notify the public of a sanitary sewer
overflow in any area where the overflow has the
potential to affect human health;
``(C) must notify the public as soon as practicable
within 24 hours of the time the owner or operator
becomes aware of the overflow;
``(D) must immediately notify public health
authorities and other affected entities, such as public
water systems, of any sanitary sewer overflow that may
imminently and substantially endanger human health;
``(E) must provide to the Administrator or the
State in the case of a State that has a permit program
approved under this section either an oral or
electronic report as soon as practicable within 24
hours of the time the owner or operator becomes aware
of the overflow;
``(F) must provide to the Administrator or the
State, as the case may be, within 5 days of the time
the owner or operator becomes aware of the overflow a
written report describing--
``(i) the magnitude, duration, and
suspected cause of the overflow;
``(ii) the steps taken or planned to
reduce, eliminate, and prevent recurrence of
the overflow; and
``(iii) the steps taken or planned to
mitigate the impact of the overflow;
``(G) must report all sanitary sewer overflows to
waters of the United States on its monthly discharge
monitoring report to the Administrator or the State, as
the case may be; and
``(H) must report to the Administrator or the
State, as the case may be, the total number of such
overflows (including overflows that do not reach any
waters of the United States) in a calendar year,
including the details of how much wastewater was
released per incident, the duration of each overflow,
the location of the overflow and any potentially
affected receiving waters, the responses taken to clean
up the overflow, and the actions taken to mitigate
impacts and avoid further sanitary sewer overflows at
the site.
``(2) Report to epa.--If a State receives a report under
paragraph (1)(H), the State shall report to the Administrator
annually, in summary, the details of reported sanitary sewer
overflows that occurred in that State.''.
SEC. 5. ELIGIBILITY FOR ASSISTANCE.
Section 603(c) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33
U.S.C. 1383(c)) is amended--
(1) by striking ``and'' the first place it appears; and
(2) by inserting after ``320 of this Act'' the following:
``, and (4) for the implementation of requirements to monitor,
report, and notify the public of sanitary sewer overflows under
section 402''.
SEC. 6. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
Section 607 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C.
1387) is amended by striking ``the following sums'' and all that
follows through the period at the end and inserting ``$2,200,000,000
for each of fiscal years 2006 through 2012.''. | Raw Sewage Overflow Community Right-to-Know Act - Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to direct owners or operators of publicly owned treatment works to: (1) institute an alert system for sanitary sewer overflows; (2) notify the public of such overflows in areas where human health is potentially affected within 24 hours; (3) immediately notify public health authorities and other affected entities; and (4) provide specified reports to the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the State.
Makes the alert systems eligible for State water pollution control revolving fund assistance. Authorizes appropriations for such fund through FY 2012. | To amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to ensure that sewage treatment plants monitor for and report discharges of raw sewage, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Higher Education Affordability and
Equity Act of 2007''.
SEC. 2. EXPANSION OF DEDUCTION FOR INTEREST ON EDUCATION LOANS.
(a) Repeal of Dollar Limitation; Increase in Phaseout Beginning
Point.--Subsection (b) of section 221 of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986 (relating to maximum deduction) is amended to read as follows:
``(b) Limitation Based on Modified Adjusted Gross Income.--
``(1) In general.--The amount which would (but for this
subsection) be allowable as a deduction under this section
shall be reduced (but not below zero) by the amount determined
under paragraph (2).
``(2) Amount of reduction.--The amount determined under
this paragraph is the amount which bears the same ratio to the
amount which would be so taken into account as--
``(A) the excess of--
``(i) the taxpayer's modified adjusted
gross income for such taxable year, over
``(ii) $100,000 ($200,000 in the case of a
joint return), bears to
``(B) $15,000 ($30,000 in the case of a joint
return).
``(3) Modified adjusted gross income.--The term `modified
adjusted gross income' means adjusted gross income determined--
``(A) without regard to this section and sections
199, 222, 911, 931, and 933, and
``(B) after application of sections 86, 135, 137,
219, and 469.''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 221(f)(1) of such Code is
amended to read as follows:
``(1) In general.--In the case of a taxable year beginning
after 2008, the $100,000 and $200,000 amounts in subsection (b)
shall each be increased by an amount equal to--
``(A) such dollar amount, multiplied by
``(B) 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 2007' for `calendar year 1992' in
subparagraph (B) thereof.''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2007.
SEC. 3. DEDUCTION FOR QUALIFIED TUITION AND RELATED EXPENSES MADE
PERMANENT.
(a) Repeal of Termination.--Section 222 of the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986 is amended by striking subsection (e).
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by this section shall apply
to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2007.
SEC. 4. EDUCATION SAVINGS ACCOUNTS.
(a) Increase in Allowable Contributions.--
(1) In general.--Clause (iii) of section 530(b)(1)(A) of
the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by striking
``$2,000'' and inserting ``$5,000''.
(2) Conforming amendment.--Section 4973(e)(1)(A) of such
Code is amended by striking ``$2,000'' and inserting
``$5,000''.
(b) Reports.--Subsection (h) of section 530 of such Code is amended
by striking the period at the end of the last sentence and inserting
``, except that reports shall be so filed and furnished for any
calendar year not later than June 30 of the following year.''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2007.
SEC. 5. ALLOWANCE OF ROOM, BOARD, AND SPECIAL NEEDS SERVICES IN THE
CASE OF SCHOLARSHIPS AND TUITION REDUCTION PROGRAMS WITH
RESPECT TO HIGHER EDUCATION.
(a) In General.--Paragraph (1) of section 117(b) of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986 (defining qualified scholarship) is amended by
inserting before the period at the end the following: ``or, in the case
of enrollment or attendance at an eligible educational institution, for
qualified higher education expenses.''.
(b) Definitions.--Subsection (b) of section 117 of such Code is
amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(3) Qualified higher education expenses; eligible
educational institution.--The terms `qualified higher education
expenses' and `eligible educational institution' have the
meanings given such terms in section 529(e).''.
(c) Tuition Reduction Programs.--Paragraph (5) of section 117(d) of
such Code (relating to special rules for teaching and research
assistants) is amended by striking ``shall be applied as if it did not
contain the phrase `(below the graduate level)'.'' and inserting
``shall be applied--
``(A) as if it did not contain the phrase `(below
the graduate level)', and
``(B) by substituting `qualified higher education
expenses' for `tuition' the second place it appears.''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to expenses paid after December 31, 2007 (in taxable years ending
after such date), for education furnished in academic periods beginning
after such date.
SEC. 6. EXPANSION OF EDUCATIONAL EXPENSES ALLOWED AS PART OF HOPE
SCHOLARSHIP CREDIT.
(a) Qualified Tuition and Related Expenses Expanded To Include
Books, Supplies, and Equipment.--Paragraph (1) of section 25A(f) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (defining qualified tuition and related
expenses) is amended by adding at the end the following new
subparagraph:
``(D) Additional expenses allowed for hope
scholarship credit.--For purposes of the Hope
Scholarship Credit, such term shall include fees,
books, supplies, and equipment required for courses of
instruction at the eligible educational institution.''.
(b) Hope Scholarship Credit Not Reduced by Federal Pell Grants and
Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants.--Subsection (g) of section
25A of such Code (relating to special rules) is amended by adding at
the end the following new paragraph:
``(8) Pell and seog grants.--For purposes of the Hope
Scholarship Credit, paragraph (2) shall not apply to amounts
paid for an individual as a Federal Pell Grant or a Federal
supplemental educational opportunity grant under subparts 1 and
3, respectively, of part A of title IV of the Higher Education
Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070a and 1070b et seq.,
respectively).''.
(c) Expanded Hope Expenses Not Subject to Information Reporting
Requirements.--Subsection (e) of section 6050S of such Code (relating
to definitions) is amended by striking ``subsection (g)(2)'' and
inserting ``subsections (f)(1)(D) and (g)(2)''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to expenses paid after December 31, 2007 (in tax years ending
after such date), for education furnished in academic periods beginning
after such date.
SEC. 7. REPEAL OF EGTRRA SUNSET APPLICABILITY TO CERTAIN EDUCATION
PROVISIONS.
Title IX of the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act
of 2001 (relating to sunset of provisions of such Act) shall not apply
to subtitles A, B, and D of title IV of such Act. | Higher Education Affordability and Equity Act of 2007 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) repeal the dollar limitation on the tax deduction for interest on education loans and expand eligibility for such deduction by revising the modified adjusted gross income phaseout for such deduction; (2) make the tax deduction for qualified tuition and related expenses permanent; (3) increase from $2,000 to $5,000 the maximum allowable contribution to a Coverdell savings account; (4) exclude from gross income amounts received for qualified higher education expenses (e.g., books, supplies, room, board, and special needs services); and (5) allow certain additional expenses (e.g., fees, books, supplies, and equipment) for purposes of the Hope Scholarship Tax Credit and provide that such tax credit shall not be reduced by Federal Pell Grants and Supplemental Educational Opportunity (SEOG) Grants.
Repeals the sunset provisions of the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001 (EGTRRA) applicable to title IV, subtitles A, B, and D (Affordable Education Provisions) of such Act. | To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to expand incentives for education. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``National AMBER Alert Network Act of
2003''.
SEC. 2. NATIONAL COORDINATION OF AMBER ALERT COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK.
(a) Coordination Within Department of Justice.--The Attorney
General shall assign an officer of the Department of Justice to act as
the national coordinator of the AMBER Alert communications network
regarding abducted children. The officer so designated shall be known
as the AMBER Alert Coordinator of the Department of Justice.
(b) Duties.--In acting as the national coordinator of the AMBER
Alert communications network, the Coordinator shall--
(1) seek to eliminate gaps in the network, including gaps
in areas of interstate travel;
(2) work with States to encourage the development of
additional elements (known as local AMBER plans) in the
network;
(3) work with States to ensure appropriate regional
coordination of various elements of the network; and
(4) act as the nationwide point of contact for--
(A) the development of the network; and
(B) regional coordination of alerts on abducted
children through the network.
(c) Consultation With Federal Bureau of Investigation.--In carrying
out duties under subsection (b), the Coordinator shall notify and
consult with the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation
concerning each child abduction for which an alert is issued through
the AMBER Alert communications network.
(d) Cooperation.--The Coordinator shall cooperate with the
Secretary of Transportation and the Federal Communications Commission
in carrying out activities under this section.
SEC. 3. MINIMUM STANDARDS FOR ISSUANCE AND DISSEMINATION OF ALERTS
THROUGH AMBER ALERT COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK.
(a) Establishment of Minimum Standards.--Subject to subsection (b),
the AMBER Alert Coordinator of the Department of Justice shall
establish minimum standards for--
(1) the issuance of alerts through the AMBER Alert
communications network; and
(2) the extent of the dissemination of alerts issued
through the network.
(b) Limitations.--(1) The minimum standards established under
subsection (a) shall be adoptable on a voluntary basis only.
(2) The minimum standards shall, to the maximum extent practicable
(as determined by the Coordinator in consultation with State and local
law enforcement agencies), provide that the dissemination of an alert
through the AMBER Alert communications network be limited to the
geographic areas most likely to facilitate the recovery of the abducted
child concerned.
(3) In carrying out activities under subsection (a), the
Coordinator may not interfere with the current system of voluntary
coordination between local broadcasters and State and local law
enforcement agencies for purposes of the AMBER Alert communications
network.
(c) Cooperation.--(1) The Coordinator shall cooperate with the
Secretary of Transportation and the Federal Communications Commission
in carrying out activities under this section.
(2) The Coordinator shall also cooperate with local broadcasters
and State and local law enforcement agencies in establishing minimum
standards under this section.
SEC. 4. GRANT PROGRAM FOR NOTIFICATION AND COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS ALONG
HIGHWAYS FOR RECOVERY OF ABDUCTED CHILDREN.
(a) Program Required.--The Secretary of Transportation shall carry
out a program to provide grants to States for the development or
enhancement of notification or communications systems along highways
for alerts and other information for the recovery of abducted children.
(b) Activities.--Activities funded by grants under the program
under subsection (a) may include--
(1) the development or enhancement of electronic message
boards along highways and the placement of additional signage
along highways; and
(2) the development or enhancement of other means of
disseminating along highways alerts and other information for
the recovery of abducted children.
(c) Federal Share.--The Federal share of the cost of any activities
funded by a grant under the program under subsection (a) may not exceed
50 percent.
(d) Distribution of Grant Amounts on Geographic Basis.--The
Secretary shall, to the maximum extent practicable, ensure the
distribution of grants under the program under subsection (a) on an
equitable basis throughout the various regions of the United States.
(e) Administration.--The Secretary shall prescribe requirements,
including application requirements, for grants under the program under
subsection (a).
(f) Authorization of Appropriations.--(1) There is authorized to be
appropriated for the Department of Transportation $20,000,000 for
fiscal year 2004 to carry out this section.
(2) Amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of
appropriations in paragraph (1) shall remain available until expended.
SEC. 5. GRANT PROGRAM FOR SUPPORT OF AMBER ALERT COMMUNICATIONS PLANS.
(a) Program Required.--The Attorney General shall carry out a
program to provide grants to States for the development or enhancement
of programs and activities for the support of AMBER Alert
communications plans.
(b) Activities.--Activities funded by grants under the program
under subsection (a) may include--
(1) the development and implementation of education and
training programs, and associated materials, relating to AMBER
Alert communications plans;
(2) the development and implementation of law enforcement
programs, and associated equipment, relating to AMBER Alert
communications plans; and
(3) such other activities as the Secretary considers
appropriate for supporting the AMBER Alert communications
program.
(c) Federal Share.--The Federal share of the cost of any activities
funded by a grant under the program under subsection (a) may not exceed
50 percent.
(d) Distribution of Grant Amounts on Geographic Basis.--The
Attorney General shall, to the maximum extent practicable, ensure the
distribution of grants under the program under subsection (a) on an
equitable basis throughout the various regions of the United States.
(e) Administration.--The Attorney General shall prescribe
requirements, including application requirements, for grants under the
program under subsection (a).
(f) Authorization of Appropriations.--(1) There is authorized to be
appropriated for the Department of Justice $5,000,000 for fiscal year
2004 to carry out this section.
(2) Amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of
appropriations in paragraph (1) shall remain available until expended.
Passed the Senate January 21, 2003.
Attest:
EMILY J. REYNOLDS,
Secretary. | National AMBER Alert Network Act of 2003 - (Sec. 2) Requires the Attorney General to assign an AMBER Alert Coordinator of the Department of Justice to act as the national coordinator of the AMBER Alert communications network regarding abducted children. Requires the coordinator to: (1) seek to eliminate gaps in the network; (2) work with States to encourage the development of additional network elements and to ensure regional coordination; and (3) act as the nationwide point of contact for network development and for regional coordination of alerts on abducted children through the network. Directs the Coordinator to notify and consult with the Federal Bureau of Investigation concerning each child abduction for which an AMBER Alert is issued.(Sec. 3) Directs the Coordinator to establish minimum standards for the issuance of alerts and for the extent of their dissemination (limited to the geographic areas most likely to facilitate the recovery of the abducted child). Provides that the standards shall be adoptable on a voluntary basis only.Requires the Coordinator to cooperate with the Secretary of Transportation and the Federal Communications Commission in carrying out such activities.(Sec. 4) Requires the Secretary of Transportation to provide grants to States for the development or enhancement of notification or communications systems along highways for alerts and other information for the recovery of abducted children. Includes among permissible activities the development or enhancement of electronic message boards, and the placement of additional signage, along highways. Limits the Federal cost share to 50 percent. Directs the Secretary to ensure grant distribution on an equitable basis throughout the various regions of the United States. Authorizes appropriations.(Sec. 5) Directs the Attorney General to provide grants to States for the development or enhancement of programs and activities for the support of AMBER Alert communications plans, which may include the development and implementation of: (1) education and training programs and associated materials; and (2) law enforcement programs and associated equipment. Limits the Federal cost share to 50 percent. Directs the Secretary to ensure grant distribution on an equitable basis throughout the various regions of the United States. Authorizes appropriations. | A bill to enhance the operation of the AMBER Alert communications network in order to facilitate the recovery of abducted children, to provide for enhanced notification on highways of alerts and information on such children, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Federal Energy Price Protection Act
of 2006''.
SEC. 2. GASOLINE PRICE GOUGING PROHIBITED.
(a) Unlawful Conduct.--
(1) Unfair and deceptive act or practice.--It shall be an
unfair or deceptive act or practice in violation of section 5
of the Federal Trade Commission Act for any person to sell
crude oil, gasoline, diesel fuel, home heating oil, or any
biofuel at a price that constitutes price gouging as defined by
rule pursuant to subsection (b).
(2) Definition.--For purposes of this subsection, the term
``biofuel'' means any fuel containing any organic matter that
is available on a renewable or recurring basis, including
agricultural crops and trees, wood and wood wastes and
residues, plants (including aquatic plants), grasses, residues,
fibers, and animal wastes, municipal wastes, and other waste
materials.
(b) Price Gouging.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 6 months after the date of
the enactment of this Act, the Federal Trade Commission shall
promulgate, in accordance with section 553 of title 5, United
States Code, any rules necessary for the enforcement of this
section.
(2) Contents.--Such rules--
(A) shall define ``price gouging'', ``retail
sale'', and ``wholesale sale'' for purposes of this
Act; and
(B) shall be consistent with the requirements for
declaring unfair acts or practices in section 5(n) of
the Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 45(n)).
(c) Enforcement.--
(1) In general.--Except as provided in subsection (d), a
violation of subsection (a) shall be treated as a violation of
a rule defining an unfair or deceptive act or practice
prescribed under section 18(a)(1)(B) of the Federal Trade
Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 57a(a)(1)(B)). The Federal Trade
Commission shall enforce this Act in the same manner, by the
same means, and with the same jurisdiction as though all
applicable terms and provisions of the Federal Trade Commission
Act were incorporated into and made a part of this Act.
(2) Exclusive enforcement.--Notwithstanding any other
provision of law, no person, State, or political subdivision of
a State, other than the Federal Trade Commission or the
Attorney General of the United States to the extent provided
for in section 5 of the Federal Trade Commission Act or the
attorney general of a State as provided by subsection (d),
shall have any authority to enforce this Act or any rule
prescribed pursuant to this Act.
(d) Enforcement by State Attorneys General.--
(1) Civil action.--In any case in which the attorney
general of a State has reason to believe that an interest of
the residents of that State has been or is threatened or
adversely affected by any person who violates subsection (a),
the attorney general, as parens patriae, may bring a civil
action on behalf of the residents of the State in a district
court of the United States of appropriate jurisdiction--
(A) to enjoin further violation of such section by
the defendant;
(B) to compel compliance with such section; or
(C) to impose a civil penalty under subsection (e).
(2) Intervention by the ftc.--
(A) Notice and intervention.--The State shall
provide prior written notice of any action under
paragraph (1) to the Federal Trade Commission and
provide the Commission with a copy of its complaint,
except in any case in which such prior notice is not
feasible, in which case the State shall serve such
notice immediately upon instituting such action. The
Commission shall have the right--
(i) to intervene in the action;
(ii) upon so intervening, to be heard on
all matters arising therein; and
(iii) to file petitions for appeal.
(B) Limitation on state action while federal action
is pending.--If the Commission has instituted a civil
action for violation of this Act, no attorney general
of a State may bring an action under this subsection
during the pendency of that action against any
defendant named in the complaint of the Commission for
any violation of this Act alleged in the complaint.
(3) Construction with respect to powers conferred by state
law.--For purposes of bringing any civil action under paragraph
(1), nothing in this Act shall be construed to prevent an
attorney general of a State from exercising the powers
conferred on the attorney general by the laws of that State.
(e) Civil Penalty.--
(1) In general.--Notwithstanding any civil penalty that
otherwise applies to a violation of a rule referred to in
subsection (c)(1), any person who violates subsection (a) shall
be liable for a civil penalty under this subsection.
(2) Amount.--The amount of a civil penalty under this
subsection shall be an amount equal to--
(A) in the case of a wholesale sale in violation of
subsection (a), the sum of--
(i) 3 times the difference between--
(I) the total amount charged in the
wholesale sale; and
(II) the total amount that would be
charged in such a wholesale sale made
at the wholesale fair market price;
plus
(ii) an amount not to exceed $3,000,000 per
day of a continuing violation; or
(B) in the case of a retail sale in violation of
subsection (a), 3 times the difference between--
(i) the total amount charged in the sale;
and
(ii) the total amount that would be charged
in such a sale at the fair market price for
such a sale.
(3) Deposit.--Of the amount of any civil penalty imposed
under this section with respect to any sale in violation of
subsection (a) to a person that resides in a State, the portion
of such amount that is determined under subparagraph (A)(i) or
(B) (or both) of paragraph (2) shall be deposited into--
(A) any account or fund established under the laws
of the State and used for paying compensation to
consumers for violations of State consumer protection
laws; or
(B) in the case of a State for which no such
account or fund is establish by State law, into the
general fund of the State treasury.
(f) Criminal Penalty.--
(1) In general.--In addition to any other penalty that
applies, a violation of subsection (a) is punishable--
(A) in the case of a wholesale sale in violation of
subsection (a), by a fine of not more than
$150,000,000, imprisonment for not more than 2 years,
or both; or
(B) in the case of a retail sale in violation of
subsection (a), by a fine of not more than $2,000,000,
imprisonment for not more than 2 years, or both.
(2) Enforcement.--The criminal penalty provided by
paragraph (1) may be imposed only pursuant to a criminal action
brought by the Attorney General or other officer of the
Department of Justice, or any attorney specially appointed by
the Attorney General, in accordance with section 515 of title
28, United States Code.
Passed the House of Representatives May 3, 2006.
Attest:
KAREN L. HAAS,
Clerk. | Federal Energy Price Protection Act of 2006 - Declares that it shall be an unfair or deceptive act or practice in violation of the Federal Trade Commission Act for any person to sell crude oil, gasoline, diesel fuel, home heating oil, or any biofuel at a price that constitutes price gouging.
Defines "biofuel" as any fuel containing specified organic matter
Instructs the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to promulgate enforcement rules within six months after enactment of this Act.
Grants enforcement authority exclusively to: (1) the FTC; (2) the Attorney General of the United States; and (3) state attorneys general.
Prescribes guidelines for enforcement of civil actions by state attorneys general, including injunctions, compliance enforcement and civil penalties.
Preempts state enforcement action while federal action is pending.
Prescribes civil and criminal penalties for violations of this Act.
Restricts enforcement of criminal penalties to a criminal action brought by the Attorney General or other officer of the Department of Justice, or any attorney specially appointed by the Attorney General. | To prohibit price gouging in the sale of gasoline, diesel fuel, crude oil, and home heating oil, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Education, Achievement, and
Opportunity Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) Private schools supplement the public school system and
are a vital component of our nation's school network.
(2) The public school system was created to serve students,
not the other way around. Children should have the opportunity
to attend the school system that is most conducive to
developing their abilities, and parents have the right to
choose the public or private school that best meets their
child's individual needs.
(3) In 1999, 4,599,000 students were enrolled in private
school in grades kindergarten through 8th grade, while
1,399,000 students were enrolled in private school in grades 9
through 12, for a combined total of 5,939,000 children enrolled
in private school.
(4) In 1999, 33,437,000 students were enrolled in public
school in grades kindergarten through 8th grade, while
13,375,000 students were enrolled in public school in grades 9
through 12, for a combined total of 52,750,000 children
enrolled in public school.
(5) When polled by the Department of Education in 1999, 78
percent of parents with children enrolled in private schools,
but just 48 percent of parents with children enrolled in public
schools, were very satisfied with the school's discipline
provisions, academic standards, and quality and performance of
teachers.
(6) In the 1993-94 school year, the average class size in
public schools was at least twice the average class size in
private schools. Larger classes can result in more disruption
by misbehaving students. Thus, class size has a direct effect
on the quality of the educational experience of students,
teachers, and other staff, as well as parents' satisfaction
with their child's school.
SEC. 3. CREDIT FOR ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION EXPENSES.
(a) In General.--Subpart C of part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to refundable credits)
is amended by redesignating section 36 as section 37 and by inserting
after section 34 the following new section:
``SEC. 36. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION EXPENSES.
``(a) Allowance of Credit.--
``(1) In general.--In the case of an individual, there
shall be allowed as a credit against the tax imposed by this
subtitle for the taxable year the amount of the qualified
education expenses paid by the taxpayer during the taxable year
for each qualifying child of the taxpayer.
``(2) Amount per child.--The amount of credit allowable
under paragraph (1) for any taxable year with respect to the
qualified education expenses of each qualifying child of the
taxpayer shall not exceed--
``(A) $2,500 for a child enrolled in an elementary
school for any portion of the taxable year, and
``(B) $3,500 for a child enrolled in a secondary
school for any portion of the taxable year.
In any taxable year in which a child meets the requirements of
both subparagraphs (A) and (B), the amount of credit allowable
shall not exceed the sum of the amounts in such subparagraphs.
``(b) Limitation Based on Adjusted Gross Income.--
``(1) In general.--The amount of the credit allowable under
subsection (a) (after the application of subsection (a)(2))
shall be reduced (but not below zero) by $50 for each $1,000
(or fraction thereof) by which the taxpayer's modified adjusted
gross income exceeds the threshold amount.
``(2) Definitions and special rules.--For purposes of this
paragraph (1)--
``(A) Threshold amount.--The term `threshold
amount' means--
``(i) $150,000 in the case of a joint
return, and
``(ii) $75,000 in any other case.
``(B) Modified adjusted gross income.--The term
`modified adjusted gross income' means adjusted gross
income increased by any amount excluded from gross
income under section 911, 931, or 933.
``(C) Marital status.--Marital status shall be
determined under section 7703.
``(c) Definitions.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) Qualifying child.--The term `qualifying child' has
the meaning provided by section 24(c).
``(2) Qualified education expenses.--
``(A) In general.--The term `qualified education
expenses' means amounts paid for--
``(i) tuition and fees required for the
enrollment or attendance of a student at a
qualified educational institution,
``(ii) computers, educational software,
computer support services, and books required
for courses of instruction at a qualified
educational institution,
``(iii) academic tutoring (by a person
other than the taxpayer),
``(iv) special needs services for
qualifying children with disabilities (within
the meaning of the Americans With Disabilities
Act of 1990),
``(v) fees for transportation services to
and from a private school, if the
transportation is provided by the school and
the school charges a fee for the
transportation, and
``(vi) academic testing services.
``(B) Amounts excluded.--The term does not include
special school fees for nonacademic purposes, including
fees for student activities, athletics, insurance,
school uniforms, and nonacademic after-school
activities.
``(3) Qualified educational institution.--The term
`qualified educational institution' means--
``(A) an elementary or secondary school (as defined
in section 14101 of the Elementary and Secondary
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 8801)), or
``(B) any private, parochial, or religious school
organized for the purpose of providing elementary or
secondary education, or both.
``(d) Adjustment for Coverdell Savings Account Distributions.--The
amount of qualified education expenses taken into account under
subsection (a) with respect to an individual for a taxable year shall
be reduced (before the application of subsection (b)) by the sum of any
amounts not includible in gross income under section 530(d)(2)(B) for
such taxable year by reason of the qualified elementary and secondary
education expenses (as defined in section 530(b)(4)) of such individual
for such taxable year.''
(b) Technical Amendments.--
(1) Paragraph (2) of section 1324(b) of title 31, United
States Code, is amended by striking ``or'' after ``1978,'' and
by inserting before the period ``, or enacted by the Education,
Achievement, and Opportunity Act''.
(2) The table of sections for subpart C of part IV of
subchapter A of chapter 1 of such Code is amended by striking
the last item and inserting the following new items:
``Sec. 36. Elementary and secondary
education expenses.
``Sec. 37. Overpayments of tax.''
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning after the date of the enactment of
this Act. | Education, Achievement, and Opportunity Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish a limited, income adjusted, elementary and secondary school expenses credit (up to $2,500 for elementary school expenses and $3,500 for secondary school expenses) for each qualifying child attending either a public or private school. | To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow a refundable credit against income tax for tuition expenses incurred for each qualifying child of the taxpayer in attending public or private elementary or secondary school. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``San Francisco Bay Restoration Act''.
SEC. 2. SAN FRANCISCO BAY RESTORATION GRANT PROGRAM.
Title I of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1251
et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``SEC. 123. SAN FRANCISCO BAY RESTORATION GRANT PROGRAM.
``(a) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) Annual priority list.--The term `annual priority
list' means the annual priority list compiled under subsection
(b).
``(2) Comprehensive plan.--The term `comprehensive plan'
means--
``(A) the comprehensive conservation and management
plan approved under section 320 for the San Francisco
Bay estuary; and
``(B) any amendments to that plan.
``(3) Estuary partnership.--The term `Estuary Partnership'
means the San Francisco Estuary Partnership, the entity that is
designated as the management conference under section 320.
``(b) Annual Priority List.--
``(1) In general.--After providing public notice, the
Administrator shall annually compile a priority list
identifying and prioritizing the activities, projects, and
studies intended to be funded with the amounts made available
under subsection (c).
``(2) Inclusions.--The annual priority list compiled under
paragraph (1) shall include--
``(A) activities, projects, or studies, including
restoration projects and habitat improvement for fish,
waterfowl, and wildlife, that advance the goals and
objectives of the approved comprehensive plan;
``(B) information on the activities, projects,
programs, or studies specified under subparagraph (A),
including a description of--
``(i) the identities of the financial
assistance recipients; and
``(ii) the communities to be served; and
``(C) the criteria and methods established by the
Administrator for selection of activities, projects,
and studies.
``(3) Consultation.--In developing the priority list under
paragraph (1), the Administrator shall consult with and
consider the recommendations of--
``(A) the Estuary Partnership;
``(B) the State of California and affected local
governments in the San Francisco Bay estuary watershed;
and
``(C) any other relevant stakeholder involved with
the protection and restoration of the San Francisco Bay
estuary that the Administrator determines to be
appropriate.
``(c) Grant Program.--
``(1) In general.--Pursuant to section 320, the
Administrator may provide funding through cooperative
agreements, grants, or other means to State and local agencies,
special districts, and public or nonprofit agencies,
institutions, and organizations, including the Estuary
Partnership, for activities, studies, or projects identified on
the annual priority list.
``(2) Maximum amount of grants; non-federal share.--
``(A) Maximum amount of grants.--Amounts provided
to any individual or entity under this section for a
fiscal year shall not exceed an amount equal to 75
percent of the total cost of any eligible activities
that are to be carried out using those amounts.
``(B) Non-federal share.--The non-Federal share of
the total cost of any eligible activities that are
carried out using amounts provided under this section
shall be--
``(i) not less than 25 percent; and
``(ii) provided from non-Federal sources.
``(d) Funding.--
``(1) Authorization of appropriations.--There is authorized
to be appropriated to the Administrator to carry out this
section $5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2015 through 2019.
``(2) Administrative expenses.--Of the amount made
available to carry out this section for a fiscal year, the
Administrator shall use not more than 5 percent to pay
administrative expenses incurred in carrying out this section.
``(3) Relationship to other funding.--Nothing in this
section limits the eligibility of the Estuary Partnership to
receive funding under section 320(g).
``(4) Prohibition.--No amounts made available under
subsection (c) may be used for the administration of a
management conference under section 320.''. | San Francisco Bay Restoration Act This bill amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (commonly known as the Clean Water Act) to authorize the Environmental Protection Agency to provide funding for prioritized activities, studies, or projects that advance the goals and objectives of the comprehensive management plan for the San Francisco estuary. Funding may be provided through cooperative agreements, grants, or other means. Funding may not be used for the administration of a management conference for the San Francisco estuary under the National Estuary Program. Funding amounts provided under this Act may not exceed 75% of the total cost of eligible activities to be carried out using those amounts. This bill authorizes appropriations for the funding program through FY2019. | San Francisco Bay Restoration Act |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Prescribe A Book Act''.
SEC. 2. PEDIATRIC INVOLVEMENT IN READING AND EDUCATION.
Part D of title V of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of
1965 (20 U.S.C. 7241 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the
following:
``Subpart 22--Pediatric Early Literacy Programs
``SEC. 5621. DEFINITIONS.
``In this subpart:
``(1) Eligible entity.--The term `eligible entity' means a
nonprofit organization that has, as determined by the
Secretary, demonstrated effectiveness in the following areas:
``(A) Providing peer-to-peer training to healthcare
providers in research-based methods of literacy
promotion as part of routine pediatric health
supervision visits.
``(B) Delivering a training curriculum through a
variety of medical education settings, including
residency training, continuing medical education, and
national pediatric conferences.
``(C) Providing technical assistance to local
healthcare facilities to effectively implement a high-
quality Pediatric Early Literacy Program.
``(D) Offering opportunities for local healthcare
facilities to obtain books at significant discounts, as
described in section 5626.
``(E) Integrating the latest developmental and
educational research into the training curriculum for
healthcare providers described in subparagraph (B).
``(2) Pediatric early literacy program.--The term
`Pediatric Early Literacy Program' means a program that--
``(A) creates and implements a 3-part model through
which--
``(i) healthcare providers, doctors, and
nurses, trained in research-based methods of
early language and literacy promotion,
encourage parents to read aloud to their young
children, and offer developmentally appropriate
recommendations and strategies to parents for
the purpose of reading aloud to their children;
``(ii) healthcare providers, at health
supervision visits, provide each child between
the ages of 6 months and 5 years a new,
developmentally appropriate children's book to
take home and keep; and
``(iii) volunteers in waiting areas of
healthcare facilities read aloud to children,
modeling for parents the techniques and
pleasures of sharing books together;
``(B) demonstrates, through research published in
peer-reviewed journals, effectiveness in positively
altering parent behavior regarding reading aloud to
children, and improving expressive and receptive
language in young children; and
``(C) receives the endorsement of nationally
recognized medical associations and academies.
``SEC. 5622. PROGRAM AUTHORIZED.
``The Secretary is authorized to award grants to eligible entities
to enable the eligible entities to implement Pediatric Early Literacy
Programs.
``SEC. 5623. APPLICATIONS.
``An eligible entity that desires to receive a grant under section
5622 shall submit an application to the Secretary at such time, in such
manner, and including such information as the Secretary may reasonably
require.
``SEC. 5624. MATCHING REQUIREMENT.
``An eligible entity receiving a grant under section 5622 shall
provide, either directly or through private contributions, non-Federal
matching funds equal to not less than 50 percent of the grant received
by the eligible entity under section 5622. Such matching funds may be
in cash or in-kind.
``SEC. 5625. USE OF GRANT FUNDS.
``(a) In General.--An eligible entity receiving a grant under
section 5622 shall--
``(1) enter into contracts with private nonprofit
organizations, or with public agencies, selected based on the
criteria described in subsection (b), under which each
contractor will agree to establish and operate a Pediatric
Early Literacy Program;
``(2) provide such training and technical assistance to
each contractor of the eligible entity as may be necessary to
carry out this subpart; and
``(3) include such other terms and conditions in an
agreement with a contractor as the Secretary determines to be
appropriate to ensure the effectiveness of such programs.
``(b) Contractor Criteria.--Each contractor shall be selected under
subsection (a)(1) on the basis of the extent to which the contractor
gives priority to serving a substantial number or percentage of at-risk
children, including--
``(1) children from families with an income below 200
percent of the poverty line applicable to a family of the size
involved, particularly such children in high-poverty areas;
``(2) children without adequate medical insurance;
``(3) children enrolled in a State Medicaid program,
established under title XIX of the Social Security Act (42
U.S.C. 1396 et seq.) or in the State Children's Health
Insurance Program established under title XXI of such Act (42
U.S.C. 1397aa et seq.);
``(4) children living in rural areas;
``(5) migrant children; and
``(6) children with limited access to libraries.
``SEC. 5626. RESTRICTION ON PAYMENTS.
``The Secretary shall make no payment to an eligible entity under
this subpart unless the Secretary determines that the eligible entity
or a contractor of the eligible entity, as the case may be, has made
arrangements with book publishers or distributors to obtain books at
discounts that are at least as favorable as discounts that are
customarily given by such publisher or distributor for book purchases
made under similar circumstances in the absence of Federal assistance.
``SEC. 5627. REPORTING REQUIREMENT.
``An eligible entity receiving a grant under section 5622 shall
report annually to the Secretary on the effectiveness of the program
implemented by the eligible entity and the programs instituted by each
contractor of the eligible entity, and shall include in the report a
description of each program.''.
SEC. 3. CONFORMING AMENDMENT.
The table of contents in section 2 of the Elementary and Secondary
Education Act is amended by inserting after the item relating to
section 5618 the following:
``subpart 22--pediatric early literacy programs
``Sec. 5621. Definitions.
``Sec. 5622. Program authorized.
``Sec. 5623. Applications.
``Sec. 5624. Matching requirement.
``Sec. 5625. Use of grant funds.
``Sec. 5626. Restriction on payments.
``Sec. 5627. Reporting requirement.''. | Prescribe A Book Act - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to authorize the Secretary of Education to award matching grants to nonprofit organizations for the implementation of Pediatric Early Literacy Programs, through which: (1) health care providers encourage parents to read aloud to their children and offer parents developmentally appropriate recommendations and strategies for doing so; (2) health care providers give each visiting child between the ages of six months and five years a new, developmentally appropriate children's book to take home and keep; and (3) volunteers in health care facility waiting areas read to children and show parents the techniques and pleasures of sharing books. Requires that the books provided to children under the programs be obtained at a discount. | Prescribe A Book Act |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Federal Improper Payments
Coordination Act of 2015''.
SEC. 2. AVAILABILITY OF THE DO NOT PAY INITIATIVE TO THE JUDICIAL AND
LEGISLATIVE BRANCHES AND STATES.
Section 5 of the Improper Payments Elimination and Recovery
Improvement Act of 2012 (31 U.S.C. 3321 note) is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)(3)--
(A) in the paragraph heading, by striking ``by
agencies''; and
(B) by adding at the end the following: ``States
and any contractor, subcontractor, or agent of a State,
and the judicial and legislative branches of the United
States (as defined in paragraphs (2) and (3),
respectively, of section 202(e) of title 18, United
States Code), shall have access to, and use of, the Do
Not Pay Initiative for the purpose of verifying payment
or award eligibility for payments (as defined in
section 2(g)(3) of the Improper Payments Information
Act of 2002 (31 U.S.C. 3321 note)) when, with respect
to a State, the Director of the Office of Management
and Budget determines that the Do Not Pay Initiative is
appropriately established for that State and any
contractor, subcontractor, or agent of the State, and,
with respect to the judicial and legislative branches
of the United States, when the Director of the Office
of Management and Budget determines that the Do Not Pay
Initiative is appropriately established for the
judicial branch or the legislative branch, as
applicable. To ensure consistency with the principles
of section 552a of title 5, United States Code
(commonly known as the Privacy Act of 1974) the
Director of the Office of Management and Budget may
issue guidance that establishes privacy and other
requirements that shall be incorporated into Do Not Pay
Initiative access agreements with States, including any
contractor, subcontractor, or agent of a State, and the
judicial and legislative branches of the United
States.''; and
(2) in subsection (d)(2)--
(A) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``and'' after
the semicolon;
(B) in subparagraph (C), by striking the period at
the end and inserting ``; and''; and
(C) by inserting after subparagraph (C) the
following:
``(D) may include States and their quasi-government
entities, and the judicial and legislative branches of
the United States (as defined in paragraphs (2) and
(3), respectively, of section 202(e) of title 18,
United States Code) as users of the system in
accordance with subsection (b)(3).''.
SEC. 3. IMPROVING THE SHARING AND USE OF DATA BY GOVERNMENT AGENCIES TO
CURB IMPROPER PAYMENTS.
The Improper Payments Elimination and Recovery Improvement Act of
2012 (31 U.S.C. 3321 note) is amended--
(1) in section 5(a)(2), by striking subparagraph (A) and
inserting the following:
``(A) The death records maintained by the
Commissioner of Social Security.''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``SEC. 7. IMPROVING THE USE OF DATA BY GOVERNMENT AGENCIES FOR CURBING
IMPROPER PAYMENTS.
``(a) Prompt Reporting of Death Information by the Department of
State and the Department of Defense.--Not later than 1 year after the
date of enactment of this section, the Secretary of State and the
Secretary of Defense shall establish a procedure under which each
Secretary shall, promptly and on a regular basis, submit information
relating to the deaths of individuals to each agency for which the
Director of the Office of Management and Budget determines receiving
and using such information would be relevant and necessary.
``(b) Guidance to Agencies Regarding Data Access and Use for
Improper Payments Purposes.--
``(1) In general.--Not later than 12 months after the date
of enactment of this section, the Director of the Office of
Management and Budget, in consultation with the Council of the
Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency, the heads of
other relevant Federal, State, and local agencies, and Indian
tribes and tribal organizations, as appropriate, shall issue
guidance regarding implementation of the Do Not Pay Initiative
under section 5 to--
``(A) the Department of the Treasury; and
``(B) each agency or component of an agency--
``(i) that operates or maintains a database
of information described in section 5(a)(2); or
``(ii) for which the Director determines
improved data matching would be relevant,
necessary, or beneficial.
``(2) Requirements.--The guidance issued under paragraph
(1) shall--
``(A) address the implementation of subsection (a);
and
``(B) include the establishment of deadlines for
access to and use of the databases described in section
5(a)(2) under the Do Not Pay Initiative.''.
SEC. 4. DATA ANALYTICS.
Section 5 of the Improper Payments Elimination and Recovery
Improvement Act of 2012 (31 U.S.C. 3321 note), is amended by adding at
the end the following:
``(h) Report on Improper Payments Data Analysis.--Not later than
180 days after the date of enactment of the Federal Improper Payments
Coordination Act of 2015, the Secretary of the Treasury shall submit to
Congress a report which shall include a description of--
``(1) data analytics performed as part of the Do Not Pay
Business Center operated by the Department of the Treasury for
the purpose of detecting, preventing, and recovering improper
payments through preaward, postaward prepayment, and
postpayment analysis, which shall include a description of any
analysis or investigations incorporating--
``(A) review and data matching of payments and
beneficiary enrollment lists of State programs carried
out using Federal funds for the purposes of identifying
eligibility duplication, residency ineligibility,
duplicate payments, or other potential improper payment
issues;
``(B) review of multiple Federal agencies and
programs for which comparison of data could show
payment duplication; and
``(C) review of other information the Secretary of
the Treasury determines could prove effective for
identifying, preventing, or recovering improper
payments, which may include investigation or review of
information from multiple Federal agencies or programs;
``(2) the metrics used in determining whether the analytic
and investigatory efforts have reduced, or contributed to the
reduction of, improper payments or improper awards; and
``(3) the target dates for implementing the data analytics
operations performed as part of the Do Not Pay Business
Center.''. | Federal Improper Payments Coordination Act of 2015 (Sec. 2) This bill amends the Improper Payments Elimination and Recovery Improvement Act of 2012 to: (1) extend the availability of the Do Not Pay Initiative to the judicial and legislative branches and to the states; and (2) authorize the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to issue guidance that establishes privacy requirements that shall be incorporated into Do Not Pay Initiative access agreements with states and the judicial and legislative branches. (Sec. 3) The Departments of Defense and State must submit, promptly and on a regular basis, relevant information on the deaths of individuals. The OMB, in consultation with the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency, the heads of other relevant federal, state, and local agencies, and Indian tribes and tribal organizations, as appropriate, shall issue guidance regarding implementation of the Initiative to the Department of the Treasury and each agency or component of an agency: (1) that operates or maintains a database of death records maintained by the Social Security Administration; or (2) for which the OMB determines improved data matching would be relevant, necessary, or beneficial. (Sec. 4) Treasury must report to Congress on: data analytics performed as part of the Do Not Pay Business Center operated by Treasury for the purpose of detecting, preventing, and recovering improper payments through pre-award, post-award prepayment, and post-payment analysis; the metrics used in determining whether the analytic and investigatory efforts have reduced, or contributed to the reduction of, improper payments or improper awards; and the target dates for implementing the data analytics operations performed as part of the Do Not Pay Business Center. | Federal Improper Payments Coordination Act of 2015 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Birth Defects and Developmental
Disabilities Prevention Act of 2003''.
SEC. 2. NATIONAL CENTER ON BIRTH DEFECTS AND DEVELOPMENTAL
DISABILITIES.
Section 317C of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 247b-4) is
amended--
(1) in subsection (a)(2)--
(A) in subparagraph (A)--
(i) by striking ``and developmental disabilities'' and
inserting ``, developmental disabilities, and disabilities
and health''; and
(ii) by striking ``subsection (d)(2)'' and inserting
``subsection (c)(2)'';
(B) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(C) in subparagraph (C), by striking the period and
inserting a semicolon; and
(D) by adding at the end the following:
``(D) to conduct research on and to promote the prevention
of such defects and disabilities, and secondary health
conditions among individuals with disabilities; and
``(E) to support a National Spina Bifida Program to prevent
and reduce suffering from the Nation's most common permanently
disabling birth defect.'';
(2) by striking subsection (b);
(3) in subsection (d)--
(A) by striking paragraph (1) and inserting the following:
``(1) contains information regarding the incidence and
prevalence of birth defects, developmental disabilities, and the
health status of individuals with disabilities and the extent to
which these conditions have contributed to the incidence and
prevalence of infant mortality and affected quality of life;'';
(B) in paragraph (3), by inserting ``, developmental
disabilities, and secondary health conditions among individuals
with disabilities'' after ``defects'';
(C) in paragraph (4), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(D) by redesignating paragraph (5) as paragraph (7); and
(E) by inserting after paragraph (4) the following:
``(5) contains information on the incidence and prevalence of
individuals living with birth defects and disabilities or
developmental disabilities, information on the health status of
individuals with disabilities, information on any health
disparities experienced by such individuals, and recommendations
for improving the health and wellness and quality of life of such
individuals;
``(6) contains a summary of recommendations from all birth
defects research conferences sponsored by the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention, including conferences related to spina
bifida; and'';
(4) by redesignating subsections (c), (d), and (e) as
subsections (b), (c), and (d), respectively;
(5) by inserting after subsection (d) (as so redesignated), the
following:
``(e) Advisory Committee.--Notwithstanding any other provision of
law, the members of the advisory committee appointed by the Director of
the National Center for Environmental Health that have expertise in
birth defects, developmental disabilities, and disabilities and health
shall be transferred to and shall advise the National Center on Birth
Defects and Developmental Disabilities effective on the date of
enactment of the Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities
Prevention Act of 2003.''; and
(6) in subsection (f), by striking ``$30,000,000'' and all that
follows and inserting ``such sums as may be necessary for each of
fiscal years 2003 through 2007.''.
SEC. 3. TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS FOR STATE COUNCILS ON DEVELOPMENTAL
DISABILITIES.
(a) In General.--Section 122(a) of the Developmental Disabilities
Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 (42 U.S.C. 15022(a)) is
amended--
(1) in paragraph (3)(A)(ii), by inserting before the period the
following: ``, the amount received by the State for the previous
year, or the amount of Federal appropriations received in fiscal
year 2000, 2001, or 2002, whichever is greater''; and
(2) in paragraph (4)(A)(ii), by inserting before the period the
following: ``, the amount received by the State for the previous
year, or the amount of Federal appropriations received in fiscal
year 2000, 2001, or 2002, whichever is greater''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendments made by subsection (a) shall
take effect on October 1, 2003 and apply to allotments beginning in
fiscal year 2004.
SEC. 4. REPORT ON SURVEILLANCE ACTIVITIES.
Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act,
the Secretary of Health and Human Services jointly with the Secretary
of Education shall submit to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor,
and Pensions of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce and
Committee on Education and the Workforce of the House of
Representatives a report concerning surveillance activities under
section 102 of the Children's Health Act of 2000 (Public Law 106-310),
specifically including--
(1) a description of the current grantees under the National
Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disabilities Surveillance
Program and the Centers of Excellence in Autism and Pervasive
Developmental Disabilities, the data collected, analyzed, and
reported under such grants, the sources of such data, and whether
such data was obtained with parental consent as required under the
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (20 U.S.C.
1232g);
(2) a description of current sources of data for the
surveillance of autism and developmental disabilities and the
methods for obtaining such data, including whether such data was
obtained with parental or patient consent for disclosure;
(3) an analysis of research on autism and developmental
disabilities with respect to the methods of collection and
reporting, including whether such research was obtained with
parental or patient consent for disclosure;
(4) an analysis of the need to add education records in the
surveillance of autism and other developmental disabilities,
including the methodological and medical necessity for such records
and the rights of parents and patients in the use of education
records (in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and
Privacy Act of 1974);
(5) a description of the efforts taken by the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention to utilize education records in
conducting the surveillance program while obtaining parental or
patient consent for such education records, including the outcomes
of such efforts;
(6) a description of the challenges provided to obtaining
education records (in the absence of parental or patient consent)
for the purpose of obtaining additional surveillance data for
autism and other developmental disabilities; and
(7) a description of the manner in which such challenges can be
overcome, including efforts to educate parents, increase confidence
in the privacy of the surveillance program, and increase the rate
of parental or patient consent, and including specific quantitative
and qualitative justifications for any recommendations for changes
to existing statutory authority, including the Family Educational
Rights and Privacy Act of 1974.
Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Vice President of the United States and
President of the Senate. | Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities Prevention Act of 2003 - (Sec. 2) Amends the Public Health Service Act concerning the National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities (Center) to add "disabilities and health" to categories of data which the Secretary of Heath and Human Services is directed to collect, analyze, and make available. Requires the Secretary to conduct research on and promote the prevention of birth defects and disabilities and to support a National Spina Bifida Program to prevent and reduce suffering from the nation's most common permanently disabling birth defect.
Modifies Center reporting requirements, including requiring such report to contain information on: (1) individuals living with birth defects and disabilities or developmental disabilities, and recommendations for improving the health and quality of life of such individuals; and (2) recommendations from all birth defects research conferences sponsored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including conferences related to spina bifida.
Requires that the members of the advisory committee appointed by the Director of the National Center for Environmental Health that have expertise in birth defects, developmental disabilities, and disabilities and health be transferred to and advise the Center.
Authorizes appropriations through FY 2007 for the Center.
(Sec. 3) Amends the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 to revise appropriation allotment provisions for State developmental disabilities councils.
(Sec. 4) Directs the Secretary and the Secretary of Education to jointly report on specified surveillance activities under the Children's Health Act of 2000 respecting autism and other developmental disabilities. | A bill to revise and extend the Birth Defects Prevention Act of 1998. |
.
Section 10(m) of the National Labor Relations Act is amended by
adding at the end the following new sentence: ``Whenever a complaint is
issued as provided in subsection (b) upon a charge that any person has
engaged in or is engaging in an unfair labor practice within the
meaning of subsection (a)(3) or (b)(2) of section 8 involving an
unlawful discharge, the Board shall state its findings of fact and
issue and cause to be served on such person an order requiring such
person to cease and desist from such unfair labor practice and to take
such affirmative action, including reinstatement of an employee with or
without backpay, as will effectuate the policies of this Act, or shall
state its findings of fact and issue an order dismissing the said
complaint, not later than 365 days after the filing of the unfair labor
practice charge with the Board except in cases of extreme complexity.
The Board shall submit a report annually to the Committee on Education
and the Workforce of the House of Representatives and the Committee on
Labor and Human Resources of the Senate regarding any cases pending for
more than 1 year, including an explanation of the factors contributing
to such a delay and recommendations for prompt resolution of such
cases.''.
SEC. 304. REGULATIONS.
The Board may issue such regulations as are necessary to carry out
the purposes of this title.
TITLE IV--ATTORNEYS FEES
SEC. 401. FINDINGS AND PURPOSE.
(a) Findings.--The Congress finds as follows:
(1) Certain small businesses and labor organizations are at
a great disadvantage in terms of expertise and resources when
facing actions brought by the National Labor Relations Board.
(2) The attempt to ``level the playing field'' for small
businesses and labor organizations by means of the Equal Access
to Justice Act has proven ineffective and has been
underutilized by these small entities in their actions before
the National Labor Relations Board.
(3) The greater expertise and resources of the National
Labor Relations Board as compared with those of small
businesses and labor organizations necessitate a standard that
awards fees and costs to certain small entities when they
prevail against the National Labor Relations Board.
(b) Purpose.--It is the purpose of this title--
(1) to ensure that certain small businesses and labor
organizations will not be deterred from seeking review of, or
defending against, actions brought against them by the National
Labor Relations Board because of the expense involved in
securing vindication of their rights;
(2) to reduce the disparity in resources and expertise
between certain small businesses and labor organizations and
the National Labor Relations Board; and
(3) to make the National Labor Relations Board more
accountable for its enforcement actions against certain small
businesses and labor organizations by awarding fees and costs
to these entities when they prevail against the National Labor
Relations Board.
SEC. 402. AMENDMENT TO NATIONAL LABOR RELATIONS ACT.
The National Labor Relations Act (29 U.S.C. 151 and following) is
amended by adding at the end the following new section:
``awards of attorneys' fees and costs
``Sec. 20. (a) Administrative Proceedings.--An employer who, or a
labor organization that--
``(1) is the prevailing party in an adversary adjudication
conducted by the Board under this or any other Act, and
``(2) had not more than 100 employees and a net worth of
not more than $1,400,000 at the time the adversary adjudication
was initiated,
shall be awarded fees and other expenses as a prevailing party under
section 504 of title 5, United States Code, in accordance with the
provisions of that section, but without regard to whether the position
of the Board was substantially justified or special circumstances make
an award unjust. For purposes of this subsection, the term `adversary
adjudication' has the meaning given that term in section 504(b)(1)(C)
of title 5, United States Code.
``(b) Court Proceedings.--An employer who, or a labor organization
that--
``(1) is the prevailing party in a civil action, including
proceedings for judicial review of agency action by the Board,
brought by or against the Board, and
``(2) had not more than 100 employees and a net worth of
not more than $1,400,000 at the time the civil action was
filed,
shall be awarded fees and other expenses as a prevailing party under
section 2412(d) of title 28, United States Code, in accordance with the
provisions of that section, but without regard to whether the position
of the United States was substantially justified or special
circumstances make an award unjust. Any appeal of a determination of
fees pursuant to subsection (a) or this subsection shall be determined
without regard to whether the position of the United States was
substantially justified or special circumstances make an award
unjust.''.
SEC. 403. APPLICABILITY.
(a) Agency Proceedings.--Subsection (a) of section 20 of the
National Labor Relations Act, as added by section 402 of this Act,
applies to agency proceedings commenced on or after the date of the
enactment of this Act.
(b) Court Proceedings.--Subsection (b) of section 20 of the
National Labor Relations Act, as added by section 402 of this Act,
applies to civil actions commenced on or after the date of the
enactment of this Act.
Passed the House of Representatives March 26, 1998.
Attest:
Clerk. | TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Title I: Truth in Employment
Title II: Fair Hearing
Title III: Justice on Time
Title IV: Attorneys Fees
Fairness for Small Business and Employees Act of 1998 -
Title I: Truth in Employment
- Amends the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) to provide that nothing in specified prohibitions against unfair labor practices by employers shall be construed as requiring an employer to employ any person who is not a bona fide employee applicant, in that such person seeks or has sought employment with the employer with the primary purpose of furthering another employment or agency status.
(Sec. 103) Declares that this title shall not affect the rights and responsibilities under NLRA of any employee who is or was a bona fide employee applicant, including the right to: (1) self-organization; (2) form, join, or assist labor organizations; (3) bargain collectively through representatives of their own choosing; and (4) engage in other concerted activities for the purpose of collective bargaining or other mutual aid or protection.
Title II: Fair Hearing
- Directs the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) to provide for a hearing upon due notice to determine the appropriateness of the bargaining unit, if a petition for an election requests to certify a unit which includes the employees employed at one or more facilities of a multi-facility employer, and in the absence of an agreement by the parties regarding the appropriateness of the bargaining unit at issue. Requires the NLRB, in making such determination, to consider functional integration, centralized control, common skills, functions and working conditions, permanent and temporary employee interchange, geographical separation, local autonomy, the number of employees, bargaining history, and other factors it considers appropriate.
Title III: Justice on Time
- Requires the NLRB to state its findings of fact and to issue and serve corrective orders, including reinstatement of an employee with or without backpay, or issue an order dismissing the complaint, within 365 days after the filing of a charge of unfair labor practice involving an unlawful discharge, except in cases of extreme complexity. Directs the NLRB to report annually to specified congressional committees on any cases pending for more than one year, including an explanation of the factors contributing to such a delay, and recommendations for prompt resolution of such cases.
Title IV: Attorneys Fees
- Provides for awards of attorney's fees and costs in administrative or court proceedings involving the NLRB, without regard to whether the NLRB's position was substantially justified or special circumstances make an award unjust, if the prevailing parties are employers or labor organizations with no more than 100 employees and a net worth of no more than $1.4 million at the time the adversary adjudication was initiated. | Fairness for Small Business and Employees Act of 1998 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Professional Boxing Safety Act''.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
For purposes of this Act--
(1) the term ``boxer'' means a person who participates in a
professional boxing match;
(2) the term ``manager'' means a person or business who
helps arrange professional boxing matches for a boxer, and who
serves as an advisor or representative of a boxer in a
professional capacity;
(3) the term ``professional boxing match'' means a boxing
contest held in the United States between individuals for
compensation or a prize, and does not include any amateur
boxing match;
(4) the term ``promoter'' means a person or business that
organizes, holds, advertises, or otherwise conducts a
professional boxing match; and
(5) the term ``State boxing commission'' means a State
agency with authority to regulate professional boxing;
SEC. 3. PURPOSE.
The purposes of this Act are--
(1) to improve and expand the system of safety precautions
that protects the welfare of professional boxers; and
(2) to assist State boxing commissions to provide proper
oversight for the professional boxing industry in the United
States.
SEC. 4. PROFESSIONAL BOXING MATCHES.
A professional boxing match may be held in the United States only
if--
(1) the State where the professional boxing match is to be
held--
(A) has a State boxing commission ; or
(B) has entered into an agreement with a State
boxing commission of another State;
to oversee the match and to regulate each of its boxing
matches; and
(2) the State boxing commission has established procedures
to carry out sections 5, 6, and 7.
SEC. 5. REGISTRATION.
(a) Requirement.--Each professional boxer shall register with--
(1) the State boxing commission of the State in which such
boxer resides;
(2) in the case of a boxer who is a resident of a State in
which there is no State boxing commission, the State boxing
commission described in section 4(1)(B); or
(3) in the case of a boxer from a foreign country, any
State that has a State boxing commission.
(b) Identification Card.--
(1) Issuance.--A State boxing commission shall issue to
each professional boxer who registers in accordance with
subsection (a), an identification card that contains--
(A) a recent photograph of the boxer;
(B) the social security number of the boxer (or, in
the case of a foreign boxer, any similar citizen
identification number or professional boxer number from
the country of residence of the boxer); and
(C) the personal identification numbers assigned to
the boxer by the boxing registries certified by the
Association of Boxing Commissioners.
(2) Renewal.--Each professional boxer shall renew his or
her identification card at least once every 3 years.
(3) Presentation.--Each professional boxer shall present
his or her identification card to the State boxing commission
not later than the time of the weigh-in for a professional
boxing match.
(c) Relation to State Law.--Nothing in this section shall be
construed as preventing a State from applying additional registration
requirements.
SEC. 6. REVIEW.
Each State boxing commission shall establish procedures--
(1) to evaluate the professional records of each boxer
participating in a boxing match in the State; and
(2) to ensure that no boxer is permitted to box while under
suspension from any State boxing commission for any reason,
including--
(A) a recent knockout, injury, or unfulfilled
requirement for a medical procedure;
(B) administrative reasons, such as failure to pay
a State fee or fine, or improper conduct;
(C) falsification of, or attempts to falsify,
official identification cards or documents;
(D) failure of a drug test;
(E) inadequate boxing skills, or the inability to
safely compete; and
(F) violation of Federal or State gaming laws.
SEC. 7. REPORTING.
(a) Boxing Match Results.--Not later than 48 business hours
(excluding Saturdays and Sundays) after the conclusion of a
professional boxing match, the results of such match shall be reported
to the professional boxing registries certified by the Association of
Boxing Commissioners (ABC) and to the Florida State Athletic
Commission.
(b) Suspensions.--Not later than 48 business hours (excluding
Saturdays and Sundays) after a State boxing commission orders the
suspension of a boxer, promoter, or manager, such suspension shall be
reported to the professional boxing registries certified by the
Association of Boxing Commissioners (ABC) and to the Florida State
Athletic Commission.
SEC. 8. ENFORCEMENT.
(a) Injunctions.--Whenever the United States Attorney in a State
has reasonable cause to believe that a person or entity is engaged in a
violation of this Act in such State, the United States Attorney may
bring a civil action in the appropriate district court of the United
States requesting such relief, including a permanent or temporary
injunction, restraining order, or other order, against the person or
entity, as the United States Attorney determines necessary to restrain
the person or entity from continuing to engage in, or to sanction, a
professional boxing match in violation of this Act.
(b) Criminal Penalties.--
(1) Managers and promoters.--Any manager or promoter who
knowingly and willfully violates any provision of this Act
shall be imprisoned for not more than 1 year or fined more than
$20,000, or both.
(2) Boxers.--Any professional boxer who knowingly and
willfully violates any provision of this Act shall be fined not
more than $1,000. | Professional Boxing Safety Act - Allows a professional boxing match to be held in the United States only if: (1) the State where the professional boxing match is to be held has a State boxing commission or has entered into an agreement with a State boxing commission of another State to oversee the match and to regulate each of its boxing matches; and (2) the State boxing commission has established procedures to carry out this Act.
Requires each professional boxer to register with: (1) the State boxing commission of the State in which such boxer resides; (2) the State boxing commission overseeing the boxing match if the boxer is a resident of a State in which there is no State boxing commission; and (3) any State that has a State boxing commission if the boxer is from a foreign country.
Requires a State boxing commission to issue an identification card to each registered professional boxer to be renewed by the boxer at least once every three years and to be presented to the State boxing commission by the time of the weigh-in for a professional boxing match.
States that nothing in this Act shall be construed as preventing a State from applying additional registration requirements.
Requires each State boxing commission to: (1) establish procedures to evaluate the professional records of each boxer participating in a boxing match in the State; and (2) ensure that no boxer is permitted to box while under suspension from any State boxing commission for any reason.
Requires the results of a professional boxing match and the suspension of a boxer, promoter, or manager ordered by a State boxing commission to be reported to the professional boxing registries certified by the Association of Boxing Commissioners and to the Florida State Athletic Commission within 48 business hours after the conclusion of such match or the suspension of such individuals.
Authorizes the U.S. Attorney to bring a civil action in U.S. district court requesting relief to restrain a person or entity from continuing to engage in, or to sanction, a professional boxing match in violation of this Act.
Imposes criminal penalties on managers, promoters, or professional boxers who knowingly and willfully violate this Act. | Professional Boxing Safety Act |
SECTION 1. ____. SAFE AND DRUG-FREE SCHOOLS AND COMMUNITIES.
Part A of title IV of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of
1965 (20 U.S.C. 7111 et seq.) is amended--
(1) in section 4004--
(A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``and'' after the
semicolon;
(B) by redesignating paragraph (2) as paragraph
(3); and
(C) in paragraph (3) as redesignated, by striking
``subpart 2'' and inserting ``subpart 3''; and
(D) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:
``(2) $25,000,000 for fiscal year 2000 and such sums as may
be necessary for each of the 4 succeeding fiscal years to carry
out subpart 2;
(2) by redesignating subparts 2 and 3 as 3 and 4,
respectively;
(3) by redesignating sections 4131 through 4134 as sections
4141 through 4144, respectively;
(3) by redesignating section 4121 as section 4131; and
(4) by inserting after subpart 1 the following:
``Subpart 2--Effective Prevention Program Implementation
``SEC. 4121. COMPREHENSIVE PREVENTION TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE GRANTS.
``(a) Program Authorized.--The Secretary is authorized to provide
grants to States that meet the requirements of this subpart to
implement prevention programs that meet a high scientific standard of
program effectiveness.
``(b) Contents of State Plan.--To be eligible to receive a grant
under this subpart, a State educational agency shall submit an
application that includes a State plan that describes--
``(1) the process and selection criteria by which the State
educational agency will make competitive grants to eligible
local educational agencies;
``(2) how the State educational agency will ensure that
only high quality, well-defined, and well-documented
comprehensive prevention programs are funded;
``(3) how the State educational agency will disseminate
materials developed or collected by the Secretary about
research-based, proven-effective comprehensive prevention
models and will provide technical assistance to assist local
educational agencies in evaluating, selecting, developing, and
implementing comprehensive prevention programs;
``(4) how the State educational agency will evaluate the
implementation of comprehensive prevention programs and measure
the results achieved in preventing violence, criminal and
delinquent behavior, substance abuse, and other problem
behaviors and improving student academic performance;
``(5) how the State educational agency will ensure that
local programs meet the requirements of section 4124(b);
``(6) provide assurances that funds provided under this
subpart shall supplement, not supplant, other Federal, State,
and local funds that would otherwise be available for the
purposes described under this subpart; and
``(7) such other criteria as the Secretary may reasonably
require.
SEC. 4122. RESERVATIONS AND ALLOCATIONS.
``(a) Reservations.--From the funds made available in section
4004(2) to carry out this subpart for each fiscal year, the Secretary
shall--
``(1) reserve funds in accordance with paragraphs (1), (2),
and (4) of section 4011(a); and
``(2) except as provided in subsection (b), allocate the
remainder of funds among the States in accordance with section
4011(b)(1).
``(b) Reallocation of Funds to States.--In a case in which a State
educational agency does not develop a plan that meets the requirements
of section 4121(b), the Secretary shall not make an allocation to the
State under subsection (a)(2) and shall allocate such funds in
accordance with section 4011(b)(1) to other States that have developed
such plans. Funds allocated to a State under this subsection may be
used only to implement programs under this subpart.
``SEC. 4123. DISTRIBUTION OF FUNDS.
``(a) Funds to Local Educational Agencies.--
``(1) In general.--From the amounts made available under
section 4004(2), each State educational agency that receives an
award under this subpart shall use such funds to provide
competitive grants to local educational agencies.
``(2) Awards.--In awarding competitive grants under this
subpart, a State educational agency shall--
``(A) give the highest priority to local
educational agencies with demonstrated need in
accordance with the criteria described in section
4113(d)(2)(C)(ii);
``(B) make grant awards that are of sufficient size
and scope to support the initial startup costs for a
comprehensive prevention plan that meets the
requirements of this subpart; and
``(C) take into account the equitable distribution
of awards to different geographic regions within the
State, including urban and rural areas, and to schools
serving elementary and secondary students.
``(b) Reservation.--A State educational agency may use not more
than 5 percent of the funds made available to it under this section for
administrative, evaluation, and technical assistance expenses,
including expenses necessary to inform local educational agencies about
research-based, proven-effective comprehensive prevention approaches.
SEC. 4124. LOCAL AWARDS.
``(a) In General.--To be eligible to receive a subgrant under this
subpart for any fiscal year, a local educational agency shall submit,
at such time as the State educational agency requires, an application
to the State educational agency for approval.
``(b) Plan.--Each local educational agency shall submit a plan to
the State educational agency to demonstrate how it will meet the
requirements of subsection (c).
``(c) Use of Funds.--A grant awarded to a local educational agency
under this subpart shall be used only for the purpose of identifying
and implementing comprehensive prevention programs that--
``(1) employ strategies or approaches that are based on
reliable research and that show effectiveness in preventing
violence, criminal and delinquent behavior, substance abuse,
and other problem behaviors and improving student academic
performance;
``(2) comprehensively address the mental, emotional,
social, and physical health of children and adolescents;
``(3) employ developmentally appropriate activities and
interventions;
``(4) assist children and adolescents in improving
cognitive, affective, and behavioral skills;
``(5) use methods that ensure the active engagement of the
children and adolescents who participate and that facilitate
better communication between children and adults about problem
situations;
``(6) provide for the meaningful involvement of parents,
educators, health and mental health professionals, and the
local community in planning and implementation;
``(7) provide high-quality and continuous staff
professional development and training;
``(8) have measurable outcome goals and a clear evaluation
plan, including annual reports to the State and the Secretary;
``(9) use high-quality external technical support and
assistance from individuals or entities with experience and
expertise in developing, implementing, and evaluating
comprehensive prevention approaches; and
``(10) identify how other resources (Federal, State, local,
and private) available to the State will be used to coordinate
services to support and sustain the comprehensive prevention
effort.''. | Authorizes the Secretary of Education to provide such grants to States that meet specified requirements to implement prevention programs that meet a high scientific standard of program effectiveness. Sets forth program requirements for State plans, reservations and allocations of funds, State distribution of program funds through competitive grants to local educational agencies (LEAs), and LEA plans and use of funds for comprehensive prevention programs that meet certain requirements. | To amend the Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1994 to provide comprehensive technical assistance and implement prevention programs that meet a high scientific standard of program effectiveness. |
SECTION 1. ESTABLISHMENT AND FUNCTIONS OF COMMISSION.
(a) Establishment.--There is established a Commission on Structural
Alternatives for the Federal Courts of Appeals (hereinafter referred to
as the ``Commission'').
(b) Functions.--The functions of the Commission shall be to--
(1) study the present division of the United States into
the several judicial circuits;
(2) study the structure and alignment of the Federal court
of appeals system, with particular reference to the Ninth
Circuit; and
(3) report recommendations to the President and Congress on
appropriate changes in circuit boundaries or structure for the
expeditious and effective disposition of the caseload of the
Federal Courts of Appeals, consistent with fundamental concepts
of fairness and due process.
SEC. 2. MEMBERSHIP.
(a) Composition.--The Commission shall be composed of 8 members
appointed as follows:
(1) One member appointed by the President of the United
States.
(2) Three members appointed by the Majority Leader of the
Senate.
(3) Three members appointed by the Speaker of the House of
Representatives.
(4) One member appointed by the Chief Justice of the United
States.
(b) Vacancy.--Any vacancy in the Commission shall be filled in the
same manner as the original appointment.
(c) Chair.--The Commission shall elect a Chair and Vice Chair from
among its members.
(d) Quorum.--Four members of the Commission shall constitute a
quorum, but 3 may conduct hearings.
SEC. 3. COMPENSATION.
(a) In General.--Members of the Commission who are Federal officers
or employees shall receive no additional compensation for their
services, but shall be reimbursed for travel, subsistence, and other
necessary expenses incurred in the performance of duties vested in the
Commission, but not in excess of the maximum amounts authorized under
section 456 of title 28, United States Code.
(b) Non-Federal Members.--Any member of the Commission who is not a
Federal officer or employee shall receive $200 for each day (including
travel time) during which the member is engaged in the actual
performance of duties vested in the Commission, plus reimbursement for
travel, subsistence, and other necessary expenses incurred in the
performance of such duties, but not in excess of the maximum amounts
authorized under section 456 of title 28, United States Code.
SEC. 4. PERSONNEL.
(a) Executive Director.--The Commission may appoint an Executive
Director who shall receive compensation at a rate not exceeding the
rate prescribed for level V of the Executive Schedule under section
5316 of title 5, United States Code.
(b) Staff.--The Executive Director, with the approval of the
Commission, may appoint and fix the compensation of such additional
personnel as the Executive Director determines necessary, without
regard to the provisions of title 5, United States Code, governing
appointments in the competitive service or the provisions of chapter 51
and subchapter III of chapter 53 of such title relating to
classification and General Schedule pay rates. Compensation under this
subsection shall not exceed the annual maximum rate of basic pay for a
position above GS-15 of the General Schedule under section 5108 of
title 5, United States Code.
(c) Experts and Consultants.--The Executive Director may procure
personal services of experts and consultants as authorized under
section 3109 of title 5, United States Code, at rates not to exceed the
highest level payable under the General Schedule pay rates under
section 5332 of title 5, United States Code.
(d) Services.--The Administrative Office of the United States
Courts shall provide administrative services, including financial and
budgeting services, for the Commission on a reimbursable basis. The
Federal Judicial Center shall provide necessary research services on a
reimbursable basis.
SEC. 5. INFORMATION.
The Commission is authorized to request from any department,
agency, or independent instrumentality of the Government any
information and assistance the Commission determines necessary to carry
out its functions under this Act. Each such department, agency, and
independent instrumentality is authorized to provide such information
and assistance to the extent permitted by law when requested by the
Chair of the Commission.
SEC. 6. REPORT.
No later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act,
or June 30, 1998, whichever occurs first, the Commission shall submit
its report to the President and the Congress under section 1(b). The
Commission shall terminate 90 days after the date of the submission of
the report.
SEC. 7. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There is authorized to be appropriated to the Commission the sum of
$500,000 to carry out this Act. | Establishes a Commission on Structural Alternatives for the Federal Courts of Appeals to: (1) study the present division of the United States into the several judicial circuits and the structure and alignment of the Federal Court of Appeals system, with particular reference to the Ninth Circuit; and (2) report its recommendations for changes to the President and the Congress by the earlier of June 30, 1998, or one year after enactment of this Act.
Authorizes appropriations. | To establish a Commission on Structural Alternatives for the Federal Courts of Appeals. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Medicare Chronic Kidney Disease
Management Act of 2002''.
SEC. 2. DELAYING ONSET OF ESRD.
(a) Medicare Coverage of Chronic Kidney Disease Patients.--
(1) In general.--Section 226A of the Social Security Act
(42 U.S.C. 426-1) is amended--
(A) by redesignating the last subsection as
subsection (e); and
(B) by inserting after subsection (c) the following
new subsection:
``(d)(1)(A) Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary in
section 226 or title XVIII, every qualified chronic kidney disease
patient (as defined in paragraph (2)) shall, in accordance with the
succeeding provisions of this section, be entitled to benefits under
part A and eligible to enroll under part B of title XVIII, subject to
the deductible, premium, and coinsurance provisions of that title.
``(B) No qualified chronic kidney disease patient may enroll under
part C of title XVIII.
``(2) For purposes of this subsection, the term ``qualified chronic
kidney disease patient'' means an individual--
``(A) who would otherwise be described in subsection (a)
but for paragraph (2) of that subsection;
``(B) who has been diagnosed with chronic kidney disease;
``(C) with respect to whom, a physician certifies that--
``(i) the individual, under generally accepted
clinical standards, will likely need dialysis
treatments or a kidney transplant within the two-year
period beginning on the date of certification; and
``(ii) the individual may benefit from a program of
pre-ESRD services (as defined in section 1861(ww)(1));
and
``(D) who certifies that the individual does not have
health insurance coverage.''.
(2) Conforming amendments.--Section 1811 of such Act (42
U.S.C. 1395c) is amended by inserting before the period the
following: ``or who are qualified chronic kidney disease
patient (as defined in section 226A(d)(2))''.
(3) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this subsection shall
take effect January 1, 2004.
(b) Coverage of pre-ESRD Services.--
(1) In general.--Section 1861(s)(2) of the Social Security
Act (42 U.S.C. 1395x(s)(2)) is amended--
(A) by striking ``and'' at the end of subparagraph
(U);
(B) by inserting ``and'' at the end of subparagraph
(V); and
(C) by adding at the end the following new
subparagraph:
``(W) pre-ESRD services (as defined in subsection (ww)(1))
for an individual who has been diagnosed with chronic kidney
disease and, with respect to whom, a physician certifies that--
``(i) the individual, under generally accepted
clinical standards, will likely need dialysis
treatments within the two-year period beginning on the
date of certification; and
``(ii) the individual may benefit from a program of
pre-ESRD services;''.
(2) Services Described.--Section 1861 of the Social
Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395x) is amended by adding at the end
the following new subsection:
``Pre-ESRD Services
``(ww)(1) The term `pre-ESRD Services' means any or all of the
following services:
``(A) Individual and group nutritional counseling services
for the purpose of chronic kidney disease management that are
furnished by a registered dietitian or nutrition professional
(as defined in subsection (vv)(2)) pursuant to a referral by a
physician (as defined in subsection (r)(1)).
``(B) Counseling furnished by qualified health care
providers that--
``(i) provides comprehensive information regarding
the management of comorbidities, and the prevention of
uremic complications;
``(ii) ensures active participation of the
individual in the choice of therapy or therapies; and
``(iii) provides comprehensive information
regarding modalities of treatment for kidney disease
and end-stage renal disease, including organ
transplantation, hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and
home dialysis.
``(C) Counseling, items and services, including tissue
typing, furnished by qualified health care providers for
preparation of possible organ transplantation.
``(D) Items and services furnished by qualified health care
providers for the preparation of vascular access required for
dialysis treatment.
``(E) Such other services as the Secretary determines
appropriate, in consultation with national organizations
representing individuals and entities who furnish pre-ESRD
services and patients receiving such services.
``(2) The Secretary shall establish such criteria as the Secretary
determines appropriate for qualifications required for individuals to
furnish pre-ESRD services under paragraph (1).''.
(3) Payment amount.--
(A) In general.--Section 1833(a)(1) of the Social
Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395l(a)(1)) is amended--
(i) by striking ``and'' before ``(U)''; and
(ii) by inserting before the semicolon at
the end the following: ``, and (V) with respect
to pre-ESRD services, the amount paid shall be
80 percent of the amount determined under the
fee schedule established under section
1834(e)''.
(B) Establishment of fee schedule.--Section 1834 of
such Act (42 U.S.C. 1395m) is amended by inserting
after subsection (d) the following new subsection:
``(e) Fee Schedule for pre-ESRD Services.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall establish a fee
schedule for payment for pre-ESRD services in accordance with
the requirements of this subsection.
``(2) Considerations.--In establishing such fee schedule,
the Secretary shall--
``(A) establish mechanisms to promote the efficient
delivery of care;
``(B) establish definitions for pre-ESRD services
which link payments to the type of services provided;
``(C) consider appropriate regional and operational
differences; and
``(D) consider adjustments to payment rates to
account for inflation and other relevant factors.
``(3) Consultation.--In establishing the fee schedule for
pre-ESRD services under this subsection, the Secretary shall
consult with various national organizations representing
individuals and entities who furnish pre-ESRD services and
patients receiving such services.
``(4) Coding system.--The Secretary may require the claim
for any services for which the amount of payment is determined
under this subsection to include a code (or codes) under a
uniform coding system specified by the Secretary that
identifies the services furnished.''.
(3) Permitting dialysis facilities to bill for pre-ESRD
services furnished in the facility.--Section 1881(b) is amended
by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(12) A renal dialysis facility may provide for the furnishing of
some or all pre-ESRD services (as defined in section 1861(ww)(2). The
facility may submit to the Secretary a claim for payment for such
services furnished in the facility, and the Secretary shall not require
the facility, or the employee of the facility who is qualified to
furnish such services, to apply for a separate provider number for
purposes of payment under this title.''. | Medicare Chronic Kidney Disease Management Act of 2002 - Entitles qualified chronic kidney disease patients to benefits under part A (Hospital Insurance) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act. Prohibits enrollment of chronic kidney disease patients in part C (Medicare+Choice) of the Social Security Act. | To amend the Social Security Act to provide for coverage under the Medicare Program of chronic kidney disease patients who are not end-stage renal disease patients. |
SECTION 1. ESTABLISHMENT OF RESERVATION.
Section 1 of the Act entitled ``An Act to establish a reservation
for the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde Community of Oregon, and
for other purposes,'' approved September 9, 1988 (102 Stat. 1594), is
amended as follows:
(1) In subsection (a), by adding at the end the following:
``The Secretary may accept title to any additional number of
acres of real property located within the boundaries of the
original 1857 reservation of the Confederated Tribes of the
Grand Ronde Community of Oregon established by Executive Order
dated June 30, 1857, comprised of land within the political
boundaries of Polk and Yamhill Counties, Oregon, if such real
property is conveyed or otherwise transferred to the United
States by or on behalf of the Tribe. All applications to take
land into trust within the boundaries of the original 1857
reservation shall be treated by the Secretary as an on-
reservation trust acquisition. All real property taken into
trust within these boundaries, before or after the date of the
enactment of this Act shall be part of the Tribe's
reservation.''.
(2) In subsection (b)--
(A) by modifying the opening paragraph of
subsection (c) by striking ``10,311.60'' and inserting
``10,599.66'';
(B) by striking the following:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
``6 7 8 Tax lot 800 5.55''
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(C) by inserting in place of the matter struck
under subparagraph (B) the following:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
``6 7 7, 8, 17 Former tax lot 800, 5.55'';
located within the
SE \1/4\, SE \1/4\
of Section 7; the
SW \1/4\ of Section
8; and the NW \1/
4\, NW \1/4\ of
Section 17
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(D) by striking ``240'' and inserting ``241.06'';
and
(E) by striking all text in subsection (c) after
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
``6 7 18 E \1/2\ NE \1/4\ 43.42''
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(F) and inserting the following:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
``6 8 1 W \1/2\, SE 20.6
\1/4\, SE \1/
4\ and S \1/
2\, NE \1/4\,
SE \1/4\
6 8 1 N \1/2\, SW \1/ 19.99
4\, SE \1/4\
6 8 1 SE \1/4\, NE 9.99
\1/4\
6 8 1 NE \1/4\, SW 10.46
\1/4\ and NW
\1/4\, SW \1/
4\
6 8 1 NE \1/4\, SW 12.99
\1/4\ and NW
\1/4\, SW \1/
4\
6 7 6 SW \1/4\, NW 37.99
\1/4\
6 7 5 NE \1/4\, NW 24.87
\1/4\
6 7 5, 8 SW \1/4\, SE 109.9
\1/4\ of
Section 5 and
NE \1/4\, NE
\1/4\ NW \1/
4\, NE \1/4\
NE \1/4\, NW
\1/4\ of
Section 8
6 8 1 NW \1/4\, SE 31.32
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6 8 1 NE \1/4\, SW 8.89
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........... Total 10,599.66'
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------------------------------------------------------------------------ | Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to accept title to any additional number of acres of real property located within the boundaries of the original 1857 reservation of the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde Community of Oregon (comprised of land within the political boundaries of Polk and Yamhill Counties, Oregon), if such real property is conveyed or otherwise transferred to the United States by or on behalf of the Tribe.
States that: (1) the Secretary shall treat all applications to take land into trust within the boundaries of the original 1857 reservation as an on-reservation trust acquisition; and (2) all real property taken into trust within these boundaries before or after the date of the enactment of this Act shall be part of the Tribe's reservation. | To amend the Grand Ronde Reservation Act to make technical corrections, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Job Creation through Energy
Efficient Manufacturing Act''.
SEC. 2. PURPOSE.
The purpose of this Act is to encourage widespread deployment of
energy efficiency and onsite renewable energy technologies in
manufacturing and industrial facilities throughout the United States
through the establishment of a Financing Energy Efficient Manufacturing
Program that would--
(1) encourage the widespread availability of financial
products and programs with attractive rates and terms that
significantly reduce or eliminate upfront expenses to allow
manufacturing and industrial businesses to invest in energy
efficiency measures, onsite clean and renewable energy systems,
smart grid systems, and alternative vehicle fleets by providing
credit support, credit enhancement, secondary markets, and
other support to originators of the financial products and
sponsors of the financing programs; and
(2) help building owners to invest in measures and systems
that reduce energy costs, in many cases creating a net cost
savings that can be realized in the short-term, and may also
allow manufacturing and industrial business owners to defer
capital expenditures, save money to hire new workers, and
increase the value, comfort, and sustainability of the property
of the owners.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Covered program.--The term ``covered program'' means a
program to finance energy efficiency retrofit, onsite clean and
renewable energy, smart grid, and alternative vehicle fleet
projects for industrial businesses.
(2) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of Energy.
(3) State.--The term ``State'' means--
(A) a State;
(B) the District of Columbia;
(C) the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico; and
(D) any other territory or possession of the United
States.
SEC. 4. FINANCING ENERGY EFFICIENT MANUFACTURING PROGRAM.
(a) Establishment.--The Secretary shall establish a program, to be
known as the ``Financing Energy Efficient Manufacturing Program'',
under which the Secretary shall provide grants to States to establish
or expand covered programs.
(b) Applications.--
(1) In general.--A State may apply to the Secretary for a
grant under subsection (a) to establish or expand covered
programs.
(2) Evaluation.--The Secretary shall evaluate applications
submitted by States under paragraph (1) on the basis of--
(A) the likelihood that the covered program would--
(i) be established or expanded; and
(ii) increase the total investment and
energy savings of retrofit projects to be
supported;
(B) in the case of industrial business efficiency
financing initiatives conducted under subsection (c),
evidence of multistate cooperation and coordination
with lenders, financiers, and owners; and
(C) other factors that would advance the purposes
of this Act, as determined by the Secretary.
(c) Multistate Facilitation.--The Secretary shall consult with
States and relevant stakeholders with applicable expertise to establish
a process to identify financing opportunities for manufacturing and
industrial business with asset portfolios across multiple States.
(d) Administration.--A State receiving a grant under subsection (a)
shall give a higher priority to covered programs that--
(1) leverage private and non-Federal sources of funding;
and
(2) aim explicitly to expand the use of energy efficiency
project financing using private sources of funding.
(e) Davis-Bacon Compliance.--
(1) In general.--All laborers and mechanics employed on
projects funded directly by or assisted in whole or in part by
this Act shall be paid wages at rates not less than those
prevailing on projects of a character similar in the locality
as determined by the Secretary of Labor in accordance with
subchapter IV of chapter 31 of part A of subtitle II of title
40, United States Code (commonly referred to as the ``Davis-
Bacon Act'').
(2) Authority.--With respect to the labor standards
specified in this subsection, the Secretary of Labor shall have
the authority and functions set forth in Reorganization Plan
Numbered 14 of 1950 (64 Stat. 1267; 5 U.S.C. App.) and section
3145 of title 40, United States Code.
(f) Reports.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the date of
receipt of a grant under this Act, a State shall submit to the
Secretary, the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the
Senate, and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House
of Representatives a report that describes the performance of
covered programs carried out using the grant funds.
(2) Data.--
(A) In general.--A State receiving a grant under
this Act, in cooperation with the Secretary, shall--
(i) collect and share data resulting from
covered programs carried out under this Act;
and
(ii) include in the report submitted under
paragraph (1) any data collected under clause
(i).
(B) Department databases.--The Secretary shall
incorporate data described in subparagraph (A) into
appropriate databases of the Department of Energy, with
provisions for the protection of confidential business
data.
SEC. 5. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
(a) In General.--There is authorized to be appropriated to carry
out this Act $250,000,000, to remain available until expended.
(b) State Energy Offices.--Funds provided to a State under this Act
shall be provided to the office within the State that is responsible
for developing the State energy plan for the State under part D of
title III of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (42 U.S.C. 6321 et
seq). | Job Creation through Energy Efficient Manufacturing Act This bill requires the Department of Energy (DOE) to establish a Financing Energy Efficient Manufacturing Program to provide grants to establish or expand programs to finance energy efficiency retrofit, onsite clean and renewable energy, smart grid systems, and alternative vehicle fleet projects for industrial businesses. DOE must establish a process to identify financing opportunities for manufacturing and industrial business with asset portfolios across multiple states. Grant recipients must give a higher priority to those programs that: (1) leverage private and nonfederal sources of funding, and (2) aim to expand the use of energy efficiency project financing using private sources of funding. Grant recipients must also collect, share, and report on data resulting from programs carried out under this bill. DOE must incorporate the data into appropriate DOE databases, with provisions for the protection of confidential business data. | Job Creation through Energy Efficient Manufacturing Act |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Restitution for the Exonerated Act
of 2009''.
SEC. 2. GRANT PROGRAM AUTHORIZED.
(a) Exoneree Services Grants Authorized.--The Attorney General may
award grants to eligible organizations to carry out programs that
provide support services to exonerees.
(b) Grant Period; Renewability.--A grant awarded under this section
shall be for a period of one year, and may be renewed for subsequent
one-year periods as the Attorney General determines to be appropriate.
(c) Supplemental Funds.--The Attorney General may provide to an
eligible organization awarded funds under a grant under subsection (a)
for a period described in subsection (b), additional funds under such
grant during such period if the Attorney General determines that the
organization has need for such additional funds, such as in the case
that the number of exonerees entering the population served by such
organization is greater than such number expected by the organization.
SEC. 3. GRANT USES.
(a) Activities.--A grant awarded under this Act to an eligible
organization shall be used only--
(1) to carry out a program that provides and coordinates
the delivery of support services for exonerees, including--
(A) employment training;
(B) vocational training;
(C) education;
(D) health care services;
(E) mental health services;
(F) housing assistance;
(G) substance abuse training;
(H) legal assistance;
(I) children and family support; and
(J) other appropriate services, as determined by
the Attorney General; and
(2) for administrative expenses necessary to carry out the
program described in paragraph (1), including staff salaries
and training.
(b) Limitations.--A grant awarded under this Act may not be used to
provide support services--
(1) to an exoneree who has not demonstrated financial need
for such services; or
(2) for a period of more than 24 months for any exoneree.
SEC. 4. APPLICATIONS.
(a) In General.--To request a grant under this Act, an eligible
organization shall submit to the Attorney General an application at
such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the
Attorney General may require. Such application shall--
(1) describe the program to be funded by the grant, and the
need for such program;
(2) describe a long-term strategy and detailed
implementation for such program;
(3) identify the governmental and community agencies with
which the program will collaborate, and that the program will
utilize to enhance exoneree services; and
(4) describe the methodology and outcome measures that will
be used to evaluate the effectiveness of such program.
(b) Application Deadlines.--The Attorney General shall solicit and
review applications for grants under this Act at least once during each
6-month period.
(c) Priority Based on Need.--In awarding grants under this Act, the
Attorney General shall give priority to eligible organizations that
serve geographic regions that have the greatest need for exoneree
support services, as determined by the Attorney General.
SEC. 5. REPORTS.
For each year in which an eligible organization receives a grant
under this Act, the eligible organization shall submit a report to the
Attorney General that describes the program carried out by the
organization with such grant, and evaluates the effectiveness of such
program during such year.
SEC. 6. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Eligible organization.--The term ``eligible
organization'' means any nonprofit organization that--
(A) has experience and expertise in coordinating
and delivering support services specific to the needs
of exonerees; or
(B) demonstrates the capacity to effectively
coordinate and deliver such support services, as
determined by the Attorney General.
(2) Exoneree.--The term ``exoneree'' means an individual
who--
(A) has been convicted by a Federal or State court
of an offense that is punishable by a term of
imprisonment that is equal to or greater than one year;
(B) has served a term of imprisonment of at least 6
months in a Federal or State prison or other
correctional facility as a result of such conviction;
and
(C) has been determined to be factually innocent of
such offense.
(3) Factually innocent.--The term ``factually innocent''
means, with respect to an individual who has been convicted of
an offense described in paragraph (2)(A), one or more of the
following has occurred:
(A) A court has issued a factual finding of
innocence.
(B) The Governor of the State in which the
individual was convicted or the President, as
applicable, has issued a pardon based on the facts of
the offense for which the individual was convicted.
(C) A court has vacated or reversed the conviction
based on legal insufficiency of the evidence or other
factual finding of actual innocence, and the Federal,
State, or local government has dismissed the accusatory
instrument.
SEC. 7. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this Act
$2,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2010 through 2014. Amounts
authorized under this section shall remain available until expended. | Restitution for the Exonerated Act of 2009 - Authorizes the Attorney General to award grants and supplemental funds to nonprofit organizations to be used only to provide support services (e.g., employment training, health care services, and legal assistance) to exonerees. Prohibits services for exonerees who have not demonstrated financial need or for a period of more than 24 months. Defines "exoneree" as an individual who has been convicted of a crime carrying a prison sentence of one year or more, has served at least six months of such prison sentence, and has been determined to be factually innocent of the crime. | To authorize grants for programs that provide support services to exonerees. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Children's Vision Improvement and
Learning Readiness Act of 2003''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds as follows:
(1) Eighty percent of what children learn is acquired
through the visual processing of information.
(2) Visual impairment is one of the 10 most common causes
of disability in America. In children, visual impairment is
associated with developmental delays and the need for special
education, vocational, and social services. At least 20 percent
of children with learning disabilities have been found to have
prominent visual information processing problems.
(3) It is estimated that more than 10,000,000 children
(from birth to age 10) suffer from vision problems, with one in
20 preschoolers and one in four school aged children affected.
(4) It is estimated that only 14 percent of children under
the age of 6 receive a comprehensive eye examination. Only one-
third of all children have had an eye examination or vision
screening prior to entering school.
SEC. 3. GRANTS REGARDING COMPREHENSIVE EYE EXAMINATIONS FOR CHILDREN.
(a) In General.--The Secretary of Health and Human Services
(referred to in this section as the ``Secretary'' may make grants to
States for the purpose of--
(1) providing comprehensive eye examinations for children
identified or considered at high risk of vision impairment,
with priority given to school-based programs for children who
are under the age of 9;
(2) providing subsequent treatment or services necessary to
correct vision problems; and
(3) developing and disseminating, to parents, teachers,
health care practitioners, and the public, educational
materials on recognizing signs of visual impairment in
children, and the State's vision improvement initiatives.
(b) Criteria and Coordination.--
(1) Criteria.--The Secretary, in consultation with
appropriate professional and consumer organizations including
individuals with knowledge of age appropriate vision services,
shall develop criteria--
(A) governing the operation of the grant program;
and
(B) for the collection of data related to vision
assessment and the utilization of followup services.
(2) Coordination.--The Secretary shall, as appropriate,
coordinate the program under subsection (a) with the program
under section 330 of the Public Health Service Act (relating to
health centers), the program under title XIX of the Social
Security Act (relating to the Medicaid program), the program
under title XXI of such Act (relating to the State children's
health insurance program), and with other Federal or State
program that provide services to children.
(c) Application.--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
information as the Secretary may require, including--
(1) information on existing Federal, Federal-State, or
State-funded children's vision screening programs;
(2) a plan for the use of grant funds, including how funds
will be used to compliment existing State efforts;
(3) a plan to determine if a grant eligible child has
received an age appropriate vision screening; and
(4) a description of how funds will be used to provide
items or services only as a secondary payer to--
(A) any State compensation program, under an
insurance policy, or under any Federal or State health
benefits program; or
(B) by any entity that provides health services on
a prepaid basis.
(d) Evaluations.--A grant may be made under subsection (a) only if
the State involved agrees that, not later than 1 year after the date on
which amounts under the grant are first received by the State, and
annually thereafter while receiving amounts under the grant, the State
will submit to the Secretary an evaluation of the operations and
activities carried out under the grant, including--
(1) an assessment of the utilization of vision services and
the status of children receiving these services as a result of
the activities carried out under the grant;
(2) the collection, analysis, and reporting of children's
vision data according to guidelines prescribed by the
Secretary; and
(3) such other information as the Secretary may require.
(e) Definition.--For purposes of this section, the term
``comprehensive eye examination'' includes an assessment of a patient's
history, general medical observation, external and ophthalmoscopic
examination, visual acuity, ocular alignment and motility, refraction,
and as appropriate, binocular vision or gross visual fields, performed
by an optometrist or an ophthalmologist.
(f) Authorization of Appropriations.--For the purpose of carrying
out this section, there are authorized to be appropriated $75,000,000
for fiscal year 2004, and such sums as may be necessary for each of
fiscal years 2005 through 2007. | Children's Vision Improvement and Learning Readiness Act of 2003 - Allows the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make grants to States for the purposes of: (1) providing comprehensive eye examinations for children identified as being at high risk of vision impairment, with priority to go to children under nine years old; (2) providing subsequent treatment or services necessary to correct vision problems; and (3) developing and disseminating educational materials with regard to the need and benefits of comprehensive eye examinations for children.Directs the Secretary to develop criteria for the collection of data related to vision assessment and the utilization of followup services.Directs the Secretary to coordinate the grant program, as appropriate, with other Federal and State programs that provide services to children. Requires a State to submit an application to the Secretary in order to receive a grant, which shall include a plan for the use of the grant.Requires a State to submit to the Secretary an annual evaluation of the operations and activities carried out under a grant. | To establish a grant program to provide comprehensive eye examinations to children, and for other purposes. |
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 25D the
following new section:
``SEC. 25E. 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 and health savings
accounts.--No credit shall be allowed under this section for
amounts paid from any Archer MSA (as defined in section 220(d))
or any health savings account (as defined in section 223(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 25D the following new
item:
``Sec. 25E. 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; 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;
(2) in subclause (III) of paragraph (2)(A)(i) (as
redesignated by this subsection), by striking ``paragraph (4)''
and inserting ``paragraph (3)''; and
(3) in paragraph (3) (as redesignated by this subsection),
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 allow a nonrefundable tax credit for 80 percent of the amount paid for a prescribed drug during the taxable year (and not compensated for by insurance or otherwise) by a taxpayer who has attained social security retirement age.
Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) to repeal provisions restricting the importation of prescription drugs. Allows a person who meets applicable legal requirements to be an importer of prescription drugs upon application to the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Requires the Secretary to approve such an application if the drug meets all FFDCA requirements for admission into the United States, including that the drug has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is not adulterated or misbranded.
Prohibits the Secretary from taking any action against any of the persons involved with the interstate sale of a prescription drug through an Internet site if: (1) the sale was made in compliance with applicable Federal and State laws; and (2) accurate information regarding compliance with such laws is posted on the Internet 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. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Dividend Taxation Elimination Act of
2003''.
SEC. 2. EXEMPTION OF DIVIDEND INCOME FROM TAX.
(a) In General.--Part III of subchapter B of chapter 1 of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to amounts specifically
excluded from gross income) is amended by inserting after section 115
the following new section:
``SEC. 116. EXCLUSION OF DIVIDENDS RECEIVED BY INDIVIDUALS.
``(a) Exclusion From Gross Income.--Gross income does not include
dividends which are otherwise includible in gross income and which are
received during the taxable year by an individual.
``(b) Limitation Before 2007.--In the case of a taxable year
beginning before January 1, 2007, the aggregate amount excluded under
subsection (a) for any taxable year shall not exceed--
``(1) $25,000 in the case of taxable years beginning during
2003,
``(2) $50,000 in the case of taxable years beginning during
2004,
``(3) $75,000 in the case of taxable years beginning during
2005, and
``(4) $100,000 in the case of taxable years beginning
during 2006.
In the case of a joint return, the preceding sentence shall be applied
by doubling each amount contained therein.
``(c) Special Rules.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) Exclusion not to apply to capital gain dividends from
regulated investment companies and real estate investment
trusts.--
``For treatment of capital gain
dividends, see sections 854(a) and 857(c).
``(2) Certain nonresident aliens ineligible for
exclusion.--In the case of a nonresident alien individual,
subsection (a) shall apply only in determining the taxes
imposed for the taxable year pursuant to sections 871(b)(1) and
877(b).
``(3) Dividends from employee stock ownership plans.--
Subsection (a) shall not apply to any dividend described in
section 404(k).
``(4) Certain dividends excluded.--Subsection (a) shall not
apply to any dividend from a corporation which for the taxable
year of the corporation in which the distribution is made is a
corporation exempt from tax under section 521 (relating to
farmers' cooperative associations).''.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Subparagraph (A) of section 32(i)(2) of such Code is
amended by inserting ``(determined without regard to section
116)'' before the comma.
(2) Subparagraph (B) of section 86(b)(2) of such Code is
amended to read as follows:
``(B) increased by the sum of--
``(i) the amount of interest received or
accrued by the taxpayer during the taxable year
which is exempt from tax, and
``(ii) the amount of dividends received
during the taxable year which are excluded from
gross income under section 116.''.
(3) Subsection (d) of section 135 of such Code is amended
by redesignating paragraph (4) as paragraph (5) and by
inserting after paragraph (3) the following new paragraph:
``(4) Coordination with section 116.--This section shall be
applied before section 116.''.
(4) Subsection (c) of section 584 of such Code is amended
by adding at the end the following new flush sentence:
``The proportionate share of each participant in the amount of
dividends received by the common trust fund and to which section 116
applies shall be considered for purposes of such section as having been
received by such participant.''.
(5) Subsection (a) of section 643 of such Code is amended
by redesignating paragraph (7) as paragraph (8) and by
inserting after paragraph (6) the following new paragraph:
``(7) Dividends.--There shall be included the amount of any
dividends excluded from gross income pursuant to section
116.''.
(6) Section 854(a) of such Code is amended by inserting
``section 116 (relating to exclusion of dividends received by
individuals) and'' after ``For purposes of''.
(7) Section 857(c) of such Code is amended to read as
follows:
``(c) Restrictions Applicable to Dividends Received From Real
Estate Investment Trusts.--
``(1) Treatment for section 116.--For purposes of section
116 (relating to exclusion of dividends received by
individuals), a capital gain dividend (as defined in subsection
(b)(3)(C)) received from a real estate investment trust which
meets the requirements of this part shall not be considered as
a dividend.
``(2) Treatment for section 243.--For purposes of section
243 (relating to deductions for dividends received by
corporations), a dividend received from a real estate
investment trust which meets the requirements of this part
shall not be considered as a dividend.''.
(8) The table of sections for part III of subchapter B of
chapter 1 of such Code is amended by inserting after the item
relating to section 115 the following new item:
``Sec. 116. Exclusion of dividends
received by individuals.''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2002. | Dividend Taxation Elimination Act of 2003 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exclude dividends from gross income, with specified exceptions. Sets forth exclusion limitations prior to 2007. | To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow individuals to exclude dividend income. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Nonappropriated Fund Equity Act''.
SEC. 2. CREDITABILITY OF SERVICE.
(a) In General.--Section 8332 of title 5, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``(p)(1) Subject to paragraph (2), upon application to the Office
of Personnel Management, any individual who is an employee or Member on
the date of the enactment of this subsection, and who has on such date
5 or more years of creditable civilian service under this section
(exclusive of service for which credit is allowed under this
subsection) shall be allowed credit for service performed, after
December 31, 1965, and before January 1, 1987, as an employee described
in section 2105(c).
``(2)(A) An employee or Member may, with respect to any period of
service for which such employee or Member is allowed credit under this
subsection, deposit to the credit of the Fund an amount equal to the
deductions from basic pay which would have been required under section
8334(a) if such service were service as an employee.
``(B) An employee or Member who makes the deposit described in
subparagraph (A) shall be allowed full retirement credit for the period
of service involved.
``(C) If an employee or Member does not make the deposit or makes
less than the full amount of the deposit described in subparagraph (A),
retirement credit shall be allowed, but the resulting annuity shall be
reduced in a manner similar to the method provided under section
8339(j)(3) to make up the amount of any deposit described in the second
sentence thereof. In no event shall the application of this
subparagraph cause an annuity to be less than it would have been if
this subsection had not been enacted.
``(D) For the purpose of survivor annuities, any deposit authorized
by subparagraph (A) may also be made by a survivor of an employee or
Member.
``(3) The Office shall accept the certification of the appropriate
Secretary or his designee concerning the service of, and the amount of
compensation received by, an employee or Member with respect to which
credit is sought under this subsection. For purposes of the preceding
sentence, the `appropriate Secretary' is--
``(A) the Secretary of Defense, to the extent that service
in or under the Department of Defense is involved; and
``(B) the Secretary of Transportation, to the extent that
service in or under the Coast Guard is involved.
``(4) An individual receiving credit for service for any period
under this subsection shall not be granted credit for such service
under any retirement system for employees of a nonappropriated fund
instrumentality.
``(5) An application for retirement credit under this subsection
may be submitted no later than 2 years after the effective date of the
regulations prescribed by the Office to carry out this subsection.''.
(b) Regulations.--The Office of Personnel Management shall
prescribe regulations to carry out this Act and the amendment made by
subsection (a). Such regulations--
(1) shall take effect not later than 12 months after the
date of the enactment of this Act; and
(2) shall include provisions to provide for the application
of such amendment in the case of--
(A) any employee or Member (as defined by the
following sentence) who, upon separation (at the time
described in paragraph (1) or (2) of subsection (c)),
would otherwise be entitled to an annuity under chapter
84 of title 5, United States Code, that is partially
computed under subchapter III of chapter 83 of such
title; and
(B) any survivor of an employee or Member described
in subparagraph (A).
For purposes of this subsection, the terms ``employee'', ``Member'',
and ``survivor'' have the meanings set forth in section 8401 of such
title 5.
(c) Applicability.--
(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2), the
amendment made by subsection (a) shall apply only in the case
of any annuity entitlement which is based on a separation from
service occurring on or after the effective date of the
regulations prescribed under subsection (b).
(2) Limited exception for annuities based on separations
occurring after date of enactment and before effective date of
implementing regulations.--
(A) Recomputation requirement.--In the case of any
individual--
(i) who is entitled to an annuity
entitlement to which is based on a separation
from service occurring after the date of the
enactment of this Act and before the effective
date of the regulations prescribed under
subsection (b), and
(ii) whose annuity would be increased by
the application of section 8332(p) of title 5,
United States Code (as amended by subsection
(a)),
the Office of Personnel Management shall, upon receipt of an
appropriate application submitted before the deadline specified
in section 8332(p)(5) of such title 5 (as so amended),
recompute the amount of such annuity so as to take such section
8332(p) into account. In carrying out the preceding sentence,
any deposit timely made shall be treated as if it had been made
before the commencement date of the annuity involved.
(B) No payment for any earlier periods.--Any change
in an annuity resulting from a recomputation under
subparagraph (A) shall be payable only with respect to
amounts accruing for months beginning after the date on
which the application (referred to in subparagraph (A))
is received.
SEC. 3. NOTIFICATION AND ASSISTANCE.
(a) Notification.--The Office of Personnel Management shall take
such measures as it considers appropriate to inform individuals
entitled to have any service credited under section 8332(p) of title 5,
United States Code (as amended by section 2(a)), or to have any amounts
recomputed under section 2(c)(2), of their entitlement to such credit
or recomputation.
(b) Assistance From the Office of Personnel Management.--The Office
of Personnel Management shall, on request, assist any individual
referred to in subsection (a) in obtaining from any department, agency,
or other instrumentality of the United States such information in the
possession of such instrumentality as may be necessary to verify the
entitlement of such individual to have any service credited under
section 8332(p) of title 5, United States Code (as amended by section
2(a)) or to have any amounts recomputed under section 2(c)(2).
(c) Assistance From Other Agencies.--Any department, agency, or
other instrumentality of the United States which possesses any
information with respect to any service of an individual described in
section 8332(p) of title 5, United States Code (as amended by section
2(a)) shall--
(1) at the request of such individual (or an appropriate
survivor), furnish such information to that individual (or
survivor); and
(2) at the request of the Office of Personnel Management,
furnish such information to the Office. | Nonappropriated Fund Equity Act - Allows a federal employee or Member of Congress who has five or more years of creditable civilian service for purposes of civil service retirement on the date of enactment of this Act to receive credit for service performed as an employee of a nonappropriated fund instrumentality after December 31, 1965, and before January 1, 1987. | To amend subchapter III of chapter 83 of title 5, United States Code, to make service performed as an employee of a nonappropriated fund instrumentality after 1965 and before 1987 creditable for retirement purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Charitable Giving Partnership Act''.
SEC. 2. ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES.
Section 105(a) of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974
(42 U.S.C. 5305(a)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (23), by striking the period at the end
and inserting a semicolon; and
(2) by inserting after paragraph (23) the following new
paragraph:
``(24) to the extent only that amounts for a State are
available under section 106(d)(8) for use under this paragraph,
payment to the State to supplant general revenue losses
incurred by the State under a State law that provides, in the
case of an individual, for a credit against State income tax
imposed for contributions made in cash by individuals to any
organization--
``(A) that is described in section 501(c)(3) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986;
``(B) that is exempt from tax under section 501(a)
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986;
``(C) that is organized under the laws of the
United States or of any State in which the organization
is qualified to operate;
``(D) that is required, or elects to be treated as
being required, to file returns under section 6033 of
the Internal Revenue Code of 1986;
``(E) whose predominant activity is--
``(i) the provision of direct services to
individuals whose annual incomes generally do
not exceed 185 percent of the official poverty
line (as defined by the Office of Management
and Budget); or
``(ii) the provision of--
``(I) temporary donations of food
or meals, or
``(II) temporary shelter to
homeless individuals,
if the location and operation of such services
are such that the service provider may
reasonably conclude that the beneficiaries of
such services are predominantly individuals
described in clause (i);
``(F) for which all annual expenditures of the
organization are used to provide the direct services
referred to in subparagraph (E), except that 10 percent
or less of the annual aggregate expenditures of the
organization may be administrative expenditures in
support of direct services referred to in subparagraph
(E) or expenditures for purposes of fundraising on
behalf of the organization providing direct services
referred to in subparagraph (E); and
``(G) that does not engage in activity for the
purpose of influencing legislation, litigation on
behalf of any individual referred to in subparagraph
(E), voter registration, political organizing, public
policy advocacy, or public policy research; and''.
SEC. 3. USE OF STATE AMOUNTS FOR NONENTITLEMENT AREAS.
Section 106(d) of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974
(42 U.S.C. 5306(d)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (2)--
(A) in subparagraph (A)--
(i) in the matter preceding clause (i), by
striking ``Amounts allocated under paragraph
(1)'' and inserting the following: ``Any
amounts allocated under paragraph (1) for a
State that remain after amounts are made
available for use under paragraph (8)''; and
(ii) in clause (i), by striking ``a State
that'' and inserting ``the State, if the
State'';
(B) by striking subparagraph (B) and inserting the
following new subparagraph:
``(B) If a State has not elected to distribute the amounts
allocated under paragraph (1) for the State that remain after amounts
are made available for use under paragraph (8), the Secretary shall
distribute such amounts.''; and
(C) in subparagraphs (C) and (D), by striking
``under paragraph (1)'' each place it appears and
inserting the following: ``for the State under
paragraph (1) that remain after amounts are made
available for use under paragraph (8)'';
(2) in paragraph (5) (as added by section 811 of the
Housing and Community Development Act of 1992 (Public Law 102-
550; 106 Stat. 3850)), by striking ``distribution in
nonentitlement areas'' and inserting ``use under this
subsection'';
(3) by redesignating the second paragraph designated as
paragraph (5) (as added by section 106(i) of the Housing and
Urban-Rural Recovery Act of 1983 (97 Stat. 1166)) and paragraph
(6) as paragraphs (6) and (7), respectively; and
(4) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(8) Of any amounts allocated under paragraph (1) for a State for
any fiscal year, the State may use not more than 25 percent of such
amounts for the activity under section 105(a)(24), and the remainder of
the amounts shall be distributed in accordance with this subsection. In
the case of a State described in paragraph (2)(B), the Secretary shall
make such amounts available to the State upon a determination that the
use of such amounts complies with the requirements under section
105(a)(24) and this title.''.
SEC. 4. STATEMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES.
Section 104(a)(1) is amended by adding at the end the following new
sentence: ``In the case of any State receiving amounts pursuant to
section 106(d)(8), the statement of projected uses of funds shall
include a statement of the proposed eligible activity under section
105(a)(24) for which the amounts will be used and the percentage of the
allocation for the State under section 106(d)(1) to be used for such
activity.''. | Charitable Giving Partnership Act - Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to authorize the use of specified community development block grant amounts provided for non-metropolitan or non-urban areas to supplant State revenues lost under a State income tax credit for contributions to certain organizations providing assistance to low-income or homeless persons. | Charitable Giving Partnership Act |
SECTION 1. REVISION OF TAX TREATMENT OF DERIVATIVE TRANSACTIONS ENTERED
INTO BY A CORPORATION WITH RESPECT TO ITS STOCK.
(a) In General.--Section 1032 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
(relating to exchange of stock for property) is amended to read as
follows:
``SEC. 1032. TRANSACTIONS BY A CORPORATION WITH RESPECT TO ITS STOCK.
``(a) Nonrecognition of Gain or Loss.--No gain or loss shall be
recognized to a corporation on the receipt of property (including
money) or services in exchange for stock of such corporation.
``(b) Treatment of Derivative Transactions.--
``(1) Nonrecognition treatment.--
``(A) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph
(2), section 1032 derivative items of a corporation
shall not be taken into account in determining such
corporation's liability for tax under this subtitle.
``(B) Section 1032 derivative items.--For purposes
of subparagraph (A), the term `section 1032 derivative
item' means any item of income, gain, loss, or
deduction if--
``(i) such item arises out of the rights or
obligations under any option or forward or
futures contract to the extent such option or
contract relates to the corporation's stock (or
is attributable to any transfer or
extinguishment of any such right or
obligation), or
``(ii) such item arises under any other
contract or position but only to the extent
that such item reflects (or is determined by
reference to) changes in the value of such
stock or distributions thereon.
Such term shall not include any deduction allowable
under section 83 or under section 163 and shall not
include any deduction for any item which is in the
nature of compensation for services rendered. For
purposes of this subparagraph, de minimis relationships
shall be disregarded.
``(2) Income recognition on certain forward contracts.--
``(A) In general.--If--
``(i) a corporation acquires its stock, and
``(ii) such acquisition is part of a plan
(or series of related transactions) pursuant to
which the corporation enters into a forward
contract with respect to its stock,
such corporation shall include amounts in income as if
the excess of the amount to be received under the
forward contract over the fair market value of the
stock as of the date the corporation entered into the
forward contract were original issue discount on a debt
instrument acquired on such date. The preceding
sentence shall apply only to the extent that the amount
of stock involved in the forward contract does not
exceed the amount acquired as described in clause (i).
``(B) Plan presumed to exist.--If a corporation
enters into a forward contract with respect to its
stock within the 60-day period beginning on the date
which is 30 days before the date that the corporation
acquires its stock, such acquisition shall be treated
as pursuant to a plan described in subparagraph (A)(ii)
unless it is established that entering into such
contract and such acquisition are not pursuant to a
plan or series of related transactions.
``(C) Forward contract.--The term `forward
contract' has the meaning given to such term by section
1259(d)(1); except that such term shall include any
transactions or series of related transactions having
the same effect as a forward contract (as so defined).
``(c) Treasury Stock Treated as Stock.--Any reference in this
section to stock shall be treated as including a reference to treasury
stock.
``(d) Regulations.--The Secretary shall prescribe such regulations
as may be appropriate to carry out the purposes of this section,
including regulations which treat the portion of an instrument which is
described in subsection (b) separately from the portion of such
instrument which is not so described.
``(e) Basis.--For basis of property acquired by a corporation in
certain exchanges for its stock, see section 362.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The item relating to section 1032 in the
table of sections for part III of subchapter O of chapter 1 of such
Code is amended to read as follows:
``Sec. 1032. Transactions by a
corporation with respect to its
stock.''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to transactions entered into after the date of the enactment of
this Act. | Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise the tax treatment of derivative transactions entered into by a corporation with respect to its stock.Provides for nonrecognition of derivative gain, loss, or deduction items (as defined by this Act). Excepts certain forward contracts from such treatment. | To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to revise the tax treatment of derivative transactions entered into by a corporation with respect to its stock. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Energy Efficiency Investment Act of
2005''.
SEC. 2. CREDIT FOR CERTAIN ENERGY EFFICIENT PROPERTY IN RESIDENCES AND
BUSINESSES.
(a) In General.--Subpart B of part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by inserting after
section 30A the following new section:
``SEC. 30B. CERTAIN ENERGY EFFICIENT PROPERTY IN RESIDENCES AND
BUSINESSES.
``(a) Allowance of Credit.--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 amount paid or incurred by the taxpayer for
qualified energy property placed in service or installed by the
taxpayer during such taxable year.
``(b) Qualified Energy Property.--For purposes of this section, the
term `qualified energy property' means any property--
``(1) which is--
``(A) an energy efficient building envelope
component which is Energy Star qualified, and
``(B) any energy efficient heating or cooling
equipment (including boilers) which is Energy Star
qualified,
``(2) which, in the case of an individual, is installed in
or on an existing residence--
``(A) located in the United States, and
``(B) owned and used by the taxpayer as the
taxpayer's principal residence at the time the property
is placed in service or installed,
``(3) the original use of which commences with the
taxpayer, and
``(4) which has a useful life of at least 5 years.
``(c) Other Definitions.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) Building envelope component.--The term `building
envelope component' shall have the same meaning as set forth in
section 434.201 of title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
``(2) Principal residence.--The term `principal residence'
shall have the same meaning as when used in section 121.
``(3) Energy star qualified.--The term `Energy Star
qualified' means property which--
``(A) meets the guidelines, specifications, and
performance levels of the Energy Star program jointly
managed by the Environmental Protection Agency and the
Department of Energy, including guidelines,
specifications, and performance levels for the climate
region in which a residence is located, and
``(B) displays the Energy Star label at the time
the property is placed in service or installed.
``(d) Limitation Based on Amount of Tax.--
``(1) In general.--The credit allowed under subsection (a)
for any taxable year shall not exceed the excess of--
``(A) the sum of the regular tax liability (as
defined in section 26(b)) plus the tax imposed by
section 55, over
``(B) the sum of the credits allowable under this
part (other than under this section and subpart C
thereof, relating to refundable credits) and section
1397E.
``(2) Carryover of unused credit.--If the credit allowable
under subsection (a) exceeds the limitation imposed by
paragraph (1) for such taxable year, such excess shall be
carried to the succeeding taxable year and added to the credit
allowable under subsection (a) for such taxable year.
``(e) Special Rules.--For purposes of this section:
``(1) Tenant-stockholder in cooperative housing
corporation.--In the case of an individual who is a tenant-
stockholder (as defined in section 216(b)(2)) in a cooperative
housing corporation (as defined in section 216(b)(1)), such
individual shall be treated as having paid his tenant-
stockholder's proportionate share (as defined in section
216(b)(3)) of any expenditures paid or incurred for qualified
energy property by such corporation, and such credit shall be
allocated appropriately to such individual.
``(2) Condominiums.--
``(A) In general.--In the case of an individual who
is a member of a condominium management association
with respect to a condominium which he owns, such
individual shall be treated as having paid his
proportionate share of expenditures paid or incurred
for qualified energy property by such association, and
such credit shall be allocated appropriately to such
individual.
``(B) Condominium management association.--For
purposes of this paragraph, the term `condominium
management association' means an organization which
meets the requirements of section 528(c)(2) with
respect to a condominium project of which substantially
all of the units are used by individuals as residences.
``(3) Expenditures for labor included.--For purposes of
this section, the amount paid or incurred by the taxpayer for
qualified energy property shall also include expenditures for
labor costs properly allocable to the onsite preparation,
assembly, and installation of such property.
``(4) Allocation to nonbusiness use in certain cases.--In
the case of an individual, if less than 80 percent of the use
of qualified energy property placed in service or installed is
for nonbusiness purposes, only that portion of the expenditure
paid or incurred for such property which is properly allocable
to use for nonbusiness purposes shall be eligible for the
credit provided by this section.
``(f) Basis Adjustment.--For purposes of this subtitle, if a credit
is allowed under this section for any expenditure with respect to a
residence or other property, the basis of such residence or other
property shall be reduced by the amount of the credit so allowed.
``(g) Applicability.--Subsection (a) shall apply to qualified
energy property placed in service or installed after December 31,
2004.''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--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 or other property with
respect to which a credit was allowed under section 30B, to the
extent provided in section 30B(f).''.
(c) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for subpart B of
part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1 of such Code is amended by
inserting after the item relating to section 30A the following new
item:
``Sec. 30B. Certain energy efficient property in residences and
businesses.''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years ending after December 31, 2004. | Energy Efficiency Investment Act of 2005 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a tax credit for up to 25 percent of the cost of certain energy efficient property installed in business and residential properties. | To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow a credit against income tax for certain energy efficient property placed in service or installed in an existing principal residence or property used by businesses. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Senior Citizen Protection Act of
1993''.
SEC. 2. IMPROVEMENT AND CLARIFICATION OF PROVISIONS PROHIBITING MISUSE
OF SYMBOLS, EMBLEMS, OR NAMES IN REFERENCE TO SOCIAL
SECURITY PROGRAMS AND AGENCIES.
(a) Addition to Prohibited Words, Letters, Symbols, and Emblems.--
Section 1140(a) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1320b-10(a)) is
amended--
(1) in paragraph (1), by striking ``Administration', the
letters `SSA' or `HCFA','' and inserting ``Administration',
`Department of Health and Human Services', `Health and Human
Services', `Supplemental Security Income Program', or
`Medicaid', the letters `SSA', `HCFA', `DHHS', `HHS', or
`SSI',''; and
(2) in paragraph (2), by striking ``Social Security
Administration'' each place it appears and inserting ``Social
Security Administration, Health Care Financing Administration,
or Department of Health and Human Services'', and by striking
``or of the Health Care Financing Administration''.
(b) Exemption for Use of Words, Letters, Symbols, and Emblems of
State and Local Government Agencies by Such Agencies.--Section 1140(a)
of such Act is further amended by adding at the end the following new
sentence: ``The preceding provisions of this subsection shall not apply
with respect to the use by any agency or instrumentality of a State or
political subdivision of a State of any words or letters which identify
an agency or instrumentality of such State or of a political
subdivision of such State or the use by any such agency or
instrumentality of any symbol or emblem of an agency or instrumentality
of such State or a political subdivision of such State.''.
(c) Inclusion of Reasonableness Standard.--Section 1140(a) of such
Act (as amended by the preceding provisions of this section) is further
amended, in the matter following paragraph (2), by striking ``convey''
and inserting ``convey, or in a manner which reasonably could be
interpreted or construed as conveying,''.
(d) Ineffectiveness of Disclaimers.--Subsection (a) of section 1140
of such Act (as amended by the preceding provisions of this section) is
further amended--
(1) by redesignating paragraphs (1) and (2) as
subparagraphs (A) and (B), respectively;
(2) by inserting ``(1)'' after ``(a)''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(2) Any determination of whether the use of one or more words,
letters, symbols, or emblems (or any combination or variation thereof)
in connection with an item described in paragraph (1) or the
reproduction, reprinting, or distribution of an item described in
paragraph (2) is a violation of this subsection shall be made without
regard to any inclusion in such item (or any so reproduced, reprinted,
or distributed copy thereof) of a disclaimer of affiliation with the
United States Government or any particular agency or instrumentality
thereof.''.
(e) Violations with Respect to Individual Items.--Section
1140(b)(1) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 1320b-10(b)(1)) is amended by adding
at the end the following new sentence: ``In the case of any items
referred to in subsection (a)(1) consisting of pieces of mail, each
such piece of mail which contains one or more words, letters, symbols,
or emblems in violation of subsection (a) shall represent a separate
violation.''.
(f) Elimination of Cap on Aggregate Liability Amount.--
(1) Repeal.--Paragraph (2) of section 1140(b) of such Act
(42 U.S.C. 1320b-10(b)(2)) is repealed.
(2) Conforming amendments.--Section 1140(b) of such Act (42
U.S.C. 1320b-10(b)) is further amended--
(A) by striking ``(1) Subject to paragraph (2),
the'' and inserting ``The'';
(B) by redesignating subparagraphs (A) and (B) as
paragraphs (1) and (2), respectively; and
(C) in paragraph (1) (as redesignated), by striking
``subparagraph (B)'' and inserting ``paragraph (2)''.
(g) Removal of Formal Declination Requirement.--Section 1140(c)(1)
of such Act (42 U.S.C. 1320b-10(c)(1)) is amended by inserting ``and
the first sentence of subsection (c)'' after ``and (i)''.
(h) Penalties Relating to Social Security Administration Deposited
in OASI Trust Fund.--Section 1140(c)(2) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 1320b-
10(c)(2)) is amended in the second sentence by striking ``United
States.'' and inserting ``United States, except that, to the extent
that such amounts are recovered under this section as penalties imposed
for misuse of words, letters, symbols, or emblems relating to the
Social Security Administration, such amounts shall be deposited into
the Federal Old-Age and Survivor's Insurance Trust Fund.''.
(i) Annual Reports.--Section 1140 of such Act (42 U.S.C. 1320b-10)
is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(d) The Secretary shall include in the annual report submitted
pursuant to section 704 a report on the operation of this section
during the year covered by such annual report. Such report shall
specify--
``(1) the number of complaints of violations of this
section received by the Social Security Administration during
the year,
``(2) the number of cases in which a notice of violation of
this section was sent by the Social Security Administration
during the year requesting that an individual cease activities
in violation of this section,
``(3) the number of complaints of violations of this
section referred by the Social Security Administration to the
Inspector General in the Department of Health and Human
Services during the year,
``(4) the number of investigations of violations of this
section undertaken by the Inspector General during the year,
``(5) the number of cases in which a demand letter was sent
during the year assessing a civil money penalty under this
section,
``(6) the total amount of civil money penalties assessed
under this section during the year,
``(7) the number of requests for hearings filed during the
year pursuant to sections 1140(c)(1) and 1128A(c)(2),
``(8) the disposition during such year of hearings filed
pursuant to sections 1140(c)(1) and 1128A(c)(2), and
``(9) the total amount of civil money penalties under this
section deposited into the Federal Old-Age and Survivors
Insurance Trust Fund during the year.''.
(j) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply with respect to violations occurring after the date of the
enactment of this Act. | Senior Citizen Protection Act of 1993 - Amends title XI of the Social Security Act to revise the prohibitions and penalties against misleading mailings.
Requires penalties relating to misleading mailings to be deposited in the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund.
Requires annual reports to the Congress with respect to prohibition violations and associated penalties. | Senior Citizen Protection Act of 1993 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Open Book on Equal Access to Justice
Act''.
SEC. 2. MODIFICATION OF EQUAL ACCESS TO JUSTICE PROVISIONS.
(a) Agency Proceedings.--Section 504 of title 5, United States
Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (c)(1), by striking ``, United States
Code'';
(2) by redesignating subsection (f) as subsection (i); and
(3) by striking subsection (e) and inserting the following:
``(e)(1) The Chairman of the Administrative Conference of the
United States, after consultation with the Chief Counsel for Advocacy
of the Small Business Administration, shall report to the Congress, not
later than March 31 of each year through the sixth calendar year
beginning after the initial report under this subsection is submitted,
on the amount of fees and other expenses awarded during the preceding
fiscal year pursuant to this section. The report shall describe the
number, nature, and amount of the awards, the claims involved in the
controversy, and any other relevant information that may aid the
Congress in evaluating the scope and impact of such awards. The report
shall be made available to the public online.
``(2)(A) The report required by paragraph (1) shall account for all
payments of fees and other expenses awarded under this section that are
made pursuant to a settlement agreement, regardless of whether the
settlement agreement is sealed or otherwise subject to nondisclosure
provisions.
``(B) The disclosure of fees and other expenses required under
subparagraph (A) does not affect any other information that is subject
to nondisclosure provisions in the settlement agreement.
``(f) The Chairman of the Administrative Conference shall create
and maintain, during the period beginning on the date the initial
report under subsection (e) is submitted and ending 1 year after the
date on which the final report under that subsection is submitted,
online a searchable database containing the following information with
respect to each award of fees and other expenses under this section:
``(1) The case name and number of the adversary
adjudication, if available.
``(2) The name of the agency involved in the adversary
adjudication.
``(3) A description of the claims in the adversary
adjudication.
``(4) The name of each party to whom the award was made, as
such party is identified in the order or other agency document
making the award.
``(5) The amount of the award.
``(6) The basis for the finding that the position of the
agency concerned was not substantially justified.
``(g) The online searchable database described in subsection (f)
may not reveal any information the disclosure of which is prohibited by
law or court order.
``(h) The head of each agency shall provide to the Chairman of the
Administrative Conference in a timely manner all information requested
by the Chairman to comply with the requirements of subsections (e),
(f), and (g).''.
(b) Court Cases.--Section 2412(d) of title 28, United States Code,
is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(5)(A) The Chairman of the Administrative Conference of the
United States shall submit to the Congress, not later than March 31 of
each year through the sixth calendar year beginning after the initial
report under this paragraph is submitted, a report on the amount of
fees and other expenses awarded during the preceding fiscal year
pursuant to this subsection. The report shall describe the number,
nature, and amount of the awards, the claims involved in each
controversy, and any other relevant information that may aid the
Congress in evaluating the scope and impact of such awards. The report
shall be made available to the public online.
``(B)(i) The report required by subparagraph (A) shall account for
all payments of fees and other expenses awarded under this subsection
that are made pursuant to a settlement agreement, regardless of whether
the settlement agreement is sealed or otherwise subject to
nondisclosure provisions.
``(ii) The disclosure of fees and other expenses required under
clause (i) does not affect any other information that is subject to
nondisclosure provisions in the settlement agreement.
``(C) The Chairman of the Administrative Conference shall include
and clearly identify in the annual report under subparagraph (A), for
each case in which an award of fees and other expenses is included in
the report--
``(i) any amounts paid from section 1304 of title 31 for a
judgment in the case;
``(ii) the amount of the award of fees and other expenses;
and
``(iii) the statute under which the plaintiff filed suit.
``(6) The Chairman of the Administrative Conference shall create
and maintain, during the period beginning on the date the initial
report under paragraph (5) is submitted and ending 1 year after the
date on which the final report under that paragraph is submitted,
online a searchable database containing the following information with
respect to each award of fees and other expenses under this subsection:
``(A) The case name and number.
``(B) The name of the agency involved in the case.
``(C) The name of each party to whom the award was made, as
such party is identified in the order or other court document
making the award.
``(D) A description of the claims in the case.
``(E) The amount of the award.
``(F) The basis for the finding that the position of the
agency concerned was not substantially justified.
``(7) The online searchable database described in paragraph (6) may
not reveal any information the disclosure of which is prohibited by law
or court order.
``(8) The head of each agency (including the Attorney General of
the United States) shall provide to the Chairman of the Administrative
Conference of the United States in a timely manner all information
requested by the Chairman to comply with the requirements of paragraphs
(5), (6), and (7).''.
(c) Clerical Amendments.--Section 2412 of title 28, United States
Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (d)(3), by striking ``United States
Code,''; and
(2) in subsection (e)--
(A) by striking ``of section 2412 of title 28,
United States Code,'' and inserting ``of this
section''; and
(B) by striking ``of such title'' and inserting
``of this title''.
(d) Effective Date.--
(1) In general.--The amendments made by subsections (a) and
(b) shall first apply with respect to awards of fees and other
expenses that are made on or after the date of the enactment of
this Act.
(2) Initial reports.--The first reports required by section
504(e) of title 5, United States Code, and section 2412(d)(5)
of title 28, United States Code, shall be submitted not later
than March 31 of the calendar year following the first calendar
year in which a fiscal year begins after the date of the
enactment of this Act.
(3) Online databases.--The online databases required by
section 504(f) of title 5, United States Code, and section
2412(d)(6) of title 28, United States Code, shall be
established as soon as practicable after the date of the
enactment of this Act, but in no case later than the date on
which the first reports under section 504(e) of title 5, United
States Code, and section 2412(d)(5) of title 28, United States
Code, are required to be submitted under paragraph (2) of this
subsection.
Passed the House of Representatives November 30, 2015.
Attest:
KAREN L. HAAS,
Clerk. | Open Book on Equal Access to Justice Act (Sec. 2) This bill amends the Equal Access to Justice Act and the federal judicial code to require the Administrative Conference of the United States to report to Congress annually for a specified period on the amount of fees and other expenses awarded to prevailing parties other than the United States in certain administrative proceedings and civil action court cases (excluding tort cases) to which the United States is a party, including settlement agreements. The reports must: (1) describe the number, nature, and amount of the awards, the claims involved in the controversy, and any other relevant information that may aid Congress in evaluating the scope and impact of such awards; and (2) be made available to the public online. The Administrative Conference must create and maintain online searchable databases containing specified information with respect to each award, including the name of the agency involved, the name of each party to whom the award was made, the amount of the award, and the basis for finding that the position of the agency concerned was not substantially justified. Agencies, including the Department of Justice, must provide the Administrative Conference all information requested to comply with such requirements. | Open Book on Equal Access to Justice Act |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``First Flight Commemorative Coin Act
of 1997''.
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:
(1) $10 gold coins.--Not more than 500,000 $10 coins, each
of which shall--
(A) weigh 16.718 grams;
(B) have a diameter of 1.06 inches; and
(C) contain 90 percent gold and 10 percent alloy.
(2) $1 silver coins.--Not more than 3,000,000 $1 coins,
each of 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 10,000,000 half
dollar coins each of 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) Reduced Amounts.--If the Secretary determines that there is
clear evidence of insufficient public demand for coins minted under
this Act, the Secretary of the Treasury may reduce the maximum amounts
specified in paragraphs (1), (2), and (3) of subsection (a).
(c) Legal Tender.--The coins minted under this Act shall be legal
tender, as provided in section 5103 of title 31, United States Code.
SEC. 3. SOURCES OF BULLION.
The Secretary shall obtain gold and silver for minting coins under
this Act pursuant to the authority of the Secretary under other
provisions of law, including authority relating to the use of silver
stockpiles established under the Strategic and Critical Materials
Stockpiling Act, as applicable.
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 first flight of Orville and
Wilbur Wright in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, on December 17,
1903.
(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 ``2003''; and
(C) inscriptions of the words ``Liberty'', ``In God
We Trust'', ``United States of America'', and ``E
Pluribus Unum''.
(b) Selection.--The design for the coins minted under this Act
shall be--
(1) selected by the Secretary after consultation with the
Board of Directors of the First Flight Foundation and the
Commission of Fine Arts; and
(2) reviewed by the Citizens Commemorative Coin Advisory
Committee.
SEC. 5. PERIOD FOR ISSUANCE OF COINS.
(a) In General.--Except as provided in subsection (b), the
Secretary may issue coins minted under this Act only during the period
beginning on August 1, 2003, and ending on July 31, 2004.
(b) Exception.--If the Secretary determines that there is
sufficient public demand for the coins minted under section 2(a)(3),
the Secretary may extend the period of issuance under subsection (a)
for a period of 5 years with respect to those coins.
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) $35 per coin for the $10 coin;
(2) $10 per coin for the $1 coin; and
(3) $1 per coin for the half dollar coin.
(e) Marketing Expenses.--The Secretary shall ensure that--
(1) a plan is established for marketing the coins minted
under this Act; and
(2) adequate funds are made available to cover the costs of
carrying out that marketing plan.
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 to the First Flight Foundation for the purposes of--
(1) repairing, refurbishing, and maintaining the Wright
Brothers Monument on the Outer Banks of North Carolina; and
(2) expanding (or, if necessary, replacing) and maintaining
the visitor center and other facilities at the Wright Brothers
National Memorial Park on the Outer Banks of North Carolina,
including providing educational programs and exhibits for
visitors.
(b) Audits.--The Comptroller General of the United States shall
have the right to examine such books, records, documents, and other
data of the First Flight Foundation as may be related to the
expenditures of amounts paid under subsection (a).
SEC. 9. FINANCIAL ASSURANCES.
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.
SEC. 10. WAIVER OF COIN PROGRAM RESTRICTIONS.
The provisions of section 5112(m) of title 31, United States Code,
do not apply to the coins minted and issued under this Act. | First Flight Commemorative Coin Act of 1997 - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue for a limited period ten-dollar gold coins, one-dollar silver coins, and half-dollar clad coins emblematic of the first flight of Orville and Wilbur Wright in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.
Instructs the Secretary to ensure: (1) establishment of a coin marketing plan; and (2) availability of adequate funds to cover the costs of implementing such plan. | First Flight Commemorative Coin Act of 1997 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``SAFE-ID Act'' or the ``SAFE-ID
Act''.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
As used in this Act, the following definitions shall apply:
(1) Business enterprise.--The term ``business enterprise''
means any organization, association, or venture established to
make a profit.
(2) Country with adequate privacy protection.--The term
``country with adequate privacy protection'' means a country
that has been certified by the Federal Trade Commission as
having a legal system that provides adequate privacy protection
for personally identifiable information.
(3) Health care business.--The term ``health care
business'' means any business enterprise or private, nonprofit
organization that collects or retains personally identifiable
information about consumers in relation to medical care,
including--
(A) hospitals;
(B) health maintenance organizations;
(C) medical partnerships;
(D) emergency medical transportation companies;
(E) medical transcription companies;
(F) banks that collect or process medical billing
information; and
(G) subcontractors, or potential subcontractors, of
the entities described in subparagraphs (A) through
(F).
(4) Personally identifiable information.--The term
``personally identifiable information'' includes, but is not
limited to, information such as--
(A) name;
(B) postal address;
(C) financial information;
(D) medical records;
(E) date of birth;
(F) phone number;
(G) e-mail address;
(H) social security number;
(I) mother's maiden name;
(J) password;
(K) state identification information; and
(L) driver's license number.
SEC. 3. TRANSMISSION OF INFORMATION.
(a) In General.--A business enterprise may transmit personally
identifiable information regarding a citizen of the United States to
any foreign affiliate or subcontractor located in a country that is a
country with adequate privacy protection.
(b) Consent Required.--A business enterprise may not transmit
personally identifiable information regarding a citizen of the United
States to any foreign affiliate or subcontractor located in a country
that is a country without adequate privacy protection unless--
(1) the business enterprise discloses to the citizen that
the country to which the information will be transmitted does
not have adequate privacy protection;
(2) the business enterprise obtains consent from the
citizen, before a consumer relationship is established or
before the effective date of this Act, to transmit such
information to such foreign affiliate or subcontractor; and
(3) the consent referred to in paragraph (2) is renewed by
the citizen within 1 year before such information is
transmitted.
(c) Liability.--A business enterprise shall be liable for any
damages arising from the improper storage, duplication, sharing, or
other misuse of personally identifiable information by the business
enterprise or by any of its foreign affiliates or subcontractors that
received such information from the business enterprise.
(d) Rulemaking.--The Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission shall
promulgate regulations through which the Chairman may enforce the
provisions of this section and impose a fine for a violation of this
section.
SEC. 4. HEALTH CARE INFORMATION.
(a) In General.--A health care business shall be liable for any
damages arising from the improper storage, duplication, sharing, or
other misuse of personally identifiable information by the business
enterprise or by any of its foreign affiliates or subcontractors that
received such information from the business enterprise.
(b) No Opt Out Provision.--A health care business may not terminate
an existing relationship with a consumer of health care services to
avoid the consent requirement under section 3(b).
(c) Rulemaking.--The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall
promulgate regulations through which the Secretary may enforce the
provisions of this section and impose a fine for the violation of this
section.
SEC. 5. CERTIFICATION.
(a) In General.--Not later than 6 months after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Federal Trade Commission shall--
(1) certify those countries that have legal systems that
provide adequate privacy protection for personally identifiable
information; and
(2) make the list of countries certified under paragraph
(1) available to the general public.
(b) Certification Criteria.--In determining whether a country
should be certified under this section, the Federal Trade Commission
shall consider the adequacy of the country's infrastructure for
detecting, evaluating, and responding to privacy violations.
(c) European Union Data Protection Directive.--A country that has
comprehensive privacy laws that meet the requirements of the European
Union Data Protection Directive shall be certified under this section
unless the Federal Trade Commission determines that such laws are not
commonly enforced within such country.
SEC. 6. EFFECTIVE DATE.
This Act shall take effect on the expiration of the date which is
90 days after the date of enactment of this Act. | SAFE-ID Act - Authorizes a business to transmit personally identifiable information regarding a U.S. citizen to any foreign affiliate or subcontractor located in a country certified by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) as having adequate privacy protection for such information. Prohibits such business from transmitting such information to an affiliate or subcontractor in a country without such privacy protection unless: (1) the business discloses to the citizen that the country does not have such privacy protection; (2) the business obtains the citizen's consent to transmit such information; and (3) the consent is renewed by the citizen within one year before the information is transmitted. Provides liability for businesses improperly transmitting such information.
Makes any business or organization that collects or retains personally identifiable health care information about consumers (health care business) liable for any damages caused by improper storage, duplication, sharing, or other misuse of such information by the health care business or any foreign affiliate or subcontractor that received such information. Prohibits a health care business from terminating an existing relationship with a consumer of health care services in order to avoid the consent requirement.
Directs the FTC to certify, and make a list of, those countries that have legal systems that provide adequate privacy protection for such information. | A bill to regulate the transmission of personally identifiable information to foreign affiliates and subcontractors. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Education, Achievement, and
Opportunity Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) Private schools supplement the public school system and
are a vital component of our Nation's school network.
(2) The public school system was created to serve students,
not the other way around. Children should have the opportunity
to attend the school system that is most conducive to
developing their abilities, and parents have the right to
choose the public or private school that best meets their
child's individual needs.
SEC. 3. CREDIT FOR ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION EXPENSES.
(a) In General.--Subpart C of part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to refundable credits)
is amended by redesignating section 36 as section 37 and by inserting
after section 35 the following new section:
``SEC. 36. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION EXPENSES.
``(a) Allowance of Credit.--
``(1) In general.--In the case of an individual, there
shall be allowed as a credit against the tax imposed by this
subtitle for the taxable year the amount of the qualified
education expenses paid by the taxpayer during the taxable year
for each qualifying child of the taxpayer.
``(2) Amount per child.--The amount of credit allowable
under paragraph (1) for any taxable year with respect to the
qualified education expenses of each qualifying child of the
taxpayer shall not exceed--
``(A) $2,500 for a child enrolled in an elementary
school for any portion of the taxable year, and
``(B) $3,500 for a child enrolled in a secondary
school for any portion of the taxable year.
In any taxable year in which a child meets the requirements of
both subparagraphs (A) and (B), the amount of credit allowable
shall not exceed the sum of the amounts in such subparagraphs.
``(b) Limitation Based on Adjusted Gross Income.--
``(1) In general.--The amount of the credit allowable under
subsection (a) (after the application of subsection (a)(2))
shall be reduced (but not below zero) by $50 for each $1,000
(or fraction thereof) by which the taxpayer's modified adjusted
gross income exceeds the threshold amount.
``(2) Definitions and special rules.--For purposes of this
paragraph (1)--
``(A) Threshold amount.--The term `threshold
amount' means--
``(i) $150,000 in the case of a joint
return, and
``(ii) $75,000 in any other case.
``(B) Modified adjusted gross income.--The term
`modified adjusted gross income' means adjusted gross
income increased by any amount excluded from gross
income under section 911, 931, or 933.
``(C) Marital status.--Marital status shall be
determined under section 7703.
``(c) Definitions.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) Qualifying child.--The term `qualifying child' has
the meaning provided by section 24(c).
``(2) Qualified education expenses.--
``(A) In general.--The term `qualified education
expenses' means amounts paid for--
``(i) tuition and fees required for the
enrollment or attendance of a student at a
qualified educational institution,
``(ii) computers, educational software,
computer support services, and books required
for courses of instruction at a qualified
educational institution,
``(iii) academic tutoring (by a person
other than the taxpayer),
``(iv) special needs services for
qualifying children with disabilities (within
the meaning of the Americans With Disabilities
Act of 1990),
``(v) fees for transportation services to
and from a private school, if the
transportation is provided by the school and
the school charges a fee for the
transportation, and
``(vi) academic testing services.
``(B) Amounts excluded.--The term does not include
special school fees for nonacademic purposes, including
fees for student activities, athletics, insurance,
school uniforms, and nonacademic after-school
activities.
``(3) Qualified educational institution.--The term
`qualified educational institution' means--
``(A) an elementary or secondary school (as defined
in section 14101 of the Elementary and Secondary
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 8801)), or
``(B) any private, parochial, or religious school
organized for the purpose of providing elementary or
secondary education, or both.
``(d) Adjustment for Coverdell Savings Account Distributions.--The
amount of qualified education expenses taken into account under
subsection (a) with respect to an individual for a taxable year shall
be reduced (before the application of subsection (b)) by the sum of any
amounts not includible in gross income under section 530(d)(2)(B) for
such taxable year by reason of the qualified elementary and secondary
education expenses (as defined in section 530(b)(4)) of such individual
for such taxable year.''.
(b) Technical Amendments.--
(1) Paragraph (2) of section 1324(b) of title 31, United
States Code, is amended by striking ``or'' after ``1978,'' and
by inserting before the period ``, or enacted by the Education,
Achievement, and Opportunity Act''.
(2) The table of sections for subpart C of part IV of
subchapter A of chapter 1 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
is amended by striking the last item and inserting the
following new items:
``Sec. 36. Elementary and secondary education expenses.
``Sec. 37. Overpayments of tax.''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning after the date of the enactment of
this Act. | Education, Achievement, and Opportunity Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow an annual refundable tax credit for certain expenses incurred for children enrolled in elementary or secondary public and private schools. Includes as eligible expenses: tuition and fees, computers and educational software, academic tutoring, special needs services for children with disabilities, transportation fees, and academic testing services. Excludes expenses for nonacademic purposes, including fees for student activities, athletics, insurance, school uniforms, and nonacademic after-school activities.
Limits the amount of such credit to $2,500 for a child enrolled in an elementary school and $3,500 for a child in secondary school. Reduces such credit amounts for taxpayers earning over $75,000 ($150,000 for married taxpayers filing a joint return). | To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow a refundable credit against income tax for tuition expenses incurred for each qualifying child of the taxpayer in attending public or private elementary or secondary school. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; REFERENCE.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Indian Health Care
Improvement Technical Corrections Act of 1996''.
(b) References.--Whenever in this Act an amendment or repeal is
expressed in terms of an amendment to or repeal of a section or other
provision, the reference shall be considered to be made to a section or
other provision of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act.
SEC. 2. TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS IN THE INDIAN HEALTH CARE IMPROVEMENT
ACT.
(a) Definition of Health Profession.--Section 4(n) (25 U.S.C.
1603(n)) is amended--
(1) by inserting ``allopathic medicine,'' before ``family
medicine''; and
(2) by striking ``and allied health professions'' and inserting
``an allied health profession, or any other health profession''.
(b) Indian Health Professions Scholarships.--Section 104(b) of the
Indian Health Care Improvement Act (25 U.S.C. 1613a(b)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (3)--
(A) in subparagraph (A)--
(i) by striking the matter preceding clause (i) and
inserting the following:
``(3)(A) The active duty service obligation under a written
contract with the Secretary under section 338A of the Public Health
Service Act (42 U.S.C. 254l) that an individual has entered into under
that section shall, if that individual is a recipient of an Indian
Health Scholarship, be met in full-time practice, by service--'';
(ii) by striking ``or'' at the end of clause (iii); and
(iii) by striking the period at the end of clause (iv)
and inserting ``; or'';
(B) by redesignating subparagraphs (B) and (C) as
subparagraphs (C) and (D), respectively;
(C) by inserting after subparagraph (A) the following new
subparagraph:
``(B) At the request of any individual who has entered into a
contract referred to in subparagraph (A) and who receives a degree in
medicine (including osteopathic or allopathic medicine), dentistry,
optometry, podiatry, or pharmacy, the Secretary shall defer the active
duty service obligation of that individual under that contract, in
order that such individual may complete any internship, residency, or
other advanced clinical training that is required for the practice of
that health profession, for an appropriate period (in years, as
determined by the Secretary), subject to the following conditions:
``(i) No period of internship, residency, or other advanced
clinical training shall be counted as satisfying any period of
obligated service that is required under this section.
``(ii) The active duty service obligation of that individual
shall commence not later than 90 days after the completion of that
advanced clinical training (or by a date specified by the
Secretary).
``(iii) The active duty service obligation will be served in
the health profession of that individual, in a manner consistent
with clauses (i) through (v) of subparagraph (A).'';
(D) in subparagraph (C), as so redesignated, by striking
``prescribed under section 338C of the Public Health Service
Act (42 U.S.C. 254m) by service in a program specified in
subparagraph (A)'' and inserting ``described in subparagraph
(A) by service in a program specified in that subparagraph'';
and
(E) in subparagraph (D), as so redesignated--
(i) by striking ``Subject to subparagraph (B),'' and
inserting ``Subject to subparagraph (C),''; and
(ii) by striking ``prescribed under section 338C of the
Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 254m)'' and inserting
``described in subparagraph (A)'';
(2) in paragraph (4)--
(A) in subparagraph (B), by striking the matter preceding
clause (i) and inserting the following:
``(B) the period of obligated service described in paragraph
(3)(A) shall be equal to the greater of--''; and
(B) in subparagraph (C), by striking ``(42 U.S.C.
254m(g)(1)(B))'' and inserting ``(42 U.S.C. 254l(g)(1)(B))'';
and
(3) in paragraph (5), by adding at the end the following new
subparagraphs:
``(C) Upon the death of an individual who receives an Indian Health
Scholarship, any obligation of that individual for service or payment
that relates to that scholarship shall be canceled.
``(D) The Secretary shall provide for the partial or total waiver
or suspension of any obligation of service or payment of a recipient of
an Indian Health Scholarship if the Secretary determines that--
``(i) it is not possible for the recipient to meet that
obligation or make that payment;
``(ii) requiring that recipient to meet that obligation or make
that payment would result in extreme hardship to the recipient; or
``(iii) the enforcement of the requirement to meet the
obligation or make the payment would be unconscionable.
``(E) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, in any case of
extreme hardship or for other good cause shown, the Secretary may
waive, in whole or in part, the right of the United States to recover
funds made available under this section.
``(F) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, with respect to a
recipient of an Indian Health Scholarship, no obligation for payment
may be released by a discharge in bankruptcy under title 11, United
States Code, unless that discharge is granted after the expiration of
the 5-year period beginning on the initial date on which that payment
is due, and only if the bankruptcy court finds that the nondischarge of
the obligation would be unconscionable.''.
(c) California Contract Health Services Demonstration Program.--
Section 211(g) (25 U.S.C. 1621j(g)) is amended by striking ``1993,
1994, 1995, 1996, and 1997'' and inserting ``1996 through 2000''.
(d) Extension of Certain Demonstration Program.--Section 405(c)(2)
(25 U.S.C. 1645(c)(2)) is amended by striking ``September 30, 1996''
and inserting ``September 30, 1998''.
(e) Gallup Alcohol and Substance Abuse Treatment Center.--Section
706(d) (25 U.S.C. 1665e(d)) is amended to read as follows:
``(d) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated, for each of fiscal years 1996 through 2000, such sums as
may be necessary to carry out subsection (b).''.
(f) Substance Abuse Counselor Education Demonstration Program.--
Section 711(h) (25 U.S.C. 1665j(h)) is amended by striking ``1993,
1994, 1995, 1996, and 1997'' and inserting ``1996 through 2000''.
(g) Home and Community-Based Care Demonstration Program.--Section
821(i) (25 U.S.C. 1680k(i)) is amended by striking ``1993, 1994, 1995,
1996, and 1997'' and inserting ``1996 through 2000''.
Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Vice President of the United States and
President of the Senate. | Indian Health Care Improvement Technical Corrections Act of 1996 - Makes technical corrections to the Indian Health Care Improvement Act concerning allopathic medicine and Indian health professions scholarships and active duty service obligations.
Amends the Indian Health Care Improvement Act to extend through FY 1998 the demonstration program for direct billing of Medicare, Medicaid, and other third party payors.
Authorizes appropriations through FY 2000 for the: (1) California Contract Health Services Demonstration Program; (2) Gallup Alcohol and Substance Abuse Center; (3) Substance Abuse Counselor Education Demonstration Program; and (4) Home and Community-Based Care Demonstration Program. | Indian Health Care Improvement Technical Corrections Act of 1996 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Poison Control Center Enhancement
and Awareness Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress makes the following findings:
(1) Each year more than 2,000,000 poisonings are reported
to poison control centers throughout the United States. More
than 90 percent of these poisonings happen in the home. 53
percent of poisoning victims are children younger than 6 years
of age.
(2) Poison centers are life-saving and cost-effective
public health services. For every dollar spent on poison
control centers, $7 in medical costs are saved. The average
cost of a poisoning exposure call is $31.28, while the average
cost if other parts of the medical system are involved is $932.
Over the last 2 decades, the instability and lack of funding
has resulted in a steady decline in the number of poison
control centers in the United States. Currently, there are 75
such centers.
(3) Stabilizing the funding structure and increasing
accessibility to poison control centers will increase the
number of United States residents who have access to a
certified poison control center, and reduce the inappropriate
use of emergency medical services and other more costly health
care services.
SEC. 3. DEFINITION.
In this Act, the term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of Health
and Human Services.
SEC. 4. ESTABLISHMENT OF A NATIONAL TOLL-FREE NUMBER.
(a) In General.--The Secretary shall provide coordination and
assistance to regional poison control centers for the establishment of
a nationwide toll-free phone number to be used to access such centers.
(b) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section, $2,000,000 for each of the
fiscal years 1999 through 2003.
SEC. 5. ESTABLISHMENT OF NATIONWIDE MEDIA CAMPAIGN.
(a) In General.--The Secretary shall establish a national media
campaign to educate the public and health care providers about poison
prevention and the availability of poison control resources in local
communities and to conduct advertising campaigns concerning the
nationwide toll-free number established under section 4.
(b) Contract With Entity.--The Secretary may carry out subsection
(a) by entering into contracts with 1 or more nationally recognized
media firms for the development and distribution of monthly television,
radio, and newspaper public service announcements.
(c) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section, $600,000 for each of the fiscal
years 1999 through 2003.
SEC. 6. ESTABLISHMENT OF A GRANT PROGRAM.
(a) Regional Poison Control Centers.--The Secretary shall award
grants to certified regional poison control centers for the purposes of
achieving the financial stability of such centers, and for preventing
and providing treatment recommendations for poisonings.
(b) Other Improvements.--The Secretary shall also use amounts
received under this section to--
(1) develop standard education programs;
(2) develop standard patient management protocols for
commonly encountered toxic exposures;
(3) improve and expand the poison control data collection
systems; and
(4) improve national toxic exposure surveillance.
(c) Certification.--Except as provided in subsection (d), the
Secretary may make a grant to a center under subsection (a) only if the
center has been certified by a professional organization in the field
of poison control, and the Secretary has approved the organization as
having in effect standards for certification that reasonably provide
for the protection of the public health with respect to poisoning.
(d) Waiver of Certification Requirements.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary may grant a waiver of the
certification requirement of subsection (a) with respect to a
noncertified poison control center that applies for a grant
under this section if such center can reasonably demonstrate
that the center will obtain such a certification within a
reasonable period of time as determined appropriate by the
Secretary.
(2) Renewal.--The Secretary may only renew a waiver under
paragraph (1) for a period of 3 years.
(e) Supplement not Supplant.--Amounts made available to a poison
control center under this section shall be used to supplement and not
supplant other Federal, State, local or private funds provided for such
center.
(f) Maintenance of Effort.--A poison control center, in utilizing
the proceeds of a grant under this section, shall maintain the
expenditures of the center for activities of the center at a level that
is equal to not less than the level of such expenditures maintained by
the center for the fiscal year preceding the fiscal year for which the
grant is received.
(g) Matching Requirement.--The Secretary may impose a matching
requirement with respect to amounts provided under a grant under this
section if the Secretary determines appropriate.
(h) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section, $25,000,000 for each of the
fiscal years 1999 through 2003. | Poison Control Center Enhancement and Awareness Act - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to provide coordination and assistance to regional poison control centers for the establishment of a nationwide toll-free phone number to be used to access such centers. Authorizes appropriations.
Mandates a national media campaign to educate the public about poison prevention and the availability of local poison control resources and to conduct advertising campaigns concerning the nationwide toll-free number. Authorizes appropriations.
Mandates grants for certified regional poison control centers to achieve financial stability and to prevent, and provide treatment recommendations for, poisoning. Mandates other grant uses. Sets forth center certification requirements. Authorizes appropriations. | Poison Control Center Enhancement and Awareness Act |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Foster Care Tax Credit Act''.
SEC. 2. FOSTER CARE TAX CREDIT.
(a) In General.--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. FOSTER CARE TAX CREDIT.
``(a) Allowance of Credit.--With respect to each qualifying foster
child of an eligible taxpayer, for each calendar month occurring during
the taxable year that such child resides in the home of such taxpayer,
there shall be allowed as a credit against the tax imposed by this
chapter for the taxable year an amount equal to \1/12\ of the amount
determined under subsection (b).
``(b) Amount Determined.--
``(1) In general.--The amount determined under this
subsection with respect to an eligible taxpayer and a taxable
year is--
``(A) $1,000, reduced by
``(B) $50 for each $1,000 (or fraction thereof) by
which the eligible taxpayer's modified adjusted gross
income exceeds the threshold amount.
For purposes of the preceding sentence, the term `modified
adjusted gross income' means adjusted gross income increased by
any amount excluded from gross income under section 911, 931,
or 933.
``(2) Threshold amount.--For purposes of paragraph (1), the
term `threshold amount' has the meaning given such term by
section 24(b)(2).
``(c) Qualifying Foster Child.--For purposes of this section, the
term `qualifying foster child' means an eligible foster child (within
the meaning of section 152(f)(1)(C)) of the eligible taxpayer--
``(1) who has not attained age 17,
``(2) who is a citizen, national, or resident of the United
States,
``(3) who resides in the home of the eligible taxpayer for
not less than 1 calendar month during the taxable year, and
``(4) with respect to whom the credit under section 24 is
not allowable to the eligible taxpayer or any other taxpayer
who would be an eligible taxpayer but for paragraph (3) of
subsection (d).
``(d) Eligible Taxpayer.--For purposes of this section, the term
`eligible taxpayer' means any taxpayer, except that--
``(1) no single household shall include more than 1
eligible taxpayer,
``(2) married individuals filing a joint return shall be
treated as 1 eligible taxpayer, and
``(3) in the case of individuals not described in paragraph
(2) who are members of the same household, only the taxpayer
with the highest adjusted gross income for the taxable year
shall be treated as an eligible taxpayer.
``(e) Calendar Month.--For purposes of this section, if a foster
child resides in the home of the taxpayer for more than 15 consecutive
days of a calendar month but fewer than the total number of days in
such calendar month, such foster child shall be treated as residing in
the home of the taxpayer for the full calendar month.
``(f) Portion of Credit Refundable.--
``(1) In general.--The aggregate credits allowed to a
taxpayer under subpart C shall be increased by the lesser of--
``(A) the credit which would be allowed under this
section without regard to this subsection and the
limitation under section 26(a) (determined after any
reduction of the credit under section 24(a) by reason
of section 24(d)), or
``(B) the amount by which the aggregate amount of
credits allowed by this subpart (determined without
regard to this subsection, and after any reduction of
the credit under section 24(a) by reason of section
24(d)) would increase if the limitation imposed by
section 26(a) were increased by the greater of--
``(i) 15 percent of so much of the
taxpayer's earned income (within the meaning of
section 32) which is taken into account in
computing taxable income for the taxable year
as exceeds $10,000, or
``(ii) in the case of a taxpayer with 3 or
more qualifying foster children residing in the
home of the taxpayer for all months in the
taxable year (without regard to whether the
same 3 children reside in the home of the
taxpayer for all such months), the excess (if
any) of--
``(I) the taxpayer's social
security taxes for the taxable year,
over
``(II) the credit allowed under
section 32 for the taxable year.
The amount of the credit allowed under this
subsection shall not be treated as a credit
allowed under this subpart and shall reduce the
amount of credit otherwise allowable under
subsection (a) without regard to section 26(a).
For purposes of subparagraph (B), any amount
excluded from gross income by reason of section
112 shall be treated as earned income which is
taken into account in computing taxable income
for the taxable year.
``(2) Social security taxes.--For purposes of paragraph
(1), the term `social security taxes' has the same meaning as
when used in section 24(d)(1).
``(3) Inflation adjustment.--In the case of any taxable
year beginning in a calendar year after 2001, the $10,000
amount contained in paragraph (1)(B)(i) shall be adjusted in
the same manner as the $10,000 amount under section 24(d)(1)(B)
is adjusted under section 24(d)(3).
``(g) Identification Requirement.--No credit shall be allowed under
this section to an eligible taxpayer with respect to any qualifying
foster child unless the taxpayer includes the name and taxpayer
identification number of such qualifying foster child on the return of
tax for the taxable year.''.
(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. Foster care tax credit.''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to calendar months beginning after December 31, 2013, in taxable
years beginning after such date.
(d) Education.--The Secretary of Health and Human Services (or the
Secretary's delegate), in coordination with the Secretary of the
Treasury or such Secretary's delegate, shall identify provisions in the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 that can be used by or can benefit foster
families, and shall increase outreach efforts to provide information
and educational materials regarding such provisions to State and Indian
tribal foster care agencies and to foster families. | Foster Care Tax Credit Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a partially refundable tax credit for each qualifying foster child who resides in the home of an eligible taxpayer for at least one calendar month during the taxable year. Defines "qualifying foster child" as a child in foster care who has not attained age 17, who is a citizen, national, or resident of the United States, and with respect to whom the child tax credit is not allowable. Requires the name and taxpayer identification number of a foster child to be included on the taxpayer's tax return. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to identify provisions in the Internal Revenue Code that can benefit foster families and increase outreach efforts to inform state and Indian tribal foster care agencies and foster families about such provisions. | Foster Care Tax Credit Act |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Liver Research Enhancement Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds as follows:
(1) An estimated 25,000,000 people in the United States are
affected by a liver or liver-related disease.
(2) In excess of $5,500,000,000 is spent annually to
provide medical care for people in the United States with liver
disease.
(3) There are over 4,000,000 people in the United States
who are or have been infected with hepatitis C, 2,700,000 of
whom are chronically infected.
(4) Due to limited research, current treatments for
hepatitis C are effective in fewer than 50 percent of the
cases.
(5) A vaccine has not been developed for hepatitis C.
(6) There are 8,000 to 10,000 deaths each year due to
hepatitis C, and the annual death total is projected to
increase to 30,000 each year absent increased public health and
research interventions.
(7) Chronic infection with hepatitis B or C is associated
with an increased incidence of primary liver cancer, once a
rare malignancy in the United States.
(8) There are 1,250,000 people in the United States who
have been infected with hepatitis B.
(9) Up to 15 percent of Asian and Pacific-Islander
Americans are chronically infected with hepatitis B.
(10) Fifteen out of every 100,000 people in the United
States are affected by a chronic, life-threatening disease
known as primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), and 95 percent of
those affected are women.
(11) There is an emerging obesity-related chronic liver
disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which may
affect as many as 1 in every 4 adults over the age of 18.
(12) There are 15,000 children hospitalized in the United
States each year due to liver disease.
(13) The only option for many individuals with liver
disease is a liver transplant.
(14) There are over 17,500 people in the United States on
the waiting list for a liver transplant, but because of the
limited supply of livers available for transplantation only
approximately 5,100 transplants are performed each year.
(15) There are 1,300 people in the United States who die
each year waiting for a liver transplant, and that number is
expected to increase.
(16) To address the public health threat posed by liver
disease, there is a need for the establishment of a National
Center on Liver Disease Research to provide dedicated
scientific leadership, to create a research action plan, and to
ensure the funding of the scientific opportunities identified
by the plan.
SEC. 3. NATIONAL CENTER ON LIVER DISEASE RESEARCH.
Subpart 3 of part C of title IV of the Public Health Service Act
(42 U.S.C. 285c, et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the
following:
``national center on liver disease research
``Sec. 434B. (a) Establishment.--There is established the National
Center on Liver Disease Research (hereafter in this section referred to
as the `Center') in the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive
and Kidney Diseases.
``(b) Director.--The Center shall be headed by a Director, who
shall be appointed by the Director of the Institute, in consultation
with the Director of NIH, from among individuals with the highest
scientific credentials. The Director of the Center shall report
directly to the Director of the Institute.
``(c) Duties.--To ensure the development of increased understanding
of and better treatments and cures for liver diseases through a
dedicated scientific leadership and an adequate allocation of
resources, the Director shall--
``(1) assist the Liver Disease Research Advisory Board to
develop the Liver Disease Research Action Plan; and
``(2) encourage and coordinate the implementation of the
Plan by the national research institutes, including by issuing
research solicitations and by using all other available
mechanisms.
``(d) Liver Disease Research Advisory Board.--
``(1) Establishment.--Not later than 90 days after the date
of the enactment of this Act, the Director of NIH shall
establish a board to be known as the Liver Disease Research
Advisory Board (hereafter in this section referred to as the
``Advisory Board'').
``(2) Duties.--The Advisory Board shall advise and assist
the Director of the Center concerning matters relating to liver
disease research, including by developing and revising the
Liver Disease Research Action Plan in accordance with
subsection (e).
``(3) Voting members.--The Advisory Board shall be composed
of 18 voting members appointed by the Director of NIH, in
consultation with the Director of the Institute, of whom 12
shall be eminent scientists and 6 shall be lay persons. The
Director of NIH, in consultation with the Director of the
Institute, shall select 1 of the members to serve as the Chair
of the Advisory Board.
``(4) Ex officio members.--The Director of NIH shall
appoint each director of a national research institute that
funds liver disease research to serve as a nonvoting, ex
officio member of the Advisory Board. The Director of NIH shall
invite 1 representative of the Centers for Disease Prevention
and Control, 1 representative of the Food and Drug
Administration, and 1 representative of the Department of
Veterans Affairs to serve as such a member. Each ex officio
member of the Advisory Board may appoint an individual to serve
as that member's representative on the Advisory Board.
``(e) Liver Disease Research Action Plan.--
``(1) Development.--Not later than 15 months after the date
of the enactment of this Act, the Advisory Board shall develop
(with appropriate support from the Director and staff of the
Center) a comprehensive plan for the conduct and support of
liver disease research to be known as the Liver Disease
Research Action Plan. The Advisory Board shall submit the Plan
to the Director of NIH and the head of each institute or center
within the National Institutes of Health that funds liver
disease research.
``(2) Content.--The Liver Disease Research Action Plan
shall identify scientific opportunities and priorities of liver
disease research necessary to increase understanding of and to
prevent, cure, and develop better treatment protocols for liver
diseases.
``(3) Revision.--The Advisory Board shall revise every 3
years the Liver Disease Research Action Plan, but shall meet
annually to review progress and to amend the Plan as may be
appropriate because of new scientific discoveries.
``(f) Allocation of Funds.--Subject to the availability of
appropriations, the Director of each institute or center within the
National Institutes of Health shall allocate to liver disease research
through peer-reviewed methods, the amounts necessary to fund existing
scientific research opportunities and, subject to completion and
subsequent updates of the Liver Disease Research Action Plan, amounts
adequate to carry out the recommendations of the Plan.''. | Liver Research Enhancement Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to establish the National Center on Liver Disease Research in the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Establishes the Liver Disease Research Advisory Board to help the Director of the Center develop the Liver Disease Research Action Plan identifying scientific opportunities and priorities of liver disease research. Requires the Director to coordinate the Plan's implementation by the national research institutes, which shall allocate adequate funds for same. | To establish the National Center on Liver Disease Research, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Telework Tax Incentive Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds as follows:
(1) Federal, State and local governments spend billions of
dollars annually on the Nation's transportation needs.
(2) Congestion on the Nation's roads resulted in costs of
over $87,000,000 in 2007, in extra time and fuel used, to
drivers in the Nation's 439 urban areas, an increase of more
than 50 percent over the previous decade.
(3) On average, on-road-vehicles contributed 31.9 percent
of nitrogen oxide emissions in 2008.
(4) It was recently reported that if the 40 percent of
United States workers who have jobs that are compatible with
teleworking worked at home half of the time, that would save
450 million barrels of oil, reduce greenhouse gases by 84
million tons, and reduce highway maintenance costs by over $3
billion annually.
(5) The average American daily commute is 51 minutes for a
round-trip (a total of 204 hours, or 8.5 days, per year).
(6) The National Science Foundation found that teleworking
increased employee productivity by 87 percent and the Census
Bureau reported that 73 percent of teleworkers felt they
accomplished more work on telework days than when they were in
the office.
(7) In 2003, 77 million workers used a computer at work,
accounting for 55.5 percent of total employment.
(8) In recent years, studies performed in the United States
have shown a marked expansion of teleworking, with 76 percent
of private sector employers now providing technical support for
remote workers, an increase of 27 percent over 2007. Fifty-six
percent of Federal IT professionals indicated that their
agencies provide technical support for teleworkers.
SEC. 3. CREDIT FOR TELEWORKING.
(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 new section:
``SEC. 30E. TELEWORKING CREDIT.
``(a) Allowance of Credit.--In the case of an eligible taxpayer,
there shall be allowed as a credit against the tax imposed by this
chapter for the taxable year an amount equal to the qualified
teleworking expenses paid or incurred by the taxpayer during such year.
``(b) Maximum Credit.--
``(1) Per teleworker limitation.--The credit allowed by
subsection (a) for a taxable year with respect to qualified
teleworking expenses paid or incurred by or on behalf of an
individual teleworker shall not exceed $1,000.
``(2) Reduction for teleworking less than full year.--In
the case of an individual who is in a teleworking arrangement
for less than a full taxable year, the amount referred to in
paragraph (1) shall be reduced by an amount which bears the
same ratio to $1,000 as the number of months in which such
individual is not in a teleworking arrangement bears to 12. For
purposes of the preceding sentence, an individual shall be
treated as being in a teleworking arrangement for a month if
the individual is subject to such arrangement for any day of
such month.
``(c) Definitions.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) Eligible taxpayer.--The term `eligible taxpayer'
means--
``(A) in the case of an individual, an individual
who performs services for an employer under a
teleworking arrangement, and
``(B) in the case of an employer, an employer for
whom employees perform services under a teleworking
arrangement.
``(2) Teleworking arrangement.--The term `teleworking
arrangement' means an arrangement under which an employee
teleworks for an employer not less than 75 days per year.
``(3) Qualified teleworking expenses.--The term `qualified
teleworking expenses' means expenses paid or incurred under a
teleworking arrangement for furnishings and electronic
information equipment which are used to enable an individual to
telework.
``(4) Telework.--The term `telework' means to perform work
functions, using electronic information and communication
technologies, thereby reducing or eliminating the physical
commute to and from the traditional worksite.
``(d) Limitation Based on Amount of Tax.--
``(1) Liability for tax.--The credit allowable under
subsection (a) for any taxable year shall not exceed the excess
(if any) of--
``(A) the regular tax for the taxable year, reduced
by the sum of the credits allowable under subpart A and
the preceding sections of this subpart, over
``(B) the tentative minimum tax for the taxable
year.
``(2) Carryforward of unused credit.--If the amount of the
credit allowable under subsection (a) for any taxable year
exceeds the limitation under paragraph (1) for the taxable
year, the excess shall be carried to the succeeding taxable
year and added to the amount allowable as a credit under
subsection (a) for such succeeding taxable year.
``(e) 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 (determined without regard to
subsection (d)).
``(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 179.
``(4) Election to not take credit.--No credit shall be
allowed under subsection (a) for any expense if the taxpayer
elects to not have this section apply with respect to such
expense.
``(5) Denial of double benefit.--No deduction or credit
(other than under this section) shall be allowed under this
chapter with respect to any expense which is taken into account
in determining the credit under this section.''.
(b) Technical Amendment.--Subsection (a) of section 1016 of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 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 30E(e), in the
case of amounts with respect to which a credit has been allowed
under section 30E.''.
(c) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for subpart B of
part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1 of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986 is amended by adding at the end the following new item:
``Sec. 30E. Teleworking credit.''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to amounts paid or incurred after the date of the enactment of
this Act, in taxable years ending after such date. | Telework Tax Incentive Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow an employer or an employee a tax credit, up to $1,000 per year, for teleworking expenses incurred by or on behalf of a teleworking employee under an arrangement whereby such employee teleworks not less than 75 days per year. Defines "telework" as performing work functions, using electronic information and communication technologies, thereby reducing or eliminating the physical commute to and from the traditional worksite. | To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow a credit against income tax for expenses incurred in teleworking. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``American Jobs First Act of 2011''.
SEC. 2. EXTENSION AND MODIFICATION OF DIVIDENDS RECEIVED DEDUCTION FOR
CERTAIN REPATRIATED FOREIGN EARNINGS.
(a) In General.--Section 965 of such Code is amended by adding at
the end the following new subsection:
``(g) Temporary Extension and Modification.--
``(1) In general.--In the case of an election under this
subsection, subsection (f)(1) shall be applied by substituting
`the date of the enactment of subsection (g)' for `the date of
the enactment of this section'.
``(2) Percentage deductible.--
``(A) In general.--In the case of an election under
this subsection, subsection (a)(1) shall be applied by
substituting `the applicable percentage' for `85
percent'.
``(B) Applicable percentage.--For purposes of this
section, the applicable percentage is 29 percent,
increased by the number of percentage points determined
with respect to the taxpayer under subparagraph (C).
``(C) Increased deduction for payroll expansion.--
``(i) In general.--For purposes of
subparagraph (B), the number of percentage
points determined with respect to a taxpayer
under this subparagraph shall be--
``(I) so much of the percentage
increase, if any, in the taxpayer's
qualified payroll for all quarters
ending during the taxable year as
compared to the qualified payroll for
the same quarters during the taxpayer's
taxable year ending during 2010 as does
not exceed 14 percent, multiplied by
``(II) 4.
``(ii) Qualified payroll.--For purposes of
this subparagraph, the term `qualified payroll'
means the amount of all wages (within the
meaning of section 3121(a)) paid or incurred by
the taxpayer to the employees of such taxpayer,
except that, with respect to each such
employee, such wages shall be taken into
account only to the extent that such wages do
not exceed the contribution and benefit base as
determined under section 230 of the Social
Security Act.
``(iii) Railway labor.--In the case of
remuneration subject to the tax imposed by
section 3221(a), clause (ii) shall be applied
by substituting `all compensation (within the
meaning of section 3231(e))' for `all wages
(within the meaning of section 3121(a))'.
``(iv) Special rule for converted
employees.--For purposes of this subparagraph--
``(I) In general.--The wages of any
specified individual shall not be taken
into account.
``(II) Specified individual.--
Except as provided by the Secretary,
the term `specified individual' means
any individual who, during the 2-year
period ending on the date of the
enactment of this subsection, performed
services directly or indirectly for the
taxpayer and was treated for purposes
of employment taxes as not an employee
with respect to the performance of such
services.
``(3) Special rules.--
``(A) Recapture in case of payroll decrease during
recapture period.--The Secretary shall, by regulations,
provide for recapturing any portion of the benefit
under any deduction allowable by this subsection, and
attributable to paragraph (2)(C), to the extent--
``(i) the taxpayer's qualified payroll for
all quarters ending during the taxable year for
which the such deduction was allowed, exceeds
``(ii) the taxpayer's qualified payroll for
all quarters ending during either of the 2
taxable years following the taxable year with
respect to which such deduction was allowed.
``(B) Controlled groups.--All employers treated as
a single employer under section (a) or (b) of section
52 shall be treated as a single employer for purposes
of this subsection.''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--
(1) Subsection (b) of section 965 of such Code is amended
by striking paragraph (4).
(2) Section 965 of such Code is amended by striking ``June
30, 2003'' each place it occurs and inserting ``June 30,
2010''.
(3) Subparagraph (B) of section 965(b)(3) of such Code is
amended by striking ``October 3, 2004'' and inserting ``October
1, 2011''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendment made by this section shall apply
to taxable years ending on or after the date of the enactment of this
Act | American Jobs First Act of 2011 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend the election to deduct dividends received by a domestic corporation from a controlled foreign corporation. Increases the amount of such deduction by increases in the payroll of the domestic corporation over the previous taxable year. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to provide, by regulations, for a recapture of any portion of the increased tax deduction allowed to a domestic corporation if such corporation's payroll decreases during either of the two taxable years following the taxable year in which the increased deduction was allowed. | To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow temporarily a reduced rate of tax with respect to repatriated foreign earnings. |
SECTION 1. PILOT PROGRAM IN CERTAIN DISTRICT COURTS.
(a) Establishment.--
(1) In general.--There is established a program, in each of
the United States district courts designated under subsection
(b), under which--
(A) those district judges of that district court
who request to hear cases under which one or more
issues arising under any Act of Congress relating to
patents or plant variety protection must be decided,
are designated by the chief judge of the court to hear
those cases;
(B) cases described in subparagraph (A) are
randomly assigned to the judges of the district court,
regardless of whether the judges are designated under
subparagraph (A);
(C) a judge not designated under subparagraph (A)
to whom a case is assigned under subparagraph (B) may
decline to accept the case; and
(D) a case declined under subparagraph (C) is
randomly reassigned to one of those judges of the court
designated under subparagraph (A).
(2) Senior judges.--Senior judges of a district court may
be designated under paragraph (1)(A) if at least 1 judge of the
court in regular active service is also so designated.
(3) Right to transfer cases preserved.--This section shall
not be construed to limit the ability of a judge to request the
reassignment of or otherwise transfer a case to which the judge
is assigned under this section, in accordance with otherwise
applicable rules of the court.
(b) Designation.--The Director of the Administrative Office of the
United States Courts shall, not later than 6 months after the date of
the enactment of this Act, designate not less than 5 United States
district courts, in at least 3 different judicial circuits, in which
the program established under subsection (a) will be carried out. The
Director shall make such designation from among the 15 district courts
in which the largest number of patent and plant variety protection
cases were filed in the most recent calendar year that has ended,
except that the Director may only designate a court in which--
(1) at least 10 district judges are authorized to be
appointed by the President, whether under section 133(a) of
title 28, United States Code, or on a temporary basis under
other provisions of law; and
(2) at least 3 judges of the court have made the request
under subsection (a)(1)(A).
(c) Duration.--The program established under subsection (a) shall
terminate 10 years after the end of the 6-month period described in
subsection (b).
(d) Applicability.--The program established under subsection (a)
shall apply in a district court designated under subsection (b) only to
cases commenced on or after the date of such designation.
(e) Reporting to Congress.--
(1) In general.--At the times specified in paragraph (2),
the Director of the Administrative Office of the United States
Courts, in consultation with the chief judge of each of the
district courts designated under subsection (b) and the
Director of the Federal Judicial Center, shall submit to the
Committee on the Judiciary of the House of Representatives and
the Committee on the Judiciary of the Senate a report on the
pilot program established under subsection (a). The report
shall include--
(A) an analysis of the extent to which the program
has succeeded in developing expertise in patent and
plant variety protection cases among the district
judges of the district courts so designated;
(B) an analysis of the extent to which the program
has improved the efficiency of the courts involved by
reason of such expertise;
(C) with respect to patent cases handled by the
judges designated pursuant to subsection (a)(1)(A) and
judges not so designated, a comparison between the 2
groups of judges with respect to--
(i) the rate of reversal by the Court of
Appeals for the Federal Circuit, of such cases
on the issues of claim construction and
substantive patent law; and
(ii) the period of time elapsed from the
date on which a case is filed to the date on
which trial begins or summary judgment is
entered;
(D) a discussion of any evidence indicating that
litigants select certain of the judicial districts
designated under subsection (b) in an attempt to ensure
a given outcome; and
(E) an analysis of whether the pilot program should
be extended to other district courts, or should be made
permanent and apply to all district courts.
(2) Timetable for reports.--The times referred to in
paragraph (1) are--
(A) not later than the date that is 5 years and 3
months after the end of the 6-month period described in
subsection (b); and
(B) not later than 5 years after the date described
in subparagraph (A).
(3) Periodic reporting.--The Director of the Administrative
Office of the United States Courts, in consultation with the
chief judge of each of the district courts designated under
subsection (b) and the Director of the Federal Judicial Center,
shall keep the committees referred to in paragraph (1)
informed, on a periodic basis while the pilot program is in
effect, with respect to the matters referred to in
subparagraphs (A) through (E) of paragraph (1).
(f) Authorization for Training and Clerkships.--In addition to any
other funds made available to carry out this section, there is
authorized to be appropriated not less than $5,000,000 in each fiscal
year for--
(1) educational and professional development of those
district judges designated under subsection (a)(1)(A) in
matters relating to patents and plant variety protection; and
(2) compensation of law clerks with expertise in technical
matters arising in patent and plant variety protection cases,
to be appointed by the courts designated under subsection (b)
to assist those courts in such cases.
Amounts made available pursuant to this subsection shall remain
available until expended.
Passed the House of Representatives September 28, 2006.
Attest:
KAREN L. HAAS
Clerk. | Establishes a 10-year pilot program in certain U.S. district courts under which: (1) those district judges who request to hear cases involving patent or plant variety protection issues are designated by the chief judge to hear them; (2) such cases are randomly assigned to the district court judges, regardless of whether they are designated; (3) a judge not designated to whom such a case is assigned may decline to accept the case; and (4) a case so declined is randomly reassigned to one of those judges so designated.
Requires the Director of the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts to designate at least five U.S. district courts, in at least three different judicial circuits, to carry out the pilot program. Requires such courts to be among the 15 district courts in which the largest number of such cases were filed in the most recent calendar year. States that the Director may only designate a court in which: (1) at least 10 district judges are authorized for presidential appointment; and (2) at least three judges request such cases.
Requires periodic reports on the program to specified congressional committees.
Authorizes appropriations for: (1) educational and professional development of those district judges designated under this Act; and (2) compensation of law clerks with expertise in technical matters arising in patent and plant variety protection cases who are appointed to assist courts in such cases. | To establish a pilot program in certain United States district courts to encourage enhancement of expertise in patent cases among district judges. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Chapter 12 Extension and Bankruptcy
Judgeship Act of 2000''.
SEC. 2. EXTENSION OF CHAPTER 12 OF TITLE 11 OF THE UNITED STATES CODE.
(a) Amendments.--Section 149 of title I of division C of Public Law
105-277, as amended by Public Law 106-5 and Public Law 106-70, is
amended--
(1) by striking ``July 1, 2000'' each place it appears and
inserting ``July 1, 2001''; and
(2) in subsection (a)--
(A) by striking ``September 30, 1999'' and
inserting ``June 30, 2000''; and
(B) by striking ``October 1, 1999'' and inserting
``July 1, 2000''.
(b) Effective Date.--
The amendments made by subsection (a) shall take effect on July 1,
2000.
SEC. 3. BANKRUPTCY JUDGESHIPS.
(a) Temporary Judgeships.--
(1) Appointments.--The following bankruptcy judges shall be
appointed in the manner prescribed in section 152(a)(1) of
title 28, United States Code, for the appointment of bankruptcy
judges provided for in section 152(a)(2) of such title:
(A) One additional bankruptcy judge for the eastern
district of California.
(B) Four additional bankruptcy judges for the
central district of California.
(C) One additional bankruptcy judge for the
district of Delaware.
(D) Two additional bankruptcy judges for the
southern district of Florida.
(E) One additional bankruptcy judge for the
southern district of Georgia.
(F) Two additional bankruptcy judges for the
district of Maryland.
(G) One additional bankruptcy judge for the eastern
district of Michigan.
(H) One additional bankruptcy judge for the
southern district of Mississippi.
(I) One additional bankruptcy judge for the
district of New Jersey.
(J) One additional bankruptcy judge for the eastern
district of New York.
(K) One additional bankruptcy judge for the
northern district of New York.
(L) One additional bankruptcy judge for the
southern district of New York.
(M) One additional bankruptcy judge for the eastern
district of North Carolina.
(N) One additional bankruptcy judge for the eastern
district of Pennsylvania.
(O) One additional bankruptcy judge for the middle
district of Pennsylvania.
(P) One additional bankruptcy judge for the
district of Puerto Rico.
(Q) One additional bankruptcy judge for the western
district of Tennessee.
(R) One additional bankruptcy judge for the eastern
district of Virginia.
(2) Vacancies.--The first vacancy occurring in the office
of a bankruptcy judge in each of the judicial districts set
forth in paragraph (1) shall not be filled if the vacancy--
(A) results from the death, retirement,
resignation, or removal of a bankruptcy judge; and
(B) occurs 5 years or more after the appointment
date of a bankruptcy judge appointed under paragraph
(1).
(b) Extensions.--
(1) In general.--The temporary office of bankruptcy judges
authorized for the northern district of Alabama, the district
of Delaware, the district of Puerto Rico, the district of South
Carolina, and the eastern district of Tennessee under
paragraphs (1), (3), (7), (8), and (9) of section 3(a) of the
Bankruptcy Judgeship Act of 1992 (28 U.S.C. 152 note) are
extended until the first vacancy occurring in the office of a
bankruptcy judge in the applicable district resulting from the
death, retirement, resignation, or removal of a bankruptcy
judge and occurring--
(A) 8 years or more after November 8, 1993, with
respect to the northern district of Alabama;
(B) 10 years or more after October 28, 1993, with
respect to the district of Delaware;
(C) 8 years or more after August 29, 1994, with
respect to the district of Puerto Rico;
(D) 8 years or more after June 27, 1994, with
respect to the district of South Carolina; and
(E) 8 years or more after November 23, 1993, with
respect to the eastern district of Tennessee.
(2) Applicability of other provisions.--Except as provided
in paragraph (1), section 3 of the Bankruptcy Judgeship Act of
1992 (28 U.S.C. 152 note) shall continue to apply to the
temporary office of bankruptcy judges referred to in such
paragraph.
(c) Technical Amendments.--Section 152(a) of title 28, United
States Code, is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1) by striking the first sentence and
inserting the following:
``Each bankruptcy judge authorized to be appointed for a judicial
district as provided in paragraph (2) shall be appointed by the United
States court of appeals for the circuit in which such district is
located.''; and
(2) in paragraph (2)--
(A) in the item relating to the middle district of
Georgia, by striking ``2'' and inserting ``3''; and
(B) in the collective item relating to the middle
and southern districts of Georgia, by striking ``Middle
and Southern . . . . . . 1''. | Makes this Act effective as of July 1, 2000 (the previous expiration date).
Mandates appointments for additional temporary bankruptcy judgeships in designated districts of the following States: California, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Tennessee, and Virginia.
Prohibits filling the first vacancy occurring in such judicial districts five years or more after such appointments if it results from death, retirement, resignation or removal.
Extends temporary bankruptcy judgeship positions authorized for the northern district of Alabama, the eastern district of Tennessee, and the districts of Delaware, Puerto Rico, and South Carolina. | Chapter 12 Extension and Bankruptcy Judgeship Act of 2000 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Fallen Heroes of 9/11 Act''.
SEC. 2. CONGRESSIONAL FINDINGS.
Congress finds that--
(1) since September 11, 2001, the United States has been
engaged in a war different from any other in our Nation's
history;
(2) in the eyes of the terrorists, we are all the enemy,
and the term ``innocent civilian'' has no meaning for such
terrorists;
(3) the deaths by airplane at the World Trade Center, at
the Pentagon, and in rural Pennsylvania represent an escalation
of direct terrorist attacks on civilians;
(4) the officers, emergency workers, and other employees of
State and local government agencies, including the Port
Authority of New York and New Jersey, and of the United States
Government and others, who responded to the attacks on the
World Trade Center in New York City and perished as a result of
the tragic events of September 11, 2001 (including those who
are missing and presumed dead), took heroic and noble action on
that day;
(5) the passengers and crew of United Airlines Flight 93,
recognizing the potential danger that the aircraft that they
were aboard posed to large numbers of innocent Americans,
American institutions, and the symbols of American democracy,
took heroic and noble action to ensure that the aircraft could
not be used as a weapon; and
(6) given the unprecedented nature of the attacks against
the United States of America and the need to properly
demonstrate the support of the country for the victims of
terrorism, it is fitting that their sacrifice be recognized
with the award of an appropriate medal.
SEC. 3. FALLEN HEROES OF 9/11 CONGRESSIONAL MEDALS.
(a) Presentation Authorized.--The President may present on behalf
of Congress, to the personal representative or next of kin of each
individual referred to in subsection (c), a medal of appropriate
design, as described in subsection (b)(1), such medals to be known as
``Fallen Heroes of 9/11 Congressional Medals'', in recognition of the
sacrifice made by each such individual, and to honor their deaths on
and following September 11, 2001.
(b) Design and Striking.--
(1) In general.--For purposes of the presentations referred
to in subsection (a), the Secretary of the Treasury (in this
Act referred to as the ``Secretary'') shall strike 3 medals, of
such content and with such suitable emblems, devices, and
inscriptions as the Secretary determines to be appropriate to
be representative of and in honor of, respectively--
(A) victims of the attack at the World Trade
Center, including civilians, public safety officers,
emergency workers, and hijack victims;
(B) victims aboard United Airlines Flight 93 that
crashed in Pennsylvania; and
(C) victims at the Pentagon, including the hijack
victims.
(2) Consultation.--Before making a final determination with
respect to the design of the medal under this subsection, the
Secretary shall consult with the Secretary of Defense and such
other parties as the Secretary may determine to be appropriate.
(c) Eligibility To Receive Medal.--
(1) In general.--Any individual who died on or after
September 11, 2001, as a direct result of the act of terrorism
within the United States on that date, shall be eligible for a
medal referred to in subsection (a).
(2) Determination.--Eligibility under paragraph (1) shall
be determined by the Secretary, in consultation with such other
officers of the United States Government and State and local
officials as the Secretary determines to be appropriate.
(3) Terrorism defined.--For purposes of this section and
section 4, the term ``act of terrorism'' means the
premeditated, politically motivated violence perpetrated
against the United States on September 11, 2001.
SEC. 4. DUPLICATE MEDALS.
(a) Recipients of Duplicate Medals.--The Secretary shall strike
duplicates of the medals struck pursuant to section 3 for presentation
to each precinct house, firehouse, emergency response station, or other
duty station or place of employment to which each person referred to in
subsection (b) of this section was assigned on September 11, 2001, for
permanent display in each such place in a manner befitting the memory
of such person.
(b) Public Safety, Emergency, and Other Workers--Persons referred
to in this subsection are officers, emergency workers, and other
employees of State and local government agencies, including the Port
Authority of New York and New Jersey, and of the United States
Government and others, who responded to the attacks on the World Trade
Center in New York City on September 11, 2001, and perished as a direct
result of that act of terrorism (including those who are missing and
presumed dead).
SEC. 5. ESTABLISHMENT OF LISTS OF RECIPIENTS.
(a) Initial Lists.--Before the end of the 120-day period beginning
on the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall establish--
(1) a list of the names of individuals eligible to receive
a medal under section 3, as described in section 3(c)(1),
during the period beginning on September 11, 2001, and ending
on the date of enactment of this Act; and
(2) a list of the eligible recipients of a duplicate medal
under section 4.
(b) Subsequent Eligibility.--If any individual becomes eligible for
a medal, as described in section 3(c)(1), or any other recipient
becomes eligible for a duplicate medal, as described in section 4, the
Secretary shall promptly add the name of that individual or recipient
to the appropriate list established pursuant to subsection (a).
SEC. 6. SALES TO THE PUBLIC TO DEFRAY COSTS.
Under such regulations as the Secretary may prescribe, the
Secretary may strike and sell duplicates of the medals struck under
this Act, at a price sufficient to cover the costs of the medals
(including labor, materials, dies, use of machinery, and overhead
expenses).
SEC. 7. NATIONAL MEDALS.
The medals struck pursuant to this Act are national medals for
purposes of chapter 51 of title 31, United States Code. | Fallen Heroes of 9/11 Act - Authorizes the President to present to the personal representative or next of kin of each individual who died on or after September 11, 2001, as a direct result of the act of terrorism within the United States on that date, a Fallen Heroes of 9/11 Congressional Medal in recognition of their sacrifice and to honor their deaths.Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to strike: (1) three medals to honor victims of the attack at the World Trade Center (WTC), victims aboard United Airlines Flight 93 that crashed in Pennsylvania, and victims at the Pentagon; and (2) duplicate medals for presentation to each precinct house, firehouse, emergency response station, or other duty station or place of employment to which officers, emergency workers, and other employees of the U.S. Government and of State and local government agencies (including the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey) and others who responded to and perished as a direct result of the WTC attacks were assigned on September 11, 2001. | A bill to provide for a medal of appropriate design to be awarded by the President to the next of kin or other representative of those individuals killed as a result of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Eastern New Mexico Rural Water
System Authorization Act''.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Authority.--The term ``Authority'' means the Eastern
New Mexico Rural Water Authority, an entity formed under State
law for the purposes of planning, financing, developing, and
operating the System.
(2) Engineering report.--The term ``engineering report''
means the report entitled ``Eastern New Mexico Rural Water
System Preliminary Engineering Report'' and dated October 2006.
(3) Plan.--The term ``plan'' means the operation,
maintenance, and replacement plan required by section 4(b).
(4) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of the Interior.
(5) State.--The term ``State'' means the State of New
Mexico.
(6) System.--
(A) In general.--The term ``System'' means the
Eastern New Mexico Rural Water System, a water delivery
project designed to deliver approximately 16,500 acre-
feet of water per year from the Ute Reservoir to the
cities of Clovis, Elida, Grady, Melrose, Portales, and
Texico and other locations in Curry, Roosevelt, and
Quay Counties in the State.
(B) Inclusions.--The term ``System'' includes the
major components and associated infrastructure
identified as the ``Best Technical Alternative'' in the
engineering report.
(7) Ute reservoir.--The term ``Ute Reservoir'' means the
impoundment of water created in 1962 by the construction of the
Ute Dam on the Canadian River, located approximately 32 miles
upstream of the border between New Mexico and Texas.
SEC. 3. EASTERN NEW MEXICO RURAL WATER SYSTEM.
(a) Financial Assistance.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary may provide financial and
technical assistance to the Authority to assist in planning,
designing, conducting related preconstruction activities for,
and constructing the System.
(2) Use.--
(A) In general.--Any financial assistance provided
under paragraph (1) shall be obligated and expended
only in accordance with a cooperative agreement entered
into under section 5(a)(2).
(B) Limitations.--Financial assistance provided
under paragraph (1) shall not be used--
(i) for any activity that is inconsistent
with constructing the System; or
(ii) to plan or construct facilities used
to supply irrigation water for irrigated
agricultural purposes.
(b) Cost-Sharing Requirement.--
(1) In general.--The Federal share of the total cost of any
activity or construction carried out using amounts made
available under this Act shall be not more than 75 percent of
the total cost of the System.
(2) System development costs.--For purposes of paragraph
(1), the total cost of the System shall include any costs
incurred by the Authority or the State on or after October 1,
2003, for the development of the System.
(c) Limitation.--No amounts made available under this Act may be
used for the construction of the System until--
(1) a plan is developed under section 4(b); and
(2) the Secretary and the Authority have complied with any
requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969
(42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) applicable to the System.
(d) Title to Project Works.--Title to the infrastructure of the
System shall be held by the Authority or as may otherwise be specified
under State law.
SEC. 4. OPERATION, MAINTENANCE, AND REPLACEMENT COSTS.
(a) In General.--The Authority shall be responsible for the annual
operation, maintenance, and replacement costs associated with the
System.
(b) Operation, Maintenance, and Replacement Plan.--The Authority,
in consultation with the Secretary, shall develop an operation,
maintenance, and replacement plan that establishes the rates and fees
for beneficiaries of the System in the amount necessary to ensure that
the System is properly maintained and capable of delivering
approximately 16,500 acre-feet of water per year.
SEC. 5. ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS.
(a) Cooperative Agreements.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary may enter into any contract,
grant, cooperative agreement, or other agreement that is
necessary to carry out this Act.
(2) Cooperative agreement for provision of financial
assistance.--
(A) In general.--The Secretary shall enter into a
cooperative agreement with the Authority to provide
financial assistance and any other assistance requested
by the Authority for planning, design, related
preconstruction activities, and construction of the
System.
(B) Requirements.--The cooperative agreement
entered into under subparagraph (A) shall, at a
minimum, specify the responsibilities of the Secretary
and the Authority with respect to--
(i) ensuring that the cost-share
requirements established by section 3(b) are
met;
(ii) completing the planning and final
design of the System;
(iii) any environmental and cultural
resource compliance activities required for the
System; and
(iv) the construction of the System.
(b) Technical Assistance.--At the request of the Authority, the
Secretary may provide to the Authority any technical assistance that is
necessary to assist the Authority in planning, designing, constructing,
and operating the System.
(c) Biological Assessment.--The Secretary shall consult with the
New Mexico Interstate Stream Commission and the Authority in preparing
any biological assessment under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16
U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) that may be required for planning and constructing
the System.
(d) Effect.--Nothing in this Act---
(1) affects or preempts--
(A) State water law; or
(B) an interstate compact relating to the
allocation of water; or
(2) confers on any non-Federal entity the ability to
exercise any Federal rights to--
(A) the water of a stream; or
(B) any groundwater resource.
SEC. 6. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
(a) In General.--In accordance with the adjustment carried out
under subsection (b), there is authorized to be appropriated to the
Secretary to carry out this Act an amount not greater than
$327,000,000.
(b) Adjustment.--The amount made available under subsection (a)
shall be adjusted to reflect changes in construction costs occurring
after January 1, 2007, as indicated by engineering cost indices
applicable to the types of construction necessary to carry out this
Act.
(c) Nonreimbursable Amounts.--Amounts made available to the
Authority in accordance with the cost-sharing requirement under section
3(b) shall be nonreimbursable and nonreturnable to the United States.
(d) Availability of Funds.--At the end of each fiscal year, any
unexpended funds appropriated pursuant to this Act shall be retained
for use in future fiscal years consistent with this Act.
Passed the House of Representatives June 19, 2008.
Attest:
LORRAINE C. MILLER,
Clerk. | Eastern New Mexico Rural Water System Authorization Act - Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to provide financial and technical assistance to the Eastern New Mexico Rural Water Authority to assist in planning, designing, conducting preconstruction activities for, and constructing the Eastern New Mexico Rural Water System.
Limits the federal share of the cost of any activity to 75%. Provides that the total cost of the System shall include any costs incurred by the Authority or the state of New Mexico on or after October 1, 2003, for System development.
Makes the Authority responsible for annual operation, maintenance, and replacement costs. Directs the Authority to develop an operation, maintenance, and replacement plan that establishes rates and fees necessary to ensure that the System is properly maintained and capable of delivering approximately 16,500 acre-feet of water per year. Prohibits the use of funds under this Act until such plan is developed and the Secretary and the Authority have complied with applicable requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969.
Directs the Secretary to: (1) enter into a cooperative agreement with the Authority to provide financial and any other assistance requested by the Authority for planning, design, related preconstruction activities, and construction of the System; and (2) consult with the New Mexico Interstate Stream Commission and the Authority in preparing any required biological assessment under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. Authorizes the Secretary, at the Authority's request, to provide technical assistance.
Authorizes appropriations. | To authorize the Secretary of the Interior to provide financial assistance to the Eastern New Mexico Rural Water Authority for the planning, design, and construction of the Eastern New Mexico Rural Water System, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Utilizing DNA Technology to Solve
Cold Cases Act of 2011''.
SEC. 2. ENHANCED SEARCHES.
(a) Familial Searches.--
(1) In general.--Not later than one year after the date of
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) subject to paragraph (5), a CODIS State
administrator or State attorney general 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, kidnapping, or any attempt to
commit murder, voluntary manslaughter, or
kidnapping.
(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 for which an offender
would be required, under the Sex Offender
Registration and Notification Act (42 U.S.C.
16901 et seq.), to register as a tier III sex
offender (as defined in section 111(4) of such
Act (42 U.S.C. 16911(4))), or an attempt to
commit such an offense.
(3) Requests by states.--A CODIS State administrator or
State attorney general 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;
(ii) is consistent with any regulations
issued by the Attorney General pursuant to this
section; and
(iii) ensures that the privacy interests of
persons identified in familial searches are
carefully protected; and
(B) each time a familial search request is made,
make such policy available to the Attorney General.
(4) State assurances required.--A CODIS State administrator
or a State attorney general may request from the Federal Bureau
of Investigation familial searches for DNA samples collected
from crime scenes in State investigations only if the
requesting State has provided an assurance to the Attorney
General that--
(A) the requesting State will take such steps as
the Attorney General determines to be necessary and
appropriate to facilitate the investigation of familial
matches from other States; and
(B) the requesting State will investigate possible
familial matches in the State before requesting
assistance from other States.
(5) 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 the CODIS
State administrator or State attorney general requesting
information related to such match.
(b) Report.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 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 CODIS
State administrators or State attorney generals.
(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 one year after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Attorney General shall issue regulations to
carry out this section.
(d) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``CODIS State administrator'' means the
individual designated by a State to coordinate and communicate
with local CODIS administrators in the State and to be
responsible for entering data from the State in the National
DNA Index System, in accordance with the procedures established
by the National DNA Index System Procedures Board and published
by the Federal Bureau of Investigation in the NDIS Policies and
Procedures.
(2) 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.
(3) The term ``familial match'' means a genetic association
determined by the Attorney General to present a high
probability of familial relation between a DNA profile in the
offender index and a DNA sample collected at a crime scene.
(4) 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).
(5) 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 2011 - 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 in federal investigations, (2) a CODIS (Combined DNA Index System) state administrator or a state attorney general 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, voluntary manslaughter, kidnapping, a sex offense against a minor, or an offense for which an offender would be required to register as a tier III sex offender.
Sets forth requirements for state requests for such searches, including assurances that the requesting state will: (1) take steps to facilitate the investigation of familial matches from other states, and (2) investigate possible familial matches in that state before requesting assistance from other states. | To direct the Attorney General to design and implement a procedure to permit enhanced searches of the National DNA Index System. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``American Fighter Aces Congressional
Gold Medal Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds the following:
(1) An American Fighter Ace is a fighter pilot who has served
honorably in a United States military service and who has destroyed
5 or more confirmed enemy aircraft in aerial combat during a war or
conflict in which American armed forces have participated.
(2) Beginning with World War I, and the first use of airplanes
in warfare, military services have maintained official records of
individual aerial victory credits during every major conflict. Of
more than 60,000 United States military fighter pilots that have
taken to the air, less than 1,500 have become Fighter Aces.
(3) Americans became Fighter Aces in the Spanish Civil War,
Sino-Japanese War, Russian Civil War, Arab-Israeli War, and others.
Additionally, American military groups' recruited United States
military pilots to form the American Volunteer Group, Eagle
Squadron, and others that produced American-born Fighter Aces
fighting against axis powers prior to Pearl Harbor.
(4) The concept of a Fighter Ace is that they fought for
freedom and democracy across the globe, flying in the face of the
enemy to defend freedom throughout the history of aerial combat.
American-born citizens became Fighter Aces flying under the flag of
United States allied countries and became some of the highest
scoring Fighter Aces of their respective wars.
(5) American Fighter Aces hail from every State in the Union,
representing numerous ethnic, religious, and cultural backgrounds.
(6) Fighter Aces possess unique skills that have made them
successful in aerial combat. These include courage, judgment, keen
marksmanship, concentration, drive, persistence, and split-second
thinking that makes an Ace a war fighter with unique and valuable
flight driven skills.
(7) The Aces' training, bravery, skills, sacrifice, attention
to duty, and innovative spirit illustrate the most celebrated
traits of the United States military, including service to country
and the protection of freedom and democracy.
(8) American Fighter Aces have led distinguished careers in the
military, education, private enterprise, and politics. Many have
held the rank of General or Admiral and played leadership roles in
multiple war efforts from WWI to Vietnam through many decades. In
some cases they became the highest ranking officers for following
wars.
(9) The extraordinary heroism of the American Fighter Ace
boosted American morale at home and encouraged many men and women
to enlist to fight for America and democracy across the globe.
(10) Fighter Aces were among America's most-prized military
fighters during wars. When they rotated back to the United States
after combat tours, they trained cadets in fighter pilot tactics
that they had learned over enemy skies. The teaching of combat
dogfighting to young aviators strengthened our fighter pilots to
become more successful in the skies. The net effect of this was to
shorten wars and save the lives of young Americans.
(11) Following military service, many Fighter Aces became test
pilots due to their superior flying skills and quick thinking
abilities.
(12) Richard Bong was America's top Ace of all wars scoring a
confirmed 40 enemy victories in WWII. He was from Poplar,
Wisconsin, and flew the P-38 Lightning in all his combat sorties
flying for the 49th Fighter Group. He was killed in 1945 during a
P-80 test flight in which the engine flamed out on takeoff.
(13) The American Fighter Aces are one of the most decorated
military groups in American history. Twenty-two Fighter Aces have
achieved the rank of Admiral in the Navy. Seventy-nine Fighter Aces
have achieved the rank of General in the Army, Marines, and Air
Force. Nineteen Medals of Honor have been awarded to individual
Fighter Aces.
(14) The American Fighter Aces Association has existed for over
50 years as the primary organization with which the Aces have
preserved their history and told their stories to the American
public. The Association established and maintains the Outstanding
Cadet in Airmanship Award presented annually at the United States
Air Force Academy; established and maintains an awards program for
outstanding fighter pilot ``lead-in'' trainee graduates from the
Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps; and sponsors a scholarship
program for descendants of American Fighter Aces.
SEC. 3. CONGRESSIONAL GOLD MEDAL.
(a) Presentation Authorized.--The Speaker of the House of
Representatives and the President pro tempore of the Senate shall make
appropriate arrangements for the presentation, on behalf of the
Congress, of a single gold medal of appropriate design in honor of the
American Fighter Aces, collectively, in recognition of their heroic
military service and defense of our country's freedom, which has
spanned the history of aviation warfare.
(b) Design and Striking.--For the purposes of the award referred to
in subsection (a), the Secretary of the Treasury shall strike the gold
medal with suitable emblems, devices, and inscriptions, to be
determined by the Secretary.
(c) Smithsonian Institution.--
(1) In general.--Following the award of the gold medal in honor
of the American Fighter Aces, the gold medal shall be given to the
Smithsonian Institution, where it will be available for display as
appropriate and available for research.
(2) Sense of the congress.--It is the sense of the Congress
that the Smithsonian Institution should make the gold medal awarded
pursuant to this Act available for display elsewhere, particularly
at appropriate locations associated with the American Fighter Aces,
and that preference should be given to locations affiliated with
the Smithsonian Institution.
SEC. 4. DUPLICATE MEDALS.
The Secretary may strike and sell duplicates in bronze of the gold
medal struck pursuant to section 3 under such regulations as the
Secretary may prescribe, at a price sufficient to cover the cost
thereof, including labor, materials, dies, use of machinery, and
overhead expenses, and the cost of the gold medal.
SEC. 5. NATIONAL MEDALS.
The medal struck pursuant to this Act is a national medal for
purposes of chapter 51 of title 31, United States Code.
Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Vice President of the United States and
President of the Senate. | American Fighter Aces Congressional Gold Medal Act - Directs the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President pro tempore of the Senate to arrange for the presentation of a single congressional gold medal in honor of the American Fighter Aces, collectively, in recognition of their heroic military service and defense of the nation's freedom. Requires the medal to be given to the Smithsonian Institution for display and research purposes. Expresses the sense of Congress that the medal should be made available for display elsewhere, particularly at locations associated with the American Fighter Aces. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to strike and sell bronze duplicates of the gold medal at a price sufficient to cover the costs of the medals. | American Fighter Aces Congressional Gold Medal Act |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Veterans Dog Training Therapy Act''.
SEC. 2. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS PILOT PROGRAM ON DOG TRAINING
THERAPY.
(a) In General.--Commencing not later than 120 days after the date
of the enactment of the Act, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall
carry out a pilot program for the purpose of assessing the
effectiveness of addressing post-deployment mental health and post-
traumatic stress disorder symptoms through a therapeutic medium of
training service dogs for veterans with disabilities.
(b) Duration of Pilot Program.--The pilot program required by
subsection (a) shall be carried out at least three and not more than
five Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers during the five-
year period beginning on the date of the commencement of the pilot
program.
(c) Locations of Pilot Program.--In selecting medical centers for
the pilot program required under subsection (a), the Secretary shall
ensure that each medical center selected provides a training area for
educating veterans with mental health conditions in the art and science
of service dog training and handling. Such training area shall--
(1) include a dedicated space that is suitable for grooming
and training dogs indoors;
(2) be wheelchair accessible;
(3) include classroom or lecture space;
(4) include office space for staff;
(5) include a suitable space for storing training
equipment;
(6) provide for periodic use of other training areas for
training the dogs with wheelchairs and conducting other
exercises;
(7) include outdoor exercise and toileting space for dogs;
and
(8) provide transportation for weekly field trips to train
dogs in other environments.
(d) Design of Pilot Program.--In carrying out the pilot program
under this section, the Secretary shall--
(1) administer the program through the Recreation Therapy
Service of the Department of Veterans Affairs under the
direction of a certified recreational therapist with sufficient
administrative experience to oversee all pilot program sites;
(2) establish, for purposes of overseeing the training of
dogs at medical centers selected for the pilot program, a
director of service dog training with a background working in
social services, experience in teaching others to train service
dogs in a vocational setting, and at least one year of
experience working with veterans or active duty service members
with post-traumatic stress disorder in a clinical setting;
(3) ensure that each pilot program site has certified
service dog training instructors;
(4) ensure that in selecting assistance dogs for use in the
program, dogs residing in animal shelters or foster homes are
looked at as an option, if appropriate, and ensure that all
dogs used in the program have adequate temperament and health
clearances;
(5) ensure that each service dog in training participating
in the pilot program is taught all essential commands
pertaining to service dog skills;
(6) ensure that each service dog in training lives at the
pilot program site or a volunteer foster home in the vicinity
of such site while receiving training;
(7) ensure that the pilot program involves both lecture of
service dog training methodologies and practical hands-on
training and grooming of service dogs; and
(8) ensure that the pilot program is designed to--
(A) maximize the therapeutic benefits to veterans
participating in the program; and
(B) provide well-trained service dogs to veterans
with disabilities.
(e) Veteran Eligibility.--A veteran with post-traumatic stress
disorder or other post-deployment mental health condition may volunteer
to participate in the pilot program under subsection (a) if the
Secretary determines that there are adequate program resources
available for such veteran at the pilot program site. Veterans may
participate in the pilot program in conjunction with the compensated
work therapy program of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
(f) Hiring Preference.--In hiring service dog training instructors
under the pilot program under subsection (a), the Secretary shall give
a preference to veterans who have successfully graduated from post-
traumatic stress disorder or other residential treatment programs and
who have received adequate certification in service dog training.
(g) Collection of Data.--The Secretary shall collect data on the
pilot program required under subsection (a) to determine how effective
the program is for the veterans participating in the program. Such data
shall include data to determine how effectively the program assists
veterans in--
(1) reducing stigma associated with post-traumatic stress
disorder or other post-deployment mental health condition;
(2) improving emotional regulation;
(3) improving patience;
(4) instilling or re-establishing a sense of purpose;
(5) providing an opportunity to help fellow veterans;
(6) reintegrating into the community;
(7) exposing the dog to new environments and in doing so,
helping the veteran reduce social isolation and withdrawal;
(8) building relationship skills, including parenting
skills;
(9) relaxing the hyper-vigilant survival state;
(10) improving sleep patterns; and
(11) enabling veterans to decrease the use of pain
medication.
(h) Reports to Congress.--Not later than one year after the date of
the commencement of the pilot program under subsection (a), and each
year thereafter for the duration of the pilot program, the Secretary
shall submit to Congress a report on the pilot program. Each such
report shall include--
(1) the number of veterans participating in the pilot
program;
(2) a description of the services carried out by the
Secretary under the pilot program;
(3) the effects that participating in the pilot program has
on the following--
(A) symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder and
post-deployment adjustment difficulties, including
depression, maintenance of sobriety, suicidal
ideations, and homelessness;
(B) potentially relevant physiological markers that
possibly relate to the interactions with the service
dogs;
(C) family dynamics;
(D) insomnia and pain management; and
(E) overall well being; and
(4) the recommendations of the Secretary with respect to
the extension or expansion of the pilot program.
(i) Definition.--For the purposes of this section, the term
``service dog training instructor'' means an instructor who provides
the direct training of veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder and
other post-deployment issues in the art and science of service dog
training and handling. | Veterans Dog Training Therapy Act - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program for assessing the effectiveness of addressing post-deployment mental health and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms through a therapeutic medium of service dog training and handling for veterans with disabilities. Requires such program to be carried out at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers that can provide training areas for such purposes. | To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on dog training therapy. |
SECTION 1. JUDICIAL STRUCTURE OF GUAM.
(a) Judicial Authority; Courts.--Section 22(a) of the Organic Act
of Guam (48 U.S.C. 1424(a)) is amended to read as follows:
``(a)(1) The judicial authority of Guam shall be vested in a court
established by Congress designated as the `District Court of Guam', and
a judicial branch of Guam which branch shall constitute a unified
judicial system and include an appellate court designated as the
`Supreme Court of Guam', a trial court designated as the `Superior
Court of Guam', and such other lower local courts as may have been or
shall hereafter be established by the laws of Guam.
``(2) The Supreme Court of Guam may, by rules of such court, create
divisions of the Superior Court of Guam and other local courts of Guam.
``(3) The courts of record for Guam shall be the District Court of
Guam, the Supreme Court of Guam, the Superior Court of Guam (except the
Traffic and Small Claims divisions of the Superior Court of Guam) and
any other local courts or divisions of local courts that the Supreme
Court of Guam shall designate.''.
(b) Jurisdiction and Powers of Local Courts.--Section 22A of the
Organic Act of Guam (48 U.S.C. 1424-1) is amended to read as follows:
``Sec. 22A. (a) The Supreme Court of Guam shall be the highest
court of the judicial branch of Guam (excluding the District Court of
Guam) and shall--
``(1) have original jurisdiction over proceedings necessary
to protect its appellate jurisdiction and supervisory authority
and such other original jurisdiction as the laws of Guam may
provide;
``(2) have jurisdiction to hear appeals over any cause in
Guam decided by the Superior Court of Guam or other courts
established under the laws of Guam;
``(3) have jurisdiction to issue all orders and writs in
aid of its appellate, supervisory, and original jurisdiction,
including those orders necessary for the supervision of the
judicial branch of Guam;
``(4) have supervisory jurisdiction over the Superior Court
of Guam and all other courts of the judicial branch of Guam;
``(5) hear and determine appeals by a panel of three of the
justices of the Supreme Court of Guam and a concurrence of two
such justices shall be necessary to a decision of the Supreme
Court of Guam on the merits of an appeal;
``(6) make and promulgate rules governing the
administration of the judiciary and the practice and procedure
in the courts of the judicial branch of Guam, including
procedures for the determination of an appeal en banc; and
``(7) govern attorney and judicial ethics and the practice
of law in Guam, including admission to practice law and the
conduct and discipline of persons admitted to practice law.
``(b) The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Guam--
``(1) shall preside over the Supreme Court unless
disqualified or unable to act;
``(2) shall be the administrative head of, and have general
supervisory power over, all departments, divisions, and other
instrumentalities of the judicial branch of Guam; and
``(3) may issue such administrative orders on behalf of the
Supreme Court of Guam as necessary for the efficient
administration of the judicial branch of Guam.
``(c) The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Guam, or a justice
sitting in place of such Chief Justice, may make any appropriate order
with respect to--
``(1) an appeal prior to the hearing and determination of
that appeal on the merits; or
``(2) dismissal of an appeal for lack of jurisdiction or
failure to take or prosecute the appeal in accordance with
applicable laws or rules of procedure.
``(d) Except as granted to the Supreme Court of Guam or otherwise
provided by this Act or any other Act of Congress, the Superior Court
of Guam and all other local courts established by the laws of Guam
shall have such original and appellate jurisdiction over all causes in
Guam as the laws of Guam provide, except that such jurisdiction shall
be subject to the exclusive or concurrent jurisdiction conferred on the
District Court of Guam under section 22 of this Act.
``(e) The qualifications and duties of the justices and judges of
the Supreme Court of Guam, the Superior Court of Guam, and all other
local courts established by the laws of Guam shall be governed by the
laws of Guam and the rules of such courts.''.
(c) Technical Amendments.--(1) Section 22C(a) of the Organic Act of
Guam (48 U.S.C. 1424-3(a)) is amended by inserting ``which is known as
the Supreme Court of Guam,'' after ``appellate court authorized by
section 22A(a) of this Act,''.
(2) Section 22C(d) of the Organic Act of Guam (48 U.S.C. 1424-3(d))
is amended--
(A) by inserting ``, which is known as the Supreme Court of
Guam,'' after ``appellate court provided for in section 22A(a)
of this Act''; and
(B) by striking ``taken to the appellate court'' and
inserting ``taken to such appellate court''.
SEC. 2. APPEALS TO UNITED STATES SUPREME COURT.
Section 22B of the Organic Act of Guam (48 U.S.C. 1424-2) is
amended by striking ``: Provided, That'' and all that follows through
the end and inserting a period. | Amends the Organic Act of Guam to revise the local judicial structure of Guam to vest judicial authority, not only in the District Court of Guam (as currently), but also in a unified judicial system composed of: (1) an appellate court designated as the "Supreme Court of Guam"; (2) a trial court designated as the "Superior Court of Guam"; and (3) such other lower local courts as may have been or may hereafter be established by the laws of Guam.
Authorizes the Supreme Court of Guam to create divisions of the Superior Court and other local courts of Guam.Lists the courts of record for Guam.Outlines the jurisdiction and powers of the local courts.Provides that the qualifications and duties of the justices and judges of the courts shall be governed by the laws of Guam and the rules of such courts.Repeals provisions granting the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit jurisdiction to review all final decisions of the Supreme Court of Guam (effectively allowing direct review of such decisions to the Supreme Court of the United States). | To amend the Organic Act of Guam for the purposes of clarifying the local judicial structure of Guam. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Fallen Heroes of 9/11 Act''.
SEC. 2. CONGRESSIONAL FINDINGS.
Congress finds that--
(1) since September 11, 2001, the United States has been
engaged in a war different from any other in the history of our
Nation;
(2) in the eyes of the terrorists, we are all the enemy,
and the term ``innocent civilian'' has no meaning for such
terrorists;
(3) the deaths by airplane at the World Trade Center, at
the Pentagon, and in rural Pennsylvania represent an escalation
of direct terrorist attacks on civilians;
(4) the officers, emergency workers, and other employees of
State and local government agencies, including the Port
Authority of New York and New Jersey, and of the United States
Government and others, who responded to the attacks on the
World Trade Center in New York City and perished as a result of
the tragic events of September 11, 2001 (including those who
are missing and presumed dead), took heroic and noble action on
that day;
(5) the officers, emergency rescue workers, and employees
of local and United States Government agencies, who responded
to the attack on the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., took heroic
and noble action to evacuate the premises and prevent further
casualties of Pentagon employees;
(6) the passengers and crew of United Airlines Flight 93,
recognizing the potential danger that the aircraft that they
were aboard posed to large numbers of innocent Americans,
American institutions, and the symbols of American democracy,
took heroic and noble action to ensure that the aircraft could
not be used as a weapon; and
(7) given the unprecedented nature of the attacks against
the United States of America and the need to properly
demonstrate the support of the country for the victims of
terrorism, it is fitting that their sacrifice be recognized
with the award of an appropriate medal.
SEC. 3. FALLEN HEROES OF 9/11 CONGRESSIONAL MEDALS.
(a) Presentation Authorized.--The President is authorized, on
behalf of Congress, to award to the personal representative or next of
kin of each individual referred to in subsection (c), a medal of
appropriate design, such medal to be known as the ``Fallen Heroes of 9/
11 Congressional Medal'', in recognition of the sacrifice made by each
such individual, and to honor their deaths on and following September
11, 2001.
(b) Design and Striking.--
(1) In general.--For purposes of the presentations referred
to in subsection (a), the Secretary of the Treasury (in this
Act referred to as the ``Secretary'') shall strike 3 medals, of
such content and with such suitable emblems, devices, and
inscriptions as the Secretary determines to be appropriate to
be representative of and in honor of, respectively--
(A) victims of the attack at the World Trade
Center, including civilians, public safety officers,
emergency workers, and hijack victims;
(B) victims aboard United Airlines Flight 93 that
crashed in Pennsylvania; and
(C) victims at the Pentagon, including the hijack
victims.
(2) Consultation.--Before making a final determination with
respect to the design of the medal under this subsection, the
Secretary shall consult with the Secretary of Defense and such
other parties as the Secretary may determine to be appropriate.
(c) Eligibility To Receive Medal.--
(1) In general.--Any individual who died on or after
September 11, 2001, as a direct result of the act of terrorism
within the United States on that date, shall be eligible for a
medal authorized by subsection (a).
(2) Determination.--Eligibility under paragraph (1) shall
be determined by the Secretary, in consultation with such other
officers of the United States Government and State and local
officials as the Secretary determines to be appropriate.
SEC. 4. DUPLICATE MEDALS.
(a) Recipients of Duplicate Medals.--The Secretary shall strike
duplicates of the medals struck pursuant to section 3 for presentation
to each precinct house, firehouse, emergency response station, or other
duty station or place of employment to which each person referred to in
subsection (b) was assigned on September 11, 2001, for permanent
display in each such place in a manner befitting the memory of such
person.
(b) Public Safety, Emergency, and Other Workers.--Persons referred
to in this subsection are officers, emergency workers, and other
employees of State and local government agencies, including the Port
Authority of New York and New Jersey, and of the United States
Government and others, who responded to the attacks on the World Trade
Center in New York City on September 11, 2001, and perished as a direct
result of that act of terrorism (including those who are missing and
presumed dead).
SEC. 5. ESTABLISHMENT OF LISTS OF RECIPIENTS.
(a) Initial Lists.--Before the end of the 120-day period beginning
on the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall establish--
(1) a list of the names of individuals eligible to receive
a medal under section 3(c)(1), during the period beginning on
September 11, 2001, and ending on the date of enactment of this
Act; and
(2) a list of the eligible recipients of a duplicate medal
under section 4.
(b) Subsequent Eligibility.--If any individual becomes eligible for
a medal under section 3(c)(1), or any other recipient becomes eligible
for a duplicate medal under section 4, the Secretary shall promptly add
the name of that individual or recipient to the appropriate list
established pursuant to subsection (a).
SEC. 6. SALES OF DUPLICATE MEDALS TO THE PUBLIC TO DEFRAY COSTS.
Under such regulations as the Secretary may prescribe, the
Secretary may strike and sell duplicates of the medals struck under
this Act, at a price sufficient to cover the costs thereof, including
labor, materials, dies, use of machinery, and overhead expenses.
SEC. 7. NATIONAL MEDALS.
The medals struck pursuant to this Act are national medals for
purposes of chapter 51 of title 31, United States Code. | Fallen Heroes of 9/11 Act - Authorizes the President to award a medal to be known as the "Fallen Heroes of 9/11 Congressional Medal," to the personal representative or next of kin of individuals killed as a result of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, in recognition of their sacrifice and to honor their deaths.
Instructs the Secretary of the Treasury to strike three medals, to be representative of and in honor of, respectively: (1) victims of the attack at the World Trade Center, including civilians, public safety officers, emergency workers, and hijack victims; (2) victims aboard United Airlines Flight 93 that crashed in Pennsylvania; and (3) victims at the Pentagon, including the hijack victims.
Declares eligible for such medal any individual who died on or after September 11, 2001, as a direct result of that act of terrorism within the United States.
States the medals are national medals. | A bill to provide for a medal of appropriate design to be awarded by the President to the next of kin or other representative of those individuals killed as a result of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Citizen Involvement in Campaigns Act
of 2002''.
SEC. 2. TAX CREDIT FOR CERTAIN POLITICAL CONTRIBUTIONS.
(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 new section:
``SEC. 25C. CREDIT FOR POLITICAL CONTRIBUTIONS.
``(a) In General.--In the case of an individual, there shall be
allowed as a credit against the tax imposed by this chapter for the
taxable year an amount equal to all political contributions paid by the
taxpayer during the taxable year.
``(b) Limitations.--
``(1) Maximum credit.--The credit allowed by subsection (a)
shall not exceed $200 ($400 in the case of a joint return).
``(2) Verification.--The credit allowed by subsection (a)
shall be allowed with respect to any political contribution
only if such contribution is verified in such manner as the
Secretary shall prescribe by regulation.
``(c) Definitions.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) Political contribution.--The term `political
contribution' means a contribution or gift of money, or the
fair market value of a contribution or gift of property, to--
``(A) an individual who is a candidate for
nomination or election to any Federal elective public
office in any primary, general, or special election,
for use by such individual to further the candidacy of
the individual for nomination or election to such
office, or
``(B) the national committee of a national
political party.
``(2) Candidate.--The term `candidate' means, with respect
to any Federal elective public office, an individual who--
``(A) publicly announces before the close of the
calendar year following the calendar year in which the
political contribution is made that the individual is a
candidate for nomination or election to such office;
and
``(B) meets the qualifications prescribed by law to
hold such office.
``(3) National political party.--The term `national
political party' means--
``(A) in the case of political contributions made
during a taxable year of the taxpayer in which the
electors of President and Vice President are chosen, a
political party presenting candidates or electors for
such offices on the official election ballot of ten or
more States; or
``(B) in the case of political contributions made
during any other taxable year of the taxpayer, a
political party which met the qualifications described
in subparagraph (A) in the last preceding election of a
President and Vice President.
``(d) Denial of Double Benefit.--No deduction shall be allowed
under this chapter for any amount taken into account in determining the
credit allowed under this section.
``(e) Cross References.--
``For transfer of appreciated property
to a political organization, see section 84.
``For certain indirect contributions to
political parties, see section 276.''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--The table of sections for subpart A of
part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1 of such Code (relating to
nonrefundable personal credits) is amended by inserting after the item
relating to section 25B the following new item:
``Sec. 25C. Credit for political
contributions.''
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning after December 31 of the calendar year
in which this Act is enacted.
SEC. 3. DEDUCTION FOR CERTAIN POLITICAL CONTRIBUTIONS.
(a) In General.--Part VII of subchapter B of chapter 1 of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by redesignating section 223
as section 224 and by inserting after section 222 the following new
section:
``SEC. 223. POLITICAL CONTRIBUTIONS.
``(a) In General.--In the case of an individual, there shall be
allowed as a deduction for the taxable year an amount equal to the
qualified political contributions made by the taxpayer during the
taxable year.
``(b) Limitation.--The amount allowed as a deduction under
subsection (a) for the taxable year shall not exceed $600 ($1200 in the
case of a joint return).
``(c) Qualified Political Contribution.--For purposes of this
section, the term `qualified political contribution' shall have the
meaning given the term `political contribution' by section
25C(c)(1).''.
(b) Deduction Allowed Whether or Not Taxpayer Itemizes Other
Deductions.--Subsection (a) of section 62 of such Code is amended by
inserting after paragraph (18) the following new item:
``(19) Qualified political contributions.--The deduction
allowed by section 223.''.
(c) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for part VII of
subchapter B of chapter 1 of such Code is amended by striking the last
item and inserting the following new items:
``Sec. 223. Political contributions.
``Sec. 224. Cross reference.''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning after December 31 of the calendar year
in which this Act is enacted. | Citizen Involvement in Campaigns Act of 2002 - Permits an individual a tax credit of up to $200 ($400 in the case of a joint return), equal to the verified amount of certain political contributions the individual made during the taxable year. Denies a deduction for any amount taken into account in determining the credit permitted in this Act.Allows a deduction of up to $600 ($1200 for a joint return). Allows the deduction whether or not a taxpayer itemizes other deductions. | To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide a credit and a deduction for small political contributions. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Aviation Medical Assistance Act of
1998''.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Administrator.--The term ``Administrator'' means the
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration.
(2) Air carrier.--The term ``air carrier'' has the meaning
given that term in section 40102(a)(2) of title 49, United
States Code.
(3) Aircraft.--The term ``aircraft'' has the meaning given
that term in section 40102(a)(6) of title 49, United States
Code.
(4) Airport.--The term ``airport'' has the meaning given
that term in section 40102(a)(9) of title 49, United States
Code.
(5) Foreign air transportation.--The term ``foreign air
transportation'' has the meaning given that term in section
40102(a)(23) of title 49, United States Code.
(6) Interstate air transportation.--The term ``interstate
air transportation'' has the meaning given that term in section
40102(a)(25) of title 49, United States Code.
(7) Major air carrier.--The term ``major air carrier''
means an air carrier that--
(A) has been issued an applicable certificate as an
air carrier under section 41102 of title 49, United
States Code; and
(B) during the 12-month period ending March 31 of
the most recent year preceding the date of enactment of
this Act, accounted for at least 1 percent of domestic-
scheduled passenger revenues, as reported to the
Department of Transportation pursuant to part 241 of
title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
(8) Medically qualified individual.--The term ``medically
qualified individual'' includes any individual who is licensed,
certified, or otherwise qualified to provide medical care in a
State, including an ambulance attendant.
SEC. 3. MEDICAL KIT EQUIPMENT AND TRAINING.
(a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment
of this Act, the Administrator shall review and reevaluate regulations
of the Federal Aviation Administration regarding--
(1) the equipment required to be carried in medical kits of
aircraft operated by air carriers; and
(2) the training required of flight attendants in the use
of the equipment.
(b) Regulations.--If, on the basis of a review conducted under
subsection (a), the Administrator determines that it is necessary to
issue revised regulations, the Administrator shall issue a notice of
proposed rulemaking to issue those revised regulations.
SEC. 4. REPORTS REGARDING DEATHS ON AIRCRAFT.
During the 1-year period beginning on the 90th day following the
date of enactment of this Act, a major air carrier shall make a good
faith effort to obtain, and shall submit, on a monthly basis, a report
to the Administrator that provides information concerning--
(1) the number of individuals who died on aircraft of the
air carrier, including any individual who was declared dead
after being removed from such an aircraft as a result of a
medical incident that occurred on that aircraft;
(2) the age of each individual described in paragraph (1);
(3)(A) with respect to each individual described in
paragraph (1), whether the primary cause of death was a cardiac
arrest; and
(B) if the primary cause of death of an individual
described in paragraph (1) was a cardiac arrest, whether the
cardiac arrest was the result of ventricular fibrillation;
(4) with respect to each death or medical incident that
occurred on an aircraft referred to in paragraph (1), whether
the aircraft was diverted as a result of the death or incident; and
(5) such other information as the Administrator may request
as necessary to aid in a decision concerning whether to require
automatic external defibrillators--
(A) in airports;
(B) on aircraft operated by air carriers; or
(C) in airports and on aircraft described in
subparagraph (B).
SEC. 5. DECISION ON AUTOMATIC EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATORS.
(a) In General.--Not later than 120 days after the last day of the
1-year period described in section 4, the Administrator shall make a
decision concerning whether automatic external defibrillators should be
required--
(1) in airports;
(2) on aircraft operated by air carriers; or
(3) in airports and on aircraft described in paragraph (2).
(b) Form of Decision.--
(1) In general.--If the Administrator decides under
subsection (a) that automatic external defibrillators should be
required in airports or aircraft described in that subsection,
the Administrator shall, with respect to each such
requirement--
(A) issue proposed regulations to implement the
requirement; or
(B) submit to Congress proposed legislation to
implement the requirement.
(2) Notice.--If the Administrator decides under subsection
(a) that automatic external defibrillators should not be
required in airports or on aircraft described in that
subsection, the Administrator shall publish in the Federal
Register a notice of that decision.
(c) Contents.--If the Administrator decides that automatic external
defibrillators should be required--
(1) on aircraft operated by air carriers, a proposed
regulation described in subsection (b)(1)(A) or recommendation
for proposed legislation described in subsection (b)(1)(B)
shall include information with respect to--
(A) the size of the aircraft on which those
defibrillators should be required;
(B) the class flights (whether interstate or
foreign air transportation, or both) on which those
defibrillators should be required;
(C) the training that should be required for air
carrier personnel in the use of those defibrillators;
and
(D) the associated equipment and medication that
should be required to be carried in each aircraft
medical kit; and
(2) at airports, a proposed regulation described in
subsection (b)(1)(A) or recommendation for proposed legislation
described in subsection (b)(1)(B) shall include information
with respect to--
(A) the size of the airport at which those
defibrillators should be required;
(B) the training that should be required for
airport personnel in the use of those defibrillators;
and
(C) the associated equipment and medication that
should be required at each airport.
(d) Limitation.--The Administrator may not require automatic
external defibrillators on helicopters and on aircraft with a maximum
payload capacity (as defined in section 119.3 of title 14, Code of
Federal Regulations) of 7,500 pounds or less.
SEC. 6. LIABILITY OF INDIVIDUALS.
(a) In General.--Except as provided in subsection (b), an
individual shall not be liable for damages in any action brought in a
Federal or State court arising from an act or omission of the
individual in providing or attempting to provide assistance in the case
of an in-flight medical emergency.
(b) Exception.--The exemption under subsection (a) shall not apply
in any case in which an individual provides, or attempts to provide the
assistance referred to in that paragraph in a manner that constitutes
gross negligence or willful misconduct. | Aviation Medical Assistance Act of 1998 - Directs the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to review and reevaluate FAA regulations regarding: (1) the equipment required to be carried in medical kits of aircraft operated by air carriers; and (2) the training required of flight attendants in the use of such equipment. Requires the Administrator to issue a notice of proposed rulemaking to make any revisions to such regulations as a result of such reevaluation.
Requires major air carriers to make a good faith effort to report monthly to the Administrator, over the course of a year, regarding deaths on aircrafts.
Requires the Administrator to make a decision whether automatic external defibrillators should be required on aircraft and at airports. Prohibits the Administrator from requiring them on helicopters and on aircraft with a maximum payload capacity of 7,500 pounds or less.
Declares that an individual shall not be liable for damages in any action brought in Federal or State court arising out of acts or omissions in providing or attempting to provide assistance to a passenger in an in-flight medical emergency, except for gross negligence or willful misconduct. | Aviation Medical Assistance Act of 1998 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Maximize Offshore Resource
Exploration Act of 2008'' or the ``MORE Act of 2008''.
SEC. 2. TERMINATION OF PROHIBITIONS ON EXPENDITURES FOR, AND
WITHDRAWALS FROM, OFFSHORE OIL AND GAS LEASING.
(a) Prohibitions on Expenditures.--All provisions of Federal law
that prohibit the expenditure of appropriated funds to conduct oil and
natural gas leasing and preleasing activities for any area of the Outer
Continental Shelf shall have no force or effect with respect to such
activities.
(b) Revocation Withdrawals.--All withdrawals of Federal submerged
lands of the Outer Continental Shelf from leasing, including
withdrawals by the President under the authority of section 12(a) of
the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1341(a)), are hereby
revoked and are no longer in effect with respect to the leasing of
areas for exploration for, and development and production of, oil and
natural gas.
SEC. 3. OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF OIL AND NATURAL GAS LEASING PROGRAM.
The Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1331 et seq.) is
amended by inserting after section 9 the following:
``SEC. 10. STATE APPROVAL REQUIREMENT WITH RESPECT TO OIL AND NATURAL
GAS LEASING.
``(a) In General.--The Secretary may not issue any lease
authorizing exploration for, or development of, oil and natural gas in
any area of the outer Continental Shelf that is located within 25 miles
of the coastline of a State unless the State has enacted a law
approving of the issuance of such leases by the Secretary.
``(b) State Approval Permanent.--Repeal of such a law by a State
shall have no effect for purposes of subsection (a).''.
SEC. 4. SHARING OF REVENUES.
(a) In General.--Section 8(g) of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands
Act (43 U.S.C. 1337(g)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (2) by striking ``Notwithstanding'' and
inserting ``Except as provided in paragraph (6), and
notwithstanding'';
(2) by redesignating paragraphs (6) and (7) as paragraphs
(7) and (8); and
(3) by inserting after paragraph (5) the following:
``(6) Royalties under qualified oil and gas leases.--
``(A) In general.--Except as provided in
subparagraph (B), of amounts received by the United
States as royalties under any qualified oil and gas
lease on submerged lands that are located within the
seaward boundaries of a State established under section
4(a)(2)(A)--
``(i) 25 percent shall be deposited in the
general fund of the Treasury; and
``(ii) 75 percent shall be paid to the
States that are producing States with respect
to those submerged lands.
``(B) Lease tracts within 25 miles of the
coastline.--Of amounts received by the United States as
royalties under any qualified oil and gas lease on
submerged lands that are located within 25 miles of the
coastline of a State and within the seaward boundaries
of a State established under section 4(a)(2)(A)--
``(i) 10 percent shall be deposited in the
general fund of the Treasury; and
``(ii) 90 percent shall be paid to the
States that are producing States with respect
to those submerged lands.
``(C) Leased tract that lies partially within the
seaward boundaries of a state.--In the case of a leased
tract that lies partially within the seaward boundaries
of a State, the amounts of royalties from such tract
that are subject to subparagraph (A) or (B), as
applicable, with respect to such State shall be a
percentage of the total amounts of royalties from such
tract that is equivalent to the total percentage of
surface acreage of the tract that lies within such
seaward boundaries.
``(D) Definitions.--In this paragraph:
``(i) Adjacent state.--The term `adjacent
State' means, with respect to any program,
plan, lease sale, leased tract or other
activity, proposed, conducted, or approved
pursuant to the provisions of this Act, any
State the laws of which are declared, pursuant
to section 4(a)(2), to be the law of the United
States for the portion of the outer Continental
Shelf on which such program, plan, lease sale,
leased tract, or activity appertains or is, or
is proposed to be, conducted.
``(ii) Adjacent zone.--The term `adjacent
zone' means, with respect to any program, plan,
lease sale, leased tract, or other activity,
proposed, conducted, or approved pursuant to
the provisions of this Act, the portion of the
outer Continental Shelf for which the laws of a
particular adjacent State are declared,
pursuant to section 4(a)(2), to be the law of
the United States.
``(iii) Producing state.--The term
`producing State' means an Adjacent State
having an adjacent zone containing leased
tracts from which are derived royalties under a
lease under this Act.
``(iv) State.--The term `State' includes
Puerto Rico and the other territories of the
United States.
``(v) Qualified oil and gas lease.--The
term `qualified oil and gas lease' means a
lease under this Act granted after the date of
the enactment of the Maximize Offshore Resource
Exploration Act of 2008 that authorizes
development and production of oil and natural
gas and associated condensate.
``(E) Application.--This paragraph shall apply to
royalties received by the United States after September
30, 2008.''.
(b) Establishment of State Seaward Boundaries.--Section 4(a)(2)(A)
of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1333(a)(2)(A)) is
amended in the first sentence by striking ``, and the President'' and
all that follows through the end of the sentence and inserting the
following: ``. Such extended lines are deemed to be as indicated on the
maps for each Outer Continental Shelf region entitled `Alaska OCS
Region State Adjacent Zone and OCS Planning Areas', `Pacific OCS Region
State Adjacent Zones and OCS Planning Areas', `Gulf of Mexico OCS
Region State Adjacent Zones and OCS Planning Areas', and `Atlantic OCS
Region State Adjacent Zones and OCS Planning Areas', all of which are
dated September 2005 and on file in the Office of the Director,
Minerals Management Service. The preceding sentence shall not apply
with respect to the treatment under section 105 of the Gulf of Mexico
Energy Security Act of 2006 (title I of division C of Public Law 109-
432) of qualified outer Continental Shelf revenues deposited and
disbursed under subsection (a)(2) of that section.''. | Maximize Offshore Resource Exploration Act of 2008, or the MORE Act of 2008 - Declares without force or effect all federal prohibitions against the expenditure of appropriated funds to conduct natural gas leasing and pre-leasing activities for any area of the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS).
Revokes all withdrawals of federal submerged lands from leasing for oil and natural gas exploration and production.
Amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to prohibit the Secretary of the Interior from granting an oil or natural gas lease for any OCS located within 25 miles of a state coastline unless the state has enacted a law approving the issuance of such leases by the Secretary.
Sets forth an allocation schedule for a 75% state share of revenues derived from U.S. royalties under qualified oil and gas leases on submerged lands located within the seaward boundaries of a state.
Extends the jurisdiction of state civil and criminal law, as appropriate, to the Alaska, Pacific, Gulf of Mexico, and Atlantic OCS Region State Adjacent Zones and OCS Planning Areas. | To greatly enhance the Nation's environmental, energy, economic, and national security by terminating long-standing Federal prohibitions on the domestic production of abundant offshore supplies of oil and natural gas, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Workplace Goods Job Growth and
Competitiveness Act of 2006''.
SEC. 2. STATUTE OF REPOSE FOR DURABLE GOODS USED IN A TRADE OR
BUSINESS.
(a) In General.--Except as otherwise provided in this Act--
(1) no civil action may be filed against the manufacturer
or seller of a durable good for damage to property allegedly
caused by that durable good if the damage to property occurred
more than 12 years after the date on which the durable good was
delivered to its first purchaser or lessee; and
(2) no civil action may be filed against the manufacturer
or seller of a durable good for damages for death or personal
injury allegedly caused by that durable good if the death or
personal injury occurred more than 12 years after the date on
which the durable good was delivered to its first purchaser or
lessee and if--
(A) the claimant has received or is eligible to
receive worker compensation; and
(B) the injury does not involve a toxic harm
(including, but not limited to, any asbestos-related
harm).
(b) Exceptions.--
(1) In general.--A motor vehicle, vessel, aircraft, or
train, that is used primarily to transport passengers for hire,
shall not be subject to this Act.
(2) Certain express warranties.--This Act does not bar a
civil action against a defendant who made an express warranty
in writing, for a period of more than 12 years, as to the
safety or life expectancy of a specific product, except that
this Act shall apply at the expiration of that warranty.
(3) Aviation limitations period.--This Act does not affect
the limitations period established by the General Aviation
Revitalization Act of 1994 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note).
(4) Actions involving the environment.--Subsection (a)(1)
does not supersede or modify any statute or common law that
authorizes an action for civil damages, cost recovery, or any
other form of relief for remediation of the environment (as
defined in section 101(8) of the Comprehensive Environmental
Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C.
9601(8)).
(5) Regulatory actions.--This Act does not affect
regulatory enforcement actions brought by State or Federal
agencies.
(6) Actions involving fraudulent concealment.--This Act
does not bar a civil action against a manufacturer or seller of
a durable good who fraudulently concealed a defect in the
durable good.
(c) Effect on State Law; Preemption.--Subject to subsection (b),
this Act preempts and supersedes any State law that establishes a
statute of repose to the extent such law applies to actions covered by
this Act. Any action not specifically covered by this Act shall be
governed by applicable State or other Federal law.
(d) Transitional Provision Relating to Extension of Repose
Period.--To the extent that this Act shortens the period during which a
civil action could otherwise be brought pursuant to another provision
of law, the claimant may, notwithstanding this Act, bring the action
not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Claimant.--The term ``claimant'' means any person who
brings an action covered by this Act and any person on whose
behalf such an action is brought. If such an action is brought
through or on behalf of an estate, the term includes the
claimant's decedent. If such an action is brought through or on
behalf of a minor or incompetent, the term includes the
claimant's legal guardian.
(2) Durable good.--The term ``durable good'' means any
product, or any component of any such product, which--
(A)(i) has a normal life expectancy of 3 or more
years; or
(ii) is of a character subject to allowance for
depreciation under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986;
and
(B) is--
(i) used in a trade or business;
(ii) held for the production of income; or
(iii) sold or donated to a governmental or
private entity for the production of goods,
training, demonstration, or any other similar
purpose.
(3) Fraudulently concealed.--With respect to a durable
good, the term ``fraudulently concealed'' means that--
(A) the manufacturer or seller of the durable good
had actual knowledge of a defect in the durable good;
(B) the defect in the durable good was the
proximate cause of the harm to the claimant; and
(C) the manufacturer or seller of the durable good
affirmatively suppressed or hid, with the intent to
deceive or defraud, the existence of such defect.
(4) Seller.--The term ``seller'' means any dealer,
retailer, wholesaler, or distributer in the stream of commerce
of a durable good concluding with the sale or lease of the
durable good to the first end-user.
(5) State.--The term ``State'' means any State of the
United States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of
Puerto Rico, the Northern Mariana Islands, the Virgin Islands,
Guam, American Samoa, any other territory or possession of the
United States, and any political subdivision of any of the
foregoing.
SEC. 4. EFFECTIVE DATE; APPLICATION OF ACT.
(a) Effective Date.--Except as provided in subsection (b), this Act
shall take effect on the date of the enactment of this Act without
regard to whether the damage to property or death or personal injury at
issue occurred before such date of enactment.
(b) Application of Act.--This Act shall not apply with respect to
civil actions commenced before the date of the enactment of this Act. | Workplace Goods Job Growth and Competitiveness Act of 2006 - Prohibits the filing of a civil action against a manufacturer or seller of a durable good (except a motor vehicle, vessel, aircraft, or train that is used primarily to transport passengers for hire) more than 12 years after it was delivered to its first purchaser or lessee for: (1) damage to property allegedly caused by that good; or (2) damages for death or personal injury allegedly caused by that good if the claimant has received or is eligible to receive worker compensation and the injury does not involve a toxic harm (including, but not limited to, any asbestos-related harm).
Declares that this Act: (1) shall not bar an action against a defendant who made an express warranty in writing as to the safety or life expectancy of a specific product for a period of more than 12 years (except that this Act shall apply at the expiration of such warranty); (2) does not affect the limitations period established by the General Aviation Revitalization Act of 1994; (3) does not supersede or modify any statute or common law that authorizes an action for civil damages, cost recovery, or any other form of relief for remediation of the environment; (4) does not affect regulatory enforcement actions brought by state or federal agencies; and (5) does not bar a civil action against a manufacturer or seller of a durable good who fraudulently concealed a defect in it. | To establish a statute of repose for durable goods used in a trade or business. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Coal Accountability and Retired
Employee Act of 2013'' or the ``CARE Act''.
SEC. 2. AMENDMENT OF SURFACE MINING CONTROL AND RECLAMATION ACT OF
1977.
Section 402(i)(2) of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act
of 1977 (30 U.S.C. 1232(i)(2)) is amended--
(1) by striking ``Subject to'' and inserting the following:
``(A) In general.--Subject to''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(B) Excess amounts.--
``(i) In general.--Subject to paragraph
(3), and after all transfers referred to in
paragraph (1) and subparagraph (A) of this
paragraph have been made, any amounts remaining
after the application of paragraph (3)(A)
(without regard to this subparagraph) shall be
transferred to the trustees of the 1974 UMWA
Pension Plan and used solely to pay pension
benefits required under such plan.
``(ii) 1974 umwa pension plan.--In this
subparagraph, the term `1974 UMWA Pension Plan'
means a pension plan referred to in section
9701(a)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
but without regard to whether participation in
such plan is limited to individuals who retired
in 1976 and thereafter.''.
SEC. 3. ELIGIBILITY FOR 1992 UMWA BENEFIT PLAN.
(a) In General.--Paragraph (2) of section 9712(b) of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by striking ``or'' at the end of
subparagraph (A), by adding ``or'' at the end of subparagraph (B), and
by inserting after subparagraph (B) the following new subparagraph:
``(C) but for this chapter, would be eligible to
receive benefits from the 1974 UMWA Benefit Plan (other
than an individual described in the last sentence of
section 402(h)(2)(C) of the Surface Mining Control and
Reclamation Act of 1977) following a proceeding under
title 11, United States Code, or other insolvency
proceeding relating to the applicable last signatory
operator, but who does not receive such coverage at
levels at least equal to those described in section
402(h)(2)(C) of the Surface Mining Control and
Reclamation Act of 1977 from such operator or any
related person,''.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--Paragraph (2) of section 9712(b) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended--
(1) by striking ``subparagraph (A) or (B)'' in the matter
following subparagraph (C) (as added by this section) and
inserting ``subparagraph (A), (B), or (C)'', and
(2) by inserting ``under subparagraph (A) or (B)'' after
``health benefits coverage'' in the second sentence.
SEC. 4. SPECIAL RULE FOR CERTAIN SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFIT PLANS.
(a) In General.--Section 404 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(p) Special Rule for Certain Supplemental Benefit Plans.--
``(1) In general.--If contributions are paid by an employer
under a plan that provides supplemental benefits solely to
participants in a plan described in subsection (c) (or a
continuation thereof) that provides pension benefits, such
contributions shall not be deductible under this section nor be
made nondeductible by this section, but the deductibility
thereof shall be governed solely by section 162 (relating to
trade or business expenses).
``(2) Tax treatment of plan.--For purposes of this title,
the trust holding the assets of a plan to which paragraph (1)
applies shall be treated as an organization exempt from tax
under section 501(a).
``(3) Special rule for payments other than to or from a
trust.--For purposes of this subsection, payments made by an
employer to the trustees of a plan described in paragraph (1),
and benefits paid by the trustees of such plan, shall be
treated as contributions paid to, and benefits paid from, such
plan without regard to whether the contributions are paid into,
or benefits paid from, the trust holding the assets of such
plan.''.
(b) Exclusion From Wages.--
(1) Payroll taxes.--Paragraph (5) of section 3121(a) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by striking ``or'' at
the end of subparagraph (H), by adding ``or'' at the end of
subparagraph (I), and by adding at the end the following new
subparagraph:
``(J) under a plan to which section 404(p)(1)
applies;''.
(2) Collection of income tax at source.--Paragraph (12) of
section 3401(a) of such Code is amended by adding at the end
the following new subparagraph:
``(F) under a plan to which section 404(p)(1)
applies, or''.
(3) Unemployment taxes.--Section 3306(b) of such Code is
amended by striking ``or'' at the end of paragraph (19), by
striking the period at the end of paragraph (20) and inserting
``; or'', and by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(21) any payment made to or for the benefit of an
individual under a plan to which section 404(p)(1) applies.''. | Coal Accountability and Retired Employee Act of 2013 or CARE Act - Amends the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 to transfer specified excess funds derived from coal mine operator-paid reclamation fees to the trustees of the 1974 United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) Pension Plan for use solely to pay pension benefits required under such Plan. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise 1992 UMWA Benefit Plan eligibility requirements. Makes eligible for health benefits from the 1992 UMWA Benefit Plan an individual who would be eligible to receive benefits from the 1974 UMWA Benefit Plan (with a specified exception) following a bankruptcy or other insolvency proceeding of a coal mine operator, but who does not receive from that operator or any related person health benefits at least equal to those received under the Multiemployer Health Benefit Plan of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977. Prescribes a special rule to state that employer contributions to an employees' trust or annuity benefit plan providing supplemental benefits solely to participants in a pension plan are neither deductible nor nondeductible as such from the employer's gross income. Subjects such contributions, on the other hand, to the requirements for deduction as an allowable trade or business expense. Treats a trust holding the assets of such a pension benefit plan as a tax-exempt organization. Excludes from wages any payments made to, or on behalf of, an employee or his or her beneficiary under such a plan. | CARE Act |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``National Geologic Mapping
Reauthorization Act of 2005''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Section 2(a) of the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 (43
U.S.C. 31a(a)) is amended--
(1) by striking paragraph (1) and inserting the following:
``(1) although significant progress has been made in the
production of geologic maps since the establishment of the
national cooperative geologic mapping program in 1992, no
modern, digital, geologic map exists for approximately 75
percent of the United States;''; and
(2) in paragraph (2)--
(A) in subparagraph (C), by inserting ``homeland
and'' after ``planning for'';
(B) in subparagraph (E), by striking ``predicting''
and inserting ``identifying'';
(C) in subparagraph (I), by striking ``and'' after
the semicolon at the end;
(D) by redesignating subparagraph (J) as
subparagraph (K); and
(E) by inserting after subparagraph (I) the
following:
``(J) recreation and public awareness; and''; and
(3) in paragraph (9), by striking ``important'' and
inserting ``available''.
SEC. 3. PURPOSE.
Section 2(b) of the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 (43
U.S.C. 31a(b)) is amended by inserting ``and management'' before the
period at the end.
SEC. 4. DEADLINES FOR ACTIONS BY THE UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL SURVEY.
Section 4(b)(1) of the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 (43
U.S.C. 31c(b)(1)) is amended in the second sentence--
(1) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``not later than'' and
all that follows through the semicolon and inserting ``not
later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the National
Geologic Mapping Reauthorization Act of 2005;'';
(2) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``not later than'' and
all that follows through ``in accordance'' and inserting ``not
later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the National
Geologic Mapping Reauthorization Act of 2005 in accordance'';
and
(3) in the matter preceding clause (i) of subparagraph (C),
by striking ``not later than'' and all that follows through
``submit'' and inserting ``submit biennially''.
SEC. 5. GEOLOGIC MAPPING PROGRAM OBJECTIVES.
Section 4(c)(2) of the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 (43
U.S.C. 31c(c)(2)) is amended--
(1) by striking ``geophysical-map data base, geochemical-
map data base, and a''; and
(2) by striking ``provide'' and inserting ``provides''.
SEC. 6. GEOLOGIC MAPPING PROGRAM COMPONENTS.
Section 4(d)(1)(B)(ii) of the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992
(43 U.S.C. 31c(d)(1)(B)(ii)) is amended--
(1) in subclause (I), by striking ``and'' after the
semicolon at the end;
(2) in subclause (II), by striking the period at the end
and inserting ``; and''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(III) the needs of land
management agencies of the Department
of the Interior.''.
SEC. 7. GEOLOGIC MAPPING ADVISORY COMMITTEE.
(a) Membership.--Section 5(a) of the National Geologic Mapping Act
of 1992 (43 U.S.C. 31d(a)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (2)--
(A) by inserting ``the Secretary of the Interior or
a designee from a land management agency of the
Department of the Interior,'' after ``Administrator of
the Environmental Protection Agency or a designee,'';
(B) by inserting ``and'' after ``Energy or a
designee,''; and
(C) by striking ``, and the Assistant to the
President for Science and Technology or a designee'';
and
(2) in paragraph (3)--
(A) by striking ``Not later than'' and all that
follows through ``consultation'' and inserting ``In
consultation'';
(B) by striking ``Chief Geologist, as Chairman''
and inserting ``Associate Director for Geology, as
Chair''; and
(C) by striking ``one representative from the
private sector'' and inserting ``2 representatives from
the private sector''.
(b) Duties.--Section 5(b) of the National Geologic Mapping Act of
1992 (43 U.S.C. 31d(b)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (2), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(2) by redesignating paragraph (3) as paragraph (4); and
(3) by inserting after paragraph (2) the following:
``(3) provide a scientific overview of geologic maps
(including maps of geologic-based hazards) used or disseminated
by Federal agencies for regulation or land-use planning; and''.
(c) Conforming Amendment.--Section 5(a)(1) of the National Geologic
Mapping Act of 1992 (43 U.S.C. 31d(a)(1)) is amended by striking ``10-
member'' and inserting ``11-member''.
SEC. 8. FUNCTIONS OF NATIONAL GEOLOGIC-MAP DATABASE.
Section 7(a) of the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 (43
U.S.C. 31f(a)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1), by striking ``geologic map'' and
inserting ``geologic-map''; and
(2) in paragraph (2), by striking subparagraph (A) and
inserting the following:
``(A) all maps developed with funding provided by
the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program,
including under the Federal, State, and education
components;''.
SEC. 9. BIENNIAL REPORT.
Section 8 of the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 (43 U.S.C.
31g) is amended by striking ``Not later'' and all that follows through
``biennially'' and inserting ``Not later than 3 years after the date of
enactment of the National Geologic Mapping Reauthorization Act of 2005
and biennially''.
SEC. 10. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS; ALLOCATION.
Section 9 of the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 (43 U.S.C.
31h) is amended--
(1) by striking subsection (a) and inserting the following:
``(a) In General.--There is authorized to be appropriated to carry
out this Act $64,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2006 through 2015.'';
and
(2) in subsection (b)--
(A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by
striking ``2000'' and inserting ``2005'';
(B) in paragraph (1), by striking ``48'' and
inserting ``50''; and
(C) in paragraph (2), by striking 2 and inserting
``4''.
Passed the Senate November 16, 2005.
Attest:
Secretary.
109th CONGRESS
1st Session
S. 485
_______________________________________________________________________
AN ACT
To reauthorize and amend the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992. | National Geologic Mapping Reauthorization Act of 2005 - Amends the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 to extend deadlines for development of a five-year strategic plan for the geologic mapping program and for appointment of the advisory committee.
Removes from program objectives the development of a geophysical- and geochemical-map database. Directs that mapping priorities be based in part on the needs of the Department of the Interior land management agencies.
Modifies the composition of the advisory committee and increases the number of members on such committee. Requires the advisory committee to provide a scientific overview of geologic maps (including maps of geologic-based hazards) used or disseminated by federal agencies for regulation or land-use planning. Directs that the national geologic map database include all maps developed with funding provided by the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program, including under the federal, state, and education components.
Authorizes appropriations for each of FY2006-FY2015. Increases the percentages allocated for the state and education components. | A bill to reauthorize and amend the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992. |
SECTION 1. GRANTS FOR PURCHASE OF ULTRASOUND EQUIPMENT.
(a) In General.--The Secretary of Health and Human services may
make grants for the purchase of ultrasound equipment. Such ultrasound
equipment shall be used by the recipients of such grants to provide,
under the direction and supervision of a licensed medical physician,
free ultrasound examinations to pregnant woman needing such services.
(b) Eligibility Requirements.--An entity may receive a grant under
subsection (a) only if the entity meets the following conditions:
(1) The entity is a nonprofit private organization that is
approved by the Internal Revenue Service as a tax-exempt entity
under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
(2) The entity operates as a community based pregnancy help
medical clinic, as defined in subsection (f).
(3) The entity provides medical services to pregnant women
under the guidance and supervision of a physician who serves as
the medical director of the clinic and is duly licensed to
practice medicine in the State in which the entity is located.
(4) The entity is legally qualified to provide such medical
services to pregnant women and is in compliance with all
Federal, State, and local requirements for the provision of
such services.
(5) The entity agrees to comply with the following medical
procedures:
(A) Each pregnant woman upon whom the ultrasound
equipment is used will be shown the visual image of the
fetus from the ultrasound examination and will be given
a general anatomical and physiological description of
the characteristics of the fetus.
(B) Each pregnant woman will be given, according to
the best medical judgment of the physician performing
the ultrasound examination or the physician's agent
performing such exam, the approximate age of the embryo
or fetus considering the number of weeks elapsed from
the probable time of the conception of the embryo or
fetus, based upon the information provided by the
client as to the time of her last menstrual period, her
medical history, a physical examination, or appropriate
laboratory tests.
(C) Each pregnant woman will be given information
on abortion and alternatives to abortion such as
childbirth and adoption and information concerning
public and private agencies that will assist in those
alternatives.
(D) The entity will obtain and maintain medical
malpractice insurance in an amount not less than
$1,000,000, and such insurance will cover all
activities relating to the use of the ultrasound
machine purchased with the grant under subsection (a).
(6) The entity does not receive more than 30 percent of its
gross annual revenue from a single source or donor.
(c) Limitation on Individual Grant Amount.--No grant under
subsection (a) may be made in an amount that exceeds an amount equal to
50 percent of the purchase price cost of the ultrasound machine
involved, or $20,000, whichever is less.
(d) 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 as the Secretary
determines to be necessary to carry out this section.
(e) Annual Report to Secretary.--A grant may be made under
subsection (a) only if the applicant for the grant agrees to report on
an annual basis to the Secretary, in such form and manner as the
Secretary may require, on the ongoing compliance of the applicant with
the eligibility conditions established in subsection (b).
(f) Definitions.--For purposes of this Act:
(1) The term ``community based pregnancy help medical
clinic'' means a facility that--
(A) provides free medical services to pregnant
women under the supervision and direction of a licensed
physician who serves as the medical director for such
clinic; and
(B) does not charge for any services rendered to
its clients, whether or not such services are for
pregnancy or nonpregnancy related matters.
(2) The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of Health
and Human Services.
(g) Authorization of Appropriations.--For the purpose of carrying
out this section, there are authorized to be appropriated $3,000,000
for fiscal year 2003, and such sums as may be necessary for each of the
fiscal years 2004 through 2006. | Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make grants to eligible nonprofit community based pregnancy help medical clinics to purchase ultrasound equipment to provide free examinations to pregnant women, under the direction and supervision of a licensed medical physician. Conditions eligibility on a clinic agreeing to provide each examined woman a visual image, the age, and a physical description of the fetus and information on abortion and alternatives. | To authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make grants to nonprofit tax-exempt organizations for the purchase of ultrasound equipment to provide free examinations to pregnant women needing such services, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Montgomery GI Bill Second Chance Act
of 2007''.
SEC. 2. OPPORTUNITY FOR ACTIVE DUTY PERSONNEL TO WITHDRAW AN ELECTION
NOT TO PARTICIPATE IN THE MONTGOMERY GI BILL EDUCATION
PROGRAM.
(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) Opportunity To Enroll.--(1) Notwithstanding any other
provision of this chapter, during the month of October in any year,
beginning with 2007, (hereinafter in this section referred to as the
`open season') 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) Qualified Individual.--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, on, or after 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.
``(3) The individual is serving on active duty during the
open season of the year involved.
``(4) 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.
``(5) The individual, when discharged or released from
active duty, is discharged or released therefrom with an
honorable discharge.
``(c) Enrollment Fee.--(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
$1,200; 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)(5), 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 $1,200 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) Limitation.--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) Notice Required.--The Secretary concerned, 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.--(1) Sections 3011(c)(1) and 3012(d)(1)
of such title are each amended by striking ``Any individual'' in the
third sentence and inserting ``Subject to section 3018D of this title,
any individual''.
(2) Section 3015(f) of such title is amended by striking ``or
3018C'' and inserting ``3018C, or 3018D''.
(3) Section 3017(b)(1) of such title is amended--
(A) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``or 3018C(e)'' and
inserting ``3018C(e), or 3018D(d)'';
(B) in subparagraph (B), by inserting ``or 3018D(d)'' after
``3018C(e)''; or
(C) in subparagraph (C), by striking ``or 3018C(e)'' and
inserting ``3018C(e), or 3018D(d)''.
(c) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections at the beginning of
such chapter 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 Second Chance Act of 2007 - Authorizes certain members of the Armed Forces to make an irrevocable election during October of any year beginning in 2005 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.
Requires the Secretary concerned, in conjunction with the Secretary of Defense, to provide notice of the opportunity created by this Act to elect educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill. | To amend title 38, United States Code, and title 10, United States Code, to provide for an opportunity for active duty personnel to withdraw an election not to participate in the program of educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Children's Recovery from Trauma
Act''.
SEC. 2. GRANTS TO ADDRESS THE PROBLEMS OF INDIVIDUALS WHO EXPERIENCE
TRAUMA AND VIOLENCE RELATED STRESS.
Section 582 of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 290hh-1) is
amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 582. GRANTS TO ADDRESS THE PROBLEMS OF INDIVIDUALS WHO
EXPERIENCE TRAUMA AND VIOLENCE RELATED STRESS.
``(a) In General.--The Secretary shall award grants, contracts or
cooperative agreements to public and nonprofit private entities, as
well as to Indian tribes and tribal organizations, for the purpose of
developing and maintaining programs that provide for--
``(1) the continued operation of the National Child
Traumatic Stress Initiative (referred to in this section as the
`NCTSI') and focus on the mental, behavioral, and biological
aspects of psychological trauma response; and
``(2) the development of knowledge with regard to evidence-
based practices for identifying and treating mental,
behavioral, and biological disorders of children and youth
resulting from witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event.
``(b) Priorities.--In awarding grants, contracts or cooperative
agreements under subsection (a)(2) (related to the development of
knowledge on evidence-based practices for treating mental, behavioral,
and biological disorders associated with psychological trauma), the
Secretary shall give priority to universities, hospitals, mental health
agencies, and other community-based child-serving programs that have
established clinical and research experience in the field of trauma-
related mental disorders.
``(c) Coordinating Center.--In carrying out subsection (a), the
Secretary shall award one cooperative agreement to a comprehensive
national coordinating center to oversee NCTSI activities (in this
section referred to as the `NCTSI coordinating center').
``(d) Child Outcome Data.--The NCTSI coordinating center shall
collect, analyze, and report NCTSI-wide child outcome and process data
for the purpose of establishing the effectiveness, implementation, and
clinical utility of early identification and delivery of evidence-based
treatment and services delivered to children and families served by the
NCTSI grantees.
``(e) Training.--The NCTSI coordinating center shall oversee the
continuum of interprofessional training initiatives in evidence-based
and trauma-informed treatments, interventions, and practices offered to
NCTSI grantees and providers in all child-serving systems.
``(f) Prevention.--The NCTSI coordinating center shall include a
focus on the development of prevention services and resources as they
relate to the prevention of exposure to traumatic events and to early
intervention programs focused on the prevention of the long term
consequences of child trauma.
``(g) Research.--The NCTSI coordinating center shall establish an
ongoing collaboration with Federal research institutions, including at
the National Institutes of Health and the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention, for the purpose of sharing NCTSI expertise and
evaluation data, conducting joint evaluation projects, and informing
national research priorities related to child trauma.
``(h) Dissemination.--The NCTSI coordinating center shall
collaborate with the Secretary in the dissemination of evidence-based
and trauma-informed interventions, treatments, products, and other
resources to all child-serving systems, collaborating Federal agencies,
and policymakers.
``(i) Review.--The Secretary shall establish consensus-driven, in-
person or teleconference review of NCTSI applications by child trauma
experts and review criteria related to expertise and experience related
to child trauma and evidence-based practices.
``(j) Geographical Distribution.--The Secretary shall ensure that
grants, contracts or cooperative agreements under subsection (a) are
distributed equitably among the regions of the United States and among
urban and rural areas. Notwithstanding the previous sentence, expertise
and experience in the field of trauma-related disorders shall be
prioritized in the awarding of such grants as required under subsection
(b).
``(k) Evaluation.--The Secretary, as part of the application
process, shall require that each applicant for a grant, contract or
cooperative agreement under subsection (a) submit a plan for the
rigorous evaluation of the activities funded under the grant, contract
or agreement, including both process and outcome evaluation, and the
submission of an evaluation at the end of the project period.
``(l) Duration of Awards.--With respect to a grant, contract or
cooperative agreement under subsection (a), the period during which
payments under such an award will be made to the recipient shall be 6
years. Such grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements may be
renewed. Expertise and experience in the field of trauma-related
disorders shall be a priority for new and continuing awards.
``(m) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section, $50,000,000 for each of fiscal
years 2016 through 2020.''. | Children's Recovery from Trauma Act This bill amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to support programs that provide for the continued operation of the National Child Traumatic Stress Initiative (NCTSI) and for research on evidence-based practices for identifying and treating children and youth with mental, behavioral, and biological disorders resulting from witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event. HHS must award a cooperative agreement to a comprehensive national coordinating center to oversee NCTSI activities. The NCTSI coordinating center must: (1) collect, analyze, and report data to establish the effectiveness of early identification and delivery of treatment and services; (2) focus on the development of services and resources to prevent the long-term consequences of child trauma; (3) collaborate with federal research institutions; and (4) collaborate with HHS in the dissemination of evidence-based and trauma-informed interventions, treatments, products, and other resources. | Children's Recovery from Trauma Act |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``National Family Enterprise
Preservation Act of 1995''.
SEC. 2. INCREASE IN UNIFIED ESTATE AND GIFT TAX CREDITS FOR FAMILY
ENTERPRISES.
(a) Estate Tax.--Section 2010 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
(relating to unified credit against estate tax) is amended by
redesignating subsections (b) and (c) as subsections (c) and (d),
respectively, by inserting after subsection (a) the following new
subsection:
``(b) Additional Credit for Family Enterprises.--The amount of the
credit allowable under subsection (a) shall be increased by an amount
equal to the value of any family enterprise property (as defined in
section 2032B(b)) included in the decedent's gross estate, to the
extent the additional credit does not exceed $121,800.''
(b) Gift Tax.--Section 2505 of such Code (relating to unified
credit against gift tax) is amended by redesignating subsections (b)
and (c) as subsections (c) and (d), respectively, and by inserting
after subsection (a) the following new subsection:
``(b) Additional Credit for Family Enterprises.--The amount of the
credit allowable under subsection (a) for each calendar year shall be
increased by an amount equal to--
``(1) the value of taxable gifts of family enterprise
property (as defined in section 2032B(b)), to the extent the
additional credit does not exceed $121,800, reduced by
``(2) the sum of the amounts allowable as a credit to the
individual under this subsection for all preceding calendar
periods.''
(c) Effective Dates.--
(1) Estate tax credit.--The amendments made by subsection
(a) shall apply to the estates of decedents dying after
December 31, 1995.
(2) Gift tax credit.--The amendments made by subsection (b)
shall apply to gifts made after December 31, 1995.
SEC. 3. INCREASE IN ANNUAL GIFT TAX EXCLUSION.
(a) In General.--Section 2503 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
(relating to taxable gifts) is amended by redesignating subsection (c)
as subsection (d) and by inserting after subsection (b) the following
new subsection:
``(c) Additional Exclusion From Gifts.--The amount of the exclusion
allowable under subsection (b) during a calendar year shall be
increased by an amount equal to the value of gifts of family enterprise
property (as defined in section 2032B(b)) made during such year, to the
extent such value does not exceed $10,000.''
(b) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to gifts made after December 31, 1995.
SEC. 4. FAMILY ENTERPRISE INTERESTS.
(a) In General.--Part III of subchapter A of chapter 11 of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to gross estate) is amended by
inserting after section 2032A the following new section:
``SEC. 2032B. FAMILY ENTERPRISE PROPERTY.
``(a) General Rule.--The value of family enterprise property
included in the gross estate of a decedent who is a citizen or resident
of the United States shall be--
``(1) the value of such property, reduced by
``(2) the lesser of--
``(A) 50 percent of the value of such property, or
``(B) $1,000,000.
``(b) Family Enterprise Property.--
``(1) In general.--For purposes of this section, the term
`family enterprise property' means any interest in real or
personal property which is devoted to use as a farm or used for
farming purposes (within the meaning of paragraphs (4) and (5)
of section 2032A(e)) or is used in any other trade or business,
if at least 80 percent of the ownership interests in such farm
or other trade or business is held--
``(A) by 5 or fewer individuals, or
``(B) by individuals who are members of the same
family within the meaning of section 2032A(e)(2)).
``(2) Limited partnership interest excluded.--An interest
in a limited partnership, other than a family limited
partnership, shall in no event be treated as family enterprise
property.
``(c) Tax Treatment of Dispositions and Failure To Use for
Qualifying Use.--
``(1) Imposition of additional estate tax.--With respect to
family enterprise property acquired from or passed from the
decedent to an individual, if within 10 years after the
decedent's death and before the death of such individual--
``(A) such individual disposes of any interest in
such property (other than by a disposition to a member
of the individual's family), or
``(B) such individual or a member of the
individual's family ceases to participate in the active
management of such property,
then there is hereby imposed an additional estate tax.
``(2) Amount of additional tax.--The amount of the
additional tax imposed by paragraph (1) with respect to any
interest in family enterprise property shall be--
``(A) the amount determined under section
2032A(c)(2) with respect to such interest, reduced by
``(B) 5 percent of the amount described in
subparagraph (A) for each year following the date of
the decedent's death in which the individual described
in paragraph (1) or a member of the individual's family
participated in the active management of such family
enterprise property.
Rules similar to the rules of paragraphs (3), (4), and (5) of
section 2032A(c) shall apply to such tax.
``(3) Active management.--For purposes of this subsection,
the term `active management' means the making of the management
decisions of a business other than the daily operating
decisions.''
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for part III of
subchapter A of chapter 11 of such Code is amended by inserting after
the item relating to section 2032A the following new item:
``Sec. 2032B. Family enterprise
property.''
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to the estates of decedents dying after December 31, 1995.
SEC. 5. VALUATION OF CERTAIN FARM, ETC., REAL PROPERTY.
(a) In General.--Section 2032A(a)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code
of 1986 (relating to limitation on aggregate reduction in fair market
value) is amended by striking ``$750,000'' and inserting
``$1,000,000''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by this section shall apply
to the estates of decedents dying after December 31, 1995. | National Family Enterprise Preservation Act of 1995 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase the estate tax credit and the gift tax credit by amounts equal to the value of any family enterprise property, with limitations.
Increases the gift tax exclusion by the value of gifts of family enterprise property, with limitations.
Establishes a formula for determining the value of family enterprise property.
Increases the limitation on the aggregate reduction in fair market value of certain farm property and other real property. | National Family Enterprise Preservation Act of 1995 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Fort Donelson National Battlefield
Expansion Act of 2002''.
SEC. 2. FORT DONELSON NATIONAL BATTLEFIELD.
(a) Designation; Purpose.--There exists as a unit of the National
Park System the Fort Donelson National Battlefield to commemorate--
(1) the Battle of Fort Donelson in February 1862; and
(2) the campaign conducted by General Ulysses S. Grant and
Admiral Andrew H. Foote that resulted in the capture of Fort
Donelson by Union forces.
(b) Boundaries.--The Fort Donelson National Battlefield shall
consist of the site of Fort Donelson and associated land that has been
acquired by the Secretary of the Interior for administration by the
National Park Service, including Fort Donelson National Cemetery, in
Stewart County, Tennessee and the site of Fort Heiman and associated
land in Calloway County, Kentucky, as generally depicted on the map
entitled ``__________________'' numbered ________________, and dated
____. The map shall be on file and available for public inspection in
the appropriate offices of the National Park Service.
(c) Expansion of Boundaries.--The Fort Donelson National
Battlefield shall also include any land acquired pursuant to section 3.
SEC. 3 LAND ACQUISITION RELATED TO FORT DONELSON NATIONAL BATTLEFIELD.
(a) Acquisition Authority.--Subject to subsections (b) and (c), the
Secretary of the Interior may acquire land, interests in land, and
improvements thereon for inclusion in the Fort Donelson National
Battlefield. Such land, interests in land, and improvements may be
acquired by the Secretary only by purchase from willing sellers with
appropriated or donated funds, by donation, or by exchange with willing
owners.
(b) Land Eligible for Acquisition.--The Secretary of the Interior
may acquire land, interests in land, and improvements thereon under
subsection (a)--
(1) within the boundaries of the Fort Donelson National
Battlefield described in section 2(b); and
(2) outside such boundaries if the land has been identified
by the American Battlefield Protection Program as part of the
battlefield associated with Fort Donelson or if the Secretary
otherwise determines that acquisition under subsection (a) will
protect critical resources associated with the Battle of Fort
Donelson in 1862 and the Union campaign that resulted in the
capture of Fort Donelson.
(c) Boundary Revision.--Upon acquisition of land or interests in
land described in subsection (b)(2), the Secretary of the Interior
shall revise the boundaries of the Fort Donelson National Battlefield
to include the acquired property.
(d) Limitation on Total Acreage of Park.--The total area
encompassed by the Fort Donelson National Battlefield may not exceed
2,000 acres.
SEC. 4. ADMINISTRATION OF FORT DONELSON NATIONAL BATTLEFIELD.
The Secretary of the Interior shall administer the Fort Donelson
National Battlefield in accordance with this Act and the laws generally
applicable to units of the National Park System, including the Act of
August 25, 1916 (commonly known as the National Park Service Organic
Act; 16 U.S.C. 1 et seq.), and the Act of August 21, 1935 (commonly
known as the Historic Sites, Buildings, and Antiquities Act; 16 U.S.C.
461 et seq.).
SEC. 5. RELATION TO LAND BETWEEN THE LAKES NATIONAL RECREATION AREA.
The Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior
shall enter into a memorandum of understanding to facilitate
cooperatively protecting and interpreting the remaining vestige of Fort
Henry and other remaining Civil War resources in the Land Between the
Lakes National Recreation Area affiliated with the Fort Donelson
campaign.
SEC. 6. REPEAL OF OBSOLETE PROVISIONS AND CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.
(a) Repeals.--
(1) 1928 law.--The first section and sections 2 through 7
of the Act of March 26, 1928 (16 U.S.C. 428a-428f), are
repealed.
(2) 1937 law.--Section 3 of the Act of August 30, 1937 (16
U.S.C. 428d-3), is repealed.
(3) 1960 law.--Sections 4 and 5 of Public Law 86-738 (16
U.S.C. 428n, 428o) are repealed.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) 1928 law.--The Act of March 26, 1928, is amended--
(A) in section 8 (16 U.S.C. 428g), by striking
``Secretary of War'' and inserting ``Secretary of the
Interior'';
(B) in section 9 (16 U.S.C. 428h)--
(i) by striking ``Fort Donelson National
Park'' and inserting ``Fort Donelson National
Battlefield''; and
(ii) by striking ``Secretary of War'' and
inserting ``Secretary of the Interior''; and
(C) in section 10 (16 U.S.C. 428i), by striking
``Secretary of War'' and inserting ``Secretary of the
Interior''.
(2) 1937 law.--The Act of August 30, 1937, is amended--
(A) in the first section (16 U.S.C. 428d-1)--
(i) by striking ``Fort Donelson National
Military Park'' and inserting ``Fort Donelson
National Battlefield''; and
(ii) by striking ``War Department'' and
inserting ``Department of the Army''; and
(B) in section 2 (16 U.S.C. 428d-2)--
(i) by striking ``Fort Donelson National
Military Park'' and inserting ``Fort Donelson
National Battlefield'';
(ii) by striking ``said national military
park'' and inserting ``Fort Donelson National
Battlefield''; and
(iii) by striking the last sentence.
(3) 1960 law.--The first section of Public Law 86-738 (16
U.S.C. 428k) is amended--
(A) by striking ``Fort Donelson National Military
Park'' and inserting ``Fort Donelson National
Battlefield''; and
(B) by striking ``, but the total area
commemorating the battle of Fort Donelson shall not
exceed 600 acres''. | Fort Donelson National Battlefield Expansion Act of 2002 - Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to acquire for inclusion in the Fort Donelson National Battlefield land, interests, and improvements: (1) within the boundaries of the Battlefield; and (2) outside such boundaries if the land has been identified by the American Battlefield Protection Program as part of the battlefield associated with Fort Donelson or if the Secretary otherwise determines that acquisition will protect critical resources associated with the Battle of Fort Donelson in1862 and the Union campaign that resulted in the capture of the Fort. Limits the total area encompassed by the Battlefield to 2,000 acres.Directs the Secretary and the Secretary of Agriculture to enter into a memorandum of understanding to facilitate cooperatively protecting and interpreting the remaining vestige of Fort Henry and other remaining Civil War resources in the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area affiliated with the Fort Donelson campaign. | To expand the boundaries of the Fort Donelson National Battlefield to authorize the acquisition and interpretation of lands associated with the campaign that resulted in the capture of the fort in 1862, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. TIPS RECEIVED FOR CERTAIN SERVICES NOT SUBJECT TO INCOME OR
EMPLOYMENT TAXES.
(a) In General.--Section 102 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
(relating to gifts and inheritances) is amended by adding at the end
the following new subsection:
``(d) Tips Received for Certain Services.--
``(1) In general.--For purposes of subsection (a), tips
received by an individual for qualified services performed by
such individual shall be treated as property transferred by
gift.
``(2) Qualified services.--For purposes of this subsection,
the term `qualified services' means cosmetology, hospitality
(including lodging and food and beverage services), recreation,
taxi, newspaper deliveries and shoe shine services.
``(3) Annual limit.--The amount excluded from gross income
for the taxable year by reason of paragraph (1) with respect to
each service provider shall not exceed $10,000.
``(4) Employee taxable on at least minimum wage.--Paragraph
(1) shall not apply to tips received by an employee during any
month to the extent that such tips--
``(A) are deemed to have been paid by the employer
to the employee pursuant to section 3121(q) (without
regard to whether such tips are reported under section
6053), and
``(B) do not exceed the excess of--
``(i) the minimum wage rate applicable to
such individual under section 6(a)(1) of the
Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (determined
without regard to section 3(m) of such Act),
over
``(ii) the amount of the wages (excluding
tips) paid by the employer to the employee
during such month.
``(5) Tips.--For purposes of this title, the term `tips'
means a gratuity paid by an individual for services performed
for such individual (or for a group which includes such
individual) by another individual if such services are not
provided pursuant to an employment or similar contractual
relationship between such individuals.''
(b) Exclusion From Social Security Taxes.--
(1) Paragraph (12) of section 3121(a) of such Code is
amended to read as follows:
``(12)(A) tips paid in any medium other than cash;
``(B) cash tips received by an employee in any calendar
month in the course of his employment by an employer unless the
amount of such cash tips is $20 or more and then only to the
extent includible in gross income after the application of
section 102(d);''.
(2) Paragraph (10) of section 209(a) of the Social Security
Act is amended to read as follows:
``(10)(A) tips paid in any medium other than cash;
``(B) cash tips received by an employee in any calendar
month in the course of his employment by an employer unless the
amount of such cash tips is $20 or more and then only to the
extent includible in gross income after the application of
section 102(d) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 for such
month;''.
(3) Paragraph (3) of section 3231(e) of such Code is
amended to read as follows:
``(3) Solely for purposes of the taxes imposed by section
3201 and other provisions of this chapter insofar as they
relate to such taxes, the term `compensation' also includes
cash tips received by an employee in any calendar month in the
course of his employment by an employer if the amount of such
cash tips is $20 or more and then only to the extent includible
in gross income after the application of section 102(d).''.
(c) Exclusion From Unemployment Compensation Taxes.--Subsection (s)
of section 3306 of such Code is amended to read as follows:
``(s) Tips Not Treated as Wages.--For purposes of this chapter, the
term `wages' shall include tips received in any month only to the
extent includible in gross income after the application of section
102(d) for such month.''
(d) Exclusion From Wage Withholding.--Paragraph (16) of section
3401(a) of such Code is amended to read as follows:
``(16)(A) as tips in any medium other than cash;
``(B) as cash tips to an employee in any calendar month in
the course of his employment by an employer unless the amount
of such cash tips is $20 or more and then only to the extent
includible in gross income after the application of section
102(d);''
(e) Conforming Amendment.--Sections 32(c)(2)(A)(i) and 220(b)(4)(A)
of such Code are each amended by striking ``tips'' and inserting ``tips
to the extent includible in gross income after the application of
section 102(d))''.
(f) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to tips received after the calendar month which includes the date
of the enactment of this Act. | Amends the Internal Revenue Code to make revisions concerning the treatment of tip income for specified services, including treating a limited amount of tips as property transferred by gift. | To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide that tips received for certain services shall not be subject to income or employment taxes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Jacob Wetterling Crimes Against
Children Registration Act''.
SEC. 2. ESTABLISHMENT OF PROGRAM.
(a) In General.--
(1) State guidelines.--The Attorney General shall establish
guidelines for State programs requiring any person who is
convicted of a criminal offense against a victim who is a minor
to register a current address with a designated State law
enforcement agency for 10 years after release from prison, or
being placed on parole, supervised release, or probation.
(2) Definition.--For purposes of this subsection, the term
``criminal offense against a victim who is a minor'' means any
criminal offense that consists of--
(A) kidnapping of a minor, except by a parent;
(B) false imprisonment of a minor, except by a
parent;
(C) criminal sexual conduct toward a minor;
(D) solicitation of a minor to engage in sexual
conduct;
(E) use of a minor in a sexual performance;
(F) solicitation of a minor to practice
prostitution;
(G) any conduct that by its nature is a sexual
offense against a minor; or
(H) an attempt to commit an offense described in
any of subparagraphs (A) through (G) of this paragraph,
if the State--
(i) makes such an attempt a criminal
offense; and
(ii) chooses to include such an offense in
those which are criminal offenses against a
victim who is a minor for the purposes of this
section.
(b) Registration Requirement Upon Release, Parole, Supervised
Release, or Probation.--An approved State registration program
established under this section shall contain the following
requirements:
(1) Duty of state prison official or court.--If a person
who is required to register under this section is released from
prison, or placed on parole, supervised release, or probation,
a State prison officer, or in the case of probation, the court,
shall--
(A) inform the person of the duty to register and
obtain the information required for such registration;
(B) inform the person that if the person changes
residence address, the person shall give the new
address to a designated State law enforcement agency in
writing within 10 days;
(C) inform the person that if the person changes
residence to another State, the person shall register
the new address with the law enforcement agency with
whom the person last registered, and the person is also
required to register with a designated law enforcement
agency in the new State not later than 10 days after
establishing residence in the new State, if the new
State has a registration requirement;
(D) obtain fingerprints and a photograph of the
person if these have not already been obtained in
connection with the offense that triggers registration;
and
(E) require the person to read and sign a form
stating that the duty of the person to register under
this section has been explained.
(2) Transfer of information to state and the f.b.i.--The
officer, or in the case of a person placed on probation, the
court, shall, within 3 days after receipt of information
described in paragraph (1), forward it to a designated State
law enforcement agency. The State law enforcement agency shall
immediately enter the information into the appropriate State
law enforcement record system and notify the appropriate law
enforcement agency having jurisdiction where the person expects
to reside. The State law enforcement agency shall also
immediately transmit the conviction data and fingerprints to
the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
(3) Annual verification.--On each anniversary of a person's
initial registration date during the period in which the person
is required to register under this section, the designated
State law enforcement agency shall mail a nonforwardable
verification form to the last reported address of the person.
The person shall mail the verification form to the designated
State law enforcement agency within 10 days after receipt of
the form. The verification form shall be signed by the person,
and state that the person still resides at the address last
reported to the designated State law enforcement agency. If the
person fails to mail the verification form to the designated
State law enforcement agency within 10 days after receipt of
the form, the person shall be in violation of this section
unless the person proves that the person has not changed his or
her residence address.
(4) Notification of local law enforcement agencies of
changes in address.--Any change of address by a person required
to register under this section reported to the designated State
law enforcement agency shall immediately be reported to the
appropriate law enforcement agency having jurisdiction where
the person is residing. The designated law enforcement agency
shall, if the person changes residence to another State, notify
the person of the law enforcement agency with which the person
must register in the new State, if the new State has a
registration requirement.
(5) Privacy of data.--The information collected under a
State registration program shall be treated as private data on
individuals and may be disclosed only to law enforcement
agencies for investigative purposes or to government agencies
conducting confidential background checks with fingerprints on
applicants for child care positions or other positions
involving contact with children.
(c) Registration for Change of Address to Another State.--A person
who has been convicted of an offense which triggered registration in a
State shall register the new address with a designated law enforcement
agency in another State to which the person moves not later than 10
days after such person establishes residence in the new State, if the
new State has a registration requirement.
(d) Registration for 10 Years.--A person required to register under
this section shall continue to comply with this section until 10 years
have elapsed since the person was released from prison, or placed on
parole, supervised release, or probation.
(e) Penalty.--A person required to register under a State program
established pursuant to this section who knowingly fails to so register
and keep such registration current shall be subject to criminal
penalties in any State in which the person has so failed.
(f) Compliance.--
(1) Compliance date.--Each State shall have 3 years from
the date of the enactment of this Act in which to implement
this section.
(2) Ineligibility for funds.--The allocation of funds under
section 506 of title I of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe
Streets Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 3756) received by a State not
complying with the guidelines issued under this section 3 years
after the date of enactment of this Act may be reduced by 10
percent and the unallocated funds shall be reallocated to the
States in compliance with this section.
Passed the House of Representatives November 20, 1993.
Attest:
DONNALD K. ANDERSON,
Clerk.
By Dallas L. Dendy, Jr.,
Assistant to the Clerk. | Jacob Wetterling Crimes Against Children Registration Act - Directs the Attorney General to establish guidelines for State programs requiring persons convicted of a criminal offense against a minor to register a current address with a designated State law enforcement agency (LEA) for ten years after being released from prison or being placed on parole, supervised release, or probation.
Sets forth requirements for an approved State registration program, including requirements to: (1) inform persons of their duty to register and obtain the information required for such registration; (2) inform such persons of requirements applicable if they change residence to another State; (3) obtain fingerprints and a photograph; and (4) enter information into the State law enforcement record system. Directs the officer (or, in the case of a person placed on probation, the court) to forward required information to the designated State LEA, which shall immediately transmit the conviction data and fingerprints to the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Provides that the information collected under a State registration program shall be treated as private data on individuals and may be disclosed only to LEAs for investigative purposes or to government agencies conducting confidential background checks with fingerprints on applicants for child care positions or other positions involving contact with children.
Requires a person who has been convicted of an offense which triggered registration in a State to register a new address with a designated LEA in another State to which the person moves within ten days of establishing residence in the new State, if such State has a registration requirement.
Subjects a person required to register under a State program who knowingly fails to register and keep such registration current to criminal penalties in that State.
Specifies that the allocation of Bureau of Justice Assistance grant funds under the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 received by a State not complying with the provisions of this Act within three years may be reduced by ten percent. Requires such unallocated funds to be reallocated to the States in compliance with this Act. | Jacob Wetterling Crimes Against Children Registration Act |
SECTION 1. TRANSFER TO A PRIVATE CORPORATION.
(a) In General.--In accordance with the plan prescribed under
section 3, all right, title, and interest of the United States in and
to all property of the Postal Service shall be transferred to a
corporation if, within 1 year after the date of the enactment of this
Act, such corporation satisfies the requirements set forth in section
2.
(b) Specific Requirement.--The plan prescribed under section 3
shall include such provisions as may be necessary to ensure that no
payment shall be required in consideration for any rights or assets of
the Postal Service which are transferred pursuant to this Act.
SEC. 2. REQUIREMENTS FOR THE CORPORATION.
(a) In General.--A corporation shall be considered to satisfy the
requirements of this section if such corporation--
(1) is incorporated under the laws of a State;
(2) is not a department, agency, or establishment of the
United States;
(3) is incorporated by not more than 9 individuals who are
especially qualified to establish and operate an effective mail
system by virtue of their education, training, or experience,
and who are chosen by the employees of the Postal Service in an
election which shall be held at such time and in such manner as
the President shall by regulation prescribe;
(4) includes among its purposes the delivery of postal
services in a manner consistent with section 101(b) of title
39, United States Code, at rates established in a manner
consistent with section 101(d) of such title;
(5) issues securities in a manner consistent with
subsection (b); and
(6) satisfies such other requirements as the President may
by regulation prescribe in order to carry out the purposes of
this Act.
(b) Securities.--Any securities issued by the corporation--
(1) shall, during the 1-year period beginning on the date
of the enactment of this Act, be issued--
(A) only to employees of the Postal Service;
(B) under a system (as developed under section 4)
which provides that securities shall be issued to
individuals based on their years of service and levels
of compensation; and
(C) subject to such terms and conditions, including
terms and conditions relating to the sale, transfer, or
other disposition of such securities following their
issuance by the corporation, as may be necessary to
promote the retention of well-qualified personnel; and
(2) may, after the end of that period, be offered for sale
to members of the general public under such terms and
conditions as the corporation considers appropriate.
(c) Retirement Benefits.--Retirement benefits provided to employees
of the corporation must be comparable to those which would have been
afforded to those individuals as employees of the Postal Service had
this Act not been enacted.
SEC. 3. TRANSFER PLAN; PRESIDENTIAL DETERMINATION; RATE-SETTING
AUTHORITY.
(a) Transfer Plan.--Not later than the sixtieth day after the date
on which a corporation first satisfies the requirements of section 2,
as determined under subsection (b), the President shall, in conformance
with the requirements of section 1, and after consultation with the
commission under section 4, transmit to Congress--
(1) a comprehensive plan providing for the orderly transfer
of all property subject to this Act, including a timetable
under which such transfer is completed not later than 180 days
after the date on which such corporation first satisfies such
requirements; and
(2) such recommendations for legislation as the President
considers necessary in order to carry out the plan described in
paragraph (1), including recommendations--
(A) for the abolishment of the Postal Service;
(B) for the continuation of the private express
statutes with respect to the corporation during the
first 5 years of its existence; and
(C) for the repeal or modification of appropriate
Federal statutes.
(b) Presidential Determination.--The President shall, for purposes
of this section, determine the date on which a corporation first
satisfies the requirements of section 2.
(c) Rate-Setting Authority.--After consulting with the Postal Rate
Commission, the President shall develop and include as part of the
recommendations submitted under subsection (a) proposals relating to
the means by which rates of postage would be established during the 5-
year period referred to in subsection (a)(2)(B). Such recommendations
may include continuing any operations of the Postal Rate Commission
(whether on a modified basis or otherwise) which may be appropriate.
SEC. 4. POSTAL PRIVATIZATION COMMISSION.
(a) Establishment.--In order to carry out the functions set forth
in sections 2(b)(1)(B) and 3(a), there is established a commission to
be known as the ``Postal Privatization Commission''.
(b) Membership.--The Commission shall consist of 12 members, to be
selected by the President, of whom--
(1) 3 shall be selected from among individuals recommended
jointly by the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the
President pro tempore of the Senate;
(2) 3 shall be selected to represent the interests of
employees of the Postal Service;
(3) 3 shall be selected to represent the interests of
postal management; and
(4) 3 shall be selected from such other postal experts as
the President considers appropriate.
(c) Compensation.--
(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2),
members of the Commission shall be paid at the daily equivalent
of a rate, not to exceed the rate of basic pay payable for
level IV of the Executive Schedule, for each day (including
travel time) during which they are engaged in the performance
of duties of the Commission.
(2) Exception.--Members of the Commission who are full-time
officers or employees of the United States shall receive no
additional pay by reason of their service on the Commission.
(d) Termination.--The Commission shall cease to exist as of the
date on which the work of the Commission has been completed.
SEC. 5. DEFINITIONS.
For purposes of this Act--
(1) the term ``Postal Service'' means the United States
Postal Service and the Postal Rate Commission;
(2) the term ``property'', when used with respect to the
Postal Service, means all assets and rights, and all
liabilities and obligations, of the Postal Service; and
(3) the term ``State'' means each of the several States,
the District of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. | Provides for the transfer of the United States Postal Service to a private corporation.
Directs the President to transmit to the Congress: (1) a comprehensive plan providing for the transfer of property subject to this Act; and (2) recommendations for legislation as necessary.
Establishes the Postal Privatization Commission to: (1) carry out functions relating to the issuance of securities to postal employees; and (2) consult with the President on the transfer. | To provide for the privatization of the United States Postal Service. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Global Investment in American Jobs
Act of 2013''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) It remains an urgent national priority to improve
economic growth and create new jobs.
(2) National security requires economic strength and global
engagement.
(3) Businesses today have a wide array of choices when
considering where to invest, expand, or establish new
operations.
(4) Administrations of both parties have consistently
reaffirmed the need to maintain an open investment climate as a
key to domestic economic prosperity and security.
(5) The United States has historically been the largest
worldwide recipient of foreign direct investment but has seen
its share decline in recent years.
(6) The United States faces increasing competition from
other countries as they work to recruit investment from global
companies.
(7) Foreign direct investment can benefit the economy and
workforce of every State and Commonwealth in the United States.
(8) According to the latest Federal statistics, the United
States subsidiaries of companies headquartered abroad
contribute to the United States economy in a variety of
important ways, including by--
(A) providing jobs for nearly 5,600,000 people in
the United States with compensation that is often
higher than the national private-sector average, as
many of these jobs are in high-skilled, high-paying
industries;
(B) strengthening the United States industrial base
and employing nearly 15 percent of the United States
manufacturing sector workforce;
(C) establishing operations in the United States
from which to sell goods and services around the world,
thereby producing nearly 18 percent of United States
exports;
(D) promoting innovation with more than
$41,000,000,000 in annual United States research and
development activities;
(E) paying nearly 14 percent of United States
corporate income taxes; and
(F) purchasing goods and services from local
suppliers and small businesses, worth hundreds of
billions of dollars annually.
(9) These companies account for 5.8 percent of United
States private sector Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
(10) The Department of Commerce and the Department of State
have initiatives in place to increase foreign direct
investment.
(11) President Barack Obama issued a statement in 2011
reaffirming the longstanding open investment policy of the
United States and encouraged all countries to pursue such a
policy.
(12) President Obama signed an Executive order in 2011 to
establish the SelectUSA initiative and expanded its resources
and activities in 2012, aimed at promoting greater levels of
business investment in the United States.
(13) The President's Council on Jobs and Competitiveness in
2011 recommended the establishment of a National Investment
Initiative to attract $1,000,000,000,000 in foreign direct
investment over five years.
SEC. 3. SENSE OF CONGRESS.
It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) the ability of the United States to attract foreign
direct investment is directly linked to the long-term economic
prosperity, global competitiveness, and security of the United
States;
(2) in order to remain the most attractive location for
foreign direct investment, Congress should be mindful of the
potential impact upon the ability of the United States to
attract foreign direct investment when evaluating proposed
legislation;
(3) it is a top national priority to enhance the
competitiveness, prosperity, and security of the United States
by--
(A) removing unnecessary barriers to foreign direct
investment and the jobs that it creates throughout the
United States; and
(B) promoting policies to ensure the United States
remains the premier global destination in which to
invest, hire, innovate, and manufacture their products;
(4) maintaining the United States commitment to open
investment policy encourages other countries to do the same and
enables the United States to open new markets abroad for United
States companies and their products; and
(5) while foreign direct investment can enhance the
economic strength of the United States, policies regarding
foreign direct investment should reflect national security
interests and should not disadvantage domestic investors or
companies.
SEC. 4. FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT REVIEW.
(a) Review.--The Secretary of Commerce, in coordination with the
Federal Interagency Investment Working Group and the heads of other
relevant Federal departments and agencies, shall conduct an interagency
review of the global competitiveness of the United States in attracting
foreign direct investment.
(b) Specific Matters To Be Included.--The review conducted pursuant
to subsection (a) shall include a review of--
(1) the current economic impact of foreign direct
investment in the United States, with particular focus on
manufacturing, research and development, trade, and jobs;
(2) trends in global cross-border investment flows,
including an assessment of the current United States
competitive position as an investment location for companies
headquartered abroad;
(3) Federal Government policies that are closely linked to
the ability of the United States to attract and retain foreign
direct investment;
(4) ongoing Federal Government efforts to improve the
investment climate, reduce investment barriers, and facilitate
greater levels of foreign direct investment in the United
States;
(5) innovative and noteworthy State, regional, and local
government initiatives to attract foreign investment; and
(6) initiatives by other countries in order to identify
best practices for increasing global competitiveness in
attracting foreign direct investment.
(c) Limitation.--The review conducted pursuant to subsection (a)
shall not address laws and policies relating to the Committee on
Foreign Investment in the United States.
(d) Public Comment.--Prior to--
(1) conducting the review under subsection (a), the
Secretary shall publish notice of the review in the Federal
Register and shall provide an opportunity for public comment on
the matters to be covered by the review; and
(2) reporting pursuant to subsection (e), the Secretary
shall publish the proposed findings and recommendations to
Congress in the Federal Register and shall provide an
opportunity for public comment.
(e) Report to Congress.--Not later than one year after the date of
the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Commerce, in coordination
with the Federal Interagency Investment Working Group and the heads of
other relevant Federal departments and agencies, shall report to
Congress the findings of the review required under subsection (a) and
submit recommendations to make the United States more competitive in
attracting foreign direct investment without undermining fundamental
domestic labor, consumer, or environmental protections. | Global Investment in American Jobs Act of 2013 - Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) U.S. ability to attract foreign direct investment is directly linked to U.S. long-term economic prosperity, global competitiveness, and security; (2) it should be mindful of the potential impact upon the U.S. ability to attract foreign direct investment when evaluating proposed legislation; (3) it is a top national priority to enhance U.S. competitiveness, prosperity, and security by removing unnecessary barriers to foreign direct investment and the U.S. jobs it creates and promoting policies to ensure the United States remains the premier global destination in which to invest, hire, innovate, and manufacture products; (4) maintaining the U.S. commitment to open investment policy encourages other countries to do the same and enables the United States to open new markets abroad for U.S. companies and their products; and (5) U.S. policies regarding foreign direct investment should reflect national security interests and should not disadvantage domestic investors or companies. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to conduct an interagency review of the U.S. global competitiveness in attracting foreign direct investment and report to Congress recommendations for making the United States more competitive in attracting foreign direct investment without undermining fundamental domestic labor, consumer, or environmental protections. | Global Investment in American Jobs Act of 2013 |
SECTION 1. REGULATION OF PAYROLL TAX DEPOSIT AGENTS.
(a) In General.--Chapter 77 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
(relating to miscellaneous provisions) is amended by adding at the end
the following new section:
``SEC. 7529. PAYROLL TAX DEPOSIT AGENTS.
``(a) Registration.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall establish a system
to require the initial registration and the annual renewal of
the registration of persons seeking to act as payroll tax
deposit agents authorized to make Federal employment tax
deposits on behalf of employer taxpayers. Such system shall
also--
``(A) establish a registration and renewal fee for
each payroll tax deposit agent in an amount not to
exceed $100,
``(B) provide the payroll tax deposit agent the
option of either submitting a bond as specified in
subsection (b) or submitting to an annual audit as
specified in subsection (c),
``(C) require such disclosures as are specified in
subsection (d),
``(D) require that such agent ensure the direct
notification of the employer by any Federal employment
tax authority (and State employment tax authority if
such agent contracts to make State employment tax
deposits for the employer) regarding the nonpayment of
such employment taxes, and
``(E) provide penalties for unregistered persons
acting as payroll tax deposit agents with respect to
Federal tax deposits in an amount not to exceed $10,000
for each 90 days of noncompliance.
``(2) Definition of payroll tax deposit agent.--For
purposes of this section, the term `payroll tax deposit agent'
means any person which provides payroll processing or tax
filing and deposit services to 1 or more employers (other than
an employer acting on its own behalf) if such person has the
contractual authority to access such employer's funds for the
purpose of making employment tax deposits. Such term shall not
include any person which only transfers such funds (regardless
if such person has the authority to determine the amount of
such transfer) and does not have the authority to impound such
funds for such purpose.
``(3) Employment tax.--For purposes of this section, the
term `employment tax' includes unemployment insurance
contributions.
``(b) Bonding.--
``(1) In general.--If a payroll tax deposit agent elects to
submit a bond under subsection (a)(1)(B), the amount of such
bond shall be not less than $50,000 nor more than $500,000, and
shall be determined with respect to each payroll tax deposit
agent under regulations prescribed by the Secretary.
``(2) Surety.--Any bond or security furnished pursuant to
this section shall be in such form and with such surety or
sureties as may be prescribed by regulations issued pursuant to
section 7101.
``(c) Annual Audits.--If a payroll tax deposit agent elects to
submit to an annual audit under subsection (b)(1)(B), such audit shall
be performed by an independent third party and shall be based on such
audit principles as the Secretary determines necessary, including the
following:
``(1) The escrow account of the payroll tax deposit agent
in which such agent holds its employers' taxes is balanced each
year to the total of the quarterly reconciliation statements.
``(2) The escrow account funds of the payroll tax deposit
agent are not commingled with such agent's operating funds.
``(3) No evidence that the payroll tax deposit agent used
any of the funds in such agent's escrow account to pay such
agent's own operating costs.
``(4) Receipt evidence that such agent paid the required
employment taxes on behalf of the employers to the proper
government employment tax authority.
``(d) Disclosure.--The Secretary shall require payroll tax deposit
agents to disclose to each potential and existing client prior to or at
the time of contracting for payroll services--
``(1) the client's continuing liability for payment of all
Federal and State employment taxes notwithstanding any
contractual relationship with a payroll tax deposit agent,
``(2) the mechanisms available to the client to verify the
amount and date of payment of all tax deposits made by the
payroll tax deposit agent on behalf of such client, including
the Internet address, postal address, and telephone number of
each Federal and State employment tax authority related to such
deposits, and
``(3) such other information that the Secretary determines
is necessary or appropriate to assist employers in the
selection and use of payroll tax deposit agents.
``(e) Tax Deposits and Returns.--Only persons registered under this
section may--
``(1) make Federal tax deposits on behalf of an employer,
``(2) sign and file Federal employment tax returns on
behalf of a taxpayer, and
``(3) have access to confidential tax information relating
to such employer.
``(f) Regulations.--The Secretary shall prescribe such regulations
as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this section.''.
(b) Payroll Tax Deposit Agents Subject to Penalty for Failure To
Collect and Pay Over Tax, or Attempt To Evade or Defeat Tax.--
(1) In general.--Section 6672(a) of the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986 is amended by inserting ``, including any payroll
tax deposit agent (as defined in section 7529(a)(2)),'' after
``Any person''.
(2) Construction.--The amendment made by paragraph (1)
shall not be construed to create any inference with respect to
the interpretation of section 6672 of the Internal Revenue Code
of 1986 as such section was in effect on the day before the
date of the enactment of this Act.
(c) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for such chapter 77
is amended by adding at the end the following new item:
``Sec. 7529. Payroll tax deposit agents.''.
(d) Effective Dates.--
(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2), the
amendments made by this section shall take effect on the date
of the enactment of this Act.
(2) Penalty.--The amendments made by subsection (b) shall
apply to failures occurring after the date of the enactment of
this Act. | Amends the Internal Revenue Code to require the Secretary of the Treasury to establish a registration system for payroll tax deposit agents. Requires such agents to: (1) submit to a bond or annual audit; (2) make certain disclosures to their clients concerning liability for payment of employment taxes; and (3) pay penalties for failing to collect or pay over employment taxes or for attempting to evade or defeat payment of such taxes. | A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to regulate payroll tax deposit agents. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Pro bono Work to Empower and
Represent Act of 2015'' or ``POWER Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) Extremely high rates of domestic violence, dating
violence, sexual assault, and stalking exist at the local,
State, and national levels and such violence or behavior harms
the most vulnerable members of our society.
(2) According to a study commissioned by the Department of
Justice, nearly 25 percent of women suffer from domestic
violence during their lifetime.
(3) Proactive efforts should be made available in all
forums to provide pro bono legal services and eliminate the
violence that destroys lives and shatters families.
(4) A variety of factors cause domestic violence, dating
violence, sexual assault, and stalking, and a variety of
solutions at the local, State, and national level are necessary
to combat such violence or behavior.
(5) According to the National Network to End Domestic
Violence, which conducted a census including almost 1,700
assistance programs, over the course of 1 day in September
2014, more than 10,000 requests for services, including legal
representation, were not met.
(6) Pro bono assistance can help fill this need by
providing not only legal representation, but also access to
emergency shelter, transportation, and childcare.
(7) Research and studies have demonstrated that the
provision of legal assistance to victims of domestic violence,
dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking reduces the
probability of such violence or behavior reoccurring in the
future and can help survivors move forward.
(8) Legal representation increases the possibility of
successfully obtaining a protective order against an attacker,
preventing further mental and physical injury to a victim and
his or her family, demonstrated by a study that found that 83
percent of victims represented by an attorney were able to
obtain a protective order compared to 32 percent of victims
without an attorney.
(9) The American Bar Association Model Rules include
commentary that ``every lawyer, regardless of professional
prominence or professional workload, has a responsibility to
provide legal services to those unable to pay, and personal
involvement in the problems of the disadvantaged can be one of
the most rewarding experiences in the life of a lawyer''.
(10) As representatives of the Department of Justice, the
duty of United States Attorneys is to present ``equal and
impartial justice to all its citizens,'' which should include,
especially, survivors of domestic violence, dating violence,
sexual assault, and stalking who might not otherwise know how
to seek advice and protection.
(11) As Federal leaders who have knowledge of domestic
violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking in
their localities, United States Attorneys should encourage
lawyers to provide pro bono resources in an effort to help
victims of such violence or behavior to escape the cycle of
abuse.
(12) A dedicated army of pro bono attorneys focused on this
mission will inspire others to devote efforts to this cause and
will raise awareness of the scourge of domestic violence,
dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking throughout the
country.
(13) Communities, by providing awareness of pro bono legal
services and assistance to survivors of domestic violence,
dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking, will empower
those survivors to move forward with their lives.
SEC. 3. U.S. ATTORNEYS TO PROMOTE EMPOWERMENT EVENTS.
(a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment
of this Act, and not less often than once each year thereafter, each
United States Attorney, or his or her designee, for each judicial
district shall lead not less than 1 public event, in partnership with a
State, local, tribal, or territorial domestic violence service provider
or coalition and a State or local volunteer lawyer project, promoting
pro bono legal services as a critical way in which to empower survivors
of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking and
engage citizens in assisting those survivors.
(b) Districts Containing Indian Tribes and Tribal Organizations.--
During each 3-year period, a United States Attorney, or his or her
designee, for a judicial district that contains an Indian tribe or
tribal organization (as those terms are defined in section 4 of the
Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C.
450b)) shall lead not less than 1 public event promoting pro bono legal
services under subsection (a) in partnership with an Indian tribe or
tribal organization with the intent of increasing the provision of pro
bono legal services for Indian or Alaska Native victims of domestic
violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
(c) Requirements.--Each United States Attorney shall--
(1) have discretion on the design, organization, and
implementation of the public events required under subsection
(a); and
(2) in conducting a public event under subsection (a), seek
to maximize the local impact of the event and the provision of
access to high-quality pro bono legal services by survivors of
domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and
stalking.
SEC. 4. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS.
(a) Report to the Attorney General.--Not later than October 30 of
each year, each United States Attorney shall submit to the Attorney
General a report detailing each public event conducted under section 3
during the previous fiscal year.
(b) Report to Congress.--
(1) In general.--Not later than January 1 of each year, the
Attorney General shall submit to Congress a compilation and
summary of each report received under subsection (a) for the
previous fiscal year.
(2) Requirement.--Each comprehensive report submitted under
paragraph (1) shall include an analysis of how each public
event meets the goals set forth in this Act, as well as
suggestions on how to improve future public events.
SEC. 5. FUNDING.
The Department of Justice shall use existing funds to carry out the
requirements of this Act.
Passed the Senate November 10, 2015.
Attest:
JULIE E. ADAMS,
Secretary. | . Pro bono Work to Empower and Represent Act of 2015 or the POWER Act (Sec. 3) This bill requires the U.S. Attorney for a judicial district to lead at least one public event that promotes pro bono legal services as a critical way to: (1) empower survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking; and (2) engage citizens in assisting those survivors. A special but similar rule applies to districts containing Indian tribes and tribal organizations. Each U.S. Attorney shall: (1) have discretion on the design, organization, and implementation of such public events; and (2) seek to maximize an event's local impact and the access of such survivors to high-quality pro bono legal services. (Sec. 5) The Department of Justice shall use existing funds to carry out this Act. | POWER Act |
SECTION 1. FINDINGS.
Congress finds that:
(1) Adak Island is an isolated island located 1,200 miles
southwest of Anchorage, Alaska, between the Pacific Ocean and
the Bering Sea. The Island, with its unique physical and
biological features, including a deep water harbor and abundant
marine-associated wildlife, was recognized early for both its
natural and military values. In 1913, Adak Island was reserved
and set aside as a Preserve because of its value to seabirds,
marine mammals, and fisheries. Withdrawals of portions of Adak
Island for various military purposes date back to 1901 and
culminated in the 1959 withdrawal of approximately half of the
Island for use by the Department of the Navy for military
purposes.
(2) By 1990, military development on Adak Island supported
a community of 6,000 residents. Outside of the Adak Naval
Complex, there is no independent community on Adak Island.
(3) As a result of the Defense Base Closure and Realignment
Act of 1990 (104 Stat. 1808), as amended, the Adak Naval
Complex has been closed by the Department of Defense.
(4) The Aleut Corporation is an Alaskan Native Regional
Corporation incorporated in the State of Alaska pursuant to the
Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA), as amended (43
U.S.C. 1601, et seq.). The Aleut Corporation represents the
indigenous people of the Aleutian Islands who prior to the
Russian exploration and settlement of the Aleutian Islands were
found throughout the Aleutian Islands which includes Adak
Island.
(5) None of Adak Island was available for selection by The
Aleut Corporation under section 14(h)(8) of ANCSA (43 U.S.C.
1613(h)(8)) because it was part of a National Wildlife Refuge
and because the portion comprising the Adak Naval Complex was
withdrawn for use by the United States Navy for military
purposes prior to the passage of ANCSA in December 1971.
(6) The Aleut Corporation is interested in establishing a
community on Adak and has offered to exchange ANCSA land
selections for conveyance of certain lands and interests
therein on a portion of Adak formerly occupied by the Navy.
(7) Removal of a portion of Adak Island land from refuge
status will be offset by the acquisition of high quality
wildlife habitat in other Aleut Corporation selections within
the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, maintaining a
resident human population on Adak to control caribou, and
making possible a continued U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
presence in that remote location to protect the natural
resources of the Aleutian Islands Unit of the Alaska Maritime
National Wildlife Refuge.
(8) It is in the public interest to promote reuse of the
Adak Island lands by exchanging certain lands for lands
selected by The Aleut Corporation elsewhere in the Alaska
Maritime National Wildlife Refuge. Experience with
environmental problems associated with formerly used defense
sites in the State of Alaska suggests that the most effective
and efficient way to avoid future environmental problems on
Adak is to support and encourage active reuse of Adak.
SEC. 2. RATIFICATION OF AGREEMENT.
The document entitled the ``Agreement Concerning Transfer of Lands
at Adak Naval Complex'' (hereinafter ``the Agreement''), and dated
__________, executed by The Aleut Corporation, the Department of the
Interior and the Department of the Navy, is hereby ratified, confirmed,
and approved and the terms, conditions, procedures, covenants,
reservations, and other provisions set forth in the Agreement are
declared to be obligations and commitments of the United States as a
matter of Federal law.
SEC. 3. REMOVAL OF LANDS FROM REFUGE.
Effective on the date of conveyance to The Aleut Corporation of the
Adak Exchange Lands as described in the Agreement, all such lands shall
be removed from the National Wildlife Refuge System and shall neither
be considered as part of the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge
nor subject to any laws pertaining to lands within the boundaries of
the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge. The conveyance
restrictions imposed by section 22(g) of the ANCSA, 43 U.S.C. 1621(g),
on said lands shall then be ineffective and cease to apply. The
Secretary shall adjust the boundaries of the Refuge so as to exclude
all interests in lands and land rights, surface and substance, received
by The Aleut Corporation in accordance with this Act and the Agreement.
SEC. 4. ALASKA NATIVE CLAIMS SETTLEMENT ACT.
Lands and interests therein exchanged and conveyed by the United
States pursuant to this act shall be considered and treated as
conveyances of lands or interests therein under the Alaska Native
Claims Settlement Act, except that receipt of such lands and interests
therein shall not constitute a sale or disposition of land or interests
received pursuant to such Act. | Ratifies the "Agreement Concerning Transfer of Lands at Adak Naval Complex" executed by the Aleut Corporation, the Department of the Interior, and the Department of the Navy. Removes such lands from the National Wildlife Refuge System. | A bill to ratify an agreement between the Aleut Corporation and the United States of America to exchange land rights received under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act for certain land interests on Adak Island, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Aviation Medical Assistance Act of
1998''.
SEC. 2. MEDICAL KIT EQUIPMENT AND TRAINING.
Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act,
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall
reevaluate regulations regarding: (1) the equipment required to be
carried in medical kits of aircraft operated by air carriers; and (2)
the training required of flight attendants in the use of such
equipment, and, if the Administrator determines that such regulations
should be modified as a result of such reevaluation, shall issue a
notice of proposed rulemaking to modify such regulations.
SEC. 3. REPORTS REGARDING DEATHS ON AIRCRAFT.
(a) In General.--During the 1-year period beginning on the 90th day
following the date of the enactment of this Act, a major air carrier
shall make a good faith effort to obtain, and shall submit quarterly
reports to the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration on,
the following:
(1) The number of persons who died on aircraft of the air
carrier, including any person who was declared dead after being
removed from such an aircraft as a result of a medical incident
that occurred on such aircraft.
(2) The age of each such person.
(3) Any information concerning cause of death that is available
at the time such person died on the aircraft or is removed from the
aircraft or that subsequently becomes known to the air carrier.
(4) Whether or not the aircraft was diverted as a result of the
death or incident.
(5) Such other information as the Administrator may request as
necessary to aid in a decision as to whether or not to require
automatic external defibrillators in airports or on aircraft
operated by air carriers, or both.
(b) Format.--The Administrator may specify a format for reports to
be submitted under this section.
SEC. 4. DECISION ON AUTOMATIC EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATORS.
(a) In General.--Not later than 120 days after the last day of the
1-year period described in section 3, the Administrator of the Federal
Aviation Administration shall make a decision on whether or not to
require automatic external defibrillators on passenger aircraft
operated by air carriers and whether or not to require automatic
external defibrillators at airports.
(b) Form of Decision.--A decision under this section shall be in
the form of a notice of proposed rulemaking requiring automatic
external defibrillators in airports or on passenger aircraft operated
by air carriers, or both, or a recommendation to Congress for
legislation requiring such defibrillators or a notice in the Federal
Register that such defibrillators should not be required in airports or
on such aircraft. If a decision under this section is in the form of a
notice of proposed rulemaking, the Administrator shall make a final
decision not later than the 120th day following the date on which
comments are due on the notice of proposed rulemaking.
(c) Contents.--If the Administrator decides that automatic external
defibrillators should be required--
(1) on passenger aircraft operated by air carriers, the
proposed rulemaking or recommendation shall include--
(A) the size of the aircraft on which such defibrillators
should be required;
(B) the class flights (whether interstate, overseas, or
foreign air transportation or any combination thereof) on which
such defibrillators should be required;
(C) the training that should be required for air carrier
personnel in the use of such defibrillators; and
(D) the associated equipment and medication that should be
required to be carried in the aircraft medical kit; and
(2) at airports, the proposed rulemaking or recommendation
shall include--
(A) the size of the airport at which such defibrillators
should be required;
(B) the training that should be required for airport
personnel in the use of such defibrillators; and
(C) the associated equipment and medication that should be
required at the airport.
(d) Limitation.--The Administrator may not require automatic
external defibrillators on helicopters and on aircraft with a maximum
payload capacity (as defined in section 119.3 of title 14, Code of
Federal Regulations) of 7,500 pounds or less.
(e) Special Rule.--If the Administrator decides that automatic
external defibrillators should be required at airports, the proposed
rulemaking or recommendation shall provide that the airports are
responsible for providing the defibrillators.
SEC. 5. LIMITATIONS ON LIABILITY.
(a) Liability of Air Carriers.--An air carrier shall not be liable
for damages in any action brought in a Federal or State court arising
out of the performance of the air carrier in obtaining or attempting to
obtain the assistance of a passenger in an in-flight medical emergency,
or out of the acts or omissions of the passenger rendering the
assistance, if the passenger is not an employee or agent of the carrier
and the carrier in good faith believes that the passenger is a
medically qualified individual.
(b) Liability of Individuals.--An individual shall not be liable
for damages in any action brought in a Federal or State court arising
out of the acts or omissions of the individual in providing or
attempting to provide assistance in the case of an in-flight medical
emergency unless the individual, while rendering such assistance, is
guilty of gross negligence or willful misconduct.
SEC. 6. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act--
(1) the terms ``air carrier'', ``aircraft'', ``airport'',
``interstate air transportation'', ``overseas air transportation'',
and ``foreign air transportation'' have the meanings such terms
have under section 40102 of title 49, United States Code;
(2) the term ``major air carrier'' means an air carrier
certificated under section 41102 of title 49, United States Code,
that accounted for at least 1 percent of domestic scheduled-
passenger revenues in the 12 months ending March 31 of the most
recent year preceding the date of the enactment of this Act, as
reported to the Department of Transportation pursuant to part 241
of title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations; and
(3) the term ``medically qualified individual'' includes any
person who is licensed, certified, or otherwise qualified to
provide medical care in a State, including a physician, nurse,
physician assistant, paramedic, and emergency medical technician.
Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Vice President of the United States and
President of the Senate. | Aviation Medical Assistance Act of 1998 - Directs the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to reevaluate regulations regarding: (1) the equipment required to be carried in medical kits of aircraft operated by air carriers; and (2) the training required of flight attendants in the use of such equipment. Requires the Administrator to issue a notice of proposed rulemaking to make any modifications to such regulations as a result of such reevaluation.
Requires major air carriers to make a good faith effort to report quarterly to the Administrator, over the course of a year, regarding deaths on aircrafts.
Requires the Administrator to decide whether or not to require automatic external defibrillators on passenger aircraft and at airports. Prohibits the Administrator from requiring them on helicopters and on aircraft with a maximum payload capacity of 7,500 pounds or less.
States that, if the Administrator decides that automatic external defibrillators should be required at airports, the proposed rulemaking or recommendation shall provide that the airports are responsible for providing the defibrillators.
Declares that an air carrier shall not be liable for damages in any action brought in a Federal or State court arising out of the carrier's performance in obtaining or attempting to obtain the assistance of a passenger in an in-flight medical emergency, or out of the passenger's acts or omissions while rendering such assistance, if the passenger is not an employee or agent of the carrier and the carrier in good faith believes that the passenger is medically qualified.
Declares that an individual shall not be liable for damages in any such action arising out of acts or omissions in providing or attempting to provide such assistance, except for gross negligence or willful misconduct. | Aviation Medical Assistance Act of 1998 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Dam Rehabilitation and Repair Act of
2004''.
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 redesignating paragraphs (3), (4), (5), (6), (7),
(8), (9), (19), (11), (12), and (13) as paragraphs (4), (5),
(6), (7), (8), (9), (10), (12), (13), (14), and (15),
respectively;
(2) by inserting after paragraph (2) the following:
``(3) 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
(3) by inserting after paragraph (10) (as redesignated by
paragraph (1)) the following:
``(11) Rehabilitation.--The term `rehabilitation' means the
repair, replacement, reconstruction, or removal of a dam that
is carried out to meet applicable State dam safety and security
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 Director shall establish,
within FEMA, a program to provide grant assistance to States for use in
rehabilitation of publicly-owned deficient dams.
``(b) Award of Grants.--
``(1) Application.--A State interested in receiving a grant
under this section may submit to the Director an application
for such grant. Applications submitted to the Director under
this section shall be submitted at such times, be in such form,
and contain such information, as the Director may prescribe by
regulation.
``(2) In general.--Subject to the provisions of this
section, the Director may make a grant for rehabilitation of a
deficient dam to a State that submits an application for the
grant in accordance with the regulations prescribed by the
Director. The Director 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) Priority System.--The Director, 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 (f)(1) for a fiscal year shall be allocated for
making grants under this section to States applying for such grants for
that fiscal year as follows:
``(1) One-third divided equally among applying States.
``(2) Two-thirds among applying States based on the ratio
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) 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 such rehabilitation.
``(f) Authorization of Appropriations.--
``(1) In general.--There is authorized to be appropriated
to carry out this section--
``(A) $50,000,000 for fiscal year 2006; and
``(B) $100,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2007
through 2009.
``(2) Staff.--There are 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 2006 through 2009.
``(3) Period of availability.--Sums appropriated pursuant
to 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 Director 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 Director of the Federal Emergency Management
Agency shall issue a final rule regarding such amendments. | Dam Rehabilitation and Repair Act of 2004 - Amends the National Dam Safety Program Act to require the Director of 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 Director to 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 percent. | 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. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Long Term Care Quality and Consumer
Information Improvement Act of 2005''.
SEC. 2. MEDICARE PAYMENT ADJUSTMENTS FOR SKILLED NURSING FACILITIES
BASED ON QUALITY DATA.
(a) In General.--Section 1888(e) of the Social Security Act (42
U.S.C. 1395yy(e)) is amended by adding at the end the following new
paragraph:
``(13) Payment adjustments based on quality data.--
``(A) Establishment of quality measures.--
``(i) In general.--Subject to the
succeeding provisions of this subparagraph, not
later than 6 months after the date of enactment
of the Long Term Care Quality and Consumer
Information Improvement Act of 2005, the
Secretary shall establish between 10 and 15
quality measures applicable with respect to
skilled nursing facilities in addition to any
quality measures applicable with respect to
such facilities established prior to January 1,
2005.
``(ii) Consultation.--In establishing the
quality measures under clause (i), the
Secretary shall consult with--
``(I) residents of skilled nursing
facilities;
``(II) representatives of patient
advocacy organizations;
``(III) State regulatory
representatives;
``(IV) representatives from the
skilled nursing facility industry; and
``(V) experts on quality measures.
``(iii) Staffing and mix of licensed
staff.--At least one of the quality measures
established under clause (i) shall relate to
the level of skilled nursing facility staffing
and the mix of licensed staff.
``(iv) Establishment and application of
risk adjustment methodology.--The quality
measures established under clause (i) shall
take into account the relative risks associated
with the population of each skilled nursing
facility to ensure that the differences in the
quality measures reflect differences in the
care provided by the facilities and not
differences in resident population
characteristics by using a risk adjustment
methodology established for purposes of this
subsection. The risk adjustment methodology
established and applied under this clause may
exclude certain types of residents, stratify
residents into high-risk and low-risk groups,
or use a statistical adjustment, such as a
regression analysis, that takes into
consideration multiple characteristics for each
resident.
``(v) Special provision for small skilled
nursing facilities.--The Secretary, in
consultation with the individuals and groups
described in clause (ii), shall establish
criteria for determining which quality measures
established under clause (i) do not apply with
respect to skilled nursing facilities that are
not large enough to yield meaningful data with
respect to such measure.
``(vi) Annual review and revision.--The
Secretary, in consultation with the individuals
and groups described in clause (ii), shall
annually review and revise the quality measures
established under clause (i), as the Secretary,
in consultation with such individuals and
groups, determines appropriate.
``(B) Reporting on quality measures.--
``(i) Submission of data.--Each skilled
nursing facility that desires to receive a
payment adjustment under subparagraph (C) shall
submit such data at such time and in such form
and manner as the Secretary, in consultation
with the individuals and groups described in
subparagraph (A)(ii), requires for purposes of
applying the quality measures established under
subparagraph (A)(i).
``(ii) Publication of quality ratings.--Not
less frequently than annually, the Secretary
shall cause to be posted on the Internet
website of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid
Services and to be published in newspapers with
a national circulation a quality rating for
each skilled nursing facility submitting data
under clause (i) by using such data to apply
the quality measures established under
subparagraph (A)(i) to each facility.
``(C) Additional payment amount.--
``(i) In general.--Subject to clause (iv),
each skilled nursing facility that submits data
under subparagraph (B)(i) shall receive the
update described in clause (ii) and the payment
adjustment described in clause (iii).
``(ii) Full market basket update.--
Notwithstanding paragraph (4)(E)(ii) or any
other provision of law, each skilled nursing
facility described in clause (i) shall receive
the full market basket update for the year
following the year in which such data is
submitted.
``(iii) Payments based on quality.--The
Secretary shall adjust the total payment amount
under this subsection for skilled nursing
facilities described in clause (i) as follows:
``(I) Beginning with fiscal year
2007, for each of the skilled nursing
facilities that the Secretary
determines, based on the quality
measures established under subparagraph
(A)(i) for the preceding fiscal year,
to be--
``(aa) in the top 10
percent of all nursing
facilities that submitted data
under subparagraph (B)(i)
during the preceding fiscal
year, each payment amount
determined under the other
provisions of this subsection
shall be increased by 2 percent
of that amount; and
``(bb) below the top 10
percent of such nursing
facilities, but within the top
20 percent of such facilities,
each payment amount determined
under the other provisions of
this subsection shall be
increased by 1 percent of that
amount.
``(II) Beginning with fiscal year
2008, for each of the skilled nursing
facilities that the Secretary
determines, based on the quality
measures established under subparagraph
(A)(i), to be in the bottom 20 percent
of all nursing facilities that
submitted data under subparagraph
(B)(i), each payment amount determined
under the other provisions of this
subsection shall be decreased by 1
percent of that amount.
``(iv) Special provision for small skilled
nursing facilities.--The Secretary may not
refuse to provide a full market basket update
under clause (ii) or to provide an increase or
reduction under clause (iii) with respect to a
skilled nursing facility because such facility
does not submit data with respect to a quality
measure that does not apply to the nursing
facility as a result of the application of the
criteria established under subparagraph (A)(v).
``(D) Budget neutrality.--In implementing this
paragraph, the Secretary shall ensure that the
aggregate amount of expenditures made by the Secretary
under this title in a fiscal year does not exceed the
aggregate amount which the Secretary would have
expended under this title in the year if this paragraph
had not been enacted. In determining the aggregate
amount which the Secretary would have expended under
this title in the year if this paragraph had not been
enacted, the Secretary shall assume a current services
budget baseline that includes in the assumption of
current services a level of expenditures for covered
skilled nursing facility services that reflects a
continuation of the Resource Utilization Groups (RUGS)
that were used for making payments under this section
during fiscal year 2005.''.
(b) Evaluation and Report.--
(1) Evaluation.--The Secretary of Health and Human Services
shall conduct an evaluation of the implementation of the
amendment made by subsection (a), including an evaluation of
the number of skilled nursing facilities that submit the data
pursuant to paragraph (13)(B) of section 1888(e) of the Social
Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395yy(e)), as added by subsection (a).
(2) Report.--Not later than December 31, 2008, the
Secretary of Health and Human Services shall submit a report to
Congress on the evaluation conducted under paragraph (1)
together with recommendations for such legislation and
administrative actions as the Secretary considers appropriate. | Long Term Care Quality and Consumer Information Improvement Act of 2005 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish between ten and 15 additional quality measures applicable to skilled nursing facilities, including a risk adjustment methodology reflecting differences in care, not differences in resident population characteristics. | A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide medicare beneficiaries with access to information concerning the quality of care provided by skilled nursing facilities and to provide incentives to skilled nursing facilities to improve the quality of care provided by those facilities by linking the amount of payment under the medicare program to quality reporting and performance requirements, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Haitian Protection Act of 2007''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds the following:
(1) Haiti remains severely devastated by the combined
effects of ongoing political turmoil and the aftermath of the
natural disasters of 2004, such as Tropical Storm Jeanne and
Hurricane Ivan.
(2) In Haiti, more than 2,500 people died as a result of
Tropical Storm Jeanne in 2004.
(3) The civil protection agency of Haiti stated that
250,000 people were homeless across the country and at least
4,000 homes were destroyed, with thousands more damaged, as a
result of the storm.
(4) When Tropical Storm Jeanne hit, Haiti was already
struggling to deal with political instability and the aftermath
of serious floods from a heavy rain on May 26, 2004, which
killed over 3,000 people.
(5) Despite President Preval's popular internal and
international support, his nascent democratic government still
faces immense political and institutional challenges, including
a sharp increase in common crime, especially kidnappings which
continue to plague the capital and other cities and regions,
and the rebuilding of Haiti's police and judicial institutions
to achieve the fair and prompt tackling of this ongoing
political and criminal violence.
(6) On Thursday, December 21, 2006, UNICEF issued a
statement condemning the increased kidnappings of children in
Haiti.
(7) As of January 2007, the Department of State maintains a
travel warning to United States citizens warning them of the
absence of an effective police force in much of Haiti; the
potential for looting; the presence of intermittent roadblocks
set by armed gangs or by the police; and the possibility of
random violent crime, including carjacking and assault. The
warning states that kidnapping for ransom remains a serious
threat, with more than 50 American citizens, including
children, kidnapped over the past year.
(8) As of January 2007, the Department of State's Consular
Information Sheet states that ``United States Embassy personnel
are under an embassy-imposed curfew and must remain in their
homes or in United States government facilities during the
curfew. The embassy has limited travel by its staff outside of
Port-au-Prince and therefore its ability to provide emergency
services to United States citizens outside of Port-au-Prince is
constrained''.
(9) While United States policy advises Americans that
current conditions make it unsafe to travel to Haiti, the same
conditions make it dangerous and inappropriate to forcibly
repatriate Haitians at this time.
(10) Recent devastating environmental disasters from which
Haiti has not recovered, continuing violence, and unstable
political conditions pose a serious threat at this time to the
personal safety of anyone forcibly repatriated to Haiti.
(11) The Haitian government's ability to provide basic
governmental services--clean water, education, passable road
and basic healthcare--has been severely compromised by the
natural disasters and disrupted by the violent overthrow of the
constitutional government in 2004. Repatriating Haitians
exposes them to these dangerous conditions, while imposing an
additional burden on government resources that are already
stretched too thin.
(12) Haiti's recent political, civil, and governmental
crises; and the extraordinary and temporary conditions caused
by nature, including floods, epidemics, homelessness, death and
the burying of Haiti's fourth largest city, Gonaives, easily
make Haitian nationals currently in the United States eligible
for temporary protected status under subparagraphs (B) and (C)
of sections 244(b)(1) of the Immigration and Nationality Act
(``TPS'') .
(13) Moreover, there is a well-documented history of
discrimination against Haitian nationals in the United States
immigration process.
(14) Temporary protected status grants temporary protection
from deportation to nationals of a country in which
environmental or political events have occurred which make it
temporarily unsafe to deport them. TPS has been granted to
nationals of many countries including those of Nicaragua and
Honduras in 1999 following Hurricane Mitch, and of El Salvador
in 2001 following severe earthquakes.
(15) TPS would help protect United States borders by
preserving remittances sent by potential deportees. Haitian
immigrants in the United States remit about $1 billion annually
to Haiti. These remittances vastly outweigh, in dollar value,
United States foreign aid to Haiti, and are crucial to Haiti's
recovery from the separate and combined effects of years of
severe environmental disasters, paralyzing political turmoil,
violence, and institutional failure
(16) Granting Haitians TPS would also directly assist
Haiti's nascent democracy in its efforts to recover from these
conditions, stabilize the country's economy, rebuild its
political and economic institutions, and provide a future of
hope for Haiti's people.
SEC. 3. DESIGNATION FOR PURPOSES OF GRANTING TEMPORARY PROTECTED STATUS
TO HAITIANS.
(a) Designation.--
(1) In general.--For purposes of section 244 of the
Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1254a), Haiti shall
be treated as if such country had been designated under
subsection (b) of that section, subject to the provisions of
this section.
(2) Period of designation.--The initial period of such
designation shall begin on the date of enactment of this Act
and shall remain in effect for 18 months.
(b) Aliens Eligible.--In applying section 244 of the Immigration
and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1254a) pursuant to the designation made
under this section, and subject to subsection (c)(3) of such section,
an alien who is a national of Haiti is deemed to meet the requirements
of subsection (c)(1) of such section only if the alien--
(1) is admissible as an immigrant, except as otherwise
provided under subsection (c)(2)(A) of such section, and is not
ineligible for temporary protected status under subsection
(c)(2)(B) of such section; and
(2) registers for temporary protected status in a manner
that the Secretary of Homeland Security shall establish.
(c) Consent to Travel Abroad.--The Secretary of Homeland Security
shall give the prior consent to travel abroad described in section
244(f)(3) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1254a(f)(3))
to an alien who is granted temporary protected status pursuant to the
designation made under this section, if the alien establishes to the
satisfaction of the Secretary of Homeland Security that emergency and
extenuating circumstances beyond the control of the alien require the
alien to depart for a brief, temporary trip abroad. An alien returning
to the United States in accordance with such an authorization shall be
treated the same as any other returning alien provided temporary
protected status under section 244 of the Immigration and Nationality
Act (8 U.S.C. 1254a). | Haitian Protection Act of 2007 - Requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to designate Haiti as a country whose qualifying nationals may be eligible for temporary protected status.
Provides for: (1) an initial 18-month designation period; and (2) authorization for temporary travel abroad. | To designate Haiti under section 244 of the Immigration and Nationality Act in order to render nationals of Haiti eligible for temporary protected status under such section. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Jumpstart VA Construction Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress makes the following findings:
(1) The buildings of the Department of Veterans Affairs
have an average age of 60 years.
(2) Since 2004, use of Department facilities has grown from
80 percent to 120 percent, while the condition of these
facilities has eroded from 81 percent to 71 percent over that
same period of time.
(3) The Department currently manages and maintains more
than 5,600 buildings and almost 34,000 acres of land.
(4) More than 3,900 infrastructure gaps remain that will
cost between $54,000,000,000 and $66,000,000,000 to close,
including $10,000,000,000 in activation costs.
(5) The Veterans Health Administration has 21 major
construction projects dating to 2007 that have been only
partially funded.
(6) The total unobligated amount for all currently budgeted
major construction projects exceeds $2,900,000,000.
(7) To finish existing projects and to close current and
future gaps, the Department will need to invest at least
$23,200,000,000 over the next 10 years.
(8) At current requested funding levels, it will take more
than 67 years to complete the 10-year capital investment plan
of the Department.
SEC. 3. PILOT PROGRAM FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS
AFFAIRS MAJOR MEDICAL FACILITY PROJECTS BY NON-FEDERAL
ENTITIES UNDER PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENTS.
(a) In General.--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out
a 10-year pilot program under which the Secretary shall enter into
partnership agreements on a competitive basis with appropriate non-
Federal entities for the construction of major construction projects
authorized by law.
(b) Selection of Projects.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall select 10 major
construction projects for completion by non-Federal entities
under the pilot program. Each project selected shall be a major
medical facility project authorized by law for the construction
of a new facility for which--
(A) Congress has appropriated any funds;
(B) the design and development phase is complete;
and
(C) construction has not begun, as of the date of
the enactment of this Act.
(2) Type of projects.--In selecting major construction
projects under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall select--
(A) four seismic-related projects;
(B) four community based outpatient clinic-related
projects; and
(C) two other projects.
(c) Agreements.--Each partnership agreement for a construction
project under the pilot program shall provide that--
(1) the non-Federal entity shall obtain any permits
required pursuant to Federal and State laws before beginning to
carry out construction; and
(2) if requested by the non-Federal entity, the Secretary
shall provide technical assistance for obtaining any necessary
permits for the construction project.
(d) Responsibilities of Secretary.--The Secretary shall--
(1) appoint a non-Department of Veterans Affairs entity as
the project manager of each major construction project for
which the Secretary enters into a partnership agreement under
the pilot program;
(2) ensure that the project manager appointed under
paragraph (1) develops and implements a project management plan
to ensure concise and consistent communication of all parties
involved in the project;
(3) work in cooperation with each non-Federal entity with
which the Secretary enters into a partnership agreement to
minimize multiple change orders;
(4) develop metrics to monitor change order process times,
with the intent of expediting any change order; and
(5) monitor any construction project carried out by a non-
Federal entity under the pilot program to ensure that such
construction is in compliance with the Federal Acquisition
Regulations and Department of Veterans Affairs acquisition
regulations and that the costs are reasonable.
(e) Reimbursement.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall reimburse, without
interest, a non-Federal entity that carries out work pursuant
to a partnership agreement under the pilot program in an amount
equal to the estimated Federal share of the cost of such work.
Any costs that exceed the amount originally agreed upon between
the Secretary and the non-Federal entity shall be paid by the
non-Federal entity. The Secretary may commence making payments
to a non-Federal entity under this subsection upon entering
into a partnership agreement with the entity under this
section.
(2) Limitation.--The Secretary may not make any
reimbursement payment under this subsection until the Secretary
determines that the work for which the reimbursement is
requested has been performed in accordance with applicable
permits and approved plans.
(3) Budget requests.--The Secretary shall budget for
reimbursement under this section on a schedule that is
consistent with the budgeting process of the Department and the
ongoing Strategic Capital Investment Planning priorities list.
(f) Comptroller General Report.--The Comptroller General of the
United States shall submit to Congress a biennial report on the
partnership agreements entered into under the pilot program.
(g) Deadline for Implementation.--The Secretary shall begin
implementing the pilot program under this section by not later than 180
days after the date of the enactment of this Act. | Jumpstart VA Construction Act - Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a 10-year pilot program of entering into partnership agreements on a competitive basis with appropriate non-federal entities for major authorized construction projects. Directs the Secretary to select 10 major medical facility projects authorized for the construction of a new facility for which: (1) Congress has appropriated funds, (2) the design and development phase is complete, and (3) construction has not begun as of the date of enactment of this Act. Requires four of such projects to be seismic-related projects and four to be community based outpatient clinic-related projects. Directs the Secretary to: (1) appoint a non-Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) entity as the project manager of each project; (2) ensure that the project manager implements a project management plan to ensure concise and consistent communication of all parties involved; (3) work in cooperation with each participating non-federal entity to minimize multiple change orders; (4) develop metrics to monitor change order process times, with the intent of expediting any change order; and (5) monitor construction to ensure that it is in compliance with the Federal Acquisition Regulations and VA acquisition regulations and that the costs are reasonable. | Jumpstart VA Construction Act |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Investment in After-School Programs
Act of 2008''.
SEC. 2. AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS.
Subtitle D of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act is
amended by inserting after section 365 (7 U.S.C. 2008) the following:
``SEC. 366. AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS.
``(a) Purpose.--The purpose of this section is to enhance after-
school programs in rural areas by helping communities--
``(1) to establish after-school programs; and
``(2) to improve existing programs by overcoming barriers
to service.
``(b) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) After-school program.--The term `after-school
program' means a program that carries out a broad array of
activities during periods when school is not in session (such
as before school, after school, or during summer recess and
other vacation periods) that advance student academic
achievement and promote positive youth development.
``(2) Eligible entity.--The term `eligible entity' means a
local educational agency (as such term is defined in section
9101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20
U.S.C. 7801)), community-based organization, another public or
private entity, or a consortium of 2 or more such agencies,
organizations, or entities.
``(3) Rural area.--The term `rural area' means an area that
is served by an elementary or secondary school that is
designated with a school locale code of Distant Town, Remote
Town, Fringe Rural, Distant Rural, or Remote Rural, as
determined by the Secretary of Education.
``(c) Grants.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall make grants to
eligible entities to improve, expand, or establish after-school
programs in rural areas.
``(2) Requirement.--Each grant under this section shall be
in an amount of not less than $50,000.
``(d) Duration.--
``(1) Term of grant.--The term of a grant under this
section may not be for less than 3 years.
``(2) Renewal.--The Secretary may renew a grant under this
section for a period of not less than 3 years, based on the
performance of the eligible entity during the previous grant
term.
``(e) Uses.--As a condition of the receipt of a grant under this
section, an eligible entity shall use the grant to fund projects and
activities described in subsection (c), including transportation,
professional development, training, recruitment and retention of staff,
increasing access to technology, and planning.
``(f) Evaluation.--The Secretary may use not more than 1 percent of
the funds under this section--
``(1) to conduct evaluations of the effectiveness of
programs and activities assisted under subsection (c); and
``(2) to disseminate the results of those evaluations for
the purpose of refining, improving, and strengthening programs.
``(g) Outreach, Training, and Technical Assistance.--The Secretary
may use not more than 3 percent of the funds made available to carry
out this section--
``(1) to conduct outreach, including bidders' conferences,
to ensure widespread knowledge of the availability of resources
described in subsection (c);
``(2) to disseminate information on best practices and
successful program models for serving children and youth in
rural areas; and
``(3) to provide capacity building, training, and technical
assistance to afterschool programs and providers in rural
areas.
``(h) Application.--
``(1) In general.--To be considered for a grant under this
section, each eligible entity shall submit to the Secretary an
application at such time, in such manner, and accompanied by
such information as the Secretary may require.
``(2) Contents.--An application submitted pursuant to
paragraph (1) shall include--
``(A) a description of the after-school program to
be funded, including--
``(i) an assurance that the program will
take place in a safe and easily accessible
facility;
``(ii) a description of how children and
youth participating in the program will travel
safely between the program site and home;
``(iii) a description of how the eligible
entity will disseminate information about the
program, including the location of the program,
to the community in a manner that is
understandable and accessible; and
``(iv) a description of the services to be
provided to children and youth, the roles and
responsibilities of the partners in providing
the services, and how the services enhance an
existing after-school program;
``(B) an assurance that the proposed program was
developed, and will be carried out, in active
collaboration with the schools the students attend;
``(C) an assurance that funds provided under this
section will be used to increase the level of State,
local, and other non-Federal funds that would, in the
absence of funds under this section, be made available
for programs and activities authorized under this
section, and in no case supplant Federal, State, local,
or non-Federal funds;
``(D) a description of the partnership between a
local educational agency, a community-based
organization, or another public entity or private
entity, if applicable; and
``(E) such additional assurances as the Secretary
determines to be necessary to ensure compliance with
this section.
``(i) Priority.--The Secretary shall give priority to applications
that propose partnerships between 2 or more eligible entities.
``(j) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section--
``(1) $50,000,000 for fiscal year 2009;
``(2) $75,000,000 for fiscal year 2010;
``(3) $100,000,000 for fiscal year 2011;
``(4) $125,000,000 for fiscal year 2012; and
``(5) $150,000,000 for fiscal year 2013.''. | Investment in After-School Programs Act of 2008 - Amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to award grants to local educational agencies, community-based organizations, or other entities to improve, expand, or establish rural after-school programs that provide students with a broad array of activities when school is not in session that improve their academic performance and promote their positive development.
Requires eligible programs to be implemented in active collaboration with the schools the students attend and take place in safe and easily accessible facilities.
Gives grant priority to partnerships between two or more entities eligible for such grants. | A bill to enhance after-school programs in rural areas of the United States by establishing a pilot program to help communities establish and improve rural after-school programs. |
SECTION 1. ADJUSTED DIFFERENTIALS.
(a) In General.--Paragraph (1) of section 404(b) of the Federal Law
Enforcement Pay Reform Act of 1990 (5 U.S.C. 5305 note) is amended by
striking the matter after ``follows:'' and inserting the following:
``Area Differential
Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Gainesville, GA-AL, CSA...... 35.99%
Boston-Worcester-Manchester, MA-RI-NH, CSA, plus 44.42%
Barnstable County, MA, and Berwick, Eliot,
Kittery, South Berwick, and York towns in York
County, ME.
Buffalo-Niagara-Cattaraugus, NY, CSA............... 30.66%
Chicago-Naperville-Michigan City, IL-IN-WI, CSA.... 42.73%
Cincinnati-Middletown-Wilmington, OH-KY-IN, CSA.... 25.44%
Cleveland-Akron-Elyria, OH, CSA.................... 32.71%
Columbus-Marion-Chillicothe, OH, CSA............... 28.02%
Dallas-Fort Worth, TX, CSA......................... 36.81%
Dayton-Springfield-Greenville, OH, CSA............. 24.84%
Denver-Aurora-Boulder, CO, CSA, plus the Ft. 35.98%
Collins-Loveland, CO, MSA.
Detroit-Warren-Flint, MI, CSA, plus Lenawee County, 37.92%
MI.
Hartford-West Hartford-Willimantic, CT, CSA, plus 40.50%
the Springfield, MA, MSA and New London County,
CT.
Houston-Baytown-Huntsville, TX, CSA................ 40.66%
Huntsville-Decatur, AL, CSA........................ 32.54%
Indianapolis-Anderson-Columbus, IN, CSA, plus Grant 24.27%
County, IN.
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Riverside, CA, CSA, plus the 43.90%
Santa Barbara-Santa Maria-Goleta, CA, MSA and
Edwards Air Force Base, CA.
Miami-Fort Lauderdale-Pompano Beach, FL, MSA, plus 35.55%
Monroe County, FL.
Milwaukee-Racine-Waukesha, WI, CSA................. 30.53%
Minneapolis-St. Paul-St. Cloud, MN-WI, CSA......... 33.29%
New York-Newark-Bridgeport, NY-NJ-CT-PA, CSA, plus 50.28%
Monroe County, PA, and Warren County, NJ.
Philadelphia-Camden-Vineland, PA-NJ-DE-MD, CSA, 36.76%
plus Kent County, DE, Atlantic County, NJ, and
Cape May County, NJ.
Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale, AZ, MSA................... 34.81%
Pittsburgh-New Castle, PA, CSA..................... 28.84%
Portland-Vancouver-Beaverton, OR-WA, MSA, plus 33.56%
Marion County, OR, and Polk County, OR.
Raleigh-Durham-Cary, NC, CSA, plus the 25.23%
Fayetteville, NC, MSA, the Goldsboro, NC, MSA,
and the Federal Correctional Complex, Butner,
NC.
Richmond, VA, MSA.................................. 25.92%
Sacramento-Arden-Arcade-Yuba City, CA-NV, CSA, plus 39.35%
Carson City, NV.
San Diego-Carlsbad-San Marcos, CA, MSA............. 43.49%
San Jose-San Francisco-Oakland, CA, CSA, plus the 59.65%
Salinas, CA, MSA and San Joaquin County, CA.
Seattle-Tacoma-Olympia, WA, CSA, plus Whatcom 39.35%
County, WA.
Washington-Baltimore-Northern Virginia, DC-MD-VA- 53.94%
WV, CSA, plus the Hagerstown-Martinsburg, MD-
WV, MSA, the York-Hanover-Gettysburg, PA, CSA,
and King George County, VA.
Rest of the United States (RUS).................... 23.40%''.
(b) Special Rules.--For purposes of the provision of law amended by
subsection (a)--
(1) the counties of Providence, Kent, Washington, Bristol,
and Newport, RI, the counties of York and Cumberland, ME, and
the city of Concord, NH, shall be treated as if located in the
Boston-Worcester-Lawrence, MA-NH-ME-CT-RI Consolidated
Metropolitan Statistical Area; and
(2) members of the Capitol Police shall be considered to be
law enforcement officers within the meaning of section 402 of
the Federal Law Enforcement Pay Reform Act of 1990.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendment made by subsection (a)--
(1) shall take effect as if included in the enactment of
the Federal Law Enforcement Pay Reform Act of 1990; and
(2) shall be effective only with respect to pay for service
performed in pay periods beginning on or after the date of the
enactment of this Act.
Subsection (b) shall be applied in a manner consistent with the
preceding sentence.
SEC. 2. LIMITATION ON PREMIUM PAY.
(a) In General.--Section 5547 of title 5, United States Code, is
amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by striking ``5545a,'';
(2) in subsection (c), by striking ``or 5545a''; and
(3) in subsection (d), by striking the period and inserting
``or a criminal investigator who is paid availability pay under
section 5545a.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall take
effect as if included in the enactment of section 1114 of the National
Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2002 (Public Law 107-107; 115
Stat. 1239). | Amends the Federal Law Enforcement Pay Reform Act of 1990 to revise the special pay adjustments for federal law enforcement officers in specified consolidated metropolitan statistical areas. Includes Capitol Police as law enforcement officers under such Act.
Eliminates the limitation on premium pay for federal criminal investigators. | To amend the Federal Law Enforcement Pay Reform Act of 1990 to adjust the percentage differentials payable to Federal law enforcement officers in certain high-cost areas, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Equity in Fertility Coverage Act of
2001''.
SEC. 2. EQUITY IN PROVISION OF PRESCRIPTION DRUG COVERAGE.
(a) Group Health Plans.--
(1) Public health service act amendments.--(A) Subpart 2 of
part A of title XXVII of the Public Health Service Act is
amended by adding at the end the following new section:
``SEC. 2707. EQUITY IN FERTILITY COVERAGE.
``(a) In General.--A group health plan, and a health insurance
issuer offering group health insurance coverage, that provides for
coverage of impotency medications such as viagra shall also provide
coverage of fertility treatments.
``(b) Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be construed as
preventing a plan or issuer from--
``(1) restricting the drugs for which benefits are provided
under the plan or health insurance coverage, or
``(2) imposing a limitation on the amount of benefits
provided with respect to such coverage or the cost-sharing that
may be imposed with respect to such coverage,
so long as such restrictions and limitations are consistent with
subsection (a).
``(c) Notice.--A group health plan under this part shall comply
with the notice requirement under section 714(c) of the Employee
Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 with respect to the requirements
of this section as if such section applied to such plan.''.
(B) Section 2723(c) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 300gg-23(c)) is
amended by striking ``section 2704'' and inserting ``sections
2704 and 2707''.
(2) ERISA amendments.--(A) Subpart B of part 7 of subtitle
B of title I of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of
1974 is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
``SEC. 714. EQUITY IN FERTILITY COVERAGE.
``(a) In General.--A group health plan, and a health insurance
issuer offering group health insurance coverage, that provides for
coverage of impotency medications such as viagra shall also provide
coverage of fertility treatments.
``(b) Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be construed as
preventing a plan or issuer from--
``(1) restricting the drugs for which benefits are provided
under the plan or health insurance coverage, or
``(2) imposing a limitation on the amount of benefits
provided with respect to such coverage or the cost-sharing that
may be imposed with respect to such coverage,
so long as such restrictions and limitations are consistent with
subsection (a).
``(c) Notice Under Group Health Plan.--The imposition of the
requirements of this section shall be treated as a material
modification in the terms of the plan described in section 102(a)(1),
for purposes of assuring notice of such requirements under the plan;
except that the summary description required to be provided under the
last sentence of section 104(b)(1) with respect to such modification
shall be provided by not later than 60 days after the first day of the
first plan year in which such requirements apply.''.
(B) Section 731(c) of such Act (29 U.S.C. 1191(c)) is
amended by striking ``section 711'' and inserting ``sections
711 and 714''.
(C) Section 732(a) of such Act (29 U.S.C. 1191a(a)) is
amended by striking ``section 711'' and inserting ``sections
711 and 714''.
(D) The table of contents in section 1 of such Act is
amended by inserting after the item relating to section 713 the
following new item:
``Sec. 714. Equity in fertility coverage.''.
(b) Individual Health Insurance.--(1) Part B of title XXVII of the
Public Health Service Act is amended by inserting after section 2752
the following new section:
``SEC. 2753. EQUITY IN FERTILITY COVERAGE.
``(a) In General.--The provisions of section 2707 (other than
subsection (c)) shall apply to health insurance coverage offered by a
health insurance issuer in the individual market in the same manner as
it applies to health insurance coverage offered by a health insurance
issuer in connection with a group health plan in the small or large
group market.
``(b) Notice.--A health insurance issuer under this part shall
comply with the notice requirement under section 714(c) of the Employee
Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 with respect to the requirements
referred to in subsection (a) as if such section applied to such issuer
and such issuer were a group health plan.''.
(2) Section 2762(b)(2) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 300gg-62(b)(2)) is
amended by striking ``section 2751'' and inserting ``sections 2751 and
2753''.
(c) FEHBP.--Section 8902 of title 5, United States Code, is amended
by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(p) A contract may not be made or a plan approved which does not
comply with the requirements of section 2753 of the Public Health
Service Act.''.
(d) Effective Dates.--(1) The amendments made by subsection (a)
shall apply with respect to group health plans for plan years beginning
on or after January 1, 2002.
(2) The amendments made by subsection (b) shall apply with respect
to health insurance coverage offered, sold, issued, renewed, in effect,
or operated in the individual market on or after January 1, 2002.
(3) The amendment made by subsection (c) shall apply with respect
to contracts for periods beginning on and after January 1, 2002.
(e) Coordinated Regulations.--Section 104(1) of Health Insurance
Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 is amended by striking
``this subtitle (and the amendments made by this subtitle and section
401)'' and inserting ``the provisions of part 7 of subtitle B of title
I of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, and the
provisions of parts A and C of title XXVII of the Public Health Service
Act''. | Equity in Fertility Coverage Act of 2001 - Amends the Public Health Service Act, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, and Federal law provisions concerning the Federal employees health benefits program to require health plans covering impotency medications such as Viagra to also cover fertility treatments. | To assure equitable treatment of fertility and impotence in health care coverage under group health plans, health insurance coverage, and health plans under the Federal employees' health benefits program. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Saving Women's Lives Act of 2002''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress makes the following findings:
(1) The renewed commitment of the world community to the
formulation of government policies that contribute to global
population stabilization and to improvements in the status of
women owes much to the efforts of the United Nations and its
specialized agencies and organizations, particularly the United
Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).
(2) Over one-half of the UNFPA's assistance is devoted to
maternal and child health programs, including the provision of
family planning services, and it is a major supplier of modern
methods of contraception. UNFPA also supports efforts aimed at
preventing the spread of HIV/AIDS and other sexually-
transmitted diseases and activities aimed specifically at
enhancing the status of women.
(3) UNFPA does not fund abortion services, rather, UNFPA
seeks to reduce the incidence of abortion by improving access
to contraceptive services and to reduce deaths and injuries
related to unsafe abortion by supporting treatment of women
suffering from its complications.
(4) Operating in over 130 nations in all regions of the
world and as a politically neutral source of funds, UNFPA
complements the important work of the United States Agency for
International Development population assistance program.
(5) The United States contribution to UNFPA last year
provided an estimated 870,000 women in the developing world
with effective modern contraception, thereby preventing 500,000
unintended pregnancies, 200,000 abortions, and thousands of
maternal and child deaths.
(6) Many global environmental problems, including water
shortages, pollution, tropical deforestation, and the loss of
wildlife habitat are linked to rapid population growth. UNFPA
has assisted countries around the world plan for and slow
population growth, therefore reducing its effects on the
environment.
(7) Assistance provided by UNFPA conforms to the principle,
affirmed at the 1994 International Conference on Population and
Development by 180 nations, including the United States, that
``all couples and individuals have the basic right to decide
freely and responsibly the number and spacing of their children
and to have the information, education, and means to do so.''.
(8) UNFPA opposes coercion in any form. All of UNFPA's
programs are designed in conformity with universally recognized
human rights principles.
(9) An appropriate way to express the legitimate concerns
of the United States Government about the population policies
of the People's Republic of China is by placing those concerns
on the bilateral agenda along with other important human rights
issues, not by singling out a United Nations agency by
withholding all funding thereby punishing the women and
families around the world who depend on its humanitarian aid.
(10) UNFPA plays a constructive role in helping to reduce
the incidence of coercive practices in China through its
country program which has been successful in eliminating
targets and quotas and promoting voluntary family planning and
informed consent in the 32 program counties. By improving
contraceptive method choice, expanding the range of
reproductive health services, and enhancing the status of
women, the UNFPA country program will help to enable the
Chinese to operationalize the human rights approach of the
International Conference on Population and Development.
(11) The United States Government provided a voluntary
contribution of $21,500,000 to UNFPA for fiscal year 2001 and
President Bush's budget request for fiscal year 2002 allocated
$25,000,000 for UNFPA.
(12) In the spring of 2001, the Secretary of State
submitted written testimony to the Committee on Foreign
Relations of the Senate expressing support for the invaluable
work of UNFPA and for securing funding for the organization.
(13) The United States Government, as part of its efforts
to improve the dire health conditions of Afghan women, pledged
in October 2001 an additional $600,000 to UNFPA to address the
reproductive health care needs of Afghan refugees in
surrounding nations and of the internally displaced within
Afghanistan.
(14) Congress demonstrated its strong bipartisan support
for a voluntary United States contribution to UNFPA of up to
$34,000,000 in adopting the fiscal year 2002 foreign operations
appropriations bill, which was passed by the House of
Representatives on a vote of 357 to 66 and by the Senate by
unanimous consent and signed into law (Public Law 107-115) by
the President on January 10, 2002.
(15) The Bush Administration ``recognizes our country's
long history of providing international health care services,
including voluntary family planning to couples around the world
who want to make free and responsible decisions about the
number and spacing of their children,'' and the President is
committed to maintaining funding for these programs ``because
he knows that one of the best ways to prevent abortion is by
providing voluntary family planning services.''.
SEC. 3. UNITED STATES VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTION TO THE UNITED NATIONS
POPULATION FUND.
(a) Reappropriation of Funds.--Of the amounts appropriated for
``International Organizations and Programs'' under the Kenneth M.
Ludden Foreign Operations, Export Financing, and Related Programs
Appropriations Act, Fiscal Year 2002, and which remain available,
$34,000,000 for fiscal year 2002 shall be made available only for
United States voluntary contributions to the United Nations Population
Fund.
(b) Authorization of Appropriations.--In addition to amounts
otherwise available to carry out the purposes of chapter 3 of part 1 of
the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, there are authorized to be
appropriated $50,000,000 for fiscal year 2003 to be available only for
United States voluntary contributions to the United Nations Population
Fund.
SEC. 4. LIMITATIONS ON UNITED STATES VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE
UNITED NATIONS POPULATION FUND.
(a) Prohibition on Use of Funds in China.--None of the funds made
available or authorized to be appropriated by this Act may be made
available for the United Nations Population Fund (hereinafter in this
Act referrred to as the ``UNFPA'') for a country program in the
People's Republic of China.
(b) Conditions on Availability of Funds.--Amounts made available or
authorized to be appropriated by this Act may not be made available to
UNFPA unless--
(1) the UNFPA maintains amounts made available to the UNFPA
under this Act in an account separate from other accounts of
the UNFPA;
(2) the UNFPA does not commingle amounts made available to
the UNFPA under this Act with other sums; and
(3) the UNFPA does not fund abortions as a method of family
planning. | Saving Women's Lives Act of 2002 - Authorizes appropriations for FY 2002 and 2003 for U.S. voluntary contributions to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). Prohibits the availability of such funds for an UNFPA country program in China. Conditions the availability of funds to UNFPA upon its maintenance of them in a separate, non-commingled account, and on its not funding abortions as a method of family planning. | To provide a United States voluntary contribution to the United Nations Population Fund. |
SECTION 1. FINDINGS.
Congress makes the following findings:
(1) Since 1935, the United States has owned a parcel of
land in Riverside, California, consisting of approximately 9.5
acres, as more specifically described in section 2(a) (in this
section referred to as the ``property'').
(2) The property is administered by the Department of
Agriculture and has been variously utilized for research and
plant materials purposes.
(3) Since 1998, the property has been administered by the
Natural Resources Conservation Service.
(4) Since 2002, the property has been co-managed under a
cooperative agreement between the Natural Resources
Conservation Service and the Riverside Corona Resource
Conservation District, which is a legal subdivision of the
State of California under section 9003 of the California Public
Resources Code.
(5) Since 2002, the Conservation District has incurred
substantial costs in excess of $3.2 million in the operation
and maintenance of the property, and the Natural Resources
Conservation Service and the Conservation District recognize
that hundreds of thousands of dollars still need to be expended
to update utilities and other infrastructure on the property.
(6) The Conservation District wishes to acquire the
property and use it for conservation, environmental, and
related educational purposes.
(7) As provided in this Act, the conveyance of the property
to the Conservation District would promote the Conservation
District's conservation education and related purposes and
result in savings to the Federal Government.
SEC. 2. LAND CONVEYANCE, NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION SERVICE
PROPERTY, RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CALIFORNIA.
(a) Conveyance Authorized.--The Secretary of Agriculture shall
convey and quitclaim to the Riverside Corona Resource Conservation
District (in this section referred to as the ``Conservation District'')
all right, title, and interest of the United States in and to a parcel
of real property, including improvements thereon, that is located at
4500 Glenwood Drive in Riverside, California, consists of approximately
9.5 acres, and is administered by the Natural Resources Conservation
Service of the Department of Agriculture. As necessary or desirable for
the conveyance under this subsection, the Secretary or the Conservation
District may survey all or portions of the property to be conveyed.
(b) Consideration.--
(1) Appraised market value.--As consideration for the
conveyance of the property under subsection (a), the
Conservation District shall pay to the Secretary an amount
equal to the appraised market value of the land under the
hypothetical condition as unimproved land, excluding all
improvements to the land other than normal utility connections
such as sewer and water taps.
(2) Deposit and use of consideration.--The amounts received
as consideration under paragraph (1) shall be credited to the
applicable appropriation of the Natural Resources Conservation
Service for conservation operations in California and shall
remain available, without further appropriation, until expended
as the Secretary may direct.
(c) Prohibition on Reservation of Interest.--The Secretary shall
not reserve any future interest in the property to be conveyed under
subsection (a), except that which may be acceptable to the Conservation
District.
(d) Hazardous Substances.--Notwithstanding section 120(h) of the
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act
of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9620(h)) or the Solid Waste Disposal Act (42 U.S.C.
6901 et seq.), in the conveyance of the property under subsection (a),
the Secretary shall be only required to meet the disclosure
requirements for hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants, but
shall otherwise not be required to remediate or abate any such releases
of hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants, including
petroleum and petroleum derivatives.
(e) Cooperative Authority.--
(1) Leases, contracts, and cooperative agreements
authorized.--In conjunction with, or in addition to, the
conveyance under subsection (a), the Secretary may enter into
leases, contracts and cooperative agreements with the
Conservation District.
(2) Sole source.--Notwithstanding title III of the Federal
Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 (41 U.S.C. 251
et seq.) or any other provision of law, the Secretary may lease
real property from the Conservation District on a
noncompetitive basis.
(3) Non-exclusive authority.--The authority provided by
this subsection is in addition to any other authority of the
Secretary.
(f) Additional Terms and Conditions.--The Secretary may require
such reasonable terms and conditions in connection with the conveyance
under subsection (a) as the Secretary considers appropriate to protect
the interests of the United States, except that the conveyance does not
require further administrative or environmental analyses or
examination. | Directs the Secretary of Agriculture (USDA) to convey and quitclaim all interest of the United States in and to a parcel of real property, including improvements, located at 4500 Glenwood Drive in Riverside, California, and administered by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, to the Riverside Corona Conservation District.
Requires the Conservation District to pay to the Secretary the appraised market value of the land as unimproved land, excluding all improvements other than normal utility connections such as sewer and water taps.
Prohibits reservation by the Secretary of any future interest in the property to be conveyed, except that which may be acceptable to the Conservation District.
Requires the Secretary, notwithstanding the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA) or the Solid Waste Disposal Act, in conveying the property, to only meet the disclosure requirements for hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants, without otherwise being required to remediate or abate any such releases, including petroleum and petroleum derivatives. | To provide for the conveyance of a small parcel of Natural Resources Conservation Service property in Riverside, California, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. FINDINGS.
Congress makes the following findings:
(1) The international traffic in illicit drugs,
particularly along the Southwest Border, poses a serious threat
to the national security of the United States and to every
nation where the production, transit, or consumption of such
drugs occurs.
(2) The United States considers combating international
drug cartels to be one of its highest national security and
foreign policy priorities.
(3) In order to reduce and eliminate the illicit drug
trade, the United States and countries where substantial
production or transit of such drugs occurs must cooperate to
eradicate and interdict supplies of such drugs and to penetrate
the operations of major drug traffickers.
(4) It is in the national interest that the President
explore all possible mechanisms, including bilateral agreements
and other plans on counternarcotics matters, in order to
facilitate cooperation in joint counternarcotics programs and
to better assist other governments in developing effective
counternarcotics programs within their territories.
(5) The bilateral agreements and other plans on
counternarcotics matters to which the United States is a party
should establish concrete and measurable goals with transparent
benchmarks for measuring progress in the achievement of such
goals.
SEC. 2. INAPPLICABILITY OF ANNUAL DRUG CERTIFICATION PROCEDURES TO
CERTAIN COUNTRIES COVERED BY BILATERAL COUNTERDRUG
AGREEMENTS AND PLANS WITH THE UNITED STATES.
(a) In General.--Section 490 of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961
(22 U.S.C. 2991j) is amended by adding at the end the following new
subsection:
``(i) Inapplicability to Certain Countries Having Bilateral
Counterdrug Agreements and Plans With the United States.--
``(1) Inapplicability.--Subsections (a) through (g) shall
not apply in a fiscal year to a country to which such
subsections would otherwise apply in that fiscal year if the
President determines, not later than December 31 of that fiscal
year, that--
``(A) the country is a party to a bilateral
agreement and other plans with the United States, which
agreement and plans together--
``(i) are consistent with the goals and
objectives established by international
agreements on the illicit trafficking and abuse
of narcotics and psychotropic drugs to which
the United States and the country are parties;
``(ii) address issues relating to the
control of illicit drugs, including production,
distribution, and interdiction, demand
reduction, the activities of criminal
organizations, cooperation among law
enforcement agencies (including the exchange of
information and evidence), extradition of
individuals involved in drug-related criminal
activity, border security, money laundering,
firearms trafficking, corruption, control of
chemicals, asset forfeiture, and training and
technical assistance; and
``(iii) include timetables and objective
and measurable standards to assess the progress
made by both countries with respect to such
issues; and
``(B) progress is being made in accordance with the
agreement and plans with respect to the control of
illicit drugs.
``(2) Consultation.--The President shall make any
determination under paragraph (1) after consultation with the
Secretary of State, the Secretary of the Treasury, the Attorney
General, the Director of the Office of National Drug Control
Policy, the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation,
the Administrator of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the
Commissioner of Immigration and Naturalization, and the
Commissioner of Customs.
``(3) Reports.--Not later than December 31 and June 30 of a
fiscal year, the President shall submit to Congress a report on
the progress made with respect to the control of illicit drugs
by each country determined to be covered by paragraph (1) for
that fiscal year.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by subsection (a) shall
take effect on the date of the enactment of this Act, and shall apply
with respect to the withholding of bilateral assistance and opposition
to multilateral assistance under section 490 of the Foreign Assistance
Act of 1961 for fiscal years beginning after that date. | Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 with respect to certain annual presidential certifications to Congress required to allow a major drug-transit country or major illicit drug producing country to expend withheld bilateral assistance and multilateral development assistance, provided certain conditions are met. Waives application of certification requirements to such a country if the President determines that: (1) it is a party to a bilateral agreement and other illicit drug control plans with the United States; and (2) progress is being made in accordance with the agreement and plans with respect to the control of illicit drugs. | A bill to provide that the annual drug certification procedures under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 not apply to certain countries with which the United States has bilateral agreements and other plans relating to counterdrug activities, and for other purposes. |
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 and local governments
in addressing school construction, renovation, and repair needs
by providing low-interest loans for purposes of paying interest
on related bonds.
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.
(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 which 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 issued as
part of an issue if--
(A) 95 percent or more of the proceeds of such
issue 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 of such
issue;
(B) the bond is issued by a State entity or local
government;
(C) the issuer designates such bonds for purposes
of this section; and
(D) the term of each bond which is part of such
issue does not exceed 15 years.
(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.
(a) Loan Authority.--
(1) In general.--From funds made available to a State under
section 5(b) the State shall make loans to State entities or
local governments within the State to enable the entities and
governments to make annual interest payments on qualified
school construction bonds that are issued by the entities and
governments not later than December 31, 2002.
(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.
(b) Loan Repayment.--
(1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2), a State entity
or local government that receives a loan under this Act shall
repay to the stabilization fund the amount of the loan, plus
interest, at the average prime lending rate for the year in
which the bond is issued, not to exceed 4.5 percent.
(2) Exception.--A State entity or local government shall
not repay the amount of a loan made under this Act, plus
interest, and the interest on a loan made under this Act shall
not accrue, prior to January 1, 2005, 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.
(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 the interest on qualified school construction
bonds; 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 in the State that
would have occurred in the absence of such funds.
SEC. 5. AMOUNTS AVAILABLE TO EACH STATE.
(a) Reservation for Indians.--From $20,000,000,000 of the funds in
the stabilization fund, the Secretary of the Treasury shall make
available $400,000,000 to Indian tribes for loans to enable the Indian
tribes 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 appropriate.
(b) Amounts Available.--
(1) In general.--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), on an annual basis, during the period beginning on October
1, 2000, and ending September 30, 2017.
(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 borrow 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, 2005, 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 2009 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; and (2) notify each State of the amount of funds it may borrow 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 in the State that would have occurred in the absence of such funds. | Building, Renovating, Improving, and Constructing Kids' Schools Act |
SECTION 1. EXPANSION OF TAX REFUND REDUCTION PROVISION TO INCLUDE
CERTAIN LOCAL TAX DEBT.
(a) Section 3720A of title 31, United States Code (relating to
reduction of tax refund by amount of debt) is amended by adding at the
end the following:
``(j) Collection of Past-Due Legally Enforceable Local Government
Tax Obligations.--(1) Upon receiving notice from any State on behalf of
a local government that a named person owes a past-due, legally
enforceable tax obligation to such local government, the Secretary of
the Treasury shall, under such conditions as may be prescribed by the
Secretary, determine whether any amounts, as refunds of Federal taxes
paid, are payable to such person. If the Secretary of the Treasury
finds that any such amount is payable, he shall--
``(A) reduce such refunds by an amount equal to the amount
of such debt;
``(B) pay the amount of such reduction to the State for
purposes of payment by the State to the local government on
behalf of which the State submitted the notice;
``(C) notify the State of the person's name, taxpayer
identification number, address, and the amount collected; and
``(D) notify the person due the refund that the refund has
been reduced by an amount necessary to satisfy a past-due,
legally enforceable tax obligation.
``(2) Priorities for Offset.--(A) Any overpayment (as defined in
section 6401 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986) by a person shall be
reduced pursuant to this subsection--
``(i) after such overpayment is reduced (I) with respect to
any liability for any internal revenue tax on the part of the
person who made the overpayment; (II) with respect to past-due
support (as defined in section 464(c) of the Social Security
Act); (III) with respect to any past-due, legally enforceable
debt owed to a Federal agency; and (IV) with respect to any
past-due, legally enforceable State income tax obligation (as
defined in section 6402(e) of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986); and
``(ii) before such overpayment is credited to the future
liability for any Federal internal revenue tax of such person.
``(B) If the Secretary receives notice from one or more States (on
behalf of local governments) of more than one tax obligation subject to
paragraph (1) that is owed by such person to any local government, any
overpayment by such person shall be applied against such debts in the
order in which such notices were filed.
``(3) Notice; Consideration of Evidence.--No State may take action
under this subsection on behalf of a local government until the local
government certifies to the State that the local government--
``(A) has notified the person owing the past-due, legally
enforceable tax obligation by certified mail with return
receipt that the State (on behalf of the local government)
proposes to take action pursuant to this section;
``(B) has given such person at least 60 days to present
evidence that all or part of such liability is not past-due or
not legally enforceable;
``(C) has considered any evidence presented by such person
and has determined that an amount of such debt is past-due and
legally enforceable; and
``(D) has satisfied such other conditions as the Secretary
may prescribe to ensure that the determination made under
subparagraph (C) is valid and that the local government has
made reasonable efforts to obtain payment of such tax
obligation.
``(4) Definition of Past-Due, Legally Enforceable Tax Obligation.--
In this subsection, the term `past-due, legally enforceable tax
obligation' means a tax debt--
``(A)(i) which resulted from--
``(I) a judgment rendered by a court of competent
jurisdiction which has determined an amount of tax to
be due; or
``(II) a determination after an administrative
hearing which has determined an amount of tax to be
due; and
``(ii) which is no longer subject to judicial review; or
``(B) which resulted from a tax which has been assessed but
not collected, the time for redetermination of which has
expired, and which has not been delinquent for more than 10
years.
``(5) Regulations.--The Secretary shall issue regulations
prescribing the time and manner in which States (on behalf of local
governments) must submit notices of past-due, legally enforceable tax
obligations and the necessary information that must be contained in or
accompany such notices. The regulations shall specify the types of
taxes and the minimum amount of debt to which the reduction procedure
established by paragraph (1) may be applied. The regulations may
require States (on behalf of local governments) to pay a fee to
reimburse the Secretary for the cost of applying such procedure, and
such fee may be reimbursed by local governments to States in accordance
with applicable State law. Any fee paid to the Secretary pursuant to
the preceding sentence shall be used to reimburse appropriations which
bore all or part of the cost of applying such procedure.
``(6) Erroneous Payment to State.--Any State receiving notice from
the Secretary that an erroneous payment has been made to such State
with respect to a notice by the State on behalf of a local government
under paragraph (1) shall pay promptly to the Secretary, in accordance
with such regulations as the Secretary may prescribe, an amount equal
to the amount of such erroneous payment (without regard to whether any
other amounts payable to such State under such paragraph have been paid
to such State).
``(k) Treatment of Payments Made to States.--The Secretary may
provide that, for the purposes of determining interest, the payment of
any amount withheld under subsection (j) to a State (on behalf of a
local government) shall be treated as a payment to the person or
persons making the overpayment.''.
(b) Disclosure of Certain Information to Agencies of States
Requesting Refund Offsets for Past-Due, Legally Enforceable Tax
Obligations.--Paragraph (10) of section 6103(l) of the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986 is amended--
(1) in the paragraph heading, by inserting after ``6402''
the following: ``or under subsection (j) of section 3720a of
title 31, united states code'';
(2) in subparagraph (A), by inserting after ``6402'' the
following: ``or subsection (j) of section 3720A of title 31,
United States Code,''; and
(3) in subparagraph (B)--
(A) by striking ``section 6402 is'' and inserting
``section 6402 or under subsection (j) of section 3720A
of title 31, United States Code, is''; and
(B) by striking ``section 6402.'' and inserting
``section 6402 or under subsection (j) of section 3720A
of title 31, United States Code.''. | Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to reduce the federal tax refund of any taxpayer who owes a past-due, legally enforceable tax obligation to a local government by the amount of such obligation. Requires notice to the taxpayer of the refund reduction.
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to permit disclosure of taxpayer information to agencies of states requesting refund offsets for tax debts owed to local governments. | To amend title 31, United States Code, to allow certain local tax debt to be collected through the reduction of Federal tax refunds. |
SECTION 1. LIQUIDATION OR RELIQUIDATION OF CERTAIN ENTRIES OF ROLLER
CHAIN.
(a) Liquidation or Reliquidation of Entries.--Notwithstanding
sections 514 and 520 of the Tariff Act of 1930 (19 U.S.C. 1514 and
1520) or any other provision of law, the Bureau of Customs and Border
Protection shall, not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of
this Act, liquidate or reliquidate the entries listed in subsection (b)
without assessment of antidumping duties or interest and shall refund
any antidumping duties or interest which were previously paid.
(b) Affected Entries.--The entries referred to in subsections (a)
and (b) are the following:
Entry number Date of entry Port
858442975 08/21/85 Chicago
868558147 01/28/86 Chicago
868565499 03/14/86 Chicago
858440922 07/31/85 Chicago
868565499 03/14/86 Chicago
868558147 01/28/86 Chicago
858442975 08/21/85 Chicago
858440922 07/31/85 Chicago
847648353 06/18/84 Chicago
858268324 01/04/85 Chicago
858264302 11/08/84 Chicago
858265107 11/19/84 Chicago
847650150 07/18/84 Chicago
847412877 05/09/84 Chicago
837078386 03/21/83 Chicago
837077691 02/07/83 Chicago
837077701 02/07/83 Chicago
826735834 01/13/82 Chicago
826736309 01/18/82 Chicago
821020081 02/12/82 Chicago
821020052 02/17/82 Chicago
821026768 04/13/82 Chicago
827119569 06/18/82 Chicago
837075114 10/06/82 Chicago
826727088 10/14/81 Chicago
837124777 05/19/83 Chicago
847405240 11/28/83 Chicago
837127606 08/18/83 Chicago
837125132 06/08/83 Chicago
847406100 12/22/83 Chicago
847404034 11/02/83 Chicago
837128090 09/07/83 Chicago
837126762 08/05/83 Chicago
837125569 06/22/83 Chicago
837078991 04/12/83 Chicago
837129222 10/03/83 Chicago
847406414 12/29/83 Chicago
847408014 01/31/84 Chicago
868569204 07/03/86 Chicago
868730813 08/14/86 Chicago | Directs the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection to: (1) liquidate or reliquidate certain entries of roller chains without assessment of antidumping duties or interest; and (2) refund any amounts owed. | To provide for the liquidation or reliquidation of certain entries. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Currency Harmonization Initiative
Through Neutralizing Action Act of 2005''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds as follows:
(1) The benefit of trade concessions can be adversely
affected by misalignments in currency.
(2) Misalignments in currency caused by government policies
intended to maintain an unfair trade advantage nullify and
impair trade concessions.
(3) Article XV of the GATT 1994 prohibits WTO members from,
by exchange rate action, frustrating the intent of the
provisions of that Agreement, or, by trade action, the intent
of the provisions of the Articles of Agreement of the
International Monetary Fund.
(4) The International Monetary Fund prohibits the use of
currency manipulation as a method of gaining unfair trade
advantage. The International Monetary Fund defines such
manipulation as large-scale and protracted intervention in one
direction to gain an unfair trade advantage.
(5) Sections 301 through 309 of the Trade Act of 1974
contain the authority under United States law to take
retaliatory action, including import restrictions, to enforce
the rights of the United States against any unjustifiable,
unreasonable, or discriminatory practice or policy of a country
that burdens or restricts United States commerce.
(6) Economists have estimated that the RMB (the currency of
the People's Republic of China) is undervalued against the
United States dollar by as much as 40 percent.
(7) Import tariffs of the People's Republic of China
currently average about 15 percent. Assuming the recent
estimates of Chinese RMB undervaluation against the dollar are
correct, the effect of a free and open currency market would be
more than twice as large as the effect of eliminating every
tariff that the People's Republic of China imposes on United
States goods.
(8) The President should formally initiate action against
the People's Republic of China, on account of the manipulation
of its currency, pursuant to article XV of the GATT 1994, the
rules of the International Monetary Fund, sections 122 and 301
through 309 of the Trade Act of 1974 (19 U.S.C. 2132 and 2411
through 2419), and section 3004 of the Omnibus Trade and
Competitiveness Act of 1988 (22 U.S.C. 5304).
(9) The President should, without weakening or impairing
existing trade remedies, clarify and improve World Trade
Organization rules with regard to currency manipulation for
trade advantage to reflect modern day monetary policy not
envisioned at the time current rules were adopted in 1947, and
report to Congress on ways to increase oversight and input
opportunities for Congress in the interaction of the United
States in the World Trade Organization.
SEC. 3. ANALYSIS OF AND REPORT ON EXCHANGE RATE POLICIES OF CHINA.
(a) Analysis.--The Secretary of the Treasury shall, upon the
enactment of this Act and annually thereafter, analyze the exchange
rate policies of the People's Republic of China in order to determine
whether that country manipulates the rate of exchange between the
currency of that country and the United States dollar, within the
meaning of article XV of the GATT 1994.
(b) Computation of Rate of Manipulation.--If the Secretary of the
Treasury makes an affirmative determination under subsection (a), the
Secretary shall compute the rate of manipulation against the dollar in
the form of a percentage.
(c) Reports to Congress.--The Secretary of the Treasury shall
submit to the Committee on Ways and Means of the House of
Representatives and to the Committee on Finance of the Senate a report
on the Secretary's analysis and findings under subsection (a), and any
rate computed under subsection (b). The report shall be submitted--
(1) with respect to the analysis conducted upon the
enactment of this Act, not later than 60 days after the date of
the enactment of this Act; and
(2) with respect to each subsequent analysis, at the end of
each 1-year period thereafter.
SEC. 4. ADDITIONAL TARIFFS.
(a) Additional Tariff.--In any case in which a report of the
Secretary of the Treasury submitted under section 3(c) includes a rate
of manipulation under section 3(b), the Secretary shall, not later than
30 days after the report is submitted, impose on all products of China
that enter the customs territory of the United States, in addition to
any duty that otherwise applies, a tariff equal to the applicable
percentage of the appraised value of the product at the time of entry.
For purposes of this subsection, the ``applicable percentage'' is the
percentage equal to the rate of manipulation.
(b) Annual Modification.--Any tariff imposed under subsection (a)
shall be modified annually to the extent necessary to comply with the
most recent report of the Secretary of the Treasury under section 3(c).
SEC. 5. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act, the terms ``GATT 1994'' and ``WTO member'' have the
meanings given those terms in section 2 of the Uruguay Round Agreements
Act (19 U.S.C. 3501). | Currency Harmonization Initiative through Neutralizing Action Act of 2005 - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to analyze annually the exchange rate policies of the People's Republic of China, and to impose additional tariffs, if necessary, to equalize any currency manipulations. | To require the Secretary of the Treasury to analyze and report on the exchange rate policies of the People's Republic of China, and to require that additional tariffs be imposed on products of that country on the basis of the rate of manipulation by that country of the rate of exchange between the currency of that country and the United States dollar. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Bend Pine Nursery Land Conveyance
Act''.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of Agriculture.
(2) State.--The term ``State'' means the State of Oregon.
SEC. 3. SALE OR EXCHANGE OF NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM ADMINISTRATIVE SITES
IN OREGON.
(a) In General.--The Secretary may, under such terms and conditions
as the Secretary may prescribe, sell or exchange any or all right,
title, and interest of the United States in and to the following
National Forest System land and improvements:
(1) Tract A, Bend Pine Nursery, comprising approximately
210 acres, as depicted on site plan map entitled ``Bend Pine
Nursery Administrative Site, May 13, 1999''.
(2) Tract B, the Federal Government owned structures
located at Shelter Cove Resort, Deschutes National Forest,
buildings only, as depicted on site plan map entitled ``Shelter
Cove Resort, November 3, 1997''.
(3) Tract C, portions of isolated parcels of National
Forest Land located in Township 20 south, Range 10 East section
25 and Township 20 South, Range 11 East sections 8, 9, 16, 17,
20, and 21 consisting of approximately 1,260 acres, as depicted
on map entitled ``Deschutes National Forest Isolated Parcels,
January 1, 2000''.
(4) Tract D, Alsea Administrative Site, consisting of
approximately 24 acres, as depicted on site plan map entitled
``Alsea Administrative Site, May 14, 1999''.
(5) Tract E, Mapleton Administrative Site, consisting of
approximately 8 acres, as depicted on site plan map entitled
``Mapleton Administrative Site, May 14, 1999''.
(6) Tract F, Springdale Administrative Site, consisting of
approximately 3.6 acres, as depicted on site plan map entitled
``Site Development Plan, Columbia Gorge Ranger Station, April
22, 1964''.
(7) Tract G, Dale Administrative Site, consisting of
approximately 37 acres, as depicted on site plan map entitled
``Dale Compound, February 1999''.
(8) Tract H, Crescent Butte Site, consisting of
approximately .8 acres, as depicted on site plan map entitled
``Crescent Butte Communication Site, January 1, 2000''.
(b) Consideration.--Consideration for a sale or exchange of land
under subsection (a) may include the acquisition of land, existing
improvements, or improvements constructed to the specifications of the
Secretary.
(c) Applicable Law.--Except as otherwise provided in this Act, any
sale or exchange of National Forest System land under subsection (a)
shall be subject to the laws (including regulations) applicable to the
conveyance and acquisition of land for the National Forest System.
(d) Cash Equalization.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law,
the Secretary may accept a cash equalization payment in excess of 25
percent of the value of land exchanged under subsection (a).
(e) Solicitations of Offers.--
(1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (3), the Secretary
may solicit offers for sale or exchange of land under this
section on such terms and conditions as the Secretary may
prescribe.
(2) Rejection of offers.--The Secretary may reject any
offer made under this section if the Secretary determines that
the offer is not adequate or not in the public interest.
(3) Right of first refusal.--The Bend Metro Park and
Recreation District in Deschutes County, Oregon, shall be given
the right of first refusal to purchase the Bend Pine Nursery
described in subsection (a)(1).
(f) Revocations.--
(1) In general.--Any public land order withdrawing land
described in subsection (a) from all forms of appropriation
under the public land laws is revoked with respect to any
portion of the land conveyed by the Secretary under this
section.
(2) Effective date.--The effective date of any revocation
under paragraph (1) shall be the date of the patent or deed
conveying the land.
SEC. 4. DISPOSITION OF FUNDS.
(a) Deposit of Proceeds.--The Secretary shall deposit the proceeds
of a sale or exchange under section 3(a) in the fund established under
Public Law 90-171 (16 U.S.C. 484a) (commonly known as the ``Sisk
Act'').
(b) Use of Proceeds.--Funds deposited under subsection (a) shall be
available to the Secretary, without further Act of appropriation, for--
(1) the acquisition, construction, or improvement of
administrative and visitor facilities and associated land in
connection with the Deschutes National Forest;
(2) the construction of a bunkhouse facility in the
Umatilla National Forest; and
(3) to the extent the funds are not necessary to carry out
paragraphs (1) and (2), the acquisition of land and interests
in land in the State.
(c) Administration.--Subject to valid existing rights, the
Secretary shall manage any land acquired by purchase or exchange under
this Act in accordance with the Act of March 1, 1911 (16 U.S.C. 480 et
seq.) (commonly known as the ``Weeks Act''), and other laws (including
regulations) pertaining to the National Forest System.
SEC. 5. CONSTRUCTION OF NEW ADMINISTRATIVE FACILITIES.
The Secretary may acquire, construct, or improve administrative
facilities and associated land in connection with the Deschutes
National Forest System by using--
(1) funds made available under section 4(b); and
(2) to the extent the funds are insufficient to carry out
the acquisition, construction, or improvement, funds
subsequently made available for the acquisition, construction,
or improvement.
SEC. 6. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATION.
There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as are necessary
to carry out this Act. | Grants right of first refusal to purchase the Bend Pine Nursery to the Bend Metro Parks and Recreation District in Deschutes County, Oregon.
Makes the proceeds from any such sale available to the Secretary without further appropriations Act for: (1) acquisition, construction, or improvement of administrative and visitor facilities and land in connection with the Deschutes National Forest; (2) construction of a bunkhouse facility in the Umatilla National Forest; and (3) acquisition of land in Oregon. Authorizes the Secretary to use such proceeds or other funds subsequently made available to acquire, construct, or improve such facilities.
Authorizes appropriations. | Bend Pine Nursery Land Conveyance Act |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Small Business Investment and Growth
Act''.
SEC. 2. S CORPORATION TAX RATE.
(a) In General.--Section 1 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
(relating to tax imposed) is amended by adding at the end the following
new subsection:
``(i) Tax Rate on Certain S Corporation Income.--
``(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (4), if
a taxpayer has taxable S corporation income for any taxable
year to which this subsection applies, then the tax imposed by
this section shall not exceed the sum of--
``(A) a tax computed at the rates and in the same
manner as if this subsection had not been enacted on
the greater of--
``(i) taxable income reduced by qualified
taxable S corporation income, or
``(ii) the amount of taxable income taxed
at a rate below 36 percent, plus
``(B) a tax of 34 percent of qualified taxable S
corporation income in excess of the taxable income that
is subject to tax under subparagraph (A).
``(2) Taxable s corporation income.--For purposes of this
subsection--
``(A) Qualified taxable s corporation income.--The
term `qualified taxable S corporation income' means
taxable S corporation income only to the extent such
income does not exceed $5,000,000.
``(B) Special rule for qualified personal service
corporation.--
``(i) In general.--In the case of a
qualified personal service corporation, taxable
S corporation income taken into account under
subparagraph (A) may not exceed the excess of--
``(I) capital expenditures during
the taxable year and the 2 prior
taxable years, over
``(II) the amount of capital
expenditures taken into account under
subclause (I) for 2 prior taxable
years.
``(ii) Ordering rule.--For purposes of
clause (i), capital expenditures shall be used
in the order in which such expenditures are
made, beginning with the earliest year.
``(C) Taxable s corporation income.--The term
`taxable S corporation income' means, with respect to
any taxable year, the taxable income of the taxpayer
for such year attributable to the active conduct of any
trade or business of an eligible S corporation.
``(D) Eligible s corporation.--The term `eligible S
corporation' means an S corporation, except that such
term does not include--
``(i) a personal service corporation as
defined in section 469(j)(2), other than a
qualified personal service corporation, and
``(ii) a personal holding company (as
defined in section 542).
``(E) Qualified personal service corporation
defined.--The term `qualified personal service
corporation' has the meaning given such term in section
448(d)(2).
``(3) Qualified retained earnings account.--For purposes of
this subsection--
``(A) In general.--Each S corporation shall
establish a qualified retained earnings account which
shall be--
``(i) increased each year by the portion of
the taxable income of the S corporation that is
attributable to the active conduct of a trade
or business by the S corporation,
``(ii) decreased each year by the portion
of the taxable loss of the S corporation that
is attributable to such active conduct of a
trade or business, and
``(iii) decreased by qualified and
nonqualified distributions from such S
corporation to the shareholders thereof.
``(B) Qualified distributions.--For purposes of
subparagraph (A), a distribution from a qualified
retained earnings account shall be treated as a
qualified distribution if the distribution--
``(i) is made to the owners of the eligible
S corporation, and
``(ii) is made to enable the S corporation
shareholder to pay income taxes (Federal,
State, local) on the income of the eligible S
corporation.
The Secretary is authorized to promulgate regulations
pursuant to this subparagraph to provide rules to
determine the extent to which distributions by an S
corporation are made to enable the distributee to pay
its income taxes, including regulations that establish
a presumption that distributions are to enable the
distributee to pay income taxes if such distributions
do not exceed 34 percent of qualified taxable S
corporation income.
``(C) Distributions after taxable year.--For
purposes of subparagraph (B), a distribution from a
qualified retained earnings account within 75 days
after the end of a taxable year of the eligible S
corporation may be treated as a distribution made on
the last day of such taxable year.
``(4) Additional tax on nonqualified distributions.--
``(A) In general.--If--
``(i) a distribution other than a qualified
distribution is made from a qualified retained
earnings account, and
``(ii) such distribution is made from
additions to the account for a taxable year
with respect to which paragraph (1)(B) applied
to the taxpayer by reason of such additions,
then the tax imposed by this section for the taxable
year of the taxpayer with or within which the taxable
year of the eligible S corporation in which the
distribution was made ends shall be increased by the
amount determined under subparagraph (B).
``(B) Amount of additional tax.--The amount of tax
determined under this subparagraph is an amount equal
to the product of the taxpayer's pro rata share of the
distribution described in subparagraph (A)(i) and the
number of percentage points (and fractions thereof) by
which the highest rate of tax applicable to the
taxpayer in effect under this section for the
taxpayer's taxable year exceeds 34 percent.
``(C) Order of distributions.--For purposes of this
paragraph, distributions shall be treated as having
been made from the qualified retained earnings account
on a last-in, first-out basis. Distributions in excess
of the balance of the qualified retained earnings
account shall not reduce such account below zero.
``(5) Years to which subsection applies.--This subsection
shall apply to any taxable year if the highest rate of tax set
forth in subsection (a), (b), (c), (d), or (e) (whichever
applies) for the taxable year exceeds 34 percent.
``(6) Regulations.--The Secretary shall prescribe such
regulations as may be necessary or appropriate to carry out the
purposes of this section, including regulations preventing the
characterization of distributions for purposes of compensation
or personal use as distributions of qualified retained
earnings.''
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by subsection (a) shall
apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 1997. | Small Business Investment and Growth Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish, as specified, a maximum taxable S corporation tax. Establishes a special rule for a qualified personal service corporation. Requires each S corporation to establish a qualified retained earnings account. Allows qualified distributions from such a qualified retained earnings account to the owners to enable the S corporation shareholder to pay income taxes. Requires regulations to establish a presumption that distributions are to pay income taxes if such distributions do not exceed 34 percent of qualified taxable S corporation income. Provides for an additional tax on nonqualified distributions. | Small Business Investment and Growth Act |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Native American Indian Education
Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSE.
(a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
(1) Nontribal colleges that serve Native American Indian
students have a valuable supplemental role to that provided by
tribally controlled community colleges in making available
educational opportunities to Native American Indian students.
(2) Some 4-year colleges serve Native American Indian
students by providing tuition-free education, with the support
of the State in which the institutions are located, as mandated
by Federal statute, to hundreds of Native American Indian
students in fulfillment of a condition under which the United
States provided land and facilities for colleges to a State or
college.
(3) The value of the Native American Indian student tuition
waiver benefits contributed by these colleges and the States
that support them today far exceeds the value of the original
grant of land and facilities.
(4) The ongoing financial burden of meeting this Federal
mandate to provide tuition-free education to Native American
Indian students is no longer equitably shared among the States
and colleges because it does not distinguish between Native
American Indian students who are residents of the State or of
another State.
(5) In fiscal year 2012, the State of Colorado paid
approximately $13,000,000 in tuition fees to support the
education of Native American Indian students at Fort Lewis
College in Colorado. In the State of Minnesota, the University
of Minnesota waived $2,600,000 in tuition for Native American
Indian students in fiscal year 2012.
(6) Native American Indian student tuition waiver benefits
are now at risk of being terminated by severe budget
constraints being experienced by these colleges and the States
which support them.
(b) Purpose.--It is the purpose of this Act to ensure that Federal
funding is provided in order to relieve constrained State education
budgets and to support and sustain the longstanding Federal mandate
requiring colleges and States to waive, in certain circumstances,
tuition charges for Native American Indian students admitted to an
undergraduate college program, including the waiver of tuition charges
for Native American Indian students who are not residents of the State
in which the college is located.
SEC. 3. STATE RELIEF FROM FEDERAL MANDATE.
Part A of title III of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
1057 et seq.) is amended by inserting after section 319 the following:
``SEC. 319A. STATE RELIEF FROM FEDERAL HIGHER EDUCATION MANDATE.
``(a) Amount of Payment.--
``(1) In general.--Subject to paragraphs (2) and (3), for
fiscal year 2014 and each succeeding fiscal year, the Secretary
shall pay to any eligible college an amount equal to the
charges for tuition for such year for all Native American
Indian students who--
``(A) are not residents of the State in which the
college is located; and
``(B) are enrolled in the college for the academic
year ending before the beginning of such fiscal year.
``(2) Eligible colleges.--For purposes of this section, an
eligible college is any institution of higher education serving
Native American Indian students that provides tuition-free
education as mandated by Federal statute, with the support of
the State in which it is located, to Native American Indian
students in fulfillment of a condition under which the college
or State received its original grant of land and facilities
from the United States.
``(3) Limitation.--The amount paid to any eligible college
for each fiscal year under paragraph (1) may not exceed the
amount equal to the charges for tuition for all Native American
Indian students of that college who were not residents of the
State in which the college is located and who were enrolled in
the college for academic year 2012-2013.
``(b) Treatment of Payment.--Any amounts received by an eligible
college under this section shall be treated as a reimbursement from the
State in which the college is located, and shall be considered as
provided in fulfillment of any Federal mandate upon the State to admit
Native American Indian students free of charge of tuition.
``(c) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be
construed to relieve any State from any mandate the State may have
under Federal law to reimburse a college for each academic year--
``(1) with respect to Native American Indian students
enrolled in the college who are not residents of the State in
which the college is located, any amount of charges for tuition
for such students for such academic year that exceeds the
amount received under this section for such academic year; and
``(2) with respect to Native American Indian students
enrolled in the college who are residents of the State in which
the college is located, an amount equal to the charges for
tuition for such students for such academic year.
``(d) Definition of Native American Indian Students.--In this
section, the term `Native American Indian students' includes reference
to the term `Indian pupils' as that term has been utilized in Federal
statutes imposing a mandate upon any college or State to provide
tuition-free education to Native American Indian students in
fulfillment of a condition under which the college or State received
its original grant of land and facilities from the United States.''.
SEC. 4. OFFSET.
(a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law,
$15,000,000 in appropriated discretionary funds are hereby rescinded,
on a pro rata basis, by account, from all available unobligated funds.
(b) Implementation.--The Director of the Office of Management and
Budget shall determine and identify from which appropriation accounts
the rescission under subsection (a) shall apply and the amount of such
rescission that shall apply to each such account. Not later than 60
days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Director of the
Office of Management and Budget shall submit a report to the Secretary
of the Treasury and Congress of the accounts and amounts determined and
identified for rescission under the preceding sentence.
(c) Exception.--This section shall not apply to the unobligated
funds of the Department of Defense, the Department of Veterans Affairs,
or the Department of Education, or any unobligated funds available to
the Department of the Interior for the postsecondary education of
Native American Indian students. | Native American Indian Education Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to direct the Secretary of Education to pay institutions of higher education the out-of-state tuition of their Indian students if the schools are required to provide a tuition-free education, with the support of their state, to Native American Indian students in fulfillment of a condition under which the college or state received its original grant of land and facilities from the federal government. Limits that payment each fiscal year to the institution's total out-of-state tuition for Native American Indian students in academic year 2012-2013. Treats such payments as reimbursements to such institutions from their states. Rescinds unobligated discretionary appropriations to offset the costs of this program. | Native American Indian Education Act |
SECTION 1. ALEXANDER CREEK VILLAGE RECOGNITION.
The Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (43 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.) is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``alexander creek village recognition
``Sec. 43.
``(a) Recognition of the Village of Alexander Creek.--Alexander
Creek, located within Township 15N, Range 7W, Seward Meridian, Alaska,
is an eligible Native village under section 11(b)(3).
``(b) Definitions.--For the purposes of this section, the following
terms apply:
``(1) The term `agency' includes--
``(A) any instrumentality of the United States;
``(B) any element of an agency; and
``(C) any wholly owned or mixed-owned corporation
of the United States Government identified in chapter
91 of title 31, United States Code.
``(2) The term `conservation system unit' has the meaning
given that term in the Alaska National Interest Lands
Conservation Act.
``(3) The term `Alexander Creek' means Alexander Creek
Incorporated, an Alaska Native Group corporation, organized
pursuant to this Act.
``(4) The term `property' has the meaning given that term
in Public Law 94-204 (43 U.S.C. 1611 note).
``(5) The term `Region' means Cook Inlet Region
Incorporated, an Alaska Native Regional Corporation, which is
the appropriate Regional Corporation for Alexander Creek under
section 1613(h).
``(c) Establishment.--(1) The Secretary of the Treasury, in
consultation with the Secretary of the Interior, shall establish an
account in the Treasury to be known as the `Alexander Creek account'.
``(2) Funds in the Alexander Creek account shall--
``(A) be available to Alexander Creek for bidding on and
purchasing property sold at public sale, subject to paragraph
(3); and
``(B) remain available until expended.
``(3)(A) Alexander Creek may use funds in the Alexander Creek
account to bid as any other bidder for property in Alaska at any public
sale by an agency and may purchase such property in accordance with
applicable laws and regulations of the agency offering the property for
sale.
``(B) In conducting a transaction described in subparagraph (A), an
agency shall accept, in the same manner as cash, any amount tendered
from the Alexander Creek account. The Secretary of the Treasury shall
adjust the balance of the Alexander Creek account to reflect the
transaction.
``(C) The Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the
Secretary of the Interior, shall establish procedures for the following
transactions related to the Alexander Creek account:
``(i) Receipt of deposits.
``(ii) Receipt of deposits into escrow when an escrow is
required for the sale of property.
``(iii) Reinstatement to the Alexander Creek account of any
unused escrow deposits in the event that a sale of property is
not consummated.
``(d) Land Exchange.--The Secretary of the Interior shall enter
into negotiations to attempt to conclude, under the authority of
section 22(f), a land exchange to acquire the surface estate in lands
not within any conservation system unit from the State of Alaska or the
Matanuska-Susitna Borough under the same procedures set forth in
section 22(f) to enable Alexander Creek to select additional public
lands within Alexander Creek's original withdrawal area in Alaska, as
identified by Alexander Creek.
``(e) Amount.--(1) The initial balance of the Alexander Creek
account shall be the fair market value of the surface estate of the
approximately 61,440 acres of deficiency selections made by Alexander
Creek, as depicted on the map entitled `____________' and dated
____________.
``(2) If a conveyance is made to Alexander Creek pursuant to
subsection (d), the Alexander Creek account shall be reduced by the
amount of the actual acres conveyed multiplied by the average value per
acre determined under subsection (g).
``(f) Subsurface Estate.--The subsurface estate to lands conveyed
to Alexander Creek under this section shall be conveyed, without
consideration, to the Region.
``(g) Appraisal.--(1)(A) The Secretary shall determine the amount
to be deposited into the Alexander Creek account by appraising the fair
market value, as of the date of the enactment of this section, of each
section selected as a separate parcel and considering that `public
interest' use may be the highest and best use of such parcels.
``(B) Alexander Creek shall have the opportunity to present
evidence of value to the Secretary. The Secretary shall provide
Alexander Creek with a preliminary draft of the appraisal. Alexander
Creek shall have a reasonable and sufficient opportunity to comment on
the appraisal.
``(2) The Secretary shall forward a certified copy of the appraisal
to Alexander Creek.
``(h) Implementation.--(1) Alexander Creek may assign without
restriction any or all of the Alexander Creek account upon written
notification to the Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary of the
Interior. In the event that such an assignment is made to the Region,
on notice from Alexander Creek to the Secretary of the Treasury and the
Secretary of the Interior, the amount of such assignment shall be added
to or made a part of the Region's Property Account in the Treasury
established pursuant to section 12(b) of Public Law 94-204, and may be
used in the same manner as other funds in that account.
``(2) Upon certification by the Secretary of the Interior of the
appraisal completed pursuant to subsection (g), Alexander Creek shall
be deemed to have accepted the terms of this section in lieu of any
other land entitlement it could have received pursuant to this Act.
Such acceptance shall satisfy all claims Alexander Creek had or may
have had against the United States on the date of the enactment of this
section.
``(3) Any land conveyed to Alexander Creek pursuant to subsection
(e) shall be deemed to be a conveyance pursuant to this Act.
``(i) Treatment of Amounts From Account.--The Secretary of the
Treasury and the heads of agencies shall administer sales pursuant to
this section in the same manner as is provided for any other Native
village authorized by law as of the date of the enactment of this
section (including the use of similar accounts for bidding on and
purchasing property sold for public sale).
``(j) Limitation on Agents' and Attorneys' Fees.--No more than 2.5
percent of payments received by or on behalf of Alexander Creek under
this section may be paid to or received by any agent or attorney for
services rendered in connection with obtaining such payment, any
contract to the contrary notwithstanding. Any person who violates this
subsection shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be subject to a
fine in the amount provided in title 18, United States Code.''. | Amends the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act to recognize Alexander Creek in Seward Meridian, Alaska, as a Native village.
Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to establish the Alexander Creek account in the Treasury to be available to Alexander Creek Incorporated (an Alaska Native Group corporation) for bidding on and purchasing property sold at public sale, subject to this Act.
Requires the: (1) Secretary of the Interior to enter into negotiations to attempt to conclude a land exchange to acquire the surface estate in lands not within any conservation system unit from the State of Alaska or the Matanuska-Susitna Borough to enable Alexander Creek to select additional public lands within its original withdrawal area; and (2) conveyance, without consideration, of the subsurface estate to such conveyed lands to the Cook Inlet Region Incorporated (the Regional Corporation for Alexander Creek).
Provides that: (1) upon certification by the Secretary of the appraisal of lands selected for purchase, the Alexander Creek Incorporated shall be deemed to have accepted the terms of this Act in lieu of any other land entitlement it could have received pursuant to this Act; and (2) the acceptance shall satisfy all claims such Corporation had or may have had against the United States on the enactment of this Act. | To amend that Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act to recognize Alexander Creek as Native village, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; REFERENCES TO TITLE 38, UNITED STATES CODE.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Veterans'
Insurance Reform Act of 1995''.
(b) References.--Except as otherwise expressly provided, whenever
in this Act an amendment is expressed in terms of an amendment to a
section or other provision, the reference shall be considered to be
made to a section or other provision of title 38, United States Code.
SEC. 2. REMOVAL OF GENDER REFERENCES.
(a) In General.--
(1) Section 1315(f)(1)(F) is amended by striking out
``servicemen's'' in the first place it appears and inserting in
lieu thereof ``servicemembers'''.
(2) Sections 1967 (a), (c), and (f), 1968(b), 1969 (a)-(e),
1970 (a), (f), and (g), 1971(b), 1973, 1974, 1977 (a), (d),
(e), and (g), 3017(a), and 3224(1) are amended by striking out
``Servicemen's'' each place it appears and inserting in lieu
thereof ``Servicemembers'''.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--(1)(A) The heading of subchapter III of
chapter 19 is amended to read as follows:
``SUBCHAPTER III--SERVICEMEMBERS' GROUP LIFE INSURANCE (FORMERLY
SERVICEMEN'S GROUP LIFE INSURANCE)''.
(B) The item relating to such subchapter in the table of sections
at the beginning of such chapter is amended to read as follows:
``Subchapter III--Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (Formerly
Servicemen's Group Life Insurance)''.
(2)(A) The heading of section 1974 is amended to read as follows:
``Sec. 1974. Advisory Council on Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance
(formerly Servicemen's Group Life Insurance)''.
(B) The item relating to such section in the table of sections at
the beginning of chapter 19 is amended to read as follows:
``1974. Advisory Council on Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance
(formerly Servicemen's Group Life
Insurance)''.
SEC. 3. MERGER OF RETIRED RESERVIST SERVICE- MEMBERS' GROUP LIFE
INSURANCE AND VETERANS' GROUP LIFE INSURANCE AND
EXTENSION OF VETERANS' GROUP LIFE INSURANCE TO MEMBERS OF
THE READY RESERVES.
(a) Section 1965(5) is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (B), by inserting ``and'' at the end
thereof;
(2) by striking subparagraphs (C) and (D); and
(3) redesignating subparagraph (E) as subparagraph (C).
(b) Section 1967 is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) in paragraph (1) by inserting ``and'' at the
end thereof;
(B) by striking paragraphs (3) and (4) in their
entirety; and
(C) by striking ``or the first day a member of the
Reserves, whether or not assigned to the Retired
Reserve of a uniformed service, meets the
qualifications of section 1965(5)(C) of this title, or
the first day a member of the Reserves meets the
qualifications of section 1965(5)(D) of this title,'';
and
(2) by striking subsection (d) in its entirety; and
(3) by redesignating subsections (e) and (f) as subsections
(d) and (e) respectively.
(c) Section 1968 is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) by striking ``subparagraph (B), (C), or (D) of
section 1965(5)'' and inserting ``section 1965(5)(B)''
in lieu thereof;
(B) in paragraph (4) by striking--
(i) ``--(A)'' and inserting a comma in lieu
thereof;
(ii) subparagraphs (B) and (C) in their
entirety; and
(C) by striking paragraphs (5) and (6) in their
entirety; and
(2) in subsection (b) by striking the last two sentences.
(d) Section 1969 is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)(2) by striking ``is assigned to the
Reserve (other than the Retired Reserve) and meets the
qualifications of section 1965(5)(C) of this title, or is
assigned to the Retired Reserve and meets the qualifications of
section 1965(5)(D) of this title,'';
(2) by striking subsection (e) in its entirety; and
(3) by redesignating subsections (f) and (g) as subsections
(e) and (f) respectively.
SEC. 4. CONVERSION TO COMMERCIAL LIFE INSURANCE POLICY.
(a) Section 1968(b) is amended by--
(1) adding ``(1)'' following ``the date such insurance
would cease,'' in the first sentence;
(2) redesignating clauses (1) and (2) in the first sentence
as (A) and (B) respectively;
(3) striking ``title.'' at the end of the first sentence
and inserting in lieu thereof ``title, or, (2) at the election
of the member, shall be converted to an individual policy of
insurance as described in section 1977(e) of this title upon
written application for conversion made to the participating
company selected by the member and payment of the required
premiums.''; and
(4) adding ``to Veterans' Group Life Insurance'' following
``automatic conversion'' in the second sentence.
(b) Section 1977 is amended--
(1) in paragraph (a) by striking the last two sentences and
inserting in lieu thereof the following: ``If any person
insured under Veterans' Group Life Insurance again becomes
insured under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance but dies
before terminating or converting such person's Veterans' Group
Insurance, Veterans' Group Life Insurance will be payable only
if such person is insured for less than $200,000 under
Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance, and then only in an
amount which when added to the amount of Servicemembers' Group
Life Insurance payable shall not exceed $200,000.''; and
(2) in paragraph (e) by striking the third sentence and
inserting in lieu thereof the following: ``The Veterans' Group
Life Insurance policy will terminate on the day before the date
on which the individual policy becomes effective.''.
SEC. 5. EFFECTIVE DATE.
The Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance of any member of the
Retired Reserve of a uniform service in force on the date of enactment
of this Act shall be converted, effective ninety days after that date,
to Veterans' Group Life Insurance. | Veterans' Insurance Reform Act of 1995 - Redesignates the Servicemen's Group Life Insurance program as the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI) program.
Merges the Retired Reservists' Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program into the Veterans' Group Life Insurance (VGLI) program. Extends the VGLI program to members of the Ready Reserve who retire with less than 20 years of service.
Authorizes an insured under: (1) the VGLI program to convert such policy to an individual policy of life insurance with a commercial insurance company at any time; and (2) the SGLI program to convert to such an individual policy upon separation from service. | Veterans' Insurance Reform Act of 1995 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Federal Facility Superfund
Compliance Act of 1997''.
SEC. 2. FEDERAL ENTITIES AND FACILITIES.
Section 120 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response,
Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9620) is amended--
(1) by striking the section heading and inserting the
following:
``SEC. 120. FEDERAL ENTITIES AND FACILITIES.'';
(2) in subsection (a)--
(A) by striking paragraph (1) and inserting the
following:
``(1) In general.--
``(A) Definition of service charges.--In this
paragraph, the term `service charge' includes--
``(i) a fee or charge assessed in
connection with--
``(I) the processing or issuance of
a permit, renewal of a permit, or
amendment of a permit;
``(II) review of a plan, study, or
other document; or
``(III) inspection or monitoring of
a facility; and
``(ii) any other charge that is assessed in
connection with a State, interstate, or local
response program.
``(B) Application of federal, state, interstate,
and local law.--
``(i) In general.--Each department, agency,
and instrumentality of the executive,
legislative, or judicial branch of the United
States shall be subject to, and shall comply
with this Act and all other Federal, State,
interstate, and local substantive and
procedural requirements and other provisions of
law relating to a response action or
restoration action or the management of a
hazardous waste, pollutant, or contaminant in
the same manner, and to the same extent, as any
nongovernmental entity is subject to those
provisions of law.
``(ii) Provisions included.--The provisions
of law referred to in clause (i) include--
``(I) a permit requirement;
``(II) a reporting requirement;
``(III) a provision authorizing
injunctive relief (including such
sanctions as a court may impose to
enforce injunctive relief);
``(IV) sections 106 and 107 and
similar provisions of Federal, State,
or local law relating to enforcement
and liability for cleanup,
reimbursement of response costs,
contribution, and payment of damages;
``(V) a requirement to pay
reasonable service charges; and
``(VI) all administrative orders
and all civil and administrative
penalties and fines, regardless of
whether the penalties or fines are
punitive or coercive in nature or are
imposed for an isolated, intermittent,
or continuing violation.
``(C) Waiver of immunity.--
``(i) In general.--The United States waives
any immunity applicable to the United States
with respect to any provision of law described
in subparagraph (B).
``(ii) Limitation.--The waiver of sovereign
immunity under clause (i) does not apply to the
extent that a State law would apply any
standard or requirement to the Federal
department, agency, or instrumentality in a
manner that is more stringent than the manner
in which the standard or requirement would
apply to any other person.
``(D) Civil and criminal liability.--
``(i) Injunctive relief.--Neither the
United States nor any agent, employee, or
officer of the United States shall be immune or
exempt from any process or sanction of any
Federal or State court with respect to the
enforcement of injunctive relief referred to in
subparagraph (B)(ii)(III).
``(ii) No personal liability for civil
penalty.--No agent, employee, or officer of the
United States shall be personally liable for
any civil penalty under any Federal or State
law relating to a response action or to
management of a hazardous substance, pollutant,
or contaminant with respect to any act or
omission within the scope of the official
duties of the agent, employee, or officer.
``(iii) Criminal liability.--An agent,
employee, or officer of the United States shall
be subject to any criminal sanction (including
a fine or imprisonment) under any Federal or
State law relating to a response action or to
management of a hazardous substance, pollutant,
or contaminant, but no department, agency, or
instrumentality of the executive, legislative,
or judicial branch of the United States shall
be subject to any such sanction.
``(E) Enforcement.--
``(i) Abatement actions.--The Administrator
may issue an order under section 106 to any
department, agency, or instrumentality of the
executive, legislative, or judicial branch of
the United States. The Administrator shall
initiate an administrative enforcement action
against such a department, agency, or
instrumentality in the same manner and under
the same circumstances as an action would be
initiated against any other person.
``(ii) Consultation.--No administrative
order issued to a department, agency, or
instrumentality of the United States shall
become final until the department, agency, or
instrumentality has had the opportunity to
confer with the Administrator.
``(iii) Use of penalties and fines.--Unless
a State law in effect on the date of enactment
of this clause requires the funds to be used in
a different manner, all funds collected by a
State from the Federal Government as penalties
or fines imposed for violation of a provision
of law referred to in subparagraph (B) shall be
used by the State only for projects designed to
improve or protect the environment or to defray
the costs of environmental protection or
enforcement.
``(F) Contribution.--A department, agency, or
instrumentality of the United States shall have the
right to contribution under section 113 if the
department, agency, or instrumentality resolves its
liability under this Act.'';
(B) in the second sentence of paragraph (3), by
inserting ``(other than the indemnification
requirements of section 119)'' after
``responsibility''; and
(C) by striking paragraph (4); and
(3) in subsection (e), by adding at the end the following:
``(7) State requirements.--Notwithstanding any other
provision of this Act, an interagency agreement under this
section shall not impair or diminish the authority of a State,
political subdivision of a State, or any other person or the
jurisdiction of any court to enforce compliance with
requirements of State or Federal law, unless those requirements
have been specifically addressed in the agreement or waived
without objection after notice to the State before or on the
date on which the response action is selected.''. | Federal Facility Superfund Compliance Act of 1997 - Amends the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA) to subject each department, agency, and instrumentality of the Federal Government to all Federal, State, interstate, and local requirements and other laws relating to response or restoration actions or management of hazardous waste, pollutants, or contaminants (current law refers only to compliance with CERCLA provisions) in the same manner and to the same extent as a nongovernmental entity. Waives any U.S. immunity otherwise applicable with respect to any such requirement.
Absolves Federal employees of personal liability for civil penalties under Federal or State law relating to response actions or management of hazardous substances for acts or omissions within the scope of official duties. Makes Federal employees subject to criminal sanctions under such laws, but exempts Federal agencies from such sanctions.
Authorizes the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to issue an abatement order to a Federal entity and requires initiation of an administrative enforcement action in the same manner and under the same circumstances as action would be initiated against any other person.
Removes provisions for application (and preemption) of State laws concerning removal and remedial action at Federal facilities not on the National Priorities List.
Precludes interagency remedial action agreements from impairing or diminishing State, local, individual, or court authority to enforce requirements of State or Federal law, unless such requirements have been addressed or waived without objection after notice to the State. | Federal Facility Superfund Compliance Act of 1997 |
SECTION 1. CHESAPEAKE BAY ENVIRONMENTAL RESTORATION AND PROTECTION
PROGRAM.
(a) Establishment.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of the Army (referred to in
this section as the ``Secretary'') shall establish a pilot
program to provide environmental assistance to non-Federal
interests in the Chesapeake Bay watershed.
(2) Form.--The assistance shall be in the form of design
and construction assistance for water-related environmental
infrastructure and resource protection and development projects
affecting the Chesapeake Bay estuary, including projects for
sediment and erosion control, protection of eroding shorelines,
protection of essential public works, wastewater treatment and
related facilities, water supply and related facilities, and
beneficial uses of dredged material, and other related projects
that may enhance the living resources of the estuary.
(b) Public Ownership Requirement.--The Secretary may provide
assistance for a project under this section only if the project is
publicly owned, and will be publicly operated and maintained.
(c) Local Cooperation Agreement.--
(1) In general.--Before providing assistance under this
section, the Secretary shall enter into a local cooperation
agreement with a non-Federal interest to provide for design and
construction of the project to be carried out with the
assistance.
(2) Requirements.--Each local cooperation agreement entered
into under this subsection shall provide for the following:
(A) Plan.--Development by the Secretary, in
consultation with appropriate Federal, State, and local
officials, of a facilities or resource protection and
development plan, including appropriate engineering
plans and specifications and an estimate of expected
resource benefits.
(B) Legal and institutional structures.--
Establishment of such legal and institutional
structures as are necessary to ensure the effective
long-term operation and maintenance of the project by
the non-Federal interest.
(d) Cost Sharing.--
(1) Federal share.--Except as provided in paragraph (2)(B),
the Federal share of the total project costs of each local
cooperation agreement entered into under this section shall be
75 percent.
(2) Non-federal share.--
(A) Value of lands, easements, rights-of-way, and
relocations.--In determining the non-Federal
contribution toward carrying out a local cooperation
agreement entered into under this section, the
Secretary shall provide credit to a non-Federal
interest for the value of lands, easements, rights-of-
way, and relocations provided by the non-Federal
interest, except that the amount of credit provided for
a project under this paragraph may not exceed 25
percent of total project costs.
(B) Operation and maintenance costs.--The non-
Federal share of the costs of operation and maintenance
of carrying out the agreement under this section shall
be 100 percent.
(e) Applicability of Other Federal and State Laws and Agreements.--
(1) In general.--Nothing in this section waives, limits, or
otherwise affects the applicability of any provision of Federal
or State law that would otherwise apply to a project carried
out with assistance provided under this section.
(2) Cooperation.--In carrying out this section, the
Secretary shall cooperate fully with the heads of appropriate
Federal agencies, including--
(A) the Administrator of the Environmental
Protection Agency;
(B) the Secretary of Commerce, acting through the
Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration;
(C) the Secretary of the Interior, acting through
the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife
Service; and
(D) the heads of such other Federal agencies and
departments and agencies of a State or political
subdivision of a State as the Secretary determines to
be appropriate.
(f) Demonstration Project.--The Secretary shall establish at least
one project under this section in each of the States of Maryland,
Virginia, and Pennsylvania. A project established under this section
shall be carried out using such measures as are necessary to protect
environmental, historic, and cultural resources.
(g) Report.--Not later than December 31, 1998, the Secretary shall
transmit to Congress a report on the results of the program carried out
under this section, together with a recommendation concerning whether
or not the program should be implemented on a national basis.
(h) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section $30,000,000 for fiscal year
1995, to remain available until expended. | Directs the Secretary of the Army to establish a pilot program to provide environmental assistance to non-Federal interests in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Requires such assistance to be in the form of design and construction assistance for water-related environmental infrastructure and resource protection and development projects affecting the Bay's estuary. Permits assistance for a project only if it is publicly owned and will be publicly operated and maintained. Sets forth requirements for local cooperation agreements with non-Federal interests.
Sets the Federal share at 75 percent of total project costs. Requires the non-Federal share of operation and maintenance costs to be 100 percent.
Directs the Secretary to establish at least one project in each of the States of Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.
Authorizes appropriations. | To authorize the establishment of a pilot program to provide environmental assistance to non-Federal interests in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``National Slave Memorial Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds the following:
(1) Millions of Africans and their descendants were
enslaved in the United States and the 13 American colonies in
the period 1619 through 1865.
(2) The American Colonies determined that economic benefit
would be derived from the import of slave labor and forthwith
became an active participant in the ``Middle Passage'' of
African slaves to its shores.
(3) Upon their arrival in North America, Africans were
considered chattel and thereby denied the privileges granted to
other immigrants.
(4) The agricultural resources of any nation are the
backbone of its subsistence and for over 250 years, millions of
unnamed African and American-born Black men, women, and
children provided the free labor that cultivated the fields
from which Americans ate and were clothed, which allowed the
dominant population to secure other interests.
(5) Slavery was a grave injustice that caused African
Americans to suffer enormous damages and losses, both material
and intangible, including the loss of human dignity and
liberty, the frustration of careers and professional lives, and
the long-term loss of income and opportunity.
(6) Slavery in the United States denied African Americans
the fruits of their own labor and was an immoral and inhumane
deprivation of life, liberty, the pursuit of happiness,
citizenship rights, and cultural heritage.
(7) Although the achievements of African Americans in
overcoming the evils of slavery stand as a source of tremendous
inspiration, the successes of slaves and their descendants do
not overwrite the failure of the Nation to grant all Americans
their birthright of equality and the civil rights that
safeguard freedom.
(8) Many African American slaves fought as valiant patriots
in the wars that helped to preserve our national freedoms,
knowing they would never be privileged to partake of the
freedoms for which they fought.
(9) African American art, history, and culture reflect
experiences of slavery and freedom, and continued struggles for
full recognition of citizenship and treatment with human
dignity, and there is inadequate presentation, preservation,
and recognition of the contributions of African Americans
within American society.
(10) There is a great need for building institutions and
monuments to promote cultural understanding of African American
heritage and further enhance racial harmony.
(11) It is proper and timely for the Congress to recognize
June 19, 1865, the historic day when the last group of slaves
were informed of their freedom, to acknowledge the historic
significance of the abolition of slavery, to express deep
regret to African Americans, and to support reconciliation
efforts.
SEC. 3. NATIONAL SLAVE MEMORIAL.
(a) In General.--The National Foundation for African American
Heritage (in this Act referred to as the ``Foundation''), in
consultation with the Secretary of the Interior, is authorized to
establish, in the District of Columbia, a memorial to slavery--
(1) to acknowledge the fundamental injustice, cruelty,
brutality, and inhumanity of slavery in the United States and
the 13 American Colonies; and
(2) to honor the nameless and forgotten men, women, and
children who have gone unrecognized for their undeniable and
weighty contribution to the United States.
(b) Location.--
(1) Sense of congress.--It is the sense of the Congress
that the memorial should be situated within the area that is
referred to in the Commemorative Works Act (40 U.S.C. 1001 et
seq.) as Area I, and in proximity to the Lincoln Memorial.
(2) Determination.--The Secretary of the Interior and the
National Capital Memorial Commission shall determine a location
for the memorial by not later than 6 months after the date of
enactment of this Act.
(c) Design.--The Foundation, in consultation with the Secretary of
the Interior, and the National Capital Memorial Commission shall--
(1) not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of
this Act, begin soliciting proposals for the design of the
memorial from architects; and
(2) not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of
this Act, select a design for the memorial from the proposals
submitted to the Secretary.
(d) Funding.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of the Interior, in
coordination with the Director of the Smithsonian Institution,
may accept donations of any necessary funds from the Foundation
and other private sector sources to design, construct, and
maintain the memorial.
(2) Account in treasury.--The Secretary shall deposit
amounts that are accepted under this subsection into a separate
account in the Treasury established for such purpose. Amounts
deposited into the account shall be available for expenditure
by the Secretary without further appropriation to carry out
this Act.
SEC. 4. REPORTS.
(a) Periodic Reports.--Not later than 6 months after the date of
enactment of this Act, and each 6 months thereafter until the
submission of a final report under subsection (b), the Secretary of the
Interior shall transmit to the Congress a report on activities with
regard to the memorial.
(b) Final Report.--Not later than 2 years after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall transmit to the Congress a
final report on activities with regard to the memorial, including the
recommended design of the memorial.
SEC. 5. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
(a) In General.--Subject to subsection (b), there are authorized to
be appropriated to the Secretary of the Interior such sums as may be
necessary for carrying out this Act.
(b) Limitation.--No sums may be appropriated to the Secretary for
the construction of the memorial unless at least one-half of the
estimated total cost of the construction of the memorial is donated
from private sources pursuant to section 3(d). | National Slave Memorial Act - Authorizes the National Foundation for African American Heritage to establish, in the District of Columbia, a memorial to slavery to: (1) acknowledge the fundamental injustice, cruelty, brutality, and inhumanity of slavery in the United States and the 13 American colonies; and (2) honor the nameless and forgotten men, women, and children who have gone unrecognized for their undeniable and weighty U.S. contribution.Expresses the sense of Congress that the memorial should be situated in a specified area near the Lincoln Memorial. Requires the Secretary of the Interior and the National Capital Memorial Commission to determine a location for the memorial. | To authorize the Secretary of the Interior to establish a memorial to slavery, in the District of Columbia. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Border Health Security Act of
2006''.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Border area.--The term ``border area'' has the meaning
given the term ``United States-Mexico Border Area'' in section
8 of the United States-Mexico Border Health Commission Act (22
U.S.C. 290n-6).
(2) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of Health and Human Services.
SEC. 3. BORDER HEALTH GRANTS.
(a) Eligible Entity Defined.--In this section, the term ``eligible
entity'' means a State, public institution of higher education, local
government, tribal government, nonprofit health organization, or
community health center receiving assistance under section 330 of the
Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 254b), that is located in the
border area.
(b) Authorization.--From funds appropriated under subsection (f),
the Secretary, acting through the United States members of the United
States-Mexico Border Health Commission, shall award grants to eligible
entities to address priorities and recommendations to improve the
health of border area residents that are established by--
(1) the United States members of the United States-Mexico
Border Health Commission;
(2) the State border health offices; and
(3) the Secretary.
(c) Application.--An eligible entity that desires a grant under
subsection (b) shall submit an application to the Secretary at such
time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary
may require.
(d) Use of Funds.--An eligible entity that receives a grant under
subsection (b) shall use the grant funds for--
(1) programs relating to--
(A) maternal and child health;
(B) primary care and preventative health;
(C) public health and public health infrastructure;
(D) health promotion;
(E) oral health;
(F) behavioral and mental health;
(G) substance abuse;
(H) health conditions that have a high prevalence
in the border area;
(I) medical and health services research;
(J) workforce training and development;
(K) community health workers or promotoras;
(L) health care infrastructure problems in the
border area (including planning and construction
grants);
(M) health disparities in the border area;
(N) environmental health;
(O) health education; and
(P) outreach and enrollment services with respect
to Federal programs (including programs authorized
under titles XIX and XXI of the Social Security Act (42
U.S.C. 1396 and 1397aa)); and
(2) other programs determined appropriate by the Secretary.
(e) Supplement, Not Supplant.--Amounts provided to an eligible
entity awarded a grant under subsection (b) shall be used to supplement
and not supplant other funds available to the eligible entity to carry
out the activities described in subsection (d).
(f) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section such sums as may be necessary
for fiscal year 2007 and each succeeding fiscal year.
SEC. 4. BORDER BIOTERRORISM PREPAREDNESS GRANTS.
(a) Eligible Entity Defined.--In this section, the term ``eligible
entity'' means a State, local government, tribal government, or public
health entity.
(b) Authorization.--From funds appropriated under subsection (e),
the Secretary shall award grants to eligible entities for bioterrorism
preparedness in the border area.
(c) Application.--An eligible entity that desires a grant under
this section shall submit an application to the Secretary at such time,
in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may
require.
(d) Uses of Funds.--An eligible entity that receives a grant under
subsection (b) shall use the grant funds to, in coordination with State
and local bioterrorism programs--
(1) develop and implement bioterror preparedness plans and
readiness assessments and purchase items necessary for such
plans;
(2) coordinate bioterrorism and emergency preparedness
planning in the region;
(3) improve infrastructure, including syndrome surveillance
and laboratory capacity;
(4) create a health alert network, including risk
communication and information dissemination;
(5) educate and train clinicians, epidemiologists,
laboratories, and emergency personnel; and
(6) carry out such other activities identified by the
Secretary, the United States-Mexico Border Health Commission,
State and local public health offices, and border health
offices.
(e) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section $25,000,000 for fiscal year 2007
and such sums as may be necessary for each succeeding fiscal year.
SEC. 5. UNITED STATES-MEXICO BORDER HEALTH COMMISSION ACT AMENDMENTS.
The United States-Mexico Border Health Commission Act (22 U.S.C.
290n et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``SEC. 9. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
``There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this Act
$10,000,000 for fiscal year 2007 and such sums as may be necessary for
each succeeding fiscal year.''.
SEC. 6. COORDINATION OF HEALTH SERVICES AND SURVEILLANCE.
The Secretary may coordinate with the Secretary of Homeland
Security in establishing a health alert system that--
(1) alerts clinicians and public health officials of
emerging disease clusters and syndromes along the border area;
and
(2) is alerted to signs of health threats or bioterrorism
along the border area.
SEC. 7. BINATIONAL PUBLIC HEALTH INFRASTRUCTURE AND HEALTH INSURANCE.
(a) In General.--The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall
enter into a contract with the Institute of Medicine for the conduct of
a study concerning binational public health infrastructure and health
insurance efforts. In conducting such study, the Institute shall
solicit input from border health experts and health insurance issuers.
(b) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date on which the
Secretary of Health and Human Services enters into the contract under
subsection (a), the Institute of Medicine shall submit to the Secretary
and the appropriate committees of Congress a report concerning the
study conducted under such contract. Such report shall include the
recommendations of the Institute on ways to expand or improve
binational public health infrastructure and health insurance efforts.
SEC. 8. PROVISION OF RECOMMENDATIONS AND ADVICE TO CONGRESS.
Section 5 of the United States-Mexico Border Health Commission Act
(22 U.S.C. 290n-3) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(d) Providing Advice and Recommendations to Congress.--A member
of the Commission, or an individual who is on the staff of the
Commission, may at any time provide advice or recommendations to
Congress concerning issues that are considered by the Commission. Such
advice or recommendations may be provided whether or not a request for
such is made by a member of Congress and regardless of whether the
member or individual is authorized to provide such advice or
recommendations by the Commission or any other Federal official.''. | Border Health Security Act of 2006 - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (the Secretary), acting through the U.S. members of the United States-Mexico Border Health Commission, to award grants to improve border residents' health.
Requires the Secretary to award grants to states, local or tribal governments, or public health entities for bioterrorism preparedness in the border area.
Authorizes appropriations to carry out the United States-Mexico Border Health Commission Act.
Allows the Secretary to coordinate with the Secretary of Homeland Security in establishing a health alert system that: (1) alerts clinicians and public health officials of emerging disease clusters and syndromes along the border area; and (2) is alerted to signs of health threats or bioterrorism along the border area.
Requires the Secretary to enter into a contract with the Institute of Medicine for the study of binational public health infrastructure and health insurance efforts.
Authorizes any member or staff of the Commission to provide advice or recommendations to Congress concerning issues that are considered by the Commission. | To establish grant programs to improve the health of border area residents and for bioterrorism preparedness in the border area, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Everyone Deserves Unconditional
Access to Education (EDUCATE) Act''.
SEC. 2. AMENDMENT 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.--
``(1) In general.--For the purpose of carrying out this
part, other than section 619, there are authorized to be
appropriated--
``(A) $12,068,264,000 or 19 percent of the amount
determined under paragraph (2), whichever is less, for
fiscal year 2008, and there are hereby appropriated
$1,500,029,000 or 2.4 percent of the amount determined
under paragraph (2), whichever is less, for fiscal year
2008, which shall become available for obligation on
July 1, 2008, and shall remain available through
September 30, 2009;
``(B) $13,781,789,000 or 21.2 percent of the amount
determined under paragraph (2), whichever is less, for
fiscal year 2009, and there are hereby appropriated
$3,209,117,000 or 4.9 percent of the amount determined
under paragraph (2), whichever is less, for fiscal year
2009, which shall become available for obligation on
July 1, 2009, and shall remain available through
September 30, 2010;
``(C) $15,738,479,000 or 23.5 percent of the amount
determined under paragraph (2), whichever is less, for
fiscal year 2010, and there are hereby appropriated
$5,156,400,000 or 7.7 percent of the amount determined
under paragraph (2), whichever is less, for fiscal year
2010, which shall become available for obligation on
July 1, 2010, and shall remain available through
September 30, 2011;
``(D) $17,972,975,000 or 26.2 percent of the amount
determined under paragraph (2), whichever is less, for
fiscal year 2011, and there are hereby appropriated
$7,375,074,000 or 10.7 percent of the amount determined
under paragraph (2), whichever is less, for fiscal year
2011, which shall become available for obligation on
July 1, 2011, and shall remain available through
September 30, 2012;
``(E) $20,524,716,000 or 29.1 percent of the amount
determined under paragraph (2), whichever is less, for
fiscal year 2012, and there are hereby appropriated
$9,902,965,000 or 14 percent of the amount determined
under paragraph (2), whichever is less, for fiscal year
2012, which shall become available for obligation on
July 1, 2012, and shall remain available through
September 30, 2013;
``(F) $23,438,744,000 or 32.4 percent of the amount
determined under paragraph (2), whichever is less, for
fiscal year 2013, and there are hereby appropriated
$12,783,166,000 or 17.7 percent of the amount
determined under paragraph (2), whichever is less, for
fiscal year 2013, which shall become available for
obligation on July 1, 2013, and shall remain available
through September 30, 2014;
``(G) $26,766,497,000 or 36 percent of the amount
determined under paragraph (2), whichever is less, for
fiscal year 2014, and there are hereby appropriated
$16,064,780,000 or 21.6 percent of the amount
determined under paragraph (2), whichever is less, for
fiscal year 2014, which shall become available for
obligation on July 1, 2014, and shall remain available
through September 30, 2015;
``(H) $30,566,712,000 or 40 percent of the amount
determined under paragraph (2), whichever is less, for
fiscal year 2015, and there are hereby appropriated
$19,803,751,000 or 25.9 percent of the amount
determined under paragraph (2), whichever is less, for
fiscal year 2015, which shall become available for
obligation on July 1, 2015, and shall remain available
through September 30, 2016; and
``(I) 40 percent of the amount determined under
paragraph (2) for fiscal year 2016 and each subsequent
fiscal year, and there are hereby appropriated 26.2
percent of the amount determined under paragraph (2)
for fiscal year 2016 and each subsequent fiscal year,
which shall become available for obligation (A) with
respect to fiscal year 2016, on July 1, 2016, and shall
remain available through September 30, 2017, and (B)
with respect to each subsequent fiscal year, on July 1
of that fiscal year and shall remain available through
September 30 of the succeeding fiscal year.
``(2) Amount.--The amount referred to in each of
subparagraphs (A) through (I) of paragraph (1) is--
``(A) the number of children with disabilities in
the 2004-2005 school year in all States who received
special education and related services--
``(i) aged 3 through 5 if the States are
eligible for grants under section 619; and
``(ii) aged 6 through 21; multiplied by
``(B) 40 percent of the average per-pupil
expenditure in public elementary schools and secondary
schools in the United States; adjusted by
``(C) the rate of annual change in the sum of--
``(i) 85 percent of the population of all
States described in subsection
(d)(3)(A)(i)(II); and
``(ii) 15 percent of the population of all
States described in subsection
(d)(3)(A)(i)(III).''.
SEC. 3. OFFSETS.
The amounts appropriated in 611(i) of the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1411(i)), as amended by section 2
of this Act, shall be expended consistent with pay-as-you-go
requirements. | Everyone Deserves Unconditional Access to Education (EDUCATE) Act - Amends the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to reauthorize part B programs of education of all children with disabilities.
Authorizes appropriations in specified amounts for part B for FY2008-FY2016 and thereafter, according to a certain formula. (Provides phased-in increases of such authorized funding designed to reach a promised 40% federal share by FY2015.) Makes appropriations in specified amounts (which are less than the amounts this Act authorizes to be appropriated) for part B for FY2008-FY2016 and thereafter. Requires such amounts to be expended consistent with pay-as-you-go requirements. | To amend part B of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act to provide full Federal funding of such part. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``American Shipping Reinvestment Act
of 2008''.
SEC. 2. REPEAL OF QUALIFIED SHIPPING INVESTMENT WITHDRAWAL RULES.
(a) In General.--Section 955 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
(relating to withdrawal of previously excluded subpart F income from
qualified investment) is hereby repealed.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Section 951(a)(1)(A) of such Code is amended by adding
``and'' at the end of clause (i) and by striking clause (iii).
(2) Section 951(a)(3) of such Code (relating to the
limitation on pro rata share of previously excluded subpart F
income withdrawn from investment) is hereby repealed.
(3) Section 964(b) of such Code is amended by striking ``,
955,''.
(4) The table of sections for subpart F of part III of
subchapter N of chapter 1 of such Code is amended by striking
the item relating to section 955.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years of controlled foreign corporations ending on or
after the date of the enactment of this Act, and to taxable years of
United States shareholders in which or with which such taxable years of
controlled foreign corporations end.
SEC. 3. TEMPORARY DIVIDENDS RECEIVED DEDUCTION FOR PREVIOUSLY UNTAXED
FOREIGN BASE COMPANY SHIPPING INCOME.
(a) In General.--Section 965 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
(relating to temporary dividends received deduction) is amended by
adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(g) Temporary Dividends Received Deduction for Foreign Base
Company Shipping Income.--
``(1) In general.--In the case of a corporation which is a
United States shareholder and for which the election under this
subsection is in effect for the taxable year, there shall be
allowed as a deduction an amount equal to 85 percent of the
cash distributions which are received during such taxable year
by such shareholder from controlled foreign corporations to the
extent that the distributions are attributable to income--
``(A) which was derived by the controlled foreign
corporation in taxable years beginning before January
1, 2005, and
``(B) which would, without regard to the year
earned, be described in section 954(f) (as in effect
before the enactment of the American Jobs Creation Act
of 2004).
``(2) Indirect dividends.--A rule similar to the rule of
subsection (a)(2) shall apply, determined by treating cash
distributions which are so attributable as cash dividends.
``(3) Limitation.--The amount of dividends taken into
account under this subsection shall not exceed the amount
permitted to be taken into account under paragraphs (1), (3),
and (4) of subsection (b), determined as if such paragraphs
applied to this subsection.
``(4) Taxpayer election and designation.--For purposes of
paragraph (1), a United States shareholder may, on its return
for the taxable year to which this subsection applies--
``(A) elect to apply paragraph (3) of section
959(c) before paragraphs (1) and (2) thereof, and
``(B) designate the extent, if any, to which a cash
distribution reduces a controlled foreign corporation's
earnings and profits attributable to--
``(i) foreign base company shipping income
(determined under section 954(f) as in effect
before the enactment of the American Jobs
Creation Act of 2004), or
``(ii) other earnings and profits.
``(5) Election.--The taxpayer may elect to apply this
subsection to--
``(A) the taxpayer's last taxable year which begins
before the date of the enactment of this subsection, or
``(B) the taxpayer's first taxable year which
begins during the 1-year period beginning on such date.
Such election may be made for a taxable year only if made on or
before the due date (including extensions) for filing the
return of tax for such taxable year.
``(6) Reduction in benefits for failure to maintain
employment levels.--
``(A) In general.--If, during the period consisting
of the calendar month in which the taxpayer first
receives a distribution described in paragraph (1) and
the succeeding 23 calendar months, the taxpayer does
not maintain an average employment level at least equal
to the taxpayer's prior average employment, an
additional amount equal to $25,000 multiplied by the
number of employees by which the taxpayers average
employment level during such period falls below the
prior average employment (but not exceeding the
aggregate amount allowed as a deduction pursuant to
paragraph (1)) shall be taken into income by the
taxpayer during the taxable year that includes the
final day of such period.
``(B) Prior average employment.--For purposes of
this paragraph, the taxpayer's `prior average
employment' shall be the average number of employees of
the taxpayer during the period consisting of the 24
calendar months immediately preceding the calendar
month in which the taxpayer first receives a
distribution described in paragraph (1).
``(C) Aggregation rules.--In determining the
taxpayer's average employment level and prior average
employment, all domestic members of a controlled group
(as defined in section 264(e)(5)(B)) shall be treated
as a single taxpayer.''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--Subsection (f) of section 965 of such
Code is amended by inserting ``other than subsection (g)'' after ``this
section'' in the material preceding paragraph (1).
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years ending on or after the date of the enactment of
this Act. | American Shipping Reinvestment Act of 2008 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) repeal shipping investment withdrawal tax rules; and (2) allow U.S. corporate shareholders a tax deduction for dividends attributable to foreign base company shipping income received from a controlled foreign corporation. | A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the shipping investment withdrawal rules in section 955 and to provide an incentive to reinvest foreign shipping earnings in the United States. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Thorium Energy Independence and
Security Act of 2008''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds that--
(1) the United States and foreign countries will require
massive and increasing quantities of energy during the 20-year
period beginning on the date of enactment of this Act to
support economic growth;
(2) nuclear power provides energy without generating
unacceptable quantities of greenhouse gasses;
(3) the generation of nuclear power in the United States
and many foreign countries has been discouraged by concerns
regarding--
(A) the proliferation of weapons-useable material;
and
(B) the proper disposal of spent nuclear fuel;
(4) nuclear power plants operating on an advanced thorium
fuel cycle to generate nuclear energy--
(A) could potentially produce fewer weapons-useable
materials than uranium-fueled plants; and
(B) would produce less long-term waste as compared
to other nuclear power plants;
(5)(A) thorium is more abundant than uranium; and
(B) the United States possesses significant domestic
quantities of thorium to ensure energy independence;
(6)(A) thorium fuel cycle technology was originally
developed in the United States; and
(B) cutting-edge research relating to thorium fuel cycle
technology continues to be carried out by entities in the
United States; and
(7) it is in the national security and foreign policy
interest of the United States that foreign countries seeking to
establish or expand generation and use of nuclear power should
be provided--
(A) access to advanced thorium fuel cycle
technology; and
(B) incentives to reduce the risk of nuclear
proliferation.
SEC. 3. THORIUM FUEL CYCLE NUCLEAR POWER GENERATION.
Chapter 19 of title I of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (42 U.S.C.
2015 et seq.) is amended by inserting after section 244 the following:
``SEC. 251. THORIUM FUEL CYCLE NUCLEAR POWER GENERATION.
``(a) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) Chairman.--The term `Chairman' means the Chairman of
the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
``(2) Office.--The term `Office' means an office
established under subsection (b)(1).
``(3) Secretary.--The term `Secretary' means the Secretary
of Energy.
``(b) Offices for Regulation of Thorium Fuel Cycle Nuclear Power
Generation.--
``(1) Establishment.--The Secretary, in consultation with
the Chairman, shall establish, and provide funds to, an office
for the regulation of thorium fuel cycle nuclear power
generation in each of--
``(A) the Office of Nuclear Energy, Science and
Technology of the Department of Energy; and
``(B) the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
``(2) Regulations.--Not later than December 31, 2012, the
Chairman, in cooperation with the heads of the Offices, shall
promulgate regulations for facilities and materials used in
thorium fuel cycle nuclear power generation.
``(3) Demonstration projects.--The heads of the Offices, in
cooperation with the head of the Idaho National Engineering
Laboratory, shall carry out demonstration projects for thorium
fuel cycle nuclear power generation at the Idaho National
Engineering Laboratory.
``(4) International partnerships and incentives.--The heads
of the Offices shall provide recommendations to the Secretary
with respect to methods of--
``(A) strengthening international partnerships to
advance nuclear nonproliferation through the design and
deployment of thorium fuel cycle nuclear power
generation; and
``(B) providing incentives to nuclear reactor
operators in the United States and foreign countries to
use proliferation-resistant, low-waste thorium fuels in
lieu of other fuels.
``(c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of
the Thorium Energy Independence and Security Act of 2008, and annually
thereafter, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report describing,
with respect to the preceding calendar year--
``(1) progress made in implementing this section; and
``(2) activities carried out by the Offices pursuant to
this section.
``(d) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $250,000,000
for the period of fiscal years 2009 through 2013.''. | Thorium Energy Independence and Security Act of 2008 - Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to direct the Secretary of Energy to establish, and provide funds to, an office for the regulation of thorium fuel cycle nuclear power generation in each of: (1) the Office of Nuclear Energy, Science and Technology (ONEST) of the Department of Energy; and (2) the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC).
Directs the NRC Chairman to promulgate regulations for facilities and materials used in thorium fuel cycle nuclear power generation.
Requires the heads of the two Offices to: (1) implement demonstration projects for thorium fuel cycle nuclear power generation at the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory; and (2) recommend to the Secretary methods of strengthening international partnerships to advance nuclear nonproliferation through thorium fuel cycle nuclear power generation, and of providing incentives to nuclear reactor operators to use proliferation-resistant, low-waste thorium fuels in lieu of other fuels. | A bill to amend the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to provide for thorium fuel cycle nuclear power generation. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Major Regulation Cost Review Act of
2008''.
SEC. 2. REQUIREMENT FOR PERIODIC REVIEW OF ALL MAJOR RULES.
(a) Requirement.--Chapter 6 of title 5, United States Code, is
amended by inserting after section 610 the following new section:
``Sec. 610a. Periodic review of major rules
``(a) Requirement for Review of Major Rules.--Not later than 180
days after the date of the enactment of the Major Regulation Cost
Review Act of 2008, each agency shall publish in the Federal Register a
plan for the periodic review of all the major rules issued by the
agency. Such plan may be amended by the agency at any time by
publishing the revision in the Federal Register.
``(b) Purpose of Review.--The purpose of the review shall be to
determine whether such rules should be continued without change, or
should be amended or rescinded, consistent with the stated objectives
of applicable statutes.
``(c) Review Within Five Years.--The plan shall provide for the
review of all such agency rules existing on the effective date of the
Major Regulation Cost Review Act of 2008 within five years after that
date and for the review of such rules adopted after such effective date
within five years after the publication of such rules as the final
rule. If the head of the agency determines that completion of the
review of existing rules is not feasible by the established date, the
head of the agency shall so certify in a statement published in the
Federal Register and may extend the completion date by one year at a
time for a total of not more than five years.
``(d) Factors To Consider.--In reviewing major rules in a manner
consistent with the stated objectives of applicable statutes, the
agency shall consider the following factors:
``(1) The continued need for the rule.
``(2) The nature of complaints or comments received
concerning the rule from the public.
``(3) The complexity of the rule.
``(4) The extent to which the rule overlaps, duplicates, or
conflicts with other Federal rules, and, to the extent
feasible, with State and local governmental rules.
``(5) The length of time since the rule has been evaluated
or the degree to which technology, economic conditions, or
other factors have changed in the area affected by the rule.
``(e) Cost-Benefit Analysis.--The review shall include a cost-
benefit analysis of the rule, using the standard cost-benefit
methodology included in Office of Management and Budget Circular A-4
(relating to regulatory analysis and issued September 17, 2003). The
cost-benefit analysis shall include an identification and consideration
of a range of less costly regulatory alternatives.
``(f) Publication of List of Rules To Be Reviewed.--Each year, each
agency shall publish in the Federal Register a list of the major rules
which are to be reviewed pursuant to this section during the succeeding
12 months and which are to be included in the accounting statement and
associated report submitted to Congress by the Director of the Office
of Management and Budget under paragraph (4) of section 624(a) of the
Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act, 2001 (as added by
section 3 of the Major Regulation Cost Review Act of 2008). The list
shall include a brief description of each such major rule and the need
for and legal basis of such rule, and shall invite public comment upon
the rule.
``(g) Major Rule Defined.--In this section, the term `major rule'
has the meaning provided by section 804 of this title.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for chapter 6 of
title 5, United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item
relating to section 610 the following new item:
``610a. Periodic review of major rules.''.
SEC. 3. REQUIREMENTS FOR OMB RELATING TO ANNUAL ACCOUNTING STATEMENT.
(a) Requirement To Include List of Rules To Be Reviewed in Annual
Accounting Statement.--Section 624(a) of the Treasury and General
Government Appropriations Act, 2001 (as enacted into law by Public Law
106-554; 114 Stat. 2763A-161), is amended--
(1) by striking ``and'' at the end of paragraph (2);
(2) by striking the period at the end of paragraph (3) and
inserting ``; and''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(4) a list of the major rules which are to be reviewed by
each agency, during the year following the year in which the
statement and report are submitted, pursuant to section 610a of
title 5, United States Code.''.
(b) Requirement To Use Agency Cost-Benefit Estimates in Annual
Accounting Statement.--Section 624 of the Treasury and General
Government Appropriations Act, 2001 (as enacted into law by Public Law
106-554; 114 Stat. 2763A-161), is amended--
(1) by redesignating subsections (b), (c), and (d) as
subsections (c), (d), and (e), respectively; and
(2) by inserting after subsection (a) the following new
subsection:
``(b) Use of Agency Cost-Benefit Analyses Required.--To carry out
subsection (a), the Director of the Office of Management and Budget
shall require each agency annually to submit to the Office of
Management and Budget the cost-benefit analyses conducted under section
610a of title 5, United States Code, for major rules of the agency
during the preceding year.''. | Major Regulation Cost Review Act of 2008 - Requires each federal agency to publish in the Federal Register a plan for the periodic review of its major rules. Requires review of all existing major rules within five years and of all new rules within five years after their publication as a final rule.
Directs an agency to consider: (1) the continued need for the rule; (2) the nature of public complaints or comments concerning the rule; (3) the complexity of the rule; (4) the extent to which the rule overlaps, duplicates, or conflicts with other federal, state, and local governmental rules; and (5) the length of time since the rule has been evaluated or the degree to which technology, economic conditions, or other factors have changed in the area affected by the rule. Requires the review to include a cost-benefit analysis of the rule, including an identification and consideration of a range of less costly regulatory alternatives.
Requires each agency, annually, to publish a list of the major rules which are to be reviewed and which are to be included in an accounting statement and associated report to be submitted to Congress by the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). | To require agencies to review all major rules within 10 years after issuance, including a cost-benefit analysis using a standard government-wide methodology, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Llagas Reclamation Groundwater
Remediation Initiative''.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
For the purposes of this Act:
(1) Groundwater remediation.--The term ``groundwater
remediation'' means actions that are necessary to prevent,
minimize, or mitigate damage to groundwater.
(2) Local water authority.--The term ``local water
authority'' means the Santa Clara Valley Water District.
(3) Remediation fund.--The term ``Remediation Fund'' means
the California Basins Groundwater Remediation Fund established
pursuant to section 3(a).
(4) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of the Interior.
SEC. 3. CALIFORNIA BASINS REMEDIATION.
(a) California Basins Remediation.--
(1) Establishment of remediation fund.--There shall be
established within the Treasury of the United States an
interest bearing account to be known as the California Basins
Groundwater Remediation Fund.
(2) Administration of remediation fund.--The Remediation
Fund shall be administered by the Secretary of the Interior,
acting through the Bureau of Reclamation. The Secretary shall
administer the Remediation Fund in cooperation with the local
water authority.
(3) Purposes of remediation fund.--
(A) In general.--Subject to subparagraph (B), the
amounts in the Remediation Fund, including interest
accrued, shall be used by the Secretary to provide
grants to the local water authority to reimburse the
local water authority for the Federal share of the
costs associated with designing and constructing
groundwater remediation projects to be administered by
the local water authority.
(B) Cost-sharing limitation.--
(i) In general.--The Secretary may not
obligate any funds appropriated to the
Remediation Fund in a fiscal year until the
Secretary has deposited into the Remediation
Fund an amount provided by non-Federal
interests sufficient to ensure that at least 35
percent of any funds obligated by the Secretary
for a project are from funds provided to the
Secretary for that project by the non-Federal
interests.
(ii) Non-federal responsibility.--Each
local water authority shall be responsible for
providing the non-Federal amount required by
clause (i) for projects under that local water
authority. The State of California, local
government agencies, and private entities may
provide all or any portion of the non-Federal
amount.
(iii) Credits toward non-federal share.--
For purposes of clause (ii), the Secretary
shall credit the appropriate local water
authority with the value of all prior
expenditures by non-Federal interests made
after January 1, 2000, that are compatible with
the purposes of this section, including--
(I) all expenditures made by non-
Federal interests to design and
construct groundwater remediation
projects, including expenditures
associated with environmental analyses
and public involvement activities that
were required to implement the
groundwater remediation projects in
compliance with applicable Federal and
State laws; and
(II) all expenditures made by non-
Federal interests to acquire lands,
easements, rights-of-way, relocations,
disposal areas, and water rights that
were required to implement a
groundwater remediation project.
(b) Compliance With Applicable Law.--In carrying out the activities
described in this section, the Secretary shall comply with any
applicable Federal and State laws.
(c) Relationship to Other Activities.--Nothing in this section
shall be construed to affect other Federal or State authorities that
are being used or may be used to facilitate remediation and protection
of the Llagas groundwater subbasin. In carrying out the activities
described in this section, the Secretary shall integrate such
activities with ongoing Federal and State projects and activities. None
of the funds made available for such activities pursuant to this
section shall be counted against any Federal authorization ceiling
established for any previously authorized Federal projects or
activities.
(d) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be
appropriated to the Remediation Fund $25,000,000. Such funds shall
remain available until expended.
Passed the House of Representatives September 21, 2004.
Attest:
JEFF TRANDAHL,
Clerk. | Llagas Reclamation Groundwater Remediation Initiative - Establishes within the Treasury an interest bearing account to be known as the California Basins Groundwater Remediation Fund, which shall be administered by the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Bureau of Reclamation, in cooperation with the Santa Clara Valley Water District.
Requires that the Fund be used by the Secretary to provide grants to reimburse the District for the Federal share of the costs associated with designing and constructing groundwater remediation projects. Prohibits the Secretary from obligating any funds appropriated to the Fund in a fiscal year until the Secretary has deposited a matching amount provided by non-Federal interests of at least 35 percent for a project.
Makes each local water authority responsible for providing the non-Federal amount required for projects under that authority. Allows the State of California, local government agencies, and private entities to provide all or any portion of the non-Federal amount. Directs the Secretary to credit the appropriate authority with the value of all prior expenditures by non-Federal interests made after January 1, 2000, that are compatible with the purposes of this Act. Authorizes appropriations to the Fund. | To authorize the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Bureau of Reclamation and in coordination with other Federal, State, and local government agencies, to participate in the funding and implementation of a balanced, long-term groundwater remediation program in California, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Genetic Privacy and
Nondiscrimination Act of 1997''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSES.
(a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
(1) The DNA molecule contains information about an
individual's probable medical future.
(2) Genetic information is uniquely private and personal
information that should not be disclosed without the
authorization of the individual.
(3) The improper disclosure of genetic information can lead
to significant harm to the individual, including stigmatization
and discrimination in areas such as employment, education,
health care and insurance.
(4) An analysis of an individual's DNA provides information
not only about an individual, but also about the individual's
parents, siblings and children.
(5) Current legal protections for genetic information,
tissue samples and DNA samples are inadequate to protect
genetic privacy, and require further attention.
(6) Laws for the collection, storage and use of
identifiable DNA samples and private genetic information
obtained from those samples are needed both to protect
individual privacy and to permit legitimate genetic research.
(b) Purposes.--It is the purpose of this Act to--
(1) define the rights of individuals whose genetic
information is disclosed;
(2) define the circumstances under which an individual's
genetic information may be disclosed; and
(3) protect against discrimination by an insurer or
employer based upon an individual's genetic information.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
As used in this Act:
(1) DNA.--The term ``DNA'' means deoxyribonucleic acid.
(2) DNA sample.--The term ``DNA sample'' means any human
biological specimen from which DNA can be extracted, or the DNA
extracted from such specimen.
(3) Employer.--The term ``employer'' has the same meaning
given such term in section 3(d) of the Fair Labor Standards Act
of 1938 (29 U.S.C. 203(d)).
(4) Genetic information.--The term ``genetic information''
means the information about genes, gene products or inherited
characteristics that may derive from an individual or a family
member.
(5) Genetic test.--The term ``genetic test'' means a test
for determining the presence or absence of genetic
characteristics in an individual, including tests of nucleic
acids such as DNA, RNA and mitochondrial DNA, chromosomes or
proteins in order to diagnose a genetic characteristic.
(6) Insurer.--The term ``insurer'' means an insurance
company, health care service contractor, fraternal benefit
organization, insurance agent, third party administrator,
insurance support organization or other person subject to
regulation under State insurance laws. Such term includes self-
funded health plans and health plans regulated under the
Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (29 U.S.C. 1001
et seq.).
(7) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of Health and Human Services.
SEC. 4. REQUIREMENTS FOR DISCLOSURE OF GENETIC INFORMATION.
(a) Prohibition.--
(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2),
regardless of the manner in which genetic information was
received, or of the source of such information, including
information received from an individual, an entity may not
disclose or be compelled (by subpoena or any other means) to
disclose genetic information about an individual unless such
disclosure is specifically authorized by the individual
involved or the legal representative of the individual through
a written authorization which includes a description of the
information being disclosed, the name of the individual or
entity to whom the disclosure is being made, and the purpose of
the disclosure.
(2) Exceptions.--Notwithstanding paragraph (1), genetic
information concerning an individual may be disclosed if such
disclosure--
(A) is authorized under Federal or State criminal
laws relating to the identification of individuals, or
as is necessary for the purpose of a criminal or death
investigation, a criminal or juvenile proceeding, an
inquest, or a child fatality review by a
multidisciplinary child abuse team;
(B) is required under the specific order of a
Federal or State court;
(C) is authorized under Federal or State law for
the purpose of establishing paternity;
(D) is for the purpose of furnishing genetic
information relating to a decedent to the blood
relatives of the decedent for the purpose of medical
diagnosis; or
(E) is for the purpose of identifying bodies.
(b) Application of Section.--The prohibitions of this section shall
apply to any redisclosure by any entity after another entity has
disclosed the genetic information.
SEC. 5. PROHIBITION ON CERTAIN EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES.
(a) Discrimination as to Rights or Benefits.--No employer may seek
to obtain, obtain, or use the genetic information of an employee or a
prospective employee, or require a genetic test of an employee or
prospective employee, to distinguish between or discriminate against or
restrict any right or benefit otherwise due or available to the
employee or prospective employee.
(b) Enforcement.--The powers, remedies, and procedures set forth in
sections 705 through 709 of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 shall be the
powers, remedies, and procedures this section provides to any person
alleging a violation of this section.
SEC. 6. REQUIREMENTS RELATING TO INSURERS.
(a) General Prohibition.--An insurer offering health insurance may
not use genetic information to reject, deny, limit, cancel, refuse to
renew, increase the rates of, or otherwise affect health insurance.
(b) Prohibition on Inducement.--With respect to a genetic test
conducted in accordance with subsection (c), an insurer may not use
such a genetic test as an inducement for the purchase of insurance.
(c) Permissibility of Tests.--If an insurer requests that an
applicant for insurance (other than an applicant for health insurance)
take a genetic test in connection with an application for insurance,
the use of the results of such test shall be disclosed to the applicant
and the insurer shall obtain the specific written authorization of the
applicant for such disclosure.
(d) Application.--This section shall apply only to insurance
policies issued on or after the date of enactment of this Act, and to
the renewal of policies issued before, on, or after such date of
enactment.
SEC. 7. FURTHER RECOMMENDATION BY THE NATIONAL BIOETHICS ADVISORY
COMMISSION.
Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act,
the National Bioethics Advisory Commission shall prepare and submit to
the appropriate committees of Congress a report containing
recommendations on--
(1) the development and implementation of standards to
provide increased protection for the collection, storage, and
use of identifiable DNA samples and genetic information
obtained from those samples; and
(2) the development and implementation of appropriate
standards for the acquisition and retention of genetic
information in all settings, including appropriate exceptions. | Genetic Privacy and Nondiscrimination Act of 1997 - Establishes limitations regarding genetic information disclosure and use.
Prohibits disclosure about an individual unless specifically authorized by the individual, or the individual's representative, through a written authorization that includes certain elements.
Specifies the circumstances in which disclosure is allowed.
(Sec. 5) Prohibits employment discrimination on the basis of genetic tests. Provides for enforcement through the same powers, procedures, and remedies as are provided under specified provisions of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
(Sec. 6) Prohibits health insurance discrimination on the basis of genetic tests. Requires, if an insurer requests that an insurance applicant (other than a health insurance applicant) take a genetic test, that: (1) the use of the results of such test be disclosed to the applicant; and (2) the insurer obtain the applicant's specific written authorization for such disclosure. Prohibits an insurer from using such a genetic test as an inducement for the purchase of insurance.
(Sec. 7) Directs the National Bioethics Advisory Commission to report to congressional committees its recommendations on appropriate standards: (1) to provide increased protection for the collection, storage, and use of identifiable DNA samples and genetic information obtained from those samples; and (2) for the acquisition and retention of genetic information in all settings, including appropriate exceptions. | Genetic Privacy and Nondiscrimination Act of 1997 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``National Trails System Willing
Seller Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds the following:
(1) In spite of commendable efforts by State and local
governments and private volunteer trail groups to develop,
operate, and maintain the national scenic and national historic
trails designated by Act of Congress in section 5(a) of the
National Trails System Act (16 U.S.C. 1244(a)), the rate of
progress towards developing and completing the trails is slower
than anticipated.
(2) Nine of the twelve national scenic and historic trails
designated between 1978 and 1986 are subject to restrictions
totally excluding Federal authority for land acquisition
outside the exterior boundaries of any federally administered
area.
(3) To complete these nine trails as intended by Congress,
acquisition authority to secure necessary rights-of-way and
historic sites and segments, limited to acquisition from
willing sellers only, and specifically excluding the use of
condemnation, should be extended to the Secretary of the
Federal department administering these trails.
SEC. 3. SENSE OF THE CONGRESS REGARDING MULTIJURISDICTIONAL AUTHORITY
OVER THE NATIONAL TRAILS SYSTEM.
It is the sense of the Congress that in order to address the
problems involving multijurisdictional authority over the National
Trails System, the Secretary of the Federal department with
jurisdiction over a national scenic or historic trail should--
(1) cooperate with appropriate officials of each State and
political subdivisions of each State in which the trail is
located and private persons with an interest in the trail to
pursue the development of the trail; and
(2) be granted sufficient authority to purchase lands and
interests in lands from willing sellers that are critical to
the completion of the trail.
SEC. 4. AUTHORITY TO ACQUIRE LANDS FROM WILLING SELLERS FOR CERTAIN
TRAILS OF THE NATIONAL TRAILS SYSTEM ACT.
(a) Intent.--It is the intent of Congress that lands and interests
in lands for the nine components of the National Trails System affected
by the amendments made by subsection (b) shall only be acquired by the
Federal Government from willing sellers.
(b) Limited Acquisition Authority.--
(1) Oregon national historic trail.--Paragraph (3) of
section 5(a) of the National Trails System Act (16 U.S.C.
1244(a)) is amended by adding at the end the following new
sentence: ``No lands or interests therein outside the exterior
boundaries of any federally administered area may be acquired
by the Federal Government for the trail except with the consent
of the owner thereof.''.
(2) Mormon pioneer national historic trail.--Paragraph (4)
of such section is amended by adding at the end the following
new sentence: ``No lands or interests therein outside the
exterior boundaries of any federally administered area may be
acquired by the Federal Government for the trail except with
the consent of the owner thereof.''.
(3) Continental divide national scenic trail.--Paragraph
(5) of such section is amended by adding at the end the
following new sentence: ``No lands or interests therein outside
the exterior boundaries of any federally administered area may
be acquired by the Federal Government for the trail except with
the consent of the owner thereof.''.
(4) Lewis and clark national historic trail.--Paragraph (6)
of such section is amended by adding at the end the following
new sentence: ``No lands or interests therein outside the
exterior boundaries of any federally administered area may be
acquired by the Federal Government for the trail except with
the consent of the owner thereof.''.
(5) Iditarod national historic trail.--Paragraph (7) of
such section is amended by adding at the end the following new
sentence: ``No lands or interests therein outside the exterior
boundaries of any federally administered area may be acquired
by the Federal Government for the trail except with the consent
of the owner thereof.''.
(6) North country national scenic trail.--Paragraph (8) of
such section is amended by adding at the end the following new
sentence: ``No lands or interests therein outside the exterior
boundaries of any federally administered area may be acquired
by the Federal Government for the trail except with the consent
of the owner thereof.''.
(7) Ice age national scenic trail.--Paragraph (10) of such
section is amended by adding at the end the following new
sentence: ``No lands or interests therein outside the exterior
boundaries of any federally administered area may be acquired
by the Federal Government for the trail except with the consent
of the owner thereof.''.
(8) Potomac heritage national scenic trail.--Paragraph (11)
of such section is amended in the fourth sentence by inserting
before the period the following: ``except with the consent of
the owner thereof.''.
(9) Nez perce national historic trail.--Paragraph (14) of
such section is amended in the fourth sentence by inserting
before the period the following: ``except with the consent of
the owner thereof.''.
(c) Protection for Willing Sellers.--Section 7 of the National
Trails System Act (16 U.S.C. 1246) is amended by adding at the end the
following new subsection:
``(l) Protection for Willing Sellers.--If the Federal Government
fails to make payment in accordance with a contract for the sale of
land or an interest in land for one of the national scenic or historic
trails designated by section 5(a), the seller may utilize any of the
remedies available to the seller under all applicable law, including
electing to void the sale.''.
(d) Conforming Amendment.--Section 10(c) of the National Trails
System Act (16 U.S.C. 1249(c)) is amended--
(1) by striking paragraph (1); and
(2) by striking ``(2) Except'' and inserting ``Except''.
Passed the House of Representatives March 13, 2001.
Attest:
JEFF TRANDAHL,
Clerk. | National Trails System Willing Seller Act - Expresses the sense of Congress that, in order to address problems involving multijurisdictional authority over the National Trails System, the Secretary of the Federal department with jurisdiction over a national scenic or historic trail should: (1) cooperate with appropriate State and local officials and private persons to pursue the trail's development; and (2) be granted sufficient authority to purchase from willing sellers lands and interests in lands critical to trail completion.Provides for Federal acquisition of lands from willing sellers for specified System trails. Amends the National Trails System Act to provide protection for such willing sellers. | To amend the National Trails System Act to clarify Federal authority relating to land acquisition from willing sellers for the majority of the trails in the System, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac
Accountability and Transparency for Taxpayers Act of 2010''.
SEC. 2. QUARTERLY REPORTS DURING CONSERVATORSHIP.
(a) Reporting Requirement.--For each reporting period, the covered
officer shall submit to the Congress a report for each enterprise that
summarizes the activities of the covered officer with respect to such
enterprise, and the activities and condition of such enterprise, during
such reporting period.
(b) Contents.--Each report required under this section for an
enterprise for a reporting period shall include the following
information:
(1) A description, including dollar amount, of total
liabilities of the enterprise as of the reporting date, with a
detailed breakdown of the potential level of risk to the
Federal Government inherent in the dollar amount of each
separate type of liability and a quantification as to how the
risk to the Federal Government has changed from the previous
reporting period, distinguishing between changes attributable
to volume and changes attributable to changes in risk levels.
(2) An explanation of, including rationale for, all
compensation and bonuses paid to any executive officer (as such
term is defined in section 1303 of the Housing and Community
Development Act of 1992 (12 U.S.C. 4502)) of the enterprise,
and any retention decisions made, by the enterprise during such
period regarding its executive officers.
(3) A description of foreclosure mitigation activities of
the enterprise during such period, including any related data,
a list of law firms and attorneys approved or retained by the
enterprise for handling foreclosure and bankruptcy matters
relating to mortgages held or securitized by the enterprise,
and the eligibility criteria used for such approval or
retention and reasons for limiting such list, and the number of
mortgage loans held by the enterprise that were refinanced in
2008 and 2009 through foreclosure mitigation activities of the
enterprise that have, during such period, entered into default.
(4) A description of any mortgage fraud prevention
activities undertaken by the enterprise during such period and
data describing the extent of mortgage fraud during such
period, including descriptions of the efforts of the enterprise
to prevent or detect mortgage fraud, of the pervasiveness of
mortgage fraud, and of the most prevalent types of mortgage
fraud detected.
(5) A listing with description of any formal or informal
communication between Governors and staff of the Board of
Governors of the Federal Reserve System and executives in the
enterprise and any formal or informal communication between
officials and staff of the Department of the Treasury and the
Governors and staff of the Board of Governors of the Federal
Reserve System and executives in the enterprise regarding the
purchase or sale of any enterprise-related securities.
(6) A description of any investments, holdings, and
activities of the enterprise during such period that are not
consistent with the mission of the enterprise as provided under
Federal law.
(7) A description of the reasons for any equity investments
in the enterprise by the Department of the Treasury during such
period and any increase during such period in the authorized
amount of equity investments by such Department.
(8) An analysis of the capital levels and portfolio size of
the enterprise during such period and their impacts on the
safety and soundness of the enterprise.
(9) A description and analysis of the underwriting
standards of the enterprise applicable during such period,
including the criteria for safety and soundness of mortgage
loans for single-family, multi-family, and condominium
residential homes securitized by the enterprise and the ability
of such criteria to ensure such safety and soundness.
(10) An analysis of actions taken by the enterprise that
had a beneficial or harmful effect on holders of enterprise-
related securities, in particular, preferred stock issued prior
to September 6, 2008.
(11) Any other information that the covered officer
considers relevant or important with respect to the enterprise,
and the activities and condition of the enterprise.
(c) Reporting Periods; Timing of Reports.--
(1) Initial period.--The first reporting period for each
enterprise shall be the period that began upon the commencement
of the conservatorship period for the enterprise and that ends
upon the date of the enactment of this Act. The reports
required under this section for such period shall be submitted
not later than the expiration of the 60-day period beginning on
the date of the enactment of this Act.
(2) Quarterly periods.--After the first reporting period,
the reporting periods for each enterprise shall be each
calendar quarter that concludes after the date of the enactment
of this Act. Each report for each such reporting period shall
be submitted not later than the expiration of the 60-day period
beginning upon the conclusion of such reporting period.
(3) Receivership.--Notwithstanding paragraph (2), if at any
time a receiver is appointed for an enterprise pursuant to
section 1367 of the Housing and Community Development Act of
1992 (12 U.S.C. 4617), the reporting periods for the enterprise
during such receivership shall be each calendar month (or such
shorter period as the covered officer considers appropriate).
Each report for each such reporting period shall be submitted
not later than the expiration of the 30-day period beginning
upon the conclusion of such reporting period.
(4) Nationalization.--Notwithstanding paragraph (2), if at
any time the Federal Government or any agency or entity of the
Federal Government obtains control of an enterprise under law
or through ownership of voting stock of the enterprise, or the
covered officer determines that the enterprise has otherwise
been nationalized, the reporting periods for the enterprise
after such nationalization occurs shall be the consecutive 6-
month periods (the first such period beginning upon such
nationalization (or such shorter period as the covered officer
considers appropriate). Each report for each such reporting
period shall be submitted not later than the expiration of the
60-day period beginning upon the conclusion of such reporting
period.
(d) Public Availability.--The covered officer shall--
(1) make information regarding the activities of the
covered officer, including each report submitted to the
Congress pursuant to this section, available to the public,
including through a World Wide Web site of the Federal Housing
Finance Agency; and
(2) establish an electronic mail address and a toll-free
telephone number, and shall publicize the availability of such
address and number, by which the public may report waste,
fraud, or abuse by an enterprise.
(e) Definitions.--For purposes of this section, the following
definitions shall apply:
(1) Conservatorship period.--The term ``conservatorship
period'' means, with respect to an enterprise, the period
that--
(A) began upon appointment of the Federal Housing
Finance agency as conservator for the enterprise on
September 6, 2008, pursuant to section 1367 of the
Housing and Community Development Act of 1992 (12
U.S.C. 4617); and
(B) ends upon the termination of such
conservatorship of the enterprise.
(2) Covered officer.--The term ``covered officer'' means--
(A) the Inspector General of the Federal Housing
Finance Agency, if one has been appointed pursuant to
section 1317(d) of the Housing and Community
Development Act of 1992 (12 U.S.C. 4517);
(B) if the officer referred to in subparagraph (A)
has not been appointed, any interim inspector general
for the Federal Housing Finance Agency appointed
pursuant to any provision of law providing for such
office; or
(C) if the officer referred to in subparagraph (A)
has not been appointed and an officer referred to in
subparagraph (B) has not been appointed, the Associate
Director for Internal Audit of the Federal Housing
Finance Agency.
(3) Enterprise.--The term ``enterprise'' means the Federal
National Mortgage Association and the Federal Home Loan
Mortgage Corporation.
(4) Reporting period.--The term ``reporting period'' means
a period described in paragraph (1), (2), (3), or (4) of
subsection (c). | Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Accountability and Transparency for Taxpayers Act of 2010 - Directs the Inspector General (IG) of the Federal Housing Finance Agency to submit quarterly reports to Congress on the IG's activities with respect to the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac) and their activities and condition while they are in conservatorship status. | To require the Inspector General of the Federal Housing Finance Agency to submit quarterly reports to the Congress during the conservatorship of the Federal National Mortgage Association and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Orphan Highway Restoration Act''.
SEC. 2. NATIONAL ORPHAN HIGHWAYS PROGRAM.
(a) In General.--Chapter 1 of title 23, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 165. National orphan highways program
``(a) Grants and Technical Assistance.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall make grants and
provide technical assistance to States, and units of local
government to--
``(A) perform preventive maintenance on or carry
out projects for resurfacing, restoration,
reconstruction, and rehabilitation of an orphan
highway, as defined in subsection (e); and
``(B) rehabilitate, repair, or construct sidewalks,
medians, bike lanes, traffic-calming devices,
signaling, or signage to enhance community livability
on or adjacent to an orphan highway.
``(2) Priority.--In making grants, the Secretary shall give
priority to projects that--
``(A) include rehabilitation measures that focus on
pedestrian safety;
``(B) are coordinated with State and local adopted
preservation or development plans;
``(C) promote cost-effective and strategic
investments in transportation infrastructure that
minimize adverse impacts on the environment;
``(D) promote innovative private sector strategies;
``(E) foster public-private partnerships;
``(F) include a higher percentage of State or
locally matched funds;
``(G) have zoning designations that support more
intensive, mixed-use development along part or all of
the route; or
``(H) upon completion, will result in the transfer
of ongoing management and administrative
responsibilities from the State to the local
jurisdiction.
``(3) Distribution of funds.--The Secretary shall allocate
funds made available for this section for fiscal years 2004
through 2009 among the grant recipients, using 2000 census data
as follows:
``(A) not less than 20 percent to units of local
government with a population between 50,000 and 250,000
residents; and
``(B) not less than 50 percent to units of local
government with a population of less than 50,000.
``(b) Savings Clause.--The Secretary shall not withhold any grant
or impose any requirement on a grant recipient as a condition of
providing a grant or technical assistance for any orphan highway unless
the requirement is consistent with the authority provided in this
chapter.
``(c) Federal Share.--The Federal share of the cost of carrying out
a project under this section shall be 80 percent, except that, in the
case of an orphan highway that provides access to or within Federal or
Indian land, the head of a Federal land management agency may use funds
authorized for such agency for the non-Federal share.
``(d) Administrative Oversight.--A grant recipient may use not more
than 2 percent of funds received under this section for administrative
costs.
``(e) Definitions.--For purposes of this Act the following
definitions apply:
``(1) Orphan highway.--
``(A) is or was formerly a United States numbered
highway;
``(B) is located within the boundaries of a unit of
local government as defined under paragraph (2);
``(C) is no longer a principal route for traffic
passing through the State after construction of a
bypass or Interstate;
``(D) currently functions as a county, parish, or
city arterial or collector route, or provides access to
or within Federal or tribal lands; and
``(E) because of decreased importance to statewide
transportation, has received only routine maintenance
but needs significant resurfacing, restoration,
reconstruction, or rehabilitation.
``(2) Unit of local government.--The term `unit of local
government' means--
``(A) any city, county, township, town, borough,
parish, village, or other general purpose political
subdivision of a State;
``(B) any law enforcement district or judicial
enforcement district that--
``(i) is established under applicable State
law; and
``(ii) has the authority to, in a manner
independent of other State entities, establish
a budget and impose taxes;
``(C) an Indian Tribe (as that term is defined in
section 4 of the Indian Self-Determination and
Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 450b); or
``(D) for the purposes of assistance eligibility,
any agency of the government of the District of
Columbia or the Federal Government that performs law
enforcement functions in and for--
``(i) the District of Columbia; or
``(ii) any Trust Territory of the United
States.''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--The analysis for such chapter is amended
by inserting after the item relating to section 164 the following:
``165. National orphan highways program.''. | Orphan Highway Restoration Act - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to make grants and provide technical assistance to States and local governments to: (1) perform preventive maintenance on or carry out projects for resurfacing, restoration, reconstruction, and rehabilitation of orphan highways; and (2) rehabilitate, repair, or construct sidewalks, medians, bike lanes, traffic-calming devices, signaling, or signage to enhance community livability on or adjacent to such highways.
Defines "orphan highway" as one that: (1) is or was formerly a United States numbered highway; (2) is located within the boundaries of a local government (which includes an Indian Tribe); (3) is no longer a principal route for traffic passing through the State after construction of a bypass or Interstate; (4) currently functions as a county, parish, or city arterial or collector route or provides access to or within Federal or tribal lands; and (5) because of decreased importance to statewide transportation has received only routine maintenance, but needs significant resurfacing, restoration, reconstruction, or rehabilitation.
Specifies projects to receive funding priority, such as those that include rehabilitation measures that focus on pedestrian safety, that are coordinated with State and local adopted preservation plans, that promote cost-effective and strategic investments in transportation infrastructure that minimizes adverse environmental impacts, or that foster public-private partnerships.
Sets forth provisions regarding fund distribution and the Federal cost share. | To amend title 23, United States Code, to provide grants and technical assistance to restore orphan highways. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Cyber-Security Enhancement Act of
2007''.
SEC. 2. PERSONAL ELECTRONIC RECORDS.
Section 1030(a)(2) of title 18, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by striking ``or'' at the end of subparagraph (B); and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(D) a unique electronic identification number,
address or routing code, or access device (as defined
in section 1029(e)(1)), from a protected computer;
or''.
SEC. 3. USE OF FULL INTERSTATE AND FOREIGN COMMERCE POWER FOR CRIMINAL
PENALTIES.
(a) Broadening of Scope.--Section 1030(e)(2)(B) of title 18, United
States Code, is amended by inserting ``or affecting'' after ``which is
used in''.
(b) Elimination of Requirement of an Interstate or Foreign
Communication for Certain Offenses Involving Protected Computers.--
Section 1030(a)(2)(C) of title 18, United States Code, is amended by
striking ``if the conduct involved an interstate or foreign
communication''.
SEC. 4. RICO PREDICATES.
Section 1961(1)(B) of title 18, United States Code, is amended by
inserting ``section 1030 (relating to fraud and related activity in
connection with computers),'' before ``section 1084''.
SEC. 5. CYBER-EXTORTION.
Section 1030(a)(7) of title 18, United States Code, is amended by
inserting ``, or to access without authorization or exceed authorized
access to a protected computer'' after ``cause damage to a protected
computer''.
SEC. 6. CONSPIRACY TO COMMIT CYBER-CRIMES.
Section 1030(b) of title 18, United States Code, is amended by
inserting ``or conspires'' after ``attempts''.
SEC. 7. PENALTIES FOR SECTION 1030 VIOLATIONS.
Subsection (c) of section 1030 of title 18, United States Code, is
amended to read as follows:
``(c) The court, in imposing sentence for an offense under
subsection (a) or (b), shall, in addition to any other sentence imposed
and irrespective of any provision of State law, order that the person
forfeit to the United States--
``(1) the person's interest in any personal property that
was used or intended to be used to commit or to facilitate the
commission of such violation; and
``(2) any property, real or personal, constituting or
derived from, any proceeds the person obtained, directly or
indirectly, as a result of such violation.''.
SEC. 8. DIRECTIVE TO SENTENCING COMMISSION.
(a) Directive.--Pursuant to its authority under section 994(p) of
title 28, United States Code, and in accordance with this section, the
United States Sentencing Commission shall forthwith review its
guidelines and policy statements applicable to persons convicted of
offenses under sections 1028, 1028A, 1030, 1030A, 2511 and 2701 of
title 18, United States Code and any other relevant provisions of law,
in order to reflect the intent of Congress that such penalties be
increased in comparison to those currently provided by such guidelines
and policy statements.
(b) Requirements.--In determining its guidelines and policy
statements on the appropriate sentence for the crimes enumerated in
paragraph (a), the Commission shall consider the extent to which the
guidelines and policy statements may or may not account for the
following factors in order to create an effective deterrent to computer
crime and the theft or misuse of personally identifiable data--
(1) the level of sophistication and planning involved in
such offense;
(2) whether such offense was committed for purpose of
commercial advantage or private financial benefit;
(3) the potential and actual loss resulting from the
offense;
(4) whether the defendant acted with intent to cause either
physical or property harm in committing the offense;
(5) the extent to which the offense violated the privacy
rights of individuals;
(6) the effect of the offense upon the operations of a
government agency of the United States, or of a State or local
government;
(7) whether the offense involved a computer used by the
government in furtherance of national defense, national
security or the administration of justice;
(8) whether the offense was intended to, or had the effect
of significantly interfering with or disrupting a critical
infrastructure;
(9) whether the offense was intended to, or had the effect
of creating a threat to public health or safety, injury to any
person, or death; and
(10) whether the defendant purposefully involved a juvenile
in the commission of the offense to avoid punishment.
(c) Additional Requirements.--In carrying out this section, the
Commission shall--
(1) assure reasonable consistency with other relevant
directives and with other sentencing guidelines;
(2) account for any additional aggravating or mitigating
circumstances that might justify exceptions to the generally
applicable sentencing ranges;
(3) make any conforming changes to the sentencing
guidelines; and
(4) assure that the guidelines adequately meet the purposes
of sentencing as set forth in section 3553(a)(2) of title 18,
United States Code.
SEC. 9. DAMAGE TO PROTECTED COMPUTERS.
(a) Section 1030(a)(5)(B) of title 18, United States Code, is
amended--
(1) by striking ``or'' at the end of clause (iv);
(2) by inserting ``or'' at the end of clause (v); and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(vi) damage affecting ten or more
protected computers during any 1-year
period.''.
(b) Section 2332b(g)(5)(B)(i) of title 18, United States Code, is
amended by striking ``(v) (relating to protection of computers)'' and
inserting ``(vi) (relating to the protection of computers)''.
SEC. 10. ADDITIONAL FUNDING FOR RESOURCES TO INVESTIGATE AND PROSECUTE
CRIMINAL ACTIVITY INVOLVING COMPUTERS.
(a) Additional Funding for Resources.--
(1) Authorization.--In addition to amounts otherwise
authorized for resources to investigate and prosecute criminal
activity involving computers, there are authorized to be
appropriated for each of the fiscal years 2007 through 2011--
(A) $10,000,000 to the Director of the United
States Secret Service;
(B) $10,000,000 to the Attorney General for the
Criminal Division of the Department of Justice; and
(C) $10,000,000 to the Director of the Federal
Bureau of Investigation.
(2) Availability.--Any amounts appropriated under paragraph
(1) shall remain available until expended.
(b) Use of Additional Funding.--Funds made available under
subsection (a) shall be used by the Director of the United States
Secret Service, the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation,
and the Attorney General, for the United States Secret Service, the
Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the criminal division of the
Department of Justice, respectively, to--
(1) hire and train law enforcement officers to--
(A) investigate crimes committed through the use of
computers and other information technology, including
through the use of the Internet; and
(B) assist in the prosecution of such crimes; and
(2) procure advanced tools of forensic science to
investigate, prosecute, and study such crimes. | Cyber-Security Enhancement Act of 2007 - Amends the federal criminal code to: (1) prohibit accessing a protected computer to obtain a unique identification number, address or routing code, or access device; (2) revise the definition of "protected computer" to include computers affecting interstate or foreign commerce or communication; (3) expand the definition of "racketeering" to include computer fraud; (4) redefine the crime of computer-related extortion to include threats to access without authorization (or to exceed authorized access of) a protected computer; (5) impose criminal penalties for conspiracy to commit computer fraud; (6) require forfeiture of property used to commit computer fraud; and (7) impose criminal penalties for damaging 10 or more protected computers during any one-year period.
Directs the U.S. Sentencing Commission to review and amend its guidelines and policy statements to reflect congressional intent to increase criminal penalties for computer fraud.
Authorizes additional appropriations in FY2007-FY2011 to the U.S. Secret Service, the Department of Justice, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to investigate and prosecute criminal activity involving computers. | To amend title 18, United States Code, to better assure cyber-security, and for other purposes. |
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