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SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Lawful Intelligence and Surveillance
of Terrorists in an Emergency by NSA Act'' or the ``LISTEN Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) Conducting electronic surveillance of al Qaeda and
other international terrorist groups is integral to protecting
people in the United States from terrorism. Electronic
surveillance can assist in the detection and prevention of
terrorist plots.
(2) Electronic surveillance may, at times, involve
surveillance of persons in the United States. Such electronic
surveillance is lawful if conducted in accordance with the
Fourth Amendment to the Constitution and the Foreign
Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 or chapters 119 or 121 of
title 18, United States Code.
(3) It is essential that in protecting the United States
from enemies, the President does not compromise the civil
liberties that the President is charged with safeguarding. In
2004, Justice Sandra Day O'Connor explained in a plurality
opinion for the Supreme Court in Hamdi v. Rumsfeld, ``We have
long since made clear that a state of war is not a blank check
for the President when it comes to the rights of the Nation's
citizens''.
(4) Section 8 of article I of the Constitution of the
United States provides that ``Congress shall have the Power . .
. to make all Laws which shall be necessary and proper for
carrying into Execution the foregoing Powers and all other
Powers vested in this Constitution in the Government of the
United States, or in any Department or Officer thereof''.
(5) In passing the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of
1978, Congress expressly determined that the Foreign
Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 and chapters 119 and 121
of title 18, United States Code, are the exclusive means by
which surveillance can be conducted in the United States.
(6) The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50
U.S.C. 1801 et seq.) authorizes the Federal Government to
conduct electronic surveillance of persons in the United States
for purposes of gathering intelligence and counterintelligence.
The Act contains emergency procedures under which electronic
surveillance may begin up to 72 hours before the Federal
Government presents to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance
Court an application for a court order approving electronic
surveillance.
(7) The Fourth Amendment to the Constitution of the United
States declares that ``The right of the people to be secure in
their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against
unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and
no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by
Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to
be searched, and the persons or things to be seized''.
(8) A determination of reasonableness under the Fourth
Amendment must ultimately be made by an independent magistrate,
not by an executive branch official.
(9) The Authorization for Use of Military Force (Public Law
107-40), passed by Congress on September 14, 2001, does not
constitute legal authorization for electronic surveillance not
authorized by chapters 119 or 121 of title 18, United States
Code, or the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50
U.S.C. 1801 et seq.).
SEC. 3. REITERATION OF CHAPTERS 119 AND 121 OF TITLE 18, UNITED STATES
CODE, AND THE FOREIGN INTELLIGENCE SURVEILLANCE ACT OF
1978 AS THE EXCLUSIVE MEANS BY WHICH DOMESTIC ELECTRONIC
SURVEILLANCE MAY BE CONDUCTED.
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, chapters 119 and 121 of
title 18, United States Code, and the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance
Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.) shall be the exclusive means by
which electronic surveillance may be conducted.
SEC. 4. COMPLIANCE WITH FISA REQUIREMENTS.
(a) Ensuring Compliance.--The President shall ensure that all
electronic surveillance of persons in the United States is conducted in
accordance with chapters 119 or 121 of title 18, United States Code, or
title I of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C.
1801 et seq.).
(b) Procedures.--The President shall ensure that the procedures for
applying for an order for electronic surveillance under title I of the
Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 continue to be adequate
for the timely and efficient electronic surveillance of appropriate
targets.
(c) Report.--
(1) In general.--If at any time the President determines
that the procedures described in subsection (b) are not
adequate for the timely and efficient electronic surveillance
of appropriate targets in accordance with title I of the
Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978, the President
shall submit to the relevant congressional committees a report
containing findings and recommendations with respect to
emergency applications and, to the extent deemed necessary by
the President, routine applications for an order under such
title on--
(A) the level of resources and personnel needed at
the National Security Agency and the Department of
Justice to handle such applications to the Foreign
Intelligence Surveillance Court;
(B) the need for new information technology systems
to facilitate the near real-time approval of such
applications to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance
Court;
(C) how to streamline the processing of information
that must be presented to the Foreign Intelligence
Surveillance Court for such an application;
(D) how to expedite review within the National
Security Agency, the Department of Justice, or other
appropriate agencies or departments of such
applications before such an application is submitted to
the Attorney General;
(E) whether a senior official reporting to the
Attorney General, such as the Deputy Attorney General
or the Assistant Attorney General for National
Security, should be authorized to approve such
applications; and
(F) the need for any legislative changes to improve
such procedures.
(2) Date of submission.--The report under paragraph (1)
shall be submitted to the relevant congressional committees not
later than 30 days after the date on which the President
determines under such paragraph that the procedures described
in subsection (b) are not adequate for the timely electronic
surveillance of appropriate targets in the United States.
(d) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be
construed to authorize the President to conduct electronic surveillance
other than in accordance with title I of the Foreign Intelligence
Surveillance Act of 1978 or chapters 119 or 121 of title 18, United
States Code.
SEC. 5. AUTHORIZATION FOR INCREASED RESOURCES TO PROCESS FOREIGN
INTELLIGENCE SURVEILLANCE ACT APPLICATIONS.
There are authorized to be appropriated to the National Security
Agency and the Department of Justice for the activities of the Office
of Intelligence Policy and Review such sums as may be necessary to meet
the increased personnel and information technology demands to ensure
the timely and efficient processing of applications to the Foreign
Intelligence Surveillance Court.
SEC. 6. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Electronic surveillance.--The term ``electronic
surveillance'' has the meaning given the term in section 101(f)
of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C.
1801(f)).
(2) Foreign intelligence surveillance court.--The term
``Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court'' has the meaning
given the term in section 301(3) of the Foreign Intelligence
Surveillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1821(3)).
(3) Relevant congressional committees.--The term ``relevant
congressional committees'' means the Permanent Select Committee
on Intelligence and the Committee on the Judiciary of the House
of Representatives and the Select Committee on Intelligence and
the Committee on the Judiciary of the Senate. | Lawful Intelligence and Surveillance of Terrorists in an Emergency by NSA Act or LISTEN Act - States that specified provisions of federal criminal law concerning wire and electronic communications and their interception and the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (FISA) shall be the exclusive means by which domestic electronic surveillance may be conducted. Directs the President to ensure that: (1) all electronic surveillance of persons in the United States is conducted within those exclusive means; and (2) the procedures for applying for an order for electronic surveillance under FISA continue to be adequate for the timely and efficient electronic surveillance of appropriate targets.
Requires: (1) the President to report to the congressional intelligence and judiciary committees upon a determination that such procedures are inadequate; and (2) the report to contain findings and recommendations with respect to emergency or routine applications for such orders.
Authorizes appropriations to the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) for activities of the Office of Intelligence Policy and Review to ensure the timely and efficient processing of applications to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To reiterate that the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 and title 18, United States Code, are the exclusive means by which domestic electronic surveillance may be conducted, and for other purposes."} | 1,746 | 238 | 0.560245 | 1.46935 | 0.870463 | 4.202899 | 7.352657 | 0.927536 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Department of Energy Security
Oversight Improvement Act of 2000''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds that--
(1) internal Department of Energy oversight of safeguards
and security has suffered over the years from inconsistent
application, lack of senior management attention, reduced
resources, and overlapping and conflicting roles and
responsibilities among various Department offices;
(2) the Department of Energy is in need of a statutorily-
based independent security oversight office with the
responsibility to regularly assess the effectiveness of the
Department's policy and site performance in the area of
safeguards and security, including computer security, and
report to the Secretary on such findings annually;
(3) the Department of Energy's oversight of security at its
sites should be streamlined to reduce overlapping and redundant
oversight, to improve accountability, and to ensure greater
consistency in application, findings, and reporting of results;
and
(4) it is appropriate to establish a single, independent
security oversight office within the Department of Energy,
without prejudice to the continued compliance assurance
activities conducted at the Department site level.
SEC. 3. OFFICE OF INDEPENDENT SECURITY OVERSIGHT.
(a) Office.--The Secretary of Energy shall maintain an Office of
Independent Security Oversight, which shall be headed by a Director
appointed by the Secretary without regard to political affiliation and
solely on the basis of integrity and demonstrated ability in the
oversight and evaluation of security for nuclear and classified
programs. The Director shall report directly to and be under the
general supervision of the Secretary, but the Director shall not report
to or be subject to supervision by any other office or officer of the
Department of Energy. The Secretary shall not prevent, prohibit, or
delay the Director from initiating, carrying out, or completing any
inspection, evaluation, or report undertaken pursuant to this Act. Such
Office shall be responsible for carrying out the missions and functions
described in subsections (c) and (d), but the Office shall have no
authority to establish or require the implementation of any change to
the policies, programs, or practices of the Department of Energy.
(b) Experts and Consultants.--In addition to employees of the
Department of Energy, the Director is authorized to utilize such
experts and consultants as the Director deems appropriate. For such
purposes, the Director may procure temporary and intermittent services
under section 3109(b) of title 5, United States Code. Upon request of
the Director, the head of any Federal agency is authorized to detail,
on a reimbursable basis, any of the personnel of such agency to the
Director to assist the Director in carrying out functions under this
section.
(c) Mission.--The Office of Independent Security Oversight shall be
responsible for the independent evaluation of the effectiveness of
safeguards and security (including computer security) policies,
programs, and practices throughout the Department of Energy, including
the National Nuclear Security Administration. The Office shall identify
security weaknesses, make recommendations to the Secretary for
improvement, and review the effectiveness and timeliness of corrective
actions taken by the Department.
(d) Functions.--The Office of Independent Security Oversight shall
perform the following functions:
(1) Conduct regular evaluations of safeguards and security
programs at Department of Energy sites that have significant
amounts of special nuclear material, classified information, or
other security interests. The scope of the evaluations shall
include all aspects of safeguards and security, including
physical protection of special nuclear material, accountability
of special nuclear material, protection of classified and
sensitive information, classified and unclassified computer
security, personnel security, and interactions with foreign
nationals.
(2) Issue reports to the Secretary that clearly identify
specific findings relating to security weaknesses, and make
recommendations for improvement.
(3) Perform timely followup reviews to ensure that any
corrective actions implemented by the Department are effective.
(4) Evaluate and assess Department of Energy policies
related to safeguards and security.
(5) Develop recommendations and opportunities for improving
safeguards and security policies, programs, and practices for
submittal to the Secretary.
(6) Any other function the Secretary considers appropriate
and consistent with the mission described in subsection (c).
(e) Timing of Regular Evaluations.--
(1) General rule.--Except as provided in paragraph (2),
evaluations conducted under subsection (d)(1) shall occur at
least once every 2 years.
(2) Computer security evaluations.--Evaluations conducted
under subsection (d)(1) with respect to classified and
unclassified computer security shall occur at least once every
18 months.
(f) Access to Information.--In carrying out this section, the
Director shall have access to all records and personnel of the
Department concerning its safeguards and security programs, including
classified and unclassified computer security programs.
SEC. 4. REPORTS.
(a) Report by Office.--The Office of Independent Security Oversight
shall, before February 15 of each year, transmit to the Secretary of
Energy an unclassified report, with a classified appendix if requested
or necessary, summarizing the activities of the Office during the
immediately preceding calendar year. Such report shall include--
(1) a summary of each significant report made to the
Secretary pursuant to this Act during the reporting period,
including a description of key security findings contained in
those reports;
(2) the adequacy of corrective actions, if any, taken by
the Department to address significant problems and
deficiencies;
(3) an identification of each significant problem or
deficiency described in previous annual reports on which
corrective action has not been effectively completed;
(4) a description and explanation of the reasons for any
significant revisions to security policy decisions made during
the reporting period; and
(5) a description of any significant security policy
decision with which the Director is in disagreement, along with
an explanation of the reasons for disagreement.
(b) Report by Secretary.--The Secretary of Energy shall, before
March 15 of each year, transmit to the appropriate committees of
Congress, without alteration, the Office's annual report submitted
under subsection (a), along with an unclassified report, with a
classified appendix if requested or necessary, summarizing the
Secretary's response thereto. Such report from the Secretary shall
include--
(1) a description of the Secretary's response to each
significant report and security finding made to the Secretary
pursuant to this Act during the reporting period;
(2) an explanation of the reasons for any failure on the
part of the Department of Energy to remedy security findings
identified by the Office in the current annual report and
previous annual reports; and
(3) to the extent relevant, an explanation of how the
President's budget submissions will impact the ability of the
Department to remedy unresolved security findings identified by
the Office in its annual reports.
(c) Public Availability.--Within 60 days after the transmission of
the annual reports to the Congress under subsection (b), the Secretary
of Energy shall make copies of the unclassified portions of such
reports available to the public.
(d) Special Reports.--The Director of the Office of Independent
Security Oversight shall report immediately to the Secretary of Energy
whenever the Director becomes aware of deficiencies relating to the
security programs, practices, or operations of the Department of Energy
that require an immediate response. The Secretary shall, within 7
calendar days after receiving a report under this subsection, notify
the appropriate committees of Congress in writing and explain the
corrective actions taken to address such deficiencies.
(e) Congressional Testimony and Briefings.--The Director of the
Office of Independent Security Oversight, whenever called to testify
before any Committee of Congress or to brief its Members or staff,
shall provide the Secretary of Energy with advance notice of the
subject matter of that testimony or briefing, but shall provide the
requested information to the Congress without any further review,
clearance, or approval by any other official in the Executive Branch.
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``National Nuclear Security
Administration Security Oversight Improvement Act of 2000''.
SEC. 2. OFFICE OF INDEPENDENT SECURITY OVERSIGHT.
(a) Office Required.--Subtitle B of the National Nuclear Security
Administration Act (title XXXII of Public Law 106-65; 113 Stat. 953; 50
U.S.C. 2401 et seq.) is amended by inserting at the end the following
new section:
``SEC. 3237. OFFICE OF INDEPENDENT SECURITY OVERSIGHT.
``(a) Office Required.--The Administrator shall maintain an Office
of Independent Security Oversight, which shall be headed by a Director
appointed by the Administrator without regard to political affiliation
and solely on the basis of integrity and demonstrated ability in the
oversight and evaluation of security for nuclear and classified
programs. The Director shall report directly to and be under the
general supervision of the Administrator, but the Director shall not be
subject to supervision by any other office or officer of the
Administration or of the Department of Energy. Neither the Secretary of
Energy nor the Administrator shall prevent, prohibit, or delay the
Director from initiating, carrying out, or completing any inspection,
evaluation, or report undertaken pursuant to this section or from
submitting to the Congress any such report. Such Office shall be
responsible for carrying out the missions and functions described in
subsections (c) and (d), but the Office shall have no authority to
establish or require the implementation of any change to the policies,
programs, or practices of the Administration.
``(b) Experts and Consultants.--In addition to employees of the
Administration, the Director is authorized to utilize such experts and
consultants as the Director deems appropriate. For such purposes, the
Director may procure temporary and intermittent services under section
3109(b) of title 5, United States Code. Upon request of the Director,
the head of any Federal agency is authorized to detail, on a
reimbursable basis, any of the personnel of such agency to the Director
to assist the Director in carrying out functions under this section.
``(c) Mission.--The Office of Independent Security Oversight shall
be responsible for the independent evaluation of the effectiveness of
safeguards and security (including computer security) policies,
programs, and practices of the Administration. The Office shall
identify security weaknesses, make recommendations to the Administrator
for improvement, and review the effectiveness and timeliness of
corrective actions taken by the Administration.
``(d) Functions.--The Office of Independent Security Oversight
shall perform the following functions:
``(1) Conduct regular evaluations of safeguards and
security programs at Administration sites that have significant
amounts of special nuclear material, classified information, or
other security interests. The scope of the evaluations shall
include all aspects of safeguards and security, including
physical protection of special nuclear material, accountability
of special nuclear material, protection of classified and
sensitive information, classified and unclassified computer
security, personnel security, and interactions with foreign
nationals.
``(2) Issue reports to the Administrator that clearly
identify specific findings relating to security weaknesses, and
make recommendations for improvement.
``(3) Perform timely followup reviews to assess the
effectiveness of any corrective actions implemented by the
Administration.
``(4) Evaluate and assess Administration policies related
to safeguards and security.
``(5) Develop recommendations and opportunities for
improving safeguards and security policies, programs, and
practices for submittal to the Administrator.
``(6) Any other function the Administrator considers
appropriate and consistent with the mission described in
subsection (c).
``(e) Timing of Regular Evaluations.--
``(1) General rule.--Except as provided in paragraph (2),
evaluations conducted under subsection (d)(1) shall occur at
least once every two years.
``(2) Computer security evaluations.--Evaluations conducted
under subsection (d)(1) with respect to classified and
unclassified computer security shall occur at least once every
18 months.
``(f) Access to Information.--In carrying out this section, the
Director shall have access to all records and personnel of the
Administration concerning its safeguards and security programs,
including classified and unclassified computer security programs.
``(g) Report by Office.--The Office of Independent Security
Oversight shall, before February 15 of each year, transmit to the
Administrator and the Secretary an unclassified report, with a
classified appendix if requested or necessary, summarizing the
activities of the Office during the immediately preceding calendar
year. Such report shall include--
``(1) a summary of each significant report made to the
Administrator pursuant to this section during the reporting
period, including a description of key security findings
contained in those reports;
``(2) the adequacy of corrective actions, if any, taken by
the Administration to address significant problems and
deficiencies;
``(3) an identification of each significant problem or
deficiency described in previous annual reports on which
corrective action has not been effectively completed; and
``(4) a description of any significant security policy
decision with which the Director is in disagreement, along with
an explanation of the reasons for disagreement.
``(h) Report by Administrator.--The Administrator shall, before
March 15 of each year, transmit to the appropriate committees of
Congress, without alteration, the Office's annual report submitted
under subsection (g), along with an unclassified report, with a
classified appendix if requested or necessary, summarizing the
Administrator's response thereto. Such report from the Administrator
shall include--
``(1) a description of the Administrator's response to each
significant report and security finding made to the
Administrator pursuant to this section during the reporting
period;
``(2) an explanation of the reasons for any failure on the
part of the Administration to remedy security findings
identified by the Office in the current annual report and
previous annual reports; and
``(3) to the extent relevant, an explanation of how the
President's budget submissions will impact the ability of the
Administration to remedy unresolved security findings
identified by the Office in its annual reports.
``(i) Public Availability.--Within 60 days after the transmission
of the annual reports to the Congress under subsection (h), the
Administrator shall make copies of the unclassified portions of such
reports available to the public.
``(j) Special Reports.--The Director of the Office of Independent
Security Oversight shall report immediately to the Administrator
whenever the Director becomes aware of deficiencies relating to the
security programs, practices, or operations of the Administration that
require an immediate response. The Administrator shall, within seven
calendar days after receiving a report under this subsection, notify
the appropriate committees of Congress in writing and explain the
corrective actions taken to address such deficiencies.
``(k) Congressional Testimony and Briefings.--The Director of the
Office of Independent Security Oversight, whenever called to testify
before a committee of Congress or to brief any Member of Congress or
congressional staff, shall provide the Administrator with advance
notice of the subject matter of that testimony or briefing, but shall
provide the requested information to the Congress without any further
review, clearance, or approval by any other official in the Executive
Branch.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of contents at the beginning of
such Act is amended by inserting after the item relating to section
3236 the following new item:
``Sec. 3237. Office of Independent Security Oversight.''.
Amend the title so as to read: ``A bill to ensure that the
National Nuclear Security Administration has appropriate
mechanisms to independently assess the effectiveness of its
policy and site performance in the areas of safeguards and
security and cyber security.''. | Prohibits both the Secretary of Energy and the Administrator from impeding the actions of the Director pursuant to this Act.
Denies the Office any authority to establish or require the implementation of any change to Administration policies, programs, or practices. Authorizes the Director to use experts and consultants in addition to DOE employees.
Confers responsibility upon such Office for independent evaluations of the effectiveness of Administration: (1) safeguards, security programs at sites that have significant amounts of special nuclear material and other security interests; and (2) computer security evaluations. Cites Office functions.
Requires the Office to submit an annual status report to the Administrator and the Secretary of Energy. Instructs the Administrator to transmit such report without alteration to appropriate congressional committees, accompanied by the Administrator's summary response thereto. Instructs the Director to provide the Administrator with advance notice of the subject matter of any testimony or briefing prepared for Congress. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "National Nuclear Security Administration Security Oversight Improvement Act of 2000"} | 3,325 | 194 | 0.576225 | 1.699314 | 1.131808 | 3.034682 | 18.554913 | 0.907514 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Criminal Copyright Improvement Act
of 1995''.
SEC. 2. CRIMINAL INFRINGEMENT OF COPYRIGHTS.
(a) Definition of Financial Gain.--Section 101 of title 17, United
States Code, is amended by inserting after the undesignated paragraph
relating to the term ``display'', the following new paragraph:
``The term `financial gain' includes receipt of anything of
value, including the receipt of other copyrighted works.''.
(b) Criminal Offenses.--Section 506(a) of title 17, United States
Code, is amended to read as follows:
``(a) Criminal Infringement.--Any person who infringes a copyright
willfully either--
``(1) for purposes of commercial advantage or private
financial gain; or
``(2) by the reproduction or distribution, including by
transmission, or assisting others in such reproduction or
distribution, of 1 or more copies, of 1 or more copyrighted
works, which have a total retail value of $5,000 or more,
shall be punished as provided under section 2319 of title 18.''.
(c) Limitation on Criminal Proceedings.--Section 507(a) of title
17, United States Code, is amended by striking out ``three'' and
inserting in lieu thereof ``five''.
(d) Criminal Infringement of a Copyright.--Section 2319 of title
18, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)--
(A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by
striking out ``subsection (a) of this section'' and
inserting in lieu thereof ``section 506(a)(1) of title
17'';
(B) in paragraph (1)--
(i) by inserting ``including by
transmission, or assisting others in such
reproduction or distribution,'' after ``if the
offense consists of the reproduction or
distribution,'';
(ii) by striking out ``with a retail value
of more than $2,500'' and inserting in lieu
thereof ``which have a total retail value of
more than $5,000''; and
(iii) by adding ``and'' at the end thereof;
(C) by striking out paragraph (2); and
(D) by redesignating paragraph (3) as paragraph
(2); and
(2) by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (f) and
inserting after subsection (b) the following:
``(c) Any person who commits an offense under section 506(a)(2) of
title 17--
``(1) shall be imprisoned not more than 5 years, or fined
in the amount set forth in this title, or both, if the offense
consists of the reproduction or distribution, including by
transmission, or assisting others in such reproduction or
distribution, of 1 or more copyrighted works, which have a
total retail value of more than $10,000; and
``(2) shall be imprisoned not more than 1 year, or fined in
the amount set forth in this title, or both, in any other case.
``(d) Any person who commits an offense under subsection (a) shall
be imprisoned not more than 10 years, or fined in the amount set forth
in this title, or both, if the offense is a second or subsequent felony
offense under that subsection.
``(e)(1) During preparation of the presentence report pursuant to
rule 32(c) of the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure, victims of the
offense shall be permitted to submit, and the probation officer shall
receive, a victim impact statement that identifies the victim of the
offense and the extent and scope of the injury and loss suffered by the
victim, including the estimated economic impact of the offense on that
victim.
``(2) Persons permitted to submit victim impact statements shall
include--
``(A) producers and sellers of legitimate works affected by
conduct involved in the offense;
``(B) holders of intellectual property rights in such
works; and
``(C) the legal representatives of such producers, sellers,
and holders.''.
(e) Unauthorized Fixation and Trafficking of Live Musical
Performances.--Section 2319A of title 18, United States Code, is
amended--
(1) by redesignating subsections (d) and (e) as subsections
(e) and (f), respectively; and
(2) by inserting after subsection (c) the following:
``(d) Victim Impact Statement.--(1) During preparation of the
presentence report pursuant to rule 32(c) of the Federal Rules of
Criminal Procedure, victims of the offense shall be permitted to
submit, and the probation officer shall receive, a victim impact
statement that identifies the victim of the offense and the extent and
scope of the injury and loss suffered by the victim, including the
estimated economic impact of the offense on that victim.
``(2) Persons permitted to submit victim impact statements shall
include--
``(A) producers and sellers of legitimate works affected by
conduct involved in the offense;
``(B) holders of intellectual property rights in such
works; and
``(C) the legal representatives of such producers, sellers,
and holders.''.
(f) Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods or Services.--Section 2320 of
title 18, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by redesignating subsection (d) as subsection (e); and
(2) by inserting after subsection (c) the following:
``(d)(1) During preparation of the presentence report pursuant to
rule 32(c) of the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure, victims of the
offense shall be permitted to submit, and the probation officer shall
receive, a victim impact statement that identifies the victim of the
offense and the extent and scope of the injury and loss suffered by the
victim, including the estimated economic impact of the offense on that
victim.
``(2) Persons permitted to submit victim impact statements shall
include--
``(A) producers and sellers of legitimate goods or services
affected by conduct involved in the offense;
``(B) holders of intellectual property rights in such goods
or services; and
``(C) the legal representatives of such producers, sellers,
and holders.''.
(g) Directive to Sentencing Commission.--(1) Under the authority of
the Sentencing Reform Act of 1984 (Public Law 98-473; 98 Stat. 1987)
and section 21 of the Sentencing Act of 1987 (Public Law 100-182; 101
Stat. 1271; 18 U.S.C. 994 note) (including the authority to amend the
sentencing guidelines and policy statements), the United States
Sentencing Commission shall ensure that the applicable guideline range
for a defendant convicted of a crime against intellectual property
(including offenses set forth at section 506(a) of title 17, United
States Code, and sections 2319, 2319A and 2320 of title 18, United
States Code) is sufficiently stringent to deter such a crime, and to
adequately reflect the additional considerations set forth in paragraph
(2) of this subsection.
(2) In implementing paragraph (1), the Sentencing Commission shall
ensure that the guidelines provide for consideration of the retail
value of the legitimate items that are infringed upon and the quantity
of items so infringed. | Criminal Copyright Improvement Act of 1995 - Amends Federal copyright law to define "financial gain" to include the receipt of anything of value, including the receipt of other copyrighted works.
Sets penalties for willfully infringing a copyright by reproducing or distributing, including by transmission, or assisting others in the reproduction or distribution of, one or more copies of one or more copyrighted works which have a total retail value of $5,000 or more.
Extends the statute of limitations for criminal copyright infringement from three to five years.
Revises Federal criminal code provisions regarding criminal copyright infringement to provide for a fine and up to five years' imprisonment for infringing a copyright: (1) for purposes of commercial advantage or private financial gain, by reproducing or distributing, including by transmission, or assisting others in such reproduction or distribution, during any 180-day period, of at least ten copies or phonorecords of one or more copyrighted works which have a total retail value of more than $5,000; or (2) otherwise by reproducing or distributing one or more copyrighted works which have a total retail value of more than $10,000. Provides for: (1) up to one year's imprisonment in any other such infringement case; and (2) up to ten years' imprisonment for a second or subsequent felony offense.
Requires, during preparation of the presentence report in cases of criminal copyright infringement, unauthorized fixation and trafficking of live musical performances, and trafficking in counterfeit goods or services, that victims of the offense be permitted to submit, and the probation officer receive, a victim impact statement that identifies the victim and the extent and scope of the victim's injury and loss, including the estimated economic impact of the offense on that victim.
Directs the U.S. Sentencing Commission to ensure that the applicable guideline range for a defendant convicted of a crime against intellectual property is sufficiently stringent to deter such a crime and to adequately reflect consideration of the retail value of the legitimate items that are infringed upon and the quantity of items so infringed. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Criminal Copyright Improvement Act of 1995"} | 1,616 | 475 | 0.582892 | 1.761417 | 0.728321 | 4.493639 | 3.854962 | 0.86514 |
SECTION 1. READY RESERVE-NATIONAL GUARD EMPLOYEE CREDIT ADDED TO
GENERAL BUSINESS CREDIT.
(a) Ready Reserve-National Guard Credit.--Subpart D of part IV of
subchapter A of chapter 1 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
(relating to business related credits) is amended by adding at the end
thereof the following new section:
``SEC. 45A. READY RESERVE-NATIONAL GUARD EMPLOYEE CREDIT.
``(a) General Rule.--For purposes of section 38, the Ready Reserve-
National Guard employee credit determined under this section for the
taxable year is an amount equal to the sum of--
``(1) 50 percent of the actual compensation amount for the
taxable year, plus
``(2) 10 percent of the unpaid compensation amount for the
taxable year.
``(b) Definition of Actual Compensation Amount and Unpaid
Compensation Amount.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) Actual compensation amount.--The term `actual
compensation amount' means the amount of compensation paid or
incurred by an employer with respect to a Ready Reserve-
National Guard employee on any day during a taxable year when
the employee was absent from employment for the purpose of
performing qualified active duty.
``(2) Unpaid compensation amount.--The term `unpaid
compensation amount' means the amount of compensation which
ordinarily would have been paid or incurred by an employer with
respect to a Ready Reserve-National Guard employee on any day
during a taxable year but was not paid because the employee was
absent from employment for the purpose of performing qualified
active duty.
``(c) Limitations.--
``(1) Maximum credit.--The maximum credit allowable under
subsection (a) shall not exceed $2,000 in any taxable year with
respect to any one Ready Reserve-National Guard employee.
``(2) Days other than work days.--No credit shall be
allowed with respect to a Ready Reserve-National Guard employee
who performs qualified active duty on any day on which the
employee was not scheduled to work (for a reason other than to
participate in qualified active duty) and ordinarily would not
have worked.
``(d) Definitions.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) Qualified active duty.--The term `qualified active
duty' means--
``(A) active duty, other than the training duty
specified in section 270(a) of title 10, United States
Code (relating to training requirements for the Ready
Reserve), or section 502(a) of title 32, United States
Code (relating to required drills and field exercises
for the National Guard), in connection with which an
employee is entitled to reemployment rights and other
benefits or to a leave of absence from employment under
section 2024 of title 38, United States Code, and
``(B) hospitalization incident to such duty.
``(2) Compensation.--The term `compensation' means any
remuneration for employment, whether in cash or in kind--
``(A) which is paid or incurred by a taxpayer and
which is deductible from the taxpayer's gross income
under section 162(a)(1), or
``(B) which if paid would have been so deductible.
``(3) Ready reserve-national guard employee.--The term
`Ready Reserve-National Guard employee' means an employee who
is a member of the Ready Reserve or of the National Guard.
``(4) National guard.--The term `National Guard' has the
meaning given such term by section 101(9) of title 10, United
States Code.
``(5) Ready reserve.--The term `Ready Reserve' has the
meaning given such term by section 268 of title 10, United
States Code.''
(b) General Business Credit.--
(1) In general.--Subsection (b) of section 38 of such Code
(relating to general business credit) is amended by adding at
the end thereof the following new paragraph:
``(9) the Ready Reserve-National Guard employee credit
determined under section 45A(a).''
(2) Clerical amendments.--Such subsection is further
amended--
(A) by striking ``plus'' in paragraph (7), and
(B) by striking the period at the end of paragraph
(8) and inserting ``, plus''.
SEC. 2. CONFORMING AMENDMENT.
The table of sections for subpart D of part IV of subchapter A of
chapter 1 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by inserting
after the item relating to section 45 the following new item:
``Sec. 45A. Ready Reserve-National Guard
employee credit.''
SEC. 3. EFFECTIVE DATE.
The amendments made by this Act shall apply to taxable years
beginning after December 31, 1992. | Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide a business tax credit for employers of members of the Ready Reserve or National Guard absent from work on active duty. Limits such credit to $2,000 with respect to any one Ready Reserve-National Guard employee. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide a tax credit to employers who employ members of the Ready Reserve or of the National Guard."} | 1,066 | 52 | 0.600109 | 1.370836 | 0.82822 | 3.395833 | 20.020833 | 0.854167 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Rural Health Access and Improvement
Act of 2009''.
SEC. 2. GRANTS TO PROMOTE HOSPITAL HEALTH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY.
Section 3013 of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 300jj-33)
is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(j) Priority.--In awarding a grant under this section, the
Secretary shall give priority to qualified State-designated entities
that are critical access hospitals, as defined in section 1861(mm) of
the Social Security Act.''.
SEC. 3. EXPANDED PARTICIPATION IN SECTION 340B PROGRAM.
Section 340B(a)(4) of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C.
256b(a)(4)) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(M) A children's hospital excluded from the
Medicare prospective payment system pursuant to section
1886(d)(1)(B)(iii) of the Social Security Act, or a
free-standing cancer hospital excluded from the
Medicare prospective payment system pursuant to section
1886(d)(1)(B)(v) of the Social Security Act, that would
meet the requirements of subparagraph (L), including
the disproportionate share adjustment percentage
requirement under clause (ii) of such subparagraph, if
the hospital were a subsection (d) hospital as defined
by section 1886(d)(1)(B) of the Social Security Act.
``(N) An entity that is a critical access hospital
(as determined under section 1820(c)(2) of the Social
Security Act), and that meets the requirements of
subparagraph (L)(i).
``(O) An entity that is a rural referral center, as
defined in section 1886(d)(5)(C)(i) of the Social
Security Act, or a sole community hospital, as defined
by section 1886(d)(5)(C)(iii) of such Act, and that
both meets the requirements of subparagraph (L)(i) and
has a disproportionate share adjustment percentage
equal to or greater than 8 percent.
``(P) An entity that is a rural health clinic, as
defined in section 1861(aa)(2) of the Social Security
Act.''.
SEC. 4. GAO STUDY AND REPORT ON DISPENSING FEES.
(a) Study.--The Comptroller General of the United States shall
conduct a study of the cost in each State of dispensing prescription
drugs under the Medicaid program under title XIX of the Social Security
Act (42 U.S.C. 1396a et seq.), which shall consider--
(1) any reasonable costs associated with pharmacists--
(A) checking for information regarding Medicaid
coverage of individuals; and
(B) performing necessary clinical review and
quality assurance activities, such as--
(i) activities to identify and reduce the
frequency of patterns of fraud, abuse, gross
overuse, and inappropriate or medically
unnecessary care among physicians, pharmacists,
and patients;
(ii) activities associated with specific
drugs or groups of drugs, including potential
and actual severe adverse reactions to drugs,
including education on therapeutic
appropriateness, over-utilization and under-
utilization of drugs, appropriate use of
generic products, therapeutic duplication,
drug-disease contraindications, drug
interactions, incorrect drug dosage or duration
of drug treatment, drug-allergy interactions,
and clinical abuse or misuse; and
(iii) any other clinical review and quality
assurance activities required under Federal or
State law;
(2) the costs incurred by a pharmacy that are associated
with--
(A) the measurement or mixing of a drug covered by
Medicaid;
(B) filling the container for such a drug;
(C) physically transferring the prescription to the
patient, including any costs of delivering the
medication to the home of such patient;
(D) special packaging of drugs;
(E) overhead costs of the pharmacy, or the section
of the facility that is devoted to a pharmacy, and
maintenance of the pharmacy or section of the facility
(including the equipment necessary to operate such
pharmacy or such section and the salaries of
pharmacists and other pharmacy workers);
(F) geographic factors that impact operational
costs;
(G) compounding such prescription if necessary; and
(H) uncollectability of Medicaid prescription
copayments;
(3) the variation in costs described in paragraph (2) based
on--
(A) whether a product dispensed is a rural or urban
pharmacy;
(B) whether the product dispensed is a specialty
pharmacy product; and
(C) whether the pharmacy is located in, or
contracts with, a long-term care facility; and
(4) the increase in dispensing fees, including the costs
described in paragraphs (1), (2), and (3), that would be
sufficient to create an incentive for a pharmacist to promote
the substitution of covered general alternative therapies.
(b) Report.--Not later than December 1, 2010, the Comptroller
General of the United States shall submit to the Secretary of Health
and Human Services and to each State a report describing the study
conducted under subsection (a). The report shall include--
(1) the average cost in each State of dispensing a
prescription drug under Medicaid;
(2) the findings of the study conducted under subsection
(a) with respect to--
(A) the variation in costs studied under
subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (3) of such
subsection; and
(B) the increase in dispensing fees described in
paragraph (4) of such subsection.
(c) Use of Study.--Each State shall use the report described in
subsection (b) to assess the adequacy of Medicaid pharmacy dispensing
fees. The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall use such report
to approve State plan amendments for States that submit such amendments
for the purposes of increasing Medicaid pharmacy dispensing fees.
SEC. 5. STATE OFFICES OF RURAL HEALTH.
Section 338J of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 254r) is
amended by striking subsection (k). | Rural Health Access and Improvement Act of 2009 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to give priority to critical access hospitals in awarding grants to facilitate and expand the electronic movement and use of health information among organizations according to nationally recognized standards.
Expands the 340B drug discount program to allow participation as a covered entity by certain children's hospitals, critical access hospitals, rural referral centers, sole community hospitals, and rural health clinics.
Directs the Comptroller General to study and report on the cost in each state of dispensing prescription drugs under the Medicaid program. Requires states to use the report to assess the adequacy of Medicaid pharmacy dispensing fees.
Repeals provisions terminating the grant program for the operation of state offices of rural health. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "A bill to give critical access hospitals priority in receiving grants to implement health information technology, to expand participation in the drug pricing agreement program under section 340B of the Public Health Service Act, to provide for a study and report on pharmacy dispensing fees under Medicaid, to provide for continuing funding for operation of State offices of rural health, and for other purposes."} | 1,364 | 178 | 0.485006 | 1.209933 | 0.783445 | 3 | 7.980132 | 0.84106 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Angel Tax Credit Act''.
SEC. 2. ANGEL INVESTMENT TAX CREDIT.
(a) In General.--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 section:
``SEC. 30E. ANGEL INVESTMENT TAX CREDIT.
``(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 qualified equity investments made by a
qualified investor during the taxable year.
``(b) Limitation.--The amount of the credit allowed under
subsection (a) for any taxpayer for any taxable year shall not exceed
$250,000.
``(c) Qualified Equity Investment.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) In general.--The term `qualified equity investment'
means any equity investment in a qualifying business entity
if--
``(A) the aggregate amount of such investments made
by the taxpayer during the taxable year is $25,000 or
more,
``(B) such investment is acquired by the taxpayer
at its original issue (directly or through an
underwriter) solely in exchange for cash, and
``(C) such investment is designated for purposes of
this section by the qualifying business entity.
``(2) Equity investment.--The term `equity investment'
means--
``(A) any form of equity, including a general or
limited partnership interest, common stock, preferred
stock (other than nonqualified preferred stock as
defined in section 351(g)(2)), with or without voting
rights, without regard to seniority position and
whether or not convertible into common stock or any
form of subordinate or convertible debt, or both, with
warrants or other means of equity conversion, and
``(B) any capital interest in an entity which is a
partnership.
``(3) Redemptions.--A rule similar to the rule of section
1202(c)(3) shall apply for purposes of this subsection.
``(d) Qualifying Business Entity.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) In general.--The term `qualifying business entity'
means any domestic corporation or partnership if such
corporation or partnership--
``(A) has its headquarters in the United States,
``(B) has gross revenues for the taxable year
preceding the date of the qualified equity investment
of less than $1,000,000,
``(C) employs less than 25 full-time equivalent
employees as of the date of such investment,
``(D) has been in existence for less than 7 years
as of the date of the qualified equity investment,
``(E) has more than 50 percent of the employees
performing substantially all of their services in the
United States as of the date of such investment,
``(F) is engaged in a high technology trade or
business related to--
``(i) advanced materials, nanotechnology,
or precision manufacturing,
``(ii) aerospace, aeronautics, or defense,
``(iii) biotechnology or pharmaceuticals,
``(iv) electronics, semiconductors,
software, or computer technology,
``(v) energy, environment, or clean
technologies,
``(vi) forest products or agriculture,
``(vii) information technology,
communication technology, digital media, or
photonics,
``(viii) life sciences or medical sciences,
``(ix) marine technology or aquaculture,
``(x) transportation, or
``(xi) any other high technology trade or
business, as determined by the Secretary of the
Treasury, and
``(G) has equity investments designated for
purposes of this paragraph.
``(2) Designation of equity investments.--For purposes of
paragraph (1)(G), an equity investment shall not be treated as
designated if such designation would result in the aggregate
amount which may be taken into account under this section with
respect to equity investments in such corporation or
partnership exceeds $2,000,000, taking into account the total
amount of all qualified equity investments made by all
taxpayers for the taxable year and all preceding taxable years.
``(e) Qualified Investor.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) In general.--The term `qualified investor' means an
accredited investor, as defined by the Securities and Exchange
Commission.
``(2) Exclusion.--The term `qualified investor' does not
include--
``(A) a person controlling at least 50 percent of
the qualifying business entity,
``(B) any venture capital fund (within the meaning
of section 203(l) of the Investment Advisers Act of
1940 (15 U.S.C. 80b-3(l))), or
``(C) any bank, savings association, loan
association, trust company, insurance company, or
similar entity whose business activities include making
similar investments to investments of a venture capital
fund (as so defined).
``(f) National Limitation on Amount of Investments Designated.--
``(1) In general.--There is an angel investment tax credit
limitation of $500,000,000 for each of calendar years 2013
through 2017.
``(2) Allocation of limitation.--The limitation under
paragraph (1) shall be allocated by the Secretary among
qualified small business entities selected by the Secretary.
``(3) Carryover of unused limitation.--If the angel
investment tax credit limitation for any calendar year exceeds
the aggregate amount allocated under paragraph (2) for such
year, such limitation for the succeeding calendar year shall be
increased by the amount of such excess. No amount may be
carried under the preceding sentence to any calendar year after
2022.
``(g) Application With Other Credits.--
``(1) Business credit treated as part of general business
credit.--Except as provided in paragraph (2), the credit which
would be allowed under subsection (a) for any taxable year
(determined without regard to this subsection) shall be treated
as a credit listed in section 38(b) for such taxable year (and
not allowed under subsection (a)).
``(2) Personal credit.--
``(A) In general.--In the case of an individual who
elects the application of this paragraph, for purposes
of this title, the credit allowed under subsection (a)
for any taxable year (determined after application of
paragraph (1)) shall be treated as a credit allowable
under subpart A for such taxable year.
``(B) Carryforward of unused credit.--If the credit
allowable under subsection (a) by reason of
subparagraph (A) exceeds the limitation imposed by
section 26(a) for such taxable year, reduced by the sum
of the credits allowable under subpart A (other than
this section) for such taxable year, such excess shall
be carried to each of the succeeding 20 taxable years
to the extent that such unused credit may not be taken
into account under subsection (a) by reason of
subparagraph (A) for a prior taxable year because of
such limitation.
``(h) Special Rules.--
``(1) Related parties.--For purposes of this section--
``(A) In general.--All related persons shall be
treated as 1 person.
``(B) Related persons.--A person shall be treated
as related to another person if--
``(i) the relationship between such persons
would result in the disallowance of losses
under section 267 or 707(b), or
``(ii) for purposes of subsection (e), the
person is an individual who is the spouse of a
lineal descendant of an individual described in
subsection (e)(2)(A).
``(2) Basis.--For purposes of this subtitle, the basis of
any investment with respect to which a credit is allowable
under this section shall be reduced by the amount of such
credit so allowed. This subsection shall not apply for purposes
of sections 1202, 1397B, and 1400B.
``(3) Recapture.--The Secretary shall, by regulations,
provide for recapturing the benefit of any credit allowable
under subsection (a) with respect to any qualified equity
investment which is held by the taxpayer less than 3 years,
except that no benefit shall be recaptured in the case of--
``(A) transfer of such investment by reason of the
death of the taxpayer,
``(B) transfer between spouses,
``(C) transfer incident to the divorce (as defined
in section 1041) of such taxpayer, or
``(D) a transaction to which section 381(a) applies
(relating to certain acquisitions of the assets of one
corporation by another corporation).
``(i) Regulations.--The Secretary shall prescribe such regulations
as may be appropriate to carry out this section, including
regulations--
``(1) which prevent the abuse of the purposes of this
section,
``(2) which impose appropriate reporting requirements, and
``(3) which apply the provisions of this section to newly
formed entities.''.
(b) Credit Made Part of General Business Credit.--Subsection (b) of
section 38 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended--
(1) in paragraph (35), by striking ``plus'';
(2) in paragraph (36), by striking the period at the end
and inserting ``, plus''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(37) the portion of the angel investment tax credit to
which section 30E(g)(1) applies.''.
(c) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Section 1016(a) 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 inserting after paragraph (37) the following
new paragraph:
``(38) to the extent provided in section 30E(h)(2).''.
(2) 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. Angel investment tax credit.''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to investments made after December 31, 2013, in taxable years
ending after such date. | Angel Tax Credit Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a new business-related tax credit for 25% of equity investments of $25,000 or more in a domestic corporation or partnership that: (1) has its headquarters in the United States, (2) has gross revenues for the taxable year of less than $1 million, (3) employs fewer than 25 full-time employees, (4) has been in existence for less than 7 years as of the date of the investment, (5) has more than 50% of its employees performing substantially all of their services in the United States, and (6) is engaged in a high technology trade or business. Limits the allowable amount of such credit to $250,000 in any taxable year and imposes an overall limitation on such credit of $500 million for each of calendar years 2013 through 2017. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Angel Tax Credit Act"} | 2,290 | 189 | 0.54717 | 1.453662 | 0.637936 | 4.060241 | 13.042169 | 0.903614 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Detroit River International Wildlife
Refuge Establishment Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds the following:
(1) The Detroit River, one of North America's greatest rivers,
was created some 14,000 years ago during the retreat of the
Wisconsin Glacier.
(2) The present river channel, established when falling water
levels permitted erosion of the Lake Plain and moraines, is a
connecting channel linking the Upper and Lower Great Lakes, as well
as linking the United States to Canada.
(3) The Lower Detroit River ecosystem is diverse with a number
of distinct channels, numerous shoals that support dense stands of
aquatic plants, and many islands. These nationally and
internationally significant habitats and ecological features
attract as many as 29 species of waterfowl and 65 kinds of fish.
(4) The Detroit River is a major migration corridor for fish,
butterflies, raptors, and other birds, in addition to waterfowl.
Over 300 species of birds have been documented in the Detroit-
Windsor area, of which about 150 species breed in the immediate
area.
(5) Because the Great Lakes are situated at the intersection of
the Atlantic and Mississippi Flyways, the Detroit River is an
important waterfowl migration corridor. 3,000,000 ducks, geese,
swans, and coots migrate annually through the Great Lakes region.
(6) The importance of this corridor is recognized in the
Canada-United States North American Waterfowl Management Plan that
has identified the Detroit River as part of one of 34 Waterfowl
Habitat Areas of Major Concern in the United States and Canada.
(7) Some 300,000 diving ducks stop in the Lower Detroit River
on their fall migration from Canada to the east and south each year
to rest and feed in beds of water celery found in the region.
(8) The international importance of the Lower Detroit River
area is manifested in the United States congressional designation
of the 460-acre Wyandotte National Wildlife Refuge.
(9) Canada's Canard River Marsh Complex is an internationally
significant waterfowl staging area which is one of the main resting
and feeding areas for canvasbacks migrating from their nesting
grounds in the Canadian prairies to the East Coast. Many over-
winter in the area as well.
(10) The diversity of biota and habitats in the Lower Detroit
River ecosystem provides substantial benefits to the over 5,000,000
people who live in the vicinity. The Lower Detroit River has an
international reputation for duck hunting. On an economic basis,
retail sales related to waterfowl hunting in Michigan were
estimated in 1991 to be $20,100,000. During the same year birding,
photography, and other nonconsumptive uses of waterfowl contributed
an additional $192,800,000 in Michigan.
(11) More than 1,000,000 pleasure boats are registered in
Michigan and about half of those are used on the Detroit River and
Lake St. Clair, in part to fish for the estimated 10,000,000
walleye that migrate to the Detroit River each spring from Lake
Erie to spawn. These walleye have helped create an internationally
renowned sport fishery estimated to bring in $1,000,000 to the
economy of communities along the lower Detroit River each spring.
(12) All of these natural resource values and socioeconomic
benefits were acclaimed when the Detroit River was designated an
American Heritage River in 1998. The Detroit River is also a
Canadian Heritage River, making it the first international heritage
river system in the world.
(13) The Detroit River has lost over 95 percent of its coastal
wetland habitats and despite increased awareness and supporting
science of their importance, habitats continue to be destroyed and
degraded.
(14) Protection of remaining wildlife habitats and enhancement
of degraded wildlife habitats are essential to sustain the quality
of life enjoyed by so many living along the Detroit River corridor.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
For purposes of this Act:
(1) The term ``Refuge'' means the Detroit River International
Wildlife Refuge established by section 5.
(2) The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of the Interior.
(3) The term ``Detroit River'' means those lands and waters
within the area described in section 5(a).
SEC. 4. PURPOSES.
The purposes for which the Refuge is established and shall be
managed are as follows:
(1) To protect the remaining high-quality fish and wildlife
habitats of the Detroit River before they are lost to further
development and to restore and enhance degraded wildlife habitats
associated with the Detroit River.
(2) To assist in international efforts to conserve, enhance,
and restore the native aquatic and terrestrial community
characteristics of the Detroit River (including associated fish,
wildlife, and plant species) both in the United States and Canada.
(3) To facilitate partnerships among the United States Fish and
Wildlife Service, Canadian national and provincial authorities,
State and local governments, local communities in the United States
and in Canada, conservation organizations, and other non-Federal
entities to promote public awareness of the resources of the
Detroit River.
SEC. 5. ESTABLISHMENT OF REFUGE.
(a) Boundaries.--There is hereby established the Detroit River
International Wildlife Refuge, consisting of the lands and waters owned
or managed by the Secretary pursuant to this Act in the State of
Michigan within the area extending from the point in Michigan directly
across the river from northernmost point of Ojibway Shores to the
southern boundary of the Sterling State Park, as depicted upon a map
entitled ``Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge Proposed'',
dated July 31, 2001, which shall be available for inspection in
appropriate offices of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.
(b) Existing Refuge Lands.--The Wyandotte National Wildlife Refuge
is hereby included within, and shall be a part of, the Detroit River
International Wildlife Refuge. All references to the Wyandotte National
Wildlife Refuge shall hereafter be treated as references to the Detroit
River International Wildlife Refuge.
(c) Boundary Revisions.--The Secretary may make such revisions of
the boundaries of the Refuge as may be appropriate to carry out the
purposes of the Refuge or to facilitate the acquisition of property
within the Refuge.
(d) Acquisition.--The Secretary is authorized to acquire by
donation, purchase with donated or appropriated funds, or exchange the
lands and waters, or interests therein (including conservation
easements), within the boundaries of the Refuge.
(e) Transfers From Other Agencies.--Any Federal property located
within the boundaries of the Refuge which is under the administrative
jurisdiction of another department or agency of the United States may,
with the concurrence of the head of administering department or agency,
be transferred without consideration to the administrative jurisdiction
of the Secretary for the purposes of this Act.
(f) Study of Associated Area.--The Secretary (acting through the
Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service) shall conduct
a study of fish and wildlife habitat and aquatic and terrestrial
communities of the north reach of the Detroit River, from the
northernmost point of Ojibway Shores north to the mouth of Lake St.
Clair, for potential inclusion in the Refuge. Not later than 18 months
after the date of the enactment of the Act, the Secretary shall
complete such study and submit a report containing the results thereof
to the Congress.
SEC. 6. ADMINISTRATION.
(a) In General.--The Secretary shall administer all federally owned
lands, waters, and interests therein that are within the boundaries of
the Refuge in accordance with the National Wildlife Refuge System
Administration Act (16 U.S.C. 668dd et seq.) and this Act. The
Secretary may use such additional statutory authority as may be
available for the conservation of fish and wildlife, and the provision
of fish and wildlife dependent recreational opportunities as the
Secretary considers appropriate to carry out the purposes of this Act.
(b) Priority Uses.--In providing opportunities for compatible fish
and wildlife dependent recreation, the Secretary, in accordance with
paragraphs (3) and (4) of section 4(a) of the National Wildlife Refuge
System Administration Act of 1966 (16 U.S.C. 668dd(a)), shall ensure
that hunting, fishing, wildlife observation and photography, and
environmental education and interpretation are the priority public uses
of the Refuge.
(c) Cooperative Agreements Regarding Nonfederal Lands.--The
Secretary is authorized to enter into cooperative agreements with the
State of Michigan, or any political subdivision thereof, and with any
other person or entity for the management in a manner consistent with
this Act of lands that are owned by such State, subdivision, or other
person or entity and located within the boundaries of the Refuge and to
promote public awareness of the resources of the Detroit River
International Wildlife Refuge and encourage public participation in the
conservation of those resources.
(d) Use of Existing Greenway Authority.--The Secretary shall
encourage the State of Michigan to use existing authorities under the
Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21) to provide
funding for acquisition and development of trails within the boundaries
of the Refuge.
SEC. 7. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There are authorized to be appropriated to the Department of the
Interior--
(1) such sums as may be necessary for the acquisition of lands
and waters within the Refuge;
(2) such sums as may be necessary for the development,
operation, and maintenance of the Refuge; and
(3) such sums as may be necessary to carry out the study under
section 5(f).
Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Vice President of the United States and
President of the Senate. | Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge Establishment Act - Establishes the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge (Refuge) which shall consist of specified lands and waters in Michigan, including the Wyandotte National Wildlife Refuge.Requires the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, to: (1) conduct a study of fish and wildlife habitat and aquatic and terrestrial communities of the north reach of the River, from the northernmost point of Ojibway Shores north to the mouth of Lake St. Clair, for potential inclusion in the Refuge; and (2) submit a report containing the results to Congress.Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) use available authority for the conservation of fish and wildlife and for provision of fish and wildlife dependent recreational opportunities in the Refuge; and (2) ensure that compatible hunting, fishing, wildlife observation and photography, and environmental education and interpretation are the priority public uses of the Refuge.Authorizes the Secretary to enter into cooperative agreements with the State of Michigan, any political subdivision thereof, or any other person or entity: (1) for the management of lands within the Refuge owned by such person or entity; and (2) to promote public awareness of the Refuge's resources and encourage public participation in the conservation of those resources.Directs the Secretary to encourage the State to use existing authorities under the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century to provide funding for acquisition and development of trails within the Refuge.Authorizes appropriations. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To provide for the establishment of the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge in the State of Michigan, and for other purposes."} | 2,056 | 314 | 0.509208 | 1.753566 | 0.685328 | 5.010601 | 6.855124 | 0.968198 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; REFERENCE TO INTERNAL REVENUE CODE.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Family Farm
Retirement Equity Act of 1993''.
(b) Reference to Internal Revenue Code of 1986.--Except as
otherwise expressly provided, whenever in this Act an amendment or
repeal is expressed in terms of an amendment to, or repeal of, a
section or other provision, the reference shall be considered to be
made to a section or other provision of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986.
SEC. 2. ROLLOVER OF GAIN FROM SALE OF FARM ASSETS TO INDIVIDUAL
RETIREMENT PLANS.
(a) In General.--Part III of subchapter O of chapter 1 of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to common nontaxable exchanges)
is amended by inserting after section 1034 the following new section:
``SEC. 1034A. ROLLOVER OF GAIN ON SALE OF FARM ASSETS INTO ASSET
ROLLOVER ACCOUNT.
``(a) Nonrecognition of Gain.--If a taxpayer has a qualified net
farm gain from the sale of a qualified farm asset, then, at the
election of the taxpayer, gain (if any) from such sale shall be
recognized only to the extent such gain exceeds the contributions--
``(1) to 1 or more asset rollover accounts of the taxpayer
for the taxable year in which such sale occurs, and
``(2) not in excess of the limits under subsection (c).
``(b) Asset Rollover Account.--
``(1) General rule.--Except as provided in this section, an
asset rollover account shall be treated for purposes of this
title in the same manner as an individual retirement plan.
``(2) Asset rollover account.--For purposes of this title,
the term `asset rollover account' means an individual
retirement plan which is designated at the time of the
establishment of the plan as an asset rollover account. Such
designation shall be made in such manner as the Secretary may
prescribe.
``(c) Contribution Rules.--
``(1) No deduction allowed.--No deduction shall be allowed
under section 219 for a contribution to an asset rollover
account.
``(2) Aggregate contribution limitation.--Except in the
case of rollover contributions, the aggregate amount for all
taxable years which may be contributed to all asset rollover
accounts established on behalf of an individual during a
qualified period shall not exceed--
``(A) $500,000 ($250,000 in the case of a separate
return by a married individual), reduced by
``(B) the amount by which the aggregate value of
the assets held by the individual (and spouse) in
individual retirement plans (other than asset rollover
accounts) exceeds $100,000.
``(3) Annual contribution limitations.--
``(A) General rule.--The aggregate contribution
which may be made in any taxable year to all asset
rollover accounts shall not exceed the lesser of--
``(i) the qualified net farm gain for the
taxable year, or
``(ii) an amount determined by multiplying
the number of years the taxpayer is a qualified
farmer by $10,000.
``(B) Spouse.--In the case of a married couple
filing a joint return under section 6013 for the
taxable year, subparagraph (A) shall be applied by
substituting `$20,000' for `$10,000' for each year the
taxpayer's spouse is a qualified farmer.
``(4) Time when contribution deemed made.--For purposes of
this section, a taxpayer shall be deemed to have made a
contribution to an asset rollover account on the last day of
the preceding taxable year if the contribution is made on
account of such taxable year and is made not later than the
time prescribed by law for filing the return for such taxable
year (not including extensions thereof).
``(d) Qualified Net Farm Gain; Etc.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) Qualified net farm gain.--The term `qualified net
farm gain' means the lesser of--
``(A) the net capital gain of the taxpayer for the
taxable year, or
``(B) the net capital gain for the taxable year
determined by only taking into account gain (or loss)
in connection with a disposition of a qualified farm
asset.
``(2) Qualified farm asset.--The term `qualified farm
asset' means an asset used by a qualified farmer in the active
conduct of the trade or business of farming (as defined in
section 2032A(e)).
``(3) Qualified farmer.--
``(A) In general.--The term `qualified farmer'
means a taxpayer who--
``(i) during the 5-year period ending on
the date of the disposition of a qualified farm
asset materially participated in the trade or
business of farming, and
``(ii) 50 percent or more of such trade or
business is owned by the taxpayer (or his
spouse) during such 5-year period.
``(B) Material participation.--For purposes of this
paragraph, a taxpayer shall be treated as materially
participating in a trade or business if the taxpayer
meets the requirements of section 2032A(e)(6).
``(4) Rollover contributions.--Rollover contributions to an
asset rollover account may be made only from other asset
rollover accounts.
``(e) Distribution Rules.--For purposes of this title, the rules of
paragraphs (1) and (2) of section 408(d) shall apply to any
distribution from an asset rollover account.
``(f) Individual Required To Report Qualified Contributions.--
``(1) In general.--Any individual who--
``(A) makes a contribution to any asset rollover
account for any taxable year, or
``(B) receives any amount from any asset rollover
account for any taxable year,
shall include on the return of tax imposed by chapter 1 for
such taxable year and any succeeding taxable year (or on such
other form as the Secretary may prescribe) information
described in paragraph (2).
``(2) Information required to be supplied.--The information
described in this paragraph is information required by the
Secretary which is similar to the information described in
section 408(o)(4)(B).
``(3) Penalties.--For penalties relating to reports under
this paragraph, see section 6693(b).''.
(b) Contributions Not Deductible.--Section 219(d) of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to other limitations and restrictions)
is amended by adding at the end thereof the following new paragraph:
``(5) Contributions to asset rollover accounts.--No
deduction shall be allowed under this section with respect to a
contribution under section 1034A.''.
(c) Excess Contributions.--
(1) In general.--Section 4973 of the Internal Revenue Code
of 1986 (relating to tax on excess contributions to individual
retirement accounts, certain section 403(b) contracts, and
certain individual retirement annuities) is amended by adding
at the end the following new subsection:
``(d) Asset Rollover Accounts.--For purposes of this section, in
the case of an asset rollover account referred to in subsection (a)(1),
the term `excess contribution' means the excess (if any) of the amount
contributed for the taxable year to such account over the amount which
may be contributed under section 1034A.''.
(2) Conforming amendments.--
(A) Section 4973(a)(1) of such Code is amended by
striking ``or'' and inserting ``an asset rollover
account (within the meaning of section 1034A), or''.
(B) The heading for section 4973 of such Code is
amended by inserting ``asset rollover accounts,'' after
``contracts''.
(C) The table of sections for chapter 43 of such
Code is amended by inserting ``asset rollover
accounts,'' after ``contracts'' in the item relating to
section 4973.
(d) Technical Amendments.--
(1) Paragraph (1) of section 408(a) of the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986 (defining individual retirement account) is
amended by inserting ``or a qualified contribution under
section 1034A,'' before ``no contribution''.
(2) Subparagraph (A) of section 408(d)(5) of such Code is
amended by inserting ``or qualified contributions under section
1034A'' after ``rollover contributions''.
(3)(A) Section 6693(b)(1) of such Code is amended by
inserting ``or 1034A(f)(1)'' after ``408(o)(4)'' in
subparagraph (A).
(B) Section 6693(b)(2) of such Code is amended by inserting
``or 1034A(f)(1)'' after ``408(o)(4)''.
(4) The table of sections for part III of subchapter O of
chapter 1 of such Code is amended by inserting after the item
relating to section 1034 the following new item:
``Sec. 1034A. Rollover of gain on sale of
farm assets into asset rollover
account.''.
(e) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to sales and exchanges after the date of enactment of this Act. | Family Farm Retirement Equity Act of 1993 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code with respect to nontaxable exchanges to allow the rollover of gain from the sale of a qualified farm asset into one or more individual retirement plans, to be known as asset rollover accounts. Denies an itemized deduction for contributions to such accounts and sets forth contribution limitations. Provides that rollover contributions to an asset rollover account may be made only from other such accounts. Sets forth reporting requirements for individuals making contributions to such accounts and taxes excess contributions. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Family Farm Retirement Equity Act of 1993"} | 2,112 | 112 | 0.655661 | 1.613952 | 1.424083 | 2.53 | 18.55 | 0.81 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Dam Safety Act of 2012''.
SEC. 2. PURPOSE.
The purpose of this Act and the amendments made by this Act is to
reduce the risks to life and property from dam failure in the United
States through the reauthorization of an effective national dam safety
program that brings together the expertise and resources of the Federal
and non-Federal communities in achieving national dam safety hazard
reduction.
SEC. 3. ADMINISTRATOR.
(a) In General.--The National Dam Safety Program Act (33 U.S.C. 467
et seq.) is amended by striking ``Director'' each place it appears and
inserting ``Administrator''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 2 of the National Dam Safety
Program Act (33 U.S.C. 467) is amended--
(1) by striking paragraph (3);
(2) by redesignating paragraphs (1) and (2) as paragraphs
(2) and (3), respectively; and
(3) by inserting before paragraph (2) (as redesignated by
paragraph (2)) the following:
``(1) Administrator.--The term `Administrator' means the
Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency.''.
SEC. 4. INSPECTION OF DAMS.
Section 3(b)(1) of the National Dam Safety Program Act (33 U.S.C.
467a(b)(1)) is amended by striking ``or maintenance'' and inserting
``maintenance, condition, or provisions for emergency operations''.
SEC. 5. NATIONAL DAM SAFETY PROGRAM.
(1) Objectives.--Section 8(c) of the National Dam Safety
Program Act (33 U.S.C. 467f(c)) is amended by striking
paragraph (4) and inserting the following:
``(4) develop and implement a comprehensive dam safety
hazard education and public awareness program to assist the
public in preparing for, mitigating, responding to, and
recovering from dam incidents;''.
(2) Board.--Section 8(f)(4) of the National Dam Safety
Program Act (33 U.S.C. 467f(f)(4)) is amended by inserting ``,
representatives from nongovernmental organizations,'' after
``State agencies''.
SEC. 6. PUBLIC AWARENESS AND OUTREACH FOR DAM SAFETY.
The National Dam Safety Program Act (33 U.S.C. 467 et seq.) is
amended--
(1) by redesignating sections 11, 12, and 13 as sections
12, 13, and 14, respectively; and
(2) by inserting after section 10 (33 U.S.C. 467g-1) the
following:
``SEC. 11. PUBLIC AWARENESS AND OUTREACH FOR DAM SAFETY.
``The Administrator, in consultation with other Federal agencies,
State and local governments, dam owners, the emergency management
community, the private sector, nongovernmental organizations and
associations, institutions of higher education, and any other
appropriate entities shall carry out a nationwide public awareness and
outreach program to assist the public in preparing for, mitigating,
responding to, and recovering from dam incidents.''.
SEC. 7. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
(1) National dam safety program.--
(A) Annual amounts.--Section 14(a)(1) of the
National Dam Safety Program Act (33 U.S.C. 467j(a)(1))
(as so redesignated) is amended by striking
``$6,500,000'' and all that follows through ``2011''
and inserting ``$9,200,000 for each of fiscal years
2012 through 2016''.
(B) Maximum amount of allocation.--Section
14(a)(2)(B) of the National Dam Safety Program Act (33
U.S.C. 467j(a)(2)(B)) (as so redesignated) is amended--
(i) by striking ``The amount'' and
inserting the following:
``(i) In general.--The amount''; and
(ii) by adding at the end the following:
``(ii) Fiscal year 2013 and subsequent
fiscal years.--For fiscal year 2013 and each
subsequent fiscal year, the amount of funds
allocated to a State under this paragraph may
not exceed the amount of funds committed by the
State to implement dam safety activities.''.
(2) National dam inventory.--Section 14(b) of the National
Dam Safety Program Act (33 U.S.C. 467j(b)) (as so redesignated)
is amended by striking ``$650,000'' and all that follows
through ``2011'' and inserting ``$500,000 for each of fiscal
years 2012 through 2016''.
(3) Public awareness.--Section 14 of the National Dam
Safety Program Act (33 U.S.C. 467j) (as so redesignated) is
amended--
(A) by redesignating subsections (c) through (f) as
subsections (d) through (g), respectively; and
(B) by inserting after subsection (b) the
following:
``(c) Public Awareness.--There is authorized to be appropriated to
carry out section 11 $1,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2012 through
2016.''.
(4) Research.--Section 14(d) of the National Dam Safety
Program Act (as so redesignated) is amended by striking
``$1,600,000'' and all that follows through ``2011'' and
inserting ``$1,450,000 for each of fiscal years 2012 through
2016''.
(5) Dam safety training.--Section 14(e) of the National Dam
Safety Program Act (as so redesignated) is amended by striking
``$550,000'' and all that follows through ``2011'' and
inserting ``$750,000 for each of fiscal years 2012 through
2016''.
(6) Staff.--Section 14(f) of the National Dam Safety
Program Act (as so redesignated) is amended by striking
``$700,000'' and all that follows through ``2011'' and
inserting ``$1,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2012 through
2016''. | Dam Safety Act of 2012 - Authorizes appropriations for the National Dam Safety Program for FY2012-FY2016.
Requires the head of a federal agency, on request, to provide a state dam safety agency with information on the condition and provisions for emergency operations of any dam the failure of which would affect the state.
Includes as an objective of the National Dam Safety Program the development and implementation of a comprehensive dam safety hazard education and public awareness program to assist the public in preparing for, mitigating, responding to, and recovering from dam incidents. Directs the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to carry out such a public awareness and outreach program nationwide.
Authorizes the Administrator to invite representatives from nongovernmental organizations to participate in meetings of the National Dam Safety Review Board. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "A bill to reauthorize the National Dam Safety Program Act, and for other purposes."} | 1,400 | 174 | 0.588223 | 1.470599 | 0.715368 | 3.384106 | 7.695364 | 0.827815 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``District of Columbia Mental Health
Civil Commitment Modernization Act of 2004''.
SEC. 2. COMPOSITION, APPOINTMENT, AND ORGANIZATION OF COMMISSION ON
MENTAL HEALTH.
(a) In General.--Section 21-502, District of Columbia Official
Code, is amended to read as follows:
``Sec. 21-502. Commission on Mental Health; composition; appointment
and terms of members; organization; chairperson; salaries
``(a) The Commission on Mental Health is continued. The Chief Judge
of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia shall appoint the
members of the Commission, and the Commission shall be composed of 9
members and an alternate chairperson. One member shall be a magistrate
judge of the Court appointed pursuant to title 11, District of Columbia
Official Code, who shall be a member of the bar of the Court and has
engaged in active practice of law in the District of Columbia for a
period of at least 5 years prior to his or her appointment. The
magistrate judge shall be the Chairperson of the Commission and act as
the administrative head of the Commission. The Chairperson shall
preside at all hearings and direct all of the proceedings before the
Commission. Eight members of the Commission shall be psychiatrists or
qualified psychologists, as those terms are defined in section 21-501,
who have not had less than 5 years of experience in the diagnosis and
treatment of mental illness.
``(b)(1) Appointment of members of the Commission shall be for
terms of 4 years.
``(2) The initial appointment of a psychiatrist or a qualified
psychologist shall be for a probationary period of one year. After the
initial one-year probationary appointment, subsequent appointments of
the psychiatrist or qualified psychologist shall be for terms of 4
years.
``(c) The psychiatrist or qualified psychologist members of the
Commission shall serve on a part-time basis and shall be rotated by
assignment of the Chief Judge of the Court, so that at any one time the
Commission shall consist of the Chairperson and 2 members, each of whom
is either a psychiatrist or a qualified psychologist. Members of the
Commission who are psychiatrists or qualified psychologists may
practice their professions during their tenures of office, but may not
participate in the disposition of a case of a person in which they have
rendered professional service or advice.
``(d) The Chief Judge of the Court shall appoint a magistrate judge
of the Court to serve as an alternate Chairperson of the Commission.
The alternate Chairperson shall serve on a part time basis and act as
Chairperson in the absence of the permanent Chairperson.
``(e) The rate of compensation for the members of the Commission
who are psychiatrists or qualified psychologists shall be fixed by the
Executive Officer of the Court.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The item relating to section 21-502 in the
table of sections for subchapter I of chapter 5 of title 21, District
of Columbia Official Code, is amended to read as follows:
``21-502. Commission on Mental Health; composition; appointment and
terms of members; organization; chairperson; salaries.''.
(c) Effective Date; Transition for Current Members.--The amendments
made by this section shall take effect on the date of the enactment of
this Act, except nothing in this section or the amendments made by this
section may be construed to affect the appointment or term of service
of any individual who serves as a member or alternate member of the
Commission on Mental Health (including an individual who serves as the
Chairperson or alternate Chairperson of the Commission) on such date.
SEC. 3. COMMISSION MEMBERS DEEMED COMPETENT AND COMPELLABLE WITNESSES
AT MENTAL HEALTH PROCEEDINGS.
Section 21-503(b), District of Columbia Official Code, is amended
by striking ``The Commission, or any of the members thereof,'' and
inserting ``Commission members who are psychiatrists or qualified
psychologists''.
SEC. 4. DETENTION FOR EMERGENCY OBSERVATION AND DIAGNOSIS.
Section 21-526, District of Columbia Official Code, is amended by
adding at the end the following new subsections:
``(c) The maximum period of time for detention for emergency
observation and diagnosis may be extended for up to 21 days, if
judicial proceedings under subchapter IV of this chapter have been
commenced before the expiration of the order entered under section 21-
524 and a psychiatrist or qualified psychologist has examined the
person who is the subject of the judicial proceedings and is of the
opinion that the person being detained remains mentally ill and is
likely to injure himself or others as a result of the illness unless
the emergency detention is continued. For good cause shown, the Court
may extend the period of detention for emergency observation and
diagnosis. The period of detention for emergency observation and
diagnosis may be extended pursuant to section 21-543(b) or following a
hearing before the Commission pursuant to subsections (d) and (e) of
this section.
``(d) If the Commission, at the conclusion of its hearing pursuant
to section 21-542, has found that the person with respect to whom the
hearing was held is mentally ill and, because of the mental illness, is
likely to injure himself or others if not committed, and has concluded
that a recommendation of inpatient commitment is the least restrictive
alternative available to prevent the person from injuring himself or
others, the detention for emergency observation and diagnosis may be
continued by the Department or hospital--
``(1) pending the conclusion of judicial proceedings under
subchapter IV of this chapter;
``(2) until the Court enters an order discharging the person;
or
``(3) until the Department or hospital determines that
continued hospitalization is no longer the least restrictive form
of treatment appropriate for the person being detained.
``(e) If the Commission, at the conclusion of its hearing, finds
that the person is mentally ill, is likely to injure himself or other
persons as a result of mental illness if not committed, and that
outpatient treatment is the least restrictive form of commitment
appropriate, then, within 14 days of the date of the hearing, the
person shall be discharged from inpatient status and shall receive
outpatient mental health services or mental health supports as an
emergency nonvoluntary patient consistent with this subchapter, pending
the conclusion of judicial proceedings under subchapter IV of this
chapter.''.
SEC. 5. REPRESENTATION BY COUNSEL OF PERSONS ALLEGED TO BE MENTALLY
ILL.
Section 21-543, District of Columbia Official Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (a) (as redesignated by section 2(r)(1) of
the Mental Health Civil Commitment Act of 2002), by striking the
last sentence; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(b) The Commission may not grant a continuance for counsel to
prepare his case for more than 5 days. The Commission may grant
continuances for good cause shown for periods of up to 14 days. If the
Commission grants a continuance, the emergency observation and
detention of the person about whom the hearing is being held shall be
extended for the duration of the continuance.''.
SEC. 6. HEARING AND DETERMINATION ON QUESTION OF MENTAL ILLNESS.
(a) In General.--Section 21-545, District of Columbia Official
Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by striking ``jury trial'' each place it
appears and inserting ``jury trial or a trial by the Court'';
(2) by amending subsection (b) to read as follows:
``(b)(1) If the Court or jury finds that the person is not mentally
ill or is not likely to injure himself or others as a result of mental
illness, the Court shall dismiss the petition and order the person's
release.
``(2) If the Court or jury finds that the person is mentally ill
and, because of that mental illness, is likely to injure himself or
others if not committed, the Court may order the person's commitment to
the Department or to any other facility, hospital, or mental health
provider that the Court believes is the least restrictive alternative
consistent with the best interests of the person and the public. An
order of commitment issued pursuant to this paragraph shall be for a
period of one year.''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following new subsections:
``(c) The psychiatrists and qualified psychologists who are members
of the Commission shall be competent and compellable witnesses at a
hearing or trial held pursuant to this chapter.
``(d) The jury to be used in any case where a jury trial is
demanded under this chapter shall be impaneled, upon order of the
Court, from the jurors in attendance upon other branches of the Court,
who shall perform the services in addition to and as part of their
duties in the Court.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply with respect to trials under section 21-545, District of Columbia
Code, which are initiated on or after the date of the enactment of this
Act.
SEC. 7. RENEWAL OF COMMITMENT STATUS BY COMMISSION.
(a) In General.--Subchapter IV of chapter 5 of title 21, District
of Columbia Official Code, is amended by inserting after section 21-545
the following new section:
``Sec. 21-545.01. Renewal of commitment status by commission; review by
Court
``(a) At least 60 days prior to the expiration of an order of
commitment issued pursuant to section 21-545 or this section, the chief
clinical officer of the Department, or the chief of service of the
facility, hospital, or mental health provider to which the person is
committed may petition the Commission for a renewal of the order of
commitment for that person. For good cause shown, a petition of
commitment may be filed within the last 60 days of the one-year period
of commitment. The petition for renewal of commitment shall be
supported by a certificate of a psychiatrist or qualified psychologist
stating that he has examined the person and is of the opinion that the
person is mentally ill, and, because of the illness, is likely to
injure himself or other persons if not committed. The term of the
renewed commitment order shall not exceed one year.
``(b) Within 3 days of the filing of a petition under subsection
(a) of this section, the Commission shall send a copy of the petition
and supporting certificate by registered mail to the person with
respect to whom the petition was filed and by regular mail to the
person's attorney.
``(c) The Commission shall promptly examine a person for whom a
petition is filed under subsection (a) of this section, and, in
accordance with the procedures described in sections 21-542 and 21-543,
shall thereafter promptly hold a hearing on the issue of the person's
mental illness and whether, as a result of a mental illness, the person
is likely to injure himself or other persons if not committed.
``(d) If the Commission finds, after a hearing under subsection (c)
of this section, that the person with respect to whom the hearing was
held is no longer mentally ill, or is not mentally ill to the extent
that the person is likely to injure himself or other persons if not
committed, the Commission shall immediately order the termination of
the commitment and notify the Court of that fact in writing.
``(e) If the Commission finds, after a hearing under subsection (c)
of this section, that the person with respect to whom the hearing was
held remains mentally ill to the extent that the person is likely to
injure himself or others if not committed, the Commission shall order
the renewal of the commitment of the person for an additional term not
to exceed one year and shall promptly report that fact, in writing, to
the Court. The report shall contain the Commission's findings of fact
and conclusions of law. A copy of the report shall be served by
registered mail on the person with respect to whom the hearing was held
and by mail on the person's attorney.
``(f) If a petition for a renewal of an order of commitment is
pending at the expiration of the commitment period ordered under
section 21-545 or this section, the Court may, for good cause shown,
extend the period of commitment pending resolution of the renewal
petition.
``(g) Within the last 30 days of the period of commitment, the
chief clinical officer of the Department, or the chief of service of
the facility, hospital, or mental health provider to which a person is
committed, shall notify the Court which ordered the person's commitment
pursuant to section 21-545 or this section of the decision not to seek
renewal of commitment. Notice to the Court shall be in writing and a
copy of the notice shall be mailed to the person who was committed and
the person's attorney.
``(h)(1) A person for whom the Commission orders renewed commitment
pursuant to subsection (e) of this section may seek a review of the
Commission's order by the Superior Court of the District of Columbia,
and the Commission, orally and in writing, shall advise the person of
this right.
``(2) A review of the Commission's order of renewed commitment, in
whole or in part, may be made by a judge of the appropriate division
sua sponte and shall be made upon a motion of one of the parties made
pursuant to procedures established by rules of the Court. The reviewing
judge shall conduct such proceedings as required by the rules of the
Court.
``(3) An appeal to the District of Columbia Court of Appeals may be
made only after a judge of the Court has reviewed the Commission's
order of renewed commitment.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections of subchapter IV of
chapter 5 of title 21, District of Columbia Official Code, is amended
by inserting after the item relating to section 21-545 the following:
``21-545.01. Renewal of commitment status by Commission; review by
Court.''.
Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Vice President of the United States and
President of the Senate. | District of Columbia Mental Health Civil Commitment Modernization Act of 2004 - (Sec. 2) Amends the District of Columbia Code to modify the composition of, appointment to, and organization of the Commission on Mental Health.
(Sec. 3) Limits to Commission members who are psychiatrists or qualified psychologists (currently, the Commission or any of its members) the competency to be witnesses at any mental health proceeding.
(Sec. 4) Authorizes Superior Court extension for up to 21 days, under certain conditions, of the period for which an individual may be detained for emergency observation and diagnosis in a facility, hospital, or mental health provider.
(Sec. 5) Authorizes the Commission to grant a continuance of up to 14 days beyond the current allowed recess of five days for the counsel of persons alleged to be mentally ill to prepare a case. Requires extension of the emergency observation and detention period for the subject of the hearing for the duration of the continuance.
(Sec. 6) Revises procedures on hearings and determination of mental illness. Limits to the least restrictive alternative the kind of facility to which a Court may order a person's commitment, consistent with the best interests of the person and the public.
(Sec. 7) Authorizes a one-year renewal of commitment status by the Commission, subject to judicial review, of a person in a facility, hospital, or mental health provider. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To amend title 21, District of Columbia Official Code, to enact the provisions of the Mental Health Civil Commitment Act of 2002 which affect the Commission on Mental Health and require action by Congress in order to take effect."} | 3,152 | 323 | 0.557836 | 1.728596 | 0.697927 | 3.549091 | 10.825455 | 0.923636 |
SECTION 1. NEXT GENERATION BIOFUEL.
(a) Definitions.--Section 211(o)(1) of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C.
7545(o)(1)) is amended--
(1) by redesignating subparagraphs (E), (F), (G), and (H)
as subparagraphs (H), (E), (F), (G), respectively, and moving
subparagraph (H) (as so redesignated) to appear before
subparagraph (I); and
(2) in subparagraph (H) (as redesignated by paragraph (1)),
by striking ``Cellulosic biofuel.--'' and all that follows
through ``biomass'' and inserting ``Next generation biofuel.--
The term `next generation biofuel' means renewable fuel that is
derived from any cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, or algae
that is derived from renewable biomass or nonethanol renewable
fuel that is derived from renewable biomass''.
(b) Standard.--Section 211(o) of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C.
7545(o)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (2)--
(A) in subparagraph (A)(i), in the second sentence,
by striking ``cellulosic'' and inserting ``next
generation''; and
(B) in subparagraph (B)--
(i) in clause (i)(III)--
(I) in the subclause heading, by
striking ``Cellulosic'' and inserting
``Next generation'';
(II) by striking ``cellulosic'' and
inserting ``next generation''; and
(III) in the heading of the right
column, by striking ``cellulosic'' and
inserting ``next generation'';
(ii) in clause (ii)(III), by striking
``cellulosic'' and inserting ``next
generation''; and
(iii) in clause (iv)--
(I) in the clause heading, by
striking ``cellulosic'' and inserting
``next generation''; and
(II) by striking ``cellulosic'' and
inserting ``next generation'';
(2) in paragraphs (3)(A), (4)(A), and (4)(B), by striking
``cellulosic'' each place it appears and inserting ``next
generation''; and
(3) in paragraph (7)(D)--
(A) in the subparagraph heading, by striking
``Cellulosic'' and inserting ``next generation''; and
(B) by striking ``cellulosic'' each place it
appears and inserting ``next generation''.
SEC. 2. STATE OPTION OF NON-PARTICIPATION IN RENEWABLE FUEL STANDARD.
Section 211(o)(2)(B) of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7545(o)(2)(B))
is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(vi) Election of non-participation by
state government.--
``(I) In general.--For purposes of
subparagraph (A), the applicable volume
of renewable fuel as determined under
this subparagraph shall be adjusted in
accordance with this clause.
``(II) Requirements.--On passage by
a State legislature and signature by
the Governor of the State of a law that
elects to not participate in the
applicable volume of renewable fuel in
accordance with this clause, the
Administrator shall allow a State to
not participate in the applicable
volume of renewable fuel determined
under subclause (I) of clause (i),
other than the applicable volumes of
renewable fuel required under
subclauses (II), (III), and (IV) of
that clause.
``(III) Reduction.--On the election
of a State under subclause (II), the
Administrator shall reduce the
applicable volume of renewable fuel
determined under clause (i)(I) by the
percentage that reflects the national
gasoline consumption of the non-
participating State that is
attributable to that State.
``(IV) Credits to hold fuel sales
harmless.--On the election of a State
under subclause (II), the Administrator
shall provide for the generation of
credits for all gasoline (regardless of
whether the gasoline is blended)
provided through a fuel terminal in the
State to be calculated as though the
gasoline were blended with the maximum
allowable ethanol content of gasoline
allowed in that State to apply toward
the applicable volume of renewable fuel
determined under clause (i)(I).''. | Amends the Clean Air Act to revise the renewable fuel program by: (1) requiring the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure that transportation fuel sold or introduced into commerce in the United States, on an annual average basis, contains at least the applicable volume of "next generation biofuel" (currently "cellulosic biofuel"); and (2) replacing the term "cellulosic biofuel" with "next generation biofuel." Defines "next generation biofuel" to mean: (1) renewable fuel that is derived from any cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, or algae that is derived from renewable biomass; or (2) nonethanol renewable fuel that is derived from renewable biomass.
Directs the Administrator to allow states that enact a law that elects to not participate in the applicable volume of renewable to not so participate, other than the applicable volumes of renewable fuel required for advanced biofuel, next generation biofuel, and biomass-based diesel. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "A bill to amend the Clean Air Act to define next generation biofuel, and to allow States the option of not participating in the corn ethanol portions of the renewable fuel standard due to conflicts with agricultural, economic, energy, and environmental goals."} | 1,083 | 216 | 0.626708 | 1.631935 | 0.665328 | 2.827027 | 4.756757 | 0.762162 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Compensating Legacy Artists for
their Songs, Service, and Important Contributions to Society Act'' or
the ``CLASSICS Act''.
SEC. 2. UNAUTHORIZED DIGITAL PERFORMANCE OF PRE-1972 SOUND RECORDINGS.
(a) Amendment.--Title 17, United States Code, is amended by adding
at the end the following new chapter:
``CHAPTER 14--UNAUTHORIZED DIGITAL PERFORMANCE OF PRE-1972 SOUND
RECORDINGS
``Sec.
``1401. Unauthorized digital performance of pre-1972 sound recordings.
``Sec. 1401. Unauthorized digital performance of pre-1972 sound
recordings
``(a) Unauthorized Acts.--Anyone who, prior to February 15, 2067,
performs publicly by means of digital audio transmission a sound
recording fixed before February 15, 1972, without the consent of the
rights owner, shall be subject to the remedies provided in sections 502
through 505 to the same extent as an infringer of copyright.
``(b) Certain Unauthorized Transmissions.--Transmissions of sound
recordings fixed before February 15, 1972, shall be considered
authorized and with the consent of the rights owner for purposes of
subsection (a), if--
``(1) the transmissions are made by a transmitting entity
publicly performing sound recordings protected under this title
by means of digital audio transmissions subject to section 114;
``(2) the transmissions would satisfy the requirements for
statutory licensing under section 114(d)(2) or would be exempt
under section 114(d)(1), if the sound recordings were fixed on
or after February 15, 1972;
``(3) in the case of transmissions that would not be exempt
under section 114(d)(1) as described in paragraph (2), the
transmitting entity pays statutory royalties and provides
notice of its use of the relevant sound recordings in the same
manner as required by regulations adopted by the Copyright
Royalty Judges for sound recordings that are protected under
this title; and
``(4) in the case of transmissions that would not be exempt
under section 114(d)(1) as described in paragraph (2), the
transmitting entity otherwise satisfies the requirements for
statutory licensing under section 114(f)(4)(B).
``(c) Transmissions by Direct Licensing of Statutory Services.--
``(1) In general.--A transmission of a sound recording
fixed before February 15, 1972, shall be considered authorized
and with the consent of the rights owner for purposes of
subsection (a) if included in any license agreement voluntarily
negotiated at any time between the rights owner and the entity
performing the sound recording.
``(2) Payment of royalties to nonprofit agent.--To the
extent that such a license extends to transmissions of sound
recordings fixed before February 15, 1972, that satisfy the
conditions of subsection (b), the licensee shall pay 50 percent
of the performance royalties for the transmissions due under
the license to the collective designated to distribute receipts
from the licensing of transmissions in accordance with section
114(f), with such royalties fully credited as payments due
under such license.
``(3) Distribution of royalties by nonprofit agent.--That
collective shall distribute the royalties received pursuant to
paragraph (2) in accordance with subparagraphs (B) through (D)
of section 114(g)(2). Such payments shall be the sole payments
to which featured and nonfeatured artists are entitled by
virtue of such transmissions under the license.
``(4) Rule of construction.--This section does not prohibit
any other license from directing the licensee to pay other
royalties due to featured and nonfeatured artists for such
transmissions to the collective designated to distribute
receipts from the licensing of transmissions in accordance with
section 114(f).
``(d) Relationship to State Law.--
``(1) In general.--Nothing in this section shall be
construed to annul or limit any rights or remedies under the
common law or statutes of any State for sound recordings fixed
before February 15, 1972, except, notwithstanding section
301(c), the following:
``(A) This section preempts claims of common law
copyright or equivalent rights under the law of any
State arising from digital audio transmissions of sound
recordings fixed before February 15, 1972, made on and
after the effective date of this section.
``(B) This section preempts claims of common law
copyright or equivalent rights under the law of any
State arising from reproductions of sound recordings
fixed before February 15, 1972, made on and after the
effective date of this section, for reproductions that
would satisfy the requirements for statutory licensing
under section 112(e)(1) and (6), if the sound
recordings were fixed on or after February 15, 1972.
``(C) This section preempts claims of common law
copyright or equivalent rights under the law of any
State arising from digital audio transmissions and
reproductions of sound recordings fixed before February
15, 1972, made before the effective date of this
section, if--
``(i) the digital audio transmissions and
reproductions would have satisfied the
requirements for statutory licensing under
section 114(d)(2) or been exempt under section
114(d)(1), or would have satisfied the
requirements of section 112(e)(1),
respectively; and
``(ii) within 270 days after the effective
date of this section, except in the case of
transmissions that would have been exempt under
section 114(d)(1), the transmitting entity pays
statutory royalties and provides notice of the
use of the relevant sound recordings in the
same manner as required by regulations adopted
by the Copyright Royalty Judges for sound
recordings that are protected under this title
for all the digital audio transmissions and
reproductions satisfying the requirements for
statutory licensing under section 114(d)(2) and
section 112(e)(1) during the 3 years prior to
the effective date of this section.
``(2) Rule of construction for common law copyright.--For
purposes of subparagraphs (A) through (C) of paragraph (1),
claims of common law copyright or equivalent rights under the
law of any State include claims that characterize conduct
subject to such subparagraphs as an unlawful distribution, act
of record piracy, or similar violation.
``(3) Rule of construction for public performance rights.--
Nothing in this section shall be construed to recognize or
negate the existence of public performance rights in sound
recordings under the law of any State.
``(e) Limitations on Remedies.--
``(1) Fair use; reproduction by libraries and archives.--
The limitations on the exclusive rights of a copyright owner
described in sections 107 and 108 shall apply to a claim for
unauthorized performance of a sound recording fixed before
February 15, 1972, under subsection (a).
``(2) Actions.--The limitations on actions described in
section 507 shall apply to a claim for unauthorized performance
of a sound recording fixed before February 15, 1972, under
subsection (a).
``(3) Material online.--The limitations on liability
described in section 512 of this title shall apply to a claim
for unauthorized performance of a sound recording fixed before
February 15, 1972, under subsection (a).
``(4) Principles of equity.--Principles of equity apply to
remedies for a violation of this section to the same extent as
such principles apply to remedies for infringement of
copyright.
``(f) Application of Section 230 Safe Harbor.--For purposes of
section 230 of the Communications Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 230),
subsection (a) shall be considered `intellectual property laws' under
subsection (e)(2) of such section.
``(g) Rights Owner Defined.--In this section, the term `rights
owner' means the person who has the exclusive right to reproduce a
sound recording under the law of any State.''.
(b) Technical and Conforming Amendment.--The table of chapters for
title 17, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the
following new chapter:
``14. Unauthorized Digital Performance of Pre-1972 Sound 1401''.
Recordings. | Compensating Legacy Artists for their Songs, Service, and Important Contributions to Society Act or the CLASSICS Act This bill provides federal copyright protection for sound recordings fixed before February 15, 1972, specifically the right to make digital transmissions. Currently, pre-1972 recordings are only covered by state law. Pre-1972 recordings will fall within the existing compulsory license system for digital transmissions, which currently only cover post-1972 recordings. The bill preempts claims under state and common law for digital transmission of pre-1972 recordings. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Compensating Legacy Artists for their Songs, Service, and Important Contributions to Society Act"} | 1,820 | 112 | 0.565423 | 1.485628 | 0.786555 | 2.758242 | 17.901099 | 0.802198 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Small Business Tax Relief Act of
2011''.
SEC. 2. REPEAL OF EXPANSION OF CERTAIN INFORMATION REPORTING
REQUIREMENTS TO CORPORATIONS AND TO PAYMENTS FOR
PROPERTY.
Section 9006 of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is
repealed. Each provision of law amended by such section is amended to
read as such provision would read if such section had never been
enacted.
SEC. 3. SURCHARGE ON HIGH INCOME INDIVIDUALS.
(a) In General.--Subchapter A of chapter 1 of the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986 is amended by adding at the end the following new part:
``PART VIII--SURCHARGE ON HIGH INCOME INDIVIDUALS
``Sec. 59C. Surcharge on high income individuals.
``SEC. 59C. SURCHARGE ON HIGH INCOME INDIVIDUALS.
``(a) General Rule.--In the case of a taxpayer other than a
corporation, there is hereby imposed (in addition to any other tax
imposed by this subtitle) a tax equal to 5.4 percent of so much of the
modified adjusted gross income of the taxpayer as exceeds $1,000,000.
``(b) Taxpayers Not Making a Joint Return.--In the case of any
taxpayer other than a taxpayer making a joint return under section 6013
or a surviving spouse (as defined in section 2(a)), subsection (a)
shall be applied by substituting for the dollar amount therein (after
any increase determined under subsection (d)) a dollar amount equal
to--
``(1) 50 percent of the dollar amount so in effect in the
case of a married individual filing a separate return, and
``(2) 80 percent of the dollar amount so in effect in any
other case.
``(c) Modified Adjusted Gross Income.--For purposes of this
section, the term `modified adjusted gross income' means adjusted gross
income reduced by any deduction (not taken into account in determining
adjusted gross income) allowed for investment interest (as defined in
section 163(d)). In the case of an estate or trust, adjusted gross
income shall be determined as provided in section 67(e).
``(d) Inflation Adjustments.--
``(1) In general.--In the case of taxable years beginning
after 2011, the dollar amount in subsection (a) shall 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, by substituting `calendar year
2010' for `calendar year 1992' in subparagraph (B)
thereof.
``(2) Rounding.--If any amount as adjusted under paragraph
(1) is not a multiple of $5,000, such amount shall be rounded
to the next lowest multiple of $5,000.
``(e) Special Rules.--
``(1) Nonresident alien.--In the case of a nonresident
alien individual, only amounts taken into account in connection
with the tax imposed under section 871(b) shall be taken into
account under this section.
``(2) Citizens and residents living abroad.--The dollar
amount in effect under subsection (a) (after the application of
subsections (b) and (d)) shall be decreased by the excess of--
``(A) the amounts excluded from the taxpayer's
gross income under section 911, over
``(B) the amounts of any deductions or exclusions
disallowed under section 911(d)(6) with respect to the
amounts described in subparagraph (A).
``(3) Charitable trusts.--Subsection (a) shall not apply to
a trust all the unexpired interests in which are devoted to one
or more of the purposes described in section 170(c)(2)(B).
``(4) Not treated as tax imposed by this chapter for
certain purposes.--The tax imposed under this section shall not
be treated as tax imposed by this chapter for purposes of
determining the amount of any credit under this chapter or for
purposes of section 55.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of parts for subchapter A of
chapter 1 of such Code is amended by adding at the end the following
new item:
``part viii. surcharge on high income individuals.''.
(c) Section 15 Not To Apply.--The amendment made by subsection (a)
shall not be treated as a change in a rate of tax for purposes of
section 15 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2010.
(e) Deficit Reduction.--Revenues received pursuant to the
amendments made by this section shall be deposited in the Treasury and
used for deficit reduction, except that in the case of a fiscal year
for which there is no Federal budget deficit (determined after taking
into account the repeal and amendments made by section 2), such amounts
shall be used to reduce the Federal debt (in such manner as the
Secretary of the Treasury considers appropriate). | Small Business Tax Relief Act of 2011 - Repeals the provision of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act that extends to corporations that are not tax-exempt the requirement to report payments of $600 or more.
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to impose a 5.4% surcharge on individual taxpayers whose modified adjusted gross income exceeds $1 million. Dedicates revenues from such surcharge to federal deficit or debt reduction. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the expansion of certain information reporting requirements to corporations and to payments for property, to impose a surcharge on high income taxpayers, and for other purposes."} | 1,189 | 92 | 0.51156 | 1.13607 | 1.038515 | 2.25974 | 13.376623 | 0.831169 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Senior Self-Sufficiency Act''.
SEC. 2. AMENDMENTS.
Part A of title IV of the Older Americans Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C.
3001 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``SEC. 422. DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS IN NATURALLY OCCURRING RETIREMENT
COMMUNITIES.
``(a) Program Authorized.--The Assistant Secretary shall award
grants to eligible entities to carry out 10 demonstration projects to
provide comprehensive supportive services to older individuals who
reside in noninstitutional residences in naturally occurring retirement
communities to enhance the quality of life of such individuals and
reduce the need to institutionalize such individuals. Those residences
for which assistance is provided under section 202 of the National
Housing Act of 1959 (12 U.S.C. 1701q) in naturally occurring retirement
communities shall not receive services through a demonstration project
under this section if such services would otherwise be provided as part
of the assistance received by such residences under such section 202.
``(b) Eligible Entity.--An entity is eligible to receive a grant
under this section if such entity is a nonprofit public or private
agency, organization, or institution that proposes to provide services
only in geographical areas considered to be low- or middle-income
areas.
``(c) Priority.--
``(1) In general.--In awarding grants under this section,
the Assistant Secretary shall give priority to eligible
entities that provided comprehensive supportive services in
fiscal year 2002 to older individuals who resided in
noninstitutional residences in naturally occurring retirement
communities.
``(2) Rural areas.--Two of the 10 grants awarded under this
section shall be awarded to eligible entities that propose to
provide services to residents in rural areas.
``(d) Grant Period.--Each grant awarded under this section shall be
awarded for a period of 4 years, with not more than $1,000,000 being
awarded annually.
``(e) Application.--An eligible entity desiring a grant under this
section shall submit an application to the Assistant Secretary in such
form and containing such information as the Assistant Secretary may
require, including a plan for continuing services provided under the
grant after the grant expires.
``(f) Limitations.--
``(1) Cost-sharing.--An eligible entity receiving a grant
under this section may require cost-sharing from individuals
receiving services only in a manner consistent with the
requirements of title III.
``(2) Construction.--An entity may not use funds received
under a grant under this section to construct or permanently
improve (other than remodeling to make facilities accessible to
older individuals) any building or other facility.
``(g) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) Naturally occurring retirement community.--The term
`naturally occurring retirement community' means a geographical
area in which not less than 40 percent of the noninstitutional
residences are occupied for not less than 10 years by heads of
households who are older individuals, but does not include
residences for which assistance is provided under section 202
of the National Housing Act of 1959 (12 U.S.C. 1701q). The
definition provided for in the previous sentence may be
modified by the Secretary as such definition relates to grants
for rural areas.
``(2) Supportive services.--The term `supportive services'
means services offered to residents that may include--
``(A) case management;
``(B) health services and education;
``(C) nutrition services, nutrition education,
meals, and meal delivery;
``(D) transportation services;
``(E) home and personal care services;
``(F) continuing adult education;
``(G) information and referral services; and
``(H) any other services and resources appropriate
to enhance the quality of life of residents and reduce
the need to institutionalize such individuals.
``(h) Matching Requirement.--The Assistant Secretary may not make a
grant to an eligible entity under this section unless that entity
agrees that, with respect to the costs to be incurred by the entity in
carrying out the program for which the grant was awarded, the entity
will make available in cash or in-kind (directly or through donations
from public or private entities) non-Federal contributions equaling 5
percent of Federal funds provided under the grant for the second year
that such grant is provided, 10 percent of Federal funds provided under
the grant for the third year that such grant is provided, and 15
percent of Federal funds provided under the grant for the fourth year
that such grant is provided.
``(i) Report.--Not later than the beginning of the fourth year of
distributing grants under this section, the Assistant Secretary shall
evaluate services provided with funds under this section and submit a
report to Congress summarizing the results of such evaluation and
recommending what services should be taken in the future.
``(j) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section, not more than $10,000,000 for
each of fiscal years 2003 through 2006.''. | Senior Self-Sufficiency Act - Amends Older Americans Act of 1965 to direct the Assistant Secretary of Health and Human Services for Aging to award four-year grants of up to $1 million each to eligible entities to carry out ten demonstration projects to provide specified comprehensive supportive services to older individuals in noninstitutional residences in naturally occurring retirement communities to enhance their quality of life and reduce the need to institutionalize them. Limits such grants to geographical areas considered low- or middle-income. Requires two of the grants to be awarded to entities proposing to provide such services to rural residents. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "A bill to amend the Older Americans Act of 1965 to authorize appropriations for demonstration projects to provide supportive services to older individuals who reside in naturally occurring retirement communities."} | 1,138 | 128 | 0.668378 | 1.782276 | 0.614475 | 2.899083 | 9.504587 | 0.862385 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Education Freedom Act''.
SEC. 2. CREDIT FOR CONTRIBUTIONS FOR THE BENEFIT OF ELEMENTARY AND
SECONDARY SCHOOLS.
(a) In General.--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 section:
``SEC. 30B. CREDIT FOR CONTRIBUTIONS FOR THE BENEFIT OF ELEMENTARY AND
SECONDARY SCHOOLS.
``(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 50 percent of the qualified charitable contributions of the
taxpayer for the taxable year.
``(b) Limitations.--
``(1) Individuals, etc.--In the case of a taxpayer other
than a corporation, the credit allowed by subsection (a) for
any taxable year shall not exceed $250 ($500 in the case of a
joint return).
``(2) Corporations.--In the case of a corporation, the
credit allowed by subsection (a) shall not exceed $50,000.
``(3) Limitation in case of state credit.--Subject to
subsection (d)(2), in the case of a taxpayer which claims a
credit on a State income tax return for any qualified
charitable contribution, the amount of credit under this
section shall be the lesser of--
``(A) the amount which, when added to the amount of
the State income tax credit, equals the total amount of
the taxpayer's qualified charitable contributions, or
``(B) the limitation amount that applies under
paragraph (1) or (2).
``(c) Qualified Charitable Contribution.--For purposes of this
section--
``(1) In general.--The term `qualified charitable
contribution' means, with respect to any taxable year, the
aggregate amount allowable as a deduction under section 170
(determined without regard to subsection (d)(1)) for cash
contributions--
``(A) to an education investment organization, or
``(B) to a public, private, or religious school
providing education at the elementary or secondary
level.
``(2) Education investment organization.--For purposes of
this section--
``(A) In general.--The term `education investment
organization' means any organization described in
section 170(c)(2) if the annual disbursements of the
organization in the form of grants for qualified
elementary and secondary education expenses are
normally not less than 90 percent of the sum of such
organization's annual gross income and contributions
and gifts.
``(B) Qualified elementary and secondary education
expenses.--The term `qualified elementary and secondary
education expenses' has the meaning given such term by
section 530(b)(4), except that `child' shall be
substituted for `beneficiary' and `a child' shall be
substituted for `the designated beneficiary of the
trust' in clauses (i) and (iii) of subparagraph (A).
``(d) Special Rules.--
``(1) Denial of double benefit.--No deduction shall be
allowed under this chapter for any contribution for which
credit is allowed under this section.
``(2) Application with other credits.--The credit allowed
by 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 sections 21, 22, 24, 25A, 25B, subpart
C, and this section) and under section 1397E.
``(3) Controlled groups.--All persons who are treated as
one employer under subsection (a) or (b) of section 52 shall be
treated as 1 taxpayer for purposes of this section.
``(e) Election To Have Credit Not Apply.--A taxpayer may elect to
have this section not apply for any taxable year.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for subpart B of
part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1 of such Code is amended by adding
at the end the following new item:
``Sec. 30B. Credit for contributions for
the benefit of elementary and
secondary schools.''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2003.
SEC. 3. EXCLUSION FROM GROSS INCOME OF GRANTS FROM EDUCATION INVESTMENT
ORGANIZATIONS.
(a) In General.--Part III of subchapter B of chapter 1 of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to items specifically excluded
from gross income) is amended by inserting after section 117 the
following new section:
``SEC. 117A. GRANTS FROM EDUCATION INVESTMENT ORGANIZATIONS.
``(a) General Rule.--Gross income does not include any amount
received as a grant for qualified elementary and secondary education
expenses from an education investment organization.
``(b) Definitions.--For purposes of this section, the terms
`qualified elementary and secondary education expenses' and `education
investment organization' have the meanings provided by section 30B.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--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 117 the following:
``Sec. 117A. Grants from education
investment organizations.''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to amounts received in taxable years beginning after December 31,
2003.
SEC. 4. REVISION OF DEFINITION OF SCHOOL FOR PURPOSES OF QUALIFIED
ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION EXPENSES.
(a) In General.--Paragraph (4) of section 530(b) of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986 (defining qualified elementary and secondary
education expenses) is amended--
(1) in clauses (i) and (ii) of subparagraph (A), by
striking ``public, private, or religious'', and
(2) in subparagraph (B), by inserting after ``any school''
the following: ``, including a public, private, religious, or
home school,''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2003. | Education Freedom Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to permit a tax credit for 50 percent of certain cash contributions by a taxpayer to an education investment organization or to an elementary or secondary school. Sets a maximum credit of $50,000 for corporations and $250 for other taxpayers ($500 for a joint return). Provides other limitations on the amount of the credit in certain specified instances.Excludes from gross income any amount received as a grant for qualified elementary and secondary expenses from an education investment organization. Defines "qualified elementary and secondary expenses" and "education investment organization." Revises definition of "school" for purposes of defining qualified elementary and secondary education expenses. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow a credit for contributions for the benefit of elementary and secondary schools."} | 1,499 | 143 | 0.599474 | 1.462054 | 0.681706 | 2.891473 | 9.968992 | 0.829457 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Generating Antibiotic Incentives Now
Act of 2010''.
SEC. 2. TABLE OF CONTENTS.
The table of contents of this Act is as follows:
Sec. 1. Short title.
Sec. 2. Table of contents.
Sec. 3. Extension of exclusivity period.
Sec. 4. Priority review.
Sec. 5. Fast track product.
Sec. 6. Clinical trials.
SEC. 3. EXTENSION OF EXCLUSIVITY PERIOD.
(a) In General.--The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act is
amended by inserting after section 505D (21 U.S.C. 355e) the following:
``SEC. 505E. EXTENSION OF EXCLUSIVITY PERIOD FOR NEW QUALIFIED
INFECTIOUS DISEASE PRODUCTS.
``(a) Extension.--If, prior to approval or licensure of a drug or
biological product pursuant to an application that is submitted under
section 505(b) of this Act or section 351(a) of the Public Health
Service Act, the Secretary determines that the drug or biological
product is a qualified infectious disease product, then the exclusivity
period for such qualified infectious disease product is deemed to be
extended by 5 years.
``(b) Limited to First Licensure.--Subsection (a) does not apply to
the approval or licensure of--
``(1) a supplement for the qualified infectious disease
product; or
``(2) a subsequent application filed by the same sponsor or
manufacturer of the qualified infectious disease product (or a
licensor, predecessor in interest, or other related entity)
for--
``(A) a change (not including a modification to the
structure of the qualified infectious disease product)
that results in a new indication, route of
administration, dosing schedule, dosage form, delivery
system, delivery device, or strength; or
``(B) a modification to the structure of the
qualified infectious disease product that does not
result in a change in--
``(i) safety or effectiveness in the case
of a drug; or
``(ii) safety, purity, or potency in the
case of a biological product.
``(c) Determination.--At the request of any person submitting an
application described in subsection (a), the Secretary shall, not later
than 30 days after the submission of such request and prior to approval
of the application, determine whether the drug or biological product is
a qualified infectious disease product.
``(d) Regulations.--The Secretary shall promulgate regulations for
carrying out this section. The Secretary shall promulgate the initial
regulations for carrying out this section not later than 12 months
after such date of enactment.
``(e) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) Exclusivity period.--The term `exclusivity period'
means, with respect to a qualified infectious disease product
approved or licensed under section 505 of this Act or section
351 of the Public Health Service Act, the period of time (as
extended under section 505A or 527 of this Act or section
351(m) of the Public Health Service Act) during which such
section 505 or 351 prohibit the Secretary from making effective
the approval of another application under such section 505 or
351 for such product for a person who is not the holder of such
approved application or of such approved license.
``(2) Qualified infectious disease product.--The term
`qualified infectious disease product' means an antibiotic
drug, or a diagnostic test including a point-of-care diagnostic
test, for treating, detecting, preventing, or identifying a
qualifying pathogen.
``(3) Qualifying pathogen.--The term `qualifying pathogen'
means--
``(A) resistant gram positive pathogens, including
methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA),
vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (VRSA), and
vancomycin-resistant enterococcus (VRE);
``(B) multi-drug resistant gram negative bacteria,
including Acinetobacter, Klebsiella, Pseudomonas, and
E. coli species;
``(C) multi-drug resistant tuberculosis; or
``(D) any other infectious pathogen identified for
purposes of this section by the Secretary, in
concurrence with infectious disease clinicians and
appropriate professional associations, as a significant
threat to public health because of drug resistance or
other factors (or likely to become such a threat).''.
(b) Application.--Section 505E of the Federal Food, Drug, and
Cosmetic Act, as added by subsection (a), shall apply with respect to
any drug or biological product that is first approved or licensed under
section 505 of such Act (21 U.S.C. 355) or section 351 of the Public
Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 262) on or after the date of the
enactment of this Act.
SEC. 4. PRIORITY REVIEW.
(a) Amendment.--Chapter V of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic
Act is amended by inserting after section 524 (21 U.S.C. 360n) the
following:
``SEC. 524A. PRIORITY REVIEW FOR QUALIFIED INFECTIOUS DISEASE PRODUCTS.
``(a) In General.--If the Secretary determines under section 505E
that a drug is a qualified infectious disease product, the Secretary
shall give priority review to the application for approval or licensure
of such product submitted under section 505(b) of this Act or section
351(a) of the Public Health Service Act.
``(b) Definition.--In this section, the term `priority review',
with respect to an application described in subsection (b), means
review and action by the Secretary on such application not later than 6
months after receipt by the Secretary of such application.''.
(b) Application.--Section 524A of the Federal Food, Drug, and
Cosmetic Act, as added by subsection (a), shall apply with respect to
an application that is submitted under section 505(b) of such Act (21
U.S.C. 355(b)) or section 351(a) of the Public Health Service Act (42
U.S.C. 262(a)) on or after the date of the enactment of this Act.
SEC. 5. FAST TRACK PRODUCT.
Paragraph (1) of section 506(a) of the Federal Food, Drug, and
Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 356(a)) is amended by inserting after ``if it
is intended for the treatment of a serious or life-threatening
condition and it demonstrates the potential to address unmet medical
needs for such a condition'' the following: ``or if the Secretary
determines under section 505E that the drug is a qualified infectious
disease product''.
SEC. 6. CLINICAL TRIALS.
(a) Review and Revision of Guidelines.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of
the enactment of this Act, and not later than 4 years
thereafter, the Secretary shall--
(A) review the guidelines of the Food and Drug
Administration for the conduct of clinical trials with
respect to antibiotic drugs; and
(B) as appropriate, revise such guidelines to
reflect developments in scientific and medical
information and technology and to ensure clarity
regarding the procedures and requirements for approval
of an antibiotic drug under chapter V of the Federal
Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 351 et seq.) or
section 351 of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C.
262).
(2) Issues for review.--At a minimum, the review under
paragraph (1) shall address the appropriate animal models of
infection, in vitro techniques, valid micro-biological
surrogate markers, the use of non-inferiority versus
superiority trials, and appropriate delta values for non-
inferiority trials.
(3) Reports to congress.--Not later than 1 year after the
date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for
the next 4 years, the Secretary shall submit a report to the
Congress on the progress of the review under paragraph (1).
(4) Rule of construction.--Except to the extent to which
the Secretary of Health and Human Services makes revisions
under paragraph (1)(B), nothing in this section shall be
construed to repeal or otherwise affect the guidelines of the
Food and Drug Administration.
(b) Recommendations for Investigations.--
(1) Request.--The sponsor of a drug intended to be used to
treat, detect, prevent, or identify a qualifying pathogen may
request that the Secretary provide written recommendations for
nonclinical and clinical investigations which may be conducted
with the drug before--
(A) it may be approved for such use under section
505 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21
U.S.C. 355); or
(B) if the drug is a biological product, it may be
licensed for such use under section 351 of the Public
Health Service Act.
(2) Recommendations.--If the Secretary has reason to
believe that a drug for which a request is made under this
subsection is a qualified infectious disease product, the
Secretary shall provide the person making the request written
recommendations for the nonclinical and clinical investigations
which the Secretary believes, on the basis of information
available to the Secretary at the time of the request, would be
necessary for--
(A) approval under section 505 of the Federal Food,
Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 355) of such drug for
the use described in paragraph (1); or
(B) licensing under section 351 of the Public
Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 262) of such drug for
such use.
(c) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``biological product'' has the meaning given
to such term in section 351 of the Public Health Service Act
(42 U.S.C. 262).
(2) The term ``drug'' has the meaning given to such term in
section 201 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21
U.S.C. 321).
(3) The term ``qualifying pathogen'' has the meaning given
such term in section 505E of the Federal Food, Drug, and
Cosmetic Act, as added by section 3.
(4) The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of Health
and Human Services, acting through the Commissioner of Food and
Drugs. | Generating Antibiotic Incentives Now Act of 2010 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to: (1) extend for five years the exclusivity period for the first licensure of a qualified infectious disease product; (2) grant priority review to an application for approval or licensure of a qualified infectious disease product (i.e., review and action on such application not later than six months after receipt); and (3) deem a qualified infectious disease product as a fast track product, for review and approval purposes. Defines "qualified infectious disease product" as an antibiotic drug, or a diagnostic test including a point-of-care diagnostic test, for treating, detecting, preventing, or identifying a qualifying pathogen.
Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), acting through the Commissioner of Food and Drugs, to review the guidelines of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the conduct of clinical trials for antibiotic drugs and revise such guidelines to reflect developments in medical information and technology. Allows the sponsor of a drug intended to be used to treat, detect, prevent, or identify a qualifying pathogen, as defined by this Act, to request that the Secretary provide written recommendations for nonclinical and clinical investigations before such drug may be approved for use or licensed. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To provide incentives for the development of qualified infectious disease products."} | 2,398 | 285 | 0.606374 | 1.868567 | 0.926399 | 4.781609 | 7.942529 | 0.888889 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``American Innovation Act''.
SEC. 2. CAP ADJUSTMENT.
(a) In General.--Section 251(b)(2) of the Balanced Budget and
Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (2 U.S.C. 901(b)(2)) is amended--
(1) by redesignating subparagraph (D) as subparagraph (E);
and
(2) by inserting after subparagraph (C), the following:
``(D) Basic science research.--
``(i) National science foundation.--If a
bill or joint resolution making appropriations
for a fiscal year is enacted that specifies
amounts for the National Science Foundation,
then the adjustments for that fiscal year shall
be the amount of additional new budget
authority provided in that Act for such
programs for that fiscal year, but shall not
exceed--
``(I) for fiscal year 2016,
$397,000,000 in additional new budget
authority;
``(II) for fiscal year 2017,
$831,000,000 in additional new budget
authority;
``(III) for fiscal year 2018,
$1,275,000,000 in additional new budget
authority;
``(IV) for fiscal year 2019,
$1,765,000,000 in additional new budget
authority;
``(V) for fiscal year 2020,
$2,290,000,000 in additional new budget
authority; and
``(VI) for fiscal year 2021,
$2,867,000,000 in additional new budget
authority.
``(ii) Department of energy office of
science.--If a bill or joint resolution making
appropriations for a fiscal year is enacted
that specifies amounts for the Office of
Science of the Department of Energy, then the
adjustments for that fiscal year shall be the
amount of additional new budget authority
provided in that Act for such programs for that
fiscal year, but shall not exceed--
``(I) for fiscal year 2016,
$275,000,000 in additional new budget
authority;
``(II) for fiscal year 2017,
$566,000,000 in additional new budget
authority;
``(III) for fiscal year 2018,
$867,000,000 in additional new budget
authority;
``(IV) for fiscal year 2019,
$1,198,000,000 in additional new budget
authority;
``(V) for fiscal year 2020,
$1,555,000,000 in additional new budget
authority; and
``(VI) for fiscal year 2021,
$1,946,000,000 in additional new budget
authority.
``(iii) Department of defense science and
technology programs.--If a bill or joint
resolution making appropriations for a fiscal
year is enacted that specifies amounts for the
Department of Defense science and technology
programs, then the adjustments for that fiscal
year shall be the amount of additional new
budget authority provided in that Act for such
programs for that fiscal year, but shall not
exceed--
``(I) for fiscal year 2016,
$636,000,000 in additional new budget
authority;
``(II) for fiscal year 2017,
$1,309,000,000 in additional new budget
authority;
``(III) for fiscal year 2018,
$2,007,000,000 in additional new budget
authority;
``(IV) for fiscal year 2019,
$2,773,000,000 in additional new budget
authority;
``(V) for fiscal year 2020,
$3,603,000,000 in additional new budget
authority; and
``(VI) for fiscal year 2021,
$4,512,000,000 in additional new budget
authority.
``(iv) National institute of standards and
technology scientific and technical research
and services.--If a bill or joint resolution
making appropriations for a fiscal year is
enacted that specifies amounts for the
Scientific and Technical Research and Services
within the National Institute of Standards and
Technology of the Department of Commerce, then
the adjustments for that fiscal year shall be
the amount of additional new budget authority
provided in that Act for such programs for that
fiscal year, but shall not exceed--
``(I) for fiscal year 2016,
$31,000,000 in additional new budget
authority;
``(II) for fiscal year 2017,
$62,000,000 in additional new budget
authority;
``(III) for fiscal year 2018,
$96,000,000 in additional new budget
authority;
``(IV) for fiscal year 2019,
$132,000,000 in additional new budget
authority;
``(V) for fiscal year 2020,
$173,000,000 in additional new budget
authority; and
``(VI) for fiscal year 2021,
$216,000,000 in additional new budget
authority.
``(v) National aeronautics and space
administration science directorate.--If a bill
or joint resolution making appropriations for a
fiscal year is enacted that specifies amounts
for the Science Mission Directorate of the
National Aeronautics and Space Administration,
then the adjustments for that fiscal year shall
be the amount of additional new budget
authority provided in that Act for such program
for that fiscal year, but shall not exceed--
``(I) for fiscal year 2016,
$267,000,000 in additional new budget
authority;
``(II) for fiscal year 2017,
$559,000,000 in additional new budget
authority;
``(III) for fiscal year 2018,
$876,000,000 in additional new budget
authority;
``(IV) for fiscal year 2019,
$1,222,000,000 in additional new budget
authority;
``(V) for fiscal year 2020,
$1,598,000,000 in additional new budget
authority; and
``(VI) for fiscal year 2021,
$2,006,000,000 in additional new budget
authority.
``(vi) Definitions.--As used in this
subparagraph:
``(I) Additional new budget
authority.--The term `additional new
budget authority' means--
``(aa) with respect to the
National Science Foundation,
the amount provided for a
fiscal year, in excess of the
amount provided in fiscal year
2015, in an appropriation Act
and specified to support the
National Science Foundation;
``(bb) with respect to the
Department of Energy Office of
Science, the amount provided
for a fiscal year, in excess of
the amount provided in fiscal
year 2015, in an appropriation
Act and specified to support
the Department of Energy Office
of Science;
``(cc) with respect to the
Department of Defense Science
and Technology Programs, the
amount provided for a fiscal
year, in excess of the amount
provided in fiscal year 2015,
in an appropriation Act and
specified to support the
Department of Defense Science
and Technology Programs;
``(dd) with respect to the
National Institute of Standards
and Technology Scientific and
Technical Research Services,
the amount provided for a
fiscal year, in excess of the
amount provided in fiscal year
2015, in an appropriation Act
and specified to support the
National Institute of Standards
and Technology Scientific and
Technical Research Services;
and
``(ee) with respect to the
National Aeronautics and Space
Administration Science
Directorate, the amount
provided for a fiscal year, in
excess of the amount provided
in fiscal year 2015, in an
appropriation Act and specified
to support the National
Aeronautics and Space
Administration Science
Directorate.
``(II) National science
foundation.--The term `National Science
Foundation' means the appropriations
accounts that support the various
institutes, offices, and centers that
make up the National Science
Foundation.
``(III) Department of energy office
of science.--The term `Department of
Energy Office of Science' means the
appropriations accounts that support
the various institutes, offices, and
centers that make up the Department of
Energy Office of Science.
``(IV) Department of defense
science and technology programs.--The
term `Department of Defense Science and
Technology programs' means the
appropriations accounts that support
the various institutes, offices, and
centers that make up the Department of
Defense Science and Technology
programs.
``(V) National institute of
standards and technology scientific and
technical research and services.--The
term `National Institute of Standards
and Technology Scientific and Technical
Research and Services' means the
appropriations accounts that support
the various institutes, offices, and
centers that make up the National
Institute of Standards and Technology
Scientific and Technical Research and
Services.
``(VI) National aeronautics and
space administration science
directorate.--The term `National
Aeronautics and Space Administration
Science Directorate' means the
appropriations accounts that support
the various institutes, offices, and
centers that make up the National
Aeronautics and Space Administration
Science Directorate.''.
(b) Funding.--There are hereby authorized to be appropriated--
(1) for the National Science Foundation, the amounts
provided for under clause (i) of such section 251(b)(2)(D) in
each of fiscal years 2016 through 2021, and such sums as may be
necessary for each subsequent fiscal year;
(2) for the Department of Energy Office of Sciences, the
amounts provided for under clause (ii) of such section
251(b)(2)(D) in each of fiscal years 2016 through 2021, and
such sums as may be necessary for each subsequent fiscal year;
(3) for the Department of Defense Science and Technology
programs, the amounts provided for under clause (iii) of such
section 251(b)(2)(D) in each of fiscal years 2016 through 2021,
and such sums as may be necessary for each subsequent fiscal
year;
(4) for the National Institute of Standards and Technology
Scientific and Technical Research and Services, the amounts
provided for under clause (iv) of such section 251(b)(2)(D) in
each of fiscal years 2016 through 2021, and such sums as may be
necessary for each subsequent fiscal year; and
(5) for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Science Directorate, the amounts provided for under clause (iv)
of such section 251(b)(2)(D) in each of fiscal years 2016
through 2021, and such sums as may be necessary for each
subsequent fiscal year.
(c) Minimum Continued Funding Requirement.--Amounts appropriated
for each of the programs and agencies described in section 251(b)(2)(D)
of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (as
added by subsection (a)) for each of fiscal years 2016 through 2021,
and each subsequent fiscal year, shall not be less than the amounts
appropriated for such programs and agencies for fiscal year 2015.
(d) Exemption of Certain Appropriations From Sequestration.--
(1) In general.--Section 255(g)(1)(A) of the Balanced
Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act (2 U.S.C.
905(g)(1)(A)) is amended by inserting after ``Advances to the
Unemployment Trust Fund and Other Funds (16-0327-0-1-600).''
the following:
``Appropriations under the American
Innovation Act.''.
(2) Applicability.--The amendment made by this section
shall apply to any sequestration order issued under the
Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (2
U.S.C. 900 et seq.) on or after the date of enactment of this
Act. | American Innovation Act This bill amends the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 to require certain adjustments to discretionary spending limits in FY2016-FY2021 to accommodate increases in appropriations for agencies that perform basic science research. Adjustments are required for the National Science Foundation, the Department of Energy Office of Science, Department of Defense science and technology programs, National Institute of Standards and Technology Scientific and Technical Research and Services, and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Science Mission Directorate. The bill also requires annual appropriations for each of the programs and agencies referenced in this bill to be at least the amount appropriated in FY2015. The bill exempts appropriations provided pursuant to this bill from sequestration. Sequestration is a process of automatic, usually across-the-board spending reductions under which budgetary resources are permanently cancelled to enforce specific budget policy goals. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "American Innovation Act"} | 2,389 | 196 | 0.479164 | 1.287414 | 0.89121 | 2.824242 | 13.781818 | 0.751515 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Common Sense Housing Investment Act
of 2012''.
SEC. 2. CONGRESSIONAL FINDINGS.
The Congress finds the following:
(1) Two principal Federal housing goals are to increase the
rate of home ownership and make rental housing affordable for
low-income families and individuals.
(2) Much more progress has been achieved on the first goal
than on the second goal.
(3) The Federal Government devotes almost four times the
amount of budgetary resources to supporting home ownership than
it devotes to making affordable rental housing available.
(4) The burden of housing costs is more pronounced among
renters than among owners.
(5) There is a shortage of nearly 7 million homes
affordable to families in the bottom 20 percent of income,
meaning that there are only 30 affordable units for every 100
families.
(6) Only one in four families that qualify for rental
housing assistance receives benefits.
(7) Housing assistance waiting lists can be 10 years long
and in many communities are closed.
(8) Public housing facilities in the United States have
more than $26 billion in deferred maintenance after decades of
neglect which results in a loss of 10,000 units each year.
(9) The low income housing tax credit successfully provides
100,000 units of affordable housing every year.
(10) Every tax reform commission has recommended capping
the mortgage interest deduction and converting it to a fairer
and simpler credit.
(11) More than 75 percent of the value of the mortgage
interest deduction inures to the benefit of the top 20 percent
of earners.
(12) Fewer than half of tax filers with a home mortgage
claim the mortgage interest deduction.
(13) Only 9 percent of rural tax filers claim the mortgage
interest deduction.
(14) Ninety-six percent of homes sold between 2000 and 2009
sold for less than $500,000.
(15) A better approach that provides equitable benefits for
families who buy homes, enables more low- and moderate-income
homeowners to receive a benefit, and invests in affordable
rental housing to assist those who used to be homeless or who
have extremely or very low incomes is needed to strengthen
families and communities.
SEC. 3. REPLACEMENT OF MORTGAGE INTEREST DEDUCTION WITH MORTGAGE
INTEREST CREDIT.
(a) Nonrefundable Credit.--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. INTEREST ON INDEBTEDNESS SECURED BY QUALIFIED RESIDENCE.
``(a) Allowance of Credit.--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 20 percent of the qualified
residence interest paid or accrued during the taxable year.
``(b) Qualified Residence Interest.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) In general.--The term `qualified residence interest'
means interest which is paid or accrued during the taxable year
on--
``(A) acquisition indebtedness with respect to any
qualified residence of the taxpayer, or
``(B) home equity indebtedness with respect to any
qualified residence of the taxpayer.
For purposes of the preceding sentence, the determination of
whether any property is a qualified residence of the taxpayer
shall be made as of the time the interest is accrued.
``(2) Overall limitation.--The aggregate amount of
indebtedness taken into account for any period for purposes of
this section shall not exceed $500,000 ($250,000 in the case of
a married individual filing a separate return).
``(3) Acquisition indebtedness.--The term `acquisition
indebtedness' means any indebtedness which--
``(A) is incurred in acquiring, constructing, or
substantially improving any qualified residence of the
taxpayer, and
``(B) is secured by such residence.
Such term also includes any indebtedness secured by such
residence resulting from the refinancing of indebtedness
meeting the requirements of the preceding sentence (or this
sentence), but only to the extent the amount of the
indebtedness resulting from such refinancing does not exceed
the amount of the refinanced indebtedness.
``(4) Home equity indebtedness.--
``(A) In general.--The term `home equity
indebtedness' means any indebtedness (other than
acquisition indebtedness) secured by a qualified
residence to the extent the aggregate amount of such
indebtedness does not exceed--
``(i) the fair market value of such
qualified residence, reduced by
``(ii) the amount of acquisition
indebtedness with respect to such residence.
``(B) Limitation.--The aggregate amount treated as
home equity indebtedness for any period shall not
exceed $100,000 ($50,000 in the case of a married
individual filing a separate return).
``(c) Special Rules.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) Qualified residence.--The term `qualified residence'
means--
``(A) the principal residence (within the meaning
of section 121) of the taxpayer, and
``(B) 1 other residence of the taxpayer which is
selected by the taxpayer for purposes of this
subsection for the taxable year and which is used by
the taxpayer as a residence (within the meaning of
section 280A(d)(1)).
``(2) Married individuals filing separate returns.--If a
married couple does not file a joint return for the taxable
year--
``(A) such couple shall be treated as 1 taxpayer
for purposes of paragraph (1), and
``(B) each individual shall be entitled to take
into account 1 residence unless both individuals
consent in writing to 1 individual taking into account
the principal residence and 1 other residence.
``(3) Residence not rented.--For purposes of paragraph
(1)(B), notwithstanding section 280A(d)(1), if the taxpayer
does not rent a dwelling unit at any time during a taxable
year, such unit may be treated as a residence for such taxable
year.
``(4) Unenforceable security interests.--Indebtedness shall
not fail to be treated as secured by any property solely
because, under any applicable State or local homestead or other
debtor protection law in effect on August 16, 1986, the
security interest is ineffective or the enforceability of the
security interest is restricted.
``(5) Special rules for estates and trusts.--For purposes
of determining whether any interest paid or accrued by an
estate or trust is qualified residence interest, any residence
held by such estate or trust shall be treated as a qualified
residence of such estate or trust if such estate or trust
establishes that such residence is a qualified residence of a
beneficiary who has a present interest in such estate or trust
or an interest in the residuary of such estate or trust.
``(d) Coordination With Deduction.--In the case of any taxable year
beginning in calendar years 2013 through 2017, the taxpayer may elect
to apply this section in lieu of the deduction under section 163 for
qualified residence interest.''.
(b) Phaseout of Deduction.--Section 163(h) of such Code is amended
by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(5) Phaseout.--
``(A) In general.--In the case of any taxable year
beginning in a calendar year after 2012, the amount
otherwise allowable as a deduction by reason of
paragraph (2)(D) shall be the applicable percentage of
such amount.
``(B) Applicable percentage.--For purposes of
subparagraph (A), the applicable percentage shall be
determined in accordance with the following table:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The applicable
``For taxable years beginning in calendar year: percentage
is:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
2013.................................................... 100%
2014.................................................... 80%
2015.................................................... 60%
2016.................................................... 40%
2017.................................................... 20%
2018 and thereafter..................................... 0%.''.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(c) Phasedown of Mortgage Limit.--Subparagraph (B) of section
163(h)(3) of such Code is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(iii) Phasedown.--
``(I) In general.--In the case of
any taxable year beginning in calendar
years 2013 through 2017, clause (ii)
shall be applied by substituting the
amounts specified in the table in
subclause (II) for `$1,000,000' and
`$500,000', respectively.
``(II) Phasedown amounts.--For
purposes of subclause (I), the amounts
specified in this subclause for a
taxable year shall be the amounts
specified in the following table:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Amount Amount
``For taxable years beginning in calendar substituted substituted
year: for for
$1,000,000: $500,000:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
2013.......................................... $1,000,000 $500,000
2014.......................................... $900,000 $450,000
2015.......................................... $800,000 $400,000
2016.......................................... $700,000 $350,000
2017.......................................... $600,000 $300,000.''
.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(d) 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 section 25D the following new item:
``Sec. 25E. Interest on indebtedness secured by qualified residence.''.
(e) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply with respect to interest paid or accrued after December 31, 2012.
SEC. 4. DEDUCTION ALLOWED FOR INTEREST AND TAXES RELATING TO LAND FOR
DWELLING PURPOSES OWNED OR LEASED BY COOPERATIVE HOUSING
CORPORATIONS.
(a) In General.--Subparagraph (B) of section 216(b)(1) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by striking ``or land,'' after
``building,''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by subsection (a) shall
apply to amounts paid or accrued after December 31, 2012.
SEC. 5. USE OF MORTGAGE INTEREST SAVINGS TO INCREASE LOW-INCOME HOUSING
TAX CREDIT.
(a) In General.--Subclause (I) of section 42(h)(3)(C)(ii) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by striking ``$1.75 ($1.50 for
2001)'' and inserting ``$2.70''.
(b) Inflation Adjustment.--Subparagraph (H) of section 42(h)(3) of
such Code is amended to read as follows:
``(H) Cost-of-living adjustment.--
``(i) In general.--In the case of a
calendar year after 2002, the $2,000,000 amount
in subparagraph (C) shall be increased by an
amount equal to--
``(I) such dollar amount,
multiplied by
``(II) the cost-of-living
adjustment determined under section
1(f)(3) for such calendar year by
substituting `calendar year 2001' for
`calendar year 1992' in subparagraph
(B) thereof.
``(ii) Per capita amount.--In the case of a
calendar year after 2013, the $2.70 amount in
subparagraph (C) shall be increased by an
amount equal to--
``(I) such dollar amount,
multiplied by
``(II) the cost-of-living
adjustment determined under section
1(f)(3) for such calendar year by
substituting `calendar year 2012' for
`calendar year 1992' in subparagraph
(B) thereof.
``(iii) Rounding.--
``(I) In the case of the $2,000,000
amount, any increase under clause (i)
which is not a multiple of $5,000 shall
be rounded to the next lowest multiple
of $5,000.
``(II) In the case of the $2.70
amount, any increase under clause (ii)
which is not a multiple of 5 cents
shall be rounded to the next lowest
multiple of 5 cents.''.
(c) Eligible Basis.--Clause (i) of section 42(d)(5)(B) of such Code
is amended by striking ``and'' at the end of subclause (I), by striking
the period at the end of subclause (II) and inserting ``, and'', and by
adding at the end the following:
``(III) in the case of a building
containing units which are designated
to serve extremely low-income
households by the State housing credit
agency and require the increase in
credit under this subparagraph in order
for such building to be financially
feasible as part of a qualified low-
income housing project, the eligible
basis of such building determined by
the portion of such units shall be 150
percent of such basis determined
without regard to this subparagraph.''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to allocations made in calendar years beginning after December
31, 2012.
SEC. 6. USE OF MORTGAGE INTEREST SAVINGS FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING
PROGRAMS.
(a) Use of Savings.--For each year, the Secretary of the Treasury
shall determine the amount of revenues accruing to the general fund of
the Treasury by reason of the enactment of section 3 of this Act that
remain after use of such revenues in accordance with section 5 of this
Act and shall credit an amount equal to such remaining revenues as
follows:
(1) Housing trust fund.--The Secretary shall credit the
Housing Trust Fund established under section 1338 of the
Federal Housing Enterprises Financial Safety and Soundness Act
of 1992 (12 U.S.C. 4568) with an amount equal to 60 percent of
the amount such remaining revenues.
(2) Section 8 rental assistance.--The Secretary shall
credit an amount equal to 30 percent of the amount of such
remaining revenues to the Secretary of Housing and Urban
Development for use only for providing tenant- and project-
based rental assistance under section 8 of the United States
Housing Act of 1937 (42 U.S.C. 1437f).
(3) Public housing capital fund.--The Secretary shall
credit an amount equal to 10 percent of the amount of such
remaining revenues to the Public Housing Capital Fund under
section 9(d) of the United States Housing Act of 1937 (42
U.S.C. 1437g(d)).
(b) Changes to Housing Trust Fund.--Not later than the expiration
of the 6-month period beginning on the date of the enactment of this
Act, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall revise the
regulations relating to the Housing Trust Fund established under
section 1338 of the Federal Housing Enterprises Financial Safety and
Soundness Act of 1992 (12 U.S.C. 4568) to provide that such section is
carried out with the maximum amount of flexibility possible while
complying with such section, which shall include revising such
regulations--
(1) to increase the limitation on amounts from the Fund
that are available for use for operating assistance for
housing;
(2) to allow public housing agencies and tribally
designated housing entities to be recipient of grants amounts
from the Fund that are allocated to a State or State designated
entity; and
(3) eliminate the applicability of rules for the Fund that
are based on the HOME Investment Partnerships Act (42 U.S.C.
1721 et seq.). | Common Sense Housing Investment Act of 2012 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code, with respect to the tax deduction for mortgage interest, to: (1) allow, in lieu of such deduction, a tax credit for 20% of mortgage interest paid in a taxable year for the taxpayer's principal residence and one other residence; (2) provide for a phaseout of the tax deduction for mortgage interest between 2013 and 2017; (3) allow a deduction for interest and taxes relating to land for dwelling purposes owned or leased by cooperative housing corporations; and (4) increase the state housing credit ceiling for the low-income housing tax credit.
Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to apply the savings from the enactment of this Act to the Housing Trust Fund, for assistance under the Section 8 low-income housing program, and for the Public Housing Capital Fund. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to replace the mortgage interest deduction with a nonrefundable credit for indebtedness secured by a residence, to provide affordable housing to extremely low-income families, and for other purposes."} | 3,615 | 176 | 0.537312 | 1.580437 | 0.696429 | 2.958084 | 18.443114 | 0.97006 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Teaching Health Centers Graduate
Medical Education Extension Act of 2017''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds as follows:
(1) The program of payments to teaching health centers for
graduate medical education under section 340H of the Public
Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 256h) was enacted in 2010 to
address the crisis-level shortage of primary care physicians,
especially in rural and medically underserved communities.
(2) Teaching health center residents and faculty will
provide more than one million primary care medical visits in
2017 to underserved communities.
(3) When compared with traditional Medicare GME residents,
residents who train at teaching health centers are more likely
to practice primary care and remain in underserved or rural
communities.
(4) The teaching health center program not only plays a
vital role in training the Nation's next generation of primary
care physicians (including dentists), but helps bridge the
Nation's physician shortfall.
(5) For these reasons, it is of vital importance to
continue the program under section 340H of the Public Health
Service Act (42 U.S.C. 256h) at a sustainable level of funding
per full-time equivalent resident, as recommended in the fact
sheet of the Health Resources and Services Administration
entitled ``Cost Estimates for Training Residents in a Teaching
Health Center''.
SEC. 3. REAUTHORIZATION OF PROGRAM OF PAYMENTS TO TEACHING HEALTH
CENTERS THAT OPERATE GRADUATE MEDICAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS.
(a) Payments.--Subsection (a) of section 340H of the Public Health
Service Act (42 U.S.C. 256h) is amended to read as follows:
``(a) Payments.--
``(1) In general.--Subject to subsection (h)(2), the
Secretary shall make payments under this section for direct
expenses and indirect expenses to qualified teaching health
centers that are listed as sponsoring institutions by the
relevant accrediting body for--
``(A) maintenance of existing approved graduate
medical residency training programs;
``(B) expansion of existing approved graduate
medical residency training programs; and
``(C) establishment of new approved graduate
medical residency training programs.
``(2) New programs.--
``(A) Payments.--The Secretary shall make payments
under paragraph (1)(C)--
``(i) for fiscal year 2019, for a total of
up to 60 full-time equivalent residents at new
approved graduate medical residency programs;
and
``(ii) for fiscal year 2020, for a total of
up to 120 full-time equivalent residents at the
new approved graduate medical residency
programs that received payments pursuant to
clause (i).
``(B) Priority.--Subject to subparagraph (C), in
making payments pursuant to paragraph (1)(C), the
Secretary shall give priority to qualified teaching
health centers that--
``(i) serve a health professional shortage
area with a designation in effect under section
332 or a medically underserved community (as
defined in section 799B); or
``(ii) are located in a rural area (as
defined in section 1886(d)(2)(D) of the Social
Security Act).
``(C) Limitation.--The number of full-time
equivalent residents for which a qualified teaching
health center receives payments pursuant to paragraph
(1)(C) for a fiscal year shall not exceed by more than
six the number of full-time equivalent residents for
which the center received such payments for the
preceding fiscal year.''.
(b) Funding.--Subsection (g) of the first section 340H of the
Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 256h) is amended to read as
follows:
``(g) Funding.--
``(1) Existing programs.--Out of any money in the Treasury
not otherwise appropriated, there are appropriated for payments
under subparagraphs (A) and (B) of subsection (a)(1)
$116,500,000 for each of fiscal years 2018, 2019, and 2020, to
remain available until expended.
``(2) Incentive for new programs.--Out of any money in the
Treasury not otherwise appropriated, there are appropriated for
payments under subsection (a)(1)(C), $10,000,000 for fiscal
year 2019 and $19,000,000 for fiscal year 2020, to remain
available until expended.
``(3) Administrative expenses.--Of the amount made
available to carry out this section for any fiscal year, the
Secretary may not use more than 5 percent of such amount for
the expenses of administering this section.''.
(c) Annual Reporting.--Paragraph (1) of subsection (h) of the first
section 340H of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 256h) is
amended--
(1) by redesignating subparagraph (D) as subparagraph (H);
and
(2) by inserting after subparagraph (C) the following:
``(D) The number of patients treated by residents
described in paragraph (4).
``(E) The number of visits by patients treated by
residents described in paragraph (4).
``(F) Of the number of residents described in
paragraph (4) who completed their residency training at
the end of such residency academic year, the number and
percentage of such residents entering primary care
practice (meaning any of the areas of practice listed
in the definition of a primary care residency program
in section 749A).
``(G) Of the number of residents described in
paragraph (4) who completed their residency training at
the end of such residency academic year, the number and
percentage of such residents who entered practice at a
health care facility--
``(i) primarily serving a health
professional shortage area with a designation
in effect under section 332 or a medically
underserved community (as defined in section
799B); or
``(ii) located in a rural area (as defined
in section 1886(d)(2)(D) of the Social Security
Act).''.
(d) Report on Training Costs.--Not later than March 31, 2020, the
Secretary of Health and Human Services shall submit to the Congress a
report on the direct graduate expenses of approved graduate medical
residency training programs, and the indirect expenses associated with
the additional costs of teaching residents, of qualified teaching
health centers (as such terms are used or defined in section 340H of
the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 256h)).
(e) Definition.--Subsection (j) of the first section 340H of the
Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 256h) is amended--
(1) by redesignating paragraphs (2) and (3) as paragraphs
(3) and (4), respectively; and
(2) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:
``(2) New approved graduate medical residency training
program.--The term `new approved graduate medical residency
training program' means an approved graduate medical residency
training program for which the sponsoring qualified teaching
health center has not received a payment under this section for
a previous fiscal year (other than pursuant to subsection
(a)(1)(C)).''.
(f) Technical Corrections.--Part D of title III of the Public
Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 254b et seq.) is amended--
(1) in subsection (f) of the first section 340H (42 U.S.C.
256h), by striking ``hospital'' each place it appears and
inserting ``teaching health center'';
(2) by redesignating the second subpart XI (relating to a
community-based collaborative care network program) as subpart
XII; and
(3) by redesignating the second section 340H (42 U.S.C.
256i) as section 340I.
(g) Payments for Previous Fiscal Years.--The provisions of the
first section 340H of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 256h),
as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of this Act, shall
continue to apply with respect to payments under such section for
fiscal years before fiscal year 2018. | Teaching Health Centers Graduate Medical Education Extension Act of 2017 This bill amends the Public Health Service Act to extend and expand funding through FY2020 for graduate medical education programs at teaching centers (which train medical residents in primary care specialties). The bill allows funds to be used for maintaining, expanding, and establishing graduate medical residency programs. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Teaching Health Centers Graduate Medical Education Extension Act of 2017"} | 1,818 | 74 | 0.558273 | 1.376983 | 1.619237 | 2.344262 | 26.803279 | 0.770492 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Medicare Vision Rehabilitation
Services Act of 2002''.
SEC. 2. IMPROVEMENT OF OUTPATIENT VISION SERVICES UNDER PART B.
(a) Coverage Under Part B.--Section 1861(s)(2) of the Social
Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395x(s)(2)) is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (U), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(2) in subparagraph (V), by inserting ``and'' at the end;
and
(3) by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
``(W) vision rehabilitation services (as defined in
subsection (ww)(1));''.
(b) 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:
``Vision Rehabilitation Services: Vision Rehabilitation Professional
``(ww)(1)(A) The term `vision rehabilitation services' means
rehabilitative services (as determined by the Secretary in regulations)
furnished--
``(i) to an individual diagnosed with a vision impairment
(as defined in paragraph (6)),
``(ii) pursuant to a plan of care established by a
qualified physician (as defined in subparagraph (C)), or by a
qualified occupational therapist, and is periodically reviewed
by the qualified physician,
``(iii) in an appropriate setting (including the home of
the individual receiving such services if specified in the plan
of care), and
``(iv) by any of the following individuals:
``(I) A qualified physician.
``(II) A qualified occupational therapist.
``(III) A vision rehabilitation professional (as
defined in paragraph (2)) while under the general
supervision (as defined in subparagraph (D)) of a
qualified physician.
``(B) In the case of vision rehabilitation services furnished by a
vision rehabilitation professional, the plan of care may only be
established and reviewed by a qualified physician.
``(C) The term `qualified physician' means--
``(i) a physician (as defined in subsection (r)(1)) who is
an ophthalmologist; or
``(ii) a physician (as defined in subsection (r)(4)
(relating to a doctor of optometry)).
``(D) The term `general supervision' means, with respect to a
vision rehabilitation professional, overall direction and control of
that professional by the qualified physician who established the plan
of care for the individual, but the presence of the qualified physician
is not required during the furnishing of vision rehabilitation services
by that professional to the individual.
``(2) The term `vision rehabilitation professional' means any of
the following individuals:
``(A) An orientation and mobility specialist (as defined in
paragraph (3)).
``(B) A rehabilitation teacher (as defined in paragraph
(4)).
``(C) A low vision therapist (as defined in paragraph (5)).
``(3) The term `orientation and mobility specialist' means an
individual who--
``(A) if a State requires licensure or certification of
orientation and mobility specialists, is licensed or certified
by that State as an orientation and mobility specialist;
``(B)(i) holds a baccalaureate or higher degree from an
accredited college or university in the United States (or an
equivalent foreign degree) with a concentration in orientation
and mobility; and
``(ii) has successfully completed 350 hours of clinical
practicum under the supervision of an orientation and mobility
specialist and has furnished not less than 9 months of
supervised full-time orientation and mobility services;
``(C) has successfully completed the national examination
in orientation and mobility administered by the Academy for
Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education
Professionals; and
``(D) meets such other criteria as the Secretary
establishes.
``(4) The term `rehabilitation teacher' means an individual who--
``(A) if a State requires licensure or certification of
rehabilitation teachers, is licensed or certified by the State
as a rehabilitation teacher;
``(B)(i) holds a baccalaureate or higher degree from an
accredited college or university in the United States (or an
equivalent foreign degree) with a concentration in
rehabilitation teaching, or holds such a degree in a health field; and
``(ii) has successfully completed 350 hours of clinical
practicum under the supervision of a rehabilitation teacher and
has furnished not less than 9 months of supervised full-time
rehabilitation teaching services;
``(C) has successfully completed the national examination
in rehabilitation teaching administered by the Academy for
Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education
Professionals; and
``(D) meets such other criteria as the Secretary
establishes.
``(5) The term `low vision therapist' means an individual who--
``(A) if a State requires licensure or certification of low
vision therapists, is licensed or certified by the State as a
low vision therapist;
``(B)(i) holds a baccalaureate or higher degree from an
accredited college or university in the United States (or an
equivalent foreign degree) with a concentration in low vision
therapy, or holds such a degree in a health field; and
``(ii) has successfully completed 350 hours of clinical
practicum under the supervision of a physician, and has
furnished not less than 9 months of supervised full-time low
vision therapy services;
``(C) has successfully completed the national examination
in low vision therapy administered by the Academy for
Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education
Professionals; and
``(D) meets such other criteria as the Secretary
establishes.
``(6) The term `vision impairment' means vision loss that
constitutes a significant limitation of visual capability resulting
from disease, trauma, or a congenital or degenerative condition that
cannot be corrected by conventional means, including refractive
correction, medication, or surgery, and that is manifested by one or
more of the following:
``(A) Best corrected visual acuity of less than 20/60, or
significant central field defect.
``(B) Significant peripheral field defect including
homonymous or heteronymous bilateral visual field defect or
generalized contraction or constriction of field.
``(C) Reduced peak contrast sensitivity in conjunction with
a condition described in subparagraph (A) or (B).
``(D) Such other diagnoses, indications, or other
manifestations as the Secretary may determine to be
appropriate.''.
(c) Payment Under Part B.--
(1) Physician fee schedule.--Section 1848(j)(3) of the
Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395w-4(j)(3)) is amended by
inserting ``(2)(W),'' after ``(2)(S),''.
(2) Carve out from hospital outpatient department
prospective payment system.--Section 1833(t)(1)(B)(iv) of such
Act (42 U.S.C. 1395l(t)(1)(B)(iv)), as redesignated by section
201(e)(1)(B) of the Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP Balanced
Budget Refinement Act of 1999 (as enacted into law by section
1000(a)(6) of Public Law 106-113), is amended by inserting
``vision rehabilitation services (as defined in section
1861(ww)(1)), or'' after ``does not include''.
(3) Clarification of billing requirements.--The first
sentence of section 1842(b)(6) of such Act (42 U.S.C.
1395u(b)(6)) is amended--
(A) by striking ``and'' before ``(G)''; and
(B) by inserting before the period the following:
``, and (H) in the case of vision rehabilitation
services (as defined in section 1861(ww)(1)) furnished
by a vision rehabilitation professional (as defined in
section 1861(ww)(2)) while under the general
supervision (as defined in section 1861(ww)(1)(D)) of a
qualified physician (as defined in section
1861(ww)(1)(C)), payment shall be made to (i) the
qualified physician or (ii) the facility (such as a
rehabilitation agency, a clinic, or other facility)
through which such services are furnished under the
plan of care if there is a contractual arrangement
between the vision rehabilitation professional and the
facility under which the facility submits the bill for
such services''.
(d) Plan of Care.--Section 1835(a)(2) of the Social Security Act
(42 U.S.C. 1395n(a)(2)) is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (E), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(2) in subparagraph (F), by striking the period and
inserting ``; and''; and
(3) by inserting after subparagraph (F) the following new
subparagraph:
``(G) in the case of vision rehabilitation
services, that (i) such services are or were required
because the individual needed vision rehabilitation
services, (ii) an individualized, written plan for
furnishing such services has been established (I) by a
qualified physician (as defined in section
1861(ww)(1)(C)), (II) by a qualified occupational
therapist, or (III) in the case of such services
furnished by a vision rehabilitation professional, by a
qualified physician, (iii) the plan is periodically
reviewed by the qualified physician, and (iv) such
services are or were furnished while the individual is
or was under the care of the qualified physician.''.
(e) Relationship to Rehabilitation Act of 1973.--The provision of
vision rehabilitation services under the medicare program under title
XVIII of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395 et seq.) shall not be
taken into account for any purpose under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
(29 U.S.C. 701 et seq.).
(f) Effective Date.--
(1) Interim, final regulations.--The Secretary of Health
and Human Services shall publish a rule under this section in
the Federal Register by not later than 180 days after the date
of the enactment of this section to carry out the provisions of
this section. Such rule shall be effective and final
immediately on an interim basis, but is subject to change and
revision after public notice and opportunity for a period (of
not less than 60 days) for public comment.
(2) Consultation.--The Secretary of Health and human
Services shall consult with the National Vision Rehabilitation
Cooperative, the Association for Education and Rehabilitation
of the Blind and Visually Impaired, the Academy for
Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education
Professionals, the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the
American Occupational Therapy Association, the American
Optometric Association, and such other qualified professional
and consumer organizations as the Secretary determines
appropriate in promulgating regulations to carry out this Act. | Medicare Vision Rehabilitation Services Act of 2002 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to provide for coverage of outpatient vision rehabilitation services under part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) of the Medicare program. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to improve outpatient vision services under part B of the medicare program."} | 2,488 | 57 | 0.573903 | 1.242632 | 0.457788 | 2.545455 | 50.454545 | 0.863636 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Pecos National Historical Park Land
Exchange Act of 2004''.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Federal land.--The term ``Federal land'' means the
approximately 160 acres of Federal land within the Santa Fe
National Forest in the State, as depicted on the map.
(2) Landowner.--The term ``landowner'' means the 1 or more
owners of the non-Federal land.
(3) Map.--The term ``map'' means the map entitled
``Proposed Land Exchange for Pecos National Historical Park'',
numbered 430/80,054, dated November 19, 1999, and revised
September 18, 2000.
(4) Non-federal land.--The term ``non-Federal land'' means
the approximately 154 acres of non-Federal land in the Park, as
depicted on the map.
(5) Park.--The term ``Park'' means the Pecos National
Historical Park in the State.
(6) Secretaries.--The term ``Secretaries'' means the
Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture,
acting jointly.
(7) State.--The term ``State'' means the State of New
Mexico.
SEC. 3. LAND EXCHANGE.
(a) In General.--On conveyance by the landowner to the Secretary of
the Interior of the non-Federal land, title to which is acceptable to
the Secretary of the Interior--
(1) the Secretary of Agriculture shall, subject to the
conditions of this Act, convey to the landowner the Federal
land; and
(2) the Secretary of the Interior shall, subject to the
conditions of this Act, grant to the landowner the easement
described in subsection (b).
(b) Easement.--
(1) In general.--The easement referred to in subsection
(a)(2) is an easement (including an easement for service
access) for water pipelines to 2 well sites located in the
Park, as generally depicted on the map.
(2) Route.--The Secretary of the Interior, in consultation
with the landowner, shall determine the appropriate route of
the easement through the Park.
(3) Terms and conditions.--The easement shall include such
terms and conditions relating to the use of, and access to, the
well sites and pipeline, as the Secretary of the Interior, in
consultation with the landowner, determines to be appropriate.
(4) Applicable law.--The easement shall be established,
operated, and maintained in compliance with applicable Federal
law.
(c) Valuation, Appraisals, and Equalization.--
(1) In general.--The value of the Federal land and non-
Federal land--
(A) shall be equal, as determined by appraisals
conducted in accordance with paragraph (2); or
(B) if the value is not equal, shall be equalized
in accordance with paragraph (3).
(2) Appraisals.--
(A) In general.--The Federal land and non-Federal
land shall be appraised by an independent appraiser
selected by the Secretaries.
(B) Requirements.--An appraisal conducted under
subparagraph (A) shall be conducted in accordance
with--
(i) the Uniform Appraisal Standards for
Federal Land Acquisition; and
(ii) the Uniform Standards of Professional
Appraisal Practice.
(C) Approval.--The appraisals conducted under this
paragraph shall be submitted to the Secretaries for
approval.
(3) Equalization of values.--
(A) In general.--If the values of the non-Federal
land and the Federal land are not equal, the values may
be equalized by--
(i) the Secretary of the Interior making a
cash equalization payment to the landowner;
(ii) the landowner making a cash
equalization payment to the Secretary of
Agriculture; or
(iii) reducing the acreage of the non-
Federal land or the Federal land, as
appropriate.
(B) Cash equalization payments.--Any amounts
received by the Secretary of Agriculture as a cash
equalization payment under section 206(b) of the
Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43
U.S.C. 1716(b)) shall--
(i) be deposited in the fund established by
Public Law 90-171 (commonly known as the ``Sisk
Act'') (16 U.S.C. 484a); and
(ii) be available for expenditure, without
further appropriation, for the acquisition of
land and interests in land in the State.
(d) Costs.--Before the completion of the exchange under this
section, the Secretaries and the landowner shall enter into an
agreement that allocates the costs of the exchange among the
Secretaries and the landowner.
(e) Applicable Law.--Except as otherwise provided in this Act, the
exchange of land and interests in land under this Act shall be in
accordance with--
(1) section 206 of the Federal Land Policy and Management
Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1716); and
(2) other applicable laws, including the National
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.).
(f) Additional Terms and Conditions.--The Secretaries may require,
in addition to any requirements under this Act, such terms and
conditions relating to the exchange of Federal land and non-Federal
land and the granting of easements under this Act as the Secretaries
determine to be appropriate to protect the interests of the United
States.
(g) Completion of the Exchange.--
(1) In general.--The exchange of Federal land and non-
Federal land shall be completed not later than 180 days after
the later of--
(A) the date on which the requirements of the
National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C.
4321 et seq.) have been met;
(B) the date on which the Secretary of the Interior
approves the appraisals under subsection (c)(2)(C); or
(C) the date on which the Secretaries and the
landowner agree on the costs of the exchange and any
other terms and conditions of the exchange under this
section.
(2) Notice.--The Secretaries shall submit to the Committee
on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate and the Committee
on Resources of the House of Representatives notice of the
completion of the exchange of Federal land and non-Federal land
under this Act.
SEC. 4. ADMINISTRATION.
(a) In General.--The Secretary of the Interior shall administer the
non-Federal land acquired under this Act in accordance with 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.).
(b) Maps.--
(1) In general.--The map shall be on file and available for
public inspection in the appropriate offices of the
Secretaries.
(2) Transmittal of revised map to congress.--Not later than
180 days after completion of the exchange, the Secretaries
shall transmit to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources
of the Senate and the Committee on Resources of the House of
Representatives a revised map that depicts--
(A) the Federal land and non-Federal land exchanged
under this Act; and
(B) the easement described in section 3(b).
Passed the Senate October 10, 2004.
Attest:
EMILY J. REYNOLDS,
Secretary. | Pecos National Historical Park Land Exchange Act of 2004 - Directs the Secretary of the Interior to accept certain non-Federal land in the State of New Mexico for addition to the Pecos National Historical Park (Park). Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to convey certain Federal land in the Santa Fe National Forest to private landowners.
Directs the Secretary of the Interior to grant the private landowners an easement for water pipelines to two well sites located in the Park. Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior (Secretaries) to require terms and conditions relating to the exchange of Federal and non-Federal lands and the granting of easements that protect the interests of the United States.
Sets a deadline for the completion of land exchanges under this Act and requires the Secretaries to report to Congress on the completion of such exchanges.
Provides for the administration of lands exchanged under this Act. Directs the Secretaries to transmit to Congress a revised map that depicts the lands exchanged and the easement granted under this Act | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "A bill to provide for the exchange of certain Federal land in the Santa Fe National Forest and certain non-Federal land in the Pecos National Historical Park in the State of New Mexico."} | 1,691 | 234 | 0.636254 | 1.664064 | 0.924392 | 2.756477 | 7.647668 | 0.860104 |
SECTION 1. NATIONAL OILHEAT RESEARCH ALLIANCE ACT OF 2000.
(a) Findings.--Section 702 of the National Oilheat Research
Alliance Act of 2000 (42 U.S.C. 6201 note; Public Law 106-469) is
amended by striking ``oilheat'' each place it appears and inserting
``oilheat fuel''.
(b) Definitions.--Section 703 of the National Oilheat Research
Alliance Act of 2000 (42 U.S.C. 6201 note; Public Law 106-469) is
amended--
(1) by striking ``oilheat'' each place it appears (other
than paragraph (10)) and inserting ``oilheat fuel'';
(2) by striking paragraph (7) and inserting the following:
``(7) Oilheat fuel.--The term `oilheat fuel' means
distillate liquid that is used as a fuel for nonindustrial
commercial or residential space or hot water heating.'';
(3) in paragraph (8), by striking ``Oilheat'' and inserting
``Oilheat fuel'';
(4) in paragraph (14)--
(A) by striking ``No. 1 distillate or No. 2 dyed
distillate'' each place it appears and inserting
``distillate liquid''; and
(B) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``sells the
distillate'' and inserting ``sells the distillate
liquid'';
(5) by redesignating paragraphs (3) through (13) and (14)
as paragraphs (4) through (14) and (16), respectively, and
moving paragraph (16) (as so redesignated) to appear after
paragraph (15); and
(6) by inserting after paragraph (2) the following:
``(3) Distillate liquid.--The term `distillate liquid'
means--
``(A) No. 1 distillate;
``(B) No. 2 dyed distillate; or
``(C) a liquid blended with No. 1 distillate or No.
2 dyed distillate.''.
(c) Referenda.--Section 704 of the National Oilheat Research
Alliance Act of 2000 (42 U.S.C. 6201 note; Public Law 106-469) is
amended--
(1) by striking ``oilheat'' each place it appears and
inserting ``oilheat fuel'';
(2) by striking ``No. 1 distillate and No. 2 dyed
distillate'' each place it appears in subsections (a) and (c)
and inserting ``distillate liquid'';
(3) in subsection (a)--
(A) in paragraph (5)(B), by striking ``Except as
provided in subsection (b), the'' and inserting
``The''; and
(B) in paragraph (6), by striking ``, No. 1
distillate, or No. 2 dyed distillate'' and inserting
``or distillate liquid''; and
(4) in subsection (b), by striking ``under'' and inserting
``consistent with''.
(d) Membership.--Section 705 of the National Oilheat Research
Alliance Act of 2000 (42 U.S.C. 6201 note; Public Law 106-469) is
amended--
(1) by striking ``oilheat'' each place it appears and
inserting ``oilheat fuel'';
(2) in subsection (b)(2), by striking ``No. 1 distillate
and No. 2 dyed distillate'' and inserting ``distillate
liquid''; and
(3) by striking subsection (c) and inserting the following:
``(c) Number of Members.--
``(1) In general.--The membership of the Alliance shall be
as follows:
``(A) 1 member representing each State
participating in the Alliance.
``(B) 5 representatives of retail marketers, of
whom 1 shall be selected by each of the qualified State
associations of the 5 States with the highest volume of
annual oilheat fuel sales.
``(C) 5 additional representatives of retail
marketers.
``(D) 21 representatives of wholesale distributors.
``(E) 6 public members, who shall be
representatives of significant users of oilheat fuel,
the oilheat fuel research community, State energy
officials, or other groups with expertise in oilheat
fuel.
``(2) Full-time owners or employees.--
``(A) In general.--Except as provided in
subparagraph (B), other than the public members of the
Alliance, Alliance members shall be full-time
managerial owners or employees of members of the
oilheat fuel industry.
``(B) Employees.--Members described in
subparagraphs (B), (C), and (D) of paragraph (1) may be
employees of the qualified industry organization or an
industry trade association.''.
(e) Functions.--Section 706 of the National Oilheat Research
Alliance Act of 2000 (42 U.S.C. 6201 note; Public Law 106-469) is
amended by striking ``oilheat'' each place it appears and inserting
``oilheat fuel''.
(f) Assessments.--Section 707 of the National Oilheat Research
Alliance Act of 2000 (42 U.S.C. 6201 note; Public Law 106-469) is
amended--
(1) by striking ``oilheat'' each place it appears and
inserting ``oilheat fuel'';
(2) by striking subsection (a) and inserting the following:
``(a) Rate.--
``(1) In general.--The assessment rate for calendar years
2008 and 2009 shall be equal to \2/10\ of 1 cent per gallon of
distillate liquid.
``(2) Subsequent assessments.--Subject to paragraphs (3)
and (4), beginning with calendar year 2010, the annual
assessment rate shall be sufficient to cover the costs of the
plans and programs developed by the Alliance.
``(3) Maximum rate.--The annual assessment rate shall not
exceed \1/2\ of 1 cent per gallon of distillate liquid.
``(4) Limitations on increase.--
``(A) In general.--The annual assessment shall not
be increased by more than \1/2\ of 1 cent per gallon in
any 1 year.
``(B) Approval.--No increase in the assessment may
occur unless the increase is approved by \2/3\ of the
members voting at a regularly scheduled meeting of the
Alliance.
``(C) Notice.--The Alliance shall provide notice of
a change in assessment at least 90 days before the date
on which the change is to take effect.'';
(3) in subsection (b)--
(A) by striking ``No. 1 distillate or No. 2 dyed
distillate'' each place it appears and inserting
``distillate liquid''; and
(B) in paragraphs (2)(B) and (5)(B), by striking
``fuel'' each place it appears and inserting
``distillate liquid''; and
(4) in subsection (c), by striking ``No. 1 distillate and
No. 2 dyed distillate'' and inserting ``Distillate liquid''.
(g) Market Survey and Consumer Protection.--Section 708 of the
National Oilheat Research Alliance Act of 2000 (42 U.S.C. 6201 note;
Public Law 106-469) is amended by striking ``oilheat'' each place it
appears and inserting ``oilheat fuel''.
(h) Violations.--Section 712(a) of the National Oilheat Research
Alliance Act of 2000 (42 U.S.C. 6201 note; Public Law 106-469) is
amended--
(1) in paragraph (2), by striking ``oilheat'' and inserting
``oilheat fuel''; and
(2) by striking paragraph (3) and inserting the following:
``(3) a direct reference to a competing product.''.
(i) Repeal of Sunset.--Section 713 of the National Oilheat Research
Alliance Act of 2000 (42 U.S.C. 6201 note; Public Law 106-469) is
repealed. | Amends the National Oilheat Research Alliance Act of 2000 to adjust its focus upon oilheat to a focus upon oilheat fuel.
Defines "oilheat fuel" as distillate liquid used as a fuel for nonindustrial commercial or residential space or hot water heating.
Makes technical and conforming amendments.
Revises the membership of the National Oilheat Research Alliance. Provides that, other than the public members of the Alliance, members shall be full-time managerial owners or employees of members of the oilheat fuel industry.
Revises assessment requirements. States that the assessment rate for calendar years 2008 and 2009 shall be equal to two-tenths of 1% per gallon of distillate liquid (currently, No. 1 distillate and No. 2 dyed distillate).
Declares that, beginning with calendar year 2010, the annual assessment rate shall be sufficient to cover the costs of the plans and programs developed by the Alliance.
Sets forth: (1) a maximum assessment rate; and (2) limitations on any assessment increase.
Prohibits any consumer education activity undertaken with funds derived from Alliance assessments from including a direct reference to a competing product.
Repeals the termination date for the Act (thus making it permanent). | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "A bill to reauthorize the National Oilheat Reliance Alliance Act of 2000, and for other purposes."} | 1,872 | 267 | 0.617911 | 1.948411 | 0.755211 | 3.995671 | 6.948052 | 0.792208 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Puerto Rico Karst Conservation Act
of 2001''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS, PURPOSES, AND DEFINITIONS.
(a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
(1) The Karst Region of Puerto Rico is a unique geological
formation that is critical to the maintenance of aquifers and
watersheds which constitute a principal water supply for much
of Puerto Rico.
(2) The Karst Region is threatened by development, which,
if unchecked, could permanently damage aquifers supplying fresh
water and cause irreparable damage to natural and environmental
assets that are unique to the United States and Puerto Rico.
(3) Puerto Rico has one of the highest population densities
in the United States, which further makes the protection of the
Karst Region an imperative for the maintenance of the public
health and welfare of the citizens of Puerto Rico.
(4) The Karst Region possesses extraordinary ecological
diversity, including the habitats of several endangered and
threatened species and tropical migrants and is, therefore, an
area of critical value to research in tropical forest
management.
(5) Coordinated efforts at land protection by the Federal
Government and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico will be
necessary to conserve the environmentally critical Karst
Region.
(b) Purposes.--The purposes of this Act are to authorize the
Secretary of Agriculture, in cooperation with the Commonwealth of
Puerto Rico, to undertake a program of land conservation, acquisition,
and research to protect and manage the geological and ecological values
of the Karst Region, with particular emphasis on the maintenance of
biodiversity within a tropical forest ecosystem and protection of the
aquifers which are vital to the health and well being of the citizens
of Puerto Rico.
(c) Definitions.--In this Act:
(1) Karst region.--The term ``Karst Region'' means those
areas in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico generally depicted on
the map entitled ``Karst Region Conservation Area'' and dated
March 2001. The map shall be on file and available for public
inspection in the Office of the Secretary, Puerto Rico
Department of Natural and Environmental Resources, and the
Office of the Chief of the Forest Service.
(2) Land.--The term ``land'' includes lands, waters, and
interests in lands and waters.
(3) Fund.--The term ``Fund'' means the Puerto Rico Karst
Conservation Fund'' established by section 4.
(4) Forest legacy program.--The term ``Forest Legacy
Program'' means the program established pursuant to section 7
of the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978 (16 U.S.C.
2103c).
(5) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of Agriculture.
SEC. 3. KARST REGION CONSERVATION ACTIVITIES.
(a) Land Acquisition.--
(1) Authorization.--In furtherance of the purposes of this
Act, the Secretary may acquire land in the Karst Region or
immediately adjacent to the Karst Region.
(2) Willing sellers.--All acquisitions of land by the
Secretary on behalf of the United States under paragraph (1)
shall be for fair market value on a willing seller basis.
(3) Funding Source.--The Secretary may carry out land
acquisition activities under paragraph (1) using amounts in the
Fund, amounts appropriated for the Forest Legacy Program,
amounts in the Land and Water Conservation Fund, and any other
moneys made available for such purpose.
(b) Management.--The Secretary shall manage land acquired under
subsection (a) pursuant to this Act, the Forest and Rangeland Renewable
Resources Research Act of 1978 (16 U.S.C. 620 et seq.), and the laws
and regulations applicable to the National Forest System.
(c) Cooperative Approach.--The Secretary may make grants to and
enter into contracts and cooperative agreements with the Commonwealth
of Puerto Rico, other Federal agencies, organizations, and corporations
for the acquisition, protection, and management of Federal and non-
Federal land in the Karst Region.
(d) Relation to Other Authorities.--Nothing in this Act shall
diminish any other authority that the Secretary may have to acquire,
protect, and manage natural resources in Puerto Rico.
SEC. 4. PUERTO RICO KARST CONSERVATION FUND.
(a) Establishment.--There is hereby established on the books of the
Treasury an interest bearing account to be known as the ``Puerto Rico
Karst Conservation Fund''.
(b) Credits to Funds.--There shall be credited to the Fund the
following:
(1) Amounts authorized for and appropriated to the Fund.
(2) All moneys generated from the Caribbean National
Forest, except the following:
(A) Amounts required to be paid to the Commonwealth
of Puerto Rico pursuant to the sixth paragraph under
the heading ``FOREST SERVICE'' in the Act of May 23,
1908, or section 13 of the Act of March 1, 1911 (16
U.S.C. 500).
(B) Amounts required to be retained for the
construction and maintenance of roads and trails
pursuant to the fourteenth paragraph under the heading
``FOREST SERVICE'' in the Act of March 4, 1913 (16
U.S.C. 501).
(C) Amounts collected under the Recreation Fee
Demonstration Program authorized pursuant to section
315 of the Department of the Interior and Related
Agencies Appropriations Act, 1996 (as contained in
section 101(c) of Public Law 104-134; 16 U.S.C. 460l-6a
note).
(3) All moneys received by the Administrator of General
Services from the disposal of surplus real property in Puerto
Rico pursuant to the Federal Property and Administrative
Services Act of 1949 (40 U.S.C. 471 et seq.).
(4) Interest derived from amounts in the Fund and any other
moneys donated for deposit in the Fund.
(c) Use of Fund.--Amounts in the Fund shall be available to the
Secretary until expended, without further appropriation, for the
purchase of land in the Karst Region and related acquisition management
expenses as authorized by section 3.
SEC. 5. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS.
(a) Donations.--The Secretary may accept for deposit in the Fund
donations made by public and private agencies, corporations,
organizations, and individuals in furtherance of the purposes of this
Act. The Secretary may accept such donations even though the donor
conducts business with or is regulated by the Department of Agriculture
or any other department or agency of the United States.
(b) Relation to Forest Legacy Program.--
(1) In general.--All lands in the Karst Region shall be
eligible for inclusion in the Forest Legacy Program.
(2) Cost sharing.--The Secretary may credit donations made
under subsection (a) to satisfy any cost sharing requirements
of the Forest Legacy Program.
SEC. 6. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There is authorized to be appropriated $100,000,000 to be credited
to the Fund. | Puerto Rico Karst Conservation Act of 2001 - Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to acquire land in or immediately adjacent to the Karst Region of Puerto Rico for the purpose of protecting and managing the geological and ecological values of the region, with particular emphasis on the maintenance of biodiversity within a tropical forest ecosystem and protection of the aquifers. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) carry out such land acquisition using amounts in the Puerto Rico Karst Conservation Fund established by this Act, amounts appropriated for the Forest Legacy Program, and amounts in the Land and Water Conservation Fund; and (2) make grants to and enter into contracts and cooperative agreements with the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, other Federal agencies, organizations, and corporations for the acquisition, protection, and management of Federal and non-Federal land in such region.Makes all lands in such region eligible for inclusion in the Forest Legacy Program. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To authorize the Secretary of Agriculture to acquire and manage lands in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico to provide for the protection of critical aquifers and watersheds that serve as a principal water supply for Puerto Rico, and for other purposes."} | 1,549 | 190 | 0.693416 | 1.900686 | 0.827976 | 5.841176 | 8.070588 | 0.970588 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Empowering Parents and Teachers for
a Drug-Free Education Act of 2004''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds as follows:
(1) Fifty-four percent of high school seniors in 2001 had
used an illicit drug in their lifetime.
(2) Forty-two percent of 12th graders, 37 percent of 10th
graders, and 20 percent of 8th graders in 2001 had used an
illicit drug in the past year.
(3) Eighty percent of 12th graders, 70 percent of 10th
graders, and 51 percent of 8th graders in 2001 had used alcohol
in their lifetime.
(4) Sixty-four percent of 12th graders, 48 percent of 10th
graders, and 23 percent of 8th graders in 2001 had been
intoxicated.
(5) Use of 3,4-methylenedioxy methamphetamine (commonly
referred to as ``MDMA'' or ``ecstasy'') by 12th graders
increased from 6 percent in 1998 to 11.7 percent in 2001.
(6) Schoolchildren who use and abuse addictive illicit
drugs or alcohol increase the risk to the health and safety of
all students and impact the learning environment of the school
because--
(A) use of illicit drugs or alcohol can lead to
serious health effects, the development of life-
threatening diseases, and even death;
(B) use of illicit drugs like marijuana or ecstasy
kills brain cells in the learning centers of the brain,
directly impacting a student's ability to learn in
school;
(C) chemicals left in the central nervous system
after using marijuana cause the brain to be irritated
and uncontrollable, resulting in disruptive behavior in
the classroom;
(D) students who smoke cigarettes or use other
illicit drugs have been shown to have less desire to
learn, resulting in lower grade point averages when
compared to other students; and
(E) students who use illicit drugs or alcohol have
a higher rate of breaking school rules.
SEC. 3. DRUG-FREE SCHOOL DEMONSTRATION PROGRAMS.
(a) Demonstration Programs.--Part A of title IV of the Elementary
and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7101 et seq.; also known
as the ``Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act'') is amended--
(1) by redesignating subpart 4 as subpart 5; and
(2) by inserting after subpart 3 the following:
``Subpart 4--Drug-Free School Demonstration Programs
``SEC. 4145. DRUG-FREE SCHOOL DEMONSTRATION PROGRAMS.
``(a) Grants.--The Secretary may make grants to local educational
agencies and private schools to establish drug-free school
demonstration programs described in subsection (b).
``(b) Requirements.--A grant may be made under subsection (a) only
if the local educational agency or private school involved agrees to
use the funds received under the grant to establish a drug-free school
demonstration program that--
``(1) includes, consistent with the fourth amendment to the
Constitution of the United States, random drug testing of
students;
``(2) requires that any such testing be conducted using
only drug tests approved by the Food and Drug Administration;
``(3) requires that any analysis of such testing be
conducted by a drug-testing laboratory certified by the
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, or
approved by the College of American Pathologists, for forensic
drug testing;
``(4) requires a review of each positive test result by a
medical review officer;
``(5) prohibits any disclosure to law enforcement officials
of the results of the random drug testing;
``(6) requires that drug-testing records be kept strictly
confidential in accordance with subsection (c);
``(7) requires, upon the submission of a report by a
medical review officer under subsection (c)(3) relating to a
preliminary positive test result, the destruction of all
records relating to the result if the medical review officer
does not confirm the result;
``(8) requires the destruction of all records relating to
drug or alcohol testing of a student when the student graduates
or otherwise leaves the local educational agency or private
school involved;
``(9) ensures that the parents of the students to be tested
are informed in detail about the random drug-testing program;
``(10) provides parents the right to withdraw their child
from participation in the random drug-testing program, and
ensures that parents receive notification of such right at the
beginning of every school year;
``(11) includes a clear, written policy on school behavior
that--
``(A) prohibits students from attending school or
school activities under the influence of illegal drugs
or alcohol;
``(B) prohibits the use or possession of illegal
drugs in school; and
``(C) sets forth the consequences of violating the
prohibitions described in subparagraphs (A) and (B);
``(12) provides drug and alcohol abuse prevention training
for a total of not less than 2 hours for each student and staff
member of the local educational agency or private school
involved;
``(13) provides student access to a student assistance
program, including confidential assessment, referral, and
short-term problem resolution; and
``(14) provides continuing alcohol, tobacco, and drug abuse
prevention education.
``(c) Privacy Protection.--Each drug-free school demonstration
program established with assistance made available under this section
shall--
``(1) include, as reasonably necessary and appropriate,
practices and procedures to ensure the confidentiality of
student drug test results and of any participation by a student
in a treatment or rehabilitation program;
``(2) prohibit the mandatory disclosure of medical
information by a student unless the student tests positive for
drugs; and
``(3) require a medical review officer reviewing student
drug test results to report the final results of such tests in
writing and in a manner designed to ensure the confidentiality
of the results.
``(d) Technical Assistance.--To the extent or in the amounts
provided in advance in appropriations Acts, the Secretary may enter
into contracts with public and private entities to provide assistance
related to carrying out the drug-free school demonstration programs
established pursuant to this section.
``(e) Applications.--To seek a grant under this section, a local
educational agency or private school shall submit an application to the
Secretary at such time, in such manner, and containing such information
as the Secretary may require.
``(f) Definitions.--For purposes of this section:
``(1) The term `medical review officer'--
``(A) means a licensed physician with knowledge of
substance abuse disorders; and
``(B) does not include any--
``(i) employee of the school involved; or
``(ii) employee or agent of, or any person
having a financial interest in, the laboratory
for which the drug test results are being
reviewed.
``(2) The term `student' means any individual enrolled on
school records as eligible to attend, or actually attending,
school for educational purposes in any of grades 8 through
12.''.
(b) Report.--Not later than 18 months after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Education shall submit to the
Congress a report on the results of the drug-free school demonstration
programs established with assistance under this section.
(c) Authorization of Appropriations.--Section 4003 of the
Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7103) is
amended--
(1) in paragraph (1), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(2) in paragraph (2), by striking the period at the end and
inserting ``; and''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(3) $25,000,000 for fiscal year 2005, and for each of
fiscal years 2006 and 2007, for drug-free school demonstration
programs under subpart 4.''.
(d) Conforming Amendment.--The table of contents at section 2 of
the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 is amended--
(1) by redesignating the item relating to subpart 4 of part
A of title IV as the item relating to subpart 5 of part A of
title IV; and
(2) by inserting after the item relating to section 4141
the following:
``subpart 4--drug-free school demonstration programs
``4145. Drug-free school demonstration programs.''. | Empowering Parents and Teachers for a Drug-Free Education Act of 2004 - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (under provisions which are also known as the Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act) to authorize the Secretary of Education to make grants to local educational agencies and private schools to establish drug-free school demonstration programs that include random drug testing of students and meet other specified requirements. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To authorize the Secretary of Education to make grants to local educational agencies and private schools to establish drug-free school demonstration programs, and for other purposes."} | 1,866 | 86 | 0.465444 | 1.145413 | 1.006823 | 5.303797 | 22.658228 | 0.924051 |
SECTION 1. IMMIGRATION RELIEF FOR INNOCENT VICTIMS OF IMMIGRATION
FRAUD.
(a) In General.--
(1) Relief upon approval of application.--If an alien, upon
application to an appropriate immigration official, establishes
to the satisfaction of such official that such alien is an
eligible alien (as defined in subsection (b)) and is, but for
the specified immigration fraud, admissible to the United
States as an immigrant and is not removable from the United
States, such official shall provide immigration relief for such
alien under subsection (c).
(2) Relief pending approval.--In the case of an eligible
alien, any pending proceedings providing for revocation of
adjustment of status, revocation of naturalization, or removal
with respect to such eligible alien shall be suspended in order
to provide such alien with a reasonable opportunity to apply
for immigration relief under this section and during the
pendency of the application for such relief.
(3) Appropriate immigration official.--For purposes of this
section, the term ``appropriate immigration official'' means,
in the case of an alien in removal proceedings, the immigration
judge who is presiding over such proceedings, or otherwise the
Secretary of Homeland Security.
(b) Eligible Alien, Specified Immigration Fraud Defined.--For
purposes of this section:
(1) Eligible alien.--
(A) In general.--The term ``eligible alien'' means
an alien--
(i) who obtained status as a nonimmigrant
on or after January 1, 1980, and who, at the
time of obtaining such status, was a national
of the Republic of Korea;
(ii) who applied, before January 1, 1999,
through one or more immigration brokers for
adjustment of such status to that of the status
of an alien lawfully admitted to the United
States for permanent residence, and who applied
through the Immigration and Naturalization
office located in San Jose, California;
(iii) whose application for adjustment of
status described in clause (ii) was approved as
a result of bribery by such immigration brokers
of a supervisor of the Immigration and
Naturalization Service for such office; and
(iv) who had no actual knowledge of the
specified immigration fraud at the time of such
adjustment.
(B) Treatment of spouses and children.--Such term
includes an alien who obtained lawful permanent
resident status as the spouse or child of an eligible
alien described in paragraph (1).
(2) Specified immigration fraud.--The term ``specified
immigration fraud'' means the bribery described in paragraph
(1)(A)(iii).
(c) Form of Immigration Relief.--
(1) In general.--If an application of an eligible alien
under subsection (a) is approved, then--
(A) the specified immigration fraud shall not be
considered in determining the admissibility or
removeability of such alien; and
(B) the alien's status shall be restored as if the
original adjustment of status described in subsection
(b)(1)(C) had been lawful, in accordance with the
succeeding provisions of this subsection.
(2) Restoration of status to lawful permanent resident;
cancellation of order of removal.--In the case of an approved
application for an alien whose adjustment of status to lawful
permanent resident status was rescinded or who was ordered
removed solely as a result of the specified immigration fraud,
such rescission shall be vitiated or such order shall be
cancelled and the status of such alien shall be restored to
that of an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence.
Such restoration or cancellation shall be effective as of the
date of such rescission or order of removal.
(3) Restoration of naturalization.--In the case of an
eligible alien who has been naturalized as a citizen of the
United States and whose naturalization was revoked solely as a
result of the specified immigration fraud, such revocation
shall be vitiated and such alien's citizenship status shall be
restored. Such restoration shall be effective as of the date of
such revocation.
(4) Travel to and parole into the united states for
eligible aliens who have departed.--In the case of an eligible
alien who has been removed, or has voluntarily departed, from
the United States in connection with charges relating to
specified immigration fraud, the Secretary shall parole such
alien into the United States for the purpose of filing an
application for immigration relief under this section. The
Secretary of State shall provide such alien with appropriate
travel documents in order to travel to the United States for
such parole.
(d) Procedures and Definitions.--
(1) Procedures for application.--An alien seeking
immigration relief under this section shall submit an
application at such time (consistent with paragraph (3)), in
such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary
shall require. No fee shall be charged in connection with such
application.
(2) Burden of proof.--For purposes of subsection
(b)(1)(A)(iv), the alien shall be presumed not to have actual
knowledge of the specified immigration fraud and the Secretary
shall have the burden of proving such knowledge.
(3) Deadline for application.--An application under
paragraph (1) shall be submitted not later than the date that
is five years after the date of the enactment of this Act,
except that the Secretary may extend such deadline for an
additional period not to exceed five years.
(4) No reduction in number of immigrant visas available.--
The Secretary of State shall not reduce the number of immigrant
visas authorized to be issued under the Immigration and
Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101 et seq.) if an application of an
eligible alien for immigration relief under this section is
approved.
(5) Application of other definitions.--For purposes of this
section and except as otherwise specifically provided, the term
``Secretary'' means the Secretary of Homeland Security and the
definitions contained in the Immigration and Nationality Act
shall apply in the administration of this section. Nothing in
this section shall be construed to repeal, amend, alter,
modify, affect, or restrict the powers, duties, functions, or
authority of the Secretary in the administration and
enforcement of such Act or any other law relating to
immigration, nationality, or naturalization. The fact that an
alien may be eligible for immigration relief under this section
shall not preclude such alien from seeking immigration relief
under any other provision of law for which such alien may be
eligible. | Provides immigration relief for aliens who are determined by the Secretary of Homeland Security to have: (1) obtained nonimmigrant status on or after January 1, 1980, and who at that time were nationals of the Republic of Korea; (2) applied before January 1, 1999, through one or more immigration brokers for adjustment to permanent resident status through the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) office in San Jose, California; (3) obtained adjustment approval as the result of bribery by such brokers of an INS supervisor; and (4) had no actual knowledge of the fraud at the time of adjustment. Extends relief to the spouse and children of eligible aliens granted permanent resident status.
Prohibits the immigration fraud reflected by such bribery from being considered in determining the admissibility or removability of eligible aliens.
Requires the Secretary to: (1) restore an eligible alien's status as if the original adjustment had been lawful, including where permanent resident status or naturalization was rescinded or where removal was ordered on the basis of the fraud; and (2) parole (and provide necessary travel documents) into the United States eligible aliens who were removed or who voluntarily departed in connection with charges relating to the fraud for purposes of filing an application for relief under this Act. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To provide for immigration relief in the case of certain immigrants who are innocent victims of immigration fraud."} | 1,404 | 276 | 0.730143 | 2.108707 | 0.858812 | 3.163265 | 5.244898 | 0.902041 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Safe Treatment of Polluted
Stormwater Runoff Act'' or the ``STOPS Runoff Act''.
SEC. 2. FEDERAL-AID HIGHWAY RUNOFF POLLUTION MANAGEMENT PROGRAM.
(a) In General.--Chapter 3 of title 23, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 330. Federal-aid highway runoff pollution management program
``(a) Establishment.--The Secretary shall establish a Federal-aid
highway runoff pollution management program to ensure that covered
projects are constructed in accordance with minimum standards designed
to protect surface and ground water quality.
``(b) Project Approval.--The Secretary may approve a covered
project of a State under section 106 only if the State provides
assurances satisfactory to the Secretary that the State will construct
the project in accordance with the minimum standards described in
subsection (c).
``(c) Minimum Standards.--The following minimum standards shall
apply to the construction of covered projects to maintain or restore,
to the maximum extent technically feasible, the predevelopment
hydrology of the project site with regard to the temperature, rate,
chemical composition, volume and duration of flow:
``(1) Avoid and minimize alteration of natural features and
hydrology and maximize use of pollution source control measures
that utilize existing terrain and natural features and reduce
chemical introduction to reduce creation of pollution on the
project site.
``(2) Maximize capture of highway runoff pollution on the
project site through pretreatment and treatment, including
environmental site design techniques and other control measures
that promote evapotransporation and infiltration.
``(3) Prevent any remaining highway runoff pollution not
addressed under paragraphs (1) and (2) to the maximum extent
practicable by implementing one or more of the following
control measures selected through a watershed-based
environmental management or equivalent approach:
``(A) Pretreatment and treatment of runoff with
appropriate control measures on the project site.
``(B) Discharge of highway runoff pollution
directly to an off-site control measure under the
control of the State with documented capacity to
provide functionally and quantitatively equivalent
management of runoff pollution to that required to
achieve the minimum standards of this subsection for
the design life of the project.
``(C) If the control measures in subparagraphs (A)
and (B) are found impracticable based on site
conditions or other appropriate factors, and an
appropriate off-site runoff pollution mitigation
program is in place, contribution to a mitigation
program that will produce functionally and
quantitatively equivalent management of runoff
pollution to that required to achieve the minimum
standards. Under this subparagraph, priority shall be
given to off-site control measures that address the
impacts of runoff pollution to waterways that are
listed as impaired in the same or adjacent 8-digit
Hydrologic Unit Code as the project site.
``(d) Guidance.--
``(1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the date
of enactment of this section, the Secretary, with the
concurrence of the Administrator of the Environmental
Protection Agency, shall publish guidance to assist States in
complying with the requirements of this section.
``(2) Contents of guidance.--The guidance shall include
guidelines for the establishment of State processes and
programs that will be used to assist in managing highway runoff
pollution from covered projects in accordance with the minimum
standards described in subsection (c), including--
``(A) guidance to help States integrate the
planning, selection, design, and long-term operation
and maintenance of control measures consistent with the
minimum standards in the overall project planning
process;
``(B) creation of a watershed-based environmental
management approach to assist projects in achieving
consistency with the minimum standards;
``(C) guidelines for the development and
utilization of off-site runoff pollution mitigation
programs to achieve compliance with the minimum
standards; and
``(D) provisions for State inspection, monitoring,
and reporting to document State compliance and project
consistency with this section.
``(e) Limitation on Statutory Construction.--Nothing in this
section shall be construed to affect the applicability of any provision
of Federal, State, or local law that is more stringent than the
requirements of this section.
``(f) Reporting.--The Secretary shall require each State to report
annually to the Secretary on the highway runoff pollution reductions
achieved for covered projects carried out by the State after the date
of enactment of this section.
``(g) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions
apply:
``(1) Control measure.--The term `control measure' means a
program, structural or nonstructural management practice,
operational procedure, or policy on or off the project site
that is intended to control, reduce, or prevent highway runoff
pollution.
``(2) Covered project.--The term `covered project' means a
project carried out under this title for--
``(A) construction of a new highway or associated
facility;
``(B) construction of a Federal-aid highway runoff
control measure retrofit; or
``(C) construction of a significant Federal-aid
highway improvement.
``(3) Federal-aid highway runoff control measure
retrofit.--The term `Federal-aid highway runoff control measure
retrofit' means the installation or modification of a control
measure for highway runoff pollution serving a Federal-aid
highway or associated facility originally constructed before
the date of enactment of this section.
``(4) Highway runoff pollution.--The term `highway runoff
pollution' means in relation to a Federal-aid highway,
associated facility, or control measure retrofit projects one
or more of the following--
``(A) a discharge of sediment, metals, bacteria,
chemicals, nutrients, or oil and grease in runoff; or
``(B) a discharge of peak flow rate, water
temperature, and volume of runoff that exceeds
predevelopment amounts generated from a Federal-aid
highway, associated facility, or control measure
retrofit project that violates the water quality
standards of the receiving water set by the Federal
Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 125 et seq.) and
related State programs.
``(5) Significant federal-aid highway improvement.--The
term `significant Federal-aid highway improvement' means the
rehabilitation, reconstruction, reconfiguration, renovation, or
major resurfacing of an existing Federal-aid highway or
associated facility that disturbs 5 or more acres of land.
``(6) Watershed-based environmental management approach.--
The term `watershed-based environmental management approach'
means an approach under which--
``(A) the selection of solutions that prevent or
minimize the environmental impact of an individual
project is made within the broader context of the
environmental protection and restoration goals of any
watershed that drains the project site, rather than
selecting solutions solely based on site level
considerations; and
``(B) priority consideration is given to--
``(i) protection of drinking water
supplies;
``(ii) protection and restoration of
waterways listed by a State as impaired in
accordance with section 303(d) of the Federal
Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C.
1313(d));
``(iii) preservation of aquatic ecosystems
and fisheries; and
``(iv) cost-effective expenditure of
Federal funds.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The provisions of this legislation will be
effective and applicable to construction of Federal-Aid Highway
projects as defined in subsection (g)(2) 1 year after enactment.
(c) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 3 is amended by
adding at the end the following:
``330. Federal-aid highway runoff pollution management program.''. | Safe Treatment of Polluted Stormwater Runoff Act or STOPS Runoff Act - Directs the Secretary of Transportation (DOT) to establish a federal-aid highway runoff pollution management program to ensure that covered federal-aid highway projects are constructed in accordance with certain minimum standards designed to control and treat polluted stormwater runoff.
Authorizes the Secretary to approve state covered highway projects receiving federal funding only if the state provides assurances that it will construct the project in accordance with such standards. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "A bill to amend title 23, United States Code, to direct the Secretary to establish a comprehensive program to control and treat polluted stormwater runoff from federally funded highways and roads, and for other purposes."} | 1,722 | 109 | 0.565303 | 1.464777 | 1.25992 | 3.397727 | 18.25 | 0.897727 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Louis L. Redding Fair, Accurate,
Secure, and Timely Voting Act of 2016'' or the ``FAST Voting Act of
2016''.
SEC. 2. INCENTIVES FOR STATES TO INVEST IN PRACTICES AND TECHNOLOGY
THAT ARE DESIGNED TO EXPEDITE VOTING AT THE POLLS AND
SIMPLIFY VOTER REGISTRATION.
(a) Purposes.--The purposes of this section are to--
(1) provide incentives for States to invest in practices
and technology that are designed to expedite voting at the
polls; and
(2) provide incentives for States to simplify voter
registration.
(b) Reservation of Funds.--From the amount made available to carry
out this section for a fiscal year, the Attorney General may reserve
not more than 10 percent of such amount to carry out activities related
to--
(1) technical assistance; and
(2) outreach and dissemination.
(c) Program Authorized.--
(1) In general.--From the amounts made available under
subsection (h) for a fiscal year and not reserved under
subsection (b), the Attorney General shall award grants, on a
competitive basis, to States in accordance with subsection
(d)(2), to enable the States to carry out the purposes of this
section.
(2) Number of grants.--A State may not receive more than 1
grant under this section per grant period.
(3) Duration of grants.--
(A) In general.--A grant under this section shall
be awarded for a period of not more than 4 years.
(B) Continuation of grants.--A State that is
awarded a grant under this section shall not receive
grant funds under this section for the second or any
subsequent year of the grant unless the State
demonstrates to the Attorney General, at such time and
in such manner as determined by the Attorney General,
that the State is--
(i) making progress in implementing the
plan under subsection (d)(1)(C) at a rate that
the Attorney General determines will result in
the State fully implementing such plan during
the remainder of the grant period; or
(ii) making progress against the
performance measures set forth in subsection
(e) at a rate that the Attorney General
determines will result in the State reaching
its targets and achieving the objectives of the
grant during the remainder of the grant period.
(d) Applications.--
(1) Applications.--Each State that desires to receive a
grant under this section shall submit an application to the
Attorney General at such time, in such manner, and containing
such information as the Attorney General may reasonably
require. At a minimum, each such application shall include--
(A) documentation of the applicant's record, as
applicable--
(i) in providing various voter registration
opportunities;
(ii) in providing early voting;
(iii) in providing absentee voting;
(iv) in providing assistance to voters who
do not speak English as a primary language;
(v) in providing assistance to voters with
disabilities;
(vi) in providing effective access to
voting for members of the armed services;
(vii) in providing formal training of
election officials;
(viii) in auditing or otherwise documenting
waiting times at polling stations;
(ix) in allocating polling locations,
equipment, and staff to match population
distribution;
(x) in responding to voting irregularities
and concerns raised at polling stations;
(xi) in creating and adhering to
contingency voting plans in the event of a
natural or other disaster; and
(xii) with respect to any other performance
measure described in subsection (e) that is not
included in clauses (i) through (xi);
(B) evidence of conditions of innovation and reform
that the applicant has established and the applicant's
proposed plan for implementing additional conditions
for innovation and reform, including--
(i) a description of how the applicant has
identified and eliminated ineffective practices
in the past and the applicant's plan for doing
so in the future;
(ii) a description of how the applicant has
identified and promoted effective practices in
the past and the applicant's plan for doing so
in the future; and
(iii) steps the applicant has taken and
will take to eliminate statutory, regulatory,
procedural, or other barriers and to facilitate
the full implementation of the proposed plan
under this subparagraph;
(C) a comprehensive and coherent plan for using
funds under this section, and other Federal, State, and
local funds, to improve the applicant's performance on
the measures described in subsection (e), consistent
with criteria set forth by the Attorney General,
including how the applicant will, if applicable--
(i) provide flexible registration
opportunities, including online and same-day
registration and registration updating;
(ii) provide early voting, at a minimum of
9 of the 10 calendar days preceding an
election, at sufficient and flexible hours;
(iii) provide absentee voting, including
no-excuse absentee voting;
(iv) provide assistance to voters who do
not speak English as a primary language;
(v) provide assistance to voters with
disabilities, including visual impairment;
(vi) provide effective access to voting for
members of the armed services;
(vii) provide formal training of election
officials, including State and county
administrators and volunteers;
(viii) audit and reduce waiting times at
polling stations;
(ix) allocate polling locations, equipment,
and staff to match population distribution;
(x) respond to any reports of voting
irregularities or concerns raised at the
polling station;
(xi) create contingency voting plans in the
event of a natural or other disaster; and
(xii) improve the wait times at the
persistently poorest performing polling
stations within the jurisdiction of the
applicant;
(D) evidence of collaboration between the State,
local election officials, and other stakeholders, in
developing the plan described in subparagraph (C),
including evidence of the commitment and capacity to
implement the plan;
(E) the applicant's annual performance measures and
targets, consistent with the requirements of subsection
(e); and
(F) a description of the applicant's plan to
conduct a rigorous evaluation of the effectiveness of
activities carried out with funds under this section.
(2) Criteria for evaluating applications.--
(A) Award basis.--The Attorney General shall award
grants under this section on a competitive basis, based
on the quality of the applications submitted under
paragraph (1), including--
(i) each applicant's record in the areas
described in paragraph (1)(A);
(ii) each applicant's record of, and
commitment to, establishing conditions for
innovation and reform, as described in
paragraph (1)(B);
(iii) the quality and likelihood of success
of each applicant's plan described in paragraph
(1)(C) in showing improvement in the areas
described in paragraph (1)(A), including each
applicant's capacity to implement the plan and
evidence of collaboration as described in
paragraph (1)(D); and
(iv) each applicant's evaluation plan as
described in paragraph (1)(F).
(B) Explanation.--The Attorney General shall
publish an explanation of how the application review
process under this paragraph will ensure an equitable
and objective evaluation based on the criteria
described in subparagraph (A).
(e) Performance Measures.--Each State receiving a grant under this
section shall establish performance measures and targets, approved by
the Attorney General, for the programs and activities carried out under
this section. These measures shall, at a minimum, track the State's
progress--
(1) in implementing its plan described in subsection
(d)(1)(C);
(2) in expediting voting at the polls or simplifying voter
registration, as applicable; and
(3) on any other measures identified by the Attorney
General.
(f) Uses of Funds.--Each State that receives a grant under this
section shall use the grant funds for any purpose included in the
State's plan under subsection (d)(1)(C).
(g) Reporting.--A State that receives a grant under this section
shall submit to the Attorney General, at such time and in such manner
as the Attorney General may require, an annual report including--
(1) data on the State's progress in achieving the targets
for the performance measures established under subsection (e);
(2) a description of the challenges the State has faced in
implementing its program and how it has addressed or plans to
address those challenges; and
(3) findings from the evaluation plan as described in
subsection (d)(1)(F).
(h) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out this section. | Louis L. Redding Fair, Accurate, Secure, and Timely Voting Act of 2016 or the FAST Voting Act of 2016 This bill directs the Department of Justice (DOJ) to award grants, on a competitive basis, to enable states to: (1) invest in practices and technology designed to expedite voting at the polls, and (2) simplify voter registration. The grant application shall include a comprehensive and coherent plan for using funds to improve the applicant's performance on specified measures with respect to: (1) flexible registration opportunities, (2) early and absentee voting, (3) assistance to non-English speaking and disabled voters, and (4) other related matters. Each grantee shall establish performance measures and targets, approved by DOJ , that track its progress in implementing its plan and expediting voting at the polls or simplifying voter registration, as applicable. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "FAST Voting Act of 2016"} | 1,881 | 183 | 0.61491 | 1.913405 | 0.825581 | 3.882353 | 10.658824 | 0.894118 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``National Collegiate and Amateur
Athletic Protection Act of 2001''.
SEC. 2. TASK FORCE ON ILLEGAL WAGERING ON AMATEUR AND COLLEGIATE
SPORTING EVENTS.
(a) Establishment.--The Attorney General shall establish a
prosecutorial task force on illegal wagering on amateur and collegiate
sporting events (referred to in this section as the ``task force'').
(b) Duties.--The task force shall--
(1) coordinate enforcement of Federal laws that prohibit
gambling relating to amateur and collegiate athletic events;
and
(2) submit annually, to the House of Representatives and
the Senate a report describing specific violations of such
laws, prosecutions commenced, and convictions obtained.
(c) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section $4,000,000 in fiscal year 2002
and $6,000,000 in each of the fiscal years 2003 through 2006.
SEC. 3. INCREASED PENALTIES FOR ILLEGAL SPORTS GAMBLING.
(a) Interstate Transmission of Bets or Information Assisting in
Placing Bets on Sporting Events.--Section 1084(a) of title 18, United
States Code, is amended by striking ``two'' and inserting ``5''.
(b) Interstate Transportation of Wagering Paraphernalia.--Section
1953(a) of title 18, United States Code, is amended by adding at the
end the following: ``If the matter carried or sent in interstate or
foreign commerce was intended by the defendant to be used to assist in
the placing of bets or wagers on any sporting event or contest, the
maximum term of imprisonment for the offense shall be 10 years.''.
(c) Illegal Gambling Business.--Section 1955(a) of title 18, United
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: ``If the
gambling business included the placing of bets or wagers on any
sporting event or contest, the maximum term of imprisonment for the
offense shall be 10 years.''.
(d) Interstate Travel To Promote and Conduct an Illegal Gambling
Business.--Section 1952 of title 18, United States Code, is amended by
adding at the end the following:
``(d) If the offense violated paragraph (1) or (3) of subsection
(a) and the illegal activity included the placing of bets or wagers on
any sporting event or contest, the maximum term of imprisonment for the
offense shall be 10 years.''.
(e) Sports Bribery.--Section 224(a) of title 18, United States
Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: ``If the purpose
of the bribery is to affect the outcome of a bet or wager placed on any
sporting event or contest, the maximum term of imprisonment for the
offense shall be 10 years.''.
SEC. 4. STUDY ON ILLEGAL SPORTS GAMBLING BEHAVIOR AMONG MINORS.
(a) In General.--The Director of the National Institute of Justice
shall conduct a study to determine the extent to which minor persons
participate in illegal sports gambling activities.
(b) Report.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of
this Act, the Director of the National Institute of Justice shall
submit to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President
pro tempore of the Senate, a report--
(1) describing the extent to which minor persons
participate in illegal sports gambling activities; and
(2) making recommendations on actions that should be taken
to curtail participation by minor persons in sports gambling
activities.
SEC. 5. STUDY OF GAMBLING ON COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY CAMPUSES.
(a) Establishment of Panel.--Not later than 90 days after the date
of enactment of this Act, the Attorney General shall establish a panel,
which shall be composed of Federal, State, and local government law
enforcement officials, to conduct a study of illegal college sports
gambling.
(b) Contents of Study.--The study conducted by the panel
established under subsection (a) shall include an analysis of--
(1) the scope and prevalence of illegal college sports
gambling, including unlawful sports gambling (as defined in
section 3702 of title 28, United States Code);
(2) the role of organized crime in illegal gambling on
college sports;
(3) the role of State regulators and the legal sports books
in Nevada in assisting law enforcement to uncover illegal
sports gambling and related illegal activities;
(4) the enforcement and implementation of the Professional
and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992, including whether it
has been adequately enforced;
(5) the effectiveness of steps taken by institutions of
higher education to date, whether individually or through
national organizations, to reduce the problem of illegal
gambling on college sports;
(6) the factors that influence the attitudes or levels of
awareness of administrators, professors, and students,
including student athletes, about illegal gambling on college
sports;
(7) the effectiveness of new countermeasures to reduce
illegal gambling on college sports, including related
requirements for institutions of higher education and persons
receiving Federal education funds;
(8) potential actions that could be taken by the National
Collegiate Athletic Association to address illegal gambling on
college and university campuses; and
(9) other matters relevant to the issue of illegal gambling
on college sports as determined by the Attorney General.
(c) Report to Congress.--Not later than 12 months after the
establishment of the panel under this section, the Attorney General
shall submit to Congress a report on the study conducted under this
section, which shall include--
(1) recommendations for actions colleges, universities, and
the National Collegiate Athletic Association should implement
to address the issue of illegal gambling on college sports;
(2) recommendations for intensive educational campaigns
which the National Collegiate Athletic Association could
implement to assist in the effort to prevent illegal gambling
on college sports;
(3) recommendations for any Federal and State legislative
actions to address the issue of illegal gambling on college
sports; and
(4) recommendations for any administrative or private
sector actions to address the issue of illegal gambling on
college sports.
SEC. 6. REDUCTION OF GAMBLING ON COLLEGE CAMPUSES.
(a) College Programs to Reduce Illegal Gambling.--
(1) Comprehensive program.--Each institution of higher
education (as defined in section 101 of the Higher Education
Act (20 U.S.C. 1001)) shall designate 1 or more full-time
senior officers of the institution to coordinate the
implementation of a comprehensive program, as determined by the
Secretary of Education, to reduce illegal gambling and gambling
control disorders by students and employees of the institution.
(2) Annual reporting.--An institution described in
paragraph (1) shall annually prepare and submit to the
Secretary of Education a report, in a form and manner
prescribed by the Secretary, concerning the progress made by
the institution to reduce illegal gambling by students and
employees of the institution.
(3) Continued eligibility.--An institution described in
paragraph (1) shall make reasonable further progress (as
defined by the Secretary of Education) toward the elimination
of illegal gambling at the institution as a condition of the
institution remaining eligible for assistance and participation
in other programs authorized under the Higher Education Act of
1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001 et seq.).
(b) Gambling Enforcement Information and Policies.--
(1) In general.--Each institution described in subsection
(a)(1) shall include--
(A) statistics and other information on illegal
gambling, including gambling over the Internet, in
addition to the other criminal offense on which such
institution must report pursuant to section 485(f) of
the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1092(f)) in
the form and manner so prescribed; and
(B) a statement of policy regarding underage and
other illegal gambling activity at the institution, in
the form and manner prescribed for statements of policy
on alcoholic beverages and illegal drugs pursuant to
such section 485(f), including a description of any
gambling abuse education programs available to students
and employees of the institution.
(2) Review of procedures.--Notwithstanding paragraph (2) of
section 485(f) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
1092(f)), the Attorney General, in consultation with the
Secretary of Education, shall periodically review the policies,
procedures, and practices of institutions described in
subsection (a)(1) with respect to campus crimes and security
related directly or indirectly to illegal gambling, including
the integrity of the athletic contests in which students of the
institution participate.
(c) Zero Tolerance of Illegal Gambling.--
(1) Revocation of aid.--A recipient of athletically related
student aid (as defined in section 485(e)(8) of the Higher
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1092(e)(8)) shall cease to be
eligible for such aid upon a determination by either the
institution of higher education providing such aid, or the
applicable amateur sports organization, that the recipient has
engaged in illegal gambling activity, including sports bribery,
in violation of the policies or by-laws of the institution or
organization.
(2) Report.--An institution of higher education that
provides athletically related student aid, and an amateur
sports organization that sanctions a competitive game or
performance in which 1 or more competitors receives such aid,
shall annually report to the Attorney General and the Secretary
of Education on actions taken to implement this subsection.
SEC. 7. SENSE OF CONGRESS.
It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) illegal sports gambling poses a significant threat to
youth on college campuses and in society in general;
(2) State and local governments, the National Collegiate
Athletic Association, and other youth, school, and collegiate
organizations should provide educational and prevention
programs to help youth recognize the dangers of illegal sports
gambling and the serious consequences it can have;
(3) such programs should include public service
announcements, especially during tournament and bowl game
coverage;
(4) the National Collegiate Athletic Association and other
amateur sports governing bodies should adopt mandatory codes of
conduct regarding the avoidance and prevention of illegal
sports gambling among our youth; and
(5) the National Collegiate Athletic Association should
enlist universities in the United States to develop scientific
research on youth sports gambling, and related matters. | National Collegiate and Amateur Athletic Protection Act of 2001 - Directs the Attorney General to establish a prosecutorial task force on illegal wagering on amateur and collegiate sporting events. Increases penalties for illegal sports gambling.Requires: (1) the Director of the National Institute of Justice to study the extent to which minors participate in illegal sports gambling activities; and (2) the Attorney General to establish a panel to study illegal college sports gambling.Requires each institution of higher education to: (1) designate one or more full-time senior officers of the institution to coordinate the implementation of a comprehensive program to reduce illegal gambling and gambling control disorders by students and employees; (2) annually prepare and submit to the Secretary of Education a report concerning progress made; (3) make reasonable further progress as a condition of remaining eligible for assistance under the Higher Education Act of 1965; and (4) submit statistics and other information on illegal gambling and a policy statement regarding underage and other illegal gambling activity at the institution.Makes a recipient of athletically related student aid ineligible for such aid upon a determination by either the institution of higher education or the applicable amateur sports organization that the recipient has engaged in illegal gambling activity. Requires such an institution, and such an organization that sanctions a competitive game or performance in which one or more competitors receive such aid, to report annually to the Attorney General and the Secretary.Expresses the sense of Congress that illegal sports gambling poses a significant threat to youth. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "A bill to protect amateur athletics and combat illegal sports gambling."} | 2,220 | 314 | 0.567816 | 1.628532 | 0.685834 | 4.554386 | 7.273684 | 0.961404 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Protecting Children From Internet
Pornographers Act of 2011''.
SEC. 2. FINANCIAL FACILITATION OF ACCESS TO CHILD PORNOGRAPHY.
(a) Offense.--Chapter 95 of title 18, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 1960A. Financial facilitation of access to child pornography
``(a) In General.--Whoever knowingly conducts, or attempts or
conspires to conduct, a financial transaction (as defined in section
1956(c)) in or affecting interstate or foreign commerce, knowing that
such transaction will facilitate access to, or the possession of, child
pornography (as defined in section 2256) shall be fined under this
title or imprisoned not more than 20 years, or both.
``(b) Exclusion From Offense.--This section does not apply to a
financial transaction conducted by a person in cooperation with, or
with the consent of, any Federal, State, or local law enforcement
agency.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections at the beginning of
chapter 95 of title 18, United States Code, is amended by adding at the
end the following new item:
``1960A. Financial facilitation of access to child pornography.''.
SEC. 3. MONEY LAUNDERING PREDICATE.
Section 1956(c)(7)(D) of title 18, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by inserting ``1466A (relating to obscene visual
representation of the abuse of children),'' before ``section
1708''; and
(2) by inserting ``1960A (relating to financial
facilitation of access to child pornography),'' before
``section 2113''.
SEC. 4. RETENTION OF CERTAIN RECORDS BY ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION
SERVICE PROVIDERS.
(a) In General.--Section 2703 of title 18, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``(h) Retention of Certain Records.--
``(1) A commercial provider of an electronic communication
service shall retain for a period of at least one year a log of
the temporarily assigned network addresses the provider assigns
to a subscriber to or customer of such service that enables the
identification of the corresponding customer or subscriber
information under subsection (c)(2) of this section.
``(2) Access to a record or information required to be
retained under this subsection may not be compelled by any
person or other entity that is not a governmental entity.
``(3) The Attorney General shall make a study to determine
the costs associated with compliance by providers with the
requirement of paragraph (1). Such study shall include an
assessment of all the types of costs, including for hardware,
software, and personnel that are involved. Not later than 2
years after the date of the enactment of this paragraph, the
Attorney General shall report to Congress the results of that
study.
``(4) In this subsection--
``(A) the term `commercial provider' means a
provider of electronic communication service that
offers Internet access capability for a fee to the
public or to such classes of users as to be effectively
available to the public, regardless of the facilities
used; and
``(B) the term `Internet' has the same meaning
given that term in section 230(f) of the Communications
Act of 1934.''.
(b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress--
(1) to encourage electronic communication service providers
to give prompt notice to their customers in the event of a
breach of the data retained pursuant to section 2703(h) of
title 18 of the United States Code, in order that those
effected can take the necessary steps to protect themselves
from potential misuse of private information; and
(2) that records retained pursuant to section 2703(h) of
title 18, United States Code, should be stored securely to
protect customer privacy and prevent against breaches of the
records.
(c) Transition Rule.--The amendment made by this section shall not
apply until 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act to a
provider of an electronic communications service that does not, on that
date of enactment, have in effect a system of retention of records that
complies with the requirements of that amendment.
(d) Study.--
(1) The Attorney General, not later than 2 years after the
date of the enactment of this Act, shall complete a study of
providers affected by section 2703(h) of title 18, United
States Code.
(2) Such study shall include--
(A) the privacy standards and considerations
implemented by those providers as they comply with the
requirements of section 2703(h); and
(B) the frequency of any reported breaches of data
retained pursuant to section 2703(h).
(3) The Attorney General shall, upon the completion of the
study, report the results of the study to Congress.
SEC. 5. NO CAUSE OF ACTION AGAINST A PROVIDER DISCLOSING INFORMATION
UNDER THIS CHAPTER.
Section 2703(e) of title 18, United States Code, is amended by
inserting ``retaining records,'' after ``other specified persons for''.
SEC. 6. GOOD FAITH RELIANCE ON REQUIREMENT.
Section 2707(e)(1) of title 18, United States Code, is amended by
inserting ``, or the requirement to retain records under section
2703(h),'' after ``section 2703(f)''.
SEC. 7. SUBPOENA AUTHORITY.
Section 566(e)(1) of title 28, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(2) in subparagraph (B), by striking the period at the end
and inserting ``; and''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(C) issue administrative subpoenas in accordance with
section 3486 of title 18, solely for the purpose of
investigating unregistered sex offenders (as defined in such
section 3486).''.
SEC. 8. PROTECTION OF CHILD WITNESSES.
Section 1514 of title 18, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraph (1)--
(i) by inserting ``or its own motion,''
after ``attorney for the Government,''; and
(ii) by inserting ``or investigation''
after ``Federal criminal case'' each place it
appears;
(B) by redesignating paragraphs (2), (3), and (4)
as paragraphs (3), (4), and (5), respectively;
(C) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:
``(2) In the case of a minor witness or victim, the court shall
issue a protective order prohibiting harassment or intimidation of the
minor victim or witness if the court finds evidence that the conduct at
issue is reasonably likely to adversely affect the willingness of the
minor witness or victim to testify or otherwise participate in the
Federal criminal case or investigation. Any hearing regarding a
protective order under this paragraph shall be conducted in accordance
with paragraphs (1) and (3), except that the court may issue an ex
parte emergency protective order in advance of a hearing if exigent
circumstances are present. If such an ex parte order is applied for or
issued, the court shall hold a hearing not later than 14 days after the
date such order was applied for or is issued.'';
(D) in paragraph (4), as so redesignated, by
striking ``(and not by reference to the complaint or
other document)''; and
(E) in paragraph (5), as so redesignated, in the
second sentence, by inserting before the period at the
end the following: ``, except that in the case of a
minor victim or witness, the court may order that such
protective order expires on the later of 3 years after
the date of issuance or the date of the eighteenth
birthday of that minor victim or witness''; and
(2) by striking subsection (c) and inserting the following:
``(c) Whoever knowingly and intentionally violates or attempts to
violate an order issued under this section shall be fined under this
title, imprisoned not more than 5 years, or both.
``(d)(1) As used in this section--
``(A) the term `course of conduct' means a series of acts
over a period of time, however short, indicating a continuity
of purpose;
``(B) the term `harassment' means a serious act or course
of conduct directed at a specific person that--
``(i) causes substantial emotional distress in such
person; and
``(ii) serves no legitimate purpose;
``(C) the term `immediate family member' has the meaning
given that term in section 115 and includes grandchildren;
``(D) the term `intimidation' means a serious act or course
of conduct directed at a specific person that--
``(i) causes fear or apprehension in such person;
and
``(ii) serves no legitimate purpose;
``(E) the term `restricted personal information' has the
meaning give that term in section 119;
``(F) the term `serious act' means a single act of
threatening, retaliatory, harassing, or violent conduct that is
reasonably likely to influence the willingness of a victim or
witness to testify or participate in a Federal criminal case or
investigation; and
``(G) the term `specific person' means a victim or witness
in a Federal criminal case or investigation, and includes an
immediate family member of such a victim or witness.
``(2) For purposes of subparagraphs (B)(ii) and (D)(ii) of
paragraph (1), a court shall presume, subject to rebuttal by the
person, that the distribution or publication using the Internet of a
photograph of, or restricted personal information regarding, a specific
person serves no legitimate purpose, unless that use is authorized by
that specific person, is for news reporting purposes, is designed to
locate that specific person (who has been reported to law enforcement
as a missing person), or is part of a government-authorized effort to
locate a fugitive or person of interest in a criminal, antiterrorism,
or national security investigation.''.
SEC. 9. SENTENCING GUIDELINES.
Pursuant to its authority under section 994 of title 28, United
States Code, and in accordance with this section, the United States
Sentencing Commission shall review and, if appropriate, amend the
Federal sentencing guidelines and policy statements to ensure--
(1) that the guidelines provide an additional penalty
increase above the sentence otherwise applicable in Part J of
Chapter 2 of the Guidelines Manual if the defendant was
convicted of a violation of section 1591 of title 18, United
States Code, or chapters 109A, 109B, 110, or 117 of title 18,
United States Code; and
(2) if the offense described in paragraph (1) involved
causing or threatening to cause physical injury to a person
under 18 years of age, in order to obstruct the administration
of justice, an additional penalty increase above the sentence
otherwise applicable in Part J of Chapter 2 of the Guidelines
Manual.
SEC. 10. ENHANCED PENALTIES FOR POSSESSION OF CHILD PORNOGRAPHY.
(a) Certain Activities Relating to Material Involving the Sexual
Exploitation of Minors.--Section 2252(b)(2) of title 18, United States
Code, is amended by inserting after ``but if'' the following: ``any
visual depiction involved in the offense involved a prepubescent minor
or a minor who had not attained 12 years of age, such person shall be
fined under this title and imprisoned for not more than 20 years, or
if''.
(b) Certain Activities Relating to Material Constituting or
Containing Child Pornography.--Section 2252A(b)(2) of title 18, United
States Code, is amended by inserting after ``but, if'' the following:
``any image of child pornography involved in the offense involved a
prepubescent minor or a minor who had not attained 12 years of age,
such person shall be fined under this title and imprisoned for not more
than 20 years, or if''.
SEC. 11. ADMINISTRATIVE SUBPOENAS.
(a) In General.--Section 3486(a)(1) of title 18, United States
Code, is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (A)--
(A) in clause (i), by striking ``or'' at the end;
(B) by redesignating clause (ii) as clause (iii);
and
(C) by inserting after clause (i) the following:
``(ii) an unregistered sex offender conducted by the United
States Marshals Service, the Director of the United States
Marshals Service; or''; and
(2) in subparagraph (D)--
(A) by striking ``paragraph, the term'' and
inserting the following: ``paragraph--
``(i) the term'';
(B) by striking the period at the end and inserting
``; and''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(ii) the term `sex offender' means an individual required
to register under the Sex Offender Registration and
Notification Act (42 U.S.C. 16901 et seq.).''.
(b) Technical and Conforming Amendments.--Section 3486(a) of title
18, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in paragraph (6)(A), by striking ``United State'' and
inserting ``United States'';
(2) in paragraph (9), by striking ``(1)(A)(ii)'' and
inserting ``(1)(A)(iii)''; and
(3) in paragraph (10), by striking ``paragraph (1)(A)(ii)''
and inserting ``paragraph (1)(A)(iii)''. | Protecting Children From Internet Pornographers Act of 2011 - (Sec. 2) Amends the federal criminal code to prohibit knowingly conducting in interstate or foreign commerce a financial transaction that will facilitate access to, or the possession of, child pornography. Makes this prohibition inapplicable to a financial transaction conducted in cooperation with, or with the consent of, any federal, state, or local law enforcement agency.
(Sec. 3) Adds as predicate offenses to the money laundering statute provisions regarding: (1) such financial facilitation of access to child pornography, and (2) obscene visual representation of the abuse of children.
(Sec. 4) Requires a commercial provider of an electronic communication service to retain for at least one year a log of the temporarily assigned network addresses assigned to subscribers or customers that enables the identification of corresponding customer or subscriber information. Prohibits access to such records from being compelled by any person or nongovernmental entity. Directs the Attorney General to study and report within two years on the provider compliance costs. Encourages providers to: (1) give prompt notice to customers of a breach of such records, and (2) store such records securely to protect customer privacy and prevent breaches.
Directs the Attorney General, within two years, to complete a study of providers affected by this section, including: (1) the privacy standards and considerations implemented, and (2) the frequency of any reported breaches.
(Sec. 5) Bars any cause of action against a provider for retaining such records as required.
(Sec. 6) Makes a good faith reliance on the record retention requirement a complete defense to a civil action.
(Sec. 7) Allows the issuance of an administrative subpoena for the investigation of unregistered sex offenders by the United States Marshals Service.
(Sec. 8) Requires a U.S. district court to issue a protective order prohibiting harassment or intimidation of a minor victim or witness if the court finds evidence that the conduct at issue is reasonably likely to adversely affect the willingness of the minor witness or victim to testify or otherwise participate in a federal criminal case or investigation. Authorizes the court to: (1) issue an ex parte emergency protective order in advance of a hearing if exigent circumstances are present, in which case the court shall hold a hearing not later than 14 days after the date such order was applied for or issued; and (2) order that such a protective order expires on the later of three years after the date of issuance or the date of the minor victim's or witness's 18th birthday. Provides for up to five years' imprisonment, a fine, or both for violating or attempting to violate such a protective order.
Directs the courts to presume, subject to rebuttal by the person, that the distribution or publication using the Internet of a photograph of, or restricted personal information regarding, a specific person serves no legitimate purpose, unless that use is authorized by that person, is for news reporting purposes, is designed to locate that person (who has been reported to law enforcement as a missing person), or is part of a government authorized effort to locate a fugitive or person of interest in a criminal, antiterrorism, or national security investigation.
(Sec. 9) Directs the United States Sentencing Commission to review and, if appropriate, amend the federal sentencing guidelines and policy statements to ensure that such guidelines provide an additional penalty for obstruction of justice associated with sex trafficking of children and other child abuse crimes.
(Sec. 10) Imposes a fine and/or prison term of up to 20 years for a child pornography offense involving a prepubescent minor or a child under the age of 12. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To amend title 18, United States Code, with respect to child pornography and child exploitation offenses."} | 3,228 | 840 | 0.601077 | 2.103858 | 0.60807 | 4.891702 | 4.046414 | 0.919831 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Public School Construction
Partnership Act''.
SEC. 2. TREATMENT OF QUALIFIED PUBLIC EDUCATIONAL FACILITY BONDS AS
EXEMPT FACILITY BONDS.
(a) Treatment as Exempt Facility Bond.--Subsection (a) of section
142 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to exempt facility
bond) is amended by striking ``or'' at the end of paragraph (11), by
striking the period at the end of paragraph (12) and inserting ``,
or'', and by adding at the end the following:
``(13) qualified public educational facilities.''
(b) Qualified Public Educational Facilities.--Section 142 of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to exempt facility bond) is
amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(k) Qualified Public Educational Facilities.--
``(1) In general.--For purposes of subsection (a)(13), the
term `qualified public educational facility' means any school
facility which is--
``(A) part of a public elementary school or a
public secondary school, and
``(B) owned by a private, for-profit corporation
pursuant to a public-private partnership agreement with
a State or local educational agency described in
paragraph (2).
``(2) Public-private partnership agreement described.--A
public-private partnership agreement is described in this
paragraph if it is an agreement--
``(A) under which the corporation agrees--
``(i) to do 1 or more of the following:
construct, rehabilitate, refurbish, or equip a
school facility, and
``(ii) at the end of the term of the
agreement, to transfer the school facility to
such agency for no additional consideration,
and
``(B) the term of which does not exceed the term of
the issue to be used to provide the school facility.
``(3) School facility.--For purposes of this subsection,
the term `school facility' means--
``(A) school buildings,
``(B) functionally related and subordinate
facilities and land with respect to such buildings,
including any stadium or other facility primarily used
for school events, and
``(C) any property, to which section 168 applies
(or would apply but for section 179), for use in the
facility.
``(4) Public schools.--For purposes of this subsection, the
terms `elementary school' and `secondary school' have the
meanings given such terms by section 14101 of the Elementary
and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 8801), as in
effect on the date of the enactment of this subsection.
``(5) Annual aggregate face amount of tax-exempt
financing.--
``(A) In general.--An issue shall not be treated as
an issue described in subsection (a)(13) if the
aggregate face amount of bonds issued by the State
pursuant thereto (when added to the aggregate face
amount of bonds previously so issued during the
calendar year) exceeds an amount equal to the greater
of--
``(i) $10 multiplied by the State
population, or
``(ii) $5,000,000.
``(B) Allocation rules.--
``(i) In general.--Except as otherwise
provided in this subparagraph, the State may
allocate in a calendar year the amount
described in subparagraph (A) for such year in
such manner as the State determines
appropriate.
``(ii) Rules for carryforward of unused
amount.--With respect to any calendar year, a
State may make an election under rules similar
to the rules of section 146(f), except that the
sole carryforward purpose with respect to such
election is the issuance of exempt facility
bonds described in section 142(a)(13).''
(c) Exemption From General State Volume Caps.--Paragraph (3) of
section 146(g) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to
exception for certain bonds) is amended--
(1) by striking ``or (12)'' and inserting ``(12), or
(13)'', and
(2) by striking ``and environmental enhancements of
hydroelectric generating facilities'' and inserting
``environmental enhancements of hydroelectric generating
facilities, and qualified public educational facilities''.
(d) Exemption From Limitation on Use for Land Acquisition.--Section
147(h) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to certain rules
not to apply to mortgage revenue bonds, qualified student loan bonds,
and qualified 501(c)(3) bonds) is amended by adding at the end the
following new paragraph:
``(3) Exempt facility bonds for qualified public-private
schools.--Subsection (c) shall not apply to any exempt facility
bond issued as part of an issue described in section 142(a)(13)
(relating to qualified public-private schools).''
(e) Conforming Amendment.--The heading of section 147(h) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by striking ``Mortgage Revenue
Bonds, Qualified Student Loan Bonds, and Qualified 501(c)(3) Bonds'' in
the heading and inserting ``Certain Bonds''.
(f) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to bonds issued after December 31, 1999.
SEC. 3. ADDITIONAL INCREASE IN ARBITRAGE REBATE EXCEPTION FOR
GOVERNMENTAL BONDS USED TO FINANCE EDUCATION FACILITIES.
(a) Spending Requirement for Public School Construction Issue.--
Paragraph (4)(C) of section 148(f) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
(relating to required rebate to the United States) is amended by adding
at the end the following new clause:
``(xviii) 4-year spending requirement for
public school construction issue.--
``(I) In general.--In the case of a
public school construction issue, the
spending requirements of clause (ii)
shall be treated as met if at least 10
percent of the available construction
proceeds of the construction issue are
spent for the governmental purposes of
the issue within the 1-year period
beginning on the date the bonds are
issued, 30 percent of such proceeds are
spent for such purposes within the 2-
year period beginning on such date, 50
percent of such proceeds are spent for
such purposes within the 3-year period
beginning on such date, and 100 percent
of such proceeds are spent for such
purposes within the 4-year period
beginning on such date.
``(II) Public school construction
issue.--For purposes of this clause,
the term `public school construction
issue' means any construction issue if
no bond which is part of such issue is
a private activity bond and all of the
available construction proceeds of such
issue are to be used for the
construction (as defined in clause
(iv)) of public school facilities to
provide education or training below the
postsecondary level or for the
acquisition of land that is
functionally related and subordinate to
such facilities.
``(III) Other rules to apply.--
Rules similar to the rules of the
preceding provisions of this
subparagraph which apply to clause (ii)
shall apply to this clause.''
(b) Increase in Arbitrage Rebate Exception for Governmental Bonds
Used To Finance Education Facilities.--Section 148(f)(4)(D)(vii) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to increase in exception for
bonds financing public school capital expenditures) is amended by
striking ``$5,000,000'' the second place it appears and inserting
``$10,000,000''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendment made by this section shall apply
to obligations issued after December 31, 1999.
SEC. 4. TREATMENT OF PUBLIC SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION BONDS AS QUALIFIED TAX-
EXEMPT OBLIGATIONS.
(a) In General.--Clause (i) of subsection (b)(3)(B) of section 265
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to expenses and interest
relating to tax-exempt income) is amended to read as follows:
``(i) In general.--For purposes of
subparagraph (A), the term `qualified tax-
exempt obligation' means a tax-exempt
obligation--
``(I) which is issued after August
7, 1986, by a qualified small issuer,
is not a private activity bond (as
defined in section 141), and is
designated by the issuer for purposes
of this paragraph, or
``(II) which is a public school
construction bond (within the meaning
of section 148(f)(4)(C)(xviii)) issued
by a qualified small education bond
issuer (as defined in subparagraph
(F)).''
(b) Definition of Qualified Small Education Bond Issuer.--
Subsection (b)(3) of section 265 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
is amended by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
``(F) Qualified small education bond issuer.--For
purposes of subparagraph (B)(i)(II), the term
`qualified small education bond issuer' means, with
respect to bonds issued during any calendar year, any
issuer if the reasonably anticipated amount of public
school construction bonds which will be issued by such
issuer during such calendar year does not exceed
$25,000,000.''
(c) Conforming Amendment.--Section 265(b)(3)(B)(ii) of such Code is
amended by striking ``(i)(II)'' in the matter preceding subclause (I)
and inserting ``(i)''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to obligations issued after December 31, 1999. | Sets forth provisions concerning: (1) time-related spending requirements for public school construction bonds and doubling the arbitrage rebate exception for governmental bonds used to finance education facilities; and (2) the treatment of public school construction bonds as qualified tax-exempt obligations. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Public School Construction Partnership Act"} | 2,219 | 53 | 0.487566 | 1.109567 | 0.544426 | 3.627451 | 37.921569 | 0.882353 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``401Kids Family Savings Act of
2006''.
SEC. 2. EXTENSION OF DATE FOR SUNSET OF CERTAIN EDUCATION SAVINGS
INCENTIVES.
In the case of the provisions of, and amendments made by, subtitle
A of title IV of the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act
of 2001 (relating to education savings incentives), section 901 of such
Act (relating to sunset of provisions of Act) shall be applied by
substituting ``December 31, 2015'' for ``December 31, 2010'' in
subsection (a)(1) thereof.
SEC. 3. DISTRIBUTIONS FROM EDUCATION SAVINGS ACCOUNTS FOR FIRST HOME
PURCHASES TREATED AS QUALIFIED DISTRIBUTIONS.
(a) In General.--Subsections (b)(1), (d)(2)(A), (d)(2)(B),
(d)(2)(C)(ii)(II), and (d)(2)(D) of section 530 of the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986 are each amended by striking ``qualified education
expenses'' and inserting ``qualified expenses''.
(b) Qualified Expenses.--Subsection (b) of section 530 of such Code
is amended--
(1) by redesignating paragraphs (2) through (4) as
paragraphs (3) through (5), respectively, and by inserting
after paragraph (1) the following new paragraph:
``(2) Qualified expenses.--The term `qualified expenses'
means--
``(A) qualified education expenses (as defined in
paragraph (3)), and
``(B) qualified first-time homebuyer expenses (as
defined in paragraph (4)).'', and
(2) by redesignating paragraphs (4) and (5) (as
redesignated by paragraph (1)) as paragraphs (5) and (6),
respectively, and by inserting after paragraph (3) the
following new paragraph:
``(4) Qualified first-time homebuyer expenses.--The term
`qualified first-time homebuyer expenses' means, in the case of
a designated beneficiary who is a first-time homebuyer, the
qualified acquisition costs with respect to a principal
residence of such beneficiary. Terms used in this paragraph
shall have the same meaning as when used in section
72(t)(8).''.
(c) Conforming Amendment.--The heading for paragraph (2) of section
530(d) of such Code is amended by striking ``qualified education
expenses'' and inserting ``qualified expenses''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning after the date of the enactment of
this Act.
SEC. 4. ROLLOVERS FROM EDUCATION SAVINGS ACCOUNTS TO ROTH IRAS.
(a) In General.--Paragraph (5) of section 530(d) of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986, as amended by section 5, is amended by inserting
``or a Roth IRA'' after ``another 401Kids savings account''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--Subsection (e) of section 408A of such
Code is amended by inserting the following after the second sentence:
``Such term includes a rollover contribution to a Roth IRA from a
401Kids savings account described in section 530(d)(5).''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning after the date of the enactment of
this Act.
SEC. 5. RENAMING COVERDELL EDUCATION SAVINGS ACCOUNTS AS 401KIDS
SAVINGS ACCOUNTS.
(a) In General.--Section 530 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
is amended by striking ``Coverdell education savings account'' each
place it appears and inserting ``401Kids savings account''.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) The following provisions of the Internal Revenue Code
of 1986 are amended by striking ``Coverdell education savings''
each place it appears and inserting ``401Kids savings'':
(A) Section 26(b)(2)(E).
(B) Section 72(e)(9).
(C) Section 135(c)(2)(C).
(D) Section 529(c)(6).
(E) Subsections (a) and (e) of section 4973(a).
(F) Subsections (c) and (e) of section 4975.
(G) Section 6693(a)(2)(E).
(2) The headings for the following provisions of such Code
are amended by striking ``Coverdell education savings'' and
inserting ``401kids savings'':
(A) Section 72(e)(9).
(B) Section 135(c)(2)(C).
(C) Section 529(c)(3)(B)(vi).
(D) Section 530(b)(1).
(E) Section 4973(e).
(F) Section 4975(c)(5).
(3) The heading for section 4973(e) of such Code is amended
by striking ``Coverdell Education Savings'' and inserting
``401Kids Savings''.
(4) The heading for section 530 of such Code is amended to
read as follows:
``SEC. 530. 401KIDS SAVINGS ACCOUNTS.''.
(5) The item in the table of contents for part VII of
subchapter F of chapter 1 of such Code relating to section 530
is amended to read as follows:
``Sec. 530. 401Kids savings accounts.''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall take
effect on the date of the enactment of this Act. | 401Kids Family Savings Act of 2006 - Amends the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001 to extend through 2015 provisions allowing increased annual contributions to Coverdell education savings accounts.
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) allow tax-free distributions from a Coverdell education savings account for first-time homebuyer expenses; (2) permit rollovers from Coverdell education savings accounts to Roth individual retirement accounts (Roth IRAs); and (3) rename Coverdell education savings accounts as 401Kids Savings Accounts. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to improve and expand education savings accounts."} | 1,349 | 129 | 0.495035 | 1.116962 | 0.562899 | 2.947917 | 11.0625 | 0.84375 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Hate Crimes Commission Act of
2017''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds as follows:
(1) The Federal Bureau of Investigation defines a ``hate
crime'' to be a criminal offense--such as murder, arson, or
vandalism--against a person or property motivated in whole or
in part by an offender's bias against a race, religion,
disability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, gender, or gender
identity.
(2) Forty-five States and the District of Columbia have
statutes criminalizing various types of bias-motivated violence
or intimidation.
(3) The Federal Government has had hate crimes statutes
since 1968, with the most recent law enacted in 2009.
(4) The impact of underreporting on hate crimes statistics
hinders hate crimes prevention.
(5) According to multiple, nonpartisan studies, hate crimes
have increased sharply over the past year, with over 900 new
hate incidents reported since November 2016.
(6) The U.S. Commission on Civil Rights found that in 2016,
there was a 6.7-percent increase in reported hate crimes since
the prior year, one of the largest one-year increases in over a
decade.
(7) In May 2017, the FBI found that White supremacists and
rightwing extremist groups were responsible for 49 deaths in 26
incidents between 2000 and 2016, the most of any domestic
extremist group. The same report found that White supremacists
and rightwing extremist groups were the largest threat of
domestic terror, and were likely to continue to pose a lethal
threat over the next year.
(8) In February 2017, a White supremacist entered a bar in
Kansas and shot at two Indian men, Srinivas Kuchibhotla and
Alok Madasani while shouting racial epithets. Srinivas later
died of his injuries.
(9) The nonpartisan Center for the Study of Hate and
Extremism documented 55 instances of anti-Semitism between
January and March 2017 in New York City alone, a 189-percent
increase from the same time period in 2016, and close to 100
bomb threats have been received by Jewish Community Centers and
Schools.
(10) Since January, there have been at least five attacks
on LGBT centers across the country.
(11) The White nationalist and neo-Nazi protests in
Charlottesville, Virginia, on August 11-13, 2017, which
resulted in 1 death and 20 injuries from a White nationalist
driving his car into a group of counterprotesters, show the
need for increased action to combat hate-based attacks.
SEC. 3. ESTABLISHMENT OF COMMISSION.
(a) Establishment.--There is established the United States
Commission on Hate Crimes (hereinafter in this act referred to as the
``Commission'').
(b) Membership.--The Commission shall be composed of 12 members.
Membership of the Commission shall be appointed in accordance with the
following:
(1) Two members shall be appointed by the majority leader
of the Senate.
(2) Two members shall be appointed by the minority leader
of the Senate.
(3) Two members shall be appointed by the Speaker of the
House of Representatives.
(4) Two members shall be appointed by the minority leader
of the House of Representatives.
(5) Two members shall be jointly appointed by the two
appointing officials under paragraphs (1) through (4) who are
members of, or caucus with, the Democratic Party.
(6) Two members shall be jointly appointed by the two
appointing officials under paragraphs (1) through (4) who are
members of, or caucus with, the Republican Party.
(7) Not more than 6 members of the Commission shall be from
the law enforcement community and not more than 6 members of
the Commission shall be of the civil rights community.
(8) Not more than six of the members shall be of the same
political party.
SEC. 4. DUTIES OF THE COMMISSION.
The Commission shall investigate the following:
(1) If there has been an increase in hate crimes during the
period beginning January 1, 2007, and ending 60 days after the
date of enactment of this Act.
(2) To the extent that any increase in the commission in
hate crimes is determined to exist, what factors have
contributed to such increase.
(3) What policies or actions law enforcement agencies might
adopt or engage in to reduce the commission of hate crimes.
(4) The impact of underreporting on hate crimes statistics
and hate crimes prevention.
SEC. 5. REPORT.
Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the
Commission shall submit a report to Congress and the President setting
forth the results of the investigation under section 4.
SEC. 6. DEFINITION.
In this Act, the term ``hate crime'' means an offense under section
249 of title 18, United States Code. | Hate Crimes Commission Act of 2017 This bill establishes the United States Commission on Hate Crimes to investigate and report on: whether hate crimes have increased; factors that contributed to an increase in hate crimes, if one is determined to exist; policies or actions by law enforcement agencies to reduce hate crimes; and the impact of underreporting on hate crimes statistics and prevention. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Hate Crimes Commission Act of 2017"} | 1,064 | 80 | 0.486018 | 1.240893 | 0.877461 | 2.958904 | 14 | 0.90411 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Low-Income Home Energy Security Tax
Act''.
SEC. 2. REFUNDABLE TAX CREDIT FOR RESIDENTIAL ENERGY COST ASSISTANCE.
(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. CREDIT FOR RESIDENTIAL ENERGY COST ASSISTANCE.
``(a) General Rule.--In the case of an individual, there shall be
allowed as a credit against the tax imposed by this subtitle for the
taxable year an amount equal to the lesser of--
``(1) 33 percent of the amount paid or incurred for
residential energy costs by the taxpayer for each month such
individual is an individual during such taxable year, or
``(2) $300.
``(b) Income Limitation.--
``(1) In general.--The amount allowable as a credit under
subsection (a) for any taxable year (determined without regard
to subsection (e)) shall be reduced (but not below zero) by an
amount which bears the same ratio to the amount so allowable
(determined without regard to this paragraph) as--
``(A) the amount (if any) by which the taxpayer's
adjusted gross income exceeds $35,000 ($70,000 in the
case of a joint return), bears to
``(B) $10,000.
``(2) Determination of adjusted gross income.--For purposes
of paragraph (1), adjusted gross income shall be determined
without regard to sections 911, 931, and 933.
``(c) Definitions and Special Rules.--For purposes of this
section--
``(1) Residential energy costs.--The term `residential
energy costs' means, with respect to any principal residence of
the taxpayer located in the United States for any month, the
sum of--
``(A) the cost of any energy utility, plus
``(B) the cost of the purchase of any home energy
fuel.
``(2) Reduction for grants.--The amount of residential
energy costs which may be taken into account with respect to
any month shall be reduced by any amount received by the
taxpayer for such month for any residential energy cost under
the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance program under title XXVI
of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 (42 U.S.C.
8621 et seq.).
``(3) Principal residence.--The term `principal residence'
has the same meaning as in section 121, except that--
``(A) no ownership requirement shall be imposed,
and
``(B) the principal residence must be used by the
taxpayer as the taxpayer's residence during the taxable
year.
``(4) Homeowners associations.--The application of this
section to homeowners associations (as defined in section
528(c)(1)) or members of such associations, and tenant-
stockholders in cooperative housing corporations (as defined in
section 216), shall be allowed by allocation, apportionment, or
otherwise, to the individuals paying, directly or indirectly,
for the residential energy cost so incurred.
``(d) Inflation Adjustment.--
``(1) In general.--In the case of any taxable year
beginning after 2005, each of the dollar amounts contained in
subsections (a)(2) and (b)(1)(A) shall be increased by an
amount equal to--
``(A) such dollar amount, multiplied by
``(B) in the case of--
``(i) the dollar amount contained in
subsection (a)(2), the fuel price inflation
adjustment for the calendar year in which the
taxable year begins, and
``(ii) the dollar amounts contained in
subsection (b)(1)(A), the cost-of-living
adjustment determined under section 1(f)(3) for
the calendar year in which the taxable year
begins by substituting `calendar year 2004' for
`calendar year 1992' in subparagraph (B)
thereof.
``(2) Fuel price inflation adjustment.--For purposes of
paragraph (1)(B)(i)--
``(A) In general.--The fuel price inflation
adjustment for any calendar year is the percentage (if
any) by which--
``(i) the CPI fuel component for October of
the preceding calendar year, exceeds
``(ii) the CPI fuel component for October
of 2004.
``(B) CPI fuel component.--The term `CPI fuel
component' means the fuel component of the Consumer
Price Index for All Urban Consumers published by the
Department of Labor.
``(3) Rounding.--
``(A) Credit amount.--If the dollar amount in
subsection (a)(2) (after being increased under
paragraph (1)), is not a multiple of $10, such dollar
amount shall be rounded to the nearest multiple of $10.
``(B) Income threshold.--If any dollar amount in
subsection (b)(1)(A) (after being increased under
paragraph (1)), is not a multiple of $50, such dollar
amount shall be rounded to the next lowest multiple of
$50.
``(e) Coordination With Advance Payments of Credit.--With respect
to any taxable year, the amount which would (but for this subsection)
be allowed as a credit to the taxpayer under subsection (a) shall be
reduced (but not below zero) by the aggregate amount paid on behalf of
such taxpayer under section 7529 for months beginning in such taxable
year.
``(f) Regulations.--The Secretary may prescribe such regulations
and other guidance as may be necessary or appropriate to carry out this
section, section 6050U, and section 7529.
``(g) Applicability of Section.--This section shall apply to
residential energy costs paid or incurred after the date of the
enactment of this section, in taxable years ending after such date and
before January 1, 2008.''.
(b) Advance Payment of Credit.--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. ADVANCE PAYMENT OF CREDIT FOR RESIDENTIAL ENERGY COSTS.
``(a) General Rule.--The Secretary shall establish a program for
making payments on behalf of certified individuals to providers of
residential energy (within the meaning of section 36(c)(1)) for such
individuals.
``(b) Limitation on Advance Payments During Any Taxable Year.--The
Secretary may make payments under subsection (a) only to the extent
that the total amount of such payments made on behalf of any individual
during the taxable year does not exceed the amount of the credit
allowable to such individual under section 36 for the taxable year.
``(c) Certified Individual.--For purposes of this section, the term
`certified individual' means any individual for whom a qualified
residential energy costs credit eligibility certificate is in effect.
``(d) Qualified Residential Energy Costs Credit Eligibility
Certificate.--For purposes of this section, the term `qualified
residential energy costs credit eligibility certificate' means any
written statement if such statement provides such information as the
Secretary may require for purposes of this section and is certified by
the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance program official of the State in
which such individual resides.''.
(c) Information Returns.--Subpart B of part III of subchapter A of
chapter 61 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to
information concerning transactions with other persons) is amended by
adding at the end the following new section:
``SEC. 6050U. RETURNS RELATING TO CREDIT FOR RESIDENTIAL ENERGY COSTS.
``(a) Requirement of Reporting.--Every person who is entitled to
receive payments for any month of any calendar year under section 7529
(relating to advance payment of credit for residential energy costs)
with respect to any certified individual (as defined in section
7529(c)) shall, at such time as the Secretary may prescribe, make the
return described in subsection (b) with respect to each such
individual.
``(b) Form and Manner of Returns.--A return is described in this
subsection if such return--
``(1) is in such form as the Secretary may prescribe, and
``(2) contains--
``(A) the name, address, and TIN of each individual
referred to in subsection (a),
``(B) the number of months for which amounts were
entitled to be received with respect to such individual
under section 7529 (relating to advance payment of
credit for residential energy costs),
``(3) the amount entitled to be received for each such
month, and
``(4) such other information as the Secretary may
prescribe.
``(c) Statements to Be Furnished to Individuals With Respect to
Whom Information Is Required.--Every person required to make a return
under subsection (a) shall furnish to each individual whose name is
required to be set forth in such return a written statement showing--
``(1) the name and address of the person required to make
such return and the phone number of the information contact for
such person, and
``(2) the information required to be shown on the return
with respect to such individual.
The written statement required under the preceding sentence shall be
furnished on or before January 31 of the year following the calendar
year for which the return under subsection (a) is required to be
made.''.
(d) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Section 1324(b)(2) of title 31, United States Code, is
amended by striking ``or'' before ``enacted'' and by inserting
before the period at the end ``, or from section 36 of such
Code''.
(2) Section 6103(l) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is
amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(21) Disclosure of return information for purposes of
carrying out a program for advance payment of credit for
residential energy costs.--The Secretary may disclose to
providers of residential energy for any certified individual
(as defined in section 7529(c)) return information with respect
to such certified individual only to the extent necessary to
carry out the program established by section 7529 (relating to
advance payment of credit for residential energy costs).''.
(e) Clerical Amendments.--
(1) 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 item relating to section 35 and by
adding at the end the following new items:
``Sec. 36. Credit for residential energy cost assistance.
``Sec. 37. Overpayments of tax.''.
(2) The table of sections for chapter 77 of such Code is
amended by adding at the end the following new item:
``Sec. 7529. Advance payment of credit for residential energy
costs.''.
(3) The table of sections for subpart B of part III of
subchapter A of chapter 61 of such Code is amended by adding at
the end the following new item:
``Sec. 6050U. Returns relating to credit for residential energy
costs.''. | Low-Income Home Energy Security Tax Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) allow certain low-income individuals a refundable tax credit for residential energy costs; (2) provide for advance payments of such credit to providers of residential energy; and (3) require providers of residential energy to file informational returns for any advance tax credit payments received. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide a refundable tax credit for residential energy cost assistance and for other purposes."} | 2,530 | 74 | 0.498812 | 1.119097 | 0.835861 | 2.859155 | 32.605634 | 0.887324 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Volunteer Firefighter's Relief
Act''.
SEC. 2. DEDUCTION FOR CONTRIBUTIONS TO VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER SAVINGS
ACCOUNTS.
(a) In General.--Part VII of subchapter B of chapter 1 of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to additional itemized
deductions for individuals) is amended by redesignating section 222 as
section 223 and by inserting after section 221 the following new
section:
``SEC. 222. CONTRIBUTIONS TO VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER SAVINGS ACCOUNTS.
``(a) Deduction Allowed.--
``(1) In general.--In the case of an individual who is a
qualified volunteer firefighter, there shall be allowed as a
deduction for the taxable year an amount equal to the
contributions of the individual to a volunteer firefighter
savings account of the individual for the taxable year.
``(2) Maximum annual amount.--The amount allowable as a
deduction under subsection (a) to any individual for a taxable
year shall not exceed $500.
``(b) Qualified Volunteer Firefighter.--For purposes of this
section, the term `qualified volunteer firefighter' means an individual
who, on the last day of the taxable year, is a member in good standing
of a qualified volunteer fire department (as defined in section
150(e)).
``(c) Volunteer Firefighter Savings Account.--For purposes of this
section, the term `volunteer firefighter savings account' means a trust
created or organized in the United States for the exclusive benefit of
an individual and the individual's beneficiaries, but only if the
written governing instrument creating the trust meets the following
requirements:
``(1) No contribution will be accepted unless it is in
cash.
``(2) The trustee is a bank (as defined in section 408(n))
or another person who demonstrates to the satisfaction of the
Secretary that the manner in which that person will administer
the trust will be consistent with the requirements of this
section.
``(3) No part of the trust assets will be invested in life
insurance contracts.
``(4) The assets of the trust will not be commingled with
other property except in a common trust fund or common
investment fund.
``(5) The interest of an individual in the balance of the
individual's account is nonforfeitable.
``(d) Tax Treatment of Distributions.--
``(1) In general.--Except as otherwise provided in this
subsection, any amount paid or distributed out of a volunteer
firefighter savings account shall be included in the gross
income of the payee or distributee for the taxable year in
which the payment or distribution is received in the manner
provided under section 72.
``(2) Excess contributions returned before due date of
return.--Paragraph (1) shall not apply to the distribution of
any contribution paid during a taxable year to a volunteer
firefighter savings account to the extent that such
contribution exceeds the amount allowable as a deduction under
subsection (a) if--
``(A) such distribution is received on or before
the day prescribed by law (including extensions of
time) for filing such individual's return for such
taxable year,
``(B) no deduction is allowed under subsection (a)
with respect to such excess contribution, and
``(C) such distribution is accompanied by the
amount of net income attributable to such excess
contribution.
Any net income described in subparagraph (C) shall be included
in the gross income of the individual for the taxable year in
which such excess contribution was made.
``(3) Rollover contributions.--
``(A) In general.--Paragraph (1) shall not apply to
any amount paid or distributed to an account holder
from a volunteer firefighter savings account to the
extent that the amount received is paid into an
individual retirement plan (as defined in section
7701(37)) for the benefit of the account holder not
later than the 60th day after the day on which the
account holder receives the payment or distribution.
``(B) Limitation.--Subparagraph (A) shall not apply
to any payment or distribution described in
subparagraph (A) if, at any time during the 1-year
period ending on the day of such receipt, such account
holder received any other amount described in
subparagraph (A) which was not includible in the
account holder's gross income because of the
application of subparagraph (A).
``(4) Investment in collectibles treated as
distributions.--Rules similar to the rules of section 408(m)
shall apply for purposes of this section.
``(e) Tax Treatment of Accounts.--
``(1) Exemption from tax.--A volunteer firefighter savings
account is exempt from taxation under this subtitle unless such
account has ceased to be a volunteer firefighter savings
account by reason of paragraph (2). Notwithstanding the
preceding sentence, any such account is subject to the taxes
imposed by section 511 (relating to imposition of tax on
unrelated business income of charitable, etc. organizations).
``(2) Loss of exemption of account where individual engages
in prohibited transaction.--
``(A) In general.--If the individual for whose
benefit a volunteer firefighter savings account is
established or any individual who contributes to such
account engages in any transaction prohibited by
section 4975 with respect to the account, the account
shall cease to be a volunteer firefighter savings
account as of the first day of the taxable year (of the
individual so engaging in such transaction) during
which such transaction occurs.
``(B) Account treated as distributing all its
assets.--In any case in which any account ceases to be
a volunteer firefighter savings account by reason of
subparagraph (A) as of the first day of any taxable
year, paragraph (1) of subsection (d) shall apply as if
there was a distribution on such first day in an amount
equal to the fair market value (on such first day) of
all assets in the account (on such first day).
``(3) Effect of pledging account as security.--If, during
any taxable year, the individual for whose benefit a volunteer
firefighter savings account is established uses the account or
any portion thereof as security for a loan, the portion so used
shall be treated as distributed to the individual so using such
portion.
``(f) Special Rules.--
``(1) Time when contributions deemed made.--A taxpayer
shall be deemed to have made a contribution to a volunteer
firefighter savings account on the last day of the preceding
taxable year if the contribution is made on account of such
taxable year and is made not later than the time prescribed by
law for filing the return for such taxable year (not including
extensions thereof).
``(2) Death and divorce.--Rules similar to the rules of
sections 401(a)(9), 401(a)(11), and 408(d)(6) shall apply for
purposes of this section.
``(3) Community property laws.--This section shall be
applied without regard to any community property laws.
``(g) Reports.--The trustee of a volunteer firefighter savings
account shall make such reports regarding such account to the Secretary
and to the account holder with respect to contributions, distributions,
and such other matters as the Secretary may require under regulations.
The reports required by this subsection shall be filed at such time and
in such manner and furnished to such individuals at such time and in
such manner as may be required by those regulations.''.
(b) Allowance of Deduction in Computing Adjusted Gross Income.--
Subsection (a) of section 62 of such Code (defining adjusted gross
income) is amended by inserting after paragraph (17) the following new
paragraph:
``(18) Contributions to volunteer firefighter savings
accounts.--The deduction allowed by section 222(a).''.
(c) Additional Tax on Early Distributions.--Subsection (t) of
section 72 of such Code (relating to 10-percent additional tax on early
distributions from qualified retirement plans) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1) by inserting ``or a volunteer
firefighter savings account (as defined in section 220(c))''
after ``section 4974(c))'', and
(2) in the heading by striking ``Qualified Retirement
Plans'' and inserting ``Certain Tax-Favored Plans''.
(d) Tax on Excess Contributions.--Section 4973 of such Code
(relating to tax on excess contributions to certain tax-favored
accounts and annuities) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a) by striking ``or'' at the end of
paragraph (3), by inserting ``or'' at the end of paragraph (4),
and by inserting after paragraph (4) the following new
paragraph:
``(5) a volunteer firefighter savings account (as defined
in section 222(c)),'', and
(2) by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(g) Excess Contributions to Volunteer Firefighter Savings
Accounts.--For purposes of this section, in the case of a volunteer
firefighter savings account, the term `excess contributions' means the
sum of--
``(1) the aggregate amount contributed for the taxable year
to the account which is not allowable as a deduction under
section 222 for such taxable year, and
``(2) the amount determined under this subsection for the
preceding taxable year, reduced by--
``(A) the distributions out of the accounts which
were included in gross income under section 222(d)(1)
for the taxable year, over
``(B) the amount contributed to the accounts for
the taxable year.
For purposes of this subsection, any contribution which is
distributed out of the volunteer firefighter account in a
distribution to which section 222(d)(2) applies shall be
treated as an amount not contributed.''.
(e) Tax on Prohibited Transactions.--Section 4975 of such Code
(relating to prohibited transactions) is amended--
(1) by adding at the end of subsection (c) the following
new paragraph:
``(6) Special rule for volunteer firefighter savings
accounts.--An individual for whose benefit a volunteer
firefighter savings account is established and any contributor
to such account shall be exempt from the tax imposed by this
section with respect to any transaction concerning such account
(which would otherwise be taxable under this section) if, with
respect to such transaction, the account ceases to be a
volunteer firefighter savings account by reason of the
application of section 222 to such account.'', and
(2) in subsection (e)(1) by striking ``or'' at the end of
subparagraph (E), by redesignating subparagraph (F) as
subparagraph (G), and by inserting after subparagraph (E) the
following new subparagraph:
``(F) a volunteer firefighter savings account
described in section 222, or''.
(f) Failure To Provide Reports on Volunteer Firefighter Savings
Accounts.--Paragraph (2) of section 6693(a) of such Code (relating to
failure to provide reports on certain tax-favored accounts or
annuities) is amended by striking ``and'' at the end of subparagraph
(C), by striking the period at the end of subparagraph (D) and
inserting ``, and'', and by adding at the end the following new
subparagraph:
``(E) section 222(g) (relating to volunteer
firefighter savings accounts).''.
(g) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Paragraph (1) of section 408(a) is amended by inserting
``222(d)(3),'' before ``402(c)''.
(2) The table of sections for part VII of subchapter B of
chapter 1 of such Code is amended by striking the item relating
to section 222 and inserting the following new items:
``Sec. 222. Contributions to volunteer
firefighter savings accounts.
``Sec. 223. Cross reference.''
(h) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning after the date of the enactment of
this Act. | Volunteer Firefighter's Relief Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow, for a volunteer firefighter, an annual deduction (of up to $500) for contributions to a volunteer firefighter savings account. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow a deduction for contributions to a volunteer firefighter savings account."} | 2,779 | 50 | 0.549994 | 1.207414 | 0.703164 | 2.342105 | 65.157895 | 0.921053 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Enhanced Border Security Act''.
SEC. 2. STATEMENT OF PURPOSE.
It is the purpose of this Act to protect United States citizens
from external threats by establishing and applying appropriate
counterinsurgency tactics under a coordinated and targeted strategy to
combat the terrorist insurgency in Mexico waged by transnational
criminal organizations by utilizing cross-agency capabilities to--
(1) secure the United States-Mexico border through a secure
border area;
(2) curtail the ability of such organizations to finance
their operations with United States funds in cities throughout
the United States; and
(3) increase the ability of the Government of Mexico to--
(A) reduce violence;
(B) diminish corruption;
(C) improve cooperation between military and law
enforcement;
(D) stabilize communities; and
(E) fortify functioning government institutions.
SEC. 3. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) Mexican drug cartels have evolved into transnational
criminal organizations and diversified and expanded their
illicit activities, including human smuggling, trafficking in
stolen oil, weapons smuggling, extortion, kidnapping, and
cybercrime.
(2) Mexican drug cartels have increased their profits
through various illicit activities and have become more
resilient and dangerous organizations. Rough estimates of
stolen oil proceeds range between $2 billion and $4 billion
each year. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and
Crime (UNODC), approximately $6.6 billion annually is generated
from human smuggling from Latin America to the United States.
(3) A July 2011 White House report found that transnational
criminal organizations have expanded and matured, threatening
the security of citizens and the stability of governments
throughout the region, with direct security implications for
the United States.
(4) An August 2011 Department of Justice National Drug
Threat Assessment found that Mexican-based transnational
criminal organizations were operating in more than 1,000 United
States cities during 2009 and 2010.
(5) On October 11, 2011, a foiled terrorist assassination
plot of the Saudi Arabian Ambassador by members of the Iranian
Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps demonstrated the
internationally recognized threat posed by Mexican drug cartel
members at the United States-Mexico border.
(6) The Merida Initiative, led by the Department of State,
has failed to address the evolution of the drug trafficking
organizations into transnational criminal organizations, the
diversification of their illicit activities, and the systematic
implementation of insurgency tactics that undermines the
Mexican state and seeks to control the political space.
(7) The Merida Initiative has faced implementation
challenges and programmatic delays. A July 2010 Government
Accountability Office report highlighted Merida Initiative
delays associated with equipment deliveries as well as a lack
of clear benchmarks for programmatic success.
(8) The utilization of counterinsurgency tactics will focus
on isolating Mexican transnational criminal organizations from
their sources of power, such as drugs, money, human resources,
and weapons, while addressing both military and non-military
conditions and border conditions sustaining the insurgency,
including corruption, infighting, financing, and human support.
(9) The end goal of the coordinated and targeted strategy
is to protect United States citizens from external threats
through the empowering of a friendly and competent government
that operates within international laws and regulations and is
able to secure itself from internal threats.
SEC. 4. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Terrorist insurgency.--The term ``terrorist
insurgency'' means the protracted use of irregular warfare,
including extreme displays of public violence utilized by
transnational criminal organizations to influence public
opinion and to undermine government control and rule of law in
order to increase the control and influence of the
organizations.
(2) Transnational criminal organization or organization.--
The term ``transnational criminal organization'' or
``organization'' means a self-perpetuating association of
individuals who--
(A) operate transnationally for the purpose of
obtaining power, influence, monetary gain, or
commercial gain wholly or in part by illegal means; and
(B) protect their activities--
(i) through a pattern of corruption or
violence; or
(ii) through a transnational organizational
structure and the exploitation of transnational
commerce or communication mechanisms.
SEC. 5. COUNTERINSURGENCY STRATEGY AND CONDITIONALITY.
(a) Counterinsurgency Strategy.--Not later than 90 days after the
date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State, with the
concurrence of the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Homeland
Security, the Attorney General, the Secretary of the Treasury, and the
Director of National Intelligence, shall submit to the Committee on
Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives and the Committee on
Foreign Relations of the Senate a counterinsurgency strategy that--
(1) defines and outlines the transnational criminal
organizations in Mexico, their leaders, goals, objectives,
evolution, key elements, and areas of influence;
(2) provides an assessment of the terrain, population,
ports, financial centers, and income-generating activities
utilized by transnational criminal organizations;
(3) assesses the capabilities of Mexico's federal law
enforcement, military forces, state and local government
institutions, and other critical elements, such as
nongovernmental organizations that may organize to counter the
threat posed by transnational criminal organizations;
(4) describes operations of, or on behalf of, transnational
criminal organizations within the United States, including
information on trafficking activities, financial networks, and
safe havens;
(5) describes operations of transnational criminal
organizations at the United States-Mexico border, the Mexico-
Guatemala border, and other international borders, including
operations relating to contraband, human support networks,
financial support, and technological advancements;
(6) utilizes information obtained under paragraphs (1)
through (5) to coordinate with relevant United States agencies
to address the operations of transnational criminal
organizations within the United States, at the United States-
Mexico border, and within Mexico to isolate such organizations
from their sources of power in order to successfully combat the
terrorist insurgency in Mexico;
(7) includes--
(A) within the United States, a plan to combat the
operations, financial networks, and money laundering
techniques of transnational criminal organizations,
including--
(i) a dramatic increase of the number of
Mexican and Central American drug traffickers
on the Specially Designated Nationals list;
(ii) a report by the Office of Foreign
Assets Control of the Department of the
Treasury detailing the progress of designating
Mexican and Central American individuals and
entities supporting such organization on the
Specially Designated Nationals list, as well as
providing suggestions to help identify areas to
further impact the financial networks of such
organizations;
(iii) increasing cooperation between the
Department of Justice and State and local
agencies responsible for firearms law
enforcement; and
(iv) development of a thorough, strict, and
standardized accounting procedure for keeping
track of Federal grant assistance provided to
State and local law enforcement agencies for
border security purposes;
(B) at the United States-Mexico border, in
coordination with the Government of Mexico and the
Department of Homeland Security, a plan to address
resources, technology, and infrastructure required to
create a secure border area that establishes border
security as a top priority of the Government of the
United States, including--
(i) doubling the number of Border Patrol
agents over the number in existence as of the
date of the enactment of this Act, or as
determined by the Secretary of Homeland
Security, in a comprehensive report on the best
use of resources, technology, and
infrastructure to secure the border;
(ii) development of a plan to build
additional infrastructure to support Border
Patrol activities along the border that would
enhance security in hard-to-enforce areas, such
as roads and tactical double layered fencing as
determined by the Secretary of Homeland
Security;
(iii) determining technology required to
support Border Patrol activities in reducing
unlawful movement of goods and people at the
border, including cameras, radars, sensors, and
unmanned aerial vehicles;
(iv) a report by the Attorney General that
provides a policy that standardizes the
threshold for prosecution of border-related
offenses by the United States Attorney's
Office;
(v) a plan to develop a joint United
States-Mexico program to increase intelligence
gathering utilizing classified technologies;
and
(vi) increased use of Border Patrol Special
Response Teams that concentrate on high-
priority threats, including weapons and bulk
cash smuggling, and high-potency, high-cash-
value drugs along the border; and
(C) within Mexico, in coordination with the
Government of Mexico, the development of a multi-agency
action plan, including--
(i) development of strong rule-of-law
institutions to provide security for people and
businesses in Mexico by--
(I) increasing coordination among
military and law enforcement agencies
focused on establishing and expanding
secure areas around key population
centers;
(II) increasing knowledge of best
practices for combating such
organizations, incorporating United
States military and law enforcement
lessons learned, worldwide
counterinsurgency experts in training
programs, and as appropriate, training
carried out by international law
enforcement academies; and
(III) securing the environment, as
recommended in separate reports by the
Secretary of Defense and the Director
of National Intelligence;
(ii) diminish support for transnational
criminal organizations by--
(I) instituting programs to
strengthen governance and rule of law,
such as promoting a culture of
lawfulness and providing incentives to
United States businesses operating in
Mexico that promote and support culture
of lawfulness efforts;
(II) developing safe communities
for families and youth by enhancing and
recreating successful youth programs
and anti-drug coalitions, enhancing
public education regarding the
activities of such organizations, and
promoting economic development; and
(III) promoting the creation and
enhancement of the institutions of good
local governance; and
(iii) neutralize transnational criminal
organizations by--
(I) re-evaluating threats within
Mexican regions in order to assign a
specialized task force to key regions
designed to concentrate on high-
priority targets and separate such
organizations from their sources of
support;
(II) requesting the support of
United States military advisors to
assist the Mexican regional task
forces; and
(III) supporting Mexican federal
law enforcement operations that provide
services to the population while
gathering raw intelligence and
providing such intelligence to regional
task forces; and
(8) includes a report on Mexican and Central American
extradition requests and extraditions carried out.
(b) Updates.--
(1) Office of foreign assets control.--The Office of
Foreign Assets Control of the Department of the Treasury shall
submit to the congressional committees specified in subsection
(a) updates on a quarterly basis of the information required to
be included in the counterinsurgency strategy under subsection
(a)(7)(A)(ii).
(2) Secretary of state.--The Secretary of States shall
submit to the congressional committees specified in subsection
(a) updates on a quarterly basis of the information required to
be included in the counterinsurgency strategy under subsection
(a)(8).
(c) Withholding of Funds.--Notwithstanding any other provision of
law, if the Secretary of State does not submit the counterinsurgency
strategy required under subsection (a) in accordance with such
subsection, then 20 percent of the amounts otherwise made available to
the Department of State for fiscal year 2012 shall be withheld from
obligation and expenditure until such time as the strategy is submitted
in accordance with such subsection.
SEC. 6. FUNDING FOR DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF COUNTERINSURGENCY
STRATEGY.
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, funds made available to
the Department of State for the Merida Initiative are authorized to be
made available to develop and implement the counterinsurgency strategy
required under section 5(a). | Enhanced Border Security Act - Directs the Secretary of State to submit to Congress a counterinsurgency strategy that: (1) outlines the transnational criminal organizations in Mexico; (2) assesses Mexico's capabilities to counter such organizations; (3) describes such organizations' operations in the United States and at the U.S. and international borders, and presents a plan to combat their operations and financial networks; and (4) utilizes all such information to combat the terrorist insurgency in Mexico.
Requires the Secretary and the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the Department of the Treasury to update such strategy reports quarterly. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To apply counterinsurgency tactics under a coordinated and targeted strategy to combat the terrorist insurgency in Mexico waged by transnational criminal organizations, and for other purposes."} | 2,548 | 132 | 0.585224 | 1.664189 | 0.618391 | 2.605263 | 21.385965 | 0.938596 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Prematurity Research Expansion and
Education for Mothers who deliver Infants Early Act'' or the ``PREEMIE
Act''.
SEC. 2. PURPOSE.
It is the purpose of this Act to--
(1) reduce rates of preterm labor and delivery;
(2) work toward an evidence-based standard of care for pregnant
women at risk of preterm labor or other serious complications, and
for infants born preterm and at a low birthweight; and
(3) reduce infant mortality and disabilities caused by
prematurity.
SEC. 3. RESEARCH RELATING TO PRETERM LABOR AND DELIVERY AND THE CARE,
TREATMENT, AND OUTCOMES OF PRETERM AND LOW BIRTHWEIGHT
INFANTS.
(a) General Expansion of CDC Research.--Section 301 of the Public
Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 241 et seq.) is amended by adding at the
end the following:
``(e) The Secretary, acting through the Director of the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention, shall expand, intensify, and coordinate
the activities of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention with
respect to preterm labor and delivery and infant mortality.''.
(b) Studies on Relationship Between Prematurity and Birth
Defects.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of Health and Human Services,
acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention, shall, subject to the availability of appropriations,
conduct ongoing epidemiological studies on the relationship between
prematurity, birth defects, and developmental disabilities.
(2) Report.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment
of this Act, and every 2 years thereafter, the Secretary of Health
and Human Services, acting through the Director of the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention, shall submit to the appropriate
committees of Congress reports concerning the progress and any
results of studies conducted under paragraph (1).
(c) Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring Survey.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of Health and Human Services,
acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention, shall establish systems for the collection of maternal-
infant clinical and biomedical information, including electronic
health records, electronic databases, and biobanks, to link with
the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) and other
epidemiological studies of prematurity in order to track pregnancy
outcomes and prevent preterm birth.
(2) Authorization of appropriations.--There is authorized to be
appropriated to carry out paragraph (1) $3,000,000 for each of
fiscal years 2007 through 2011.
(d) Evaluation of Existing Tools and Measures.--The Secretary of
Health and Human Services shall review existing tools and measures to
ensure that such tools and measures include information related to the
known risk factors of low birth weight and preterm birth.
(e) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section, except for subsection (c),
$5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2007 through 2011.
SEC. 4. PUBLIC AND HEALTH CARE PROVIDER EDUCATION AND SUPPORT SERVICES.
Part P of title III of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C.
280g et seq.) is amended--
(1) by redesignating the second section 399O (relating to
grants to foster public health responses to domestic violence,
dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking) as section 399P; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``SEC. 399Q. PUBLIC AND HEALTH CARE PROVIDER EDUCATION AND SUPPORT
SERVICES.
``(a) In General.--The Secretary, directly or through the awarding
of grants to public or private nonprofit entities, may conduct
demonstration projects for the purpose of improving the provision of
information on prematurity to health professionals and other health
care providers and the public and improving the treatment and outcomes
for babies born preterm.
``(b) Activities.--Activities to be carried out under the
demonstration project under subsection (a) may include the
establishment of--
``(1) programs to test and evaluate various strategies to
provide information and education to health professionals, other
health care providers, and the public concerning--
``(A) the signs of preterm labor, updated as new research
results become available;
``(B) the screening for and the treating of infections;
``(c) counseling on optimal weight and good nutrition,
including folic acid;
``(D) smoking cessation education and counseling;
``(E) stress management; and
``(F) appropriate prenatal care;
``(2) programs to improve the treatment and outcomes for babies
born premature, including the use of evidence-based standards of
care by health care professionals for pregnant women at risk of
preterm labor or other serious complications and for infants born
preterm and at a low birthweight;
``(3) programs to respond to the informational needs of
families during the stay of an infant in a neonatal intensive care
unit, during the transition of the infant to the home, and in the
event of a newborn death; and
``(4) such other programs as the Secretary determines
appropriate to achieve the purpose specified in subsection (a).
``(c) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section $5,000,000 for each of fiscal
years 2007 through 2011.''.
SEC. 5. INTERAGENCY COORDINATING COUNCIL ON PREMATURITY AND LOW
BIRTHWEIGHT.
(a) Purpose.--It is the purpose of this section to stimulate
multidisciplinary research, scientific exchange, and collaboration
among the agencies of the Department of Health and Human Services and
to assist the Department in targeting efforts to achieve the greatest
advances toward the goal of reducing prematurity and low birthweight.
(b) Establishment.--The Secretary of Health and Human Services
shall establish an Interagency Coordinating Council on Prematurity and
Low Birthweight (referred to in this section as the Council) to carry
out the purpose of this section.
(c) Composition.--The Council shall be composed of members to be
appointed by the Secretary, including representatives of the agencies
of the Department of Health and Human Services.
(d) Activities.--The Council shall--
(1) annually report to the Secretary of Health and Human
Services and Congress on current Departmental activities relating
to prematurity and low birthweight;
(2) carry out other activities determined appropriate by the
Secretary of Health and Human Services; and
(3) oversee the coordination of the implementation of this Act.
SEC. 6. SURGEON GENERAL'S CONFERENCE ON PRETERM BIRTH.
(a) Convening of Conference.--Not later than 1 year after the date
of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Health and Human Services,
acting through the Surgeon General of the Public Health Service, shall
convene a conference on preterm birth.
(b) Purpose of Conference.--The purpose of the conference convened
under subsection (a) shall be to--
(1) increase awareness of preterm birth as a serious, common,
and costly public health problem in the United States;
(2) review the findings and reports issued by the Interagency
Coordinating Council, key stakeholders, and any other relevant
entities; and
(3) establish an agenda for activities in both the public and
private sectors that will speed the identification of, and
treatments for, the causes of and risk factors for preterm labor
and delivery.
(c) Report.--The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall
submit to the Congress and make available to the public a report on the
agenda established under subsection (b)(3), including recommendations
for activities in the public and private sectors that will speed the
identification of, and treatments for, the causes of and risk factors
for preterm labor and delivery.
(d) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section (other than subsection (c))
$125,000.
SEC. 7. EFFECTIVE DATE OF CERTAIN HEAD START REGULATIONS.
Section 1310.12(a) of title 45 of the Code of Federal Regulations
(October 1, 2004) shall not be effective until June 30, 2007, or 60
days after the date of the enactment of a statute that authorizes
appropriations for fiscal year 2007 to carry out the Head Start Act,
whichever date is earlier.
Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Vice President of the United States and
President of the Senate. | Prematurity Research Expansion and Education for Mothers who deliver Infants Early Act or the PREEMIE Act - (Sec. 3) Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to: (1) expand and coordinate CDC activities on preterm labor and delivery and infant mortality; (2) conduct ongoing epidemiological studies on the relationship between prematurity, birth defects, and developmental disabilities; and (3) establish systems for the collection of maternal-infant clinical biomedical information to link with the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System.
Requires the Secretary to review existing tools and measures to ensure that such tools and measures include information related to the known risk factors of low birth weight and preterm birth.
(Sec. 4) Allows the Secretary to conduct demonstration projects to improve: (1) the provision of information on prematurity to health professionals and the public; and (2) treatment and outcome for babies born preterm.
(Sec. 5) Requires the Secretary to establish an Interagency Coordinating Council on Prematurity and Low Birthweight.
(Sec. 6) Directs the Secretary, acting through the Surgeon General, to convene a conference on preterm birth.
Authorizes appropriations.
(Sec. 7) Delays (until the earlier of June 30, 2007, or 60 days after enactment of a FY2007 authorization of appropriations to carry out the Head Start Act) the effective date of regulations requiring agencies providing transportation services to ensure that children enrolled in Head Start are transported in school buses or allowable alternate vehicles that: (1) are equipped for use of height- and weight-appropriate child restraint systems; and (2) have reverse beepers. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "A bill to reduce preterm labor and delivery and the risk of pregnancy-related deaths and complications due to pregnancy, and to reduce infant mortality caused by prematurity."} | 1,883 | 395 | 0.729124 | 2.228343 | 0.861478 | 4.283582 | 5.053731 | 0.910448 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``San Francisco Old Mint Commemorative
Coin Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds that--
(1) the San Francisco Old Mint played an important role in
the history of the Nation;
(2) the San Francisco Old Mint was established to convert
miners' gold from the California gold rush into coins;
(3) the San Francisco Old Mint Building was designed by
architect A.B. Mullett, who also designed the United States
Treasury Building and the Old Executive Office Building;
(4) the solid construction of the San Francisco Old Mint
Building enabled it to survive the 1906 San Francisco
earthquake and fire, making it the only financial institution
that was able to operate immediately after the earthquake and
the treasury for disaster relief funds for the city of San
Francisco;
(5) coins struck at the San Francisco Old Mint are
distinguished by the ``S'' Mint Mark;
(6) the San Francisco Old Mint is famous for many rare,
legendary issues, such as the 1870-S $3 coin, which is valued
today at well over $1,000,000; and
(7) the San Francisco Old Mint Commemorative Coin will be
the first commemorative coin to honor a mint.
SEC. 3. COIN SPECIFICATIONS.
(a) Denominations.--In commemoration of the San Francisco Old Mint,
the Secretary of the Treasury (in this Act referred to as the
``Secretary'') shall mint and issue the following coins:
(1) $5 gold coins.--Not more than 100,000 $5 coins, each of
which shall--
(A) weigh 8.359 grams;
(B) have a diameter of .850 inches; and
(C) contain 90 percent gold and 10 percent alloy.
(2) $1 silver coins.--Not more than 500,000 $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 alloy.
(b) Legal Tender.--The coins minted under this Act shall be legal
tender, as provided in section 5103 of title 31, United States Code.
(c) Numismatic Items.--All coins minted under this Act shall be
considered to be numismatic items for purposes of section 5134 of title
31, United States Code.
SEC. 4. SOURCES OF BULLION.
The Secretary may obtain gold and silver for minting coins under
this Act from any available source.
SEC. 5. DESIGN OF COINS.
(a) Design Requirements.--
(1) In general.--The design of the coins minted under this
Act shall be emblematic of the San Francisco Old Mint Building,
its importance to California and the history of the United
States, and its role in rebuilding San Francisco after the 1906
earthquake and fire.
(2) Designation and inscriptions.--Each coin minted under
this Act shall contain--
(A) a designation of the value of the coin;
(B) an inscription of the year ``2006''; and
(C) inscriptions of the words--
(i) ``Liberty'';
(ii) ``In God We Trust'';
(iii) ``United States of America''; and
(iv) ``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
Commission of Fine Arts and the Board of the San Francisco
Museum and Historical Society;
(2) reviewed by the Citizens Commemorative Coin Advisory
Committee; and
(3) reviewed by the Board of the San Francisco Museum and
Historical Society.
SEC. 6. ISSUANCE OF COINS.
(a) Quality of Coins.--Coins minted under this Act shall be issued
in uncirculated and proof qualities.
(b) Period for Issuance.--The Secretary may issue coins minted
under this Act only during the period beginning on January 1, 2006, and
ending on December 31, 2006.
(c) Mint Facility.--The coins authorized under this section shall
be struck at the San Francisco Mint to the greatest extent possible.
SEC. 7. 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) a surcharge in an amount equal to--
(A) $35 per coin for the $5 coin; and
(B) $10 per coin for the $1 coin; and
(3) the per capita 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.
SEC. 8. DISTRIBUTION OF SURCHARGES.
(a) In General.--Subject to section 5134(f) of title 31, United
States Code, all proceeds received by the Secretary from any surcharge
imposed on the sale of coins issued under this Act shall be paid by the
Secretary to the San Francisco Museum and Historical Society.
(b) Audits.--As a condition of receiving payments under subsection
(a), the San Francisco Museum and Historical Society shall be subject
to the audit requirements of section 5134(f)(2) of title 31, United
States Code. | San Francisco Old Mint Commemorative Coin Act - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue not more than 100,000 $5 coins and 500,000 $1 coins emblematic of the San Francisco Old Mint Building, its importance to California and U.S. history, and its role in rebuilding San Francisco after the 1906 earthquake and fire.Requires that all proceeds received by the Secretary from any surcharge imposed on the sale of coins issued under this Act be paid to the San Francisco Museum and Historical Society. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "A bill to require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in commemoration of the San Francisco Old Mint."} | 1,279 | 109 | 0.59351 | 1.533648 | 0.885485 | 6.849462 | 12.516129 | 0.956989 |
SECTION 1. INLAND EMPIRE REGIONAL WATER RECYCLING PROJECT.
(a) In General.--The Reclamation Wastewater and Groundwater Study
and Facilities Act (Public Law 102-575, title XVI; 43 U.S.C. 390h et
seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``SEC. 1635. INLAND EMPIRE REGIONAL WATER RECYCLING PROJECT.
``(a) In General.--The Secretary, in cooperation with the Inland
Empire Utilities Agency, may participate in the design, planning, and
construction of the Inland Empire regional water recycling project
described in the report submitted under section 1606.
``(b) Cost Sharing.--The Federal share of the cost of the project
described in subsection (a) shall not exceed 25 percent of the total
cost of the project.
``(c) Limitation.--Funds provided by the Secretary shall not be
used for operation or maintenance of the project described in
subsection (a).
``(d) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section $20,000,000.''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--The table of sections in section 2 of
such Act is amended by inserting after the item relating to section
1634 the following:
``Sec. 1635. Inland Empire Regional Water Recycling Project.''.
SEC. 2. REGIONAL BRINE LINES.
(a) In General.--The Reclamation Wastewater and Groundwater Study
and Facilities Act (Public Law 102-575, title XVI; 43 U.S.C. 390h et
seq.) is further amended by adding at the end the following:
``SEC. 1636. REGIONAL BRINE LINES.
``(a) In General.--
``(1) Southern california.--The Secretary, in cooperation
with units of local government, may carry out a program under
the Federal reclamation laws to assist agencies in projects to
construct regional brine lines to export the salinity imported
from the Colorado River to the Pacific Ocean as identified in--
``(A) the Salinity Management Study prepared by the
Bureau of Reclamation and the Metropolitan Water
District of Southern California; and
``(B) the Southern California Comprehensive Water
Reclamation and Reuse Study prepared by the Bureau of
Reclamation.
``(2) San francisco bay and santa clara valley.--The
Secretary may carry out a study of, and a program under the
Federal reclamation laws to assist water agencies in, projects
to construct regional brine lines in the San Francisco Bay area
and the Santa Clara Valley area, California.
``(b) Agreements and Regulations.--The Secretary may enter into
such agreements and promulgate such regulations as are necessary to
carry out this section.
``(c) Cost Sharing.--
``(1) Projects.--The Federal share of the cost of a project
to construct regional brine lines described in subsection (a)
shall not exceed--
``(A) 25 percent of the total cost of the project;
or
``(B) $50,000,000.
``(2) Study.--The Federal share of the cost of the study
described in subsection (a)(2) shall be 50 percent.
``(d) Limitation.--Funds provided by the Secretary shall not be
used for operation or maintenance of any project described in
subsection (a).''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--The table of sections in section 2 of
such Act is further amended by inserting after the item relating to
section 1635 the following:
``Sec. 1636. Regional brine lines.''.
SEC. 3. LOWER CHINO DAIRY AREA DESALINATION DEMONSTRATION AND
RECLAMATION PROJECT.
(a) In General.--The Reclamation Wastewater and Groundwater Study
and Facilities Act (Public Law 102-575, title XVI; 43 U.S.C. 390h et
seq.) is further amended by adding at the end the following:
``SEC. 1637. LOWER CHINO DAIRY AREA DESALINATION DEMONSTRATION AND
RECLAMATION PROJECT.
``(a) In General.--The Secretary, in cooperation with the Chino
Basin Watermaster, the Inland Empire Utilities Agency, the Western
Municipal Water District, and the Santa Ana Watershed Project Authority
and acting under the Federal reclamation laws, shall participate in the
design, planning, and construction of the Lower Chino Dairy Area
desalination demonstration and reclamation project.
``(b) Cost Sharing.--The Federal share of the cost of the project
described in subsection (a) shall not exceed--
``(1) 25 percent of the total cost of the project; or
``(2) $50,000,000.
``(c) Limitation.--Funds provided by the Secretary shall not be
used for operation or maintenance of the project described in
subsection (a).
``(d) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out this section.''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--The table of sections in section 2 of
such Act is further amended by inserting after the item relating to
section 1636 the following:
``Sec. 1637. Lower Chino Dairy Area desalination demonstration
and reclamation project.''. | Sets forth limits respecting the Federal cost share of such projects and study.
Authorizes appropriations. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To amend the Reclamation Wastewater and Groundwater Study and Facilities Act to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to particpate in the Inland Empire regional water recycling project, to authorize the Secretary to carry out a program to assist agencies in projects to construct regional brine lines in California, and to authorize the Secretary to participate in the Lower Chino Dairy Area desalination demonstration and reclamation project."} | 1,250 | 24 | 0.413669 | 0.964525 | 0.601541 | 0.888889 | 56.222222 | 0.666667 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``District of Columbia-Maryland
Reunion Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) Residents of Washington, DC pay Federal income tax, but
do not have voting members in the United States Congress.
(2) Article I, section 2, clause 1 of the United States
Constitution states that the ``House of Representatives shall
be composed of members chosen every second year by the people
of the several states.''.
(3) The Founding Fathers did not consider the proposed
district that would become Washington, DC a State under the
Constitution, as evidenced when Alexander Hamilton offered an
amendment to the Constitution during the New York ratification
to provide full congressional representation to Washington, DC,
but the convention rejected the amendment on July 22, 1788.
Thomas Tredwell stated at the same convention that the plan for
Washington, DC ``departs from every principle of freedom''
because it did not give residents full representation in
Congress.
(4) Chief Justice Marshall held in Hepburn v. Ellzey in
1805 that the term ``states'' in article I, section 2, clause 1
of the Constitution does not include Washington, DC for
representation purposes.
(5) Seven Supreme Court Justices affirmed Chief Justice
Marshall's Hepburn reasoning in National Mut. Ins. Co. of Dist.
of Col. v. Tidewater Transfer Co. in 1949.
(6) A Democrat-controlled Congress in 1978 attempted to
amend the Constitution to provide Washington, DC with full
congressional representation. The Committee on the Judiciary of
the House of Representatives reported the resolution and stated
that granting congressional representation to the District of
Columbia as it is presently constituted would require a
constitutional amendment, because ``statutory action alone will
not suffice''.
(7) Proposals to grant Washington, DC congressional
representation will inevitably be challenged in court, calling
into question the validity of any narrowly passed legislation
that a Washington, DC member votes on and leaving Washington,
DC residents in a continued state of flux over their status.
(8) Amending the Constitution requires two-thirds approval
by each house of Congress and ratification by three-fourths of
the States. In 1978, there was success in obtaining a favorable
vote from two-thirds of both the House and the Senate on a
constitutional amendment to provide Washington, DC with full
congressional representation, but the requirement for
ratification by three-fourths of the States could not be
obtained.
(9) An alternative to a potentially lengthy and difficult
constitutional amendment process is ceding Washington, DC back
to Maryland, just as an area of 31 square miles that was
originally ceded by Virginia was returned to that State by
Federal legislation in 1847, thereby ensuring that the portion
of Washington, DC in Virginia would have Senate and House
representation.
(10) In 1847, there was a desire to allow the District of
Columbia land on the west side of the Potomac River that was
not being used by the Federal Government to have its own proper
representation in Congress.
(11) Obtaining the desired representation for this portion
of Washington, DC would have required a constitutional
amendment unless the land were given back to Virginia.
(12) Instead of trying to pass a constitutional amendment,
Congress in 1847 legislatively ceded back to Virginia from the
District of Columbia the non-Federal land composed of 31 square
miles on the west side of the Potomac River.
(13) Accordingly, the District of Columbia would clearly
and constitutionally have 2 Senators and a Representative with
full voting rights by ceding the District of Columbia to
Maryland after Maryland's acceptance of such retrocession,
while maintaining the exclusive legislative authority and
control of Congress over the National Capital Service Area in
the District of Columbia.
SEC. 3. RETROCESSION OF DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA TO MARYLAND.
(a) In General.--Upon the issuance of a proclamation by the
President under section 8 and except as provided in subsection (b), the
territory ceded to Congress by the State of Maryland to serve as the
District constituting the permanent seat of the Government of the
United States is ceded and relinquished to the State of Maryland.
(b) Continuation of Federal Control Over National Capital Service
Area.--Notwithstanding subsection (a), the National Capital Service
Area described in section 5 shall not be ceded and relinquished to the
State of Maryland and shall continue to serve as the permanent seat of
the Government of the United States, and Congress shall continue to
exercise exclusive legislative authority and control over such Area.
SEC. 4. EFFECT ON JUDICIAL PROCEEDINGS IN DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA.
(a) Continuation of Suits.--No writ, action, indictment, cause, or
proceeding pending in any court of the District of Columbia on the
effective date of this Act shall abate as a result of the enactment of
this Act, but shall be transferred and shall proceed within such
appropriate court of the State of Maryland as established under the
laws or constitution of the State of Maryland.
(b) Appeals.--An order or decision of any court of the District of
Columbia for which no appeal has been filed as of the effective date of
this Act shall be considered an order or decision of a court of the
State of Maryland for purposes of appeal from and appellate review of
such order or decision in an appropriate court of the State of
Maryland.
SEC. 5. NATIONAL CAPITAL SERVICE AREA.
(a) Description.--The National Capital Service Area referred to in
section 3(b) is comprised of the principal Federal monuments, the White
House, the United States Capitol, the United States Supreme Court
Building, and the Federal executive, legislative, and judicial office
buildings located adjacent to the Mall and the United States Capitol
(but shall not include the District Building), and is more particularly
described as the territory located within the following boundaries:
Beginning at the point on the present Virginia-District of
Columbia boundary due west of the northernmost point of
Theodore Roosevelt Island and running due east of the eastern
shore of the Potomac River;
thence generally south along the shore at the mean high
water mark to the northwest corner of the Kennedy Center;
thence east along the north side of the Kennedy Center to a
point where it reaches the E Street Expressway;
thence east on the expressway to E Street Northwest and
thence east on E Street Northwest to Nineteenth Street
Northwest;
thence north on Nineteenth Street Northwest to F Street
Northwest;
thence east on F Street Northwest to Eighteenth Street
Northwest;
thence south on Eighteenth Street Northwest to Constitution
Avenue Northwest;
thence east on Constitution Avenue to Seventeenth Street
Northwest;
thence north on Seventeenth Street Northwest to H Street
Northwest;
thence east on H Street Northwest to Madison Place
Northwest;
thence south on Madison Place Northwest to Pennsylvania
Avenue Northwest;
thence east on Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest to Fifteenth
Street Northwest;
thence south on Fifteenth Street Northwest to Pennsylvania
Avenue Northwest;
thence southeast on Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest to Tenth
Street Northwest;
thence north on Tenth Street Northwest to E Street
Northwest;
thence east on E Street Northwest to Ninth Street
Northwest;
thence south on Ninth Street Northwest to Pennsylvania
Avenue Northwest;
thence southeast on Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest to John
Marshall Place Northwest;
thence north on John Marshall Place Northwest to C Street
Northwest;
thence east on C Street Northwest to Third Street
Northwest;
thence north on Third Street Northwest to D Street
Northwest;
thence east on D Street Northwest to Second Street
Northwest;
thence south on Second Street Northwest to the intersection
of Constitution Avenue Northwest and Louisiana Avenue
Northwest;
thence northeast on Louisiana Avenue Northwest to North
Capitol Street;
thence north on North Capitol Street to Massachusetts
Avenue Northwest;
thence southeast on Massachusetts Avenue Northwest so as to
encompass Union Square;
thence following Union Square to F Street Northeast;
thence east on F Street Northeast to Second Street
Northeast;
thence south on Second Street Northeast to D Street
Northeast;
thence west on D Street Northeast to First Street
Northeast;
thence south on First Street Northeast to C Street
Northeast;
thence east on C Street Northeast to Third Street
Northeast;
thence south on Third Street Northeast to Maryland Avenue
Northeast;
thence south and west on Maryland Avenue Northeast to
Constitution Avenue Northeast;
thence west on Constitution Avenue Northeast to First
Street Northeast;
thence south on First Street Northeast to Maryland Avenue
Northeast;
thence generally north and east on Maryland Avenue to
Second Street Northeast;
thence south on Second Street Northeast to East Capitol
Street;
thence east on East Capitol Street to Third Street
Northeast;
thence south on Third Street Northeast to Independence
Avenue Southeast;
thence west on Independence Avenue Southeast to Second
Street Southeast;
thence south on Second Street Southeast to C Street
Southeast;
thence west on C Street Southeast to New Jersey Avenue
Southeast;
thence south on New Jersey Avenue Southeast to D Street
Southeast;
thence west on D Street Southeast to Washington Avenue
Southwest;
thence north and west on Washington Avenue Southwest to the
intersection of Independence Avenue Southwest and Second Street
Southwest;
thence south on Second Street Southwest to Virginia Avenue
Southwest;
thence generally west on Virginia Avenue to Third Street
Southwest;
thence north on Third Street Southwest to C Street
Southwest;
thence west on C Street Southwest to Sixth Street
Southwest;
thence south on Sixth Street Southwest to E Street
Southwest;
thence west on E Street Southwest to Seventh Street
Southwest;
thence north on Seventh Street Southwest to Maryland Avenue
Southwest;
thence west on Maryland Avenue Southwest to Ninth Street
Southwest;
thence north on Ninth Street Southwest to Independence
Avenue Southwest;
thence west on Independence Avenue Southwest to Twelfth
Street Southwest;
thence south on Twelfth Street Southwest to D Street
Southwest;
thence west on D Street Southwest to Fourteenth Street
Southwest;
thence south on Fourteenth Street Southwest to the middle
of the Washington Channel;
thence generally south and east along the midchannel of the
Washington Channel to a point due west of the northern boundary
line of Fort Lesley McNair;
thence due east to the side of the Washington Channel;
thence following generally south and east along the side of
the Washington Channel at the mean high water mark, to the
point of confluence with the Anacostia River, and along the
northern shore at the mean high water mark to the northernmost
point of the Eleventh Street Bridge;
thence generally south and west along such shore at the
mean high water mark to the point of confluence of the
Anacostia and Potomac Rivers;
thence generally south and east along the northern side of
the Eleventh Street Bridge to the eastern shore of the
Anacostia River;
thence generally south along the eastern shore at the mean
high water mark of the Potomac River to the point where it
meets the present southeastern boundary line of the District of
Columbia;
thence south and west along such southeastern boundary line
to the point where it meets the present Virginia-District of
Columbia boundary;
thence generally north and west up the Potomac River along
the Virginia-District of Columbia boundary to the point of
beginning.
(b) Streets and Sidewalks.--The National Capital Service Area shall
include any street (and sidewalk thereof) that bounds such Area.
(c) Affronting or Abutting Federal Real Property.--
(1) In general.--The National Capital Service Area shall
include any Federal real property affronting or abutting such
Area as of the effective date of this Act.
(2) Property included.--For purposes of paragraph (1),
Federal real property affronting or abutting the National
Capital Service Area--
(A) shall include the Department of Housing and
Urban Development Building, the Department of Energy
Building, Fort Lesley McNair, the Washington Navy Yard,
the Anacostia Naval Annex, the United States Naval
Station, Bolling Air Force Base, and the Naval Research
Laboratory; and
(B) shall not include any portion of Rock Creek
Park, any portion of Anacostia Park east of the
northern side of the Eleventh Street Bridge, or any
territory not located in the District of Columbia on
the day before the date of the enactment of this Act.
SEC. 6. TRANSITION PROVISIONS RELATING TO HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
(a) Temporary Increase in Apportionment.--
(1) In general.--Until the taking effect of the first
reapportionment occurring after the effective date of this
Act--
(A) the individual serving as the Delegate to the
House of Representatives from the District of Columbia
shall serve as a member of the House of Representatives
from the State of Maryland;
(B) the State of Maryland shall be entitled to 1
additional Representative until the taking effect of
such reapportionment; and
(C) such Representative shall be in addition to the
membership of the House of Representatives as now
prescribed by law.
(2) Increase not counted against total number of members.--
The temporary increase in the membership of the House of
Representatives provided under paragraph (1) shall not operate
to either increase or decrease the permanent membership of the
House of Representatives as prescribed in the Act of August 8,
1911 (37 Stat. 13; 2 U.S.C. 2), nor shall such temporary
increase affect the basis of reapportionment established by the
Act of November 15, 1941 (55 Stat. 761; 2 U.S.C. 2a), for the
82nd Congress and each Congress thereafter.
(b) Repeal of Laws Providing for Delegate From the District of
Columbia.--
(1) In general.--Sections 202 and 204 of the District of
Columbia Delegate Act (Public Law 91-405; sections 1-401 and 1-
402, D.C. Official Code) are repealed, and the provisions of
law amended or repealed by such sections are restored or
revived as if such sections had not been enacted.
(2) Effective date.--The amendments made by this subsection
shall take effect on the date on which the individual serving
as the Delegate to the House of Representatives from the
District of Columbia first serves as a member of the House of
Representatives from the State of Maryland.
SEC. 7. EFFECT ON OTHER LAWS.
No law or regulation which is in force on the effective date of
this Act shall be deemed amended or repealed by this Act except to the
extent specifically provided in this Act, or to the extent that such
law or regulation is inconsistent with this Act.
SEC. 8. PROCLAMATION REGARDING ACCEPTANCE OF RETROCESSION BY MARYLAND.
(a) Proclamation by State of Maryland.--Not later than 30 days
after the State of Maryland enacts legislation accepting the
retrocession described in section 3(a), the President shall issue a
proclamation announcing such acceptance and declaring that the
territory ceded to Congress by the State of Maryland to serve as the
District constituting the permanent seat of the Government of the
United States has been ceded back to the State of Maryland.
(b) Report by Congressional Budget Office on Economic Impact.--
(1) In general.--The Director of the Congressional Budget
Office shall prepare a report analyzing the anticipated
economic impact on the State of Maryland of the State's
acceptance of the retrocession described in section 3(a),
including the anticipated effect on the budgets of the State
government and local governments, and shall submit the report
to Congress and the governor of Maryland.
(2) Delay in enactment of legislation.--The State of
Maryland may not enact legislation accepting the retrocession
described in section 3(a) until the expiration of the 1-year
period which begins on the date the Director of the
Congressional Budget Office submits the report prepared under
paragraph (1) to the governor of Maryland.
SEC. 9. EFFECTIVE DATE.
The provisions of this Act and the amendments made by this Act
shall take effect on the date the President issues a proclamation under
section 8 or the date of the ratification of an amendment to the
Constitution of the United States repealing the twenty-third article of
amendment to the Constitution, whichever comes later. | District of Columbia-Maryland Reunion Act - Cedes the District of Columbia to Maryland after Maryland's acceptance of such retrocession. Declares that the National Capital Service Area in the District of Columbia shall not be ceded and relinquished to such state and shall continue to serve as the permanent seat of the federal government. Maintains the exclusive legislative authority and control of Congress over the Area. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To provide for the retrocession of the District of Columbia to Maryland, and for other purposes."} | 3,501 | 86 | 0.446822 | 1.148945 | 0.493695 | 5.352113 | 46.267606 | 0.957746 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Workers' Bill of Rights''.
SEC. 2. NATIONAL LABOR RELATIONS ACT.
(a) Recognition of Representative.--
(1) In general.--Section 8(a)(2) of the National Labor
Relations Act (29 U.S.C. 158(a)(2)) is amended by inserting
before the colon the following: ``or to recognize or bargain
collectively with a labor organization that has not been
selected by such employees in a secret ballot election
conducted in accordance with section 9''.
(2) Application.--The amendment made by subsection (a)
shall not apply to collective bargaining relationships that
were recognized before the date of the enactment of this Act.
(b) Limitation on Dues Collection Agreement.--Section 8(a)(3) of
the National Labor Relations Act (29 U.S.C. 158(a)(3)) is amended to
read as follows:
``(3) by discrimination in regard to hire or tenure of
employment or any term or condition of employment to encourage
membership in any labor organization: Provided, That nothing in
this Act, or in any other statute of the United States, shall
preclude an employer from making an agreement with a labor
organization (not established, maintained, or assisted by any
action defined in this subsection as an unfair labor practice)
to require as a condition of employment payment of dues or a
fee equal to that portion of dues actually spent on collective
bargaining representation of the employees in the collective
bargaining unit covered by such agreement on or after the 30th
day following the beginning of such employment or the effective
date of such agreement, whichever is the later (A) if such
labor organization is the representative of the employees as
provided in section 9(a) in the appropriate collective-
bargaining unit covered by such agreement when made, (B) if
such agreement provides that employees are allowed to elect to
pay a reduced fee instead of dues at any reasonable time, but
not less than once per month, by notifying at any time their
collective bargaining representative of this election and that
all employees covered by such arrangement are clearly notified
of their rights by the labor organization under this paragraph
in a separate written notice delivered personnally or by mail
upon hiring and thereafter not less than once each year, and
(C) unless following an election held as provided in section
9(e) within one year preceding the effective date of such
agreement, the Board shall have certified that a majority
voting in such election have voted to rescind the authority of
such labor organization to make such an agreement: Provided
further, That no employer shall justify any discrimination
against an employee for nonmembership in a labor organization
(i) if he has reasonable grounds for believing that membership was not
available to the employee on the same terms and conditions generally
applicable to other members, or (ii) if he has reasonable grounds for
believing that membership was denied or terminated for reasons other
than the failure of the employee to tender the periodic dues and the
initiation fees uniformly required as a condition of acquiring or
retaining membership.''.
(c) Membership Right To Vote on Contracts.--Section 8(b) of the
National Labor Relations Act (29 U.S.C. 158(b)) is amended--
(1) by striking ``and'' at the end of paragraph (6);
(2) by striking the period at the end of the paragraph (7)
and inserting a semicolon; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(8) to strike an employer unless the employees of the
collective bargaining unit engaged in the strike have voted by
secret ballot to reject the last contract offer proposed by
such employer; and''.
(d) Election Required.--
(1) In general.--Section 8(b) of the National Labor
Relations Act (29 U.S.C. 158(b)), as amended by subsection (c)
of this section, is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(9) to cause or attempt to cause an employer to recognize
or bargain collectively with a representative of a labor
organization that has not been selected by such employees in a
secret ballot election conducted in accordance with section
9.''.
(2) Application.--The amendment made by paragraph (1) shall
not apply to collective bargaining relationships that were
recognized before the date of the enactment of this Act.
(e) Secret Ballot Election.--Section 9(a) of the National Labor
Relations Act (29 U.S.C. 159(a)), is amended--
(1) by inserting ``(1)'' after ``(a)'';
(2) by inserting after ``designated or selected'' the
following: ``by a secret ballot election conducted in
accordance with this section''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(2) Paragraph (1) shall not apply to collective bargaining
relationships that were recognized before the date of the enactment of
the Workers' Bill of Rights Act.''.
(f) Contract Bar.--Section 9(c)(1) of the National Labor Relations
Act (29 U.S.C. 159(c)(1)) is amended by adding at the end the following
sentence: ``The Board shall not refrain to direct an election under
this section on the grounds of the existence of a collective bargaining
contract that became effective 1 or more years before the filing of a
petition for such election.''.
(g) Deauthorization of Union Security Agreements.--Section 9(e)(1)
of the National Labor Relations Act (29 U.S.C. 159(e)(1)) is amended by
adding at the end the following sentence: ``Such authority shall be
rescinded if a majority of the ballots cast vote to rescind the
authority.''.
(h) Enforcement of Limitation on Dues Agreement.--Section 10 of the
National Labor Relations Act (29 U.S.C. 160) is amended--
(1) by redesignating subsection (m) as subsection (n); and
(2) by inserting after subsection (l) the following:
``(m) Money Damages.--
``(1) Liability.--If an employee disputes the amount of
fees collected by the labor organization under an agreement
with the employer under section 8(a)(3), such employee may
bring a civil action against the labor organization--
``(A) for total damages, for each employee, equal
to--
``(i) 10 times the amount of fees taken in
violation of this section;
``(ii) the interest on the amount described
in clause (i) calculated at the prevailing
rate; and
``(iii) not more than $1,500 in punitive
damages; and
``(B) for such equitable relief as may be
appropriate.
``(2) Right of action.--An action to recover the damages or
equitable relief prescribed in paragraph (1) may be maintained
against any labor organization in any Federal court of
competent jurisdiction by any one or more employees for and on
behalf of--
``(A) the employees; or
``(B) the employees and other employees similarly
situated.
``(3) Fees and costs.--The court in such action shall, in
addition to any judgment awarded to the plaintiff, allow for
reasonable attorney's fee, expert witness fees, and other costs
of the action to be paid by the defendant.
``(4) Limitation.--An action may be brought under this
subsection not later that 2 years after the date the employee
knew or should have known that dues or fees were accepted or spent by a
labor organization in violation of this Act, except that such period
shall be extended to 3 years in the case of a willful violation by a
labor organization.''.
SEC. 3. LABOR MANAGEMENT AND REPORTING ACT.
(a) Recipients of Federal Funds.--Section 3(e) of the Labor-
Management Reporting and Disclosure Act of 1959 (29 U.S.C. 402(e)) is
amended--
(1) by striking ``Employer'' and inserting ``(1) Except as
provided in paragraph (2), employer''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(2) Notwithstanding the exclusion in paragraph (1), an employer
shall also include any employer or any group or association of
employers that receives Federal funds.''.
(b) Disclosure.--Section 3 of the Labor-Management Reporting and
Disclosure Act of 1959 (29 U.S.C. 402) is amended by adding at the end
the following new subsection:
``(s) `Core dues payer' means any employee, other than a
member, who pays dues, fees or assessments to a labor
organization as a result of an agreement between an employer
and a labor organization.''.
(c) Voting.--Section 101(a) of the Labor-Management Reporting and
Disclosure Act of 1959 (29 U.S.C. 411(a)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)--
(A) by inserting ``(A)'' after ``(a)(1)''; and
(B) by striking ``Rights'' in the heading and
inserting ``rights for members'';
(2) by inserting after paragraph (1)(A) (as designated by
paragraph (1)(A) of this subsection) the following new
subparagraph:
``(B) Rights for core dues payers.--Every core dues payer shall
have the same right as any member of the labor organization to
participate in any vote that concerns a strike by the bargaining unit
in which such employee is employed or that concerns the wages,
benefits, or working conditions of the employees of such bargaining
unit.''.
(d) Availability of Information.--Section 201(c) of the Labor-
Management Reporting and Disclosure Act of 1959 (29 U.S.C. 431(c)) is
amended to read as follows:
``(c) Availability of Information to Members; Examination of Books,
Records and Accounts.--Each labor organization required to submit a
report under this title, shall make available the information required
to be contained in such report to all of its members and core dues
payers, and every such labor organization and its officers shall be
under a duty enforceable at the competent jurisdiction or in the
district court of the United States for the district in which such
labor organization maintains its principal office, to permit such
member or core dues payer to examine any books, records, and accounts
necessary to verify such report, unless the labor organization shows
that such examination is initiated primarily for vexatious purposes.''.
(e) Purposes of Establishment of Trusteeship.--
(1) Trusteeship.--Section 302 of the Labor-Management
Reporting and Disclosure Act of 1959 (29 U.S.C. 462) is
amended--
(A) by inserting ``(a)'' before ``Trusteeships'';
and
(B) by adding at the end the following:
``(b)(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), a trusteeship may be
authorized only after a fair hearing either before the executive board
or such other body as may be provided by the constitution and bylaws of
the labor organization and only if, in such hearing, the labor
organization establishes by the preponderance of evidence that the
trusteeship is necessary for a purpose allowable under this section.
``(2) If immediate action is necessary to fulfill the purposes of
this section, a temporary trusteeship may be established, for not more
than 30 days, pending a hearing under paragraph (1).''.
(2) Enforcement.--Section 304(c) of the Labor-Management
Reporting and Disclosure Act of 1959 (29 U.S.C. 464(c)) is
amended to read as follows: ``(c) Eighteen months after the
authorization of a trusteeship, such trusteeship shall be
presumed invalid in any proceeding pursuant to this section and
its discontinuance shall be decreed unless the labor
organization shall show by clear and convincing proof that the
continuation of the trusteeship is necessary for a purpose
allowable under section 302. In the latter event the court may
dismiss the complaint or retain jurisdiction of the cause on
such conditions and for such period as it deems appropriate.''
(3) Dissolution of trusteeship.--Section 304 of the Labor-
Management Reporting and Disclosure Act of 1959 (29 U.S.C. 464)
is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(d) Upon dissolution of a trusteeship, the previously elected
officers of the local union shall be reinstated or a new election
promptly held in conformity with title IV. If the trusteeship is
dissolved by order of a court pursuant to this title, and the court
orders an election, such election shall be conducted under the
supervision of the court.''.
(f) Elections.--
(1) Membership lists.--Section 401(c) of the Labor-
Management Reporting and Disclosure Act of 1959 (29 U.S.C.
481(c)) is amended--
(A) by striking ``30 days'' and inserting ``60
days''; and
(B) by striking ``to inspect a list'' and inserting
``to inspect and, upon request, to be provided with a
copy of a list''.
(2) District council officers.--Section 401(d) of the
Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act of 1959 (29
U.S.C. 481(d)) is amended to read as follows:
``(d) Officers of intermediate bodies, such as general committees,
system boards, joint boards or joint councils who engage in
negotiation, administration or enforcement of collective agreements, or
exercise control over the finances or other major functions of local
unions, shall be elected not less often than once every 4 years by
secret ballot among members in good standing. Officers of other
intermediate bodies may be elected by representatives of such members
who have been elected by secret ballot by members in good standing.''.
(3) Qualifications.--Section 401(e) of the Labor-Management
Reporting and Disclosure Act of 1959 (29 U.S.C. 481(e)) is
amended by striking ``and to reasonable qualifications
uniformly imposed'' and by inserting after ``eligible to be a
candidate'' the following: ``(subject to reasonable
qualifications which do not exclude a majority of the members
and which are uniformly imposed)''.
(4) Overturning.--Section 402(c)(2) of the Labor-Management
Reporting and Disclosure Act of 1959 (29 U.S.C. 482(c)(2)) is
amended by striking ``affected the outcome of an election'' and
inserting ``substantially understated or overstated the support
of one of the candidates for office to the point that the
democratic purposes of the election were undermined''.
(g) Intervention of Secretary.--Section 501(b) of the Labor-
Management Reporting and Disclosure Act of 1959 (29 U.S.C. 501) is
amended by adding the following sentence: ``The Secretary may intervene
in a suit filed under this section if the Secretary determines it is
appropriate.''.
(h) Civil Money Penalties.--Title VI of the Labor-Management
Reporting and Disclosure Act of 1959 (29 U.S.C. 521, et seq.) is
amended--
(1) by redesignating section 611 as section 612; and
(2) by inserting after section 610 the following:
``SEC. 611. CIVIL MONEY PENALTIES.
``(a) In General.--The Secretary, upon finding a violation of
either sections 201(a), 201(b), 202, 203, or 301 of this Act, may
require the person, labor organization, or employer responsible for
such violation to pay a civil money penalty in an amount determined
under a schedule of penalties which is established and published by the
Secretary and which takes into account the nature of the violation
involved, the revenues of, and the existence of previous violations of
the Act by, the person, labor organization or employer involved, and
such other factors as the Secretary considers appropriate.
``(b) Notice.--The Secretary may not make any determination adverse
to a person, labor organization, or employer under subsection (a) until
such person, labor organization, or employer is given written notice
and an opportunity to be heard before the Secretary or designee.
Procedures for such notice, opportunity to be heard, decision and
review shall be as set forth under sections 208 and 606. A request for
review shall be filed in Federal district court not later than 30 days
after receipt of an adverse determination.''.
SEC. 4. REGULATIONS.
Not later than 6 months after the date of the enactment of this
Act--
(1) the National Labor Relations Board shall review and
revise all regulations promulgated before such date to
implement the amendments made in this Act to the National Labor
Relations Act; and
(2) the Secretary of Labor shall review and revise all
regulations promulgated before such date to implement the
amendments made in this Act to the Labor-Management Reporting
and Disclosure Act of 1959.
SEC. 5. LIMITATION ON SUPERVISION.
(a) In General.--A court order that requires--
(1) a third party to monitor the actions and expenditures
of a labor organization and its officers, and
(2) the labor organization to pay for the expenses of the
third party for such monitoring,
shall cease to be effective 10 years after such order is issued.
(b) Application.--Subsection (a) shall apply to any court order
issued on or after the date of enactment of this Act and any court
order issued before such date.
SEC. 6. CONSPIRACY TO RESTRAIN WORKERS' ABILITY TO SELECT
REPRESENTATIVE.
Section 6 of the Clayton Act (15 U.S.C. 17) is amended by adding at
the end the following: ``Nothing in this section shall make it lawful
for 2, or more, labor organizations to enter into an agreement that
restrains the ability of an employee to select a collective
representative.''. | Workers' Bill of Rights - Amends the National Labor Relations Act to add provisions relating to: (1) an employer's recognition of a labor organization as representative of workers for collective bargaining and other purposes; (2) limitation on dues collection; (3) membership right to vote on a contract before a strike is called; (4) penalties for causing recognition of an unelected labor organization; (5) secret ballot election; (6) the lifting of a bar against an election once an existing contract has been in effect for one year or more; (7) majority deauthorization of union security agreements; and (8) enforcement of limits on dues agreements.Amends the Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act of 1959 to include coverage of employers, or groups or associations of employers, that receive Federal funds. Gives employees who are not union members, but who are core dues payers, the same right as any union member to participate in any vote that concerns a strike or wages, benefits, or working conditions. Revises provisions relating to availability of information. Allows a trusteeship (for authorization control of a union) to be authorized only after a fair hearing either before the executive board or another body provided by the constitution and bylaws of the labor organization. Requires a labor organization to show by clear and convincing proof that the continuation of the trusteeship is necessary for an allowable purpose.Amends the Clayton Act to provide that nothing shall make it lawful for any two or more labor organizations to enter into an agreement that restrains an employee's ability to select a collecting bargaining representative. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To amend certain labor laws to ensure fairness."} | 4,080 | 343 | 0.507157 | 1.52893 | 0.753232 | 3.144262 | 11.829508 | 0.908197 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Family Life Education Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds as follows:
(1) The American Medical Association (``AMA''), the
American Nurses Association (``ANA''), the American Academy of
Pediatrics (``AAP''), the American College of Obstetricians and
Gynecologists (``ACOG''), the American Public Health
Association (``APHA''), and the Society of Adolescent Medicine
(``SAM''), support responsible sexuality education that
includes information about both abstinence and contraception.
(2) Recent scientific reports by the Institute of Medicine,
the American Medical Association and the Office on National
AIDS Policy stress the need for sexuality education that
includes messages about abstinence and provides young people
with information about contraception for the prevention of teen
pregnancy, HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases
(``STDs'').
(3) Research shows that teenagers who receive sexuality
education that includes discussion of contraception are more
likely than those who receive abstinence-only messages to delay
sexual activity and to use contraceptives when they do become
sexually active.
(4) Comprehensive sexuality education programs respect the
diversity of values and beliefs represented in the community
and will complement and augment the sexuality education
children receive from their families.
(5) The median age of puberty is 13 years and the average
age of marriage is over 26 years old. American teens need
access to full, complete, and medically and factually accurate
information regarding sexuality, including contraception, STD/
HIV prevention, and abstinence.
(6) Although teen pregnancy rates are decreasing, there are
still between 750,000 and 850,000 teen pregnancies each year.
Between 75 and 90 percent of teen pregnancies among 15- to 19-
year olds are unintended.
(7) Research shows that 75 percent of the decrease in teen
pregnancy between 1988 and 1995 was due to improved
contraceptive use, while 25 percent was due to increased
abstinence.
(8) More than eight out of ten Americans believe that young
people should have information about abstinence and protecting
themselves from unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted
diseases.
(9) United States teens acquire an estimated 4,000,000
sexually transmitted infections each year. By age 24, at least
one in three sexually active people will have contracted a
sexually transmitted disease.
(10) An average of two young people in the United States
are infected with HIV every hour of every day. African
Americans and Hispanic youth have been disproportionately
affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Although less than 16
percent of the adolescent population in the United States is
African American, nearly 50 percent of AIDS cases through June
2000 among 13- to 19-year olds were among Blacks. Hispanics
comprise 13 percent of the population and 20 percent of the
reported adolescent AIDS cases though June 2000.
SEC. 3. ASSISTANCE TO REDUCE TEEN PREGNANCY, HIV/AIDS, AND OTHER
SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES AND TO SUPPORT HEALTHY
ADOLESCENT DEVELOPMENT.
(a) In General.--Each eligible State shall be entitled to receive
from the Secretary of Health and Human Services, for each of the fiscal
years 2006 through 2010, a grant to conduct programs of family life
education, including education on both abstinence and contraception for
the prevention of teenage pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases,
including HIV/AIDS.
(b) Requirements for Family Life Programs.--For purposes of this
Act, a program of family life education is a program that--
(1) is age-appropriate and medically accurate;
(2) does not teach or promote religion;
(3) teaches that abstinence is the only sure way to avoid
pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases;
(4) stresses the value of abstinence while not ignoring
those young people who have had or are having sexual
intercourse;
(5) provides information about the health benefits and side
effects of all contraceptives and barrier methods as a means to
prevent pregnancy;
(6) provides information about the health benefits and side
effects of all contraceptives and barrier methods as a means to
reduce the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases,
including HIV/AIDS;
(7) encourages family communication about sexuality between
parent and child;
(8) teaches young people the skills to make responsible
decisions about sexuality, including how to avoid unwanted
verbal, physical, and sexual advances and how not to make
unwanted verbal, physical, and sexual advances; and
(9) teaches young people how alcohol and drug use can
effect responsible decisionmaking.
(c) Additional Activities.--In carrying out a program of family
life education, a State may expend a grant under subsection (a) to
carry out educational and motivational activities that help young
people--
(1) gain knowledge about the physical, emotional,
biological, and hormonal changes of adolescence and subsequent
stages of human maturation;
(2) develop the knowledge and skills necessary to ensure
and protect their sexual and reproductive health from
unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted disease,
including HIV/AIDS throughout their lifespan;
(3) gain knowledge about the specific involvement of and
male responsibility in sexual decisionmaking;
(4) develop healthy attitudes and values about adolescent
growth and development, body image, gender roles, racial and
ethnic diversity, sexual orientation, and other subjects;
(5) develop and practice healthy life skills including
goal-setting, decisionmaking, negotiation, communication, and
stress management;
(6) promote self-esteem and positive interpersonal skills
focusing on relationship dynamics, including, but not limited
to, friendships, dating, romantic involvement, marriage and
family interactions; and
(7) prepare for the adult world by focusing on educational
and career success, including developing skills for employment
preparation, job seeking, independent living, financial self-
sufficiency, and workplace productivity.
SEC. 4. SENSE OF CONGRESS.
It is the sense of Congress that while States are not required to
provide matching funds, they are encouraged to do so.
SEC. 5. EVALUATION OF PROGRAMS.
(a) In General.--For the purpose of evaluating the effectiveness of
programs of family life education carried out with a grant under
section 3, evaluations of such program shall be carried out in
accordance with subsections (b) and (c).
(b) National Evaluation.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall provide for a national
evaluation of a representative sample of programs of family
life education carried out with grants under section 3. A
condition for the receipt of such a grant is that the State
involved agree to cooperate with the evaluation. The purposes
of the national evaluation shall be the determination of--
(A) the effectiveness of such programs in helping
to delay the initiation of sexual intercourse and other
high-risk behaviors;
(B) the effectiveness of such programs in
preventing adolescent pregnancy;
(C) the effectiveness of such programs in
preventing sexually transmitted disease, including HIV/
AIDS;
(D) the effectiveness of such programs in
increasing contraceptive knowledge and contraceptive
behaviors when sexual intercourse occurs; and
(E) a list of best practices based upon essential
programmatic components of evaluated programs that have
led to success in subparagraphs (A) through (D).
(2) Report.--A report providing the results of the national
evaluation under paragraph (1) shall be submitted to the
Congress not later than March 31, 2011, with an interim report
provided on a yearly basis at the end of each fiscal year.
(c) Individual State Evaluations.--
(1) In general.--A condition for the receipt of a grant
under section 3 is that the State involved agree to provide for
the evaluation of the programs of family education carried out
with the grant in accordance with the following:
(A) The evaluation will be conducted by an
external, independent entity.
(B) The purposes of the evaluation will be the
determination of--
(i) the effectiveness of such programs in
helping to delay the initiation of sexual
intercourse and other high-risk behaviors;
(ii) the effectiveness of such programs in
preventing adolescent pregnancy;
(iii) the effectiveness of such programs in
preventing sexually transmitted disease,
including HIV/AIDS; and
(iv) the effectiveness of such programs in
increasing contraceptive knowledge and
contraceptive behaviors when sexual intercourse
occurs.
(2) Use of grant.--A condition for the receipt of a grant
under section 3 is that the State involved agree that not more
than 10 percent of the grant will be expended for the
evaluation under paragraph (1).
SEC. 6. DEFINITIONS.
For purposes of this Act:
(1) The term ``eligible State'' means a State that submits
to the Secretary an application for a grant under section 3
that 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 Act.
(2) The term ``HIV/AIDS'' means the human immunodeficiency
virus, and includes acquired immune deficiency syndrome.
(3) The term ``medically accurate'', with respect to
information, means information that is supported by research,
recognized as accurate and objective by leading medical,
psychological, psychiatric, and public health organizations and
agencies, and where relevant, published in peer review
journals.
(4) The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of Health
and Human Services.
SEC. 7. APPROPRIATIONS.
(a) In General.--For the purpose of carrying out this Act, there is
authorized to be appropriated $206,000,000 for each of the fiscal years
2006 through 2010.
(b) Allocations.--Of the amounts appropriated under subsection (a)
for a fiscal year--
(1) not more than 7 percent may be used for the
administrative expenses of the Secretary in carrying out this
Act for that fiscal year; and
(2) not more than 10 percent may be used for the national
evaluation under section 5(b). | Family Life Education Act - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make grants to States for family life education, including education on abstinence and contraception, to prevent teenage pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.
Expresses the sense of Congress that States are encouraged but not required to provide matching funds. Requires the Secretary to provide for a national evaluation of a representative sample of such programs for effectiveness in changing adolescent sexual behavior, including delaying sexual and high-risk activity, preventing pregnancy and disease (including HIV/AIDS), and increasing contraceptive knowledge. Requires States receiving such grants to provide for an individual evaluation of the State's program by an external, independent entity. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To provide for the reduction of adolescent pregnancy, HIV rates, and other sexually transmitted diseases, and for other purposes."} | 2,187 | 157 | 0.467039 | 1.278862 | 0.683025 | 2.976744 | 16.046512 | 0.930233 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``United States Export Promotion Act
of 2005''.
SEC. 2. ELIMINATION OF FEES CHARGED FOR EXPORT PROMOTION PROGRAMS.
(a) Elimination of Fees.--The Secretary of Commerce, the
International Trade Administration, and the United States and Foreign
Commercial Service may not charge fees to United States exporters,
United States businesses, or United States persons, for assistance
provided to such exporters, businesses, or persons under subtitle C of
the Export Enhancement Act of 1988 (15 U.S.C. 4721 et seq.) or under
any other export promotion program.
(b) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to the Department of Commerce, the International Trade
Administration, and the United States and Foreign Commercial Service
such sums as may be necessary to cover the costs of providing services
to United States exporters, United States businesses, or United States
persons, under export promotion programs.
SEC. 3. CAPITAL SECURITY COST-SHARING PROGRAM CHANGES.
In determining the total overseas presence of an agency for
purposes of section 604(e) of the Secure Embassy Construction and
Counterterrorism Act of 1999 (as enacted by section 1000(a)(7) of
Public Law 106-113), there shall be excluded any positions or
activities of the agency attributable to export promotion programs.
SEC. 4. UNITED STATES AND FOREIGN COMMERCIAL SERVICE ACTIVITIES ABROAD.
The Secretary of Commerce shall, not later than 180 days after the
date of the enactment of this Act--
(1) develop and submit to the Congress a plan to locate and
relocate offices, officers, and employees of the USFCS in other
countries at places other than the United States embassy or, in
any country in which there is no such embassy, the chief
diplomatic mission of the United States in that country;
(2) develop and submit to the Congress a plan to place, in
each country with which the United States has diplomatic
relations, a USFCS office or, in countries with smaller
markets, one or more foreign nationals working under the
supervision of a regional USFCS officer, to carry out functions
under export promoting programs if, on the basis of a market
analysis of the country conducted by the Secretary of Commerce,
the Secretary determines such placement is viable; and
(3) conduct and report to the Congress on a market analysis
of other countries for purposes of expanding activities of the
USFCS in those countries, particularly those with developing
economies.
SEC. 5. UNITED STATES TRADE MISSIONS.
The Secretary of Commerce shall, not later than 180 days after the
date of the enactment of this Act, develop and submit to the Congress a
plan for conducting at least 100 United States trade missions abroad in
fiscal years 2006 and 2007. Of these trade missions--
(1) 1 shall be dedicated for each of the several States,
(2) 1 shall be dedicated for the District of Columbia,
(3) 1 shall be dedicated for Puerto Rico and the Virgin
Islands, and
(4) 1 shall be dedicated for Guam and American Samoa,
with each such mission being comprised primarily of United States
businesses whose principal place of business is in the State or other
place listed in paragraphs (2) through (4) for which the trade mission
is dedicated. No fee may be charged to any United States business for
participating in any such trade mission.
SEC. 6. INCREASING PARTICIPATION IN GLOBAL MARKETS OF SMALL- AND
MEDIUM-SIZED BUSINESSES.
The Secretary of Commerce shall, not later than 180 days after the
date of the enactment of this Act, submit to the Congress--
(1) budget, staffing, and reorganization requirements of
the Department of Commerce and, with the concurrence of the
Administrator of the Small Business Administration, of the
Small Business Administration, in order to substantially
increase the ability of small businesses and medium-sized
businesses in the United States to compete in global markets;
and
(2) an overall United States trade promotion strategy, with
achievable annual action plans, that aggressively markets small
businesses and medium-sized businesses in the United States to
expanding overseas markets and directly supports, through trade
missions and related activities, the efforts of the individual
States (and the District of Columbia) toward achieving this
goal.
SEC. 7. DEVELOPMENT OF EXPORT DATABASE AND OTHER TRADE PROMOTION
ACTIVITIES.
(a) Database.--The Secretary of Commerce shall--
(1) conduct a comprehensive review, reorganization, and
expansion of the Web site www.export.gov (or any successor Web
site) of the Department of Commerce in order to--
(A) increase the usability and scope of the Web
site; and
(B) ensure that each USFCS office location has an
interactive Web site that is interoperable with
www.export.gov; and
(2)(A) create and maintain a database of United States
exporters;
(B) provide United States exporters with the ability to
elect to be included in the database; and
(C) report to Congress on methods other Federal agencies
may use to assist United States businesses interested in
developing export markets in accessing the database; and
(3) after reviewing successful trade promotion activities
of other countries with which the United States competes in
global markets, make such modifications to the operations of
the Department of Commerce in carrying out export promotion
programs, including modifications to Internet access, as are
necessary to more effectively assist in matching business
opportunities abroad to potential suppliers in the United
States, and to support closing of transactions, arranging of
financing, and delivery of goods or services.
SEC. 8. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Export promotion program.--The term ``export promotion
program'' has the meaning given that term in section 201(d) of
the Export Administration Amendments Act of 1985 (15 U.S.C.
4051(d)).
(2) Small business.--The term ``small business'' means any
small business concern as defined under section 3 of the Small
Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632).
(3) United states business.--The term ``United States
business'' has the meaning given that term in section 2304(e)
of the Export Enhancement Act of 1988 (15 U.S.C. 4724(e)).
(4) United states exporter.--The term ``United States
exporter'' has the meaning given that term in section 2301(j)
of the Export Enhancement Act of 1988 (15 U.S.C. 4721(j)).
(5) USFCS.--The term ``USFCS'' means the United States and
Foreign Commercial Service of the Department of Commerce.
(6) United states person.--The term ``United States
person'' has the meaning given that term in section 2306(c) of
the Export Enhancement Act of 1988 (15 U.S.C. 4725(c)). | United States Export Promotion Act of 2005 - Prohibits the Secretary of Commerce, the International Trade Administration, and the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service (USFCS) from charging fees to U.S. exporters, businesses, or persons for assistance provided to them under export promotion programs.
Revises the capital security cost-sharing program under the Secure Embassy Construction and Counterterrorism Act of 1999 to exclude from determination of an agency's total overseas presence any positions or activities attributable to export promotion programs.
Requires the Secretary to develop and submit to Congress plans to: (1) locate and relocate USFCS offices, officers, and employees in other countries at places other than the U.S. embassy or the U.S. chief diplomatic mission; and (2) place a USFCS office where the United States has diplomatic relations or, where viable in countries with smaller markets, one or more foreign nationals working under a regional USFCS officer's supervision to carry out export promotion functions.
Directs the Secretary to develop and submit to Congress a plan for conducting at least 100 U.S. trade missions abroad in FY2006-FY2007.
Requires the Secretary to: (1) increase the participation in global markets of small and medium-sized U.S. businesses; (2) review, reorganize, and expand the Department of Commerce Web site to increase its usability and scope; and (3) create a database of U.S. exporters. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To eliminate fees for assistance provided by the Department of Commerce and agencies thereof under export promotion programs, to authorize appropriations for such purpose, to direct the Secretary of Commerce to take certain steps to expand export promotion activities, and for other purposes."} | 1,530 | 310 | 0.707131 | 2.228319 | 0.925422 | 3.287356 | 5.260536 | 0.896552 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Fair Trade in Meat and Pork Products
Act of 1997''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress makes the following findings:
(1) The European Union's Third Country Meat Directive has
been used to decertify more than 400 United States facilities
exporting beef and pork products to the European Union even
though United States health inspection procedures are
equivalent to those provided for in the Third Country Meat
Directive.
(2) An effect of the decertifications is to prohibit the
importation of United States beef and pork products into the
European Union.
(3) As a result of the decertifications, the highly
competitive United States pork industry loses as much as
$60,000,000 each year from trade with European Union countries.
(4) In July 1987 and November 1990, at the request of
affected United States industries, the United States initiated
investigations under section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 into
the European Union's administration of the Third Country Meat
Directive and sought resolution of the meat and pork trade
problems through the dispute settlement process established
under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade.
(5) The United States Trade Representative preliminarily
concluded on October 10, 1992, that the European Union's
administration of the Third Country Meat Directive created a
burden on and restricted United States commerce.
(6) Bilateral talks, initiated as a result of that finding,
resulted in an Exchange of Letters in which the United States
and the European Union concluded that the meat inspection
systems of the United States and the European Union provided
``equivalent safeguards against public health risks'' and
agreed to take steps to resolve remaining differences regarding
meat inspection.
(7) Even though the United States terminated the section
301 investigation as a result of the Exchange of Letters, the
United States determined that the practices under investigation
would have been actionable if an acceptable agreement had not
been reached.
(8) United States meat and pork producers have displayed
consistent interest in exporting products to the European Union
and have undertaken substantial investment to take the steps
specified by the Exchange of Letters.
(9) The European Union has failed to acknowledge changes in
plant safety and inspection procedures undertaken in the United
States specifically at the European Union's request and has not
fulfilled its obligation to inspect and relist United States
producers who have taken the steps specified by the Exchange of
Letters.
(10) The actions of the European Union in conducting United
States plant inspections places the European Union in violation
of commitments made in the Exchange of Letters.
(11) The European Union, in addition to being a party to
the Exchange of Letters, is a signatory to GATT 1994 and to the
Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary
Measures, which requires that meat and pork inspection
procedures under Department of Agriculture regulations be
treated as equivalent to inspection procedures required by the
European Union under the Third Country Meat Directive if the
regulations achieve the European level of sanitary protection.
(12) Whenever a foreign country is not satisfactorily
implementing an international trade measure or agreement, the
United States Trade Representative is required under section
306(b)(1) of the Trade Act of 1974 (19 U.S.C. 2416(b)(1)) to
determine the actions to be taken under section 301(a) of such
Act.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
For purposes of this Act:
(1) Exchange of letters.--The term ``Exchange of Letters''
means the exchange of letters concerning the application of the
Community Third Country Directive, signed in May 1991 and
November 1992, which constitute the agreement between the
United States and the European Economic Community regarding the
Third Country Meat Directive.
(2) GATT 1994.--The term ``GATT 1994'' means the General
Agreement on Tariffs and Trade annexed to the WTO Agreement.
(3) Third country meat directive; Community third country
directive.--The terms ``Third Country Meat Directive'' and
``Community Third Country Directive'' mean the European Union's
Council Directive 72/462/EEC relating to inspection and
certification of slaughter and processing plants that export
meat and pork products to the European Union.
(4) WTO agreement.--The term ``WTO Agreement'' means the
Agreement establishing the World Trade Organization entered
into on April 15, 1994.
SEC. 4. REQUIREMENT FOR DETERMINATION BY UNITED STATES TRADE
REPRESENTATIVE.
Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the
United States Trade Representative shall determine, for purposes of
section 306(b)(1) of the Trade Act of 1974, whether the European Union
has failed to implement satisfactorily its obligations under the
Exchange of Letters, the Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and
Phytosanitary Measures, or any other Agreement.
SEC. 5. REQUEST FOR DISPUTE SETTLEMENT.
If the United States Trade Representative determines under section
4 that the European Union has failed to implement satisfactorily its
obligations under the Exchange of Letters, the Agreement on the
Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures, or any other
agreement, the United States Trade Representative shall promptly
request proceedings on the matter under the formal dispute settlement
procedures applicable to the agreement.
SEC. 6. REVIEW OF CERTAIN MEAT FACILITIES.
(a) Review by Food Safety and Inspection Service.--If the United
States Trade Representative determines pursuant to section 4 that the
European Union has failed to implement satisfactorily its obligations
under the Exchange of Letters, the Agreement on the Application of
Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures, or any other Agreement, the United
States Trade Representative shall request the Secretary of Agriculture
(who, upon receipt of the request, shall) direct the Food Safety and
Inspection Service of the Department of Agriculture to review
certifications for European Union facilities that import meat and other
agricultural products into the United States.
(b) Relationship to USTR Authority.--The review authorized under
subsection (a) is in addition to the authority of the United States
Trade Representative to take actions described in section 301(c)(1) of
the Trade Act of 1974 (19 U.S.C. 2411(c)(1)). | Fair Trade in Meat and Pork Products Act of 1997 - Directs the United States Trade Representative (USTR), for purposes of identifying foreign countries not in compliance with the terms of any trade agreement with the United States, to determine whether the European Union has failed to implement its obligations under the Exchange of Letters, the Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures, or any other agreement. Requires the USTR, in the event of such a failure, to: (1) promptly request proceedings under the formal dispute settlement procedures applicable under the agreement; and (2) request the Secretary of Agriculture to direct the Food Safety and Inspection Service of the Department of Agriculture to review certifications for European Union facilities that export meat and other agricultural products to the United States. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Fair Trade in Meat and Pork Products Act of 1997"} | 1,334 | 163 | 0.54987 | 1.718066 | 0.653403 | 4.346667 | 8.226667 | 0.946667 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Promoting Real Opportunities for
Energy Security Act'' or the ``PRO Energy Security Act''.
SEC. 2. AUTHORITY.
If the average weighted price of oil exceeds $75 per barrel for 3
consecutive days, the Secretary of Energy is authorized to acquire
advanced biofuels for the purpose of filling the Strategic Petroleum
Reserve.
SEC. 3. STUDY.
Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the
Secretary of Energy, in conjunction with the Secretary of
Transportation, the Secretary of Commerce, and the Secretary of
Defense, and in consultation of the Administrator of the Environmental
Protection Agency, shall transmit to the Committee on Science and
Technology, the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and the
Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives, and
to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources and the Committee on
Environment and Public Works of the Senate, a report containing--
(1) a description of how the Secretary of Energy will carry
out section 2; and
(2) recommendations for criteria and procedures for making
advanced biofuels available from the Strategic Petroleum
Reserve to appropriate Federal and non-Federal entities.
SEC. 4. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Administrator.--The term ``Administrator'' means the
Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency.
(2) Advanced biofuel.--
(A) In general.--The term ``advanced biofuel''
means renewable fuel, other than ethanol derived from
corn starch, that has lifecycle greenhouse gas
emissions, as determined by the Administrator, after
notice and opportunity for comment, that are at least
50 percent less than baseline lifecycle greenhouse gas
emissions.
(B) Inclusions.--The types of fuels eligible for
consideration as ``advanced biofuel'' may include any
of the following:
(i) Ethanol derived from cellulose,
hemicellulose, or lignin.
(ii) Ethanol derived from sugar or starch
(other than corn starch).
(iii) Ethanol derived from waste material,
including crop residue, other vegetative waste
material, animal waste, food waste, and yard
waste.
(iv) Biomass-based diesel.
(v) Biogas (including landfill gas and
sewage waste treatment gas) produced through
the conversion of organic matter from renewable
biomass.
(vi) Butanol or other alcohols produced
through the conversion of organic matter from
renewable biomass.
(vii) Other fuel derived from cellulosic
biomass.
(3) Baseline lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions.--The term
``baseline lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions'' means the
average lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions, as determined by
the Administrator, after notice and opportunity for comment,
for gasoline or diesel (whichever is being replaced by the
renewable fuel) sold or distributed as transportation fuel in
2005.
(4) Biomass-based diesel.--The term ``biomass-based
diesel'' means renewable fuel that is biodiesel as defined in
section 312(f) of the Energy Policy Act of 1992 (42 U.S.C.
13220(f)) and that has lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions, as
determined by the Administrator, after notice and opportunity
for comment, that are at least 50 percent less than the
baseline lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions. Notwithstanding
the preceding sentence, renewable fuel derived from
coprocessing biomass with a petroleum feedstock shall be
advanced biofuel if it meets the requirements of subparagraph
(B), but is not biomass-based diesel.
(5) Cellulosic biofuel.--The term ``cellulosic biofuel''
means renewable fuel derived from any cellulose, hemicellulose,
or lignin that is derived from renewable biomass and that has
lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions, as determined by the
Administrator, that are at least 60 percent less than the
baseline lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions.
(6) Conventional biofuel.--The term ``conventional
biofuel'' means renewable fuel that is ethanol derived from
corn starch.
(7) Greenhouse gas.--The term ``greenhouse gas'' means
carbon dioxide, hydrofluorocarbons, methane, nitrous oxide,
perfluorocarbons, sulfur hexafluoride. The Administrator may
include any other anthropogenically emitted gas that is
determined by the Administrator, after notice and comment, to
contribute to global warming.
(8) Lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions.--The term
``lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions'' means the aggregate
quantity of greenhouse gas emissions (including direct
emissions and significant indirect emissions such as
significant emissions from land use changes), as determined by
the Administrator, related to the full fuel lifecycle,
including all stages of fuel and feedstock production and
distribution, from feedstock generation or extraction through
the distribution and delivery and use of the finished fuel to
the ultimate consumer, where the mass values for all greenhouse
gases are adjusted to account for their relative global warming
potential.
(9) Renewable biomass.--The term ``renewable biomass''
means each of the following:
(A) Planted crops and crop residue harvested from
agricultural land cleared or cultivated at any time
prior to the enactment of this sentence that is either
actively managed or fallow, and nonforested.
(B) Planted trees and tree residue from actively
managed tree plantations on non-Federal land cleared at
any time prior to enactment of this sentence, including
land belonging to an Indian tribe or an Indian
individual, that is held in trust by the United States
or subject to a restriction against alienation imposed
by the United States.
(C) Animal waste material and animal byproducts.
(D) Slash and precommercial thinnings that are from
non-Federal forestlands, including forestlands
belonging to an Indian tribe or an Indian individual,
that are held in trust by the United States or subject
to a restriction against alienation imposed by the
United States, but not forests or forestlands that are
ecological communities with a global or State ranking
of critically imperiled, imperiled, or rare pursuant to
a State Natural Heritage Program, old growth forest, or
late successional forest.
(E) Biomass obtained from the immediate vicinity of
buildings and other areas regularly occupied by people,
or of public infrastructure, at risk from wildfire.
(F) Algae.
(G) Separated yard waste or food waste, including
recycled cooking and trap grease. | Promoting Real Opportunities for Energy Security Act or the PRO Energy Security Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to acquire advanced biofuels for the purpose of filling the Strategic Petroleum Reserve if the average weighted price of oil exceeds $75 per barrel for three consecutive days. Defines "advanced biofuel" to mean renewable fuel, other than ethanol derived from corn starch, that has lifecycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that are at least 50% less than baseline lifecycle GHG emissions. Authorizes the following types of fuels to be eligible for consideration as "advanced biofuel": (1) ethanol derived from cellulose, hemicellulose, or lignin; (2) ethanol derived from sugar or starch (other than corn starch); (3) ethanol derived from waste material; (4) biomass-based diesel; (5) biogas (including landfill gas and sewage waste treatment gas) produced through the conversion of organic matter from renewable biomass; (6) butanol or other alcohols produced through the conversion of organic matter from renewable biomass; and (7) other fuel derived from cellulosic biomass.
Requires the Secretary of Energy to submit to specified congressional committees a report containing: (1) a description of how the Secretary will acquire advanced biofuels for such purpose; and (2) recommendations for criteria and procedures for making advanced biofuels available from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to appropriate federal and nonfederal entities. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To provide for the acquisition of advanced biofuels for the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, and for other purposes."} | 1,427 | 320 | 0.741264 | 2.161366 | 0.869527 | 5.018868 | 4.796226 | 0.928302 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Caribbean Regional Assistance Act of
2001''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress makes the following findings:
(1) The 16 countries of the Caribbean region constitute a
``third border'' with the United States because of the
proximity and importance of countries in this region as a
tourist destination.
(2) Unemployment, weak judicial systems, environmental
degradation, and natural disasters in the Caribbean region
directly affect the well-being of the United States and the
future of the countries in this region will inevitably affect
the future of the United States.
(3) The public sector in many Caribbean countries lacks
appropriate training and clearly defined authority and needs to
become more efficient.
(4) In the 1990's economic growth in the Caribbean region
lagged seriously behind economic growth in the Latin American
region. This discrepancy will produce significantly lower
living standards and lower levels of tax revenues with which to
address critical social needs for the Caribbean region.
(5) Highly trained labor is often unavailable in the
Caribbean region and governmental red tape limits the ability
of the private sector to take full advantage of opportunities
in the world marketplace.
(6) Heavy reliance on relatively few exports and tourism
products and the relatively high cost of transportation and
telecommunications services further constrain growth in the
Caribbean region.
(7) A more regional corporate strategy for business success
and competition in the global marketplace needs to be developed
for the Caribbean region.
(8) Many small Caribbean countries are facing severe
economic and social stress due to the decline in banana
production and the prospective loss or curtailment of existing
European Union trade preferences.
(9) Economic displacement of small farmers and individuals
employed in the supporting infrastructure of the banana
industry--individuals who comprise approximately 50 percent of
the workforce of some Caribbean countries--will continue and
will place added pressures on the economies of these countries.
(10) In the small open economies of countries in the
Caribbean region, growth can only be achieved as the policies
and products of these countries, both goods and services,
become increasingly competitive in the global market.
(11) Deterioration in economic, social, and political
conditions in the small countries of the Caribbean region is
leading to increased crime in the region and increased illegal
immigration to the United States.
(12) The United States is also concerned about narcotics
trafficking in the Caribbean region, particularly with respect
to continuing bilateral cooperation with Caribbean governments
in drug interdiction and combating money laundering.
(13) The economic and social development of the Caribbean
region depends on the efficiency and fairness of the legal
systems of this region. There is a widespread perception that
the legal systems in the Caribbean region are inefficient and
ineffective and that the administration of law and the quality
of justice that is rendered needs to be improved.
(14) The ecosystems which sustain the economies of the
countries of the Caribbean region, whether based on
agriculture, fisheries, or tourism, are under severe and
increasing stress.
(15) Environmental problems in the Caribbean region arise
from inadequate and inappropriate waste management, land use
practices, and coastal zone management.
(16) The Caribbean region currently has the highest HIV/
AIDS prevalence rate of any region in the world other than sub-
Saharan Africa. Out of the 12 countries with the highest HIV/
AIDS prevalence rates in Latin America and the Caribbean
region, 9 are in the Caribbean region. HIV/AIDS has spread to
the general population in 5 countries in the Caribbean region,
and in other Caribbean countries the epidemic is accelerating
rapidly and is poised to strike the remaining general
populations.
(17) The enactment in 1983 of the Caribbean Basin Economic
Recovery Act represented a successful commitment by the United
States to encourage the development of strong democratic
governments and revitalized economies in neighboring countries
in the Caribbean region.
(18) In May 1997, United States and Caribbean leaders met
in Bridgetown, Barbados, and pledged to strengthen cooperation
in responding to the challenges of the coming millennium.
(19) The Bridgetown Barbados Summit commits the United
States and signatory Caribbean countries to a Plan of Action in
the areas of trade, economic development, and justice and
security.
(20) In April 1998 leaders from the Western Hemisphere
nations met in Santiago, Chile, and noted in their summit
declaration that ``the real economic benefits in the Americas
[result] from more open trade, transparency in economic
regulations, sound market-based policies, as well as efforts by
the private sector to increase competitiveness''.
(21) The United States is committed to completing a Free
Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA) process by 2005 in order to
expand markets for United States goods and services and to help
ensure safe destinations for United States foreign investment.
SEC. 3. AMENDMENT TO FOREIGN ASSISTANCE ACT OF 1961.
Part I of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2151 et
seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``CHAPTER 13--ASSISTANCE FOR THE CARIBBEAN REGION
``SEC. 499N. PURPOSE.
``The purpose of this chapter is to provide assistance for the
countries of the Caribbean region to promote broad-based, sustainable,
and successful economic development and growth that emphasizes small
economy diversification, technical training, trade enhancement,
judicial reform, environmental management, and other related goals.
``SEC. 499O. AUTHORIZATION.
``The President, acting through the Administrator of the United
States Agency for International Development, is authorized to establish
and carry out a coordinated program to provide assistance for the
countries of the Caribbean region to support the economic and
development activities described in section 499P.
``SEC. 499P. ACTIVITIES.
``Activities that may be supported by assistance under section 499O
include the following:
``(1) Improvement of governmental institutions.--Activities
to improve the quality and capacity of governmental
institutions of countries of the Caribbean region, including
activities--
``(A) to provide technical assistance and training
for institutions that provide customs services, revenue
collection, or institutions which promote investment
opportunities;
``(B) to provide assistance for specialized
training to judges and magistrates in order to improve
efficiency and to reduce case backlogs of Caribbean
court systems; and
``(C) to coordinate and consolidate administrative
procedures and to expand the use of alternative dispute
resolution mechanisms.
``(2) Economic diversification.--Activities to improve the
economic diversification of countries of the Caribbean region,
including activities--
``(A) to provide technical assistance and training
to such countries to develop more focused regional
business strategies to increase the development of new
businesses and stimulate competition among businesses;
``(B) to increase lending assistance to small and
micro-enterprises, to improve institutions that provide
training for such enterprises, and to enhance the
ability of such enterprises to market products and
increase production capacity;
``(C) to promote compliance by such countries and
regional organizations with the World Trade
Organization (WTO) and the proposed Free Trade Area of
the Americas (FTAA);
``(D) to promote the tourism industry of the
Caribbean region through the development of community-
based tourism, sustainable tourism, and public-private
partnerships; and
``(E) to promote the diversification of the
agricultural sector by improving the production and
marketing of competitive, non-traditional agricultural
commodities.
``(3) Environmental management.--Activities to increase the
capacity of governments of countries of the Caribbean region to
provide environmental management services, including
activities--
``(A) to fund programs to strengthen environmental
management organizations and legal frameworks; and
``(B) to increase public awareness of and encourage
public compliance with environmental regulations.
``(4) HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment.--Activities to
reduce the rate of HIV/AIDS in countries of the Caribbean
region and to provide treatment for individuals with HIV/AIDS
in such region.
``SEC. 499Q. CREDIT ASSISTANCE.
``In carrying out the program authorized under section 499O, the
President is encouraged to provide credit assistance to carry out the
economic and development activities described in section 499P. The
provisions of section 107A(d) (relating to general provisions
applicable to development credit authority), as proposed to be added to
this Act by section 306 of H.R. 1486 (as reported in the House of
Representatives in the 105th Congress), shall apply with respect to
credit assistance provided under the program.
``SEC. 499R. DEFINITIONS.
``In this chapter:
``(1) Countries of the caribbean region.--The term
`countries of the Caribbean region'--
``(A) means Antigua and Barbuda, the Commonwealth
of the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, the Commonwealth of
Dominica, the Dominican Republic, Grenada, the Co-
operative Republic of Guyana, the Republic of Haiti,
Jamaica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint
Vincent and the Grenadines, the Republic of Suriname,
and the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago; and
``(B) includes Montserrat.
``(2) HIV/AIDS.--The term `HIV/AIDS' means infection with
the human immunodeficiency virus. Such term includes the
acquired immune deficiency syndrome.
``SEC. 499S. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
``(a) In General.--In addition to amounts otherwise available for
the purposes of this chapter, there are authorized to be appropriated
to carry out this chapter $8,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2002
through 2006.
``(b) Availability.--Amounts appropriated pursuant to the
authorization of appropriations under subsection (a) are authorized to
remain available until expended.''.
SEC. 4. USAID OFFICE FOR THE CARIBBEAN REGION.
The Administrator of the United States Agency for International
Development is authorized to establish an office in Bridgetown,
Barbados, or in another appropriate country in the Caribbean region,
for the purpose of carrying out chapter 13 of part I of the Foreign
Assistance Act of 1961, as added by section 3 of this Act.
SEC. 5. REPORT.
(a) Report.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 90 days after the date of
the enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the United
States Agency for International Development shall prepare and
submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report
that contains a proposed plan to implement chapter 13 of part I
of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as added by section 3 of
this Act.
(2) Plan requirements.--The plan referred to in paragraph
(1) shall contain, at a minimum, the following:
(A) Key objectives for assistance to be provided
under chapter 13 of part I of the Foreign Assistance
Act of 1961 for countries in the Caribbean region.
(B) Actions required to support and achieve such
objectives, including a schedule and cost estimates for
implementing such actions.
(C) A description of the benchmarks to be used to
measure the progress toward such objectives.
(D) A description of how such objectives relate to
and affect the overall United States objectives for the
Western Hemisphere and worldwide.
(b) Definition.--In this section, the term ``appropriate
congressional committees'' means the Committee on International
Relations of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Foreign
Relations of the Senate. | Caribbean Regional Assistance Act of 2001 - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize the President to provide U.S. credit assistance to countries of the Caribbean region to promote broad-based, sustainable, and successful economic development and growth that emphasizes activities to: (1) improve the quality and capacity of governmental institutions of countries of the Caribbean region; (2) improve economic diversification there; (3) increase the capacity of such governments to provide environmental management services; and (4) reduce the rate of, and provide for the treatment of individuals with, HIV/AIDS in such region.Authorizes the Administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development to establish an office in Bridgetown, Barbados, or in another appropriate country in the Caribbean region, for the purpose of carrying out the activities contained in this Act. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To amend the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to establish a coordinated program to provide economic and development assistance for the countries of the Caribbean region."} | 2,454 | 167 | 0.449236 | 1.367627 | 0.653764 | 5.217949 | 15.128205 | 0.961538 |
SECTION 1. CONSENT TO COMPACT.
The Congress consents to the SMART Research and Development Compact
if that compact is entered into by the State of Delaware, the State of
Maryland, the State of New Jersey, and the State of Pennsylvania. The
compact reads substantially as follows:
``SMART RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT COMPACT
``ARTICLE I.
``The purpose of this compact is to promote the contribution of the
Mid-Atlantic region to the Nation's research and development in science
and technology, and to create an organization for Strengthening the
Mid-Atlantic Region for Tomorrow (hereinafter in this compact referred
to as the `Organization'). The purpose of the Organization is to
oversee and help facilitate the acquisition of research and development
funding, and to enhance the cooperation, formation of partnerships, and
sharing of information among businesses, academic institutions,
laboratories, and nonprofit entities, within Delaware, Maryland, New
Jersey, and Pennsylvania.
``ARTICLE II.
``This compact takes effect upon ratification by the States of
Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, pursuant to the
consent of Congress.
``ARTICLE III.
``The States, which are parties to this compact (hereinafter
referred to as `party States') do hereby establish and create the
Organization as a joint organization which shall be known as the SMART
Organization. The leadership of the Organization shall consist of a
representative from each party State, appointed as provided by the law
of that State. The leadership shall appoint a Blue Ribbon Commission
comprised of a representative from each party State from each
technological class described in article IV to advise the leadership.
The participants in the organization may include any business, academic
institution, nonprofit agency or laboratory.
``The leadership of the Organization shall oversee and direct the
projects, administration, and policies of the SMART Organization. The
Blue Ribbon Commission shall identify goals and new technological
developments for the region to pursue and facilitate cooperation among
participants. The leadership, Blue Ribbon Commission, and participants
in the Organization shall serve without compensation or reimbursement
of expenses. The leadership of the Organization shall hold regular
quarterly meetings and such special meetings as its business may
require.
``The Organization shall adopt such rules and regulations as may be
needed. The Organization may hold hearings and conduct studies and
surveys to carry out its purpose. The Organization may acquire by gift
or otherwise and hold and dispose of such money and property as may be
provided for the proper performance of its functions, may cooperate
with other public or private groups, whether local, State, regional or
national, having an interest in economic development, and may exercise
such other powers as may be appropriate to accomplish its functions and
duties in connection with the development of the Organization and to
carry out the purpose of this compact.
``ARTICLE IV.
``The Organization participants may, and the Blue Ribbon Commission
shall, represent and originate from the following technological
classes: information technology, sensors, rotorcraft technology,
manufacturing technology, nanotechnology, electronics,
telecommunications, chemical and biological, biomedical, opto-electric,
Materials/Aerospace, and defense systems including directed energy,
missile defense, future combat systems, and unmanned aerial vehicles.
The SMART Organization may at any time, upon approval by the
Organization leadership, designate and assign new representatives for
additional technological classes and may at any time remove an existing
class from the Organization's activities.
``ARTICLE V.
``The leadership of the Organization shall appoint a full-time paid
executive director, who shall be a person familiar with the nature of
the procedures and the significance of scientific funding, research and
development, economic development, and the informational, educational,
and publicity methods of stimulating general interest in such
developments. The executive director may appoint the other employees of
the Organization and shall be the administrative head of the
Organization. The executive director's term of office shall be at the
pleasure of the leadership of the Organization.
``ARTICLE VI.
``This compact shall continue in force and remain binding upon each
party State until 6 months after the party State gives notice of its
intent to withdraw to the other party States.''.
SEC. 2. RIGHT TO ALTER, AMEND, OR REPEAL.
The Congress expressly reserves the right to alter, amend, or
repeal this Act.
SEC. 3. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There are authorized to be appropriated to the SMART Organization
such sums as may be necessary to assist the Organization in carrying
out its activities, including the funding by the Organization of
programs and projects consistent with the purposes of the Organization. | Grants the consent of the Congress to the SMART Research and Development Compact (to promote the contribution of the Mid-Atlantic region to the Nation's research and development in science and technology and to create an organization for strengthening the Mid-Atlantic region for tomorrow) if it is entered into by the States of Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To grant the consent of the Congress to the SMART Research and Development Compact."} | 994 | 81 | 0.670679 | 1.964837 | 0.883182 | 6.971014 | 13.956522 | 0.971014 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Airport Medical Assistance Act of
2000''.
SEC. 2. AUTOMATIC EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATORS IN AIRPORT TERMINALS.
(a) Withdrawal of Notice.--Not later than 30 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation
Administration shall withdraw the notice of decision of the
Administration published in the Federal Register on June 6, 2000 (65
Fed. Reg. 35971), relating to automatic external defibrillators at
airports.
(b) Publication of Regulations.--
(1) In general.--The Administrator shall issue regulations
to require automatic external defibrillators in terminals at
airports with 100,000 or more annual enplanements.
(2) Deadlines.--The Administrator shall issue--
(A) proposed regulations under paragraph (1) not
later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this
Act; and
(B) final regulations under paragraph (1) not later
than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act.
SEC. 3. GUIDELINES.
(a) Guidelines.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation
Administration shall establish guidelines with respect to the provision
and use of automated external defibrillators in terminals at airports.
(b) Information.--The guidelines shall contain information
concerning the following:
(1) The extent to which automated external defibrillators
may be operated by lay persons.
(2) The number of defibrillators required for airports of
different sizes.
(3) The appropriate placement of defibrillators at
airports, taking into account the security needs of airports
and response time for victims.
(4) Such other factors as the Administrator determines
appropriate.
(c) Recommended Procedures.--The guidelines shall contain
recommended procedures for the following:
(1) Implementing training programs, in coordination with
appropriate licensed professionals, on the role of
cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the use of automated external
defibrillators.
(2) Proper maintenance and testing of automated external
defibrillators.
(3) Ensuring coordination with local emergency medical
systems regarding placement, use, and type of automated
external defibrillators.
(4) Such other areas as the Administrator determines
appropriate.
(d) Publication.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment
of this Act, the Administrator shall publish the guidelines in the
Federal Register.
SEC. 4. GOOD SAMARITAN PROTECTIONS REGARDING EMERGENCY USE OF AUTOMATED
EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATORS AT AIRPORTS.
(a) Persons Using AEDs.--Except as provided by subsection (c), any
person who uses an automated external defibrillator device on a victim
of a perceived medical emergency at an airport is immune from civil
liability for any harm resulting from the use of the device.
(b) Persons Acquiring AEDs.--
(1) In general.--Except as provided by subsection (c), in
addition to a person who uses an automated external
defibrillator device on a victim of a perceived medical
emergency at an airport, any person who acquired the device is
immune from civil liability for any harm resulting from the use
of the device, if the harm was not due to the failure of the
person who acquired the device--
(A) to notify local emergency response personnel or
other appropriate entities of the most recent placement
of the device within a reasonable period of time after the device was
placed;
(B) to properly maintain and test the device; or
(C) except as provided by paragraph (2), to provide
appropriate training in the use of the device to an
employee or agent of the acquirer when the employee or
agent was the person who used the device on the victim.
(2) Exceptions to training requirements.--The requirement
of paragraph (1)(C) shall not apply if--
(A) the employee or agent who used the device was
not an employee or agent who would have been reasonably
expected to use the device; or
(B) the period of time elapsing between the
engagement of the person as an employee or agent and
the occurrence of the harm (or between the acquisition
of the device and the occurrence of the harm, in any
case in which the device was acquired after such
engagement of the person) was not a reasonably
sufficient period in which to provide the training.
(c) Inapplicability of Immunity.--Immunity under subsection (a) or
(b) does not apply to a person if the harm involved was caused by
willful or criminal misconduct, gross negligence, reckless misconduct,
or a conscious, flagrant indifference to the rights or safety of the
victim who was harmed.
(d) Applicability of State Laws.--With respect to a class of
persons for which this section provides immunity from civil liability,
this section supersedes the law of a State only to the extent that the
State has no law or regulation that provides persons in such class with
immunity for civil liability arising from the use by such persons of
automated external defibrillator devices in emergency situations
(within the meaning of the State law or regulation involved).
SEC. 5. ELIGIBILITY FOR AIP FUNDING.
Section 47102(3)(B) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by striking ``and'' at the end of clause (viii);
(2) by striking the period at the end of clause (ix) and
inserting ``; and'; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(x) automatic external defibrillators, as
defined in section 6 of the Airport Medical
Assistance Act of 2000.''.
SEC. 6. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act, the following definitions apply:
(1) Airport.--The term ``airport'' has the meaning given
such term in section 40102 of title 49, United States Code.
(2) Automated external defibrillator.--The term ``automated
external defibrillator'' means a defibrillator that--
(A) is commercially distributed in accordance with
the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act;
(B) is capable of recognizing the presence or
absence of ventricular fibrillation, and is capable of
determining without intervention by the user of the
defibrillator whether defibrillation should be
performed;
(C) upon determining that defibrillation should be
performed, is able to deliver an electrical shock to an
individual; and
(D) in the case of a defibrillator that may be
operated in either an automated or a manual mode, is
set to operate in the automated mode.
(3) Perceived medical emergency.--The term ``perceived
medical emergency'' means circumstances in which the behavior
of an individual leads a reasonable person to believe that the
individual is experiencing a life-threatening medical condition
that requires an immediate medical response regarding the heart
or other cardiopulmonary functioning of the individual.
(4) Person.--The term ``person'' includes a governmental
entity. | Grants immunity from civil liability (except for harm caused by willful or criminal misconduct or gross negligence) to any person who uses an automated external defibrillator device on a victim of a perceived medical emergency at an airport. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Airport Medical Assistance Act of 2000"} | 1,586 | 51 | 0.506469 | 1.320503 | 0.368116 | 4.97561 | 33.536585 | 0.97561 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Deter Cyber Theft Act of 2014''.
SEC. 2. ACTIONS TO ADDRESS ECONOMIC OR INDUSTRIAL ESPIONAGE IN
CYBERSPACE.
(a) Report Required.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the date of
the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the
President shall submit to the appropriate congressional
committees a report on foreign economic and industrial
espionage in cyberspace during the 12-month period preceding
the submission of the report that--
(A) identifies--
(i) foreign countries that engage in
economic or industrial espionage in cyberspace
with respect to trade secrets or proprietary
information owned by United States persons;
(ii) foreign countries identified under
clause (i) that the President determines engage
in the most egregious economic or industrial
espionage in cyberspace with respect to such
trade secrets or proprietary information (in
this section referred to as ``priority foreign
countries'');
(iii) technologies or proprietary
information developed by United States persons
that--
(I) are targeted for economic or
industrial espionage in cyberspace; and
(II) to the extent practicable,
have been appropriated through such
espionage;
(iv) articles manufactured or otherwise
produced using technologies or proprietary
information described in clause (iii)(II); and
(v) to the extent practicable, services
provided using such technologies or proprietary
information;
(B) describes the economic or industrial espionage
engaged in by the foreign countries identified under
clauses (i) and (ii) of subparagraph (A); and
(C) describes--
(i) actions taken by the President to
decrease the prevalence of economic or
industrial espionage in cyberspace; and
(ii) the progress made in decreasing the
prevalence of such espionage.
(2) Determination of foreign countries engaging in economic
or industrial espionage in cyberspace.--For purposes of clauses
(i) and (ii) of paragraph (1)(A), the President shall identify
a foreign country as a foreign country that engages in economic
or industrial espionage in cyberspace with respect to trade
secrets or proprietary information owned by United States
persons if the government of the foreign country--
(A) engages in economic or industrial espionage in
cyberspace with respect to trade secrets or proprietary
information owned by United States persons; or
(B) facilitates, supports, fails to prosecute, or
otherwise permits such espionage by--
(i) individuals who are citizens or
residents of the foreign country; or
(ii) entities that are organized under the
laws of the foreign country or are otherwise
subject to the jurisdiction of the government
of the foreign country.
(3) Form of report.--Each report required by paragraph (1)
shall be submitted in unclassified form but may contain a
classified annex.
(b) Imposition of Sanctions.--
(1) In general.--The President may, pursuant to the
International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et
seq.), block and prohibit all transactions in all property and
interests in property of each person described in paragraph
(2), if such property and interests in property are in the
United States, come within the United States, or are or come
within the possession or control of a United States person.
(2) Persons described.--A person described in this
paragraph is a foreign person the President determines
knowingly requests, engages in, supports, facilitates, or
benefits from the significant appropriation, through economic
or industrial espionage in cyberspace, of technologies or
proprietary information developed by United States persons.
(3) Exception.--The authority to impose sanctions under
paragraph (1) shall not include the authority to impose
sanctions on the importation of goods.
(c) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Appropriate congressional committees.--The term
``appropriate congressional committees'' means--
(A) the Committee on Armed Services, the Committee
on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, the Committee
on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, the
Committee on Finance, the Committee on Foreign
Relations, and the Select Committee on Intelligence of
the Senate; and
(B) the Committee on Armed Services, the Committee
on Homeland Security, the Committee on Financial
Services, the Committee on Foreign Affairs, the
Committee on Ways and Means, and the Permanent Select
Committee on Intelligence of the House of
Representatives.
(2) Cyberspace.--The term ``cyberspace''--
(A) means the interdependent network of information
technology infrastructures; and
(B) includes the Internet, telecommunications
networks, computer systems, and embedded processors and
controllers.
(3) Economic or industrial espionage.--The term ``economic
or industrial espionage'' means--
(A) stealing a trade secret or proprietary
information or appropriating, taking, carrying away, or
concealing, or by fraud, artifice, or deception
obtaining, a trade secret or proprietary information
without the authorization of the owner of the trade
secret or proprietary information;
(B) copying, duplicating, downloading, uploading,
destroying, transmitting, delivering, sending,
communicating, or conveying a trade secret or
proprietary information without the authorization of
the owner of the trade secret or proprietary
information; or
(C) knowingly receiving, buying, or possessing a
trade secret or proprietary information that has been
stolen or appropriated, obtained, or converted without
the authorization of the owner of the trade secret or
proprietary information.
(4) Knowingly.--The term ``knowingly'', with respect to
conduct, a circumstance, or a result, means that a person has
actual knowledge, or should have known, of the conduct, the
circumstance, or the result.
(5) Own.--The term ``own'', with respect to a trade secret
or proprietary information, means to hold rightful legal or
equitable title to, or license in, the trade secret or
proprietary information.
(6) Person.--The term ``person'' means an individual or
entity.
(7) Proprietary information.--The term ``proprietary
information'' means competitive bid preparations, negotiating
strategies, executive emails, internal financial data,
strategic business plans, technical designs, manufacturing
processes, source code, data derived from research and
development investments, and other commercially valuable
information that a person has developed or obtained if--
(A) the person has taken reasonable measures to
keep the information confidential; and
(B) the information is not generally known or
readily ascertainable through proper means by the
public.
(8) Technology.--The term ``technology'' has the meaning
given that term in section 16 of the Export Administration Act
of 1979 (50 U.S.C. App. 2415) (as in effect pursuant to the
International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et
seq.)).
(9) Trade secret.--The term ``trade secret'' has the
meaning given that term in section 1839 of title 18, United
States Code.
(10) United states person.--The term ``United States
person'' means--
(A) an individual who is a citizen or resident of
the United States; or
(B) an entity organized under the laws of the
United States or any jurisdiction within the United
States. | Deter Cyber Theft Act of 2014 - Requires the President to report annually to Congress on foreign countries that engage in economic and industrial espionage in cyberspace with respect to U.S. trade secrets or proprietary information. Requires each report to: (1) identify countries that engage in such espionage, including countries that facilitate, support, fail to prosecute, or otherwise permit such espionage; (2) specify the countries that engage in the most egregious forms of such espionage; and (3) describe actions taken and progress made by the President to decrease the prevalence of such espionage. Authorizes the President to block and prohibit transactions in property, and interests in property, of a foreign person the President determines knowingly requests, engages in, supports, facilitates, or benefits from the significant appropriation, through economic or industrial espionage in cyberspace, of technologies or proprietary information developed by U.S. persons if such property and interests in property: (1) are in the United States; (2) come within the United States; or (3) are, or come within, the possession or control of a U.S. person. Prohibits the President from imposing sanctions on the importation of goods under such authority. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Deter Cyber Theft Act of 2014"} | 1,661 | 279 | 0.683009 | 1.937287 | 0.80565 | 3.866667 | 6.586667 | 0.924444 |
SEC. 101. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Food for Trade Act of 1994''.
SEC. 102. ESTABLISHMENT OF PROGRAM.
Title I of the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act of
1954 (7 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the
following new section:
``SEC. 106. FOOD FOR TRADE PROGRAM.
``(a) Establishment.--
``(1) In general.-The Secretary shall carry out a pilot
program under this title to establish permanent, self-
sustaining organizations in eligible recipient countries to
promote and provide financing for broad-based economic
development activities in the countries.
``(2) Cooperation.--The Secretary shall carry out this
section by entering into contracts with non-profit
organizations or entities (referred to in this section as
``facilitators'') to facilitate the establishment and operation
of approved pilot projects in eligible recipient countries
utilizing agricultural commodities provided under this section.
``(b) Eligible Projects.--
``(1) In general.--An organization or other entity may
participate in this program by submitting a complete proposal
for the operation of a project in an eligible recipient
country, according to guidelines developed by the Secretary.
``(2) Project funding.--Upon approval of a project proposed
under this section, the Secretary shall make available
agricultural commodities under this title to the facilitator on
a grant basis for the purpose of funding and carrying out the
project. The Secretary shall cover the costs of transporting
the commodities to the recipient country under paragraph (4).
``(3) Duration of assistance.--Assistance may be provided
under this section in annual installments for up to 5 years per
individual approved project, or such longer period of time as
deemed appropriate by the Secretary.
``(4) Monetization.--The facilitator shall transport the
agricultural commodities received under this section for sale
in the recipient country. After deduction of any associated
expenses, the proceeds generated from the sale shall be used to
establish a permanent, self-sustaining investment fund in the
recipient country according to guidelines established under
subsection (h).
``(5) Role of the facilitator.--A facilitator participating
in this program shall--
``(A) be responsible for the storage, transport,
and monetization of agricultural commodities in
eligible recipient countries pursuant to guidelines
established by the Secretary under subsection (h);
``(B) establish and manage an investment fund in
the recipient country using the proceeds from the
monetization of the agricultural commodities, until
such time as the facilitator transfers control of the
project to the joint commission under subsection (g);
``(C) establish and operate an advisory board to
advise in the management of the investment fund; and
``(D) coordinate the eventual transfer of the
advisory board and the investment fund to the joint
commission in the participating recipient country.
``(6) Expense projections.--Each project proposal submitted
under this section shall contain a projection of the estimated
expenses necessary to carry out the project, including the
monetization of the agricultural commodities and the
establishment and operation of the investment fund.
``(c) Investment Fund.--
``(1) Establishment.--The facilitator shall establish a
permanent, self-sustaining investment fund in the participating
recipient country from the proceeds of the sales of the
agricultural commodities provided under this section.
``(2) Use of fund.--Monies in the investment fund shall be
invested and managed in a manner that provides the best
possible return for the fund, without posing an undue risk to
the principal balance used to establish the fund.
``(3) Restriction on investment of funds.--Monies from the
fund may be invested in any appropriate investments as
determined by the Secretary pursuant to regulation.
``(4) Investment proceeds.--Profits generated by the
investments shall be made available to the joint commission to
carry out development activities under subsection (f). The
facilitator shall be reimbursed for any administrative costs
associated with the operation of the investment fund.
``(d) Advisory Boards.--
``(1) Establishment.--The facilitator shall operate an
advisory board (referred to in this section as the ``board'')
in each participating recipient country to advise the
facilitator on the management of the investment fund and other
investment issues.
``(2) Membership.--The members of the board shall be
selected by the facilitator from the local and international
business and investment community. Members of the board shall
serve without pay.
``(3) Transfer of authority.--After control of the project
is transferred to the joint commission under subsection (g),
the advisory board shall provide advice to the joint commission
on investment fund issues.
``(e) Joint Commission.--
``(1) Establishment.--The Government of the United States
shall enter into an agreement with the government of each
recipient country that participates in this program, along with
the facilitator organization that oversees the project in that
country, for the establishment in the country of a Food for
Trade Joint Commission (referred to in this section as the
``joint commission'').
``(2) Membership.--The joint commission shall be composed
of representatives of--
``(A) the participating recipient country;
``(B) local nongovernmental entities;
``(C) international nongovernmental entities; and
``(D) the United States diplomatic mission in the
recipient country, which may include a representative
of the Foreign Agricultural Service.
``(3) Board of directors.--The joint commission shall elect
a board of directors that provides equal representation for
each of the 4 entities specified in paragraph (2). The
directors shall serve without pay.
``(4) Secretariat.--The joint commission may hire
administrative personnel to handle the day-to-day activities of
the joint commission.
``(5) Duties.--The joint commission shall be responsible
for--
``(A) the selection and approval of recipients for
loans and grants for eligible activities under this
section;
``(B) the dispersal of funds to approved applicants
from investment fund profits;
``(C) monitoring of activities funded under this
section; and
``(D) overall operation and maintenance of the
program including the investment fund, upon the final
transfer of control under subsection (g).
``(f) Eligible Activities.--The joint commission may make available
funds from the profits generated by the investment fund for
developmental activities including:
``(1) Credit.--Loans may be made under this section to--
``(A) local private co-operative banks,
``(B) credit unions,
``(C) non-profit venture capital investment
organizations,
``(D) eligible organizations for the purpose of
providing micro-credit, and
``(E) approved local entrepreneurs.
``(2) Technical assistance.--Grants may be awarded under
this section to--
``(A) cover in-country costs for farmer-to-farmer
program implementors, or
``(B) eligible organizations working in
agribusiness development.
``(3) Research, education and extension endowments.--
Research grants, scholarships and sabbaticals may be awarded
under this section to individuals working in local agricultural
research and education institutions.
``(4) Humanitarian and infrastructure development grants.--
Grants may be provided under this section to finance--
``(A) infrastructure development projects, and
``(B) humanitarian efforts.
All grants made under this paragraph shall be from the
repayment proceeds for loans under paragraph (1).
``(g) Transfer of Project Control.--After a period of 5 years of
operation of the project in a recipient country, or such other period
of time deemed appropriate by the Secretary, the responsibility for the
management and oversight of the investment fund shall be transferred,
according to terms established by the Secretary, to the joint
commission. Upon the transfer of authority under this subsection, the
authority and responsibility of the facilitator with respect to the
project shall be terminated.
``(h) Guidelines.--The Secretary shall develop guidelines and
procedures for the establishment and operation of the program under
this section and shall provide for the following:
``(1) Application procedures for proposals for projects
under this section.
``(2) Criteria for the selection of recipient countries,
including--
``(A) demonstrated interest in privatizing a
significant percentage of the agricultural sector;
``(B) demonstrated interest in privatizing land
ownership;
``(C) legal and judicial structures that allow for
private banking;
``(D) tax laws that do not overly inhibit small
business development;
``(E) limited or no restriction on foreign
investment;
``(F) demonstrated interest in freeing wages and
prices from government control;
``(G) economic situation that allows the
establishment of profitable tax-exempt foundations and
non-prohibitive use of these profits for development
purposes;
``(H) judicial infrastructure that allows for legal
enforcement of contracts.
``(3) Procedures for the monetization of agricultural
commodities provided under this section.
``(4) Establishment and operation of investment fund,
including any restrictions on investments deemed necessary by
the Secretary.
``(5) Procedures for the eventual transfer of operational
control, including oversight of the investment fund and
advisory board of the program to the joint commission.
``(6) Procedures for evaluation of the program.
``(7) Procedures for the termination of the project and
dissolution of the investment fund in the event the Secretary
determines that the project is being mismanaged or otherwise
should not be continued.
``(8) Other guidelines deemed appropriate by the Secretary
for the operation or oversight of the program.
``(i) Report.--The facilitator shall submit an annual progress
report to the Secretary on the operation of the project in the
recipient country.
``(j) Evaluation and Audit.--
``(1) Evaluation of the program.--Not later than 5 years
after the establishment of this program and every 4 years
thereafter, the Secretary shall evaluate the effectiveness of
the program and shall report the findings to the Committee on
Agriculture of the House of Representatives and the Committee
on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry of the Senate.
``(2) GAO audit.--The Comptroller General of the United
States shall conduct periodic audits of the operation of the
program.
``(k) Definitions.--For the purpose of this section:
``(1) Facilitator.--The term ``facilitator'' means a
nonprofit organization or entity with experience or
demonstrated capability for the storage, transport, and sale of
agricultural commodities in recipient countries.
``(2) Eligible recipient country.--The term ``eligible
recipient country'' means a country that meets one or more of
the criteria specified in subsection (h)(2), as determined by
the Secretary.
``(3) Eligible organization.--The term ``eligible
organization'' means an international private voluntary
organization or a local nongovernmental organization.
``(l) Program Funding.--The Secretary shall make available at least
20 percent of the amount of funds made available to carry out this
title for the purpose of carrying out this section.''. | Food for Trade Act of 1994 - Amends the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act of 1954 to require the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct a pilot program to establish permanent, self-sustaining organizations utilizing agricultural commodities to promote financing for economic development activities in eligible countries. Requires the facilitator of such program to establish in each country: (1) an investment fund from the proceeds of the sale of agricultural commodities to be used for developmental activities; and (2) an advisory board to advise the facilitator on the management of such fund.
Requires the Government to enter into an agreement with each recipient country for the establishment of a Food for Trade Joint Commission. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Food for Trade Act of 1994"} | 2,394 | 135 | 0.62253 | 1.782962 | 0.634891 | 2.96875 | 18.328125 | 0.953125 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``National AMBER Alert Network Act of
2002''.
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 and Cooperation.--(1) 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.
(2) The Coordinator shall cooperate with the Secretary of
Transportation and the Federal Communications Commission in carrying
out activities under this section.
(3) In preparation for carrying out duties under subsection (b),
the Coordinator shall consult with the National Center for Missing and
Exploited Children and other private sector entities and organizations
(including non-profit organizations) having expertise in matters
relating to such duties.
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 and Consultation.--(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.
(3) The Coordinator shall also consult with the National Center for
Missing and Exploited Children and other private sector entities and
organizations (including non-profit organizations) having an expertise
in matters relating to the minimum standards to be established under
this section in establishing the minimum standards.
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 for fiscal year 2003
such sums as may be necessary 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 Attorney General 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 for fiscal year 2003 such
sums as may be necessary 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 September 10, 2002.
Passed the Senate (legislative day, ), 2001.
Attest:
JERI THOMSON,
Secretary. | National AMBER Alert Network Act of 2002 - (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; (3) act as the nationwide point of contact for network development and for regional coordination of alerts on abducted children through the network; (4) notify and consult with the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation concerning each child abduction for which an AMBER alert is issued; (5) 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); (6) cooperate with the Secretary, the Federal Communications Commission, local broadcasters, and State and local law enforcement agencies; and (7) consult with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and other private sector entities and organizations (including non-profit organizations) having relevant expertise.(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.(Sec. 5) Directs the Attorney General to provide grants to States for the development or enhancement of education, training, and law enforcement programs and activities for the support of AMBER Alert communications plans.Authorizes appropriations. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "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."} | 1,467 | 362 | 0.810293 | 2.56328 | 0.883066 | 5.656347 | 4.260062 | 0.956656 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``National Clinical Care Commission
Act''.
SEC. 2. ESTABLISHMENT OF A NATIONAL CLINICAL CARE COMMISSION.
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 new
section:
``SEC. 399V-7. NATIONAL CLINICAL CARE COMMISSION.
``(a) Establishment.--There is hereby established, within the
Department of Health and Human Services, a National Clinical Care
Commission (in this section referred to as the `Commission') to
evaluate, and recommend solutions regarding better coordination and
leveraging of, programs within the Department and other Federal
agencies that relate in any way to supporting appropriate clinical care
(such as any interactions between physicians and other health care
providers and their patients related to treatment and care management)
for individuals with--
``(1) one or more complex metabolic or autoimmune diseases;
``(2) one or more diseases resulting from insulin
deficiency or insulin resistance; or
``(3) complications caused by one or more of any of such
diseases.
``(b) Membership.--
``(1) In general.--The Commission shall be composed of the
following voting members:
``(A) The heads (or their designees) of the
following Federal agencies and departments:
``(i) The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid
Services.
``(ii) The Agency for Healthcare Research
and Quality.
``(iii) The Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention.
``(iv) The Indian Health Service.
``(v) The Department of Veterans Affairs.
``(vi) The National Institutes of Health.
``(vii) The Food and Drug Administration.
``(viii) The Health Resources and Services
Administration.
``(ix) The Department of Defense.
``(B) Twelve additional voting members appointed
under paragraph (2).
``(C) Such additional voting members as may be
appointed by the Secretary, at the Secretary's
discretion, from among the heads (or their designees)
of governmental or nongovernmental entities that impact
clinical care of individuals with any of the diseases
and complications described in subsection (a).
``(2) Additional members.--The Commission shall include
additional voting members appointed by the Secretary, in
consultation with national medical societies and patient
advocacy organizations with expertise in the care and
epidemiology of any of the diseases and complications described
in subsection (a), including one or more such members from each
of the following categories:
``(A) Clinical endocrinologists.
``(B) Physician specialties (other than as
described in subparagraph (A)) that play a role in
diseases and complications described in subsection (a),
such as cardiologists, nephrologists, and eye care
professionals.
``(C) Primary care physicians.
``(D) Non-physician health care professionals, such
as certified diabetes educators, registered dieticians
and nutrition professionals, nurses, nurse
practitioners, physician assistants.
``(E) Patient advocates.
``(F) National experts in the duties listed under
subsection (c).
``(G) Health care providers furnishing services to
a patient population that consists of a high percentage
(as specified by the Secretary) of individuals who are
enrolled in a State plan under title XIX of the Social
Security Act or who are not covered under a health plan
or health insurance coverage.
``(3) Chairperson.--The voting members of the Commission
shall select a chairperson from the members appointed under
paragraph (2) from the category under paragraph (2)(A).
``(4) Meetings.--The Commission shall meet at least twice,
and not more than four times, a year.
``(5) Board terms.--Members of the Commission appointed
pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (1), including
the chairperson, shall serve for a 3-year term. A vacancy on
the Commission shall be filled in the same manner as the
original appointments.
``(c) Duties.--The Commission shall--
``(1) evaluate programs of the Department of Health and
Human Services regarding the utilization of diabetes screening
benefits, annual wellness visits, and other preventive health
benefits that may reduce the incidence of the diseases and
complications de scribed in subsection (a), including
identifying problems regarding such utilization and related
data collection mechanisms and make recommendations;
``(2) identify current activities and critical gaps in
Federal efforts to support clinicians in providing integrated,
high-quality care to individuals with any of the diseases and
complications described in subsection (a);
``(3) make recommendations regarding the coordination of
clinically based activities that are being supported by the
Federal Government with respect to the diseases and
complications described in subsection (a);
``(4) make recommendations regarding the development and
coordination of federally funded clinical practice support
tools for physicians and other health care professionals in
caring for and managing the care of individuals with any of the
diseases and complications described in subsection (a),
specifically with regard to implementation of new treatments
and technologies;
``(5) evaluate programs described in subsection (a) that
are in existence as of the date of the enactment of this
section and determine if such programs are meeting the needs
identified in paragraph (2) and, if such programs are
determined as not meeting such needs, recommend programs that
would be more appropriate;
``(6) recommend, with respect to the diseases and
complications described in subsection (a), clinical pathways
for new technologies and treatments, including future data
collection activities, that may be developed and then used to
evaluate--
``(A) various care models and methods; and
``(B) the impact of such models and methods on
quality of care as measured by appropriate care
parameters (such as A1C, blood pressure, and
cholesterol levels);
``(7) evaluate and expand education and awareness
activities provided to physicians and other health care
professionals regarding clinical practices for the prevention
and treatment of the diseases and complications described in
subsection (a);
``(8) review and recommend appropriate methods for outreach
and dissemination of educational resources that--
``(A) address the diseases and complications
described in subsection (a);
``(B) are funded by the Federal Government; and
``(C) are intended for health care professionals
and the public; and
``(9) carry out other activities, such as activities
relating to the areas of public health and nutrition, that the
Commission deems appropriate with respect to the diseases and
complications described in subsection (a).
``(d) Operating Plan.--
``(1) Initial plan.--Not later than 90 days after its first
meeting, the Commission shall submit to the Secretary and the
Congress an operating plan for carrying out the activities of
the Commission as described in subsection (c). Such operating
plan may include--
``(A) a list of specific activities that the
Commission plans to conduct for purposes of carrying
out the duties described in each of the paragraphs in
subsection (c);
``(B) a plan for completing the activities;
``(C) a list of members of the Commission and other
individuals who are not members of the Commission who
will need to be involved to conduct such activities;
``(D) an explanation of Federal agency involvement
and coordination needed to conduct such activities;
``(E) a budget for conducting such activities;
``(F) a plan for evaluating the value and potential
impact of the Commission's work and recommendations,
including the possible continuation of the Commission
for the purposes of overseeing their implementation;
and
``(G) other information that the Commission deems
appropriate.
``(2) Updates.--The Commission shall periodically update
the operating plan under paragraph (1) and submit such updates
to the Secretary and the Congress.
``(e) Final Report.--By not later than 3 years after the date of
the Commission's first meeting, the Commission shall submit to the
Secretary and the Congress a final report containing all of the
findings and recommendations required by this section. Not later than
120 days after the submission of the final report, the Secretary shall
review the plan required by subsection (d)(1)(F) and submit to the
Congress a recommendation on whether the Commission should be
reauthorized to operate after fiscal year 2021.
``(f) Sunset.--The Commission shall terminate 120 days after
submitting its final report, but not later than the end of fiscal year
2021.''.
Passed the House of Representatives January 9, 2017.
Attest:
KAREN L. HAAS,
Clerk. | . National Clinical Care Commission Act (Sec. 2) This bill amends the Public Health Service Act to establish within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) a National Clinical Care Commission to evaluate and recommend solutions regarding better coordination and leveraging of federal programs that relate to supporting clinical care for individuals with complex metabolic or autoimmune disease, diabetes, or complications caused by such diseases. The duties of the commission include: evaluating HHS programs regarding the utilization of preventive health benefits, identifying current activities and gaps in federal efforts to support clinicians in providing integrated care, making recommendations regarding the development and coordination of federally funded clinical practice support tools, recommending clinical pathways for new technologies and treatments, evaluating and expanding education and awareness activities provided to health care professionals, and reviewing and recommending methods for outreach and dissemination of educational resources. The commission must submit an operating plan to HHS and Congress within 90 days of its first meeting. The commission is terminated after it submits a final report, but not later than the end of FY2021. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "National Clinical Care Commission Act"} | 1,857 | 219 | 0.565099 | 1.550765 | 0.801137 | 3.139303 | 9.293532 | 0.900498 |
PANEL.
(a) In General.--There is established a National Baseball Dispute
Resolution Panel to resolve the current dispute between the American
League of Professional Baseball Clubs, the National League of
Professional Baseball Clubs, and the Major League Baseball Players
Association. The Panel shall be composed of three members appointed by
the President. The President shall select members from among impartial
persons with expertise as neutrals in the resolution of labor-
management disputes. He shall appoint one member of the Panel to serve
as Chair.
(b) Quorum.--Two members of the Panel shall constitute a quorum,
and the vote of at least two members shall be required for the Panel to
take any action.
(c) Compensation.--Each member of the Panel shall receive
compensation at the daily equivalent of the rate specified for level V
of the Executive Schedule under section 5316 of title 5 for each day
the member is engaged in the performance of duties for the Panel,
including attendance at meetings, hearings, and travel to conduct the
duties of the Panel.
(d) Travel Expenses.--Each member of the Panel shall receive travel
expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, at rates
authorized for employees of agencies under subchapter I of chapter 57
of title 5, United States Code, for each day the member is engaged in
the performance of duties of the Panel away from the home or regular
place of business of the member.
(e) Employment Status.--Members of the Panel shall be deemed
employees of the United States only on those days during which they
perform services for the Panel.
(f) Conflict of Interest.--No individual shall be selected as a
member of the Panel under subsection (a) who is pecuniarily interested
in--
(1) the ownership of Major League Baseball;
(2) any organization of employees or owners that is
involved in the current dispute; or
(3) any individual or entity that derives substantial
revenues from Major League Baseball.
(g) Authority.--
(1) The Panel shall have the power to take testimony under
oath, to conduct hearings, and to issue subpoenas requiring the
attendance and testimony of witnesses or the production of
books and records. The parties appearing before the Panel may
be represented by counsel.
(2) In the case of contumacy or refusal by any person to
obey a subpoena issued pursuant to this subsection, any
district court of the United States or the United States courts
of any territory or possession, or the United States District
Court for the District of Columbia, within the jurisdiction of
which such person is found, resides, or transacts business,
upon application of the Panel shall have jurisdiction to issue
an order requiring such person to appear before the Panel,
produce evidence, or give testimony related to the Panel's
inquiries. Any failure to obey such order of the court may be
punished by the court as a contempt thereof.
(h) Decision.--
(1) The Panel shall, as expeditiously as possible, issue a
decision, setting forth the terms of an agreement which, in its
discretion, it determines to be appropriate to serve as the
binding agreement between the parties to the current labor-
management dispute affecting Major League Baseball. In arriving
at its decision, the Panel may consider the following factors:
(A) The unique status of Major League Baseball.
(B) The history of collective bargaining agreements
between the parties.
(C) The changes in circumstances of the parties.
(D) The economics of the industry, including the
owners' ability to pay.
(E) The best interests of baseball.
(F) The desirability of stability in the industry.
(G) The impact on communities that benefit from
Major League Baseball.
(H) Other factors that it deems appropriate,
including those traditionally considered by arbitration
panels if applicable given the history of Major League
Baseball and past collective bargaining between the
parties.
(2) For the purposes of arriving at its decision, the Panel
shall hold such hearings and obtain such information as it may
deem appropriate.
(i) Effect of Decision.--The agreement prescribed by the Panel
under this section shall be final and binding on the parties and shall
have the same effect as though arrived at by agreement of the parties
under the Labor Management Relations Act, 1947 as amended, 29 U.S.C.
141 et seq.
SEC. 5. PRECLUSION OF JUDICIAL REVIEW.
There shall be no judicial review of any decision of the Panel
under this Act.
SEC. 6. ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS.
(a) Detail of Federal Employees.--On the request of the Chairperson
of the Panel, the head of any Federal agency may detail, or otherwise
make available without reimbursement, any of the personnel of the
agency to the Panel to assist it in carrying out its duties under this
Act. Any detail shall not interrupt or otherwise affect the civil
service status or privileges of the Federal employee.
(b) Use of Facilities.--The Panel may, without reimbursement, use
the research, equipment, services, resources, and facilities of any
agency or instrumentality of the United States, with the consent of
such agency or instrumentality.
(c) Role of the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service.--The
Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service shall provide without
reimbursement such administrative support, resources, and services as
may be necessary to carry out this Act. It is authorized and directed
to utilize its appropriated funds to pay the salary and expenses of
Panel members, as provided in this Act.
SEC. 7. TERMINATION.
The Panel shall terminate upon its rendering of a decision under
section 4(h). | Major League Baseball Restoration Act - Establishes a National Baseball Dispute Resolution Panel to resolve the current labor dispute involving Major League Baseball.
Directs the President to select the three Panel members from among impartial persons with expertise as neutrals in the resolution of labor-management disputes.
Makes the agreement prescribed by the Panel final and binding on the parties. Precludes judicial review of any decision of the Panel.
Directs the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service to provide administrative support, resources, and services necessary to carry out this Act and to utilize its appropriated funds to pay the salaries and expenses of Panel members.
Terminates the Panel upon its rendering of a decision. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Major League Baseball Restoration Act"} | 1,203 | 143 | 0.577692 | 1.595916 | 0.751088 | 4.291339 | 9.03937 | 0.905512 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Housing Programs Extension Act of
1994''.
SEC. 2. HOUSING ASSISTANCE.
(a) Expiring Section 8 Contracts.--
(1) Requirement.--Subject only to the availability of
budget authority to carry out this section, not later than
October 1, 1995, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development
shall make an offer to the owner of each housing project
assisted under an expiring contract to extend the term of the
expiring contract for 24 months beyond the date of the
expiration of the contract.
(2) Terms of extension.--Except for terms or conditions
relating to the duration of the contract, the terms and
conditions under the extension provided pursuant to this
subsection of any expiring contract shall be identical to the
terms and conditions under the expiring contract.
(3) Definition of expiring contract.--For purposes of this
subsection, the term ``expiring contract'' means a contract for
assistance pursuant to section 8(b)(2) of the United States
Housing Act of 1937 (as such section existed before October 1,
1983) having a term that expires before October 1, 1996.
(4) Displacement assistance.--The Secretary of Housing and
Urban Development may make available to tenants residing in
units covered by an expiring contract that is not extended
pursuant to this subsection either--
(A) tenant-based assistance under section 8 of the
United States Housing Act of 1937; or
(B) a unit with respect to which project-based
assistance is provided under section 8 of the United
States Housing Act of 1937.
(5) Authorization of appropriations.--There are authorized
to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out
this subsection.
(b) Determination of Median Income.--Section 3(b)(2) of the United
States Housing Act of 1937 (42 U.S.C. 1437a(b)(2)) is amended--
(1) in the fourth sentence--
(A) by striking ``County'' and inserting ``and
Rockland Counties''; and
(B) by inserting ``each'' before ``such county'';
and
(2) in the last sentence--
(A) by striking ``County'' the first place it
appears and inserting ``or Rockland Counties''; and
(B) by striking ``County'' the second place it
appears and inserting ``and Rockland Counties''.
(c) Eligible Uses of Emergency Modernization Funds.--Section
14(k)(1) of the United States Housing Act of 1937 (42 U.S.C.
1437l(k)(1)) is amended--
(1) in the first sentence, by striking ``$75,000,000'' and
inserting ``$50,000,000''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new sentences: ``Of
the amounts reserved each year under this paragraph, the
Secretary shall make available to the Inspector General of the
Department of Housing and Urban Development not more than
$5,000,000 for costs in connection with efforts to combat
violent crime in public housing. Using amounts made available
pursuant to the preceding sentence during fiscal year 1995, the
Secretary shall provide amounts in such fiscal year for the
continuation of the drug elimination activities under Project
Nos. IA05PO98003004 and IA05DEP0980193.''.
(d) Low-Income Housing Preservation and Resident Homeownership
Act.--
(1) Acquisition grants.--Section 234(b) of the Housing and
Community Development Act of 1987 (12 U.S.C. 4124(b)) is
amended by striking ``1993,'' and all that follows through
``1994,'' and inserting ``1995''.
(2) Technical assistance and capacity building.--Section
257 of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1987 (12
U.S.C. 4147) is amended by striking ``1993,'' and all that
follows through ``1994,'' and inserting ``1995''.
(e) Use of Section 236 Rental Assistance Fund Amounts for Flexible
Subsidies.--Section 236(f)(3) of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C.
1715z-1(f)(3)) is amended by striking ``September 30, 1994'' and
inserting ``September 30, 1995''.
(f) Housing Counseling.--
(1) Emergency homeownership counseling.--Section 106(c)(9)
of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968 (12 U.S.C.
1701x(c)(9)) is amended by striking ``September 30, 1994'' and
inserting ``September 30, 1995''.
(2) Prepurchase and foreclosure prevention counseling
demonstration.--Section 106(d)(13) of the Housing and Urban
Development Act of 1968 (12 U.S.C. 1701x(d)(13)) is amended by
striking ``fiscal year 1994'' and inserting ``fiscal year
1995''.
(g) Major Reconstruction of Public Housing for Disabled Families.--
Section 5(j)(2)(G)(i) of the United States Housing Act of 1937 (42
U.S.C. 1437e(j)(2)(G)(i)) is amended by striking ``fiscal years 1993
and 1994'' and inserting ``fiscal year 1995''.
(h) National Homeownership Fund.--Section 172 of the bill, H.R.
3838 (103d Congress), as passed by the House of Representatives on July
22, 1994, is hereby enacted into law.
(i) Treatment of Certain Projects.--
(1) Conversion of section 23 project.--From amounts
available for the conversion of the Tamaqua Highrise project in
the Borough of Tamaqua, Pennsylvania, from a leased housing
contract under section 23 of the United States Housing Act of
1937 to tenant-based assistance under section 8 of such Act,
the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall, to the
extent such amounts are made available in appropriation Acts,
enter into an obligation for the conversion of the project to a
project-based rental assistance contract under section 8 of
such Act, notwithstanding the requirement for rehabilitation or
the percentage limitations under section 8(d)(2) of such Act.
(2) Compliance with rehabilitation requirement.--
Rehabilitation activities undertaken by E.T.C. Enterprises in
connection with 16 scattered-site dwelling units that were
rehabilitated to provide housing for low-income families and
are located in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, and rehabilitation
activities undertaken by Pennrose Properties in connection with
40 dwelling units for senior citizens in the Providence Square
development located in New Brunswick, New Jersey, are hereby
deemed to have been conducted pursuant to the approval of and
an agreement with the Secretary of Housing and Urban
Development under clauses (i) and (ii) of the third sentence of
section 8(d)(2)(A) of the United States Housing Act of 1937.
(3) Eligibility of public housing for demolition.--Section
415 of the Department of Housing and Urban Development--
Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 1988 (Public Law 100-
202; 101 Stat. 1329-213), is amended by striking ``George
Loving Place, at 3320 Rupert Street, Edgar Ward Place, at 3901
Holystone, Elmer Scott Place, at 2600 Morris, in Dallas, Texas,
or''.
(4) Section 23 conversion.--
(A) Authorization.--Notwithstanding contracts
entered into pursuant to section 14(b) of the United
States Housing Act of 1937, the Secretary is authorized
to enter into obligations for the conversion of the
Pine Tower Apartments in Bay City, Michigan, from a
leased housing contract under section 23 of such Act to
a project-based rental assistance contract under
section 8 of such Act.
(B) Repayment required.--The authorization made in
subparagraph (A) is conditioned on the repayment to the
Secretary of all amounts received by the public housing
agency under the comprehensive improvement assistance
program under section 14 of the United States Housing
Act of 1937 for the Pine Tower Apartment project and
the amounts, as determined by the Secretary, received
by the public housing agency under the formula in
section 14(k) of such Act by reason of the project.
SEC. 3. RURAL HOUSING.
(a) Underserved Areas Set-Aside.--Section 509(f)(4)(A) of the
Housing Act of 1949 (42 U.S.C. 1479(f)(4)(A)) is amended--
(1) in the first sentence, by striking ``fiscal years 1993
and 1994'' and inserting ``fiscal year 1995''; and
(2) in the second sentence, by striking ``each''.
(b) Rural Multifamily Rental Housing.--Section 515(b) of the
Housing Act of 1949 (42 U.S.C. 1485(b)) is amended--
(1) by striking paragraphs (2) and (4);
(2) by redesignating paragraph (3) as paragraph (4); and
(3) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following new
paragraphs:
``(2) such a loan may be made for a period of up to 50
years from the making of the loan;
``(3) the terms and conditions of such a loan shall provide
for periodic payments, during the term of the loan, based upon
a schedule for complete amortization of the loan over a 50-year
period and for payment of any outstanding amounts due under the
loan not later than the expiration of the term of the loan;''.
(c) Rural Rental Housing Funds for Nonprofit Entities.--The first
sentence of section 515(w)(1) of the Housing Act of 1949 (42 U.S.C.
1485(w)(1)) is amended by striking ``fiscal years 1993 and 1994'' and
inserting ``fiscal year 1995''.
(d) Loan Guarantees for Rural Multifamily Rental Housing Loans.--
Section 517 of the bill, H.R. 3838 (103d Congress), as passed by the
House of Representatives on July 22, 1994, is hereby enacted into law.
(e) Eligibility of Area for Rural Homeownership Loans.--Section 502
of the Housing Act of 1949 (42 U.S.C. 1472) is amended by adding at the
end the following new subsection:
``(i) Notwithstanding section 520, the Secretary may make loans
under this section for properties in the Pine View West Subdivision,
located in Gibsonville, North Carolina, in the same manner as provided
under this section for properties in rural areas.''.
(f) Definition of Rural Area.--The last sentence of section 520 of
the Housing Act of 1949 (42 U.S.C. 1490) is amended by striking ``city
of'' and inserting ``cities of South Tucson, Arizona, and''.
SEC. 4. MORTGAGE INSURANCE AND SECONDARY MORTGAGE MARKET PROGRAMS.
(a) Multifamily Housing Finance.--Section 542(b)(5) of the Housing
and Community Development Act of 1992 (12 U.S.C. 1707 note) is amended
by striking ``and 1994'' and inserting ``, 1994, and 1995''.
(b) Assessment Collection Dates for Office of Federal Housing
Enterprise Oversight.--Section 1316(b) of the Housing and Community
Development Act of 1992 (12 U.S.C. 4516(b)) is amended by striking
paragraph (2) and inserting the following new paragraph:
``(2) Timing of payment.--The annual assessment shall be
payable in installments on October 1 and April 1 of each fiscal
year.''.
SEC. 5. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT.
(a) Certain CDBG Assistance.--Section 916(f) of the Cranston-
Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act (42 U.S.C. 5306 note) is
amended by striking ``Act shall apply only with respect to fiscal years
1991, 1992, 1993, and 1994'' and inserting ``section shall not apply to
fiscal years after fiscal year 1995''.
(b) CDBG Public Services Limitations.--Section 105(a)(8) of the
Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 (42 U.S.C. 5305(a)(8)) is
amended--
(1) by striking ``and'' after ``under this paragraph,'';
(2) by striking ``fiscal year 1994'' and inserting ``fiscal
years 1994 and 1995''; and
(3) by inserting before the semicolon at the end the
following: ``, and except that of any amount of assistance
under this title (including program income) to the Cities of
Fairfield, Vallejo, Napa, and Vacaville, in California, such
cities may use not more than 20 percent in fiscal year 1995 for
activities under this paragraph'';
(c) Use of Grant Amounts.--
(1) Pittsburgh, pennsylvania.--Notwithstanding any other
provision of law, the city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, may
retain any amounts provided under an urban development action
grant for Project No. B-86-AA-42-0275 and use such funds for
the Central Pittsburgh Plaza project, if such project is
commenced not later than 6 months after the date of the
enactment of this Act.
(2) Wilkes-barre, pennsylvania.--Notwithstanding any other
provision of law, the city of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, may
retain any amounts provided under an urban development action
grant for Project No. B-87-AA-42-1211 and use such funds for
the Northeastern Pennsylvania Economic Development project, if
such project is commenced not later than 6 months after the
date of enactment of this Act.
(3) Richmond, virginia.--The Secretary of Housing and Urban
Development shall cancel the indebtedness of the city of
Richmond, Virginia, relating to the categorical program
settlement grant provided to the city to settle four urban
renewal programs (Project No. B-78-UR-51-0019). The city of
Richmond, Virginia, is hereby relieved of all liability to the
Federal Government for such grant and any fees and charges
payable in connection with such grant.
(4) Lockport township, illinois.--The Secretary of Housing
and Urban Development shall cancel the indebtedness of Lockport
Township, Illinois, relating to the public facilities loan for
Project No. ILL-11-PFL0112. Lockport Township, Illinois, is
hereby relieved of all liability to the Federal Government for
the outstanding principal balance on such loan, the amount of
accrued interest on such loan, and any other fees and charges
payable in connection with such loan.
(5) Budget compliance.--Paragraphs (3) and (4) of this
subsection shall be effective only to the extent, or in such
amounts, as are provided in appropriation Acts.
(d) New Towns Demonstration Program.--
(1) Insurance authority.--The first sentence of section
1104(d) of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1992
(42 U.S.C. 5318 note) is amended to read as follows: ``To the
extent provided in appropriation Acts, the Secretary shall use
any authority provided pursuant to section 531(b) of the
National Housing Act to enter into commitments to insure loans
and mortgages under this section in fiscal year 1995 with an
aggregate principal amount not exceeding such sums as may be
necessary to carry out the demonstration under this title.''.
(2) Second mortgage assistance.--Section 1105(e) of the
Housing and Community Development Act of 1992 (42 U.S.C. 5318
note) is amended to read as follows:
``(5) Authorization of appropriations.--There are
authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 1995 such sums as
may be necessary for providing assistance under this
section.''.
(3) Community development assistance.--Section 1106(h) of
the Housing and Community Development Act of 1992 (42 U.S.C.
5318 note) is amended to read as follows:
``(8) Authorization of appropriations.--There are
authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 1995 such sums as
may be necessary for assistance under this section.''.
(e) Economic Development Grants.--Section 108(q) of the Housing and
Community Development Act of 1974 is amended by adding at the end the
following new paragraph:
``(5) Authorization of appropriations.--Using any amounts
appropriated for grants under this subsection for fiscal year
1995, the Secretary shall make a grant in the amount of
$3,650,000 in such fiscal year to the Earth Conservancy in
Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, which shall be used for carrying
out a demonstration of using innovative environmental
technologies to reclaim land used for community and economic
development purposes that has been damaged by anthracite coal
mining activities.''.
SEC. 6. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS.
(a) State Agencies as Sureties.--Section 9304 of title 31, United
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new
subsection:
``(c) State Agencies.--A State agency, including any financing
authority established by any State, which meets the requirements of
paragraphs (2) and (3) of subsection (a) may be treated as a surety
corporation for purposes of this chapter. Notwithstanding any other
provision of law, user fees collected by the Financial Management
Services incident to sections 9304 through 9309 of this title shall be
credited to the appropriation of that agency and may be retained
without fiscal year limitation to carry out the provisions of such
sections.''.
(b) Clarification of Effective Date for Amendment Relating to
Commercial Mortgage Related Securities.--Section 347(d) of the Riegle
Community Development and Regulatory Improvement Act of 1994 (Public
Law 103-325; 108 Stat. 2241) is amended to read as follows:
``(d) Effective Date.--
``(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2), the
amendment made by subsection (a) shall take effect as of the
date of the enactment of the Housing Programs Extension Act of
1994.
``(2) National and insured state banks.--The amendment made
by subsection (a) shall not apply with respect to national
banks or, in accordance with section 24 of the Federal Deposit
Insurance Act, insured State banks before the effective date of
final regulations prescribed by the Comptroller of the Currency
pursuant to subsection (c).''.
Passed the House of Representatives October 7, 1994.
Attest:
DONNALD K. ANDERSON,
Clerk. | Housing Programs Extension Act of 1994 - Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to offer owners 24-month extensions of expiring section 8 assistance contracts. Authorizes tenant displacement assistance in cases of unextended contracts. Authorizes appropriations.
Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to: (1) include Rockland County, New York, as a special median income area; (2) reduce disaster and emergency modernization funding set-asides; and (3) set aside specified modernization funds for anti-crime activities.
Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1987 to extend set-aside grant authority through FY 1995 for low-income housing preservation and homeownership acquisition grants and technical assistance and capacity building.
Amends the National Housing Act to authorize appropriations through FY 1995 for the flexible subsidy program.
Amends the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968 to authorize appropriations through FY 1995 for specified housing counseling services.
Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to extend set-aside authority through FY 1995 for public housing reconstruction for disabled families.
Provides for: (1) assistance conversion of certain projects in Michigan and Pennsylvania; (2) rehabilitation compliance for certain projects in New Jersey; and (3) eligibility of certain public housing for demolition in Texas.
(Sec. 3) Amends the Housing Act of 1949 with regard to rural housing to: (1) extend the underserved area set-aside through FY 1995; (2) eliminate the termination date for the multifamily housing loan insurance program, and make such loan available for a 50-year period; (3) extend the set-aside through FY 1995 for rental housing funds for nonprofit entities; (4) make certain properties in North Carolina eligible for rural homeownership loans; and (5) consider South Tucson, Arizona, a rural area.
(Sec. 4) Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1992 to extend the multifamily housing mortgage risk-sharing program through FY 1995.
(Sec. 5) Amends the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act to extend through FY 1995 community development block grant (CDBG) set-asides for colonias.
Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1994 to: (1) extend through FY 1995 CDBG public services limitations; and (2) provide certain cities in California with a 20 percent CDBG public services use limit.
Authorizes Pittsburgh and Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, to retain and use certain urban development action grant funds.
Directs the Secretary to cancel certain housing and related debts for Richmond, Virginia, and Lockport Township, Illinois.
Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1992 to extend through FY 1995 insurance authority and authorization of appropriations (including mortgage and community development assistance) for the New Towns Demonstration Program for Los Angeles, California.
Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to authorize appropriations for the Earth Conservancy in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, to reclaim coal mining-damaged land.
(Sec. 6) Amends Federal law to permit qualifying State agencies to be treated as sureties. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Housing Programs Extension Act of 1994"} | 4,176 | 661 | 0.487262 | 1.632836 | 0.782239 | 2.461538 | 5.877926 | 0.866221 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; AMENDMENT OF 1986 CODE.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Greater Research
Opportunities With Tax Help Act'' or ``GROWTH Act''.
(b) Amendment of 1986 Code.--Except as otherwise expressly
provided, whenever in this Act an amendment or repeal is expressed in
terms of an amendment to, or repeal of, a section or other provision,
the reference shall be considered to be made to a section or other
provision of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
SEC. 2. PERMANENT EXTENSION AND MODIFICATION OF RESEARCH CREDIT.
(a) Simplified Credit for Qualified Research Expenses.--Subsection
(a) of section 41 is amended to read as follows:
``(a) General Rule.--For purposes of section 38, the research
credit determined under this section for the taxable year shall be an
amount equal to 20 percent of so much of the qualified research
expenses for the taxable year as exceeds 50 percent of the average
qualified research expenses for the 3 taxable years preceding the
taxable year for which the credit is being determined.''.
(b) Special Rules and Termination of Base Amount Calculation.--
(1) In general.--Subsection (c) of section 41 is amended to
read as follows:
``(c) Special Rule in Case of No Qualified Research Expenses in Any
of 3 Preceding Taxable Years.--
``(1) Taxpayers to which subsection applies.--The credit
under this section shall be determined under this subsection,
and not under subsection (a), if, in any one of the 3 taxable
years preceding the taxable year for which the credit is being
determined, the taxpayer has no qualified research expenses.
``(2) Credit rate.--The credit determined under this
subsection shall be equal to 10 percent of the qualified
research expenses for the taxable year.''.
(2) Consistent treatment of expenses.--Subsection (b) of
section 41 is amended by adding at the end the following new
paragraph:
``(5) Consistent treatment of expenses required.--
``(A) In general.--Notwithstanding whether the
period for filing a claim for credit or refund has
expired for any taxable year in the 3-taxable-year
period taken into account under subsection (a), the
qualified research expenses taken into account for such
year shall be determined on a basis consistent with the
determination of qualified research expenses for the
credit year.
``(B) Prevention of distortions.--The Secretary may
prescribe regulations to prevent distortions in
calculating a taxpayer's qualified research expenses
caused by a change in accounting methods used by such
taxpayer between the credit year and a year in such 3-
taxable-year period.''.
(c) Inclusion of Qualified Research Expenses of an Acquired
Person.--
(1) Partial inclusion of pre-acquisition qualified research
expenses.--Subparagraph (A) of section 41(f)(3) is amended to
read as follows:
``(A) Acquisitions.--
``(i) In general.--If a person acquires the
major portion of a trade or business of another
person (hereinafter in this paragraph referred
to as the `predecessor') or the major portion
of a separate unit of a trade or business of a
predecessor, then the amount of qualified
research expenses paid or incurred by the
acquiring person during the 3 taxable years
preceding the taxable year in which the credit
under this section is determined shall be
increased by--
``(I) for purposes of applying this
section for the taxable year in which
such acquisition is made, the amount
determined under clause (ii), and
``(II) for purposes of applying
this section for any taxable year after
the taxable year in which such
acquisition is made, so much of the
qualified research expenses paid or
incurred by the predecessor with
respect to the acquired trade or
business during the portion of the
measurement period that is part of the
3-taxable-year period preceding the
taxable year for which the credit is
determined as is attributable to the
portion of such trade or business or
separate unit acquired by such person.
``(ii) Amount determined.--The amount
determined under this clause is the amount
equal to the product of--
``(I) so much of the qualified
research expenses paid or incurred by
the predecessor with respect to the
acquired trade or business during the 3
taxable years before the taxable year
in which the acquisition is made as is
attributable to the portion of such
trade or business or separate unit
acquired by the acquiring person, and
``(II) the number of months in the
period beginning on the date of the
acquisition and ending on the last day
of the taxable year in which the
acquisition is made,
divided by 12.
``(iii) Special rules for coordinating
taxable years.--In the case of an acquiring
person and a predecessor whose taxable years do
not begin on the same date--
``(I) each reference to a taxable
year in clauses (i) and (ii) shall
refer to the appropriate taxable year
of the acquiring person,
``(II) the qualified research
expenses paid or incurred by the
predecessor during each taxable year of
the predecessor any portion of which is
part of the measurement period shall be
allocated equally among the months of
such taxable year, and
``(III) the amount of such
qualified research expenses taken into
account under clauses (i) and (ii) with
respect to a taxable year of the
acquiring person shall be equal to the
total of the expenses attributable
under subclause (II) to the months
occurring during such taxable year.
``(iv) Measurement period.--For purposes of
this subparagraph, the term `measurement
period' means the taxable year of the acquiring
person in which the acquisition is made and the
3 taxable years of the acquiring person
preceding such taxable year.''.
(2) Expenses of a disposing person.--Subparagraph (B) of
section 41(f)(3) is amended to read as follows:
``(B) Dispositions.--If a person disposes of the
major portion of any trade or business or the major
portion of a separate unit of a trade or business in a
transaction to which subparagraph (A) applies, and the
disposing person furnished to the acquiring person such
information as is necessary for the application of
subparagraph (A), then, for purposes of applying this
section for any taxable year ending after such
disposition, the amount of qualified research expenses
paid or incurred by the disposing person during the 3
taxable years preceding such taxable year shall be
decreased by the amount of the increase determined
under subparagraph (A) with respect to the acquiring
person for such taxable year.''.
(d) Aggregation of Expenditures.--Paragraph (1) of section 41(f) is
amended--
(1) by striking ``shall be its proportionate shares of the
qualified research expenses, basic research payments, and
amounts paid or incurred to energy research consortiums, giving
rise to the credit'' in subparagraph (A)(ii) and inserting
``shall be determined on a proportionate basis to its share of
the aggregate qualified research expenses taken into account by
such controlled group for purposes of this section'', and
(2) by striking ``shall be its proportionate shares of the
qualified research expenses, basic research payments, and
amounts paid or incurred to energy research consortiums, giving
rise to the credit'' in subparagraph (B)(ii) and inserting
``shall be determined on a proportionate basis to its share of
the aggregate qualified research expenses taken into account by
all such persons under common control for purposes of this
section''.
(e) Permanent Extension.--
(1) Section 41 is amended by striking subsection (h).
(2) Paragraph (1) of section 45C(b) is amended by striking
subparagraph (D).
(f) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Termination of basic research payment calculation.--
Section 41 is amended--
(A) by striking subsection (e),
(B) by redesignating subsection (g) as subsection
(e), and
(C) by relocating subsection (e), as so
redesignated, immediately after subsection (d).
(2) Special rules.--
(A) Paragraph (4) of section 41(f) is amended by
striking ``and gross receipts''.
(B) Subsection (f) of section 41 is amended by
striking paragraph (6).
(3) Cross-references.--
(A) Paragraph (2) of section 45C(c) is amended by
striking ``base period research expenses'' and
inserting ``average qualified research expenses''.
(B) Subparagraph (A) of section 54(l)(3) is amended
by striking ``section 41(g)'' and inserting ``section
41(e)''.
(C) Clause (i) of section 170(e)(4)(B) is amended
to read as follows:
``(i) the contribution is to a qualified
organization,''.
(D) Paragraph (4) of section 170(e) is amended by
adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
``(E) Qualified organization.--For purposes of this
paragraph, the term `qualified organization' means--
``(i) any educational organization which--
``(I) is an institution of higher
education (within the meaning of
section 3304(f)), and
``(II) is described in subsection
(b)(1)(A)(ii), or
``(ii) any organization not described in
clause (i) which--
``(I) is described in section
501(c)(3) and is exempt from tax under
section 501(a),
``(II) is organized and operated
primarily to conduct scientific
research, and
``(III) is not a private
foundation.''.
(E) Section 280C is amended--
(i) by striking ``or basic research
expenses (as defined in section 41(e)(2))'' in
subsection (c)(1),
(ii) by striking ``section 41(a)(1)'' in
subsection (c)(2)(A) and inserting ``section
41(a)'', and
(iii) by striking ``or basic research
expenses'' in subsection (c)(2)(B).
(F) Clause (i) of section 1400N(l)(7)(B) is amended
by striking ``section 41(g)'' and inserting ``section
41(e)''.
(g) Technical Corrections.--Section 409 is amended--
(1) by inserting ``, as in effect before the enactment of
the Tax Reform Act of 1984)'' after ``section 41(c)(1)(B)'' in
subsection (b)(1)(A),
(2) by inserting ``, as in effect before the enactment of
the Tax Reform Act of 1984'' after ``relating to the employee
stock ownership credit'' in subsection (b)(4),
(3) by inserting ``(as in effect before the enactment of
the Tax Reform Act of 1984)'' after ``section 41(c)(1)(B)'' in
subsection (i)(1)(A),
(4) by inserting ``(as in effect before the enactment of
the Tax Reform Act of 1984)'' after ``section 41(c)(1)(B)'' in
subsection (m),
(5) by inserting ``(as so in effect)'' after ``section
48(n)(1)'' in subsection (m),
(6) by inserting ``(as in effect before the enactment of
the Tax Reform Act of 1984)'' after ``section 48(n)'' in
subsection (q)(1), and
(7) by inserting ``(as in effect before the enactment of
the Tax Reform Act of 1984)'' after ``section 41'' in
subsection (q)(3).
(h) Effective Date.--
(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraphs (2) and
(3), the amendments made by this section shall apply to taxable
years beginning after December 31, 2011.
(2) Permanent extension.--The amendments made by subsection
(e) shall apply to amounts paid or incurred after December 31,
2011.
(3) Technical corrections.--The amendments made by
subsection (g) shall take effect on the date of the enactment
of this Act. | Greater Research Opportunities with Tax Help Act or GROWTH Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) increase from 14% to 20% the rate of the tax credit for increasing research activities, (2) modify rules for calculating such credit, and (3) make such credit permanent. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase and make permanent the alternative simplified research credit, and for other purposes."} | 2,818 | 58 | 0.561272 | 1.339001 | 0.859106 | 1.948276 | 43.568966 | 0.844828 |
SECTION 1. STATE OPTION TO REQUIRE CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS TO PRESENT
SATISFACTORY DOCUMENTARY EVIDENCE OF PROOF OF CITIZENSHIP
OR NATIONALITY FOR PURPOSES OF ELIGIBILITY FOR MEDICAID.
(a) In General.--Section 1902(a)(46) of the Social Security Act (42
U.S.C. 1396a(a)(46)) is amended--
(1) by inserting ``(A)'' after ``(46)'';
(2) by adding ``and'' after the semicolon; and
(3) by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
``(B) at the option of the State and subject to section
1903(x), require that, with respect to an individual (other
than an individual described in section 1903(x)(1)) who
declares to be a citizen or national of the United States for
purposes of establishing initial eligibility for medical
assistance under this title (or, at State option, for purposes
of renewing or redetermining such eligibility to the extent
that such satisfactory documentary evidence of citizenship or
nationality has not yet been presented), there is presented
satisfactory documentary evidence of citizenship or nationality
of the individual (using criteria determined by the State,
which shall be no more restrictive than the criteria used by
the Social Security Administration to determine citizenship,
and which shall accept as such evidence a document issued by a
federally-recognized Indian tribe evidencing membership or
enrollment in, or affiliation with, such tribe (such as a
tribal enrollment card or certificate of degree of Indian
blood, and, with respect to those federally-recognized Indian
tribes located within States having an international border
whose membership includes individuals who are not citizens of
the United States, such other forms of documentation (including
tribal documentation, if appropriate) that the Secretary, after
consulting with such tribes, determines to be satisfactory
documentary evidence of citizenship or nationality for purposes
of satisfying the requirement of this subparagraph));''.
(b) Limitation on Waiver Authority.--Notwithstanding any provision
of section 1115 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1315), or any
other provision of law, the Secretary of Health and Human Services may
not waive the requirements of section 1902(a)(46)(B) of such Act (42
U.S.C. 1396a(a)(46)(B)) with respect to a State.
(c) Conforming Amendments.--Section 1903 of such Act (42 U.S.C.
1396b) is amended--
(1) in subsection (i)--
(A) in paragraph (20), by adding ``or'' after the
semicolon;
(B) in paragraph (21), by striking ``; or'' and
inserting a period; and
(C) by striking paragraph (22); and
(2) in subsection (x) (as amended by section 405(c)(1)(A)
of division B of the Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006
(Public Law 109-432))--
(A) by striking paragraphs (1) and (3);
(B) by redesignating paragraph (2) as paragraph
(1);
(C) in paragraph (1), as so redesignated, by
striking ``paragraph (1)'' and inserting ``section
1902(a)(46)(B)''; and
(D) by adding at the end the following new
paragraph:
``(2) In the case of an individual declaring to be a citizen or
national of the United States with respect to whom a State requires the
presentation of satisfactory documentary evidence of citizenship or
nationality under section 1902(a)(46)(B), the individual shall be
provided at least the reasonable opportunity to present satisfactory
documentary evidence of citizenship or nationality under this
subsection as is provided under clauses (i) and (ii) of section
1137(d)(4)(A) to an individual for the submittal to the State of
evidence indicating a satisfactory immigration status.''.
SEC. 2. CLARIFICATION OF RULES FOR CHILDREN BORN IN THE UNITED STATES
TO MOTHERS ELIGIBLE FOR MEDICAID.
Section 1903(x) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 1396b(x)), as amended by
section 1(c)(2), is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)--
(A) in subparagraph (C), by striking ``or'' at the
end;
(B) by redesignating subparagraph (D) as
subparagraph (E); and
(C) by inserting after subparagraph (C) the
following new subparagraph:
``(D) pursuant to the application of section 1902(e)(4)
(and, in the case of an individual who is eligible for medical
assistance on such basis, the individual shall be deemed to
have provided satisfactory documentary evidence of citizenship
or nationality and shall not be required to provide further
documentary evidence on any date that occurs during or after
the period in which the individual is eligible for medical
assistance on such basis); or''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(3) Nothing in subparagraph (A) or (B) of section 1902(a)(46),
the preceding paragraphs of this subsection, or the Deficit Reduction
Act of 2005, including section 6036 of such Act, shall be construed as
changing the requirement of section 1902(e)(4) that a child born in the
United States to an alien mother for whom medical assistance for the
delivery of such child is available as treatment of an emergency
medical condition pursuant to subsection (v) shall be deemed eligible
for medical assistance during the first year of such child's life.''.
SEC. 3. EFFECTIVE DATE.
(a) Retroactive Application.--The amendments made by this Act shall
take effect as if included in the enactment of the Deficit Reduction
Act of 2005 (Public Law 109-171; 120 Stat. 4).
(b) Restoration of Eligibility.--In the case of an individual who,
during the period that began on July 1, 2006, and ends on the date of
enactment of this Act, was determined to be ineligible for medical
assistance under a State Medicaid program solely as a result of the
application of subsections (i)(22) and (x) of section 1903 of the
Social Security Act (as in effect during such period), but who would
have been determined eligible for such assistance if such subsections,
as amended by sections 1 and 2, had applied to the individual, a State
may deem the individual to be eligible for such assistance as of the
date that the individual was determined to be ineligible for such
medical assistance on such basis. | Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to permit states, at their option, to require certain individuals to present satisfactory documentary evidence of citizenship or nationality for Medicaid eligibility.
Revises the rules for children born in the United States to mothers eligible for Medicaid. Declares that a Medicaid-eligible individual shall be deemed to have provided satisfactory documentary evidence of citizenship or nationality, and shall not be required to provide further evidence, on any date during or after the period in which the individual is eligible for Medicaid. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To amend title XIX of the Social Security Act to permit States, at their option, to require certain individuals to present satisfactory documentary evidence of proof of citizenship or nationality for purposes of eligibility for Medicaid, and for other purposes."} | 1,517 | 117 | 0.539693 | 1.453753 | 0.60867 | 4.831683 | 12.831683 | 0.950495 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``IMF Reform and Integrity Act''.
SEC. 2. OPPOSITION OF THE UNITED STATES TO FINANCIAL PARTICIPATION BY
THE INTERNATIONAL MONETARY FUND IN FOREIGN-LED
AGREEMENTS.
The Bretton Woods Agreements Act (22 U.S.C. 286-286xx) is amended
by adding at the end the following:
``SEC. 73. OPPOSITION OF THE UNITED STATES TO FINANCIAL PARTICIPATION
BY THE INTERNATIONAL MONETARY FUND IN FOREIGN-LED
AGREEMENTS.
``The Secretary of the Treasury shall instruct--
``(1) the United States Executive Director at the Fund--
``(A) to use the voice and vote of the United
States to oppose the provision by the Fund of
financing, including the disbursement of financing
approved before the enactment of this section, in
conjunction with financing to be provided by a
multilateral organization of which the United States is
not a member if--
``(i) the present value of the financing to
be provided by the multilateral organization
would exceed the present value of the financing
to be provided by the Fund; or
``(ii) the obligation of the debtor with
respect to the financing provided by the Fund
is not explicitly made senior to the obligation
of the debtor with respect to the financing
provided by the multilateral organization; and
``(B) not later than 7 days after the approval by
the Fund of any financing to which paragraph (1)
applies, to transmit a certification to the Committees
on Financial Services and Foreign Affairs of the House
of Representatives and the Committees on Banking,
Housing, and Urban Affairs and Foreign Relations of the
Senate that the obligation of the debtor with respect
to the financing provided by the Fund has been
explicitly made senior to the obligation of the debtor
with respect to the financing provided by the
multilateral organization; and
``(2) the United States Governor of the Fund to use the
voice and vote of the United States to oppose any proposal to
make additional resources available to the Fund in the
aggregate, or increase the quota of any member of the Fund who
is a member of a multilateral organization of which the United
States is not a member, if, during the 24 months before
consideration of the proposal by the Board of Governors of the
Fund--
``(A) the Fund has approved the provision of, or
disbursed, financing in conjunction with financing
provided or to be provided by the multilateral
organization, as described in paragraph (1); or
``(B) an obligation to the Fund resulting from such
an approval or disbursement has not been repaid in
full.''.
SEC. 3. REPEAL OF THE NEW ARRANGEMENTS TO BORROW; RESCISSION OF FUNDS.
(a) Repeal.--
(1) In general.--Section 17 of the Bretton Woods Agreements
Act (22 U.S.C. 286e-2) is amended--
(A) by striking subsections (a), (b), (d), and (f);
and
(B) in subsection (c)--
(i) by striking ``(c)''; and
(ii) by striking ``In addition to the
amount authorized in subsection (b), there''
and inserting ``There''.
(2) Conforming repeal.--Section 9001 of the Department of
State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations
Act, 2016 (22 U.S.C. 286e-2 note; division K of Public Law 114-
113) is amended by striking paragraph (3).
(b) Rescission.--The unobligated balances made available to carry
out subsections (a) and (b) of section 17 of the Bretton Woods
Agreements Act, as in effect before the enactment of this Act, are
rescinded.
SEC. 4. OPPOSITION OF THE UNITED STATES TO INTERNATIONAL MONETARY FUND
LOAN TO A COUNTRY WHOSE PUBLIC DEBT IS NOT LIKELY TO BE
SUSTAINABLE IN THE MEDIUM TERM.
Section 68(a) of the Bretton Woods Agreements Act (22 U.S.C.
286tt(a)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (2), by inserting after the comma the
following: ``or a staff analytical report of the Fund states
that there is not a high probability that the public debt of
the country is sustainable in the medium term,''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(3) Presidential waiver authority.--The President of the
United States may waive paragraph (2) if the President provides
a written certification to the Committees on Financial Services
and Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives and the
Committees on Foreign Relations and Banking, Housing, and Urban
Affairs of the Senate that the waiver is important to the
national security interest of the United States, and includes
with the certification a written statement of the reasons
therefor.''.
SEC. 5. CONGRESSIONAL NOTIFICATION WITH RESPECT TO EXCEPTIONAL ACCESS
LENDING.
The Bretton Woods Agreements Act (22 U.S.C. 286-286xx), as amended
by section 2 of this Act, is amended by adding at the end the
following:
``SEC. 74. CONGRESSIONAL NOTIFICATION WITH RESPECT TO EXCEPTIONAL
ACCESS LENDING.
``The United States Executive Director at the International
Monetary Fund may not support any proposal that would alter the
criteria used by the Fund for exceptional access lending if the
proposal would permit a country that is ineligible, before the proposed
alteration, to receive exceptional access lending, unless, not later
than 30 days before consideration of the proposal by the Board of
Executive Directors of the Fund, the Secretary of the Treasury has
submitted to the Committee on Financial Services and the Committee on
Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives and the Committee on
Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs and the Committee on Foreign
Relations of the Senate a report on the justification for the proposal
and the effects of the proposed alteration on moral hazard and
repayment risk at the Fund.''.
SEC. 6. MONITORING AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE.
Nothing in this Act shall be interpreted as requiring the
opposition of the United States to the provision of monitoring,
technical assistance, or advisory services by the International
Monetary Fund. | IMF Reform and Integrity Act This bill amends the Bretton Woods Agreements Act to direct the United States to oppose: International Monetary Fund (IMF) financing in conjunction with financing by a multilateral organization of which the United States is not a member if such organization's financing would exceed the IMF's financing or the debtor's IMF obligation is not made explicitly senior to the debtor's obligation to the multilateral organization; any proposal to make additional resources available to the IMF or to increase the quota of any IMF member who is a member of a multilateral organization of which the United States is not a member if, during the previous 24 months, either the IMF has approved or disbursed financing in conjunction with financing provided by such multilateral organization or an obligation to the IMF from such approval or disbursement has not been fully repaid; any proposed IMF loan to a country about which an IMF staff analytical report finds no high probability that the country's public debt is sustainable in the medium term (currently, only if the proposed loan is not likely to be repaid in full); and any proposal that would alter IMF criteria for exceptional access lending such that an ineligible country would become eligible for such lending, unless the Department of the Treasury has submitted a justification for such proposal, including its effects on repayment risk. The bill cancels and rescinds certain deactivated IMF funds. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "IMF Reform and Integrity Act"} | 1,469 | 323 | 0.623996 | 1.978438 | 0.915114 | 3.13308 | 4.787072 | 0.889734 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Public Buildings Cost Reduction Act
of 2007''.
SEC. 2. COST-EFFECTIVE TECHNOLOGY ACCELERATION PROGRAM.
(a) Establishment.--
(1) In general.--The Administrator of General Services
(referred to in this section as the ``Administrator'') shall
establish a program to accelerate the use of more cost-
effective technologies and practices at GSA facilities.
(2) Requirements.--The program established under this
subsection shall--
(A) ensure centralized responsibility for the
coordination of cost reduction recommendations,
practices, and activities of all relevant Federal
agencies;
(B) provide technical assistance and operational
guidance to applicable tenants in order to achieve the
goals identified in subsection (c)(2)(A); and
(C) establish methods to track the success of
departments and agencies with respect to the goals
identified in subsection (c)(2)(A).
(b) Accelerated Use of Cost-Effective Lighting Technologies.--
(1) Review.--
(A) In general.--As part of the program under this
subsection, not later than 90 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall conduct
a review of--
(i) current use of cost-effective lighting
technologies in GSA facilities; and
(ii) the availability to managers of GSA
facilities of cost-effective lighting
technologies.
(B) Requirements.--The review under subparagraph
(A) shall--
(i) examine the use of cost-effective
lighting technologies and other cost-effective
technologies and practices by Federal agencies
in GSA facilities; and
(ii) identify, in consultation with the
Environmental Protection Agency, cost-effective
lighting technology standards that could be
used for all types of GSA facilities.
(2) Replacement.--
(A) In general.--As part of the program under this
subsection, not later than 180 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall
establish a cost-effective lighting technology
acceleration program to achieve maximum feasible
replacement of existing lighting technologies with more
cost-effective lighting technologies in each GSA
facility using available appropriations.
(B) Acceleration plan timetable.--
(i) In general.--To implement the program
established under subparagraph (A), not later
than 1 year after the date of enactment of this
Act, the Administrator shall establish a
timetable including milestones for specific
activities needed to replace existing lighting
technologies with more cost-effective lighting
technologies, to the maximum extent feasible
(including at the maximum rate feasible), at
each GSA facility.
(ii) Goal.--The goal of the timetable under
clause (i) shall be to complete, using
available appropriations, maximum feasible
replacement of existing lighting technologies
with more cost-effective lighting technologies
by not later than the date that is 5 years
after the date of enactment of this Act.
(c) GSA Facility Cost-Effective Technologies and Practices.--Not
later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, and
annually thereafter, the Administrator shall--
(1) ensure that a manager responsible for accelerating the
use of cost-effective technologies and practices is designated
for each GSA facility; and
(2) submit to Congress a plan, to be implemented to the
maximum extent feasible (including at the maximum rate
feasible) using available appropriations, by not later than the
date that is 5 years after the date of enactment of this Act,
that--
(A) identifies the specific activities needed to
achieve a 20-percent reduction in operational costs
through the application of cost-effective technologies
and practices from 2003 levels at GSA facilities by not
later than 5 years after the date of enactment of this
Act;
(B) describes activities required and carried out
to estimate the funds necessary to achieve the
reduction described in subparagraph (A);
(C) describes the status of the implementation of
cost-effective technologies and practices at GSA
facilities, including--
(i) the extent to which programs, including
the program established under subsection (b),
are being carried out in accordance with this
Act; and
(ii) the status of funding requests and
appropriations for those programs;
(D) identifies within the planning, budgeting, and
construction process all types of GSA facility-related
procedures that inhibit new and existing GSA facilities
from implementing cost-effective technologies and
practices;
(E) recommends language for uniform standards for
use by Federal agencies in implementing cost-effective
technologies and practices;
(F) in coordination with the Office of Management
and Budget, reviews the budget process for capital
programs with respect to alternatives for--
(i) permitting Federal agencies to retain
all identified savings accrued as a result of
the use of cost-effective technologies and
practices; and
(ii) identifying short- and long-term cost
savings that accrue from cost-effective
technologies and practices;
(G) achieves cost savings through the application
of cost-effective technologies and practices sufficient
to pay the incremental additional costs of installing
the cost-effective technologies and practices by not
later than the date that is 5 years after the date of
installation; and
(H) includes recommendations to address each of the
matters, and a plan for implementation of each
recommendation, described in subparagraphs (A) through
(G).
(d) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out this section, to
remain available until expended.
SEC. 3. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY DEMONSTRATION GRANT PROGRAM FOR
LOCAL GOVERNMENTS.
(a) Grant Program.--
(1) In general.--The Administrator of the Environmental
Protection Agency (referred to in this section as the
``Administrator'') shall establish a demonstration program
under which the Administrator shall provide competitive grants
to assist local governments (such as municipalities and
counties), with respect to local government buildings--
(A) to deploy cost-effective technologies and
practices; and
(B) to achieve operational cost savings, through
the application of cost-effective technologies and
practices, as verified by the Administrator.
(2) Cost sharing.--
(A) In general.--The Federal share of the cost of
an activity carried out using a grant provided under
this section shall be 40 percent.
(B) Waiver of non-federal share.--The Administrator
may waive up to 100 percent of the local share of the
cost of any grant under this section should the
Administrator determine that the community is
economically distressed, pursuant to objective economic
criteria established by the Administrator in published
guidelines.
(3) Maximum amount.--The amount of a grant provided under
this subsection shall not exceed $1,000,000.
(b) Guidelines.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall issue guidelines
to implement the grant program established under subsection
(a).
(2) Requirements.--The guidelines under paragraph (1) shall
establish--
(A) standards for monitoring and verification of
operational cost savings through the application of
cost-effective technologies and practices reported by
grantees under this section;
(B) standards for grantees to implement training
programs, and to provide technical assistance and
education, relating to the retrofit of buildings using
cost-effective technologies and practices; and
(C) a requirement that each local government that
receives a grant under this section shall achieve
facility-wide cost savings, through renovation of
existing local government buildings using cost-
effective technologies and practices, of at least 40
percent as compared to the baseline operational costs
of the buildings before the renovation (as calculated
assuming a 3-year, weather-normalized average).
(c) Compliance With State and Local Law.--Nothing in this section
or any program carried out using a grant provided under this section
supersedes or otherwise affects any State or local law, to the extent
that the State or local law contains a requirement that is more
stringent than the relevant requirement of this section.
(d) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section $20,000,000 for each of fiscal
years 2007 through 2012.
(e) Reports.--
(1) In general.--The Administrator shall provide annual
reports to Congress on cost savings achieved and actions taken
and recommendations made under this section, and any
recommendations for further action.
(2) Final report.--The Administrator shall issue a final
report at the conclusion of the program, including findings, a
summary of total cost savings achieved, and recommendations for
further action.
(f) Termination.--The program under this section shall terminate on
September 30, 2012.
SEC. 4. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Cost-effective lighting technology.--
(A) In general.--The term ``cost-effective lighting
technology'' means a lighting technology that--
(i) will result in substantial operational
cost savings by ensuring an installed
consumption of not more than 1 watt per square
foot; or
(ii) is contained in a list under--
(I) section 553 of Public Law 95-
619 (42 U.S.C. 8259b); and
(II) Federal acquisition regulation
23-203.
(B) Inclusions.--The term ``cost-effective lighting
technology'' includes--
(i) lamps;
(ii) ballasts;
(iii) luminaires;
(iv) lighting controls;
(v) daylighting; and
(vi) early use of other highly cost-
effective lighting technologies.
(2) Cost-effective technologies and practices.--The term
``cost-effective technologies and practices'' means a
technology or practice that--
(A) will result in substantial operational cost
savings by reducing utility costs; and
(B) complies with the provisions of section 553 of
Public Law 95-619 (42 U.S.C. 8259b) and Federal
acquisition regulation 23-203.
(3) Operational cost savings.--
(A) In general.--The term ``operational cost
savings'' means a reduction in end-use operational
costs through the application of cost-effective
technologies and practices, including a reduction in
electricity consumption relative to consumption by the
same customer or at the same facility in a given year,
as defined in guidelines promulgated by the
Administrator pursuant to section 3(b), that achieves
cost savings sufficient to pay the incremental
additional costs of using cost-effective technologies
and practices by not later than the date that is 5
years after the date of installation.
(B) Inclusions.--The term ``operational cost
savings'' includes savings achieved at a facility as a
result of--
(i) the installation or use of cost-
effective technologies and practices; or
(ii) the planting of vegetation that shades
the facility and reduces the heating, cooling,
or lighting needs of the facility.
(C) Exclusion.--The term ``operational cost
savings'' does not include savings from measures that
would likely be adopted in the absence of cost-
effective technology and practices programs, as
determined by the Administrator.
(4) GSA facility.--
(A) In general.--The term ``GSA facility'' means
any building, structure, or facility, in whole or in
part (including the associated support systems of the
building, structure, or facility) that--
(i) is constructed (including facilities
constructed for lease), renovated, or
purchased, in whole or in part, by the
Administrator for use by the Federal
Government; or
(ii) is leased, in whole or in part, by the
Administrator for use by the Federal
Government--
(I) except as provided in subclause
(II), for a term of not less than 5
years; or
(II) for a term of less than 5
years, if the Administrator determines
that use of cost-effective technologies
and practices would result in the
payback of expenses.
(B) Inclusion.--The term ``GSA facility'' includes
any group of buildings, structures, or facilities
described in subparagraph (A) (including the associated
energy-consuming support systems of the buildings,
structures, and facilities).
(C) Exemption.--The Administrator may exempt from
the definition of ``GSA facility'' under this paragraph
a building, structure, or facility that meets the
requirements of section 543(c) of Public Law 95-619 (42
U.S.C. 8253(c)). | Public Buildings Cost Reduction Act of 2007 - (Sec. 2) Requires the Administrator of General Services to establish a program to accelerate the use of more cost-effective technologies and practices at General Services Administration (GSA) facilities. Requires such program to: (1) ensure centralized responsibility for the coordination of cost reduction recommendations, practices, and activities of all relevant federal agencies; (2) provide technical assistance and operational guidance to tenants in order to achieve a 20% reduction in operational costs through the application of cost-effective technologies and practices from 2003 levels at GSA facilities by not later than five years after this Act's enactment; and (3) establish methods to track the success of departments and agencies with respect to the reduction goal.
Requires the Administrator, as part of such program, to: (1) review the current use of cost-effective lighting technologies in GSA facilities and the availability to managers of GSA facilities of cost-effective lighting technologies; and (2) establish a cost-effective lighting technology acceleration program to achieve maximum feasible replacement of existing lighting technologies with more cost-effective lighting technologies in each GSA facility using available appropriations.
Requires the Administrator to annually ensure that a manager responsible for accelerating the use of cost-effective technologies and practices is designated for each GSA facility. Requires the Administrator to annually submit to Congress a plan that: (1) identifies the specific activities needed to achieve a 20% reduction in operational costs; (2) describes activities required and carried out to estimate the funds necessary to achieve such reduction; (3) describes the status of the implementation of cost-effective technologies and practices at GSA facilities; (4) identifies within the planning, budgeting, and construction process all types of GSA facility-related procedures that inhibit new and existing GSA facilities from implementing cost-effective technology and practices; (5) recommends language for uniform standards for use by federal agencies in implementing cost-effective technologies and practices; (6) reviews the budget process for capital programs with respect to alternatives for permitting federal agencies to retain all identified savings accrued as a result of the use of cost-effective technologies and practices and identifying cost savings that accrue from cost-effective technologies and practices; (7) achieves cost savings through the application of such technologies and practices sufficient to pay the incremental additional costs of installing them by not later than the five years after the date of installation; and (8) includes recommendations to address each of the matters and a plan for implementation of each recommendation.
(Sec. 3) Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish a demonstration program under which the Administrator shall provide competitive grants program to assist local governments with respect to local government buildings to: (1) deploy cost-effective technologies and practices; and (2) achieve operational cost savings, through the application of such technologies and practices.
Provides that the federal share of the cost of an activity carried out using a grant shall be 40%. Requires the Administrator to waive up to 100% of the local share of the cost of any grant under this Act if the community is economically distressed, pursuant to objective economic criteria established by the Administrator.
Requires the Administrator to issue guidelines to implement the grant program.
Authorizes appropriations to carry out this Act.
Requires the Administrator to report to Congress on the cost savings achieved, action taken, recommendations made under this Act, and any recommendations for further action.
Terminates the program on September 30, 2012. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "A bill to achieve emission reductions and cost savings through accelerated use of cost-effective lighting technologies in public buildings, and for other purposes."} | 2,720 | 729 | 0.761217 | 2.368919 | 0.780143 | 4.884672 | 3.718248 | 0.963504 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Social Worker Safety Act of 2017''.
SEC. 2. SOCIAL WORKER SAFETY GRANT PROGRAM.
(a) Grants Authorized.--The Secretary of Health and Human Services
may award grants to States to provide safety measures to social workers
and other similar professionals (as designated by the Secretary)
working with violent, illicit drug-using, or other at-risk populations.
(b) Use of Funds.--Grants awarded pursuant to subsection (a) may be
used to provide or support the following safety measures:
(1)(A) The procurement and installation of safety
equipment, including communications or recording systems, such
as cell phones, wearable tracking devices with GPS/Bluetooth
locator, or panic buttons used for supervised foster care
visits and other client visits to assist agencies in locating
staff.
(B) Technical assistance and training for safety
communications.
(2) Training sessions and exercises for self-defense and
crisis, together with such organizations as local law
enforcement.
(3) Facility safety improvements.
(4) Training in cultural competency, including linguistic
training, and training on strategies for de-escalating a
situation that could turn volatile.
(5) Training to help work with clients who--
(A) have serious mental and substance use
disorders; or
(B) have behavioral problems and need help coping.
(6) Educational resources and materials to train staff on
safety and awareness measures.
(7) Support services, counseling, and additional resources
for social workers who have experienced safety issues or
trauma-related incidents in the workplace.
(8) Installation of a local data incident tracking system
to monitor, prevent, and mitigate future offenses against
social workers.
(9) Other policy developments and implementation activities
determined by the Secretary for social work safety training,
resources, and support.
(c) Application.--
(1) In general.--A State seeking a grant under subsection
(a) shall submit an application to the Secretary at such time,
in such manner, and accompanied by such additional information
as the Secretary may require.
(2) Contents.--Each application submitted pursuant to
paragraph (1) shall--
(A) describe the type of agencies that will receive
funding through the grant and type of work to be done
by such agencies;
(B) describe the specific activities for which the
grant is sought and include a program budget; and
(C) contain an assurance that the applicant will
evaluate the effectiveness of the safety measures
provided through the grant.
(d) Priority.--In awarding grants under subsection (a), the
Secretary shall give priority to applicants that--
(1) demonstrate the greatest need based on documented
incidents; and
(2) seek to provide assistance to multiple agencies.
(e) Quality Assurance and Cost Effectiveness.--The Secretary shall
establish guidelines for ensuring the quality and cost effectiveness of
the safety measures funded under this section.
(f) Technical Assistance.--The Secretary may provide technical
assistance to recipients of a grant under this section with respect to
planning, developing, implementing, and sustaining safety measures
through the grant.
(g) Report Requirement.--States receiving a grant under this
section shall submit to the Secretary, not later than 2 years after
such receipt, a report that includes--
(1) an assessment of the activities funded in whole or in
part with the grant;
(2) the range and scope of training opportunities provided
through training programs funded in whole or in part through a
grant under this section, including the numbers and percentages
of social workers engaged in such training programs; and
(3) the incidence of threats to social workers, if any, and
the strategies used to address their safety.
(h) Non-Federal Share.--With respect to the costs of safety
measures to be provided pursuant to a grant under subsection (a), the
State receiving the grant shall agree to make available (directly or
through donations from public or private entities) non-Federal
contributions toward such costs in an amount that is $1 for each $1 of
Federal funds awarded through the grant.
(i) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of Health
and Human Services.
(2) The term ``social work'' means--
(A) the professional activity of helping
individuals, groups, or communities to enhance or
restore capacity for social and psychosocial
functioning, and to create societal conditions
favorable to such enhancement or restoration; and
(B) the professional application of values,
principles, and techniques related to the activities
described in subparagraph (A), including--
(i) diagnosing mental and emotional
disorders and treating individuals, families,
or groups for such disorders; and
(ii) helping individuals, families, or
groups to obtain tangible services, including
personal, protective, informational, advisory,
community, or maintenance services in order to
improve the overall well-being of individuals.
(3) The term ``social worker'' means an individual with a
baccalaureate, master's, or doctoral degree in social work from
an institution of higher education who uses knowledge and
skills to provide social work services for individuals,
families, groups, communities, organizations, or society in
general.
(j) Authorization of Appropriations.--To carry out this section,
there is authorized to be appropriated $5,000,000 for each of fiscal
years 2018 through 2022. | Social Worker Safety Act of 2017 This bill allows the Department of Health and Human Services to award grants to states for providing safety measures to social workers and other similar professionals working with violent, illicit drug-using, or other at-risk populations. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Social Worker Safety Act of 2017"} | 1,143 | 50 | 0.542015 | 1.371869 | 1.272307 | 7.875 | 23.520833 | 0.916667 |
SECTION 1. DUTY-FREE ENTRIES.
Subchapter II of chapter 99 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of
the United States is amended by inserting in numerical sequence the
following new heading:
`` 9902.98.04 Personal effects of
participants in,
officials of, and
other individuals
associated with the
XXVI Summer Olympiad
or the Cultural
Olympiad associated
with the XXVI Summer
Olympiad; and other
articles associated
with the XXVI Summer
Olympiad or the
Cultural Olympiad:
.. .......... (1) Personal effects
of participants in,
officials of, or
accredited members
of delegations to
the XXVI Summer
Olympiad or the
Cultural Olympiad
associated with the
XXVI Summer
Olympiad, or of
individuals who are
members of the
immediate families
or servants of any
of the foregoing
persons.
.. .......... (2) Any article for
which entry is
sought by
participants in,
officials of, or
accredited members
of delegations to
the XXVI Summer
Olympiad and which
is to be used or
consumed at or in
connection with the
Olympiad.
.. .......... (3) Any article for
which entry is
sought by
participants in,
officials of, or
accredited members
of delegations to
the Cultural
Olympiad associated
with the XXVI Summer
Olympiad and which
is to be used at or
in connection with
the Cultural
Olympiad.
.. .......... (4) Subject to No change Free On or before 10/
regulations 4/96 ''
prescribed by the .
Secretary of the
Treasury, any other
article for which
entry is sought for
use at or in
connection with the
XXVI Summer Olympiad Free | Amends the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States to grant duty-free treatment, through October 4, 1996, of the personal effects of, and other articles sought by, participants, their families and associated members, and officials involved in the XXVI Summer Olympiad and associated Cultural Olympiad in Atlanta, Georgia. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To provide duty-free entry privileges to participants in, and other individuals associated with, the XXVI Summer Olympiad in Atlanta, Georgia, and for other purposes."} | 355 | 68 | 0.625631 | 1.756005 | 0.566218 | 1.779661 | 6.152542 | 0.830508 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``EEOC Transparency and Accountability
Act''.
SEC. 2. AVAILABILITY OF INFORMATION ABOUT CASES ON THE EEOC WEBSITE.
(a) In General.--Beginning not later than 30 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
shall maintain the following up-to-date information on its public
website:
(1) A description of each case brought in court by the
Commission, not later than 30 days after a judgment is made
with respect to any cause of action in the case, without regard
to whether the judgment is final. Such description shall
identify--
(A) the court in which the case was brought;
(B) the name and case number of the case, the
nature of the allegation, the causes of action brought,
and the outcome of each cause of action in the case;
(C) each instance in which the Commission was
ordered to pay fees and costs, including the amount of
such fees and costs ordered to be paid and, when
applicable, the amount of fees and costs actually paid
by the Commission and the reason for the fee or cost
award;
(D) whether the case was authorized by a majority
vote of the Commission or was brought pursuant to the
Commission's delegation of authority to the General
Counsel of the Commission, including the basis on which
the General Counsel determined that submission to the
Commission for authorization was not necessary and a
justification of that decision;
(E) any case in which a sanction was imposed on the
Commission, including the amount of such sanction and
the reason for the sanction; and
(F) any appeal and the outcome of the appeal.
(2) The total number of charges of an alleged unlawful
employment practice filed during the preceding fiscal year by a
member of the Commission, as authorized by the Commissioner
charge authority under section 706(b) of the Civil Rights Act
of 1964 (42 U.S.C. 2000e-5(b)) and section 107(a) of the
Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12117(a)),
and the total number of resolutions of such charges
disaggregated by type of resolution.
(3) The total number of charges of an alleged unlawful
employment practice filed during the preceding fiscal year as a
result of the Commission's use of its directed investigation
authority under section 7(a) of the Age Discrimination in
Employment Act of 1967 (29 U.S.C. 626(a)) and section 11(a) of
the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (29 U.S.C. 211(a)), and
the total number of resolutions of such charges disaggregated
by type of resolution.
(4) Each case of systemic discrimination (including pattern
or practice discrimination) brought in court by the Commission
under section 706 or 707 of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (42
U.S.C. 2000e-5, 2000e-6) within the preceding 30 days, the
court in which the case was brought, the name and case number
of the case, the industry involved, the employment practice or
practices at issue, the nature of the alleged discrimination,
and the circumstances of the systemic discrimination alleged in
the case.
(b) Disaggregation.--With respect to the total number of charges of
alleged unlawful employment practices provided under paragraphs (2) and
(3) of subsection (a), the Commission shall, on its public website,
disaggregate each such total number by the number of such charges filed
in each Commission District, and within each Commission District, by
the number of such charges alleging discrimination on the basis of, or
filed under, each of the following:
(1) Race.
(2) Sex.
(3) National Origin.
(4) Religion.
(5) Color.
(6) Retaliation.
(7) Age.
(8) Disability.
(9) Section 6(d) of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938
(29 U.S.C. 206(d)).
(c) Annual Performance Report.--Beginning fiscal year 2016, the
Commission shall include in its annual performance report under section
1116 of title 31, United States Code, the information described in
paragraphs (1) through (4) of subsection (a) for the preceding fiscal
year, except that such information shall not be disaggregated in
accordance with subsection (b).
SEC. 3. GOOD FAITH CONFERENCE, CONCILIATION, AND PERSUASION.
Section 706(b) of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C. 2000e-
5(b)) is amended--
(1) in the sixth sentence--
(A) by striking ``shall endeavor'' and inserting
``shall use good faith efforts to endeavor''; and
(B) by inserting ``bona fide'' after
``conference,'';
(2) in the seventh sentence--
(A) by inserting ``, good faith'' after ``such
informal''; and
(B) by striking ``persons concerned'' and inserting
``employer, employment agency, or labor organization,
except for the sole purpose of allowing a party to any
pending litigation to present to the reviewing court
evidence to ensure the Commission's compliance with its
obligations under this section prior to filing suit'';
and
(3) by adding at the end the following: ``No action or suit
may be brought by the Commission under this title unless the
Commission has in good faith exhausted its conciliation
obligations as set forth in this subsection. No action or suit
shall be brought by the Commission unless it has certified that
conciliation is at impasse. The determination as to whether the
Commission engaged in bone fide conciliation efforts shall be
subject to judicial review. The Commission's good faith
obligation to engage in bona fide conciliation shall include
providing the employer, employment agency, or labor
organization believed to have engaged in an unlawful employment
practice with all information regarding the legal and factual
bases for the Commission's determination that reasonable causes
exist as well as all information that supports the Commission's
requested monetary and other relief (including a detailed
description of the specific individuals or employees comprising
the class of persons for whom the Commission is seeking relief
and any additional information requested that is reasonably
related to the underlying cause determination or necessary to
conciliate in good faith).''.
SEC. 4. REPORTING TO CONGRESS REGARDING CASES IN WHICH THE EEOC IS
ORDERED TO PAY FEES AND COSTS OR SANCTIONS.
(a) Investigation and Report of Inspector General.--In any case
brought by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission in which a court
orders the Commission to pay fees and costs or imposes a sanction on
the Commission, the Inspector General of the Commission shall--
(1) notify the Committee on Education and the Workforce of
the House of Representatives and the Committee on Health,
Education, Labor and Pensions of the Senate of the order or
sanction within 14 days of the court's decision, including the
name of the case, the nature of the court's determination, and
the amount of fees and costs ordered or the amount of the
sanction imposed by the court; and
(2) conduct an investigation to determine why an order for
sanction, fees, or costs was imposed by the court, and, not
later than 90 days after the court's decision, submit a report
to the Committee on Education and the Workforce of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Health, Education, Labor
and Pensions of the Senate that includes--
(A) information obtained from interviews and
affidavits of each member and staff person of the
Commission involved in the case;
(B) the amount of resources allocated to the case,
including in terms of full-time equivalents;
(C) a comparison of the case to other cases in
which a court ordered fees and costs or imposed
sanctions against the Commission;
(D) if the determination to bring the case was not
by a vote of the full Commission, the reasons such a
vote was not held; and
(E) any other relevant information.
(b) Report of the Commission.--For any case described in subsection
(a), the Commission, in consultation with the General Counsel of the
Commission, shall--
(1) not later than 60 days after the court's decision,
submit a report to the Committee on Education and the Workforce
of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Health,
Education, Labor and Pensions of the Senate detailing the steps
the Commission is taking to reduce instances in which a court
orders the Commission to pay fees and costs or imposes a
sanction on the Commission; and
(2) not later than 30 days after the report is submitted to
the Committee on Education and the Workforce of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Health, Education, Labor
and Pensions of the Senate under paragraph (1), post such
report on its public website. | EEOC Transparency and Accountability Act Directs the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) to provide information on its public website regarding each case brought in court by the EEOC after a judgment is made with respect to any cause of action. Requires such information to include: (1) instances in which the EEOC was ordered to pay fees and costs; (2) cases in which a sanction was imposed on the EEOC; (3) the total number of charges of an alleged unlawful employment practice filed under specified provisions of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, and the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938; and (4) cases of systemic discrimination, including pattern or practice discrimination. Amends the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to prohibit the EEOC from bringing a suit unless it exhausts its obligation to engage in an informal conciliation and certifies that conciliation is at impasse. Makes the determination as to whether the EEOC has engaged in a bona fide conciliation subject to judicial review. Directs the EEOC Inspector General to notify Congress of any sanctions, fees, or costs imposed on the EEOC by a court. Requires the Inspector General to investigate such cases and the EEOC to report to Congress regarding the steps being taken to reduce such instances. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "EEOC Transparency and Accountability Act"} | 1,925 | 302 | 0.522132 | 1.676848 | 0.793016 | 3.771084 | 7.325301 | 0.935743 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Improving Veterans' Opportunity in
Education and Business Act of 2008''.
SEC. 2. CONTRACTING GOALS AND PREFERENCES FOR VETERAN-OWNED SMALL
BUSINESS CONCERNS.
Section 8127 of title 38, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by redesignating subsections (j) and (k) as subsections
(k) and (l), respectively; and
(2) by inserting after subsection (i) the following:
``(j) Applicability of Requirements to Contracts.--(1) If the
Secretary enters, on or after June 1, 2007, into a contract, memorandum
of understanding, agreement, or other arrangement with any governmental
entity or person to acquire goods or services, or both, the Secretary
shall include in such contract, memorandum, agreement, or other
arrangement a requirement that the entity or person will comply with
the provisions of this section in acquiring such goods or services, or
both.
``(2) Coordination.--The Secretary shall take such action as may be
necessary to ensure that the efforts to comply with this section of the
Department and governmental entities and persons to which paragraph (1)
applies are coordinated.
``(3) The Secretary shall modify contracts, memoranda of
understanding, agreements, and other arrangements of the Department in
effect on the date of enactment of the Improving Veterans' Opportunity
in Education and Business Act of 2008 to comply with this subsection.
``(4) Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to supersede or
otherwise affect the authorities provided by and under the Small
Business Act (15 U.S.C. 631 et seq.)''.
SEC. 3. FIVE-YEAR PILOT PROGRAM FOR ON-CAMPUS WORKSTUDY POSITIONS.
(a) Establishment of Pilot Program.--The Secretary of Veterans
Affairs shall conduct a five-year pilot project to test the feasibility
and advisability of expanding the scope of qualifying workstudy
activities for purposes of section 3485(a)(4) of title 38, United
States Code, including workstudy positions available on site at
educational institutions.
(b) Type of Workstudy Positions.--The workstudy positions referred
to in subsection (a) may include positions in academic departments
(including positions as tutors or research, teaching, and lab
assistants) and in student services (including positions in career
centers and financial aid, campus orientation, cashiers, admissions,
records, and registration offices).
(c) Regulations.--The Secretary shall issue regulations to carry
out the pilot project under this section, including regulations
providing for the supervision of workstudy positions referred to in
subsection (a) by appropriate personnel of the Department.
(d) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be
appropriated to the Secretary $10,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2009
through 2013 to carry out the pilot project under this section.
(e) Funding.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, this
section shall not be carried out with any funds provided for or under
any authority of the Readjustment benefits program described by the
list of Appropriated Entitlements and Mandatories for Fiscal Year 1997
contained in the Conference Report to accompany H.R. 2015 of the 105th
Congress, the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 (H. Report 105-217). Instead,
no funds shall be obligated for the purpose of carrying out this
section except discretionary funds appropriated specifically for the
purpose of carrying out this section in appropriation Acts enacted
after the date of the enactment of this Act.
SEC. 4. MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTY TRANSITION (MOST) PROGRAM.
(a) In General.--Subchapter II of chapter 36 of title 38, United
States Code, is amended by inserting after section 3687 the following
new section:
``Sec. 3687A. Military occupational specialty transition (MOST) program
``(a) Establishment; Eligibility.--
``(1) In general.--Subject to the availability of
appropriations, the Secretary shall carry out a program of
training to provide eligible veterans with skills relevant to
the job market.
``(2) Eligible veteran.--For purposes of this section, the
term `eligible veteran' means any veteran if--
``(A) such veteran's military occupational
specialty at the time of discharge is determined by the
Secretary to have limited transferability to the
civilian job market;
``(B) such veteran is not otherwise eligible for
education or training services under this title;
``(C) such veteran has not acquired a marketable
skill since leaving military service;
``(D) such veteran was discharged under conditions
not less than general under honorable conditions; and
``(E)(i) such veteran has been unemployed for at
least 90 of the 180 days preceding the date of
application for the program established under this
section; or
``(ii) the maximum hourly rate of pay of such
veteran during such 180-day period is not more than 150
percent of the Federal minimum wage.
``(b) MOST Program.--The program established under this section
shall provide for payments to employers who provide for eligible
veterans a program of apprenticeship or on-the-job training if--
``(1) such program is approved as provided in paragraph (1)
or (2) of section 3687(a) of this title;
``(2) the rate of pay for veterans participating in the
program is not less than the rate of pay for nonveterans in
similar jobs; and
``(3) the Secretary reasonably expects that--
``(A) the veteran will be qualified for employment
in that field upon completion of training; and
``(B) the employer providing the program will hire
the veteran at the completion of training.
``(c) Payments to Employers.--
``(1) In general.--Subject to the availability of
appropriations, the Secretary shall enter into contracts with
employers to provide programs of apprenticeship or on-the-job
training which meet the requirements of this section. Such
contract shall provide for the payment of the amounts described
in subsection (b) to employers whose programs meet such
requirements.
``(2) Amount of payments.--The amount paid under this
section with respect to any eligible veteran for any period
shall be 50 percent of the wages paid by the employer to such
veteran for such period. Wages shall be calculated on an hourly
basis.
``(3) Amount and duration of payments.--
``(A) In general.--Except as provided in
subparagraph (B)--
``(i) the amount paid under this section
with respect to a veteran participating in the
program established under this section may not
exceed $20,000 in the aggregate and $1,666.67
per month; and
``(ii) such payments may only be made
during the first 12 months of such veteran's
participation in the program.
``(B) Veterans participating on less than full-time
basis.--In the case of a veteran participating in the
program on a less than full-time basis, the Secretary
may extend the number of months of payments under
subparagraph (A) and proportionally adjust the amount
of such payments, but the maximum amount paid with
respect to a veteran may not exceed the maximum amount
of $20,000 and the maximum amount of such payments may
not exceed 24 months.
``(4) Payments made on quarterly basis.--Payments under
this section shall be made on a quarterly basis.
``(5) Employer report.--Each employer providing a program
of apprenticeship or on-the-job training pursuant to this
section shall submit to the Secretary on a quarterly basis a
report certifying the wages paid to eligible veterans under
such program (which shall be certified by the veteran as being
correct) and containing such other information as the Secretary
may specify. Such report shall be submitted in the form and
manner required by the Secretary.
``(d) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be
appropriated $60,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2009 through 2018 to
carry out this section.
``(e) Reporting.--The Secretary shall include a detailed
description of activities carried out under this section in the annual
report prepared by the Veterans Benefits Administration.
``(f) Separate Accounting.--The Department shall have a separate
line item in budget proposals of the Department for funds to be
appropriated to carry out this section.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for such chapter is
amended by inserting after the item relating to section 3687 the
following new item:
``3687A. Military occupational specialty transition (MOST) program.''.
(c) Conforming Amendments.--(1) Subsection (a)(1) of section 3034
of such title is amended by striking ``and 3687'' and inserting ``3687,
and 3687A''.
(2) Subsections (a)(1) and (c) of section 3241 of such title are
each amended by striking ``section 3687'' and inserting ``sections 3687
and 3687A''.
(3) Subsection (d)(1) of section 3672 of such title is amended by
striking ``and 3687'' and inserting ``3687, and 3687A''.
(4) Paragraph (3) of section 4102A(b) of such title is amended by
striking ``section 3687'' and inserting ``section 3687 or 3687A''.
Passed the House of Representatives July 31, 2008.
Attest:
LORRAINE C. MILLER,
Clerk. | Improving Veterans' Opportunity in Education and Business Act of 2008 - Requires that, if the Secretary of Veterans Affairs enters into a contract or other arrangement, on or after June 1, 2007, to acquire goods or services (or both), the Secretary shall include in such contract or arrangement a requirement that the contractee comply with Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) contracting goals and preferences with respect to small businesses owned and controlled by veterans and service-disabled veterans. Directs the Secretary to modify current contracts and arrangements to comply with requirements of this Act.
Requires the Secretary to conduct a five-year pilot project to test the feasibility and advisability of expanding the scope of VA workstudy activities to include workstudy positions available on site at educational institutions, including positions in academic departments and in student services. Authorizes appropriations.
Directs the Secretary to carry out a program of job training in skills relevant to the job market for discharged veterans who are either currently not paid at more than 150% of the federal minimum wage, or: (1) had a military occupational specialty of limited transferability to the civilian job market; (2) are not otherwise eligible for veterans' education or training services; (3) have not acquired a marketable skill since leaving military service; (4) were discharged under conditions not less than honorable; and (5) have been unemployed for at least 90 of the previous 180 days. Designates the program as the MOST (military occupational specialty transition) Program. Directs the Secretary to contract with employers to provide programs of apprenticeship on on-job training for such veterans. Limits such payments to $20,000 per veteran and 24 months in duration. Requires quarterly employer reports certifying wages paid to such veterans. Authorizes appropriations. Requires the Secretary to describe Program activities within a currently-required annual report by the Veterans Benefits Administration. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to include in each contract the Secretary enters for the acquisition of goods and services a provision that requires the contractee to comply with the contracting goals and preferences for small business concerns owned or controlled by veterans, and for other purposes."} | 2,132 | 408 | 0.630604 | 1.986055 | 0.789224 | 3.134831 | 5.382022 | 0.921348 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Yellowstone Protection Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) The January 22, 2001, rule phasing out snowmobile use
in Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and
the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway was made by
professionals in the National Park Service who based their
decision on law, 10 years of scientific study, and extensive
public process.
(2) An environmental impact statement that formed the basis
for the rule concluded that snowmobile use is impairing or
adversely impacting air quality, natural soundscapes, wildlife,
public and employee health and safety, and visitor enjoyment.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the
environmental impact statement had ``among the most thorough
and substantial science base that we have seen supporting a
NEPA document''.
(3) The National Park Service concluded that snowmobile use
is violating the mission given to the agency by Congress--to
manage the parks ``in such manner and by such means as will
leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future
generations''. The National Park Service also found that
snowmobile use is ``inconsistent with the requirements of the
Clean Air Act, Executive Orders 11644 and 11989 [by Presidents
Nixon and Carter, relating to off-road vehicle use on public
lands], the NPS's general snowmobile regulations and NPS
management objectives for the parks''.
(4) In order to maintain winter visitor access, the Park
Service outlined a plan to use the already existing mode of
winter transportation known as snowcoaches, which are mass
transit, oversnow vehicles similar to vans. The final rule
states that a snowcoach transit system ``would reduce adverse
impacts on park resources and values, better provide for public
safety, and provide for public enjoyment of the park in
winter''.
(5) The National Park Service Air Resources Division
determined that despite being outnumbered by automobiles 16 to
1 during the course of a year, snowmobiles produce up to 68
percent of Yellowstone's carbon monoxide pollution and up to 90
percent of the park's annual hydrocarbon emissions.
(6) Noise from snowmobiles routinely disrupts natural
sounds and natural quiet at popular Yellowstone attractions. A
February 2000 ``percent time audible'' study found snowmobile
noise present more than 90 percent of the time at 8 of 13
sites.
(7) In Yellowstone's severe winter climate, snowmobile
traffic regularly disturbs and harasses wildlife. In October
2001, 18 eminent scientists warned the Secretary of the
Interior that ``ignoring this information would not be
consistent with the original vision intended to keep our
national parks unimpaired for future generations. National Park
Service regulations allow snowmobile use only when that use
will not disturb wildlife . . .'' (36 CFR 2.18(c)).
(8) At Yellowstone's west entrance, park rangers and fee
collectors suffer from symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning
due to snowmobile exhaust. According to National Park Service
records, in December 2000, a dozen park employees filed medical
complaints citing sore throats, headaches, lethargy, eye
irritation, and tightness in the lungs. Their supervisor
requested more staff at the west entrance, not because of a
need for additional personnel to cover the work there, but so
the supervisor could begin rotating employees more frequently
out of the ``fume cloud'' for the sake of their health. In
2002, for the first time in national park history, rangers were
issued respirators to wear while performing their duties.
(9) The public opportunity to engage in the environmental
impact study process was extensive and comprehensive. During
the 3-year environmental impact study process and rulemaking,
there were 4 opportunities for public consideration and
comment. The Park Service held 22 public hearings in regional
communities such as West Yellowstone, Cody, Jackson, and Idaho
Falls, and across the Nation. The agency received over 70,000
individual comments. At each stage of the input process,
support for phasing out snowmobiles grew, culminating in a 4-
to-1 majority in favor of the rule in early 2001. More
recently, 82 percent of those commenting wrote in favor of the
National Park Service decision to phase out snowmobile use in
the parks.
SEC. 3. FINAL RULE CODIFIED.
Beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary
of the Interior shall implement the final rule to phase out snowmobile
use in Yellowstone National Park, the John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial
Parkway, and Grand Teton National Park, and snowplane use in Grand
Teton National Park, as published in the Federal Register on January
22, 2001 (66 Fed. Reg. 7260-7268). The Secretary shall not have the
authority to modify or supersede any provision of that final rule. | Yellowstone Protection Act - Directs the Secretary of the Interior to implement the final rule to phase out snowplane use in Grand Teton National Park and snowmobile use in Yellowstone National Park, the John. D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway, and Grand Teton National Park. Prohibits the Secretary from modifying or superseding any provisions of that final rule. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To require the Secretary of the Interior to implement the final rule to phase out snowmobile use in Yellowstone National Park, John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway, and Grand Teton National Park, and snowplane use in Grand Teton National Park."} | 1,071 | 86 | 0.480147 | 1.318616 | 0.683089 | 3.983871 | 15.903226 | 0.919355 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Debit Interchange Fee Study Act of
2011''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds that--
(1) in response to the proposed debit interchange rule of
the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System mandated
by section 1075 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and
Consumer Protection Act, the Chairman of Board, the Comptroller
of the Currency, the Chairperson of the Federal Deposit
Insurance Corporation, and the Chairman of the National Credit
Union Administration Board have publicly raised concerns about
the impact of the proposed rule;
(2) while testifying before the Committee on Banking,
Housing, and Urban Affairs of the Senate on February 17, 2011,
the Chairman of the Board stated in response to questions about
the small bank exemption to the interchange rule, ``. . . there
is some risk that the exemption will not be effective and that
the interchange fees available through smaller institutions
will be reduced to the same extent we would see for larger
banks'';
(3) the Acting Comptroller of the Currency, in comments to
the Board, cited safety and soundness concerns and stated, ``.
. . we believe the proposal takes an unnecessarily narrow
approach to recovery of costs that would be allowable under the
law and that are recognized and indisputably part of conducting
a debit card business. This has long-term safety and soundness
consequences--for banks of all sizes . . .'';
(4) the chairperson of the Federal Deposit Insurance
Corporation stated in comments to the Board regarding the
proposed rule their concern that the small bank exemption would
not work, stating, ``. . . we are concerned that these
institutions may not actually receive the benefit of the
interchange fee limit exemption explicitly provided by
Congress, resulting in a loss of income for community banks and
ultimately higher banking costs for their customers'';
(5) the chairman of the National Credit Union
Administration Board, in comments to the Board, cited concern
with making sure there are ``meaningful exemptions for smaller
card issuers''; and
(6) all of the comments and concerns raised by the banking
and credit union regulatory agencies cast serious questions
about the practical implementation of section 1075 of the Dodd-
Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, and
further study and consideration are needed.
SEC. 3. RULEMAKING AND EFFECTIVE DATES.
(a) Extension for Rulemaking Timelines and Revised Effective
Date.--Section 920 of the Electronic Fund Transfer Act (15 U.S.C.
1693o-2) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)(3)(A), by striking ``9 months after
the date of enactment of the Consumer Financial Protection Act
of 2010'' and inserting ``24 months after the date of enactment
of the Debit Interchange Fee Study Act of 2011'';
(2) in subsection (a)(5)(B)(i), by striking ``9 months
after the date of enactment of the Consumer Financial
Protection Act of 2010'' and inserting ``24 months after the
date of enactment of the Debit Interchange Fee Study Act of
2011'';
(3) in subsection (a)(8)(C), by striking ``9-month period
beginning on the date of the enactment of the Consumer
Financial Protection Act of 2010'' and inserting ``24-month
period beginning on the date of enactment of the Debit
Interchange Fee Study Act of 2011'';
(4) in subsection (a)(9), by striking ``12-month period
beginning on the date of the enactment of the Consumer
Financial Protection Act of 2010'' and inserting ``30-month
period beginning on the date of enactment of the Debit
Interchange Fee Study Act of 2011'';
(5) in subsection (b)(1)(A), by striking ``1-year period
beginning on the date of the enactment of the Consumer
Financial Protection Act of 2010'' and inserting ``24-month
period beginning on the date of enactment of the Debit
Interchange Fee Study Act of 2011''; and
(6) in subsection (b)(1)(B), by striking ``1-year period
beginning on the date of the enactment of the Consumer
Financial Protection Act of 2010'' and inserting ``24-month
period beginning on the date of enactment of the Debit
Interchange Fee Study Act of 2011''.
(b) Earlier Rulemaking Voided; New Rulemaking Required.--Any
regulation proposed or prescribed by the Board pursuant to section 920
of the Electronic Fund Transfer Act (as amended by the Dodd-Frank Wall
Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act) prior to the date that is 6
months after the date of completion of the study required under section
4 shall be withdrawn by the Board and shall have no legal effect.
SEC. 4. STUDY.
(a) Study Required.--Not later than 12 months after the date of
enactment of this Act, the study agencies shall jointly submit a report
to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs of the Senate
and the Committee on Financial Services of the House of Representatives
regarding the impact of regulating debit interchange transaction fees
and related issues under section 920 of the Electronic Fund Transfer
Act.
(b) Subjects for Review.--In conducting the study required by this
section, the study agencies shall examine the state of the debit
interchange payment system, including the impact of section 920 of the
Electronic Fund Transfer Act on consumers, entities that accept debit
cards as payment, all financial institutions that issue debit cards,
including small issuers, and debit card networks, and shall
specifically examine--
(1) the costs and benefits of electronic debit card
transactions and alternative forms of payment, including cash,
check, and automated clearing house (ACH) for consumers,
merchants, issuers, and debit card networks, including--
(A) individual consumer protections, ease of
acceptance, payment guarantee, and security provided
through such forms of payments for consumers;
(B) costs and benefits associated with acceptance,
handling, and processing of different forms of
payments, including labor, security, verification, and
collection where applicable;
(C) the extent to which payment form impacts
incremental sales and ticket sizes for merchants;
(D) all direct and indirect costs associated with
fraud prevention, detection, and mitigation, including
data breach and identity theft, and the overall costs
of fraud incurred by debit card issuers and merchants,
and how those costs are distributed among those
parties; and
(E) financial liability and payment guarantee for
debit card transactions and associated risks and costs
incurred by debit card issuers and merchants, and how
those costs are distributed among those parties;
(2) the structure of the current debit interchange system,
including--
(A) the extent to which the current structure
offers merchants and issuers, particularly smaller
merchants and issuers sufficient competitive
opportunities to participate and negotiate in the debit
interchange system;
(B) an examination of the benefits of allowing
interchange fees to be determined in bilateral
negotiations between merchants and issuers, including
small issuers directly;
(C) mechanisms for allowing more price discovery
and transparency on the part of the consumer; and
(D) the ability of new competitors to enter the
payment systems market and an examination into whether
structural barriers to entry exist; and
(3) the impact of the proposed rule reducing debit card
interchange fees issued by the Board entitled, ``Debit Card
Interchange Fees and Routing'' (75 Fed. Reg. 81,722 (Dec. 28,
2010)), if such proposed rule were adopted without change,
including--
(A) the impact on consumers, including whether
consumers would benefit from reduced interchanges fees
through reduced retail prices;
(B) the impact on lower and moderate income
consumers and on small businesses with respect to the
cost and accessibility of payment accounts and
services, the availability of credit, and what
alternative forms of financing are available and the
cost of such financing;
(C) the impact on consumer protection, including
anti-fraud, customer identification efforts, and
privacy protection;
(D) the impact of reduced debit card interchange
fees on merchants, including a comparison of the impact
on small merchants versus large merchants;
(E) the potential consequences to merchants if
reduced debit interchange fees result in elimination of
the payment guarantee or other reductions in debit card
services to merchants or shift consumers to other forms
of payments;
(F) the impact of significantly reduced debit card
interchange fees on debit card issuers and the services
and rates they provide, if fees do not adequately
recoup costs and investments made by issuers and the
potential impact on the safety and soundness of
issuers;
(G) whether it is possible to exempt or treat
differently a certain class of issuers within the debit
interchange system, such as small issuers and the
impact of market forces on such treatment;
(H) the extent to which a transition to a fee cap
from an interchange fee that is proportional to the
overall cost of a transaction could provide a
reasonable rate of return for issuers and adequately
cover fraud and related costs;
(I) the impact on other entities that utilize debit
card transactions, including the debit card programs of
Federal and State entities;
(J) the impact of shifting debit transaction
routing from card issuers to merchants, including
resulting changes to interchange fees and costs for
card issuers; and
(K) the impact of mandating a specific number of
enabled networks on merchants and debit card issuers,
including the specific and unique impact on small
issuers.
SEC. 5. DEFINITIONS.
For purposes of this Act, the following definitions shall apply:
(1) Board.--The term ``Board'' means the Board of Governors
of the Federal Reserve System.
(2) Study agencies.--The term ``study agencies'' means the
Board, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, the
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, and the National Credit
Union Administration.
(3) Small issuers.--The term ``small issuers'' means debit
card issuers that are depository institutions, including
community banks and credit unions, with assets of less than
$10,000,000,000. | Debit Interchange Fee Study Act of 2011 - Amends the Electronic Fund Transfer Act to extend from 9 months after the date of enactment of the Consumer Financial Protection Act of 2010 to 24 months after the date of enactment of this Act the rulemaking timelines and effective dates for the proposed debit interchange (swipe) rule of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (Board) that is required by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act.
Declares void and without legal effect any regulation proposed or prescribed by the Board pursuant to the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act before the date that is 6 months after completion of the study required by this Act.
Directs specified banking regulatory agencies (study agencies) to study jointly and report to certain congressional committees regarding the impact of regulating debit interchange transaction (swipe) fees and related issues under the Electronic Fund Transfer Act. Prescribes study contents including the costs and benefits of electronic debit card transactions (EDTs) and alternative forms of payment, including cash, check, and automated clearing house (ACH) for consumers, merchants, issuers, and debit card networks. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "A bill to study the market and appropriate regulatory structure for electronic debit card transactions, and for other purposes."} | 2,215 | 261 | 0.490542 | 1.546308 | 0.730154 | 5.219178 | 9.584475 | 0.936073 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Liberty List Act''.
SEC. 2. STATEMENT OF PURPOSE.
The purpose of this Act is to--
(1) highlight the work and accomplishments of individuals,
nongovernmental organizations, and the media that promote
respect for religious freedom, democracy, and human rights in
foreign countries;
(2) draw attention to the conditions in such countries in
which these individuals, nongovernmental organizations, and
media struggle;
(3) offer protection for these individuals, nongovernmental
organizations, and media by identifying them to the
international community; and
(4) emphasize the special significance of respect for
religious freedom, democracy, and human rights in United States
foreign policy.
SEC. 3. ANNUAL REPORT ON PROMOTION OF RELIGIOUS FREEDOM, DEMOCRACY, AND
HUMAN RIGHTS IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES BY INDIVIDUALS,
NONGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS, AND THE MEDIA IN THOSE
COUNTRIES.
(a) Annual Report.--The Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 is amended
by adding after section 116 (22 U.S.C. 2151n) the following new
section:
``SEC. 116A. ANNUAL REPORT ON PROMOTION OF RELIGIOUS FREEDOM,
DEMOCRACY, AND HUMAN RIGHTS IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES.
``(a) Report.--The Secretary of State shall annually submit to
Congress a full and complete report regarding the promotion of
religious freedom, democracy, and internationally recognized human
rights in foreign countries by individuals, nongovernmental
organizations, and media groups and organizations in those countries.
The report shall be entitled the `Annual Report on the Promotion of
Religious Freedom, Democracy, and Human Rights in Foreign Countries by
Individuals, Nongovernmental Organizations, and Media Groups and
Organizations'.
``(b) Preparation.--The Secretary shall prepare the Annual Report
with the assistance of the Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy,
Human Rights, and Labor and the Ambassador at Large for International
Religious Freedom.
``(c) Contents.--The Annual Report shall contain, with respect to a
foreign country, the following information:
``(1) An identification of individuals in the country who
have made significant efforts to promote religious freedom,
democracy, or internationally recognized human rights in that
country, together with a description of the nature and extent
of those efforts and an assessment of progress made as a result
of those efforts.
``(2) An identification of nongovernmental organizations in
the country that have made significant efforts to promote
religious freedom, democracy, or internationally recognized
human rights in that country, together with a description of
the nature and extent of those efforts and an assessment of
progress made as a result of those efforts.
``(3) An identification of media groups and organizations
in the country that have made significant efforts to promote
religious freedom, democracy, or internationally recognized
human rights in that country, together with a description of
the nature and extent of those efforts and an assessment of
progress made as a result of those efforts.
``(d) Organization.--The Annual Report shall be organized in three
parts, as follows:
``(1) Part I shall consist of the identification of
individuals (and the associated assessment of their efforts)
under subsection (b)(1).
``(2) Part II shall consist of the identification of
nongovernmental organizations (and the associated assessment of
their efforts) under subsection (b)(2).
``(3) Part III shall consist of the identification of media
groups and organizations (and the associated assessment of
their efforts) under subsection (b)(3).
``(e) Time for Submission.--The Secretary shall submit the Annual
Report together with, but not as part of, the presentation materials
for security assistance programs proposed for each fiscal year.
``(f) Classification.--
``(1) Unclassified form.--Except as provided in paragraph
(2), the Annual Report shall be submitted in unclassified form.
``(2) Classified annex.--The Secretary may withhold the
identification of an individual, nongovernmental organization,
or media group or organization (including the associated
assessment) if the Secretary determines that such disclosure
would endanger or harm such individual, nongovernmental
organization, or media group or organization. If the Secretary
makes such a determination, the Secretary shall disclose such
identification (and associated assessment) in a classified
annex.
``(g) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) Annual report.--The term `Annual Report' means the
Annual Report on the Promotion of Religious Freedom, Democracy,
and Human Rights in Foreign Countries by Individuals,
Nongovernmental Organizations, and Media Groups and
Organizations required under subsection (a).
``(2) Internationally recognized human rights.--The term
`internationally recognized human rights' has the meaning
ascribed to it in section 116(a).
``(3) Media group or organization.--The term `media group
or organization' means a group or organization that gathers and
disseminates news and information to the public (through any
medium of mass communication) in a foreign country in which the
group or organization is located, except that the term does not
include a group or organization that is primarily an agency or
instrumentality of the government of the foreign country. The
term includes an individual who is an agent or employee of the
media group or organization who acts within the scope of such
agency or employment.
``(4) Nongovernmental organization.--The term
`nongovernmental organization' means an organization that works
at the local level to promote religious freedom, democracy, or
human rights in a foreign country in which the organization is
located, except that the term does not include an organization
that is primarily an agency or instrumentality of the
government of the foreign country. The term includes an
individual who is an agent or employee of the nongovernmental
organization who acts within the scope such agency or
employment.
``(5) Religious freedom.--The term `religious freedom'
means the internationally recognized right to freedom of
religion and religious belief and practice, as set forth in the
international instruments referred to in paragraph (2) of
section 2(a) of the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998
(22 U.S.C. 6401(a)) and as described in paragraph (3) of such
section.
``(6) Secretary.--The term `Secretary' means the Secretary
of State.''.
(b) Effective Date.--Section 116A of the Foreign Assistance Act of
1961, as added by subsection (a), shall apply to reports submitted more
than one year after such date. | Liberty List Act - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to direct the Secretary of State to submit to Congress an "Annual Report on the Promotion of Religious Freedom, Democracy, and Human Rights in Foreign Countries by Individuals, Nongovernmental Organizations, and Media Groups and Organizations." | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To require an annual Department of State report on information relating to the promotion of religious freedom, democracy, and human rights in foreign countries by individuals, nongovernmental organizations, and the media in those countries, and for other purposes."} | 1,432 | 62 | 0.610303 | 1.579019 | 0.842413 | 5.735849 | 25.113208 | 0.90566 |
SECTION. 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Defend America Act of 1996''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress makes the following findings:
(1) Although the United States possesses the technological
means to develop and deploy defensive systems that would be
highly effective in countering limited ballistic missile
threats to its territory, the United States has not deployed
such systems and currently has no policy to do so.
(2) The threat that is posed to the national security of
the United States by the proliferation of ballistic missiles is
significant and growing, both quantitatively and qualitatively.
(3) The trend in ballistic missile proliferation is toward
longer range and increasingly sophisticated missiles.
(4) Several countries that are hostile to the United States
(including North Korea, Iran, Libya, and Iraq) have
demonstrated an interest in acquiring ballistic missiles
capable of reaching the United States.
(5) The Intelligence Community of the United States has
confirmed that North Korea is developing an intercontinental
ballistic missile that will be capable of reaching Alaska or
beyond once deployed.
(6) There are ways for determined countries to acquire
missiles capable of threatening the United States with little
warning by means other than indigenous development.
(7) Because of the dire consequences to the United States
of not being prepared to defend itself against a rogue missile
attack and the long-lead time associated with preparing an
effective defense, it is prudent to commence a national missile
defense deployment effort before new ballistic missile threats
to the United States are unambiguously confirmed.
(8) The timely deployment by the United States of an
effective national missile defense system will reduce the
incentives for countries to develop or otherwise acquire
intercontinental ballistic missiles, thereby inhibiting as well
as countering the proliferation of missiles and weapons of mass
destruction.
(9) Deployment by the United States of a national missile
defense system will reduce concerns about the threat of an
accidental or unauthorized ballistic missile attack on the
United States.
(10) The offense-only approach to strategic deterrence
presently followed by the United States and Russia is
fundamentally adversarial and is not a suitable basis for
stability in a world in which the United States and the states
of the former Soviet Union are seeking to normalize relations
and eliminate Cold War attitudes and arrangements.
(11) Pursuing a transition to a form of strategic
deterrence based increasingly on defensive capabilities and
strategies is in the interest of all countries seeking to
preserve and enhance strategic stability.
(12) The deployment of a national missile defense system
capable of defending the United States against limited
ballistic missile attacks would (A) strengthen deterrence at
the levels of forces agreed to by the United States and Russia
under the START I Treaty, and (B) further strengthen deterrence
if reductions below START I levels are implemented in the
future.
(13) Article XIII of the ABM Treaty envisions ``possible
changes in the strategic situation which have a bearing on the
provisions of this treaty''.
(14) Articles XIII and XIV of the treaty establish means
for the parties to amend the treaty, and the parties have in
the past used those means to amend the treaty.
(15) Article XV of the treaty establishes the means for a
party to withdraw from the treaty, upon six months notice ``if
it decides that extraordinary events related to the subject
matter of this treaty have jeopardized its supreme interests''.
(16) Previous discussions between the United States and
Russia, based on Russian President Yeltsin's proposal for a
Global Protection System, envisioned an agreement to amend the
ABM Treaty to allow (among other measures) deployment of as
many as four ground-based interceptor sites in addition to the
one site permitted under the ABM Treaty and unrestricted
exploitation of sensors based within the atmosphere and in
space.
SEC. 3. NATIONAL MISSILE DEFENSE POLICY.
(a) It is the policy of the United States to deploy by the end of
2003 a National Missile Defense system that--
(1) is capable of providing a highly-effective defense of
the territory of the United States against limited,
unauthorized, or accidental ballistic missile attacks; and
(2) will be augmented over time to provide a layered
defense against larger and more sophisticated ballistic missile
threats as they emerge.
(b) It is the policy of the United States to seek a cooperative
transition to a regime that does not feature an offense-only form of
deterrence as the basis for strategic stability.
SEC. 4. NATIONAL MISSILE DEFENSE SYSTEM ARCHITECTURE.
(a) Requirement for Development of System.--To implement the policy
established in section 3(a), the Secretary of Defense shall develop for
deployment an affordable and operationally effective National Missile
Defense (NMD) system which shall achieve an initial operational
capability (IOC) by the end of 2003.
(b) Elements of the NMD System.--The system to be developed for
deployment shall include the following elements:
(1) An interceptor system that optimizes defensive coverage
of the continental United States, Alaska, and Hawaii against
limited, accidental, or unauthorized ballistic missile attacks
and includes one or a combination of the following:
(A) Ground-based interceptors.
(B) Sea-based interceptors.
(C) Space-based kinetic energy interceptors.
(D) Space-based directed energy systems.
(2) Fixed ground-based radars.
(3) Space-based sensors, including the Space and Missile
Tracking System.
(4) Battle management, command, control, and communications
(BM/C<SUP>3).
SEC. 5. IMPLEMENTATION OF NATIONAL MISSILE DEFENSE SYSTEM.
The Secretary of Defense shall--
(1) upon the enactment of this Act, promptly initiate
required preparatory and planning actions that are necessary so
as to be capable of meeting the initial operational capability
(IOC) date specified in section 4(a);
(2) plan to conduct by the end of 1998 an integrated
systems test which uses elements (including BM/C<SUP>3
elements) that are representative of, and traceable to, the
national missile defense system architecture specified in
section 4(b);
(3) prescribe and use streamlined acquisition policies and
procedures to reduce the cost and increase the efficiency of
developing the system specified in section 4(a); and
(4) develop an affordable national missile defense follow-
on program that--
(A) leverages off of the national missile defense
system specified in section 4(a), and
(B) augments that system, as the threat changes, to
provide for a layered defense.
SEC. 6. REPORT ON PLAN FOR NATIONAL MISSILE DEFENSE SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT
AND DEPLOYMENT.
Not later than March 15, 1997, the Secretary of Defense shall
submit to Congress a report on the Secretary's plan for development and
deployment of a national missile defense system pursuant to this Act.
The report shall include the following matters:
(1) The Secretary's plan for carrying out this Act,
including--
(A) a detailed description of the system
architecture selected for development under section
4(b); and
(B) a discussion of the justification for the
selection of that particular architecture.
(2) The Secretary's estimate of the amount of
appropriations required for research, development, test,
evaluation, and for procurement, for each of fiscal years 1997
through 2003 in order to achieve the initial operational
capability date specified in section 4(a).
(3) A cost and operational effectiveness analysis of
follow-on options to improve the effectiveness of such system.
(4) A determination of the point at which any activity that
is required to be carried out under this Act would conflict
with the terms of the ABM Treaty, together with a description
of any such activity, the legal basis for the Secretary's
determination, and an estimate of the time at which such point
would be reached in order to meet the initial operational
capability date specified in section 4(a).
SEC. 7. POLICY REGARDING THE ABM TREATY.
(a) ABM Treaty Negotiations.--In light of the findings in section 2
and the policy established in section 3, Congress urges the President
to pursue high-level discussions with the Russian Federation to achieve
an agreement to amend the ABM Treaty to allow deployment of the
national missile defense system being developed for deployment under
section 4.
(b) Requirement for Senate Advice and Consent.--If an agreement
described in subsection (a) is achieved in discussions described in
that subsection, the President shall present that agreement to the
Senate for its advice and consent. No funds appropriated or otherwise
available for any fiscal year may be obligated or expended to implement
such an amendment to the ABM Treaty unless the amendment is made in the
same manner as the manner by which a treaty is made.
(c) Action Upon Failure To Achieve Negotiated Changes Within One
Year.--If an agreement described in subsection (a) is not achieved in
discussions described in that subsection within one year after the date
of the enactment of this Act, the President and Congress, in
consultation with each other, shall consider exercising the option of
withdrawing the United States from the ABM Treaty in accordance with
the provisions of Article XV of that treaty.
SEC. 8. ABM TREATY DEFINED.
For purposes of this Act, the term ``ABM Treaty'' means the Treaty
Between the United States of America and the Union of Soviet Socialist
Republics on the Limitation of Anti-Ballistic Missile Systems, and
signed at Moscow on May 26, 1972, and includes the Protocols to that
Treaty, signed at Moscow on July 3, 1974. | Defend America Act of 1996 - Expresses U.S. policy to deploy by the end of 2003 a National Missile Defense (NMD) system that: (1) is capable of providing a highly effective defense of U.S. territory against limited, unauthorized, or accidental ballistic missile attack; (2) will be augmented over time to provide a layered defense against larger and more sophisticated ballistic missile threats; and (3) does not feature an offensive-only form of deterrence.
Directs the Secretary of Defense to develop for deployment an affordable and operationally effective NMD system which shall achieve an initial operational capability by the end of 2003. Outlines system elements, including the use of missile interceptors on the ground, at sea, and in space. Directs the Secretary to take specified actions to implement the NMD system development upon enactment of this Act, including the conduct of an integrated systems test by the end of 1998.
Requires the Secretary to report to the Congress the Secretary's plans for the development and deployment of the NMD system.
Urges the President to pursue high-level discussions with the Russian Federation to achieve an agreement to amend the Anti-Ballistic Missile (ABM) Treaty to allow deployment of the NMD system. Requires the President to present any such agreement to the Senate for its advice and consent. Requires the President and the Congress, if such an agreement is not achieved within one year after enactment of this Act, to consider exercising the option of withdrawing the United States from the ABM Treaty. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Defend America Act of 1996"} | 2,129 | 339 | 0.533729 | 1.561742 | 0.870528 | 4.318493 | 6.791096 | 0.941781 |
SECTION 1. OPERATION OF PROGRAMS.
(a) Programs Established.--The Presidential designee under the
Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (hereafter referred
to as the ``Presidential designee'') shall carry out a series of pilot
programs to test the feasibility of using alternative methods,
including the use of advanced electronic technologies and the Internet,
to enable absent uniformed services voters to register to vote and vote
in elections for Federal office.
(b) Agreements With Participating States.--To carry out a pilot
program under this Act, the Presidential designee and the chief State
election official of a participating State shall enter into an
agreement which sets forth the following:
(1) The specific alternative methods for enabling absent
uniformed services voters to register to vote and vote in
elections for Federal office in the State which will be tested
under the program.
(2) The steps to be taken by the Presidential designee, the
chief State election official, and other election officials in
the State to enable these alternative methods to be tested
under the program.
(3) The role to be played by the State advisory panel
described in section 2(b) in assisting the chief State election
official in carrying out the agreement.
(4) The duration of the program.
(5) Such other terms and conditions as may be agreed to by
the Presidential designee and the chief State election official
(consistent with the requirements of this Act).
(c) Issues To Be Considered in Programs.--In carrying out a pilot
program under this Act, the Presidential designee may consider the
following issues:
(1) The transmission of electronic voting material across
military networks.
(2) Virtual private networks, cryptographic voting systems,
centrally controlled voting stations, and other information
security techniques.
(3) The transmission of ballot representations and scanned
pictures in a secure manner.
(4) Capturing, retaining, and comparing electronic and
physical ballot representations.
(5) Utilization of voting stations at military bases.
(6) Document delivery and upload systems.
(7) The functional effectiveness of the application or
adoption of the pilot program to operational environments,
taking into account environmental and logistical obstacles and
State procedures.
(d) Priority in Selection of Eligible States.--In selecting among
States eligible to participate in a pilot program under this Act, the
Presidential designee shall give priority to States with the greatest
number of individuals eligible to register to vote and vote in
elections for Federal office in the State who are absent uniformed
services voters.
(e) No Effect on Other Federal Election Laws.--The operation of a
pilot program under this Act may not conflict with or substitute for
existing Federal laws, regulations, or procedures with respect to the
participation of absent uniformed services voters in elections for
Federal office.
SEC. 2. ELIGIBILITY OF STATES TO PARTICIPATE.
(a) In General.--A State is eligible to participate in a pilot
program under this Act if the chief State election official of the
State submits to the Presidential designee, at such time and in such
form as the Presidential designee may require, an application
containing--
(1) assurances that the State has established an advisory
panel described in subsection (b); and
(2) such other information and assurances as the
Presidential designee may require.
(b) State Advisory Panel.--
(1) Panels described.--An advisory panel described in this
subsection is a panel established by the State to assist the
chief State election official in entering into and carrying out
an agreement with the Presidential designee under section 1(b),
consisting of representatives of the following:
(A) Local election officials in the State.
(B) Members of the uniformed services who are
residents of the State, including members of the
National Guard and Reserve Components thereof.
(C) The spouses and dependents of members of the
uniformed services who are residents of the State,
including members of the National Guard and Reserve
Components thereof.
(D) The committees of the State legislature with
jurisdiction over the election administration laws of
the State.
(E) Organizations promoting the integrity of the
voting process in the State.
(2) Method of establishment.--The State shall establish the
advisory panel under this subsection in a manner which ensures
that the panel will be bipartisan in nature and will reflect
the various geographic regions of the State.
SEC. 3. REPORTS.
The Presidential designee shall submit to Congress reports on the
progress and outcomes of any pilot program conducted under this Act,
and shall include in the reports such recommendations as the
Presidential designee considers appropriate for further legislation and
administrative action.
SEC. 4. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act--
(1) the term ``absent uniformed services voter'' has the
meaning given such term in section 107(1) of the Uniformed and
Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (42 U.S.C. 1973ff-6(1));
(2) the ``chief State election official'' of a State is the
individual designated by the State under section 10 of the
National Voter Registration Act of 1993 (42 U.S.C. 1973gg-8) to
be responsible for coordination of the State's responsibilities
under such Act; and
(3) the term ``State'' includes the District of Columbia,
the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, and the
United States Virgin Islands.
SEC. 5. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this Act such
sums as may be necessary, to remain available until expended. | Directs the Presidential designee under the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act to carry out a series of pilot programs to test the feasibility of using alternative methods, including advanced electronic technologies and the Internet, to enable absent uniformed services voters to register to vote and vote in federal.
Specifies criteria for a state to be eligible to participate in such a pilot program. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To direct the Presidential designee under the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act to carry out pilot programs to permit States to test the feasibility of using alternative methods, including the use of advanced electronic technologies and the Internet, to enable absent uniformed services voters to register to vote and vote in elections for Federal office, and for other purposes."} | 1,211 | 88 | 0.590831 | 1.581637 | 1.315893 | 5.871429 | 16.157143 | 0.957143 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``National Fishery Mitigation
Coordination Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) The operation of dams and other water diversion
projects are for the benefit of the American public. The
construction and operation of these Federal water resource
development projects have had impacts on many water systems and
their respective fish populations, resulting in the need to
build and operate fish hatcheries to mitigate for aquatic
resources affected by these projects.
(2) In accordance with the Fish and Wildlife Act of 1956
(16 U.S.C. 742(a)-754), the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act
(16 U.S.C. 661-667(e)), the Watershed Protection and Flood
Prevention Act (16 U.S.C. 1001-1009), and the National
Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4321-4347), the Service has
established policy (501 FW 2) to seek to mitigate for fish,
wildlife, and their habitats, and uses thereof, from the
effects of land and water developments.
(3) The United States Fish and Wildlife Service currently
operates nearly 40 fish hatcheries that are involved in
mitigation fishery activities related to construction and
operation of Federal water resource development projects.
(4) Mitigation fishery activities conducted by the Service
at these facilities are highly valued by the State and Indian
tribal partners, and the fishing community.
(5) Inconsistency in authorities, which now number over
200, to construct and operate Federal water resource
development projects have led to myriad mechanisms for funding
and conducting Federal mitigation fishery activities. In most
cases Federal water project sponsors fund mitigation fishery
costs. In some cases the Service expends its appropriations to
offset mitigation fishery costs.
(6) The Service is the Federal agency through which a
sponsor agency will negotiate to provide goods and services to
augment fisheries to compensate for the impact of Federal water
development projects on aquatic resources.
(7) The sponsor agency should bear the financial
responsibility for mitigation fishery costs incurred by the
Service.
SEC. 3. FISH HATCHERIES.
A sponsor agency shall enter into an agreement with the Service
described in section 5 to pay the cost that fish hatcheries that
conduct mitigation activities incur, including the following:
(1) Arizona--Willow Beach, National Fish Hatchery.
(2) Arkansas--
(A) Greers Ferry, National Fish Hatchery; and
(B) Norfolk, National Fish Hatchery.
(3) California--Tehama-Colusa Fish Facility.
(4) Colorado--Hotchkiss, National Fish Hatchery.
(5) Georgia--Chattahoochee Forest, National Fish Hatchery.
(6) Kentucky--Wolf Creek, National Fish Hatchery.
(7) Missouri--Neosho, National Fish Hatchery.
(8) Montana--Ennis, National Fish Hatchery.
(9) Nevada--Lahontan, National Fish Hatchery.
(10) North Dakota--
(A) Garrison Dam, National Fish Hatchery; and
(B) Valley City, National Fish Hatchery.
(11) Oklahoma--Tishomingo, National Fish Hatchery.
(12) South Dakota--Gavins Point, National Fish Hatchery.
(13) Tennessee--
(A) Dale Hollow, National Fish Hatchery; and
(B) Erwin, National Fish Hatchery.
(14) Utah--Jones Hole, National Fish Hatchery.
(15) Wyoming--Jackson, National Fish Hatchery.
SEC. 4. DEFINITIONS.
For this Act, the following definitions apply:
(1) Sponsor agency.--The term ``sponsor agency'' means the
United States Army Corps of Engineers, the Bureau of
Reclamation, or the Tennessee Valley Authority.
(2) Service.--The term ``Service'' means the United States
Fish and Wildlife Service.
(3) Mitigation fisheries.--The term ``mitigation
fisheries'' means fisheries augmented by hatchery fish to
compensate for the impacts of Federal water development
projects on aquatic resources.
(4) Mitigation fishery activities.--The term ``mitigation
fishery activities'' means rearing and stocking of native and
nonnative fish to replace or maintain harvest levels lost as a
result of Federal water resource development projects and
includes project planning and evaluation.
(5) Mitigation fishery costs.--The term ``mitigation
fishery costs'' means the expenditures necessary to operate,
maintain, and rehabilitate facilities to conduct mitigation
fishery activities, and include: personnel, transportation,
utilities, contractual services, fish feed, supplies,
equipment, routine maintenance, deferred maintenance, fish
eggs, technical support, fish health, management and
administration, planning, and evaluation.
(6) Mitigation fishery facility.--The term ``mitigation
fishery facility'' means facilities owned and operated by the
United States Fish and Wildlife Service through the National
Fish Hatchery System for the purpose, either wholly or in part,
of conducting mitigation fishery activities.
(7) Fishery mitigation plan.--The term ``fishery mitigation
plan'' refers to a resource management plan developed between
the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and one or more
sponsor agencies, and in cooperation and coordination with
affected States and Indian Tribes, that describes the long-term
goals and annual targets for conducting mitigation fishery
activities. A fishery mitigation plan shall be approved in
advance by a sponsor agency and the Service.
SEC. 5. MITIGATION FISHERY COSTS.
Not later than October 1, 2007, and each October 1st thereafter, a
sponsor agency shall pay to the Service the total amount of funds
necessary to meet the mitigation fishery costs to meet objectives
described in the fishery mitigation plan for a respective water
development project. The funds to be obligated for this purpose shall
be identified in advance by the Director of the United States Fish and
Wildlife Service. | National Fishery Mitigation Coordination Act - Directs a sponsor agency (the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Bureau of Reclamation, or the Tennessee Valley Authority) to enter into an agreement with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to pay the mitigation fishery cost that specified mitigation fishery facilities located in the United States and owned and operated by the Service incur in conducting mitigation activities.
Defines mitigation fishery cost as the expenditures necessary to operate, maintain, and rehabilitate facilities to conduct mitigation fishery activities, including the rearing and stocking of native and nonnative fish to replace or maintain harvest levels lost as a result of Federal water resource development projects. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To ensure the continuation of successful fish mitigation programs."} | 1,312 | 151 | 0.581605 | 1.757136 | 0.644965 | 4.833333 | 9.716667 | 0.95 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Presidential Allowance Modernization
Act''.
SEC. 2. AMENDMENTS.
(a) Relating to a Former President.--The first section of the Act
entitled ``An Act to provide retirement, clerical assistants, and free
mailing privileges to former Presidents of the United States, and for
other purposes'', approved August 25, 1958 (3 U.S.C. 102 note), is
amended by striking the matter before subsection (e) and inserting the
following:
``(a) Each former President shall be entitled for the remainder of
his or her life to receive from the United States--
``(1) an annuity at the rate of $200,000 per year, subject
to subsection (c); and
``(2) a monetary allowance at the rate of $200,000 per
year, subject to subsections (c) and (d).
``(b)(1) The annuity and allowance under subsection (a) shall
each--
``(A) commence on the day after the individual becomes a
former President;
``(B) terminate on the last day of the month before the
former President dies; and
``(C) be payable by the Secretary of the Treasury on a
monthly basis.
``(2) The annuity and allowance under subsection (a) shall not be
payable for any period during which the former President holds an
appointive or elective position in or under the Federal Government or
the government of the District of Columbia to which is attached a rate
of pay other than a nominal rate.
``(c) Effective December 1 of each year, each annuity and allowance
under subsection (a) having a commencement date that precedes such
December 1 shall be increased by the same percentage as the percentage
by which benefit amounts under title II of the Social Security Act (42
U.S.C. 401 and following) are increased, effective as of such December
1, as a result of a determination under section 215(i) of such Act (42
U.S.C. 415(i)).
``(d)(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, the
monetary allowance payable under subsection (a)(2) to a former
President for any 12-month period may not exceed the amount by which--
``(A) the monetary allowance which (but for this
subsection) would otherwise be so payable for such 12-month
period, exceeds (if at all)
``(B) the applicable reduction amount for such 12-month
period.
``(2)(A) For purposes of paragraph (1), the `applicable reduction
amount' is, with respect to any former President and in connection with
any 12-month period, the amount by which--
``(i) the sum of (I) the adjusted gross income (as defined
by section 62 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986) of the
former President for the last taxable year ending before the
start of such 12-month period, plus (II) any interest excluded
from the gross income of the former President under section 103
of such Code for such taxable year, exceeds (if at all)
``(ii) $400,000, subject to subparagraph (C).
``(B) In the case of a joint return, subclauses (I) and (II) of
subparagraph (A)(i) shall be applied by taking into account both the
amounts properly allocable to the former President and the amounts
properly allocable to the spouse of the former President.
``(C) The dollar amount specified in subparagraph (A)(ii) shall be
adjusted at the same time that, and by the same percentage as the
percentage by which, the monetary allowance of the former President is
increased under subsection (c) (disregarding this subsection).''.
(b) Relating to the Surviving Spouse of a Former President.--
(1) Increase in amount of monetary allowance.--Subsection
(e) of the section amended by subsection (a) is amended--
(A) in the first sentence, by striking ``$20,000
per annum,'' and inserting ``$100,000 per year (subject
to paragraph (4)),''; and
(B) in the second sentence--
(i) in paragraph (2), by striking ``and''
at the end;
(ii) in paragraph (3), by striking the
period and inserting ``; and''; and
(iii) by adding after paragraph (3) the
following:
``(4) shall, after its commencement date, be increased at
the same time that, and by the same percentage as the
percentage by which, annuities of former Presidents are
increased under subsection (c).''.
(2) Coverage of widower of a former president.--Such
subsection (e), as amended by paragraph (1), is further
amended--
(A) by striking ``widow'' each place it appears and
inserting ``widow or widower''; and
(B) by striking ``she'' and inserting ``she or
he''.
SEC. 3. RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.
Nothing in this Act shall be considered to affect--
(1) any provision of law relating to the security or
protection of a former President or a member of the family of a
former President; or
(2) funding, under the law amended by this section or under
any other law, to carry out any provision of law described in
paragraph (1).
SEC. 4. EFFECTIVE DATE; TRANSITION RULES.
(a) Effective Date.--This Act shall take effect on the date of
enactment of this Act.
(b) Transition Rules.--
(1) Former presidents.--In the case of any individual who
is a former President on the date of enactment of this Act, the
amendment made by section 2(a) shall be applied as if the
commencement date referred in subsection (b)(1)(A) of the
section amended by this Act coincided with such date of
enactment.
(2) Widows.--In the case of any individual who is the widow
of a former President on the date of enactment of this Act, the
amendments made by section 2(b)(1) shall be applied as if the
commencement date referred to in subsection (e)(1) of the
section amended by this Act coincided with such date of
enactment. | Presidential Allowance Modernization Act - Revises provisions relating to presidential pensions to allow former Presidents an annuity of $200,000 and an additional monetary allowance of $200,000 per year. Reduces such pension by the amount that a President's adjusted gross income in a taxable year exceeds $400,000. Increases from $20,000 to $100,000 the annual annuity of a surviving spouse of a former President. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Presidential Allowance Modernization Act"} | 1,430 | 143 | 0.512736 | 1.383603 | 0.623155 | 1.646154 | 20.276923 | 0.753846 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``HIPAA Recreational Injury Technical
Correction Act''.
SEC. 2. COVERAGE AMENDMENTS.
(a) ERISA.--Section 702(a)(3) of the Employee Retirement Income
Security Act of 1974 (29 U.S.C. 1182(a)(3)) is amended--
(1) by striking ``Construction.--For'' and inserting the
following: ``Scope.--
``(A) Waiting periods.--For''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(B) Limitation on denial of benefits.--
Notwithstanding paragraph (2), a group health plan, or
a health insurance issuer offering group health
insurance coverage in connection with a group health
plan, may not deny benefits otherwise provided under
the plan or coverage for the treatment of an injury
solely because such injury was sustained while engaged
in any particular mode of transportation specified in
the plan consisting of the use of a motorcycle,
snowmobile, all-terrain vehicle, or other similar
recreational vehicle or horseback riding. Nothing in
this subparagraph shall be construed as--
``(i) prohibiting any such plan or issuer
from excluding from coverage injuries sustained
while engaged in such mode of transportation,
if engaging in such mode of transportation, or
the particular vehicle itself, is illegal under
applicable law, or
``(ii) affecting the determination of
primary and secondary insurance or subrogation
or reimbursement rights between insurance
policies.''.
(b) PHSA.--Section 2702(a)(3) of the Public Health Service Act (42
U.S.C. 300gg-1(a)(3)) is amended--
(1) by striking ``Construction.--For'' and inserting the
following: ``Scope.--
``(A) Waiting periods.--For''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(B) Limitation on denial of benefits.--
Notwithstanding paragraph (2), a group health plan, or
a health insurance issuer offering group health
insurance coverage in connection with a group health
plan, may not deny benefits otherwise provided under
the plan or coverage for the treatment of an injury
solely because such injury was sustained while engaged
in any particular mode of transportation specified in
the plan consisting of the use of a motorcycle,
snowmobile, all-terrain vehicle, or other similar
recreational vehicle or horseback riding. Nothing in
this subparagraph shall be construed as--
``(i) prohibiting any such plan or issuer
from excluding from coverage injuries sustained
while engaged in such mode of transportation,
if engaging in such mode of transportation, or
the particular vehicle itself, is illegal under
applicable law, or
``(ii) affecting the determination of
primary and secondary insurance or subrogation
or reimbursement rights between insurance
policies.''.
(c) Internal Revenue Code.--Section 9802(a)(3) of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986 is amended--
(1) by striking ``Construction.--For'' and inserting the
following: ``Scope.--
``(A) Waiting periods.--For''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(B) Limitation on denial of benefits.--
Notwithstanding paragraph (2), a group health plan may
not deny benefits otherwise provided under the plan for
the treatment of an injury solely because such injury
was sustained while engaged in any particular mode of
transportation specified in the plan consisting of the
use of a motorcycle, snowmobile, all-terrain vehicle,
or other similar recreational vehicle or horseback
riding. Nothing in this subparagraph shall be construed
as--
``(i) prohibiting any such plan from
excluding from coverage injuries sustained
while engaged in such mode of transportation,
if engaging in such mode of transportation, or
the particular vehicle itself, is illegal under
applicable law, or
``(ii) affecting the determination of
primary and secondary insurance or subrogation
or reimbursement rights between insurance
policies.''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply with respect to injuries occurring during plan years beginning
after 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act. | HIPAA Recreational Injury Technical Correction Act - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), the Public Health Service Act, and the Internal Revenue Code to prohibit a group health plan or health insurance issuer offering group health coverage from denying benefits or coverage otherwise provided under the plan for the treatment of an injury solely because it was sustained while a person was engaged in any particular mode of transportation specified in the plan, consisting of the use of a motorcycle, snowmobile, all-terrain vehicle, or other similar recreational vehicle or horseback riding, unless such mode of transportation or its use was illegal. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To promote health care coverage parity for individuals engaged in legal use of certain modes of transportation."} | 961 | 135 | 0.665403 | 1.859193 | 0.681872 | 4.538462 | 7.102564 | 0.931624 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Child Poverty Reduction Act''.
SEC. 2. ADDITIONAL PURPOSE OF PROGRAM OF BLOCK GRANTS TO STATES FOR
TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE FOR NEEDY FAMILIES.
Section 401(a) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 601(a)) is
amended--
(1) by striking ``and'' at the end of paragraph (3);
(2) by striking the period at the end of paragraph (4) and
inserting ``; and''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(5) reduce poverty of families with children in the
United States.''.
SEC. 3. ADDITION OF CHILD POVERTY REDUCTION BONUS GRANTS TO TANF
PROGRAM.
Section 403(a) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 603(a)) is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``(6) Bonus to reward states that reduce child poverty.--
``(A) In general.--Beginning with fiscal year 2003,
the Secretary shall make a grant pursuant to this
paragraph to each State for each fiscal year for which
the State is a qualified child poverty reduction State.
``(B) Amount of grant.--
``(i) In general.--Subject to this
subparagraph, the amount of the grant to be
made to a qualified child poverty reduction
State for a fiscal year shall be an amount
equal to--
``(I) the number of children who
had not attained 18 years of age by the
end of the then most recently completed
calendar year and who resided in the
State as of the end of such calendar
year, divided by the number of such
children who resided in the United
States as of the end of such calendar
year; multiplied by
``(II) the amount appropriated
pursuant to subparagraph (F) for the
fiscal year.
``(ii) Limitations.--
``(I) Minimum grant.--The amount of
the grant to be made to a qualified
child poverty reduction State for a
fiscal year shall be not less than
$1,000,000.
``(II) Maximum grant.--The amount
of the grant to be made to a qualified
child poverty reduction State for a
fiscal year shall not exceed an amount
equal to 5 percent of the State family
assistance grant for the fiscal year.
``(iii) Pro rata increase.--If the amount
available for grants under this paragraph for a
fiscal year is greater than the total amount of
payments otherwise required to be made under
this paragraph for the fiscal year, then the
amount otherwise payable to any State for the
fiscal year under this paragraph shall, subject
to clause (ii)(II), be increased by such equal
percentage as may be necessary to ensure that
the total of the amounts payable for the fiscal
year under this paragraph equals the amount
available for the grants.
``(iv) Pro rata reduction.--If the amount
available for grants under this paragraph for a
fiscal year is less than the total amount of
payments otherwise required to be made under
this paragraph for the fiscal year, then the
amount otherwise payable to any State for the
fiscal year under this paragraph shall, subject
to clause (ii)(I), be reduced by such equal
percentage as may be necessary to ensure that
the total of the amounts payable for the fiscal
year under this paragraph equals the amount
available for the grants.
``(C) Use of grant.--A State to which a grant is
made under this paragraph shall use the grant for any
purpose for which a grant made under this part may be
used.
``(D) Definitions.--In this paragraph:
``(i) Qualified child poverty reduction
state.--The term `qualified child poverty
reduction State' means, with respect to a
fiscal year, a State if--
``(I) the child poverty rate
achieved by the State for the then most
recently completed calendar year for
which such information is available is
less than the lowest child poverty rate
achieved by the State during the
applicable period; and
``(II) the average depth of child
poverty in the State for the then most
recently completed calendar year for
which such information is available is
not greater than the average depth
of child poverty in the State for the calendar year that precedes such
then most recently completed calendar year.
``(ii) Applicable period.--In clause (i),
the term `applicable period' means, with
respect to a State and the calendar year
referred to in clause (i)(I), the period that--
``(I) begins with the calendar year
that, as of October 1, 2002, precedes
the then most recently completed
calendar year for which such
information is available; and
``(II) ends with the calendar year
that precedes the calendar year
referred to clause (i)(I).
``(iii) Child poverty rate.--The term
`child poverty rate' means, with respect to a
State and a calendar year, the percentage of
children residing in the State during the
calendar year whose family income for the
calendar year is less than the poverty line
then applicable to the family.
``(iv) Average depth of child poverty.--The
term `average depth of child poverty' means
with respect to a State and a calendar year,
the average dollar amount by which family
income is exceeded by the poverty line, among
children in the State whose family income for
the calendar year is less than the applicable
poverty line.
``(v) Poverty line.--The term `poverty
line' has the meaning given the term in section
673(2) of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act
of 1981, including any revision required by
such section applicable to a family of the size
involved.
``(E) Family income determinations.--For purposes
of this paragraph, family income includes cash income,
child support payments, government cash payments, and
benefits under the Food Stamp Act of 1977 that are
received by any family member, and family income shall
be determined after payment of all taxes and receipt of
any tax refund or rebate by any family member.
``(F) Appropriations.--
``(i) In general.--Out of any money in the
Treasury of the United States not otherwise
appropriated, there are appropriated for fiscal
year 2003 and each fiscal year thereafter
$150,000,000 for grants under this paragraph.
``(ii) Availability.--Amounts made
available under clause (i) shall remain
available until expended.''. | Child Poverty Reduction Act -Amends part A (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) (TANF) of title IV of the Social Security Act to: (1) make it an additional purpose of TANF to reduce poverty of families with children in the United States; and (2) require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make child poverty reduction bonus grants to any State whose child poverty rate for a completed calendar year is less than the rate the State achieved during the preceding calendar year. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To expand the purposes of the program of block grants to States for temporary assistance for needy families to include poverty reduction, and to make grants available under the program for that purpose."} | 1,465 | 108 | 0.64827 | 1.546905 | 0.961837 | 3.074468 | 14.425532 | 0.925532 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Rural Veterans Care Act of 2006''.
SEC. 2. ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR RURAL VETERANS.
Section 308 of title 38, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) by inserting ``(1)'' before ``There'';
(B) by striking ``six'' and inserting ``seven'';
and
(C) by striking ``Each'' and inserting the
following:
``(2) Each'';
(2) by redesignating subsection (c) as paragraph (3) and
inserting such paragraph at the end of subsection (a);
(3) by inserting after subsection (b) the following new
subsection:
``(c)(1) One of the Assistant Secretaries appointed under
subsection (a) shall be the Assistant Secretary for Rural Veterans,
who, under the direction of the Secretary, shall formulate and
implement all policies and procedures of the Department that affect
veterans living in rural areas.
``(2) The Assistant Secretary for Rural Veterans, under the
direction of the Secretary, shall perform the following functions:
``(A) Except as otherwise expressly provided in this title,
carry out the provisions of this title and administer all
Department programs for providing care to veterans living in
rural areas who are eligible for services authorized under this
title.
``(B) Oversee and coordinate personnel and policies of the
Veterans Health Administration, the Veterans Benefits
Administration, the National Cemetery Administration, and their
respective subagencies, including Veterans Integrated Service
Networks, to carry out Department programs to the extent such
programs affect veterans living in rural areas.
``(C) Oversee, coordinate, promote, and disseminate
research into issues affecting veterans living in rural areas
in cooperation with the medical, rehabilitation, health
services, and cooperative studies research programs, the Office
of Policy and the Office of Research and Development of the
Veterans Health Administration, and the centers established in
section 7329.
``(D) Ensure maximum effectiveness and efficiency in
providing services and assistance to eligible veterans under
the programs described in subparagraph (A), after consultation
with appropriate representatives of the Centers for Medicare
and Medicaid Services, the Indian Health Service, and the
Office of Rural Health Policy of the Department of Health and
Human Services, the Social Security Administration, the
Department of Labor, the Department of Agriculture (acting
through the Under Secretary for Rural Development), and other
Federal, State, and local government agencies.
``(E) Work with all personnel and resources of the
Department to develop, refine, and promulgate policies, best
practices, lessons learned, and innovative and successful
programs to improve care and services for rural veterans.
``(F) Perform such other functions and duties as the
Secretary considers appropriate.
``(3) The Secretary shall ensure that the Assistant Secretary for
Rural Veterans has the budget, authority, and control necessary for the
development, approval, implementation, integration, and oversight of
policies, procedures, processes, activities, and systems of the
Department relating to the care of rural veterans. The Secretary shall
identify a Rural Veterans Coordinator in each Veterans Integrated
Service Network, who shall report to the Assistant Secretary for Rural
Veterans and coordinate the functions authorized under this subsection
within such network.
``(4) The Assistant Secretary for Rural Veterans, under the
direction of the Secretary, shall supervise the employees of the
Department who are responsible for implementing the policies and
procedures described in paragraph (1).''; and
(4) in subsection (d)--
(A) in paragraph (1)--
(i) by striking ``18'' and inserting
``19''; and
(ii) by adding at the end the following:
``One of the Deputy Assistant Secretaries
appointed under this paragraph shall be the
Deputy Assistant Secretary for Rural Veterans,
who shall perform such functions as the
Assistant Secretary for Rural Veterans
prescribes.'';
(B) in paragraph (2), by inserting ``or, in the
case of the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Rural
Veterans, comparable service in a management position
in the Armed Forces'' after ``Secretary''.
SEC. 3. RESPONSIBILITIES OF ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR RURAL VETERANS.
(a) Demonstration Projects.--
(1) In general.--The Assistant Secretary for Rural
Veterans, appointed under section 308 of title 38, United
States Code, shall carry out demonstration projects to examine
alternatives for expanding care in rural areas, including--
(A) establishing a partnership between the
Department of Veterans Affairs and the Centers for
Medicare and Medicaid Services of the Department of
Health and Human Services to coordinate care for rural
veterans conducted at critical access hospitals (as
designated or certified under section 1820 of the
Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395i-4));
(B) establishing a partnership between the
Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of
Health and Human Services to coordinate care for rural
veterans conducted at community health centers;
(C) expanding the use of fee basis care through
which private hospitals, health care facilities, and
other third-party providers are reimbursed for
providing care closer to the homes of veterans living
in rural areas, as authorized under section 7405(a)(2);
and
(D) expanding coordination between the Department
of Veterans Affairs and the Indian Health Service to
expand care for Native American veterans.
(2) Geographic distribution.--The Assistant Secretary for
Rural Veterans shall ensure that the demonstration projects
authorized under paragraph (1) are located at facilities that
are geographically distributed throughout the United States.
(3) Report.--Not later than two years after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Assistant Secretary for Rural
Veterans shall submit a report on the results of the
demonstration projects conducted under paragraph (1) to--
(A) the Committee on Veterans Affairs of the
Senate;
(B) the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate;
(C) the Committee on Veterans Affairs of the House
of Representatives; and
(D) the Committee on Appropriations of the House of
Representatives.
(b) Policy Revisions.--Not later than one year after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Assistant Secretary for Rural Veterans
shall--
(1) reevaluate directives 5005 and 5007 of the Department
of Veterans Affairs and other guidance and procedures related
to the use of fee basis care nationwide; and
(2) revise established policies to--
(A) provide stronger guidance to units of the
Department of Veterans Affairs; and
(B) strengthen the use of fee basis care to extend
health care services to rural and remote rural areas.
(c) Reports to Congress.--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall
submit to Congress, in conjunction with the documents submitted in
support of the President's budget for each fiscal year, an assessment
of the implementation during the most recently completed fiscal year of
the provisions of this Act and the amendments made by this Act.
SEC. 4. PILOT PROGRAM ON ENHANCED ACCESS TO HEALTH CARE FOR VETERANS IN
HIGHLY RURAL AND GEOGRAPHICALLY REMOTE AREAS.
(a) Pilot Program.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall
conduct a pilot program to evaluate the feasability and
advisability of utilizing various means to improve the access
of veterans who reside in highly rural or geographically remote
areas to health care services referred to in subsection (d).
(2) Provision of services under pilot program.--In
conducting the pilot program, the Secretary shall provide
health care services referred to in subsection (d) to eligible
veterans who reside in highly rural or geographically remote
areas in the geographic service regions selected for purposes
of the pilot program utilizing the contract authority of the
Secretary under section 1703 of title 38, United States Code,
and such other authorities available to the Secretary as the
Secretary considers appropriate for purposes of the pilot
program.
(b) Eligible Veterans.--A veteran is an eligible veteran for
purposes of this section if the veteran--
(1) has a service-connected disability; or
(2) is enrolled in the veterans health care system under
section 1705 of title 38, United States Code.
(c) Highly Rural or Geographically Remote Areas.--An eligible
veteran resides in a highly rural or geographically remote area for
purposes of this section if the veteran--
(1) resides in a location that is more than 60 miles
driving distance from the nearest Department of Veterans
Affairs health care facility; or
(2) in the case of an eligible veteran who resides in a
location that is less than 60 miles driving distance from such
a facility, experiences such hardship or other difficulties (as
determined pursuant to regulations prescribed by the Secretary
for purposes of this section) in travel to the nearest
Department of Veterans Affairs health care facility that such
travel is not in the best interests of the veteran.
(d) Health Care Services.--The health care services referred to in
this section are--
(1) acute or chronic symptom management;
(2) nontherapeutic medical services; and
(3) any other medical services jointly determined
appropriate for an eligible veteran for purposes of this
section by the physician of the department responsible for
primary care of such eligible veteran and the director of the
Veterans Integrated Service Network concerned.
(e) Areas for Conduct of Pilot Program.--
(1) In general.--The pilot program shall be conducted in 3
of the geographic service regions of the Veterans Health
Administration (referred to as Veterans Integrated Service
Networks) selected by the Secretary for purposes of the pilot
program.
(2) Selection.--In selecting geographic service regions for
the purposes of the pilot program, the Secretary, based on the
recommendations of the Assistant Secretary for Rural Veterans,
shall select from among the Veterans Integrated Service
Networks that have a substantial population of veterans who
reside in highly rural or geographically remote areas.
(f) Period of Pilot Program.--The pilot program shall be conducted
during fiscal years 2007, 2008, and 2009.
(g) Funding for Pilot Program.--
(1) In general.--For each fiscal year during which the
pilot program is conducted, the Secretary shall allocate for
the pilot program an amount equal to 0.9 percent of the total
amount appropriated for such fiscal year for medical services.
(2) Timing of allocation.--The allocation under paragraph
(1) for a fiscal year shall be made before any other allocation
of funds for medical care is made for such fiscal year, and any
remaining allocation of funds for medical care for such fiscal
year shall be made without regard to the allocation under
subsection (a) in such fiscal year.
(h) Report to Congress.--Not later than February 1, 2009, the
Secretary shall submit to Congress a report on the pilot program. The
Secretary shall include in the report such recommendations as the
Secretary considers appropriate concerning extension of the pilot
program or other means to improve the access of veterans who reside in
highly rural or geographically remote areas to health care services
referred to in subsection (d).
SEC. 5. TRAVEL REIMBURSEMENT FOR VETERANS RECEIVING TREATMENT AT
FACILITIES OF THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.
Section 111 of title 38, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) by striking ``subsistence),'' and inserting
``subsistence at a rate equivalent to the rate provided
to Federal employees under section 5702 of title 5),'';
and
(B) by striking ``traveled,'' and inserting ``(at a
rate equivalent to the rate provided to Federal
employees under section 5704 of title 5),'';
(2) by striking subsection (g); and
(3) by redesignating subsection (h) as subsection (g).
SEC. 6. CENTERS FOR RURAL HEALTH RESEARCH, EDUCATION, AND CLINICAL
ACTIVITIES.
(a) In General.--Subchapter II of chapter 73 of title 38, United
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
``Sec. 7329. Centers for rural health research, education, and clinical
activities
``(a) Establishment of Centers.--The Assistant Secretary for Rural
Veterans shall establish and operate not less than one and not more
than five centers of excellence for rural health research, education,
and clinical activities, which shall--
``(1) conduct research on rural health services;
``(2) allow the Department to use specific models for
furnishing services to treat rural veterans;
``(3) provide education and training for health care
professionals of the Department; and
``(4) develop and implement innovative clinical activities
and systems of care for the Department.
``(b) Geographic Dispersion.--The Assistant Secretary for Rural
Veterans shall ensure that the centers authorized under paragraph (1)
are located at health care facilities that are geographically dispersed
throughout the United States.
``(c) Selection Criteria.--The Assistant Secretary for Rural
Veterans may not designate a health care facility as a location for a
center under this section unless--
``(1) the peer review panel established under subsection
(d) determines that the proposal submitted by such facility
meets the highest competitive standards of scientific and
clinical merit; and
``(2) the Assistant Secretary for Rural Veterans determines
that the facility has, or may reasonably be anticipated to
develop--
``(A) an arrangement with an accredited medical
school to provide residents with education and training
in care for rural veterans;
``(B) the ability to attract the participation of
scientists who are capable of ingenuity and creativity
in health care research efforts;
``(C) a policymaking advisory committee, composed
of appropriate health care and research representatives
of the facility and of the affiliated school or
schools, to advise the directors of such facility and
such center on policy matters pertaining to the
activities of such center during the period of the
operation of such center; and
``(D) the capability to effectively conduct
evaluations of the activities of such center.
``(d) Panel To Evaluate Proposals.--(1) The Assistant Secretary for
Rural Veterans shall establish a panel to--
``(A) evaluate the scientific and clinical merit of
proposals submitted to establish centers under this section;
and
``(B) provide advice to the Assistant Secretary for Rural
Veterans regarding the implementation of this section.
``(2) The panel shall review each proposal received from the
Assistant Secretary for Rural Veterans and shall submit its views on
the relative scientific and clinical merit of each such proposal to the
Assistant Secretary.
``(3) The panel established under paragraph (1) shall be comprised
of experts in the fields of public health research, education, and
clinical care.
``(4) Members of the panel shall serve as consultants to the
Department for a period not to exceed two years.
``(5) The panel shall not be subject to the Federal Advisory
Committee Act.
``(e) Funding.--(1) There are authorized to be appropriated such
sums as may be necessary for the support of the research and education
activities of the centers established pursuant to subsection (a).
``(2) The Assistant Secretary for Rural Veterans shall allocate
such amounts as the Under Secretary for Health determines to be
appropriate to the centers established pursuant to subsection (a) from
funds appropriated for the Medical Care Account and the Medical and
Prosthetics Research Account.
``(3) Activities of clinical and scientific investigation at each
center established under subsection (a)--
``(A) shall be eligible to compete for the award of funding
from funds appropriated for the Medical and Prosthetics
Research Account; and
``(B) shall receive priority in the award of funding from
such account to the extent that funds are awarded to projects
for research in the care of rural veterans.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections at the beginning of
chapter 73 of title 38, United States Code, is amended by inserting
after the item relating to section 7328 the following new item:
``7329. Centers for rural health research, education, and clinical
activities.''. | Rural Veterans Care Act of 2006 - Establishes the Assistant Secretary for Rural Affairs in the Department of Veterans Affairs to: (1) formulate and implement all Department policies and procedures that affect veterans living in rural areas; (2) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding veterans' care in rural areas; (3) reevaluate, and revise as necessary, Department guidance and procedures related to the use of fee basis care nationwide; and (4) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities.
Directs the Secretary to conduct a pilot program for improving the access of veterans who reside in highly rural or geographically remote areas to certain health care services. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish an Assistant Secretary for Rural Veterans in the Department of Veterans Affairs, to improve the care provided to veterans living in rural areas, and for other purposes."} | 3,445 | 146 | 0.616545 | 1.580087 | 0.735529 | 4.485915 | 23.640845 | 0.950704 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Connecting Rural America Act''.
SEC. 2. ACCESS TO BROADBAND TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES IN RURAL AREAS.
Section 601 of the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 (7 U.S.C.
950bb) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by striking ``loans and'' and
inserting ``grants, loans, and'';
(2) in subsection (b)(2), by striking ``5 percent'' and
inserting ``15 percent'';
(3) in subsection (c)--
(A) in the subsection heading, by striking ``Loans
and'' and inserting ``Grants, Loans, and'';
(B) in paragraph (1), by inserting ``make grants
and'' after ``Secretary shall'';
(C) in paragraph (2)--
(i) by inserting ``making grants and''
after ``In''; and
(ii) by inserting ``poor and remote'' after
``priority to''; and
(D) by adding at the end the following:
``(3) Grant amounts.--
``(A) Maximum.--Except as otherwise provided in
subparagraph (C), the amount of any grant made under
this section shall not exceed 50 percent of the
development costs of the project for which the grant is
provided.
``(B) Grant rate.--The Secretary shall establish
the grant rate for each project in accordance with
regulations issued by the Secretary that shall provide
for a graduated scale of grant rates that establish
higher rates for projects in communities that have--
``(i) remote locations;
``(ii) low community populations;
``(iii) low income levels; and
``(iv) developed the applications of the
communities with the participation of
combinations of stakeholders including--
``(I) State, local, and tribal
governments;
``(II) nonprofit institutions;
``(III) institutions of higher
education;
``(IV) private entities; and
``(V) philanthropic organizations.
``(C) Waiver authority.--The Secretary may make
grants of up to 75 percent of the development costs of
the project for which the grant is provided to an
eligible entity if the Secretary determines that a
waiver of subparagraph (A) would best serve the purpose
of the program under this section.'';
(4) in subsection (d)--
(A) in paragraph (1)(A)--
(i) in the matter preceding clause (i), by
striking ``loan or'' and inserting ``grant,
loan, or'';
(ii) by striking ``a loan application''
each place it appears in clauses (ii) and (iii)
and inserting ``an application''; and
(iii) in clause (iii), by striking
``proceeds from the loan made or guaranteed
under this section are'' and inserting
``assistance under this section is'';
(B) in paragraph (2)(A), in the matter preceding
clause (i)--
(i) by striking ``the proceeds of a loan
made or guaranteed'' and inserting
``assistance''; and
(ii) by striking ``for the loan or loan
guarantee'' and inserting ``of the eligible
entity'';
(C) by striking ``loan or'' each place it appears
in paragraphs (2)(B), (3)(A), (4), (5), and (6) and
inserting ``grant, loan, or'';
(D) in paragraph (7), by striking ``a loan
application'' and inserting ``an application''; and
(E) by adding at the end the following:
``(8) Transparency and reporting.--The Secretary--
``(A) shall require any entity receiving assistance
under this section to submit quarterly, in a format
specified by the Secretary, a report that describes--
``(i) the use by the entity of the
assistance; and
``(ii) the progress towards fulfilling the
objectives for which the assistance was
granted;
``(B) shall maintain a fully searchable database,
accessible on the Internet at no cost to the public,
that contains, at a minimum--
``(i) a list of each entity that has
applied for assistance under this section;
``(ii) a description of each application,
including the status of each application;
``(iii) for each entity receiving
assistance under this section--
``(I) the name of the entity;
``(II) the type of assistance being
received;
``(III) the purpose for which the
entity is receiving the assistance; and
``(IV) each quarterly report
submitted in accordance with
subparagraph (A); and
``(iv) such other information as is
sufficient to allow the public to understand
and monitor assistance provided under this
section;
``(C) may, in addition to other authority under
applicable law, deobligate awards to grantees that
demonstrate an insufficient level of performance, or
wasteful or fraudulent spending, as defined in advance
by the Secretary, and award those funds competitively
to new or existing applicants consistent with this
section; and
``(D) may establish additional reporting and
information requirements for any recipient of any
assistance under this section so as to ensure
compliance with this section.'';
(5) in subsection (f), by striking ``make a loan or loan
guarantee'' and inserting ``provide assistance'';
(6) in subsection (i)--
(A) by inserting ``grant or'' after ``proceeds of
any''; and
(B) by inserting ``grant or'' after ``recipient of
the'';
(7) in subsection (j)--
(A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by
striking ``loan and loan guarantee'';
(B) in paragraph (1), by inserting ``grants and''
after ``number of'';
(C) in paragraph (2)--
(i) in subparagraph (A), by striking
``loan''; and
(ii) in subparagraph (B), by striking
``loans and'' and inserting ``grants, loans,
and''; and
(D) in paragraph (3), by striking ``loan'';
(8) in subsection (k)--
(A) by redesignating paragraphs (1) and (2) as
paragraphs (2) and (3), respectively;
(B) by inserting before paragraph (1) the
following:
``(1) Mandatory funding.--Of the funds of the Commodity
Credit Corporation, the Secretary shall use for the cost of
grants, loans, and loan guarantees to carry out this section
$20,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2013 through 2017, to
remain available until expended.''; and
(C) in paragraph (2) (as redesignated by
subparagraph (A))--
(i) by striking ``There is'' and inserting
``In addition to funds otherwise made available
under this subsection, there is''; and
(ii) by striking ``2012'' and inserting
``2017''; and
(9) in subsection (l), by striking ``2012'' and inserting
``2017''. | Connecting Rural America Act - Amends the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 to include grants in the rural broadband loan program. Limits grants to not more than 50% of a project's development costs, with a waiver for up to 75% of such costs.
Provides higher grant rates for communities that are small, remote, high poverty, and working with specified stakeholders.
Authorizes appropriations for the program. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "A bill to amend the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 to improve the program of access to broadband telecommunications services in rural areas."} | 1,668 | 92 | 0.604206 | 1.367106 | 1.160285 | 1.641026 | 20.166667 | 0.794872 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Poison Center Support, Enhancement,
and Awareness Act of 2008''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress makes the following findings:
(1) Poison centers are the primary defense of the United
States against injury and deaths from poisoning. Twenty-four
hours a day, the general public as well as health care
practitioners contact their local poison centers for help in
diagnosing and treating victims of poisoning. In 2007, more
than 4 million calls were managed by poison centers providing
ready and direct access for all people of the United States,
including many underserved populations in the United States,
with vital emergency public health information and response.
(2) Poisoning is the second most common form of
unintentional death in the United States. In any given year,
there will be between 3 million and 5 million poison exposures.
Sixty percent of these exposures will involve children under
the age of 6 who are exposed to toxins in their home. Poisoning
accounts for 285,000 hospitalizations, 1.2 million days of
acute hospital care, and more than 26,000 fatalities in 2005.
(3) In 2008, the Harvard Injury Control Research Center
reported that poisonings from accidents and unknown
circumstances more than tripled in rate since 1990. In 2005,
the last year for which data are available, 26,858 people died
from accidental or unknown poisonings. This represents an
increase of 20,000 since 1990 and an increase of 2,400 between
2004 and 2005. Fatalities from poisoning are increasing in the
United States in near epidemic proportions. The funding of
programs to reverse this trend is needed now more than ever.
(4) In 2004, The Institute of Medicine, of the National
Academies recommended that the ``Congress should amend the
current Poison Control Center Enhancement and Awareness Act
Amendments of 2003 to provide sufficient funding to support the
proposed Poison Prevention and Control System with its national
network of poison centers. Support for the core activities at
the current level of service is estimated to require more than
$100 million annually.''.
(5) Sustaining the funding structure and increasing
accessibility to poison control centers will promote the
utilization of poison control centers and reduce the
inappropriate use of emergency medical services and other more
costly health care services. The 2004 Institute of Medicine
Report to Congress determined that for every $1 invested in the
Nation's poison centers $7 of health care costs are saved. In
2005, direct Federal health care program savings totaled in
excess of $525 million as the result of poison center public
health services.
(6) More than 30 percent of the cost savings and financial
benefits of the Nation's network of poison centers are realized
annually by Federal health care programs (estimated to be more
than $1 billion), yet Federal funding support (as demonstrated
by the annual authorization of $30.1 million in Public Law 108-
194) comprises less than 11 percent of the annual network
expenditures of poison centers.
(7) Real-time data collected from the Nation's certified
poison centers can be an important source of information for
the detection, monitoring, and response for contamination of
the air, water, pharmaceutical, or food supply.
(8) In the event of a terrorist event, poison centers will
be relied upon as a critical source for accurate medical
information and public health emergency response concerning the
treatment of patients who have had an exposure to a chemical,
radiological, or biological agent.
SEC. 3. REAUTHORIZATION OF POISON CENTERS NATIONAL TOLL-FREE NUMBER.
Section 1271 of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 300d-71)
is amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 1271. MAINTENANCE OF THE NATIONAL TOLL-FREE NUMBER.
``(a) In General.--The Secretary shall provide coordination and
assistance to poison centers for the establishment of a nationwide
toll-free phone number, and the maintenance of such number, to be used
to access such centers.
``(b) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated $2,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2000 through 2009
to carry out this section; and $1,000,000 for each of the fiscal years
2010 through 2014 for the maintenance of the nationwide toll-free phone
number under subsection (a).''.
SEC. 4. REAUTHORIZATION OF NATIONWIDE MEDIA CAMPAIGN TO PROMOTE POISON
CENTER UTILIZATION.
(a) In General.--Section 1272 of the Public Health Service Act (42
U.S.C. 300d-72) is amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 1272. NATIONWIDE MEDIA CAMPAIGN TO PROMOTE POISON CENTER
UTILIZATION.
``(a) In General.--The Secretary shall carry out, and expand upon,
a national media campaign to educate the public and health care
providers about poison prevention and the availability of poison center
resources in local communities and to conduct advertising campaigns
concerning the nationwide toll-free number established under section
1271(a).
``(b) Contract With Entity.--The Secretary may carry out subsection
(a) by entering into contracts with a nationally recognized
organization in the field of poison control for the development and
implementation of a nationwide poison prevention and poison center
awareness campaign, which may include the development and distribution
of poison prevention and poison center awareness materials; television,
radio, Internet, and newspaper public service announcements; and other
means of public and professional awareness and education.
``(c) Evaluation.--The Secretary shall--
``(1) establish baseline measures and benchmarks to
quantitatively evaluate the impact of the nationwide media
campaign carried out under this section; and
``(2) prepare and submit to the appropriate congressional
committees an evaluation of the nationwide media campaign on an
annual basis.
``(d) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section $600,000 for each of the fiscal
years 2000 through 2005, such sums as may be necessary for each of the
fiscal years 2006 through 2009, and $1,500,000 for each of the fiscal
years 2010 through 2014.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by this section shall be
effective as of the date of the enactment of this Act and shall apply
to contracts entered into on or after January 1, 2009.
SEC. 5. REAUTHORIZATION OF THE POISON CENTER GRANT PROGRAM.
(a) In General.--Section 1273 of the Public Health Service Act (42
U.S.C. 300d-73) is amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 1273. MAINTENANCE OF THE POISON CENTER GRANT PROGRAM.
``(a) Authorization of Grant Program.--The Secretary shall award
grants to poison centers certified under subsection (c) (or granted a
waiver under subsection (d)) and professional organizations in the
field of poison control for the purposes of preventing, and providing
treatment recommendations for, poisonings and complying with the
operational requirements needed to sustain the certification of the
center under subsection (c).
``(b) Additional Uses of Grant Funds.--In addition to the purposes
described in subsection (a), a poison center or professional
organization awarded a grant under such subsection may also use such
grant for the following purposes:
``(1) To establish and evaluate best practices in the
United States for poison prevention, poison center outreach,
and emergency and preparedness programs.
``(2) To research, develop, implement, revise, and
communicate standard patient management guidelines for commonly
encountered toxic exposures.
``(3) To improve national toxic exposure surveillance by
enhancing cooperative activities between poison centers in the
United States and the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention.
``(4) To develop, support, and enhance technology and
capabilities of professional organizations in the field of
poison control to collect national poisoning, toxic occurrence,
and related public health data.
``(5) To develop initiatives to foster the enhanced public
health utilization of national poison data collected by
organizations described in paragraph (4).
``(6) To support and expand the toxicologic expertise
within poison centers.
``(7) To improve the capacity of poison centers to answer
high volumes of calls and respond during times of national
crisis or other public health emergencies.
``(c) Certification.--Except as provided under subsection (d), the
Secretary may make a grant to a poison center under subsection (a) only
if--
``(1) 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; or
``(2) the center has been certified by a State government,
and the Secretary has approved the State government 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 (c) with respect to a
noncertified poison 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 renew a waiver under
paragraph (1).
``(3) Limitation.--In no instance may the sum of the number
of years for a waiver under paragraph (1) and a renewal under
paragraph (2) exceed 5 years. The preceding sentence shall take
effect as of the date of the enactment of the Poison Center
Support, Enhancement, and Awareness Act of 2008.
``(e) Supplement Not Supplant.--Amounts made available to a poison
center under this section shall be used to supplement and not supplant
other Federal, State, or local funds provided for such center.
``(f) Maintenance of Effort.--A poison 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 not less
than the level of expenditures maintained by the center for the fiscal
year preceding the fiscal year for which the grant is received.
``(g) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section--
``(1) for each of the fiscal years 2000 through 2004,
$25,000,000;
``(2) for each of the fiscal years 2005 through 2009,
$27,500,000; and
``(3) for each of the fiscal years 2010 through 2014,
$35,000,000, of which $1,500,000 shall be used to award grants
for the purpose described in subsection (b)(4).''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by this section shall be
effective as of the date of the enact-
ment of this Act and shall apply to grants made on or after January 1,
2009.
Passed the House of Representatives June 4, 2008.
Attest:
LORRAINE C. MILLER,
Clerk. | Poison Center Support, Enhancement, and Awareness Act of 2008 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to provide coordination and assistance for the maintenance of the nationwide toll-free phone number to access poison centers.
Changes the name of poison control centers to poison centers.
Requires the Secretary to carry out and expand upon a national media campaign to educate the public and health care providers about poison prevention and the availability of poison center resources in local communities. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into contracts with a nationally recognized organization for the development and implementation of a nationwide poison prevention and poison center awareness campaign.
Expands the poison center grant program to allow the Secretary to award grants for poison centers to comply with the operational requirements needed to sustain certification. Adds as the purposes for which such grants may be used: (1) to establish and evaluate best practices in the United States for poison prevention, poison center outreach, and emergency and preparedness programs; (2) to develop and implement standard patient management guidelines for commonly encountered toxic exposures; (3) to improve national toxic exposure surveillance; (4) to develop, support, and enhance technology and capabilities of professional organizations in the field of poison control to collect national poisoning, toxic occurrence, and related public health data; and (5) to develop initiatives to foster the enhanced public health utilization of national poison data. Eliminates matching requirements for such grants.
Authorizes appropriations for FY2010-FY2014. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To amend the Public Health Service Act to reauthorize the poison center national toll-free number, national media campaign, and grant program to provide assistance for poison prevention, sustain the funding of poison centers, and enhance the public health of people of the United States."} | 2,409 | 308 | 0.573392 | 1.611642 | 0.687553 | 5.760417 | 7.868056 | 0.940972 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Safer Truck Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds the following:
(1) Heavy trucks carrying up to 20 metric tons of cargo on
the National Highway System are not equipped with modern safety
features presently found on cars. These features include disc
brakes, crash absorbent bumpers and body panels, sway bars,
roll bars, and underride beams. Under current law, truckers who
choose to equip their vehicles with such safety features risk
fines and other penalties for violating Federal weight and
width restrictions even when the amount of cargo carried is not
more than the amount customarily carried on trucks lacking such
safety features.
(2) Trucking is the deadliest industry in the United
States. One in every 7 Americans killed on the job is a trucker
(approximately 800 of the 5900 workplace deaths in 2001). 704
truckers were killed in truck crashes alone in 2001, along with
4,378 motorists and pedestrians--more than 5,000 preventable
deaths. Of the 130,000 people injured by commercial trucks in
2001, 29,000 were truckers. Over 150,000 people, including more
than 25,000 truckers, have been killed in preventable large-
truck crashes since the end of the Vietnam War along with more
than 3,000,000 injured. Many of these deaths can be prevented
in the future by exempting safety features from truck weight
and width restrictions and regulating only the weight of truck
cargo rather than the overall weight of the truck.
(3) New intermodal technologies have emerged that promise
to replace dangerous and inefficient long-haul trucks with
safer, more efficient short-haul trucks that will utilize road,
sea, rail, and inland waterways transportation to substantially
reduce the Nation's dependence on foreign oil and lower the
cost of food and other goods--especially for State run welfare
programs. Under current law, States are required to impose
unreasonable burdens on such intermodal trucks, such as
requiring special permits and escort vehicles which are not
required for larger, more dangerous trucks, or risk the cut off
of Federal highway funds. While some modification to roads and
bridges may be necessary to accommodate safer short-haul
intermodal trucks, the cost is insignificant compared to the
savings that will accrue from reducing the excessive wear and
tear on the National Highway System caused by obsolete long-
haul trucks and their associated high rate of death and injury.
SEC. 3. VEHICLE WEIGHT LIMITATIONS.
Section 127 of title 23, United States Code, is amended by adding
at the end the following:
``(h) Exception.--
``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding subsection (a), a State
may allow a single unit truck or bus without a trailer to carry
up to 20 metric tons or 44,080 pounds of cargo, packaging, and
load securement materials regardless of the overall weight of
the vehicle, its axle weights, or the weight of its safety and
energy conservation devices if the cargo is evenly distributed
in a compartment or combined compartments at least 40 feet
long, the overall height of the vehicle and cargo does not
exceed the width of the wheelbase, the axles are positioned at
the extreme ends of the vehicle, the gross weight and certified
empty weight of the vehicle (including detachable cargo
compartments) are marked conspicuously on the front of the
vehicle in contrasting 3-inch or taller letters and numbers.
``(2) Calculation of gross weight.--For purposes of this
subsection, the gross weight shall be calculated by adding 20
metric tons or 44,080 pounds to the empty weight.''.
SEC. 4. VEHICLE WIDTH LIMITATIONS.
Section 31113(b) of title 49, United States Code, is amended to
read as follows:
``(b) Exclusion of Safety and Energy Conservation Devices.--
``(1) Energy conservation devices.--Width calculated under
this section does not include an energy conservation device the
Secretary decides is necessary for safe and efficient operation
of a commercial motor vehicle.
``(2) Safety devices.--
``(A) In general.--A safety device that reduces the
possibility of death and injury shall not be included
in the calculation of width for purposes of this
section if such device fits entirely within the legal
travel lanes of all roads upon which the vehicle
operates.
``(B) Safety device defined.--In this subsection,
the term `safety device' includes mirrors, grabhandles,
steps, rearview video cameras, crash absorbent bumpers
and body panels, batteries for regenerative braking,
wheels, tires, structural members, and drivetrain
components positioned to enhance vehicle stability.''. | Safer Truck Act - Amends Federal highway law to authorize a State to allow a single unit truck or bus without a trailer to operate on the Interstate System while carrying up to 20 metric tons (44,080 pounds) of cargo, packaging, and load securement materials regardless of the overall weight of the vehicle, its axle weights, or weight of its safety and energy conservation devices if: (1) the cargo is evenly distributed in a compartment or combined compartments at least 40 feet long; (2) the overall height of the vehicle and cargo does not exceed the width of the wheelbase; (3) the axles are positioned at the extreme ends of the vehicle; and (4) the gross weight and certified empty weight of the vehicle (including detachable cargo compartments) are marked conspicuously on the front of the vehicle in contrasting three-inch or taller letters and numbers.Amends Federal transportation law to revise certain commercial motor vehicle width limitations on vehicles operating on the Interstate System and on Federal-aid highways to exclude from width calculations with respect to such limitations any safety devices that reduce the possibility of death and injury, if such devices fit entirely within the legal travel lanes of all roads upon which the vehicle operates. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To amend titles 23 and 49, United States Code, relating to motor vehicle weight and width limitations."} | 1,024 | 263 | 0.497447 | 1.625962 | 0.643866 | 5.179487 | 4.017094 | 0.91453 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Consumer Windfall Excess Oil Profits
Protection Act of 2005''.
SEC. 2. WINDFALL PROFITS TAX ON CRUDE OIL, NATURAL GAS, AND PRODUCTS
THEREOF.
(a) In General.--Subtitle E of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
(relating to alcohol, tobacco, and certain other excise taxes) is
amended by adding at the end thereof the following new chapter:
``CHAPTER 56--WINDFALL PROFITS ON CRUDE OIL, NATURAL GAS, AND PRODUCTS
THEREOF
``Sec. 5896. Imposition of tax.
``Sec. 5897. Windfall profit; etc.
``Sec. 5898. Special rules and definitions.
``SEC. 5896. IMPOSITION OF TAX.
``In addition to any other tax imposed under this title, there is
hereby imposed on every taxpayer an excise tax in an amount equal to 50
percent of the windfall profit for any taxable year from--
``(1) sales of any crude oil, natural gas, or other taxable
product thereof, and
``(2) net gains from transactions of an interest the price
of which is determined in whole or in part by reference to the
price of crude oil, natural gas, or other taxable product
thereof.
``SEC. 5897. WINDFALL PROFIT; ETC.
``(a) General Rule.--For purposes of this chapter, the term
`windfall profit' means the excess of--
``(1) the adjusted taxable income of the taxpayer for the
taxable year, over
``(2) the reasonably inflated average profit for such
taxable year.
``(b) Adjusted Taxable Income.--For purposes of this chapter, with
respect to any taxpayer, the adjusted taxable income for any taxable
year is equal to the taxable income for such taxable year (within the
meaning of section 63 and determined without regard to this
subsection)--
``(1) increased by any interest expense deduction,
charitable contribution deduction, and any net operating loss
deduction carried forward from any prior taxable year, and
``(2) reduced by any interest income, dividend income, and
net operating losses to the extent such losses exceed taxable
income for the taxable year.
In the case of any taxpayer which is a foreign corporation, the
adjusted taxable income shall be determined with respect to such income
which is effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or business
in the United States.
``(c) Reasonably Inflated Average Profit.--For purposes of this
chapter, with respect to any applicable taxpayer, the reasonably
inflated average profit for any taxable year is an amount equal to the
average of the adjusted taxable income of such taxpayer for taxable
years beginning during the 2000-2004 taxable year period (determined
without regard to the taxable year with the highest adjusted taxable
income in such period) plus 10 percent of such average.
``(d) Taxable Product Thereof.--The term `taxable product thereof'
means any fuel which is a product of crude oil or natural gas.
``SEC. 5898. SPECIAL RULES AND DEFINITIONS.
``(a) Withholding and Deposit of Tax.--The Secretary shall provide
such rules as are necessary for the withholding and deposit of the tax
imposed under section 5896.
``(b) Records and Information.--Each taxpayer liable for tax under
section 5896 shall keep such records, make such returns, and furnish
such information as the Secretary may by regulations prescribe.
``(c) Return of Windfall Profit Tax.--The Secretary shall provide
for the filing and the time of such filing of the return of the tax
imposed under section 5896.
``(d) Businesses Under Common Control.--For purposes of this
chapter, all members of the same controlled group of corporations
(within the meaning of section 267(f)) and all persons under common
control (within the meaning of section 52(b) but determined by treating
an interest of more than 50 percent as a controlling interest) shall be
treated as 1 person.
``(e) Regulations.--The Secretary shall prescribe such regulations
as may be necessary or appropriate to carry out the purposes of this
chapter.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of chapters for subtitle E of
such Code is amended by adding at the end the following new item:
``Chapter 56. Windfall profits on crude oil, natural gas, and products
thereof''.
(c) Deductibility of Windfall Profit Tax.--The first sentence of
section 164(a) of such Code (relating to deduction for taxes) is
amended by inserting after paragraph (5) the following new paragraph:
``(6) The windfall profit tax imposed by section 5896.''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning in 2005 or 2006.
SEC. 3. USE OF PROCEEDS FROM WINDFALL PROFITS ON CRUDE OIL, NATURAL
GAS, AND PRODUCTS THEREOF.
There are hereby appropriated amounts equivalent to the taxes
received in the Treasury under chapter 56 of the Internal Revenue Code
of 1986, as follows:
(1) 50 percent of such amounts, which shall be available
only for carrying out the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Act
of 1981, and
(2) 50 percent of such amounts, which shall be credited to
the current appropriation of the Department of Veterans Affairs
that is available for medical services. | Consumer Windfall Excess Oil Profits Protection Act of 2005 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to impose an excise tax of 50 percent on the windfall profit from sales of any crude oil, natural gas, or related products and the net gains from transactions related to the price of crude oil, natural gas, or related products. Defines "windfall profit" as the excess of taxpayer adjusted taxable income over the reasonably inflated average profit for the taxable year (average of taxpayer adjusted taxable income for 2000-2004, plus 10 percent of such average).
Allows a tax deduction for the payment of any such windfall profit tax.
Appropriates equal amounts of the windfall profit tax generated by this Act to carry out the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Act of 1981 and to increase funding for Department of Veterans Affairs medical services. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to impose a windfall profit tax on oil and natural gas (and products thereof) and to use the proceeds of the windfall profit tax collected to carry out the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Act and for medical services provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs."} | 1,260 | 182 | 0.62049 | 1.681899 | 0.76879 | 3.675159 | 7.012739 | 0.910828 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Ensuring Access to Clean Water Act
of 2014''.
SEC. 2. PROTECTION OF NAVIGABLE WATERS FROM CONTAMINATION BY CHEMICAL
STORAGE FACILITIES.
The Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1251 et. seq.)
is amended by adding at the end the following:
``TITLE VII--PROTECTION OF NAVIGABLE WATERS FROM CONTAMINATION BY
CHEMICAL STORAGE FACILITIES
``SEC. 701. DEFINITIONS.
``In this title:
``(1) Aboveground storage tank.--
``(A) In general.--For the purposes of this title,
the term `aboveground storage tank' means any
container, or set of connected containers, designed to
contain fluids located at a covered chemical storage
facility, constructed of materials including concrete,
steel, plastic or fiberglass reinforced plastic and
located on or above the ground surface.
``(B) Exclusions.--For the purposes of this title,
the term `aboveground storage tank' does not include--
``(i) any aboveground storage tank of 1,100
gallons or less capacity, unless that tank is
greater than 500 gallons capacity and is
located within 500 feet of a navigable water
that is designated for use as a domestic water
supply under section 303; or
``(ii) any aboveground storage tank that is
subject to oversight and inspection
requirements under a Federal or State law or
regulation that is determined by the
Administrator or the State as applicable under
section 702(c) to be at least as stringent as
the requirements of the program under section
702.
``(2) Chemical.--The term `chemical' means any substance or
mixture of substances.
``(3) Covered chemical storage facility.--
``(A) In general.--The term `covered chemical
storage facility' means a facility at which a chemical
is stored and the Administrator or State, as
applicable, determines that a release of the chemical
from the facility poses a risk of harm to a navigable
water that is designated for use as a domestic water
supply under section 303.
``(B) Exclusions.--The term `covered chemical
storage facility' does not include a facility that is
subject to a procedure, method, or other requirement
for equipment to address hazardous substances pursuant
to section 311(j)(1)(C).
``(C) Considerations.--In determining risk of harm
posed by a chemical storage facility under subparagraph
(A), the Administrator or State, as applicable, may
consider the requirements of applicable Federal or
State laws (including regulations).
``(4) State program.--The term `State program' means a
chemical storage facility source water protection program
established under section 702.
``SEC. 702. ESTABLISHMENT OF STATE PROGRAMS.
``(a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of
enactment of this title, the Administrator or each State exercising
primary enforcement responsibility under section 702(c), as applicable,
shall carry out, directly or through delegation, a chemical storage
facility source water protection program to provide for the protection
of navigable waters that are designated for use as domestic water
sources under section 303 from a release of a chemical from a covered
chemical storage facility.
``(b) Program Requirements.--
``(1) In general.--A State program under subsection (a)
shall provide for oversight and inspection of each covered
chemical storage facility in accordance with the requirements
described in paragraph (2) to prevent the release of chemicals
into a navigable water that is designated for use as a domestic
water source under section 303.
``(2) Minimum requirements.--At a minimum, a State program
shall include--
``(A) requirements for covered chemical storage
facilities, including--
``(i) acceptable standards of good design,
construction, or maintenance;
``(ii) leak detection;
``(iii) spill and overfill control;
``(iv) inventory control;
``(v) an emergency response and
communication plan;
``(vi) an employee training and safety
plan;
``(vii) an inspection of the integrity of
each covered chemical storage facility;
``(viii) lifecycle maintenance, including
corrosion protection;
``(ix) notice to the Administrator, the
appropriate State agency, and applicable
operators of public water systems on the
navigable water designated for use as a
domestic water supply under section 303 of--
``(I) the potential toxicity of the
stored chemicals to humans and the
environment; and
``(II) safeguards or other
precautions that can be taken to
detect, mitigate, or otherwise limit
the adverse effects of a release of the
stored chemicals; and
``(x) financial responsibility
requirements, including proof of insurance,
bond, or other similar instrument;
``(B) inspections of aboveground storage tanks at
covered chemical storage facilities, which shall
occur--
``(i) for a covered chemical storage
facility identified in a source water
assessment area under section 1453 of the Safe
Drinking Water Act (42 U.S.C. 300f et seq.),
not less frequently than once every 3 years;
and
``(ii) for any other covered chemical
storage facility, not less frequently than once
every 5 years; and
``(C) a comprehensive inventory of the covered
chemical storage facilities in each State.
``(c) Administration.--A State program shall be carried out--
``(1) if the State exercises primary enforcement
responsibility for the issuance of permits under section
402(b), by the State; and
``(2) if the State does not exercise primary enforcement
responsibility for the issuance of permits under section 402(b)
in that State, by the Administrator.
``(d) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this title shall preclude
or deny the right of any State or political subdivision thereof or
interstate agency to adopt or enforce standards for the oversight and
inspection of covered chemical storage facilities that are more
stringent than the minimum requirements in this section.
``(e) Technical Assistance.--Upon the request of a State exercising
primary enforcement responsibility under section 702(c)(1), the
Administrator may provide technical assistance to a State program in
carrying out activities under this title.
``(f) Survey of Best Practices.--The Administrator shall within six
months of the date in section 702(a)--
``(1) prepare a report that surveys the State oversight and
inspection programs provided for in this section and applicable
regulations implementing such programs in place in each State;
``(2) submit a copy of this report to the Chairman and
Ranking Member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure
Committee and the Senate Environment and Public Works
Committee;
``(3) make the report available to the public on the
Administrator's Web site; and
``(4) provide a copy of the report to each State exercising
primary enforcement responsibility under section 702(c)(1).
``SEC. 703. EMERGENCY POWERS.
``(a) Corrective Action Orders.--The Administrator under section
702(c)(2) or the State under section 702(c)(1), as applicable, may
issue an order to the owner or operator of a covered chemical storage
facility to carry out the requirements of this title.
``(b) Petitions.--
``(1) In general.--In any case in which the Administrator
or State as applicable under section 702(c) is authorized to
act under subsection (a), the owner or operator of a public
water system may--
``(A) commence a civil action for appropriate
equitable relief, including a restraining order or
permanent or temporary injunction, to address any
activity or facility that may present an imminent and
substantial endangerment to the health of persons who
are supplied by that public water system; or
``(B) petition the Administrator or State as
applicable under section 702(c) to issue an order or
commence a civil action under subsection (a).
``(2) Response.--
``(A) In general.--Subject to subparagraph (B), not
later than 30 days after the date on which the
Administrator receives a petition under paragraph (1),
the Administrator shall respond to the petition and
initiate such action as the Administrator determines to
be appropriate.
``(B) Special rule for emergencies.--If the owner
or operator of a public water system submits the
petition under paragraph (1) in response to an
emergency, the Administrator shall respond not later
than 72 hours after receipt of the petition.
``SEC. 704. COST RECOVERY.
``If costs have been incurred by the Administrator or the State, as
applicable, for undertaking a response action under this title relating
to the release of a chemical, the owner or operator of the covered
chemical storage facility shall be liable to the Administrator or the
State for those costs.
``SEC. 705. TRANSFER OF COVERED CHEMICAL STORAGE FACILITIES.
``Notwithstanding the inspection schedule under section
702(b)(2)(B), no person shall transfer a covered chemical storage
facility unless--
``(1) prior to the closing or completion of the transfer,
the transferor submits to the transferee the results of a pre-
transfer inspection of the integrity of the covered chemical
storage facility, which shall be conducted pursuant to any
requirements set by the Administrator under section 702(c)(2)
or the State under section 702(c)(1), as applicable; and
``(2) the transferor or the transferee agrees to take
appropriate measures to address the results of the pre-transfer
inspection prior to the date that is 30 days after the date on
which the covered chemical storage facility closes or is
transferred.
``SEC. 706. INFORMATION SHARING.
``(a) Information for Operators of Domestic Water Systems on
Navigable Waters.--The Administrator or State, as applicable, shall
provide operators of domestic water systems on a navigable water that
is designated for use as a domestic water source under section 303 with
information relating to--
``(1) emergency response plans for covered chemical storage
facilities located within the same watershed as the domestic
water system; and
``(2) an inventory of each chemical held at the covered
chemical storage facilities described in paragraph (1).
``(b) Emergency Response Plans.--A copy of each emergency response
plan submitted under section 702(b)(2)(A) shall be provided to--
``(1) the Administrator (if the State exercises primary
responsibility under section 702(c)(1)); and
``(2) the Secretary of Homeland Security.
``(c) Information.--
``(1) In general.--The Administrator or a State, as
applicable, may keep confidential information the Administrator
or the State determines to be sensitive or present a security
risk to a covered chemical storage facility.
``(2) Exceptions.--Paragraph (1) shall not--
``(A) apply to public health information; or
``(B) prevent the sharing of information with the
Administrator, the Secretary of Homeland Security, a
public water system, or a public agency involved in
emergency response.
``SEC. 707. PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS.
``Any person owning or operating a covered chemical storage
facility who violates any applicable requirement or who fails or
refuses to comply with an order issued by the Administrator or the
State as applicable under this title, may, in an action brought in the
appropriate United States District Court, be subject to a civil penalty
not to exceed $15,000 for each day in which such violation occurs or
failure to comply continues.''. | Ensuring Access to Clean Water Act of 2014 - Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (commonly known as the Clean Water Act) to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or a state exercising primary enforcement responsibility for National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit programs to carry out a state chemical storage facility source water protection program. Requires such a program to provide for oversight and inspection of each covered chemical storage facility in accordance with minimum requirements, described in this Act, to prevent the release of chemicals into a navigable water that is designated for use as a domestic water source. Defines "covered chemical storage facility" as a facility at which a chemical is stored and from which a release is determined to pose a risk of harm to such source. Prohibits this Act from precluding or denying the right of any state to adopt or enforce standards for the oversight and inspection of covered chemical storage facilities that are more stringent than this Act's minimum requirements. Requires the Administrator to report on a survey of states' best practices in oversight and inspection programs and applicable regulations implementing the programs. Authorizes the issuance of orders by the Administrator to carry out this Act. Authorizes an owner or operator of a public water system to commence, or to petition the Administrator to commence, a civil action for equitable relief to address possible imminent and substantial endangerment to the health of persons supplied by the water system. Provides a special rule to expedite the Administrator's response to a petition in emergency situations. Sets forth requirements concerning: (1) liability of a facility owner or operator for costs of response actions, (2) pre-transfer inspections of facilities, and (3) information for operators of domestic water systems on navigable waters regarding emergency response plans and chemical inventories. Establishes a civil penalty of up to $15,000 for each day in which an owner or operator of a covered facility violates this Act. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Ensuring Access to Clean Water Act of 2014"} | 2,600 | 433 | 0.607667 | 1.724751 | 0.775327 | 3.472527 | 6.585165 | 0.895604 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; FINDINGS.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Preserving Access
to Modern Prosthetic Limbs Act of 2016''.
(b) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
(1) The Medicare program includes coverage for prosthetic
limbs under section 1861(s)(9) of the Social Security Act (42
U.S.C. 1395w(s)(9)).
(2) As a result of significant Federal and private
investment in research and development over the past decades,
beneficiaries with lower limb prostheses are able to maintain
optimal function and lead productive and independent lives.
(3) Federal spending for prosthetic devices in the Medicare
program has decreased by 15 percent between 2010 and 2014.
(4) The Secretary of Health and Human Services, through
Medicare contractors known as Durable Medical Equipment
Medicare Administrative Contractors, released on July 16, 2015,
a document entitled ``Local Coverage Determination (LCD): Lower
Limb Prostheses (DL33787)'', which applies to all Medicare
beneficiaries across the United States.
(5) The policies proposed in this document would
comprehensively change the requirements under which a Medicare
beneficiary would qualify for a lower limb prosthetic device
and would seriously restrict access to modern prosthetic care.
(6) If finalized, the changes proposed in this document
would create coverage requirements that are inconsistent with
current clinical practice and would arbitrarily and
unreasonably deny Medicare beneficiaries access to prosthetic
limb technologies considered the current standard of care.
(7) Under these proposed policies, beneficiaries instead
would be eligible for prosthetic devices that are functionally
outdated, less durable, and less safe.
(8) The adverse impact of the Medicare contractors'
proposed policies extend well beyond the Medicare program and
has implications for other Federal health programs, such as
health programs of the Veterans Administration, and commercial
insurers.
(9) Given the far reaching effect of these policies, and
the fact that little or no clinical or scientific evidence
supported the issuance of these proposals, any changes to
prosthetic limb coverage should be made only after a
transparent process in which evidence is offered to justify
coverage modifications, meaningful stakeholder feedback is
solicited, and the Secretary and Medicare contractors receive
and respond to this stakeholder feedback in a public manner.
(10) A moratorium on the implementation and enforcement of
these proposed policies would enable the Secretary and the
Medicare contractors to engage in such a transparent process.
SEC. 2. MORATORIUM ON IMPLEMENTATION OF PROPOSED MEDICARE LOCAL
COVERAGE DETERMINATION ON LOWER LIMB PROSTHESES.
(a) Moratorium.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of Health and Human Services
and any Medicare Administrative Contractor may not implement
and enforce the policies in the LCD on lower limb prostheses
(as defined in subsection (d)(1)), in whole or in part, during
the period beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act,
and ending on June 30, 2017.
(2) Removal of policy from websites.--The Secretary of
Health and Human Services and its medicare administrative
contractors shall remove the LCD on lower limb prostheses from
the websites of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
and its medicare administrative contractors during the period
of the moratorium under paragraph (1).
(b) Providing the Secretary With Authority To Oversee the
Development of Local Coverage Determinations.--Section 1862(l)(5) of
the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 395y(l)(5)) is amended--
(1) by redesignating subparagraph (C) as subparagraph (D);
and
(2) by inserting after subparagraph (B) the following new
subparagraph:
``(C) Secretary oversight and guidance in
developing local coverage determinations.--The
Secretary shall provide guidance and oversight of any
local coverage determination developed by a medicare
administrative contractor to ensure that the local
coverage determination is consistent with this
title.''.
(c) Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be construed to
prevent the Secretary from enforcing existing statutes, regulations,
and local coverage determinations other than with respect to policies
in the LCD on lower limb prostheses.
(d) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) LCD on lower limb prostheses.--The term ``LCD on lower
limb prostheses'' means the local coverage determination on
lower limb prostheses as proposed by a medicare administrative
contractor in the document (DL33787) released on July 16, 2015,
and any successor to such determination.
(2) Medicare administrative contractor.--The term
``medicare administrative contractor'' has the meaning given
such term in section 1874A(a)(3)(A) of the Social Security Act
(42 U.S.C. 1395kk-1(a)(3)(A)). | Preserving Access to Modern Prosthetic Limbs Act of 2016 This bill amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to postpone implementation and enforcement of a local coverage determination (LCD) proposed by a Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) on lower limb prostheses. (An LCD is a decision by a MAC, which is a private insurer that processes Medicare claims within a specified geographic jurisdiction, as to whether to cover a service on a MAC-wide basis.) The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid shall provide guidance and oversight related to LCDs, as specified by the bill. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Preserving Access to Modern Prosthetic Limbs Act of 2016"} | 1,062 | 163 | 0.503076 | 1.622566 | 0.764434 | 2.385321 | 8.440367 | 0.752294 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Small Business Liability Protection
Act''.
SEC. 2. SMALL BUSINESS LIABILITY RELIEF.
(a) Exemptions.--Section 107 of the Comprehensive Environmental
Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9607) is
amended by adding at the end the following new subsections:
``(o) De Micromis Exemption.--
``(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2), a
person shall not be liable, with respect to response costs at a
facility on the National Priorities List, under this Act if
liability is based solely on paragraph (3) or (4) of subsection
(a), and the person, except as provided in paragraph (4) of
this subsection, can demonstrate that--
``(A) the total amount of the material containing
hazardous substances that the person arranged for
disposal or treatment of, arranged with a transporter
for transport for disposal or treatment of, or accepted
for transport for disposal or treatment, at the
facility was less than 110 gallons of liquid materials
or less than 200 pounds of solid materials (or such
greater or lesser amounts as the Administrator may
determine by regulation); and
``(B) all or part of the disposal, treatment, or
transport concerned occurred before April 1, 2001.
``(2) Exceptions.--Paragraph (1) shall not apply in a case
in which--
``(A) the President determines that--
``(i) the materials containing hazardous
substances referred to in paragraph (1) have
contributed significantly or could contribute
significantly, either individually or in the
aggregate, to the cost of the response action
or natural resource restoration with respect to
the facility; or
``(ii) the person has failed to comply with
an information request or administrative
subpoena issued by the President under this Act
or has impeded or is impeding, through action
or inaction, the performance of a response
action or natural resource restoration with
respect to the facility; or
``(B) a person has been convicted of a criminal
violation for the conduct to which the exemption would
apply, and that conviction has not been vitiated on
appeal or otherwise.
``(3) No judicial review.--A determination by the President
under paragraph (2)(A) shall not be subject to judicial review.
``(4) Nongovernmental third-party contribution actions.--In
the case of a contribution action, with respect to response
costs at a facility on the National Priorities List, brought by
a party, other than a Federal, State, or local government,
under this Act, the burden of proof shall be on the party
bringing the action to demonstrate that the conditions
described in paragraph (1)(A) and (B) of this subsection are
not met.
``(p) Municipal Solid Waste Exemption.--
``(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2) of
this subsection, a person shall not be liable, with respect to
response costs at a facility on the National Priorities List,
under paragraph (3) of subsection (a) for municipal solid waste
disposed of at a facility if the person, except as provided in
paragraph (5) of this subsection, can demonstrate that the
person is--
``(A) an owner, operator, or lessee of residential
property from which all of the person's municipal solid
waste was generated with respect to the facility;
``(B) a business entity (including a parent,
subsidiary, or affiliate of the entity) that, during
its 3 taxable years preceding the date of transmittal
of written notification from the President of its
potential liability under this section, employed on
average not more than 100 full-time individuals, or the
equivalent thereof, and that is a small business
concern (within the meaning of the Small Business Act
(15 U.S.C. 631 et seq.)) from which was generated all
of the municipal solid waste attributable to the entity
with respect to the facility; or
``(C) an organization described in section
501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and
exempt from tax under section 501(a) of such Code that,
during its taxable year preceding the date of
transmittal of written notification from the President
of its potential liability under this section, employed
not more than 100 paid individuals at the location from
which was generated all of the municipal solid waste
attributable to the organization with respect to the
facility.
For purposes of this subsection, the term `affiliate' has the
meaning of that term provided in the definition of `small
business concern' in regulations promulgated by the Small
Business Administration in accordance with the Small Business
Act (15 U.S.C. 631 et seq.).
``(2) Exception.--Paragraph (1) shall not apply in a case
in which the President determines that--
``(A) the municipal solid waste referred to in
paragraph (1) has contributed significantly or could
contribute significantly, either individually or in the
aggregate, to the cost of the response action or
natural resource restoration with respect to the
facility;
``(B) the person has failed to comply with an
information request or administrative subpoena issued
by the President under this Act; or
``(C) the person has impeded or is impeding,
through action or inaction, the performance of a
response action or natural resource restoration with
respect to the facility.
``(3) No judicial review.--A determination by the President
under paragraph (2) shall not be subject to judicial review.
``(4) Definition of municipal solid waste.--
``(A) In general.--For purposes of this subsection,
the term `municipal solid waste' means waste material--
``(i) generated by a household (including a
single or multifamily residence); and
``(ii) generated by a commercial,
industrial, or institutional entity, to the
extent that the waste material--
``(I) is essentially the same as
waste normally generated by a
household;
``(II) is collected and disposed of
with other municipal solid waste as
part of normal municipal solid waste
collection services; and
``(III) contains a relative
quantity of hazardous substances no
greater than the relative quantity of
hazardous substances contained in waste
material generated by a typical single-
family household.
``(B) Examples.--Examples of municipal solid waste
under subparagraph (A) include food and yard waste,
paper, clothing, appliances, consumer product
packaging, disposable diapers, office supplies,
cosmetics, glass and metal food containers, elementary
or secondary school science laboratory waste, and
household hazardous waste.
``(C) Exclusions.--The term `municipal solid waste'
does not include--
``(i) combustion ash generated by resource
recovery facilities or municipal incinerators;
or
``(ii) waste material from manufacturing or
processing operations (including pollution
control operations) that is not essentially the
same as waste normally generated by households.
``(5) Burden of proof.--In the case of an action, with
respect to response costs at a facility on the National
Priorities List, brought under section 107 or 113 by--
``(A) a party, other than a Federal, State, or
local government, with respect to municipal solid waste
disposed of on or after April 1, 2001; or
``(B) any party with respect to municipal solid
waste disposed of before April 1, 2001, the burden of
proof shall be on the party bringing the action to
demonstrate that the conditions described in paragraphs
(1) and (4) for exemption for entities and
organizations described in paragraph (1)(B) and (C) are
not met.
``(6) Certain actions not permitted.--No contribution
action may be brought by a party, other than a Federal, State,
or local government, under this Act with respect to
circumstances described in paragraph (1)(A).
``(7) Costs and fees.--A nongovernmental entity that
commences, after the date of the enactment of this subsection,
a contribution action under this Act shall be liable to the
defendant for all reasonable costs of defending the action,
including all reasonable attorney's fees and expert witness
fees, if the defendant is not liable for contribution based on
an exemption under this subsection or subsection (o).''.
(b) Expedited Settlement.--Section 122(g) of such Act (42 U.S.C.
9622(g)) is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraphs:
``(7) Reduction in settlement amount based on limited
ability to pay.--
``(A) In general.--The condition for settlement
under this paragraph is that the potentially
responsible party is a person who demonstrates to the
President an inability or a limited ability to pay
response costs.
``(B) Considerations.--In determining whether or
not a demonstration is made under subparagraph (A) by a
person, the President shall take into consideration the
ability of the person to pay response costs and still
maintain its basic business operations, including
consideration of the overall financial condition of the
person and demonstrable constraints on the ability of
the person to raise revenues.
``(C) Information.--A person requesting settlement
under this paragraph shall promptly provide the
President with all relevant information needed to
determine the ability of the person to pay response
costs.
``(D) Alternative payment methods.--If the
President determines that a person is unable to pay its
total settlement amount at the time of settlement, the
President shall consider such alternative payment
methods as may be necessary or appropriate.
``(8) Additional conditions for expedited settlements.--
``(A) Waiver of claims.--The President shall
require, as a condition for settlement under this
subsection, that a potentially responsible party waive
all of the claims (including a claim for contribution
under this Act) that the party may have against other
potentially responsible parties for response costs
incurred with respect to the facility, unless the
President determines that requiring a waiver would be
unjust.
``(B) Failure to comply.--The President may decline
to offer a settlement to a potentially responsible
party under this subsection if the President determines
that the potentially responsible party has failed to
comply with any request for access or information or an
administrative subpoena issued by the President under
this Act or has impeded or is impeding, through action
or inaction, the performance of a response action with
respect to the facility.
``(C) Responsibility to provide information and
access.--A potentially responsible party that enters
into a settlement under this subsection shall not be
relieved of the responsibility to provide any
information or access requested in accordance with
subsection (e)(3)(B) or section 104(e).
``(9) Basis of determination.--If the President determines
that a potentially responsible party is not eligible for
settlement under this subsection, the President shall provide
the reasons for the determination in writing to the potentially
responsible party that requested a settlement under this
subsection.
``(10) Notification.--As soon as practicable after receipt
of sufficient information to make a determination, the
President shall notify any person that the President determines
is eligible under paragraph (1) of the person's eligibility for
an expedited settlement.
``(11) No judicial review.--A determination by the
President under paragraph (7), (8), (9), or (10) shall not be
subject to judicial review.
``(12) Notice of settlement.--After a settlement under this
subsection becomes final with respect to a facility, the
President shall promptly notify potentially responsible parties
at the facility that have not resolved their liability to the
United States of the settlement.''.
SEC. 3. EFFECT ON CONCLUDED ACTIONS.
The amendments made by this Act shall not apply to or in any way
affect any settlement lodged in, or judgment issued by, a United States
District Court, or any administrative settlement or order entered into
or issued by the United States or any State, before the date of the
enactment of this Act.
Passed the House of Representatives May 22, 2001.
Attest:
JEFF TRANDAHL,
Clerk. | Small Business Liability Protection Act - Amends the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 to provide (with exceptions) that persons shall be liable for response costs at a National Priorities List (NPL) facility as non-owners or operators only if the total of material containing a hazardous substance that the business arranged for disposal, transport, or treatment of, or accepted for transport, was greater than 110 gallons of liquid material or 200 pounds of solid material. Applies this exemption only to activities taking place before April 1, 2001.Exempts a person from liability for response costs (with exceptions) at a NPL facility for municipal solid waste (MSW) as a non-owner or operator if the person is an owner, operator, or lessee of residential property from which all of the person's MSW was generated, or a certain small business or small charitable tax-exempt organization that generated all its MSW, with respect to the facility concerned.Makes nongovernmental entities that commence a contribution action liable to the defendant for all reasonable costs of defending the action if the defendant is not liable based on the above-described exemptions.Adds to the list of parties eligible for de minimis final settlements certain persons and businesses that demonstrate an inability or limited ability to pay response costs.Revises conditions of eligibility for such settlements for de minimis parties, including waiver of all claims that the party may have against other potentially responsible parties for response costs incurred with respect to the facility, unless the President determines that requiring a waiver would be unjust. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To provide certain relief for small businesses from liability under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980."} | 2,689 | 354 | 0.61912 | 1.972351 | 0.890432 | 3.326531 | 8.636054 | 0.884354 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Renewable Energy Market Access
Program Act''.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Energy efficiency product.--The term ``energy
efficiency product'' means any product, technology, or
component of a product that--
(A) as compared with products, technologies, or
components of products being deployed at the time for
widespread commercial use in the country in which the
product, technology, or component will be used--
(i) substantially increases the energy
efficiency of buildings, industrial or
agricultural processes, or electricity
transmission, distribution, or end-use
consumption; or
(ii) substantially increases the energy
efficiency of the transportation system; and
(B) results in no significant incremental adverse
effects on public health or the environment.
(2) Renewable energy.--The term ``renewable energy'' means
energy generated by a renewable energy resource.
(3) Renewable energy product.--The term ``renewable energy
product'' means any product, technology, or component of a
product used in the development or production of renewable
energy.
(4) Renewable energy resource.--The term ``renewable energy
resource'' means solar, wind, ocean, tidal, or geothermal
energy, biofuel, biomass, hydropower, or hydrokinetic energy.
(5) Small- and medium-sized businesses.--The term ``small-
and medium-sized businesses'' means--
(A) small business concerns (as that term used in
section 3 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632));
and
(B) businesses the Secretary of Commerce determines
to be small- or medium-sized, based on factors that
include the structure of the industry, the amount of
competition in the industry, the average size of
businesses in the industry, and costs and barriers
associated with entering the industry.
SEC. 3. COST-SHARING ASSISTANCE WITH RESPECT TO THE EXPORTATION OF
ENERGY EFFICIENCY PRODUCTS AND RENEWABLE ENERGY PRODUCTS.
(a) In General.--The Under Secretary for International Trade of the
Department of Commerce (in this section referred to as the ``Under
Secretary'') shall establish and carry out a program to provide cost-
sharing assistance to eligible organizations--
(1) to improve access to the markets of foreign countries
for energy efficiency products and renewable energy products
exported by small- and medium-sized businesses in the United
States; and
(2) to assist small- and medium-sized businesses in the
United States in obtaining services and other assistance with
respect to exporting energy efficiency products and renewable
energy products, including services and assistance available
from the Department of Commerce and other Federal agencies.
(b) Eligible Organizations.--An eligible organization is a
nonprofit trade association in the United States or a State or regional
organization that promotes the exportation and sale of energy
efficiency products or renewable energy products.
(c) Application Process.--An eligible organization shall submit an
application for cost-sharing assistance under subsection (a)--
(1) at such time and in such manner as the Under Secretary
may require; and
(2) that contains a plan that describes the activities the
organization plans to carry out using the cost-sharing
assistance provided under subsection (a).
(d) Awarding Cost-Sharing Assistance.--
(1) In general.--The Under Secretary shall establish a
process for granting applications for cost-sharing assistance
under subsection (a) that includes a competitive review
process.
(2) Priority for innovative ideas.--In awarding cost-
sharing assistance under subsection (a), the Under Secretary
shall give priority to an eligible organization that includes
in the plan of the organization submitted under subsection
(c)(2) innovative ideas for improving access to the markets of
foreign countries for energy efficiency products and renewable
energy products exported by small- and medium-sized businesses
in the United States.
(e) Level of Cost-Sharing Assistance.--
(1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2), the Under
Secretary shall determine an appropriate percentage of the cost
of carrying out a plan submitted by an eligible organization
under subsection (c)(2) to be provided in the form of
assistance under this section.
(2) Limitation.--Assistance provided under this section may
not exceed 50 percent of the cost of carrying out the plan of
an eligible organization.
SEC. 4. REPORT.
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this
Act, the Secretary of Commerce, in consultation with the Secretary of
Energy, shall submit to Congress a report on the export promotion needs
of businesses in the United States that export energy efficiency
products or renewable energy products.
SEC. 5. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of
Commerce to carry out this Act--
(1) $15,000,000 for fiscal year 2012;
(2) $16,000,000 for fiscal year 2013;
(3) $17,000,000 for fiscal year 2014;
(4) $18,000,000 for fiscal year 2015; and
(5) $19,000,000 for fiscal year 2016. | Renewable Energy Market Access Program Act - Directs the Under Secretary for International Trade of the Department of Commerce to establish and carry out a program to provide cost-sharing assistance to nonprofit trade associations in the United States or state or regional organizations that promote the exportation and sale of energy efficiency products or renewable energy products to: (1) improve access to the markets of foreign countries for energy efficiency products and renewable energy products exported by small- and medium-sized U.S. businesses; and (2) assist such businesses in obtaining services and other assistance, including from the Department of Commerce and other federal agencies, with respect to exporting such products. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "A bill to provide cost-sharing assistance to improve access to the markets of foreign countries for energy efficiency products and renewable energy products exported by small- and medium-sized businesses in the United States, and for other purposes."} | 1,100 | 129 | 0.587347 | 1.529539 | 0.630416 | 4.844262 | 8.483607 | 0.959016 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Budget Integrity Act''.
SEC. 2. LONG-TERM COST ANALYSES OF LEGISLATION BY CBO.
Section 402 of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 is amended by
inserting ``(a) Cost Estimates.--'' after ``Sec. 402.'' and by adding
at the end the following new subsections:
``(b) Long-Term Cost Estimates.--(1) Whenever the Director of the
Congressional Budget Office prepares an analysis of the costs of a bill
or joint resolution under subsection (a), and upon the request of the
chair or ranking minority member of the Committee on the Budget of the
House of Representatives or the Senate, the Director shall prepare and
submit to such committee the information requested under paragraphs
(1), (2), and (3) of subsection (a) for any such bill or joint
resolution that would have a significant fiscal impact, except that
such information shall be for, if practicable, at least each of the
next two ten-fiscal-year periods beginning with the first fiscal year
after the last fiscal year for which an analysis was prepared under
subsection (a).
``(2) As used in paragraph (1) and in subsection (c), the term
`significant fiscal impact', when applied to either of the two ten-
fiscal-year periods referred to in that paragraph, means any gross
budgetary impact of at least 0.25 percent of gross domestic product.''.
SEC. 3. POINT OF ORDER AGAINST LEGISLATION INCREASING LONG-TERM
DEFICITS.
(a) Point of Order.--It shall not be in order in the House of
Representatives or the Senate to consider any bill, joint resolution,
amendment, motion, or conference report that would cause a net increase
in on-budget deficits in excess of $5,000,000,000 in any of the two
consecutive 10-fiscal-year periods described in section 402(b) of the
Congressional Budget Act of 1974.
(b) Supermajority Waiver and Appeal in the Senate.--
(1) Waiver.--This section may be waived or suspended only
by the affirmative vote of three-fifths of the Members, duly
chosen and sworn.
(2) Appeal.--An affirmative vote of three-fifths of the
Members, duly chosen and sworn, shall be required to sustain an
appeal of the ruling of the Chair on a point of order raised
under this section.
(c) Determinations of Budget Levels.--For purposes of this section,
the levels of net deficit increases shall be determined on the basis of
estimates provided by the Committee on the Budget of the House of
Representatives or the Senate, as applicable.
SEC. 4. CBO AND OMB PROJECTIONS.
(a) Congressional Budget Office.--(1) Section 308 of the
Congressional Budget Act of 1974 is amended by adding at the end the
following new subsections:
``(e) Long-Term Projections.--Each year, the Director of the
Congressional Budget Office shall issue a report projecting total
spending, revenue, deficits, and debt for at least 40 years beginning
with the first fiscal year after the last fiscal year covered in the
most recently enacted concurrent resolution on the budget as a
percentage of current projected gross domestic product annually based
on current law and current law levels as modified to maintain current
policy.''.
(2) Section 202(e)(1) of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 is
amended by adding at the end the following new sentence: ``Such report
shall also include an analysis of the long-term projections of current
policy and proposed policy in the budget submitted by the President for
such fiscal year.''.
(b) Office of Management and Budget.--Section 1105(a) of title 31,
United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new
paragraph:
``(40) long-term projections of total spending over 40
years as a percentage of gross domestic product annually and
the impact of proposed policies over that period.''.
SEC. 5. ESTABLISHMENT OF STATUTORY LIMIT ON THE PUBLIC DEBT.
The Rules of the House of Representatives are amended by adding at
the end the following new rule:
``RULE XXX
``Establishment of Statutory Limit on the Public Debt
``1. Upon adoption by Congress of a concurrent resolution on the
budget for a fiscal year under section 301 or 304 of the Congressional
Budget Act of 1974 that sets forth, as the appropriate level of the
public debt for that fiscal year, an amount that is different from the
amount of the statutory limit on the public debt that otherwise would
be in effect for that fiscal year, the Clerk shall prepare an
engrossment of a joint resolution increasing or decreasing, as the case
may be, the statutory limit on the public debt in the form prescribed
in clause 2. Upon engrossment of the joint resolution, the vote by
which the concurrent resolution on the budget was finally agreed to in
the House shall also be considered as a vote on passage of the joint
resolution in the House, and the joint resolution shall be considered
as passed by the House and duly certified and examined. The engrossed
copy shall be signed by the Clerk and transmitted to the Senate for
further legislative action.
``2. The matter after the resolving clause in a joint resolution
described in clause 1 shall be as follows: `That subsection (b) of
section 3101 of title 31, United States Code, is amended by striking
out the dollar limitation contained in such subsection and inserting in
lieu thereof ``$___''.', with the blank being filled with a dollar
limitation equal to the appropriate level of the public debt set forth
pursuant to section 301(a)(5) of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974
for the budget year in the relevant concurrent resolution described in
clause 1.
``3. (a) The report of the Committee on the Budget on a concurrent
resolution described in clause 1 and the joint explanatory statement of
the managers on a conference report to accompany such a concurrent
resolution each shall contain a clear statement of the effect the
eventual enactment of a joint resolution engrossed under this rule
would have on the statutory limit on the public debt.
``(b) It shall not be in order for the House to consider a
concurrent resolution described in clause 1, or a conference report
thereon, unless the report of the Committee on the Budget or the joint
explanatory statement of the managers complies with paragraph (a).
``4. Nothing in this rule shall be construed as limiting or
otherwise affecting--
``(a) the power of the House or the Senate to consider and
pass bills or joint resolutions, without regard to the
procedures under clause 1, that would change the statutory
limit on the public debt; or
``(b) the rights of Members, Delegates, the Resident
Commissioner, or committees with respect to the introduction,
consideration, and reporting of such bills or joint
resolutions.
``5. In this rule the term `statutory limit on the public debt'
means the maximum face amount of obligations issued under authority of
chapter 31 of title 31, United States Code, and obligations guaranteed
as to principal and interest by the United States (except such
guaranteed obligations as may be held by the Secretary of the
Treasury), as determined under section 3101(b) of such title after the
application of section 3101(a) of such title, that may be outstanding
at any one time.''.
SEC. 6. STUDY BY THE GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY OFFICE OF LONG-TERM
DEBT.
(a) GAO Study.--Title IV of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 is
amended by inserting after section 402 the following new section:
``study by the government accountability office of long-term debt
``Sec. 403. The Government Accountability Office shall study the
effect of the public debt over the 75-year period commencing with the
year of the study of social service programs not included as
liabilities on the balance sheet of the annual consolidated financial
statements of the Government and report such results to the Congress.
Such report shall be revised annually.''.
(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents set forth in section
1(b) of the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Act of 1974 is amended
by inserting after the item relating to section 402 the following new
item:
``Sec. 403. Study by the Government Accountability Office of long-term
debt.''. | Budget Integrity Act This bill amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to require the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) to prepare long-term cost estimates for reported legislation with a gross budgetary impact of at least 0.25% of gross domestic product in either of the next two 10-year periods. The bill also creates a point of order against considering legislation in the House or the Senate that would cause a net increase in on-budget deficits above $5 billion in either of the two periods. The CBO and the Office of Management and Budget must issue long-term budget projections that cover 40 years. The Government Accountability Office must report on the effects of long-term debt. The bill amends the Rules of the House of Representatives to deem the House to have passed any necessary changes to the statutory debt limit upon adoption of the budget resolution. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Budget Integrity Act"} | 1,907 | 182 | 0.561428 | 1.433316 | 0.95028 | 2.760479 | 10.42515 | 0.88024 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Coptic Churches Accountability
Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) In August 2013, Islamist-led mobs, burned and destroyed
various Christian religious properties and properties owned by
Christians in the Arab Republic of Egypt, following the removal
of the government led by the Muslim Brotherhood.
(2) The succeeding government announced that the army would
rebuild the churches damaged during that sectarian violence at
government expense. President Sisi, then the Minister of
Defense of Egypt, ordered the engineering department of the
Egyptian armed forces ``to swiftly repair all the affected
churches, in recognition of the historical and national role
played by our Coptic brothers'' during that period of sectarian
violence.
(3) In January 2015, President Sisi was the first Egyptian
President to make an appearance at a Coptic Christian Christmas
liturgy.
(4) On January 6, 2016, President Sisi, speaking at St.
Mark's Cathedral in Cairo, Egypt, while attending the Christmas
liturgy, said, referring to the August 2013 sectarian violence,
``We have taken too long to fix and renovate the churches that
were burned . . . this year everything will be fixed. Please
accept our apologies for what happened . . . God willing . . .
by next year there won't be a single house or church that is
not restored. We will never forget the honorable, respectful,
and great stance you and the Pope took during this period.''.
(5) The Egyptian military has restored 26 of the 78
churches and other Christian buildings damaged during the
August 2013 sectarian violence. Private citizens have restored
an additional 23 damaged buildings. A total of 29 buildings in
24 locations have yet to be restored as of September 6, 2016.
(6) In August 2016, Egypt passed a new law with respect to
church construction that imposes significant burdens on the
ability to build a church.
(7) In general, government approval for building or
repairing churches has served as a justification for sectarian
violence targeting Christians in Egypt.
(8) In El-`Our, Minya, on March 27, 2015, dozens of
villagers protested the building of the new church in honor of
the Egyptian Christians beheaded by Da'esh militants in Libya
in February 2015. President Sisi had approved the construction
of that church in response to calls by Coptic Orthodox Church
leaders. A Coptic Orthodox clergyman from the region stated
that protestors besieged the existing village church with the
pastor and some of his family inside. According to a prominent
human rights group, the protestors were armed, threw Molotov
cocktails at the church, and set fire to a Christian-owned
vehicle. Protestors also threw bricks at the house of another
Christian victim.
(9) Egyptian government officials frequently participate in
informal reconciliation sessions to address such incidents of
sectarian violence or tension, saying that such sessions
prevented further violence. According to human rights groups,
however, the sessions have regularly led to outcomes
unfavorable to religious minorities and precluded recourse to
the judicial system by such minorities.
(10) St. Mark brought Christianity to Egypt, where the
Coptic Christians have been the indigenous people of Egypt for
over 2,000 years.
(11) The Coptic Church represents the largest Christian
community in the Middle East.
(12) United States diplomatic leadership contributes
meaningfully and materially to the international protection of
religious minorities and their faith-based practices and places
of worship.
(13) The International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 (22
U.S.C. 6401 et seq.) states that ``it shall be the policy of
the United States to condemn violations of religious freedom,
and to promote, and to assist other governments in the
promotion of, the fundamental right to freedom of religion.''.
(14) Religious freedom is an essential cornerstone of
democracy that promotes respect for individual liberty and
contributes to greater stability, and is a priority value for
the United States to promote in its engagement with other
countries.
SEC. 3. REPORT.
(a) Report on Progress of Restoration.--Not later than 180 days
after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter
until 2021, the Secretary of State shall submit to the Committee on
Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives and the Committee on
Foreign Relations of the Senate a report describing--
(1) the progress made in restoring or repairing burned,
damaged, or otherwise destroyed Christian religious property
and properties owned by Christians in the Arab Republic of
Egypt during the sectarian violence in August 2013, including a
description of any discussion between officials of the
Department of State and representatives of Egypt, occurring on
or after the date of the submission of the most recent report,
regarding the restoration or repair of such Christian religious
property or property owned by Christians;
(2) the implementation of the law described in section
2(6), including the number of permits issued for the
construction of Christian churches pursuant to such law; and
(3) the nature and extent of Egyptian laws and policies
regarding the construction of Christian churches or places of
worship.
(b) Inclusion of Information in Annual Country Reports on Human
Rights Practices and International Religious Freedom Reports.--The
Secretary of State shall ensure that each Country Report on Human
Rights Practices for Egypt required under sections 116(d) and 502B(b)
of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2151n(d) and 2304(b))
and each Report on International Religious Freedom required under
section 102(b) of the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 (22
U.S.C. 6412(b)) submitted after the date of the enactment of this Act
contains--
(1) a summary of the information described in subsection
(a)(1); and
(2) a list of each Christian church, place of worship, or
other Christian religious property (such as a monastery,
Christian school or hospital, monument, relic, or holy site)
and each item of property (such as artwork, manuscripts,
vestments, vessels, or other artifacts) belonging to a
Christian church that was burned, damaged, or otherwise
destroyed during the sectarian violence in August 2013. | Coptic Churches Accountability Act This bill directs the Department of State, until 2021, to submit an annual report describing: the progress made in restoring or repairing Christian religious property and property owned by Christians in Egypt that was damaged or destroyed during the August 2013 sectarian violence; implementation of the law Egypt passed in 2016 that imposes significant burdens on church building; and the nature and extent of Egyptian laws and policies regarding the construction of Christian churches or places of worship. The State Department shall ensure that each country report on human rights practices for Egypt and each report on international religious freedom contains: a summary of the progress made in restoring religious property; and a list of each Christian church, place of worship, or other Christian religious property and each item of property belonging to a Christian church that was damaged or destroyed. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Coptic Churches Accountability Act"} | 1,356 | 175 | 0.513678 | 1.662855 | 0.70117 | 4.625767 | 7.828221 | 0.932515 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Women Veterans Health Equity Act of
1996''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress makes the following findings:
(1) Health care for veterans has traditionally been
considered in terms of male veterans.
(2) Women constitute nearly 5 percent of the total veteran
population, a percentage that is growing.
(3) There are currently 1,200,000 female veterans in the
United States, a number which is steadily increasing.
(4) Thirty percent of women using Department of Veterans
Affairs facilities report some form of sexual assault or sexual
trauma during their military service.
SEC. 3. TIMELY AND APPROPRIATE HEALTH CARE SERVICES FOR WOMEN.
(a) Ensured Provision of Services.--The Secretary of Veterans
Affairs shall ensure that each health-care facility under the direct
jurisdiction of the Secretary is able, through services made available
either by individuals appointed to positions in the Veterans Health
Administration or under contracts or other agreements made under
section 7409, 8111, or 8153 of title 38, United States Code, or title
II of Public Law 102-585, to provide in a timely and appropriate manner
women's health services (as defined in section 1701(10) of title 38,
United States Code (as added by section 4) to any veteran described in
section 1710(a)(1) of title 38, United States Code, who is eligible for
such services.
(b) Health Care Services To Be Provided Directly When Cost
Effective.--(1) The Secretary shall ensure that each health-care
facility under the direct jurisdiction of the Secretary shall provide
women's health services directly (rather than by contract or other
agreement) when it is cost effective to do so.
(2) The Secretary shall ensure that each such facility is provided
appropriate equipment, treatment facilities, and staff to carry out
paragraph (1) and to ensure that the quality of care provided under
that paragraph is in accordance with professional standards.
(c) Conforming Repeal.--Section 302 of the Veterans' Health Care
Amendments of 1983 (Public Law 98-160; 97 Stat. 1004; 38 U.S.C. 1701
note) is repealed.
SEC. 4. WOMEN'S HEALTH SERVICES.
(a) Women's Health Services.--Section 1701 of title 38, United
States Code, is amended--
(1) in paragraph (6)(A)(i), by inserting ``women's health
services,'' after ``preventive health services,''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(10) The term `women's health services' means health care
services provided to women. Such term includes counseling and services
relating to the following:
``(A) Papanicolaou tests (pap smear).
``(B) Breast examinations and mammography.
``(C) The treatment, management, and prevention of sexually
transmitted diseases.
``(D) Hormone replacement therapy.
``(E) Menopause, osteoporosis, senility, and other
conditions relating to aging.
``(F) Cardiac care.
``(G) Physical and psychological conditions arising out of
acts of sexual violence or sexual intimidation.
``(H) Well-baby care and pediatrics.
``(I) Physical and psychological conditions that result
from homelessness.''.
(b) Contracts for Women's Health Services.--Section 1703(a) of such
title is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(9) Women's health services for veterans on an ambulatory
or outpatient basis.''.
(c) Repeal of Superseded Authority.--Section 106 of the Veterans
Health Care Act of 1992 (Public Law 102-585; 38 U.S.C. 1710 note) is
amended--
(1) by striking out subsection (a); and
(2) by striking out ``(b) Responsibilities of Directors of
Facilities.--'' before ``The Secretary''.
SEC. 5. PRIMARY CARE SERVICES.
(a) Training of Primary Care Physicians.--The Secretary of Veterans
Affairs shall ensure that primary care physicians of the Department of
Veterans Affairs are trained and prepared to ask the appropriate
questions in regard to the possibility that a patient who is a woman
veteran may have experienced sexual assault or sexual trauma while in
active military, naval, or air service.
(b) Pregnancy Care for Women Veterans With Service-Connected
Disability.--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall make available to
any pregnant veteran who has a service-connected disability pregnancy
care services, including pre-natal, delivery, and post-natal care.
SEC. 6. OUTREACH SERVICES FOR HOMELESS WOMEN VETERANS.
Section 7722(e) of title 38, United States Code, is amended by
adding at the end the following new sentence: ``In carrying out this
subsection, the Secretary shall take such steps as may be necessary to
ensure that homeless women veterans are included in such outreach
programs and outreach services. Such programs and services for women
veterans shall include the following:
``(1) Crisis counseling and psychological testing for Post-
Traumatic Stress Disorder and other manic depressive illnesses.
``(2) Transportation for outreach assistance.
``(3) Priority placement for inpatient services.
``(4) Follow-up and after-care treatment.''.
SEC. 7. SAFE AND EFFECTIVE TREATMENT FOR WOMEN PSYCHIATRIC PATIENTS.
(a) Safe and Effective Treatment.--The Secretary of Veterans
Affairs shall ensure that women veterans who receive psychiatric
treatment from the Secretary, particularly in the case of women who are
sexually traumatized, receive such treatment (on both an inpatient and
outpatient basis) in a safe and effective manner that recognizes the
privacy needs of such women. The Secretary shall ensure strict
confidentiality for women veterans receiving such treatment. Services
to be provided women veterans who require such treatment shall include
the following:
(1) Private counseling.
(2) A comprehensive medical examination and evaluation.
(b) Partnerships To Provide Temporary Shelter.--As part of a
program of treatment under subsection (a), the Secretary shall
establish partnerships with nonprofit entities to provide temporary
housing for homeless women veterans until their mental condition is
stabilized.
SEC. 8. MAMMOGRAPHY QUALITY STANDARDS.
(a) In General.--(1) Subchapter II of chapter 73 is amended by
adding at the end the following new section:
``Sec. 7319. Mammography quality standards
``(a) A mammogram may not be performed at a Department facility
unless that facility is accredited for that purpose by a private
nonprofit organization designated by the Secretary. An organization
designated by the Secretary under this subsection shall meet the
standards for accrediting bodies established under section 354(e) of
the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 263b(e)).
``(b) The Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Health
and Human Services, shall prescribe quality assurance and quality
control standards relating to the performance and interpretation of
mammograms and use of mammogram equipment and facilities of the
Department of Veterans Affairs consistent with the requirements of
section 354(f)(1) of the Public Health Service Act. Such standards
shall be no less stringent than the standards prescribed by the
Secretary of Health and Human Services under section 354(f) of the
Public Health Service Act.
``(c)(1) The Secretary, to ensure compliance with the standards
prescribed under subsection (b), shall provide for an annual inspection
of the equipment and facilities used by and in Department health care
facilities for the performance of mammograms. Such inspections shall be
carried out in a manner consistent with the inspection of certified
facilities by the Secretary of Health and Human Services under section
354(g) of the Public Health Service Act.
``(2) The Secretary may not provide for an inspection under
paragraph (1) to be performed by a State agency.
``(d) The Secretary shall ensure that mammograms performed for the
Department under contract with any non-Department facility or provider
conform to the quality standards prescribed by the Secretary of Health
and Human Services under section 354 of the Public Health Service Act.
``(e) For the purposes of this section, the term `mammogram' has
the meaning given such term in paragraph (5) of section 354(a) of the
Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 263b(a)).''.
(2) The table of sections at the beginning of such chapter is
amended by inserting after the item relating to section 7318 the
following new item:
``7319. Mammography quality standards.''.
(b) Deadline for Prescribing Standards.--The Secretary of Veterans
Affairs shall prescribe standards under subsection (b) of section 7319
of title 38, United States Code, as added by subsection (a), not later
than the end of the 120-day period beginning on the date of the
enactment of this Act.
(c) Implementation Report.--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall
submit to the Committees on Veterans' Affairs of the Senate and House
of Representatives a report on the Secretary's implementation of
section 7319 of title 38, United States Code, as added by subsection
(a). The report shall be submitted not later than 120 days after the
later of (1) the date on which the Secretary prescribes the quality
standards required under subsection (b) of that section, or (2) the
date of the enactment of this Act.
SEC. 9. COORDINATION OF SERVICES.
Section 108 of the Women Veterans Health Programs Act of 1992
(title I of Public Law 102-585; 38 U.S.C. 1710) is amended--
(1) by inserting ``(a)'' at the beginning of the text of
the section; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(b)(1) Each coordinator of women's services under subsection (a)
shall serve in that capacity on a full-time basis, with the duties of
that position being that official's principal responsibility.
``(2) The Secretary shall ensure that (subject to the availability
of appropriations) sufficient resources are provided to each such
coordinator to enable that coordinator to carry out the functions of
the coordinator under this section and shall ensure that each such
coordinator has direct access to the Chief of Staff of each Department
medical facility in that coordinator's region.''.
SEC. 10. PATIENT PRIVACY FOR WOMEN PATIENTS.
(a) Identification of Deficiencies.--The Secretary of Veterans
Affairs shall conduct a survey of each medical center under the
jurisdiction of the Secretary to identify deficiencies relating to
patient privacy afforded to women patients in the clinical areas at
each such center which may interfere with appropriate treatment of such
patients.
(b) Correction of Deficiencies.--The Secretary shall ensure that
plans and, where appropriate, interim steps, to correct the
deficiencies identified in the survey conducted under subsection (a)
are developed and are incorporated into the Department's construction
planning processes and given a high priority.
(c) Reports to Congress.--The Secretary shall compile an annual
inventory, by medical center, of deficiencies identified under
subsection (a) and of plans and, where appropriate, interim steps, to
correct such deficiencies. The Secretary shall submit to the Committees
on Veterans' Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives, not
later than October 1, 1997, and not later than October 1 each year
thereafter through 2000 a report on such deficiencies. The Secretary
shall include in such report the inventory compiled by the Secretary,
the proposed corrective plans, and the status of such plans.
SEC. 11. OUTREACH SERVICES.
The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out a program of
advertising in mass media to inform women veterans of the health
services available to them through the Department of Veterans Affairs. | Women Veterans Health Equity Act of 1996 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure that each Department of Veterans Affairs health-care facility is able to provide timely and appropriate women's health services. Requires such services to be provided directly (rather than by contract or other agreement) when cost-effective. Requires the Secretary to ensure that each such facility is provided appropriate equipment, facilities, and staff for such services and that the quality of such care meets professional standards.
(Sec. 4) Specifies the services to be included as women's health services in the Department. Allows such services provided on an ambulatory or outpatient basis to be procured by contract when Department facilities are not capable of furnishing economical hospital care or medical services because of geographical inaccessibility or are not capable of furnishing the care or services required.
(Sec. 5) Directs the Secretary to ensure that Department primary care physicians are trained and prepared to appropriately question a woman patient who may have experienced sexual assault or trauma while in active military service. Requires pregnancy care to be provided to any pregnant veteran who has a service-connected disability.
(Sec. 6) Directs the Secretary to ensure that homeless women veterans are included in homeless veterans' outreach programs, and that such programs include specified counseling and outreach assistance and follow-up and after-care treatment.
(Sec. 7) Requires women veterans to receive safe Department psychiatric treatment which recognizes their privacy needs. Requires strict confidentiality concerning such treatment. Requires such services to include private counseling and a comprehensive medical examination and evaluation. Directs the Secretary to establish partnerships with nonprofit entities to provide temporary housing for homeless women veterans until their mental condition is stabilized.
(Sec. 8) Prohibits a mammogram from being performed at a Department facility unless such facility is accredited for such purpose by a private nonprofit organization designated by the Secretary. Directs the Secretary to prescribe quality assurance standards for such mammograms as well as for mammogram equipment and facilities. Requires an annual inspection of such equipment and facilities. Requires contracted mammogram services to conform to such standards. Requires: (1) the standards to be prescribed within 120 days after the enactment of this Act; and (2) a report from the Secretary to the congressional veterans' committees on the implementation of this section.
(Sec. 9) Amends the Women Veterans Health Programs Act of 1992 to require each coordinator of women's services established under such Act to serve in such capacity on a full-time basis. Directs the Secretary to ensure that sufficient resources are provided to coordinators to carry out their functions.
(Sec. 10) Directs the Secretary to conduct a survey of, and report to the veterans' committees in each of 1997 through 2000 on, each Department medical center to identify deficiencies relating to patient privacy afforded to women patients which may interfere with appropriate treatment. Requires the correction of any deficiencies discovered.
(Sec. 11) Directs the Secretary to carry out a program of advertising in mass media to inform women veterans of the health services available through the Department. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Women Veterans Health Equity Act of 1996"} | 2,617 | 693 | 0.591482 | 1.942458 | 0.808765 | 3.371476 | 3.986733 | 0.907131 |
50, Seventy-ninth
Congress. Such regulations shall also grant the option to
deduct as expenses intangible drilling and development costs in
the case of wells drilled for any geothermal deposit (as
defined in section 613(e)(2)) to the same extent and in the
same manner as such expenses are deductible in the case of oil
and gas wells. This subsection shall not apply with respect to
any costs to which any deduction is allowed under section 59(e)
or 291.
``(2) Exclusion.--
``(A) In general.--This subsection shall not apply
to amounts paid or incurred by a taxpayer in any
taxable year in which such taxpayer is a major
integrated oil company (within the meaning of section
167(h)(5)).
``(B) Amortization of amounts not allowable as
deductions under subparagraph (a).--The amount not
allowable as a deduction for any taxable year by reason
of subparagraph (A) shall be allowable as a deduction
ratably over the 60-month period beginning with the
month in which the costs are paid or incurred. For
purposes of section 1254, any deduction under this
subparagraph shall be treated as a deduction under this
subsection.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by this section shall apply
to amounts paid or incurred in taxable years beginning after December
31, 2013.
SEC. 104. LIMITATION ON PERCENTAGE DEPLETION ALLOWANCE FOR OIL AND GAS
WELLS.
(a) In General.--Section 613A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(f) Application With Respect to Major Integrated Oil Companies.--
In the case of any taxable year in which the taxpayer is a major
integrated oil company (within the meaning of section 167(h)(5)), the
allowance for percentage depletion shall be zero.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by this section shall apply
to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2013.
SEC. 105. LIMITATION ON DEDUCTION FOR TERTIARY INJECTANTS.
(a) In General.--Section 193 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(d) Application With Respect to Major Integrated Oil Companies.--
``(1) In general.--This section shall not apply to amounts
paid or incurred by a taxpayer in any taxable year in which
such taxpayer is a major integrated oil company (within the
meaning of section 167(h)(5)).
``(2) Amortization of amounts not allowable as deductions
under paragraph (1).--The amount not allowable as a deduction
for any taxable year by reason of paragraph (1) shall be
allowable as a deduction ratably over the 60-month period
beginning with the month in which the costs are paid or
incurred.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by this section shall apply
to amounts paid or incurred in taxable years beginning after December
31, 2013.
SEC. 106. MODIFICATION OF DEFINITION OF MAJOR INTEGRATED OIL COMPANY.
(a) In General.--Paragraph (5) of section 167(h) of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by adding at the end the following new
subparagraph:
``(C) Certain successors in interest.--For purposes
of this paragraph, the term `major integrated oil
company' includes any successor in interest of a
company that was described in subparagraph (B) in any
taxable year, if such successor controls more than 50
percent of the crude oil production or natural gas
production of such company.''.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) In general.--Subparagraph (B) of section 167(h)(5) of
the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by inserting
``except as provided in subparagraph (C),'' after ``For
purposes of this paragraph,''.
(2) Taxable years tested.--Clause (iii) of section
167(h)(5)(B) of such Code is amended--
(A) by striking ``does not apply by reason of
paragraph (4) of section 613A(d)'' and inserting ``did
not apply by reason of paragraph (4) of section 613A(d)
for any taxable year after 2004'', and
(B) by striking ``does not apply'' in subclause
(II) and inserting ``did not apply for the taxable
year''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2013.
TITLE II--OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF OIL AND NATURAL GAS
SEC. 201. REPEAL OF OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF DEEP WATER AND DEEP GAS
ROYALTY RELIEF.
(a) In General.--Sections 344 and 345 of the Energy Policy Act of
2005 (42 U.S.C. 15904, 15905) are repealed.
(b) Administration.--The Secretary of the Interior shall not be
required to provide for royalty relief in the lease sale terms
beginning with the first lease sale held on or after the date of
enactment of this Act for which a final notice of sale has not been
published.
TITLE III--MISCELLANEOUS
SEC. 301. DEFICIT REDUCTION.
The net amount of any savings realized as a result of the enactment
of this Act and the amendments made by this Act (after any expenditures
authorized by this Act and the amendments made by this Act) shall be
deposited in the Treasury and used for Federal budget deficit reduction
or, if there is no Federal budget deficit, for reducing the Federal
debt in such manner as the Secretary of the Treasury considers
appropriate.
SEC. 302. BUDGETARY EFFECTS.
The budgetary effects of this Act, for the purpose of complying
with the Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010, shall be determined by
reference to the latest statement titled ``Budgetary Effects of PAYGO
Legislation'' for this Act, submitted for printing in the Congressional
Record by the Chairman of the Senate Budget Committee, provided that
such statement has been submitted prior to the vote on passage. | Close Big Oil Tax Loopholes Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to limit or repeal certain tax benefits for major integrated oil companies (defined as companies with annual gross receipts over $1 billion and an average daily worldwide production of crude oil of at least 500,000 barrels or certain successors in interest of such companies), including: (1) the foreign tax credit for companies that are dual capacity taxpayers; (2) the tax deduction for income attributable to the production, refining, processing, transportation, or distribution of oil, natural gas, or primary products thereof; (3) the tax deduction for intangible drilling and development costs; (4) the percentage depletion allowance for oil and gas wells; and (5) the tax deduction for qualified tertiary injectant expenses. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to repeal royalty relief (suspension of royalties) for: (1) natural gas production from deep wells in shallow waters of the Gulf of Mexico; and (2) deep water oil and gas production in the Western and Central Planning Area of the Gulf (including the portion of the Eastern Planning Area encompassing whole lease blocks lying west of 87 degrees, 30 minutes west longitude). Dedicates any increased revenue generated by this Act to the reduction of a federal budget deficit or the federal debt. Provides for compliance of the budgetary effects of this Act with the Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Close Big Oil Tax Loopholes Act"} | 1,461 | 301 | 0.545747 | 1.67972 | 0.631812 | 2.076642 | 4.383212 | 0.689781 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Accessible Health Coverage Act''.
SEC. 2. PROVISIONS TO MAKE FEHBP AVAILABLE TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC.
(a) In General.--Chapter 89 of title 5, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 8915. Individual access to coverage
``(a) In General.--A contract may not be made or a plan approved
unless the carrier agrees to offer to eligible individuals, throughout
each term for which the contract or approval remains effective, the
same benefits (subject to the same maximums, limitations, exclusions,
and other similar terms or conditions) as would be offered under such
contract or plan to employees and annuitants and their family members.
``(b) Eligible Individuals.--An individual shall be eligible to
enroll under a plan or contract under this chapter if such individual--
``(1) is not eligible to be enrolled in a group health plan
(as such term is defined in section 2791(a) of the Public
Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 300gg-1(a));
``(2) provides the Office with documentation that such
individual has been denied individual health insurance coverage
(as such term is defined in section 2791(b)(5) of the Public
Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 300gg-1(b)(5));
``(3) during the 6-month period prior to the date on which
such individual attempts to enroll under such plan or contract,
was not eligible for coverage through a State high-risk health
insurance pool or coverage through a health insurer of last
resort;
``(4) is not eligible for medical assistance under title
XIX of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1396 et seq.); and
``(5) meets such other requirements as the Office, by
regulation, may impose.
``(c) Enrollment.--The Office shall provide for the implementation
of procedures to provide for an annual open enrollment period during
which individuals may enroll with a plan or contract for coverage under
this section.
``(d) Premiums.--
``(1) In general.--Premiums for coverage under this section
shall be established in conformance with such requirements as
the Office shall by regulation prescribe, including provisions
to ensure conformance with generally accepted standards and
practices associated with community rating.
``(2) Limitation.--With respect to coverage under a health
plan or contract under this section, the Office, in
establishing premiums under paragraph (1), shall ensure that
the monthly premium for coverage under this section does not
exceed 200 percent of the monthly premium otherwise applicable
for the coverage of employees and annuitants and their family
members under such health plan or contract under this chapter.
``(e) Adjustment in Agency Contributions.--
``(1) Annual reporting.--Each carrier shall maintain
separate records with respect to individuals covered under this
section and employees and annuitants (and their family members)
otherwise covered under this chapter, and shall annually report
to the Office the amount which the carrier paid (including
claims and administrative costs) with respect to coverage
provided to individuals under this section.
``(2) Determination by office.--If, based on the reports
received under paragraph (1), the Office determines that the
average cost of providing coverage to individuals under this
section exceeds 200 percent of the premiums paid by such
individuals for such coverage, the Office shall increase the
biweekly Government contribution for coverage otherwise
provided under this chapter by an amount equal to such excess
amount.
``(f) Contributions and Benefits.--
``(1) In general.--In no event shall the enactment of this
section result in--
``(A) any increase in the level of individual
contributions by employees or annuitants as required
under section 8906 or under any other provision of this
chapter, including copayments or deductibles;
``(B) the payment by the Government of any premiums
associated with coverage under this section except for
the increase described in subsection (e)(2);
``(C) any decrease in the types of benefits offered
under this chapter; or
``(D) any other change that would adversely affect
the coverage afforded under this chapter to employees
and annuitants and their family members.
``(2) Limitation.--Coverage under this section shall be
provided on an individual, not a family basis.
``(g) Individuals Eligible for Medicare.--Benefits under this
section shall, with respect to an individual who is entitled to
benefits under part A of title XVIII of the Social Security Act (42
U.S.C. 1395 et seq.), be offered (for use in coordination with those
Social Security benefits) to the same extent and in the same manner as
if coverage were under the preceding provisions of this chapter, rather
than under this section.
``(h) Exclusion of Certain Carriers.--
``(1) In general.--A carrier may file an application with
the Office setting forth reasons why such carrier, or a plan
provided by such carrier, should be excluded from the
requirements of this section.
``(2) Consideration of factors.--In reviewing an
application under paragraph (1), the Office may consider such
factors as--
``(A) any bona fide enrollment restrictions which
would make the application of this section
inappropriate, including those common to plans which
are limited to individuals having a past or current
employment relationship with a particular agency or
other authority of the Government;
``(B) whether compliance with this section would
jeopardize the financial solvency of the plan or
carrier, or otherwise compromise its ability to offer
health benefits under the preceding provisions of this
chapter; and
``(C) the anticipated duration of the requested
exclusion, and what efforts the plan or carrier
proposes to take in order to be able to comply with
this section.
``(i) Application of Section.--Except as the Office may by
regulation prescribe, any reference to this chapter (or any requirement
of this chapter), made in any provision of law, shall not be considered
to include this section (or any requirement of this section).
``(j) Termination.--This section shall terminate on the date that
is 10 years after the date of enactment of this section.''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--The table of sections for chapter 89 of
title 5, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the
following:
``8915. Individual access to coverage.''. | Accessible Health Coverage Act - Amends Federal law to require any plan approved under the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program to offer health insurance to certain members of the general public who are not otherwise eligible for health insurance. Sets forth provisions concerning premiums, contributions, and benefits. Terminates the provisions of this Act ten years after enactment. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Accessible Health Coverage Act"} | 1,450 | 77 | 0.438187 | 0.993733 | 0.70421 | 1.453125 | 20.90625 | 0.828125 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Veterans Crisis Line Study Act of
2017''.
SEC. 2. STUDY ON EFFICACY OF VETERANS CRISIS LINE.
(a) Study.--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall conduct a study
on the outcomes and the efficacy of the Veterans Crisis Line during the
5-year period beginning January 1, 2014, based on an analysis of
national suicide data and data collected from the Veterans Crisis Line.
(b) Matters Included.--The study under subsection (a) shall address
the following:
(1) The efficacy of the Veterans Crisis Line in leading
veterans to sustained mental health regimens, by determining--
(A) the number of veterans who, after contacting
the Veterans Crisis Line and being referred to a
suicide prevention specialist, begin and continue
mental health care furnished by the Secretary of
Veterans Affairs; and
(B) the number of veterans who, after contacting
the Veterans Crisis Line and being referred to a
suicide prevention specialist, either--
(i) begin mental health care furnished by
the Secretary but do not continue such care; or
(ii) do not begin such care.
(2) The visibility of the Veterans Crisis Line, by
determining--
(A) the number of veterans who contact the Veterans
Crisis Line and have not previously received hospital
care or medical services furnished by the Secretary;
and
(B) the number of veterans who contact the Veterans
Crisis Line and have previously received hospital care
or medical services furnished by the Secretary.
(3) The role of the Veterans Crisis Line as part of the
mental health care services of the Department, by determining,
of the veterans who are enrolled in the health care system
established under section 1705(a) of title 38, United States
Code, who contact the Veterans Crisis Line, the number who are
under the care of a mental health care provider of the
Department at the time of such contact.
(4) Whether receiving sustained mental health care affects
suicidality and whether veterans previously receiving mental
health care furnished by the Secretary use the Veterans Crisis
Line in times of crisis, with respect to the veterans described
in paragraph (3), by determining the time frame between
receiving such care and the time of such contact.
(5) The effectiveness of the Veterans Crisis Line in
assisting veterans at risk for suicide when the Veterans Crisis
Line is contacted by a non-veteran, by determining, of the
number of non-veterans who contact the Veterans Crisis Line
looking for support in assisting a veteran, how many of such
individuals receive support in having a veteran begin to
receive mental health care furnished by the Secretary.
(6) The overall efficacy of the Veterans Crisis Line in
preventing suicides and whether the number of contacts affects
the efficacy, by determining--
(A) the number of veterans who contact the Veterans
Crisis Line who ultimately commit or attempt suicide;
and
(B) of such veterans, how many times did a veteran
contact the Veterans Crisis Line prior to committing or
attempting suicide.
(7) The long-term efficacy of the Veterans Crisis Line in
preventing repeated suicide attempts and whether the efficacy
is temporary, by determining, of the number of veterans who
contacted the Veterans Crisis Line and did not commit or
attempt suicide during the following 6-month period, the number
who contacted the Veterans Crisis Line in crisis at a later
time and thereafter did commit or attempt suicide.
(8) Whether referral to mental health care affects the risk
of suicide, by determining--
(A) the number of veterans who contact the Veterans
Crisis Line who are not referred to, or do not continue
receiving, mental health care who commit suicide; and
(B) the number of veterans described in paragraph
(1)(A) who commit or attempt suicide.
(9) The efficacy of the Veterans Crisis Line to promote
continued mental health care in those veterans who are at high
risk for suicide whose suicide was prevented, by determining,
of the number of veterans who contacted the Veterans Crisis
Line and did not commit or attempt suicide soon thereafter, the
number that begin and continue to receive mental health care
furnished by the Secretary.
(10) Such other matters as the Secretary determines
appropriate.
(c) Rule of Construction Regarding Data Collection.--Nothing in
this section may be construed to modify or affect the manner in which
data is collected, or the kind or content of data collected, by the
Secretary under the Veterans Crisis Line.
(d) Submission.--Not later than May 31, 2019, the Secretary shall
submit to the Committees on Veterans' Affairs of the House of
Representatives and the Senate the study under subsection (a).
(e) Veterans Crisis Line Defined.--In this section, the term
``Veterans Crisis Line'' means the toll-free hotline for veterans
established under section 1720F(h) of title 38, United States Code.
Passed the House of Representatives November 8, 2017.
Attest:
KAREN L. HAAS,
Clerk. | Veterans Crisis Line Study Act of 2017 (Sec. 2) This bill directs the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to: (1) conduct a study on the outcomes and the efficacy of the toll-free Veterans Crisis Line during the five-year period beginning January 1, 2014, based on an analysis of national suicide data and data collected from the line, and (2) submit such study to Congress by May 31, 2019. Such study shall address: (1) the efficacy of the line in leading veterans to sustained mental health regimens and suicide prevention; (2) the line's visibility; (3) the role of the line as part of the VA's mental health care services; (4) whether receiving sustained mental health care affects suicidality and whether veterans previously receiving VA mental health care use the line in times of crisis; (5) the line's effectiveness in assisting veterans at risk for suicide when it is contacted by a non-veteran; (6) the line's overall efficacy in preventing suicides and whether the number of contacts affects such efficacy; (7) the line's long-term efficacy in preventing repeated suicide attempts and whether such efficacy is temporary; (8) whether referral to mental health care affects the risk of suicide; and (9) the line's efficacy in promoting continued mental health care for those veterans who are at high risk for suicide whose suicide was prevented. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Veterans Crisis Line Study Act of 2017"} | 1,071 | 302 | 0.783226 | 2.222067 | 0.842362 | 5.079137 | 3.733813 | 0.942446 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Airline Passenger Protection Act of
2017''.
SEC. 2. PHYSICAL STANDARDS.
(a) Seat Size.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment
of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall issue a final rule
regarding the minimum standards and specifications for an air carrier
and foreign air carrier that addresses the required seat width,
padding, reclining, pitch, leg room, aisle width, safety and health
regarding such seats, in consultation with the Occupational Safety and
Health Administration (in this section referred to as ``OSHA''), the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (in this section referred to
as the ``CDC''), passenger advocacy groups, disabled and senior citizen
groups, and representatives of air carriers.
(b) Bathroom Size.--Not later than 180 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall issue a final rule regarding
the minimum standards and specifications for an air carrier and foreign
air carrier that addresses the required bathroom dimensions, door size,
toilet size, safety and health for the bathroom, in consultation with
OSHA, the CDC, passenger advocacy groups, disabled and senior citizens,
and representatives of air carriers.
SEC. 3. PASSENGER PROTECTIONS.
(a) Specific Rights.--
(1) Damaged or inoperable amenities.--The Secretary of
Transportation shall require that an air carrier and foreign
air carrier refund, not later than 30 days after a scheduled
flight, up to 10 percent of the ticket cost to a passenger
whose in-air amenities (televisions, headphones, wireless
internet access) are broken or do not work as promised, and to
refund the full cost of any in-air purchase (entertainment,
wireless internet) that is not received or does not work.
(2) Delay and cancellation honesty.--The Secretary shall
fine an air carrier and foreign air carrier $1,000 per
passenger for a cancellation or delay based on false or
dishonest claims of force majeure by such a carrier.
(3) Delays not caused by force majeure.--The Secretary
shall require an air carrier and foreign air carrier to provide
a passenger whose flight is delayed by 3 or more hours, for
reasons not considered force majeure, a replacement ticket on
another air carrier to the same destination that departs not
later than 24 hours after the original departure time. If such
a ticket is unavailable, an air carrier or foreign air carrier
shall either refund the cost of the ticket price or provide a
replacement ticket departing more than 24 hours after the
original departure time, whichever is more satisfactory to a
passenger.
(4) Economic delays or cancellations.--The Secretary shall
require an air carrier and foreign air carrier to notify
passengers at least 3 hours in advance if a flight is to be
delayed or cancelled for economic reasons, and to provide a
ticket refund and, if desired, alternate transportation to a
passenger whose flight is cancelled for such reasons.
(5) Fees.--An air carrier and foreign air carrier shall
provide that fees--
(A) not included in airfare are conspicuously
disclosed in advance of a ticket purchase; and
(B) not included in an airfare may not be
exorbitant, defined as in excess of 200 percent above
the cost to the airline of providing the service or
benefit in question.
(6) Frequent flier programs.--The Secretary shall require
an air carrier to report basic statistics on its frequent flier
programs, to permit passengers to evaluate objectively the
benefits of each such program, and to inform passengers at
least 12 months in advance before a reduction or devaluation of
benefits.
(7) Hotline.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law,
10 percent of fines paid to the Government by an air carrier
and foreign air carrier for any violation of a regulation of
the Department of Transportation or the Federal Aviation
Administration shall be available to maintain the consumer
complaint hotline (established under section 42302 of title 49,
United States Code), and to develop and implement a passenger
claims arbitration system. Any complaint to the Department or
the Transportation Security Administration shall be
acknowledged not later than 24 hours after submitting the
complaint, the alleged offending agency shall respond not later
than 30 days after notification, and the passenger in question
shall receive a response not later than 60 days after
submitting the complaint.
(8) Lost, damaged or stolen baggage.--The Secretary shall
require an air carrier and foreign air carrier to comply with
the Uniform Unclaimed Property Act, and provide that proceeds
collected from the sale of lost, unclaimed baggage be used to
cover the cost of future baggage disputes. The Secretary shall
also require that an air carrier and foreign air carrier offer
excess value insurance for lost or damaged baggage.
(9) Notification of rights and fees.--The Secretary shall
require an air carrier and foreign air carrier to inform
customers in plain language, in writing and in prominent
locations on its website, of their rights, liabilities, and
obligations under their respective contract of carriage,
including the recourse available to them in the event of a
cancellation, delay, damaged baggage, and other potential
difficulties.
(10) Reciprocity.--The Secretary shall reinstate the
reciprocity rule (commonly known as Rule 240) to affirm that a
passenger on a flight that is cancelled or a flight delayed 3
or more hours may use the ticket on another airline with
available seating to fly to the same or nearby destination.
(11) Strengthened tarmac protections.--The Secretary shall
fine an air carrier and foreign air carrier $1,000 per
passenger for any violation of Federal policy with respect to
tarmac delays, including the requirements that an air carrier
permit passengers to deplane after more than 3 hours spent on
the tarmac, and that an air carrier provide adequate food,
potable water, and operable lavatories to passengers 2 hours
after the aircraft is delayed on the tarmac.
(b) Definitions.--In this Act, the following definitions apply:
(1) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of Transportation.
(2) Force majeure.--The term ``force majeure'' means any
event arising from causes beyond the control of the air
carrier, including Acts of God (such as fire, severe weather,
or natural disasters), unanticipated acts of people (such as
war or strike), and unforeseeable breakage or accident to
aircraft or equipment. The term does not include to a lack of
personnel, a lack of airworthy aircraft or supplies, increased
cost or expense of operation (whether anticipated or
unanticipated), or any other condition reasonably within the
control of an air carrier or foreign air carrier.
(c) Amendment to Title 49.--
(1) Amendment.--Chapter 401 of title 49, United States
Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 40131. Equipment and personnel reserves
``(a) Reserve Equipment and Staffing.--Not later than 180 days
after the date of enactment of the Airline Passenger Protection Act of
2017, the Secretary of Transportation shall require an air carrier and
foreign air carrier to develop and implement reserve staffing and
equipment plans that optimize the carrier's ability to provide quality
service, defined as fewer than 2 percent of flights cancelled for
causes reasonably within the control of the carrier, and fewer than 15
percent of flights delayed for causes reasonably within the control of
the carrier.
``(b) Guidelines and Reporting Requirements.--Not later than 180
days after the date of enactment of the Airline Passenger Protection
Act of 2017, the Secretary shall establish guidelines for an air
carrier and foreign air carrier to report cancellation and on-time
performance statistics to the FAA on an annual basis, beginning 360
days after the date of enactment of this Act.
``(c) Failure To Comply.--The Secretary shall fine an air carrier
and foreign air carrier if the Secretary determines that such air
carrier or foreign air carrier fails to comply with the requirements of
this section and such failure was caused by the carrier's failure to
develop, implement, or abide by the terms of its reserve staffing and
equipment plan.''.
(2) Clerical amendment.--The analysis of chapter 401 of
title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end
the following:
``40131. Equipment and personnel reserves.''. | Airline Passenger Protection Act of 2017 This bill prescribes certain airline passenger protection requirements with respect to: seat size, safety, and health; bathroom size, safety, and health; refunds for damaged or inoperable in-air amenities (televisions, headphones, and wireless internet access); delays and cancellations; disclosure of passenger fees and passenger rights of recourse in the event of a cancellation, delay, and damaged baggage; frequent flier program benefits; maintenance of a consumer complaint hotline; lost, damaged, or stolen baggage disputes and insurance; reinstatement of reciprocity rule (Rule 240) permitting passengers on a flight that is cancelled or delayed three or more hours to use their ticket on another airline to fly to the same or a nearby destination; and tarmac delays, deplaning, and the provision of adequate food, potable water, and operable lavatories. The bill directs the Department of Transportation (DOT) to require air carriers and foreign air carriers to develop and implement reserve staffing and equipment plans that optimize the carrier's ability to provide quality service, defined as fewer than 2% of flights cancelled and fewer than 15% of flights delayed for causes reasonably within the control of the carrier. DOT shall establish guidelines for carriers to report annually cancellation and on-time performance statistics to the Federal Aviation Administration. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Airline Passenger Protection Act of 2017"} | 1,816 | 285 | 0.523827 | 1.59329 | 0.756645 | 3.746032 | 6.722222 | 0.912698 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Outer Continental Shelf Energy
Relief Act''.
SEC. 2. TERMINATION OF LAWS PROHIBITING EXPENDITURES FOR NATURAL GAS
LEASING AND PRELEASING ACTIVITIES REGARDING AREAS OF THE
OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF.
All provisions of existing Federal law prohibiting the spending of
appropriated funds to conduct natural gas leasing and preleasing
activities for any area of the Outer Continental Shelf shall have no
force or effect.
SEC. 3. REVOCATION OF EXISTING PRESIDENTIAL WITHDRAWALS WITH RESPECT TO
NATURAL GAS.
All existing withdrawals by the President under the authority of
section 12 of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1341)
are hereby revoked and are no longer in effect with respect to the
leasing of areas for exploration for, and development and production
of, natural gas.
SEC. 4. OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF LEASING PROGRAM.
Section 18(a) of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C.
1344(a)) is amended by inserting after the second sentence the
following: ``The Secretary shall, in each 5-year program, include lease
sales that when viewed as a whole propose to offer for gas leasing at
least 75 percent of the available unleased acreage within each OCS
Planning Area, as such OCS Planning Areas are established as of the
date of enactment of this Act.''.
SEC. 5. SHARING OF REVENUES.
Effective October 1, 2006, bonus bid and royalty revenues received
from existing and future Federal gas leases on lands that are located
within the State seaward boundaries established under section 4 of the
Submerged Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1312) shall be handled as follows:
(1) The Secretary shall share 50 percent of all such bids
and royalties derived from any leased tract that lies wholly
within the expanded seaward boundary of any coastal State or,
in the case where a leased tract lies partially within the
seaward boundary, a percentage of bonus bids and royalties
derived from such tract equal to the percentage of surface
acreage of the tract that lies within such seaward boundary
with the coastal state.
(2) The remaining 50 percent of such bonus bids and
royalties shall be transmitted simultaneously to the
miscellaneous receipts account of the Treasury of the United
States.
SEC. 6. NATURAL GAS-ONLY LEASING.
Section 8 of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1337)
is amended by adding at the end the following subsection:
``(p) Natural Gas-Only Leasing.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary may issue leases under
this section that authorize development and production only of
natural gas and associated condensate in accordance with
regulations promulgated under paragraph (2).
``(2) Regulations.--Before issuing any lease under
paragraph (1), the Secretary must promulgate regulations that--
``(A) define what constitutes natural gas,
condensate, and oil;
``(B) establish the lessee's rights and obligations
regarding condensate produced in association with
natural gas;
``(C) prescribe procedures and requirements that
the lessee of a lease issued under this subsection must
follow if the lessee discovers oil deposits in the
course of exploration or development; and
``(D) establish such other requirements for natural
gas-only leases as the Secretary considers appropriate.
``(3) Application of other laws.--All provisions of this
Act or any other Federal law or regulations that apply to oil
and natural gas leases for the outer Continental Shelf shall
apply to natural gas-only leases authorized under this
subsection.
``(4) Existing leases.--At the request of the lessee of an
oil and gas lease in effect under this section on the date of
enactment of this subsection, and under the requirements
prescribed in regulations promulgated under paragraph (2), the
Secretary may restrict development under such a lease to
natural gas and associated condensate only.
``(5) Oil and gas leasing programs.--
``(A) Program for 2002-2007.--The Secretary may
issue a natural gas-only lease in accordance with this
subsection before June 30, 2007, without amending the
outer Continental shelf leasing program that applies
for the period beginning on the date of the enactment
of this subsection and ending June 30, 2007, if the
Secretary provides public notice and an opportunity to
comment on the proposed notice of sale.
``(B) Program for 2007-2012.--The Secretary may
include provisions regarding issuance of natural gas-
only leases in the outer Continental shelf leasing
program that applies for the 5-year period beginning in
2007, notwithstanding any draft proposal for such
program issued before the date of the enactment of this
subsection.''. | Outer Continental Shelf Energy Relief Act - Declares that all provisions of existing federal law prohibiting the spending of appropriated funds to conduct natural gas leasing and preleasing activities for any area of the Outer Continental Shelf have no force or effect.
Revokes all existing withdrawals made by the President under the authority of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA).
States such withdrawals are no longer in effect with respect to natural gas leasing, exploration, development or production.
Amends the OCSLA leasing program to instruct the Secretary, in each five-year program, to include lease sales that when viewed as a whole propose to offer for gas leasing at least 75% of the available unleased acreage within each OCS Planning Area.
Prescribes guidelines for sharing with certain coastal states bonus bid and royalty revenues received from existing and future federal gas leases on lands located within state seaward boundaries.
Authorizes the Secretary to issue leases for development and production only of natural gas and associated condensate (natural gas-only leasing). | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To terminate the effect of all provisions of existing Federal law prohibiting the spending of appropriated funds to conduct natural gas leasing and preleasing activities, to revoke Presidential withdrawals from disposition of areas of the Outer Continental Shelf with respect to natural gas, and for other purposes."} | 1,107 | 225 | 0.709097 | 2.127123 | 0.866286 | 5.440415 | 4.968912 | 0.932642 |
SECTION 1. ACQUISITION OF PROJECTS AND REMOVAL OF DAMS.
The Elwha River Ecosystem and Fisheries Restoration Act (106 Stat.
3173) is amended by striking section 3 and inserting the following:
``SEC. 3. ACQUISITION OF PROJECTS.
``(a) In General.--As soon as practicable after sums are
appropriated for the purpose, the Secretary shall acquire the Elwha
Project and Glines Project for a purchase price of $29,500,000.
``(b) Release From Liability.--
``(1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2), the
acquisition of the Projects shall be conditioned on a release
from liability providing that all obligations and liabilities
of the owner and the local industrial consumer to the United
States arising from the Projects, based on ownership or on a
license, permit, contract, or other authority (including
Project removal and any ecosystem, fish and wildlife
mitigation, and restoration obligations), shall, from the
moment of title transfer, be deemed to have been satisfied.
``(2) Liability to indian tribes.--The United States may
not assume or satisfy the liability, if any, of the owner or
local industrial consumer to any federally recognized Indian
tribe, nor shall any such liability be deemed satisfied without
the consent of the Indian tribe.
``(c) Elwha Project.--
``(1) Removal of dam.--
``(A) In general.--After acquiring the Elwha
Project, the Secretary as soon as practicable after
sums are appropriated for the purpose, shall remove the
Elwha dam.
``(B) Protection of water supply.--
``(i) In general.--Before commencing
removal of the Elwha dam or taking any steps to
breach, bypass, or otherwise alter the water
flow from the Elwha dam, the Secretary shall
take all such actions as are necessary to
ensure the continued availability, after
removal of the dam, of the quantity and quality
of water that is available, as of the date of
enactment of this paragraph, to the city of
Port Angeles, Washington, the Dry Creek Water
Association, current (as of the date of
enactment of this paragraph) and future
industrial water users, and other current users
of water from the Elwha River.
``(ii) Actions included.--The actions that
the Secretary shall, subject to the
availability of appropriations, take under
clause (i) include--
``(I) the design, construction,
operation, and maintenance of new or
improved water treatment or storage
facilities; and
``(II) the mitigation of any injury
to fisheries and remediation of any
degradation in water quality that may
result from the removal of or any other
change in the water flow from the Elwha
dam.
``(iii) Payment of costs.--The cost of each
action taken under clause (i), subject to the
availability of appropriations, shall be borne
by the Secretary.
``(2) Evaluation of effect of removal.--During the removal
phase of the Elwha dam, the Secretary shall make a thorough
evaluation of the impact of removal of the dam on fish runs,
and submit his findings to Congress.
``(3) Compensation for lost revenue.--After the acquisition
of the Projects, the Secretary shall pay the Clallam County
Board of Commissioners $150,000 per year for a period of 12
years, subject to the availability of annual appropriations,
for the purposes of recovering lost revenue under the condition
that the county dedicate at least 50 percent of each payment to
studying the river system before, during, and after dam removal.
``(4) Prior efforts.--Efforts by the Secretary prior to
enactment of this paragraph to evaluate the environmental
impacts of dam removal are declared to meet and fully comply
with any otherwise applicable provisions of section 7 of the
Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1536) and the
National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4332) for
purposes of removing the Elwha Dam as provided under this Act.
``(d) Glines Project.--
``(1) Glines canyon dam operations.--
``(A) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph
(2), the Secretary shall continue operation of the
Glines Canyon dam after the Elwha dam has been removed
subject to the availability of funds for that purpose.
``(B) Engineering, design, and evaluation.--As soon
as practicable after the date of enactment of this
paragraph, the Secretary shall--
``(i) complete an engineering and design
study to determine the most cost-effective
manner in which transmission lines and
operational controls can be reconfigured to
permit continued operation of the Glines Canyon
dam as provided in subparagraph (A); and
``(ii) evaluate the impact that managing
the Glines Canyon Project for fisheries
restoration will have on future hydropower
operations.
``(2) Fisheries restoration enhancement efforts.--
``(A) Annual restoration work plan.--As soon as
practicable after the date of enactment of this
paragraph and each year thereafter, the Secretary
shall, in consultation with the appropriate Federal,
State, tribal, and local entities, develop an annual
work plan that clearly defines all requirements
necessary to achieve the ecosystem restoration
objectives of this Act. The Secretary's annual work
plan shall include, but is not limited to, specific
details on engineering and environmental studies
(including plans and specifications) for dam removal,
water supply, reconfiguration of power, and river
restoration measures. The work plan shall include a
schedule of yearly activities, major milestones, and
performance measurement criteria.
``(B) Independent scientific review panel.--
``(i) The Secretary shall appoint an
Independent Scientific Review Panel (Panel),
which shall be comprised of eleven members, to
review progress toward restoration of the Elwha
River ecosystem and the contribution of removal
of the Elwha River Dam toward restoration.
Members shall be appointed from a list of no
fewer than 20 scientists submitted by the
National Academy of Sciences (Academy):
Provided, That Pacific Northwest scientists
with expertise in anadromous and non-anadromous
fish and wildlife and ocean experts shall be
among those represented on the Panel. If
appointments are required in subsequent years,
the Secretary shall request nominations from
the Academy and the Academy shall provide
nominations not later than 90 days after the
date of this request. If the Academy does not
provide nominations within 90 days of enactment
of this Act, the Secretary may appoint such
members as the Secretary deems appropriate.
``(ii) Conflict of interest and
compensation.--Panel members may be compensated
and shall be considered subject to the conflict
of interest standards that apply to scientists
performing comparable work for the National
Academy of Sciences. All expenses of the Panel
shall be paid by the Secretary as provided for
under clause (vii). The Panel shall not be
deemed an advisory committee within the meaning
of the Federal Advisory Committee Act.
``(iii) Project criteria and review.--The
Panel shall, in consultation with the
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, the
National Marine Fisheries Service, the Lower
Elwha Klallam Indian Tribe and the Elwha
Citizens' Advisory Committee, review the
Secretary's annual work plan for Elwha
Ecosystem Restoration and make recommendations
on matters related to such work plan to the
Secretary no later than June 15 of each year. If the Secretary does not
receive the recommendations by this date, the Secretary may proceed to
implement the work plan, relying on the best information available. The
Panel shall base its recommendations on a determination that the work
plan is based on sound science principles; benefit fish and wildlife;
and have a clearly defined objective and outcome with provisions for
monitoring and evaluation of results. In making its recommendations to
the Secretary, the Panel shall determine whether the work plan employs
cost-effective measures to achieve the objectives of this Act. The
Panel, with assistance from the Washington Department of Fish and
Wildlife, the National Marine Fisheries Service, the Lower Elwha
Klallam Indian Tribe and the Elwha Citizens' Advisory Committee, shall
review, on an annual basis, the results of prior year expenditures
based upon these criteria and submit its findings to the Secretary for
its review.
``(iv) Evaluation of elwha dam removal.--
Each year following removal of the Elwha Dam,
the Panel shall, in consultation with the
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, the
National Marine Fisheries Service, the Lower
Elwha Klallam Indian Tribe and the Elwha
Citizens' Advisory Committee, evaluate the
contribution of removal of the Elwha River Dam
toward restoration of the Elwha River
ecosystem. Based in its evaluation under this
subparagraph, the Panel shall provide
recommendations to the Secretary with regard to
removal of the Glines Canyon Dam.
``(v) Public review.--Upon completion of
the review of the Secretary's annual work plan
and its evaluation of the removal of the Elwha
Dam, the Panel shall submit recommendations on
the work plan and removal of the Glines Canyon
Dam to the Secretary. The Secretary shall make
the Panel's findings available to the public
and subject to public comment.
``(vi) Responsibilities of the secretary.--
``(I) The Secretary shall fully
consider the recommendations of the
Panel when implementing the Secretary's
annual work plan, and if the Secretary
does not incorporate a recommendation
of the Panel, the Secretary shall
explain in writing its reasons for not
accepting Panel recommendations. If the
Secretary finds the recommendations
inconsistent with this Act, he must
notify the Panel, in writing, within 30
days of receiving their
recommendations. The Secretary, after
consideration of the recommendations of
the Panel and other appropriate
entities, shall be responsible for
making the final recommendations to
Congress for appropriations to
implement the work plan.
``(II) The Secretary shall take
steps to remove the Glines Canyon Dam
after receiving a recommendation from
the Panel to do so.
``(vii) Cost limitation.--The cost of this
provision shall not exceed $1,000,000 in 1998
dollars.
``(viii) Expiration.--This paragraph shall
expire 20 years after the date of the enactment
of his paragraph.''.
SEC. 2. CONTRACTING OUT PROVISIONS.
The Secretary shall, to the fullest extent practicable, obtain by
procurement from private sources all services necessary to execute the
planning, engineering, design, and construction requirements necessary
to comply with the provisions of this Act.
SEC. 3. CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.
The Elwha River Ecosystem and Fisheries Restoration Act (106 Stat.
3173) is amended--
(1) in section 4--
(A) in subsection (a)--
(i) in the matter preceding paragraph (1),
by striking ``Effective'' and all that follows
through ``implement'' and inserting ``Effective
60 days after date of conveyance of the
Projects, the Secretary shall, subject to the
availability of appropriated funds, take such
actions as are necessary to implement''; and
(ii) in paragraph (1), by striking
``referred to in section 3(c)(2) for the
removal of the dams and full;'' and inserting
``for the removal of the Elwha dam and''; and
(B) in the first sentence of subsection (b), by
striking ``referred to in section 3(c)(2)'';
(2) in section 5(a), by striking ``as provided in section
3(e)'';
(3) in section 6--
(A) in the first sentence of subsection (a), by
striking ``makes the determination to remove the dams
and''; and
(B) in the first sentence of subsection (b)(1)--
(i) by striking ``makes the determination
to remove the dams and''; and
(ii) by inserting ``of the Elwha Project''
after ``removal''; and
(4) in section 7(a)--
(A) by striking ``makes the determination to remove
the dams and''; and
(B) by inserting ``of the Elwha Project'' after
``removal''.
SEC. 4. COLUMBIA-SNAKE RIVER HYDROELECTRIC SYSTEM PROTECTION.
(a) In General.--Under no circumstances shall removal of dams on
the Elwha River be considered a precedent of any kind for removal of
dams on other rivers.
(b) Congressional Authorization Required.--Except as otherwise
provided in this Act, no dam, impoundment, or other facility on the
Columbia River or Snake River or their tributaries that is owned or
operated by an agency of the United States for flood control,
hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, navigation, or other
congressionally authorized purpose may be removed or significantly
modified structurally, except for reasons of safety or necessary
repairs, unless specifically approved by an authorization or
appropriation by Congress. | Amends the Elwha River Ecosystem and Fisheries Restoration Act to direct the Secretary of the Interior, as soon as sums are appropriated, to acquire the Elwha and Glines Projects (Clallam County, Washington, hydroelectric power projects) for a purchase price of $29.5 million. Conditions such acquisition on a release of the owner and local industrial consumer from liability to the United States arising from such Projects. Prohibits the United States from assuming or satisfying the liability of such owner or consumer to any federally recognized Indian tribe.
Directs the Secretary: (1) after acquiring the Elwha Project and as soon as sums are appropriated for such purpose, to remove the Elwha dam, taking necessary action to ensure the continued availability of current water quality and quantity to specified areas and users; (2) during the removal phase, to thoroughly evaluate the removal's impact on fish runs and submit findings to the Congress; and (3) subject to appropriations, to pay specified compensation for a period of 12 years to the Clallam County Board of Commissioners for revenues lost due to such removal (with a specified condition).
Directs the Secretary to continue operation of the Glines Canyon dam after the Elwha dam has been removed, subject to appropriations.
Requires the Secretary to: (1) complete a Glines Canyon engineering and design study concerning the reconfiguration of transmission lines and dam operational controls; and (2) evaluate the impact that managing such Project for fisheries restoration will have on future hydropower operations.
Directs the Secretary to: (1) develop an annual work plan that defines all requirements necessary to achieve the ecosystem restoration objectives of the Act; and (2) appoint an Independent Scientific Review Panel to review progress toward restoration of the Elwha River ecosystem and the contribution of removal of the dam toward restoration. Requires the Panel to make recommendations to the Secretary on the work plan and removal of the Glines Canyon dam. Directs the Secretary to take steps to remove the Glines Canyon dam after receiving a Panel recommendation to do so.
Prohibits, except as otherwise provided in this Act and for safety or necessary repairs, the removal or significant modification of any U.S.-owned or -operated dam or other facility on the Columbia or Snake Rivers without specific congressional approval. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To amend the Elwha River Ecosystem and Fisheries Restoration Act to provide further for the acquisition and removal of the Elwha dam and acquisition of Glines Canyon dam and the restoration of the Elwha River ecosystem and native anadromous fisheries, and for other purposes."} | 2,857 | 489 | 0.672218 | 2.346856 | 0.887245 | 2.95612 | 6.115473 | 0.919169 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``School-Based Health Clinic Act of
2007''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS; PURPOSE.
(a) Findings.--The Congress finds as follows:
(1) Nearly 8,700,000 children in the United States have no
health insurance, including an increase of over 600,000 in the
past year.
(2) The American Medical Association rates adolescents aged
13 to 18 as the group of Americans with the poorest health
indicators.
(3) More than 70 percent of children who need psychiatric
treatment do not receive services.
(4) School-based health centers are located in over 1,700
schools in 43 States, the District of Columbia, and Puerto
Rico.
(5) School-based health centers ensure access to health
care by providing care regardless of a child's ability to pay.
(6) Forty-five percent of children and adolescents treated
at school-based health centers have no insurance.
(7) Forty-four percent of children and adolescents treated
at school-based health centers are enrolled in Medicaid, SCHIP,
or other public coverage.
(8) School-based health centers promote access to providers
for many children and adolescents who otherwise would have
difficulty seeing a provider.
(9) School-based health centers effectively provide
primary, preventative, and mental health services to children
and adolescents.
(10) School-based health centers effectively utilize
resources by often leveraging State and local government funds,
private contributions, and Medicaid, SCHIP, and private
insurance payments.
(11) For school-based health centers' target demographic
(students with public insurance or who are uninsured), data
show that school-based health centers decrease school absences.
(12) School-based health centers identify students at risk
for health and behavioral problems, thus reducing obstacles to
the learning process.
(13) School-based health centers administer medication to
students with chronic illness, which reduces absences as well
as disciplinary action for students with behavioral health
problems.
(14) Empirical analyses show that school-based health
centers reduce Medicaid costs by providing cost-effective and
timely care.
(15) School-based health centers encourage parental
involvement to increase family participation in school- and
education-oriented activities.
(b) Purpose.--The purpose of this Act is to fund the development
and operation of school-based health clinics--
(1) to provide comprehensive and accessible primary health
care services to medically underserved children, youth, and
families;
(2) to improve the physical health, emotional well-being,
and academic performance of medically underserved children,
youth, and families; and
(3) to work in collaboration with the school to integrate
health into the overall school environment.
SEC. 3. SCHOOL-BASED HEALTH CLINICS.
Part Q of title III of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C.
280h et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``SEC. 399Z-1. SCHOOL-BASED HEALTH CLINICS.
``(a) Definitions; Establishment of Criteria.--In this section:
``(1) Community.--The term `community' includes parents,
consumers, local leaders, and organizations.
``(2) Comprehensive primary health services.--The term
`comprehensive primary health services' means the core services
offered by school-based health clinics, which--
``(A) shall include physical health services and
mental health services; and
``(B) may include optional health services such as
nutrition, oral health, health education, and case
management services.
``(3) Mental health services.--The term `mental health
services' means mental health assessments, crisis intervention,
counseling, treatment, and referral to a continuum of services
including emergency psychiatric care, community support
programs, inpatient care, and outpatient programs.
``(4) Physical health services.--The term `physical health
services' means comprehensive health assessments; diagnosis and
treatment of minor, acute, and chronic medical conditions; and
referrals to, and follow-up for, specialty care.
``(5) School-based health clinic.--The term `school-based
health clinic' means a health clinic that--
``(A) is located on school property;
``(B) is organized through school, community, and
health provider relationships;
``(C) is administered by a sponsoring facility; and
``(D) provides, at a minimum, comprehensive primary
health services during school hours to children and
adolescents by health professionals in accordance with
State and local laws and regulations, established
standards, and community practice.
``(6) Sponsoring facility.--The term `sponsoring facility'
is a community-based organization, which may include--
``(A) a hospital;
``(B) a public health department;
``(C) a community health center;
``(D) a nonprofit health care agency;
``(E) a school or school system; and
``(F) a program administered by the Indian Health
Service or the Bureau of Indian Affairs or operated by
an Indian tribe or a tribal organization under the
Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act,
a Native Hawaiian entity, or an urban Indian program
under title V of the Indian Health Care Improvement
Act.
``(b) Authority To Award Grants.--The Secretary shall award grants
for the costs of the operation of school-based health clinics that meet
the requirements of this section.
``(c) Applications.--To be eligible to receive a grant under this
section, an entity shall--
``(1) be a school-based health clinic; and
``(2) submit to the Secretary an application at such time
and in such manner as the Secretary may require containing--
``(A) evidence that the applicant meets all
criteria necessary to be designated as a school-based
health clinic;
``(B) evidence of local need for the services to be
provided by the clinic;
``(C) an assurance that--
``(i) school-based health clinic services
will be provided to those children and
adolescents for whom parental or guardian
consent has been obtained in cooperation with
Federal, State, and local laws governing health
care services provision to children and
adolescents;
``(ii) the clinic has made and will
continue to make every reasonable effort to
establish and maintain collaborative
relationships with other health care providers
in the catchment area of the clinic;
``(iii) the clinic will provide on-site
access during the academic day when school is
in session and 24-hour coverage through an on-
call system and through its backup health
providers to ensure access to services on a
year-round basis when the clinic is closed;
``(iv) the clinic will be integrated into
the school environment and will coordinate
health services with school personnel, such as
administrators, teachers, nurses, counselors,
and support personnel, as well as with other
community providers co-located at the school;
and
``(v) the clinic sponsoring facility
assumes all responsibility for the clinic's
administration, operations, and oversight; and
``(D) such other information as the Secretary may
require.
``(d) Preferences.--In reviewing applications under this section,
the Secretary may give preference to applicants who demonstrate an
ability to serve the following:
``(1) Communities with evidence of barriers to primary
health care and mental health services for children and
adolescents.
``(2) Communities that have consistently scored poorly on
child and adolescent standardized health indicator reports.
``(3) Communities with high percentages of children and
adolescents who are uninsured, underinsured, or enrolled in
public health insurance programs.
``(4) Populations of children and adolescents that have
demonstrated difficulty historically in accessing physical and
mental health services.
``(e) Waiver of Requirements.--The Secretary may, under appropriate
circumstances, waive the application of all or part of the requirements
of this section with respect to a school-based health clinic for a
designated period of time to be determined by the Secretary.
``(f) Use of Funds.--
``(1) Funds.--Funds awarded under a grant under this
section may be used for--
``(A) acquiring and leasing buildings and equipment
(including the costs of amortizing the principle of,
and paying interest on, loans for such buildings and
equipment);
``(B) providing training related to the provision
of comprehensive primary health services and additional
health services;
``(C) managing a school-based health clinic;
``(D) paying the salaries of physicians and other
personnel; and
``(E) purchasing medical supplies, medical
equipment, office supplies, and office equipment.
``(2) Amount.--The amount of any grant made under this
section in any fiscal year to a school-based health clinic
shall be determined by the Secretary, taking into account--
``(A) the financial need of the clinic;
``(B) State, local, or other operation funding
provided to the clinic; and
``(C) other factors as determined appropriate by
the Secretary.
``(g) Technical Assistance.--The Secretary shall establish a
program through which the Secretary provides (either through the
Department of Health and Human Services or by grant or contract)
technical and other assistance to school-based health clinics to assist
such clinics to meet the requirements of subsection (c)(2)(C). Services
provided through the program may include necessary technical and
nonfinancial assistance, including fiscal and program management
assistance, training in fiscal and program management, operational and
administrative support, and the provision of information to the
entities of the variety of resources available under this title and how
those resources can be best used to meet the health needs of the
communities served by the entities.
``(h) Evaluation.--The Secretary shall develop and implement a plan
for evaluating school-based health clinics receiving funds under this
section and monitoring the quality of their performance.
``(i) Authorization of Appropriations.--For purposes of carrying
out this section, there are authorized to be appropriated $50,000,000
for fiscal year 2009, $55,000,000 for fiscal year 2010, $60,500,000 for
fiscal year 2011, $66,550,000 for fiscal year 2012, and $73,200,000 for
fiscal year 2013.''. | School-Based Health Clinic Act of 2007 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to award grants for the cost of operating school-based health clinics to provide comprehensive primary health services (which include physical and mental health services, and which may include optional services such as nutrition, oral health, health education, and case management services) during school hours to children and adolescents by health professionals.
Requires such clinics to: (1) provide services to children and adolescents for whom parental or guardian consent has been obtained; (2) provide on-site access during the academic day when school is in session and 24-hour coverage through an on-call system and backup health providers to ensure access to services on a year-round basis.
Allows the Secretary to give preference to applicants who demonstrate an ability to serve: (1) communities with evidence of barriers to primary health care and mental health services for children and adolescents; (2) communities that have consistently scored poorly on child and adolescent standardized health indicator reports; (3) communities with high percentages of children and adolescents who are uninsured, underinsured, or enrolled in public health insurance programs; and (4) populations of children and adolescents that have demonstrated difficulty historically in accessing health and mental health services.
Requires the Secretary to: (1) establish a program to provide technical and other assistance to clinics; and (2) implement a plan for evaluating clinics and monitoring the quality of their performance. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To amend the Public Health Service Act to establish a school-based health clinic program, and for other purposes."} | 2,235 | 311 | 0.599953 | 1.752664 | 0.767421 | 5.5 | 7.455782 | 0.97619 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Community Forest Restoration Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds the following:
(1) A century of fire suppression, logging, and livestock
grazing has altered the ecological balance of New Mexico's
forests.
(2) Some forest lands in New Mexico contain an unnaturally
high number of small diameter trees that are subject to large,
high intensity wildfires that can endanger human lives,
livelihoods, and ecological stability.
(3) Forest lands that contain an unnaturally high number of
small diameter trees have reduced biodiversity and provide
fewer benefits to human communities, wildlife, and watersheds.
(4) Healthy and productive watersheds minimize the threat
of large, high intensity wildfires, provide abundant and
diverse wildlife habitat, and produce a variety of timber and
non-timber products including better quality water and
increased water flows.
(5) Restoration efforts are more successful when there is
involvement from neighboring communities and better stewardship
will evolve from more diverse involvement.
(6) Designing demonstration restoration projects through a
collaborative approach may--
(A) lead to the development of cost effective
restoration activities;
(B) empower diverse organizations to implement
activities which value local and traditional knowledge;
(C) build ownership and civic pride; and
(D) ensure healthy, diverse, and productive forests
and watersheds.
SEC. 3. PURPOSES.
The purposes of this Act are--
(1) to promote healthy watersheds and reduce the threat of
large, high intensity wildfires, insect infestation, and
disease in the forests in New Mexico;
(2) to improve the functioning of forest ecosystems and
enhance plant and wildlife biodiversity by reducing the
unnaturally high number and density of small diameter trees on
Federal, Tribal, State, County, and Municipal forest lands;
(3) to improve communication and joint problem solving
among individuals and groups who are interested in restoring
the diversity and productivity of forested watersheds in New
Mexico;
(4) to improve the use of, or add value to, small diameter
trees;
(5) to encourage sustainable communities and sustainable
forests through collaborative partnerships, whose objectives
are forest restoration; and
(6) to develop, demonstrate, and evaluate ecologically
sound forest restoration techniques.
SEC. 4. DEFINITIONS.
As used in this Act--
(1) the term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of
Agriculture acting through the Chief of the Forest Service; and
(2) the term ``stakeholder'' includes: tribal governments,
educational institutions, landowners, and other interested
public and private entities.
SEC. 5. ESTABLISHMENT OF PROGRAM.
(a) The Secretary shall establish a cooperative forest restoration
program in New Mexico in order to provide cost-share grants to
stakeholders for experimental forest restoration projects that are
designed through a collaborative process (hereinafter referred to as
the ``Collaborative Forest Restoration Program''). The projects may be
entirely on, or on any combination of, Federal, Tribal, State, County,
or Municipal forest lands. The Federal share of an individual project
cost shall not exceed eighty percent of the total cost. The twenty
percent matching may be in the form of cash or in-kind contribution.
(b) Eligibility Requirements.--To be eligible to receive funding
under this Act, a project shall--
(1) address the following objectives--
(A) reduce the threat of large, high intensity
wildfires and the negative effects of excessive
competition between trees by restoring ecosystem
functions, structures, and species composition,
including the reduction of non-native species
populations;
(B) re-establish fire regimes approximating those
that shaped forest ecosystems prior to fire
suppression;
(C) preserve old and large trees;
(D) replant trees in deforested areas if they exist
in the proposed project area; and
(E) improve the use of, or add value to, small
diameter trees;
(2) comply with all Federal and State environmental laws;
(3) include a diverse and balanced group of stakeholders as
well as appropriate Federal, Tribal, State, County, and
Municipal government representatives in the design,
implementation, and monitoring of the project;
(4) incorporate current scientific forest restoration
information; and
(5) include a multi-party assessment to--
(A) identify both the existing ecological condition
of the proposed project area and the desired future
condition; and
(B) report, upon project completion, on the
positive or negative impact and effectiveness of the
project including improvements in local management
skills and on the ground results;
(6) create local employment or training opportunities
within the context of accomplishing restoration objectives,
that are consistent with the purposes of this Act, including
summer youth jobs programs such as the Youth Conservation Corps
where appropriate;
(7) not exceed four years in length;
(8) not exceed a total annual cost of $150,000, with the
Federal portion not exceeding $120,000 annually, nor exceed a
total cost of $450,000 for the project, with the Federal
portion of the total cost not exceeding $360,000;
(9) leverage Federal funding through in-kind or matching
contributions; and
(10) include an agreement by each stakeholder to attend an
annual workshop with other stakeholders for the purpose of
discussing the cooperative forest restoration program and
projects implemented under this Act. The Secretary shall
coordinate and fund the annual workshop. Stakeholders may use
funding for projects authorized under this Act to pay for their
travel and per diem expenses to attend the workshop.
SEC. 6. SELECTION PROCESS.
(a) After consulting with the technical advisory panel established
in subsection (b), the Secretary shall select the proposals that will
receive funding through the Collaborative Forest Restoration Program.
(b) The Secretary shall convene a technical advisory panel to
evaluate the proposals for forest restoration grants and provide
recommendations regarding which proposals would best meet the
objectives of the Collaborative Forest Restoration Program. The
technical advisory panel shall consider eligibility criteria
established in section 5, the effect on long term management, and seek
to use a consensus-based decision making process to develop such
recommendations. The panel shall be composed of 12 to 15 members, to be
appointed by the Secretary as follows:
(1) A State Natural Resource official from the State of New
Mexico.
(2) At least two representatives from Federal land
management agencies.
(3) At least one tribal or pueblo representative.
(4) At least two independent scientists with experience in
forest ecosystem restoration.
(5) Equal representation from--
(A) conservation interests;
(B) local communities; and
(C) commodity interests.
SEC. 7. MONITORING AND EVALUATON.
The Secretary shall establish a multi-party monitoring and
evaluation process in order to assess the cumulative accomplishments or
adverse impacts of the Collaborative Forest Restoration Program. The
Secretary shall include any interested individual or organization in
the monitoring and evaluation process. The Secretary also shall conduct
a monitoring program to assess the short and long term ecological
effects of the restoration treatments, if any, or a minimum of 15
years.
SEC. 8. REPORT.
No later than five years after the first fiscal year in which
funding is made available for this program, the Secretary shall submit
a report to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the United
States Senate and the Committee on Resources of the United States House
of Representatives. The report shall include an assessment on whether,
and to what extent, the projects funded pursuant to this Act are
meeting the purposes of the Collaborative Forest Restoration Program.
SEC. 9. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There are authorized to be appropriated $5,000,000 annually to
carry out this Act.
Passed the Senate November 19, 1999.
Attest:
GARY SISCO,
Secretary. | Community Forest Restoration Act - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture, acting through the Chief of the Forest Service, to establish a cooperative forest restoration program in New Mexico to provide cost-share grants to stakeholders for experimental forest restoration projects to be designed through a collaborative process (Collaborative Forest Restoration Program).
Requires a project to address specified objectives, including: (1) wildfire threat reduction; (2) ecosystem restoration, including non-native tree species reduction; (3) reestablishment of historic fire regimes; (3) reforestation, including preservation of old trees; (4) small diameter tree use enhancement; (5) creation of forest- related local employment; and (6) stakeholder diversity.
Limits projects to four years.
Sets forth provisions respecting: (1) collaborative project selection; (2) monitoring and evaluation; (3) reporting; and (4) cost limits.
Authorizes appropriations. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Community Forest Restoration Act"} | 1,628 | 187 | 0.620445 | 1.811951 | 0.996495 | 2.730337 | 9.219101 | 0.876404 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Colonel Charles Young Home National
Historical Site Study Act''.
SEC. 2. STUDY AND REPORT ON THE COLONEL CHARLES YOUNG HOME AND
ASSOCIATED LOCATIONS AND ENTITIES.
(a) Study.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of the Interior, in
consultation with the Secretary of the Army, shall conduct a
study of the study area, as defined in section 4(2), to assess
its national significance and the suitability and feasibility
of including it as a unit of the National Park System.
(2) Requirements of study.--In conducting the study, the
Secretary shall--
(A) comply with section 8(c) of the National Park
System General Authorities Act (16 U.S.C. 1a-5(c));
(B) consult with interested Federal, State, tribal,
and local officials, representatives of civic
organizations, and members of the public;
(C) consider in the evaluation conducted pursuant
to section 8(c)(3)(B) of such Act (16 U.S.C. 1a-
5(c)(3)(B)), in consultation with the Secretary of the
Army, an affiliation of the study area with the
National Museum of the United States Army, the Buffalo
Soldiers National Museum, or other entities associated
with Colonel Charles Young, as determined by the
Secretary of the Interior, in order to focus on the
life of Colonel Charles Young and the African-American
military experience;
(D) investigate the historical relationship of the
Colonel Charles Young Home with the Underground
Railroad by methods including--
(i) consideration of available historical
documentation; and
(ii) completion of architectural and
archeological investigations of the Colonel
Charles Young Home; and
(E) consider research in existence on the date of
the enactment of this Act, as well as original research
conducted as a part of the study authorized by this
subsection, on the historical significance and
feasibility of preserving and interpreting the study
area.
(b) Report.--Notwithstanding section 8(c)(1) of the National Park
System General Authorities Act (16 U.S.C. 1a-5(c)(1)), within 2
complete fiscal years after the date on which funds are made available
to carry out the study required by subsection (a) of this section, the
Secretary shall submit to Congress a report that describes the findings
of the study and the conclusions and recommendations of the Secretary
relating to--
(1) the inclusion of the study area as a unit of the
National Park System; and
(2) if the Secretary concludes that the study area meets
the criteria for inclusion, the affiliation of the new unit of
the National Park System with the entities referred to in
subsection (a)(2)(C).
SEC. 3. INCLUSION OF THE COLONEL CHARLES YOUNG HOME AND ASSOCIATED
LOCATIONS AS A UNIT OF THE NATIONAL PARK SYSTEM AND
AFFILIATION OF ASSOCIATED ENTITIES WITH SUCH UNIT.
(a) Inclusion.--If the Secretary concludes in the report required
by section 2(b) that the study area meets the criteria for inclusion as
a unit of the National Park System--
(1) the study area shall be included as a unit of the
National Park System; and
(2) not later than 30 days after such inclusion, the
Secretary shall publish in the Federal Register a notice that
the study area has been included as a unit of the National Park
System.
(b) Affiliation.--If the study area is included as a unit of the
National Park System under subsection (a) and the Secretary recommends
in the report required by section 2(b) an affiliation of such unit with
the entities referred to in section 2(a)(2)(C), the Secretary may take
the action necessary to implement such an affiliation.
SEC. 4. DEFINITIONS.
For purposes of this Act:
(1) Secretary.--Unless otherwise indicated, the term
``Secretary'' means the Secretary of the Interior.
(2) Study area.--The term ``study area'' means the
following:
(A) The colonel charles young home.--The Colonel
Charles Young Home, a National Historic Landmark
located in Xenia, Ohio.
(B) The united states cavalry museum.--The United
States Cavalry Museum located at Fort Riley, Kansas.
(C) The frontier army museum.--The Frontier Army
Museum located at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.
(D) The fort huachuca historical museum.--The Fort
Huachuca Historical Museum located at Fort Huachuca,
Arizona.
(E) The presidio army museum.--The Presidio Army
Museum located in San Francisco, California.
(F) Other associated locations.--Any other location
associated with Colonel Charles Young, as determined by
the Secretary. | Colonel Charles Young Home National Historical Site Study Act - Directs the Secretary of the Interior, in consultation with the Secretary of the Army, to conduct a study of the Colonel Charles Young Home, a National Historic Landmark in Xenia, Ohio, and associated locations and museums (the study area) to assess its national significance and the suitability and feasibility of including it as a unit of the National Park System. Requires the Secretary, if the study area meets the criteria for inclusion, to include it as a unit of the System.
Provides for: (1) the consideration of an affiliation of the study area with the National Museum of the United States Army, the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum, or other entities associated with Colonel Charles Young in order to focus on his life and the African-American military experience; and (2) an investigation of the historical relationship of the Colonel Charles Young Home with the Underground Railroad. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To direct the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a study of the Colonel Charles Young Home in Xenia, Ohio, and other associated locations to determine if those locations should be included as a unit of the National Park System, to include those locations if the Secretary concludes that they meet the criteria for inclusion, and for other purposes."} | 1,063 | 190 | 0.744582 | 2.306098 | 0.846799 | 5.353933 | 5.202247 | 0.960674 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Rural Law Enforcement Assistance Act
of 1999''.
SEC. 2. FUNDING TO NATIONAL CENTER FOR RURAL LAW ENFORCEMENT.
(a) Funding Authority.--The Attorney General shall provide funds,
subject to appropriations, to the National Center for Rural Law
Enforcement if the Executive Director of the Center certifies, in
writing, to the Attorney General that the Center--
(1) is incorporated in accordance with applicable State
laws;
(2) is in compliance with the by-laws of the Center;
(3) shall use amounts made available under this section in
accordance with subsection (b); and
(4) shall not support any political party or candidate for
elected or appointed office.
(b) Uses of Funds.--
(1) Required uses of funds.--The Center shall use funds
made available under this section to develop an educational
program for employees of law enforcement agencies serving rural
areas which shall include--
(A) the development and delivery of management
education and training, technical assistance, practical
research and evaluation, and computer and forensic
education and training for employees of law enforcement
agencies serving rural areas, tribal law enforcement
employees and railroad law enforcement employees,
including supervisory and executive managers of those
agencies;
(B) conducting research into the causes and
prevention of criminal activity in rural areas,
including the causes, assessment, evaluation, analysis,
and prevention of criminal activity;
(C) the development and dissemination of
information designed to assist States and units of
local government in rural areas throughout the United
States;
(D) the establishment and maintenance of a resource
and information center for the collection, preparation,
and dissemination of information regarding criminal
justice and law enforcement in rural areas, including
programs for the prevention of crime and recidivism;
and
(E) the delivery of assistance, in a consulting
capacity, to criminal justice agencies in the
development, establishment, maintenance, and
coordination of programs, facilities and services,
training, and research relating to crime in rural
areas.
(2) Permissive uses of funds.--The Center may use funds
made available under this section to enhance the educational
program developed under paragraph (1), through--
(A) educational opportunities for rural law
enforcement agencies;
(B) the development, promotion, and voluntary
adoption of educational and training standards and
accreditation certification programs for law
enforcement agencies serving rural areas and the
employees of those agencies;
(C) grants to, and contracts with, State, and local
governments, law enforcement agencies, public and
private agencies, educational institutions, and other
organizations and individuals to carry out this
paragraph;
(D) the formulation and recommendation of law
enforcement policy, goals, and standards in rural areas
applicable to criminal justice agencies, organizations,
institutions, and personnel; and
(E) coordination with institutions of higher
education for the purpose of encouraging programs of
study for law enforcement in rural areas at such
institutions.
(c) Powers.--In carrying out subsection (b), the Executive Director
may--
(1) request the head of any Federal department or agency to
detail, on a reimbursable basis, any of the personnel of that
department or agency to the Center to assist it in carrying out
its duties under this Act;
(2) request the Administrator of the General Services
Administration to provide the Center, on a reimbursable basis,
the administrative support services necessary for the Center to
carry out its responsibilities under this Act; and
(3) procure temporary and intermittent services under
section 3109(b) of title 5, United States Code, at rates of
compensation established by the Board, but not to exceed the
daily equivalent of the maximum rate of pay payable for a
position at level IV of the Executive Schedule under section
5315 of title 5, United States Code.
(d) Travel Expenses.--For purposes of official travel, expenses
shall be reimbursed, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, in the
same manner as such expenses are permitted under sections 5702 and 5703
of title 5, United States Code.
(e) Reporting Requirements.--The Center shall submit an annual
report to the Attorney General that includes--
(1) a description of the education and training program
conducted by the Center;
(2) the number and demographic representation of
individuals who attended programs sponsored by the Center;
(3) a description of the extent resources of other
governmental agencies or private entities were used; and
(5) a description of the extent contracts with other public
and private resources were used.
(f) Definitions.--For purposes of this Act:
(1) The term ``Board'' means the members of the Board of
the Center as elected according to its bylaws.
(2) The term ``Center'' means the National Center for Rural
Law Enforcement, a nonprofit corporation located in Little
Rock, Arkansas.
(3) The term ``Executive Director'' means the Executive
Director of the Center as appointed according to the bylaws of
the Center.
(4) The term ``metropolitan statistical area'' has the same
meaning given such term by the Bureau of the Census.
(5) The term ``rural law enforcement agency'' means a law
enforcement agency that serves a city, town, township, borough,
or village outside a metropolitan statistical area.
(g) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section--
(1) $22,000,000 for fiscal year 2000; and
(2) such sums as may be necessary for each of fiscal years
2001 through 2005. | Rural Law Enforcement Assistance Act of 1999 - Directs the Attorney General to provide funds to the National Center for Rural Law Enforcement if the Center's Executive Director certifies in writing that the Center: (1) is incorporated in accordance with applicable State laws; (2) is in compliance with its by-laws; (3) shall use amounts made available in accordance with requirements of this Act; and (4) shall not support any political party or candidate for elected or appointed office.
Requires the Center to use such funds to develop an educational program for employees of law enforcement agencies serving rural areas for specified purposes, including: (1) the development and delivery of management education and training for employees of law enforcement agencies serving rural areas; and (2) the delivery of assistance (in a consulting capacity) to criminal justice agencies in the development and coordination of programs, training, and research relating to crime in rural areas.
Permits the Center to use such funds to enhance that educational program through specified means, including: (1) educational opportunities for rural law enforcement agencies; and (2) coordination with institutions of higher education to encourage programs of study for law enforcement in rural areas at such institutions.
Sets forth reporting requirements. Authorizes appropriations. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Rural Law Enforcement Assistance Act of 1999"} | 1,167 | 249 | 0.769969 | 2.239781 | 0.907142 | 4.703252 | 4.756098 | 0.947154 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Green Mountain National Forest Land
Adjustment Act of 2004''.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Bromley.--The term ``Bromley'' means Bromley Mountain
Ski Resort, Inc.
(2) Map.--The term ``map'' means the map entitled
``Proposed Bromley Land Sale or Exchange'' and dated April 7,
2004.
(3) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of Agriculture.
(4) State.--The term ``State'' means the State of Vermont.
SEC. 3. SALE OR EXCHANGE OF GREEN MOUNTAIN NATIONAL FOREST LAND.
(a) In General.--The Secretary may, under any terms and conditions
that the Secretary may prescribe, sell or exchange any right, title,
and interest of the United States in and to the parcels of National
Forest System land described in subsection (b).
(b) Description of Land.--The parcels of National Forest System
land referred to in subsection (a) are the 5 parcels of land in
Bennington County in the State, as generally depicted on the map.
(c) Map and Legal Descriptions.--
(1) In general.--The map shall be on file and available for
public inspection in--
(A) the office of the Chief of the Forest Service;
and
(B) the office of the Supervisor of the Green
Mountain National Forest.
(2) Modifications.--The Secretary may modify the map and
legal descriptions to--
(A) correct technical errors; or
(B) facilitate the conveyance under subsection (a).
(d) Consideration.--Consideration for the sale or exchange of land
described in subsection (b)--
(1) shall be equal to an amount that is not less than the
fair market value of the land sold or exchanged; and
(2) may be in the form of cash, land, or a combination of
cash and land.
(e) Appraisals.--Any appraisal carried out to facilitate the sale
or exchange of land under subsection (a) shall conform with the Uniform
Appraisal Standards for Federal Land Acquisitions.
(f) Methods of Sale.--
(1) Conveyance to bromley.--
(A) In general.--Before soliciting offers under
paragraph (2), the Secretary shall offer to convey to
Bromley the land described in subsection (b).
(B) Contract deadline.--If Bromley accepts the
offer under subparagraph (A), the Secretary and Bromley
shall have not more than 180 days after the date on
which any environmental analyses with respect to the
land are completed to enter into a contract for the
sale or exchange of the land.
(2) Public or private sale.--If the Secretary and Bromley
do not enter into a contract for the sale or exchange of the
land by the date specified in paragraph (1)(B), the Secretary
may sell or exchange the land at public or private sale
(including auction), in accordance with such terms, conditions,
and procedures as the Secretary determines to be in the public
interest.
(3) Rejection of offers.--The Secretary may reject any
offer received under this subsection if the Secretary
determines that the offer is not adequate or is not in the
public interest.
(4) Brokers.--In any sale or exchange of land under this
section, the Secretary may--
(A) use a real estate broker or other third party;
and
(B) pay the real estate broker or third party a
commission in an amount comparable to the amounts of
commission generally paid for real estate transactions
in the area.
(g) Cash Equalization.--Notwithstanding section 206(b) of the
Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1716(b)), the
Secretary may accept a cash equalization payment in excess of 25
percent of the value of any Federal land exchanged under this Act.
SEC. 4. DISPOSITION OF PROCEEDS.
(a) In General.--The Secretary shall deposit the net proceeds from
a sale or exchange under this Act in the fund established under Public
Law 90-171 (16 U.S.C. 484a) (commonly known as the ``Sisk Act'').
(b) Use.--Amounts deposited under subsection (a) shall be available
to the Secretary until expended, without further appropriation, for--
(1) the location and relocation of the Appalachian National
Scenic Trail and the Long National Recreation Trail in the
State;
(2) the acquisition of land and interests in land by the
Secretary for National Forest System purposes within the
boundary of the Green Mountain National Forest, including land
for and adjacent to the Appalachian National Scenic Trail and
the Long National Recreation Trail;
(3) the acquisition of wetland or an interest in wetland
within the boundary of the Green Mountain National Forest to
offset the loss of wetland from the parcels sold or exchanged;
and
(4) the payment of direct administrative costs incurred in
carrying out this Act.
(c) Limitation.--Amounts deposited under subsection (a) shall not--
(1) be paid or distributed to the State or counties or
towns in the State under any provision of law; or
(2) be considered to be money received from units of the
National Forest System for purposes of--
(A) the Act of May 23, 1908 (16 U.S.C. 500); or
(B) the Act of March 4, 1913 (16 U.S.C. 501).
(d) Prohibition of Transfer or Reprogramming.--Amounts deposited
under subsection (a) shall not be subject to transfer or reprogramming
for wildfire management or any other emergency purposes.
SEC. 5. ACQUISITION OF LAND.
The Secretary may acquire, using funds made available under section
4 or otherwise made available for acquisition, land or an interest in
land for National Forest System purposes within the boundary of the
Green Mountain National Forest.
SEC. 6. EXEMPTION FROM CERTAIN LAWS.
The Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 (40
U.S.C. 471 et seq.) shall not apply to any sale or exchange of National
Forest System lands under this Act. | Green Mountain National Forest Land Adjustment Act of 2004 - Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to sell or exchange any right, title, and interest of the United States in and to five specified parcels of National Forest System land in Vermont. Directs the Secretary to offer to convey such land to Bromley Mountain Ski Resort, Inc.
Makes sale proceeds available for: (1) the location and relocation of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail and the Long National Recreation Trail in Vermont; (2) the acquisition of land for National Forest System purposes within the boundary of Green Mountain National Forest; (3) the acquisition of wetland within the boundary of the Forest to offset the loss of wetland from the parcels sold or exchanged; and (4) the payment of direct administrative costs incurred in carrying out this Act.
Allows the Secretary, using funds made available as described above or otherwise made available for acquisition, to acquire land or an interest in land for National Forest System purposes within the boundary of the Forest. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "A bill to authorize the Secretary of Agriculture to sell or exchange certain National Forest System land in the State of Vermont."} | 1,383 | 209 | 0.631112 | 1.912024 | 0.913182 | 6.395833 | 6.421875 | 0.96875 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Lower Rogue Wild and Scenic Rivers
Act of 2008''.
SEC. 2. ROGUE RIVER ADDITIONS.
(a) In General.--Section 3(a)(5) of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act
(16 U.S.C. 1274(a)(5)) is amended--
(1) by striking ``The segment'' and inserting the
following:
``(A) In general.--The segment''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(B) Additional areas.--In addition to the segment
described in subparagraph (A), the following segments of the
Rogue River, Oregon, to be administered in the following
classifications:
``(i) Kelsey creek.--
``(I) The 2.2-mile segment of Kelsey Creek
from the headwaters of the Creek to the eastern
section line of 32S 8W sec. 30 as a
recreational river.
``(II) The 7.1-mile segment of Kelsey Creek
from the eastern section line of 32S 8W sec. 30
to the confluence with the Rogue River as a
wild river.
``(ii) East fork kelsey creek.--
``(I) The 0.1-mile segment of East Fork
Kelsey Creek from the headwaters of the Creek
to 0.1 miles downstream of road 32-7-19.3 as a
scenic river.
``(II) The 4.7-mile segment of East Fork
Kelsey Creek downstream from 0.1 miles
downstream of road 32-7-19.3 to the confluence
with Kelsey Creek as a wild river.
``(iii) Whisky creek.--
``(I) The 0.6-mile segment of Whisky Creek
from the confluence of the East Fork and West
Fork to 0.1 miles downstream from road 33-8-23
as a recreational river.
``(II) The 1.9-mile segment of Whisky Creek
from 0.1 miles downstream from road 33-8-23 to
the confluence with the Rogue River as a wild
river.
``(iv) East fork whisky creek.--
``(I) The 0.1-mile segment of East Fork
Whisky Creek from the headwaters of the Creek
to 0.1 miles downstream of road 34-8-1 as a
scenic river.
``(II) The 3.7-mile segment of East Fork
Whisky Creek from 0.1 miles downstream of road
34-8-1 to the confluence with Whisky Creek as a
wild river.
``(v) West fork whisky creek.--The 4.8-mile segment
of West Fork Whisky Creek from the headwaters of the
Creek to the confluence of the Rogue River as a wild
river.
``(vi) Big windy creek.--
``(I) The 1.5-mile segment of Big Windy
Creek from the headwaters of the Creek to 0.1
miles downstream from road 34-9-17.1 as a
scenic river.
``(II) The 5.8-mile segment of Big Windy
Creek from 0.1 miles downstream from road 34-9-
17.1 to the confluence with the Rogue River as
a wild river.
``(vii) East fork big windy creek.--
``(I) The 0.2-mile segment of East Fork Big
Windy Creek from the headwaters of the Creek to
0.1 miles downstream from road 34-8-36 as a
scenic river.
``(II) The 3.7-mile segment of East Fork
Big Windy Creek from 0.1 miles downstream from
road 34-8-36 to the confluence with Big Windy
Creek as a wild river.
``(viii) Little windy creek.--
``(I) The 1.1-mile segment of Little Windy
Creek from the headwaters of the Creek to 0.1
miles downstream of road 34-8-36 as a scenic
river.
``(II) The 1.9-mile segment of Little Windy
Creek from 0.1 miles downstream of road 34-8-36
to the confluence with the Rogue River as a
wild river.
``(ix) Howard creek.--
``(I) The 0.3-mile segment of Howard Creek
from the headwaters of the Creek to 0.1 miles
downstream of road 34-9-34 as a scenic river.
``(II) The 6.9-mile segment of Howard Creek
from 0.1 miles downstream of road 34-9-34 to
the confluence with the Rogue River as a wild
river.
``(x) Mule creek.--
``(I) The 0.2-mile segment of Mule Creek
from the headwaters of the Creek to 0.1 miles
downstream from road 32-9-15.1 as a scenic
river.
``(II) The 11.2-mile segment of Mule Creek
from 0.1 miles downstream from road 32-9-15.1
to the confluence with the Rogue River as a
wild river.
``(xi) Grave creek.--
``(I) The 1.6-mile segment of Grave Creek
from the confluence of Wolf Creek downstream as
a scenic river.
``(II) The 8.2-mile segment of Grave Creek
from 1.6 miles downstream of the confluence of
Wolf Creek to the confluence with the Rogue
River as a recreational river.
``(xii) Anna creek.--The 3.5-mile segment of Anna
Creek from the headwaters of Anna Creek to the
confluence with Howard Creek as a wild river.
``(xiii) Missouri creek.--
``(I) The 2.6-mile segment of Missouri
Creek from the headwaters of the Creek to the
north section line of 33S 10W sec. 25 as a
scenic river.
``(II) The 2.2-mile segment of Missouri
Creek from the north section line of 33S 10W
sec. 25 to the confluence with the Rogue River
as a wild river.
``(xiv) Jenny creek.--
``(I) The 0.3-mile segment of Jenny Creek
from the headwaters of the Creek to 0.1 miles
downstream from road 34-9-7 as a scenic river.
``(II) The 4.6-mile segment of Jenny Creek
from 0.1 miles downstream from road 34-9-7 to
the confluence with the Rogue River as a wild
river.
``(xv) Rum creek.--
``(I) The 2-mile segment of Rum Creek from
the headwaters of the Creek to 0.1 miles
downstream from road 34-8-34 as a scenic river.
``(II) The 2.4-mile segment of Rum Creek
from 0.1 miles downstream from road 34-8-34 to
the confluence with the Rogue River as a wild
river.
``(xvi) East fork rum creek.--
``(I) The 0.5-mile segment of East Rum
Creek from the headwaters to 0.1 miles
downstream of road 34-8-10.1 as a scenic river.
``(II) The 1.5-mile segment of East Rum
Creek from 0.1 miles downstream of road 34-8-
10.1 to the confluence with Rum Creek as a wild
river.
``(xvii) Wildcat creek.--The 1.7-mile segment of
Wildcat Creek from the headwaters of the Creek
downstream to the confluence with the Rogue River as a
wild river.
``(xviii) Montgomery creek.--The 1.8-mile segment
of Montgomery Creek from the headwaters of the Creek
downstream to the confluence with the Rogue River as a
wild river.
``(xix) Quartz creek.--
``(I) The 0.5-mile segment of Quartz Creek
from its headwaters to 0.1 miles downstream
from road 35-9-1.2 as a recreational river.
``(II) The 2.8-mile segment from 0.1 miles
downstream from road 35-9-1.2 to the confluence
of the North Fork Galice Creek as a scenic
river.
``(xx) Hewitt creek.--
``(I) The 1.3-mile segment of Hewitt Creek
from the headwaters of the Creek to 0.1 miles
downstream of road 33-9-21 as a scenic river.
``(II) The 1.3-mile segment of Hewitt Creek
from 0.1 miles downstream of road 33-9-21 to
the confluence with the Rogue River as a wild
river.
``(xxi) Bunker creek.--The 6.6-mile segment of
Bunker Creek from the headwaters of the Creek to the
confluence with the Rogue River as a wild river.
``(xxii) Dulog creek.--
``(I) The 0.8-mile segment of Dulog Creek
from the headwaters of the Creek to 0.1 miles
downstream of road 34-8-36 as a scenic river.
``(II) The 1.0-mile segment of Dulog Creek
from 0.1 miles downstream of road 34-8-36 to
the confluence with the Rogue River as a wild
river.
``(xxiii) Galice creek.--The 2.2-mile segment of
Galice Creek from the confluence with the North and
South Forks of Galice Creek to the confluence with the
Rogue River as a recreational river.
``(xxiv) North fork galice creek.--
``(I) The 1.2-mile segment of North Fork
Galice Creek from the headwaters of the Creek
to 0.1 miles upstream of road 34-8-36 as a
scenic river.
``(II) The 4.5-mile segment of North Fork
Galice Creek from 0.1 miles upstream of road
34-8-36 to the confluence with Galice Creek as
a recreational river.
``(xxv) Quail creek.--
``(I) The 0.7-mile segment of Quail Creek
from the headwaters of the Creek to 0.1 miles
downstream from road 32-9-14.2 as a scenic
river.
``(II) The 1.8-mile segment of Quail Creek
from to 0.1 miles downstream from road 32-9-
14.2 to the confluence with the Rogue River as
a wild river.
``(xxvi) Meadow creek.--The 4.1-mile segment of
Meadow Creek from the headwaters of the Creek to the
confluence with the Rogue River as a wild river.
``(xxvii) Russian creek.--
``(I) The 0.4-mile segment of Russian Creek
from the headwaters of the Creek to 0.1 miles
downstream from road 33-8-21 as a scenic river.
``(II) The 2.2-mile segment of Russian
Creek 0.1 miles downstream from road 33-8-21 to
the confluence with the Rogue River as a wild
river.
``(xxviii) Alder creek.--The 1.2-mile segment of
Alder Creek from the headwaters of the Creek to the
confluence with the Rogue River as a wild river.
``(xxix) Booze creek.--The 1.5-mile segment of
Booze Creek from the headwaters of the Creek to the
confluence with the Rogue River as a wild river.
``(xxx) Bronco creek.--The 1.8-mile segment of
Bronco Creek from the headwaters of the Creek to the
confluence with the Rogue River as a wild river.
``(xxxi) Centennial gulch creek.--The 1.9-mile
segment of Centennial Gulch Creek from the headwaters
of the Creek to the confluence with the Rogue River as
a recreational river.
``(xxxii) Copsey creek.--The 1.5-mile segment of
Copsey Creek from the headwaters of the Creek to the
confluence with the Rogue River as a wild river.
``(xxxiii) Corral creek.--The 0.5-mile segment of
Corral Creek from the headwaters of the Creek to the
confluence with the Rogue River as a wild river.
``(xxxiv) Cowley creek.--The 0.9-mile segment of
Cowley Creek from the headwaters of the Creek to the
confluence with the Rogue River as a wild river.
``(xxxv) Ditch creek.--
``(I) The 0.5-mile segment of Ditch Creek
from the headwaters of the Creek 0.1 miles
downstream from road 33-5-9.2 as a scenic
river.
``(II) The 1.9-mile segment of Ditch Creek
from 0.1 miles downstream from road 33-5-9.2 to
the confluence with the Rogue River as a wild
river.
``(xxxvi) Francis creek.--The 0.9-mile segment of
Francis Creek from the headwaters of the Creek to the
confluence with the Rogue River as a wild river.
``(xxxvii) Long gulch.--
``(I) The 1.4-mile segment of Long Gulch
from the headwaters to 0.1 miles downstream
from road 34-9-21 as a scenic river.
``(II) The 1.1-mile segment of Long Gulch
from 0.1 miles downstream of road 34-9-21 to
the confluence with the Rogue River as a wild
river.
``(xxxviii) Bailey creek.--
``(I) The 1.0-mile segment of Bailey Creek
from the headwaters of the Creek to 0.1 miles
downstream from road 34-8-22.2 as a scenic
river.
``(II) The 2.1-mile segment of Bailey Creek
from 0.1 miles downstream from road 34-8-22.2
to the confluence of the Rogue River as a wild
river.
``(xxxix) Shady creek.--The 0.7-mile segment of
Shady Creek from the headwaters of the Creek to the
confluence with the Rogue River, as a wild river.
``(xl) Slide creek.--
``(I) The 0.5-mile segment of Slide Creek
from the headwaters of the Creek to 0.1 miles
downstream from road 33-9-6 as a scenic river.
``(II) The 0.7-mile segment of Slide Creek
from 0.1 miles downstream of road 33-9-6 to the
confluence with the Rogue River as a wild
river.''.
(b) Administrative Provisions.--
(1) In general.--Any segment of the Rogue River designated
by subparagraph (B) of section 3(a)(5) of the Wild and Scenic
Rivers Act (16 U.S.C. 1274(a)(5)) (as added by subsection
(a)(2)) shall--
(A) include an average of 640 acres per mile
measured from the ordinary high water mark on both
sides of the River; and
(B) be managed as part of the Rogue Wild and Scenic
River designated by subparagraph (A) of section 3(a)(5)
of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act (16 U.S.C.
1274(a)(5)) (as added by subsection (a)(1)).
(2) Withdrawal.--Subject to valid rights, the Federal land
within the boundaries of the river segments designated by
subparagraph (B) of section 3(a)(5) of the Wild and Scenic
Rivers Act (16 U.S.C. 1274(a)(5)) (as added by subsection
(a)(2)) is withdrawn from all forms of--
(A) entry, appropriation, or disposal under the
public land laws;
(B) location, entry, and patent under the mining
laws; and
(C) disposition under all laws relating to mineral
and geothermal leasing or mineral materials.
(3) Windpower facilities prohibited.--The siting of
windpower facilities within the lateral boundaries of a segment
of the Rogue Wild and Scenic River designated by subparagraph
(B) of section 3(a)(5) of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act (16
U.S.C. 1274(a)(5)) (as added by subsection (a)(2)) is
prohibited. | Lower Rogue Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 2008 - Amends the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to add specified segments of creeks to the designation of the Rogue River in Oregon as a component of the national wild and scenic rivers system. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "A bill to amend the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to add certain segments to the Rogue River designation, and for other purposes."} | 3,662 | 58 | 0.555116 | 1.25609 | 0.501497 | 3.045455 | 71.045455 | 0.818182 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``National Energy Infrastructure
Security Program Establishment Act''.
SEC. 2. NATIONAL ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE SECURITY PROGRAM.
(a) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Approved state plan.--The term ``approved State plan''
means a State plan approved by the Assistant under subsection
(c)(3).
(2) Assistant.--The term ``Assistant'' means the Assistant
to the President for Homeland Security.
(3) Coastal zone.--The term ``coastal zone'' has the
meaning given the term in section 304 of the Coastal Zone
Management Act of 1972 (16 U.S.C. 1453).
(4) Coastline.--The term ``coastline'' has the meaning
given the term ``coast line'' in section 2 of the Submerged
Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1301).
(5) Critical energy infrastructure facility.--The term
``critical energy infrastructure facility'' means--
(A) an electric generating facility;
(B) a hydroelectric facility;
(C) an electric transmission facility;
(D) a petroleum or natural gas pipeline;
(E) an energy production facility;
(F) a refinery or chemical processing plant;
(G) a transportation or distribution facility;
(H) a port, rig, or platform;
(I) any other energy infrastructure facility as
determined by the Assistant; and
(J) a related facility that carries out a public
service or infrastructure activity critical to the
operation of an energy infrastructure facility
described in any of subparagraphs (A) through (I), as
determined by the Assistant.
(6) Distance.--The term ``distance'' means the minimum
great circle distance, measured in statute miles.
(7) Fund.--The term ``Fund'' means the National Energy
Infrastructure Security Trust Fund established by subsection
(d).
(8) Leased tract.--
(A) In general.--The term ``leased tract'' means a
tract that--
(i) is subject to a lease under section 6
or 8 of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act
(43 U.S.C. 1335, 1337) for the purpose of
drilling for, developing, and producing oil or
natural gas resources; and
(ii) consists of a block, a portion of a
block, a combination of blocks or portions of
blocks, or a combination of portions of blocks,
as--
(I) specified in the lease; and
(II) depicted on an outer
Continental Shelf official protraction
diagram.
(B) Exclusion.--The term ``leased tract'' does not
include a tract described in subparagraph (A) that is
located in a geographic area subject to a leasing
moratorium on January 1, 2001, unless the lease was in
production on that date.
(9) Producing coastal state.--The term ``producing coastal
State'' means--
(A) the State of--
(i) Alaska;
(ii) Alabama;
(iii) California;
(iv) Florida;
(v) Louisiana;
(vi) Mississippi; or
(vii) Texas; and
(B) any other State with a coastal seaward boundary
within 200 miles of the geographic center of a leased
tract.
(10) Production.--The term ``production'' has the meaning
given the term in section 2 of the Outer Continental Shelf
Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1331).
(11) Program.--The term ``program'' means the National
Energy Infrastructure Security Program established under
subsection (b).
(12) Qualified outer continental shelf revenues.--
(A) In general.--The term ``qualified Outer
Continental Shelf revenues'' means all funds received
by the United States from each leased tract--
(i) that lies--
(I) seaward of the zone covered by
section 8(g) of the Outer Continental
Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1337(g)); or
(II) within that zone, but to which
section 8(g) of that Act does not
apply; and
(ii) the geographic center of which lies
within a distance of 200 miles of any part of
the coastline of a producing coastal State.
(B) Inclusions.--The term ``qualified Outer
Continental Shelf revenues'' includes bonus bids,
rents, royalties (including payments for royalty taken
in kind and sold), net profit share payments, and
related late-payment interest from natural gas and oil
leases issued under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands
Act (43 U.S.C. 1331 et seq.).
(13) State.--The term ``State'' means any of the States,
the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico,
Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the
Virgin Islands of the United States, and any territory of the
United States.
(14) State plan.--The term ``State plan'' means a State
plan described in subsection (b).
(b) Establishment.--The Assistant shall establish a program, to be
known as the ``National Energy Infrastructure Security Program'', under
which the Assistant shall provide funds to States to implement approved
State plans to provide security against hostile and natural threats to
critical energy infrastructure facilities.
(c) State Plans.--
(1) Initial plan.--Not later than 180 days after the date
of enactment of this Act, to be eligible to receive funds under
the program, the Governor of a State shall submit to the
Assistant--
(A) a plan to provide security against hostile and
natural threats to critical energy infrastructure
facilities in the State; and
(B) a request for an amount of Federal funds to
carry out the State plan.
(2) Revised plans.--
(A) First revised plan.--Not later than 18 months
after the date of enactment of this Act, the Governor
of a State shall submit to the Assistant a revised
State plan.
(B) Annual reviews.--Not later than 1 year after
the date of submission of the revised plan under
subparagraph (A) and annually thereafter, the Governor
of a State shall--
(i) review the approved State plan; and
(ii) submit to the Assistant any revised
State plan resulting from the review.
(3) Approval of plans.--
(A) In general.--In consultation with appropriate
Federal security officials and the Secretaries of
Commerce, Energy and Interior, the Assistant shall--
(i) approve each State plan; or
(ii) recommend changes to the State plan.
(B) Resubmission of state plans.--If the Assistant
recommends changes to a State plan under subparagraph
(A)(ii), the Governor of the State may resubmit a
revised State plan to the Assistant for approval.
(4) Availability of plans.--
(A) Availability to the public.--The Assistant, in
consultation with the Governor of a State, shall
determine whether and to what extent the approved State
plan shall be made public.
(B) Availability to congress.--The Assistant shall
provide to Congress, on a confidential basis, a copy of
each approved State plan.
(5) Consultation and public comment.--
(A) Consultation.--The Governor of a State shall
develop the State plan in consultation with Federal,
State, and local law enforcement and public safety
officials, industry, Indian tribes, the scientific
community, and other persons as appropriate.
(B) Public comment.--The Governor of a State may
solicit public comments on the State plan to the extent
that the Governor determines to be appropriate.
(d) National Energy Infrastructure Security Trust Fund.--
(1) Establishment.--There is established in the Treasury of
the United States a fund to be used in carrying out this
section, to be known as the ``National Energy Infrastructure
Security Trust Fund'', consisting of--
(A) such amounts as are appropriated to the Fund
under paragraph (2); and
(B) any interest earned on investment of amounts in
the Fund under paragraph (4).
(2) Transfers to fund.--There are appropriated to the Fund
amounts equivalent to 50 percent of qualified Outer Continental
Shelf revenues.
(3) Expenditures from fund.--
(A) In general.--Subject to subparagraph (B), upon
request by the Assistant or the Secretary of the
Interior and without further appropriation, the
Secretary of the Treasury shall transfer from the Fund
to the Assistant or the Secretary of the Interior such
amounts as are necessary to make allocations to States
under subsection (g).
(B) Administrative expenses.--An amount not
exceeding 1 percent of the amounts in the Fund shall be
available in each fiscal year to pay the administrative
expenses necessary to carry out the program.
(4) Investment of amounts.--
(A) In general.--The Secretary of the Treasury
shall invest such portion of the Fund as is not, in the
judgment of the Secretary of the Treasury, required to
meet current withdrawals. Investments may be made only
in interest-bearing obligations of the United States.
(B) Acquisition of obligations.--For the purpose of
investments under subparagraph (A), obligations may be
acquired--
(i) on original issue at the issue price;
or
(ii) by purchase of outstanding obligations
at the market price.
(C) Sale of obligations.--Any obligation acquired
by the Fund may be sold by the Secretary of the
Treasury at the market price.
(D) Credits to fund.--The interest on, and the
proceeds from the sale or redemption of, any
obligations held in the Fund shall be credited to and
form a part of the Fund.
(5) Transfers of amounts.--
(A) In general.--The amounts required to be
transferred to the Fund under this subsection shall be
transferred at least monthly from the general fund of
the Treasury to the Fund on the basis of estimates made
by the Secretary of the Treasury.
(B) Adjustments.--Proper adjustment shall be made
in amounts subsequently transferred to the extent prior
estimates were in excess of or less than the amounts
required to be transferred.
(e) Allocation of Amounts From the Fund.--
(1) In general.--For each fiscal year, the Assistant shall
allocate the amounts transferred to the Fund for the preceding
fiscal year as follows:
(A) 70 percent of the amounts shall be allocated by
the Assistant in accordance with paragraph (2) to
States to carry out activities under approved State
plans in areas that are not coastal zones.
(B) 30 percent of the amounts shall be allocated by
the Secretary of the Interior in accordance with
paragraph (3) to producing coastal States to carry out
activities under approved State coastal zone plans
under subsection (f)(1) in coastal zones of the
producing coastal States.
(2) Allocation of amounts by assistant.--In determining
what portion of the amounts described in paragraph (1)(A) to
allocate to each State, the Assistant shall consider--
(A) the extent to which the State contains
infrastructure facilities that are most vulnerable to
human or natural threats;
(B) the extent to which the State contains
facilities that, if disrupted, would threaten--
(i) critical national security facilities;
(ii) the largest populations;
(iii) the national, regional, or local
economies;
(iv) pristine habitats; or
(v) national cultural, historical, or
religious sites;
(C) other financial resources available to the
State assist in the implementation of the approved
State plan; and
(D) other appropriate factors.
(3) Allocation of amounts by secretary of the interior.--
The Secretary of the Interior shall allocate the amounts
described in paragraph (1)(B) among producing coastal States as
follows:
(A) 60 percent of the amounts shall be divided
equally among producing coastal States.
(B) 40 percent of the amounts shall be divided
among producing coastal States on the basis of the
proximity of each producing coastal State to offshore
locations at which oil and gas are being produced.
(f) Use of Amounts Allocated by Secretary of the Interior.--
(1) Coastal zone plans.--
(A) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the
date of enactment of this Act, to be eligible to
receive amounts allocated by the Secretary of the
Interior under subsection (e)(3), the Governor of a
producing coastal State shall submit to the Secretary
of the Interior and the Secretary of Commerce a plan to
provide security against human and natural threats to
critical energy infrastructure facilities in coastal
zones of the producing coastal State.
(B) Development of plans.--Each coastal zone plan
under subparagraph (A) shall be developed and approved
in the same manner as a State plan is developed under
subsection (c).
(2) Use of amounts.--
(A) In general.--Amounts allocated by the Secretary
of the Interior under subsection (e)(3) may be used
only for--
(i) activities to secure critical energy
infrastructure facilities in a coastal zone
from human or natural threats; and
(ii) support of any necessary public
service activities that are needed to maintain
the safety and operation of critical energy
infrastructure facilities.
(B) Restoration of coastal wetland.--For the
purpose of subparagraph (A)(i), restoration of coastal
wetland shall be considered to be an activity that
secures critical energy infrastructure facilities in a
coastal zone from a natural threat.
(g) Termination of Authority.--The authority provided by this
section terminates effective on the date that is 6 years after the date
of enactment of this Act. | National Energy Infrastructure Security Program Establishment Act - Directs the Assistant to the President for Homeland Security to establish the National Energy Infrastructure Security Program, which shall provide funds to States to implement approved State plans to provide security against threats to critical energy infrastructure facilities.Establishes the National Energy Infrastructure Security Trust Fund, and appropriates to it 50 percent of qualified Outer Continental Shelf revenues. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "A bill to direct the Assistant to the President for Homeland Security to establish the National Energy Infrastructure Security Program."} | 2,974 | 81 | 0.527567 | 1.24317 | 1.064642 | 4.228571 | 39.3 | 0.942857 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Western New York Redevelopment Act
of 2005''.
SEC. 2. RENEW REPLACEMENT POWER.
Section 1 of the Act of August 21, 1957 (Public Law 85-859; 71
Stat. 401; 16 U.S.C. 836) is amended in subsection (b)(3) by striking
out ``for a period ending not later than the final maturity date of the
bonds initially issued to finance the project work herein specifically
authorized,''.
SEC. 3. ECONOMIC RECOVERY.
(a) License Conditions.--The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
(FERC) shall include among the conditions imposed on any license issued
subsequent to the original license for the project authorized by
section 1 of the Act of August 21, 1957 (Public Law 85-859; 71 Stat.
401; 16 U.S.C. 836) in addition to those deemed necessary and required
under the terms of the Federal Power Act, the following:
(1) Annual payment.--(A) In order to render financial
assistance to the host governments in which any feature of the
Niagara Power Project is located, the New York Power Authority
(NYPA) shall make a mandatory annual payment from its gross
proceeds to the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation in
the City of Buffalo and the County of Erie in the amount of
$10,000,000 for each 12-month period of the new license. For
every 12-month period after the first such period after the
license is issued and continuing for the life of the new
license and any subsequent licenses, the annual payment shall
include an additional 3 percent of the amount of the payment
made during the preceding 12-month period.
(B) Prior to the establishment of the Erie Canal Harbor
Development Corporation, the payment described in subparagraph
(A) shall be held in escrow by the NYPA for transfer to the
corporation upon its establishment. Such payment shall be used
by the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation only for the
development, design, engineering and construction of projects
at the Inner and Outer Harbor in Buffalo, and Erie County, New
York, including transportation infrastructure improvements and
Skyway Bridge alternatives. Other qualified uses may include
brownfield remediation, greenway trail design and construction
and other waterfront environmental restoration projects.
(C) At the expiration of the Erie Canal Harbor Development
Corporation the annual payments shall be made to the Erie
County Industrial Development Agency for the uses and purposes
set forth in subparagraph (B).
(2) Additional annual payment to counties.--(A) In order to
achieve the yet unrealized regional economic benefits that the
New York Power Authority contracted to deliver on when it was
awarded exclusive control of the Niagara Power Project, the
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission shall include as a
condition on any new and subsequent license, the payment of 1
percent of gross proceeds to be split evenly by the Industrial
Development Agencies for each of the counties of Niagara, Erie,
Chautauqua, and Cattaraugus, New York.
(B) Such funds shall be distributed by such agencies to
high-load industries and businesses committed to incremental
capital investment and job retention and creation in each such
county. The proceeds shall be disbursed to such western New
York industries and businesses and used by such industries and
businesses to offset the high cost of energy in New York State
and retain current employment levels.
(C) The payment of funds under this paragraph to Erie,
Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Niagara counties shall be
additional to, and shall not affect the obligation of the New
York Power Authority to pay, any other funds to those counties
under the terms of any judicial decree or settlement of an
action brought by one or more of such counties against the
NYPA.
(D) The term ``gross proceeds'', as used in this paragraph,
means the total gross proceeds derived by the licensee from the
sale of power for the preceding fiscal year, excluding power
used by the Corporation or sold or delivered to any other
department or agency of the State of New York for any purpose
other than resale.
SEC. 4. TRANSPARENCY.
The Secretary of Energy, acting through the Office of Inspector
General, Office of Audit Services, shall conduct an audit of Niagara
Power Project finances and operations since project inception in order
to provide consistent and timely information concerning the true
economic impact of the Niagara Power Project and its revenue and
disbursements and shall conduct subsequent annual audits to verify
payments to host communities and others.
SEC. 5. PHYSICAL SECURITY AND SAFETY.
(a) In General.--In order to improve the physical security of the
Niagara Power Project, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission shall
include among the conditions imposed on any license issued subsequent
to the original license for the project authorized by section 1 of the
Act of August 21, 1957 (Public Law 85-859; 71 Stat. 401; 16 U.S.C. 836)
in addition to those deemed necessary and required under the terms of
the Federal Power Act, a requirement that the licensee shall acquire by
contract or other agreement property or interests therein sufficient to
provide an appropriate effective zone of separation between all project
control, switching or generating facilities and any privately owned
real property not used for the generation, transmission, or control of
electric energy. Any such acquisition by the licensee shall be carried
out pursuant to such terms as may be necessary to ensure replacement of
any residential, educational, recreational, and community services and
facilities acquired or adversely affected by such acquisition, and that
such replacement facilities or services are of equivalent character,
value, and number to those so acquired, while meeting contemporary
standards for construction, operation, and level of service.
(b) Resources for First Responders.--The New York Power Authority
shall provide to First Responders serving the local jurisdictions in
which the Niagara Power Project facilities are located adequate
financial and other resources and assistance to acquire, operate,
maintain, and replace, through the term of any license granted pursuant
to this Act, the equipment and other assets needed to protect human
life and property from harm should any feature or facility of the
Niagara Power Project be subject to damage of any type because of an
act of terror or other criminal behavior.
SEC. 6. HOLD HARMLESS.
Nothing in this Act authorizes any increase in the rates and
charges for electric energy under the Replacement Power program.
SEC. 7. SEVERABILITY.
If any provision of this Act, or amendment made by this Act, or the
application of this Act or such amendments to any person or
circumstance is determined by a court to be invalid, the validity of
the remainder of this Act and the amendments made by this Act and the
application of such provision to other persons and circumstances shall
not be affected by such determination. | Western New York Redevelopment Act of 2005 - Modifies the statutory licensing conditions governing operation of a power project by the New York Power Authority regarding utilization of the federal share of the water of the Niagara River whose use is permitted by international agreement.
Directs the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to include among additional conditions imposed on any license issued subsequent to the original license: (1) specified mandatory annual payments from the gross proceeds of the Authority to the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation; (2) the payment of one percent of gross proceeds, to be split evenly by the Industrial Development Agencies for the counties of Niagara, Erie, Chautauqua, and Cattaraugus, New York; and (3) a requirement that the licensee acquire property or interests sufficient to provide an effective zone of separation between all project control, switching or generating facilities, and any privately owned real property not used for the generation, transmission, or control of electric energy.
Requires the Secretary of Energy to conduct: (1) an audit of Niagara Power Project finances and operations since project inception; and (2) subsequent annual audits to verify payments to host communities.
Requires the New York Power Authority to provide to First Responders serving the local jurisdictions in which the Niagara Power Project facilities are located adequate resources and assistance to acquire, operate, maintain, and replace the assets needed to protect human life and property from harm should any feature or facility of the Niagara Power Project be subject to damage of any type because of an act of terror or other criminal behavior. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "To amend the Niagara Redevelopment Act to encourage economic development and recovery in western New York, to promote fiscal transparency, to enhance the safety and security of the Niagara Power Project, and for other purposes."} | 1,433 | 316 | 0.520294 | 1.785983 | 0.772189 | 5.389831 | 4.698305 | 0.942373 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Anaktuvuk Pass Land Exchange and
Wilderness Redesignation Act of 1994''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress makes the following findings:
(1) the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (16
U.S.C. 460hh et seq.), enacted on December 2, 1980, established
the Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve and the
Gates of the Arctic Wilderness.
(2) The village of Anaktuvuk Pass, located in the highlands
of the central Brooks Range, is virtually surrounded by such
national park and wilderness area.
(3) Unlike most other Alaska Native communities, the
village of Anaktuvuk Pass is not located on a major river,
lake, or coastline that can be used as a means of access.
(4) The residents of Anaktuvuk Pass have relied
increasingly on snow machines in winter and all-terrain
vehicles in summer as their primary means of access to pursue
caribou and other subsistence resources.
(5) In a land exchange agreement in 1983, linear easements
were reserved by the Inupiat Eskimo people for use of all-
terrain vehicles across certain national park lands, mostly
along stream and river banks.
(6) Such linear easements proved unsatisfactory, because
such easements provided inadequate access to subsistence
resources and caused excessive environmental impact from
concentrated use.
(7) Officials of the National -P-a-r-k -S-e-r-v-i-c-e
-a-n-d -t-h-e Park Service and Nunamiut Corporation initiated
discussions in 1985 to address concerns over the use of all-
terrain vehicles on park and wilderness land.
(8) Such discussions resulted in an agreement, originally
executed in 1992, and subsequently amended in 1993 and 1994,
between the National -P-a-r-k -S-e-r-v-i-c-e -a-n-d -t-h-e Park
Service and Nunamiut Corporation and the city of Anaktuvuk
Pass, -A-l-a-s-k-a-, -a-n-d -t-h-e Alaska, and Arctic Slope
Regional Corporation.
(9) The full effectuation of the agreement, by its terms,
described in paragraph (7) requires the approval and
ratification by Congress.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
As used in this Act:
(1) Agreement.--The term ``Agreement'' means the document
entitled ``Donation, Exchange of Lands and Interests and
Wilderness Redesignation Agreement Among Arctic Slope Regional
Corporation, Nunamuit Corporation, City of Anaktuvuk Pass and
the United States of America'', executed on December 17, 1992,
and subsequently amended by the parties in 1993 and 1994.
(2) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of the Interior.
SEC. 4. RATIFICATION OF AGREEMENT.
(a) Ratification.--
(1) In general.--The Agreement is hereby ratified and
confirmed. The terms, conditions, procedures, covenants,
reservations, and other provisions set forth by the parties
specified in section 2(7) of the Agreement, and subsequently
amended are hereby are ratified and confirmed. The obligations
and commitments of the United States, Arctic Slope Regional
Corporation, Nunamiut Corporation and the city of Anaktuvuk
Pass, under such Agreement are hereby considered to be a matter
of Federal law.
(2) Land acquisition.--Subject to any applicable law, the
lands acquired by the United States pursuant to the Agreement
shall be administered by the Secretary as part of the Gates of
the Arctic National Park and Preserve.
(b) Maps.--
(1) In general.--The lands subject to the conveyances,
retention of surface access rights, access easements, and all-
terrain vehicle easements shall be determined in accordance
with the maps described as exhibits C1, C2, and D through I of
the Agreement and the Map No. 185/80,039, entitled ``Land
Exchange -A-c-t-i-o-n-s-, -P-r-o-p-o-s-e-d Actions, Anaktuvuk
Pass Land Exchange and Wilderness Redesignation, Gates of the
Arctic National Park and Preserve'', dated April 1994.
(2) Location of maps.--The maps shall be on file at the
Alaska Regional Office of the National Park Service and the
offices of Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve in
Fairbanks, Alaska.
(3) Public inspection.--The Secretary shall ensure that
written legal descriptions of the lands described in paragraph
(1) shall be available for public inspection in the offices
specified in paragraph (2).
(4) Discrepancies.--In case of any discrepancy between the
maps described in paragraph (1) and the Map No. 185/80,039, the
Map No. 185/80,039 shall control.
SEC. 5. NATIONAL PARK SYSTEM WILDERNESS.
(a) Redesignation.--
(1) In general.--Section 701(2) of the Alaska National
Interest Lands Conservation Act (16 U.S.C. 1132 note) is
amended by striking out ``approximately seven million and
fifty-two thousand acres'' and inserting in lieu thereof
``approximately -7-,-3-4-0-,-8-3-2 -a-c-r-e-s seven million
thirty-four thousand eight hundred and thirty-two acres''.
(2) Acreage.--The amendment made by paragraph (1) shall
result in the addition to the Gates of the Arctic Wilderness of
approximately 56,825 acres, and the rescission of approximately
73,993 acres as wilderness, from the total acreage of the Gates
of Arctic Wilderness (as determined on the day before the date
of enactment of this Act).
(b) Maps.--The lands redesignated in subsection (a) are depicted on
a map prepared by the National Park Service entitled ``Wilderness
-A-c-t-i-o-n-s-, -P-r-o-p-o-s-e-d Actions, Anaktuvuk Pass Land Exchange
and Wilderness Redesignation, Gates of the Arctic National Park and
Preserve'', Map No. 185/80,040, dated April 1994, and on file at the
Alaska Regional Office of the National Park Service and the office of
Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve in Fairbanks, Alaska.
(c) Redesignation.--
(1) In general.--
(A) Section 201(8)(a) of the Alaska National
Interest Lands Conservation Act is amended by striking
out ``approximately six million four hundred and sixty
thousand acres'' and inserting in lieu thereof
``approximately six million four hundred and seventy-
seven thousand one hundred and sixty-eight acres''.
(B) Section 701(7) of the Alaska National Interest
Lands Conservation Act (16 U.S.C. 1132) is amended by
striking out ``approximately five million eight hundred
thousand acres'' and inserting in lieu thereof
``approximately five million eight hundred seventeen
thousand one hundred and sixty eight acres''.
(2) Acreage.--The amendment made by paragraph (1) shall
result in the addition to the Noatak National Preserve and the
Noatak Wilderness of approximately 17,168 acres to the total
acreage of the Noatak National Preserve and the Noatak
Wilderness (as determined on the day before the date of
enactment of this Act).
(d) Maps.--The lands redesignated in subsection (c) are depicted on
a map entitled ``Proposed Noatak National Preserve Wilderness
expansion'' dated September 19, 1994.
SEC. 6. CONFORMANCE WITH OTHER LAW.
(a) Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act.--All of the lands, or
interests therein, conveyed to and received by Arctic Slope Regional
Corporation or Nunamiut Corporation pursuant to the Agreement shall be
deemed to have been conveyed and received pursuant to the requirements
relating to land exchanges under section 22(f) of the Alaska Native
Claims Settlement Act (43 U.S.C. 1621(f)).
(b) Valid Existing Rights.--All of the lands or interests in lands
conveyed pursuant to the Agreement shall be conveyed subject to valid
existing rights.
(c) Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act.--Nothing in
this Act or in the Agreement may be construed to enlarge or diminish
the rights, privileges, or obligations of any person, except to the
extent specifically set forth in this Act or the Agreement (including
the specific preference for subsistence uses and access to subsistence
resources provided under the Alaska National Interest Lands
Conservation Act (94 Stat. 2417 et seq.)). | Anaktuvuk Pass Land Exchange and Wilderness Redesignation Act of 1994 - Ratifies and confirms the agreement among the United States, the Arctic Slope Regional Corporation, the Nunamiut Corporation, and the city of Anaktuvuk Pass executed on December 17, 1992. Requires the lands acquired by the United States pursuant to such Agreement to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior as part of the Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve.
Amends the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act to provide for: (1) the addition and the rescission of lands within the Gates of the Arctic Wilderness; and (2) the addition of lands to the Noatak National Preserve and the Noatak Wilderness. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Anaktuvuk Pass Land Exchange and Wilderness Redesignation Act of 1994"} | 2,060 | 169 | 0.558755 | 1.788187 | 0.708072 | 4.162791 | 13.217054 | 0.937984 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This section may be cited as the ``American's Math and Science
Excellence Act''.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Director.--The term ``Director'' means the Director of
the National Science Foundation.
(2) Elementary school; secondary school.--The terms
``elementary school'' and ``secondary school'' have the
meanings given the terms in section 14101 of the Elementary and
Secondary Education Act of 1965.
(3) Institution of higher education.--The term
``institution of higher education'' has the same meaning given
it in section 1201(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20
U.S.C. 1201(a)).
(4) Charter school.--The term ``charter school'' has the
same meaning given it in section 10310(g) of the Higher
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 8060(g)).
(5) Internship.--The term ``internship'' means a program of
personal service by an individual, other than an employee, for
a specified period of time under which the service is primarily
for the educational experience of the individual.
SEC. 3. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY TEACHER TRAINING GRANTS.
(a) Grants Authorized.--The Director, in consultation with the
Secretary of Education, is authorized to award grants, on a competitive
basis, to support professional development in the use of information
technology as it pertains to enhanced student learning for teachers who
teach in elementary schools, secondary schools, or charter schools.
(b) Duration.--Grants awarded under this section--
(1) to individuals shall be awarded for a period of not
more than 1 year; and
(2) to educational institutions shall be awarded for a
period of not more than 3 years.
(c) Applications.--
(1) In general.--To receive a grant under this section, an
individual, secondary school, or other educational institution
shall submit an application to the Director at such time, in
such manner, and accompanied by such information as the
Director may require.
(2) Requirements.--In awarding grants under this section,
the Director shall not require applications for the grants to
be submitted by computer or Internet-based routes, although
such applications may be submitted by such routes.
(3) Uses of funds.--Grant funds awarded under this section
may be used for--
(A) substitute teacher pay or teacher salary;
(B) fees for attendance at workshops, seminars,
conferences, classes, or training sessions;
(C) developing a compensation system based on merit
that supports teachers who become increasingly expert
in subject areas underpinning information technology,
and demonstrate high levels of teaching performance,
resulting from the use of information technology tools,
measured against professional teaching standards; or
(D) other reasonable expenses related to
professional development in information technology for
elementary school, secondary school, or charter school
teachers.
(4) Recipients.--Grants under this subsection may be
awarded to individual elementary school, secondary school, or
charter school teachers, to elementary schools, secondary
schools, or charter schools, or to organizations supporting
professional development in information technology areas for
elementary school, secondary school, or charter school
teachers.
(5) Factors.--Among the factors the Director shall consider
in awarding grants under this subsection, are the following:
(A) Whether the grant will benefit elementary
schools, secondary schools, and charter schools that
are at or below the 25th percentile for academic
performance of schools in the respective State.
(B) Whether matching funds are available for the
private sector.
(d) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to the National Science Foundation to carry out this
section $25,000,000 for fiscal year 2001, $30,000,000 for fiscal year
2002, $35,000,000 for fiscal year 2003, and $35,000,000 for fiscal year
2004.
SEC. 4. TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY WORKFORCE INTERNSHIP GRANTS.
(a) Grants Authorized.--The Director, in consultation with the
Secretary of Education, is authorized to award grants to secondary
schools and institutions of higher education to establish student
information technology internships.
(b) Applications.--
(1) In general.--To receive a grant under this section, an
individual, secondary school, or institution of higher
education shall submit an application to the Director at such
time, in such manner, and accompanied by such information as
the Director may require.
(2) Form.--In awarding grants under this section, the
Director shall not require applications for the grants to be
submitted by computer or Internet-based routes, although such
applications may be submitted by such routes.
(c) Uses of Funds.--Grants awarded under this section may be used
for--
(1) internships designed to strengthen the science,
mathematics, and engineering preparation of technicians for the
high-performance workforce; and
(2) internships to offer students hands-on opportunities in
the private sector to apply their education to information
technology, manufacturing, or information security.
(d) Duration.--Grants awarded under this section shall be awarded
for a period of not more than 3 years.
(e) Other Requirements.--The Director shall ensure that--
(1) any internship assisted by a grant made under this
section is conducted at a private sector entity; and
(2) matching funds from the private sector are available in
an amount equal to the amount of grant funds provided under
this subsection.
(e) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to the
National Science Foundation to be appropriated to carry out this
section $15,000,000 for fiscal year 2001, $20,000,000 for fiscal year
2002, $25,000,000 for fiscal year 2003, and $25,000,000 for fiscal year
2004.
SEC. 5. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY STATE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM.
(a) In General.--The Director of the National Science Foundation,
in consultation with the Secretary of Education, shall make grants to
States to provide supplementary scholarships to students for study
leading to a graduate degree in science, math, engineering, or a
related field. The scholarships shall be awarded by the State higher
education system, the State scholarship commission, or an equivalent
State entity.
(b) Eligibility.--
(1) In general.--A scholarship awarded under subsection (a)
may be applied to any technology-related degree program offered
at an accredited institution of higher learning, including a
college, university, community college, or vocational-training
institution.
(2) Maximum amount.--A scholarship awarded under subsection
(a) may not, when combined with other sources of financial
assistance, exceed the cost of tuition and related expenses of
the qualified degree program of the recipient.
(c) Matching.--The Director may not make a grant to a State under
subsection (a) unless the State provides not less than one-half of the
cost of the program for which the grant is provided from State funds.
(d) Distribution.--The Director may not make a grant to a State
under subsection (a) unless the State provides assurances that at least
two-thirds of the scholarships awarded using grant funds will be
awarded to students who are members of families with a family income
that is not more than 200 percent of the poverty line.
(e) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to the National Science Foundation a total of $50,000,000
for grants under this section for fiscal years 2001 through 2004.
SEC. 6. TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY TEACHER ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM.
(a) In General.--Section 19A of the National Institute of Standards
and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278g-2a) is amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 19A. TEACHER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM.
``(a) In General.--The Director shall establish within the
Institute a Twenty-First Century Teacher Enhancement Program.
``(b) Purpose and Goals.--The purpose of the program established
under this section is to provide for professional development of
mathematics and science teachers for elementary, middle, and secondary
schools. The goals of the program are to provide--
``(1) math and science teaching strategies;
``(2) self-confidence in math and science; and
``(3) the understanding of math and science and their
impact on commerce and the economy.
``(c) Focus.--In carrying out the program under this section, the
Director shall focus on the areas of--
``(1) scientific measurements;
``(2) tests and standards development;
``(3) industrial competitiveness and quality;
``(4) manufacturing;
``(5) technology transfer; and
``(6) any other area of expertise of the Institute that the
Director determines to be appropriate.
``(d) Selection Procedures and Criteria.--The Director shall
develop and issue procedures and selection criteria for participants in
the program. Each such participant shall be a teacher described in
subsection (b).
``(e) Summer Program.--The program established under this section
shall be conducted on an annual basis during the summer months, during
the period of time when a majority of elementary, middle, and secondary
schools have not commenced a school year.
``(f) Strategies.--The program shall provide for teachers'
participation in activities at the Institute laboratory facilities or
shall utilize other means of accomplishing the goals of the program,
which may include use of the Internet, video conferencing and
recording, workshops, and conferences.''.
``(b) Availability of Funds.--The following amounts of funds
appropriated to the National Institute of Standards and Technology
shall be used to carry out the Twenty-First Century Teacher Enhancement
Program under section 19A of the National Institute of Standards and
Technology Act added by subsection (a) of this section:
(1) $5,000,000 for fiscal year 2001.
(2) $5,500,000 for fiscal year 2002.
(3) $6,000,000 for fiscal year 2003.
(4) $6,500,000 for fiscal year 2004. | (Sec. 4) Authorizes the NSF Director to award grants to secondary schools and institutions of higher education to establish student information technology internships. Limits the duration of such grants to three years. Requires the Director to ensure that: (1) any internship assisted by such a grant is conducted at a private sector entity; and (2) matching funds from the private sector are available in an amount equal to that of such grant funds. Authorizes appropriations.
(Sec. 5) Requires the NSF Director to make grants to States to provide supplementary scholarships to students for study leading to a graduate degree in science, math, engineering, or a related field. Requires such scholarships to be awarded by the State higher education system, the State scholarship commission, or an equivalent State entity. Requires States to provide: (1) at least one-half of the scholarship program cost; and (2) assurances that at least two-thirds of the scholarships will be awarded to students who are members of families with a family income that is not more than 200 percent of the poverty line. Authorizes appropriations.
(Sec. 6) Amends the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act to require the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to establish a Twenty-First Century Teacher Enhancement Program within NIST to provide for professional development of mathematics and science teachers for elementary, middle, and secondary schools. Requires such program to: (1) provide math and science teaching strategies, self-confidence in math and science, and understanding of math and science and their impact on commerce and the economy; (2) focus on specified and other appropriate areas of NIST expertise; (3) be conducted annually during the summer months; and (4) provide for teachers' participation in activities at NIST laboratory facilities or use other means of accomplishing program goals. Authorizes appropriations. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "America's Math and Science Excellence Act"} | 2,175 | 405 | 0.561087 | 1.590784 | 0.847359 | 5.50137 | 5.553425 | 0.936986 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Empowering Parents to Fight Drugs
Act of 1998''.
SEC. 2. GRANT AUTHORIZATION.
(a) State Grants.--The Secretary is authorized to provide grants to
State educational agencies to enable each local educational agency in
the State to develop and implement a random drug testing program for
students in grades 7 through 12.
(b) Local Subgrants.--Each State educational agency that receives a
grant award under this Act shall award not less than 99.75 of such
amount to provide subgrants to local educational agencies.
(c) State Application.--Any State educational agency desiring to
receive a grant under this part for any fiscal year shall submit an
application to the Secretary at such time and in such manner as the
Secretary may require.
SEC. 3. ALLOCATION.
(a) In General.--
(1) State allocation.--Except as provided in subsection
(b)(1), from the total amount appropriated pursuant to section
7 in any fiscal year, the Secretary shall allocate to each
State educational agency an amount that bears the same ratio to
such total amount as the number of students enrolled in grades
7 through 12 in such State in the preceding fiscal year bears
to the total number of such students for all States for that
fiscal year.
(2) Local allocation.--Except as provided in subsection
(b)(2), of the remaining amounts appropriated pursuant to
section 7 in any fiscal year, the State shall allocate to each
local educational agency an amount that bears the same ratio to
such remaining amount as the number of students enrolled in
grades 7 through 12 in such agency bears to the total number of
such students for all local educational agencies in the State
for that fiscal year.
(b) Administrative Costs.--
(1) Secretary.--The Secretary may reserve the lesser of
$200,000 or 0.10 percent of the total amount appropriated to
carry out this Act in each fiscal year for the costs of
administration.
(2) State educational agencies.--Each State educational
agency may reserve not more than 0.25 percent of any grant
funds received under this Act in each fiscal year for the costs
of administration.
(3) Local educational agencies.--Each local educational
agency may reserve not more than 5 percent of any grant funds
received under this Act in each fiscal year for the costs of
administration.
SEC. 4. REQUIREMENTS AND OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES.
(a) In General.--Each local educational agency that receives a
grant under this Act shall certify to the State educational agency
that--
(1) funds received under this Act shall be used in
accordance with subsection (b);
(2) the agency shall develop a plan to implement a drug
testing program; and
(3) before implementation, any drug testing plan or
subsequent amendment to such plan shall be considered a public
document and made available to the public for review, not later
than 30 days after such plan or amendment is available.
(b) Uses of Funds.--
(1) Required uses of funds.--A local educational agency
that receives a grant under this Act shall, either directly or
through contract with outside sources, provide for a drug test
of each student in grades 7 through 12 not less than once each
year. Such test shall, at a minimum, include a drug screening
for marijuana, amphetamines, phencyclidine (PCP), opiates, and
cocaine.
(2) Optional uses of funds.--After a local educational
agency has complied with the requirements of paragraph (1), the
agency may use any remaining funds available for the following:
(A) Law enforcement assistance.--To contract with
local law enforcement agencies to assist in drug
detection in schools, including the use of drug sniffing dogs.
(B) Additional tests.--To test students more than
once during a school year.
SEC. 5. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.
(a) Reporting of Test Results.--Each local educational agency that
receives funds under this Act shall inform parents in detail about the
random testing program and ensure that--
(1) at the beginning of each school year, parents are
notified of their right to withdraw their child from
participation in the random drug testing program; and
(2) parents receive, on a timely basis, the positive
results of any drug test of a child who participates in the
program.
(b) Confidentiality.--The local educational agency shall develop
and enforce standards designed to protect the confidentiality of all
student test results.
(c) Medical Review Officer.--
(1) In general.--Each local educational agency that
receives a grant under this Act shall provide, either directly
or through contract, for a medical review officer.
(2) Duties.--Each medical review officer shall be
designated to receive all test results.
(A) First positive result.--In the case of the
first positive test result of a student, the medical
review officer shall be responsible to inform only
parents by making every attempt feasible to meet with
the parents of such student and inform the parents of
the results and resources and services of
rehabilitation and education available in the
community.
(B) Consecutive positive results.--In the case of a
student who has 2 or more consecutive positive test
results, the medical review officer shall be
responsible to inform parents and school officials who
shall determine the appropriate action for the student
based on school policy.
SEC. 6. DEFINITIONS.
For purposes of this Act--
(1) the term ``medical review officer'' means a licensed
physician (medical doctor or doctor of osteopathy) responsible
for receiving laboratory results generated by a local
educational agency's drug testing program who has knowledge of
substance abuse disorders and has appropriate medical training
to interpret and evaluate a student's confirmed positive test
result together with the student's medical history and any
other relevant biomedical information;
(2) the term ``parent'' includes a legal guardian or other
person standing in loco parentis;
(3) the term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of
Education; and
(4) the term ``State'' means each of the 50 States, the
District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the
United States Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and Guam.
SEC. 7. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be
necessary to carry out this Act for each of fiscal years 1999 through
2003.
SEC. 8. AMENDMENT TO ESEA.
(a) Amendment.--Part E of title XIV of the Elementary and Secondary
Education Act of 1965 is amended by adding at the end the following:
``SEC. 14515. RANDOM DRUG TESTING.
``Any local educational agency that receives funds under this Act
shall implement a drug testing program that meets the requirements of
the ``Empowering Parents to Fight Drugs Act of 1998.''.
(b) Effective Date.--A local educational agency shall implement a
drug testing program referred to in section 14515 of the Elementary and
Secondary Education Act of 1965 not later than the school year
beginning 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act. | Empowering Parents to Fight Drugs Act of 1998 - Authorizes the Secretary of Education to make grants to State educational agencies (SEAs) to enable each local educational agency (LEA) to develop and implement a random drug testing program for students in grades seven through 12.
Sets forth requirements for State and local allocations and administrative costs.
Requires LEAs receiving grants to make certain certifications to SEAs.
Sets forth required and optional uses of grant funds.
Requires LEAs receiving such grant funds to inform parents about: (1) the random drug testing program, in detail; (2) their right to withdraw their child from such program; and (3) any positive results of a drug test of their child. Requires such LEAs to provide for confidentiality of drug test results.
Requires a medical review officer provided by the LEA to: (1) receive all test results; (2) inform only the student's parents after a first positive result, and attempt to meet with them to discuss the results and available community rehabilitation and education resources and services; and (3) after two or more positive results, inform parents and school officials who shall determine appropriate action for the student based on school policy.
Authorizes appropriations.
Amends the Elementary and Secondary Act of 1965 (ESEA) to require any LEA that receives ESEA funds to implement a drug testing program that meets the requirements of this Act. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "Empowering Parents to Fight Drugs Act of 1998"} | 1,563 | 304 | 0.513119 | 1.451842 | 0.761799 | 2.930657 | 5.259124 | 0.886861 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Alternative Energy Refueling System
Act of 2006''.
SEC. 2. ALTERNATIVE ENERGY REFUELING SYSTEMS.
(a) In General.--Section 9003(h) of the Solid Waste Disposal Act
(42 U.S.C. 6991b(h)) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(13) Alternative energy refueling systems.--
``(A) Definitions.--In this paragraph:
``(i) Alternative energy refueling
system.--The term `alternative energy refueling
system' means a system composed of 1 or more
underground storage tanks, pumps, and pump
fittings or other related infrastructure that
is used to refuel motor vehicles with--
``(I) compressed natural gas;
``(II) E-85 ethanol;
``(III) a fuel described in section
30C(c)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code
of 1986; or
``(IV) any other alternative fuel,
as determined by the Administrator.
``(ii) Eligible entity.--The term `eligible
entity' means a refueling vendor or other
person that is an owner or operator of a
service station or other facility at which an
alternative energy refueling system is located
or proposed to be located.
``(B) Reimbursement program.--
``(i) Establishment.--The Administrator
shall establish a program to provide to
eligible entities reimbursement from the Trust
Fund of a portion of the costs of purchasing
and installing 1 or more alternative energy
refueling systems, including any alternative
energy refueling system intended to replace a
petroleum refueling tank or system.
``(ii) Application.--An eligible entity
that seeks to receive reimbursement described
in clause (i) shall submit to the Administrator
an application by such time, in such form, and
containing such information as the
Administrator shall prescribe.
``(iii) Timing of reimbursement.--Not later
than 30 days after the date on which the
Administrator, in consultation with the
appropriate State agency, verifies that an
alternative energy refueling system for which
reimbursement is requested by an eligible
entity under this paragraph has been installed
and is operational, the Administrator shall
provide the reimbursement to the eligible
entity.
``(iv) Limitations.--
``(I) Prohibition on receipt of
dual benefits.--An eligible entity that
receives a tax credit under section 30C
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
for placing in service a qualified
alternative fuel vehicle refueling
property (as defined in that section)
may not receive any reimbursement under
this paragraph for an alternative
energy refueling system on the property
if the cost of the alternative energy
refueling system was taken into
consideration in calculating the tax
credit.
``(II) Number of systems.--An
eligible entity may not receive
reimbursement under this paragraph for
more than 2 alternative energy
refueling systems for each facility
owned or operated by the eligible
entity.
``(III) Amount.--The amount of
reimbursement provided for an
alternative energy refueling system
under this paragraph shall not exceed
the lesser of--
``(aa) the amount that is
30 percent of the cost of the
alternative energy refueling
system; or
``(bb) $30,000.
``(C) No effect on other trust fund projects,
activities, or responsibilities.--
``(i) Other trust fund projects and
activities.--In carrying out this paragraph,
the Administrator shall not use funds from the
Trust Fund that are obligated for, or otherwise
required to carry out, other projects and
activities under this subsection.
``(ii) Responsibilities.--Nothing in this
paragraph affects any obligation of an owner or
operator to comply with other provisions of
this subtitle.''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 9508(c) of the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986 is amended by striking ``as in effect on'' and all that
follows through the end of the subsection and inserting ``as amended by
the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986 and the
Alternative Energy Refueling System Act of 2006''. | Alternative Energy Refueling System Act of 2006 - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish a program to provide eligible entities (refueling vendors or owners or operators of a facility where an alternative energy refueling system is located) reimbursement from the Leaking Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund for a portion of the costs of purchasing and installing one or more alternative energy refueling systems (systems used to refuel motor vehicles with an alternative fuel such as compressed natural gas or E-85 ethanol).
Prohibits an entity that receives a federal tax credit for placing in service a qualified alternative fuel vehicle refueling property from receiving reimbursement under this Act if the system cost was taken into consideration in calculating the tax credit. Limits reimbursement to: (1) two systems for each facility owned by an eligible entity; and (2) the lesser of 30% of a system's cost or $30,000. | {"src": "billsum_train", "title": "A bill to amend the Solid Waste Disposal Act to establish a program to provide reimbursement for the installation of alternative energy refueling systems."} | 968 | 210 | 0.702551 | 1.953933 | 0.837965 | 2.723164 | 4.677966 | 0.892655 |
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