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Provide a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Bring Enhanced Liability in
Transportation for Students Act''.
TITLE I--SCHOOL BUS SEAT BELT DEMONSTRATION PROGRAM
SEC. 101. SCHOOL BUS SEAT BELT DEMONSTRATION PROGRAM.
(a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation may award grants
to States to develop a school bus seat belt program to purchase type 1
school buses equipped with lap/shoulder seat belts or equip existing
type 1 school buses with lap/shoulder seat belts.
(b) Application.--In order to qualify for a grant under this
section, a State shall submit an application to the Secretary at such
time, in such manner, and containing such information and assurances as
the Secretary may require, including--
(1) an assurance that the State will use grant funds to
purchase type 1 school buses with lap/shoulder seat belts or
equip existing type 1 school buses with such seat belts;
(2) an assurance that the State is in compliance with
sections 171 and 172 of title 23, United States Code; and
(3) a list of the local educational agencies which the
State selects to receive the seat belt equipped buses,
including the reasons why each agency should receive school
buses with seat belts.
(c) Local Educational Agency Requirements.--The State shall require
that any local educational agency that receives grant funds pursuant to
this Act shall develop--
(1) a plan to ensure that all students riding the school
buses with lap/shoulder belts are using them; and
(2) an educational program regarding seat belt safety.
(d) Grant Amounts.--Before awarding a grant under this section, the
Secretary shall ensure that each grant award is of sufficient size and
scope to carry out the requirements of this section.
(e) Funding.--In order to fund grant awards under this section, the
Secretary shall use funds not apportioned pursuant to sections 171 and
172 of title 23, United States Code.
(f) Definition.--In this section, the term ``type 1 school bus''
means a school bus weighing more than 10,000 pounds.
(g) Reporting.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment
of this Act, the State shall submit a report to the Secretary regarding
the effectiveness of the lap/shoulder seat belt program in any local
educational agency using grant funds under this section, including--
(1) student usage of seat belts; and
(2) the impact on school bus seating capacity.
TITLE II--SCHOOL BUS DRIVER SAFETY ENFORCEMENT
SEC. 201. WITHHOLDING FOR NONCOMPLIANCE OF BACKGROUND CHECKS OF SCHOOL
BUS DRIVERS.
(a) Withholding Apportionments.--Chapter 1 of title 23, United
States Code, is further amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 172. Withholding apportionments for noncompliance of background
checks of school bus drivers
``(a) Withholding.--The Secretary shall withhold 10 percent of the
amount required to be apportioned to any State under paragraphs (1),
(3), and (4) of section 104(b) on October 1, 2017, and on each October
1 thereafter if the State does not meet the requirements of paragraph
(2).
``(b) Requirement.--A State meets the requirements of this
paragraph if the State has enacted a law that requires the employer to
conduct a background check before hiring a school bus driver. Such
background check shall include--
``(1) a review of State and local court information on
arrests, charges, convictions;
``(2) a review of any sex offender registry; and
``(3) a review of any child abuse or dependent adult abuse
registry.
``(c) Period of Availability of Apportioned Funds.--Funds withheld
after the date specified in subsection (a)(1) from apportionments to
any State shall not be available for apportionment to that State and
such funds will lapse.''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 1 of title 23,
United States Code, is further amended by adding at the end the
following:
``172. Withholding apportionments for noncompliance of background
checks of school bus drivers.''.
TITLE III--SCHOOL BUS SAFETY
SEC. 301. WITHHOLDING APPORTIONMENTS FOR NONCOMPLIANCE WITH SCHOOL BUS
PASSINGS.
(a) Withholding Apportionments.--Chapter 1 of title 23, United
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 171. Withholding apportionments for noncompliance with school
bus passings
``(a) Withholding of Apportionments for Noncompliance.--
``(1) Withholding.--The Secretary shall withhold 10 percent
of the amount required to be apportioned to any State under
paragraphs (1), (3), and (4) of section 104(b) on October 1,
2017, and on each October 1 thereafter if the State does not
meet the requirements of paragraph (2).
``(2) Requirement.--A State meets the requirements of this
paragraph if the State has enacted and is enforcing a law that
imposes the following penalties to a motorist who is found
guilty of illegally passing a stopped school bus:
``(A) First offense.--For a first offense, a fine
of not less than $250 with the possibility of jail time
and license suspension.
``(B) Second offense within a 5-year period of a
first offense.--For a second offense within a 5-year
period of a first offense, a fine of not less than $315
with the possibility of jail time and license
suspension.
``(b) Period of Availability of Apportioned Funds.--Funds withheld
after the date specified in subsection (a)(1) from apportionments to
any State shall not be available for apportionment to that State and
such funds will lapse.''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 1 of title 23,
United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
``171. Withholding apportionments for noncompliance with school bus
passings.''.
SEC. 302. GRANTS FOR MOTION-ACTIVATED DETECTION SYSTEM ON SCHOOL BUSES.
(a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation may provide grants
to States to equip school buses with a motion-activated detection
system.
(b) Application.--In order to qualify for a grant under this
section, a State shall submit an application to the Secretary at such
time, in such manner, and containing such information and assurances as
the Secretary may require, including--
(1) an assurance that the State will use grant funds to
purchase motion-activated detection systems for school buses;
and
(2) an assurance that the State is in compliance with
sections 171 and 172 of title 23, United States Code.
(c) Grant Amounts.--Before awarding a grant under this section, the
Secretary shall ensure that each grant award is of sufficient size and
scope to carry out the requirements of this section.
(d) Funding.--In order to fund grant awards under this section, the
Secretary shall use funds not apportioned pursuant to sections 171 and
172 of title 23, United States Code.
(e) Reports.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of
this Act, the State shall submit a report to the Secretary regarding
the effectiveness of the motion-activated detection system in any local
educational agency using grant funds under this section, including--
(1) whether or not the detection system has prevented
children from being hit by a school bus; and
(2) a cost benefit analysis of using these detection
systems on school buses.
(f) Definition.--For purposes of this Act, the term ``motion-
activated detection system'' means a sensor system that uses radio
signals or radar waves to detect a moving target near the front, rear,
and sides of a school bus. The system sounds an alarm to alert the
driver when a moving target is detected within the specified danger
zones of the bus. | Bring Enhanced Liability in Transportation for Students Act This bill authorizes the Department of Transportation (DOT) to award grants to states to develop a school bus seat belt demonstration program to purchase type 1 school buses (weighing more than 10,000 pounds) equipped with lap/shoulder seat belts or equip existing type 1 buses with such belts. DOT shall withhold 10% of a state's apportionment of certain federal-aid highway funds if the state has not enacted a law that requires the employer to conduct background checks before hiring school bus drivers. DOT shall also withhold 10% of a state's apportionment of certain federal-aid highway funds if the state has not enacted and is not enforcing a law that imposes specified first offense and second offense civil and criminal penalties for motorists found guilty of illegally passing a stopped school bus. The bill authorizes DOT to provide grants to states to equip school buses with motion-activated detection systems. | billsum_train |
Create a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as ``The Veterans Visa and Protection Act of
2016''.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) The term ``crime of violence'' means an offense defined
in section 16 of title 18, United States Code, excluding a
purely political offense, for which the noncitizen has served a
term of imprisonment of at least 5 years.
(2) The term ``deported veteran'' means a veteran who is a
noncitizen and who--
(A) was removed from the United States; or
(B) is abroad and is inadmissible under section
212(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C.
1182(a)).
(3) The term ``noncitizen'' means an individual who is not
a national of the United States (as defined in section
101(a)(22) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C.
1101(a)(22))).
(4) The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of Homeland
Security.
(5) The term ``service member'' means an individual who is
serving as a member of a regular or reserve component of the
Armed Forces of the United States on active duty or as a member
of a reserve component of the Armed Forces in an active status.
(6) The term ``veteran'' has the meaning given such term
under section 101(2) of title 38, United States Code.
SEC. 3. RETURN OF NONCITIZEN VETERANS REMOVED FROM THE UNITED STATES;
STATUS FOR NONCITIZEN VETERANS IN THE UNITED STATES.
(a) In General.--
(1) Duties of secretary.--Not later than 180 days after the
date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall--
(A) establish a program and application procedure
to permit--
(i) deported veterans who meet the
requirements of subsection (b) to enter the
United States as a noncitizen lawfully admitted
for permanent residence; and
(ii) noncitizen veterans in the United
States who meet the requirements of subsection
(b) to adjust status to that of a noncitizen
lawfully admitted for permanent residence; and
(B) cancel the removal of noncitizen veterans
ordered removed who meet the requirements of subsection
(b) and allow them to adjust status to that of a
noncitizen lawfully admitted for permanent residence.
(2) No numerical limitations.--Nothing in this section or
in any other law shall be construed to apply a numerical
limitation on the number of veterans who may be eligible to
receive benefits under paragraph (1).
(b) Eligibility.--
(1) In general.--Notwithstanding any other provision of
law, including sections 212 and 237 of the Immigration and
Nationality Act (8 U.S.C.1182; 1227), a veteran shall be
eligible for the program established under subsection
(a)(1)(A), or cancellation of removal under subsection
(a)(1)(B), if the Secretary determines that the veteran--
(A) was not ordered removed, or removed, from the
United States due to a criminal conviction for--
(i) a crime of violence; or
(ii) a crime that endangers the national
security of the United States for which the
noncitizen has served a term of imprisonment of
at least 5 years; and
(B) is not inadmissible to, or deportable from, the
United States due to such a conviction.
(2) Waiver.--The Secretary may waive paragraph (1) for
humanitarian purposes, to assure family unity, due to
exceptional service in the United States Armed Forces, or if
such waiver otherwise is in the public interest.
SEC. 4. PROTECTING VETERANS AND SERVICE MEMBERS FROM REMOVAL.
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, including section 237
of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1227), a noncitizen
who is a veteran or service member shall not be removed from the United
States unless the noncitizen has a criminal conviction for a crime of
violence.
SEC. 5. NATURALIZATION THROUGH SERVICE IN THE ARMED FORCES OF THE
UNITED STATES.
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a noncitizen who has
obtained the status of a noncitizen lawfully admitted for permanent
residence pursuant to section 2 shall be eligible for naturalization
through service in the Armed Forces of the United States under sections
328 and 329 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1439;
1440), except that--
(1) the ground or grounds on which the noncitizen was
ordered removed, or removed, from the United States, or was
rendered inadmissible to, or deportable from, the United
States, shall be disregarded when determining whether the
noncitizen is a person of good moral character; and
(2) any period of absence from the United States due to the
noncitizen having been removed, or being inadmissible, shall be
disregarded when determining if the noncitizen satisfies any
requirement relating to continuous residence or physical
presence.
SEC. 6. ACCESS TO MILITARY BENEFITS.
A noncitizen who has obtained the status of a noncitizen lawfully
admitted for permanent residence pursuant to section 2 shall be
eligible for all military and veterans benefits for which the
noncitizen would have been eligible if the noncitizen had never been
ordered removed, been removed, or voluntarily departed, from the United
States.
SEC. 7. IMPLEMENTATION.
(a) Identification.--The Secretary of Homeland Security shall
identify cases involving service members and veterans at risk of
removal from the United States by--
(1) inquiring of every noncitizen processed prior to
initiating removal proceedings whether the noncitizen is
serving, or has served, as a member of a regular or reserve
component of the Armed Forces of the United States on active
duty or as a member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces
in an active status;
(2) requiring personnel to seek supervisory approval prior
to initiating removal proceedings against a service member or
veteran; and
(3) keeping records of service members and veterans who
have had removal proceedings against them initiated, been
detained, or been removed.
(b) Record Annotation.--When the Secretary has identified a case
under subsection (a), the Secretary shall annotate all immigration and
naturalization records of the Department of Homeland Security relating
to the noncitizen involved so as to reflect that identification and
afford an opportunity to track the outcomes for the noncitizen. Such
annotation shall include--
(1) the individual's branch of military service;
(2) whether or not the individual is serving, or has
served, during a period of military hostilities described in
section 329 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C.
1440);
(3) the individual's immigration status at the time of
enlistment;
(4) whether the individual is serving honorably or was
separated under honorable conditions; and
(5) the basis for which removal was sought; and, if the
basis for removal was a criminal conviction, the crime or
crimes for which conviction was obtained.
SEC. 8. REGULATIONS.
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act,
the Secretary shall promulgate regulations to implement this Act. | Veterans Visa and Protection Act of 2016 This bill requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to: (1) establish a program to permit eligible deported noncitizen veterans to enter the United States as, and to permit eligible noncitizen veterans in the United States to adjust their status to that of, a noncitizen lawfully admitted for permanent residence; and (2) cancel the removal of eligible noncitizen veterans and allow them to similarly adjust their status. An "eligible" veteran is a veteran who: (1) was not ordered removed, or removed, from the United States due to a criminal conviction for a crime of violence or for a crime that endangers U.S. national security for which the noncitizen served at least five years' imprisonment; and (2) is not inadmissible to, or deportable from, the United States due to such a conviction. DHS may waive such eligibility requirements for humanitarian purposes, to assure family unity, due to exceptional service in the U.S. Armed Forces, or if such waiver otherwise is in the public interest. A noncitizen veteran or service member shall not be removed from the United States unless he or she has a criminal conviction for a crime of violence. A noncitizen who has obtained the status of a noncitizen lawfully admitted for permanent residence under this bill shall be eligible for naturalization through service in the U.S. Armed Forces, except that: (1) the grounds on which the noncitizen was ordered removed from, or rendered inadmissible to or deportable from, the United States shall be disregarded when determining whether the noncitizen is a person of good moral character; and (2) any period of absence from the United States due to the noncitizen having been removed or being inadmissible shall be disregarded when determining if the noncitizen satisfies any requirement relating to continuous residence or physical presence. A noncitizen who has obtained the status of a noncitizen lawfully admitted for permanent residence under this bill shall be eligible for all military and veterans benefits for which the individual would have been eligible if he or she had never been been removed from, or voluntarily departed, the United States. DHS shall: (1) identify cases involving service members and veterans at risk of removal from the United States, and (2) annotate all DHS immigration and naturalization records relating to any noncitizen involved and afford an opportunity to track the outcome. | billsum_train |
Provide a condensed version of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Gynecologic Cancer Education and
Awareness Act of 2003'' or ``Johanna's Law''.
SEC. 2. CERTAIN PROGRAMS REGARDING GYNECOLOGIC CANCERS.
(a) National Public Awareness Campaign.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of Health and Human Services
(referred to in this section as the ``Secretary''), acting
through the Director of the National Institutes of Health and
in collaboration with the Director of the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention, shall carry out a national campaign to
increase the awareness and knowledge of women with respect to
gynecologic cancers.
(2) Written materials.--Activities under the national
campaign under paragraph (1) shall include--
(A) maintaining a supply of written materials that
provide information to the public on gynecologic
cancers; and
(B) distributing the materials to members of the
public upon request.
(3) Public service announcements.--Activities under the
national campaign under paragraph (1) shall, in accordance with
applicable law and regulations, include developing and placing,
in telecommunications media, public service announcements
intended to encourage women to discuss with their physicians
their risks of gynecologic cancers. Such announcement shall
inform the public on the manner in which the written materials
referred to in paragraph (2) can be obtained upon request, and
shall call attention to early warning signs and risk factors
based on the best available medical information.
(b) Demonstration Projects Regarding Outreach and Education
Strategies.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary, acting through the Director
of the National Institutes of Health and the Director of the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, shall carry out a
program to make grants to nonprofit private entities for the
purpose of testing different outreach and education strategies
to increase the awareness and knowledge of women and health
care providers with respect to gynecologic cancers, including
early warning signs and treatment options. Such strategies
shall include strategies directed at physicians, nurses, and
key health professionals and families.
(2) Preferences in making grants.--In making grants under
paragraph (1), the Secretary shall give preference--
(A) to applicants with demonstrated expertise in
gynecologic cancer education or treatment or in working
with groups of women who are at especially high risk of
gynecologic cancers; and
(B) to applicants that, in the demonstration
project under the grant, will establish linkages
between physicians, nurses, and key health
professionals, hospitals, payers, and State health
departments.
(3) Application for grant.--A grant may be made under
paragraph (1) only if an application for the grant is submitted
to the Secretary and the application is in such form, is made
in such manner, and contains such agreements, assurances, and
information as the Secretary determines to be necessary to
carry out this subsection.
(4) Certain requirements.--In making grants under paragraph
(1)--
(A) the Secretary shall make grants to not fewer
than five applicants, subject to the extent of amounts
made available in appropriations Acts; and
(B) the Secretary shall ensure that information
provided through demonstration projects under such
grants is consistent with the best available medical
information.
(5) Report to congress.--Not later than February 1, 2008,
the Secretary shall submit to the Congress a report that--
(A) summarizes the activities of demonstration
projects under paragraph (1);
(B) evaluates the extent to which the projects were
effective in increasing early detection of gynecologic
cancers and awareness of risk factors and early warning
signs in the populations to which the projects were
directed; and
(C) identifies barriers to early detection and
appropriate treatment of such cancers.
(c) Funding.--
(1) National public awareness campaign.--For the purpose of
carrying out subsection (a), there is authorized to be
appropriated in the aggregate $15,000,000 for the fiscal years
2004 through 2006.
(2) Demonstration projects regarding outreach and education
strategies.--
(A) Authorization of appropriations.--For the
purpose of carrying out subsection (b), there is
authorized to be appropriated in the aggregate
$55,000,000 for the fiscal years 2004 through 2006.
(B) Administration, technical assistance, and
evaluation.--Of the amounts appropriated under
subparagraph (A), not more than 9 percent may be
expended for the purpose of administering subsection
(b), providing technical assistance to grantees under
such subsection, and preparing the report under
paragraph (5) of such subsection. | Gynecologic Cancer Education and Awareness Act of 2003 or Johanna's Law - Directs The Secretary of Health and Human Services: (1) through the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and in collaboration with the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, to carry out a national campaign to increase the awareness and knowledge of women with respect to gynecologic cancers; and (2) through NIH and the Director, to carry out a demonstration program with nonprofit private entities to test different outreach and education strategies to increase such awareness among women and health care providers. | billsum_train |
Provide a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Religious Liberty Protection Act of
2000''.
SEC. 2. PROTECTION OF RELIGIOUS EXERCISE.
(a) General Rule.--Except as provided in subsection (b), a
government shall not substantially burden a person's religious
exercise--
(1) in a program or activity, operated by a government,
that receives Federal financial assistance; or
(2) in any case in which the substantial burden on the
person's religious exercise affects, or in which a removal of
that substantial burden would affect, commerce with foreign
nations, among the several States, or with Indian tribes;
even if the burden results from a rule of general applicability.
(b) Exception.--A government may substantially burden a person's
religious exercise if the government demonstrates that application of
the burden to the person--
(1) is in furtherance of a compelling governmental
interest; and
(2) is the least restrictive means of furthering that
compelling governmental interest.
(c) Limitation.--This Act does not apply if the only basis for
applying the Act is subsection (a)(2) and if the government
demonstrates that all similar religious exercise and all substantial
burdens on, or the removal of all substantial burdens from, similar
religious exercise would not lead in the aggregate to a substantial
effect on commerce or on activities having a substantial relation to
commerce.
(d) Remedies of the United States.--Nothing in this section shall
be construed to authorize the United States to deny or withhold Federal
financial assistance as a remedy for a violation of this Act. Nothing
in this subsection shall be construed to deny, impair, or otherwise
affect any right or authority of the Attorney General, the United
States, or any agency, officer, or employee of the United States, under
law other than this subsection, including section 4(d), to institute or
intervene in any action or proceeding.
SEC. 3. ENFORCEMENT OF CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS.
(a) Procedure.--If a claimant produces prima facie evidence to
support a claim alleging a violation of the Free Exercise Clause or a
violation of a provision of this Act enforcing that clause, the
government shall bear the burden of persuasion on any element of the
claim, except that the claimant shall bear the burden of persuasion on
whether the law (including a regulation) or government practice that is
challenged by the claim burdens or substantially burdens the claimant's
exercise of religion.
(b) Land Use Regulation.--
(1) Limitation on land use regulation.--
(A) Individualized assessments.--If, in applying or
implementing any land use regulation (including an
exemption), or system of land use regulations
(including exemptions), a government has the authority
to make individualized assessments of the proposed uses
to which real property would be put, the government may
not impose a substantial burden on the religious
exercise of a religious assembly or institution, or of
a person in the person's home, unless the government
demonstrates that application of the burden to that
assembly, institution, or person--
(i) is in furtherance of a compelling
governmental interest; and
(ii) is narrowly tailored to further that
compelling governmental interest.
(B) Equal terms.--No government shall impose or
implement a land use regulation in a manner that does
not treat religious assemblies or institutions on equal
terms with nonreligious assemblies or institutions.
(C) Nondiscrimination.--No government shall impose
or implement a land use regulation that discriminates
against any assembly or institution on the basis of
religion or religious denomination.
(D) Exclusions and limits.--No government with
zoning authority shall unreasonably exclude from the
jurisdiction over which that government has authority,
or unreasonably limit within that jurisdiction,
assemblies or institutions principally devoted to religious exercise.
(2) Full faith and credit.--Adjudication of a claim of a
violation of the Free Exercise Clause or this subsection in a
non-Federal forum shall be entitled to full faith and credit in
a Federal court only if the claimant had a full and fair
adjudication of that claim in the non-Federal forum.
(3) Nonpreemption.--Nothing in this subsection shall
preempt State law that is equally or more protective of
religious exercise.
SEC. 4. JUDICIAL RELIEF.
(a) Cause of Action.--A person may assert a violation of this Act
as a claim or defense in a judicial proceeding and obtain appropriate
relief against a government. Standing to assert a claim or defense
under this section shall be governed by the general rules of standing
under article III of the Constitution.
(b) Attorneys' Fees.--Section 722(b) of the Revised Statutes (42
U.S.C. 1988(b)) is amended--
(1) by inserting ``the Religious Liberty Protection Act of
2000,'' after ``Religious Freedom Restoration Act of 1993,'';
and
(2) by striking the comma that follows a comma.
(c) Prisoners.--Any litigation under this Act in which the claimant
is a prisoner shall be subject to the Prison Litigation Reform Act of
1995 (including provisions of law amended by that Act).
(d) Authority of United States To Enforce This Act.--The United
States may bring an action for injunctive or declaratory relief to
enforce compliance with this Act.
(e) Sovereign Immunity.--Nothing in this Act shall be construed to
abrogate the sovereign immunity of a State.
SEC. 5. RULES OF CONSTRUCTION.
(a) Religious Belief Unaffected.--Nothing in this Act shall be
construed to authorize any government to burden any religious belief.
(b) Religious Exercise Not Regulated.--Nothing in this Act shall
create any basis for restricting or burdening religious exercise or for
claims against a religious organization, including any religiously
affiliated school or university, not acting under color of law.
(c) Claims to Funding Unaffected.--Nothing in this Act shall create
or preclude a right of any religious organization to receive funding or
other assistance from a government, or of any person to receive
government funding for a religious activity, but this Act may require
government to incur expenses in its own operations to avoid imposing a
burden or a substantial burden on religious exercise.
(d) Other Authority To Impose Conditions on Funding Unaffected.--
Nothing in this Act shall--
(1) authorize a government to regulate or affect, directly
or indirectly, the activities or policies of a person other
than a government as a condition of receiving funding or other
assistance; or
(2) restrict any authority that may exist under other law
to so regulate or affect, except as provided in this Act.
(e) Governmental Discretion in Alleviating Burdens on Religious
Exercise.--A government may avoid the preemptive force of any provision
of this Act by changing the policy or practice that results in a
substantial burden on religious exercise, by retaining the policy or
practice and exempting the substantially burdened religious exercise,
by providing exemptions from the policy or practice for applications
that substantially burden religious exercise, or by any other means
that eliminates the substantial burden.
(f) Effect on Other Law.--With respect to a claim brought to
enforce section 2(a)(2), proof that a substantial burden on a person's
religious exercise, or removal of that burden, affects or would affect
commerce shall not establish any inference or presumption that Congress
intends that any religious exercise is, or is not, subject to any law
other than this Act.
(g) Broad Construction.--This Act shall be construed in favor of a
broad protection of religious exercise, to the maximum extent permitted
by the terms of this Act and the Constitution.
(h) Severability.--If any provision of this Act or of an amendment
made by this Act, or any application of such provision to any person or
circumstance, is held to be unconstitutional, the remainder of this
Act, the amendments made by this Act, and the application of the
provision to any other person or circumstance shall not be affected.
SEC. 6. ESTABLISHMENT CLAUSE UNAFFECTED.
Nothing in this Act shall be construed to affect, interpret, or in
any way address that portion of the first amendment to the Constitution
prohibiting laws respecting an establishment of religion (referred to
in this section as the ``Establishment Clause''). Granting government
funding, benefits, or exemptions, to the extent permissible under the
Establishment Clause, shall not constitute a violation of this Act. As
used in this section, the term ``granting'', used with respect to
government funding, benefits, or exemptions, does not include the
denial of government funding, benefits, or exemptions.
SEC. 7. AMENDMENTS TO RELIGIOUS FREEDOM RESTORATION ACT.
(a) Definitions.--Section 5 of the Religious Freedom Restoration
Act of 1993 (42 U.S.C. 2000bb-2) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1), by striking ``a State, or subdivision
of a State'' and inserting ``a covered entity or a subdivision
of such an entity'';
(2) in paragraph (2), by striking ``term'' and all that
follows through ``includes'' and inserting ``term `covered
entity' means''; and
(3) in paragraph (4), by striking all after ``means,'' and
inserting ``religious exercise, as defined in section 8 of the
Religious Liberty Protection Act of 2000.''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 6(a) of the Religious Freedom
Restoration Act of 1993 (42 U.S.C. 2000bb-3(a)) is amended by striking
``and State''.
SEC. 8. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act--
(1) the term ``demonstrates'' means meets the burdens of
going forward with the evidence and of persuasion;
(2) the term ``Free Exercise Clause'' means that portion of
the first amendment to the Constitution that proscribes laws
prohibiting the free exercise of religion and includes the
application of that proscription under the 14th amendment to
the Constitution;
(3) the term ``government''--
(A) means--
(i) a State, county, municipality, or other
governmental entity created under the authority
of a State;
(ii) any branch, department, agency,
instrumentality, subdivision, or official of an
entity listed in clause (i); and
(iii) any other person acting under color
of State law; and
(B) for the purposes of sections 3(a) and 5,
includes the United States, a branch, department,
agency, instrumentality, subdivision, or official of
the United States, and any person acting under color of
Federal law;
(4) the term ``land use regulation'' means a law or
decision by a government that limits or restricts a private
person's use or development of land (including a structure
affixed to land), if--
(A) the law or decision applies to 1 or more
particular parcels of land or to land within 1 or more
designated geographical zones; and
(B) the private person has an ownership, leasehold,
easement, servitude, or other property interest in the
regulated land or a contract or option to acquire such
an interest;
(5) the term ``program or activity'' means a program or
activity as defined in paragraph (1) or (2) of section 606 of
the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C. 2000d-4a); and
(6) the term ``religious exercise''--
(A) means any exercise of religion, whether or not
compelled by, or central to, a system of religious
belief; and
(B) includes--
(i) the use, building, or conversion of
real property by a person or entity intending
that property to be used for religious
exercise; and
(ii) any conduct protected as exercise of
religion under the first amendment to the
Constitution. | Amends the Religious Freedom Restoration Act of 1993 to end its applicability to the States and to make it applicable only to the Federal Government, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and U.S. territories and possessions. Redefines (as used in such Act and defines for the purposes of this Act) exercise of religion to mean any exercise of religion, whether or not compelled by or central to a system of religious belief, including: (1) the use, building, or converting of real property for religious exercise; and (2) any conduct protected as a religious exercise under the first amendment to the Constitution. | billsum_train |
Provide a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Sunshine in the Courtroom Act of
2011''.
SEC. 2. FEDERAL APPELLATE AND DISTRICT COURTS.
(a) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Presiding judge.--The term ``presiding judge'' means
the judge presiding over the court proceeding concerned. In
proceedings in which more than 1 judge participates, the
presiding judge shall be the senior active judge so
participating or, in the case of a circuit court of appeals,
the senior active circuit judge so participating, except that--
(A) in en banc sittings of any United States
circuit court of appeals, the presiding judge shall be
the chief judge of the circuit whenever the chief judge
participates; and
(B) in en banc sittings of the Supreme Court of the
United States, the presiding judge shall be the Chief
Justice whenever the Chief Justice participates.
(2) Appellate court of the united states.--The term
``appellate court of the United States'' means any United
States circuit court of appeals and the Supreme Court of the
United States.
(b) Authority of Presiding Judge To Allow Media Coverage of Court
Proceedings.--
(1) Authority of appellate courts.--
(A) In general.--Except as provided under
subparagraph (B), the presiding judge of an appellate
court of the United States may, at the discretion of
that judge, permit the photographing, electronic
recording, broadcasting, or televising to the public of
any court proceeding over which that judge presides.
(B) Exception.--The presiding judge shall not
permit any action under subparagraph (A), if--
(i) in the case of a proceeding involving
only the presiding judge, that judge determines
the action would constitute a violation of the
due process rights of any party; or
(ii) in the case of a proceeding involving
the participation of more than 1 judge, a
majority of the judges participating determine
that the action would constitute a violation of
the due process rights of any party.
(2) Authority of district courts.--
(A) In general.--
(i) Authority.--Notwithstanding any other
provision of law, except as provided under
clause (iii), the presiding judge of a district
court of the United States may, at the
discretion of that judge, permit the
photographing, electronic recording,
broadcasting, or televising to the public of
any court proceeding over which that judge
presides.
(ii) Obscuring of witnesses.--Except as
provided under clause (iii)--
(I) upon the request of any witness
(other than a party) in a trial
proceeding, the court shall order the
face and voice of the witness to be
disguised or otherwise obscured in such
manner as to render the witness
unrecognizable to the broadcast
audience of the trial proceeding; and
(II) the presiding judge in a trial
proceeding shall inform each witness
who is not a party that the witness has
the right to request the image and
voice of that witness to be obscured
during the witness' testimony.
(iii) Exception.--The presiding judge shall
not permit any action under this subparagraph--
(I) if that judge determines the
action would constitute a violation of
the due process rights of any party;
and
(II) until the Judicial Conference
of the United States promulgates
mandatory guidelines under paragraph
(5).
(B) No media coverage of jurors.--The presiding
judge shall not permit the photographing, electronic
recording, broadcasting, or televising of any juror in
a trial proceeding, or of the jury selection process.
(C) Discretion of the judge.--The presiding judge
shall have the discretion to obscure the face and voice
of an individual, if good cause is shown that the
photographing, electronic recording, broadcasting, or
televising of the individual would threaten--
(i) the safety of the individual;
(ii) the security of the court;
(iii) the integrity of future or ongoing
law enforcement operations; or
(iv) the interest of justice.
(D) Sunset of district court authority.--The
authority under this paragraph shall terminate 3 years
after the date of the enactment of this Act.
(3) Interlocutory appeals barred.--The decision of the
presiding judge under this subsection of whether or not to
permit, deny, or terminate the photographing, electronic
recording, broadcasting, or televising of a court proceeding
may not be challenged through an interlocutory appeal.
(4) Advisory guidelines.--The Judicial Conference of the
United States may promulgate advisory guidelines to which a
presiding judge, at the discretion of that judge, may refer in
making decisions with respect to the management and
administration of photographing, recording, broadcasting, or
televising described under paragraphs (1) and (2).
(5) Mandatory guidelines.--Not later than 6 months after
the date of enactment of this Act, the Judicial Conference of
the United States shall promulgate mandatory guidelines which a
presiding judge is required to follow for obscuring of certain
vulnerable witnesses, including crime victims, minor victims,
families of victims, cooperating witnesses, undercover law
enforcement officers or agents, witnesses subject to section
3521 of title 18, United States Code, relating to witness
relocation and protection, or minors under the age of 18 years.
The guidelines shall include procedures for determining, at the
earliest practicable time in any investigation or case, which
witnesses should be considered vulnerable under this section.
(6) Procedures.--In the interests of justice and fairness,
the presiding judge of the court in which media use is desired
has discretion to promulgate rules and disciplinary measures
for the courtroom use of any form of media or media equipment
and the acquisition or distribution of any of the images or
sounds obtained in the courtroom. The presiding judge shall
also have discretion to require written acknowledgment of the
rules by anyone individually or on behalf of any entity before
being allowed to acquire any images or sounds from the
courtroom.
(7) No broadcast of conferences between attorneys and
clients.--There shall be no audio pickup or broadcast of
conferences which occur in a court proceeding between attorneys
and their clients, between co-counsel of a client, between
adverse counsel, or between counsel and the presiding judge, if
the conferences are not part of the official record of the
proceedings.
(8) Expenses.--A court may require that any accommodations
to effectuate this Act be made without public expense.
(9) Inherent authority.--Nothing in this Act shall limit
the inherent authority of a court to protect witnesses or clear
the courtroom to preserve the decorum and integrity of the
legal process or protect the safety of an individual. | Sunshine in the Courtroom Act of 2011 - Authorizes the presiding judge of a U.S. appellate court or U.S. district court to permit the photographing, electronic recording, broadcasting, or televising to the public of court proceedings over which that judge presides, except when such action would constitute a violation of the due process rights of any party.
Directs: (1) a district court, upon the request of any witness in a trial proceeding other than a party, to order the face and voice of the witness to be disguised or otherwise obscured to render the witness unrecognizable to the broadcast audience of the trial proceeding; and (2) the presiding judge in a trial proceeding to inform each witness who is not a party of the right to make such request. Allows a presiding judge to obscure the face and voice of an individual if good cause is shown that photographing, electronic recording, broadcasting, or televising such features would threaten the individual's safety, the court's security, the integrity of future or ongoing law enforcement operations, or the interest of justice.
Prohibits a presiding judge from permitting the photographing, electronic recording, broadcasting, or televising of any juror in a trial proceeding, or of the jury selection process.
Terminates a district court's authority under this Act three years after enactment of this Act.
Authorizes the Judicial Conference of the United States to promulgate advisory guidelines to which a presiding judge may refer in making decisions regarding the management and administration of photographing, recording, broadcasting, or televising described in this Act.
Requires the Judicial Conference to promulgate mandatory guidelines which a presiding judge must follow for obscuring certain vulnerable witnesses.
Prohibits any audio pickup or broadcast of conferences which occur in a court proceeding between attorneys and their clients, co-counsel of a client, adverse counsel, or counsel and the presiding judge, if the conferences are not part of the official record of the proceedings. | billsum_train |
Change the following text into a summary: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Iran Nuclear Nonproliferation Act of
2006''.
SEC. 2. STATEMENT OF POLICY.
It should be the policy of the United States to neither negotiate
nor seek to bring into force an agreement for cooperation with the
government of any country that is assisting the nuclear program of Iran
or transferring advanced conventional weapons or missiles to Iran
unless the President has made--
(1) the determination set forth in section 3(a)(1) with
respect to Iran; or
(2) the determination set forth in section 3(a)(2) with
respect to the government of that country.
SEC. 3. RESTRICTIONS ON NUCLEAR COOPERATION WITH COUNTRIES ASSISTING
THE NUCLEAR PROGRAM OF IRAN.
(a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law or any
international agreement, no agreement for cooperation between the
United States and the government of any country that is assisting the
nuclear program of Iran or transferring advanced conventional weapons
or missiles to Iran may be submitted to the President or to Congress
pursuant to section 123 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (42 U.S.C.
2153), no such agreement may enter into force with such country, no
license may be issued for export directly or indirectly to such country
of any nuclear material, facilities, components, or other goods,
services, or technology that would be subject to such agreement, and no
approval may be given for the transfer or retransfer directly or
indirectly to such country of any nuclear material, facilities,
components, or other goods, services, or technology that would be
subject to such agreement, until the President determines and reports
to the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate and the Committee
on International Relations of the House of Representatives that--
(1) Iran has suspended all enrichment-related and
reprocessing-related activity (including uranium conversion,
and research and development, manufacturing, testing, and
assembly relating to enrichment and reprocessing), has
committed to verifiably refrain permanently from such activity
in the future (except potentially the conversion of uranium
exclusively for export to foreign nuclear fuel production
facilities pursuant to internationally agreed arrangements and
subject to strict international safeguards), and is abiding by
that commitment; or
(2) the government of the country that is assisting the
nuclear program of Iran or transferring advanced conventional
weapons or missiles to Iran--
(A) has, either on its own initiative or pursuant
to a binding decision of the United Nations Security
Council, suspended all nuclear assistance to Iran and
all transfers of advanced conventional weapons and
missiles to Iran pending a decision by Iran to
implement measures that would permit the President to
make the determination described in paragraph (1); and
(B) is committed to maintaining that suspension
until Iran has implemented measures that would permit
the President to make such determination.
(b) Construction.--The restrictions in subsection (a)--
(1) shall apply in addition to all other applicable
procedures, requirements, and restrictions contained in the
Atomic Energy Act of 1954 and other laws; and
(2) shall not be construed as affecting the validity of
agreements for cooperation that are in effect on the date of
the enactment of this Act.
SEC. 4. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Agreement for cooperation.--The term ``agreement for
cooperation'' has the meaning given that term in section 11 b.
of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (42 U.S.C. 2014(b)).
(2) Assisting the nuclear program of iran.--The term
``assisting the nuclear program of Iran'' means the intentional
transfer to Iran by a government, or by a person subject to the
jurisdiction of a government with the knowledge and
acquiescence of that government, of goods, services, or
technology listed on the Nuclear Suppliers Group Guidelines for
the Export of Nuclear Material, Equipment and Technology
(published by the International Atomic Energy Agency as
Information Circular INFCIRC/254/Rev. 3/Part 1, and subsequent
revisions) or Guidelines for Transfers of Nuclear-Related Dual-
Use Equipment, Material, and Related Technology (published by
the International Atomic Energy Agency as Information Circular
INFCIR/254/Rev. 3/Part 2, and subsequent revisions).
(3) Country that is assisting the nuclear program of iran
or transferring advanced conventional weapons or missiles to
iran.--The term ``country that is assisting the nuclear program
of Iran or transferring advanced conventional weapons or
missiles to Iran'' means--
(A) Russia; and
(B) any other country determined by the President
to be assisting the nuclear program of Iran or
transferring advanced conventional weapons or missiles
to Iran.
(4) Transferring advanced conventional weapons or missiles
to iran.--The term ``transferring advanced conventional weapons
or missiles to Iran'' means the intentional transfer to Iran by
a government, or by a person subject to the jurisdiction of a
government with the knowledge and acquiescence of that
government, of goods, services, or technology listed on--
(A) the Wassenaar Arrangement list of Dual Use
Goods and Technologies and Munitions list of July 12,
1996, and subsequent revisions; or
(B) the Missile Technology Control Regime Equipment
and Technology Annex of June 11, 1996, and subsequent
revisions. | Iran Nuclear Nonproliferation Act of 2006 - States that it should be U.S. policy to neither negotiate nor seek to bring into force an agreement for cooperation with the government of any country that is assisting Iran's nuclear program or transferring advanced conventional weapons or missiles to Iran unless the President has made specified determinations under this Act.
States that no agreement for cooperation between the United States and the government of any country that is assisting Iran's nuclear program or transferring advanced conventional weapons or missiles to Iran may be submitted to the President or to Congress pursuant to the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, no such agreement may enter into force with such country, no export license may be issued to such country for any nuclear material, facilities, components, or other goods, services, or technology that would be subject to such agreement, and no approval may be given for the transfer or retransfer to such country of any nuclear material, facilities, components, or other goods, services, or technology that would be subject to such agreement, until the President determines and reports to the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations and the House Committee on International Relations that: (1) Iran has suspended all enrichment-related and reprocessing-related activity, has committed to verifiably refrain permanently from such activity, and is abiding by that commitment; or (2) the government of the country that is assisting Iran's nuclear program or transferring advanced conventional weapons or missiles to Iran has suspended all nuclear assistance to Iran and all transfers of advanced conventional weapons and missiles to Iran, and is committed to maintaining that suspension until Iran has implemented measures that would permit the President to make such determination. | billsum_train |
Change the following text into a summary: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Insurance Capital Standards
Clarification Act of 2014''.
SEC. 2. CLARIFICATION OF APPLICATION OF LEVERAGE AND RISK-BASED CAPITAL
REQUIREMENTS.
Section 171 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer
Protection Act (12 U.S.C. 5371) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by adding at the end the following:
``(4) Business of insurance.--The term `business of
insurance' has the same meaning as in section 1002(3).
``(5) Person regulated by a state insurance regulator.--The
term `person regulated by a State insurance regulator' has the
same meaning as in section 1002(22).
``(6) Regulated foreign subsidiary and regulated foreign
affiliate.--The terms `regulated foreign subsidiary' and
`regulated foreign affiliate' mean a person engaged in the
business of insurance in a foreign country that is regulated by
a foreign insurance regulatory authority that is a member of
the International Association of Insurance Supervisors or other
comparable foreign insurance regulatory authority as determined
by the Board of Governors following consultation with the State
insurance regulators, including the lead State insurance
commissioner (or similar State official) of the insurance
holding company system as determined by the procedures within
the Financial Analysis Handbook adopted by the National
Association of Insurance Commissioners, where the person, or
its principal United States insurance affiliate, has its
principal place of business or is domiciled, but only to the
extent that--
``(A) such person acts in its capacity as a
regulated insurance entity; and
``(B) the Board of Governors does not determine
that the capital requirements in a specific foreign
jurisdiction are inadequate.
``(7) Capacity as a regulated insurance entity.--The term
`capacity as a regulated insurance entity'--
``(A) includes any action or activity undertaken by
a person regulated by a State insurance regulator or a
regulated foreign subsidiary or regulated foreign
affiliate of such person, as those actions relate to
the provision of insurance, or other activities
necessary to engage in the business of insurance; and
``(B) does not include any action or activity,
including any financial activity, that is not regulated
by a State insurance regulator or a foreign agency or
authority and subject to State insurance capital
requirements or, in the case of a regulated foreign
subsidiary or regulated foreign affiliate, capital
requirements imposed by a foreign insurance regulatory
authority.''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(c) Clarification.--
``(1) In general.--In establishing the minimum leverage
capital requirements and minimum risk-based capital
requirements on a consolidated basis for a depository
institution holding company or a nonbank financial company
supervised by the Board of Governors as required under
paragraphs (1) and (2) of subsection (b), the appropriate
Federal banking agencies shall not be required to include, for
any purpose of this section (including in any determination of
consolidation), a person regulated by a State insurance
regulator or a regulated foreign subsidiary or a regulated
foreign affiliate of such person engaged in the business of
insurance, to the extent that such person acts in its capacity
as a regulated insurance entity.
``(2) Rule of construction on board's authority.--This
subsection shall not be construed to prohibit, modify, limit,
or otherwise supersede any other provision of Federal law that
provides the Board of Governors authority to issue regulations
and orders relating to capital requirements for depository
institution holding companies or nonbank financial companies
supervised by the Board of Governors.
``(3) Rule of construction on accounting principles.--
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a depository
institution holding company or nonbank financial company
supervised by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve
that is also a person regulated by a State insurance regulator
or a regulated foreign subsidiary or a regulated foreign
affiliate of such person that files its holding company
financial statements utilizing only Statutory Accounting
Principles in accordance with State law, shall not be required
to prepare such financial statements in accordance with
Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.''. | Insurance Capital Standards Clarification Act of 2014 - Amends the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act concerning establishment of minimum leverage and minimum risk-based capital requirements on a consolidated basis for a depository institution holding company or a nonbank financial company supervised by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (Board). States that federal banking agencies shall not be required to subject any person to such minimum capital requirements, to the extent that such person either: (1) acts in its capacity as a regulated insurance entity regulated by a state insurance regulator, or (2) is a regulated foreign subsidiary engaged in the business of insurance (including a regulated foreign affiliate of such subsidiary). Exempts from any requirement to prepare holding company financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles any Board-supervised depository institution holding company or nonbank financial company that is also a person regulated by a state insurance regulator or a regulated foreign subsidiary (or a regulated foreign affiliate) that files its holding company financial statements using only Statutory Accounting Principles in accordance with state law. | billsum_train |
Create a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``International Pediatric HIV/AIDS
Network Act of 2004''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) HIV/AIDS causes the death of more individuals than any
other infectious disease, surpassing even tuberculosis and
malaria, the leading causes of death since antiquity. In 2003
HIV/AIDS caused the death of more than 3,000,000 individuals.
(2) Worldwide, approximately 40,000,000 adults and children
are infected with HIV, and approximately 28,000,000 individuals
have died of AIDS since the beginning of the epidemic,
including approximately 5,600,000 children.
(3) Approximately 50 percent of all new HIV infections
occur among young people 15 to 24 years of age.
(4) Each day more than 2,000 children are infected with HIV
and 16 percent of all new HIV infections involve children.
(5) In 2003 more than 700,000 children became infected with
HIV and a total of approximately 2,500,000 children were living
with HIV/AIDS.
(6) In 2003 approximately 500,000 children died from AIDS.
By the end of 2003 a total of more than 5,600,000 children had
died from AIDS since the beginning of the epidemic.
(7) The HIV/AIDS epidemic has a devastating impact on
children and families. More than 14,000,000 children have been
orphaned as a result of HIV/AIDS, of whom 95 percent live in
sub-Saharan Africa.
(8) The following represents the approximate number of
children under the age of 15 who are living with HIV/AIDS in
the countries indicated: 270,000 in Nigeria, 250,000 in South
Africa, 230,000 in Ethiopia, 220,000 in Kenya, 170,000 in
Tanzania, 150,000 in Zambia, 110,000 in Uganda, 84,000 in Cote
d'Ivoire, 80,000 in Mozambique, 65,000 in Rwanda, 30,000 in
Namibia, 170,000 in India, 2,000 in the People's Republic of
China, and 800 in Guyana.
(9) These countries are developing countries in which very
few individuals infected with HIV have access to antiretroviral
therapies.
(10) Approximately 50 percent of all individuals who become
infected with HIV acquire the virus before the age of 25 and
die from AIDS or AIDS-related illnesses before the age of 35.
The propensity of HIV to infect adolescents and young adults
poses a unique threat to children for acquisition of the virus.
(11) In addition, 95 percent of HIV/AIDS-associated deaths
occur in developing countries. Some projections indicate that
by 2005 the number of individuals infected with HIV in Africa
may double to approximately 60,000,000 individuals. Asia,
especially India and the People's Republic of China, is
acknowledged to represent the next region to experience a major
increase in the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
(12) There is also a lack of health care professionals with
expertise or experience in treating children infected with HIV,
including the provision of therapy, dosing, administration, and
monitoring. Treatment for children infected with HIV is not as
widely available as it is for adults infected with HIV and thus
children represent a disproportionate share of those
individuals infected with HIV who do not have access treatment.
(13) Most health care professionals in developing countries
lack formal education or training in pediatric HIV/AIDS
treatment, have limited access to relevant scientific and
medical literature, and do not network or collaborate with
their colleagues in other institutions on any regular basis.
(14) Formal research training for such health care
professionals is almost non-existent, as well as studies
specifically designed to address practical and affordable
approaches to the prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS.
Infrastructure for the conduct of HIV/AIDS clinical research is
lacking in most developing countries.
(15) The establishment of a network of pediatric centers to
provide treatment and care for children with HIV/AIDS in
developing countries and the training of pediatric health care
professionals would be an important contribution to the
prevention, treatment, and monitoring of HIV/AIDS cases in
those countries.
(16) The establishment of this network will mean that
approximately 40,000 children with HIV/AIDS will receive
treatment and care at the pediatric centers during the five
year-period beginning immediately after the establishment of
the network. This will dramatically enhance the global
infrastructure and capacity for HIV/AIDS care and treatment and
clinical research. Each center would become self-sustaining
after the initial five year-period.
(17) These centers will be developed and staffed
collaboratively by United States and local professionals. The
centers would be modeled after two landmark international
pediatric HIV/AIDS care and treatment centers already
established and operating in Constanta, Romania, and Gaborone,
Botswana.
(18) Based on the model of the pediatric HIV/AIDS care and
treatment centers in Constanta, Romania and Gaborone, Botswana,
these centers will make a valuable contribution not only to the
treatment of HIV/AIDS, but also to routine care, psychosocial
care, and nutritional and other child life services.
SEC. 3. AMENDMENTS TO THE FOREIGN ASSISTANCE ACT OF 1961.
(a) Network of Pediatric HIV/AIDS Centers.--Section 104A(d) of the
Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2151b-2(d)) is amended by
adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(8) Network of pediatric hiv/aids centers.--The
establishment and operation by one or more public-private
partnership entities described in paragraph (7) of a network of
pediatric centers in countries in sub-Saharan Africa, the
Republic of India, the People's Republic of China, the Co-
operative Republic of Guyana, and other countries and areas
with high rates of HIV/AIDS to provide treatment and care for
children with HIV/AIDS in such countries and areas and to
provide training of pediatric health care professionals at such
centers.''.
(b) Funding.--Section 104A of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 is
amended--
(1) by redesignating subsection (g) as subsection (h); and
(2) by inserting after subsection (f) the following new
subsection:
``(g) Funding for Network of Pediatric HIV/AIDS Centers.--Of the
funds made available to carry out this section for fiscal years 2005
through 2009, not less than $10,000,000 for each such fiscal year is
authorized to be made available to carry out subsection (d)(8).''. | International Pediatric HIV/AIDS Network Act of 2004 - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to provide for the establishment and operation of a network of pediatric centers in countries in sub-Saharan Africa, the Republic of India, the People's Republic of China, the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, and other countries and areas with high rates of HIV/AIDS to provide: (1) treatment and care for children with HIV/AIDS; and (2) training of pediatric health care professionals. | billsum_train |
Make a brief summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Medication Therapy Management Act of
2003''.
SEC. 2. MEDICARE COVERAGE OF MEDICATION THERAPY MANAGEMENT SERVICES.
(a) Coverage.--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) medication therapy management 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:
``Medication Therapy Management Services; Qualified Pharmacist
``(ww)(1)(A) The term `medication therapy management services'
means services or programs furnished by a qualified pharmacist to an
individual described in subparagraph (B), individually or on behalf of
a pharmacy provider, which are designed--
``(i) to ensure that medications are used appropriately by
such individual;
``(ii) to enhance the individual's understanding of the
appropriate use of medications;
``(iii) to increase the individual's compliance with
prescription medication regimens;
``(iv) to reduce the risk of potential adverse events
associated with medications; and
``(v) to reduce the need for other costly medical services
through better management of medication therapy.
``(2) The term `qualified pharmacist' means an individual who is a
licensed pharmacist in good standing with the State Board of
Pharmacy.''.
(c) Covered Conditions and Treatments.--Section 1861(ww)(1) of such
Act (42 U.S.C. 1395x(ww)(1)) (as added by subsection (b)), is amended
by adding at the end the following:
``(B) For purposes of subparagraph (A), an individual described in
this subparagraph is an individual who is receiving, in accordance with
State law or regulation, medication for--
``(i) the treatment of asthma, diabetes, or chronic
cardiovascular disease, including an individual on
anticoagulation or lipid reducing medications; or
``(ii) such other chronic diseases as the Secretary may
specify.''.
(d) Payment.--
(1) In general.--Section 1833(a)(1) of the Social Security
Act (42 U.S.C. 1395l(a)(1)) is amended--
(A) by striking ``and'' before ``(U)''; and
(B) by inserting before the semicolon at the end
the following: ``, and (V) with respect to medication
therapy management services (as defined in section
1861(ww)(1)), the amounts paid shall be 80 percent of
the lesser of the actual charge or the amount
established under section 1834(n)''.
(2) Establishment of fee schedule; payments prior to
implementation of fee schedule.--Section 1834 of the Social
Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395m) is amended by adding at the end
the following new subsection:
``(n) Fee Schedules for Medication Therapy Management Services.--
``(1) Development.--The Secretary shall develop--
``(A) a relative value scale to serve as the basis
for the payment of medication therapy management
services (as defined in section 1861(ww)(1)) under this
part; and
``(B) using such scale and appropriate conversion
factors, fee schedules (on a regional, statewide,
locality, or carrier service area basis) for payment
for medication therapy management services under this
part, to be implemented for such services furnished
during years beginning after the expiration of the 3-
year period which begins on the date of enactment of
this subsection.
``(2) Considerations.--In developing the relative value
scale and fee schedules under paragraph (1), the Secretary
shall consider differences in--
``(A) the time required to perform types of
medication therapy management services;
``(B) the level of risk associated with the use of
particular out-patient prescription drugs or groups of
drugs; and
``(C) the health status of individuals to whom
medication therapy management services are provided.
``(3) Consultation.--In developing the fee schedule for
medication therapy management services under this subsection,
the Secretary shall consult with various national organizations
representing pharmacists and pharmacies and share with such
organizations the relevant data and data analysis being used in
establishing such fee schedule, including data on variations in
payments under this part by geographic area and by service.
``(4) Payments prior to implementation of fee schedule.--In
the case of a medication therapy management service (as defined
in section 1861(ww)(1)) that is furnished before the
implementation of the fee schedule developed under paragraph
(1)(B), the Secretary shall pay an amount equal to 80 percent
of the amount that the Secretary would pay for such service
under the fee schedule established under section 1848 if the
service were furnished by a physician or as an incident to a
physician's service.''.
(e) Report to Congress.--Not later than 3 years after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Health and Human Services shall
submit to Congress a report on the relative value scale and fee
schedules developed under section 1834(n)(1) of the Social Security Act
(as added by subsection (d)(2)) for medication therapy management
services furnished under part B of the medicare program under title
XVIII of the Social Security Act.
(f) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to services furnished on or after January 1, 2004. | Medication Therapy Management Act of 2003 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to provide for Medicare coverage of medication therapy management services under part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) of the Medicare program. | billsum_train |
Create a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Anti-Cash Smuggling Act of 2011''.
SEC. 2. ADDITION OF MEANS OF ACCESS TO FUNDS OR THE VALUE OF FUNDS.
Chapter 53 of subtitle IV of title 31, United States Code, is
amended--
(1) by inserting after section 5316 the following new
section:
``Sec. 5316A. Reports on exporting and importing means of access to
funds
``(a) Required Reports.--The Secretary of the Treasury (in this
section referred to as the `Secretary') shall, by regulation and
subject to the limitations of this section, require reports concerning
means of access to funds or the value of funds belonging or credited to
a person that the person, agent, or bailee can use, including any
prepaid or stored value cards to electronically--
``(1) initiate a transfer of funds;
``(2) obtain currency in place of funds or the value of
funds; or
``(3) purchase goods or services.
``(b) Limitations.--Under the regulations issued under subsection
(a), a person, or an agent or bailee of that person, shall be required
to, file a report under this section only when the person, agent, or
bailee knowingly--
``(1) transports, is about to transport, or has transported
a means of access subject to subsection (a) from a place in the
United States to or through a place outside of the United
States or to a place in the United States from or through a
place outside of the United States; or
``(2) receives a means of access subject to subsection (a)
transported into the United States from or through a place
outside of the United States.
``(c) Filing Criteria.--A report under this section shall be filed
at such time and place as the Secretary prescribes. The report shall
contain, to the extent that the Secretary prescribes--
``(1) the legal capacity in which the person filing the
report is acting;
``(2) the origin, destination, and route of the means of
access;
``(3) when the means of access is not legally and
beneficially owned by the person transporting the means of
access, or if the person transporting the means of access
personally is not going to use it, the identity of the person
that gave the means of access to the person transporting it,
the identity of the person who is to receive it, or both;
``(4) the amount and kind of funds or the value of funds to
which the means of access provides access, and the person to
whom the funds or value of funds belong or are credited; and
``(5) such additional information as the Secretary deems
appropriate to carry out this section.
``(d) Exclusion for Common Carriers.--This section does not apply
to a common carrier of passengers when a passenger is transporting a
means of access subject to subsection (a), or to a common carrier of
goods if the shipper does not declare the means of access subject to
subsection (a).
``(e) Additional Authority.--The Secretary may prescribe
regulations under this section requiring a person that holds funds or
the value of funds belonging or credited to another person, and that
provides such other person a means of access to such funds or value, to
provide information at the time and place and in the manner prescribed
by the Secretary in order to facilitate reporting under this section.
Such information may include, placing conspicuous markings on any
tangible mechanism that constitutes, or together with a personal
identification number, code, or other input comprises, a means of
access to funds or the value of funds in order to manifest reportable
characteristics of the means of access.
``(f) Means of Access to Funds or the Value of Funds Defined.--The
Secretary of the Treasury shall define the term `means of access to
funds or the value of funds' for purposes of this section. Such
definition shall--
``(1) include means that a person, agent, or bailee can use
to electronically--
``(A) initiate transfers of funds;
``(B) obtain currency in place of funds or the
value of funds; or
``(C) purchase goods or services;
``(2) include prepaid or stored value cards; and
``(3) not include debit cards or credit cards, as such
terms are defined under section 603(r)(3) of the Fair Credit
Reporting Act (15 U.S.C. 1681a(r)(3)) and under section 103(k)
of the Truth in Lending Act (15 U.S.C. 1602(k)),
respectively.'';
(2) in section 5316--
(A) by amending the section heading to read as
follows:
``Sec. 5316. Reports on exporting and importing monetary instruments
and access devices'';
and
(B) by amending subsection (a) to read as follows:
``(a) In General.--Except as provided in subsection (c), a person
or an agent or bailee of the person shall file a report under
subsection (b) when the person, agent, or bailee knowingly--
``(1) transports, is about to transport, or has
transported, monetary instruments, funds accessible by means of
access defined by regulation under section 5316A, or a
combination of monetary instruments and funds accessible by
means of access defined by regulation under section 5316A, of
more than $10,000 at one time--
``(A) from a place in the United States to or
through a place outside of the United States; or
``(B) to a place in the United States from or
through a place outside of the United States; or
``(2) receives monetary instruments, funds accessible by
means of access defined by regulation under section 5316A, or a
combination of monetary instruments and funds accessible by
means of access defined by regulation under section 5316A, of
more than $10,000 at one time transported into the United
States from or through a place outside of the United States.'';
(3) in section 5317--
(A) in the section heading, by inserting ``and
access devices'' after ``instruments'';
(B) by striking subsection (a) and inserting the
following:
``(a) Warrants.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary of the Treasury (in this
section referred to as the `Secretary') may submit to a court
of competent jurisdiction an application for a search warrant,
which shall be accompanied by a statement of information in
support of the warrant, when the Secretary reasonably
believes--
``(A) a monetary instrument or a tangible mechanism
that constitutes, or together with a personal
identification number, code, or other input comprises,
a means of access to funds or the value of funds is
being transported; and
``(B) a report on the instrument or means of access
to funds or the value of funds under section 5316 or
5316A has not been filed or contains a material
omission or misstatement.
``(2) Grant of application.--On a showing of probable
cause, the court may issue a search warrant for a designated
person or a designated or described place or physical object.
``(3) Rule of construction.--This subsection does not
affect the authority of the Secretary under any other provision
of law.'';
(C) in subsection (b), by inserting ``or section
5316A'' after ``section 5316''; and
(D) in subsection (c)--
(i) in paragraph (1)(A)--
(I) by inserting ``5316A,'' after
``5316,''; and
(II) by inserting ``(including any
tangible mechanism that constitutes, or
together with a personal identification
number, code, or other input comprises,
a means of access to funds or the value
of funds)'' after ``involved in the
offense''; and
(ii) in paragraph (2), by inserting
``5316A,'' after ``5316,'';
(4) in section 5324(c)--
(A) in the subsection heading, by striking
``Monetary Instrument'';
(B) by inserting ``or 5316A'' after ``section
5316'' each place it appears; and
(C) in paragraph (3), by inserting ``or means of
access to funds or the value of funds'' before the
period at the end;
(5) in section 5332--
(A) in the section heading, by striking ``Bulk cash
smuggling'' and inserting ``Smuggling of cash, monetary
instruments, and means of access to funds or the value
of funds'';
(B) in subsection (a)--
(i) in paragraph (1)--
(I) by inserting ``or 5316A'' after
``under section 5316'';
(II) by inserting ``, or any
tangible mechanism that constitutes, or
together with a personal identification
number, code, or other input comprises,
a means of access to funds or the value
of funds,'' after ``monetary
instruments'' the first place it
appears; and
(III) by striking ``such currency
or monetary instruments'' and inserting
``such currency, other monetary
instruments, or tangible mechanism'';
and
(ii) in paragraph (2), by inserting ``,
other monetary instruments, or tangible
mechanisms'' after ``concealment of currency'';
and
(C) in subsection (c)(3)--
(i) by striking ``currency or other
monetary instrument'' the first place it
appears and inserting ``currency, other
monetary instrument, or tangible mechanism that
constitutes, or together with a personal
identification number, code, or other input
comprises, a means of access to funds or the
value of funds'';
(ii) by striking ``currency or other
monetary instrument'' the second place it
appears and inserting ``currency, other
monetary instrument, or tangible mechanism'';
and
(iii) by inserting ``(including the funds
or value of funds accessible by such tangible
mechanism at the time of the offense)'' after
``facilitate the offense''; and
(6) in the table of sections--
(A) by striking the items relating to sections 5316
and 5317 and inserting the following:
``5316. Reports on exporting and importing monetary instruments and
access devices.
``5316A. Reports on exporting and importing means of access to funds.
``5317. Search and forfeiture of monetary instruments and access
devices.'';
and
(B) by striking the item relating to section 5332
and inserting the following:
``5332. Smuggling of cash, monetary instruments, and means of access to
funds or the value of funds into or out of
the United States.''. | Anti-Cash Smuggling Act of 2011 - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to require reports concerning means of access to funds or the value of funds belonging or credited to a person (or agent or bailee), including prepaid or stored value cards (but not debit or credit cards), that can be used electronically to: (1) initiate a transfer of funds, (2) obtain currency in place of funds or the value of funds, or (3) purchase goods or services.
Requires such reports to be filed only when a person knowingly: (1) transports, is about to transport, or has transported a means of access to funds or the value of funds of more than $10,000 at one time from a place in the United States to or through a place outside the United States, or to a place in the United States from or through a place outside the United States; or (2) receives a means of access to funds or the value of funds transported into the United States from or through a place outside the United States of more than $10,000 at one time.
Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to apply to a court for a search warrant upon a reasonable belief that: (1) a monetary instrument or a tangible mechanism that constitutes a means of access to funds or the value of funds is being transported; and (2) a required report has not been filed or contains a material omission or misstatement.
Revises penalties and procedures regarding smuggling of cash, monetary instruments, and means of access to funds or the value of funds into or out of the United States. | billsum_train |
Create a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Everyone Deserves Unconditional
Access to Education (EDUCATE) Act''.
SEC. 2. AMENDMENT TO IDEA.
Section 611(i) of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
(20 U.S.C. 1411(i)) is amended to read as follows:
``(i) Funding.--
``(1) In general.--For the purpose of carrying out this
part, other than section 619, there are authorized to be
appropriated--
``(A) $14,434,200,000 or 20.8 percent of the amount
determined under paragraph (2), whichever is greater,
for fiscal year 2010, and there are hereby appropriated
$2,928,989,000 or 3.3 percent of the amount determined
under paragraph (2), whichever is greater, for fiscal
year 2010, which shall become available for obligation
on July 1, 2010, and shall remain available through
September 30, 2011;
``(B) $17,596,785,000 or 25 percent of the amount
determined under paragraph (2), whichever is greater,
for fiscal year 2011, and there are hereby appropriated
$6,091,574,000 or 7.5 percent of the amount determined
under paragraph (2), whichever is greater, for fiscal
year 2011, which shall become available for obligation
on July 1, 2011, and shall remain available through
September 30, 2012;
``(C) $20,759,369,000 or 29 percent of the amount
determined under paragraph (2), whichever is greater,
for fiscal year 2012, and there are hereby appropriated
$9,254,158,000 or 11.5 percent of the amount determined
under paragraph (2), whichever is greater, for fiscal
year 2012, which shall become available for obligation
on July 1, 2012, and shall remain available through
September 30, 2013;
``(D) $23,921,954,000 or 32.9 percent of the amount
determined under paragraph (2), whichever is greater,
for fiscal year 2013, and there are hereby appropriated
$12,416,743,000 or 15.4 percent of the amount
determined under paragraph (2), whichever is greater,
for fiscal year 2013, which shall become available for
obligation on July 1, 2013, and shall remain available
through September 30, 2014;
``(E) $27,084,538,000 or 36.5 percent of the amount
determined under paragraph (2), whichever is greater,
for fiscal year 2014, and there are hereby appropriated
$15,579,327,000 or 19 percent of the amount determined
under paragraph (2), whichever is greater, for fiscal
year 2014, which shall become available for obligation
on July 1, 2014, and shall remain available through
September 30, 2015;
``(F) $30,247,123,000 or 40 percent of the amount
determined under paragraph (2), whichever is greater,
for fiscal year 2015, and there are hereby appropriated
$18,741,912,000 or 22.5 percent of the amount
determined under paragraph (2), whichever is greater,
for fiscal year 2015, which shall become available for
obligation on July 1, 2015, and shall remain available
through September 30, 2016; and
``(G) 40 percent of the amount determined under
paragraph (2) for fiscal year 2016 and each subsequent
fiscal year, and there are hereby appropriated 40
percent of the amount determined under paragraph (2)
minus $11,505,211,000 for fiscal year 2016 and each
subsequent fiscal year, which shall become available
for obligation with respect to fiscal year 2016 on July
1, 2016, and shall remain available through September
30, 2017, and with respect to each subsequent fiscal
year on July 1 of that fiscal year and shall remain
available through September 30 of the succeeding fiscal
year.
``(2) Amount.--The amount determined under this paragraph
is--
``(A) the number of children with disabilities in
the school year preceding the fiscal year referred to
in subparagraph (A), (B), (C), (D), (E), (F), or (G) of
paragraph (1) (as the case may be) in all States who
receive special education and related services--
``(i) aged 3 through 5 if the States are
eligible for grants under section 619, and
``(ii) aged 6 through 21, multiplied by
``(B) the average per-pupil expenditure in public
elementary schools and secondary schools in the United
States.''.
SEC. 3. OFFSETS.
The amounts appropriated in 611(i) of the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1411(i)), as amended by section 2
of this Act, shall be expended consistent with pay-as-you-go
requirements | Everyone Deserves Unconditional Access to Education (EDUCATE) Act - Amends the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to reauthorize and make appropriations for the grant program to assist states and outlying areas in providing special education and related services to children with disabilities.
Sets the amount to be authorized and the amount to be appropriated for each fiscal year from FY2010-FY2015 as the greater of: (1) a specified amount; or (2) a specified percentage of an amount determined pursuant to a formula that multiplies the number of children receiving special education services by the average per-pupil expenditure in public elementary and secondary schools.
Authorizes appropriations for FY2016 and thereafter that equal 40% of the amount determined using such formula. Makes appropriations for FY2016 and thereafter that are determined by subtracting a specified amount from the amount authorized.
Requires amounts appropriated to be expended consistent with pay-as-you-go requirements. | billsum_train |
Provide a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Dam Rehabilitation and Repair Act of
2007''.
SEC. 2. REHABILITATION AND REPAIR OF DEFICIENT DAMS.
(a) Definitions.--Section 2 of the National Dam Safety Program Act
(33 U.S.C. 467) is amended--
(1) by redesignating paragraphs (3), (4), (5), (6), (7),
(8), (9), (10), (11), (12), and (13) as paragraphs (4), (5),
(6), (7), (8), (9), (10), (12), (13), (14), and (15),
respectively;
(2) by inserting after paragraph (2) the following:
``(3) Deficient dam.--The term `deficient dam' means a dam
that the State within the boundaries of which the dam is
located determines--
``(A) fails to meet minimum dam safety standards of
the State; and
``(B) poses an unacceptable risk to the public.'';
and
(3) by inserting after paragraph (10) (as redesignated by
paragraph (1)) the following:
``(11) Rehabilitation.--The term `rehabilitation' means the
repair, replacement, reconstruction, or removal of a dam that
is carried out to meet applicable State dam safety and security
standards.''.
(b) Program for Rehabilitation and Repair of Deficient Dams.--The
National Dam Safety Program Act is amended by inserting after section 8
(33 U.S.C. 467f) the following:
``SEC. 8A. REHABILITATION AND REPAIR OF DEFICIENT DAMS.
``(a) Establishment of Program.--The Director shall establish,
within FEMA, a program to provide grant assistance to States for use in
rehabilitation of publicly-owned deficient dams.
``(b) Award of Grants.--
``(1) Application.--A State interested in receiving a grant
under this section may submit to the Director an application
for such grant. Applications submitted to the Director under
this section shall be submitted at such times, be in such form,
and contain such information, as the Director may prescribe by
regulation.
``(2) In general.--Subject to the provisions of this
section, the Director may make a grant for rehabilitation of a
deficient dam to a State that submits an application for the
grant in accordance with the regulations prescribed by the
Director. The Director shall enter into a project grant
agreement with the State to establish the terms of the grant
and the project, including the amount of the grant.
``(3) Applicability of standards.--The Director shall
require States that apply for grants under this section to
comply with the standards of section 611(j)(9) of the Robert T.
Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42
U.S.C. 5196(j)(9)), as in effect on the date of enactment of
this section, with respect to projects assisted under this
section in the same manner as recipients are required to comply
in order to receive financial contributions from the Director
for emergency preparedness purposes.
``(c) Priority System.--The Director, in consultation with the
Board, shall develop a risk-based priority system for use in
identifying deficient dams for which grants may be made under this
section.
``(d) Allocation of Funds.--The total amount of funds appropriated
pursuant to subsection (f)(1) for a fiscal year shall be allocated for
making grants under this section to States applying for such grants for
that fiscal year as follows:
``(1) One-third divided equally among applying States.
``(2) Two-thirds among applying States based on the ratio
that--
``(A) the number of non-Federal publicly-owned dams
that the Secretary of the Army identifies in the
national inventory of dams maintained under section 6
as constituting a danger to human health and that are
located within the boundaries of the State; bears to
``(B) the number of non-Federal publicly-owned dams
that are so identified and that are located within the
boundaries of all applying States.
``(e) Cost Sharing.--The Federal share of the cost of
rehabilitation of a deficient dam for which a grant is made under this
section may not exceed 65 percent of the cost of such rehabilitation.
``(f) Authorization of Appropriations.--
``(1) In general.--There is authorized to be appropriated
to carry out this section--
``(A) $10,000,000 for fiscal year 2008;
``(B) $15,000,000 for fiscal year 2009;
``(C) $25,000,000 for fiscal year 2010;
``(D) $50,000,000 for fiscal year 2011; and
``(E) $100,000,000 for fiscal year 2012.
``(2) Staff.--There are authorized to be appropriated to
provide for the employment of such additional staff of FEMA as
are necessary to carry out this section $400,000 for each of
fiscal years 2008 through 2010.
``(3) Period of availability.--Sums appropriated pursuant
to this section shall remain available until expended.''.
SEC. 3. RULEMAKING.
(a) Proposed Rulemaking.--Not later than 90 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Director of the Federal Emergency Management
Agency shall issue a notice of proposed rulemaking regarding the
amendments made by section 2 to the National Dam Safety Program Act (33
U.S.C. 467 et seq.).
(b) Final Rule.--Not later than 120 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Director of the Federal Emergency Management
Agency shall issue a final rule regarding such amendments. | Dam Rehabilitation and Repair Act of 2007 - Amends the National Dam Safety Program Act to require the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to establish a program to provide grant assistance to states for use in rehabilitating publicly-owned dams that fail to meet minimum safety standards and pose an unacceptable risk to the public (deficient dams).
Sets forth provisions regarding procedures for grant awards and fund allocation. Requires: (1) states receiving grants under this Act to comply with standards applicable to financial contributions for emergency preparedness purposes under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act; and (2) FEMA to develop a risk-based priority system for identifying deficient dams for which such grants may be made. Limits the federal share of rehabilitation costs to 65%. Authorizes appropriations. | billsum_train |
Create a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Ambulatory Surgical Center Access
Act of 2009''.
SEC. 2. MEDICARE PAYMENT FOR AMBULATORY SURGICAL CENTER SERVICES.
(a) In General.--Section 1833(i) of the Social Security Act (42
U.S.C. 1395l(i)) is amended by striking paragraphs (2) through (6) and
inserting the following:
``(2)(A) Subject to subparagraphs (B) and (C), the amount of
payment to be made under this subsection for facility services
furnished to an individual in an ambulatory surgical center in
accordance with paragraph (1) shall be equal to 59 percent of the fee
schedule amount determined under paragraph (3)(D) of subsection (t) for
payment of the same service furnished in hospital outpatient
departments, as adjusted under paragraphs (4)(A), (6), and (15) of such
subsection, less a 20 percent beneficiary copayment, except that in no
case shall the copayment amount for a procedure performed in a year
exceed the amount of the inpatient hospital deductible established
under section 1813(b) for that year.
``(B) For covered ambulatory surgical center services furnished
during calendar year 2010, the amount of payment under this subsection
shall be equal to the sum of--
``(i) 25 percent of the ambulatory surgical center payment
amount payable under this subsection in 2007; and
``(ii) 75 percent of the payment amount under subparagraph
(A) for 2010.
``(C)(i) Notwithstanding subparagraphs (A) and (B), if a facility
service furnished to an individual in an ambulatory surgical center
includes an implantable medical device, the amount of payment for that
service shall be equal to the sum of--
``(I) 100 percent of the hospital OPD fee schedule amount
under subsection (t) that the Secretary determines is
associated with the device; and
``(II) 59 percent of non-device-related component of such
OPD fee schedule amount;
less a 20 percent beneficiary copayment.
``(ii) For purposes of clause (i), the term `implantable medical
device' means a device that--
``(I) is an integral and subordinate part of the service
furnished;
``(II) is used for one patient only;
``(III) comes in contact with human tissue; and
``(IV) is surgically implanted or inserted, whether or not
it remains with the patient when the patient is released from
the ambulatory surgical center.''.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Section 1832(a)(2)(F)(i) of such Act (42 U.S.C.
1395k(a)(2)(F)(i)) is amended--
(A) by striking ``the standard overhead amount as
determined under section 1833(i)(2)(A)'' and inserting
``the amount determined under section 1833(i)(2)''; and
(B) by striking all that follows ``as full payment
for such services'' and inserting ``, or''.
(2) Section 1833(a)(1)(G) of such Act (42 U.S.C.
1395l(a)(1)(G)) is amended--
(A) by striking ``for services furnished
beginning'' and all that follows through ``subsection
(i)(2)(D),''; and
(B) by striking ``such revised payment system'' and
inserting ``subsection (i)(2)''.
(3) Section 1833(a)(4) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 1395l(a)(4))
is amended by striking ``or (3)''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to ambulatory surgical center services furnished on or after
January 1, 2010.
SEC. 3. QUALITY REPORTING AND COMPARISON.
(a) In General.--Paragraph (7) of section 1833(i) of the Social
Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395l(i)) is amended--
(1) by redesignating such paragraph as paragraph (3);
(2) in subparagraph (A)--
(A) by striking ``For purposes of paragraph
(2)(D)(iv), the'' and inserting ``The'';
(B) by striking ``established under paragraph
(2)(D)'' and inserting ``described in paragraph (2)'';
and
(C) by adding at the end the following: ``Data
required to be submitted on measures selected under
this paragraph must be on measures that have been
selected by the Secretary after consideration of public
comments and that have consensus endorsement from
affected parties.'';
(3) in subparagraph (B)--
(A) by striking ``Except as the Secretary may
otherwise provide, the'' and inserting ``The''; and
(B) by inserting before the period at the end the
following: ``, except that the form and manner of
reporting by ambulatory surgical centers shall include
the option of submitting data with claims for
payment''; and
(4) by adding at the end the following new subparagraphs:
``(C) To the extent that quality measures implemented by the
Secretary under this paragraph for ambulatory surgical centers and
under section 1833(t)(17) for hospital outpatient departments are
applicable to the provision of surgical services in both ambulatory
surgical centers and hospital outpatient departments, the Secretary
shall--
``(i) require that both ambulatory surgical centers and
hospital outpatient departments report data on such measures;
and
``(ii) make reported data available on the website
`Medicare.gov' in a manner that will permit side-by-side
comparisons on such measures for ambulatory surgical centers
and hospital outpatient departments in the same geographic
area.
``(D) For each procedure covered for payment in an ambulatory
surgical center, the Secretary shall publish, along with the quality
reporting comparisons provided for in subparagraph (C), comparisons of
the Medicare payment and beneficiary copayment amounts for the
procedure when performed in ambulatory surgical centers and hospital
outpatient departments in the same geographic area.''.
(b) MedPAC Study.--
(1) In general.--The Medicare Payment Advisory Commission
shall conduct a study of outpatient surgical services covered
under section 1833 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C.
1395l). The study shall compare beneficiaries' use of different
settings across geographic areas, spending implications for the
Medicare program for such services when provided in different
settings, and out-of-pocket liability for beneficiaries for
such services when provided in different settings.
(2) Report.--Not later than one year after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Commission shall submit to Congress
a report on the findings of the study conducted under paragraph
(1). Where appropriate, such report shall include
recommendations on modifications in coverage and payment
policies under part B of title XVIII of the Social Security Act
needed to optimize the economical utilization of outpatient
surgical services.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall take
effect on January 1, 2010.
SEC. 4. APC PANEL REPRESENTATION.
(a) ASC Representative.--The second sentence of section
1833(t)(9)(A) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395l(t)(9)(A)) is
amended by inserting ``and suppliers subject to the prospective payment
system (including at least one ambulatory surgical center
representative)'' after ``an appropriate selection of representatives
of providers''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by subsection (a) shall
take effect on the date of the enactment of this Act.
SEC. 5. ENSURING ACCESS TO SAME DAY SERVICES.
The conditions for coverage of ambulatory surgical center services
specified by the Secretary of Health and Human Services pursuant to
section 1832(a)(2)(F)(i) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C.
1395k(a)(2)(F)(i)) shall not prohibit ambulatory surgical centers from
providing individuals with any notice of rights or other required
notice on the date of a procedure if more advance notice is not
feasible under the circumstances, including when a procedure is
scheduled and performed on the same day. | Ambulatory Surgical Center Access Act of 2009 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to revise the requirements and the formula for payments for services, including an implantable medical device, furnished to individuals in ambulatory surgical centers.
Revises requirements for the reporting of data by ambulatory surgical centers and hospital outpatient departments.
Directs the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MEDPAC) to study and report to Congress on outpatient surgical services.
Requires the expert outside advisory panel the Secretary of Health and Human Services is required to consult with respect to the clinical integrity of the groups and payment weights to include at least one ambulatory surgical center representative.
States that the conditions for coverage of ambulatory surgical center services specified by the Secretary shall not prohibit ambulatory surgical centers from providing individuals with any notice of rights or other required notice on the date of a procedure if more advanced notice is not feasible under the circumstances, including when a procedure is scheduled and performed on the same day. | billsum_train |
Condense the following text into a summary: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Fair and Equitable Postal Service
Access Act''.
SEC. 2. AMENDMENTS TO POST OFFICE CLOSURE OR CONSOLIDATION PROCEDURES.
(a) In General.--Section 404(d) of title 39, United States Code, is
amended--
(1) in paragraph (2)(A)(i), by inserting before the
semicolon the following: ``, including whether such closing or
consolidation will decrease access to postal or nonpostal
service offered at such post office in such community with
respect to elderly individuals, economically disadvantaged
individuals, individuals with limited mobility, or individuals
without reliable and affordable access to the Internet'';
(2) in paragraph (2)(A)(v), by inserting before the
semicolon the following: ``, including, during the previous 5
years: the number of, and revenue derived from, money-order
transactions processed by such post office; the volume of
international mail processed by such post office; and the
number of customers served at such post office'';
(3) by striking paragraph (3) and inserting the following:
``(3)(A) Any determination of the Postal Service to close or
consolidate a post office shall be in writing and shall include the
findings of the Postal Service with respect to the considerations
required to be made under paragraph (2). Such determination and
findings shall be made available to individuals served by such post
office.
``(B) With respect to the closing or consolidation of a post office
located in a community where individuals listed in paragraph (2)(A)(i)
reside, the analysis required under paragraph (2) shall include an
assessment of the effect such closing or consolidation will have on
such individuals.''; and
(4) by adding at the end the following:
``(7) The Postal Service shall not close or consolidate a post
office if such closing or consolidation would result in a
disproportionate, unreasonable, or undue burden on a class of
individuals listed in paragraph (2)(A)(i).
``(8) For purposes of this subsection--
``(A) an individual is `economically disadvantaged' if,
with respect to the community in which such individual lives,
at least 60 percent of the households have children who are
eligible for free or reduced price lunches under the school
lunch program under the Richard B. Russell National School
Lunch Act (42 U.S.C. 1751 et seq.);
``(B) the term `elderly', used with respect to an
individual, means age 65 or older;
``(C) the term `post office' includes a branch post office
and a post office station;
``(D) whether an individual has limited mobility shall be
determined by, with respect to the community in which such
individual lives--
``(i) how accessible public transportation is, as
measured by the availability of public transportation
options in the community; the frequency of service on
such options; and the time and distance required to
access such options as a pedestrian; and
``(ii) the rate of highway motor vehicle ownership,
as measured by, in the most recent American Community
Survey published by the Bureau of the Census, the
difference between the number of individuals in such
community that own or lease a highway motor vehicle and
the statewide average of individuals who own or lease
such a vehicle;
``(E) in order to determine whether an individual has
reliable and affordable access to the Internet, the Postal
Service shall use the Internet Use Supplement in the most
recent Current Population Survey published by the Bureau of the
Census; and
``(F) in order to determine the statistical data required
under this subsection with respect to a class of individuals
listed in paragraph (2)(A)(i), the Postal Service may use any
available data from local or State governments or the Federal
Government.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply with respect to any post office--
(1) that has been determined to be necessary for closing or
consolidation under section 404(d) of title 39, United States
Code; or
(2) that is included in a proposal--
(A) to change the nature of postal services on a
nationwide or substantially nationwide basis; and
(B) for which the Postal Service has requested an
advisory opinion from the Postal Regulatory Commission
pursuant to section 3661(b) of such title. | Fair and Equitable Postal Service Access Act - Expands the criteria that the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) must consider in determining whether to close or consolidate a post office to include: (1) whether such closing or consolidation will decrease access to postal or nonpostal services by individuals who are elderly, economically disadvantaged, limited in mobility, or without reliable and affordable Internet access; and (2) during the previous five years, the number of, and revenue derived from, money-order transactions, the volume of processed international mail, and the number of customers served at such post office.
Prohibits the USPS from closing or consolidating a post office if it would result in a disproportionate, unreasonable, or undue burden on a class of individuals who are elderly, economically disadvantaged, limited in mobility, or without reliable and affordable Internet access.
Applies this Act to any post office: (1) determined necessary for closing or consolidation under existing criteria, or (2) included in a proposal to change the nature of postal services on a nationwide or substantially nationwide basis and for which the USPS has requested a related advisory opinion from the Postal Regulatory Commission. | billsum_train |
Create a condensed overview of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; FINDINGS.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``National
Collegiate Athletics Accountability Act'', or the ``NCAA Act''.
(b) Findings.--The Congress finds as follows:
(1) Nationwide, institutions of higher education receive
approximately $150,000,000,000 to $200,000,000,000 in funding
under title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
1070 et seq.) annually, including approximately $20,000,000,000
to $30,000,000,000 in Federal Pell Grants;
(2) In fiscal year 2014, institutions of higher education
are projected to receive approximately $140,000,000,000 in
Federal student aid under title IV of such Act, which accounts
for 77 percent of all funding received by these institutions
from the Federal Government.
(3) Funding under title IV of such Act is used to provide
grants, loans, and work-study funds from the Federal Government
to eligible students enrolled in institution of higher
education, including career schools.
(4) Many institutions of higher education participate in
voluntary, nonprofit athletic associations and athletic
conferences, with the largest such association having over
1,000 member institutions of higher education with more than
430,000 students participating in athletics, and providing
approximately $523,000,000 in revenue sharing to such members.
(5) Athletic programs at institutions of higher education
are some of the largest revenue generators for such
institutions nationwide, accounting for approximately
$6,100,000,000 in revenue from ticket sales, radio and
television receipts, alumni contributions, guarantees,
royalties, and association distributions.
(6) The Committee on a Sports Medicine of the American
Academy of Pediatrics published a classification of sports
based on the likelihood of contact, impact, or injury, and
determined that--
(A) boxing, field hockey, football, ice hockey,
lacrosse, martial arts, rodeo, soccer, and wrestling
are contact/collision sports; and
(B) baseball, basketball, bicycling, diving, high
jump, pole vault, gymnastics, horseback riding, ice
skating, roller skating, cross-country skiing, downhill
skiing, water skiing, softball, squash, handball, and
volleyball are limited-contact/impact sports.
SEC. 2. PROGRAM PARTICIPATION AGREEMENTS.
Section 487(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
1094(a)) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(30) In the case of an institution that has an
intercollegiate athletic program, the institution will not be a
member of a nonprofit athletic association unless such
association--
``(A) requires annual baseline concussion testing
of each student athlete on the active roster of each
team participating in a contact/collision sport or a
limited-contact/impact sport (based on the most recent
classification of sports published by the Committee on
Sports Medicine of the American Academy of Pediatrics)
before such student athlete may participate in any
contact drills or activities;
``(B) prior to enforcing any remedy for an alleged
infraction or violation of the policies of such
association--
``(i) provides institutions and student
athletes with the opportunity for a formal
administrative hearing, not less than one
appeal, and any other due process procedure the
Secretary determines by regulation to be
necessary; and
``(ii) hold in abeyance any such remedy
until all appeals have been exhausted or until
the deadline to appeal has passed, whichever is
sooner;
``(C) with respect to institutions attended by
students receiving athletically related student aid (as
defined in section 485(e)), requires any such
athletically related student aid provided to student
athletes who play a contact/collision sport (based on
the most recent classification of sports published by
the Committee on Sports Medicine of the American
Academy of Pediatrics) to be--
``(i) guaranteed for the duration of the
student athlete's attendance at the
institution, up to 4 years; and
``(ii) irrevocable for reasons related to
athletic skill or injury of the student
athlete; and
``(D) does not have in place a policy that
prohibits institutions from paying stipends to student
athletes.''.
SEC. 3. APPLICATION OF TITLE IX OF THE EDUCATION AMENDMENTS OF 1972.
Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (20 U.S.C. 1681 et
seq.) shall not apply with respect to any activity carried out by an
institution of higher education (as defined in section 102 of the
Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1002)) to comply with a
nonprofit athletic association membership requirement that is described
in paragraph (30)(C) of section 487(a) of such Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
1092(a)), as amended by section 2 of this Act. | National Collegiate Athletics Accountability Act or the NCAA Act - Amends title IV (Student Assistance) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 to require schools that have an intercollegiate athletic program and are participating in title IV programs to abstain from membership in a nonprofit athletic association unless the association: requires annual baseline concussion testing of student athletes on the active roster of teams participating in contact/collision or limited-contact/impact sports before they participate in any contact drills or activities; holds remedies for violations of its policies in abeyance until the schools and student athletes subject to those remedies have been afforded certain due process procedures; requires athletically-related student aid provided to student athletes who play contact/collision sports to be guaranteed for the duration of their attendance at the school, up to four years, and irrevocable for reasons related to skill or injury; and does not prevent schools from paying stipends to student athletes. Makes title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 inapplicable to any activity carried out by an institution of higher education to guarantee the continuance of student aid for student athletes in compliance with such membership requirements. (Title IX prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex or visual impairment under any education program that receives federal funds.) | billsum_train |
Summarize the following text: SECTION 1. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) Contrary to the Weinberger Doctrine, which states that
the United States should use military force only if it is in
the vital national interest of the United States and only with
clearly defined political and military goals, the United States
went to war against Iraq in March 2003 without clearly defined
political and military goals.
(2) Contrary to the Powell Doctrine, which states that if
the United States is to use military force it should be
``overwhelming'' military force, the United States went to war
against Iraq without the troop levels or strategy needed to
secure a post-invasion Iraq.
(3) Ignoring the advice of United States military leaders
and experts, the President sent United States troops into war
against Iraq without sufficient levels needed for post-conflict
success and without sufficient armor and related equipment, and
has used the United States military in such a way that today it
is straining under the weight of the war.
(4) The justifications cited by the President for using
military force against Iraq--that Iraq possessed weapons of
mass destruction and Iraq had links to al Qaeda--have not, to
date, been proven correct.
(5) On May 1, 2003, the President announced the end of
major combat operations in Iraq, thus starting an entirely new
phase--the occupation of Iraq.
(6) The justifications cited by the President for using
military force against Iraq have shifted dramatically since
Congress passed the Authorization for Use of Military Force
Against Iraq Resolution of 2002 (Public Law 107-243), from
combating the threat that Saddam Hussein allegedly posed to the
United States, to establishing an Iraqi democracy, and to a
larger vision of Middle Eastern democracy.
(7) Public Law 107-243 authorized the President to use
force to ``defend the national security of the United States
against the continuing threat posed by Iraq''.
(8) Currently, United States troops are not facing a
military force or direct threat to the United States in Iraq,
rather they are facing both a Sunni insurgency against the
United States occupation of Iraq and a violent, long-standing
struggle between Sunni and Shia Islam on the streets of
Baghdad--neither of which pose a ``continuing threat'' to the
United States.
(9) Public Law 107-243 clearly reflected the President's
policies of preemption and unilateralism that have left the
United States with an open-ended and ill-defined occupation of
a country in the middle of a civil war.
(10) The President's policies of preemption and
unilateralism that led the United States into Iraq now leave
the United States with no clear exit strategy from Iraq.
(11) The escalation of the use of military force in Iraq
continues the retreat from long-held United States policies of
diplomacy, deterrence, and containment.
SEC. 2. REPEAL OF PUBLIC LAW 107-243.
The Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq Resolution
of 2002 (Public Law 107-243) is hereby repealed.
SEC. 3. SENSE OF CONGRESS.
It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) Congress should vote on a new authorization for use of
force resolution that--
(A) reflects the current situation in Iraq;
(B) abandons the Bush Doctrine of preemption and
unilateralism; and
(C) realigns United States policy with its long-
held engagement priorities of diplomacy, deterrence,
and containment;
(2) the United States should establish a quick-reaction
United States military force with an over-the-horizon presence
in the region to respond as needed to imminent security threats
in the Middle East;
(3) the United States should enhance and intensify
diplomatic relations that will provide the proper external
environment and support for the difficult internal steps that
the Government of Iraq should take to promote national
reconciliation;
(4) the United States should increase efforts to engage all
neighboring countries and the League of Arab States in
promoting stability in Iraq;
(5) the United States should maintain its commitment to
continue to provide humanitarian and reconstruction assistance
in Iraq;
(6) the United States should redirect diplomatic, economic,
and military support to Afghanistan, where the Taliban
continues to destabilize the region; and
(7) the United States should aggressively pursue Osama Bin
Laden, Ayman al-Zawahiri, al Qaeda and other terrorist
organizations that continue to pose an imminent threat to the
United States. | Repeals P.L. 107-243 (Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq Resolution of 2002).
Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) Congress should vote on a new authorization for use of force resolution that reflects the current Iraq situation, abandons the Bush Doctrine of preemption and unilateralism, and realigns U.S. policy with its long-held priorities of diplomacy, deterrence, and containment; (2) the United States should establish a quick-reaction U.S. military force with an over-the-horizon presence in the region; (3) the United States should intensify diplomatic relations to support the difficult internal steps that the government of Iraq should take to promote national reconciliation; (4) the United States should increase efforts to engage all neighboring countries and the League of Arab States in promoting Iraq's stability; (5) the United States should continue to provide humanitarian and reconstruction assistance in Iraq; (6) the United States should redirect diplomatic, economic, and military support to Afghanistan; and (7) the United States should aggressively pursue Osama Bin Laden, Ayman al-Zawahiri, al Qaeda and other terrorist organizations that continue to pose an imminent threat to the United States. | billsum_train |
Create a condensed overview of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Ensuring Patient Access to
Healthcare Records Act of 2016''.
SEC. 2. PROMOTION OF ACCESS TO DATA, VIA RESEARCH AND USER FRIENDLY
PRESENTATIONS AND APPLICATIONS.
(a) In General.--Subtitle D of the Health Information Technology
for Economic and Clinical Health Act (42 U.S.C. 17921 et seq.) is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``PART 3--HEALTH CARE CLEARINGHOUSES; DATA PROCESSING TO EMPOWER
PATIENTS AND IMPROVE THE HEALTH CARE SYSTEM
``SEC. 13451. MODERNIZING THE ROLE OF CLEARINGHOUSES IN HEALTH CARE.
``(a) Efforts To Promote Access to and Leveraging of Health
Information.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall, through the
updating of existing policies and development of policies that
support dynamic technology solutions, promote patient access to
information related to their care, including real world
outcomes and economic data (including claims, eligibility, and
payment data), in a manner that would ensure that such
information is available in a form convenient for the patient,
in a reasonable manner, and without burdening the health care
provider involved.
``(2) Requirement.--Activities carried out under paragraph
(1) shall include the development of policies to enable covered
entities with access to health information to--
``(A) provide patient access to information related
to their care, including real world outcomes and
economic data; and
``(B) develop patient engagement tools, reports,
analyses, and presentations based on population health,
epidemiological, and health services outcomes data,
that may demonstrate a fiscal or treatment benefit to
the taxpayer.
``(b) Treatment as Covered Entity for Specified Functions.--
``(1) In general.--With respect to the use and disclosure
of protected health information, the Secretary shall--
``(A) not consider health care clearinghouses that
engage in the functions described in paragraph (3) to
be business associates under HIPAA-related provisions
(as defined in subsection (j)(3)) regardless of the
role of such clearinghouses in collecting or receiving
the information; and
``(B) consider such clearinghouses to be covered
entities under such provisions of law for all purposes.
Such clearinghouses shall not be considered business associates
for data translation, analytic, cloud computing, or any other
purpose.
``(2) Data accuracy and security requirement.--In order to
use health data as authorized by this section, a clearinghouse
or other covered entity engaging in activities authorized under
this section shall be certified to have the necessary expertise
and technical infrastructure to ensure the accuracy and
security of such claims, eligibility, and payment data through
receipt of an accreditation by the Electronic Healthcare
Network Accreditation Commission, or by an equivalent
accreditation program determined appropriate by the Secretary.
``(3) Enhancing treatment, quality improvement, research,
public health efforts and other functions.--
``(A) Equivalent authority to other covered
entities.--Subject to paragraph (2), a health care
clearinghouse shall--
``(i) in addition to carrying out claims
processing functions, be permitted to use and
disclose protected health information in the
same manner as other covered entities,
including for purposes of treatment, payment,
health care operations as permitted by section
164.506 of title 45, Code of Federal
Regulations, research, and public health as
permitted by section 164.512 of title 45, Code
of Federal Regulations, and creating de-
identified information as permitted by section
164.502(d) of title 45, Code of Federal
Regulations; and
``(ii) use or disclose protected health
information as required by section
164.502(a)(2) of title 45, Code of Federal
Regulations.
``(B) Additional authority.--Subject to paragraph
(2), a health care clearinghouse and other covered
entity shall, in addition to claims processing
functions, be permitted to--
``(i) provide individuals with access to
their own protected health information as
described in subsection (d);
``(ii) subject to subsection (c)(2), and on
behalf of both covered entities and non-covered
entities, use and disclose protected health
information for health care operations purposes
(as defined by section 164.501 of title 45,
Code of Federal Regulations) without respect to
whether the recipient of the information has or
had a relationship with the individual;
``(iii) subject to subsection (c)(2), and
upon the request of a covered entity, benchmark
the operations of such covered entity against
the operations of one or more other covered
entities that have elected to participate in
such benchmarking; and
``(iv) subject to subsection (c)(2), use
protected health information to facilitate
clinical trial recruitment.
``(c) Authorities Relating to Data Processing.--
``(1) In general.--In carrying out HIPAA-related
provisions, the Secretary shall permit a health care
clearinghouse to aggregate protected health information that
the clearinghouse possesses in order to carry out the functions
described in subsection (b)(3). Subject to section
164.502(a)(5)(i) of title 45, Code of Federal Regulations, a
health care clearinghouse may carry out the functions described
in subsection (b)(3) without obtaining individual authorization
under section 164.508 of title 45, Code of Federal Regulations.
``(2) Privacy.--For purposes of clauses (ii) through (iv)
of subsection (b)(3)(B), with respect to any report, analysis,
or presentation provided by the clearinghouse to a third party,
such report, analysis, or presentation--
``(A) shall include only de-identified data; or
``(B) if containing protected health information,
shall include such data that is subject to a qualifying
data use agreement (as defined in subsection (j)).
``(3) Fee permitted.--Nothing in this paragraph shall be
construed to prohibit an individual's right to access claims
and payment records in HIPAA standard format for a reasonable,
cost-based fee pursuant to section 164.524(c)(4) of title 45,
Code of Federal Regulations. In requesting access to records
held by a health care clearinghouse, the individual shall
identify the health care provider or providers that rendered
care.
``(d) Comprehensive Records at the Request of an Individual.--
``(1) In general.--When a health care clearinghouse
receives a written request from an individual for the protected
health information of the individual, the clearinghouse shall
provide to the individual a comprehensive record of such
information (across health care providers and health plans and
longitudinal in scope), unless the clearinghouse determines in
its sole discretion that providing a comprehensive record is
not technologically feasible.
``(2) Purchase from other clearinghouses.--In preparing a
comprehensive record for an individual under paragraph (1), a
health care clearinghouse may, with the permission of the
individual, purchase the protected health information of the
individual from one or more other health clearinghouses (and
the cost of such purchase may be included in a fair-market fee
charged to the individual as provided for under paragraph (1)).
``(e) Situations Not Involving Direct Interaction With
Individuals.--Sections 164.400 through 164.414 (relating to breach
notification) and sections 164.520 through 164.528 (relating to
individual rights) of title 45, Code of Federal Regulations, shall
apply to a health care clearinghouse that engages in the functions
described in subsection (b)(3) to the extent that such clearinghouse
has current contact information pursuant to direct interaction with the
individual involved. In the case of each other individual, the
clearinghouse shall provide notice to the covered entity of any breach
of unsecured protected health information and provide a notice of
privacy practices on its website.
``(f) Transition.--
``(1) In general.--Nothing in this section shall be
construed to provide a health care clearinghouse greater
authority to use and disclose protected health information than
that provided to another covered entity.
``(2) Existing agreements.--With respect to agreements
entered into by a health care clearinghouse prior to the date
of enactment of this section, a provision of such an agreement
that conflicts with this section shall not have any legal force
or effect. The preceding sentence may not be construed as
affecting any provision of an agreement that does not conflict
with this section.
``(g) Safe Harbor and Clarification of Liability.--In the case of a
health care clearinghouse that engages in a function described in
subsection (b), only that clearinghouse may be held liable for a
violation of a HIPAA-related provision (and a covered entity that
provided data or data access to the clearinghouse shall not be liable
for such violations).
``(h) Enforcement.--Section 13410(a)(2) shall apply to this section
in the same manner as such section applies to parts 1 and 2.
``(i) Relation to Other Laws.--
``(1) Application of hitech rule.--Section 13421 shall
apply to this section in the same manner as such section
applies to parts 1 and 2, except to the extent that such
section 13421 concerns section 1178(a)(2)(B) of the Social
Security Act.
``(2) State laws regarding unfair or deceptive acts or
practices.--This part shall not be construed to preempt the law
of any State that prohibits unfair or deceptive acts or
practices.
``(j) Definitions.--In this part:
``(1) De-identified.--The term `de-identified', with
respect to health information, means such information that is
not individually identifiable as determined in accordance with
the standards under section 164.514(b) of title 45, Code of
Federal Regulations.
``(2) Health care clearinghouse.--The term `health care
clearinghouse' has the meaning given such term in section 1171
of the Social Security Act.
``(3) HIPAA-related provision.--The term `HIPAA-related
provision' means the provisions of each of the following:
``(A) This subtitle.
``(B) Part C of title XI of the Social Security
Act.
``(C) Regulations promulgated pursuant to sections
262(a) and 264(c) of the Health Insurance Portability
and Accountability Act of 1996 or this subtitle.
``(4) Individual.--The term `individual', with respect to
protected health information, has the meaning applicable under
section 160.103 of title 45, Code of Federal Regulations.
``(5) Qualifying data use agreement.--The term `qualifying
data use agreement' means an agreement, which may be
electronic, that establishes the permitted uses and disclosures
of protected health information by the recipient consistent
with this paragraph. A qualifying data use agreement between
the health care clearinghouse and the data recipient shall--
``(A) establish the permitted uses and disclosures
of such information by the recipient which shall be
limited to the original purpose of disclosure under
subsection (b)(3)(B); and
``(B) provide that the data recipient will--
``(i) not use or further disclose the
information other than as permitted by the
qualifying data use agreement or as otherwise
required by law;
``(ii) use appropriate safeguards to
prevent use or disclosure of the information
other than as provided for by the qualifying
data use agreement; and
``(iii) ensure that any agents to whom it
provides the data agree to the same
restrictions and conditions that apply to the
data recipient with respect to such
information.''.
(b) Regulations.--Not later than 30 days after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Health and Human Services shall
promulgate regulations to carry out the amendment made by subsection
(a).
(c) Conforming Amendment.--Section 1171(2) of the Social Security
Act (42 U.S.C. 1320d(2)) is amended by inserting before the period the
following: ``or receives a standard transaction from another entity and
processes or facilitates the processing of health information into
nonstandard format or nonstandard data content for the receiving
entity. Such term also includes an entity that carries out such
processing functions, processes standard health care claims, processes
health care claim payments or provides advice on such, and processes
eligibility claims relating to health plan transactions on behalf of a
HIPAA covered entity and in addition, engages in any of the functions
described in subsection (a) of section 13451 of the Health Information
Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act''. | Ensuring Patient Access to Healthcare Records Act of 2016 This bill amends the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act to require the Department of Health and Human Services to develop and update policies that enable certain health care clearinghouses, plans, and providers to: (1) provide patients with access to information related to their care; and (2) develop patient-engagement tools, reports, analyses, and presentations that may demonstrate benefit to the taxpayer. | billsum_train |
Make a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Medicaid Managed Care Responsibility
and Equity Act''.
SEC. 2. MINIMUM MEDICAL LOSS RATIO REQUIREMENTS FOR MEDICAID AND CHIP
MANAGED CARE PLANS.
(a) Minimum Medical Loss Ratio Requirements for Medicaid and CHIP
Managed Care Plans.--Section 1903(m) of the Social Security Act (42
U.S.C. 1396b(m)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (2)(A)--
(A) by striking ``and'' at the end of clause (xii);
(B) by realigning the left margin of clause (xiii)
so as to align with the left margin of clause (xii) and
by striking the period at the end of clause (xiii) and
inserting ``; and''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following new clause:
``(xiv) such contract provides that if the Secretary
determines for a contract year (beginning on or after October
1, 2017) that the entity has failed to have a medical loss
ratio, as determined in accordance with paragraph (3), of at
least .85 (.80 in the case of an entity in which at least 10
percent of the individuals enrolled in the plan are optional
targeted low-income children described in section
1905(u)(2)(B))--
``(I) the entity shall remit (not later than
January 1 of the first calendar year that begins on or
after the first day of the contract year) to the State
an amount equal to the product of the total revenue of
the entity under the State plan under this title (or
under a waiver of such plan) for the contract year and
the difference between .85 (or .80, if applicable) and
the medical loss ratio (as so determined) and that any
such remittances paid by an entity shall be treated as
an overpayment under section 1903(d)(3)(A);
``(II) for 3 consecutive contract years, the State
shall not permit the enrollment of new enrollees with
the entity for coverage during the second succeeding
contract year; and
``(III) the State shall terminate the contract if
the entity fails to have such a medical loss ratio for
5 consecutive contract years.''; and
(2) by inserting after paragraph (2), the following:
``(3)(A) For purposes of paragraph (2)(A)(xiv), the medical loss
ratio for an entity with a contract under this subsection shall be
equal to the ratio of--
``(i) the sum of the amount of contract revenue (as
determined in accordance with subparagraph (B)) expended by the
entity--
``(I) for providing medical assistance to
individuals who are eligible under the State plan under
this title or under a waiver of such plan and who are
enrolled with the entity; and
``(II) for quality improvement activities (as
determined in accordance with subparagraph (C)); to
``(ii) the total amount of contract revenue (as determined
in accordance with subparagraph (B)).
``(B) For purposes of subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall by
regulation specify how contract revenue shall be determined with
respect to an entity with a contract with the State under this
subsection and a contract year. The regulations shall provide that the
following shall be disregarded from the determination of contract
revenue for a contract year:
``(i)(I) Only in the case of an entity that is exempt from
Federal income tax, community benefit expenditures made by the
entity (not to exceed the limit described in subclause (II))
and reserve funds (not to exceed the limit described in
subclause (IV)).
``(II) The limit described in this subclause is the amount
equal to 3 percent of the contract revenue for the contract
year or the amount equal to the product of the highest premium
tax rate in the State and the contract revenue, whichever is
greater.
``(III) In this clause, the term `community benefit
expenditures' means expenditures for activities or programs
that seek to achieve the objectives of improving access to
health services, enhancing public health, and relieving
government burden.
``(IV) The limit described in this subclause is the amount
equal to 3 percent of the contract revenue for the contract
year except that an entity that is exempt from Federal income
tax may increase the amount of reserve funds to be disregarded
for a contract year up to a limit that does not exceed the
amount equal to the sum of 3 percent of the contract revenue
for the contract year and the total amount of the reserve funds
disregarded for the 2 preceding contract years or 9 percent of
the contract revenues during such 3-year period, whichever is
greater.
``(ii) Expenditures for providing medical assistance to a
new beneficiary population enrolled with the entity for the
first 2 contract years of such population's enrollment.
``(C)(i) For purposes of subparagraph (A), quality improvement
activities are activities designed to do any of the following:
``(I) To improve health outcomes by implementing activities
such as effective case management, care coordination, quality
reporting, chronic disease management or medication and care
compliance activities.
``(II) To prevent hospital readmissions, including a
comprehensive program for hospital discharge that includes
patient education and counseling, discharge planning, and post-
discharge follow-up by an appropriate health care professional.
``(III) To improve patient safety and reduce medical errors
through the use of best clinical practices, evidence-based
medicine, and health information technology.
``(IV) To implement a significant investment (as defined by
the Secretary and based on a 2-year average of expenditures) in
technology improvements such as through electronic medical
records, telemedicine, and smart phone or tablet technology.
``(V) To implement wellness and health promotion
activities, including programs designed to address the social
determinants of health (as defined in clause (iii)(I)) or to
promote patient engagement (as defined in clause (iii)(II)).
``(ii) For purposes of subparagraph (A), an expenditure only shall
be considered to be an expenditure for a quality improvement activity
if the expenditure satisfies 1 or more of the following requirements:
``(I) The expenditure is designed to improve healthcare
quality.
``(II) The expenditure is designed to increase the
likelihood of desired health outcomes in ways that can be
objectively measured, and that can produce verifiable results
and achievements.
``(III) The expenditure is directed toward individual
enrollees, incurred for specific segments of enrollees, or
provides health improvements to a population beyond the
population enrolled in coverage with the entity so long as no
additional costs are incurred due to the non-enrollees.
``(IV) The expenditure is grounded in evidence based
medicine (including promising practices which, with documented
justification, go beyond the existing evidence base), or widely
accepted best clinical practice, or criteria issued by
recognized professional medical associations, accreditation
bodies, government agencies, or other nationally recognized
health care quality or health improvement organizations.
``(iii)(I) For purposes of clause (i)(IV), the term `social
determinants of health' means conditions in the environments in which
people are born, live, learn, work, play, worship, and age; that affect
a wide range of health, functioning, and quality-of-life outcomes,
risks, patterns of social engagement and sense of security and well-
being, and have a significant influence on population health outcomes.
These conditions include, but are not limited to, safe and affordable
housing, access to education, public safety, availability of healthy
foods, local emergency and local health services, and environments free
of life-threatening toxins.
``(II) For purposes of clause (i)(IV), the term `patient
engagement' means actions individuals must take to obtain the greatest
benefit for the health care services available to them, and through
which process an individual harmonizes robust information and
professional advice with the individual's own needs, preferences and
abilities in order to prevent, manage and cure disease.
``(D) The Secretary may waive the application of a requirement of
this paragraph or of paragraph (2)(A)(xiv) to a Medicaid managed care
organization for not more than 2 years, based on the following:
``(i) The extent to which the organization is likely to
cease offering coverage without the waiver.
``(ii) The number of individuals in the plan likely to be
affected by loss of coverage.
``(iii) The impact of the loss of coverage on the ability
of the beneficiaries to receive coverage under another plan and
to have continuity of care.
``(iv) The impact on the rates calculated for other
Medicaid managed care organizations that would provide coverage
for the beneficiaries that would be affected by the termination
of coverage.
``(v) Upon the request of a Medicaid managed care
organization, to permit implementation of major plan changes
(but only for 1 contract year).
``(vi) Any other relevant information submitted by the
Medicaid managed care organization or the State.''.
(b) Application to Managed Care Plans Under CHIP.--Section
2103(f)(3) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 1397cc(f)(3)) is amended--
(1) by inserting ``subsection (m)(2)(A)(xiv) of section
1903 (relating to minimum medical loss ratio requirements,
except that the minimum medical loss ratio applicable to
managed care organizations under this title shall be .80) and''
after ``application of''; and
(2) by inserting ``other'' before ``requirements for''.
(c) Regulations.--Not later than October 1, 2015, the Secretary of
Health and Human Services shall promulgate regulations implementing the
amendments made by this section. The regulations shall require that
initial test reporting of medical loss ratios by Medicaid managed care
organizations be made not later than October 1, 2016. | Medicaid Managed Care Responsibility and Equity Act - Amends titles XIX (Medicaid) and XXI (Children's Health Insurance) (CHIP) of the Social Security Act (SSA) with respect to managed care requirements. Requires a minimum medical loss ratio of at least 85% for Medicaid and CHIP managed care plans under contracts between a state and a managed medical care entity (health maintenance organization), but a minimum ratio of only 80% for an entity in which at least 10% of the enrollees are optional targeted low-income children. Prescribes administrative penalties for failure to maintain such ratios. Applies the same minimum medical loss ratios to a state child health (CHIP) plan, except for a medical loss ratio of at least 80% for managed care organizations. | billsum_train |
Give a brief overview of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Early Pell Promise Act''.
SEC. 2. EARLY FEDERAL PELL GRANT COMMITMENT PROGRAM.
Subpart 1 of part A of title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965
(20 U.S.C. 1070a et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the
following:
``SEC. 401B. EARLY FEDERAL PELL GRANT COMMITMENT PROGRAM.
``(a) Program Authority.--The Secretary is authorized to carry out
an Early Federal Pell Grant Commitment Program (referred to in this
section as the `Program') under which the Secretary shall--
``(1) award grants to State educational agencies to pay the
administrative expenses incurred in participating in the
Program; and
``(2) make a commitment to award Federal Pell Grants to
eligible students in accordance with this section.
``(b) Program Requirements.--The Program shall meet the following
requirements:
``(1) Eligible students.--
``(A) In general.--A student shall be eligible to
receive a commitment from the Secretary to receive a
Federal Pell Grant early in the student's academic
career if the student--
``(i) is in 8th grade; and
``(ii) is eligible for a free or reduced
price lunch under the Richard B. Russell
National School Lunch Act (42 U.S.C. 1751 et
seq.).
``(2) Federal pell grant commitment.--
``(A) In general.--Except as provided in
subparagraph (B), each eligible student who
participates in the Program shall receive a commitment
from the Secretary to receive a Federal Pell Grant
during the first 2 academic years that the student is
in attendance at an institution of higher education as
an undergraduate student, if the student--
``(i) applies for Federal financial aid
(via the FAFSA) during the student's senior
year of secondary school and during the
succeeding academic year; and
``(ii) enrolls at such institution of
higher education--
``(I) not later than 3 years after
such student receives a secondary
school diploma or its recognized
equivalent; or
``(II) if such student becomes a
member of the Armed Forces (including
the National Guard or Reserves), not
later than 3 years after such student
is discharged, separated, or released
from the Armed Forces (including the
National Guard or Reserves).
``(B) Exception to commitment.--If an eligible
student receives a commitment from the Secretary to
receive a Federal Pell Grant during the first 2
academic years that the student is in attendance at an
institution of higher education as an undergraduate
student and the student applies for Federal financial
aid (via the FAFSA) during the student's senior year of
secondary school or during the succeeding academic
year, and the expected family contribution of the
student for either of such years is more than 2 times
the threshold amount for Federal Pell Grant eligibility
for such year, then such student shall not receive a
Federal Pell Grant under this section for the
succeeding academic year. Such student shall continue
to be eligible for any other Federal student financial
aid for which the student is otherwise eligible.
``(3) Applicability of federal pell grant requirements.--
The requirements of section 401 shall apply to Federal Pell
Grants awarded pursuant to this section, except that with
respect to each eligible student who participates in the
Program and is not subject the exception under paragraph
(2)(B), the amount of each such eligible student's Federal Pell
Grant only shall be calculated by deeming such student to have
an expected family contribution equal to zero.
``(c) State Educational Agency Applications.--
``(1) In general.--Each State educational agency desiring
to participate in the Program shall submit an application to
the Secretary at such time and in such manner as the Secretary
may require.
``(2) Contents.--Each application shall include--
``(A) a description of the proposed targeted
information campaign for the Program and a copy of the
plan described in subsection (e)(2);
``(B) an assurance that the State educational
agency will fully cooperate with the ongoing evaluation
of the Program; and
``(C) such other information as the Secretary may
require.
``(d) Evaluation.--
``(1) In general.--From amounts appropriated under
subsection (f) for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall reserve
not more than $1,000,000 to award a grant or contract to an
organization outside the Department for an independent
evaluation of the impact of the Program.
``(2) Competitive basis.--The grant or contract shall be
awarded on a competitive basis.
``(3) Matters evaluated.--The evaluation described in this
subsection shall consider metrics established by the Secretary
that emphasize college access and success, encouraging low-
income students to pursue higher education, and the cost
effectiveness of the program.
``(4) Dissemination.--The findings of the evaluation shall
be widely disseminated to the public by the organization
conducting the evaluation as well as by the Secretary.
``(e) Targeted Information Campaign.--
``(1) In general.--Each State educational agency receiving
a grant under this section shall, in cooperation with the
participating local educational agencies within the State and
the Secretary, develop a targeted information campaign for the
Program.
``(2) Plan.--Each State educational agency receiving a
grant under this section shall include in the application
submitted under subsection (c) a written plan for their
proposed targeted information campaign. The plan shall include
the following:
``(A) Outreach.--Outreach to students and their
families, at a minimum, at the beginning and end of
each academic year.
``(B) Distribution.--How the State educational
agency plans to provide the outreach described in
subparagraph (A) and to provide the information
described in subparagraph (C).
``(C) Information.--The annual provision by the
State educational agency to all students and families
participating in the Program of information regarding--
``(i) the estimated statewide average
higher education institution cost data for each
academic year, which cost data shall be
disaggregated by--
``(I) type of institution,
including--
``(aa) 2-year public
colleges;
``(bb) 4-year public
colleges;
``(cc) 4-year private
colleges; and
``(dd) private, for-profit
colleges; and
``(II) component, including--
``(aa) tuition and fees;
and
``(bb) room and board;
``(ii) Federal Pell Grants, including--
``(I) the maximum Federal Pell
Grant for each academic year;
``(II) when and how to apply for a
Federal Pell Grant; and
``(III) what the application
process for a Federal Pell Grant
requires;
``(iii) State-specific college savings
programs;
``(iv) State-based financial aid, including
State-based merit aid; and
``(v) Federal financial aid available to
students, including eligibility criteria for
the Federal financial aid and an explanation of
the Federal financial aid programs.
``(3) Annual information.--The information described in
paragraph (2)(C) shall be provided to eligible students
annually for the duration of the students' participation in the
Program.
``(4) Reservation.--Each State educational agency receiving
a grant under this section shall reserve $200,000 of the grant
funds received each fiscal year to carry out the targeted
information campaign described in this subsection.
``(f) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section such sums as may be
necessary.''. | Early Pell Promise Act This bill amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to authorize the Department of Education to carry out a program of grants to state educational agencies under which a student who is in eighth grade and is eligible for a free or reduced price lunch under the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act may be provided a commitment to receive a Federal Pell Grant early in the student's academic career. Pursuant to such a commitment, the student shall receive a Pell Grant during the first two years of attendance at an institution of higher education (IHE) as an undergraduate if the student: files the FAFSA form during the senior year of secondary school and the succeeding year, and enrolls at the IHE not later than three years after receiving a secondary school diploma or after release from the Armed Forces. A student may not receive the early Pell Grant for a succeeding year if the expected family contribution for either year is more than twice the threshold amount for Pell Grant eligibility for that year. | billsum_train |
Create a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``New Fair Deal Consolidating and
Eliminating Outdated Subsidies Act of 2013'' or ``New Fair Deal CEO's
Act of 2013''.
SEC. 2. TABLE OF CONTENTS.
The table of contents of this Act is the following:
Sec. 1. Short title.
Sec. 2. Table of contents.
TITLE I--SUGAR
Sec. 101. Elimination of sugar price support and production adjustment
programs and related sugar corporate
welfare programs.
Sec. 102. Elimination of sugar tariff and over-quota tariff rate.
TITLE II--NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION PROGRAMS
Sec. 201. Termination of NOAA Fishery promotion and development
subsidies.
Sec. 202. Termination of NOAA fisheries finance program.
TITLE III--FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION PROGRAMS
Sec. 301. High-speed rail.
Sec. 302. Railroad rehabilitation and improvement.
Sec. 303. Railroad research and development.
TITLE IV--MARITIME ADMINISTRATION PROGRAMS
Sec. 401. Termination of title IX guaranteed loan program.
Sec. 402. Termination of ocean freight differential subsidies.
TITLE V--APPALACHIAN REGIONAL COMMISSION
Sec. 501. Termination of Appalachian Regional Commission.
TITLE VI--ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION
Sec. 601. Termination of Economic Development Administration.
TITLE VII--GENERAL PROVISIONS
Sec. 701. Conclusion of business.
TITLE I--SUGAR
SEC. 101. ELIMINATION OF SUGAR PRICE SUPPORT AND PRODUCTION ADJUSTMENT
PROGRAMS AND RELATED SUGAR CORPORATE WELFARE PROGRAMS.
(a) Repeal of Sugar Price Support Authority.--Section 156 of the
Federal Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act of 1996 (7 U.S.C. 7272)
is repealed.
(b) Termination of Marketing Quotas and Allotments.--
(1) In general.--Part VII of subtitle B of title III of the
Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938 (7 U.S.C. 1359aa et seq.)
is repealed.
(2) Conforming amendment.--Section 344(f)(2) of the
Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938 (7 U.S.C. 1344(f)(2)) is
amended by striking ``sugar cane for sugar, sugar beets for
sugar,''.
(c) Exclusion of Sugar From General USDA Price Support Powers.--
(1) Section 32 activities.--Section 32 of the Act of August
24, 1935 (7 U.S.C. 612c) is amended in the second sentence of
the first paragraph--
(A) in paragraph (1), by inserting ``(other than
sugar beets and sugarcane)'' after ``commodities''; and
(B) in paragraph (3), by inserting ``(other than
sugar beets and sugarcane)'' after ``commodity''.
(2) Powers of commodity credit corporation.--Section 5(a)
of the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act (15 U.S.C.
714c(a)) is amended by inserting ``, sugar beets, and
sugarcane'' after ``tobacco''.
(3) Price support for nonbasic agricultural commodities.--
Section 201(a) of the Agricultural Act of 1949 (7 U.S.C.
1446(a)) is amended by striking ``milk, sugar beets, and
sugarcane'' and inserting ``, and milk''.
(4) Commodity credit corporation storage payments.--Section
167 of the Federal Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act of
1996 (7 U.S.C. 7287) is repealed.
(5) Storage facility loans.--Section 1402(c) of the Farm
Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 (7 U.S.C. 7971(c)) is
repealed.
(6) Feedstock flexibility program for bioenergy
producers.--Section 9010 of the Farm Security and Rural
Investment Act of 2002 (7 U.S.C. 8110) is repealed.
(d) Implementation and Transition Provisions.--
(1) In general.--Notwithstanding any other provision of
law--
(A) a processor of any of the 2013 or subsequent
crops of sugarcane or sugar beets shall not be eligible
for a loan under any provision of law with respect to
the crop; and
(B) the Secretary of Agriculture may not make price
support available, whether in the form of a loan,
payment, purchase, or other operation, for any of the
2013 and subsequent crops of sugar beets and sugarcane
by using the funds of the Commodity Credit Corporation
or other funds available to the Secretary.
(2) Continued liability.--This section and the amendments
made by this section shall not affect the liability of any
person under any provision of law as in effect before the
application of this section and the amendments made by this
section.
SEC. 102. ELIMINATION OF SUGAR TARIFF AND OVER-QUOTA TARIFF RATE.
(a) Elimination of Tariff on Raw Cane Sugar.--Chapter 17 of the
Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States is amended by striking
subheadings 1701.13 through 1701.13.50 and subheadings 1701.14 through
1701.14.50 and inserting in numerical sequence the following new
subheading, with the article description for such subheading having the
same degree of indentation as the article description for subheading
1701.13, as in effect on the day before the date of the enactment of
this section:
`` 1701. 13.00 Cane sugar......... Free ................... 39.85 cents/kg ''.
(b) Elimination of Tariff on Beet Sugar.--Chapter 17 of the
Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States is amended by striking
subheadings 1701.12 through 1701.12.50 and inserting in numerical
sequence the following new subheading, with the article description for
such subheading having the same degree of indentation as the article
description for subheading 1701.12, as in effect on the day before the
date of the enactment of this section:
`` 1701.12.00 Beet sugar......... Free ................... 42.05 cents/kg ''
.
(c) Elimination of Tariff on Certain Refined Sugar.--Chapter 17 of
the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States is amended--
(1) by striking the superior text immediately preceding
subheading 1701.91.05 and by striking subheadings 1701.91.05
through 1701.91.80 and inserting in numerical sequence the
following new subheading, with the article description for such
subheading having the same degree of indentation as the article
description for subheading 1701.13.05, as in effect on the day
before the date of the enactment of this section:
`` 1701.91.02 Containing added Free ................... 42.05 cents/kg ''
coloring but not ;
containing added
flavoring matter..
(2) by striking subheadings 1701.99 through 1701.99.50 and
inserting in numerical sequence the following new subheading,
with the article description for such subheading having the
same degree of indentation as the article description for
subheading 1701.99, as in effect on the day before the date of
the enactment of this section:
`` 1701.99.00 Other.............. Free ................... 42.05 cents/kg ''
;
(3) by striking the superior text immediately preceding
subheading 1702.90.05 and by striking subheadings 1702.90.05
through 1702.90.20 and inserting in numerical sequence the
following new subheading, with the article description for such
subheading having the same degree of indentation as the article
description for subheading 1702.60.22:
`` 1702.90.02 Containing soluble Free 42.05 cents/kg ''
non-sugar solids ;
(excluding any
foreign
substances,
including but not
limited to
molasses, that may
have been added to
or developed in
the product) equal
to 6 percent or
less by weight of
the total soluble
solids............
and
(4) by striking the superior text immediately preceding
subheading 2106.90.42 and by striking subheadings 2106.90.42
through 2106.90.46 and inserting in numerical sequence the
following new subheading, with the article description for such
subheading having the same degree of indentation as the article
description for subheading 2106.90.39:
`` 2106.90.40 Syrups derived from Free 42.50 cents/kg ''
cane or beet .
sugar, containing
added coloring but
not added
flavoring matter..
(d) Conforming Amendments.--Chapter 17 of the Harmonized Tariff
Schedule of the United States is amended by striking additional U.S.
notes 5, 7, 8, and 9.
(e) Administration of Tariff-Rate Quotas.--Section 404(d)(1) of the
Uruguay Round Agreements Act (19 U.S.C. 3601(d)(1)) is amended--
(1) by inserting ``or'' at the end of subparagraph (B);
(2) by striking ``; or'' at the end of subparagraph (C) and
inserting a period; and
(3) by striking subparagraph (D).
(f) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section apply with
respect to goods entered, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption,
on or after the 15th day after the date of the enactment of this Act.
TITLE II--NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION PROGRAMS
SEC. 201. TERMINATION OF NOAA FISHERY PROMOTION AND DEVELOPMENT
SUBSIDIES.
Title II of the Fish and Seafood Promotion Act of 1986 (16 U.S.C.
4001 et seq.) is repealed.
SEC. 202. TERMINATION OF NOAA FISHERIES FINANCE PROGRAM.
(a) Termination.--Section 53702(b) of title 46, United States Code,
is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(3) Termination of fishery loan program.--No obligation
involving a fishing vessel, fishery facility, aquaculture
facility, individual fishing quota, or fishing capacity
reduction program may be issued or guaranteed under this
chapter after the date of this paragraph.''.
TITLE III--FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION PROGRAMS
SEC. 301. HIGH-SPEED RAIL.
Chapter 261 of title 49, United States Code, is repealed.
SEC. 302. RAILROAD REHABILITATION AND IMPROVEMENT.
Title V of the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of
1976 (45 U.S.C. 821, et seq.) is repealed.
SEC. 303. RAILROAD RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT.
Section 20108(a) and (b), and section 20117(d) and (e), of title
49, United States Code, are repealed.
TITLE IV--MARITIME ADMINISTRATION PROGRAMS
SEC. 401. TERMINATION OF TITLE IX GUARANTEED LOAN PROGRAM.
(a) Repeal.--Chapter 537 of title 46, United States Code, is
repealed.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis at the beginning of subtitle
V of such title is amended by striking the item relating to such
chapter.
(c) Conforming Amendments.--Such title is further amended--
(1) in section 31308, by inserting ``as in effect before
the date of the enactment of the New Fair Deal Consolidating
and Eliminating Outdated Subsidies Act of 2013,'' after
``chapter 537 of this title,'';
(2) in section 31326(b), by inserting ``as in effect before
the date of the enactment of the New Fair Deal Consolidating
and Eliminating Outdated Subsidies Act of 2013,'' after
``chapter 537 of this title,'' each place it appears;
(3) in section 51704(b), by inserting ``as in effect before
the date of the enactment of the New Fair Deal Consolidating
and Eliminating Outdated Subsidies Act of 2013,'' after
``chapter 537 of this title,'';
(4) in section 553301(a)(2), by inserting ``as in effect
before the date of the enactment of the New Fair Deal
Consolidating and Eliminating Outdated Subsidies Act of 2013,''
after ``chapter 537 of this title,''; and
(5) in section 57101(b), by inserting ``(as in effect
before the date of the enactment of the New Fair Deal
Consolidating and Eliminating Outdated Subsidies Act of 2013)''
after ``537''.
SEC. 402. TERMINATION OF OCEAN FREIGHT DIFFERENTIAL SUBSIDIES.
(a) Repeal.--Sections 55316 and 55317 of title 46, United States
Code, are repealed.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis at the beginning of chapter
553 of such title is amended by striking the item relating to such
sections.
TITLE V--APPALACHIAN REGIONAL COMMISSION
SEC. 501. TERMINATION OF APPALACHIAN REGIONAL COMMISSION.
(a) Termination.--The Appalachian Regional Commission is
terminated.
(b) Repeal.--Subtitle IV of title 40, United States Code, is
repealed.
TITLE VI--ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION
SEC. 601. TERMINATION OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION.
(a) Termination.--The Economic Development Administration is
terminated.
(b) Repeal.--The Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965
(42 U.S.C. 3121 et seq.) is repealed.
TITLE VII--GENERAL PROVISIONS
SEC. 701. CONCLUSION OF BUSINESS.
(a) Conclusion of Business.--The President shall take such actions
as may be necessary and appropriate to conclude the outstanding affairs
of each program and activity terminated by this Act and the amendments
made by this Act.
(b) Limitation on Statutory Construction.--This section may not be
construed to prevent the expenditure of any funds received under any
program or activity terminated by this Act and the amendments made by
this Act. Such funds shall be subject to the laws and regulations that
would have applied to the funds if this Act had not been enacted. | New Fair Deal Consolidating and Eliminating Outdated Subsidies Act of 2013 or New Fair Deal CEO's Act of 2013 - Amends the Federal Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act of 1996 to repeal the sugar price support and production adjustment programs, and terminate sugar marketing quotas and allotments. Eliminates tariffs on: (1) raw sugar cane, (2) beet sugar, and (3) certain refined sugar. Repeals the Fish and Seafood Promotion Act of 1986. Amends federal shipping law to terminate the authority of the Secretary of Commerce or the Administrator of the Maritime Administration to guarantee the payment of principal and interest on direct loans for fisheries. Repeals: (1) the high-speed rail corridor development program, (2) the authority of the Secretary of Transportation (DOT) (Secretary) under the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 to provide direct loans and loan guarantees for railroad rehabilitation and improvement projects, and (3) the Secretary's authority to carry out railroad safety research and development programs. Repeals the Maritime Guaranteed Loan Program. Repeals the Secretary's authority to reimburse (subsidize) the Secretary of Agriculture and the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) for increased ocean freight and ocean freight differential transportation charges incurred in the export of agricultural commodities and their products. Terminates: (1) the Appalachian Regional Commission, and (2) the Economic Development Administration (EDA) of the Department of Commerce. Repeals the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965. Requires the President to take necessary action to conclude the outstanding affairs of each program and activity terminated by this Act. | billsum_train |
Condense the following text into a summary: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Promoting Access, Competition, and
Equity Act of 2015'' or as the ``PACE Act of 2015''.
SEC. 2. CONFIRMING METHODOLOGY FOR HOSPITAL STAR RATING SYSTEM THROUGH
HOSPITAL COMPARE.
Section 1886(b)(3)(B)(viii) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C.
1395ww(b)(3)(B)(viii)) is amended by adding at the end the following
new subclause:
``(XII) In order to ensure consistent longitudinal comparisons
among calendar quarters that began before October 1, 2019, the
Secretary shall use the same methodology as is in effect as of April
16, 2015, for computation of the star rating for hospitals posted on
the Internet website maintained by the Secretary under subclause (VII)
for such calendar quarters. The Secretary may promulgate a regulation
to change such methodology used with respect to the computation of such
star rating for hospitals for calendar quarters beginning on or after
October 1, 2019.''.
SEC. 3. REVISED CRITERIA FOR APPLICATION AND EXCEPTIONS TO MORATORIUM
ON EXPANSION AND CONSTRUCTION OF PHYSICIAN-OWNED
HOSPITALS.
(a) Temporary Suspension of Limitation on Hospitals That Can Apply
for Facility Expansions.--Section 1877(i)(3) of the Social Security Act
(42 U.S.C. 1395nn(i)(3)) is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (E), by adding at the end, after clause
(v), the following:
``With respect to applications filed under this
paragraph during the period beginning on the date of
the enactment of this sentence and ending on September
30, 2019, such term includes any hospital (other than a
high Medicaid facility).''; and
(2) in subparagraph (B), by inserting before the period at
the end the following: ``, except that such limitation shall
not apply with respect to applications filed before October 1,
2019''.
(b) Application of Hospital Expansion Exception to Hospitals With
Consistently High Quality Ratings.--Section 1877(i)(3) of the Social
Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395nn(i)(3)) is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (A)(i), by striking ``or is a high
Medicaid facility described in subparagraph (F)'' and inserting
``, is a high Medicaid facility described in subparagraph (F),
or is a hospital with a consistently high quality rating (as
defined in subparagraph (H))'';
(2) in subparagraph (E), by adding at the end, after the
matter added by subsection (a)(1), the following:
``Such term includes, with respect to subparagraphs (B)
through (D), a hospital with a consistently high
quality rating.''; and
(3) by adding at the end, as amended by subsection (d), the
following new subparagraph:
``(H) Hospital with a consistently high quality
rating defined.--In this paragraph, the term `hospital
with a consistently high quality rating', with respect
to a calendar quarter (beginning on or after October 1,
2019), means a hospital that has had a rating of 3
stars or higher under the hospital star rating system
posted on the Internet website maintained by the
Secretary under section 1886(b)(3)(B)(viii)(VII) for
each of the 12 calendar quarters before the calendar
quarter involved.''.
(c) Exception and Special Rules for Certain Hospitals Under
Development as of March 23, 2010.--Section 1877 of the Social Security
Act (42 U.S.C. 1395nn) is amended--
(1) in subsection (d)(3)(D), by inserting before the period
at the end the following: ``or, in the case of a hospital under
development as of March 23, 2010 (as defined in paragraph
(7)(A)), meets such requirements as of the under development
effective date (as defined in subsection (i)(7)(B))''; and
(2) in subsection (i)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by adding at the end the
following new subparagraph:
``(G) Special timing rule for hospitals under
development as of march 23, 2010.--In applying this
paragraph to a hospital under development as of March
23, 2010 (as defined in paragraph (7)(A)), any
reference in this paragraph to the date of enactment of
this subsection or to December 31, 2010, shall be
deemed to be a reference to May 1, 2015.'';
(B) in paragraph (3)(C)(iii), by striking
``provider agreement).'' and inserting ``provider
agreement, or, in the case of a hospital under
development as of March 23, 2010 (as defined in
paragraph (7)(A)), May 1, 2015).''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following new
paragraph:
``(7) Definitions relating to certain hospitals under
development.--In this subsection:
``(A) Hospital under development as of march 23,
2010.--The term `hospital under development as of March
23, 2010' means a hospital that--
``(i) has a binding written agreement with
an outside, unrelated party for the actual
construction, renovation, lease, or demolition
for a hospital under section 1886(d), and has
expended, before March 23, 2010, at least 10
percent of the estimated cost of the project
(or, if less, $2,500,000); or
``(ii) has obtained an approved certificate
of need in a State where one is required on or
before March 23, 2010.
Such term includes, with respect to such a hospital,
any facility expansion of the hospital that is
completed before the under development effective date.
``(B) Under development effective date.--The term
`under development effective date' means the date that
is 6 months after the date of the enactment of this
paragraph.''.
(d) Change in Processing of Applications and Elimination of Appeals
Limitation.--Section 1877(i)(3) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C.
1305nn(i)(3)) is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (A), by striking clauses (ii) through
(iv) and inserting the following:
``(ii) Deemed receipt of complete
application and approval of application.--
Unless the Secretary otherwise determines, an
application submitted under this subparagraph
shall be deemed complete as of the date that is
30 days after the date the Secretary receives
the complete application. Not later than 60
days after the receipt of such a complete
application, the Secretary shall publish a
notice of the receipt of the application and a
description of the expansion planned in the
application. A complete application shall be
deemed approved by the Secretary as of the end
of the 60-day period beginning on the date of
the Secretary's receipt of the application
unless the Secretary provides the applicant
with a notice of disapproval of the application
before the end of such period.''; and
(2) by striking subparagraphs (H) and (I).
(e) Effective Date.--Except as otherwise provided, the amendments
made by this section shall take effect on the date of the enactment of
this Act and shall apply to applications made after the date of the
enactment of this Act.
SEC. 4. SAVINGS FROM PHYSICIAN-OWNED HOSPITALS.
(a) Documentation and Coding Adjustments Not Applicable.--Section
7(b)(1)(B)(iii) of the TMA, Abstinence Education, and QI Programs
Extension Act of 2007 (Public Law 110-90), as added amended by section
414(1)(B)(iii) of the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act of
2015 (Public Law 114-10), is amended by inserting before the period at
the end the following: ``, except that this clause shall not apply in
the case of a hospital that'' ``, except that this clause shall not
apply in the case of a hospital in which physicians (or immediate
family members of physicians) have a substantial ownership or
investment interest in the hospital (as determined under rules
established by the Secretary)''.
(b) Extension of Reductions in Market Basket Increases.--Section
1886(b)(3)(B)(xii) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C.
1395ww(b)(3)(B)(xii)) is amended--
(1) by striking ``and'' at the end of subclause (IV);
(2) by striking the period at the end of subclause (V) and
inserting ``; and''; and
(3) by inserting after subclause (V) the following new
subclause:
``(VI) for each of fiscal years 2020 through 2025, by 0.75
percentage point, but only with respect to a hospital and
fiscal year for which the Secretary determines that physicians
(or immediate family members of physicians) have a substantial
ownership or investment interest in the hospital (as determined
under rules established by the Secretary).''. | Promoting Access, Competition, and Equity Act of 2015 or the PACE Act of 2015 This bill amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to ease application criteria and procedures for physician-owned hospitals to expand their facilities. Under current law, expansion of physician-owned hospitals is subject to certain limitations, such as those regarding the extent and frequency of expansion and requiring community output. The bill suspends these limitations with respect to applications for expansion filed before October 1, 2019. Following the end of this suspension period, hospitals with consistently high quality ratings are included among those hospitals that may apply to expand their facilities. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services may not alter the methodology for computing a hospital's quality rating before October 1, 2019. With respect to hospitals under development as of March 23, 2010, the bill extends to May 1, 2015, the date by which a hospital may qualify for an exception to the ownership or investment prohibition on physician self-referrals. The bill also: (1) exempts physician-owned hospitals from specified documentation and coding adjustments, and (2) extends reductions in certain inflationary increases associated with Medicare payments for inpatient hospital services. | billsum_train |
Provide a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Affordable College Textbook Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) The high cost of college textbooks continues to be a
barrier for many students in achieving higher education.
(2) According to the College Board, during the 2012-2013
academic year, the average student budget for college books and
supplies was $1,200.
(3) The Government Accountability Office found that new
textbook prices increased 82 percent over the last decade and
that although Federal efforts to increase price transparency
have provided students and families with more and better
information, more must be done to address rising costs.
(4) The growth of the Internet has enabled the creation and
sharing of digital content, including open educational
resources that can be freely used by students, teachers, and
members of the public.
(5) Using open educational resources in place of
traditional materials in large-enrollment college courses can
reduce textbook costs by 80 to 100 percent.
(6) Federal investment in expanding the use of open
educational resources could significantly lower college
textbook costs and reduce financial barriers to higher
education, while making efficient use of taxpayer funds.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Educational resource.--The term ``educational
resource'' means an educational material that can be used in
postsecondary instruction, including textbooks and other
written or audiovisual works.
(2) Institution of higher education.--The term
``institution of higher education'' has the meaning given the
term in section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20
U.S.C. 1001).
(3) Open educational resource.--The term ``open educational
resource'' means an educational resource that is licensed under
an open license and made freely available online to the public.
(4) Open license.--The term ``open license'' means a
worldwide, royalty-free, non-exclusive, perpetual, irrevocable
copyright license granting the public permission to access,
reproduce, publicly perform, publicly display, adapt,
distribute, and otherwise use the work and adaptations of the
work for any purpose, conditioned only on the requirement that
attribution be given to authors as designated.
(5) Open textbook.--The term ``open textbook'' means an
open educational resource or set of open educational resources
that either is a textbook or can be used in place of a textbook
for a postsecondary course at an institution of higher
education.
(6) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of Education.
SEC. 4. GRANT PROGRAM.
(a) Grants Authorized.--From the amounts appropriated under
subsection (i), the Secretary shall make grants, on a competitive
basis, to eligible entities to support pilot programs that expand the
use of open textbooks in order to achieve savings for students.
(b) Eligible Entity.--In this section, the term ``eligible entity''
means an institution of higher education or group of institutions of
higher education.
(c) Applications.--
(1) In general.--Each eligible entity desiring a grant
under this section, after consultation with relevant faculty
(including those engaged in the creation of open educational
resources), shall submit an application to the Secretary at
such time, in such manner, and accompanied by such information
as the Secretary may reasonably require.
(2) Contents.--Each application submitted under paragraph
(1) shall include a description of the project to be completed
with grant funds and--
(A) a plan for promoting and tracking the use of
open textbooks in postsecondary courses offered by the
eligible entity, including an estimate of the projected
savings that will be achieved for students;
(B) a plan for evaluating, before creating new open
educational resources, whether existing open
educational resources could be used or adapted for the
same purpose;
(C) a plan for quality review and review of
accuracy of any open educational resources to be
created or adapted through the grant;
(D) a plan for disseminating information about the
results of the project to institutions of higher
education outside of the eligible entity, including
promoting the adoption of any open textbooks created or
adapted through the grant; and
(E) a statement on consultation with relevant
faculty, including those engaged in the creation of
open educational resources, in the development of the
application.
(d) Special Consideration.--In awarding grants under this section,
the Secretary shall give special consideration to applications that
demonstrate the greatest potential to--
(1) achieve the highest level of savings for students
through sustainable expanded use of open textbooks in
postsecondary courses offered by the eligible entity;
(2) expand the use of open textbooks at institutions of
higher education outside of the eligible entity; and
(3) produce--
(A) the highest quality open textbooks;
(B) open textbooks that can be most easily utilized
and adapted by faculty members at institutions of
higher education;
(C) open textbooks that correspond to the highest
enrollment courses at institutions of higher education;
and
(D) open textbooks created or adapted in
partnership with entities, including campus bookstores,
that will assist in marketing and distribution of the
open textbook.
(e) Use of Funds.--An eligible entity that receives a grant under
this section shall use the grant funds to carry out any of the
following activities to expand the use of open textbooks:
(1) Professional development for faculty and staff members
at institutions of higher education, including the search for
and review of open textbooks.
(2) Creation or adaptation of open educational resources,
especially open textbooks.
(3) Development or improvement of tools and informational
resources that support the use of open textbooks.
(4) Research evaluating the efficacy of the use of open
textbooks for achieving savings for students.
(5) Partnerships with other entities, including other
institutions of higher education, for-profit organizations, or
nonprofit organizations, to carry out any of the activities
described in paragraphs (1) through (4).
(f) License.--Educational resources created or adapted under
subsection (e) shall be licensed under an open license.
(g) Access and Distribution.--The full and complete digital content
of each educational resource created or adapted under subsection (e)
shall be made available free of charge to the public--
(1) on an easily accessible and interoperable website,
which shall be identified to the Secretary by the eligible
entity; and
(2) in a machine readable, digital format that anyone can
directly download, edit, and redistribute.
(h) Report.--Upon an eligible entity's completion of a project
supported under this section, the eligible entity shall prepare and
submit a report to the Secretary regarding--
(1) the effectiveness of the pilot program in expanding the
use of open textbooks and in achieving savings for students;
(2) the impact of the pilot program on expanding the use of
open textbooks at institutions of higher education outside of
the eligible entity;
(3) educational resources created or adapted under the
grant, including instructions on where the public can access
each educational resource under the terms of subsection (g);
and
(4) all project costs, including the value of any volunteer
labor and institutional capital used for the project.
(i) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out this section for
each of the 5 succeeding fiscal years after the enactment of this Act.
SEC. 5. PRICE INFORMATION.
Section 133(b) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
1015b(b)) is amended--
(1) by striking paragraph (6); and
(2) in paragraph (9);
(A) by striking subparagraphs (A) and (B); and
(B) by striking ``a college textbook that--'' and
inserting ``a college textbook that may include printed
materials, computer disks, website access, and
electronically distributed materials.''.
SEC. 6. SENSE OF CONGRESS.
It is the sense of Congress that institutions of higher education
should encourage the consideration of open textbooks by faculty within
the generally accepted principles of academic freedom that establishes
the right and responsibility of faculty members, individually and
collectively, to select course materials that are pedagogically most
appropriate for their classes.
SEC. 7. REPORT TO CONGRESS.
Not later than July 1, 2016, the Secretary shall prepare and submit
a report to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of
the Senate and the Committee on Education and the Workforce of the
House of Representatives detailing--
(1) the open textbooks created or adapted under this Act;
(2) the adoption of such open textbooks; and
(3) the savings generated for students, States, and the
Federal Government through the use of open textbooks.
SEC. 8. GAO REPORT.
Not later than July 1, 2017, the Comptroller General of the United
States shall prepare and submit a report to the Committee on Health,
Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate and the Committee on
Education and the Workforce of the House of Representatives on the cost
of textbooks to students at institutions of higher education. The
report shall particularly examine--
(1) the change of the cost of textbooks;
(2) the factors that have contributed to the change of the
cost of textbooks;
(3) the extent to which open textbooks are used at
institutions of higher education; and
(4) the impact of open textbooks on the cost of textbooks. | Affordable College Textbook Act - Directs the Secretary of Education to make competitive grants to institutions of higher education (IHEs) to support pilot programs that expand the use of open textbooks in order to achieve savings for students. Requires the grants to be used for: professional development for IHE faculty and staff, including the search for and review of open textbooks; the creation or adaptation of open educational resources, especially open textbooks; the development or improvement of tools and informational resources that support the use of open textbooks; research evaluating the efficacy of using open textbooks to achieve savings for students; and partnerships with other entities to carry out the preceding activities. Requires the full and complete digital content of the educational resources created or adopted using such grant funds to be made available free of charge to the public: (1) on an easily accessible and interoperable website; and (2) in a machine readable, digital format that anyone can directly download, edit, and redistribute. Directs the Secretary to give special consideration to grant applicants that demonstrate the greatest potential to: achieve the highest level of savings for students; expand the use of open textbooks at other IHEs; and produce open textbooks that are of the highest quality, that can be most easily utilized and adapted by faculty members, that correspond to the highest enrollment courses, and that are created or adopted in partnership with entities that will assist in their marketing and distribution. Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to include any educational material developed to accompany a college textbook as supplemental material that is subject to college textbook information disclosure requirements. Expresses the sense of Congress that IHEs should encourage the consideration of open textbooks by faculty within the generally accepted principles of academic freedom that establish the right and responsibility of faculty members to select the most appropriate course materials for their classes. | billsum_train |
Create a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Social Security Disability Waiting
Period Elimination Act of 1993''.
SEC. 2. ELIMINATION OF 5-MONTH WAITING PERIOD FOR BENEFITS BASED ON
DISABILITY.
(a) Disability Insurance Benefits.--
(1) In general.--The first sentence of section 223(a)(1) of
the Social Security Act is amended by striking ``(i) for each
month'' and all that follows through ``the first month in which
he is under such disability'' and inserting the following:
``for each month beginning with the first month during all of
which such individual is under a disability and in which such
individual becomes so entitled to such insurance benefits''.
(2) Waiting period eliminated from determination of benefit
amount.--
(A) In general.--The first sentence of section
223(a)(2) of such Act is amended by striking ``in--''
and all that follows through ``and as though'' and
inserting the following: ``in the first month for which
such individual becomes entitled to such disability
insurance benefits, and as though''.
(B) Conforming amendment.--The second sentence of
section 223(a)(2) of such Act is amended by striking
``subparagraph (A) or (B) of such sentence, as the case
may be'' and inserting ``such sentence''.
(3) Elimination of defined term.--
(A) In general.--Section 223(c)(2) of such Act is
repealed.
(B) Conforming amendments.--
(i) The heading of section 223(c) of such
Act is amended to read as follows:
``Definition of Insured Status''.
(ii) Section 223(c)(1) of such Act is
amended by striking ``For purposes of
subparagraph (B) of this paragraph, when the
number of quarters'' in the last sentence and
inserting the following:
``(2) In applying paragraph (1)(B), when the number of
quarters''.
(b) Widow's Insurance Benefits Based on Disability.--
(1) In general.--Section 202(e)(1)(F) of such Act is
amended to read as follows:
``(F) if she satisfies subparagraph (B) by reason of clause
(ii) thereof, the first month during all of which she is under
a disability and in which she becomes so entitled to such
insurance benefits,''.
(2) Elimination of defined term.--Section 202(e) of such
Act is amended--
(A) by striking paragraph (5); and
(B) by redesignating paragraphs (6), (7), (8), and
(9) as paragraphs (5), (6), (7), and (8), respectively.
(c) Widower's Insurance Benefits Based on Disability.--
(1) In general.--Section 202(f)(1)(F) of such Act is
amended to read as follows:
``(F) if he satisfies subparagraph (B) by reason of clause
(ii) thereof, the first month during all of which he is under a
disability and in which he becomes so entitled to such
insurance benefits,''.
(2) Elimination of defined term.--Section 202(f) of such
Act is amended--
(A) by striking paragraph (6); and
(B) by redesignating paragraphs (7), (8), and (9)
as paragraphs (6), (7), and (8), respectively.
SEC. 3. ELIMINATION OF WAITING PERIOD FOR COMMENCEMENT OF PERIODS OF
DISABILITY.
Section 216(i)(2)(A) of the Social Security Act is amended by
striking ``, but only'' and all that follows and inserting a period.
SEC. 4. ELIMINATION OF WAITING PERIOD FOR MEDICARE DISABILITY BENEFITS.
(a) In General.--Section 226(b) of the Social Security Act is
amended--
(1) in paragraph (2)(A), by striking ``, and has for 24
calendar months been entitled to,'';
(2) in paragraph (2)(B), by striking ``, and has been for
not less than 24 months,'';
(3) in paragraph (2)(C)(ii), by striking ``, including the
requirement that he has been entitled to the specified benefits
for 24 months,'';
(4) in the first sentence, by striking ``for each month
beginning with the later of (I) July 1973 or (II) the twenty-
fifth month of his entitlement or status as a qualified
railroad retirement beneficiary described in paragraph (2),
and'' and inserting ``for each month for which he satisfies
paragraph (2), beginning with the first month in which he
satisfies such paragraph, and'';
(5) in the second sentence, by striking ``the ``twenty-
fifth month'' and all that follows through ``paragraph (2)(C)
and''; and
(6) in the third sentence, by striking ``, but not in
excess of 24 such months''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--
(1) Section 226.--Section 226 of the Social Security Act is
amended by striking subsection (f).
(2) Medicare description.--Section 1811(2) of such Act is
amended by striking ``have been entitled for not less than 24
months'' and inserting ``are entitled''.
(3) Medicare coverage.--Section 1837(g)(1) of such Act is
amended by striking ``25th month'' and inserting ``first
month''.
(4) Railroad retirement system.--Section 7(d)(2)(ii) of the
Railroad Retirement Act of 1974 is amended--
(A) by striking ``has been entitled to an annuity''
and inserting ``is entitled to an annuity'';
(B) by striking ``, for not less than 24 months'';
and
(C) by striking ``could have been entitled for 24
calendar months, and''.
SEC. 5. EFFECTIVE DATES.
(a) Section 2.--The amendments made by subsection (a) of section 2
of this Act shall apply only with respect to benefits under section 223
of the Social Security Act, or under section 202 of such Act on the
basis of the wages and self-employment income of an individual entitled
to benefits under such section 223, for months after the third month
following the month in which this Act is enacted. The amendments made
by subsections (b) and (c) of section 2 of this Act shall apply only
with respect to benefits based on disability under section 202 (e) or
(f) of the Social Security Act for months after the third month
following the month in which this Act is enacted.
(b) Section 3.--The amendment made by section 3 of this Act shall
apply only with respect to applications for disability determinations
filed under title II of the Social Security Act on or after the 90th
day following the date of the enactment of this Act.
(c) Section 4.--The amendments made by section 4 shall apply to
insurance benefits under title XVIII of the Social Security Act with
respect to items and services furnished in months beginning at least 90
days after the date of the enactment of this Act. | Social Security Disability Waiting Period Elimination Act of 1993 - Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act to eliminate the five-month waiting period which is a prerequisite of eligibility for widow's or widower's insurance benefits on the basis of a disability and for disability insurance benefits. Eliminates the 24-month waiting period required before individuals may become eligible for hospital insurance benefits under part A (Hospital Insurance) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Act on the basis of their entitlement to disability benefits under title II of the Act. | billsum_train |
Provide a condensed version of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Comprehensive Veterans' Data
Protection and Identity Theft Prevention Act of 2006''.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
For purposes of this Act, the following definitions shall apply:
(1) Data breach.--The term ``data breach'' means the
unauthorized acquisition or use of data in electronic or
printed form containing sensitive personal information,
including information compromised with respect to the theft of
data first publicly reported on May 22, 2006.
(2) Data in electronic form.--The term ``data in electronic
form'' means any data stored electronically or digitally on any
computer system or database and includes recordable tapes and
other mass storage devices.
(3) Department.--The term ``Department'' means the
Department of Veterans Affairs.
(4) Encryption.--The term ``encryption'' means the
protection of data in electronic form in storage or transit
using an encryption technology that has been adopted by an
established standards setting body which renders such data
indecipherable in the absence of associated cryptographic keys
necessary to enable decryption of such data, together with
appropriate management and safeguards of such keys to protect
the integrity of the encryption.
(5) Nationwide consumer reporting agency.--The term
``nationwide consumer reporting agency'' means a consumer
reporting agency described in section 603(p) of the Fair Credit
Reporting Act.
(6) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of Veterans Affairs.
(7) Sensitive personal information.--The term ``sensitive
personal information'' means the name, address, or telephone
number of a veteran or other individual, in combination with
any of the following:
(A) Social Security number.
(B) Any information not available as part of the
public record regarding the veteran or other
individual's military service or health.
(C) Any financial account or other financial
information relating to the veteran or other person.
SEC. 3. PROTECTION OF SENSITIVE PERSONAL INFORMATION OF VETERANS.
(a) Affirmative Obligation.--The Secretary shall have an
affirmative obligation to protect from any data breach the sensitive
personal information of veterans and any other individuals that the
Department (or any third-party entity acting on behalf of the
Department) possesses, creates, or maintains as well as any information
or tools, including passwords or cryptographic keys used to protect the
integrity of encrypted data, used to access sensitive personal
information maintained independently by others.
(b) Security Policies and Procedures.--The Secretary shall
implement and maintain reasonable policies and procedures to protect
the security and confidentiality of sensitive personal information
relating to any veteran or other individual that is maintained,
serviced, or communicated by or on behalf of the Department against any
unauthorized access.
(c) Policies and Procedures Regarding Access and Use.--The
Secretary, by regulation, shall prescribe policies and procedures
regarding employee and third party access to, and use of, sensitive
personal information as well as the protection of such sensitive
personal information, which the Department receives, maintains, or
transmits. Such policies and procedures shall be issued before the end
of the 90-day period beginning on the date of the enactment of this
Act.
(d) System Restoration Requirements.--If the Secretary determines
that a data breach has occurred, is likely to have occurred, or is
unavoidable, the Secretary shall take prompt and reasonable measures
to--
(1) repair the breach and restore the security and
confidentiality of the sensitive personal information involved
to limit further unauthorized misuse of such information; and
(2) restore the integrity of the data security safeguards
of the Department and make appropriate improvements to the data
security, and the access and use, policies and procedures
issued under subsections (b) and (c).
(e) Third Party Duties.--
(1) Coordinated investigation.--Whenever any third party
handling sensitive personal information for or on behalf of the
Department determines that a data breach has occurred, is
likely to have occurred, or is unavoidable, with respect to
such information, the third party shall--
(A) promptly notify the Department of such
determination;
(B) conduct a coordinated investigation with the
Department to determine the full scope of any such data
breach; and
(C) ensure that the appropriate notices are
provided as required under section 4 of this Act.
(2) Contractual obligation required.--The Secretary shall
not provide sensitive personal information to a third party
unless such third party agrees to fulfill the obligations
imposed by sections 4, 5, and 6 of this Act.
(3) Liability for costs.--Except as otherwise established
by written agreements between the Department and any third
party, a third party that suffers a data breach shall be
responsible for all costs associated with complying with this
Act, as well as other costs related to such a breach, including
any damages relating to such a breach.
SEC. 4. NOTIFICATION OF DATA BREACH.
(a) Notification.--Upon discovery of a data breach, the Secretary
shall--
(1) notify the United States Secret Service, the Inspector
General for the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Committees
on Veterans' Affairs of the Senate and the House of
Representatives, and the Federal Trade Commission that a data
breach has occurred and the extent of such a breach;
(2) notify each individual whose personal information was
acquired or accessed by an unauthorized person as a result of
such a data breach; and
(3) place a conspicuous notice on the Department's Internet
website, which shall include a telephone number that the
individual may use, at no cost to such individual, to contact
the Department to inquire about the data breach or the
information the Department maintained about that individual.
(b) Timeliness of Notification.--All notifications required under
subsection (a) shall be made as promptly as possible and without
unreasonable delay following the discovery of a data breach and the
implementation of any measures necessary to determine the scope of the
breach, prevent any further breach or unauthorized disclosures, and
reasonably restore the integrity of the data system.
(c) Method and Content of Notification.--
(1) Method of notification.--The Secretary shall provide
written notification to individuals under subsection (a)(2).
(2) Content of notification.--Such written notification
provided to an individual under paragraph (1) shall include--
(A) a description of the personal information that
was acquired by an unauthorized person;
(B) a telephone number that the individual may use,
at no cost to such individual, to contact the Ombudsman
for Data Security in the Department to inquire about
the security breach or the information about that
individual that the person acquired or accessed, as
well as to obtain assistance in addressing identity
theft issues;
(C) the toll-free contact telephone numbers and
addresses for the major credit reporting agencies;
(D) a toll-free telephone number and Internet
website address for the Federal Trade Commission
whereby the individual may obtain information regarding
identity theft; and
(E) information regarding the right of an
individual, at no cost to that individual, to place a
fraud alert, obtain a security freeze, and receive
credit monitoring where applicable, including
information clearly describing the advantages and
disadvantages of these actions.
(d) Website Notice of Federal Trade Commission.--The Federal Trade
Commission shall place, in a clear and conspicuous location on its
Internet website, a notice of any breach of security that is reported
to the Commission under subsection (a)(1).
SEC. 5. FRAUD ALERTS.
(a) Inclusion in Consumer Files.--The Secretary shall arrange, upon
the request of a veteran or other individual affected by a data breach
and at no cost to the veteran or other individual, to include a fraud
alert in the file of that veteran or other individual with each
nationwide consumer reporting agencies in the manner provided under
section 605A(a) for a period of not less than 1 year, beginning on the
date of such request, unless the veteran or other individual requests
that such fraud alert be removed before the end of such period, and the
agency has received appropriate proof of the identity of the requestor
for such purpose.
(b) Distribution.--Each nationwide consumer reporting agency
referred to in subsection (a) shall also provide the alert required
under such subsection in the file of a veteran or other individual
along with any credit score generated in using that file, for a period
of not less than 1 year, beginning on the date of such request, unless
the veteran or other individual requests that such fraud alert be
removed before the end of such period, and the agency has received
appropriate proof of the identity of the requestor for such purpose.
SEC. 6. CREDIT SECURITY FREEZE.
(a) In General.--The Secretary shall arrange, upon the request of a
veteran or other individual affected by a data breach and at no cost to
the veteran or other individual, to apply a security freeze to the file
of that veteran or other individual with each nationwide consumer
reporting agency for a period of not less than 1 year, beginning on the
date of such request, unless the veteran or other individual requests
that such security freeze be removed before the end of such period, and
the agency has received appropriate proof of the identity of the
requestor for such purpose.
(b) Confirmation and Pin Numbers.--The agency shall send a written
confirmation of the security freeze to the veteran or other individual
within 5 business days of placing the freeze. The agency shall refer
the information regarding the security freeze to other consumer
reporting agencies. The agency shall provide the veteran or other
individual with a unique personal identification number or password to
be used by the veteran or other individual when providing authorization
for the release of his or her credit for a specific party or period of
time.
(c) Temporary Lift of Freeze.--The agency that receives a request
from a veteran or other individual to temporarily lift a freeze on a
consumer report shall comply with the request no later than 3 business
days after receiving the request. Such request shall be specific as to
the period to which the temporary lift of a freeze shall apply.
(d) Negotiating Authority.--The Secretary shall have broad
authority to negotiate and secure the best possible price for services
provided under this section. All reasonable costs shall be borne by the
Secretary.
SEC. 7. AUTHORITY TO PROVIDE MITIGATION SERVICES TO VICTIMS OF DATA
SECURITY BREACHES.
(a) In General.--The Secretary shall provide, free of charge, to
each individual whose personal information is (or was before the date
of enactment of this Act) compromised by a data breach at the
Department of Veterans Affairs--
(1) credit monitoring services, during a 1-year period
beginning on the date of enactment of this Act; and
(2) a copy of the consumer report (as defined in section
603 of the Fair Credit Reporting Act) of the affected
individual once annually during the 2-year period beginning on
the date on which the credit monitoring services required by
paragraph (1) terminate, which shall be in addition to any
other consumer report provided to the individual under
otherwise applicable law, free of charge or otherwise.
(b) Negotiating Authority.--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall
have broad authority to negotiate and secure the best possible price
for services provided under this section.
SEC. 8. OMBUDSMAN.
(a) Establishment.--The Secretary shall establish the position of
an Ombudsman for Data Security within the Department.
(b) Duties.--The Ombudsman for Data Security shall--
(1) provide information and assistance to veterans or other
individuals affected by data breaches, including providing
information and assistance on identity theft and issues
relating to identity theft;
(2) assist veterans or other individuals affected by a data
breach with placing fraud alerts and security freezes;
(3) provide veterans with ongoing education on general
financial matters and identity theft in particular; and
(4) carry out such other duties and responsibilities as the
Secretary may designate to the Ombudsman for Data Security. | Comprehensive Veterans' Data Protection and Identity Theft Prevention Act of 2006 - Places upon the Secretary of Veterans Affairs an affirmative obligation to protect from any data breach the sensitive personal information of veterans and any other individuals that the Department of Veterans Affairs possesses, creates, or maintains, as well as information or tools (including passwords and encryption keys) used to protect the integrity of such data.
Requires the Secretary to: (1) implement and maintain reasonable security policies and procedures to protect such information; and (2) prescribe policies and procedures regarding employee and third party access to, and use of, such information which the Department receives, maintains, or transmits.
Directs the Secretary, upon discovery of a data breach, to: (1) notify the United States Secret Service, the Department's Inspector General, the congressional veterans' committees, and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC); (2) notify each individual whose information was acquired or accessed by an unauthorized person; and (3) place a conspicuous notice on the Department's Internet website.
Requires the Secretary, upon request of an affected individual, to: (1) include a fraud alert in the file of the individual with each nationwide consumer reporting agency; (2) apply a security freeze to the file of such individual; and (3) provide free damage mitigation services, including credit monitoring and annual copies of consumer credit reports.
Establishes within the Department an Ombudsman for Data Security. | billsum_train |
Make a brief summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; AMENDMENT OF 1986 CODE.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Rural Land
Conservation Act of 1993''.
(b) Amendment of 1986 Code.--Except as otherwise provided, whenever
in this Act an amendment or repeal is expressed in terms of an
amendment to, or repeal of, a section or provision, the reference shall
be considered to be made to a section or other provision of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
SEC. 2. ESTATE TAX TREATMENT OF LAND SUBJECT TO A QUALIFIED
CONSERVATION EASEMENT.
(a) Estate Tax With Respect to Land Subject to a Qualified
Conservation Easement.--Section 2031 of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986 (relating to the definition of gross estate) is amended by
redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (d) and by inserting after
subsection (b) the following new subsection:
``(c) Estate Tax With Respect to Land Subject to a Qualified
Conservation Easement.--
``(1) In general.--If the executor makes the election
described in paragraph (4) of this subsection, then, except as
otherwise provided in this subsection, there shall be excluded
from the gross estate the value of land subject to a qualified
conservation easement (reduced by the amount of any
indebtedness to which such land is subject).
``(2) Land subject to a qualified conservation easement.--
For purposes of this subsection--
``(A) In general.--The term `land subject to a
qualified conservation easement' means land which--
``(i) is located in or within 50 miles of
an area which, on the date of the decedent's
death, is--
``(I) a metropolitan area (as
defined by the Office of Management and
Budget), or
``(II) a national park, unless it
is determined by the Secretary that
land in or within 50 miles of the park
is not under significant development
pressure,
``(ii) which was owned by the decedent or a
member of the decedent's family at all times
during the 3-year period ending on the date of
the decedent's death, and
``(iii) with respect to which a qualified
conservation contribution (as defined in
section 170(h)(1)) of a qualified real property
interest described in section 170(h)(2)(C) is
(or has been made) by the decedent or a member
of the decedent's family.
``(B) Certain contributions not included.--For
purposes of subparagraph (A), section 170(h)(4)(A)
shall be applied without regard to clause (iv) thereof
in determining whether there is a qualified
conservation contribution.
``(C) Family member.--For purposes of subparagraph
(A), the term `member of the decedent's family' has the
same meaning given such term by section 2032A(e)(2).
``(3) Tax on disposition if land subject to retained
development right.--
``(A) In general.--If the donor retained any
development right when the qualified conservation
contribution described in paragraph (2)(A)(iii) was
made, there is hereby imposed an additional estate tax
on the first person disposing (other than by gift or
devise) of the property after the death of the
decedent.
``(B) Amount of additional tax.--
``(i) In general.--The amount of the
additional tax imposed by subparagraph (A)
shall be the amount equal to the increase in
estate tax liability which would have occurred
if the value of the development right had been
included in the gross estate of the decedent
(as determined under paragraph (4)).
``(ii) Partial disposition.--If only a
portion of the property is disposed of, the
person disposing of the property shall pay a
pro rata portion of the tax imposed by
subparagraph (A) (and such tax shall be reduced
with respect to subsequent dispositions by the
taxes imposed with respect to prior
dispositions).
``(iii) Time for payment of tax.--Any tax
imposed under subparagraph (A) shall be due and
payable by the person disposing of the property
no later than April 15 of the calendar year
following the calendar year in which the
disposition occurs.
``(C) Development right.--For purposes of this
paragraph, the term `development right' means the
right--
``(i) to establish or use any structure
(and the land immediately surrounding it) for
sale, rent, or other commercial purpose which
is not subordinate to and directly supportive
of the conservation purpose of the qualified
conservation contribution described in
paragraph (2)(A)(iii), or
``(ii) to conduct the activity of farming,
forestry, ranching, horticulture, viticulture,
or recreation, whether or not for profit, on
the land.
``(4) Election with respect to land subject to qualified
conservation easement.--The election under this subsection
shall be made on the return of the tax imposed by section 2001
and shall be made in such manner as the Secretary shall by
regulations prescribe. Such an election, once made, shall be
irrevocable.
``(5) Calculation and notice of potential estate tax due.--
``(A) In general.--An executor making the election
described in paragraph (4) of this subsection shall
compute the amount of the additional estate tax
described in paragraph (3)(B).
``(B) Notice.--The executor shall file a `Notice of
Potential Estate Tax Due' in the place or places where
deeds are put to public record for the locality in
which the land subject to the qualified conservation
easement is located.
``(C) Form and manner.--The computation and filing
required by this paragraph shall be done in such manner
and on such forms as the Secretary may prescribe.''.
(b) Carryover Basis.--Section 1014(a) of the Internal Revenue Code
of 1986 (relating to basis of property acquired from a decedent) is
amended by striking the period at the end of paragraph (3) and
inserting ``, or'' at the end thereof, and by inserting at the end the
following new paragraph:
``(4) in the case of property excluded from the gross
estate of the decedent under section 2031(c), the basis of the
property in the hands of the decedent.''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to estates of decedents dying after December 31, 1992, which
includes land subject to qualified conservation easements granted after
December 31, 1992.
SEC. 3. GIFT TAX ON LAND SUBJECT TO A QUALIFIED CONSERVATION EASEMENT.
(a) Gift Tax With Respect to Land Subject to a Qualified
Conservation Easement.--Section 2503 of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986 (relating to taxable gifts) is amended by adding at the end the
following new subsection:
``(h) Gift Tax With Respect to Land Subject to a Qualified
Conservation Easement.--
``(1) In general.--At the election of the donor, the
transfer by gift of land subject to a qualified conservation
easement shall not be treated as a transfer of property by gift
for purposes of this chapter. For purposes of this subsection,
the term `land subject to a qualified conservation easement'
shall have the same meaning as in section 2031(c), except that
any reference to `decedent' or `the date of the decedent's
death' shall refer to the donor and the date of the transfer by
the donor, respectively.''
``(2) Land subject to retained development rights.--
``(A) In general.--If the donor retains any
development right when the gift is made, then there is
hereby imposed an additional gift tax on the first
person disposing (other than by gift or device) of the
property after the date of the gift to which this
subsection applies.
``(B) Amount of tax.--The amount of the tax under
subparagraph (A) shall be equal to the increase in gift
tax liability which would have occurred if the value of
the development right had been treated as a gift.
``(C) Definition and rules.--For purposes of this
paragraph--
``(i) Development right.--The term
`development right' has the meaning given such
term by section 2031(c)(3)(C).
``(ii) Other rules.--The rules of clauses
(ii) and (iii) of paragraph (3)(B) and
paragraph (5) of section 2031(c) shall apply,
except that `donor' shall be substituted for
`executor' each place it appears.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to gifts of land subject to qualified conservation easements
granted after December 31, 1992.
SEC. 4. QUALIFIED CONSERVATION CONTRIBUTION WHERE SURFACE AND MINERAL
RIGHTS ARE SEPARATED.
(a) In General.--Section 170(h)(5)(B)(ii) of the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986 (relating to special rule) is amended to read as follows:
``(ii) Special rule.--With respect to any
contribution of property in which the ownership
of the surface estate and mineral interests has
been and remains separated, subparagraph (A)
shall be treated as met if the probability of
surface mining occurring on such property is so
remote as to be negligible.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by this section shall apply
with respect to contributions made after December 31, 1992, in taxable
years ending after such date.
SEC. 5. QUALIFIED CONSERVATION CONTRIBUTION IS NOT A DISPOSITION.
(a) Qualified Conservation Contribution Is Not a Disposition.--
Subsection (c) of section 2032A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
(relating to alternative valuation method) is amended by adding at the
end thereof the following new paragraph:
``(8) Qualified conservation contribution is not a
disposition.--A qualified conservation contribution (as defined
in section 170(h)) by gift or otherwise shall not be treated as
a disposition for purposes of this subsection. If qualified
real property is land subject to a qualified conservation
easement (as defined in section 2031(c)), this subsection shall
not apply to such property.''.
(b) Land Subject to a Qualified Conservation Easement Is Not
Disqualified.--Subsection (b) of section 2032A of the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986 (relating to alternative valuation method) is amended by
adding at the end the following paragraph:
``(6) Qualified conservation easement.--Property shall not
fail to be treated as qualified real property solely because it
is land subject to a qualified conservation easement (as
defined in section 2031(c)).''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to estates of decedents dying after December 31, 1992, which
include land subject to qualified conservation easements granted after
December 31, 1992. | Rural Land Conservation Act of 1993 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exclude from the gross estate tax the value of land subject to a qualified conservation easement (less the amount of any indebtedness secured by such land). Includes in the gross estate tax the value of each development right retained by the donor in the conveyance of the easement. Makes such tax due upon the disposition of the property. Provides that such land subject to the exclusion will have a carryover basis for purposes of determining gain or loss.
Excludes from the gift tax transfers by gift of land subject to a conservation easement. Imposes an additional gift tax on the disposal of such land if the donor retains any development right.
Removes the allowance for a tax deduction in the case of a contribution of property where mining rights are retained if the surface estate and mining interests were separated before June 13, 1976, and remain separated.
Declares that for purposes of the alternative estate valuation method: (1) a qualified conservation contribution is not a disposition; and (2) land subject to a conservation easement is not disqualified. | billsum_train |
Create a condensed overview of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Robin Danielson Act''.
TITLE I--RESEARCH REGARDING RISKS POSED BY DIOXIN, SYNTHETIC FIBERS,
AND OTHER ADDITIVES IN FEMININE HYGIENE PRODUCTS
SEC. 101. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds as follows:
(1) Tampons are used by approximately 73,000,000 women in
the United States today, and the average woman may use as many
as 16,800 tampons in her lifetime. A woman on estrogen
replacement therapy may use as many as 24,360 tampons in her
lifetime.
(2) The Environmental Protection Agency and the
International Agency for Research on Cancer, an arm of the
World Health Organization, have concluded that dioxins are a
probable human carcinogen (cancer causing agent).
(3) Dioxin is a byproduct of chlorine-bleaching processes
used in the manufacture of paper products, including tampons,
sanitary pads, panty liners, and diapers.
(4) While bleaching processes that do not produce dioxin in
any amount are available, most pulp and paper manufacturers,
which produce the raw materials used in tampons, currently use
either elemental-chlorine or chlorine-dioxide bleaching
processes. Both of these bleaching processes use chlorine and
therefore produce dioxin.
(5) The effects of dioxin from various sources are
cumulative and can be measured 20 to 30 years after exposure.
Women may be exposed to dioxin in tampons and other menstrual
products for as long as 60 years over the course of their
reproductive lives.
(6) Internal documents of the Food and Drug Administration
suggest the agency has not adequately investigated the danger
of dioxin in tampons, according to a 1992 staff report of a
subcommittee of the Committee on Government Operations of the
House of Representatives.
(7) The Food and Drug Administration has historically
relied on data provided by manufacturers of feminine hygiene
products in determining product safety.
(8) Although the Food and Drug Administration currently
requires tampon manufacturers to monitor dioxin levels in their
finished products, the information is not readily available to
the public.
(9) Recent studies have produced conflicting information
about the link between dioxin exposure and increased risks for
endometriosis.
(10) The Environmental Protection Agency has concluded that
people with high levels of exposure to dioxins may be at risk
for other noncancer effects that could suppress the immune
system, increase the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease,
reduce fertility, and interfere with fetal and childhood
development.
(11) An independent study in 1991 found that tampons
commonly included one or more of the following additives:
Chlorine compounds, absorbency enhancers (such as surfactants
like polysorbate-20), natural and synthetic fibers (such as
cotton, rayon, polyester, and polyacrylate), deodorant, and
fragrance.
(12) Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) has been linked to tampon
use and the absorbency of the tampon. TSS is a rare bacterial
illness that occurs mostly in menstruating women. During 1979
and 1980, the syndrome was responsible for at least 55 deaths
and 1,066 nonfatal cases.
(13) In response to a 1988 lawsuit, the Food and Drug
Administration has required tampons to be labeled with
reference to an absorbency standard (e.g., super tampons must
absorb between 9 and 12 grams of liquid).
(14) Independent research has shown that synthetic fiber
additives in tampons amplify toxin production, which is
associated with toxic shock syndrome.
SEC. 102. NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH; RESEARCH ON DIOXIN PURSUANT TO
OFFICE OF RESEARCH ON WOMEN'S HEALTH.
Part F of title IV of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 287d
et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following section:
``SEC. 486C. CERTAIN PROJECTS REGARDING WOMEN'S HEALTH.
``(a) Dioxin in Feminine Hygiene Products.--
``(1) In general.--The Director of NIH, in collaboration
with the Director of the Office, shall provide for the conduct
or support of research to determine the extent to which the
presence of dioxin, synthetic fibers, and other additives in
tampons and other feminine hygiene products--
``(A) poses any risks to the health of women who
use the products, including risks relating to cervical
cancer, endometriosis, infertility, ovarian cancer,
breast cancer, immune system deficiencies, pelvic
inflammatory disease, and toxic shock syndrome; and
``(B) poses any risks to the health of children of
women who used such products during or before the
pregnancies involved, including risks relating to fetal
and childhood development.
``(2) Requirement regarding data from manufacturers.--
Research under paragraph (1) shall include research to confirm
the data on tampons and other feminine hygiene products
submitted to the Commissioner of Food and Drugs by
manufacturers of such products.
``(3) Definition.--For purposes of paragraph (1), the term
`feminine hygiene products' means tampons, pads, liners, and
similar products used by women with respect to menstruation or
other genital-tract secretions.
``(b) Reports.--Reports on the results of research under subsection
(a) shall be periodically submitted to the Congress, the Commissioner
of Food and Drugs, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection
Agency, and the Chairman of the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Such reports shall be made available to the public through the data
system and clearinghouse program established under section 486A, or
through other appropriate means.''.
TITLE II--COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS OF DATA ON TOXIC SHOCK SYNDROME
SEC. 201. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds as follows:
(1) Of the cases of toxic shock syndrome in the United
States, approximately 50 percent are related to tampon use and
approximately 50 percent occur in nonmenstruating women and in
men and children.
(2) The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
believes that women are at increased risk for developing toxic
shock syndrome due to a false sense of security that there is
no longer any risk for developing the disease.
(3) The CDC has estimated that each year such syndrome
strikes more than 1,300 individuals. Among women in the age
group 12 through 44 who use tampons or barrier contraceptives,
between one and two of every 100,000 will develop the syndrome.
(4) Epidemiological data on cases of toxic shock syndrome
are not systematically collected in the United States, and
information on cases seldom travels beyond the victim's circle
of family and friends.
(5) The CDC and the States should cooperate to collect and
analyze such data. Increasing the amount of information on
toxic shock syndrome will lead to increased awareness about the
disease in the medical community, and may also lead to an
increased understanding of the causes of the syndrome.
SEC. 202. CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION; ESTABLISHMENT OF
PROGRAM FOR COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS OF DATA ON TOXIC
SHOCK SYNDROME.
Part B of title III of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 243
et seq.) is amended by inserting after section 317S the following
section:
``SEC. 317T. COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS OF DATA ON TOXIC SHOCK SYNDROME.
``(a) In General.--The Secretary, acting through the Director of
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, shall carry out a
program to collect, analyze, and make available data on toxic shock
syndrome, including data on the causes of such syndrome.
``(b) National Incidence and Prevalence.--In carrying out the
program under subsection (a), the Secretary shall to the extent
practicable determine the national incidence and prevalence of toxic
shock syndrome.
``(c) Cooperation With States.--The Secretary may carry out the
program under subsection (a) directly and through grants to States and
local health departments.
``(d) Authorization of Appropriations.--For the purpose of carrying
out this section, there are authorized to be appropriated such sums as
may be necessary for each of the fiscal years 2006 through 2010.''. | Robin Danielson Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to provide for the conduct or support of research on the extent to which additives in feminine hygiene products pose any risks to the health of women or the health of the children of women who use those products during or before the pregnancies involved.
Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to: (1) collect, analyze, and make available data on toxic shock syndrome, including data on the causes of such syndrome; and (2) determine the national incidence and prevalence of such syndrome. | billsum_train |
Condense the following text into a summary: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Maximum Economic Growth for America
through Investment in Rural, Elderly, and Disabled Transit Act'' or the
``MEGA RED TRANS Act''.
SEC. 2. MINIMUM LEVEL OF FUNDING FOR ELDERLY AND DISABLED PROGRAM.
Section 5310 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (b), in the first sentence, by striking
the period at the end and inserting the following: ``, provided
that, for fiscal years 2004, 2005, and 2006, each State shall
receive annually, of the amounts apportioned under this
section, a minimum of double the amount apportioned to the
State in fiscal year 2003 or $1,000,000, whichever is greater,
and that for fiscal years 2007, 2008, and 2009, each State
shall receive annually, of the amounts apportioned under this
section, a minimum equal to the minimum required to be
apportioned to the State for fiscal year 2006 plus $500,000.'';
and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(k) Amounts for Operating Assistance.--Amounts made available
under this section may be used for operating assistance.
``(l) Available Funds.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law,
of the aggregate amounts made available by and appropriated under this
chapter, the amount made available to provide transportation services
to elderly individuals and individuals with disabilities under this
section in each of the fiscal years 2004 through 2009, shall be not
less than the amount necessary to match the minimum apportionment
levels required by subsection (b).''.
SEC. 3. MINIMUM LEVEL OF FUNDING FOR RURAL PROGRAM.
Section 5311 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (c), in the first sentence, by striking
the period at the end and inserting the following: ``, provided
that none of the 50 States shall receive, from the amounts
annually apportioned under this section, an apportionment of
less than $5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2004, 2005, and
2006, and $5,500,000 for each of fiscal years 2007, 2008, and
2009.''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(k) Amounts.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, of the
aggregate amounts made available by and appropriated under this
chapter, the amount made available for the program established by this
section in each of fiscal years 2004 through 2009 shall be not less
than the sum of--
``(1) the amount made available for all States for such
purpose for fiscal year 2003; and
``(2)(A) for each of fiscal years 2004, 2005, and 2006, the
amount equal to the difference between $5,000,000 and the
apportionment for fiscal year 2003, for each of those
individual States that were apportioned less than $5,000,000
under this section for fiscal year 2003; or
``(B) for each of fiscal years 2007, 2008, and 2009, the
amount equal to the difference between $5,500,000 and the
apportionment for fiscal year 2003, for each of those
individual States that were apportioned less than $5,500,000
under this section for fiscal year 2003.''.
SEC. 4. ESSENTIAL BUS SERVICE.
(a) In General.--Chapter 53 of title 49, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 5339. Essential bus service
``(a) In General.--The Secretary shall establish a program under
which States shall provide essential bus service between rural areas
and primary airports, as defined in section 47102, and between rural
areas and stations for intercity passenger rail service, and
appropriate intermediate or nearby points.
``(b) Eligible Activities.--Eligible activities under the program
established by this section shall include--
``(1) planning and marketing for intercity bus
transportation;
``(2) capital grants for intercity bus shelters, park and
ride facilities, and joint use facilities;
``(3) operating grants, including direct assistance,
purchase of service agreements, user-side subsidies,
demonstration projects, and other means; and
``(4) enhancement of connections between bus service and
commercial air passenger service and intercity passenger rail
service.
``(c) Availability of Funds.--Amounts made available pursuant to
this section shall remain available until expended.
``(d) Relationship to Section 5311.--Amounts for the program
established by this section shall be apportioned to the States in the
same proportion as amounts apportioned to the States under section
5311. Section 5311(j) applies to this section.
``(e) Funds.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, of the
aggregate amounts made available by and appropriated under this
chapter--
``(1) for fiscal years 2004, 2005, and 2006, $30,000,000 of
the total for each fiscal year shall be for the implementation
of this section; and
``(2) for fiscal years 2007, 2008, and 2009, $35,000,000 of
the total for each fiscal year shall be for the implementation
of this section.''.
(b) Technical and Conforming Amendment.--The table of sections for
chapter 53 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the
end the following:
``5339. Essential bus service.''.
SEC. 5. MINIMUM LEVEL OF FUNDING FOR URBANIZED AREAS WITH A POPULATION
OF LESS THAN 200,000.
(a) Minimum Apportionment.--Section 5336(a)(1) of title 49, United
States Code, is amended by striking ``mile; and'' and inserting the
following: ``mile,
provided that the apportionments under this paragraph shall be
modified to the extent required so that urbanized areas that
are eligible under this paragraph and are located in a State in
which all urbanized areas in the State eligible under this
paragraph collectively receive apportionments totaling less
than $5,000,000 in any of fiscal years 2004, 2005, or 2006, or
less than $5,500,000 in any of fiscal years 2007, 2008, or
2009, shall each have their apportionments increased,
proportionately, to the extent that, collectively, all of the
urbanized areas in the State that are eligible under this
paragraph receive, of the amounts apportioned annually under
this paragraph, $5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2004, 2005,
and 2006, and $5,500,000 for each of fiscal years 2007, 2008,
and 2009; and''.
(b) Funds.--Section 5307 of title 49, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``(o) Funds.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, of the
aggregate amounts made available by and appropriated under this
chapter, in each of the fiscal years 2004 through 2009, the amount made
available for the program established by this section shall be not less
than the sum of--
``(1) the amount made available for such purpose for fiscal
year 2003; and
``(2) the amount equal to the sum of the increase in
apportionments for that fiscal year over fiscal year 2003, to
urbanized areas with a population of less than 200,000, in
affected States, attributable to the operation of section
5336(a)(1).''.
SEC. 6. LEVEL PLAYING FIELD FOR GOVERNMENT SHARE.
(a) In General.--Chapter 53 of title 49, United States Code, as
amended by this Act, is amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 5340. Government share
``With respect to amounts apportioned or otherwise distributed for
fiscal year 2004 and each subsequent fiscal year, the Government share
of eligible transit project costs or eligible operating costs, shall be
the greater of--
``(1) the share applicable under other provisions of this
chapter; or
``(2) the share that would apply, in the State in which the
transit project or operation is located, to a highway project
under section 133 of title 23.''.
(b) Technical and Conforming Amendment.--The table of sections for
chapter 53 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the
end the following:
``5340. Government share.''.
SEC. 7. INTEREST CREDITED TO MASS TRANSIT ACCOUNT.
Section 9503(f)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating
to the Highway Trust Fund) is amended by striking the period at the end
and inserting the following: ``, provided that after September 30,
2003, interest accruing on the balance in the Mass Transit Account
shall be credited to such account.''. | Maximum Economic Growth for America through Investment in Rural, Elderly, and Disabled Transit Act (or the MEGA RED TRANS Act) - Amends Federal transportation law to set forth certain minimum funding levels of amounts made available from the Mass Transit Account of the Highway Trust Fund for: (1) formula grants and loans to States to provide mass transportation services to elderly individuals and individuals with disabilities and in non-urbanized areas; and (2) block grants to States for mass transportation service projects in urbanized areas with a population of less than 200,000.Establishes an essential bus service program under which States provide essential bus service between rural areas and primary airports, and between rural areas and stations for intercity passenger rail service, and appropriate intermediate or nearby points.Sets forth certain requirements regarding the Federal share of eligible project costs or eligible operating costs with respect to funds distributed for transit projects after FY 2004.Amends the Internal Revenue Code to require interest that is accrued on balances in the Mass Transit Account of the Highway Trust Fund to be credited to such account. | billsum_train |
Change the following text into a summary: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Leave No Securities Behind Act''.
SEC. 2. REGISTRATION OF SECURITIES.
(a) Fannie Mae.--
(1) Mortgage-backed securities.--Section 304(d) of the
Federal National Mortgage Association Charter Act (12 U.S.C.
1719(d)) is amended by striking the fourth sentence and
inserting the following new sentence: ``Securities issued by
the corporation under this subsection shall not be exempt
securities within the meaning of the laws administered by the
Securities and Exchange Commission.''
(2) Subordinate obligations.--Section 304(e) of the Federal
National Mortgage Association Charter Act (12 U.S.C. 1719(e))
is amended by striking the fourth sentence and inserting the
following new sentence: ``Obligations issued by the corporation
under this subsection shall not be exempt securities within the
meaning of the laws administered by the Securities and Exchange
Commission.''
(3) Securities.--Section 311 of the Federal National
Mortgage Association Charter Act (12 U.S.C. 1723c) is amended--
(A) in the section header, by striking
``association'';
(B) by inserting ``(a) In General.--'' after ``Sec.
311.'';
(C) in the second sentence, by inserting ``by the
Association'' after ``issued''; and
(D) by adding at the end the following new
subsection:
``(b) Treatment of Corporation Securities.--
``(1) In general.--Any stock, obligations, securities,
participations, or other instruments issued or guaranteed by
the corporation pursuant to this title shall not be exempt
securities within the meaning of the laws administered by the
Securities and Exchange Commission.
``(2) Exemption for approved sellers.--Notwithstanding any
other provision of this title or the Securities Act of 1933,
transactions involving the initial disposition by an approved
seller of pooled certificates that are acquired by that seller
from the corporation upon the initial issuance of the pooled
certificates shall be deemed to be transactions by a person
other than an issuer, underwriter, or dealer within the meaning
of the laws administered by the Securities and Exchange
Commission.
``(3) Definitions.--For purposes of this subsection:
``(A) Approved seller.--The term `approved seller'
means an institution approved by the corporation to
sell mortgage loans to the corporation in exchange for
pooled certificates.
``(B) Pooled certificates.--The term `pooled
certificates' means single class mortgage-backed
securities guaranteed by the corporation that have been
issued by the corporation directly to the approved
seller in exchange for the mortgage loans underlying
such mortgage-backed securities.
``(4) Mortgage related securities.--A single class
mortgage-backed security guaranteed by the corporation that has
been issued by the Corporation directly to the approved seller
in exchange for the mortgage loans underlying such mortgage-
backed securities or directly by the corporation for cash shall
be deemed to be a mortgage related security as defined in
section 3(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.''.
(b) Freddie Mac.--Subsection (g) of section 306 of the Federal Home
Loan Mortgage Corporation Act (12 U.S.C. 1455(g)) is amended to read as
follows:
``(g) Treatment of Securities.--
``(1) In general.--Any securities issued or guaranteed by
the Corporation shall not be exempt securities within the
meaning of the laws administered by the Securities and Exchange
Commission.''.
``(2) Exemption for approved sellers.--Notwithstanding any
other provision of this title or the Securities Act of 1933,
transactions involving the initial disposition by an approved
seller of pooled certificates that are acquired by that seller
from the Corporation upon the initial issuance of the pooled
certificates shall be deemed to be transactions by a person
other than as an issuer, underwriter, or dealer within the
meaning of the laws administered by the Securities and Exchange
Commission.
``(3) Definitions.--For purposes of this subsection:
``(A) Approved seller.--The term `approved seller'
means an institution approved by the Corporation to
sell mortgage loans to the Corporation in exchange for
pooled certificates.
``(B) Pooled certificates.--The term `pooled
certificates' means single class mortgage-backed
securities guaranteed by the Corporation that have been
issued by the Corporation directly to the approved
seller in exchange for the mortgage loans underlying
such mortgage-backed securities.''.
(c) Regulations.--The Securities and Exchange Commission may issue
any regulations as may be necessary or appropriate to carry out the
purposes of this section and the amendments made by this section.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments under this section shall be
made upon the expiration of the 180-day period beginning on the date of
the enactment of this Act, but shall apply only with respect to fiscal
years of the Federal National Mortgage Association and the Federal Home
Loan Mortgage Corporation that begin after the expiration of such 180-
day period.
SEC. 3. LIMITATION ON REGISTRATION FEES.
(a) In General.--Section 6(b)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933 (15
U.S.C. 77f(b)(2)) is amended by adding at the end the following new
sentence: ``Notwithstanding any other provision of this title, no
applicant, or group of affiliated applicants that do not include any
investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940,
filing a registration statement subject to a fee shall be required in
any fiscal year with respect to all registration statements filed by
such applicant in such fiscal year to pay an aggregate amount in fees
to the Commission pursuant to subsection (b) in excess of five percent
of the target offsetting collection amount for such fiscal year. Fees
paid in connection with registration statements relating to business
combinations shall not be included in calculating the total fees paid
by any applicant.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment under subsection (a) shall be
made and shall apply upon the expiration of the 180-day period
beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act. | Leave No Securities Behind Act - Amends the Federal National Mortgage Association Charter Act to extend Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) authority to mortgage-backed and subordinate obligations, and corporate securities (with an exemption for approved sellers) of the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae).Amends the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation Act to extend SEC authority to corporate securities (with an exception for approved sellers) of the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac).Amends the Securities Act of 1933 to limit specified SEC registration fees. | billsum_train |
Make a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. REDUCTION OF ENGINE IDLING OF HEAVY-DUTY VEHICLES.
(a) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Administrator.--The term ``Administrator'' means the
Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency.
(2) Advanced truck stop electrification system.--The term
``advanced truck stop electrification system'' means a
stationary system that delivers heat, air conditioning,
electricity, and/or communications, and is capable of providing
verifiable and auditable evidence of use of those services, to
a heavy-duty vehicle and any occupants of the heavy-duty
vehicle with or without relying on components mounted onboard
the heavy-duty vehicle for delivery of those services.
(3) Auxiliary power unit.--The term ``auxiliary power
unit'' means an integrated system that--
(A) provides heat, air conditioning, engine
warming, or electricity to components on a heavy-duty
vehicle as if the main drive engine of the heavy-duty
vehicle were running; and
(B) is certified by the Administrator under part 89
of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or any
successor regulation), as meeting applicable emission
standards.
(4) Heavy-duty vehicle.--The term ``heavy-duty vehicle''
means a vehicle that--
(A) has a gross vehicle weight rating greater than
8,500 pounds; and
(B) is powered by a diesel engine.
(5) Idle reduction technology.--The term ``idle reduction
technology'' means an advanced truck stop electrification
system, auxiliary power unit, or other device or system of
devices that--
(A) is used to reduce long-duration idling of a
heavy-duty vehicle; and
(B) allows for the main drive engine or auxiliary
refrigeration engine of a heavy-duty vehicle to be shut
down.
(6) Energy conservation technology.--the term ``energy
conservation technology'' means any device, system of devices,
or equipment that improves the fuel economy of a heavy-duty
vehicle.
(7) Long-duration idling.--
(A) In general.--The term ``long-duration idling''
means the operation of a main drive engine or auxiliary
refrigeration engine of a heavy-duty vehicle, for a
period greater than 15 consecutive minutes, at a time
at which the main drive engine is not engaged in gear.
(B) Exclusions.--The term ``long-duration idling''
does not include the operation of a main drive engine
or auxiliary refrigeration engine of a heavy-duty
vehicle during a routine stoppage associated with
traffic movement or congestion.
(b) Idle Reduction Technology Benefits, Programs, and Studies.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 90 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall--
(A)(i) commence a review of the mobile source air
emission models of the Environmental Protection Agency
used under the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.)
to determine whether the models accurately reflect the
emissions resulting from long-duration idling of heavy-
duty vehicles and other vehicles and engines; and
(ii) update those models as the Administrator
determines to be appropriate; and
(B)(i) commence a review of the emission reductions
achieved by the use of idle reduction technology; and
(ii) complete such revisions of the regulations and
guidance of the Environmental Protection Agency as the
Administrator determines to be appropriate.
(2) Deadline for completion.--Not later than 180 days after
the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall--
(A) complete the reviews under subparagraphs (A)(i)
and (B)(i) of paragraph (1); and
(B) prepare and make publicly available 1 or more
reports on the results of the reviews.
(3) Discretionary inclusions.--The reviews under
subparagraphs (A)(i) and (B)(i) of paragraph (1) and the
reports under paragraph (2)(B) may address the potential fuel
savings resulting from use of idle reduction technology.
(4) Idle reduction and energy conservation deployment
program.--
(A) Establishment.--
(i) In general.--Not later than 90 days
after the date of enactment of this Act, the
Administrator, in consultation with the
Secretary of Transportation shall, through the
Environmental Protection Agency's SmartWay
Transport Partnership, establish a program to
support deployment of idle reduction and energy
conservation technologies.
(ii) Priority.--The Administrator shall
give priority to the deployment of idle
reduction and energy conservation technologies
based on the costs and beneficial effects on
air quality and ability to lessen the emission
of criteria air pollutants.
(B) Funding.--
(i) Authorization of appropriations.--There
are authorized to be appropriated to the
Administrator to carry out subparagraph (A)
$19,500,000 for fiscal year 2006, $30,000,000
for fiscal year 2007, and $45,000,000 for
fiscal year 2008.
(ii) Cost sharing.--Subject to clause
(iii), the Administrator shall require at least
50 percent of the costs directly and
specifically related to any project under this
section to be provided from non-Federal
sources.
(iii) Necessary and appropriate
reductions.--The Administrator may reduce the
non-Federal requirement under clause (ii) if
the Administrator determines that the reduction
is necessary and appropriate to meet the
objectives of this section.
(5) Idling location study.--
(A) In general.--Not later than 90 days after the
date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator, in
consultation with the Secretary of Transportation,
shall commence a study to analyze all locations at
which heavy-duty vehicles stop for long-duration
idling, including--
(i) truck stops;
(ii) rest areas;
(iii) border crossings;
(iv) ports;
(v) transfer facilities; and
(vi) private terminals.
(B) Deadline for completion.--Not later than 180
days after the date of enactment of this Act, the
Administrator shall--
(i) complete the study under subparagraph
(A); and
(ii) prepare and make publicly available 1
or more reports of the results of the study.
(c) Vehicle Weight Exemption.--Section 127(a) of title 23, United
States Code, is amended--
(1) by designating the first through eleventh sentences as
paragraphs (1) through (11), respectively; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(12) Heavy duty vehicles.--
``(A) In general.--Subject to subparagraphs (B) and
(C), in order to promote reduction of fuel use and
emissions because of engine idling, the maximum gross
vehicle weight limit and the axle weight limit for any
heavy-duty vehicle equipped with an idle reduction
technology shall be increased by a quantity necessary
to compensate for the additional weight of the idle
reduction system.
``(B) Maximum weight increase.--The weight increase
under subparagraph (A) shall be not greater than 400
pounds.
``(C) Proof.--On request by a regulatory agency or
law enforcement agency, the vehicle operator shall
provide proof (through demonstration or certification)
that--
``(i) the idle reduction technology is
fully functional at all times; and
``(ii) the 400-pound gross weight increase
is not used for any purpose other than the use
of idle reduction technology described in
subparagraph (A).''.
(d) Report.--Not later than 60 days after the date on which funds
are initially awarded under this section, and on an annual basis
thereafter, the Administrator shall submit to Congress a report
containing--
(1) an identification of the grant recipients, a
description of the projects to be funded and the amount of
funding provided; and
(2) an identification of all other applicants that
submitted applications under the program. | Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to: (1) review and update mobile source air emission models to determine whether they accurately reflect the emissions resulting from long-duration idling of heavy-duty vehicles and other vehicles and engines; (2) review emission reductions achieved by the use of idle reduction technology; and (3) complete such revisions of EPA regulations and guidance as the Administrator determines to be appropriate.
Instructs the Administrator to establish a program to support deployment of idle reduction and energy conservation technologies, giving priority to deployment based on the costs and beneficial effects on air quality and ability to lessen the emission of criteria air pollutants.
Directs the Administrator to commence a study to analyze all locations at which heavy-duty vehicles stop for long-duration idling.
States that in order to promote reduction of fuel use and emissions because of engine idling, the maximum gross vehicle weight limit and the axle weight limit for any heavy-duty vehicle equipped with an idle reduction technology shall be increased by a quantity necessary to compensate for the additional weight of the idle reduction system. | billsum_train |
Change the following text into a summary: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE AND TABLE OF CONTENTS.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Americans in
Uniform Act of 2005''.
(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is as
follows:
Sec. 1. Short title and table of contents.
Sec. 2. Findings.
Sec. 3. Establishment of evaluation factor for defense contractors
employing or subcontracting with members of
the Selected Reserve of the reserve
components of the Armed Forces.
Sec. 4. Increase in various special pays and allowances for reserve
component personnel.
Sec. 5. Eligibility of certain persons for burial in Arlington National
Cemetery.
Sec. 6. Eligibility of certain persons for space-available travel on
military aircraft.
Sec. 7. Report on employment matters for members of the National Guard
and Reserve.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) Since September 11, 2001, almost 424,000 members of the
National Guard or Reserve, comprising approximately 36 percent
of the total membership, have been called or ordered to active
duty.
(2) Of the 1,718 members of the United States Armed Forces
who have been killed or have died in the Global War on
Terrorism, as of April 9, 2005, 357 were members of the
National Guard or Reserve, which represents 21 percent of the
total casualties.
(3) Elements of all 15 Army National Guard ``enhanced
readiness brigades'' have been mobilized and deployed within
the Continental United States Field Command, Iraq, or
Afghanistan, or are undergoing training to be deployed, in
support of United States operations in the Global War on
Terrorism.
(4) During recent cycles of deployments in connection with
Operation Iraqi Freedom, six of the 17 Army and Marine Ground
Combat brigades serving in Iraq, which is equivalent to two
combat divisions, are National Guard brigades.
(5) Approximately 34 percent of the United States troops
now serving in Iraq and Kuwait are members of the National
Guard or Reserve.
(6) Not since the Korean War have so many members of the
National Guard and Reserve been mobilized for service in a
theater of war.
SEC. 3. ESTABLISHMENT OF EVALUATION FACTOR FOR DEFENSE CONTRACTORS
EMPLOYING OR SUBCONTRACTING WITH MEMBERS OF THE SELECTED
RESERVE OF THE RESERVE COMPONENTS OF THE ARMED FORCES.
(a) Defense Contracts.--In awarding any contract for the
procurement of goods or services, the Department of Defense, when
considering source selection criteria, shall use as an evaluation
factor whether entities intend to carry out the contract using
employees or individual subcontractors for goods and services who are
members of the Selected Reserve of the reserve components of the Armed
Forces.
(b) Documentation of Selected Reserve-Related Evaluation Factor.--
Any entity claiming intent to carry out a contract using employees or
individual subcontractors for goods and services who are members of the
Selected Reserve of the reserve components of the Armed Forces shall be
required to document to the Department of Defense the number (and
names, if requested) of such members of the Selected Reserve that the
entity will employ, or execute personal services contracts with, for
the contract in question.
(c) National Security Waiver.--The Secretary of the military
department concerned, or, in the case of contracts which are not
negotiated by a military department, the Secretary of Defense, may
waive the requirement in subsection (a) with respect to a contract if
the Secretary concerned determines that the waiver is necessary for
reasons of national security.
(d) Regulations.--The Federal Acquisition Regulation shall be
revised as necessary to implement this section.
SEC. 4. INCREASE IN VARIOUS SPECIAL PAYS AND ALLOWANCES FOR RESERVE
COMPONENT PERSONNEL.
(a) Hardship Duty Pay.--Section 305(a) of title 37, United States
Code, is amended by striking ``$300'' and inserting ``$750''.
(b) Reenlistment Bonus.--Section 308b(b)(1) of such title is
amended--
(1) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``$15,000'' and
inserting ``$25,000'';
(2) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``$7,500'' and
inserting ``$12,500''; and
(3) in subparagraph (C), by striking ``$6,000'' and
inserting ``$11,000''.
(c) Family Separation Allowance.--Section 427 of such title is
amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(f) Special Rate for Reserve Component Members.--If a member
described in subsection (a) is a member of a reserve component, the
amount of the monthly allowance for the member under this section shall
be increased to $500.''.
SEC. 5. ELIGIBILITY OF CERTAIN PERSONS FOR BURIAL IN ARLINGTON NATIONAL
CEMETERY.
(a) In General.--(1) Chapter 24 of title 38, United States Code, is
amended--
(A) by redesignating section 2412 as section 2413; and
(B) by inserting after section 2411 the following new
section:
``Sec. 2412. Arlington National Cemetery: eligibility of certain
persons for burial
``(a)(1) The remains of a member or former member of a reserve
component of the Armed Forces who at the time of death was under 60
years of age and who, but for age, would have been eligible at the time
of death for retired pay under chapter 1223 of title 10 may be buried
in Arlington National Cemetery on the same basis as the remains of
members of the Armed Forces entitled to retired pay under that chapter.
``(2) The remains of the dependents of a member whose remains are
permitted under paragraph (1) to be buried in Arlington National
Cemetery may be buried in that cemetery on the same basis as dependents
of members of the Armed Forces entitled to retired pay under such
chapter 1223.
``(b)(1) The remains of a member of a reserve component of the
Armed Forces who dies in the line of duty while performing active duty
for training or inactive duty training may be buried in Arlington
National Cemetery on the same basis as the remains of a member of the
Armed Forces who dies while on active duty.
``(2) The remains of the dependents of a member whose remains are
permitted under paragraph (1) to be buried in Arlington National
Cemetery may be buried in that cemetery on the same basis as dependents
of members on active duty.''.
(2) The table of sections at the beginning of chapter 24 of title
38, United States Code, is amended by striking the item relating to
section 2412 and inserting after the item relating to section 2411 the
following new items:
``2412. Arlington National Cemetery: eligibility of certain persons for
burial.
``2413. Lease of land and buildings.''.
(b) Effective Date.--Section 2412 of title 38, United States Code,
as added by subsection (a), shall apply with respect to interments
occurring on or after the date of the enactment of this Act.
SEC. 6. ELIGIBILITY OF CERTAIN PERSONS FOR SPACE-AVAILABLE TRAVEL ON
MILITARY AIRCRAFT.
(a) Eligibility of ``Gray Area'' Retirees and Spouses.--Chapter 157
of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section
2641a the following new section:
``Sec. 2641b. Space-available travel on Department of Defense aircraft:
Reserve members eligible for retired pay but for age;
spouses
``(a) Reserve Retirees Under Age 60.--A member or former member of
a reserve component under 60 years of age who, but for age, would be
eligible for retired pay under chapter 1223 of this title shall be
provided transportation on Department of Defense aircraft, on a space-
available basis, on the same basis as members of the armed forces
entitled to retired pay under any other provision of law.
``(b) Spouses.--The spouse of a member or former member under 60
years of age who, but for age, would be eligible for retired pay under
chapter 1223 of this title, shall be provided transportation on
Department of Defense aircraft, on a space-available basis, on the same
basis as spouses of members of the armed forces entitled to retired pay
under any other provision of law.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections at the beginning of
such chapter is amended by inserting after the item relating to section
2641a the following new item:
``2641b. Space-available travel on Department of Defense aircraft:
Reserve members eligible for retired pay
but for age; spouses.''.
SEC. 7. REPORT ON EMPLOYMENT MATTERS FOR MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL GUARD
AND RESERVE.
(a) Requirement for Report.--Not later than 270 days after the date
of the enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United
States shall submit to Congress a report on difficulties faced by
members of the National Guard and Reserve with respect to employment as
a result of being ordered to perform full time National Guard duty or
being ordered to active duty service, respectively.
(b) Specific Matters.--In preparing the report required under
subsection (a), the Comptroller General shall include information on
the following matters
(1) Type of employers.--An estimate of the number of
employers of members of the National Guard and Reserve who are
private sector employers and those who are public sector
employers.
(2) Size of employers.--An estimate of the number of
employers of members of the National Guard and Reserve who
employ fewer than 50 full-time employees.
(3) Self-employed.--An estimate of the number of members of
the National Guard and Reserve who are self-employed.
(4) Nature of business.--A description of the nature of the
business of employers of members of the National Guard and
Reserve.
(5) Reemployment difficulties.--A description of
difficulties faced by members of the National Guard and Reserve
in gaining reemployment after having performed full time
National Guard duty or active duty service, including
difficulties faced by members who are disabled and who are
Veterans of the Vietnam Era. | Americans in Uniform Act of 2005 - Requires the Department of Defense (DOD), in awarding any contract for the procurement of goods and services, to use as an evaluation factor whether entities intend to carry out the contract using employees or individual subcontractors who are members of the Selected Reserve. Requires entities claiming the intention to use such employees or subcontractors to document to DOD the number that the entity will employ, or contract with, for the contract in question. Authorizes the Secretary of the military department concerned to waive such requirement for national security purposes.
Increases by specified amounts the following special pays and allowances for reserve personnel: (1) hardship duty pay; (2) reenlistment bonuses; and (3) the family separation allowance.
Makes eligible for burial in Arlington National Cemetery: (1) a member or former member of the reserves who was under age 60 at the time of death and who, but for such age, would have been eligible for military retired pay; and (2) his or her dependents.
Makes eligible for space-available travel on DOD aircraft: (1) a member or former member of the reserves under 60 years of age who, but for such age, would be eligible for military retired pay; and (2) his or her spouse.
Requires a report from the Comptroller General to Congress on difficulties faced by members of the National Guard and reserves with respect to employment as a result of being ordered to full-time National Guard duty or active-duty service, respectively. | billsum_train |
Change the following text into a summary: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Veterans' Claims Continuation Act''.
SEC. 2. CONTINUATION OF CLAIM AND SUBSTITUTION OF PARTIES UPON DEATH OF
APPLICANT FOR BENEFITS.
(a) In General.--Chapter 51 of title 38, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following new section:
``Sec. 5127. Deaths of applicants for benefits: continuation of claims
and substitution of parties
``(a) In the case of a claim for monetary benefits (other than
insurance and servicemember's indemnity) under laws administered by the
Secretary that was submitted to the Secretary by a claimant who dies on
or after the date of the enactment of the Veterans' Claims Continuation
Act and before a decision on that claim becomes final in accordance
with section 7291 of this title, the claim shall not be extinguished
if, within one year of the claimant's death, an eligible person submits
an application to the Secretary, or submits a motion to a court with
jurisdiction over the claim, to be substituted as the claimant in order
to continue prosecution of that claim. The Secretary or the court, as
the case may be, shall approve any such application submitted by an
eligible person.
``(b)(1) For purposes of this section and section 7270 of this
title, subject to paragraph (2), the term `eligible person' means any
of the following individuals:
``(A) The surviving spouse.
``(B) Surviving children who have attained the age of 21.
``(C) A surviving parent.
``(D) The executor, administrator or other legal
representative of the deceased claimant's estate.
``(E) The next of kin of the veteran.
``(2) In a case where more than one individual referred to in
paragraph (1) submits an application or motion under subsection (a) to
be substituted as a claimant, the eligible person shall be determined
in the order listed in subparagraphs (A) through (E) of paragraph (1).
``(c) Upon being notified of the death of a claimant, the Secretary
shall send a notice to the estate of the decedent at the decedent's
last know address and to the authorized representative of the decedent,
if any, informing the estate and the representative that the claim will
be dismissed unless an application for substitution as the claimant is
received by the Secretary within one year of the claimant's death. If
the Secretary has actual knowledge of the name and last known address
of the surviving spouse, surviving children, surviving parent, or the
legal representative of the decedent's estate, a copy of such notice
shall be mailed or delivered to each such person. An application under
this section for substitution as the claimant on a claim must be filed
within one year after the date of the claimant's death.
``(d) A person named as a substitute claimant under section (a)
shall be accorded all the rights and responsibilities of the original
claimant.
``(e) If benefits are payable as a result of a decision on a claim
by a substituted claimant named under this section, such benefits shall
be paid as follows:
``(1) If the deceased claimant was claiming benefits as a
veteran, to the living person first listed below:
``(A) The veteran's spouse.
``(B) The veteran's children (in equal shares).
``(C) The veteran's dependent parents (in equal
shares).
``(2) If the deceased claimant was claiming benefits as the
surviving spouse of a veteran, to the surviving children of the
deceased veteran (in equal shares).
``(3) If the deceased claimant was claiming benefits under
chapter 18 of this title as the child of a veteran, to the
surviving parents of the child (in equal shares).
``(4) If there is no beneficiary who meets the criteria of
paragraphs (1), (2), and (3) and in all other cases, to the
decedent's estate, unless the estate will escheat.
``(f) No part of any benefit payable to a person as a result of
being substituted as the claimant on a claim under this section shall
be used to reimburse any political subdivision of the United States for
expenses incurred in the last sickness or burial of the deceased
claimant.
``(g) Upon the appointment of a substitute claimant, the Secretary
shall notify the person substituted as the claimant as to the evidence
or information necessary to substantiate the pending claim. If such
information or evidence is not received within one year from the date
of such notification, no benefits may be paid on the claim.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections at the beginning of
such chapter is amended by adding at the end the following new item:
``5127. Deaths of applicants for benefits: continuation of claims and
substitution of parties.''.
SEC. 3. PAYMENT OF ACCRUED BENEFITS APPLICABLE TO DEATHS BEFORE DATE OF
ENACTMENT.
(a) In General.--Subsection (a) of section 5121 of title 38, United
States Code, is amended--
(1) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking
``periodic monetary benefits'' and all that follows through
``be paid'' and inserting ``accrued benefits of a deceased
individual who died before the date of the enactment of the
Veterans' Claims Continuation Act that are due and unpaid for a
period not to exceed two years shall be paid''; and
(2) in paragraph (5), by striking ``only so much'' and all
that follows through ``burial'' and inserting ``to the
decedent's estate, unless the estate will escheat''.
(b) Definition of Accrued Benefits.--Such section is further
amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(d) For purposes of this section and section 5122 of this title,
the term `accrued benefits', with respect to a deceased individual,
means periodic monetary benefits (other than insurance and
servicemember's indemnity) under laws administered by the Secretary to
which the deceased individual was entitled at death under existing
ratings or decisions or based on evidence in the file at date of
death.''.
SEC. 4. SUBSTITUTION OF SURVIVOR IN CASES PENDING BEFORE A COURT.
(a) In General.--(1) Subchapter II of chapter 72 of title 38,
United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new
section:
``Sec. 7270. Cases pending on death of claimant: substitution of
parties
``(a) If a claimant dies before filing an appeal under section 7266
of this title, an eligible person may file an appeal as a substituted
claimant for the decedent within the time period specified under
section 7266 of this title. If an appellant or respondent dies while a
claim is pending before a court and before a final decision is rendered
under section 7291 of this title, an eligible person may move the court
for substitution of claimant in the pending action. Any such appeal to
the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims or to the United
States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit must be filed within
the time period prescribed by sections 7266 and 7292 of this title,
respectively, or within one year of the claimant's death, whichever is
earlier.
``(b) In any case in which a final decision under section 7291 of
this title has not been made, an eligible person may move a court to be
substituted as the appellant (or respondent as the case may be) for an
appellant or respondent who dies while an appeal is pending. The court
shall, upon filing of a timely motion, appoint an eligible person to
substitute as the claimant to continue prosecution or defense of that
claim.
``(c) Nothing in this section shall require or authorize
substitution for a deceased claimant if a final decision under section
7291 of this title has been entered before the filing of a motion for
substitution.
``(d) In this section, the term `eligible person' has the meaning
given that term in section 5127(b) of this title.''.
(2) The table of sections at the beginning of such subchapter is
amended by adding at the end the following new item:
``7270. Cases pending on death of claimant: substitution of parties.''.
(b) Effective Date.--Section 7270 of title 38, United States Code,
as added by subsection (a), shall apply with respect to deaths of
claimants on or after the date of the enactment of this Act. | Veterans' Claims Continuation Act - Authorizes the substitution of any of the following parties in the case of a veteran's claim for benefits provided through the Department of Veterans Affairs when the original claimant dies while the claim is pending: (1) the surviving spouse; (2) any surviving child at least 21 years of age; (3) a surviving parent; (4) the legal representative of the deceased claimant's estate; or (5) the next of kin of the veteran. Requires: (1) the substituting party to file a substitution application or motion within one year of the original claimant's death; and (2) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to notify the estate and legal representative of the deceased claimant that the claim will be dismissed if a substitute application or motion is not filed within such time period.Authorizes: (1) the payment of accrued benefits in the case of deaths occurring before the date of enactment of this Act; and (2) the substitution of the above eligible parties in cases pending before a U.S. Circuit Court or the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims. | billsum_train |
Make a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Oil Price Reduction Act of 2000''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds the following:
(1) Oil producing countries, including the nations of the
Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), took
concerted actions in March and September of 1999 to cut oil
production and hold back from the market 4,000,000 barrels a
day representing approximately six percent of the global
supply.
(2) OPEC, in its capacity as an oil cartel, has been a
critical factor in driving prices from approximately $11 a
barrel in December 1998 to a high of $30 a barrel in mid-
February 2000, levels not seen since the Persian Gulf Conflict.
(3) On February 10, 2000, a hearing before the Committee on
International Relations of the House of Representatives on
``OPEC and the Northeast Energy Crisis'' clearly demonstrated
that OPEC's goal of reducing its oil stocks was the major
reason behind price increases in heating oil, gasoline, and
diesel oil stocks.
(4) During this hearing, the Assistant Secretary in the
Office of International Affairs of the Department of Energy
noted that artificial supply constraints placed on the market
are ultimately self-defeating in so far as they increase
volatility in the market, lead to boom and bust cycles, and
promote global instability, particularly in developing
countries whose economies are extremely vulnerable to sharp
price increases.
(5) These price increases have caused inflationary shocks
to the United States economy and could threaten the global
economic recovery now underway in Europe and Asia where the
demand for oil is rising.
(6) The transportation infrastructure of the United States
is under stress and tens of thousands of small- to medium-sized
trucking firms throughout the Northeast region are on the verge
of bankruptcy because of the rise in diesel oil prices to more
than $2 per gallon--a 43 percent increase in the Central
Atlantic region and a 55 percent increase in the New England
region--an increase that has had the effect of requiring these
trucking firms to use up to 20 percent of their operating
budgets for the purchase of diesel oil.
(7) Many elderly and retired Americans on fixed incomes
throughout the Northeast region of the United States cannot
afford to pay the prevailing heating oil costs and all too
often are faced with the choice of paying the grocery bills or
staying warm.
(8) Several key oil producing nations relied on the United
States military for their protection in 1990 and 1991,
including during the Persian Gulf Conflict, and these nations
still depend on the United States for their security.
(9) Many of these nations enjoy a close economic and
security relationship with the United States which is a
fundamental underpinning of global security and cooperation.
(10) A continuation of the present policies put in place at
the meeting of OPEC Ministers in March and September of 1999
threatens the relationship that many of the OPEC nations enjoy
with the United States.
SEC. 3. POLICY OF THE UNITED STATES.
(a) Policy With Respect to Oil Exporting Countries.--It shall be
the policy of the United States to consider the extent to which major
net oil exporting countries engage in oil price fixing to be an
important determinant in the overall political, economic, and security
relationship between the United States and these countries.
(b) Policy With Respect to Oil Importing Countries.--It shall be
the policy of the United States to work multilaterally with other
countries that are major net oil importers to bring about the complete
dismantlement of international oil price fixing arrangements.
SEC. 4. REPORT TO CONGRESS.
Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act,
the President shall transmit to the Congress a report that contains the
following:
(1) A description of the overall economic and security
relationship between the United States and each country that is
a major net oil exporter, including each country that is a
member of OPEC.
(2) A description of the effect that coordination among the
countries described in paragraph (1) with respect to oil
production and pricing has had on the United States economy and
global energy supplies.
(3) Detailed information on any and all assistance programs
under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 and the Arms Export
Control Act, including licenses for the export of defense
articles and defense services under section 38 of such Act,
provided to the countries described in paragraph (1).
(4) A determination made by the President in accordance
with section 5 for each country described in paragraph (1).
SEC. 5. DETERMINATION BY THE PRESIDENT OF MAJOR OIL EXPORTING COUNTRIES
ENGAGED IN PRICE FIXING.
The report submitted pursuant to section 4 shall include the
determination of the President with respect to each country described
in section 4(1) as to whether or not, as of the date on which the
President makes the determination, that country is engaged in oil price
fixing to the detriment of the United States economy.
SEC. 6. DIPLOMATIC EFFORTS TO END PRICE FIXING.
(a) Diplomatic Efforts.--Not later than 30 days after the date on
which the President transmits to the Congress the report pursuant to
section 4, the President shall--
(1) undertake a concerted diplomatic campaign to convince
any country determined by the President pursuant to section 5
to be engaged in oil price fixing to the detriment of the
United States economy that the current oil price levels are
unsustainable and will negatively effect global economic growth
rates in oil consuming and developing countries; and
(2) take the necessary steps to begin negotiations to
achieve multilateral action to reduce, suspend, or terminate
bilateral assistance and arms exports to major net oil
exporters engaged in oil price fixing as part of a concerted
diplomatic campaign with other major net oil importers to bring
about the complete dismantlement of international oil price
fixing arrangements described in such report.
(b) Report on Diplomatic Efforts.--Not later than 120 days after
the date of the enactment of this Act, the President shall transmit to
the Congress a report describing any diplomatic efforts undertaken in
accordance with subsection (a) and the results achieved by those
efforts.
SEC. 7. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Oil price fixing.--The term ``oil price fixing'' means
participation in any agreement, arrangement, or understanding
with other countries that are oil exporters to increase the
price of oil or natural gas by means of, inter alia, limiting
oil or gas production or establishing minimum prices for oil or
gas.
(2) OPEC.--The term ``OPEC'' means the Organization of
Petroleum Exporting Countries.
Passed the House of Representatives March 22, 2000.
Attest:
JEFF TRANDAHL,
Clerk. | Directs the President, within 30 days after enactment of this Act, to report to Congress with respect to: (1) the overall economic and security relationship between the United States and each major net oil exporting country (including members of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC)); (2) the effect that coordination among such countries with respect to oil production and pricing has had on the U.S. economy and global energy supplies; (3) information on all assistance provided to such countries under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 and the Arms Export Control Act (including licenses for the export of defense articles and defense services); and (4) the President's determination as to whether or not each such country is engaging in oil price fixing to the detriment of the U.S. economy.Directs the President, not later than 30 days after submitting the report, to: (1) undertake a concerted diplomatic campaign to convince any country determined to be engaged in oil price fixing to the detriment of the U.S. economy that the current oil price levels are unsustainable and will negatively affect global economic growth rates in oil consuming and developing countries; and (2) take the necessary steps to begin negotiations to achieve multilateral action to reduce, suspend, or terminate bilateral assistance and arms exports to major net oil exporters engaged in oil price fixing as part of a concerted diplomatic campaign with other major net oil importers to bring about the complete dismantlement of international oil price fixing arrangements. Requires the President to report to Congress with respect to such diplomatic efforts. | billsum_train |
Summarize the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Sportsmen's Bill of Rights Act of
1996''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS POLICY.
(a) Findings.--Congress finds that--
(1) fishing is an important and traditional recreational
activity in which 36,000,000 Americans 16-years-old and older
participate;
(2) hunting is an important and traditional recreational
activity in which 14,000,000 Americans 16-years-old and older
participate;
(3) survey data from a recent comprehensive 3-year study
entitled ``Factors Related to Hunting and Fishing Participation
in the United States'' suggest that 95 percent of Americans
agreed fishing should remain legal and 81 percent agreed
hunting should remain legal;
(4) anglers and hunters have been and continue to be among
the foremost supporters of sound wildlife management and
conservation practices in the United States;
(5) persons who hunt or fish and organizations related to
those activities provide direct assistance to wildlife managers
and enforcement officers of Federal, State, and local
Governments;
(6) funds raised through license, permit, and stamp
purchases as well as through excise taxes on goods used by
anglers and hunters have generated more than $6,000,000,000 for
wildlife research and management; and
(7) fishing and hunting are essential components of
effective wildlife management in that they tend to reduce
conflicts between people and wildlife and by providing
incentives for the conservation of wildlife and the habitats
and ecosystems on which wildlife depends.
(b) Policy.--It is the policy of the United States that each
Federal agency that manages a natural resource or the land and water on
which a natural resource depends shall support, promote, and enhance
opportunities for fishing and hunting.
SEC. 3. TAKING OF FISH AND WILDLIFE ON FEDERAL LANDS.
(a) In General.--Federal land shall be open to access and for use
for fishing and hunting unless--
(1) the responsible agency of the State in which the
Federal land is located limits access to and use of the land as
part of wildlife management by the State; or
(2) the Federal agency responsible for Federal public land
limits access and use--
(A) for reasons of national security; or
(B) for reasons related to specific statutory
requirements regarding the management and use of the
land, if the requirements are clearly and directly
incompatible with fishing or hunting.
(b) No Priority.--This section does not require a Federal agency to
give preference to fishing or hunting over other uses of Federal land
or land management priorities established in Federal law.
(c) Authority of the States.--
(1) In general.--Nothing in this Act impairs the primacy of
State authority in regulating the taking of fish and wildlife
on land within the State, including Federal land.
(2) Federal authority.--Except as expressly provided by Act
of Congress, the authority of a Federal agency regarding the
taking of fish and wildlife on Federal land managed by the
Federal agency shall be no greater than the rights of a private
owner of land.
SEC. 4. PROTECTION OF THE INTEGRITY OF THE SPORTSMEN'S TRUST ACCOUNTS.
(a) Funding of Plans and Projects.--
(1) Federal aid in wildlife restoration act.--The Act
entitled ``An Act to provide that the United States shall aid
the States in wildlife-restoration projects, and for other
purposes'', approved September 2, 1937 (commonly known as the
``Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act'') (16 U.S.C. 669 et
seq.), is amended--
(A) by striking ``Secretary of Agriculture'' each
place it appears and inserting ``Secretary of the
Interior''; and
(B) in section 4 by adding at the end the
following:
``(c) The amount of funding made available to the Secretary of the
Interior for expenses under this section shall not be available for use
as a supplement to decreased funding for any other expense under the
authority of the Secretary of the Interior.''.
(2) Federal aid in fish restoration act.--Section 4 of the
Act entitled ``An Act to provide that the United States shall
aid the States in fish restoration and management projects, and
for other purposes'', approved August 9, 1950 (commonly known
as the ``Federal Aid in Fish Restoration Act'') (16 U.S.C.
777c), is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(f) The amount of funding made available to the Secretary of the
Interior for expenses under this section shall not be available for use
as a supplement to decreased funding for any other expense under the
authority of the Secretary of the Interior.''.
SEC. 5. EVALUATION OF WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT EFFECTS.
(a) Statement.--No Federal agency action that may significantly
diminish opportunities or access to engage in fishing or hunting on
Federal land shall be effective until the agency prepares a detailed
statement evaluating the effect of the action on fishing and hunting.
(b) Notice and Hearing.--Before taking an action described in
subsection (a), a Federal agency shall--
(1) provide notice of the proposed agency action to the
appropriate State agency responsible for the conduct or
oversight or fish and wildlife management; and
(2) conduct a public hearing in the vicinity of the
proposed action.
(c) Judicial Review.--An individual or entity that may be adversely
affected by a loss of fishing or hunting opportunities on Federal land
as a result of an agency action described in subsection (a) may bring a
civil action in United States district court for review of the action.
(d) Emergencies.--Nothing in this section precludes an agency from
exercising statutory authority to close Federal lands in an emergency
or other exigent circumstances.
(e) Effect on Other Law.--Nothing in this section affects or has
application to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C. 703 et seq.) or
the Magnuson Fishery Conservation and Management Act (16 U.S.C. 1801 et
seq.).
SEC. 6. CLARIFICATIONS RELATING TO MAINTENANCE OF FISHING AND HUNTING
OPPORTUNITIES.
(a) Definition of Point Source.--Section 502(14) of the Federal
Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1362(14)) is amended--
(1) by striking ``means'' and inserting the following:
``(A) means'';
(2) by striking ``discharged.'' and inserting ``discharged;
but'';
(3) by striking ``This term does not include agricultural
stormwater'' and inserting the following:
``(B) does not include--
``(i) agricultural stormwater discharges
and return flows from irrigated agriculture;''
and
(4) by striking the period at the end and inserting ``;
or''; and
(5) by adding at the end the following:
``(ii) any conveyance that serves the
purposes of directly assisting individuals
engaged in fishing, hunting, or recreational
shooting.''.
(b) Dredged or Fill Material.--Section 404(f)(1) of the Federal
Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1344(f)(1)) is amended--
(1) by striking the comma at the end of subparagraph (F)
and inserting ``; or''; and
(2) by inserting after subparagraph (F) the following:
``(G) resulting from the conduct of fishing,
hunting, or recreational shooting;''.
SEC. 7. PROMOTION OF FISHING AND HUNTING BY FEDERAL AGENCIES.
Each Federal agency, in carrying out the Act entitled ``An Act to
provide that the United States shall aid States in wildlife-restoration
projects, and for other purposes'', approved September 2, 1937
(commonly known as the ``Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act'') (16
U.S.C. 669 et seq.) or the Act entitled ``An Act to provide that the
United States shall aid the States in fish restoration and management
projects, and for other purposes'', approved August 9, 1950 (commonly
known as the ``Federal Aid in Fish Restoration Act'') (16 U.S.C. 777 et
seq.), shall seek to enhance existing programs and services and
establish new programs and services that promote fishing and hunting.
SEC. 8. CIVIL ACTIONS.
(a) Intervention.--A person interested in fishing or hunting shall
be entitled to intervene as a matter of right in a civil action brought
under any other Federal law relating to the use of any Federal land in
which the plaintiff seeks an order that would require the use (or
nonuse) of the land in such a manner as to impair access to or use of
the land for the purpose of fishing or hunting as required by this Act.
(b) Consideration of Interests.--If an inter-
venor under subsection (a) shows that the application of another
Federal law as sought by the plaintiff would be likely to impair access
to or use of the land for the purpose of fishing or hunting as required
by this Act, the court shall not grant the relief sought unless the
plaintiff shows that the interest intended to be advanced by the other
Federal law clearly outweighs the interest of protecting access to and
use of Federal land for fishing and hunting.
SEC. 9. STANDING TO BRING A CIVIL ACTION.
A licensed angler, licensed hunter, or organization representing
the interests of licensed anglers or hunters may bring a civil action
in a United States district court to seek declaratory or injunctive
relief regarding the implementation of any provision of this Act,
including a declaration that a civil action brought by another person
may significantly disrupt or eliminate opportunities for fishing or
hunting and an injunction against the prosecution of the civil action. | Sportsmen's Bill of Rights Act of 1996 - Requires Federal land to be open to access and for use for fishing and hunting if: (1) the responsible State agency in which Federal land is located limits access to and use of the land as part of wildlife management by the State; or (2) the Federal agency responsible for Federal public land limits access and use for national security or for reasons related to specific statutory requirements regarding the management and use of the land if such requirements are clearly and directly incompatible with fishing or hunting.
Amends the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act to authorize the Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) to cooperate with the Secretary of the Interior of Puerto Rico (currently, Secretary of Agriculture of Puerto Rico) in the conduct of wildlife-restoration projects. Prohibits the amount of funding made available to the Secretary for expenses in the administration and execution of wildlife-restoration projects and the Migratory Bird Conservation Act from being made available for use as a supplement to decreased funding for any other expense under the Secretary's authority.
Amends the Federal Aid in Fish Restoration Act to prohibit the amount of funding made available to the Secretary for fish restoration and management projects from being used as a supplement to decreased funding for any other expense under the Secretary's authority.
Prohibits a Federal agency's action that may significantly diminish opportunities or access to engage in fishing or hunting on Federal land from being effective until the agency prepares a detailed statement evaluating the effect of such action. Provides for judicial review of such action.
Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to exclude from the definition of "point source" any conveyance that serves the purposes of directly assisting individuals engaged in fishing, hunting, or recreational shooting. Provides that the discharge of dredged or filled material resulting from fishing, hunting, or recreational shooting shall not be prohibited by or otherwise subject to regulations under the Act, except for its effluent standards or prohibitions.
Requires Federal agencies to seek to enhance existing programs and services that promote fishing and hunting and to establish new ones.
Entitles a person interested in fishing or hunting to intervene as a matter of right in a civil action brought under any other Federal law relating to the use of Federal land, under specified conditions. Bars the court from granting the relief sought unless the plaintiff shows that the interest intended to be advanced by the other Federal law clearly outweighs the interest of protecting access to, and use of, Federal land for fishing and hunting.
Allows a licensed angler, licensed hunter, or an organization representing such individual's interests to bring a civil action in a U.S. district court to seek declaratory or injunctive relief regarding the implementation of this Act, including a declaration that a civil action brought by another person may significantly disrupt or eliminate opportunities for fishing or hunting and an injunction against the prosecution of the civil action. | billsum_train |
Create a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Success in Countering Al Qaeda
Reporting Requirements Act of 2008''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress makes the following findings:
(1) Al Qaeda and its related affiliates attacked the United
States on September 11, 2001 in New York, New York, Arlington,
Virginia, and Shanksville, Pennsylvania, murdering almost 3000
innocent civilians.
(2) Osama bin Laden and his deputy Ayman al-Zawahiri remain
at large.
(3) In testimony to the Select Committee on Intelligence of
the Senate on February 5, 2008, Director of National
Intelligence J. Michael McConnell stated, ``Al-Qa'ida has been
able to retain a safehaven in Pakistan's Federally Administered
Tribal Areas (FATA) that provides the organization many of the
advantages it once derived from its base across the border in
Afghanistan''.
(4) The July 2007 National Intelligence Estimate states,
``Al Qaeda is and will remain the most serious terrorist threat
to the Homeland''.
(5) In testimony to the Permanent Select Committee on
Intelligence of the House of Representatives on February 7,
2008, Director of National Intelligence Michael McConnell
stated, ``Al-Qa'ida and its terrorist affiliates continue to
pose significant threats to the United States at home and
abroad, and al-Qa'ida's central leadership based in the border
area of Pakistan is its most dangerous component.''.
(6) The ``National Strategy for Combating Terrorism'',
issued in September 2006, affirmed that long-term efforts are
needed to win the battle of ideas against the root causes of
the violent extremist ideology that sustains Al Qaeda and its
affiliates. The United States has obligated resources to
support democratic reforms and human development to undercut
support for violent extremism, including in the Federally
Administered Tribal Areas in Pakistan and the Sahel region of
Africa. However, 2 reports released by the Government
Accountability Office in 2008 (``Combating Terrorism: The
United States Lacks Comprehensive Plan to Destroy the Terrorist
Threat and Close the Safe Haven in Pakistan's Federally
Administered Tribal Areas'' (GAO-08-622, April 17, 2008) and
``Combating Terrorism: Actions Needed to Enhance Implementation
of Trans-Sahara Counterterrorism Partnership'' (GAO-08-860,
July 31, 2008)) found that ``no comprehensive plan for meeting
U.S. national security goals in the FATA have been developed,''
and ``no comprehensive integrated strategy has been developed
to guide the [Sahel] program's implementation''.
(7) Such efforts to combat violent extremism and radicalism
must be undertaken using all elements of national power,
including military tools, intelligence assets, law enforcement
resources, diplomacy, paramilitary activities, financial
measures, development assistance, strategic communications, and
public diplomacy.
(8) In the report entitled ``Suggested Areas for Oversight
for the 110th Congress'' (GAO-08-235R, November 17, 2006), the
Government Accountability Office urged greater congressional
oversight in assessing the effectiveness and coordination of
United States international programs focused on combating and
preventing the growth of terrorism and its underlying causes.
(9) Section 140(a) of the Foreign Relations Authorization
Act, Fiscal Years 1988 and 1989 (22 U.S.C. 2656f(a)) requires
that the Secretary of State submit annual reports to Congress
that detail key developments on terrorism on a country-by-
country basis. These Country Reports on Terrorism provide
information on acts of terrorism in countries, major
developments in bilateral and multilateral counterterrorism
cooperation, and the extent of State support for terrorist
groups responsible for the death, kidnaping, or injury of
Americans, but do not assess the scope and efficacy of United
States counterterrorism efforts against Al Qaeda and its
related affiliates.
(10) The Executive Branch submits regular reports to
Congress that detail the status of United States combat
operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, including a breakdown of
budgetary allocations, key milestones achieved, and measures of
political, economic, and military progress.
(11) The Department of Defense compiles a report of the
monthly and cumulative incremental obligations incurred to
support the Global War on Terrorism in a monthly Supplemental
and Cost of War Execution Report.
SEC. 3. SENSE OF CONGRESS.
It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) 7 years after the attacks on September 11, 2001, Al
Qaeda and its related affiliates remain the most serious
national security threat to the United States, with alarming
signs that Al Qaeda and its related affiliates recently
reconstituted their strength and ability to generate new
attacks throughout the world, including against the United
States;
(2) there remains insufficient information on current
counterterrorism efforts undertaken by the Federal Government
and the level of success achieved by specific initiatives;
(3) Congress and the American people can benefit from more
specific data and metrics that can provide the basis for
objective external assessments of the progress being made in
the overall war being waged against violent extremism;
(4) the absence of a comparable timely assessment of the
ongoing status and progress of United States counterterrorism
efforts against Al Qaeda and its related affiliates in the
overall Global War on Terrorism hampers the ability of Congress
and the American people to independently determine whether the
United States is making significant progress in this defining
struggle of our time; and
(5) the Executive Branch should submit a comprehensive
report to Congress, updated on an annual basis, which provides
a more strategic perspective regarding--
(A) the United States' highest global
counterterrorism priorities;
(B) the United States' efforts to combat and defeat
Al Qaeda and its related affiliates;
(C) the United States' efforts to undercut long-
term support for the violent extremism that sustains Al
Qaeda and its related affiliates;
(D) the progress made by the United States as a
result of such efforts;
(E) the efficacy and efficiency of the United
States resource allocations; and
(F) whether the existing activities and operations
of the United States are actually diminishing the
national security threat posed by Al Qaeda and its
related affiliates.
SEC. 4. ANNUAL COUNTERTERRORISM STATUS REPORTS.
(a) In General.--Not later than July 31, 2009, and every July 31
thereafter, the President shall submit a report, to the Committee on
Foreign Relations of the Senate, the Committee on Foreign Affairs of
the House of Representatives, the Committee on Armed Services of the
Senate, the Committee on Armed Services of the House of
Representatives, the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate, the
Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives, the Select
Committee on Intelligence of the Senate, and the Permanent Select
Committee on Intelligence of the House of Representatives, which
contains, for the most recent 12-month period, a review of the
counterterrorism strategy of the United States Government, including--
(1) a detailed assessment of the scope, status, and
progress of United States counterterrorism efforts in fighting
Al Qaeda and its related affiliates and undermining long-term
support for violent extremism;
(2) a judgment on the geographical region in which Al Qaeda
and its related affiliates pose the greatest threat to the
national security of the United States;
(3) an evaluation of the extent to which the
counterterrorism efforts of the United States correspond to the
plans developed by the National Counterterrorism Center and the
goals established in overarching public statements of strategy
issued by the executive branch;
(4) a description of the efforts of the United States
Government to combat Al Qaeda and its related affiliates and
undermine violent extremist ideology, which shall include--
(A) a specific list of the President's highest
global counterterrorism priorities;
(B) the degree of success achieved by the United
States, and remaining areas for progress, in meeting
the priorities described in subparagraph (A); and
(C) efforts in those countries in which the
President determines that--
(i) Al Qaeda and its related affiliates
have a presence; or
(ii) acts of international terrorism have
been perpetrated by Al Qaeda and its related
affiliates;
(5) the specific status and achievements of United States
counterterrorism efforts, through military, financial,
political, intelligence, and paramilitary elements, relating
to--
(A) bilateral security and training programs;
(B) law enforcement and border security;
(C) the disruption of terrorist networks; and
(D) the denial of terrorist safe havens and
sanctuaries;
(6) a description of United States Government activities to
counter terrorist recruitment and radicalization, including--
(A) strategic communications;
(B) public diplomacy;
(C) support for economic development and political
reform; and
(D) other efforts aimed at influencing public
opinion;
(7) United States Government initiatives to eliminate
direct and indirect international financial support for the
activities of terrorist groups;
(8) a cross-cutting analysis of the budgets of all Federal
Government agencies as they relate to counterterrorism funding
to battle Al Qaeda and its related affiliates abroad,
including--
(A) the source of such funds; and
(B) the allocation and use of such funds;
(9) an analysis of the extent to which specific Federal
appropriations--
(A) have produced tangible, calculable results in
efforts to combat and defeat Al Qaeda, its related
affiliates, and its violent ideology; or
(B) contribute to investments that have expected
payoffs in the medium- to long-term;
(10) statistical assessments, including those developed by
the National Counterterrorism Center, on the number of
individuals belonging to Al Qaeda and its related affiliates
that have been killed, injured, or taken into custody as a
result of United States counterterrorism efforts; and
(11) a concise summary of the methods used by National
Counterterrorism Center and other elements of the United States
Government to assess and evaluate progress in its overall
counterterrorism efforts, including the use of specific
measures, metrics, and indices.
(b) Interagency Cooperation.--In preparing a report under this
section, the President shall include relevant information maintained
by--
(1) the National Counterterrorism Center and the National
Counterproliferation Center;
(2) Department of Justice, including the Federal Bureau of
Investigation;
(3) the Department of State;
(4) the Department of Defense;
(5) the Department of Homeland Security;
(6) the Department of the Treasury;
(7) the Office of the Director of National Intelligence,
(8) the Central Intelligence Agency;
(9) the Office of Management and Budget;
(10) the United States Agency for International
Development; and
(11) any other Federal department that maintains relevant
information.
(c) Report Classification.--Each report required under this section
shall be--
(1) submitted in an unclassified form, to the maximum
extent practicable; and
(2) accompanied by a classified appendix, as appropriate. | Success in Countering Al Qaeda Reporting Requirements Act of 2008 - Directs the President to submit annual counterterrorism reports to the appropriate congressional committees, including an assessment of U.S. counterterrorism efforts in fighting Al Qaeda and its related affiliates. | billsum_train |
Provide a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Greenhouse Gas Observation and
Analysis System Act''.
SEC. 2. PURPOSES.
The purposes of this Act are--
(1) to establish a comprehensive national greenhouse gas
observation and analysis system to support verification of
greenhouse gas emissions;
(2) to establish a baseline characterizing the influence of
current and past greenhouse gas emissions on atmospheric
composition; and
(3) to provide a scientifically robust record of
atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations.
SEC. 3. ESTABLISHMENT OF GREENHOUSE GAS OBSERVATION AND ANALYSIS
SYSTEM.
(a) In General.--The Administrator shall establish a greenhouse gas
observation and analysis system that will offer the resolution and
widespread coverage required to verify reduction and mitigation of
greenhouse gases. In establishing the system, the Administrator shall
coordinate with the Department of Commerce's National Institute of
Standards and Technology, the National Aeronautics and Space
Administration, the National Science Foundation, the Department of
Energy, the Department of Agriculture, and the United States Geological
Survey.
(b) System Components.--The system--
(1) shall be an operational and scientifically robust
greenhouse gas observation and analysis system that includes
local and regional ground-based observations, space-based
observations, carbon-cycle modeling, greenhouse gas
inventories, meta-analysis, and extensive data integration and
distribution to provide quantitative information about sources,
sinks, and fluxes of greenhouse gases at relevant temporal and
spatial scales; and
(2) shall be capable of--
(A) differentiating between source and sink
exchanges;
(B) identifying types of emissions (fossil-fuel and
non-fossil fuel sources); and
(C) tracking agricultural and other sinks; and
(3) shall include--
(A) sustained ground, sea, and air-based
measurements;
(B) sustained space-based observations;
(C) measurements of tracer, including isotopes and
non-carbon dioxide gases;
(D) carbon cycle monitoring;
(E) carbon cycle modeling;
(F) traceability to the International System of
Units; and
(G) data assimilation and analysis.
(c) Coordination.--The Administrator shall, to the extent
appropriate--
(1) facilitate coordination of--
(A) observations and modeling;
(B) data and information management systems,
including archive and access; and
(C) the development and transfer of technologies to
facilitate the evaluation of greenhouse gas emission
reductions, offsets, and other mitigation strategies;
(2) coordinate with the National Institute of Standards and
Technology to make sure that the greenhouse gas observation and
analysis system is based upon quantitative measurements
traceable to international standards; and
(3) coordinate with other Federal agencies and
international organizations and agencies involved in
international or domestic programs.
SEC. 4. SYSTEM PLAN.
(a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment
of this Act, the Administrator shall, in coordination with the agencies
described in section 3, develop and submit a plan for an integrated and
comprehensive greenhouse gas observation and analysis system to the
Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the House
of Representatives Committee on Science and Technology.
(b) Plan Requirements.--The plan shall--
(1) identify and describe current national and
international greenhouse gas observation networks, modeling,
and data analysis efforts;
(2) contain an inventory of agency data relevant to
greenhouse gases;
(3) assess gaps, conflicts, and opportunities with respect
to the matters described in paragraphs (1) and (2);
(4) establish priorities, define agency roles, and make
recommendations on necessary capacity and capabilities for--
(A) ground, sea, and air-based measurements;
(B) sustained space-based observations;
(C) measurements of tracer, including isotopes and
non-carbon dioxide gases;
(D) carbon cycle monitoring;
(E) carbon cycle modeling;
(F) measurement traceability and comparability;
(G) data assimilation and analysis; and
(H) data archive management and data access; and
(5) establish and define mechanisms for ensuring continuity
of domestic and international greenhouse gas measurements, and
contribute to international efforts to build and operate a
global greenhouse gas information system, in coordination with
the World Meteorological Organization and other international
organizations and agencies, as appropriate.
SEC. 5. REPORTS.
The Administrator shall, not less than every 4 years after the date
of enactment of this Act and in coordination with the agencies
described in section 3, submit a report to the Senate Committee on
Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the House of Representatives
Committee on Science and Technology that includes--
(1) an analysis of the progress made toward achieving the
goals and objectives of the plan outlined in section 4;
(2) an evaluation of the effectiveness of the system;
(3) recommendations concerning modifications to the system;
(4) an analysis of the consistency of reported greenhouse
gas emission reductions with independent observations of
atmospheric and Earth-system trends; and
(5) an update on changes or trends in Earth-system sources
and sinks of greenhouse gases.
SEC. 6. AGREEMENTS.
(a) In General.--The Administrator may enter into and perform such
contracts, leases, grants, cooperative agreements, or other agreements
as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.
(b) Specific Authority.--Notwithstanding any other provision of
law, the Administrator may--
(1) enter into long-term leases of up to 20 years for the
use of unimproved land to site small shelter facilities,
antennae, and equipment including weather, tide, tidal
currents, river, and air sampling or measuring equipment;
(2) enter into long-term licenses of up to 20 years at no
cost to site facilities and equipment including weather, tide,
tidal currents, river, and air sampling or measuring equipment;
(3) acquire (by purchase, lease, or otherwise), lease,
sell, and dispose of or convey services, money, securities, or
property (whether real, personal, intellectual, or of any other
kind) or an interest therein;
(4) construct, improve, repair, operate, maintain,
outgrant, and dispose of real or personal property, including
buildings, facilities, and land; and
(5) waive capital lease scoring requirements for any lease
of space on commercial antennas to support weather radio
equipment, air sampling, or measuring equipment.
(c) Certain Leased Equipment.--Notwithstanding any other provision
of law, rule, or regulation, leases of antenna or equipment on towers
or other structures shall be considered operating leases for the
purpose of capital lease scoring.
SEC. 7. EFFECT ON OTHER LAWS.
Nothing in this Act shall be construed to supersede or alter the
existing authorities of any Federal agency with respect to Earth
science research or greenhouse gas mitigation.
SEC. 8. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Administrator.--The term ``Administrator'' means the
Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration.
(2) Earth-system.--The term ``Earth-system'' means the
Earth's biosphere, including the ocean, atmosphere, and soils
that influence the amounts of greenhouse gas in the atmosphere.
(3) Greenhouse gas.--The term ``greenhouse gas'' means a
gas in the atmosphere that increases the radiative forcing of
the Earth-atmosphere system.
(4) International system of units.--The term
``International System of Units'' means the modern metric
system of units established in 1960 by the 11th General
Conference on Weight and Measures.
(5) Radiative forcing.--The term ``radiative forcing''
means the measure of the influence that a substance or process
has in altering the balance of incoming and outgoing energy in
the Earth-system.
(6) Sink.--The term ``sink'' means the removal of a
greenhouse gas from the atmosphere.
(7) Source.--The term ``source'' means the emission of a
greenhouse gas into the atmosphere.
(8) System.--The term ``system'' means the national
greenhouse gas observation and analysis system established
under section 3.
(9) Tracer.--The term ``tracer'' means an atmospheric
substance that can be used to assess or determine the origin of
a greenhouse gas.
SEC. 9. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of
Commerce such sums as appropriate to carry out this Act. | Greenhouse Gas Observation and Analysis System Act - Directs the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to establish a greenhouse gas observation and analysis system that will offer the resolution and widespread coverage required to verify reduction and mitigation of greenhouse gases. Requires the system to: (1) be an operational and scientifically robust greenhouse gas observation system that provides quantitative information about sources, sinks, and fluxes of greenhouse gases at relevant temporal and spatial scales; (2) be capable of differentiating between source and sink exchanges, identifying types of emissions, and tracking agricultural and other sinks; and (3) include sustained ground, sea, and air-based measurements, sustained space-based observations, measurements of tracer, carbon cycle monitoring and modeling, traceability to the International System of Units, and data assimilation and analysis.
Directs the Administrator to develop and submit to specified congressional committees a plan for an integrated and comprehensive greenhouse gas observation and analysis system, which shall: (1) describe current greenhouse gas observation networks, modeling, and data analysis efforts; (2) contain an inventory of agency data relevant to greenhouse gases; (3) assess gaps, conflicts, and opportunities with respect to such efforts and data; (4) establish priorities, define agency roles, and make recommendations on necessary capacity and capabilities for measurements, monitoring, modeling, analysis, and data management; (5) establish mechanisms for ensuring continuity of greenhouse gas measurements; and (6) contribute to international efforts to build and operate a global greenhouse gas information system.
Requires the Administrator to report to Congress every four years on the effectiveness of the system, progress in achieving plan objectives, the consistency of reported greenhouse gas emissions with independent observations, and changes in Earth-system sources and sinks of greenhouse gases. | billsum_train |
Provide a condensed version of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Excellence in Education Act of
1999''.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS
In this Act:
(1) Core curriculum.--The term ``core curriculum'' means
curriculum in subjects such as reading and writing, language
arts, mathematics, social sciences (including history), and
science.
(2) Elementary school; local educational agency; secondary
school; secretary.--The terms ``elementary school'', ``local
educational agency'', ``secondary school'' and ``Secretary''
have the meanings given the terms in section 14101 of the
Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
8801).
(3) Practice of social promotion.--The term ``practice of
social promotion'' means a formal or informal practice of
promoting a student from the grade for which the determination
is made to the next grade when the student fails to meet State
achievement standards in the core academic curriculum, unless
the practice is consistent with the student's individualized
education program under section 614(d) of the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1414(d)).
(4) Construction.--
(A) In general.--Subject to subparagraph (B), the
term ``construction'' means--
(i) preparation of drawings and
specifications for school facilities;
(ii) building new school facilities, or
acquiring, remodeling, demolishing, renovating,
improving, or repairing facilities to establish
new school facilities; and
(iii) inspection and supervision of the
construction of new school facilities.
(B) Rule.--An activity described in subparagraph
(A) shall be considered to be construction only if the
labor standards described in section 439 of the General
Education Provisions Act (20 U.S.C. 1232b) are applied
with respect to such activity.
(5) School facility.--The term ``school facility'' means a
public structure suitable for use as a classroom, laboratory,
library, media center, or related facility the primary purpose
of which is the instruction of public elementary school or
secondary school students. The term does not include an
athletic stadium or any other structure or facility intended
primarily for athletic exhibitions, contests, or games for
which admission is charged to the general public.
SEC. 3. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this Act
$5,000,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2000 through 2004.
SEC. 4. PROGRAM AUTHORIZED.
The Secretary is authorized to award grants to local educational
agencies to enable the local educational agencies to carry out the
construction of new public elementary school and secondary school
facilities.
SEC. 5. CONDITIONS FOR RECEIVING FUNDS.
In order to receive funds under this Act a local educational agency
shall meet the following requirements:
(1) Reduce class and school sizes for public schools served
by the local educational agency as follows:
(A) Limit class size to an average student-to-
teacher ratio of 20 to 1, in classes serving
kindergarten through grade 6 students, in the schools
served by the agency.
(B) Limit class size to an average student-to-
teacher ratio of 28 to 1, in classes serving grade 7
through grade 12 students, in the schools served by the
agency.
(C) Limit the size of public elementary schools and
secondary schools served by the agency to--
(i) not more than 500 students in the case
of a school serving kindergarten through grade
5 students;
(ii) not more than 750 students in the case
of a school serving grade 6 through grade 8
students; and
(iii) not more than 1,500 students in the
case of a school serving grade 9 through grade
12 students.
(2) Terminate the practice of social promotion in the
public schools served by the agency.
(3) Require that students be subject to State achievement
standards in the core curriculum at key transition points, to
be determined by the State, for all kindergarten through grade
12 students.
(4) Use tests and other indicators, such as grades and
teacher evaluations, to assess student performance in meeting
the State achievement standards, which tests shall be valid for
the purpose of such assessment.
(5) Provide remedial education for students who fail to
meet the State achievement standards, including tutoring,
mentoring, summer programs, before-school programs, and after-
school programs.
(6) Provide matching funds, with respect to the cost to be
incurred in carrying out the activities for which the grant is
awarded, from non-Federal sources in an amount equal to the
Federal funds provided under the grant.
SEC. 6. APPLICATIONS.
(a) In General.--Each local educational agency desiring to receive
a grant under this Act shall submit an application to the Secretary at
such time and in such manner as the Secretary may require.
(b) Contents.--Each application shall contain--
(1) an assurance that the grant funds will be used in
accordance with this Act;
(2) a brief description of the construction to be
conducted;
(3) a cost estimate of the activities to be conducted; and
(4) a description of available non-Federal matching funds. | Excellence in Education Act of 1999 - Authorizes appropriations for a program of grants to local educational agencies (LEAs) for the construction of new public elementary school and secondary school facilities.
Authorizes the Secretary of Education to award such grants if the applicant LEAs: (1) reduce class and school sizes for their public elementary and secondary schools to specified limits for various grade levels; (2) terminate the practice of social promotion in their public schools; (3) require that students be subject to State achievement standards in the core curriculum at key transition points, to be determined by the State, for all kindergarten through grade 12 students; (4) use tests and other indicators, such as grades and teacher evaluations, to assess student performance in meeting State achievement standards; (5) provide remedial education for students who fail to meet State achievement standards, including tutoring, mentoring, summer programs, before-school programs, and after-school programs; and (6) provide equal matching funds from non-Federal sources. | billsum_train |
Change the following text into a summary: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Fair Value and Independent Appraisal
Act''.
SEC. 2. PROPERTY APPRAISAL REQUIREMENTS.
(a) In General.--Section 129 of the Truth in Lending Act (15 U.S.C.
1639) is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(m) Property Appraisal Requirements.--
``(1) In general.--A creditor may not extend credit in the
form of a mortgage referred to in section 103(aa) to any
consumer, without first obtaining a written appraisal of the
property to be mortgaged, prepared in accordance with the
requirements of this subsection.
``(2) Appraisal requirements.--
``(A) Physical property visit.--An appraisal of
property to be secured by a mortgage referred to in
section 103(aa) does not meet the requirements of this
subsection unless it is performed by a qualified
appraiser who conducts a physical property visit of the
interior of the mortgaged property.
``(B) Second appraisal under certain
circumstances.--
``(i) In general.--If the purpose of a
mortgage referred to in section 103(aa) is to
finance the purchase or acquisition of the
mortgaged property from a person within 180
days of the date of purchase or acquisition of
such property by that person at a price that
was lower than the current sale price of the
property, the creditor shall obtain a second
appraisal from a different qualified appraiser.
The second appraisal shall include an analysis
of the difference in sale prices, changes in
market conditions, and any improvements made to
the property between the date of the previous
sale and the current sale.
``(ii) No cost to consumer.--The cost of
any second appraisal required under clause (i)
may not be charged to the consumer.
``(C) Qualified appraiser defined.--For purposes of
this subsection, the term `qualified appraiser' means a
person who--
``(i) is certified or licensed by the State
in which the property to be appraised is
located; and
``(ii) performs each appraisal in
conformity with the Uniform Standards of
Professional Appraisal Practice and title XI of
the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery,
and Enforcement Act of 1989, and the
regulations prescribed under such title, as in
effect on the date of the appraisal.
``(3) Free copy of appraisal.--A creditor shall provide 1
copy of each appraisal conducted in accordance with this
subsection in connection with a mortgage referred to in section
103(aa) to the consumer without charge, at least 3 days prior
to the transaction closing date.
``(4) Consumer notification.--At the time of the initial
mortgage application, the consumer shall be provided with a
statement by the creditor that any appraisal prepared for the
mortgage is for the sole use of the creditor, and that the
consumer may choose to have a separate appraisal conducted at
their own expense.
``(5) Violations.--In addition to any other liability to
any person under this title, a creditor found to have willfully
failed to obtain an appraisal as required in this subsection
shall be liable to the consumer for the sum of $2,000.''.
(b) Equal Credit Opportunity Act Amendment.--Section 701(e) of the
Equal Credit Opportunity Act (15 U.S.C. 1691(e)) is amended to read as
follows:
``(e) Copies Furnished to Applicants.--
``(1) In general.--Each creditor shall furnish to an
applicant, a copy of all appraisal reports and valuations
developed in connection with the applicant's application for a
loan that is or would have been secured by a lien on
residential real property.
``(2) Procedures.--Appraisal reports shall be furnished
under this subsection upon written request by the applicant,
made within a reasonable period of time of the application and
before closing.
``(3) Reimbursement.--The creditor may require the
applicant to pay a reasonable fee for the provision of copies
of appraisal reports under this subsection.
``(4) Notification to consumers.--The creditor shall notify
(pursuant to regulations prescribed by the Board) an applicant
in writing of the right to receive a copy of each appraisal
report, under this subsection.''.
(c) Unfair and Deceptive Acts and Practices Relating to Certain
Consumer Credit Transactions.--Chapter 2 of the Truth in Lending Act
(15 U.S.C. 1631 et seq.) is amended by inserting after section 129 the
following new section:
``SEC. 129A. UNFAIR AND DECEPTIVE ACTS AND PRACTICES RELATING TO
CERTAIN CONSUMER CREDIT TRANSACTIONS.
``(a) In General.--It shall be unlawful, in providing any mortgage
lending services for a consumer credit transaction secured by the
principal dwelling of the consumer or any mortgage brokerage services
for such a transaction, to engage in any unfair or deceptive act or
practice.
``(b) Appraisal Independence.--For purposes of subsection (a),
unfair and deceptive acts or practices shall include--
``(1) any appraisal of a property offered as security for
repayment of the consumer credit transaction that is conducted
in connection with such transaction, in which a person with an
interest in the underlying transaction coerces, bribes,
extorts, colludes, or otherwise improperly influences a person
conducting or involved in an appraisal, or attempts to coerce,
bribe, extort, collude, or otherwise improperly influence such
a person, for the purpose of causing the appraised value
assigned under the appraisal to the property to be based on any
factor other than the independent judgment of the appraiser;
``(2) mischaracterizing or suborning any
mischaracterization of, the appraised value of the property
securing the extension of credit;
``(3) seeking to influence an appraiser or otherwise to
encourage a targeted value in order to facilitate the making or
pricing of the transaction; and
``(4) failing to timely compensate an appraiser for a
completed appraisal, regardless of whether the transaction
closes.
``(c) Exceptions.--The requirements of subsection (b) may not be
construed as prohibiting a mortgage lender, mortgage broker, mortgage
banker, real estate broker, or any other person with an interest in a
real estate transaction from asking an appraiser to correct errors in
the appraisal report.
``(d) Rulemaking Proceedings.--The Board and the Federal Trade
Commission--
``(1) shall jointly prescribe regulations defining with
specificity acts or practices which are unfair or deceptive in
the provision of mortgage lending services for a consumer
credit transaction secured by the principal dwelling of the
consumer or mortgage brokerage services for such a transaction,
within the meaning of subsections (a), (b), and (c); and
``(2) may jointly issue interpretive guidelines and general
statements of policy with respect to unfair or deceptive acts
or practices in the provision of mortgage lending services for
a consumer credit transaction secured by the principal dwelling
of the consumer and mortgage brokerage services for such a
transaction, within the meaning of subsections (a), (b), and
(c).
``(e) Definitions.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) the terms `mortgage brokerage services' and `mortgage
lending services', have the meanings given such terms in
section 13(f) of the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act of
1974 (12 U.S.C. 2611(f)); and
``(2) the term `improperly influence' means any attempt to
manipulate, through coercion, extortion, collusion,
intimidation, non-payment for services rendered, direct or
indirect compensation, or bribery, the development, reporting,
result, or review of a property appraisal.
``(f) Penalties.--
``(1) First violation.--In addition to the enforcement
provisions referred to in section 130, each person who violates
this section shall forfeit and pay a civil penalty of not more
than $10,000 for each day during which any such violation
continues.
``(2) Subsequent violations.--In the case of any person on
whom a civil penalty has been imposed under paragraph (1),
paragraph (1) shall be applied by substituting `$20,000' for
`$10,000' with respect to all subsequent violations.
``(3) Assessment.--The agency referred to in subsection (a)
or (c) of section 108 with respect to any person described in
paragraph (1) shall assess any penalty under this subsection to
which such person is subject.''.
(d) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for chapter 2 of the
Truth in Lending Act is amended by inserting after the item relating to
section 129 the following new item:
``Sec. 129A. Unfair and deceptive practices and acts relating to
certain consumer credit transactions.''. | Fair Value and Independent Appraisal Act - Amends the Truth in Lending Act to prohibit a creditor from extending a mortgage to any consumer without first obtaining a written appraisal of the property to be mortgaged, prepared in accordance with specified requirements.
Requires a creditor to provide a copy of each such appraisal to the consumer without charge, at least three days prior to the transaction closing date.
Declares unfair or deceptive specified property appraisal practices in the provision of: (1) mortgage lending services for a consumer credit transaction secured by the consumer's principal dwelling; or (2) any mortgage brokerage services for such a transaction. Establishes civil monetary penalties for such practices.
Directs the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the Federal Trade Commission to jointly prescribe regulations defining such unfair or deceptive acts or practices. | billsum_train |
Make a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Railroad Antitrust Enforcement Act
of 2009''.
SEC. 2. INJUNCTIONS AGAINST RAILROAD COMMON CARRIERS.
The proviso in section 16 of the Clayton Act (15 U.S.C. 26) ending
with ``Code.'' is amended to read as follows: ``Provided, That nothing
herein contained shall be construed to entitle any person, firm,
corporation, or association, except the United States, to bring suit
for injunctive relief against any common carrier that is not a railroad
subject to the jurisdiction of the Surface Transportation Board under
subtitle IV of title 49, United States Code.''.
SEC. 3. MERGERS AND ACQUISITIONS OF RAILROADS.
The sixth undesignated paragraph of section 7 of the Clayton Act
(15 U.S.C. 18) is amended to read as follows:
``Nothing contained in this section shall apply to transactions
duly consummated pursuant to authority given by the Secretary of
Transportation, Federal Power Commission, Surface Transportation Board
(except for transactions described in section 11321 of that title), the
Securities and Exchange Commission in the exercise of its jurisdiction
under section 10 (of the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935),
the United States Maritime Commission, or the Secretary of Agriculture
under any statutory provision vesting such power in the Commission,
Board, or Secretary.''.
SEC. 4. LIMITATION OF PRIMARY JURISDICTION.
The Clayton Act is amended by adding at the end thereof the
following:
``Sec. 29. In any civil action against a common carrier railroad
under section 4, 4C, 15, or 16 of this Act, the district court shall
not be required to defer to the primary jurisdiction of the Surface
Transportation Board.''.
SEC. 5. FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION ENFORCEMENT.
(a) Clayton Act.--Section 11(a) of the Clayton Act (15 U.S.C.
21(a)) is amended by striking ``subject to jurisdiction'' and all that
follows through the first semicolon and inserting ``subject to
jurisdiction under subtitle IV of title 49, United States Code (except
for agreements described in section 10706 of that title and
transactions described in section 11321 of that title);''.
(b) FTC Act.--Section 5(a)(2) of the Federal Trade Commission Act
(15 U.S.C. 45(a)(2)) is amended by striking ``common carriers subject''
and inserting ``common carriers, except for railroads, subject''.
SEC. 6. EXPANSION OF TREBLE DAMAGES TO RAIL COMMON CARRIERS.
Section 4 of the Clayton Act (15 U.S.C. 15) is amended by--
(1) redesignating subsections (b) and (c) as subsections
(c) and (d), respectively; and
(2) inserting after subsection (a) the following:
``(b) Subsection (a) shall apply to a common carrier by railroad
subject to the jurisdiction of the Surface Transportation Board under
subtitle IV of title 49, United States Code, without regard to whether
such railroads have filed rates or whether a complaint challenging a
rate has been filed.''.
SEC. 7. TERMINATION OF EXEMPTIONS IN TITLE 49.
(a) In General.--Section 10706 of title 49, United States Code, is
amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) in paragraph (2)(A), by striking ``, and the
Sherman Act (15 U.S.C. 1 et seq.),'' and all that
follows through ``or carrying out the agreement'' in
the third sentence;
(B) in paragraph (4)--
(i) by striking the second sentence; and
(ii) by striking ``However, the'' in the
third sentence and inserting ``The''; and
(C) in paragraph (5)(A), by striking ``, and the
antitrust laws set forth in paragraph (2) of this
subsection do not apply to parties and other persons
with respect to making or carrying out the agreement'';
and
(2) by striking subsection (e) and inserting the following:
``(e) Application of Antitrust Laws.--
``(1) In general.--Nothing in this section exempts a
proposed agreement described in subsection (a) from the
application of the Sherman Act (15 U.S.C. 1 et seq.), the
Clayton Act (15 U.S.C. 12, 14 et seq.), the Federal Trade
Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 41 et seq.), section 73 or 74 of the
Wilson Tariff Act (15 U.S.C. 8 and 9), or the Act of June 19,
1936 (15 U.S.C. 13, 13a, 13b, 21a).
``(2) Antitrust analysis to consider impact.--In reviewing
any such proposed agreement for the purpose of any provision of
law described in paragraph (1), the Board shall take into
account, among any other considerations, the impact of the
proposed agreement on shippers, on consumers, and on affected
communities.''.
(b) Combinations.--Section 11321 of title 49, United States Code,
is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) by striking ``The authority'' in the first
sentence and inserting ``Except as provided in sections
4 (15 U.S.C. 15), 4C (15 U.S.C. 15c), section 15 (15
U.S.C. 25), and section 16 (15 U.S.C. 26) of the
Clayton Act (15 U.S.C. 21(a)), the authority''; and
(B) by striking ``is exempt from the antitrust laws
and from all other law,'' in the third sentence and
inserting ``is exempt from all other law (except the
antitrust laws referred to in subsection (c)),''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(c) Application of Antitrust Laws.--
``(1) In general.--Nothing in this section exempts a
transaction described in subsection (a) from the application of
the Sherman Act (15 U.S.C. 1 et seq.), the Clayton Act (15
U.S.C. 12, 14 et seq.), the Federal Trade Commission Act (15
U.S.C. 41 et seq.), section 73 or 74 of the Wilson Tariff Act
(15 U.S.C. 8-9), or the Act of June 19, 1936 (15 U.S.C. 13,
13a, 13b, 21a). The preceding sentence shall not apply to any
transaction relating to the pooling of railroad cars approved
by the Surface Transportation Board or its predecessor agency
pursuant to section 11322 of title 49, United States Code.
``(2) Antitrust analysis to consider impact.--In reviewing
any such transaction for the purpose of any provision of law
described in paragraph (1), the Board shall take into account,
among any other considerations, the impact of the transaction
on shippers and on affected communities.''.
(c) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) The heading for section 10706 of title 49, United
States Code, is amended to read as follows: ``Rate
agreements''.
(2) The item relating to such section in the chapter
analysis at the beginning of chapter 107 of such title is
amended to read as follows:
``10706. Rate agreements.''.
SEC. 8. EFFECTIVE DATE.
(a) In General.--Subject to the provisions of subsection (b), this
Act shall take effect on the date of enactment of this Act.
(b) Conditions.--
(1) Previous conduct.--A civil action under section 4, 15,
or 16 of the Clayton Act (15 U.S.C. 15, 25, 26) or complaint
under section 5 of the Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C.
45) may not be filed with respect to any conduct or activity
that occurred prior to the date of enactment of this Act that
was previously exempted from the antitrust laws as defined in
section 1 of the Clayton Act (15 U.S.C. 12) by orders of the
Interstate Commerce Commission or the Surface Transportation
Board issued pursuant to law.
(2) Grace period.--A civil action or complaint described in
paragraph (1) may not be filed earlier than 180 days after the
date of enactment of this Act with respect to any previously
exempted conduct or activity or previously exempted agreement
that is continued subsequent to the date of enactment of this
Act. | Railroad Antitrust Enforcement Act of 2009 - Amends the Clayton Act to grant the United States exclusive authority to bring suit for injunctive relief against a common carrier that is not a rail common carrier subject to the jurisdiction of the Surface Transportation Board (STB).
Revises provisions prohibiting anticompetitive transactions except for those approved by specified federal agencies acting under certain statutes to eliminate the exemption for certain STB approved transactions.
Provides that, in any civil action against a rail common carrier, the U.S. district court shall not be required to defer to the primary jurisdiction of the STB.
Empowers the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to regulate, and engage in antitrust enforcement regarding, collective rate agreements and certain transactions, including railroad mergers and acquisitions.
Permits treble damages against railroad common carriers in antitrust suits to parties injured by antitrust violations without regard to whether such railroads have filed rates or whether a complaint challenging rates has been filed.
Amends federal transportation law to terminate the exemptions from antitrust laws for collective ratemaking agreements.
Requires the STB, when reviewing a proposed agreement, to take into account its impact upon shippers, consumers, and affected communities.
Revises STB authority to provide that a rail carrier, corporation, or a person participating in an approved transaction is not exempt from specified antitrust laws. Makes such provision inapplicable to any transaction relating to the pooling of railroad cars approved by the STB or its predecessor agency. | billsum_train |
Change the following text into a summary: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; FINDINGS.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Amyotrophic
Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Research, Treatment, and Assistance Act of
1997''.
(b) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
(1) Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), commonly known as
Lou Gehrig's Disease, is a progressive neuromuscular disease
characterized by a degeneration of the nerve cells of the brain
and spinal cord leading to the wasting of muscles, paralysis,
and eventual death.
(2) Approximately 30,000 individuals in the United States
are afflicted with ALS at any time, with approximately 5,000
new cases appearing each year.
(3) ALS usually strikes individuals who are 50 years of age
or older.
(4) The life expectancy of an individual with ALS is 3 to 5
years from the time of diagnosis.
(5) There is no know cure or cause for ALS.
(6) Aggressive treatment of the symptoms of ALS can extend
the lives of those with the disease. Recent advances in ALS
research have produced promising leads, many related to shared
disease processes that appear to operate in many
neurodegenerative diseases.
(c) Purposes.--It is the purposes of this Act--
(1) to assist individuals suffering from ALS by waiving the
24-month waiting period for medicare eligibility on the basis
of disability for ALS patients and to provide medicare coverage
for outpatient drugs and therapies for ALS; and
(2) to increase Federal funding of research into the cause,
treatment, and cure of ALS.
SEC. 2. WAIVER OF 24-MONTH WAITING PERIOD FOR MEDICARE COVERAGE OF
INDIVIDUALS DISABLED WITH AMYOTROPHIC LATERAL SCLEROSIS
(ALS).
(a) In General.--Section 226(b) of the Social Security Act (42
U.S.C. 426(b)) is amended--
(1) by redesignating subsection (h) as subsection (j) and
by moving such subsection to the end of the section, and
(2) by inserting after subsection (g) the following new
subsection:
``(h) For purposes of applying this section in the case of an
individual medically determined to have amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
(ALS), the following special rules apply:
``(1) Subsection (b) shall be applied as if there were no
requirement for any entitlement to benefits, or status, for a
period longer than 1 month.
``(2) The entitlement under such subsection shall begin
with the first month (rather than twenty-fifth month) of
entitlement or status.
``(3) Subsection (f) shall not be applied.''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 1837 of such Act (42 U.S.C.
1395p) is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(j) In applying this section in the case of an individual who is
entitled to benefits under part A pursuant to the operation of section
226(h), the following special rules apply:
``(1) The initial enrollment period under subsection (d)
shall begin on the first day of the first month in which the
individual satisfies the requirement of section 1836(1).
``(2) In applying subsection (g)(1), the initial enrollment
period shall begin on the first day of the first month of
entitlement to disability insurance benefits referred to in
such subsection.''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to benefits for months beginning after the date of the enactment
of this Act.
SEC. 3. MEDICARE COVERAGE OF DRUGS TO TREAT AMYOTROPHIC LATERAL
SCLEROSIS (ALS).
(a) In General.--Section 1861(s)(2) of the Social Security Act (42
U.S.C. 1395x(s)(2)) is amended--
(1) by striking ``and'' at the end of subparagraphs (N) and
(O),
(2) by adding ``and'' at the end of subparagraph (Q), and
(3) by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
``(R) any drug (which is approved by the Federal Food and
Drug Administration) prescribed for use in the treatment or
alleviation of symptoms relating to amyotrophic lateral
sclerosis (ALS);''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendments made by subsection (a) shall
apply to drugs furnished on or after the first day of the first month
beginning after the date of the enactment of this Act.
SEC. 4. INCREASED FEDERAL FUNDS FOR RESEARCH INTO AMYOTROPHIC LATERAL
SCLEROSIS (ALS).
For the purpose of conducting or supporting research on amyotrophic
lateral sclerosis through the National Institutes of Health, there are
authorized to be appropriated $25,000,000 for fiscal year 1998, and
such sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years 1999 through
2002. Such authorization is in addition to any other authorization of
appropriations that may be available for such purpose. | Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Research, Treatment, and Assistance Act of 1997 - Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to provide for a waiver of the 24-month waiting period for Medicare coverage for individuals disabled by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as ALS or Lou Gehrig's Disease.
Amends SSA title XVIII (Medicare) to provide for Medicare coverage of any drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use in the treatment or alleviation of ALS-related symptoms.
Authorizes appropriations, in addition to any already available, for ALS research through the National Institutes of Health. | billsum_train |
Make a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; REFERENCE TO 1986 CODE.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Energy Freedom and
Economic Prosperity Act of 2014''.
(b) Reference to 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.
TITLE I--REPEAL OF ENERGY TAX SUBSIDIES
SEC. 101. REPEAL OF CREDIT FOR ALCOHOL FUEL, BIODIESEL, AND ALTERNATIVE
FUEL MIXTURES.
(a) In General.--Section 6426 is repealed.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Paragraph (1) of section 4101(a) is amended by striking
``or alcohol (as defined in section 6426(b)(4)(A)''.
(2) Paragraph (2) of section 4104(a) is amended by striking
``6426, or 6427(e)''.
(3) Section 6427 is amended by striking subsection (e).
(4) Subparagraph (E) of section 7704(d)(1) is amended--
(A) by inserting ``(as in effect on the day before
the date of the enactment of the Energy Freedom and
Economic Prosperity Act of 2014)'' after ``of section
6426'', and
(B) by inserting ``(as so in effect)'' after
``section 6426(b)(4)(A)''.
(5) Paragraph (1) of section 9503(b) is amended by striking
the second sentence.
(c) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for subchapter B of
chapter 65 is amended by striking the item relating to section 6426.
(d) Effective Dates.--
(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2), the
amendments made by this section shall apply with respect to
fuel sold and used after the date of the enactment of this Act.
(2) Liquefied hydrogen.--In the case of any alternative
fuel or alternative fuel mixture (as defined in subsection
(d)(2) or (e)(3) of section 6426 of the Internal Revenue Code
of 1986 as in effect before its repeal by this Act) involving
liquefied hydrogen, the amendments made by this section shall
apply with respect to fuel sold and used after September 30,
2014.
SEC. 102. EARLY TERMINATION OF CREDIT FOR QUALIFIED FUEL CELL MOTOR
VEHICLES.
(a) In General.--Section 30B is repealed.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Subparagraph (A) of section 24(b)(3) is amended by
striking ``, 30B''.
(2) Paragraph (2) of section 25B(g) is amended by striking
``, 30B,''.
(3) Subsection (b) of section 38 is amended by striking
paragraph (25).
(4) Subsection (a) of section 1016 is amended by striking
paragraph (35) and by redesignating paragraphs (36) and (37) as
paragraphs (35) and (36), respectively.
(5) Subsection (m) of section 6501 is amended by striking
``, 30B(h)(9)''.
(c) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for subpart B of
part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1 is amended by striking the item
relating to section 30B.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to property placed in service after December 31, 2014.
SEC. 103. EARLY TERMINATION OF NEW QUALIFIED PLUG-IN ELECTRIC DRIVE
MOTOR VEHICLES.
(a) In General.--Section 30D is repealed.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by this section shall apply
to vehicles placed in service after the date of the enactment of this
Act.
SEC. 104. REPEAL OF CREDIT FOR ALCOHOL USED AS FUEL.
(a) In General.--Section 40 is repealed.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Subsection (b) of section 38 is amended by striking
paragraph (3).
(2) Subsection (c) of section 196 is amended by striking
paragraph (3) and by redesignating paragraphs (4) through (14)
as paragraphs (3) through (13), respectively.
(3) Paragraph (1) of section 4101(a) is amended by striking
``, and every person producing cellulosic biofuel (as defined
in section 40(b)(6)(E))''.
(4) Paragraph (1) of section 4104(a) is amended by striking
``, 40''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to fuel sold or used after the date of the enactment of this Act.
SEC. 105. REPEAL OF ENHANCED OIL RECOVERY CREDIT.
(a) In General.--Section 43 is repealed.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Subsection (b) of section 38 is amended by striking
paragraph (6).
(2) Paragraph (4) of section 45Q(d) is amended by inserting
``(as in effect on the day before the date of the enactment of
the Energy Freedom and Economic Prosperity Act of 2014)'' after
``section 43(c)(2)''.
(3) Subsection (c) of section 196, as amended by sections
105 and 106 of this Act, is amended by striking paragraph (5)
and by redesignating paragraphs (6) through (12) as paragraphs
(5) through (11), respectively.
(c) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for subpart D of
part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1 is amended by striking the item
relating to section 43.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to costs paid or incurred after December 31, 2014.
SEC. 106. REPEAL OF CREDIT FOR PRODUCING OIL AND GAS FROM MARGINAL
WELLS.
(a) In General.--Section 45I is repealed.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--Subsection (b) of section 38 is amended
by striking paragraph (19).
(c) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for subpart D of
part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1 is amended by striking the item
relating to section 45I.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to production in taxable years beginning after December 31, 2014.
SEC. 107. TERMINATION OF CREDIT FOR PRODUCTION FROM ADVANCED NUCLEAR
POWER FACILITIES.
(a) In General.--Subparagraph (B) of section 45J(d)(1) is amended
by striking ``January 1, 2021'' and inserting ``January 1, 2015''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to property placed in service after December 31, 2014.
SEC. 108. REPEAL OF CREDIT FOR CARBON DIOXIDE SEQUESTRATION.
(a) In General.--Section 45Q is repealed.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by this section shall apply
to carbon dioxide captured after December 31, 2014.
SEC. 109. TERMINATION OF ENERGY CREDIT.
(a) In General.--Section 48 is amended by adding at the end the
following new subsection:
``(e) Termination.--No credit shall be allowed under subsection (a)
for any period after December 31, 2014.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to property placed in service after December 31, 2014.
SEC. 110. REPEAL OF QUALIFYING ADVANCED COAL PROJECT.
(a) In General.--Section 48A is repealed.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 46 is amended by striking
paragraph (3) and by redesignating paragraphs (4), (5), and (6) as
paragraphs (3), (4), and (5), respectively.
(c) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for subpart E of
part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1 is amended by striking the item
relating to section 48A.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to property placed in service after December 31, 2014.
SEC. 111. REPEAL OF QUALIFYING GASIFICATION PROJECT CREDIT.
(a) In General.--Section 48B is repealed.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 46, as amended by this Act, is
amended by striking paragraph (3) and by redesignating paragraphs (4)
and (5) as paragraphs (3) and (4), respectively.
(c) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for subpart E of
part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1 is amended by striking the item
relating to section 48B.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to property placed in service after December 31, 2014.
SEC. 112. REPEAL OF QUALIFYING ADVANCED ENERGY PROJECT CREDIT.
(a) In General.--Section 48C is repealed.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 46, as amended by this Act, is
amended by striking paragraph (3) and by redesignating paragraph (4) as
paragraph (3).
(c) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for subpart E of
part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1 is amended by striking the item
relating to section 48C.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to property placed in service after December 31, 2014.
TITLE II--REDUCTION OF CORPORATE INCOME TAX RATE
SEC. 121. CORPORATE INCOME TAX RATE REDUCED.
(a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Treasury shall prescribe,
in lieu of the rates of tax under paragraphs (1) and (2) of section
11(b), section 1201(a), and paragraphs (1), (2), and (6) of section
1445(e) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, such rates of tax as the
Secretary estimates would result in--
(1) a decrease in revenue to the Treasury for taxable years
beginning during the 10-year period beginning on the date of
the enactment of this Act, equal to
(2) the increase in revenue for such taxable years by
reason of the amendments made by title I of this Act.
(b) Maintenance of Graduated Rates.--In prescribing the tax rates
under subsection (a), the Secretary shall ensure that each rate
modified under such subsection is reduced by a uniform percentage.
(c) Effective Date.--The rates prescribed by the Secretary under
subsection (a) shall apply to taxable years beginning more than 1 year
after the date of the enactment of this Act. | Energy Freedom and Economic Prosperity Act of 2014 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to repeal tax credits for: (1) alcohol fuel, biodiesel, and alternative fuel mixtures; (2) alternative motor vehicles; (3) new qualified plug-in electric drive motor vehicles; (4) alcohol used as fuel; (5) enhanced oil recovery; (6) producing oil and gas from marginal wells; (7) producing electricity from advanced nuclear power facilities; (8) carbon dioxide sequestration; (9) investment in energy property; and (10) investment in qualifying advanced coal projects, qualifying gasification projects, and qualifying advanced energy projects. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to revise the income tax rates for corporations based upon the overall revenue savings from the repeal of the energy tax expenditures by this Act and ensure that each revised rate is reduced by a uniform percentage. | billsum_train |
Provide a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Safe and Reliable Air Travel Act of
2013''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) Sequestration is having a devastating effect on the
Nation's air traffic control system.
(2) Sequestration imposes a reduction in funding of $637
million on the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the
remainder of fiscal year 2013.
(3) The FAA plans to furlough the vast majority of the
FAA's nearly 47,000 employees, including nearly 15,000 air
traffic controllers, for approximately one day during each two-
week pay period in order to comply with sequestration.
(4) The furloughs began on Sunday, April 21, 2013, and are
scheduled to continue through the end of the fiscal year on
September 30, 2013. Approximately 10 percent of the FAA's air
traffic controllers are expected to be on furlough on any given
day during this period.
(5) The furloughs are causing hundreds of flights to be
delayed, resulting in scheduling difficulties for airlines and
inconveniences for passengers.
(6) The FAA reported that approximately 400 flights were
delayed nationwide on April 21, 2013, as a result of the
furloughs.
(7) The FAA reported that more than 1,200 flights were
delayed nationwide on April 22, 2013, as a result of the
furloughs.
(8) More delays are expected in the coming months during
the peak summer travel season.
(9) The effects of multiple flight delays at airports
across the Nation can be compounded as delays at one airport
cause planes to arrive late at other airports and also cause
passengers to miss connecting flights.
(10) Air carriers operating in United States air space
transport more than 700 million passengers every year.
(11) Civil aviation accounts for 10 million jobs, is
responsible for more than 5 percent of the United States gross
domestic product, and contributes $1.3 trillion to the economy
every year.
(12) Businesses of all sizes depend upon a reliable
commercial air transportation system. Business travelers
account for millions of trips each month.
(13) Flight delays for business travelers interfere with
business plans and result in business meetings being delayed,
cancelled, or missed.
(14) Flight delays affecting the transportation of air
cargo also interfere with business.
(15) The Nation's economy depends upon a reliable
commercial air transportation system.
(16) The FAA also plans to close 149 air traffic control
towers at small airports across the Nation on June 15, 2013, in
order to comply with sequestration. Despite their size, these
airports are an important part of the Nation's air
transportation system and economy.
(17) Air traffic control is a critical government function
that is necessary to ensure the safety of air travel and the
flying public.
(18) Inadequate staffing of airport control towers poses a
serious threat to public safety.
(19) Without the service of experienced air traffic
controllers in all of the Nation's Federal air traffic control
towers, there is an increased risk of accidents involving
planes during departure, flight, and landing. Such accidents
could result in a tragic loss of life.
(20) The sequestration of funds associated with the
operation of air traffic control towers by the FAA interferes
with the safety, reliability, and efficiency of the Nation's
air transportation system.
(21) The operation of air traffic control towers by the
FAA, including the compensation paid to air traffic control
personnel employed by the FAA, should be exempted from
sequestration.
SEC. 3. EXEMPTION FROM SEQUESTRATION FOR OPERATION OF AIR TRAFFIC
CONTROL TOWERS.
(a) In General.--Section 255 of the Balanced Budget and Emergency
Deficit Control Act of 1985 (2 U.S.C. 905) is amended by adding at the
end the following new subsection:
``(k) Operation of Air Traffic Control Towers.--The following funds
shall be exempt from reduction under any order issued under this part:
``(1) Funds made available for the operation of air traffic
control towers by the Federal Aviation Administration,
including compensation paid to air traffic control personnel
employed by the Federal Aviation Administration.
``(2) Funds made available for the operation of contract
air traffic control towers under section 47124 of title 49,
United States Code.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by section 1 shall apply to
the Presidential sequestration order for fiscal year 2013 issued under
section 251A of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act
of 1985 (2 U.S.C. 901a) and any subsequent sequestration order issued
under that Act. | Safe and Reliable Air Travel Act of 2013 - Amends the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act) to exempt from reduction, under any sequestration ordered by the President, funds made available for the operation of: (1) air traffic control towers by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), including compensation paid to FAA air traffic control personnel; and (2) contract air traffic control towers. | billsum_train |
Summarize the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Native Act to Transform Imagery in
Various Environments''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds the following:
(1) Based on article I, section 8 of the United States
Constitution, treaties, Federal statutes, and court decisions,
the United States has a unique historical and legal
relationship with American Indian and Alaska Native people,
which serves as the basis for the Federal Government's trust
responsibility and obligations.
(2) There are 558 federally recognized Indian tribes in the
United States, with some 40 percent of Indian tribes located in
the State of Alaska.
(3) Indian tribes have principal responsibility for lands
and people within their jurisdiction.
(4) This responsibility extends to educating their students
and providing adequate educational facilities in which their
students can learn.
(5) Because of this responsibility, Indian schools should
be eligible for the funding available under this Act.
(6) Elementary and secondary schools all over the Nation
use words and symbols representing their schools that are
offensive to Native Americans.
(7) Nationally, more than 1,200 schools inappropriately use
such offensive names or nicknames. Often, these names or
symbols become mascots and are used at athletic games for
mascot characters, chants, and other antics.
(8) Although these school communities do not intend
disrespect toward Native Americans, that is the end result of
allowing these offensive terms to continue in these educational
institutions. Therefore, Federal funding should be available to
schools to assist them to discontinue use of offensive names
and symbols on equipment and apparel, including team jerseys,
signs, stationery, walls, fields, and gymnasium floors.
SEC. 3. GRANTS.
(a) Grants To Discontinue Use of a Derogatory or Discriminatory
Name or Depiction.--
(1) In general.--During the 1-year period beginning at the
end of the period described in section 4(b)(2), the Secretary
of Education, acting through the Committee on Indian Relations,
may make grants to eligible schools to assist such schools to
discontinue use of a name or depiction that is derogatory or
discriminatory (as provided under section 5) as a team name,
mascot, or nickname of the school or any entity sponsored by
the school.
(2) Use of Funds.--The Secretary may not make a grant to an
applicant under this subsection unless the applicant agrees to
use the grant for the following:
(A) Replacement of uniforms or other materials that
bear a discontinued derogatory or discriminatory name
or depiction.
(B) Alteration of facilities, including walls,
floors, and signs, to the extent necessary to remove a
discontinued derogatory or discriminatory name or
depiction.
(3) Eligible schools.--For purposes of this subsection, the
term ``eligible school'' means a school that has made a formal
decision to discontinue use of a name or depiction that is
derogatory or discriminatory.
(b) Construction Grants.--Not sooner than the end of the 1-year
period during which grants may be made under subsection (a)(1), the
Secretary may make grants to Indian schools and to schools that
received grants under subsection (a)(1) for school construction or
renovation.
(c) Consultation.--Before making any grant under this section, the
Secretary shall consult with Indian tribes concerning the grant.
(d) Application.--To seek a grant under this section, an applicant
shall submit an application at such time, in such manner, and
containing such information as the Secretary reasonably requires.
SEC. 4. COMMITTEE ON INDIAN RELATIONS.
(a) Establishment.--Not later than 6 months after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall establish within the
Department of Education a committee to be known as the Committee on
Indian Relations.
(b) Duties.--The Committee shall--
(1) in accordance with section 5(c), determine names and
depictions that are derogatory or discriminatory;
(2) not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment
of this Act--
(A) identify schools that use a name or depiction
that is derogatory or discriminatory as a team name,
mascot, or nickname of the school or any entity
sponsored by the school; and
(B) inform any school so identified of the
assistance available under this Act to discontinue use
of such name or depiction;
(3) assist the Secretary to make grants under section 3;
and
(4) provide cultural proficiency training at schools
receiving assistance under subsection (a) to effect positive
and long-term change regarding any derogatory or discriminatory
name or depiction.
(c) Director.--The Committee shall have a Director, who shall be
appointed by the Secretary in consultation with tribal governments
involved in Indian education program activities. The Director shall be
paid at the rate of basic pay for level V of the Executive Schedule.
(d) Staff.--The Director may appoint such personnel as the Director
considers appropriate to carry out the purposes of the Committee.
(e) Termination.--The Committee shall terminate at the end of
fiscal year 2007.
SEC. 5. DEROGATORY OR DISCRIMINATORY NAMES AND DEPICTIONS.
(a) In General.--For purposes of this Act, a name or depiction is
derogatory or discriminatory if listed in subsection (b) or designated
under subsection (c).
(b) Listed Names and Depictions.--The names listed in this
subsection are the following:
(1) Indians.
(2) Redskins.
(3) Braves.
(4) Chiefs.
(c) Designated Names and Depictions.--A name or depiction is
designated under this subsection if the Committee determines, after
notice and comment, that the name or depiction is derogatory or
discriminatory on the basis of race, ethnicity, nationality, or Indian
or Native Alaskan tribal affiliation.
SEC. 6. REPORTS.
(a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of the
enactment of this Act, and annually for each of the 4 succeeding fiscal
years, the Secretary, in consultation with the Committee, shall submit
a report to the Committee on Resources of the House of Representatives
and the Committee on Indian Affairs of the Senate.
(b) Contents.--Each report submitted under this section shall
include the following:
(1) A summary of the activities conducted by the Secretary,
including those conducted by the Committee, to carry out this
Act.
(2) Any recommendations for legislation that the Secretary,
in consultation with the Committee, determines to be necessary
to carry out this Act.
SEC. 7. DEFINITIONS.
For purposes of this Act:
(1) The term ``Committee'' means the Committee on Indian
Relations established under section 4.
(2) The term ``school'' means--
(A) an elementary school or a secondary school (as
such terms are defined in section 9101 of the
Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20
U.S.C. 7801)); or
(B) an institution of higher education (as such
term is defined in section 101(a) of the Higher
Education Act of 1965 (51 U.S.C. 20 U.S.C. 1001(a))).
(3) The term ``Indian school'' means a school that is
operated by--
(A) the Bureau of Indian Affairs; or
(B) an Indian tribe, or an organization controlled
or sanctioned by an Indian tribal government, for the
children of that tribe under a contract with, or grant
from, the Department of the Interior under the Indian
Self-Determination Act or the Tribally Controlled
Schools Act of 1988.
(4) The term ``Indian tribe'' has the meaning given to that
term in section 4(e) of the Indian Self-Determination and
Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 450b(e)).
(5) The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of
Education.
SEC. 8. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be
necessary to carry out this Act, to remain available until expended,
for each of fiscal years 2003 through 2007. Such authorization of
appropriations shall be in addition to any other authorization of
appropriations for Indian education. | Native Act to Transform Imagery in Various Environments - Authorizes the Secretary of Education to make: (1) grants to schools that have made formal decisions to discontinue use of a derogatory or discriminatory name or depiction as a team name, mascot, or nickname, to assist them in replacing uniforms or other materials and in altering facilities, including walls, floors, and signs; and (2) school construction or renovation grants to Indian schools and to schools that received discontinuation grants.Establishes within the Department of Education a Committee on Indian Relations. Includes among Committee duties providing cultural proficiency training at schools receiving discontinuation grants to effect positive and long-term change regarding any derogatory or discriminatory name or depiction.Declares a name or depiction to be derogatory or discriminatory if: (1) the name is Indians, Redskins, Braves, or Chiefs; or (2) the Committee determines, after notice and comment, that the name or depiction is derogatory or discriminatory on the basis of race, ethnicity, nationality, or Indian or Native Alaskan tribal affiliation. | billsum_train |
Condense the following text into a summary: SECTION 1. AMENDMENTS TO THE EMPLOYEE RETIREMENT INCOME SECURITY ACT OF
1974.
(a) In General.--Subpart B of part 7 of subtitle B of title I of
the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (as added by
section 603(a) of the Newborns' and Mothers' Health Protection Act of
1996 and amended by section 702(a) of the Mental Health Parity Act of
1996) is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
``SEC. 713. LIMITATION ON LIFETIME AGGREGATE LIMITS.
``(a) In General.--A group health plan and a health insurance
issuer providing health insurance coverage in connection with a group
health plan, may not impose an aggregate dollar lifetime limit of less
than--
``(1) with respect to the first 3 plan years after the
effective date of this section, $5,000,000; and
``(2) with respect to subsequent plan years, $10,000,000;
with respect to benefits payable under the plan or coverage.
``(b) Small Employers.--
``(1) In general.--Subsection (a) shall not apply to any
group health plan (and group health insurance coverage offered
in connection with a group health plan) offered to or
maintained for employees of a small employer.
``(2) Small employer.--For purposes of paragraph (1), the
term `small employer' means an employer who normally employed
fewer than 20 employees on a typical business day during the
preceding calendar year and who employs fewer than 20 employees
on the first day of the plan year.
``(3) Application of certain rules in determination of
employer size.--For purposes of this subsection--
``(A) Application of aggregation rule for
employers.--Rules similar to the rules under
subsections (b), (c), (m), and (o) of section 414 of
the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 shall apply for
purposes of treating persons as a single employer.
``(B) Employers not in existence in preceding
year.--In the case of an employer which was not in
existence throughout the preceding calendar year, the
determination of whether such employer is a small
employer shall be based on the number of employees that
it is reasonably expected such employer will normally
employ on a typical business day in the current
calendar year.
``(C) Predecessors.--Any reference in this
subsection to an employer shall include a reference to
any predecessor of such employer.
``(c) Definition.--In this section, the term `aggregate dollar
lifetime limit' means, with respect to benefits under a group health
plan or health insurance coverage, a dollar limitation on the total
amount that may be paid with respect to such benefits under the plan or
health insurance coverage with respect to an individual or other
coverage unit.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of contents in section 1 of such
Act, as amended by section 603 of the Newborns' and Mothers' Health
Protection Act of 1996 and section 702 of the Mental Health Parity Act
of 1996, is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 712
the following new item:
``Sec. 713. Limitation on lifetime aggregate limits.''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply with respect to plan years beginning on or after the date that is
2 years after the date of enactment of this Act.
SEC. 2. AMENDMENTS TO THE PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE ACT RELATING TO THE
GROUP MARKET.
(a) In General.--Subpart 2 of part A of title XXVII of the Public
Health Service Act (as added by section 604(a) of the Newborns' and
Mothers' Health Protection Act of 1996 and amended by section 703(a) of
the Mental Health Parity Act of 1996) is amended by adding at the end
the following new section:
``SEC. 2706. LIMITATION ON LIFETIME AGGREGATE LIMITS.
``(a) In General.--A group health plan and a health insurance
issuer providing health insurance coverage in connection with a group
health plan, may not impose an aggregate dollar lifetime limit of less
than--
``(1) with respect to the first 3 plan years after the
effective date of this section, $5,000,000; and
``(2) with respect to subsequent plan years, $10,000,000;
with respect to benefits payable under the plan or coverage.
``(b) Small Employers.--
``(1) In general.--Subsection (a) shall not apply to any
group health plan (and group health insurance coverage offered
in connection with a group health plan) offered to or
maintained for employees of a small employer.
``(2) Small employer.--For purposes of paragraph (1), the
term `small employer' means an employer who normally employed
fewer than 20 employees on a typical business day during the
preceding calendar year and who employs fewer than 20 employees
on the first day of the plan year.
``(3) Application of certain rules in determination of
employer size.--For purposes of this subsection--
``(A) Application of aggregation rule for
employers.--Rules similar to the rules under
subsections (b), (c), (m), and (o) of section 414 of
the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 shall apply for
purposes of treating persons as a single employer.
``(B) Employers not in existence in preceding
year.--In the case of an employer which was not in
existence throughout the preceding calendar year, the
determination of whether such employer is a small
employer shall be based on the number of employees that
it is reasonably expected such employer will normally
employ on a typical business day in the current
calendar year.
``(C) Predecessors.--Any reference in this
subsection to an employer shall include a reference to
any predecessor of such employer.
``(c) Definition.--In this section, the term `aggregate dollar
lifetime limit' means, with respect to benefits under a group health
plan or health insurance coverage, a dollar limitation on the total
amount that may be paid with respect to such benefits under the plan or
health insurance coverage with respect to an individual or other
coverage unit.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by this section shall apply
with respect to plan years beginning on or after the date that is 2
years after the date of enactment of this Act. | Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 and the Public Health Service Act to prohibit a group health plan (and a health insurer providing coverage under a group plan) from imposing an aggregate dollar lifetime limit less than specified amounts. Exempts plans offered to or maintained for employees of employers with fewer than 20 employees. | billsum_train |
Create a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Agricultural Credit Improvement Act
of 1998''.
SEC. 2. PROHIBITION OF LOAN GUARANTEES TO BORROWERS WHO HAVE RECEIVED
DEBT FORGIVENESS AFTER APRIL 4, 1996.
(a) In General.--Section 373(b)(1) of the Consolidated Farm and
Rural Development Act (7 U.S.C. 2008h(b)(1)) is amended to read as
follows:
``(1) Prohibitions.--Except as provided in paragraph (2):
``(A) Loan prohibition.--The Secretary may not make
a loan under this title to a borrower who has received
debt forgiveness on a loan made or guaranteed under
this title.
``(B) Guarantees prohibited for borrower who has
received debt forgiveness after april 4, 1996.--The
Secretary may not guarantee a loan under this title to
a borrower who has received debt forgiveness after
April 4, 1996, on a loan made or guaranteed under this
title.''.
(b) Authority To Make Emergency Loans to Certain Borrowers Who Have
Received Debt Forgiveness.--Section 373(b)(2) of such Act (7 U.S.C.
2008h(b)(2)) is amended--
(1) by inserting ``(A)'' before ``The''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(B) The Secretary may make an emergency loan under
section 321 to a borrower who--
``(i) on or before April 4, 1996, received not more
than 1 debt forgiveness on a loan made or guaranteed
under this title; and
``(ii) after April 4, 1996, has not received debt
forgiveness on a loan made or guaranteed under this
title.''.
SEC. 3. FAMILY FARM DEFINITION.
(a) Real Estate Loans.--Section 302 of the Consolidated Farm and
Rural Development Act (7 U.S.C. 1922) is amended by adding at the end
the following:
``(c)(1) The primary factor to be considered in determining whether
an applicant for a loan under this subtitle is engaged primarily and
directly in farming or ranching shall be whether the applicant is
participating in routine, ongoing farm activities, and in overall
decision making with regard to the farm or ranch.
``(2) The Secretary may not deny a loan under this subtitle solely
because 2 or more individuals are employed full-time in the farming
operation for which the loan is sought.''.
(b) Operating Loans.--Section 311 of such Act (7 U.S.C. 1941) is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``(d)(1) The primary factor to be considered in determining whether
an applicant for a loan under this subtitle is engaged primarily and
directly in farming or ranching shall be whether the applicant is
participating in routine, ongoing farm activities, and in overall
decision making with regard to the farm or ranch.
``(2) The Secretary may not deny a loan under this subtitle solely
because 2 or more individuals are employed full-time in the farming
operation for which the loan is sought.''.
(c) Emergency Loans.--Section 321 of such Act (7 U.S.C. 1961) is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``(e)(1) The primary factor to be considered in determining whether
an applicant for a loan under this subtitle is engaged primarily and
directly in farming or ranching shall be whether the applicant is
participating in routine, ongoing farm activities, and in overall
decision making with regard to the farm or ranch.
``(2) The Secretary may not deny a loan under this subtitle solely
because 2 or more individuals are employed full-time in the farming
operation for which the loan is sought.''.
SEC. 4. COMBINED LIMIT ON AMOUNT OF GUARANTEED FARM OWNERSHIP LOANS AND
GUARANTEED FARM OPERATING LOANS; INDEXATION TO INFLATION.
(a) Limit on Amount of Guaranteed Farm Ownership Loans.--Section
305 of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act (7 U.S.C. 1925)
is amended--
(1) by striking ``$300,000'' and inserting ``$700,000
(increased, beginning with fiscal year 1998, by the inflation
percentage applicable to the fiscal year in which the loan is
to be made or insured), reduced by the unpaid indebtedness of
the borrower on loans under subtitle B that are guaranteed by
the Secretary''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following: ``For purposes of
this section, the inflation percentage applicable to a fiscal
year is the percentage (if any) by which (A) the average of the
Consumer Price Index (as defined in section 1(f)(5) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986) for the 12-month period ending
on August 31 of the immediately preceding fiscal year, exceeds
(B) the average of the Consumer Price Index (as so defined) for
the 12-month period ending on August 31, 1996.''.
(b) Limit on Amount of Guaranteed Farm Operating Loans.--Section
313 of such Act (7 U.S.C. 1943) is amended--
(1) by striking ``$400,000'' and inserting ``$700,000
(increased, beginning with fiscal year 1998, by the inflation
percentage applicable to the fiscal year in which the loan is
to be made or insured), reduced by the unpaid indebtedness of
the borrower on loans under the sections specified in section
305 that are guaranteed by the Secretary''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following: ``For purposes of
this section, the inflation percentage applicable to a fiscal
year is the percentage (if any) by which (A) the average of the
Consumer Price Index (as defined in section 1(f)(5) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986) for the 12-month period ending
on August 31 of the immediately preceding fiscal year, exceeds
(B) the average of the Consumer Price Index (as so defined) for
the 12-month period ending on August 31, 1996.''.
SEC. 5. EXPANSION OF CLASS OF BEGINNING FARMERS ELIGIBLE FOR DIRECT
OPERATING LOANS.
Section 311(c)(1)(A) of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development
Act (7 U.S.C. 1941(c)(1)(A)) is amended by striking ``who has not
operated a farm or ranch, or who has operated a farm or ranch for not
more than 5 years''.
SEC. 6. PRIORITY FOR FARMER-OWNED VALUE-ADDED PROCESSING FACILITIES.
Section 310B of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act (7
U.S.C. 1932) is amended by adding at the end the following new
subsection:
``(h) Priority for Farmer-Owned Value-Added Processing
Facilities.--In approving applications for loans and grants authorized
under this section, section 306(a)(11), and other applicable provisions
of this title (as determined by the Secretary), the Secretary shall
give a high priority to applications for projects that encourage
farmer-owned value-added processing facilities.''.
SEC. 7. NOTICE OF RECAPTURE UNDER SHARED APPRECIATION ARRANGEMENTS.
Section 353(e) of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act
(7 U.S.C. 2001(e)) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(6) Notice of recapture.--Not later than 12 months before
the end of the term of a shared appreciation arrangement, the
Secretary shall notify the borrower involved of the provisions
of the arrangement.''.
SEC. 8. NATIONAL REALLOCATION OF FUNDS FOR USE BY SOCIALLY
DISADVANTAGED FARMERS AND RANCHERS.
Section 355(c)(2) of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development
Act (7 U.S.C. 2003(c)(2)) is amended to read as follows:
``(2) Reservation and allocation.--
``(A) In general.--The Secretary shall, to the
greatest extent practicable, reserve and allocate the
proportion of each State's loan funds made available
under subtitle B that is equal to that State's target
participation rate for use by the socially
disadvantaged farmers or ranchers in that State. The
Secretary shall, to the extent practicable, distribute
the total so derived on a county by county basis
according to the number of socially disadvantaged
farmers or ranchers in the county.
``(B) Reallocation of unused funds.--The Secretary
may pool any funds reserved and allocated under this
paragraph with respect to a State that are not used as
described in subparagraph (A) in a State in the first 6
months of a fiscal year with the funds similarly not so
used in other States, and may reallocate such pooled
funds in the discretion of the Secretary for use by
socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers in other
States.''.
SEC. 9. APPLICABILITY OF DISASTER LOAN COLLATERAL REQUIREMENTS UNDER
THE SMALL BUSINESS ACT.
Section 324(d) of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act
(7 U.S.C. 1964(d)) is amended by adding at the end the following: ``The
Secretary shall not deny a loan under this subtitle to a borrower by
reason of the fact that the borrower lacks a particular amount of
collateral for the loan if it is reasonably certain that the borrower
will be able to repay the loan. Notwithstanding the preceding sentence,
if a borrower refuses to pledge available collateral on request by the
Secretary, the Secretary may deny or cancel a loan under this
subtitle.''.
SEC. 10. GROWER-SHIPPER AGREEMENTS.
(a) Real Estate Loans.--Section 302 of the Consolidated Farm and
Rural Development Act (7 U.S.C. 1922) is further amended by adding at
the end the following:
``(d) This section shall not be construed to prohibit the Secretary
from making a loan under this subtitle to an applicant therefor who has
entered into an agreement with a shipper of perishable commodities
under which the applicant and the shipper share in the proceeds from
the sale of an agricultural commodity if--
``(1) in the absence of such an agreement, the applicant
could not easily market the agricultural commodity, or could
not market the agricultural commodity without incurring
significant additional risk; and
``(2) the agreement is clearly beneficial to the
applicant.''.
(b) Operating Loans.--Section 311 of such Act (7 U.S.C. 1941) is
further amended by adding at the end the following:
``(e) This section shall not be construed to prohibit the Secretary
from making a loan under this subtitle to an applicant therefor who has
entered into an agreement with a shipper of perishable commodities
under which the applicant and the shipper share in the proceeds from
the sale of an agricultural commodity if--
``(1) in the absence of such an agreement, the applicant
could not easily market the agricultural commodity, or could
not market the agricultural commodity without incurring
significant additional risk; and
``(2) the agreement is clearly beneficial to the
applicant.''.
(c) Emergency Loans.--Section 321 of such Act (7 U.S.C. 1961) is
further amended by adding at the end the following:
``(f) This section shall not be construed to prohibit the Secretary
from making a loan under this subtitle to an applicant therefor who has
entered into an agreement with a shipper of perishable commodities
under which the applicant and the shipper share in the proceeds from
the sale of an agricultural commodity if--
``(1) in the absence of such an agreement, the applicant
could not easily market the agricultural commodity, or could
not market the agricultural commodity without incurring
significant additional risk; and
``(2) the agreement is clearly beneficial to the
applicant.''. | Agricultural Credit Improvement Act of 1998 - Amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to prohibit agricultural loan guarantees to borrowers who have received debt forgiveness after a specified date. Authorizes emergency loans to be made to borrowers who have received debt forgiveness after a specified date.
(Sec. 3) States that with respect to agricultural real estate, operating, and emergency loans, the primary factor in determining whether an applicant is primarily and directly engaged in farming or ranching shall be whether he or she participates in ongoing farm activities and decision making.
(Sec. 4) Increases the respective limits and provides inflation indexing for guaranteed farm ownership and operating loans.
(Sec. 5) Eliminates the prohibition on providing beginning farmer direct operating loans to persons who have operated a farm or ranch for more than five years.
(Sec. 6) Gives loan and grant priority to projects that encourage farmer-owned value-added processing facilities.
(Sec. 7) Requires borrowers under shared appreciation arrangements to be given notice of recapture.
(Sec. 8) Provides for reservation and reallocation of specified loan funds for socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers.
(Sec. 9) Prohibits emergency loan denial based upon insufficient collateral if it is reasonably certain that the borrower will be able to repay the loan.
(Sec. 10) Provides that under specified conditions a grower-shipper agreement shall not disqualify the applicant-grower from receiving a real estate, operating, or emergency loan. | billsum_train |
Condense the following text into a summary: SECTION 1. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) Jack Nicklaus is a world-famous golf professional, a
highly successful business executive, a prominent advertising
spokesman, a passionate and dedicated philanthropist, a devoted
husband, father, and grandfather, and a man with a common touch
that has made him one of the most popular and accessible public
figures in history.
(2) Jack Nicklaus amassed 120 victories in professional
competition of national or international stature, 73 of which
came on the Professional Golf Association (in this Act referred
to as the ``PGA'') Tour, and professional major-championship
titles. His record 18 professional majors, which began 50 years
ago as of June 2012, with his win at the 1962 U.S. Open as a
22-year-old rookie, remains the standard by which all golfers
are measured. He is the only player in golf history to have won
each major championship at least 3 times, and is the only
player to complete a career ``Grand Slam'' on both the regular
and senior tours. He also owns the record for most major
championships as a senior with 8.
(3) Jack Nicklaus' magnetic personality and unfailing sense
of kindness and thoughtfulness have endeared him to millions
throughout the world.
(4) Jack Nicklaus has been the recipient of countless
athletic honors, including being named Individual Male Athlete
of the Century by Sports Illustrated, one of the 10 Greatest
Athletes of the Century by ESPN, and Golfer of the Century or
Golfer of the Millennium by every major national and
international media outlet. He received the Muhammad Ali Sports
Legend Award and the first-ever ESPY Lifetime Achievement
Award. He became the first golfer and only the third athlete to
receive the Vince Lombardi Award of Excellence, and is also a
5-time winner of the PGA Player of the Year Award. He was
inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame at the age of 34.
(5) Jack Nicklaus has received numerous honors outside of
the world of sports, including several golf industry awards for
his work and contributions as a golf course designer, such as
the Old Tom Morris Award, which is the highest honor given by
the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, and
both the Donald Ross Award given by the American Society of
Golf Course Architects and the Don A. Rossi Award given by the
Golf Course Builders Association of America. Golf Inc. magazine
named him the Most Powerful Person in Golf for a record 6
consecutive years, due to his impact on various aspects of the
industry through his course design work, marketing and
licensing business, his ambassadorial role in promoting and
growing the game worldwide, and his involvement on a national
and global level with various charitable causes.
(6) Jack Nicklaus has been involved in the design of more
than 290 golf courses worldwide, and his business, Nicklaus
Design, has 366 courses open for play in 34 countries and 39
States.
(7) Jack Nicklaus served as the Global Ambassador for a
campaign to include golf in the Olympic Games, which was
achieved and will begin in the 2016 Olympic program.
(8) Jack Nicklaus was honored by President George W. Bush
in 2005 by receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the
highest honor given to any United States civilian.
(9) Jack Nicklaus has a long-standing commitment to
numerous charitable causes, such as his founding, along with
wife Barbara, of the Nicklaus Children's Health Care
Foundation, which provides pediatric health care services
throughout South Florida and in other parts of the country. The
Foundation has raised over $21,000,000 in just 6 years. He has
been a tireless supporter of numerous junior golf initiatives,
working with the PGA of America Junior Golf Foundation over the
course of 4 decades, including the establishment of the Barbara
and Jack Nicklaus Junior Golf Endowment Fund and the PGA-
Nicklaus First Tee Teaching Grants. He also is a spokesperson
for several PGA of America and USGA growth-of-the-game
initiatives. He continues to support several scholarship
foundations, other children's hospitals, and other causes,
including spinal-cord research, pancreatic cancer issues, and
Florida Everglades restoration.
(10) Jack Nicklaus continues to manage the Memorial
Tournament in his home State of Ohio, in which contributions
generated through the aid of over 2,600 volunteers are given to
support Nationwide Children's Hospital and close to 75 other
Central Ohio charities. This has garnered more than $5,700,000
for programs and services at Nationwide Children's Hospital
since 1976, so that Central Ohio will continue to have one of
the best children's hospitals in the United States.
(11) Jack Nicklaus and his wife serve as honorary chairman
and active chairwoman, respectively, of the Nicklaus Children's
Health Care Foundation in North Palm Beach, Florida, which
provides free-of-charge health assistance and services to more
than 4,000 children and their families through Child Life
programs (supporting therapeutic interventions for children
with chronic and acute conditions during hospitalization),
Miami Children's Hospital Nicklaus Care Centers (to offer a new
option to Palm Beach County area families with children who
require pediatric specialty care), and Safe Kids Program (aimed
at keeping children injury-free and offering safety education
in an effort to decrease accidental injuries in children). In
April, they announced the planned opening of the Miami
Children's Hospital Nicklaus Outpatient Center, a 22,000-
square-foot facility in Palm Beach County that will provide
pediatric urgent care, diagnostic services, and rehabilitation
services.
(12) Jack Nicklaus established an annual pro-am golf
tournament called ``The Jake'' to honor his 17-month-old
grandson who passed away in 2005, and it serves as a primary
fundraiser for the Nicklaus Children's Health Care Foundation.
The event alone has raised well over $3,000,000 over the last
several years.
(13) Jack Nicklaus and General John Shalikashvili (ret.)
serve as honorary chairs of the American Lake Veterans Golf
Course in Tacoma, Washington, which neighbors a Veterans
Administration hospital and is designed for the rehabilitation
of wounded and disabled veterans. Nicklaus has donated his
design services for the improvement of the course, and raised
contributions for the addition of 9 new holes (the ``Nicklaus
Nine''), the construction of the Rehabilitation and Learning
Center, and the upgrade of the maintenance facilities. The
course is considered the only one in the United States designed
solely for the use of disabled veterans. It served over 37,000
veterans and their families in 2011 to use the healing powers
of golf to rehabilitate and recreate. The hope is that American
Lake will serve as a pilot program for the more than 150
Veterans Administration hospitals nationwide.
(14) Jack Nicklaus serves as a spokesperson and Trustee for
the First Tee program, which brings golf to children who would
not otherwise be exposed to it, and teaches them valuable,
character-building life lessons through the game of golf, and
is a national co-chair of the organization's More Than a Game
campaign.
(15) Jack Nicklaus remains active in tournament golf,
although he retired from competition in the major championships
in 2005, when he played his final British Open and his final
Masters Tournament, and led the United States to a thrilling
victory in the President's Cup. He consults often with the PGA
Tour, and no fewer than 95 Nicklaus courses have hosted a
combined total of over 650 professional tournaments. In 2011
alone, Nicklaus courses hosted 15 PGA Tour-sanctioned events.
SEC. 2. CONGRESSIONAL GOLD MEDAL.
(a) Authorization.--The Speaker of the House of Representatives and
the President pro tempore of the Senate shall make appropriate
arrangements for the presentation, on behalf of Congress, of a gold
medal of appropriate design to Jack Nicklaus in recognition of his
service to the Nation in promoting excellence and good sportsmanship.
(b) Design and Striking.--For the purpose of the presentation
referred to in subsection (a), the Secretary of the Treasury shall
strike a gold medal with suitable emblems, devices, and inscriptions to
be determined by the Secretary.
SEC. 3. DUPLICATE MEDALS.
Under such regulations as the Secretary of the Treasury may
prescribe, the Secretary may strike duplicate medals in bronze of the
gold medal struck pursuant to section 2 and sell such duplicate medals
at a price sufficient to cover the costs of the duplicate medals
(including labor, materials, dies, use of machinery, overhead expenses)
and the cost of the gold medal.
SEC. 4. NATIONAL MEDALS.
The medals struck under this Act are national medals for purposes
of chapter 51 of title 31, United States Code.
SEC. 5. FUNDING.
(a) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be
charged against the United States Mint Public Enterprise Fund an amount
not to exceed $30,000 to pay for the cost of the medals authorized by
this Act.
(b) Proceeds of Sale.--Amounts received from the sale of duplicate
bronze medals under section 3 shall be deposited in the United States
Mint Public Enterprise Fund. | Directs the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President Pro Tempore of the Senate to make arrangements for the presentation of a congressional gold medal to Jack Nicklaus in recognition of his service to the nation in promoting excellence and good sportsmanship.
Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to strike such gold medal and to strike and sell duplicate bronze medals at a price sufficient to cover the costs of the gold and bronze medals. | billsum_train |
Provide a condensed version of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Food Research, Education, Safety,
and Health Act of 1998''.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Committee of jurisdiction.--The term ``committee of
jurisdiction'' means--
(A) the Committee on Agriculture of the House of
Representatives;
(B) the Committee on Commerce of the House of
Representatives;
(C) the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and
Forestry of the Senate; and
(D) the Committee on Labor and Human Resources of
the Senate.
(2) Food.--The term ``food'' means food intended for human
consumption.
(3) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of Agriculture.
(4) State.--The term ``State'' means a State of the United
States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto
Rico, and any other territory or possession of the United
States.
SEC. 3. CONSUMER EDUCATION FOOD SAFETY BLOCK GRANTS.
(a) Authority.--The Secretary shall make grants to States to enable
the States to carry out consumer education food safety programs.
(b) Application.--To receive a grant under this section, a State
shall submit to the Secretary an application at such time, in such
manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require,
including--
(1) a description of the activities that the State will
carry out using funds received under this section;
(2) a designation of an appropriate State agency to
administer the funds; and
(3) a description of the steps to be taken to ensure that
the funds are used in accordance with subsection (e).
(c) Amount of Grant.--
(1) In general.--From the amounts available to carry out
this section for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall allot to
each State an amount that bears the same proportion to the
amounts available as the population of the State bears to the
population of all of the States.
(2) Determinations of population.--In determining
population figures for purposes of this subsection, the
Secretary shall use the latest available annual estimates
prepared by the Secretary of Commerce.
(d) Payments.--
(1) In general.--If the Secretary approves an application
submitted by a State under subsection (b), the Secretary shall
make a payment to the State in an amount that is equal to its
allotment under subsection (c).
(2) Form of payments.--The Secretary may make payments
under this section to a State in installments, and in advance
or by way of reimbursement, with necessary adjustments on
account of overpayments or underpayments, as the Secretary may
determine.
(3) Reallotments.--If the Secretary determines that any
portion of the allotment of a State under subsection (c) will
not be used to carry out this section in accordance with an
approved State application under subsection (b), the Secretary
shall reallot to the other States in proportion to the original
allotments to the other States.
(e) Use of Funds.--Funds received by a State under this section
shall be used to carry out consumer education food safety programs
under which education is provided to consumers and other persons on
safe food practices at each step in the food chain (including
agricultural production, handling, processing, distribution, and
preparation of food in restaurants, grocery stores, and homes) using
the mechanisms described in subsection (g).
(f) Matching Funds.--As a condition of receipt of funds under this
section, the Secretary may require a State to provide matching funds
(at the option of the Secretary, in the form of direct funding or in-
kind support).
(g) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section $10,000,000 for each of fiscal
years 1999 through 2001.
SEC. 4. IRRADIATION OF FOODS.
(a) In General.--In conjunction with the Director of the Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention, the Commissioner of Food and Drugs,
and the Director of the National Institutes of Health, the Secretary
shall carry out consumer education initiatives on the irradiation of
foods, especially ground beef and poultry.
(b) Study.--Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of
this Act, the Secretary shall--
(1) conduct a study of the cost and feasibility of
irradiating fruits and vegetables and of new irradiation
technologies; and
(2) report the results of the study to each of the
committees of jurisdiction.
(c) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section $1,000,000 for each of fiscal
years 1999 through 2001.
SEC. 5. FOOD SAFETY COUNCIL.
(a) Establishment.--There is established a Food Safety Council
composed of 12 members, including--
(1) the Secretary;
(2) the Secretary of Health and Human Services;
(3) the Commissioner of Food and Drugs;
(4) 3 members appointed by the President;
(5) 3 members appointed by the Majority Leader of the
Senate; and
(6) 3 members appointed by the Speaker of the House.
(b) Terms.--
(1) In general.--A member of the Council appointed under
paragraph (4), (5), or (6) of subsection (a) shall be appointed
for a term of not to exceed 3 years.
(2) Vacancies.--An individual appointed to complete an
unexpired term of a member of the Council described in
paragraph (1) shall serve only for the remainder of the term.
(c) Administration.--
(1) Chairperson.--The Secretary shall serve as chairperson
of the Council.
(2) Meetings.--
(A) In general.--The Council shall meet at least
twice a year at the call of the Chairperson.
(B) Public meetings.--A meeting of the Council
shall be open to the public.
(C) Quorum.--Five members of the Council shall
constitute a quorum.
(d) Duties.--The Council shall--
(1) evaluate, and establish priorities for, food safety
research and education, and food-related illness prevention
activities, conducted by the Federal Government;
(2) direct that Federal agencies conduct any necessary
updates of science, technology, and public health activities
that relate to food safety; and
(3) submit to the committees of jurisdiction an annual
report on actions taken to carry out this section, including
any recommendations for improvements in food safety.
(e) Compensation; Expenses.--
(1) Compensation of members.--
(A) Nonfederal members.--A member of the Council
who is not otherwise an officer or employee of the
Federal Government shall be compensated at a rate equal
to the daily equivalent of the annual rate of basic pay
prescribed for a position at level IV of the Executive
Schedule under section 5315 of title 5, United States
Code, for each day (including travel time) during which
the member is engaged in the performance of the duties
of the Council.
(B) Federal members.--A member of the Council who
is otherwise an officer or employee of the United
States shall serve without compensation in addition to
that received for services as an officer or employee of
the United States.
(2) Travel expenses.--A member of the Council shall be
allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of
subsistence, at rates authorized for employees of agencies
under subchapter I of chapter 57 of title 5, United States
Code, while away from the home or regular place of business of
the member in the performance of service for the Council.
(f) Funding.--From funds of the Department of Agriculture, the
Secretary shall use to carry out this section not more than $100,000
for each of fiscal years 1999 through 2001.
SEC. 6. COMPETITIVE RESEARCH GRANTS FOR REDUCING THREATS OF FOOD-BORNE
PATHOGENS.
(a) In General.--The Secretary shall make competitive grants, for
periods not to exceed 5 years, to colleges and universities, State
agricultural experiment stations, other research institutions and
organizations, Federal agencies, and private persons for research to
reduce and control the health and other threats posed by deadly food-
borne pathogens.
(b) Participation in Grant Process.--In seeking proposals for
grants under this section and in performing peer review evaluations of
the proposals, the Secretary shall seek the widest participation of
qualified scientists in the Federal Government, colleges and
universities, State agricultural experiment stations, and private
persons.
(c) Use of Funds.--Funds received under this section shall not be
used for the planning, repair, rehabilitation, acquisition, or
construction of a building or facility.
(d) Report.--Not later than December 1, 2001, the Secretary shall
submit to the committees of jurisdiction a report on actions taken to
carry out this section.
(e) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section $20,000,000 for each of fiscal
years 1999 through 2001.
SEC. 7. DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS FOR REDUCING THREATS OF FOOD-BORNE
PATHOGENS.
(a) Demonstration Projects.--The Secretary shall conduct a
sufficient number of demonstration projects to--
(1) determine the epidemiology and ecology of potential
food-borne pathogens; and
(2) develop interventions.
(b) Report.--Not later than December 1, 2001, the Secretary shall
submit to the committees of jurisdiction a report on actions taken to
carry out this section.
(c) Funding.--From funds of the Department of Agriculture, the
Secretary shall use to carry out this section not more than $100,000
for each of fiscal years 1999 through 2001.
SEC. 8. DETECTION AND MEDICAL TREATMENTS FOR FOOD-BORNE PATHOGENS.
(a) Detection.--There is authorized to be appropriated $5,000,000
for each of fiscal years 1999 through 2001 to enable the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention to improve the detection of food-borne
pathogens through--
(1) the creation of new employment positions for
scientists; and
(2) the acquisition of scientific equipment.
(b) Medical Treatments.--There is authorized to be appropriated
$5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1999 through 2001 to enable the
National Institutes of Health to conduct research concerning medical
treatments for individuals infected with food-borne pathogens.
SEC. 9. FOOD SAFETY RESEARCH INFORMATION OFFICE.
(a) Establishment.--The Secretary shall establish a Food Safety
Research Information Office in the National Agricultural Library.
(b) Duties.--In cooperation with the Director of the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention, the Commissioner of Food and Drugs, the
Director of the National Institutes of Health, and other providers of
relevant information, the Food Safety Research Information Office shall
provide the scientific community and other interested persons with
information on public and private research initiatives on food safety.
SEC. 10. RISK ASSESSMENTS.
(a) In General.--In cooperation with the Director of the Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention, the Commissioner of Food and Drugs,
and the Director of the National Institutes of Health, the Secretary
shall conduct--
(1) a risk assessment for each species of animal that is
used to produce food in the United States, at each step in the
food chain (including agricultural production, handling,
processing, distribution, and preparation of food in
restaurants, grocery stores, and homes) to determine the risks
of pathogens posed by the species;
(2) a risk assessment for each type of fruit and vegetable
that is intended for human consumption in the United States to
determine the risks of pathogens posed by the type; and
(3) a risk assessment on food safety practices conducted in
homes to determine the risks of pathogens posed by the
practices.
(b) Working Groups.--After the risk assessments required under
subsection (a)(1) are completed, the Secretary shall, in cooperation
with producer groups, establish species-specific working groups to
address potential pathogens on farms.
(c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of
this Act, the Secretary shall submit to each of the committees of
jurisdiction a report describing the results of the risk assessments
required under this section.
SEC. 11. SAFETY AND HEALTH RISKS OF IMPORTED FOOD.
There is authorized to be appropriated $10,340,000 for each of
fiscal years 1999 through 2001 to enable the Commissioner of Food and
Drugs to decrease the safety and health risks of imported food
through--
(1) the creation of new employment positions for
microbiologists and inspectors; and
(2) the acquisition of scientific equipment. | Food Research, Education, Safety, and Health Act of 1998 - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to make grants to States for consumer education food safety programs. Authorizes appropriations.
(Sec. 4) Directs the Secretary to: (1) carry out consumer education initiatives on food irradiation, especially ground beef and poultry; and (2) study the cost and feasibility of fruit and vegetable irradiation, and of new irradiation technologies. Authorizes appropriations.
(Sec. 5) Establishes a Food Safety Council which shall: (1) establish priorities for Federal food safety and related illness prevention activities, including necessary Federal agency updates; and (2) report annually to the appropriate committees. Authorizes appropriations.
(Sec. 6) Directs the Secretary to make competitive grants to academic, governmental, and private entities for research to reduce the threat of food-borne pathogens. Authorizes appropriations.
(Sec. 7) Directs the Secretary to conduct demonstration projects to reduce the threat of food-borne pathogens. Obligates Department of Agriculture funds for such purpose.
(Sec. 8) Authorizes appropriations for Centers for Disease Control and Prevention detection of food-borne pathogens through equipment acquisition and new employment positions for scientists.
Authorizes appropriations for National Institutes of Health research on treatment of food-borne illnesses.
(Sec. 9) Directs the Secretary to establish a Food Safety Research Information Office in the National Agricultural Library.
(Sec. 10) Directs the Secretary to conduct pathogen risk assessments with respect to food animals, fruits and vegetables, and home food safety practices.
(Sec. 11) Authorizes appropriations for the Commissioner of Food and Drugs to decrease imported food health risks through equipment acquisition and new employment positions for microbiologists and inspectors. | billsum_train |
Change the following text into a summary: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``State Prescription Drug Flexibility
Act of 2001''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress makes the following findings:
(1) Access to prescription drugs is important to all
Americans.
(2) Many low-income individuals cannot afford to purchase
the drugs prescribed by their doctors. Others skip doses or
split pills contrary to their doctor's orders because they
cannot afford to refill their prescriptions.
(3) Low-income individuals who use their limited financial
resources to obtain needed drugs may do so by foregoing other
expenditures important to their health and well-being.
(4) One of the objectives of the medicaid program set forth
in section 1901 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1396) is
to enable each State, as far as practicable under the
conditions in such State, to provide medical assistance on
behalf of families with dependent children and of aged, blind,
or disabled individuals, whose income and resources are
insufficient to meet the costs of necessary medical services.
(5) As part of carrying out this objective, every State has
elected the option of providing prescription drugs as a benefit
under the medicaid program, thereby providing an important
means of increasing the access of low-income individuals to
drugs prescribed by their doctors.
(6) Section 1115 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C.
1315) provides the Secretary of Health and Human Services with
broad authority to--
(A) approve any experimental, pilot, or
demonstration project which, in the judgment of the
Secretary, is likely to assist in promoting the
objectives of the medicaid program; and
(B) waive compliance with any of the State plan
requirements of the medicaid program under section 1902
of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1396a), including
paragraphs (14) (relating to limitations on cost
sharing under section 1916 of that Act (42 U.S.C.
1396o)) and (54) (relating to applicable requirements
of section 1927 of that Act (42 U.S.C. 1396r-8)), in
order to conduct such a project.
(7) Medicaid demonstration projects help promote the
objectives of the medicaid program, including obtaining
information about options for increasing access to prescription
drugs for low-income individuals.
(8) Both Maine and Vermont have, with the approval of the
Secretary of Health and Human Resources, implemented
demonstration projects to expand access to prescription drugs
under the medicaid program. Thousands of individuals with no
other prescription drug insurance benefits are enrolled in
those programs.
(9) Terminating medicaid demonstration projects prior to
their planned expiration dates may result in a significant
waste of public funds and may be detrimental to those
individuals who have come to rely on such projects.
SEC. 3. CLARIFICATION OF SECRETARIAL AUTHORITY WITH RESPECT TO
TREATMENT OF CERTAIN PAYMENTS MADE IN AN APPROVED
DEMONSTRATION PROJECT.
(a) In General.--Section 1115 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C.
1315) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(g) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, with respect to
any experimental, pilot, or demonstration project conducted by a State
that was approved by the Secretary under subsection (a) prior to
January 31, 2001, and that waives compliance with, or makes
inapplicable, certain requirements of section 1902 for the purposes of
establishing an outpatient prescription drug program for residents of
the State who are not otherwise eligible for medical assistance under
title XIX--
``(1) any expenditures, payments, or outlays by the State
for covered outpatient drugs under the project shall be treated
as payments made under the State plan under title XIX for
covered outpatient drugs defined in section 1927(k)(2) for
purposes of a rebate agreement under section 1927, regardless
of whether such expenditures, payments, or outlays of the State
are offset or reimbursed, in whole or in part, by rebates
received under such an agreement;
``(2) any such expenditures, payments, or outlays by the
State are consistent with the objectives of the medicaid
program set forth in section 1901;
``(3) any such expenditures, payments, or outlays by the
State shall be considered amounts expended for medical
assistance in the form of prescribed drugs, as defined in
section 1905(a)(12), under the State plan under title XIX; and
``(4) the requirements of section 1916 shall not apply with
respect to any enrollment fees, premiums, deductions,
copayments, cost sharing, or similar charges imposed upon
individuals participating in such project.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by subsection (a) takes
effect on the date of enactment of this Act and applies to State
expenditures, payments, or outlays under an experimental, pilot, or
demonstration project described in section 1115(g) of the Social
Security Act (as added by subsection (a)) made before, on, or after
such date. | Access to Affordable Prescription Drugs Act of 2001 - Amends title XI of the Social Security Act (SSA) with respect to any State-conducted demonstration project approved by the Secretary of Health and Human Services before January 1, 2001, that waives compliance with, or makes inapplicable, certain State plan requirements for establishing an outpatient prescription drug program for residents of the State not otherwise eligible for medical assistance under Medicaid (SSA title XIX). Provides that any expenditures by the State for covered outpatient drugs under the demonstration project will be treated as payments under the State Medicaid plan for covered outpatient drugs for purposes of a rebate agreement, regardless of whether such expenditures are offset or reimbursed, in whole or in part, by rebates received under such an agreement. States that such expenditures are consistent with the objectives of the Medicaid program and are to be considered amounts expended for medical assistance in the form of prescribed drugs under the State Medicaid plan. Makes certain Medicaid requirements inapplicable to any enrollment fees, premiums, deductions, copayments, cost sharing, or similar charges imposed upon individuals participating in the demonstration project. | billsum_train |
Create a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be referred to as the ``Teen Parent Graduation and
College Achievement Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress makes the following findings:
(1) Each year, nearly 750,000 American teenagers ages 15
through 19 become pregnant, giving the United States the
highest teenage pregnancy rate of all industrialized nations.
(2) Overall, there has been an impressive decline in teen
pregnancy and birth rates since the early 1990s. Between 2005
and 2006, however, teen pregnancy rates increased for the first
time in 14 years.
(3) Seventy percent of teenagers who become pregnant drop
out of high school, and teenage fathers tend to complete, on
average, one semester of high school fewer than men who delay
fatherhood until they are 21 years or older. Fewer economic
opportunities are available to these teenage parents.
(4) Some teenagers drop out of school as a result of
subsequent pregnancies. In 2006, subsequent pregnancies
accounted for 85,000, or almost 20 percent, of all teenage
pregnancies.
(5) Marginalized racial or ethnic minority and immigrant
communities generally have less access to the education,
support, and services needed for healthy growth and
development, and are at high risk for teenage pregnancy.
(6) The high rate of teenage pregnancy in racial or ethnic
minority and immigrant communities can lead to a
disproportionate dropout rate in those communities. School
systems in many such communities lack the funding and expertise
to effectively counter high school teenage pregnancy dropout
rates.
(7) Fifty-two percent of Latina teens and 50 percent of
African-American teen girls will become pregnant at least once
before they are 20 years old. Birth rates among Latina and
African-American youth ages 15 through 17 are more than twice
the birth rates of Caucasian youth in the same age range.
(8) The 2005 Youth Risk Behavior Survey contained the
surprising finding that sexually active lesbian, gay, and
bisexual youth are three times as likely to face an unwanted
pregnancy as their heterosexual peers.
(9) Only 51 percent of all teenage mothers, and 38 percent
of teenage mothers who have a child before they turn 18, have a
high school diploma, compared to 89 percent of all other women.
(10) Parenthood is a leading cause of school dropout among
teenage women. Of all teenage women who have dropped out of
high school, 30 percent cited pregnancy or parenthood as a
reason they dropped out, including 36 percent of Latina women
and 38 percent of African-American women.
(11) Two-thirds of all teenage births occur among teenagers
ages 18 and 19. Birth rates among women of those ages have
declined less significantly than among teenage women of other
ages. These older teenage parents would benefit from the
increased availability of services at institutions of higher
education, particularly at community colleges.
(12) The responsibilities of pregnancy and parenting can
interfere with the attainment of a college degree. Sixty-one
percent of women who have children after enrolling in community
college do not graduate. Women who do not have children after
enrollment graduate at a 65 percent higher rate than women who
do.
(13) Comprehensive support through schools, public
agencies, and community-based organizations can reduce high
school dropout rates and ensure that more pregnant and
parenting teenagers complete high school and enroll in
institutions of higher education.
(14) More data on the prevalence of pregnant and parenting
teenagers is needed so that Federal assistance reaches the
communities in which it is most needed.
SEC. 3. GRANTS FOR ASSISTANCE TO PREGNANT AND PARENTING STUDENTS AT
ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS.
(a) Establishment of Grant Program.--Part H of title I of the
Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6301 et seq.)
is amended--
(1) in section 1803 (20 U.S.C. 6553)--
(A) by striking ``this part'' and inserting
``subparts 1 and 2'';
(B) by inserting ``(a)'' before the first sentence;
and
(C) by adding at the end the following new
subsection:
``(b) For the purpose of carrying out subpart 3, there are
authorized to be appropriated $75,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2011
through 2015.'';
(2) in section 1822(a) (20 U.S.C. 6561a(a)), by striking
``1803'' each place it appears and inserting ``1803(a)''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following new subpart:
``Subpart 3--Grants for Assistance to Pregnant and Parenting Students
``SEC. 1840. GRANTS FOR ASSISTANCE TO PREGNANT AND PARENTING STUDENTS.
``(a) Grant Program Authorized.--The Secretary shall establish a
program to award grants to local educational agencies to help pregnant
and parenting students stay in school by expanding their access to
services, including--
``(1) tutoring;
``(2) pregnancy-related healthcare;
``(3) child care;
``(4) transportation;
``(5) after-school support;
``(6) academic counseling;
``(7) school social work services; or
``(8) family planning services, including services for
subsequent pregnancy prevention.
``(b) Priority.--In awarding grants under subsection (a), the
Secretary shall give priority to a local educational agency that, in
the determination of the Secretary--
``(1) is eligible for assistance under part A;
``(2) serves a school that will have a significant
percentage of pregnant and parenting students in the period for
which the grant is awarded; and
``(3) will expand the access of pregnant and parenting
students to each service described in subsection (a).
``(c) Limitation on Amount of Grant.--The amount of a grant awarded
under subsection (a) shall not exceed $500,000.
``(d) Grant Conditions.--As a condition of receiving a grant under
subsection (a), a local educational agency--
``(1) shall agree to enter into partnerships and share
grant funds, when appropriate, with public agencies or with
community-based organizations to carry out the purpose for
which the grant is awarded; and
``(2) shall not use more than 10 percent of the amount of
the grant for administrative costs.
``(e) Use of Funds.--Uses of funds from a grant awarded under
subsection (a) may include--
``(1) compensating teachers and other employees for
performing additional services in carrying out the purpose of
the grant; and
``(2) encouraging training practicums for graduate students
in social work to carry out the purpose of the grant.
``(f) Application.--To be eligible to receive a grant under
subsection (a), a local educational agency shall submit an application
to the Secretary at such time, in such manner, and containing such
information as the Secretary may require.
``(g) Reporting.--
``(1) Submission.--The Secretary shall submit to Congress a
report on the program established under subsection (a),
including the information specified in paragraph (2), on the
following dates:
``(A) A date that is not later than September 30,
2013.
``(B) A date that is not later than January 1,
2016.
``(2) Contents.--A report submitted under paragraph (1)
shall include the following information, as determined by the
Secretary:
``(A) The number and graduation rate of pregnant
and parenting students who benefit from the program,
and their rate of enrollment in institutions of higher
education.
``(B) The effectiveness of the program, in the long
term, in reducing costs to the Federal government,
including the costs of providing, to individuals
affected by the program, benefits under the Medicaid
program under title XIX of the Social Security Act (42
U.S.C. 1396 et seq.), the Supplemental Nutrition
Assistance Program established under the Food and
Nutrition Act of 2008 (7 U.S.C. 2011 et seq.), and
Federal foster care programs, and other income-tested
or need-based benefits.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of contents in section 2 of the
Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6301 note) is
amended by inserting after the item relating to section 1830 the
following:
``subpart 3--grants for assistance to pregnant and parenting students
``Sec. 1840. Grants for assistance to pregnant and parenting
students.''.
SEC. 4. GRANTS FOR ASSISTANCE TO PREGNANT AND PARENTING STUDENTS AT
INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION.
Part A of title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
1001 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following new
subpart:
``Subpart 11--Grants for Assistance to Pregnant and Parenting Students
``SEC. 420S. GRANTS FOR ASSISTANCE TO PREGNANT AND PARENTING STUDENTS.
``(a) Grant Program Authorized.--The Secretary shall establish a
program to award grants to institutions of higher education to help
pregnant and parenting students stay in school by expanding their
access to services, including--
``(1) tutoring;
``(2) pregnancy-related healthcare;
``(3) child care;
``(4) transportation;
``(5) after-school support;
``(6) academic counseling;
``(7) school social work services; or
``(8) family planning services, including services for
subsequent pregnancy prevention.
``(b) Priority.--In awarding grants under subsection (a), the
Secretary shall give priority to an institution of higher education
that, in the determination of the Secretary--
``(1) will have a significant percentage of pregnant and
parenting students in the period for which the grant is
awarded; and
``(2) will expand the access of pregnant and parenting
students to each service described in subsection (a).
``(c) Limitation on Amount of Grant.--The amount of a grant awarded
under subsection (a) shall not exceed $500,000.
``(d) Grant Conditions.--As a condition of receiving a grant under
subsection (a), an institution of higher education--
``(1) shall agree to enter into partnerships and share
grant funds, when appropriate, with public agencies or with
community-based organizations to carry out the purpose for
which the grant is awarded; and
``(2) may use no more than 10 percent of the amount of the
grant for administrative costs.
``(e) Use of Funds.--Uses of funds from a grant awarded under
subsection (a) may include--
``(1) compensating teachers and other employees for
performing additional services in carrying out the purpose of
the grant; and
``(2) encouraging training practicums for graduate students
in social work to carry out the purpose of the grant.
``(f) Application.--To be eligible to receive a grant under
subsection (a), an institution of higher education shall submit an
application to the Secretary at such time, in such manner, and
containing such information as the Secretary may require.
``(g) Reporting.--
``(1) Submission.--The Secretary shall submit to Congress a
report on the program established under subsection (a),
including the information specified in paragraph (2), on the
following dates:
``(A) A date that is not later than September 30,
2013.
``(B) A date that is not later than January 1,
2016.
``(2) Contents.--A report submitted under paragraph (1)
shall include the following information, as determined by the
Secretary:
``(A) The number and graduation rate of pregnant
and parenting students who benefit from the program.
``(B) The effectiveness of the program, in the long
term, in reducing costs to the Federal government,
including the costs of providing, to individuals
affected by the program, benefits under the Medicaid
program under title XIX of the Social Security Act (42
U.S.C. 1396 et seq.), the Supplemental Nutrition
Assistance Program established under the Food and
Nutrition Act of 2008 (7 U.S.C. 2011 et seq.), and
Federal foster care programs, and other income-tested
or need-based benefits.
``(h) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section $75,000,000 for each of fiscal
years 2011 through 2015.''. | Teen Parent Graduation and College Achievement Act - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 and the Higher Education Act of 1965 to require the Secretary of Education to award grants to local educational agencies (LEAs) and institutions of higher education (IHEs) to help pregnant and parenting students stay in school by expanding their access to services.
Includes tutoring, pregnancy-related health care, child care, transportation, after-school support, academic counseling, school social work, or family planning among such services.
Requires LEA and IHE grantees to: (1) enter into partnerships and share grant funds, when appropriate, with public agencies or community-based organizations to help pregnant or parenting students stay in school; and (2) use no more than 10% of their grant for administrative costs. | billsum_train |
Provide a condensed version of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Defend and Save Social Security
Act''.
SEC. 2. ADJUSTMENT TO NORMAL AND EARLY RETIREMENT AGE.
(a) In General.--Section 216(l) of the Social Security Act (42
U.S.C. 416(l)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)--
(A) in subparagraph (C), by striking ``2017'' and
inserting ``2016''; and
(B) by striking subparagraphs (D) and (E) and
inserting the following new subparagraphs:
``(D) with respect to an individual who--
``(i) attains 62 years of age after
December 31, 2015, and before January 1, 2024,
such individual's early retirement age (as
determined under paragraph (2)(A)) plus 48
months; or
``(ii) receives a benefit described in
paragraph (2)(B) and attains 60 years of age
after December 31, 2015, and before January 1,
2024, 66 years of age plus the number of months
in the age increase factor (as determined under
paragraph (4)(A)(i));
``(E) with respect to an individual who--
``(i) attains 62 years of age after
December 31, 2023, and before January 1, 2027,
68 years of age plus the number of months in
the age increase factor (as determined under
paragraph (4)(B)(ii)); or
``(ii) receives a benefit described in
paragraph (2)(B) and attains 60 years of age
after December 31, 2023, and before January 1,
2027, 68 years of age plus the number of months
in the age increase factor (as determined under
paragraph (4)(B)(i)); and
``(F) with respect to an individual who--
``(i) attains 62 years of age after
December 31, 2026, 69 years of age; or
``(ii) receives a benefit described in
paragraph (2)(B) and attains 60 years of age
after December 31, 2026, 69 years of age.'';
(2) by amending paragraph (2) to read as follows:
``(2) The term `early retirement age' means--
``(A) in the case of an old-age, wife's, or
husband's insurance benefit--
``(i) 62 years of age with respect to an
individual who attains such age before January
1, 2016;
``(ii) with respect to an individual who
attains 62 years of age after December 31,
2015, and before January 1, 2023, 62 years of
age plus the number of months in the age
increase factor (as determined under paragraph
(4)(A)(ii)) for the calendar year in which such
individual attains 62 years of age; and
``(iii) with respect to an individual who
attains age 62 after December 31, 2022, 64
years of age; or
``(B) in the case of a widow's or widower's
insurance benefit, 60 years of age.'';
(3) by striking paragraph (3) and inserting the following:
``(3) With respect to an individual who attains early
retirement age in the 5-year period consisting of the calendar
years 2000 through 2004, the age increase factor shall be equal
to two-twelfths of the number of months in the period beginning
with January 2000 and ending with December of the year in which
the individual attains early retirement age.''; and
(4) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(4) The age increase factor shall be equal to three-
twelfths of the number of months in the period--
``(A) beginning with January 2016 and ending with
December of the year in which--
``(i) for purposes of paragraphs
(1)(D)(ii), the individual attains 60 years of
age; or
``(ii) for purposes of paragraph
(2)(A)(ii), the individual attains 62 years of
age; and
``(B) beginning with January 2024 and ending with
December of the year in which--
``(i) for purposes of (1)(E)(ii), the
individual attains 60 years of age; or
``(ii) for purposes of (1)(E)(i), the
individual attains 62 years of age.''.
(b) Conforming Increase in Number of Elapsed Years for Purposes of
Determining Primary Insurance Amount.--Section 215(b)(2)(B)(iii) of
such Act (42 U.S.C. 415(b)(2)(B)(iii)) is amended by striking ``age
62'' and inserting ``early retirement age (or, in the case of an
individual who receives a benefit described in section 216(l)(2)(B), 62
years of age)''.
SEC. 3. COST-OF-LIVING ADJUSTMENT.
Section 215(i) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 415(i)) is
amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)(D), by inserting ``subject to
paragraph (6),'' before ``the term''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(6)(A) Subject to subparagraph (B), with respect to a base
quarter or cost-of-living computation quarter in any calendar year
after 2010, the term `CPI increase percentage' means the percentage
determined under paragraph (1)(D) for the quarter reduced (but not
below zero) by 1 percentage point.
``(B) The reduction under subparagraph (A) shall apply only for
purposes of determining the amount of benefits under this title and not
for purposes of determining the amount of, or any increases in,
benefits under other provisions of law which operate by reference to
increases in benefits under this title.''. | Defend and Save Social Security Act - Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) (OASDI) of the Social Security Act to: (1) increase the normal retirement age by specified graduated stages to 67 by 2019 and to 69 after December 31, 2026, and the early retirement age to 63 by 2019 and to 64 after December 31, 2022; (2) revise requirements for computation of the age increase factor; and (3) modify the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) to 1% below the general COLA. | billsum_train |
Make a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Digital Coast Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress makes the following findings:
(1) The Digital Coast is a model approach for effective
Federal partnerships with State and local government,
nongovernmental organizations, and the private sector.
(2) Access to current, accurate, uniform, and standards-
based geospatial information, tools, and training to
characterize the United States coastal region is critical for
public safety and for the environment, infrastructure, and
economy of the United States.
(3) More than half of all people of the United States
(153,000,000) currently live on or near a coast and an
additional 12,000,000 are expected in the next decade.
(4) Coastal counties in the United States average 300
persons per square mile, compared with the national average of
98.
(5) On a typical day, more than 1,540 permits for
construction of single-family homes are issued in coastal
counties, combined with other commercial, retail, and
institutional construction to support this population.
(6) Over half of the economic productivity of the United
States is located within coastal regions.
(7) Highly accurate, high-resolution remote sensing and
other geospatial data play an increasingly important role in
decision making and management of the coastal zone and economy,
including for--
(A) flood and coastal storm surge prediction;
(B) hazard risk and vulnerability assessment;
(C) emergency response and recovery planning;
(D) community resilience to longer range coastal
change;
(E) local planning and permitting;
(F) habitat and ecosystem health assessments; and
(G) landscape change detection.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Coastal region.--The term ``coastal region'' means the
area of United States waters extending inland from the
shoreline to include coastal watersheds and seaward to the
territorial sea.
(2) Coastal state.--The term ``coastal State'' has the
meaning given the term ``coastal state'' in section 304 of the
Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 (16 U.S.C. 1453).
(3) Federal geographic data committee.--The term ``Federal
Geographic Data Committee'' means the interagency committee
that promotes the coordinated development, use, sharing, and
dissemination of geospatial data on a national basis.
(4) Remote sensing and other geospatial.--The term ``remote
sensing and other geospatial'' means collecting, storing,
retrieving, or disseminating graphical or digital data
depicting natural or manmade physical features, phenomena, or
boundaries of the Earth and any information related thereto,
including surveys, maps, charts, satellite and airborne remote
sensing data, images, LiDAR, and services performed by
professionals such as surveyors, photogrammetrists,
hydrographers, geodesists, cartographers, and other such
services.
(5) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of Commerce, acting through the Administrator of the National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
SEC. 4. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE DIGITAL COAST.
(a) Establishment.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall establish a program
for the provision of an enabling platform that integrates
geospatial data, decision-support tools, training, and best
practices to address coastal management issues and needs. Under
the program, the Secretary shall strive to enhance resilient
communities, ecosystem values, and coastal economic growth and
development by helping communities address their issues, needs,
and challenges through cost-effective and participatory
solutions.
(2) Designation.--The program established under paragraph
(1) shall be known as the ``Digital Coast'' (in this section
referred to as the ``program'').
(b) Program Requirements.--In carrying out the program, the
Secretary shall ensure that the program provides data integration, tool
development, training, documentation, dissemination, and archive by--
(1) making data and resulting integrated products developed
under this section readily accessible via the Digital Coast
Internet website of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, the GeoPlatform.gov and data.gov Internet
websites, and such other information distribution technologies
as the Secretary considers appropriate;
(2) developing decision-support tools that use and display
resulting integrated data and provide training on use of such
tools;
(3) documenting such data to Federal Geographic Data
Committee standards; and
(4) archiving all raw data acquired under this Act at the
appropriate National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
data center or such other Federal data center as the Secretary
considers appropriate.
(c) Coordination.--The Secretary shall coordinate the activities
carried out under the program to optimize data collection, sharing and
integration, and to minimize duplication by--
(1) consulting with coastal managers and decision makers
concerning coastal issues, and sharing information and best
practices, as the Secretary considers appropriate, with--
(A) coastal States;
(B) local governments; and
(C) representatives of academia, the private
sector, and nongovernmental organizations;
(2) consulting with other Federal agencies, including
interagency committees, on relevant Federal activities,
including activities carried out under the Ocean and Coastal
Mapping Integration Act (33 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.), the Coastal
Zone Management Act of 1972 (16 U.S.C. 1451 et seq.), the
Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation System Act of 2009 (33
U.S.C. 3601 et seq.), and the Hydrographic Services Improvement
Act of 1998 (33 U.S.C. 892 et seq.);
(3) participating, pursuant to section 216 of the E-
Government Act of 2002 (Public Law 107-347; 44 U.S.C. 3501
note), in the establishment of such standards and common
protocols as the Secretary considers necessary to assure the
interoperability of remote sensing and other geospatial data
with all users of such information within--
(A) the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration;
(B) other Federal agencies;
(C) State and local government; and
(D) the private sector;
(4) coordinating with, seeking assistance and cooperation
of, and providing liaison to the Federal Geographic Data
Committee pursuant to Office of Management and Budget Circular
A-16 and Executive Order 12906 of April 11, 1994 (59 Fed. Reg.
17671), as amended by Executive Order 13286 of February 28,
2003 (68 Fed. Reg. 10619); and
(5) developing and maintaining a best practices document
that sets out the best practices used by the Secretary in
carrying out the program and providing such document to the
United States Geological Survey, the Corps of Engineers, and
other relevant Federal agencies.
(d) Filling Needs and Gaps.--In carrying out the program, the
Secretary shall--
(1) maximize the use of remote sensing and other geospatial
data collection activities conducted for other purposes and
under other authorities;
(2) focus on filling data needs and gaps for coastal
management issues, including with respect to areas that, as of
the date of the enactment of this Act, were underserved by
coastal data and the areas of the Arctic that are under the
jurisdiction of the United States;
(3) pursuant to the Ocean and Coastal Mapping Integration
Act (33 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.), support continue improvement in
existing efforts to coordinate the acquisition and integration
of key data sets needed for coastal management and other
purposes, including--
(A) coastal elevation data;
(B) land use and land cover data;
(C) socioeconomic and human use data;
(D) critical infrastructure data;
(E) structures data;
(F) living resources and habitat data;
(G) cadastral data; and
(H) aerial imagery; and
(4) integrate the priority supporting data set forth under
paragraph (3) with other available data for the benefit of the
broadest measure of coastal resource management constituents
and applications.
(e) Financial Agreements and Contracts.--
(1) In general.--In carrying out the program, the
Secretary--
(A) may enter into financial agreements to carry
out the program, including--
(i) support to non-Federal entities that
participate in implementing the program; and
(ii) grants, cooperative agreements,
interagency agreements, contracts, or any other
agreement on a reimbursable or non-reimbursable
basis, with other Federal, tribal, State, and
local governmental and nongovernmental
entities; and
(B) may, to the maximum extent practicable, enter
into such contracts with private sector entities for
such products and services as the Secretary determines
may be necessary to collect, process, and provide
remote sensing and other geospatial data and products
for purposes of the program.
(2) Fees.--
(A) Assessment and collection.--The Secretary may
assess and collect fees for the conduct of any
training, workshop, or conference that advances the
purposes of the program.
(B) Amounts.--The amount of a fee under this
paragraph may not exceed the sum of costs incurred, or
expected to be incurred, by the Secretary as a direct
result of the conduct of the training, workshop, or
conference, including for subsistence expenses
incidental to the training, workshop, or conference, as
applicable.
(C) Use of fees.--Amounts collected by the
Secretary in the form of fees under this paragraph may
be used to pay for--
(i) the costs incurred for conducting an
activity described in subparagraph (A); or
(ii) the expenses described in subparagraph
(B).
(3) Survey and mapping.--Contracts entered into under
paragraph (1)(B) shall be considered ``surveying and mapping''
services as such term is used in and as such contracts are
awarded by the Secretary in accordance with the selection
procedures in chapter 11 of title 40, United States Code.
(f) Ocean Economy.--The Secretary may establish publically
available tools that track ocean and Great Lakes economy data for each
coastal State.
(g) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be
appropriated to the Secretary $4,000,000 for each fiscal year 2018
through 2022 to carry out the program.
Passed the Senate May 25, 2017.
Attest:
Secretary.
115th CONGRESS
1st Session
S. 110
_______________________________________________________________________
AN ACT
To require the Secretary of Commerce, acting through the Administrator
of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, to establish a
constituent-driven program to provide a digital information platform
capable of efficiently integrating coastal data with decision-support
tools, training, and best practices and to support collection of
priority coastal geospatial data to inform and improve local, State,
regional, and Federal capacities to manage the coastal region, and for
other purposes. | . The expanded summary of the Senate reported version is repeated here.) Digital Coast Act (Sec.4)This bill requires the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to establish a constituent-driven Digital Coast program. (This program currently exists under NOAA to provide data, tools, and training that communities use to manage their coastal resources.) The program must: (1) provide an online resource that integrates geospatial data, decision-support tools, training, and best practices to address coastal management issues and needs, and to enhance resilient communities, ecosystem values, and coastal economic growth and development; and (2) provide for the documentation, dissemination, and archiving of the data. NOAA must focus on filling data needs and gaps for critical coastal management issues and support continued improvement in existing efforts to coordinate the acquisition and integration of key data sets needed for coastal management, and other purposes. NOAA may: (1) enter into financial agreements and collect fees to carry out the program; (2) enter into contracts with private sector entities as may be necessary to collect, process, and provide remote sensing and other geospatial data and products. Additionally, NOAA may establish publicly available tools that track ocean and Great Lakes economy data for each coastal state. | billsum_train |
Give a brief overview of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Northern Nevada Rural Economic
Development and Land Consolidation Act of 2003''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSES.
(a) Findings.--Congress finds as follows:
(1) The economy of Nevada is dependent upon mining as a
major source of high-paying jobs and other economic benefits.
(2) Fifteen percent of employment in Eureka, Lander, White
Pine, Elko, and Humboldt Counties in Nevada is directly
provided by mining corporations, while nearly 50 percent of
employment in those counties is a direct result of the mining
industry.
(3) Citizens of northern Nevada counties would benefit
through enhanced county services and schools from the increased
private property tax base that would result from private
ownership of the public land subject to mining operations.
(4) The Federal Government owns approximately 81 percent of
the total area of Eureka, Lander, White Pine, Elko, and
Humboldt Counties in Nevada, and many mining operations in
those counties are conducted on public lands subject to mining
or mill site claims located and maintained under the general
mining laws.
(5) The general mining laws have historically allowed
mining claimants to receive patents to their claims from the
United States, and the public land laws authorize land
exchanges and direct sales as methods for mining companies to
obtain security of tenure for their operations.
(6) However, since 1994, Congress has placed moratoria on
further processing of patent applications under the general
mining laws, except for certain patent applications that were
pending at the time of the first moratorium.
(7) There is a severe backlog of land exchange and direct
sale petitions in Nevada that has made it impossible for Nevada
mine operators to obtain title in a timely manner to land
subject to mining claims and mill site claims on which they
conduct their operations.
(8) These circumstances have made it impossible for two
mining companies to achieve security of tenure in a reasonable
time frame, creating economic uncertainty and disadvantages not
only for these companies but also for Nevada local governments
and Nevada citizens who benefit from the taxes paid and jobs
provided by these and other companies, and from their long term
commitment to continue operating and to further mineral
exploration in Nevada.
(9) The public lands addressed in this Act are difficult
and uneconomic for the Bureau of Land Management to manage and
disposal of such lands will serve important public objectives,
including economic development and the maintenance of a long
term tax base for northern Nevada counties.
(10) The Bureau of Land Management has determined that the
public lands addressed in this Act are suitable for
consolidation of ownership or disposal into private ownership
and the environmental, cultural, social, and economic impacts
of mining operations on the public lands subject to this Act
have been evaluated in numerous studies conducted under the
National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, the National
Historic Preservation Act, and other laws.
(11) The sale of the public lands would generate
significant income to provide funds to complete rehabilitation
of lands in the State of Nevada that were subject to mining
activities conducted many decades ago.
(12) Mining operations conducted on public lands sold under
this Act would remain subject to applicable Federal and State
environmental and safety laws.
(13) These lands would be sold for market value, including
a royalty on future production of minerals.
(b) Purposes.--The purposes of this Act are--
(1) to provide for the orderly and expeditious
consolidation and disposal of certain public lands in Eureka,
Lander, White Pine, Elko, and Humboldt Counties, Nevada;
(2) to provide funds for rehabilitation of lands in Nevada
that were subject to historic mining activities; and
(3) to provide funds for education and other purposes in
the State of Nevada.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Claimant.--The term ``Claimant'' means Placer Dome U.S.
Inc., any affiliate designated by Placer Dome U.S. Inc., or any
successor; and Graymont Western U.S. Inc, and any affiliate
designated by Graymont Western U.S. Inc, or any successor.
(2) Counties.--The term ``Counties'' means the Nevada
counties of Eureka, Lander, White Pine, Elko, and Humboldt, all
located in the State of Nevada.
(3) Department.--The term ``Department'' means the
Department of the Interior.
(4) Mining law.--The term ``the general mining laws''
includes, in general, chapters 2 and 12A, and 16, sections 161
and 162, of title 30, U.S.C.
(5) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of the Interior.
SEC. 4. DISPOSAL OF LAND.
(a) Disposal.--
(1) In general.--The Claimant shall have the right during
the one year period commencing on the date of enactment of this
Act to submit one or more applications to the Secretary to
acquire all or any portion of the public lands depicted as
``Selected Lands'' on the maps identified in clauses (i)
through (ii) of subsection (b)(1)(A). As soon as practicable
after receipt of each such application, the Federal Land Policy
and Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) or any
other law or executive order, except as specifically provided
in this Act, subject to the acceptance by the Claimant and the
Secretary of the appraisal and determinations to be made in
accordance with paragraphs (2) and (3), the Secretary shall
dispose of each parcel of public land, including minerals,
described in subsection (b)(1)(A) by direct sale to the
Claimant. The procedures in section 206(d) of the Federal Land
Policy and Management Act (43 U.S.C. 1716(d)) shall apply to
the appraisal and determinations made pursuant to this
paragraph.
(2) Market value.--
(A) Value of land.--The value of the public lands
to be conveyed to Claimant and any private lands
conveyed to the United States pursuant to this Act
shall be the market value of the present interest of
the grantor, as determined by the Secretary in
accordance with an appraisal that complies with the
Uniform Appraisal Standards for Federal Land
Acquisitions and the relevant valuation provisions of
the Federal Land Policy Management Act of 1976 (43
U.S.C. 1701 et seq.). Such appraisal shall be conducted
by a qualified professional appraiser certified by the
Appraiser Qualifications Board of the Appraisal
Foundation.
(B) Value of minerals.--
(i) The value of locatable minerals in
public lands to be conveyed to the Claimant
that are subject to unpatented mining claims
for which the Claimant demonstrates the
discovery of a valuable mineral deposit shall
not be considered in the appraisal or included
in the market value of the grantor's interest
in these lands, as ownership and the right to
develop these minerals are already vested in
the Claimant. In determining whether the
Claimant has demonstrated the existence of a
discovery of a valuable mineral deposit, the
Secretary shall apply the principles of the
general mining laws, but shall not be required
to conduct a formal validity examination.
(ii) Because it would be difficult to
determine accurately the value of locatable
minerals in lands to be conveyed to the
Claimant that are subject to unpatented mining
or mill site claims for which the Claimant does
not demonstrate the discovery of a valuable
mineral deposit, the present value of such
minerals will not be considered in the
appraisal or included in the market value of
these lands. The United States shall be
compensated for the value of any such minerals
as provided in paragraph (3).
(3) Royalties.--There shall be reserved in the conveyance
of all public lands made pursuant to this Act, except lands
subject to unpatented mining claims for which the Claimant
demonstrates the discovery of a valuable mineral deposit, a
royalty payable to the United States on locatable minerals. The
rate of the reserved royalty shall be commensurate with the
rate determined by the Secretary that is common and customary
at the time of conveyance for royalties on locatable minerals
reserved by private parties on public and private lands in the
region in which the lands are situated.
(4) Credit for lands conveyed to the united states.--The
Secretary shall accept from Claimant, subject to approval of
title, a conveyance of any private lands identified in
subsection (b)(1)(B) that Claimant offers to convey to the
United States. Claimant shall receive a credit equal to the
market value of any private lands conveyed to the United States
pursuant to this section, which credit shall be applied against
the cash consideration to be paid to the United States for the
public lands conveyed to Claimant pursuant to this Act.
(5) Timing.--The Secretary shall--
(A) with respect to each application made pursuant
to paragraph (1) complete all necessary appraisals,
review and determine the validity of the assertions of
the discovery of a valuable mineral deposit on lands on
which the Claimant has made such an assertion, and
determine the appropriate royalty for public lands on
which the Secretary determines that the Claimant has
not demonstrated the existence of such a discovery, not
later than 180 days after the date of submission of
such application; and
(B) convey the public lands to be conveyed to the
Claimant not later than 60 days after the completion of
the actions described in subparagraph (A).
(6) Independent transactions.--The public lands to be sold
to Claimant under this Act may be included in one or more
conveyances.
(b) Land Description.--
(1) In general.--
(A) The public lands referred to in subsection
(a)(1) are the lands depicted as ``Selected Lands'' on
the following maps:
(i) Northern Nevada Land Package For Placer
Dome U.S. Inc.- Bald Mtn Mine - Selected Lands
(Scale 1=2000);
(ii) Northern Nevada Land Package For
Placer Dome U.S. Inc.- Cortez Gold Mines -
Offered and Selected Lands (Scale 1=8000);
(iii) Northern Nevada Land Package For
Placer Dome U.S. Inc.- Getchell Mine - Selected
Lands (Scale 1=4000); and
(iv) Northern Nevada Land Package For
Graymont Western U.S. Inc. - Pilot Mine -
(Scale 1= 1000).
(B) The private lands referred to in subsection
(a)(3) are the lands depicted as ``Offered Lands'' on
the following map: Northern Nevada Land Package For
Placer Dome U.S. Inc.-Cortez Gold Mines- Offered and
Selected Lands (Scale 1=8000)
(2) Locations of maps.--The maps described in paragraph (1)
shall be available for public inspection in the State Office of
the Bureau of Land Management, 1340 Financial Boulevard, Reno,
Nevada.
(c) Miscellaneous.--
(1) Interim conveyances.--Lands to be conveyed by the
United States pursuant to this Act which have not been
surveyed, or with respect to which any boundary needs to be
surveyed or resurveyed, shall be conveyed by an interim
conveyance, which shall convey to and vest in the Claimant to
which such lands are conveyed the same right, title, and
interest in and to such lands as the Claimant would have
received in a patent issued pursuant to this Act. Upon
completion of any necessary survey or resurvey, the Secretary
shall patent any lands previously conveyed by an interim
conveyance. Where necessary as a result of the survey or
resurvey of such lands, the boundary may be corrected in the
patent.
(2) Surveys.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law,
the Secretary shall conduct and approve all cadastral surveys
that are necessary for completion of each sale authorized and
directed by this Act. In conducting such surveys, the Secretary
is authorized to conduct perimeter surveys of contiguous blocks
of public lands and convey such lands based on these surveys.
Due to the lack of accurate and complete public land surveys in
some portions of the public lands, the Secretary is authorized
to use existing Bureau of Land Management protraction diagrams
and global positioning system survey techniques to complete
such surveys. The cost of any surveys shall be borne by the
Claimant.
(3) Technical corrections.--Nothing in this Act shall
prevent the parties affected thereby from mutually agreeing to
the correction of technical errors or omissions in the maps and
legal descriptions referred to in subsection (b)(1).
(4) Valid existing rights.--All lands conveyed under this
Act shall be subject to valid existing rights existing as of
the date of transfer of title, and each party to which property
is conveyed shall succeed to the rights and obligations of the
conveying party with respect to any mining claim, mill site
claim, lease, right-of-way, permit, or other valid existing
right to which the property is subject.
(5) Administration.--The Secretary is directed to implement
and administer all rights and obligations of the United States
under this Act.
SEC. 5. DISPOSITION OF PROCEEDS.
Of the gross proceeds of sales of land under this Act in a fiscal
year--
(1) 25 percent of all proceeds, including proceeds from
royalties retained by the United States pursuant to this Act,
shall be paid directly to the State of Nevada for use in the
general education program of the State;
(2) 10 percent of the initial proceeds, including proceeds
from royalties retained by the United States pursuant to this
Act, shall be set aside in a trust fund managed by the Bureau
of Land Management for the operation of the California Trail
Interpretative Center located in Elko County, Nevada;
(3) from the initial proceeds, excluding proceeds from
royalties retained by the United States pursuant to this Act,
100 percent of the costs incurred by the Nevada State Office
and relevant Field Offices of the Bureau of Land Management in
conducting sales under this Act shall be reimbursed; and
(4) the remaining proceeds, including proceeds from
royalties retained by the United States pursuant to this Act,
shall be used by the Nevada Division of Minerals and the Nevada
Division of Environmental Protection or its successor agencies
in cooperation with the Bureau of Land Management and Army Corp
of Engineers, for the rehabilitation of lands in Nevada that
were subject to historic mining activities. | Northern Nevada Rural Economic Development and Land Consolidation Act of 2003 - Directs the Secretary of the Interior, upon the submission of the relevant application or applications by the Placer Dome U.S. Inc., Denver, Co., and Graymont Western U.S. Inc., Murray, Utah (together the Claimant), to sell the Claimant whatever portion is requested of certain public lands subject to mining operations in Eureka, Lander, White Pine, Elko, and Humboldt Counties, Nevada. Directs that the sale of the lands be at market price. States that the value of locatable minerals in such lands shall not be considered or included in the market value of the lands.
Subjects all public lands conveyed under this Act to a royalty payable to the United States on locatable minerals, except for lands subject to unpatented mining claims for which the Claimant demonstrates the discovery of a valuable mineral deposit. Directs the Secretary to accept from the Claimant a conveyance of any of certain specified private lands in northern Nevada, with the Claimant to receive a credit equal to the market value of each such transferred property.
Subjects all lands conveyed under this Act to valid existing rights.
Directs that the proceeds from the sales of the lands be used: (1) to support the State's general education program; (2) to support a trust fund for the California Trail Interpretative Center in Elko County; (3) for the rehabilitation of lands in Nevada that were subject to historic mining activities; and (4) for the reimbursement of costs incurred by the Nevada State Office and relevant Field Offices of the Bureau of Land Management in conducting the sales. | billsum_train |
Change the following text into a summary: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Social Security and Medicare Off-
Budget Lockbox Act of 2001''.
SEC. 2. STRENGTHENING SOCIAL SECURITY POINTS OF ORDER.
(a) In General.--Section 312 of the Congressional Budget Act of
1974 (2 U.S.C. 643) is amended by inserting at the end the following:
``(g) Strengthening Social Security Point of Order.--It shall not
be in order in the House of Representatives or the Senate to consider a
concurrent resolution on the budget (or any amendment thereto or
conference report thereon) or any bill, joint resolution, amendment,
motion, or conference report that would violate or amend section 13301
of the Budget Enforcement Act of 1990.''.
(b) Super Majority Requirement.--
(1) Point of order.--Section 904(c)(1) of the Congressional
Budget Act of 1974 is amended by inserting ``312(g),'' after
``310(d)(2),''.
(2) Waiver.--Section 904(d)(2) of the Congressional Budget
Act of 1974 is amended by inserting ``312(g),'' after
``310(d)(2),''.
(c) Enforcement in Each Fiscal Year.--The Congressional Budget Act
of 1974 is amended in--
(1) section 301(a)(7) (2 U.S.C. 632(a)(7)), by striking
``for the fiscal year'' through the period and inserting ``for
each fiscal year covered by the resolution''; and
(2) section 311(a)(3) (2 U.S.C. 642(a)(3)), by striking
beginning with ``for the first fiscal year'' through the period
and insert the following: ``for any of the fiscal years covered
by the concurrent resolution.''.
SEC. 3. MEDICARE TRUST FUND OFF-BUDGET.
(a) In General.--
(1) General exclusion from all budgets.--Title III of the
Congressional Budget Act of 1974 is amended by adding at the
end the following:
``exclusion of medicare trust fund from all budgets
``Sec. 316. (a) Exclusion of Medicare Trust Fund From All
Budgets.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the receipts and
disbursements of the Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund shall not be
counted as new budget authority, outlays, receipts, or deficit or
surplus for purposes of--
``(1) the budget of the United States Government as
submitted by the President;
``(2) the congressional budget; or
``(3) the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act
of 1985.
``(b) Strengthening Medicare Point of Order.--It shall not be in
order in the House of Representatives or the Senate to consider a
concurrent resolution on the budget (or any amendment thereto or
conference report thereon) or any bill, joint resolution, amendment,
motion, or conference report that would violate or amend this
section.''.
(2) Super majority requirement.--
(A) Point of order.--Section 904(c)(1) of the
Congressional Budget Act of 1974 is amended by
inserting ``316,'' after ``313,''.
(B) Waiver.--Section 904(d)(2) of the Congressional
Budget Act of 1974 is amended by inserting ``316,''
after ``313,''.
(b) Exclusion of Medicare Trust Fund From Congressional Budget.--
Section 301(a) of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 (2 U.S.C.
632(a)) is amended by adding at the end the following: ``The concurrent
resolution shall not include the outlays and revenue totals of the
Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund in the surplus or deficit totals
required by this subsection or in any other surplus or deficit totals
required by this title.''
(c) Budget Totals.--Section 301(a) of the Congressional Budget Act
of 1974 (2 U.S.C. 632(a)) is amended by inserting after paragraph (7)
the following:
``(8) For purposes of Senate enforcement under this title,
revenues and outlays of the Federal Hospital Insurance Trust
Fund for each fiscal year covered by the budget resolution.''.
(d) Budget Resolutions.--Section 301(i) of the Congressional Budget
Act of 1974 (2 U.S.C. 632(i)) is amended by--
(1) striking ``Social Security Point of Order.--It shall''
and inserting ``Social Security and Medicare Points of Order.--
``(1) Social security.--It shall''; and
(2) inserting at the end the following:
``(2) Medicare.--It shall not be in order in the House of
Representatives or the Senate to consider any concurrent
resolution on the budget (or amendment, motion, or conference
report on the resolution) that would decrease the excess of the
Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund revenues over Federal
Hospital Insurance Trust Fund outlays in any of the fiscal
years covered by the concurrent resolution. This paragraph
shall not apply to amounts to be expended from the Hospital
Insurance Trust Fund for purposes relating to programs within
part A of Medicare as provided in law on the date of enactment
of this paragraph.''.
(e) Medicare Firewall.--Section 311(a) of the Congressional Budget
Act of 1974 (2 U.S.C. 642(a)) is amended by adding after paragraph (3),
the following:
``(4) Enforcement of medicare levels in the senate.--After
a concurrent resolution on the budget is agreed to, it shall
not be in order in the Senate to consider any bill, joint
resolution, amendment, motion, or conference report that would
cause a decrease in surpluses or an increase in deficits of the
Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund in any year relative to
the levels set forth in the applicable resolution. This
paragraph shall not apply to amounts to be expended from the
Hospital Insurance Trust Fund for purposes relating to programs
within part A of Medicare as provided in law on the date of
enactment of this paragraph.''.
(f) Baseline To Exclude Hospital Insurance Trust Fund.--Section
257(b)(3) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of
1985 is amended by striking ``shall be included in all'' and inserting
``shall not be included in any''.
(g) Medicare Trust Fund Exempt From Sequesters.--Section
255(g)(1)(B) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act
of 1985 is amended by adding at the end the following:
``Medicare as funded through the Federal Hospital Insurance
Trust Fund.''.
(h) Budgetary Treatment of Hospital Insurance Trust Fund.--Section
710(a) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 911(a)) is amended--
(1) by striking ``and'' the second place it appears and
inserting a comma; and
(2) by inserting after ``Federal Disability Insurance Trust
Fund'' the following: ``, Federal Hospital Insurance Trust
Fund''.
SEC. 4. PREVENTING ON-BUDGET DEFICITS.
(a) Points of Order To Prevent On-Budget Deficits.--Section 312 of
the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 (2 U.S.C. 643) is amended by
adding at the end the following:
``(h) Points of Order To Prevent On-Budget Deficits.--
``(1) Concurrent resolutions on the budget.--It shall not
be in order in the House of Representatives or the Senate to
consider any concurrent resolution on the budget, or conference
report thereon or amendment thereto, that would cause or
increase an on-budget deficit for any fiscal year.
``(2) Subsequent legislation.--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
if--
``(A) the enactment of that bill or resolution as
reported;
``(B) the adoption and enactment of that amendment;
or
``(C) the enactment of that bill or resolution in
the form recommended in that conference report,
would cause or increase an on-budget deficit for any fiscal
year.''.
(b) Super Majority Requirement.--
(1) Point of order.--Section 904(c)(1) of the Congressional
Budget Act of 1974 is amended by inserting ``312(h),'' after
``312(g),''.
(2) Waiver.--Section 904(d)(2) of the Congressional Budget
Act of 1974 is amended by inserting ``312(h),'' after
``312(g),''. | Social Security and Medicare Off-Budget Lockbox Act of 2001 - Amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to provide that the receipts and disbursements of the Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund shall not be counted as new budget authority, outlays, receipts, or deficit or surplus for purposes of the Federal or congressional budgets or the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act) (thus, making it off-budget).Provides for related points of order in the House of Representatives and the Senate to enforce such requirement.Amends the Social Security Act to provide the same budgetary treatment for the Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund as is provided to the Federal Disability and Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Funds.Amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to provide a point of order in the House or the Senate against consideration of any budget resolution or legislation that would cause or increase an on-budget deficit for any fiscal year. | billsum_train |
Create a condensed overview of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Quality Reform Expansion and Savings
Act of 2007''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSE.
(a) Findings.--Congress makes the following findings:
(1) The United States health care system urgently needs
reform and improvement in the quality of care delivered, the
optimization of investments, and prevention and detection of
illness.
(2) The present system for payment of providers for health
care services often acts to deter or discourage optimal
investment in prevention or quality of care improvement.
(3) Properly tailored health care reforms can lower medical
cost and improve quality of care.
(4) The urgent need for reform of the American health care
system, to improve quality of care and health outcomes, to
lower cost, and to reduce waste and frustration, is not
presently met with a commensurate national effort to design and
implement those reforms.
(5) Many initiatives underway at the State and local level
merit encouragement and support as they depend upon and inspire
mutual trust and compromise within a community.
(b) Purpose.--It is the purpose of this Act to establish a program
to award grants to local, regional, or statewide organizations to--
(1) encourage the coordinated development of local health
care quality reforms;
(2) fund the development of practices beneficial to the
health care system;
(3) expand information technology, electronic health
records, and interoperable data systems in the health care
system;
(4) develop reimbursement practices that align financial
incentives with health and prevention reforms to identify and
encourage best practices;
(5) lower the costs of health care delivery;
(6) encourage experimentation in different regions of the
United States; and
(7) reward cooperation among local entities engaged in
reforming the health care system.
SEC. 3. QUALITY REFORM GRANT INITIATIVE.
(a) Grants.--The Secretary of Health and Human Services (referred
to in this section as the ``Secretary'') shall award quality reform
grants to eligible entities to enhance, encourage, and expedite
implementation of quality reform plans to carry out the purposes of
this Act.
(b) Eligibility of State, Local, and Regional Entities.--To be
eligible to receive a grant under subsection (a), a qualifying entity
shall be a State, local, or regional organization dedicated to
improving the quality of health care through broad participation of the
local health care community, with a focus on quality improvement and
reporting, expansion of health information technology, cost-effective
prevention, and restructuring of the reimbursement system to enhance
these goals.
(c) Quality Reform Committee.--
(1) Establishment.--Not later than 180 days after the date
of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall establish a
Quality Reform Committee (referred to in this Act as the
``Committee'') in accordance with this subsection.
(2) Membership.--The Committee shall be composed of not
less than 7 members, of which--
(A) one member shall be appointed by the
Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid
Services;
(B) one member shall be appointed by the Director
of the National Institutes of Health;
(C) one member shall be appointed by the
Administrator of the Agency for Healthcare Research and
Quality;
(D) one member shall be appointed by the National
Coordinator for Health Information Technology;
(E) one member shall be appointed by the President
of the Institute of Medicine;
(F) one member shall be appointed by the Secretary
from among candidates recommended by the National
Governor's Association; and
(G) one member shall be appointed by the Secretary
from among candidates recommended by the United States
Conference of Mayors.
(3) General duties.--The Committee shall--
(A) formally approve the application of an eligible
entity for a grant under this section and recommend to
the Secretary that such a grant be awarded to such
entity;
(B) facilitate communication among eligible
entities and other organizations;
(C) evaluate and exchange best practices relating
to activities carried out under the grants;
(D) share research and expertise relating to
activities under the grants;
(E) encourage collaboration and cooperation with
and among grantees under this section;
(F) recognize the achievements of grantees under
this section in a public manner;
(G) assist grantees under this section by serving
as an advocate and ombudsman to overcome bureaucratic
and other obstacles within the Federal Government that
hinder the achievement of this effort;
(H) encourage integration of activities under this
section with the private sector;
(I) study, identify, and report on market failures
and anomalies that create economic incentives adverse
to achievement of the goals of quality reform, cost
reduction, health information technology expansion, and
illness prevention;
(J) assist with coordinating information technology
infrastructure; and
(K) assign personnel to serve as facilitators for
local programs and as primary Federal points of contact
with grantees under this section.
(4) Period of appointment.--Members shall be appointed to
serve for a term as determined appropriate by the appointing
authority, as the case may be, and shall serve until their
successor is appointed.
(5) Chairperson; meetings.--
(A) Chairperson.--The Committee shall select a
Chairperson from among its members.
(B) Quorum.--A majority of the members of the
Committee shall constitute a quorum, but a lesser
number of members may hold hearings.
(C) Meetings.--Not later than 30 days after the
date on which all members of the Committee have been
appointed under paragraph (2), the Committee shall hold
its first meeting. The Committee shall meet at the call
of the Chairperson.
(6) Powers.--
(A) Hearings.--The Committee may hold hearings, if
determined necessary by the Committee to carry out the
purposes of this Act, sit and act at such times and
places, take such testimony, and receive such evidence
as the Committee determines appropriate to carry out
the purposes of this Act.
(B) Annual public meetings.--In addition to other
meetings the Committee may hold, the Committee shall
hold an annual public meeting for grantees under this
section in order that grantees may report progress
toward achieving the purposes in section 2(b) and in
the exchange of information with one another and with
the Committee.
(C) Information.--The Committee may obtain
information directly from any Federal department or
agency as the Committee determines is necessary to
carry out this section. Upon the request of the
Chairperson of the Committee, the head of such
department or agency shall furnish such information to
the Committee.
(D) Contracting.--The Committee may enter into
contracts with qualified independent organizations to
obtain necessary information to assist grantees with
the development of best evidence-based practices and
outcomes measurements or any other matters determined
by the Committee to be appropriate and reasonable to
carry out this section.
(E) Postal services.--The Committee may use the
United States mails in the same manner and under the
same conditions as other departments and agencies of
the Federal Government.
(7) Personnel matters.--
(A) Compensation.--Each member of the Committee who
is not an officer or employee of the Federal Government
shall be compensated at a rate equal to the daily
equivalent of the annual rate of basic pay prescribed
for level IV of the Executive Schedule under section
5315 of title 5, United States Code, for each day
(including travel time) during which such member is
engaged in the performance of the duties of the
Committee. All members of the Committee who are
officers or employees of the United States shall serve
without compensation in addition to that received for
their services as officers or employees of the United
States.
(B) Travel expenses.--The members of the Committee
shall be allowed travel expenses, including per diem in
lieu of subsistence, at rates authorized for employees
of agencies under subchapter I of chapter 57 of title
5, United States Code, while away from their homes or
regular places of business in the performance of
services for the Committee.
(C) Staff.--The Chairperson of the Committee may,
without regard to the civil service laws and
regulations, appoint and terminate personnel as may be
necessary to enable the Committee to perform its
duties.
(D) Detail of governmental employees.--Any Federal
Government employee may be detailed to the Committee
without reimbursement upon the request of the
Committee, and such detail shall be without
interruption or loss of civil service status or
privilege.
(E) Temporary and intermittent services.--The
Chairperson of the Committee may procure temporary and
intermittent services under section 3109(b) of title 5,
United States Code, at rates for individuals which do
not exceed the daily equivalent of the annual rate of
basic pay prescribed for level V of the Executive
Schedule under section 5316 of such title.
(8) Funding.--For the purpose of carrying out this
subsection, there are authorized to be appropriated $2,000,000
for fiscal year 2008 and each subsequent fiscal year.
(d) Quality Reform Plan.--
(1) In general.--To be eligible to receive a grant under
this section, an entity shall prepare and submit to the
Committee, as part of the application under subsection (b), a
plan to seek to improve quality of care, which is encouraged to
include the following elements:
(A) Involvement and leadership of the local health
care community in the area to be served under the
grant.
(B) Strategies to achieve cost-saving quality
improvements in service delivery as a result of
activities carried out under the grant.
(C) Development and implementation of electronic
health record keeping, health information systems,
interoperability, evidence-based clinical decision
support, or electronic prescription of pharmaceuticals.
(D) Methods to optimize evidence-based investment
in early prevention and detection of illness.
(E) Restructuring of provider reimbursement
provisions to assist in accomplishing the objectives of
the plan.
(F) Efforts to use savings to expand health care
coverage to the uninsured.
(2) Grant period.--The period of a grant awarded under this
section shall not exceed 2 years and may be renewed for
subsequent 2-year periods upon reapplication to the Committee.
Nothing in this paragraph shall be construed to prohibit a
grantee from requesting an extension for a period of less than
2 years.
(e) Waivers.--A State in which a grantee under this section is
located shall receive expedited and priority consideration of waiver
requests from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services when
necessary or appropriate to achieve the purposes for which the grant
was awarded.
(f) Amount of Grant.--The amount of a grant awarded to an entity
under this section shall be determined based upon the recommendations
of the Committee, subject to appropriations, but is intended to be an
unrestricted grant to eligible entities with qualifying plans.
(g) Report.--
(1) By entities.--An entity that is awarded a grant under
this section shall submit to the Committee an annual report for
the period representing the entity's fiscal year, that shall
contain a description of the results of activities carried out
under the project.
(2) By committee.--Not later than the end of the 5-year
period beginning on the date on which the first grant is
awarded under this section, the Committee shall prepare and
submit to the appropriate committees of Congress, a report on
the progress made by grantees in achieving the purposes of this
Act.
(h) Sense of the Senate.--It is the sense of the Senate that, not
later than 45 days after receiving the report submitted under
subsection (g)(2), each Committee to which such report is submitted
should hold at least 1 hearing concerning such report and the
recommendations contained in such report.
(i) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this Act, $100,000,000 for the 10-fiscal year
period beginning in fiscal year 2008. | Quality Reform Expansion and Savings Act of 2007 - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to award quality reform grants to eligible entities to enhance, encourage, and expedite implementation of quality reform plans in order to: (1) encourage the coordinated development of local health care quality reforms; (2) fund the development of practices beneficial to the health care system; (3) expand information technology, electronic health records, and interoperable data systems in the health care system; (4) develop reimbursement practices that align financial incentives with health and prevention reforms to identify and encourage best practices; (5) lower the costs of health care delivery; (6) encourage experimentation in different U.S. regions; and (7) reward cooperation among local entities engaged in reforming the health care system.
Requires the Secretary to establish the Quality Reform Committee, which shall: (1) approve the application of an eligible entity and recommend to the Secretary that a grant be awarded; (2) evaluate and exchange best practices related to activities carried out under the grant; (3) share research and expertise; and (4) study, identify, and report on market failures and anomalies that create economic incentives adverse to achievement of the goals of quality reform, cost reduction, health information technology expansion, and illness prevention. | billsum_train |
Make a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``American Indian Tort Liability
Insurance Act''.
SEC. 2. AMERICAN INDIAN TORT LIABILITY INSURANCE.
(a) Findings.--Congress finds that--
(1) Kiowa Tribe of Oklahoma v. Manufacturing Technologies,
Inc., 523 U.S. ____ (1998), recognized the increasing
interaction between tribal governments, tribal corporations, or
individual members of Indian tribes with individuals who are
not members of an Indian tribe, on and off Indian reservations
(including property held in trust for Indian tribes) in the
areas of economic development and commerce;
(2) the interaction referred to in paragraph (1) may lead
to disputes that could include claims by individuals against
tribal governments or tribal organizations as a result of
injury in tort;
(3) as Justice Kennedy stated in his opinion in Kiowa Tribe
of Oklahoma v. Manufacturing Technologies, Inc., the doctrine
of tribal immunity asserted by the governing bodies of Indian
tribes to shield the Indian tribes from court actions that are
necessary to recover for the liability of the governing bodies
or tribal organizations of Indian tribes, can ``harm those who
are unaware that they are dealing with a tribe, who do not know
of tribal immunity, or who have no choice in the matter, as in
the case of tort victims''; and
(4) in order to provide protection for individuals
interacting with tribal governments or organizations--
(A) Indian tribes should maintain tort liability
insurance; and
(B) tribal immunity should not be used as a basis
for the denial of a claim under that tort liability
insurance.
(b) Definition.--In this section:
(1) Indian tribe.--The term ``Indian tribe'' has the
meaning given that term in section 4(e) of the Indian Self-
Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 450b(e)).
(2) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of the Interior.
(3) Tribal immunity.--The term ``tribal immunity'' means
the immunity of an Indian tribe from--
(A) jurisdiction of the courts; and
(B) judicial review of an action of that Indian
tribe and other remedies.
(4) Tribal organization.--The term ``tribal organization''
has the meaning given that term in section 4(l) of the Indian
Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C.
450b(l)).
(5) Tribal priority allocation.--The term ``tribal priority
allocation'' means an allocation to a tribal priority account
of an Indian tribe by the Bureau of Indian Affairs to allow
that Indian tribe to establish program priorities and funding
levels.
(c) Indian Tribes as Defendants in Tort Disputes.--Section 1362 of
title 28, United States Code, is amended by--
(1) inserting ``(a)'' before ``The district courts'';
(2) inserting ``(referred to in this section as an `Indian
tribe')'' after ``Interior''; and
(3) adding at the end the following:
``(b) Subject to the provisions of chapter 171A, the district
courts shall have jurisdiction of civil actions in claims against an
Indian tribe for money damages, accruing on or after the date of
enactment of this subsection for injury or loss of property, personal
injury, or death caused by the negligent or wrongful act or omission of
an Indian tribe (including a tribal organization) under circumstances
in which the Indian tribe, if a private individual or corporation would
be liable to the claimant in accordance with the law of the State where
the act or omission occurred.
``(c) Subject to the provisions of chapter 171A, to the extent
necessary to enforce this section, the tribal immunity of the Indian
tribe involved is waived.''.
(d) Tort Liability Insurance.--
(1) In general.--
(A) Insurance.--Except as provided in paragraph
(2), not later than 180 days after the enactment of
this Act, the Secretary shall obtain or provide tort
liability insurance or equivalent coverage, on the most
cost-effective basis, for each Indian tribe that
receives a tribal priority allocation.
(B) Coverage.--The insurance obtained under
subparagraph (A) for an Indian tribe shall cover the
governing body of the Indian tribe, each tribal
organization, of that Indian tribe and each contractor
or employer of that Indian tribe, within the scope of
that contractor or employer. The coverage shall become
effective on the date on which that coverage is
obtained.
(2) Exception.--If the Secretary determines that an Indian
tribe described in paragraph (1) has obtained liability
insurance in an amount and of the type that the Secretary
determines to be appropriate (including meeting the requirement
of paragraph (4)) by the date specified in paragraph (1), the
Secretary shall not be required to provide additional coverage
for that Indian tribe.
(3) Tribal immunity may not be asserted to deny claims.--
Under the liability insurance obtained under paragraph (1) or
that the Secretary determines to be appropriate under paragraph
(2), tribal immunity may not be asserted by the insurer as a
reason for denying a claim for damages resulting from the tort
liability of an Indian tribe.
(4) Amount of coverage.--In carrying out this subsection,
the Secretary shall ensure that each Indian tribe obtains, or
is provided, in accordance with this subsection, a sufficient
amount of insurance coverage to cover tort liability of the
Indian tribe, under chapter 171A of title 28, United States
Code.
(e) Funding of Tort Liability Insurance.--
(1) Initial payment of insurance premiums.--For the initial
payment of insurance premiums for insurance obtained or
provided by the Secretary under subsection (d), the Secretary
shall take such action as may be necessary to ensure the
payment of premiums by the Indian tribe, including adjusting
the amount of the tribal priority allocation made to the Indian
tribe to cover the cost of the initial payments.
(2) Subsequent payments.--
(A) In general.--After an initial payment under
paragraph (1), and before the Secretary makes a tribal
priority allocation for an Indian tribe, the Secretary
shall verify that the Indian tribe--
(i) has insurance coverage that meets the
requirements of subsection (d); and
(ii) has made such payments for premiums of
that insurance as are necessary to provide
insurance coverage for the fiscal year for
which the tribal priority allocation is to be
made.
(B) Payment required as a condition to receiving
tribal priority allocation.--Notwithstanding any other
provision of law, if the Secretary determines under
subparagraph (A) that an Indian tribe has not made the
payments described in subparagraph (A)(ii), the
Secretary shall withhold the tribal priority allocation
of that Indian tribe until such time as those payments
are made.
(f) Jurisdiction of District Courts.--Notwithstanding any other
provision of law, the district courts shall have jurisdiction over any
action concerning the tort liability of an Indian tribe that is covered
under insurance that meets the requirements of subsection (d), and a
case to recover damages through an insurer that provides coverage under
subsection (d) may be brought without regard to whether remedies under
otherwise applicable tribal law have been exhausted.
(g) Regulations.--To carry out this section, as soon as practicable
after the date of enactment of this section, the Secretary shall issue
regulations that--
(1) provide for the amount of insurance coverage or
equivalent coverage needed to protect an Indian tribe for the
liabilities that may be subject to a claim under chapter 171A
if title 28, United States Code;
(2) establish a schedule of premiums to be assessed against
an Indian tribe that is provided liability insurance under
subsection (d); and
(3) establish a means to verify the amount, maintenance,
and funding of insurance of Indian tribes that obtain and
maintain insurance under subsection (d)(3).
(h) Indian Tort Claims Procedure.--
(1) In general.--Part 6 of title 28, United States Code, is
amended by inserting after chapter 171 the following:
``CHAPTER 171A--INDIAN TORT CLAIMS PROCEDURE
``Sec.
``2691. Definitions.
``2692. Liability of Indian tribes.
``2693. Exceptions; waiver.
``Sec. 2691. Definitions
``In this chapter:
``(1) The term `employee of an Indian tribe' includes--
``(A) an officer or employee of an Indian tribe
(including an officer or employee of a tribal
organization); and
``(B) any person acting on behalf of an Indian
tribe in an official capacity, temporarily or
permanently, whether with or without compensation
(other than an employee of the Federal Government or
the government of a State or political subdivision
thereof who is acting within the scope of the
employment of that individual).
``(2) The term `Indian tribe' has the meaning given that
term in section 4(e) of the Indian Self-Determination and
Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 450b(e).
``(3) The term `tribal immunity' means the immunity of an
Indian tribe from--
``(A) jurisdiction of the courts; and
``(B) judicial review of an action of that Indian
tribe and other remedies.
``Sec. 2692. Liability of Indian tribes
``(a) Subject to the limitations under subsection (c), an Indian
tribe (including a tribal organization) shall be liable for the actions
of the employees of that Indian tribe (or tribal organization),
relating to tort claims, in the same manner and to the same extent, as
a private individual or corporation under like circumstances, but shall
not be liable for interest before judgment or for punitive damages.
``(b) Subject to the limitations under subsection (c), in any case
described in subsection (a) in which a death was caused and the law of
the State where the act or omission complained of occurred provides for
punitive damages, the Indian tribe shall, in lieu of being liable for
punitive damages, be liable for actual or compensatory damages
resulting from that death to each person on behalf of whom action was
brought.
``(c)(1) The liability of an Indian tribe or tribal organization
may not exceed--
``(A) $500,000 for each claim made under this chapter; or
``(B) in any case in which more than 1 claim arises from
the same occurrence for damages for a tortuous act or omission,
an aggregate amount equal to $1,000,000 for those claims.
``(2) If the Secretary of the Interior determines that a limitation
on the amount of liability of an Indian tribe under subparagraph (A) or
(B) is appropriate, the Secretary of the Interior shall submit to
Congress proposed legislation to provide for that increase.
``Sec. 2693. Exceptions; waiver
``(a) The provisions of this chapter and section 1362(b) shall not
apply to any case relating to a controversy relating to membership in
an Indian tribe.
``(b) With respect to an Indian tribe, to the extent necessary to
carry out this chapter, the tribal immunity of that Indian tribe is
waived.''.
(2) Clerical amendment.--The table of chapters for title
28, United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item
relating to chapter 171 the following:
``171A. Indian Tort Claims Procedure........................ 2691''. | American Indian Tort Liability Insurance Act -Grants U.S. district courts jurisdiction of civil actions in claims against an Indian tribe for money damages accruing on or after the enactment of this Act for loss of property, personal injury, or death caused by the negligent or wrongful act or omission of a tribe under circumstances in which the tribe, if it were a private individual or corporation, would be liable to the claimant in accordance with the law of the State where the act or omission occurred.
Directs the Secretary of the Interior: (1) within 180 days after the enactment of this Act, to obtain or provide tort liability insurance or equivalent coverage, on the most cost-effective basis, for each tribe that receives a tribal priority allocation (from amounts made available to the Bureau of Indian Affairs for the operation of Indian programs), unless the tribe has obtained appropriate liability insurance by such date; (2) to take actions to ensure the payment of the initial insurance premium by a tribe; and (3) to withhold the tribal priority allocation of a tribe unless and until it makes subsequent premium payments. Prohibits the insurer from asserting tribal immunity as a reason for denying a claim for damages resulting from the tort liability of an Indian tribe. .
Grants the district courts jurisdiction over any action concerning the tort liability of a tribe that is covered under such insurance. Permits a case to recover damages through an insurer that provides coverage to be brought without regard to whether remedies under applicable tribal law have been exhausted.
Amends the Federal judicial code to set forth Indian tort claims procedure provisions. Makes an Indian tribe liable for actions of its employees relating to tort claims in the same manner and to the same extent as a private individual or corporation, but not for interest before judgment or for punitive damages. Provides that where a death is caused, the tribe shall be liable for actual or compensatory damages in lieu of punitive damages. Prohibits a tribe's or tribal organization's liability from exceeding $500,000 for each claim made or an aggregate of $1 million for claims arising from the same occurrence.
Provides that this Act shall not apply to any case relating to a controversy about membership in an Indian tribe.
Waives tribal immunity (from jurisdiction of the courts) to the extent necessary to carry out or enforce this Act. | billsum_train |
Provide a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Demanding Accountability for
Veterans Act of 2014''.
SEC. 2. SCORING OF 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 House Budget Committee, provided that
such statement has been submitted prior to the vote on passage.
SEC. 3. ACCOUNTABILITY OF SECRETARY OF VETERANS AFFAIRS TO INSPECTOR
GENERAL OF THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.
(a) In General.--Chapter 7 of title 38, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following new section:
``Sec. 712. Accountability of Secretary to Inspector General
``(a) List of Managers.--(1) If the Inspector General of the
Department of Veterans Affairs determines that the Secretary has not
appropriately responded with significant progress to a covered report
by the date specified in the action plan of the Secretary developed in
response to such covered report--
``(A) the Inspector General shall notify the Committees on
Veterans' Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives
and the Secretary of such failure to appropriately respond; and
``(B) not later than 15 days after such notification, the
Secretary shall submit to the Inspector General a list of the
names of each responsible manager and the matter in the action
plan for which the manager is responsible.
``(2) The Inspector General may not make public the names of
responsible managers submitted under paragraph (1)(B).
``(b) Performance of Responsible Managers.--(1) The Secretary
shall--
``(A) promptly notify each responsible manager of a covered
issue by not later than seven days after the date on which the
Secretary submits to the Inspector General the name of the
manager under subsection (a)(1)(B);
``(B) direct such manager to resolve such issue; and
``(C) provide such manager with appropriate counseling and
a mitigation plan with respect to resolving such issue.
``(2) The Secretary shall ensure that any performance review of a
responsible manager includes an evaluation of whether the manager took
appropriate actions during the period covered by the review to respond
to the covered issue for which a request was made under subsection (a).
``(3) The Secretary may not pay to a responsible manager any bonus
or award, including a performance award under section 5384 of title 5
if the covered issue for which a request was made under subsection (a)
is unresolved.
``(c) Role of Inspector General.--Any authority of the Inspector
General provided under this section is in addition to any
responsibility or authority provided to the Inspector General in the
Inspector General Act of 1978 (5 U.S.C. App.).
``(d) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) The term `covered issue' means, with respect to a
responsible manager, an issue described in a covered report for
which the manager is or was responsible.
``(2) The term `covered report' means a report by the
Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs that
recommends actions to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (or
other official or employee of the Department) to address an
issue in the Department with respect to public health or
safety.
``(3) The term `responsible manager' means an individual
who--
``(A) is an employee of the Department;
``(B) is or was responsible for an issue included
in a covered report; and
``(C) in being so responsible, is or was employed
in a management position, regardless of whether the
employee is in the competitive civil service, Senior
Executive Service, or other type of civil service.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections at the beginning of
such chapter is amended by inserting after the item relating to section
711 the following new item:
``712. Accountability of Secretary to Inspector General.''.
SEC. 4. SECRETARY OF VETERANS AFFAIRS CONTRACT AUTHORITY FOR TRANSFER
OF VETERANS NON-DEPARTMENT MEDICAL FOSTER HOMES.
(a) Authority.--Section 1720 of title 38, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(h)(1) During the three-year period beginning on October 1, 2014,
at the request of a veteran for whom the Secretary is required to
provide nursing home care under section 1710A of this title, the
Secretary may transfer the veteran to a medical foster home that meets
Department standards, at the expense of the United States, pursuant to
a contract or agreement entered into between the Secretary and the
medical foster home for such purpose. A veteran who is transferred to a
medical foster home under this subsection shall agree, as a condition
of such transfer, to accept home health services furnished by the
Secretary under section 1717 of this title.
``(2) For purposes of this subsection, the term `medical foster
home' means a home designed to provide non-institutional, long-term,
supportive care for veterans who are unable to live independently and
prefer a family setting.''.
(b) Effective Date.--Subsection (h) of title 38, United States
Code, as added by subsection (a), shall take effect on October 1, 2014.
SEC. 5. CONDITIONS ON THE AWARD OF PER DIEM PAYMENTS BY THE SECRETARY
OF VETERANS AFFAIRS FOR THE PROVISION OF HOUSING OR
SERVICES TO HOMELESS VETERANS.
(a) Condition.--
(1) In general.--Paragraph (1) of section 2012(c) of title
38, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
``(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), a per diem payment may
not be provided under this section to a grant recipient or eligible
entity unless the entity submits to the Secretary an annual
certification, approved or verified by the authority having
jurisdiction or a qualified third party, as determined by the
Secretary, that the facility where the entity provides housing or
services for homeless veterans using grant funds is in compliance with
codes relevant to the operations and level of care provided, including
applicable provisions of the most recently published version of the
Life Safety Code or International Building Code and International Fire
Code (or such versions of such codes that have been adopted as State or
local codes by the jurisdiction in which the facility is located),
licensing requirements, fire and safety requirements, and any other
requirements in the jurisdiction in which the facility is located
regarding the condition of the facility and the operation of the entity
providing such supportive housing or services. For purposes of this
paragraph, if a facility where a grant recipient or eligible entity
provides housing or services for homeless veterans using grant funds is
located in a jurisdiction without relevant code requirements, the
Secretary shall determine code and inspection requirements to be
applied to the facility.''.
(2) Effective date.--The amendment made by paragraph (1)
shall apply with respect to an application for a per diem
payment under section 2012 of title 38, United States Code,
submitted on or after the date of the enactment of this Act.
(b) Annual Report.--Section 2065(b) of title 38, United States
Code, is amended--
(1) by redesignating paragraph (6) as paragraph (7); and
(2) by inserting after paragraph (5) the following new
paragraph (6):
``(6) The Secretary's evaluation of the safety and
accessibility of facilities used to provide programs
established by grant recipients or eligible entities under
sections 2011 and 2012 of this title, including the number of
such grant recipients or eligible entities who have submitted a
certification under section 2012(c)(1).''.
(c) Treatment of Current Recipients.--In the case of the recipient
of a per diem payment under section 2012 of title 38, United States
Code, that receives such a payment during the year in which this Act is
enacted, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall require the recipient
to submit the certification required under section 2012(c)(1) of such
title, as amended by subsection (a)(1), by not later than two years
after the date of the enactment of this Act. If the recipient fails to
submit such certification by such date, the Secretary may not make any
additional per diem payments to the recipient under such section 2012
until the recipient submits such certification.
SEC. 6. EXTENSION OF LOAN GUARANTY FEE FOR CERTAIN SUBSEQUENT LOANS.
(a) Extension.--Section 3729(b)(2) of title 38, United States Code,
is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (A)--
(A) in clause (iii), by striking ``October 1,
2017'' and inserting ``October 1, 2018''; and
(B) in clause (iv), by striking ``October 1, 2017''
and inserting ``October 1, 2018'';
(2) in subparagraph (C)--
(A) in clause (i), by striking ``October 1, 2017''
and inserting ``October 1, 2018''; and
(B) in clause (ii), by striking ``October 1, 2017''
and inserting ``October 1, 2018''; and
(3) in subparagraph (D)--
(A) in clause (i), by striking ``October 1, 2017''
and inserting ``October 1, 2018''; and
(B) in clause (ii), by striking ``October 1, 2017''
and inserting ``October 1, 2018''.
SEC. 7. EXTENSION OF AUTHORITY OF SECRETARY OF VETERANS AFFAIRS TO
OBTAIN CERTAIN INFORMATION FROM THE SECRETARY OF THE
TREASURY OR THE COMMISSIONER OF SOCIAL SECURITY.
Section 5317 of title 38, United States Code, is amended by
striking ``September 30, 2016'' and inserting ``May 31, 2017''.
Passed the House of Representatives June 9, 2014.
Attest:
KAREN L. HAAS,
Clerk. | Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2014 - (Sec. 3) Requires the Inspector General (IG) of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), upon determining that the VA Secretary has not appropriately responded to an IG report that recommends actions to be taken by the Secretary to address a VA public health or safety issue, to notify the Secretary and the congressional veterans committees of such failure. Requires the Secretary: (1) within 15 days after such notification, to submit to the IG a list of the names of each responsible VA manager and the matter for which the manager is responsible; (2) within 7 days after such submission, to notify each such manager of the covered issue; (3) to direct such manager to resolve the issue; (4) to provide the manager with appropriate counseling and a mitigation plan for resolving the issue; and (5) to ensure that a manager's performance review includes an evaluation of actions taken with respect to such issue. Prohibits the Secretary from paying a bonus or award to any manager whose issue remains unresolved. (Sec. 4) Authorizes the Secretary, for the three years beginning on October 1, 2014, to transfer a veteran who is eligible for VA nursing home care to a medical foster home if: (1) the veteran requests that transfer, (2) the home meets the VA's standards, and (3) the transfer is made pursuant to a contract or agreement between the VA and the medical foster home. Requires a veteran so transferred to agree, as a condition of such transfer, to accept VA home health services. Defines a "medical foster home" as a home designed to provide non-institutional, long-term, supportive care for veterans who are unable to live independently and prefer a family setting. (Sec. 5) Prohibits the Secretary from making a per diem payment to a public or nonprofit private entity for the provision of housing or housing services to homeless veterans unless such entity submits to the Secretary an annual certification that the building proposed for such housing or services is in compliance with codes relevant to the operations and level of care provided, licensing requirements, fire and safety requirements, and any other local requirements regarding the condition of the facility and the operation of the entity providing such housing or services. Directs the Secretary to include, in a currently required annual report on assistance to homeless veterans, an evaluation of the safety and accessibility of such facilities. (Sec. 6) Extends, through October 1, 2018, the current rates for fees on housing loans guaranteed by the VA, excluding the rates for fees on subsequent loans. (Sec. 7) Extends through through May 31, 2017, the Secretary's authority to obtain veterans' income verification information from the Commissioner of Social Security or the Secretary of the Treasury. | billsum_train |
Create a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``National Geologic Mapping
Reauthorization Act of 1999''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Section 2(a) of the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 (43
U.S.C. 31a(a)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (7), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(2) by redesignating paragraph (8) as paragraph (10);
(3) by inserting after paragraph (7) the following:
``(8) geologic map information is required for the
sustainable and balanced development of natural resources of
all types, including energy, minerals, land, water, and
biological resources;
``(9) advances in digital technology and geographical
information system science have made geologic map databases
increasingly important as decision support tools for land and
resource management; and''; and
(4) in paragraph (10) (as redesignated by paragraph (2)),
by inserting ``of surficial and bedrock deposits'' after
``geologic mapping''.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
Section 3 of the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 (43 U.S.C.
31b) is amended--
(1) by redesignating paragraphs (4), (5), (6), and (7) as
paragraphs (6), (7), (8), and (10), respectively;
(2) by inserting after paragraph (3) the following:
``(4) Education component.--The term `education component'
means the education component of the geologic mapping program
described in section 6(d)(3).
``(5) Federal component.--The term `Federal component'
means the Federal component of the geologic mapping program
described in section 6(d)(1).''; and
(3) by inserting after paragraph (8) (as redesignated by
paragraph (1)) the following:
``(9) State component.--The term `State component' means
the State component of the geologic mapping program described
in section 6(d)(2).''.
SEC. 4. GEOLOGIC MAPPING PROGRAM.
Section 4 of the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 (43 U.S.C.
31c) is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)(1)--
(A) in the first sentence, by striking
``priorities'' and inserting ``national priorities and
standards for'';
(B) in subparagraph (A)--
(i) by striking ``develop a geologic
mapping program implementation plan'' and
inserting ``develop a 5-year strategic plan for
the geologic mapping program''; and
(ii) by striking ``within 300 days after
the date of enactment of the National Geologic
Mapping Reauthorization Act of 1997'' and
inserting ``not later than 1 year after the
date of enactment of the National Geologic
Mapping Reauthorization Act of 1999'';
(C) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``within 90
days after the date of enactment of the National
Geologic Mapping Reauthorization Act of 1997'' and
inserting ``not later than 1 year after the date of
enactment of the National Geologic Mapping
Reauthorization Act of 1999''; and
(D) in subparagraph (C)--
(i) in the matter preceding clause (i), by
striking ``within 210 days after the date of
enactment of the National Geologic Mapping
Reauthorization Act of 1997'' and inserting
``not later than 3 years after the date of
enactment of the National Geologic Mapping
Reauthorization Act of 1999, and biennially
thereafter'';
(ii) in clause (i), by striking ``will
coordinate'' and inserting ``are
coordinating'';
(iii) in clause (ii), by striking ``will
establish'' and inserting ``establish''; and
(iv) in clause (iii), by striking ``will
lead to'' and inserting ``affect''; and
(2) by striking subsection (d) and inserting the following:
``(d) Program Components--
``(1) Federal component.--
``(A) In general.--The geologic mapping program
shall include a Federal geologic mapping component, the
objective of which shall be to determine the geologic
framework of areas determined to be vital to the
economic, social, environmental, or scientific welfare
of the United States.
``(B) Mapping priorities.--For the Federal
component, mapping priorities--
``(i) shall be described in the 5-year plan
under section 6; and
``(ii) shall be based on--
``(I) national requirements for
geologic map information in areas of
multiple-issue need or areas of
compelling single-issue need; and
``(II) national requirements for
geologic map information in areas where
mapping is required to solve critical
earth science problems.
``(C) Interdisciplinary studies.--
``(i) In general.--The Federal component
shall include interdisciplinary studies that
add value to geologic mapping.
``(ii) Representative categories.--
Interdisciplinary studies under clause (i) may
include--
``(I) establishment of a national
geologic map database under section 7;
``(II) studies that lead to the
implementation of cost-effective
digital methods for the acquisition,
compilation, analysis, cartographic
production, and dissemination of
geologic map information;
``(III) paleontologic, geochrono-
logic, and isotopic investigations that
provide information critical to
understanding the age and history of
geologic map units;
``(IV) geophysical investigations
that assist in delineating and mapping
the physical characteristics and 3-
dimensional distribution of geologic
materials and geologic structures; and
``(V) geochemical investigations
and analytical operations that
characterize the composition of
geologic map units.
``(iii) Use of results.--The results of
investigations under clause (ii) shall be
contributed to national databases.
``(2) State component.--
``(A) In general.--The geologic mapping program
shall include a State geologic mapping component, the
objective of which shall be to establish the geologic
framework of areas determined to be vital to the
economic, social, environmental, or scientific welfare
of individual States.
``(B) Mapping priorities.--For the State component,
mapping priorities--
``(i) shall be determined by State panels
representing a broad range of users of geologic
maps; and
``(ii) shall be based on--
``(I) State requirements for
geologic map information in areas of
multiple-issue need or areas of
compelling single-issue need; and
``(II) State requirements for
geologic map information in areas where
mapping is required to solve critical
earth science problems.
``(C) Integration of federal and state
priorities.--A national panel including representatives
of the Survey shall integrate the State mapping
priorities under this paragraph with the Federal
mapping priorities under paragraph (1).
``(D) Use of funds.--The Survey and recipients of
grants under the State component shall not use more
than 15.25 percent of the Federal funds made available
under the State component for any fiscal year to pay
indirect, servicing, or program management charges.
``(E) Federal share.--The Federal share of the cost
of activities under the State component for any fiscal
year shall not exceed 50 percent.
``(3) Education component.--
``(A) In general.--The geologic mapping program
shall include a geologic mapping education component
for the training of geologic mappers, the objectives of
which shall be--
``(i) to provide for broad education in
geologic mapping and field analysis through
support of field studies; and
``(ii) to develop academic programs that
teach students of earth science the fundamental
principles of geologic mapping and field
analysis.
``(B) Investigations.--The education component may
include the conduct of investigations, which--
``(i) shall be integrated with the Federal
component and the State component; and
``(ii) shall respond to mapping priorities
identified for the Federal component and the
State component.
``(C) Use of funds.--The Survey and recipients of
grants under the education component shall not use more
than 15.25 percent of the Federal funds made available
under the education component for any fiscal year to
pay indirect, servicing, or program management charges.
``(D) Federal share.--The Federal share of the cost
of activities under the education component for any
fiscal year shall not exceed 50 percent.''.
SEC. 5. ADVISORY COMMITTEE.
Section 5 of the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 (43 U.S.C.
31d) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)(3), by striking ``90 days after the
date of enactment of the National Geologic Mapping
Reauthorization Act of 1997'' and inserting ``1 year after the
date of enactment of the National Geologic Mapping
Reauthorization Act of 1999''; and
(2) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``critique the
draft implementation plan'' and inserting ``update the
5-year plan''; and
(B) in paragraph (3), by striking ``this Act'' and
inserting ``sections 4 through 7''.
SEC. 6. GEOLOGIC MAPPING PROGRAM 5-YEAR PLAN.
The National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 is amended by striking
section 6 (43 U.S.C. 31e) and inserting the following:
``SEC. 6. GEOLOGIC MAPPING PROGRAM 5-YEAR PLAN.
``(a) In General.--The Secretary, acting through the Director,
shall, with the advice and review of the advisory committee, prepare a
5-year plan for the geologic mapping program.
``(b) Requirements.--The 5-year plan shall identify--
``(1) overall priorities for the geologic mapping program;
and
``(2) implementation of the overall management structure
and operation of the geologic mapping program, including--
``(A) the role of the Survey in the capacity of
overall management lead, including the responsibility
for developing the national geologic mapping program
that meets Federal needs while fostering State needs;
``(B) the responsibilities of the State geological
surveys, with emphasis on mechanisms that incorporate
the needs, missions, capabilities, and requirements of
the State geological surveys, into the nationwide
geologic mapping program;
``(C) mechanisms for identifying short- and long-
term priorities for each component of the geologic
mapping program, including--
``(i) for the Federal component, a
priority-setting mechanism that responds to--
``(I) Federal mission requirements
for geologic map information;
``(II) critical scientific problems
that require geologic maps for their
resolution; and
``(III) shared Federal and State
needs for geologic maps, in which joint
Federal-State geologic mapping projects
are in the national interest;
``(ii) for the State component, a priority-
setting mechanism that responds to--
``(I) specific intrastate needs for
geologic map information; and
``(II) interstate needs shared by
adjacent States that have common
requirements; and
``(iii) for the education component, a
priority-setting mechanism that responds to
requirements for geologic map information that
are dictated by Federal and State mission
requirements;
``(D) a mechanism for adopting scientific and
technical mapping standards for preparing and
publishing general- and special-purpose geologic maps
to--
``(i) ensure uniformity of cartographic and
scientific conventions; and
``(ii) provide a basis for assessing the
comparability and quality of map products; and
``(E) a mechanism for monitoring the inventory of
published and current mapping investigations nationwide
to facilitate planning and information exchange and to
avoid redundancy.''.
SEC. 7. NATIONAL GEOLOGIC MAP DATABASE.
Section 7 of the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 (43 U.S.C.
31f) is amended by striking the section heading and all that follows
through subsection (a) and inserting the following:
``SEC. 7. NATIONAL GEOLOGIC MAP DATABASE.
``(a) Establishment.--
``(1) In general.--The Survey shall establish a national
geologic map database.
``(2) Function.--The database shall serve as a national
catalog and archive, distributed through links to Federal and
State geologic map holdings, that includes--
``(A) all maps developed under the Federal
component and the education component;
``(B) the databases developed in connection with
investigations under subclauses (III), (IV), and (V) of
section 4(d)(1)(C)(ii); and
``(C) other maps and data that the Survey and the
Association consider appropriate.''.
SEC. 8. BIENNIAL REPORT.
The National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 is amended by striking
section 8 (43 U.S.C. 31g) and inserting the following:
``SEC. 8. BIENNIAL REPORT.
``Not later 3 years after the date of enactment of the National
Geologic Mapping Reauthorization Act of 1999 and biennially thereafter,
the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Resources of the House
of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of
the Senate a report that--
``(1) describes the status of the national geologic mapping
program;
``(2) describes and evaluates the progress achieved during
the preceding 2 years in developing the national geologic map
database; and
``(3) includes any recommendations that the Secretary may
have for legislative or other action to achieve the purposes of
sections 4 through 7.''.
SEC. 9. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
The National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 is amended by striking
section 9 (43 U.S.C. 31h) and inserting the following:
``SEC. 9. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
``(a) In General.--There are authorized to be appropriated to carry
out this Act--
``(1) $28,000,000 for fiscal year 1999;
``(2) $30,000,000 for fiscal year 2000;
``(3) $37,000,000 for fiscal year 2001;
``(4) $43,000,000 for fiscal year 2002;
``(5) $50,000,000 for fiscal year 2003;
``(6) $57,000,000 for fiscal year 2004; and
``(7) $64,000,000 for fiscal year 2005.
``(b) Allocation of Appropriations.--Of any amounts appropriated
for any fiscal year in excess of the amount appropriated for fiscal
year 2000--
``(1) 48 percent shall be available for the State
component; and
``(2) 2 percent shall be available for the education
component.''. | Revises requirements for program components, including by: (1) including among the objectives of each component determining the geologic framework of areas determined to be vital to environmental welfare; (2) deleting provisions governing a geologic mapping support component and including interdisciplinary studies that add value to geologic mapping under the Federal geologic mapping component's responsibilities; (3) basing mapping priorities for the State geologic mapping component on State requirements for geologic map information in areas of multiple-issue need or of compelling single-issue need and in areas where mapping is required to solve critical earth science problems; (4) prohibiting the Survey and recipients of grants under the State or education component from using more than a specified percentage of the Federal funds made available under such component for any fiscal year to pay indirect, servicing, or program management charges; and (5) limiting to 50 percent the Federal share of the cost of activities under such components for any fiscal year.
(Sec. 5) Revises provisions regarding the geologic mapping advisory committee, including by requiring such committee to update the five-year strategic plan.
(Sec. 6) Sets forth requirements for the five- year strategic plan (similar to those for the implementation plan).
(Sec. 7) Revises the provisions establishing the National geologic-map database, including by requiring that such database serve as a national catalog and archive (currently, archive), distributed through links to Federal and State geologic map holdings; and (2) provide for such database to include all maps developed under the Federal and education components (currently all maps developed pursuant to the Act).
(Sec. 9) Authorizes appropriations. Allocates 48 percent of any amounts appropriated in excess of the amount appropriated for FY 2000 for the State component and two percent for the education component. | billsum_train |
Make a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. INDIRECT SUPPORT.
(a) In General.--For the purpose of enhancing the availability of
private financing for clean energy technology deployment, the Secretary
of Energy may--
(1) provide credit support to portfolios of taxable debt
obligations originated by State, local, and private sector
entities that enable owners and users of buildings and
industrial facilities to--
(A) significantly increase the energy efficiency of
such buildings or facilities; or
(B) install systems that individually generate
electricity from renewable energy resources and have a
capacity of no more than 2 megawatts;
(2) facilitate financing transactions in tax equity markets
and long-term purchasing of clean energy by State, local, and
nongovernmental not-for-profit entities, to the degree and
extent that the Secretary of Energy determines such financing
activity is appropriate and consistent with carrying out the
purpose described in subsection (b); and
(3) provide credit support to portfolios of taxable debt
obligations originated by State, local, and private sector
entities that enable the deployment of energy storage
applications for electric drive vehicles, stationary
applications, and electricity transmission and distribution.
(b) Purpose.--The purpose of this program is to promote access to
affordable financing for accelerated and widespread deployment of--
(1) clean energy technologies;
(2) advanced or enabling energy infrastructure
technologies; and
(3) energy efficiency technologies in residential,
commercial, and industrial applications, including end-use
efficiency in buildings.
(c) Definitions.--For purposes of the section:
(1) Clean energy technology.--The term ``clean energy
technology'' means a technology related to the production, use,
transmission, storage, control, or conservation of energy--
(A) that will contribute to a stabilization of
atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations thorough
reduction, avoidance, or sequestration of energy-
related emissions and--
(i) reduce the need for additional energy
supplies by using existing energy supplies with
greater efficiency or by transmitting,
distributing, or transporting energy with
greater effectiveness through the
infrastructure of the United States; or
(ii) diversify the sources of energy supply
of the United States to strengthen energy
security and to increase supplies with a
favorable balance of environmental effects if
the entire technology system is considered; and
(B) for which, as determined by the Administrator,
insufficient commercial lending is available at
affordable rates to allow for widespread deployment.
(2) Credit support.--The term ``credit support'' means--
(A) direct loans, letters of credit, loan
guarantees, and insurance products; and
(B) the purchase or commitment to purchase, or the
sale or commitment to sell, debt instruments (including
subordinated securities).
(3) Direct loan.--The term ``direct loan'' has the meaning
given the term in section 502 of the Federal Credit Reform Act
of 1990 (2 U.S.C. 661a).
(4) Loan guarantee.--The term ``loan guarantee'' has the
meaning given the term in section 502 of the Federal Credit
Reform Act of 1990 (2 U.S.C. 661a).
(5) Renewable energy resource.--The term ``renewable energy
resource'' means each of the following:
(A) Wind energy.
(B) Solar energy.
(C) Geothermal energy.
(D) Renewable biomass.
(E) Biogas derived exclusively from renewable
biomass.
(F) Biofuels derived exclusively from renewable
biomass.
(G) Hydropower.
(H) Marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy, as
that term is defined in section 632 of the Energy
Independence and Security Act of 2007 (42 U.S.C.
17211).
(d) Transparency.--The Secretary of Energy shall seek to foster
through its credit support activities--
(1) the development and consistent application of standard
contractual terms, transparent underwriting standards and
consistent measurement and verification protocols, as
applicable; and
(2) the creation of performance data that promotes
effective underwriting and risk management to support lending
markets and stimulate the development of private investment
markets.
(e) Exempt Securities.--All securities insured or guaranteed by the
Secretary of Energy shall, to the same extent as securities that are
direct obligations of or obligations guaranteed as to the principal or
interest by the United States, be considered to be exempt securities
within the meaning of the laws administered by the Securities and
Exchange Commission. | Authorizes the Secretary of Energy, for the purpose of enhancing the availability of private financing for clean energy technology development, to provide credit support and facilitate financing transactions to enable owners and users of buildings and industrial facilities to increase energy efficiency and generate electricity from renewable energy resources. Defines "clean energy technology" to include technology that contributes to a stabilization of atmospheric greenhouse gas concentration and for which insufficient commercial lending is available at affordable rates. | billsum_train |
Create a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Fair Minimum Wage Act of 2012''.
SEC. 2. MINIMUM WAGE INCREASES.
(a) Minimum Wage.--
(1) In general.--Section 6(a)(1) of the Fair Labor
Standards Act of 1938 (29 U.S.C. 206(a)(1)) is amended to read
as follows:
``(1) except as otherwise provided in this section, not
less than--
``(A) $8.10 an hour, beginning on the first day of
the third month that begins after the date of enactment
of the Fair Minimum Wage Act of 2012 Act;
``(B) $8.95 an hour, beginning 1 year after that
first day;
``(C) $9.80 an hour, beginning 2 years after that
first day; and
``(D) beginning on the date that is 3 years after
that first day, and annually thereafter, the amount
determined by the Secretary pursuant to subsection
(h);''.
(2) Determination based on increase in the consumer price
index.--Section 6 of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (29
U.S.C. 206) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(h)(1) Each year, by not later than the date that is 90 days
before a new minimum wage determined under subsection (a)(1)(D) is to
take effect, the Secretary shall determine the minimum wage to be in
effect pursuant to this subsection for the subsequent 1-year period.
The wage determined pursuant to this subsection for a year shall be--
``(A) not less than the amount in effect under subsection
(a)(1) on the date of such determination;
``(B) increased from such amount by the annual percentage
increase in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and
Clerical Workers (United States city average, all items, not
seasonally adjusted), or its successor publication, as
determined by the Bureau of Labor Statistics; and
``(C) rounded to the nearest multiple of $0.05.
``(2) In calculating the annual percentage increase in the Consumer
Price Index for purposes of paragraph (1)(B), the Secretary shall
compare such Consumer Price Index for the most recent month, quarter,
or year available (as selected by the Secretary prior to the first year
for which a minimum wage is in effect pursuant to this subsection) with
the Consumer Price Index for the same month in the preceding year, the
same quarter in the preceding year, or the preceding year,
respectively.''.
(b) Base Minimum Wage for Tipped Employees.--Section 3(m)(1) of the
Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (29 U.S.C. 203(m)(1)) is amended to
read as follows:
``(1) the cash wage paid such employee, which for purposes
of such determination shall be not less than--
``(A) for the 1-year period beginning on the first
day of the third month that begins after the date of
enactment of the Fair Minimum Wage Act of 2012, $3.00
an hour;
``(B) for each succeeding 1-year period until the
hourly wage under this paragraph equals 70 percent of
the wage in effect under section 6(a)(1) for such
period, an hourly wage equal to the amount determined
under this paragraph for the preceding year, increased
by the lesser of--
``(i) $0.85; or
``(ii) the amount necessary for the wage in
effect under this paragraph to equal 70 percent
of the wage in effect under section 6(a)(1) for
such period, rounded to the nearest multiple of
$0.05; and
``(C) for each succeeding 1-year period after the
year in which the hourly wage under this paragraph
first equals 70 percent of the wage in effect under
section 6(a)(1) for the same period, the amount
necessary to ensure that the wage in effect under this
paragraph remains equal to 70 percent of the wage in
effect under section 6(a)(1), rounded to the nearest
multiple of $0.05; and''.
(c) Publication of Notice.--Section 6 of the Fair Labor Standards
Act of 1938 (as amended by subsection (a)) (29 U.S.C. 206) is further
amended by adding at the end the following:
``(i) Not later than 60 days prior to the effective date of any
increase in the minimum wage determined under subsection (h) or
required for tipped employees in accordance with subparagraph (B) or
(C) of section 3(m)(1), as amended by the Fair Minimum Wage Act of
2012, the Secretary shall publish in the Federal Register and on the
website of the Department of Labor a notice announcing the adjusted
required wage.''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by subsections (a) and (b)
shall take effect on the first day of the third month that begins after
the date of enactment of this Act. | Fair Minimum Wage Act of 2012 - Amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (FLSA) to increase the federal minimum wage for employees to: (1) $8.10 an hour on the first day of the third month after the enactment of this Act; (2) $8.95 an hour after one year; (3) $9.80 an hour after two years; and (4) the amount determined by the Secretary of Labor (based on increases in the Consumer Price Index) after three years, and annually thereafter.
Increases the federal minimum wage for tipped employees to $3.00 an hour for one year on the first day of the third month after the enactment of this Act. Provides a formula for subsequent annual adjustments of the wage increase to ensure that it remains equal to 70% of the wage in effect under FLSA for other employees.
Directs the Secretary of Labor, 60 days before any increase in the minimum wage, to publish it in the Federal Register and on the Department of Labor's website. | billsum_train |
Provide a condensed version of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Community
Development Financial Institutions Fund Amendments Act of 1998''.
(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act follows:
Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
Sec. 2. Technical corrections to reflect status of the Fund within
Treasury Department; miscellaneous
technical corrections.
Sec. 3. Amendments to programs administered by the Fund.
Sec. 4. Extension of authorization.
Sec. 5. Amendments to Small Business Capital Enhancement Program.
SEC. 2. TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS TO REFLECT STATUS OF THE FUND WITHIN
TREASURY DEPARTMENT; MISCELLANEOUS TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS.
(a) Purpose.--Section 102(b) of the Community Development Banking
and Financial Institutions Act of 1994 (12 U.S.C. 4701(b)) is amended
to read as follows:
``(b) Purpose.--The purpose of this subtitle is to create a
Community Development Financial Institutions Fund to promote economic
revitalization and community development through investment in and
assistance to community development financial institutions, including
enhancing the liquidity of community development financial
institutions, and through incentives to insured depository institutions
that increase lending and other assistance and investment in both
economically distressed communities and community development financial
institutions.''.
(b) Definitions.--
(1) Section 103 of the Community Development Banking and
Financial Institutions Act of 1994 is amended--
(A) by striking paragraph (1); and
(B) by redesignating paragraphs (2) through (21) as
paragraphs (1) through (20), respectively.
(2) The Community Development Banking and Financial
Institutions Act of 1994 (12 U.S.C. 4701 et seq.) is amended
(other than in section 118) by striking ``Administrator'' each
place it appears and inserting instead ``Secretary of the
Treasury''.
(c) Establishment of Fund Within Treasury Department.--
(1) In general.--Section 104(a) of the Community
Development Banking and Financial Institutions Act of 1994 (12
U.S.C. 4703(a)) is amended to read as follows:
``(a) Establishment.--
``(1) In general.--There is established in the Department
of the Treasury a Community Development Financial Institutions
Fund that shall have the functions specified by this subtitle
and subtitle B of Title II. The offices of the Fund shall be in
Washington, D.C. The Fund shall not be affiliated with any
other agency or department of the Federal Government.
``(2) Wholly owned government corporation.--The Fund shall
be a wholly owned government corporation within the Department
of the Treasury and shall be treated in all respects as an
agency of the United States, except as otherwise provided in
this subtitle.''.
(2) Authority of the secretary of the treasury.--Section
104(b) of the Community Development Banking and Financial
Institutions Act of 1994 (12 U.S.C. 4703(b)) is amended to read
as follows:
``(b) Management of Fund.--
``(1) Authority of secretary of the treasury.--All
functions of the Fund shall be performed by or under the
supervision of the Secretary of the Treasury.
``(2) Appointment of officers and employees.--The Secretary
of the Treasury may appoint such officers and employees of the
Fund, including a Director, as the Secretary deems necessary or
appropriate.''.
(3) Inspector general.--
(A) In general.--Section 118 of the Community
Development Banking and Financial Institutions Act of
1994 is amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 118. INSPECTOR GENERAL.
``The Inspector General of the Department of the Treasury shall be
the Inspector General of the Fund.''.
(B) Technical and conforming amendment.--Section 11
of the Inspector General Act of 1978 (5 U.S.C. App. 3)
is amended--
(i) in paragraph (1), by striking ``; the
Administrator of the Community Development
Financial Institutions Fund;''; and
(ii) in paragraph (2), by striking ``the
Community Development Financial Institutions
Fund,''.
(4) Technical correction to rulemaking authority.--Section
119(a)(1) of the Community Development Banking and Financial
Institutions Act of 1994 (12 U.S.C. 4717(a)(1)) is amended to
read as follows:
``(1) In general.--The Secretary of the Treasury may
promulgate such regulations and procedures as may be necessary
to carry out this subtitle.''.
SEC. 3. AMENDMENTS TO PROGRAMS ADMINISTERED BY THE FUND.
(a) Amendments to Community Development Financial Institutions
Program.--
(1) Form of assistance provided.--Section 108(a)(1)(B)(iii)
of the Community Development Banking and Financial Institutions
Act of 1994 (12 U.S.C. 4707(a)(1)(B)(iii)) is amended by
inserting ``through cooperative agreements or'' before ``by
contracting''.
(2) Training programs.--Section 109(d) of the Community
Development Banking and Financial Institutions Act of 1994 (12
U.S.C. 4708(d)) is amended to read as follows:
``(d) Form.--The Fund may offer the training program described in
this section directly, through grants, contracts, or cooperative
agreements with other organizations. The Fund may provide the training
through grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements with organizations
that possess special expertise in community development, without regard
to whether the organizations receive or are eligible to receive
assistance under this subtitle.''.
(b) Amendments to the Bank Enterprise Act Awards Program.--
(1) Awards for assistance to community development
financial institutions.--Section 233(a)(2) of the Bank
Enterprise Act (12 U.S.C. 1834a(a)(2)) is amended--
(A) by striking ``for for'' in the text preceding
subparagraph (A) and inserting ``for'';
(B) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``for low- and
moderate-income persons'' and inserting ``to community
development financial institutions, low- and moderate-
income persons''; and
(C) in subparagraph (B)--
(i) by inserting ``of the increase'' after
``the amount''; and
(ii) by striking ``financial'' each place
such term appears.
(2) Increase in award amounts for certain activities.--
Section 114(b)(2) of the Community Development Banking and
Financial Institutions Act of 1994 (12 U.S.C. 4713(b)(2)) is
amended by amending the substitute text used to apply section
233(a)(3) of the Bank Enterprise Act of 1991--
(A) in subparagraph (A), by inserting ``and
(2)(B)'' after ``paragraph (2)(A)'';
(B) in subparagraph (A)(i), by inserting ``each''
before ``such subparagraph''; and
(C) in subparagraph (A)(ii), by inserting ``each''
before ``such subparagraph''.
(3) Awarding credit for additional qualified activities.--
Section 233(a)(4) of the Bank Enterprise Act (12 U.S.C.
1834a(a)(4)) is amended--
(A) in the text preceding subparagraph (A), by
inserting ``and (2)(B)'' after ``paragraph (2)(A)'';
and
(B) by adding at the end the following new
subparagraph:
``(P) Other forms of assistance that the Board
deems appropriate.
(4) Evaluation of technical assistance provided.--Section
233(a)(7) of the Bank Enterprise Act (12 U.S.C. 1834a(a)(7)) is
amended--
(A) by inserting ``and other'' after ``technical'';
and
(B) by striking ``and (O)'' and inserting instead
``(O), and (P)''.
(5) Establishing alternative criteria in defining certain
distressed communities.--Section 233(b)(4)(C) of the Bank
Enterprise Act (12 U.S.C. 1834a(b)(4)(C)) is amended by
inserting ``or alternative'' before ``eligibility
requirements''.
SEC. 4. EXTENSION OF AUTHORIZATION.
Section 121(a)(1) of the Community Development Banking and
Financial Institutions Act of 1994 (12 U.S.C. 4718(a)(1)) is amended to
read as follows:
``(1) In general.--There are authorized to be appropriated
to the Fund, to remain available until expended, such funds as
may be necessary to carry out this subtitle and subtitle B of
title II.''.
SEC. 5. AMENDMENTS TO SMALL BUSINESS CAPITAL ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM.
(a) Definition of Financial Institution.--Section 252(5) of the
Riegle Community Development and Regulatory Improvement Act of 1994 (12
U.S.C. 4742(5)) is amended by inserting ``any community development
financial institution (as defined in section 103(5) of this Act) and,''
before ``any federally chartered''.
(b) Elimination of Threshold Appropriation.--Section 253 of the
Riegle Community Development and Regulatory Improvement Act of 1994 (12
U.S.C. 4743) is amended by striking subsection (d) and redesignating
subsection (e) as subsection (d).
(c) Conforming Amendment.--Section 254(a) of the Riegle Community
Development and Regulatory Improvement Act of 1994 (12 U.S.C. 4744(a))
is amended by inserting ``(if any)'' after ``appropriate Federal
banking agency''.
(d) Amendments to Reimbursement Authority.--Section 257(a) of the
Riegle Community Development and Regulatory Improvement Act of 1994 (12
U.S.C. 4747(a)) is amended to read as follows--
``(a) Reimbursements.--The Fund shall reimburse participating
States according to criteria established by the Fund. Such criteria may
include whether a participating State is creating a new program, is
expanding in scope or scale an existing State program, the need for
Fund reimbursement, the availability of Fund resources, and other
criteria established by the Fund. Not later than 30 calendar days after
receiving a report filed in compliance with section 256, the Fund shall
reimburse a participating State meeting such criteria in an amount
equal to up to 50 percent of the amount of contributions by the
participating State to the reserve funds that are subject to
reimbursement by the Fund pursuant to section 256 and this section,
until such sums made available by the Fund for this purpose are
expended.''.
(e) Conforming Amendment.--Section 260 of the Riegle Community
Development and Regulatory Improvement Act of 1994 (12 U.S.C. 4750) is
repealed. | Community Development Financial Institutions Fund Amendments Act of 1998 - Modifies the Community Development Banking and Financial Institutions Act of 1994 to expand its purposes to include promotion of economic revitalization and community development through incentives to insured depository institutions that increase lending and other assistance and investment in both economically distressed communities and community development financial institutions.
(Sec. 2) Places the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund in the Department of the Treasury, and all Fund functions under the supervision of the Secretary of the Treasury.
(Sec. 3) Authorizes the Fund to offer community development finance activity training programs through grants or cooperative agreements with other organizations (as well as directly or through contracts).
Authorizes an insured depository institution to apply for any community enterprise assessment credit for any semiannual period for the amount of new originations of qualified loans and other assistance provided to community development financial institutions in distressed communities. Allows application for credit for the amount of the increase (currently, the amount) of deposits accepted from persons domiciled in the distressed community. Allows credits for assistance other than financial.
Revises the formula for determining the amount of an assessment credit for all such activities with respect to new lifeline accounts.
Expands the scope of assistance that the Community Enterprise Assessment Credit Board may take into account for purposes of community enterprise assessment credits. Permits the Board to: (1) establish guidelines for analyzing other than technical assistance by an institution to residents of a qualified distressed community; and (2) employ alternative criteria for defining distressed communities.
(Sec. 4) Amends the Act to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Act and for small business capital enhancement.
(Sec. 5) Amends the Riegle Community Development and Regulatory Improvement Act of 1994 to redefine a financial institution to include a community development financial institution.
Repeals the prior appropriations prerequisite to State participation in the Small Business Capital Enhancement Program.
Revises reimbursement guidelines to declare that participating States shall be reimbursed according to criteria established by the Fund, which may include: (1) whether a participating State is creating a new program, or is expanding in scope or scale an existing State program; (2) the need for Fund reimbursement; and (3) the availability of Fund resources. | billsum_train |
Provide a condensed version of the following text: SECTION 1. EXPENSING OF PROPERTY ELIGIBLE FOR BONUS DEPRECIATION.
(a) In General.--So much of subsection (k) of section 168 of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to special allowance for
certain property acquired after September 10, 2001, and before January
1, 2005) as precedes paragraph (2)(D) thereof is amended to read as
follows:
``(k) Expensing of Certain Property Acquired After May 12, 2005.--
``(1) In general.--In the case of any qualified property--
``(A) the depreciation deduction provided by
section 167(a) for the taxable year in which such
property is placed in service shall include an
allowance equal to 100 percent of the adjusted basis of
the qualified property, and
``(B) the adjusted basis of the qualified property
shall be reduced by the amount of such deduction before
computing the amount otherwise allowable as a
depreciation deduction under this chapter for such
taxable year and any subsequent taxable year.
``(2) Qualified property.-- For purposes of this
subsection--
``(A) In general.--The term `qualified property'
means property--
``(i)(I) to which this section applies
which has a recovery period of 20 years or
less,
``(II) which is computer software (as
defined in section 167(f)(1)(B)) for which a
deduction is allowable under section 167(a)
without regard to this subsection,
``(III) which is water utility property, or
``(IV) which is qualified leasehold
improvement property,
``(ii) the original use of which commences
with the taxpayer after May 12, 2005,
``(iii) which is acquired by the taxpayer
after such date, but only if no written binding
contract for the acquisition was in effect on
or before such date.
``(B) Certain aircraft.--The term `qualified
property' includes property--
``(i) which meets the requirements of
clauses (ii) and (iii) of subparagraph (A),
``(ii) which is an aircraft which is not
used in the trade or business of transporting
persons or property other than for agricultural
or firefighting purposes,
``(iii) which is purchased and on which
such purchaser, at the time of the contract for
purchase, has made a nonrefundable deposit of
the lesser of--
``(I) 10 percent of the cost, or
``(II) $100,000, and
``(iv) which has--
``(I) an estimated production
period exceeding 4 months, and
``(II) a cost exceeding
$200,000.''.
(b) Technical Amendments.--
(1) Paragraph (2) of section 168(k) of such Code is amended
by redesignating subparagraphs (D), (E), (F), and (G) as
subparagraphs (C), (D), (E), and (F), respectively.
(2) Subparagraph (C) of section 168(k)(2) of such Code, as
redesignated by paragraph (1), is amended by striking the last
sentence of clause (iii), by striking clause (ii), and by
redesignating clause (iii) as clause (ii).
(3) Clause (i) of section 168(k)(2)(D) of such Code, as so
redesignated, is amended by striking ``and before January 1,
2005''.
(4) Subparagraph (D) of section 168(k)(2) of such Code, as
so redesignated, is amended by striking ``September 10, 2001''
each place it appears and inserting.
(5) Clause (i) of section 168(k)(2)(E) of such Code, as so
redesignated, is amended by striking ``$4,600'' and inserting
``$14,540''.
(6) Section 168(k) of such Code is amended by striking
paragraph (4).
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to property placed in service after May 12, 2005.
SEC. 2. LONG-TERM CONTRACT ACCOUNTING.
(a) In General.--Section 168(k)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986 is amended by adding after subparagraph (F), as redesignated by
section 1, the following new subparagraph:
``(F) Long-term contract accounting.--The
percentage of completion method under section 460 shall
be applied as if this subsection had not been
enacted.''.
SEC. 3. ELECTION TO INCREASE MINIMUM TAX CREDIT LIMITATION IN LIEU OF
BONUS DEPRECIATION.
(a) In General.--Section 53 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
(relating to credit for prior year minimum tax liability) is amended by
adding at the end of the following new subsection:
``(e) Additional Credit in Lieu of Bonus Depreciation.--
``(1) In general.--In the case of a corporation making an
election under this subsection for a taxable year, the
limitation under subsection (c) shall be increased by an amount
equal to the bonus depreciation amount.
``(2) Bonus depreciation amount.--For purposes of paragraph
(1), the bonus depreciation amount for any taxable year is an
amount equal to the product of--
``(A) 35 percent, and
``(B) the excess (if any) of--
``(i) the aggregate amount of depreciation
which would be determined under section 167 for
property placed in service during such taxable
year if no election under this subsection were
made, over
``(ii) the aggregate allowance for
depreciation allowable with respect to such
property placed in service for such taxable
year.
``(3) Election.--Section 168(k) (other than paragraph
(2)(E) thereof) shall not apply to any property placed in
service during a taxable year by a corporation making an
election under this subsection for such taxable year. An
election under this subsection may only be revoked with the
consent of the Secretary.
``(4) Credit refundable.--The aggregate increase in the
credit allowed by this section for any taxable year by reason
of this subsection shall for purposes of this title (other than
subsection (b)(2) of this section) be treated as a credit
allowed to the taxpayer under subpart C.''.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--Subsection (k) of section 168 of such
Code is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(4) Cross reference.--For an election to claim certain
minimum tax credits in lieu of the allowance determined under
this subsection, see section 53(e).''.
SEC. 4. EFFECTIVE DATE.
The amendments made by this Act shall apply to taxable years ending
after May 12, 2005. | Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a tax deduction in the current taxable year for the entire adjusted basis of certain qualified property eligible for bonus depreciation allowances. Defines "qualified property" to include: (1) computer software, water utility property, or qualified leasehold improvement property that has a depreciation recovery period of 20 years or less and that was acquired after May 12, 2005; and (2) certain noncommercial aircraft acquired after May 12, 2005.
Permits the use of the percentage of completion accounting method for computing certain depreciation allowances.
Allows corporate taxpayers to elect an increased refundable alternative minimum tax credit in lieu of a bonus depreciation deduction. | billsum_train |
Provide a condensed version of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Clean, Low-Emission, Affordable, New
Transportation Efficiency Act''.
SEC. 2. TRANSPORTATION ALTERNATIVES.
(a) In General.--Subtitle III of title 49, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``CHAPTER 63--TRANSPORTATION ALTERNATIVES
``Sec. 6301. Definitions
``In this chapter:
``(1) Administrator.--The term `Administrator' means
Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency.
``(2) Charrette.--The term `charrette' means a open,
collaborative design session held over the course of 2 or more
days--
``(A) that includes participation by stakeholders
and the public;
``(B) that involves a collaborative process with a
series of short feedback loops; and
``(C) the purpose of which is to produce 2 or more
feasible Plans.
``(3) Fund.--The term `Fund' means the Low Greenhouse Gas
Transportation Fund established by section 6302(a)(1).
``(4) Intercity passenger rail service.--
``(A) In general.--The term `intercity passenger
rail service' has the meaning given the term `intercity
rail passenger transportation' in section 24102.
``(B) Inclusion.--The term `intercity passenger
rail service' includes high-speed rail service.
``(5) MPO.--The term `MPO' means a metropolitan planning
organization designated under section 134(b) of title 23 that,
as of the most recent decennial census, represents more than
200,000 individuals.
``(6) Plan.--The term `Plan' means a transportation
greenhouse gas reduction plan covering a period of at least 10
years developed under section 6304(a).
``(7) Scenario analysis.--The term `scenario analysis'
means an analysis that is conducted by identifying different
trends and making projections based on those trends to develop
a range of scenarios and estimates of how each scenario could
improve mobility and affect rates of--
``(A) vehicle miles traveled;
``(B) use of petroleum-derived transportation fuel;
and
``(C) greenhouse gas emissions from the
transportation sector.
``(8) State.--The term `State' means--
``(A) a State;
``(B) the District of Columbia; and
``(C) the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.
``Sec. 6302. Fund
``(a) Establishment.--There is established in the Treasury of the
United States a fund to be known as the `Low Greenhouse Gas
Transportation Fund', consisting of such amounts as are deposited in
the Fund under section 6303(c).
``(b) Expenditures From Fund.--
``(1) In general.--Subject to section 6303(c), on request
by the Secretary, the Secretary of the Treasury shall transfer
from the Fund to the Secretary such amounts as the Secretary
determines are necessary to provide assistance for use in
implementing projects under Plans developed under section
6308(b).
``(2) Administrative expenses.--An amount not exceeding 10
percent of the amounts in the Fund shall be available for each
fiscal year to pay the administrative expenses necessary to
carry out this Act.
``(c) Transfers of Amounts.--
``(1) In general.--The amounts required to be transferred
to the Fund under this section 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.
``(2) 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.
``Sec. 6303. Auctioning
``(a) In General.--For each of calendar years 2012 through 2050,
the Administrator shall auction 10 percent of the emission allowances
established for each of those calendar years under any program in
effect providing for the regulation of greenhouse gas emissions and the
auctioning of emission allowances that is administered by the
Administrator.
``(b) Timing.--The auctions required for each calendar year
specified in paragraph (1) shall be conducted over the course of at
least 4 sessions, spaced evenly over a period beginning 330 days
before, and ending 60 days after, the beginning of each such calendar
year.
``(c) Deposit of Proceeds.--The Administrator shall deposit in the
Fund the proceeds from each auction conducted under this section.
``Sec. 6304. Plans
``(a) Goal.--Each State and MPO shall establish the goal of
reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector during
the 10 years following the date of enactment of this chapter through--
``(1) the increase in mobility options;
``(2) the reduction of vehicle miles traveled; and
``(3) the use of petroleum-derived transportation fuel.
``(b) Development of Plans.--Each State and MPO shall develop a
transportation greenhouse gas reduction plan, and a prioritized list of
projects the support the plan, that are integrated into the long-range
transportation and transportation improvement plans of the State or MPO
to work toward achieving the goal established by the State or MPO under
subsection (a) through investment in--
``(1) new transit projects eligible for assistance under
chapter 53 (or the expansion of operations or frequency of
existing transit service);
``(2) an intercity passenger rail project for--
``(A)(i) the acquisition, construction,
improvement, or inspection of equipment, track and
track structures, or a facility for use in or for the
primary benefit of intercity passenger rail service;
``(ii) expenses incidental to that acquisition or
construction (including expenses for designing,
engineering, location surveying, mapping, environmental
studies, and acquisition of rights-of-way);
``(iii) payments for the capital portions of rail
trackage rights agreements;
``(iv) highway-rail grade crossing improvements
relating to intercity passenger rail service;
``(v) security;
``(vi) mitigation of environmental impacts;
``(vii) communication and signalization
improvements;
``(viii) relocation assistance;
``(ix) acquisition of replacement housing sites;
and
``(x) acquisition, construction, relocation, and
rehabilitation of replacement housing;
``(B) rehabilitating, remanufacturing, or
overhauling rail rolling stock and facilities used
primarily in intercity passenger rail service; and
``(C) costs associated with developing State rail
plans;
``(3) sidewalks, crosswalks, bicycle paths, greenways,
pedestrian signals, pavement marking, traffic calming
techniques, modification of public sidewalks (including
projects to achieve compliance with the Americans with
Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.)), and other
strategies to encourage pedestrian and bike travel;
``(4) additional freight rail capacity, particularly if the
capacity--
``(A) relieves a freight bottleneck designated by
the Secretary as causing poor on-time performance for
intercity rail passenger trains; or
``(B) expands intercity or commuter rail capacity;
``(5) carpool, vanpool, or car-share projects;
``(6) updates to zoning and other land use regulations and
plans--
``(A) to coordinate with local, regional, and State
plans; or
``(B) to support infill, transit-oriented
development, or mixed-use development;
``(7) improvements in--
``(A) travel and land-use data collection; and
``(B) travel models to better measure greenhouse
gas emissions and emission reductions; or
``(8) the transportation control measures described in
clauses (i) through (xv) of section 108(f)(1)(A), or section
211, of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7408(f)(1)(A), 7545).
``(c) Submission and Updating.--Each Plan shall be--
``(1) submitted to the Secretary not later than 2 years
after the date of enactment of this chapter; and
``(2) updated every 4 years thereafter, including with
analysis regarding achievement of the goals of the Plan.
``(d) Certification.--
``(1) In general.--Subject to section 6306(b), not later
than 180 days after the date of submission of a Plan under
subsection (c)(1), the Secretary, in consultation with the
Administrator, shall determine and certify whether--
``(A) the Plan is likely to achieve the goal
established by the State or MPO, as the case may be,
under subsection (a); and
``(B) the development of the plan has complied with
subsection (e).
``(2) Previously developed plans.--If a State or MPO
develops a plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the
transportation sector before the date of enactment of this
chapter, the State or MPO shall not be eligible to receive a
distribution of funds under section 6308 unless the Secretary,
in consultation with the Administrator, first determines and
certifies that the plan meets the requirements of this chapter.
``(e) Public Involvement, Coordination, and Consultation.--Each
Plan shall be developed--
``(1) using transportation and economic development
scenario analysis and strong public and stakeholder
involvement, including--
``(A) public comment periods;
``(B) scenario planning;
``(C) the most recent models; and
``(D) public charrettes;
``(2) with strong regional coordination, including between
each MPO and the State in which the MPO is located and with
other MPOs located within that State; and
``(3) in consultation with State and local housing,
economic development, land use, environmental, and
transportation agencies.
``(f) Incorporation of MPO Plans.--Each State shall incorporate,
without modification, into the Plan of the State the final Plans of
MPOs located within the State.
``Sec. 6305. Study
``To maximize greenhouse gas emission reductions from the
transportation sector, the Secretary and the Administrator shall enter
into an arrangement with the Transportation Research Board of the
National Academy of Sciences under which that Board shall submit to the
Administrator and the Secretary, not later than 1 year after the date
of enactment of this chapter, a report containing recommendations--
``(1) for use in improving research and tools to assess the
effect of transportation plans and land use plans on motor
vehicle use rates and transportation sector greenhouse gas
emissions;
``(2) for use in improving Federal Government data sources
that are necessary to assess greenhouse gas emission data from
the transportation sector for use in developing Plans; and
``(3) regarding policies to effectively reduce greenhouse
gas emissions from the transportation sector.
``Sec. 6306. Technical standards
``(a) In General.--Not later than 2 years after the date of
enactment of this chapter, based on any recommendations contained in
the reports submitted under paragraphs (1) and (2) of section 6305, and
every 5 years thereafter, the Secretary, in consultation with the
Administrator, shall establish or update, as appropriate, standards for
transportation data collection, monitoring, planning, and modeling.
``(b) Effect on Certification.--The Secretary shall not certify any
Plan under section 6304(d) until such time as standards for
transportation data collection, monitoring, planning, and modeling are
established under subsection (a).
``Sec. 6307. Report
``Not later than 5 years after the date of enactment of this
chapter, and every 5 years thereafter, the Administrator shall submit
to the committees of the Senate and the House of Representatives having
jurisdiction over transportation and climate change a report that
describes--
``(1) the aggregate reduction in greenhouse gas emissions
from the transportation sector expected as a result of the
development and implementation of the Plans;
``(2) the impact of other Federal policies and programs on
this chapter;
``(3) changes to Federal law that could improve the
performance of the Plans; and
``(4) regulatory changes planned to improve the performance
of the Plans.
``Sec. 6308. Funding
``(a) Development and Updating of Plans.--The Secretary shall use 5
percent of the funds deposited in the Fund for each fiscal year to
support the development and updating of Plans under section 6304.
``(b) Implementation of Plans.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall use 10 percent of
the funds deposited in the Fund for each fiscal year--
``(A) to support the implementation of Plans; and
``(B) to fund the projects described in Plans as
being necessary to meet the goals established by the
States or MPOs submitting the Plans.
``(2) Formula.--The Secretary, in coordination with the
Administrator, shall establish and regularly update a formula
for the distribution of funds in accordance with paragraph (1)
that--
``(A) reflects the expected per capita reduction in
greenhouse gas emissions expected as a result of
implementation of each Plan certified under section
6304(d);
``(B) ensures that at least 50 percent of the funds
are used to implement Plans certified under section
6304(d) that are developed by MPOs;
``(C) emphasizes Plans that increase transportation
options and mobility, particularly for low-income
individuals, minorities, the elderly, zero-car
households, and the disabled; and
``(D) during the first 5 years after the date of
enactment of this chapter, takes into consideration
reductions in greenhouse gas emissions achieved by
States and MPOs under Plans certified under section
6304(d).
``(3) Cost-sharing.--The Federal share of a project
described in paragraph (1)(B) that is carried out using funds
made available under this section shall be 80 percent.''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--The analysis for subtitle III of title
49, United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item relating
to chapter 61 the following:
``CHAPTER 63--Transportation Alternatives
``Sec.
``6301. Definitions.
``6302. Fund.
``6303. Auctioning.
``6304. Plans.
``6305. Study.
``6306. Technical standards.
``6307. Report.
``6308. Funding.''. | Clean, Low-Emission, Affordable, New Transportation Efficiency Act - Establishes the Low Greenhouse Gas Transportation Fund.
Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), for each of calendar 2012-2050, to auction 10% of emission allowances established under any EPA program providing for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and the auctioning of emission allowances.
Requires deposit of auction proceeds into the Fund to implement state and metropolitan planning organization (MPO) greenhouse gas emission reduction plans, and provide funding to transit projects that help reduce such emissions.
Requires states and MPOs to: (1) establish goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector for the next 10 years; and (2) develop transportation greenhouse gas emission reduction plans, updated quadrennially, including supporting lists of prioritized transit projects, that are integrated into state and MPO long-range transportation and transportation improvement plans.
Directs the Secretary of Transportation and the EPA Administrator to arrange with the Transportation Research Board of the National Academy of Sciences to study and report recommendations for improving research tools and federal data sources necessary to assess the effect of transportation and land use plans on motor vehicle use rates and transportation sector greenhouse gas emissions. | billsum_train |
Create a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Reducing the Incentives to Guzzle
Gas Act''.
SEC. 2. INCLUSION OF HEAVY VEHICLES IN LIMITATION ON DEPRECIATION OF
CERTAIN LUXURY AUTOMOBILES.
(a) In General.--Section 280F(d)(5)(A) of the Internal Revenue Code
of 1986 (defining passenger automobile) is amended--
(1) by striking clause (ii) and inserting the following new
clause:
``(ii)(I) which is rated at 6,000 pounds
unloaded gross vehicle weight or less, or
``(II) which is rated at more than 6,000
pounds but not more than 14,000 pounds gross
vehicle weight.'',
(2) by striking ``clause (ii)'' in the second sentence and
inserting ``clause (ii)(I)''.
(b) Exception for Vehicles Used in Farming Business.--Section
280F(d)(5)(B) of such Code (relating to exception for certain vehicles)
is amended by striking ``and'' at the end of clause (ii), by
redesignating clause (iii) as clause (iv), and by inserting after
clause (ii) the following new clause:
``(iii) any vehicle used in a farming
business (as defined in section 263A(e)(4),
and''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to property placed in service after the date of the enactment of
this Act.
SEC. 3. UPDATED DEPRECIATION DEDUCTION LIMITS.
(a) In General.--Subparagraph (A) of section 280F(a)(1) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to limitation on amount of
depreciation for luxury automobiles) is amended to read as follows:
``(A) Limitation.--The amount of the depreciation
deduction for any taxable year shall not exceed for any
passenger automobile--
``(i) for the 1st taxable year in the
recovery period--
``(I) described in subsection
(d)(5)(A)(ii)(I), $4,000,
``(II) described in the second
sentence of subsection (d)(5)(A),
$5,000, and
``(III) described in subsection
(d)(5)(A)(ii)(II), $6,000,
``(ii) for the 2nd taxable year in the
recovery period--
``(I) described in subsection
(d)(5)(A)(ii)(I), $6,400,
``(II) described in the second
sentence of subsection (d)(5)(A),
$8,000, and
``(III) described in subsection
(d)(5)(A)(ii)(II), $9,600,
``(iii) for the 3rd taxable year in the
recovery period--
``(I) described in subsection
(d)(5)(A)(ii)(I), $3,850,
``(II) described in the second
sentence of subsection (d)(5)(A),
$4,800, and
``(III) described in subsection
(d)(5)(A)(ii)(II), $5,775, and
``(iv) for each succeeding taxable year in
the recovery period--
``(I) described in subsection
(d)(5)(A)(ii)(I), $2,325,
``(II) described in the second
sentence of subsection (d)(5)(A),
$2,900, and
``(III) described in subsection
(d)(5)(A)(ii)(II), $3,475.''.
(b) Years After Recovery Period.--Section 280F(a)(1)(B)(ii) of such
Code is amended to read as follows:
``(ii) Limitation.--The amount treated as
an expense under clause (i) for any taxable
year shall not exceed for any passenger
automobile--
``(I) described in subsection
(d)(5)(A)(ii)(I), $2,325,
``(II) described in the second
sentence of subsection (d)(5)(A),
$2,900, and
``(III) described in subsection
(d)(5)(A)(ii)(II), $3,475.''.
(c) Inflation Adjustment.--Section 280F(d)(7) of such Code
(relating to automobile price inflation adjustment) is amended--
(1) by striking ``after 1988'' in subparagraph (A) and
inserting ``after 2007'', and
(2) by striking subparagraph (B) and inserting the
following new subparagraph:
``(B) Automobile price inflation adjustment.--For
purposes of this paragraph--
``(i) In general.--The automobile price
inflation adjustment for any calendar year is
the percentage (if any) by which--
``(I) the average wage index for
the preceding calendar year, exceeds
``(II) the average wage index for
2006.
``(ii) Average wage index.--The term
`average wage index' means the average wage
index published by the Social Security
Administration.''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to property placed in service after the date of the enactment of
this Act.
SEC. 4. EXPENSING LIMITATION FOR FARM VEHICLES.
(a) In General.--Paragraph (6) of section 179(b) of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to limitations) is amended to read as
follows:
``(6) Limitation on cost taken into account for farm
vehicles.--The cost of any vehicle described in section
280F(d)(5)(B)(iii) for any taxable year which may be taken into
account under this section shall not exceed $30,000.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by this section shall apply
to property placed in service after the date of the enactment of this
Act. | Reducing the Incentives to Guzzle Gas Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) include certain heavy vehicles (with a gross vehicle weight of between 6,000 and 14,000 pounds) as passenger vehicles to which the limitations on the depreciation allowed for luxury automobiles apply; (2) exempt vehicles used in a farming business from such depreciation limitations; (3) revise the limitation amounts for the depreciation of luxury automobiles; and (4) allow the expensing of up to $30,000 of the cost of vehicles used in a farming business. | billsum_train |
Make a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Patient-Focused Critical Care
Enhancement Act''.
SEC. 2. PURPOSE.
The purpose of this Act is to optimize the delivery of critical
care medicine and expand the critical care workforce.
SEC. 3. FINDINGS.
Based on the Health Resources and Services Administration's May
2006 Report to Congress, The Critical Care Workforce: A Study of the
Supply and Demand for Critical Care Physicians, Congress makes the
following findings:
(1) In 2000, an estimated 18,000,000 inpatient days of ICU
care were provided in the United States through approximately
59,000 ICU beds in 3,200 hospitals.
(2) Patient outcomes and the quality of care in the ICU are
related to who delivers that care and how care is organized.
(3) The demand in the United States for critical care
medical services is rising sharply and will continue to rise
sharply largely as a result of the following 3 factors:
(A) There is strong evidence demonstrating
improvements in outcomes and efficiency when intensive
care services are provided by nurses and intensivist
physicians who have advanced specialty training in
critical care medicine.
(B) The Leapfrog Group, health care payors, and
providers are encouraging greater use of such personnel
in intensive care settings.
(C) Critical care services are overwhelmingly
consumed by patients over the age of 65 and the aging
of the United States population is driving demand for
these services.
(4) The future growth in the number of critical care
physicians in ICU settings will be insufficient to keep pace
with growing demand.
(5) This growing shortage of critical care physicians
presents a serious threat to the quality and availability of
health care services in the United States.
(6) This shortage will disproportionately impact rural and
other areas of the United States that already often suffer from
a suboptimal level of critical care services.
SEC. 4. RESEARCH.
(a) In General.--The Secretary of Health and Human Services,
through the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, shall conduct
research to assess--
(1) the standardization of critical care protocols,
intensive care unit layout, equipment interoperability, and
medical informatics;
(2) the impact of differences in staffing, organization,
size, and structure of intensive care units on access, quality,
and efficiency of care; and
(3) coordinated community and regional approaches to
providing critical care services, including approaches whereby
critical care patients are assessed and provided care based
upon intensity of services required.
(b) Report.--Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment
of this Act, the Director of the Agency for Healthcare Research and
Quality shall submit a report to Congress, that, based on the review
under subsection (a), evaluates and makes recommendations regarding
best practices in critical care medicine.
SEC. 5. INNOVATIVE APPROACHES TO CRITICAL CARE SERVICES.
The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall undertake the
following demonstration projects:
(1) Optimization of critical care services.--
(A) In general.--The Administrator of the Centers
for Medicare & Medicaid Services shall solicit
proposals submitted by inpatient providers of critical
care services who propose to demonstrate methods to
optimize the provision of critical care services to
Medicare beneficiaries through innovations in such
areas as staffing, ICU arrangement, and utilization of
technology.
(B) Funding of proposals.--The Administrator of the
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services shall fund not
more than 5 proposals, not less than 1 of which shall
focus on the training of hospital-based physicians in
rural or community, or both, hospital facilities in the
provision of critical care medicine. Such projects
shall emphasize outcome measures based on the Institute
of Medicine's following 6 domains of quality care:
(i) Care should be safe.
(ii) Care should be effective.
(iii) Care should be patient-centered.
(iv) Care should be timely.
(v) Care should be efficient.
(vi) Care should be equitable.
(2) Family assistance programs for the critically ill.--
(A) In general.--The Secretary of Health and Human
Services shall solicit proposals and make an award to
support a consortium consisting of 1 or more providers
of inpatient critical care services and a medical
specialty society involved in the education and
training of critical care providers.
(B) Measurement and evaluation.--A provider that
receives support under subparagraph (A) shall measure
and evaluate outcomes derived from a ``family-
centered'' approach to the provision of inpatient
critical care services that includes direct and
sustained communication and contact with beneficiary
family members, involvement of family members in the
critical care decisionmaking process, and
responsiveness of critical care providers to family
requests. Such project shall evaluate the impact of a
family-centered, multiprofessional team approach on,
and the correlation between--
(i) family satisfaction;
(ii) staff satisfaction;
(iii) length of patient stay in an
intensive care unit; and
(iv) cost of care.
(C) Outcome measures.--A provider that receives
support under subparagraph (A) shall emphasize outcome
measures based on the Institute of Medicine's following
6 domains of quality care:
(i) Care should be safe.
(ii) Care should be effective.
(iii) Care should be patient-centered.
(iv) Care should be timely.
(v) Care should be efficient.
(vi) Care should be equitable.
SEC. 6. USE OF TELEMEDICINE TO ENHANCE CRITICAL CARE SERVICES IN RURAL
AND UNDERSERVED AREAS.
(a) Amendment to Rural Utilities Service Distance Learning and
Telemedicine Program.--Chapter 1 of subtitle D of title XXIII of the
Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 (7 U.S.C. 950aaa
et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``SEC. 2335B. ADDITIONAL AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS FOR
TELEMEDICINE CRITICAL CARE INITIATIVES.
``In addition to amounts authorized under section 2335A, there is
authorized to be appropriated $5,000,000 in each of fiscal years 2010
through 2015 to carry out telemedicine initiatives under this chapter
whereby 1 or more providers of inpatient critical care services in
rural or other medically underserved areas propose, through
collaboration with other providers, to augment the delivery of critical
care services in the rural or other medically underserved area
inpatient setting through the use of telecommunications systems that
allow for consultation with critical care providers not located in the
rural or other medically underserved area facility regarding the care
of such patients.''.
(b) Amendment to Telehealth Network Grant Program.--Section
330I(i)(1)(B) of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 254c-
14(i)(1)(B)) is amended by striking the period at the end and inserting
``, or that augment the delivery of critical care services in rural or
other medically underserved area inpatient settings through
consultation with providers located elsewhere.''.
SEC. 7. INCREASING THE SUPPLY OF CRITICAL CARE PROVIDERS.
Section 338B of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 254l-1) is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``(i) Critical Care Initiative.--
``(1) Establishment.--The Secretary shall undertake an
initiative that has as its goal the annual recruitment of not
less than 50 providers of critical care services into the
National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Program. Providers
recruited pursuant to this initiative shall be additional to,
and not detract from, existing recruitment activities otherwise
authorized by this section.
``(2) Clarifying amendment.--The initiative described in
paragraph (1) shall be undertaken pursuant to the authority of
this section, and for purposes of the initiative--
``(A) the term `primary health services' as used in
subsection (a) shall be understood to include critical
care services; and
``(B) `an approved graduate training program' as
that term is used in subsection (b)(1)(B) shall be
limited to pulmonary fellowships or critical care
fellowships, or both, for physicians.''.
SEC. 8. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this Act--
(1) $5,000,000 for the research to be conducted under
section 4; and
(2) $4,000,000 for the demonstration projects authorized
under section 5. | Patient-Focused Critical Care Enhancement Act - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), to conduct research to assess: (1) the standardization of critical care protocols, intensive care unit layout, equipment interoperability, and medical informatics; and (2) the impact of differences in staffing, organization, size, and structure of intensive care units on access, quality, and efficiency of care.
Requires the Secretary to undertake demonstration projects to: (1) optimize the provision of critical care services to Medicare beneficiaries through innovations in such areas as staffing and utilization of technology; and (2) measure and evaluate outcomes derived from a "family-centered" approach to the provision of inpatient critical care services that includes direct and sustained communication and contact with the beneficiary family members, involvement of family members in the critical care decisionmaking process, and responsiveness of critical care providers to family requests.
Amends the Food, Agriculture, Conservation and Trade Act of 1990 to authorize appropriations for FY2010-FY2015 for augmenting the delivery of critical care services in the rural or other medically underserved area inpatient setting through the use of telecommunications systems that allow for consultation with critical care providers not located in the rural or other medically underserved area facility regarding the care of such patients. Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary to give preference in awarding telehealth grant funds to entities to develop plans for, or to establish, such critical care telehealth networks.
Requires the Secretary to undertake an initiative to recruit providers of critical care services into the National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Program. | billsum_train |
Condense the following text into a summary: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Incentives for Successful Companies
Act of 2010''.
SEC. 2. CREDIT FOR JOB TRAINING BY SUCCESSFUL COMPANIES.
(a) In General.--Subpart D of part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to business-related
credits) is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
``SEC. 45S. JOB TRAINING BY SUCCESSFUL COMPANIES.
``(a) General Rule.--For purposes of section 38, the successful
company job training credit determined under this section for the
taxable year is an amount equal to the amount paid or incurred by the
employer in providing qualified job training during the taxable year.
``(b) Qualified Job Training.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) In general.--The term `qualified job training' means
job training provided to a United States employee within the 4-
week period beginning on the hiring date of such employee. The
preceding sentence shall apply only to those United States
employees who first begin work for the taxpayer after the date
of the enactment of this section.
``(2) Items included.--Such term includes--
``(A) properly allocated labor, material, and
associated overhead costs for the trainers,
``(B) non-working paid training hours, and
``(C) associated overhead for the trainees.
``(3) Items excluded.--Such term does not include general
and administrative costs.
``(c) United States Employee.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) In general.--The term `United States employee' means
an individual who is lawfully present in the United States and
employed full time by the taxpayer in the United States.
``(2) Valid social security account number required.--Such
term shall not include any individual who does not have a valid
social security account number.
``(3) Social security account number.--The term `social
security account number' means a social security number issued
to an individual by the Social Security Administration (other
than a social security number issued pursuant to clause (II)
(or that portion of clause (III) that relates to clause (II))
of section 205(c)(2)(B)(i) of the Social Security Act).
``(d) Other Definitions.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) Successful company.--The term `successful company'
means any United States company or enterprise which the
Secretary determines--
``(A) maintains a long-term United States growth
plan that meets the criteria established by the
Secretary under this section,
``(B) as of the time of the determination, is
experiencing financial performance and achieving a
balance sheet would have qualified such company or
enterprise for a certain level of loan from primary
lending sources of such company or enterprise as of
June 1, 2008, on the basis of credit and underwriting
criteria in effect on such date, but cannot get access
to loans from such lending sources as of the date of
such determination because of current tighter credit
and underwriting criteria, and
``(C) in the most recent calendar year had an
average of not fewer than 5 employees and not more than
500 employees.
``(2) Hiring date.--The term `hiring date' has the meaning
given such term by section 51(d)(11).
``(3) United states.--The term `United States' includes the
District of Columbia and the possessions of the United States.
``(e) Special Rules.--
``(1) Monetization of credit.--At the election of the
taxpayer, the credit allowed under this section shall be
treated as a credit allowed under subpart C and not allowed
under subsection (a).
``(2) Election not to claim credit.--This section shall not
apply to a taxpayer for any taxable year if such taxpayer
elects to have this section not apply for such taxable year.
``(f) Termination.--Subsection (a) shall not apply to taxable years
beginning after December 31, 2014.''.
(b) Credit To Be Part of General Business Credit.--Subsection (b)
of section 38 of such Code (relating to general business credit) is
amended by striking ``plus'' at the end of paragraph (35), by striking
the period at the end of paragraph (36) and inserting ``, plus'', and
by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(37) the successful company job training credit
determined under section 45S(a).''.
(c) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for subpart D of
part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1 of such Code is amended by
inserting after the item relating to section 45R the following new
item:
``Sec. 45S. Job training by successful companies.''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2009.
SEC. 3. INCREASE IN EXPENSING BY SUCCESSFUL COMPANIES.
(a) In General.--Section 179 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(6) Special rule for successful companies.--
``(A) In general.--In the case of a successful
company, for each taxable year beginning before 2015--
``(i) Dollar limitation.--Paragraph (1)
shall be applied by substituting `$250,000' for
the dollar amount otherwise in effect for such
taxable year.
``(ii) Reduction in limitation.--Paragraph
(2) shall be applied by substituting `$800,000'
for the dollar amount otherwise in effect for
such taxable year.
``(B) Successful company.--For purposes of
subparagraph (A), the term `successful company' has the
meaning given such term by section 45S(d)(1).''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by subsection (a) shall
apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2010. | Incentives for Successful Companies Act of 2010 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow through 2014: (1) certain businesses designated as successful companies a business-related tax credit for job training expenses; and (2) an increase to $250,000 in the expensing allowance for depreciable business assets placed in service by such companies. Defines a "successful company" as a U.S. company or enterprise that maintains a long-term U.S. growth plan, meets certain financial and creditworthiness criteria, and had an average of not fewer than 5 or more than 500 employees in the most recent calendar year. | billsum_train |
Provide a condensed version of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``GI Bill Education Quality
Enhancement Act of 2015''.
SEC. 2. ROLE OF STATE APPROVING AGENCIES.
(a) Approval of Certain Courses.--Section 3672(b)(2)(A) of title
38, United States Code, is amended by striking ``the following'' and
all that follows through the colon and inserting the following: ``a
program of education is deemed to be approved for purposes of this
chapter if a State approving agency determines that the program is one
of the following programs:''.
(b) Approval of Other Courses.--Section 3675 of such title
amended--
(1) in subsection (a)(1)--
(A) by striking ``The Secretary or a State
approving agency'' and inserting ``A State approving
agency, or the Secretary when acting in the role of a
State approving agency,''; and
(B) by striking ``offered by proprietary for-profit
educational institutions'' and inserting ``not covered
by section 3672 of this title''; and
(2) in subsection (b), by striking ``the Secretary or the
State approving agency'' and inserting ``the State approving
agency, or the Secretary when acting in the role of a State
approving agency,'' each place it appears.
SEC. 3. CRITERIA USED TO APPROVE NONACCREDITED COURSES.
(a) In General.--Section 3676(c)(14) of such title is amended by
inserting before the period the following: ``if the Secretary, in
consultation with the State approving agency and pursuant to
regulations prescribed to carry out this paragraph, determines such
criteria are necessary and treat public, private, and proprietary for-
profit educational institutions equitably''.
(b) Application.--The amendment made by subsection (a) shall apply
with respect to an investigation conducted under section 3676(c) of
title 38, United States Code, that is covered by a reimbursement of
expenses paid by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to a State pursuant
to section 3674 of such title on or after the first day of the first
fiscal year following the date of the enactment of this Act.
SEC. 4. CLARIFICATION OF ASSISTANCE PROVIDED FOR CERTAIN FLIGHT
TRAINING.
(a) In General.--Subsection (c)(1)(A) of section 3313 of such title
is amended--
(1) in clause (i)--
(A) by redesignating subclauses (I) and (II) as
items (aa) and (bb), respectively;
(B) by striking ``In the case of a program of
education pursued at a public institution of higher
learning'' and inserting ``(I) Subject to subclause
(II), in the case of a program of education pursued at
a public institution of higher learning not described
in clause (ii)(II)(bb)''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following new
subclause:
``(II) In determining the actual net cost
for in-State tuition and fees pursuant to
subclause (I), the Secretary may not pay for
fees relating to flight training.''; and
(2) in clause (ii)--
(A) in subclause (I), by redesignating items (aa)
and (bb) as subitems (AA) and (BB), respectively;
(B) in subclause (II), by redesignating items (aa)
and (bb) as subitems (AA) and (BB), respectively;
(C) by redesignating subclauses (I) and (II) as
items (aa) and (bb), respectively;
(D) by striking ``In the case of a program of
education pursued at a non-public or foreign
institution of higher learning'' and inserting ``(I) In
the case of a program of education described in
subclause (II)''; and
(E) by adding at the end the following new
subclause:
``(II) A program of education described in
this subclause is any of the following:
``(aa) A program of education
pursued at a non-public or foreign
institution of higher learning.
``(bb) A program of education
pursued at a public institution of
higher learning in which flight
training is required to earn the degree
being pursued (including with respect
to a dual major, concentration, or
other element of such a degree).''.
(b) Application.--The amendments made by subsection (a) shall apply
with respect to a quarter, semester, or term, as applicable, commencing
on or after the date of the enactment of this Act.
SEC. 5. COMPLIANCE SURVEYS.
(a) In General.--Section 3693 of such title is amended--
(1) by striking subsection (a) and inserting the following
new subsection (a):
``(a)(1) Except as provided in subsection (b), the Secretary shall
conduct an annual compliance survey of educational institutions and
training establishments offering one or more courses approved for the
enrollment of eligible veterans or persons if at least 20 such veterans
or persons are enrolled in any such course. The Secretary shall--
``(A) design the compliance surveys to ensure that such
institutions or establishments, as the case may be, and
approved courses are in compliance with all applicable
provisions of chapters 30 through 36 of this title;
``(B) survey each such educational institution and training
establishment not less than once during every two-year period;
and
``(C) assign not fewer than one education compliance
specialist to work on compliance surveys in any year for each
40 compliance surveys required to be made under this section
for such year.
``(2) The Secretary, in consultation with the State approving
agencies, shall--
``(A) annually determine the parameters of the surveys
required under paragraph (1); and
``(B) not later than September 1 of each year, make
available to the State approving agencies a list of the
educational institutions and training establishments that will
be surveyed during the fiscal year following the date of making
such list available.''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(c) In this section, the terms `educational institution' and
`training establishment' have the meaning given such terms in section
3452 of this title.''.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--Subsection (b) of such section is
amended--
(1) by striking ``subsection (a) of this section for an
annual compliance survey'' and inserting ``subsection (a)(1)
for a compliance survey'';
(2) by striking ``institution'' and inserting ``educational
institution or training establishment''; and
(3) by striking ``institution's demonstrated record of
compliance'' and inserting ``record of compliance of such
institution or establishment''. | GI Bill Education Quality Enhancement Act of 2015 Deems specified education programs to be approved for veterans' education benefit purposes if a state approving agency determines that they qualify. Authorizes a state approving agency, or the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) acting in the role of a state approving agency, to approve other accredited programs for such purposes. Continues to allow state approving agencies to establish additional criteria (other than those set forth in current law) for the approval of nonaccredited courses, but requires VA to determine that such criteria are necessary and treat public, private, and proprietary for-profit educational institutions equitably. Prohibits VA from including flight training fees in the in-state tuition and fees at public institutions of higher education (IHEs) that are covered by post-9/11 veterans' educational assistance. Requires post-9/11 veterans' educational assistance for flight training programs at public IHEs to be determined in the same manner as such assistance for education programs pursued at non-public or foreign IHEs is determined. Directs VA to conduct an annual compliance survey of educational institutions and training establishments offering courses approved for veterans' education benefits if at least 20 individuals who are eligible for such benefits are enrolled in any such course. (Currently, an annual compliance survey of each institution offering such courses must be conducted if at least 300 beneficiaries are enrolled or if any such course does not lead to a standard college degree.) Authorizes VA to waive the annual survey for institutions or establishments that have a record of compliance. Requires VA to conduct a biennial survey of each educational institution and training establishment that offers courses approved for veterans' education benefits. | billsum_train |
Give a brief overview of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Families Learning and Understanding
English Together Act of 2007''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds the following:
(1) The Census Bureau reports that 17.9 percent of United
States households speak a language other than English at home.
(2) Many parents in many recently-immigrated families speak
little to no English, possess low literacy skills in their
native language due to limited education, and frequently
struggle to assist their children's English language
development.
(3) The United States is a nation of immigrants, and even
today, according to the 2004 update of the Census, over
34,000,000 individuals who live in the United States were born
outside the country.
SEC. 3. PURPOSE.
The purpose of this Act is to improve the educational, social, and
economic advancement of families with limited English proficient
individuals in need of literacy skills by expanding and enhancing
family literacy services for such families.
SEC. 4. COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM.
(a) Program Authorized.--From funds made available pursuant to
section 9, and after reserving funds under section 9(b), the Secretary
may award grants to family literacy providers to provide, directly or
through a contract with another provider, family literacy services
designed for families with limited English proficient individuals. Each
grant under this Act shall be for a period of 1 year and may be renewed
for a total of 5 additional years.
(b) Application.--Family literacy providers who desire to receive a
grant under this Act shall submit an application at such time,
containing such information, and in such manner as the Secretary may
require. Such application shall include the following:
(1) An assurance that services provided with funds under
this Act shall be provided to the hardest-to-reach populations,
including populations with the greatest economic and social
need.
(2) A description of the services that will be provided
with funds under this Act, including how the services will be
based on research-based reading instruction for limited English
proficient children and parents.
(3) A description of the outcome measures, consistent with
section 6, that are based on scientifically based research and
will be employed by the family literacy provider to measure the
effectiveness of services provided with funds under this Act.
(4) An assurance that, in providing family literacy
services through the grant, the family literacy provider will
collaborate with one or more of the following:
(A) A local educational agency.
(B) An elementary school.
(C) A secondary school.
(D) A nonprofit entity.
(c) Grant Amount.--The amount of a grant under this Act for a
fiscal year shall not be less than $150,000 or more than $1,000,000.
(d) Services Requirements.--Family literacy services under this Act
shall be provided in sufficient intensity in terms of hours, and shall
be of sufficient duration, to make sustainable changes in a family and
shall integrate all of the following activities:
(1) Interactive literacy activities between parents and
their children.
(2) Training for parents regarding how to be the primary
teacher for their children and full partners in the education
of their children.
(3) Parent literacy training that leads to economic self-
sufficiency.
(4) An age-appropriate education to prepare children for
success in school and life experiences.
(e) Special Rule.--Family literacy services under this Act may be
provided to a family only if--
(1) each parent in the family has attained 16 years of age;
and
(2) the family has at least one child from birth who has
not yet attained 8 years of age.
SEC. 5. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE AND TRAINING.
(a) Activities by Secretary.--The Secretary, acting through the
Assistant Secretary for Elementary and Secondary Education, shall
provide technical assistance and training to grantees under this Act
for the purposes described in subsection (c).
(b) Activities by National Organizations.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall make grants to, or
enter into contracts with, at least 2 eligible national
organizations to provide technical assistance and training to
grantees under this Act for the purposes described in
subsection (c).
(2) Definition.--In this section, the term ``eligible
national organization'' means a national organization with
expertise in providing family literacy services to limited
English proficient populations.
(c) Purposes.--The purposes of technical assistance and training
provided under this section are the following:
(1) Assisting grantees under this Act to improve the
quality of their family literacy services.
(2) Enabling such grantees that demonstrate the effective
provision of family literacy services, based on improved
outcomes for children and their parents, to provide technical
assistance and training to government agencies and to family
literacy providers that work in collaboration with such
agencies to improve the quality of their family literacy
services.
(3) Assisting such grantees in the implementation of
literacy curriculum and training activities, including
curriculum and training activities that support building on a
child's native language.
(d) Reports to Congress.--Not later than 90 days after the end of
each fiscal year, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on
Education and Labor of the House of Representatives and the Committee
on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate a report on the
technical assistance and training provided pursuant to subsections (a)
and (b). Each such report shall describe the actions taken by the
Secretary to ensure that such technical assistance and training is of
high-quality and is responsive to the needs of grantees under this Act.
SEC. 6. OUTCOME MEASURES.
The Secretary shall require each family literacy provider receiving
a grant under this Act to meet culturally appropriate and competent
outcome measures described in the provider's application under section
4, including outcome measures with respect to--
(1) acquisition of the English language, including improved
educational levels;
(2) literacy skills and building of a home language;
(3) improved parenting and life skills;
(4) the improved ability of parents with limited English
proficiency to effectively interact with officials of the
schools their children attend;
(5) improved developmental skills and independent learning
of the children; and
(6) increased parental participation in their children's
education and home environments that are supportive of
educational endeavors.
SEC. 7. EVALUATION.
The Secretary shall conduct an annual evaluation of the grant
program under this Act. Such evaluation shall be used by the
Secretary--
(1) for program improvement;
(2) to further define the program's goals and objectives;
and
(3) to determine program effectiveness.
SEC. 8. DEFINITIONS.
For purposes of this Act:
(1) Application of esea terms.--The terms ``elementary
school'', ``limited English proficient'', ``local educational
agency'', ``scientifically based research'', and ``secondary
school'' have the meanings given such terms in section 9101 of
the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
7801). The term ``scientifically based reading research'' has
the meaning given such term in section 1208 of the Elementary
and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6368).
(2) Family literacy provider.--The term ``family literacy
provider'' means an entity that--
(A) is located in a geographic area containing at
least one public elementary school or secondary school
with a majority enrollment of children with limited
English proficiency; and
(B) is one of the following:
(i) A current grantee under subpart 3 of
part B of title I of the Elementary and
Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6381
et seq.) (commonly referred to as ``William F.
Goodling Even Start Family Literacy
Programs''), the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9831
et seq.), or any other Federal or State early
childhood program.
(ii) An adult education provider.
(iii) A local educational agency.
(iv) A public or private nonprofit agency.
(v) Another entity that has the
demonstrated ability to provide family literacy
services to limited English proficient adults
and families.
(3) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of Education.
SEC. 9. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
(a) In General.--There is authorized to be appropriated to carry
out this Act $50,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2013.
(b) Reservations.--From funds made available pursuant to subsection
(a) for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall reserve--
(1) not more than 2 percent of such funds for conducting
the annual evaluation required by section 7;
(2) $5,000,000 for technical assistance and training under
section 5(a); and
(3) $5,000,000 for technical assistance and training under
section 5(b). | Families Learning and Understanding English Together Act of 2007 - Authorizes the Secretary of Education to make grants to providers of family literacy services to improve the literacy and English skills of limited English proficient individuals who are parents or children in families where each parent is at least 16 years old and where at least one child is under age eight.
Directs the Secretary to reserve certain funds to: (1) provide technical assistance and training to such grantees; (2) make grants to, or enter contracts with, national organizations that have family literacy service expertise to provide grantees with technical assistance and training; and (3) evaluate and improve such grant program.
Requires grantees to meet specified outcome measures. | billsum_train |
Change the following text into a summary: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Corrosion Prevention Act of 2006''.
SEC. 2. CREDIT FOR CORROSION PREVENTION AND MITIGATION MEASURES.
(a) In General.--Subpart D of part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to business-related
credits) is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
``SEC. 45N. CORROSION PREVENTION AND MITIGATION MEASURES.
``(a) In General.--For purposes of section 38, the corrosion
prevention and mitigation credit determined under this section for the
taxable year is an amount equal to 50 percent of the excess of--
``(1) qualified corrosion prevention and mitigation
expenditures with respect to qualified property, over
``(2) the amount such expenditures would have been, taking
into account amounts paid or incurred to satisfy Federal,
State, or local requirements.
``(b) Qualified Corrosion Prevention and Mitigation Expenditures.--
For purposes of this section--
``(1) In general.--The term `qualified corrosion prevention
and mitigation expenditures' means amounts paid or incurred by
the taxpayer during the taxable year for engineering design,
materials, and application and installation of corrosion
prevention and mitigation technology.
``(2) Certification may be required.--The Secretary shall
require by regulation that no amount be taken into account
under paragraph (1) for any design, material, application, or
installation unless such design, material, application, or
installation meets such certification requirements as the
Secretary shall require. Such requirements shall provide for
accreditation of certifying persons by an independent entity
with expertise in corrosion prevention and mitigation
technology.
``(3) Corrosion prevention and mitigation technology.--
Corrosion prevention and mitigation technology includes a
system comprised of at least one of the following: a corrosion-
protective coating or paint; chemical treatment; corrosion-
resistant metals; and cathodic protection. The Secretary from
time to time by regulations or other guidance modify the list
contained in the predecing sentence to reflect changes in
corrosion prevention and mitigation technology.
``(4) Qualified property.--The term `qualified property'
means property which is--
``(A) comprised primarily of a metal susceptible to
corrosion,
``(B) of a character subject to the allowance for
depreciation,
``(C) originally placed in service by the taxpayer,
and
``(D) located in the United States.
``(c) Recapture of Credit.--
``(1) In general.--If, as of the close of any taxable year,
there is a recapture event with respect to any qualified
property for which a credit was allowed under subsection (a),
the tax of the taxpayer under this chapter for such taxable
year shall be increased by an amount equal to the product of--
``(A) the applicable recapture percentage, and
``(B) the aggregate decrease in the credits allowed
under section 38 for all prior taxable years which
would have resulted if the qualified corrosion
prevention and mitigation expenditures of the taxpayer
with respect to such property had been zero.
``(2) Applicable recapture percentage.--
``(A) In general.--For purposes of this subsection,
the applicable recapture percentage shall be determined
from the following table:
``If the property ceases to be qualified property The recapture
within: percentage is:
(i) One full year after placed in service......... 100
(ii) One full year after the close of the period 80
described in clause (i)..........................
(iii) One full year after the close of the period 60
described in clause (ii).........................
(iv) One full year after the close of the period 40
described in clause (iii)........................
(v) One full year after the close of the period 20.
described in clause (iv).........................
``(B) Recapture event defined.--For purposes of
this subsection, the term `recapture event' means--
``(i) Cessation of use.--The cessation of
use of the qualified property.
``(ii) Change in ownership.--
``(I) In general.--Except as
provided in subclauses (II), the
disposition of a taxpayer's interest in
the qualified property with respect to
which the credit described in
subsection (a) was allowable.
``(II) Agreement to assume
recapture liability.--Subclause (I)
shall not apply if the person acquiring
the qualified property agrees in
writing to assume the recapture
liability of the person disposing of
the qualified property. In the event of
such an assumption, the person
acquiring the qualified property shall
be treated as the taxpayer for purposes
of assessing any recapture liability
(computed as if there had been no
change in ownership).
``(III) special rule for tax
exempt entities.--Subclause (II) shall
not apply to any tax exempt entity (as
defined in section 168(h)(2)).
``(iii) Special rules.--
``(I) Tax benefit rule.--The tax
for the taxable year shall be increased
under paragraph (1) only with respect
to credits allowed by reason of this
section which were used to reduce tax
liability. In the case of credits not
so used to reduce tax liability, the
carryforwards and carrybacks under
section 39 shall be appropriately
adjusted.
``(II) No credits against tax.--Any
increase in tax under this subsection
shall not be treated as a tax imposed
by this chapter for purposes of
determining the amount of any credit
under this chapter or for purposes of
section 55.
``(III) No recapture by reason of
casualty loss.--The increase in tax
under this subsection shall not apply
to a cessation of operation of the
property as qualified property by
reason of a casualty loss to the extent
such loss is restored by reconstruction
or replacement within a reasonable
period established by the Secretary.
``(d) Denial of Double Benefit.--For purposes of this subtitle--
``(1) Basis adjustments.--
``(A) In general.--If a credit is determined under
this section for any expenditure with respect to any
property, the increase in the basis of such property
which would (but for this subsection) result from such
expenditure shall be reduced by the amount of the
credit so allowed.
``(B) Certain dispositions.--If, during any taxable
year, there is a recapture amount determined with
respect to any property the basis of which was reduced
under subparagraph (A), the basis of such property
(immediately before the event resulting in such
recapture) shall be increased by an amount equal to
such recapture amount. For purposes of the preceding
sentence, the term `recapture amount' means any
increase in tax (or adjustment in carrybacks or
carryovers) determined under subsection (c).
``(2) Other deductions and credits.--No deduction or credit
shall be allowed under this chapter for any expense taken into
account under this section.
``(e) Regulations.--The Secretary shall prescribe such regulations
as may be appropriate to carry out this section.''.
(b) Credit Made Part of General Business Credit.--Subsection (b) of
section 38 of such Code (relating to current year business credit) is
amended by striking ``plus'' at the end of paragraph (29), by striking
the period at the end of paragraph (30) and inserting ``, plus'', and
by adding at the end thereof the following new paragraph:
``(31) Corrosion prevention and mitigation credit
determined under section 45N(a).''.
(c) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for subpart D of
part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1 of such Code is amended by
inserting after the item relating to section 45M the following new
item:
``Sec. 45N. Corrosion prevention and mitigation measures.''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning after the date of the enactment of
this Act. | Corrosion Prevention Act of 2006 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a business-related tax credit for 50% of net expenditures for engineering design, materials, and application and installation of corrosion prevention and mitigation technology for depreciable property comprised primarily of metals susceptible to corrosion. | billsum_train |
Create a condensed overview of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Civilian Agent Orange Act of 2007''.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Exposed employee.--The term ``exposed employee'' means
an individual who--
(A) during the Vietnam conflict--
(i) was a civilian employee of the Federal
Government, or an employee of a contractor (or
subcontractor at any tier) of the Department of
Defense; and
(ii) while so employed, was--
(I) physically present in the
Republic of Vietnam during the period
beginning January 9, 1962, and ending
on May 7, 1975; or
(II) in or near the Korean
demilitarized zone during the period
beginning September 1, 1967, and ending
on August 31, 1971;
(B) contracted an Agent Orange illness; and
(C) suffered injury or death by reason of that
illness.
(2) Agent orange illness.--The term ``Agent Orange
illness'' means an illness listed by the National Institute of
Medicine as having at least a limited or suggestive association
with 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), 1,4,5-
trichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4,5-T), 4-amino-3,5,6-
trichloropicolinic acid (picloram), and cacodylic acid
(dimenthylarsenic acid, DMA), and 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-
dioxin (TCDD, or dioxin).
SEC. 3. COMPENSATION PROGRAM.
(a) In General.--There is hereby established a program to be known
as the ``Agent Orange Illness Compensation Program'' (in this Act
referred to as the ``compensation program''), to be carried out by the
Attorney General.
(b) Purpose.--The purpose of the compensation program is to provide
for timely, uniform, and adequate compensation of exposed employees
and, where applicable, survivors of such employees, suffering from
Agent Orange illnesses incurred by such employees.
SEC. 4. COMPENSATION FUND.
(a) Establishment.--There is hereby established on the books of the
Treasury a fund to be known as the ``Agent Orange Illness Compensation
Fund'' (in this Act referred to as the ``compensation fund'').
(b) Amounts.--The compensation fund shall consist of the following
amounts:
(1) Amounts appropriated to the compensation fund pursuant
to an authorization of appropriations.
(2) Amounts transferred to the compensation fund.
(c) Financing.--Upon the exhaustion of amounts in the compensation
fund, the Secretary of the Treasury shall transfer directly to the
compensation fund from the General Fund of the Treasury, without
further appropriation, such amounts as are further necessary to carry
out the compensation program.
(d) Use.--Subject to subsection (e) of this section, amounts in the
compensation fund shall be used to carry out the compensation program.
(e) Administrative Costs Not Paid From Fund.--No cost incurred in
carrying out the compensation program, or in administering the
compensation fund, shall be paid from the compensation fund.
(f) Monetary Allowance Not To Be Considered as Income or Resources
for Certain Purposes.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a
monetary allowance paid an individual under this Act shall not be
considered as income or resources in determining eligibility for, or
the amount of benefits under any Federal or federally assisted program.
(g) Investment.--Amounts in the compensation fund shall be invested
in accordance with section 9702 of title 31, and any interest on, and
proceeds from, any such investment shall be credited to and become a
part of the compensation fund.
(h) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is hereby authorized to
be appropriated $100,000,000 to the compensation fund.
SEC. 5. COMPENSATION TO BE PROVIDED.
(a) In General.--An exposed employee, or the eligible survivor of
that employee if the employee is deceased, shall receive compensation
for the injury, illness, or death of that employee from that employee's
Agent Orange illness in an amount determined under subsection (b).
(b) Amount.--For each exposed employee, the Attorney General shall
provide compensation in the amount of $100,000.
(c) Payments in the Case of Deceased Persons.--
(1) Survivors eligible.--In the case of an exposed employee
who is deceased at the time of payment of compensation under
this section, whether or not the death is the result of the
employee's Agent Orange illness, such payment may be made only
as follows:
(A) If the employee is survived by a spouse who is
living at the time of payment, such payment shall be
made to such surviving spouse.
(B) If there is no surviving spouse described in
subparagraph (A), such payment shall be made in equal
shares to all children of the employee who--
(i) had not yet attained the age of 18 when
the employee died or was permanently or totally
disabled before the age of 18; and
(ii) are living at the time of payment.
(2) Claims.--If an employee eligible for payment dies
before filing a claim under this Act, a survivor of that
employee who may receive payment under paragraph (1) may file a
claim for such payment.
(3) Definitions.--For purposes of this subsection--
(A) the ``spouse'' of an individual is a wife or
husband of that individual who was married to that
individual for at least one year immediately before the
death of that individual; and
(B) a ``child'' includes a recognized natural
child, a stepchild who lived with an individual in a
regular parent-child relationship, and an adopted
child.
(d) Children With Spina Bifida.--In any case in which a child of an
exposed employee is born with spina bifida by reason of that employee's
exposure to Agent Orange, that child shall directly receive
compensation in an amount determined under subsection (b).
SEC. 6. CLAIMS PROCESSING.
(a) In General.--Subject to subsections (b), (c), and (d), the
Attorney General shall specify standards and criteria for filing
applications and for processing, determining, and paying claims.
(b) Deadline.--A claim not filed within 20 years after the date of
the enactment of this Act is void.
(c) Written Medical Documentation.--Payment may not be made on a
claim except on written medical evidence that the Attorney General, in
consultation with the Surgeon General, determines to be adequate.
(d) Review.--Unless otherwise specified by the Attorney General,
any determination on a claim under this Act is not subject to
administrative or judicial review.
SEC. 7. IMPLEMENTATION.
The Attorney General shall prescribe regulations to implement this
Act.
SEC. 8. OFFSET FOR CERTAIN OTHER PAYMENTS.
A payment of compensation to an individual, or to a survivor of
that individual, under this Act shall be offset by the amount of any
payment made pursuant to a final award or settlement on a claim,
against any person, that is based on the same illness, injury, or death
of that individual on account of exposure to Agent Orange herbicides. | Civilian Agent Orange Act of 2007 - Establishes the: (1) Agent Orange Illness Compensation Program to provide compensation for federal employees or employees of contractors of the Department of Defense (DOD) who contracted an Agent Orange illness while employed during the Vietnam conflict and suffered injury or death by reason of that illness; and (2) Agent Orange Illness Compensation Fund to make such payments. Fixes the compensation amount at $100,000, payable either to the employee or his or her eligible survivor. Offsets such payment by any payment made on a claim based on the same illness, injury, or death on account of exposure to Agent Orange herbicides. | billsum_train |
Give a brief overview of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Peer-Support Specialist Act of
2016''.
SEC. 2. REPORT ON BEST PRACTICES FOR PEER-SUPPORT SPECIALIST PROGRAMS,
TRAINING, AND CERTIFICATION.
(a) In General.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment
of this Act, the Secretary of Health and Human Services shall submit to
the Congress and make publicly available a report on best practices and
professional standards in States for--
(1) establishing and operating health care programs using
peer-support specialists; and
(2) training and certifying peer-support specialists.
(b) Peer-Support Specialist Defined.--In this subsection, the term
``peer-support specialist'' means an individual who--
(1)(A) uses his or her lived experience of recovery from
mental illness or a substance use disorder, plus skills learned
in formal training, to facilitate support groups, and to work
on a one-on-one basis, with individuals with a serious mental
illness or a substance use disorder;
(B) has benefitted or is benefitting from mental health or
substance use treatment services or supports;
(C) provides non-medical services; and
(D) performs services only within his or her area of
training, expertise, competence, or scope of practice;
(2)(A) uses his or her lived experience as the parent or
caregiver of an individual with mental illness or a substance
use disorder, plus skills learned in formal training, to
facilitate support groups, and to work on a one-on-one basis,
with individuals with a serious mental illness or a substance
use disorder;
(B) provides non-medical services; and
(C) performs services only within his or her area of
training, expertise, competence, or scope of practice; or
(3) otherwise meets criteria specified by the Secretary of
Health and Human Services for defining a peer-support
specialist.
(c) Contents.--The report under this subsection shall include
information on best practices and standards with regard to the
following:
(1) Hours of formal work or volunteer experience related to
mental health and substance use issues.
(2) Types of peer-support specialists used by different
health care programs.
(3) Types of peer specialist exams required.
(4) Code of ethics.
(5) Additional training required prior to certification,
including in areas such as--
(A) ethics;
(B) scope of practice;
(C) crisis intervention;
(D) State confidentiality laws;
(E) Federal privacy protections, including under
the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act
of 1996; and
(F) other areas as determined by the Secretary of
Health and Human Services.
(6) Requirements to explain what, where, when, and how to
accurately complete all required documentation activities.
(7) Required or recommended skill sets, such as knowledge
of--
(A) risk indicators, including individual
stressors, triggers, and indicators of escalating
symptoms;
(B) basic de-escalation techniques;
(C) basic suicide prevention concepts and
techniques;
(D) identifying and responding to trauma;
(E) stages of change or recovery;
(F) the typical process that should be followed to
access or participate in community mental health and
related services;
(G) effectively working in care teams and
facilitating the coordination of services; and
(H) supporting individuals in meeting the
consumer's recovery goals.
(8) Requirements for continuing education.
SEC. 3. PEER PROFESSIONAL WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT GRANT PROGRAM.
(a) In General.--For the purposes described in subsection (b), the
Secretary of Health and Human Services shall award grants to develop
and sustain behavioral health paraprofessional training and education
programs, including through tuition support.
(b) Purposes.--The purposes of grants under this section are--
(1) to increase the number of behavioral health
paraprofessionals, including trained peers, recovery coaches,
mental health and addiction specialists, prevention
specialists, and pre-masters-level addiction counselors; and
(2) to help communities develop the infrastructure to train
and certify peers as behavioral health paraprofessionals,
including necessary internship hours for credentialing.
(c) Eligible Entities.--To be eligible to receive a grant under
this section, an entity shall be a community college, training or
credentialing program, or other entity the Secretary of Health and
Human Services deems appropriate.
(d) Geographic Distribution.--In awarding grants under this
section, the Secretary of Health and Human Services shall seek to
achieve an appropriate national balance in the geographic distribution
of such awards.
(e) Special Consideration.--In awarding grants under this section,
the Secretary of Health and Human Services may give special
consideration to proposed and existing programs targeting peer
professionals serving youth ages 16 to 25.
(f) Authorization of Appropriations.--To carry out this section,
there is authorized to be appropriated $10,000,000 for each of fiscal
years 2017 through 2021. | Peer-Support Specialist Act of 2016 This bill requires the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to report on and publish best practices and professional standards in states for: (1) establishing and operating health care programs using peer-support specialists, and (2) training and certifying peer-support specialists. HHS must award grants to develop and sustain behavioral health paraprofessional training and education programs, including through tuition support. | billsum_train |
Provide a condensed version of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Stop Corporate Expatriation and
Invest in America's Infrastructure Act of 2014''.
SEC. 2. MODIFICATIONS TO RULES RELATING TO INVERTED CORPORATIONS.
(a) In General.--Subsection (b) of section 7874 of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986 is amended to read as follows:
``(b) Inverted Corporations Treated as Domestic Corporations.--
``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding section 7701(a)(4), a
foreign corporation shall be treated for purposes of this title
as a domestic corporation if--
``(A) such corporation would be a surrogate foreign
corporation if subsection (a)(2) were applied by
substituting `80 percent' for `60 percent', or
``(B) such corporation is an inverted domestic
corporation.
``(2) Inverted domestic corporation.--For purposes of this
subsection, a foreign corporation shall be treated as an
inverted domestic corporation if, pursuant to a plan (or a
series of related transactions)--
``(A) the entity completes after May 8, 2014, the
direct or indirect acquisition of--
``(i) substantially all of the properties
held directly or indirectly by a domestic
corporation, or
``(ii) substantially all of the assets of,
or substantially all of the properties
constituting a trade or business of, a domestic
partnership, and
``(B) after the acquisition, either--
``(i) more than 50 percent of the stock (by
vote or value) of the entity is held--
``(I) in the case of an acquisition
with respect to a domestic corporation,
by former shareholders of the domestic
corporation by reason of holding stock
in the domestic corporation, or
``(II) in the case of an
acquisition with respect to a domestic
partnership, by former partners of the
domestic partnership by reason of
holding a capital or profits interest
in the domestic partnership, or
``(ii) the management and control of the
expanded affiliated group which includes the
entity occurs, directly or indirectly,
primarily within the United States, and such
expanded affiliated group has significant
domestic business activities.
``(3) Exception for corporations with substantial business
activities in foreign country of organization.--A foreign
corporation described in paragraph (2) shall not be treated as
an inverted domestic corporation if after the acquisition the
expanded affiliated group which includes the entity has
substantial business activities in the foreign country in which
or under the law of which the entity is created or organized
when compared to the total business activities of such expanded
affiliated group. For purposes of subsection (a)(2)(B)(iii) and
the preceding sentence, the term `substantial business
activities' shall have the meaning given such term under
regulations in effect on May 8, 2014, except that the Secretary
may issue regulations increasing the threshold percent in any
of the tests under such regulations for determining if business
activities constitute substantial business activities for
purposes of this paragraph.
``(4) Management and control.--For purposes of paragraph
(2)(B)(ii)--
``(A) In general.--The Secretary shall prescribe
regulations for purposes of determining cases in which
the management and control of an expanded affiliated
group is to be treated as occurring, directly or
indirectly, primarily within the United States. The
regulations prescribed under the preceding sentence
shall apply to periods after May 8, 2014.
``(B) Executive officers and senior management.--
Such regulations shall provide that the management and
control of an expanded affiliated group shall be
treated as occurring, directly or indirectly, primarily
within the United States if substantially all of the
executive officers and senior management of the
expanded affiliated group who exercise day-to-day
responsibility for making decisions involving
strategic, financial, and operational policies of the
expanded affiliated group are based or primarily
located within the United States. Individuals who in
fact exercise such day-to-day responsibilities shall be
treated as executive officers and senior management
regardless of their title.
``(5) Significant domestic business activities.--For
purposes of paragraph (2)(B)(ii), an expanded affiliated group
has significant domestic business activities if at least 25
percent of--
``(A) the employees of the group are based in the
United States,
``(B) the employee compensation incurred by the
group is incurred with respect to employees based in
the United States,
``(C) the assets of the group are located in the
United States, or
``(D) the income of the group is derived in the
United States,
determined in the same manner as such determinations are made
for purposes of determining substantial business activities
under regulations referred to in paragraph (3) as in effect on
May 8, 2014, but applied by treating all references in such
regulations to `foreign country' and `relevant foreign country'
as references to `the United States'. The Secretary may issue
regulations decreasing the threshold percent in any of the
tests under such regulations for determining if business
activities constitute significant domestic business activities
for purposes of this paragraph.''.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Clause (i) of section 7874(a)(2)(B) of such Code is
amended by striking ``after March 4, 2003,'' and inserting
``after March 4, 2003, and before May 9, 2014,''.
(2) Subsection (c) of section 7874 of such Code is
amended--
(A) in paragraph (2)--
(i) by striking ``subsection
(a)(2)(B)(ii)'' and inserting ``subsections
(a)(2)(B)(ii) and (b)(2)(B)(i)'', and
(ii) by inserting ``or (b)(2)(A)'' after
``(a)(2)(B)(i)'' in subparagraph (B),
(B) in paragraph (3), by inserting ``or
(b)(2)(B)(i), as the case may be,'' after
``(a)(2)(B)(ii)'',
(C) in paragraph (5), by striking ``subsection
(a)(2)(B)(ii)'' and inserting ``subsections
(a)(2)(B)(ii) and (b)(2)(B)(i)'', and
(D) in paragraph (6), by inserting ``or inverted
domestic corporation, as the case may be,'' after
``surrogate foreign corporation''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years ending after May 8, 2014.
SEC. 3. TRANSFERS TO HIGHWAY TRUST FUND.
(a) In General.--Section 9503(f) of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986 is amended by redesignating paragraph (5) as paragraph (6) and by
inserting after paragraph (4) the following new paragraph:
``(5) Additional appropriations to trust fund.--Out of
money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, there is
hereby appropriated--
``(A) $15,566,000,000 to the Highway Account (as
defined in subsection (e)(5)(B)) in the Highway Trust
Fund, and
``(B) $3,891,000,000 to the Mass Transit Account in
the Highway Trust Fund.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall take
effect on the date of the enactment of this Act. | Stop Corporate Expatriation and Invest in America's Infrastructure Act of 2014 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise rules for the taxation of inverted corporations (i.e., U.S. corporations that acquire foreign companies to reincorporate in a foreign jurisdiction with income tax rates lower than the United States) to provide that a foreign corporation that acquires the properties of a U.S. corporation or partnership after May 8, 2014, shall be treated as an inverted corporation and thus subject to U.S. taxation if, after such acquisition: (1) it holds more than 50% of the stock of the new entity (expanded affiliated group), or (2) the management or control of the new entity occurs primarily within the United States and the new entity has significant domestic business activities. Authorizes additional appropriations to the Highway Account and Mass Transit Account in the Highway Trust Fund. | billsum_train |
Give a brief overview of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Residential Windstorm Insurance Plan
Act of 1996''.
SEC. 2. CONGRESSIONAL FINDINGS.
Congress finds that--
(1) since the devastation of Hurricane Hugo on September
17, 1989, insurance against windstorm damage has been difficult
to obtain at reasonable premium rates for many residents of the
United States;
(2) an unusual number of other catastrophic events, such as
Hurricane Andrew in Florida, Hurricane Iniki in Hawaii, the
Northridge earthquake, and more recently, Hurricanes Bertha and
Fran in Gulf and Atlantic Coast States, Puerto Rico, and the
Virgin Islands, have nearly collapsed the worldwide reinsurance
market, seriously limiting the ability of local insurance
companies to meet existing demands for continued coverage, much
less expand their capacity for additional coverage;
(3) major hurricanes and earthquakes pose substantial long-
term consequences for the country;
(4) the National Hurricane Center reports that 60 percent
of the United States population live in coastal States or
regions subject to natural disasters, such as hurricanes and
earthquakes;
(5) private sector insurance protection against property
damages caused by the peril of wind is generally excluded under
standard homeowners insurance policies sold in 7 States along
the Gulf and Atlantic Coast States, the Virgin Islands, and
Puerto Rico, and property and casualty insurers are withdrawing
underwriting capacity from the market by refusing to issue new
policies or renew existing policies, or by increasing premiums
to unaffordable levels; and
(6) new and innovative programs are required to provide a
limited program of property insurance protection from
windstorm.
SEC. 3. RESIDENTIAL WINDSTORM INSURANCE PROGRAM.
(a) In General.--The Director of the Federal Emergency Management
Agency (hereinafter in this Act referred to as the ``Director'') shall
study the advisability and feasibility of establishing a Residential
Windstorm Insurance Program designed to provide windstorm insurance to
residential property owners unable to obtain coverage in the private
market.
(b) Purpose of Program.--The Residential Windstorm Insurance
Program shall--
(1) amend the ``Write Your Own'' Program under the National
Flood Insurance Program to explicitly provide insurance
protection against the windstorm peril;
(2) allow residents in wind-exposed localities across
America and United States territories to purchase federally
subsidized insurance to supplement standard homeowners
insurance policies sold by private insurers;
(3) provide windstorm insurance protection only to
residents in communities that have adopted and enforced the
land use and flood plain management provisions of the National
Flood Insurance Program;
(4) encourage the private insurance industry to sell,
service, and adjust Federal windstorm insurance claims under
their own corporate name under a nonrisk bearing arrangement
with the Federal Insurance Administration; and
(5) outline requirements under which the private sector,
including insurance companies, banks, and other financial
sector firms, could become involved in the Residential
Windstorm Insurance Program.
(c) Contents.--The Residential Windstorm Insurance Program required
under subsection (a) shall be designed--
(1) to supplement Federal disaster relief and emergency
assistance provided pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster
Relief and Emergency Assistance Act and other laws for damage
and loss caused by hurricanes;
(2) to make affordable insurance coverage available to
protect against losses resulting from physical damage to, or
loss of, residential structures arising from the wind peril;
(3) to provide such insurance coverage for residential
structures through a program that provides--
(A) insurance coverage for wind damage caused by
hurricanes, but not for water damage arising from any
such wind peril;
(B) insurance coverage at premium rates affordable
to homeowners in areas at risk for such wind damage;
(C) appropriate building and structural
requirements and other wind damage mitigation measures;
and
(D) schedules of the amount of coverage available
for various residential structures;
(4) to provide incentives for private property and casualty
insurers to reenter markets from which they have previously
withdrawn; and
(5) to provide incentives for other private financial
sector companies to enter the market for hazard insurance.
(d) Considerations.--The Residential Windstorm Insurance Program
required under subsection (a) shall--
(1) provide for participation of the private insurance
industry in carrying out the program;
(2) define--
(A) the areas in which such coverage is made
available by establishing requirements for the
eligibility or participation of communities; and
(B) the types of residential properties for which
such coverage is made available;
(3) establish premium rates for coverage that are
actuarially based on the risk of wind-caused damage or
subsidized premium rates that are less than such actuarially
based rates; and
(4) provide community-based mitigation and other
initiatives for participation in the Program.
(e) Consultation.--In developing the program required under
subsection (a), the Director shall consult with--
(1) the heads of any Federal agencies authorized to provide
disaster relief;
(2) the chief executive officers of the States and
territories of the United States, that suffered significant
losses caused by windstorms occurring after the beginning of
1989; and
(3) insurance and reinsurance companies, insurance trade
associations, consumer advocacy groups, and taxpayer groups in
developing actuarial rates and underwriting guidelines used to
cover damages to property caused by the hurricane peril.
(f) Completion of Study.--Not later than the last day of the 180-
day period beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act, the
Director shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure and the Committee on Banking and Financial Services of
the House of Representatives and to the Committee on Environment and
Public Works and the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs
of the Senate a study containing--
(1) the written plan required under subsection (a);
(2) a statement of the amount of disaster assistance
provided pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and
Emergency Assistance Act and other Acts during each of fiscal
years 1989 through 1996 for property damage caused by winds
from hurricanes, tornadoes, and other windstorms to residential
properties, business properties, agricultural properties,
properties owned by private nonprofit organizations, and public
infrastructure facilities and properties owned by State and
local governments;
(3) an estimate of the cost to the Federal Government of
carrying out the Residential Windstorm Insurance Program under
the plan, by making coverage available only for residential
structures;
(4) an estimate of the cost to the Federal Government of
carrying out the Residential Windstorm Insurance Program under
the plan, by making coverage available for residential
structures and for public infrastructure and properties owned
by State and local governments, other residential properties,
business properties, agricultural properties, and properties
owned by private nonprofit organizations;
(5) an estimate of the effects that implementing the
national windstorm insurance program would have on the amount
of disaster assistance provided by the Federal Government;
(6) an estimate of the effects that implementing the
national windstorm insurance program would have on the private
insurance industry and the availability of residential and
other property insurance and insurance against windstorm
damage;
(7) a description of any amendments to the Robert T.
Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act and other
laws relating to disaster assistance that would be necessary or
appropriate in the event of the implementation of the
Residential Windstorm Insurance Program; and
(8) any other information that the Director considers
appropriate.
SEC. 4. EARTHQUAKE INSURANCE STUDY.
(a) In General.--The Director shall enter into an arrangement with
the National Academy of Sciences to conduct a study on the advisability
and feasibility of establishing a Federal earthquake insurance program
modeled after the ``Write Your Own'' Program under the National Flood
Insurance Program.
(b) National Academy of Sciences.--The study described in
subsection (c) shall be performed by a panel of recognized experts
appointed by the National Academy of Sciences. The experts shall
include representatives of building contractors, real estate interests,
consumer advocacy groups, taxpayer groups, lending institutions,
private insurers and reinsurers, the model building code organizations,
local government zoning and land use planning bodies, and other experts
deemed relevant by the National Academy of Sciences.
(c) Completion of Study.--The results of the study described in
subsection (c), with any recommendations, shall be transmitted by the
National Academy of Sciences to the Director and Congress not later
than 18 months after the date of the enactment of this Act.
SEC. 5. STUDY ON TAX TREATMENT OF CATASTROPHIC RESERVES.
(a) Joint Study.--The Comptroller General of the United States, the
Secretary of the Treasury, and the Secretary of Commerce shall conduct
a joint study to evaluate the public policy issues associated with
conferring favorable Federal tax treatment to multiyear insurance
reserves set aside by private insurers for future catastrophic natural
disasters.
(b) Factors To Be Studied.--The study described in subsection (a)
shall evaluate the likelihood and magnitude of the following public
policy objectives:
(1) The increased financial capacity of private insurers to
respond to future natural disasters.
(2) The enhanced financial ability of private insurers to
continue providing property coverages following catastrophic
natural disasters.
(3) The overall benefit to the competitiveness of United
States business and private insurers in the worldwide economy.
(4) The short- and long-term revenue impact on the United
States Treasury.
(c) Limitations.--The study of the favorable tax treatment of
catastrophic reserves shall be limited as follows:
(1) The study will not be limited to private insurer
reserve funds but will also assess the ability of the Federal
and State governments to build such reserves.
(2) Any tax exemption given to catastrophic reserves will
be done in a very limited and restricted manner in order to
protect reserves against being used for other than catastrophe
costs.
(3) A portion of the buildup from the tax-exempt reserves
will be used to fund statewide mitigation efforts.
(d) Consultation.--The Comptroller General, the Secretary of the
Treasury, and the Secretary of Commerce shall consult with recognized
experts in preparing the study described in subsection (a). The experts
shall include representatives from State insurance departments, private
insurers, insurance agents, economists, natural disaster risk modeling
experts, insurance consumer advocacy groups, and other experts deemed
relevant.
(e) Report to Congress.--The results of the study described in
subsection (a), including any recommendations, shall be transmitted to
Congress not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this
Act. | Residential Windstorm Insurance Plan Act of 1996 - Instructs the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to study the advisability and feasibility of establishing a Residential Windstorm Insurance Program designed to provide windstorm insurance to residential property owners unable to obtain coverage in the private market. Delineates Program contents and considerations.
Requires the Director to: (1) submit to specified congressional committees study conclusions and estimated Program costs; and (2) enter into an arrangement with the National Academy of Sciences to conduct a feasibility study regarding the establishment of a Federal earthquake insurance program modeled after the "Write Your Own" Program under the National Flood Insurance Program.
Directs the Comptroller General, the Secretary of the Treasury, and the Secretary of Commerce to report to the Congress the results of a joint study evaluating the public policy issues associated with conferring favorable Federal tax treatment to multiyear insurance reserves set aside by private insurers for future catastrophic natural disasters. | billsum_train |
Provide a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. ESTABLISHMENT OF RESERVATION.
Section 1 of the Act entitled ``An Act to establish a reservation
for the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde Community of Oregon, and
for other purposes,'' approved September 9, 1988 (Public Law 100-425;
102 Stat. 1594; 102 Stat. 2939; 104 Stat. 207; 106 Stat. 3255; 108
Stat. 708; 108 Stat. 4566; 112 Stat. 1896), is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) by striking ``Subject to valid'' and inserting
the following:
``(1) In general.--Subject to valid''; and
(B) by adding after paragraph (1) (as designated by
subparagraph (A)) the following:
``(2) Additional trust acquisitions.--
``(A) In general.--The Secretary may accept title
to any additional number of acres of real property
located within the boundaries of the original 1857
reservation of the Confederated Tribes of the Grand
Ronde Community of Oregon established by Executive
Order dated June 30, 1857, comprised of land within the
political boundaries of Polk and Yamhill Counties,
Oregon, if that real property is conveyed or otherwise
transferred to the United States by or on behalf of the
Tribe.
``(B) Treatment of trust land.--
``(i) All applications to take land into
trust within the boundaries of the original
1857 reservation shall be treated by the
Secretary as an on-reservation trust
acquisition.
``(ii) Any real property taken into trust
under this paragraph shall not be eligible, or
used, for any Class II or Class III gaming
activity carried out pursuant to the Indian
Gaming Regulatory Act (25 U.S.C. 2701 et seq.),
except for real property within 2 miles of the
gaming facility in existence on the date of
enactment of this Act that is located on State
Highway 18 in the Grand Ronde community of
Oregon.
``(C) Reservation.--All real property taken into
trust within those boundaries at any time after
September 9, 1988, shall be part of the reservation of
the Tribe.''; and
(2) in subsection (c)--
(A) in the matter preceding the table, by striking
``in subsection (a) are approximately 10,311.60'' and
inserting ``in subsection (a)(1) are approximately
11,349.92''; and
(B) in the table--
(i) by striking the following:
``6 7 8 Tax lot 800 5.55'';
and inserting the following:
``6 7 7, 8, Former tax lot 800, located 5.55'';
17, 18 within the SE \1/4\ SE \1/
4\ of Section 7; SW \1/4\
SW \1/4\ of Section 8; NW
\1/4\ NW \1/4\ of Section
17; and NE \1/4\ NE \1/4\
of Section 18
(ii) in the acres column of the last item
added by section 2(a)(1) of Public Law 103-445
(108 Stat. 4566), by striking ``240'' and
inserting ``241.06''; and
(iii) by striking all text after
``6 7 18 E \1/2\ NE \1/4\ 43.42'';
and inserting the following:
``6 8 1 W \1/2\ SE \1/4\ SE 20.6
\1/4\
6 8 1 N \1/2\ SW \1/4\ SE 19.99
\1/4\
6 8 1 SE \1/4\ NE \1/4\ 9.99
6 8 1 NE \1/4\ SW \1/4\ 10.46
6 8 1 NE \1/4\ SW \1/4\, 12.99
NW \1/4\ SW \1/4\
6 7 6 SW \1/4\ NW \1/4\ 37.39
6 7 5 SE \1/4\ SW \1/4\ 24.87
6 7 5, 8 SW \1/4\ SE \1/4\ of 109.9
Section 5; and NE
\1/4\ NE \1/4\, NW
\1/4\ NE \1/4\, NE
\1/4\ NW \1/4\ of
Section 8
6 8 1 NW \1/4\ SE \1/4\ 31.32
6 8 1 NE \1/4\ SW \1/4\ 8.89
6 8 1 SW \1/4\ NE \1/4\, 78.4
NW \1/4\ NE \1/4\
6 7 8, 17 SW \1/4\ SW \1/4\ of 14.33
Section 8; and NE
\1/4\ NW \1/4\, NW
\1/4\ NW \1/4\ of
Section 17
6 7 17 NW\1/4\ NW \1/4\ 6.68
6 8 12 SW \1/4\ NE\1/4\ 8.19
6 8 1 SE \1/4\ SW \1/4\ 2.0
6 8 1 SW \1/4\ SW \1/4\ 5.05
6 8 12 SE \1/4\, SW \1/4\ 54.64
6 7 17, 18 SW \1/4\, NW \1/4\ 136.83
of Section 17; and
SE \1/4\, NE \1/4\
of Section 18
6 8 1 SW \1/4\ SE \1/4\ 20.08
6 7 5 NE \1/4\ SE \1/4\, 97.38
SE \1/4\ SE \1/4\,
E \1/2\ SE \1/4\ SW
\1/4\
4 7 31 SE \1/4\ 159.60
6 7 17 NW \1/4\ NW \1/4\ 3.14
6 8 12 NW \1/4\ SE \1/4\ 1.10
6 7 8 SW \1/4\ SW \1/4\ 0.92
6 8 12 NE \1/4\ NW \1/4\ 1.99
6 7 7 NW \1/4\ NW \1/4\ of
Section 7; and
6 8 12 S \1/2\ NE \1/4\, E 86.48
\1/2\ NE \1/4\ NE
\1/4\ of Section 12
6 8 12 NE \1/4\ NW \1/4\ 1.56
6 7 6 W \1/2\ SW \1/4\ SW
\1/4\ of Section 6;
and
6 8 1 E \1/2\ SE \1/4\ SE 35.82
\1/4\ of Section 1
6 7 5 E \1/2\ NW \1/4\ SE 19.88
\1/4\
6 8 12 NW \1/4\ NE \1/4\ 0.29
6 8 1 SE \1/4\ SW \1/4\ 2.5
6 7 8 NE \1/4\ NW \1/4\ 7.16
6 8 1 SE \1/4\ SW \1/4\ 5.5
6 8 1 SE \1/4\ NW \1/4\ 1.34
......... Total 11,349.92''.
Passed the House of Representatives January 13, 2014.
Attest:
KAREN L. HAAS,
Clerk. | Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to accept title to any additional number of acres of real property located within the boundaries of the original 1857 reservation of the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde Community of Oregon (comprising land within the political boundaries of Polk and Yamhill Counties, Oregon), if such real property is conveyed or otherwise transferred to the United States by or on behalf of the Tribe. States that: (1) the Secretary shall treat all applications to take land into trust within the boundaries of the original 1857 reservation as an on-reservation trust acquisition; (2) the real property taken into trust is not to be eligible, or used, for Class II or III gaming, except for real property within two miles of a specified gaming facility; and (3) all real property taken into trust within those boundaries after September 9, 1988, shall be part of the Tribe's reservation. | billsum_train |
Condense the following text into a summary: SECTION 1. INCREASED PERSONNEL FOR INVESTIGATING AND COMBATING ALIEN
SMUGGLING.
The Attorney General in each of the fiscal years 2002, 2003, 2004,
2005, and 2006 shall increase the number of positions for full-time,
active duty investigators or other enforcement personnel within the
Immigration and Naturalization Service who are assigned to combating
alien smuggling by not less than 50 positions above the number of such
positions for which funds were allotted for the preceding fiscal year.
SEC. 2. INCREASING CRIMINAL SENTENCES AND FINES FOR ALIEN SMUGGLING.
(a) In General.--Subject to subsection (b), pursuant to its
authority under section 994(p) of title 28, United States Code, the
United States Sentencing Commission shall promulgate sentencing
guidelines or amend existing sentencing guidelines for smuggling,
transporting, harboring, or inducing aliens under sections 274(a)(1)(A)
of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1324(a)(1)(A)) so as
to--
(1) double the minimum term of imprisonment under that
section for offenses involving the smuggling, transporting,
harboring, or inducing of--
(A) 1 to 5 aliens from 10 months to 20 months;
(B) 6 to 24 aliens from 18 months to 36 months;
(C) 25 to 100 aliens from 27 months to 54 months;
and
(D) 101 aliens or more from 37 months to 74 months;
(2) increase the minimum level of fines for each of the
offenses described in subparagraphs (A) through (D) of
paragraph (1) to the greater of the current minimum level or
twice the amount the defendant received or expected to receive
as compensation for the illegal activity; and
(3) increase by at least two offense levels above the
applicable enhancement in effect on the date of the enactment
of this Act the sentencing enhancements for intentionally or
recklessly creating a substantial risk of serious bodily injury
or causing bodily injury, serious injury, permanent or life
threatening injury, or death.
(b) Exceptions.--Subsection (a) shall not apply to an offense
that--
(1) was committed other than for profit; or
(2) involved the smuggling, transporting, or harboring only
of the defendant's spouse or child (or both the defendant's
spouse and child).
SEC. 3. ELIMINATION OF PENALTY ON PERSONS RENDERING EMERGENCY
ASSISTANCE.
(a) In General.--Section 274(a)(1) of the Immigration and
Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1324(a)(1)) is amended by adding at the end
the following:
``(C) In no case may any penalty for a violation of subparagraph
(A) be imposed on any person based on actions taken by the person to
render emergency assistance to an alien found physically present in the
United States in life threatening circumstances.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by subsection (a) shall
take effect 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and
shall apply to offenses committed after the termination of such 90-day
period.
SEC. 4. AMENDMENTS TO SENTENCING GUIDELINES REGARDING THE EFFECT OF
PROSECUTORIAL POLICIES.
In the exercise of its authority under section 994 of title 28,
United States Code, the United States Sentencing Commission shall amend
the Federal sentencing guidelines to include the following:
``Sec. 5H1.14. Plea bargaining and other prosecutorial policies
``Plea bargaining and other prosecutorial policies, and differences
in those policies among different districts, are not a ground for
imposing a sentence outside the applicable guidelines range.''.
SEC. 5. ENHANCED PENALTIES FOR PERSONS COMMITTING OFFENSES WHILE ARMED.
(a) In General.--Section 924(c)(1) of title 18, United States Code,
is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (A)--
(A) by inserting after ``device)'' the following:
``or any violation of section 274(a)(1)(A) of the
Immigration and Nationality Act''; and
(B) by striking ``or drug trafficking crime--'' and
inserting ``, drug trafficking crime, or violation of
section 274(a)(1)(A) of the Immigration and Nationality
Act--''; and
(2) in subparagraph (D)(ii), by striking ``or drug
trafficking crime'' and inserting ``, drug trafficking crime,
or violation of section 274(a)(1)(A) of the Immigration and
Nationality Act''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendments made by subsection (a) shall
take effect 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and
shall apply to offenses committed after the termination of such 90-day
period.
SEC. 6. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
(a) In General.--In addition to funds otherwise available for such
purpose, there are authorized to be appropriated to the Immigration and
Naturalization Service of the Department of Justice such sums as may be
necessary to carry out section 1 and to cover the operating expenses of
the Service and the Department in conducting undercover investigations
of alien smuggling activities and in prosecuting violations of section
274(a)(1)(A) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (relating to alien
smuggling), resulting from the increase in personnel under section 1.
(b) Availability of Funds.--Amounts appropriated pursuant to
subsection (a) are authorized to remain available until expended.
SEC. 7. ALIEN SMUGGLING DEFINED.
In sections 1 and 6, the term ``alien smuggling'' means any act
prohibited by paragraph (1) or (2) of section 274(a) of the Immigration
and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1324(a)). | Directs the Attorney General to increase by 50 for each of FY 2002 through 2006 the number of Immigration and Naturalization Service (full-time) investigators or other enforcement personnel assigned to combat alien smuggling.Directs the United States Sentencing Commission to promulgate or amend sentencing guidelines for alien smuggling-related activities so as to: (1) double specified minimum prison terms for smuggling, transporting, harboring, or inducement; (2) increase minimum fines; and (3) increase by at least two offense levels sentencing for intentionally or recklessly creating a substantial risk of serious bodily injury or causing bodily injury or death. Exempts from such provisions offenses: (1) committed other than for profit; or (2) involving the smuggling, transporting, or harboring only of the defendant's spouse, child, or both.Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to: (1) exempt from specified alien smuggling or harboring criminal penalties persons rendering life threatening emergency assistance to an alien in the United States; and (2) subject specified alien smuggling and harboring crimes under the Act committed by an armed person to enhanced penalties.Directs the Commission to revise Federal sentencing guidelines to provide that plea bargaining and other prosecutorial policies, and district policy differences, are not a ground for sentence imposition outside applicable guidelines.Authorizes appropriations for alien smuggling-related undercover and enforcement activities. | billsum_train |
Provide a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``21st Century WPA Act''.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Administration.--The term ``Administration'' means the
Works Progress Administration established under section 3.
(2) Eligible departments.--The term ``eligible
Departments'' means the Department of Health and Human
Services, the Department of Energy, the Department of
Agriculture, the Department of the Interior, the Department of
Housing and Urban Development, the Department of
Transportation, the Department of Commerce, the Department of
Education, the Department of Homeland Security, and the
Environmental Protection Agency.
(3) Eligible individual.--The term ``eligible individual''
means an individual who has been unemployed for at least the
60-day period prior to--
(A) in the case of employment under a work project
approved by the Administration under section 4, the
commencement of such project;
(B) in the case of a fellowship under section 5,
the commencement of such fellowship; and
(C) in the case of a grant under section 6, the
hiring of such individual under the grant.
(4) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of Labor.
SEC. 3. ESTABLISHMENT OF WORKS PROGRESS ADMINISTRATION.
(a) Establishment.--There is established within the Department of
Labor a Works Progress Administration to be headed by the Secretary.
(b) Purpose.--The purpose of the Administration is to--
(1) receive works project proposals submitted by Federal
departments and agencies under section 4(a)(1); and
(2) select works projects proposals that meet the criteria
under section 4(a)(2), as being eligible for assistance under
this Act.
SEC. 4. WPA PROJECTS.
(a) Project Proposals.--
(1) Submission.--Not later than 30 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, and subsequently at such times as the
Administration shall request, the Secretary of Health and Human
Services, the Secretary of Energy, the Secretary of
Agriculture, the Secretary of Interior, the Secretary of
Housing and Urban Development, the Secretary of Transportation,
the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of Education, the
Secretary of Homeland Security, and the Administrator of the
Environmental Protection Agency shall submit to the
Administration proposals for works projects within the
jurisdiction of each such Secretary or Administrator that
satisfy the criteria described in paragraph (2).
(2) Criteria.--The criteria described in this paragraph are
the following with respect to the work project involved:
(A) The project would produce a high number of
employee hours per dollar of the total project cost.
(B) Individuals with the required skills necessary
to carry out the project can be readily recruited and
employed from among the eligible individuals described
in section 2(3).
(C) The project would provide a continuing
contribution to economic growth after the project is
completed.
(D) The project could be staffed by employees with
minimal delay.
(3) Types of projects.--Works projects under this
subsection may include--
(A) residential and commercial building
weatherization projects;
(B) residential and commercial water use efficiency
improvement projects;
(C) highway, bridge, and rail repair and
maintenance projects;
(D) manufacturing projects;
(E) school, library, and firehouse construction
projects;
(F) soil erosion and pesticide runoff prevention
projects;
(G) trail maintenance projects; and
(H) other projects that are proposed by the
eligible departments and determined appropriate by the
Administration.
(b) Requirements.--Project proposals submitted to the
Administration under subsection (a)(1) shall include--
(1) a description of the project and a full schedule of
estimated costs;
(2) an estimate of the number of employment hours required
to complete the project;
(3) a hiring timetable relating to the employment of
various staffing levels under the project;
(4) an estimated project completion date; and
(5) such other information as the eligible department
determines appropriate.
(c) Selection of Proposals.--The Administration shall approve those
proposals submitted under subsection (a)(1) that meet the criteria
under subsection (a)(2) and provide funding for such project from
amounts appropriated under section 8.
(d) Project Administration.--An eligible department that has
submitted a works project proposal under subsection (a)(1) shall have
primary responsibility for the administration and completion of the
project.
(e) Contracting.--An eligible department shall be a party to any
contract that governs a works project that is approved and funded in
any manner under this Act.
SEC. 5. WPA FELLOWSHIPS.
(a) In General.--An eligible employer that is unable to hire an
individual to fill an employment position that has been vacant for at
least 90 days shall be eligible to enter into an agreement under this
section with the Administration to provide training to a WPA fellow
with respect to such position so that such fellow may become qualified
to be employed by the employer to fill such position.
(b) Eligible Employer.--To be eligible to enter into an agreement
under subsection (a), an employer shall submit an application to the
Administration at such time, in such manner, and containing such
information as the Secretary may require, including--
(1) a description of the employment position for which the
employer is seeking a WPA fellow; and
(2) a certification that the employer has been unable to
fill such position during at least the 90-day period prior to
the date of the application.
(c) Fellows.--An eligible individual may submit an application to
the Administration to participate in the WPA fellowship program. Such
application shall include such information as the Secretary shall
require. The Administration shall maintain a list of eligible
individuals who have submitted applications under this subsection,
along with a description of the skills of each such individual.
(d) Terms of Fellowship.--
(1) Detailing to employer.--An eligible individual who is
selected to participate in the WPA fellowship program under
this section shall be an employee of the Administration who is
detailed by the Secretary to fill the employment position of an
eligible employer under this section.
(2) Training period.--A WPA fellow that is detailed to an
employer under paragraph (1) shall be provided with training by
such employer with respect to the employment position for a
period of not to exceed 12 months, except that the employer may
at any time during such 12-month period employ such fellow to
fill such employment position. At the conclusion of such 12-
month period, the employer shall employ such fellow or
terminate the services of the fellow.
SEC. 6. PUBLIC SAFETY HIRING GRANTS.
The Secretary may transfer amounts appropriated under section 8--
(1) to the Attorney General for use under the grant program
under section 1701 of title I of the Omnibus Crime Control and
Safe Streets Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 3796dd) for the hiring of
eligible individuals; and
(2) to the Federal Emergency Management Agency for use
under the Staffing For Adequate Fire & Emergency Response Grant
program under the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of
1974 (15 U.S.C. 2200 et seq.) for the hiring of eligible
individuals.
SEC. 7. REPORTING AND OVERSIGHT.
(a) In General.--Not later than 6 months after the date of
enactment of this Act, and biannually thereafter (on June 30 and
December 31 of each year), the Administration shall submit to Congress
a report that describes--
(1) the number of works project proposals submitted to the
Administration under section 4;
(2) the number of works projects approved by the
Administration during the reporting period;
(3) the number of works projects completed by the date of
the report; and
(4) with respect to each approved work project, a project
description that includes information about whether the project
is complete and such other information as the Administration
determines appropriate.
(b) Audits.--The Government Accountability Office shall conduct an
annual audit of--
(1) the performance and activities of the Administration;
(2) the performance and completion of work projects; and
(3) the performance of the eligible departments with
respect to such projects.
SEC. 8. APPROPRIATIONS.
Out of funds of the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, there is
appropriated to carry out this Act, $250,000,000,000 for the period of
fiscal years 2012 through 2013.
SEC. 9. SUNSET.
The authority of the Administration to provide assistance for works
projects under this Act shall terminate upon the date on which the
Secretary certifies that the national unemployment rate is below 6
percent.
SEC. 10. 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. 59B. Surcharge on high income individuals.
``SEC. 59B. 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
($2,000,000 in the case of any taxpayer making a joint return under
section 6013).
``(b) 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).
``(c) 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) 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.
``(d) Deficit Reduction.--Amounts collected under this section
shall be used to reduce the Federal deficit.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of parts for subchapter A of
chapter 1 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by adding at
the end the following new item:
``part viii. 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, 2011. | 21st Century WPA Act - Establishes within the Department of Labor a Works Progress Administration (WPA).
Requires eligible federal departments to submit to the WPA proposals for works projects that produce a high number of employee hours per dollar of the total project cost, and meet certain other criteria.
Permits such projects to include: (1) residential and commercial building weatherization projects; (2) residential and commercial water use efficiency improvement projects; (3) highway, bridge, and rail repair and maintenance projects; (4) manufacturing projects; (5) school, library, and firehouse construction projects; (6) soil erosion and pesticide runoff prevention projects; and (7) trail maintenance projects.
Makes an employer who is unable to hire an individual to fill a job position that has been vacant for 90 days eligible to enter into an agreement with the WPA to provide training to a WPA fellow in order to become qualified to fill such position. Prescribes WPA fellowship program requirements.
Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to transfer amounts appropriated under this Act to the Attorney General and to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for grants for the hiring of eligible public safety individuals.
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to impose a 5.4% surcharge on individual taxpayers whose modified adjusted gross income exceeds $1 million ($2 million for joint returns). Dedicates amounts collected from such surcharge to federal deficit reduction. | billsum_train |
Create a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Administrator.--The term ``Administrator'' means the
Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency.
(2) Mid-level ethanol blend.--The term ``mid-level ethanol
blend'' means an ethanol-gasoline blend containing greater than
10 and up to and including 20 percent ethanol by volume that is
intended to be used in any conventional gasoline-powered
onroad, nonroad, or marine engine, or onroad or nonroad
vehicle.
SEC. 2. EVALUATION.
(a) In General.--The Administrator, acting through the Assistant
Administrator of the Office of Research and Development at the
Environmental Protection Agency, shall--
(1) not later than 45 days after the date of enactment of
this Act, enter into an agreement with the National Academy of
Sciences to provide, within 18 months after the date of
enactment of this Act, a comprehensive assessment of the
scientific and technical research on the implications of the
use of mid-level ethanol blends, comparing mid-level ethanol
blends to gasoline blends containing 10 percent or zero percent
ethanol; and
(2) not later than 30 days after receiving the results of
the assessment under paragraph (1), submit a report to the
Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Environment and Public
Works of the Senate on the findings of the assessment, together
with the agreement or disagreement of the Administrator with
each of its findings.
(b) Waivers.--Prior to the submission of the report under
subsection (a)(2), any waiver granted under section 211(f)(4) of the
Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7545(f)(4)) before the date of enactment of
this Act that allows the introduction into commerce of mid-level
ethanol blends for use in motor vehicles shall have no force or effect.
The Administrator shall grant no new waivers under such section
211(f)(4) until after the submission of the report described under
subsection (a)(2).
(c) Contents.--The assessment performed under subsection (a)(1)
shall include the following:
(1) An evaluation of the short-term and long-term
environmental, safety, durability, and performance effects of
the introduction of mid-level ethanol blends on onroad,
nonroad, and marine engines, onroad and nonroad vehicles, and
related equipment. Such evaluation shall consider the impacts
of qualifying mid-level ethanol blends or blends with higher
ethanol concentrations as a certification fuel, and shall
consider the effect mid-level ethanol blends have on carbon
emissions, taking into account carbon emissions from their
life-cycle production, as compared to gasoline blends
containing 10 percent or zero percent ethanol. Such evaluation
shall include a review of all available scientific evidence,
including all relevant government and industry data and
testing, including that relied upon by the Administrator and
published at 75 Fed. Reg. 68094 et seq. (November 4, 2010), 76
Fed. Reg. 4662 et seq. (January 26, 2011), and 76 Fed. Reg.
44406 et seq. (July 25, 2011), and identify gaps in
understanding and research needs related to--
(A) tailpipe emissions;
(B) evaporative emissions;
(C) engine and fuel system durability;
(D) onboard diagnostics;
(E) emissions inventory and other modeling effects;
(F) materials compatibility;
(G) operability and drivability;
(H) fuel efficiency;
(I) fuel economy;
(J) consumer education and satisfaction;
(K) cost-effectiveness for the consumer;
(L) catalyst durability; and
(M) durability of storage tanks, piping, and
dispensers for retail.
(2) An identification of areas of research, development,
and testing necessary to--
(A) ensure that existing motor fuel infrastructure
is not adversely impacted by mid-level ethanol blends,
including an examination of potential impacts of mid-
level ethanol blends on metal, plastic, rubber, or any
other materials used in pipes or storage tanks; and
(B) reduce the risk of misfueling by users at
various points in the distribution and supply chain,
including at bulk storage, retail storage, and
distribution configurations by--
(i) assessing the best methods and
practices to prevent misfueling;
(ii) examining misfueling mitigation
strategies for blender pumps, including
volumetric purchase requirements and labeling
requirements;
(iii) assessing the adequacy of misfueling
mitigation plans approved by the Environmental
Protection Agency; and
(iv) examining the technical standards and
recommendations of the National Institute of
Standards and Technology, the American National
Standards Institute, and the International
Organization for Standardization regarding fuel
pump labeling.
SEC. 3. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
In order to carry out this Act, the Administrator shall utilize up
to $900,000 from the funds made available for science and technology,
including research and development activities, at the Environmental
Protection Agency. | (Sec. 2) Requires the Assistant Administrator of the Office of Research and Development at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to: enter into an agreement with the National Academy of Sciences to make a comprehensive assessment of research on the implications of using mid-level ethanol blends, comparing mid-level ethanol blends to gasoline blends containing 10% and 0% ethanol; and report on assessment findings and whether the EPA Administrator agrees or disagrees with each of them. Defines a mid-level ethanol blend as an ethanol-gasoline blend containing greater than 10% and up to and including 20% ethanol by volume that is intended to be used in any conventional gasoline-powered onroad, nonroad, or marine engine, or onroad or nonroad vehicle. Nullifies waivers granted under the Clean Air Act before the enactment of this Act that allow the introduction into commerce of mid-level ethanol blends for use in motor vehicles, and prohibits the Administrator from granting any new waivers until after the report is submitted. Requires the assessment to include: (1) an evaluation of the environmental, safety, durability, and performance effects of the introduction of mid-level blends on onroad, nonroad, and marine engines, onroad and nonroad vehicles, and related equipment; and (2) an identification of areas of research, development, and testing necessary to ensure that existing motor fuel infrastructure is not adversely impacted by mid-level ethanol blends and to reduce the risk of misfueling by users at various points in the distribution and supply chain. Requires the evaluation to review all available scientific evidence and identify gaps in understanding and research needs related to tailpipe emissions, evaporative emissions, engine and fuel system durability, onboard diagnostics, emissions inventory and other modeling effects, materials compatibility, operability and drivability, fuel efficiency, fuel economy, consumer education and satisfaction, cost-effectiveness for the consumer, catalyst durability, and durability of storage tanks, piping, and dispensers for retail. (Sec. 3) Directs the Administrator to use certain funds made available to the EPA for science and technology, including research and development activities, to carry out this Act. | billsum_train |
Make a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Hunting Heritage Protection Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds that--
(1) hunting is an important and traditional recreational
activity in which 13,000,000 people in the United States 16
years of age and older participate;
(2) hunters have been and continue to be among the foremost
supporters of sound wildlife management and conservation
practices in the United States;
(3) persons who hunt and organizations relating to hunting
provide direct assistance to wildlife managers and enforcement
officers of the Federal Government and State and local
governments;
(4) purchases of hunting licenses, permits, and stamps and
excise taxes on goods used by hunters have generated billions
of dollars for wildlife conservation, research, and management;
(5) hunting is an essential component of effective wildlife
management by--
(A) reducing conflicts between people and wildlife;
(B) balancing wildlife populations with the natural
carrying capacity of the land; and
(C) providing incentives for the conservation of--
(i) wildlife; and
(ii) habitats and ecosystems on which
wildlife depend;
(6) each State has established at least 1 agency staffed by
professionally trained wildlife management personnel that has
legal authority to manage the wildlife in the State; and
(7) hunting is an environmentally beneficial activity that
occurs, and can be provided for, on Federal public land without
adverse effects on other uses of the land.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Agency head.--The term ``agency head'' means the head
of any Federal agency that has authority to manage a natural
resource or Federal public land.
(2) Federal public land.--
(A) In general.--The term ``Federal public land''
means any land or water that is--
(i) publicly accessible;
(ii) owned by the United States; and
(iii) managed by an executive agency for
purposes that include the conservation of
natural resources.
(B) Exclusion.--The term ``Federal public land''
does not include any land held in trust for the benefit
of an Indian tribe or member of an Indian tribe.
(3) Hunting.--The term ``hunting'' means the lawful
pursuit, trapping, shooting, capture, collection, or killing of
wildlife.
SEC. 4. HUNTING.
(a) In General.--Subject to existing rights, Federal public land
shall be open to access and use for hunting except as limited by--
(1) the agency head with jurisdiction over the Federal
public land--
(A) for reasons of national security;
(B) for reasons of public safety; or
(C) for any other reasons for limiting access
authorized by applicable Federal law; and
(2) any law of the State in which the Federal public land
is located that is applicable to hunting.
(b) Management.--Consistent with subsection (a), to the extent
authorized under State law, and in accordance with applicable Federal
law, each agency head shall manage Federal public land under the
jurisdiction of the agency head in a manner that supports, promotes,
and enhances access for hunting.
(c) No Net Loss.--
(1) In general.--Each agency head shall, to the maximum
extent practicable, ensure that Federal public land management
decisions and actions result in no net loss of land area
accessible for hunting on Federal public land.
(2) Annual report.--Not later than October 1 of each year,
each agency head with authority to manage Federal public land
on which hunting occurs shall submit to the Committee on
Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry and the Committee on
Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate and the Committee on
Agriculture and the Committee on Natural Resources of the House
of Representatives a report that describes--
(A)(i) any Federal public land administered by the
agency head in which access for hunting was limited at
any time during the year as compared to access
available during the previous year; and
(ii) the reason for the limitation; and
(B) areas administered by the agency head that were
opened to hunting to compensate for the limitations of
the areas described in subparagraph (A)(i).
(3) Closures of 5,000 or more acres.--The withdrawal,
change of classification, or change of management status that
effectively closes or limits access to 5,000 or more acres of
Federal public land for hunting shall take effect only if,
before the date of withdrawal or change, the agency head that
has jurisdiction over the Federal public land submits to the
Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry and the
Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate and the
Committee on Agriculture and the Committee on Natural Resources
of the House of Representatives written notice of the
withdrawal or change.
(d) Areas Not Affected.--Nothing in this Act compels the opening to
hunting of national parks or national monuments under the jurisdiction
of the Secretary of the Interior.
(e) No Priority.--Nothing in this Act requires a Federal agency to
give preference to hunting over other uses of Federal public land or
over land or water management priorities established by Federal law.
(f) Authority of the States.--
(1) Savings.--Nothing in this Act affects the authority,
jurisdiction, or responsibility of a State to manage, control,
or regulate fish and wildlife under State law on land or water
in the State, including Federal public land.
(2) Federal licenses.--Nothing in this Act authorizes an
agency head to require a license or permit to hunt, fish, or
trap on land or water in a State, including on Federal public
land in the State.
(3) State right of action.--
(A) In general.--Any State aggrieved by the failure
of an agency head or employee to comply with this Act
may bring a civil action in the United States District
Court for the district in which the failure occurs for
a permanent injunction.
(B) Preliminary injunction.--If the district court
determines, based on the facts, that a preliminary
injunction is appropriate, the district court may grant
a preliminary injunction.
(C) Court costs.--If the district court issues an
injunction under this paragraph or otherwise finds in
favor of the State, the district court shall award to
the State any reasonable costs of bringing the civil
action (including an attorney's fee). | Hunting Heritage Protection Act - Requires that federal public land be open to access and use for hunting except as limited by: (1) the federal agency with jurisdiction over the land for national security or public safety reasons or for other reasons authorized by applicable federal law for limiting access; and (2) any law of the state in which the land is located that is applicable to hunting.
Directs the head of each federal agency with authority to manage a natural resource or federal public land to exercise that authority in a manner so as to support, promote, and enhance access to hunting. Instructs the head of each federal agency to ensure that federal land management decisions and actions result in no net loss of land area accessible for hunting on federal public land. Requires the heads of federal agencies with authority to manage federal public land on which hunting occurs to report annually on areas administered in which access for hunting was limited and the reasons for the limitations and on areas that were opened to hunting to compensate for areas in which there were such limitations. Prohibits a withdrawal, change of classification, or change of management status that effectively closes or limits access to 5,000 or more acres of federal public land for hunting from occurring unless the head of the federal agency that has jurisdiction over the land has submitted written notice of the action to specified congressional committees. Grants states the right to file civil actions in district courts in cases where federal agencies fail to comply with state authority to manage or regulate fish and wildlife. | billsum_train |
Provide a condensed version of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Counterterrorism Border Security
Enhancement Act''.
SEC. 2. BORDER SECURITY ASSESSMENT.
(a) In General.--Not later than 90 days after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Homeland Security, in
consultation with the Secretary of State, shall--
(1) conduct a review and assessment examining how existing
border security and entry procedures could be improved and
strengthened as a response to--
(A) threats to the homeland emanating from the
Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (commonly known as
``ISIS''); and
(B) growing participation by United States and
European nationals as foreign fighters in Syria and
Iraq and in terrorist activity; and
(2) submit a report to Congress containing the results of
the assessment conducted pursuant to paragraph (1).
(b) Focus.--The assessment conducted pursuant to subsection (a)
shall consider the Visa Waiver Program requirements for travelers and
program countries, including--
(1) the information collected from aliens applying for
travel authorization through the Electronic System for Travel
Authorization and whether additional information, such as dual
nationality, travel history, all travel document data, proposed
travel plans, and co-traveler information, should be required;
(2) cooperation by program countries with current
information sharing efforts under paragraphs (2)(D), (2)(F),
and (9)(D) of section 217(c) of the Immigration and Nationality
Act (8 U.S.C. 1187(c)); and
(3) whether program countries shall be required to
establish programs for the collection of advance passenger
information to counter terrorist travel.
SEC. 3. VISA WAIVER PROGRAM.
(a) Electronic System for Travel Authorization.--
(1) Validity of travel eligibility.--Section
217(h)(3)(C)(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8
U.S.C. 1187(h)(3)(C)(i)) is amended to read as follows:
``(i) In general.--
``(I) Rulemaking.--Subject to
subclauses (II) through (IV), the
Secretary of Homeland Security, in
consultation with the Secretary of
State, shall prescribe regulations that
provide for a period, not to exceed 3
years, during which a determination of
initial eligibility to travel under the
program will be valid.
``(II) Application.--An alien may
submit an application through the
System without imminent travel plans,
at which time the alien will be charged
the fee established under subparagraph
(B).
``(III) Travel plans.--An alien may
not travel to the United States under
the program unless, before such
travel--
``(aa) the alien submits or
updates an application with the
alien's proposed travel plans;
and
``(bb) the Secretary of
Homeland Security approves
through the System.
``(IV) Revocation.--Notwithstanding
any other provision in this section,
the Secretary may revoke approval of
eligibility to travel at any time and
for any reason.''.
(2) Authority to amend information collected and
eligibility questions.--The Secretary of Homeland Security, in
consultation with the Secretary of State, is authorized to
amend regulations promulgated pursuant to section 217(h)(3) of
the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1187(h)(3)) to
ensure that each applicant is required--
(A) to provide biographical information and answer
eligibility questions relevant to current security
risks identified in the assessment conducted under
section 2; and
(B) to include information listed in subsection
(b)(1) of such section.
(b) Report on Cooperation.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 30 days after the date of
the enactment of this Act, and every 6 months thereafter, the
Secretary of Homeland Security and the Secretary of State shall
jointly submit a report to Congress that--
(A) details each Visa Waiver Program country's
cooperation with information sharing efforts described
in paragraphs (2)(F) and (9)(D) of section 217(c) of
the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1187(c));
and
(B) identifies all the countries that are not fully
cooperating with the efforts referred to in
subparagraph (A).
(2) Effect of noncooperation.--
(A) In general.--Not later than 30 days after a
country designated as a Visa Waiver Program country
under section 217(c) of the Immigration and Nationality
Act (8 U.S.C. 1187(c)) is identified as not fully
cooperating under paragraph (1), the Secretary of
Homeland Security--
(i) shall terminate such designation; and
(ii) may no longer approve any applications
submitted by nationals of such country under
the Electronic System for Travel Authorization.
(B) Reinstatement.--Not sooner than 90 days after
the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation
with the Secretary of State, determines that a country
described in subparagraph (A) is fully cooperating, the
Secretary of Homeland Security may redesignate such
country as a Visa Waiver Program country.
(c) Security Risk Updates.--Section 217(c)(5)(A)(i) of the
Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1187(c)(5)(A)(i)) is amended
by striking the matter preceding subclause (I) and inserting the
following:
``(i) In general.--Not later than 60 days
after the date of the enactment of the
Counterterrorism Border Security Enhancement
Act, and semiannually thereafter, the Secretary
of Homeland Security, in consultation with the
Secretary of State--''.
SEC. 4. VISA APPLICATION PROCESS.
The Secretary of State shall submit a plan to Congress for training
consular officers on visa interviewing techniques that--
(1) emphasizes counterterrorism efforts; and
(2) includes any budgetary implications of implementing the
plan.
SEC. 5. UNITED STATES CITIZENS ENGAGED IN TERRORIST ACTIVITIES.
(a) In General.--Not later than 60 days after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Homeland Security, the
Secretary of State, and the Attorney General shall jointly submit to
Congress a plan for--
(1) increasing, upon arrival at any United States port of
entry, the scrutiny of private United States citizens who have
recently traveled to Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, or
Libya; and
(2) enhancing the capabilities and authorities of the
Department of Justice and other Federal agencies to
investigate, arrest, charge, and prosecute United States
citizens who are suspected of engaging in terrorist acts or
involvement with a terrorist organization, including proposals
for legislative action that would enhance such capabilities and
authorities.
(b) Revocation of Passports.--The Act entitled ``An Act To regulate
the issue and validity of passports, and for other purposes'', approved
July 3, 1926 (44 Stat. 887; 22 U.S.C. 211a et seq.), is amended by
adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 5. The Secretary of State may revoke and confiscate any
passport issued to a United States citizen who--
``(1) is suspected of engaging in terrorist activities (as
defined in section 212(a)(3)(B)(iv) of the Immigration and
Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1182(a)(3)(B)(iv))) outside of the
United States; or
``(2) has demonstrated an intent to engage in the
activities referred to in paragraph (1).''.
(c) Definition of Treason.--Section 2381 of title 18, United States
Code, is amended by inserting ``(including terrorist organizations, as
defined in section 212(a)(3)(B)(vi) of the Immigration and Nationality
Act (8 U.S.C. 1182(a)(3)(B)(vi)))'' after ``enemies''. | Counterterrorism Border Security Enhancement Act - Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) to conduct an assessment (which shall consider the visa waiver program requirements for travelers and program countries) and report to Congress regarding: (1) needed border security and entry procedures improvements in response to homeland threats from the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS), and (2) growing participation by U.S. and European nationals as foreign fighters in Syria and Iraq and in terrorist activity. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act regarding the visa waiver program to: (1) expand pre-travel clearance procedures, and (2) increase information-sharing requirements, including suspension of countries not fully cooperating with such requirements. Directs the Secretary of State to submit a plan to Congress for training consular officers on visa interviewing techniques that emphasizes counterterrorism efforts. Directs the Secretary of DHS, the Secretary of State, and the Attorney General (DOJ) to submit to Congress a plan for: (1) increasing the scrutiny of U.S. citizens who have recently traveled to Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, or Libya; and (2) enhancing DOJ and other federal agency capabilities to investigate, arrest, and prosecute U.S. citizens suspected of engaging in terrorist acts or involvement with a terrorist organization. Authorizes the Secretary of State to revoke and confiscate any passport issued to a U.S. citizen who is suspected of, or who has demonstrated an intent to engage in, terrorist activities. Amends the federal criminal code to include adherence to terrorist organizations within the definition of "treason." | billsum_train |
Give a brief overview of the following text: SECTION 1. RECOGNITION AND GRANT OF FEDERAL CHARTER.
The American GI Forum of the United States, a nonprofit corporation
organized under the laws of the State of New Mexico, is recognized as
such and granted a Federal charter.
SEC. 2. POWERS.
The American GI Forum of the United States (in this Act referred to
as the ``corporation'') shall have only those powers granted to it
through its bylaws and articles of incorporation filed in the State of
New Mexico and subject to the laws of the State of New Mexico.
SEC. 3. PURPOSES.
The purposes of the corporation are those provided in its bylaws
and articles of incorporation and shall include the following:
(1) To secure the blessing of American democracy at every
level of local, State, and national life for all United States
citizens.
(2) To uphold and defend the Constitution and the United
States flag.
(3) To foster and perpetuate the principles of American
democracy based on religious and political freedom for the
individual and equal opportunity for all.
(4) To foster and enlarge equal educational opportunities,
equal economic opportunities, equal justice under the law, and
equal political opportunities for all United States citizens,
regardless of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
(5) To encourage greater participation of the ethnic
minority represented by the corporation in the policy-making
and administrative activities of all departments, agencies, and
other governmental units of local and State governments and the
Federal Government.
(6) To combat all practices of a prejudicial or
discriminatory nature in local, State, or national life which
curtail, hinder, or deny to any United States citizen an equal
opportunity to develop full potential as an individual.
(7) To foster and promote the broader knowledge and
appreciation by all United States citizens of their cultural
heritage and language.
SEC. 4. SERVICE OF PROCESS.
With respect to service of process, the corporation shall comply
with the laws of the State of New Mexico and those States in which it
carries on its activities in furtherance of its corporate purposes.
SEC. 5. MEMBERSHIP.
Except as provided in section 8(g), eligibility for membership in
the corporation and the rights and privileges of members shall be as
provided in the bylaws and articles of incorporation of the
corporation.
SEC. 6. BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
Except as provided in section 8(g), the composition of the board of
directors of the corporation and the responsibilities of the board
shall be as provided in the bylaws and articles of incorporation of the
corporation and in conformity with the laws of the State of New Mexico.
SEC. 7. OFFICERS.
Except as provided in section 8(g), the positions of officers of
the corporation and the election of members to such positions shall be
as provided in the bylaws and articles of incorporation of the
corporation and in conformity with the laws of the State of New Mexico.
SEC. 8. RESTRICTIONS.
(a) Income and Compensation.--No part of the income or assets of
the corporation may inure to the benefit of any member, officer, or
director of the corporation or be distributed to any such individual
during the life of this charter. Nothing in this subsection may be
construed to prevent the payment of reasonable compensation to the
officers and employees of the corporation or reimbursement for actual
and necessary expenses in amounts approved by the board of directors.
(b) Loans.--The corporation may not make any loan to any member,
officer, director, or employee of the corporation.
(c) Issuance of Stock and Payment of Dividends.--The corporation
may not issue any shares of stock or declare or pay any dividends.
(d) Disclaimer of Congressional or Federal Approval.--The
corporation may not claim the approval of Congress or the authorization
of the Federal Government for any of its activities by virtue of this
Act.
(e) Corporate Status.--The corporation shall maintain its status as
a corporation organized and incorporated under the laws of the State of
New Mexico.
(f) Corporate Function.--The corporation shall function as an
educational, patriotic, civic, historical, and research organization
under the laws of the State of New Mexico.
(g) Nondiscrimination.--In establishing the conditions of
membership in the corporation and in determining the requirements for
serving on the board of directors or as an officer of the corporation,
the corporation may not discriminate on the basis of race, color,
religion, sex, disability, age, or national origin.
SEC. 9. LIABILITY.
The corporation shall be liable for the acts of its officers,
directors, employees, and agents whenever such individuals act within
the scope of their authority.
SEC. 10. MAINTENANCE AND INSPECTION OF BOOKS AND RECORDS.
(a) Books and Records of Account.--The corporation shall keep
correct and complete books and records of account and minutes of any
proceeding of the corporation involving any of its members, the board
of directors, or any committee having authority under the board of
directors.
(b) Names and Addresses of Members.--The corporation shall keep at
its principal office a record of the names and addresses of all members
having the right to vote in any proceeding of the corporation.
(c) Right To Inspect Books and Records.--All books and records of
the corporation may be inspected by any member having the right to vote
in any proceeding of the corporation, or by any agent or attorney of
such member, for any proper purpose at any reasonable time.
(d) Application of State Law.--This section may not be construed to
contravene any applicable State law.
SEC. 11. AUDIT OF FINANCIAL TRANSACTIONS.
The first section of the Act entitled ``An Act to provide for audit
of accounts of private corporations established under Federal law'',
approved August 30, 1964 (36 U.S.C. 1101), is amended by adding at the
end the following:
``(80) American GI Forum of the United States.''.
SEC. 12. ANNUAL REPORT.
The corporation shall annually submit to Congress a report
concerning the activities of the corporation during the preceding
fiscal year. The annual report shall be submitted on the same date as
the report of the audit required by reason of the amendment made in
section 11. The annual report shall not be printed as a public
document.
SEC. 13. RESERVATION OF RIGHT TO ALTER, AMEND, OR REPEAL CHARTER.
The right to alter, amend, or repeal this Act is expressly reserved
to Congress.
SEC. 14. TAX-EXEMPT STATUS REQUIRED AS CONDITION OF CHARTER.
If the corporation fails to maintain its status as a corporation
exempt from taxation as provided in the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
the charter granted in this Act shall terminate.
SEC. 15. TERMINATION.
The charter granted in this Act shall expire if the corporation
fails to comply with any of the provisions of this Act.
SEC. 16. DEFINITION OF STATE.
For purposes of this Act, the term ``State'' includes the District
of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Commonwealth of the
Northern Mariana Islands, and the territories and possessions of the
United States. | Grants a Federal charter to the American GI Forum of the United States (a nonprofit organization organized under the laws of New Mexico). | billsum_train |
Change the following text into a summary: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Nuclear Threat Reduction Act of
2002''.
SEC. 2. STATEMENT OF POLICY; FINDINGS.
(a) Statement of Policy.--It is the policy of the United States to
work cooperatively with the Russian Federation to prevent the diversion
of weapons of mass destruction and material (including nuclear,
biological, and chemical weapons) and scientific and technical
expertise necessary to design and build weapons of mass destruction.
(b) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
(1) It is in the national security interest of the United
States to reduce the number of nuclear warheads in the United
States and Russian arsenals, to reduce the quantity of nuclear
weapons materials in the United States and Russia, and to
expand existing programs to prevent diversion and proliferation
of Russian nuclear weapons and fissile materials.
(2) The President should have at his disposal the ability
to successfully implement cooperative threat reduction programs
that prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.
(3) As part of the effort to prevent the proliferation of
weapons of mass destruction, the United States should work with
the Russian Federation to create a comprehensive inventory and
data exchange of all United States and Russian nuclear weapons-
grade material.
(4) There should be a clear plan for the implementation of
the reductions in nuclear arsenals agreed upon by President
Bush and President Putin.
(5) The United States should continue to observe the
currently maintained moratorium on nuclear tests. If the
President determines that it is in the interest of the United
States to resume testing, then he should inform Congress 12
months prior to the resumption of testing, giving Congress an
opportunity to express itself on this most important issue.
TITLE I--COOPERATIVE THREAT REDUCTION WAIVER AUTHORITY
SEC. 101. COOPERATIVE THREAT REDUCTION WAIVER AUTHORITY.
Section 1203 of the Cooperative Threat Reduction Act of 1993 (22
U.S.C. 5952) is amended by adding at the end the following new
subsection:
``(e) Waiver.--The restrictions in subsection (d) and section 502
of the Freedom Support Act (P.L. 102-511) shall not apply if the
President certifies in writing to the Speaker of the House of
Representatives and the President pro tempore of the Senate that
waiving such restrictions is important to the national security
interests of the United States.''.
TITLE II--DATA EXCHANGE WITH RUSSIA RELATING TO WEAPONS OF MASS
DESTRUCTION
SEC. 201. STATEMENT OF POLICY.
(a) Inventories and Data Exchanges.--It is the policy of the United
States to establish cooperatively with Russia--
(1) comprehensive inventories of the weapons-grade nuclear
materials, tritium, and assembled warheads of the United States
and of Russia; and
(2) exchanges between the United States and Russia of
information as to the quantities of such materials, tritium,
and warheads in such inventories.
(b) Priority.--In carrying out the policy set forth in subsection
(a), priority shall be placed on establishing comprehensive inventories
of, and exchanges of information as to the quantities of, tactical
nuclear warheads.
SEC. 202. COMMUNICATION OF RESTRICTED DATA.
Subsection d. of section 144 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (42
U.S.C. 2164) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)--
(A) in subparagraph (A), by inserting ``,
tritium,'' after ``fissile material'';
(B) in subparagraph (B), by inserting ``, including
tactical weapons and warheads'' after ``atomic
weapons''; and
(C) in subparagraph (D), by inserting ``, including
data on tritium'' after ``related data''; and
(4) in paragraph (2)--
(A) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``and'' at the
end;
(B) by redesignating subparagraph (B) as
subparagraph (C); and
(C) by inserting after subparagraph (A) the
following new subparagraph:
``(B) is part of a reciprocal exchange of information;
and''.
SEC. 203. ANNUAL REPORT.
(a) Report Required.--Not later than six months after the date of
the enactment of this Act and annually thereafter the President shall
submit to Congress a report describing the progress that has been made
on the implementation of section 201.
(b) Form of Report.--Each report under subsection (a) shall be
submitted in both an unclassified and classified format as necessary.
(c) Termination.--The requirement under subsection (a) shall
terminate when the comprehensive inventory (as specified in section
201(a)(1)) is completed and information is exchanged between the United
States and Russian governments (as specified in section 201(a)(2)).
TITLE III--EXPANDED NON-PROLIFERATION FUNDING
SEC. 301. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
To carry out cooperative threat reduction and related programs in
fiscal year 2003, there is authorized to be appropriated:
(1) For the Department of Defense, $600,000,000, of which
$180,000,000 is authorized for chemical weapons destruction
activities in the Russian Federation, including the
construction of facilities at Shchuch'ye.
(2) For the Department of Energy, $1,400,000,000 of which--
(A) with respect to defense nuclear
nonproliferation--
(i) $340,000,000 is authorized for
nonproliferation verification and research and
development;
(ii) $295,000,000 is authorized for
international nuclear materials disposition;
(iii) $60,000,000 is authorized for Russian
transition initiatives; and
(iv) $25,000,000 is authorized for
international nuclear safety; and
(B) $520,000,000 is authorized for weapons
activities, campaigns, and high energy density physics,
of which $50,000,000 may be used for experimental
support technologies.
(3) For the Department of State, $300,000,000.
TITLE IV--MATTERS RELATING TO THE NUCLEAR POSTURE REVIEW
SEC. 401. SUPPORT OF PRESIDENT'S OBJECTIVE FOR OPERATIONALLY DEPLOYED
NUCLEAR WARHEADS.
Congress supports the President's objective, as stated in the
Nuclear Posture Review dated January 2002, for achieving, as of fiscal
year 2012, a posture under which the United States maintains a number
of operationally deployed nuclear warheads at a level of from 1,700 to
2,200 such warheads.
SEC. 402. ANNUAL REPORT ON NUMBER AND POSTURE OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS.
Not later than October 1 of each year, the Secretary of Energy
shall submit to Congress a report on the number and posture of the
nuclear warheads of the United States. The report shall specify the
number of such warheads--
(1) operationally deployed;
(2) in the responsive force;
(3) in the reserve force, including the number of active
weapons and the number of inactive weapons; and
(4) scheduled to be dismantled.
SEC. 403. REPORT ON OPTIONS FOR ACHIEVING, PRIOR TO FISCAL YEAR 2012,
PRESIDENT'S OBJECTIVE FOR OPERATIONALLY DEPLOYED NUCLEAR
WARHEADS.
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act,
the Secretary of Energy shall submit to Congress a report on options
for achieving, prior to fiscal year 2012, a posture under which the
United States maintains a number of operationally deployed nuclear
warheads at a level of from 1,700 to 2,200 such warheads. The report
shall include the following:
(1) For each of fiscal years 2006, 2008, and 2010, an
assessment of the options for achieving such posture as of such
fiscal year.
(2) An assessment of the effects of achieving such posture
prior to fiscal year 2012 on cost, compliance with
environmental law, the dismantlement workforce, relations with
Russia, and any other affected matter.
TITLE V--NUCLEAR TESTING
SEC. 501. MORATORIUM ON UNDERGROUND TESTING OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS.
(a) Extension of Moratorium.--The moratorium on underground testing
of nuclear weapons maintained by the United States shall continue to be
maintained through fiscal year 2003.
(b) Notification.--Not less than 12 months before the United States
conducts an underground test of a nuclear weapon, the President shall
submit to Congress a report on the test to be conducted. The report
shall include each of the following:
(1) The date on which the President intends such test to be
conducted.
(2) The President's certification that the national
security of the United States requires that such test be
conducted, and an explanation of the reasons why the national
security so requires.
(3) An assessment of the expected reactions of other
nations to the test.
(c) Report on Test Readiness.--Not later than March 1, 2003, the
Secretary of Energy shall submit to Congress a report on the options
for reducing the amount of time required to conduct an underground test
of a nuclear weapon after a decision to conduct such a test is made.
The report shall include the following:
(1) The findings of the study carried out by the Department
of Energy in fiscal year 2002 that examined such options.
(2) The assessment of the Secretary as to whether reducing
such amount of time to less than 24 to 36 months is feasible.
(3) The technical challenges and requirements associated
with reducing such amount of time to less than 24 to 36 months.
(4) The cost, during the period from fiscal year 2003 to
2012, associated with reducing such amount of time to less than
24 to 36 months. | Nuclear Threat Reduction Act of 2002 - States that it is U.S. policy to work cooperatively with the Russian Federation to prevent the diversion of weapons of mass destruction and material and scientific and technical expertise necessary to design and build such weapons.Amends the Cooperative Threat Reduction Act of 1993 to waive restrictions on certain assistance to the independent states of the former Soviet Union if the President certifies to Congress that such waiver is in the U.S. national security interests.States that it is U.S. policy to establish with the Russian Federation inventories of, and data exchanges concerning, nuclear warheads and certain nuclear materials. Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to allow the reciprocal exchange of such restricted data.Authorizes appropriations for FY 2003 to carry out cooperative threat reduction and related programs with the Russian Federation.Supports the President's objective for the United States, by FY 2012, to maintain between 1,700 to 2,200 operationally deployed nuclear warheads.Extends through FY 2003 the U.S. moratorium on underground testing of nuclear weapons. Requires the President to notify Congress 12 months prior to conducting any such test.Requires reports on: (1) progress made in establishing the U.S.-Russian nuclear inventories and data exchanges; (2) the number and posture of U.S. nuclear warheads; (3) options for achieving the FY 2012 level of U.S. operationally deployed nuclear warheads; and (4) options on reducing the time required to conduct an underground nuclear test. | billsum_train |
Provide a condensed version of the following text: SECTION 1. FINDINGS.
Congress makes the following findings:
(1) On January 19, 1942, 6 weeks after the December 7,
1941, attack on Pearl Harbor by the Japanese Navy, the United
States Army discharged all Japanese-Americans in the Reserve
Officers Training Corps and changed their draft status to
``4C''--the status of ``enemy alien'' which is ineligible for
the draft.
(2) On January 23, 1942, Japanese-Americans in the military
on the mainland were segregated out of their units.
(3) Further, on May 3, 1942, General John L. DeWitt issued
Civilian Exclusion Order No. 346, ordering all people of
Japanese ancestry, whether citizens or noncitizens, to report
to assembly centers, where they would live until being moved to
permanent relocation centers.
(4) On June 5, 1942, 1,432 predominantly Nisei (second
generation Americans of Japanese ancestry) members of the
Hawaii Provisional Infantry Battalion were shipped from the
Hawaiian Islands to Oakland, CA, where the 100th Infantry
Battalion was activated on June 12, 1942, and then shipped to
train at Camp McCoy, Wisconsin.
(5) The excellent training record of the 100th Infantry
Battalion and petitions from prominent civilian and military
personnel helped convince President Roosevelt and the War
Department to re-open military service to Nisei volunteers who
were incorporated into the 442nd Regimental Combat Team after
it was activated in February of 1943.
(6) In that same month, the 100th Infantry Battalion was
transferred to Camp Shelby, Mississippi, where it continued to
train and even though the battalion was ready to deploy shortly
thereafter, the battalion was refused by General Eisenhower,
due to concerns over the loyalty and patriotism of the Nisei.
(7) The 442nd Regimental Combat Team later trained with the
100th Infantry Battalion at Camp Shelby in May of 1943.
(8) Eventually, the 100th Infantry Battalion was deployed
to the Mediterranean and entered combat in Italy on September
26, 1943.
(9) Due to their bravery and valor, members of the
Battalion were honored with 6 awards of the Distinguished
Service Cross in the first 8 weeks of combat.
(10) The 100th Battalion fought at Cassino, Italy in
January, 1944, and later accompanied the 34th Infantry Division
to Anzio, Italy.
(11) The 442nd Regimental Combat Team arrived in
Civitavecchia, Italy on June 7, 1944, and on June 15 of the
following week, the 100th Infantry Battalion was formally made
an integral part of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, and
fought for the last 11 months of the war with distinction in
Italy, southern France, and Germany.
(12) The battalion was awarded the Presidential Unit
Citation for its actions in battle on June 26-27, 1944.
(13) The 442nd Regimental became the most decorated unit in
United States military history for its size and length of
service.
(14) The 100th Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat
Team, received 7 Presidential Unit Citations, 21 Medals of
Honor, 29 Distinguished Service Crosses, 560 Silver Stars,
4,000 Bronze Stars, 22 Legion of Merit Medals, 15 Soldier's
Medals, and over 4,000 Purple Hearts, among numerous additional
distinctions.
(15) The United States remains forever indebted to the
bravery, valor, and dedication to country these men faced while
fighting a 2-fronted battle of discrimination at home and
fascism abroad.
(16) Their commitment and sacrifice demonstrates a highly
uncommon and commendable sense of patriotism and honor.
SEC. 2. CONGRESSIONAL GOLD MEDAL.
(a) Award Authorized.--The Speaker of the House of Representatives
and the President pro tempore of the Senate shall make appropriate
arrangements for the award, on behalf of the Congress, of a single gold
medal of appropriate design to the 100th Infantry Battalion and the
442nd Regimental Combat Team, United States Army, collectively, in
recognition of their dedicated service during World War II.
(b) Design and Striking.--For the purposes of the award referred to
in subsection (a), the Secretary of the Treasury (hereafter in this Act
referred to as the ``Secretary'') shall strike the gold medal with
suitable emblems, devices, and inscriptions, to be determined by the
Secretary.
(c) Smithsonian Institution.--
(1) In general.--Following the award of the gold medal in
honor of the 100th Infantry Battalion and the 442nd Regimental
Combat Team, United States Army, under subsection (a), the gold
medal shall be given to the Smithsonian Institution, where it
will be displayed as appropriate and made available for
research.
(2) Sense.--It is the sense of the Congress that the
Smithsonian Institution should make the gold medal received
under paragraph (1) available for display elsewhere,
particularly at other appropriate locations associated with the
100th Infantry Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team,
United States Army.
SEC. 3. DUPLICATE MEDALS.
Under such regulations as the Secretary may prescribe, the
Secretary may strike and sell duplicates in bronze of the gold medal
struck under section 2, at a price sufficient to cover the costs of the
medals, including labor, materials, dies, use of machinery, and
overhead expenses.
SEC. 4. NATIONAL MEDALS.
Medals struck pursuant to this Act are national medals for purposes
of chapter 51 of title 31, United States Code.
SEC. 5. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS; PROCEEDS OF SALE.
(a) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be
charged against the United States Mint Public Enterprise Fund, an
amount not to exceed $30,000 to pay for the cost of the medal
authorized under section 2.
(b) Proceeds of Sale.--Amounts received from the sale of duplicate
bronze medals under section 3 shall be deposited in the United States
Mint Public Enterprise Fund.
Passed the House of Representatives May 14, 2009.
Attest:
LORRAINE C. MILLER,
Clerk. | Requires the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President pro tempore of the Senate to make arrangements for the award of a congressional gold medal to the Army's 100th Infantry Battalion and 442nd Regimental Combat Team, collectively, in recognition of their dedicated service during World War II.
Requires the Medal to be displayed at the Smithsonian Institution (Smithsonian) after its award. Expresses the sense of Congress that the Smithsonian should make the medal available for display elsewhere, particularly at locations associated with such Battalion and Combat Team.
Authorizes appropriations. | billsum_train |
Create a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Forward Looking
Investment in General Aviation, Hangars, and Tarmacs Act of 2017'' or
the ``FLIGHT Act of 2017''.
(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is as
follows:
Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
Sec. 2. General aviation airport entitlement reform.
Sec. 3. Extending aviation development streamlining.
Sec. 4. Establishment of public private-partnership program at general
aviation airports.
Sec. 5. Disaster relief airports.
Sec. 6. Airport development relating to disaster relief.
Sec. 7. Inclusion of covered aircraft construction in definition of
aeronautical activity for purposes of
airport improvement grants.
SEC. 2. GENERAL AVIATION AIRPORT ENTITLEMENT REFORM.
(a) Apportionment.--Section 47114(d)(3) of title 49, United States
Code, is amended--
(1) by redesignating subparagraphs (A) and (B) as
subparagraphs (B) and (C), respectively; and
(2) by inserting before subparagraph (B), as redesignated
by paragraph (1), the following:
``(A) Not less than 4 percent to airports
designated as disaster relief airports under section
47145 to enhance the ability of such airports to aid in
disaster relief, including through funding for airport
development described in section 47102(3)(P).''.
(b) Period of Availability.--Section 47117(b) of such title is
amended by striking ``3'' and inserting ``4''.
(c) United States Share of Project Costs.--Section 47109 of such
title is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(g) General Aviation Airports.--The Government's share of
allowable project costs may be increased by the Administrator of the
Federal Aviation Administration to 95 percent for a project--
``(1) at an airport that is not a primary airport if the
Administrator determines that the project will increase safety
or security at that airport; or
``(2) at an airport that is categorized as a basic or
unclassified airport in the report of the Federal Aviation
Administration entitled `General Aviation Airports: A National
Asset' and dated May 2012.''.
(d) Use of Apportioned Amounts.--Section 47117(e)(1) of such title
is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(D) All amounts subject to apportionment for a fiscal
year that are not apportioned under section 47114(d), for
grants to sponsors of general aviation airports, reliever
airports, or nonprimary commercial service airports.''.
SEC. 3. EXTENDING AVIATION DEVELOPMENT STREAMLINING.
(a) In General.--Section 47171 of title 49, United States Code, is
amended--
(1) in subsection (a), in the matter preceding paragraph
(1), by inserting ``general aviation airport construction or
improvement projects,'' after ``congested airports,'';
(2) in subsection (b)--
(A) by redesignating paragraph (2) as paragraph
(3); and
(B) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:
``(2) General aviation airport construction or improvement
project.--A general aviation airport construction or
improvement project shall be subject to the coordinated and
expedited environmental review process requirements set forth
in this section.'';
(3) in subsection (c)(1), by striking ``(b)(2)'' and
inserting ``(b)(3)'';
(4) in subsection (d), by striking ``(b)(2)'' and inserting
``(b)(3)'';
(5) in subsection (h), by striking ``(b)(2)'' and inserting
``(b)(3)''; and
(6) in subsection (k), by striking ``(b)(2)'' and inserting
``(b)(3)''.
(b) Definitions.--Section 47175 of such title is amended--
(1) by redesignating paragraphs (1), (2), (3), (4), and (5)
as paragraphs (2), (5), (1), (3), and (4), respectively, and by
rearranging such paragraphs so that they appear in numerical
order;
(2) by redesignating paragraph (7) as paragraph (8); and
(3) by inserting after paragraph (6) the following:
``(7) General aviation airport construction or improvement
project.--The term `general aviation airport construction or
improvement project' means--
``(A) a project for the construction or extension
of a runway, including any land acquisition, taxiway,
safety area, apron, or navigational aids associated
with the runway or runway extension, at a general
aviation airport, a reliever airport, or a commercial
service airport that is not a primary airport (as such
terms are defined in section 47102); and
``(B) any other airport development project that
the Secretary designates as facilitating aviation
capacity building projects at a general aviation
airport.''.
SEC. 4. ESTABLISHMENT OF PUBLIC PRIVATE-PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM AT GENERAL
AVIATION AIRPORTS.
(a) In General.--Chapter 481 of title 49, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 48115. General aviation public-private partnership program
``(a) Small Airport Public-Private Partnership Program.--The
Secretary of Transportation shall establish a program that meets the
requirements under this section for improving facilities at--
``(1) general aviation airports; and
``(2) privately owned airports used or intended to be used
for public purposes that do not have scheduled air service.
``(b) Application Required.--The operator or sponsor of an airport,
or the community in which an airport is located, seeking, on behalf of
the airport, to participate in the program established under subsection
(a) shall submit an application to the Secretary in such form, at such
time, and containing such information as the Secretary may require,
including--
``(1) an assessment of the needs of the airport for
additional or improved hangars, airport businesses, or other
facilities;
``(2) the ability of the airport to leverage private sector
investments on the airport or develop public-private
partnerships to build or improve facilities at the airport; and
``(3) if the application is submitted by a community,
evidence that the airport supports the application.
``(c) Limitation.--
``(1) State limit.--Not more than 4 airports in the same
State may be selected to participate in the program established
under subsection (a) in any fiscal year.
``(2) Dollar amount limit.--Not more than $500,000 shall be
made available for any airport in any fiscal year under the
program established under subsection (a).
``(d) Priorities.--In selecting airports for participation in the
program established under subsection (a), the Secretary shall give
priority to airports at which--
``(1) the operator or sponsor of the airport, or the
community in which the airport is located--
``(A) will provide a portion of the cost of the
project for which assistance is sought under the
program from local sources;
``(B) will employ best business practices in
developing or implementing a public-private
partnership; or
``(C) has established, or will establish, a public-
private partnership to build or improve facilities at
the airport; or
``(2) the assistance will be used in a timely fashion.
``(e) Types of Assistance.--The Secretary may use amounts made
available under this section--
``(1) to provide assistance to market an airport to private
entities or individuals in order to leverage private sector
investments or develop public-private partnerships for the
purposes of building or improving hangars, businesses, or other
facilities at the airport;
``(2) to fund studies that consider what measures an
airport should take to attract private sector investment at the
airport; or
``(3) to participate in a partnership described in
paragraph (1) or an investment described in paragraph (2).
``(f) Authority To Make Agreements.--The Secretary may enter into
agreements with airports and entities entering into partnerships with
airports under this section to provide assistance under this section.
``(g) Availability of Amounts From Airport and Airway Trust Fund.--
``(1) In general.--There is authorized to be appropriated,
out of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund established under
section 9502 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, $5,000,000
for each of the fiscal years 2018 through 2022 to carry out
this section.
``(2) Availability.--Amounts appropriated pursuant to
paragraph (1)--
``(A) shall remain available until expended; and
``(B) shall be in addition to any amounts made
available pursuant to section 48103.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 481 of such title
is amended by adding at the end the following:
``48115. General aviation public-private partnership program.''.
(c) Expenditure Authority From Airport and Airway Trust Fund.--
Section 9502(d)(1)(A) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended
by inserting ``or the FLIGHT Act of 2017'' before the semicolon at the
end.
SEC. 5. DISASTER RELIEF AIRPORTS.
(a) Designation of Disaster Relief Airports.--Subchapter I of
chapter 471 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at
the end the following:
``Sec. 47145. Disaster relief airports
``(a) Designation.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary of Transportation shall
designate as a disaster relief airport an airport that--
``(A) is categorized as a regional reliever airport
in the report issued by the Federal Aviation
Administration entitled `National Plan of Integrated
Airport Systems (NPIAS) 2017-2021';
``(B) is within a reasonable distance, as
determined by the Secretary, of a hospital or
transplant or trauma center;
``(C) is in a region that the Secretary determines
under subsection (b) is prone to natural disasters;
``(D) has at least one paved runway with not less
than 3,400 feet of useable length capable of supporting
aircraft up to 12,500 pounds;
``(E) has aircraft maintenance or servicing
facilities at the airport able to provide aircraft
fueling and light maintenance services; and
``(F) has adequate taxiway and ramp space to
accommodate single engine or light multi-engine
aircraft simultaneously for loading and unloading of
supplies.
``(2) Designation in states without qualifying airports.--
If fewer than 3 airports described in paragraph (1) are located
in a State, the Secretary, in consultation with aviation
officials of that State, shall designate not more than 3
general aviation airports in that State as a disaster relief
airport under this section.
``(b) Prone to Natural Disasters.--
``(1) In general.--For the purposes of subsection
(a)(1)(C), a region is prone to natural disasters if--
``(A) in the case of earthquakes, there is not less
than a 50 percent probability that an earthquake of
magnitude 6 or above will occur in the region within 30
years, according to the United States Geological
Survey; and
``(B) in the case of other types of natural
disasters, the President has declared more than 5 major
disasters in the region under section 401 of the Robert
T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance
Act (42 U.S.C. 5170), according to the most recent map
of the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
``(2) Natural disaster defined.--For the purposes of this
section, the term `natural disaster' includes any hurricane,
tornado, severe storm, high water, wind-driven water, tidal
wave, tsunami, earthquake, volcanic eruption, landslide,
mudslide, snowstorm, drought, or wildfire.
``(c) Requirements.--
``(1) Operation and maintenance.--
``(A) In general.--A disaster relief airport and
the facilities and fixed-based operators on or
connected with the airport shall be operated and
maintained in a manner the Secretary consider suitable
for disaster relief.
``(B) Exclusion.--A disaster relief airport shall
not be considered to be in violation of subparagraph
(A) if a runway is unuseable because the runway is
under scheduled maintenance or is in need of necessary
repairs.
``(2) Compliance with assurances on airport operations.--A
disaster relief airport shall comply with the provisions of
section 47107 without regard whether the airport has received a
project grant under this subchapter.
``(3) Natural disaster management plan.--A disaster relief
airport shall develop an emergency natural disaster management
plan in coordination with local emergency response teams and
first responders.
``(d) Civil Penalty.--A public agency that knowingly violates this
section shall be liable to the United States Government for a civil
penalty of not more than $10,000 for each day of the violation.
``(e) Consideration for Project Grants.--The Secretary shall give
consideration to the role an airport plays in disaster relief when
determining whether to provide a grant for the airport under this
subchapter.
``(f) Applicability of Other Laws.--This section shall apply
notwithstanding any other law, rule, regulation, or agreement.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 471 of such title
is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 47144 the
following:
``47145. Disaster relief airports.''.
SEC. 6. AIRPORT DEVELOPMENT RELATING TO DISASTER RELIEF.
Section 47102(3) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by
adding at the end the following:
``(P) planning, acquiring, or constructing
facilities at an airport designated as a disaster
relief airport under section 47145, including--
``(i) planning for disaster preparedness
associated with maintaining airport operations
during a natural disaster;
``(ii) acquiring airport communication
equipment and fixed emergency generators that
are not able to be acquired by programs funded
under the Department of Homeland Security; and
``(iii) constructing, expanding, and
improving airfield infrastructure to include
aprons and terminal buildings the Secretary
determines will facilitate disaster response at
the airport.''.
SEC. 7. INCLUSION OF COVERED AIRCRAFT CONSTRUCTION IN DEFINITION OF
AERONAUTICAL ACTIVITY FOR PURPOSES OF AIRPORT IMPROVEMENT
GRANTS.
Section 47107 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding
at the end the following:
``(u) Construction of Recreational Aircraft.--
``(1) In general.--The construction of a covered aircraft
shall be treated as an aeronautical activity for purposes of--
``(A) determining an airport's compliance with a
grant assurance made under this section or any other
provision of law; and
``(B) the receipt of Federal financial assistance
for airport development.
``(2) Covered aircraft defined.--In this subsection, the
term `covered aircraft' means an aircraft--
``(A) used or intended to be used exclusively for
recreational purposes; and
``(B) constructed or under construction, repair, or
restoration by a private individual at a general
aviation airport.''. | Forward Looking Investment in General Aviation, Hangars, and Tarmacs Act of 2017 or the FLIGHT Act of 2017 This bill revises general aviation apportionments by: (1) providing at least 4% of entitlement funding to airports designated as disaster relief airports, (2) increasing the period of availability of apportioned funds, (3) increasing the federal government's share of project costs for certain airports to 95%, and (4) allowing the use of non apportioned funds for general aviation airport grants. DOT shall: (1) implement an expedited and coordinated environmental review process for general aviation airport construction or improvement projects; and (2) establish a public-private partnership program for building or improving hangars, businesses, or other facilities at general aviation airports and privately owned airports for public use that do not have scheduled air service. The bill requires DOT to designate certain airports as disaster relief airports, including regional reliever airports, airports within a reasonable distance of a hospital or transplant or trauma center, or airports in a region prone to natural disasters. The bill treats the construction of certain aircraft used exclusively for recreational purposes as an "aeronautical activity" for purposes of airport improvement grants. | billsum_train |
Change the following text into a summary: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Office of Indian Women and Families
Act of 1993''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds that:
(1) The primary responsibilities of the Bureau of Indian
Affairs are to encourage and assist Indian people to manage
their own affairs under the trust relationship between Indians
and the Federal Government, and to facilitate, with maximum
involvement of Indian people, full development of their human
and natural resource potential.
(2) The Bureau of Indian Affairs coordinates its activities
with Indian tribal governments, Federal agencies and
departments, and other organizations and groups who share
similar interests and programs related to Indians.
(3) Bureau of Indian Affairs policies, programs and
projects impact directly and significantly on the lives of
America's Indian people.
(4) The unique roles and responsibilities of Indian women
contribute culturally, socially, and economically to the well-
being of Indian people, but these contributions are often not
fully realized and are undervalued and overlooked within the
policies, program, and projects of the Bureau of Indian
Affairs.
(5) Indian children have special educational and social
service needs to prepare them for traditional tribal
responsibilities and nontribal social and employment
opportunities.
(6) The particular responsibilities, contributions, and
needs of Indian women and families can and should be taken into
account to improve Bureau of Indian Affairs policy formulation
and program operations for the direct benefit of Indian women
and families and Indian people as a whole.
(7) Bureau of Indian Affairs policies, programs and
projects, including its coordination and liaison with other
Federal, State, and local entities, can be more responsive and
enhanced when Indian women and families are considered an
integral element of the process as well as contributors to the
success of these policies, programs, and projects.
(8) There is a need for an Office of Indian Women and
Families in the Bureau of Indian Affairs for the purpose of
encouraging and promoting the participation and integration of
Indian women and families into Bureau of Indian Affairs
policies, programs, projects, and activities, thereby improving
the effectiveness of its mandate and the status and lives of
Indian women and families.
SEC. 3. PURPOSES.
The purposes of this Act are:
(1) To identify and integrate the issues related to Indian
women and families into all Bureau of Indian Affairs policies,
programs, projects, and activities.
(2) To establish an office to serve as a focal point for
all Federal Government policy issues affecting Indian women and
families for purposes of both economic and social development.
(3) To collect data related to the specific roles,
concerns, and needs of Indian women, and Indian families, and
use such data to support policy, program, and project
implementation throughout all offices of the Bureau of Indian
Affairs and other Federal agencies, and to monitor the impacts
of these policies, programs and projects.
(4) To enhance the economic and social participation of
Indian women and families in all levels of planning,
decisionmaking, and policy development within the Bureau of
Indian Affairs, its area offices, and tribal governments and
reservations.
(5) To conduct research and collect relevant studies
relating to special needs of Indian women and families.
(6) To develop pilot programs and projects to strengthen
activities of the Bureau of Indian Affairs involving Indian
women and families, and serve as models for future endeavors
and planning.
(7) To ensure a liaison with other Federal departments and
agencies, State and local governments, tribally controlled
community colleges, other academic institutions, any public or
private organizations, and tribal governments that serve Indian
peoples.
(8) To ensure training endeavors for Bureau of Indian
Affairs offices and agencies at the national, area, and local
levels to ensure Bureau personnel and any other beneficiaries
of Bureau and other governmental programs understand the
purposes and policies of the office established by this Act.
(9) To develop policy-level programs, with the assistance
of the Assistant Secretary and other senior-level personnel of
the Bureau of Indian Affairs, to ensure that systems,
directives, management strategies and other related
methodologies are implemented to meet the purposes of this Act.
(10) To strengthen the role of Indian women and families by
developing and ensuring culturally appropriate policies and
programs.
(11) To encourage other actions that serve to more fully
integrate Indian women and families as participants in and
agents for change in the Federal policy and program activities
of the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
SEC. 4. DEFINITIONS.
As used in this Act:
(1) The term ``Indian woman'' means a woman who is a member
of an Indian tribe.
(2) The term ``Indian tribe'' means any Indian tribe, band,
nation, or other organized group or community, any Alaska
Native village or regional or village corporation as defined in
or established pursuant to the Alaska Native Claims Settlement
Act (85 Stat. 688), which is recognized as eligible for special
programs and services provided by the United States to Indians
because of their status as Indians.
SEC. 5. ESTABLISHMENT OF OFFICE OF INDIAN WOMEN AND INDIAN FAMILIES.
(a) Establishment.--There is established in the Department of the
Interior the ``Office of Indian Women and Families'' (hereinafter
referred to as the ``Office'').
(b) Director.--The Office shall be under the management of a
director (hereinafter referred to as the ``Director''), who shall be
appointed by the Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs. The Director
shall report directly to the Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs.
(c) Compensation.--The Director shall be compensated at the rate
prescribed for level IV of the Executive Schedule under section 5313 of
title 5, United States Code.
(d) Tenure.--The Director shall serve at the discretion of the
Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs.
(e) Vacancy.--A vacancy in the position of Director shall be filled
in the same manner as the original appointment was made.
(f) Duties.--The Director shall administer the Office and carry out
the purposes and functions of this Act. The Director shall take such
action as may be necessary in order to integrate Indian women and
family issues into the Bureau of Indian Affairs policies, programs,
projects and activities.
SEC. 6. FUNCTIONS OF OFFICE.
It shall be the function of the Office to develop a Policy Paper
for Indian women and families to articulate the objectives of the
Office, to serve as a guideline for systematically integrating Indian
women and families issues into the Bureau of Indian Affairs policies,
programs, projects, and activities, and to establish and detail
indicators and benchmarks for measuring the success of the Office.
SEC. 7. POLICY TASK FORCE.
(a) Establishment of a Policy Task Force.--The Director, in
consultation with the Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs, shall
establish a temporary policy task force on Indian women and families.
(b) Membership.--Members of the task force shall be appointed by
the Director. The task force shall include representatives from Federal
agencies and departments, relevant Indian organizations, State agencies
and organizations, Indian tribal governments, institutions of higher
education, and nongovernmental and private sector organizations and
institutions.
(c) Functions.--The policy task force shall:
(1) Ensure that the Policy Paper for Indian women and
families prepared by the Bureau of Indian Affairs articulates a
set of goals, objectives, management strategies, and monitoring
systems for the improvement of all Federal programs, including
programs of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, designed to improve
the quality of life of Indian women and families.
(2) Recommend a permanent policy mechanism to be
established in the Bureau of Indian Affairs for the continuous
monitoring and refinement of policy and programs designed to
improve the quality of life of Indian women and families.
(3) Recommend a permanent policy mechanism to be
established in the Bureau of Indian Affairs for the purpose of
collecting and disseminating to Congress and the public
information and other data relevant to the progress of the
policy and programs designed to improve the quality of life of
Indian women and families.
(d) Termination.--The task force shall terminate upon the
expiration of 14 months following the date of the enactment of this
Act.
SEC. 8. ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.
The Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs shall:
(1) Ensure that the Office receives adequate resources to
carry out the purposes of this Act.
(2) Ensure that senior-level staff members and other
employees of the Bureau of Indian Affairs are participants in
and responsible for assisting in carrying out the purposes of
this Act relating to the improvement of policies and programs
of the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
SEC. 9. REPORTING.
The Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Bureau of Indian
Affairs, shall, on or before March 15 of each of the 2 calendar years
next following the calendar year in which this Act is enacted, and
biennially thereafter, report to Congress on the progress of achieving
the purposes of this Act. Such report shall include, but not be limited
to, information relative to the current status of progress of the
Bureau of Indian Affairs' policy on Indian women and Indian families in
fulfilling its objectives, programs and projects, including how well
the Bureau of Indian Affairs has operationally integrated the issue of
Indian women and families into its overall policies, programs, projects
and activities. Such report shall include a review of data gathered to
assess and improve the quality of life of Indian women and families,
including specific recommendations to improve the education, health,
employment, economic, housing, social, and other services within the
Bureau of Indian Affairs relating to Indian women and families.
SEC. 10. AUTHORIZATIONS.
Commencing with fiscal year 1994, and each fiscal year thereafter,
there are authorized to be appropriated for carrying out the provisions
of this Act, $2,000,000. | Office of Indian Women and Families Act of 1993 - Establishes: (1) in the Department of the Interior the Office of Indian Women and Families; and (2) a temporary policy task force on Indian women and families. | billsum_train |
Make a brief summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; FINDINGS.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Secure Government
Buildings from Espionage Act of 2017''.
(b) Findings.--Congress finds that--
(1) the Government Accountability Office has reported that
the Federal Government often leases high-security space from
private sector landlords;
(2) the General Services Administration and other Federal
agencies with leasing authority are not currently required to
collect beneficial ownership information and therefore do not
know if foreign owners have a stake in the buildings leased by
the agencies, even when the leased space is used for classified
operations or to store sensitive data; and
(3) according to a report of the Government Accountability
Office, dated January 2017, that examined the risks of foreign
ownership of Government-leased real estate, ``leasing space in
foreign-owned buildings could present security risks such as
espionage and unauthorized cyber and physical access''.
SEC. 2. DISCLOSURE OF BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP BY FOREIGN PERSONS OF HIGH-
SECURITY SPACE LEASED FOR FEDERAL AGENCIES.
(a) In General.--Before entering into a lease agreement with a
covered entity for the accommodation of a Federal agency in a building
(or other improvement) that will be used for high-security leased
space, a Federal lessee shall require the covered entity to--
(1) identify each beneficial owner of the covered entity
by--
(A) name;
(B) current residential or business street address;
and
(C) a unique identifying number from a nonexpired
passport issued by the United States or a nonexpired
drivers license issued by a State;
(2) disclose to the Federal lessee any beneficial owner of
the covered entity that is a foreign person; and
(3) if the Federal lessee is assigning the building (or
other improvement) to a Federal tenant, notify the Federal
tenant of any disclosure made under paragraph (2).
(b) Timing.--
(1) In general.--A Federal lessee shall require a covered
entity to provide the information described in subsections
(a)(1) and (a)(2) when first submitting a proposal in response
to a solicitation for offers issued by the Federal lessee.
(2) Updates.--A Federal lessee shall require a covered
entity to update a submission of the information described in
subsections (a)(1) and (a)(2) not later than 60 days after the
date of any change in--
(A) the list of beneficial owners of the covered
entity; or
(B) the information required to be provided
relating to each such beneficial owner.
(c) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions apply:
(1) Beneficial owner.--
(A) In general.--The term ``beneficial owner''
means, with respect to a covered entity, each natural
person who, directly or indirectly--
(i) exercises control over the covered
entity through ownership interests, voting
rights, agreements, or otherwise; or
(ii) has an interest in or receives
substantial economic benefits from the assets
of the covered entity.
(B) Exceptions.--The term ``beneficial owner'' does
not include, with respect to a covered entity--
(i) a minor child;
(ii) a person acting as a nominee,
intermediary, custodian, or agent on behalf of
another person;
(iii) a person acting solely as an employee
of the covered entity and whose control over or
economic benefits from the covered entity
derives solely from the employment status of
the person;
(iv) a person whose only interest in the
covered entity is through a right of
inheritance, unless the person also meets the
requirements of subparagraph (A); or
(v) a creditor of the covered entity,
unless the creditor also meets the requirements
of subparagraph (A).
(C) Anti-abuse rule.--The exceptions under
subparagraph (B) shall not apply if used for the
purpose of evading, circumventing, or abusing the
requirements of this section.
(2) Covered entity.--The term ``covered entity'' means a
person, copartnership, corporation, or other public or private
entity.
(3) Executive agency.--The term ``Executive agency'' has
the meaning given the term under section 105 of title 5, United
States Code.
(4) Federal agency.--The term ``Federal agency'' means any
Executive agency or any establishment in the legislative or
judicial branch of the Government.
(5) Federal lessee.--The term ``Federal lessee'' means the
Administrator of General Services, the Architect of the
Capitol, or the head of any Federal agency, other than the
Department of Defense, that has independent statutory leasing
authority.
(6) Foreign person.--The term ``foreign person'' means an
individual who is not a United States person or an alien
lawfully admitted for permanent residence into the United
States.
(7) High-security leased space.--The term ``high-security
leased space'' means a space leased by a Federal lessee that--
(A) will be occupied by Federal employees for
nonmilitary activities; and
(B) has a facility security level of III, IV, or V,
as determined by the Interagency Security Committee.
(8) United states person.--The term ``United States
person'' means a natural person who is a citizen of the United
States or who owes permanent allegiance to the United States. | Secure Government Buildings from Espionage Act of 2017 This bill instructs the General Services Administration, the Architect of the Capitol, or any other federal agency (other than the Department of Defense), before entering into a lease agreement with a public or private entity to accommodate a federal agency in a building or other improvement that will be used for high-security leased space, to require such entity: to identify each beneficial owner of such entity; to disclose to such agency any beneficial owner that is a foreign person; and if such agency is assigning the building or other improvement to a federal tenant, to notify that tenant of any such disclosure. The agency shall require such entity to: provide such identification and disclosure when first submitting a proposal in response to an agency solicitation, and update such information within 60 days of any change in the beneficial owners of that entity or the information required to be provided relating to each such owner. | billsum_train |
Change the following text into a summary: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Home Office Tax Deduction
Simplification and Improvement Act of 2008''.
SEC. 2. OPTIONAL STANDARD HOME OFFICE DEDUCTION.
(a) In General.--Subsection (c) of section 280A of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to exceptions for certain business or
rental use; limitation on deductions for such use) is amended by adding
at the end the following new paragraph:
``(7) Election of standard home office deduction.--
``(A) In general.--In the case of an individual who
is allowed a deduction for the use of a portion of a
dwelling unit as a business by reason of paragraph (1),
(2), or (4), notwithstanding the limitations of
paragraph (5), if such individual elects the
application of this paragraph for the taxable year with
respect to such dwelling unit, such individual shall be
allowed a deduction equal to the standard home office
deduction for the taxable year in lieu of the
deductions otherwise allowable under this chapter for
such taxable year by reason of paragraph (1), (2), or
(4).
``(B) Standard home office deduction.--
``(i) In general.--For purposes of this
paragraph, the standard home office deduction
is an amount equal to the product of--
``(I) the applicable home office
standard rate, and
``(II) the square footage of the
portion of the dwelling unit to which
paragraph (1), (2), or (4) applies.
``(ii) Applicable home office standard
rate.--For purposes of this subparagraph, the
term `applicable home office standard rate'
means the rate applicable to the taxpayer's
category of business, as determined and
published by the Secretary for the 3 categories
of businesses described in paragraphs (1), (2),
and (4) for the taxable year.
``(iii) Maximum square footage taken into
account.--The Secretary shall determine and
publish annually the maximum square footage
that may be taken into account under clause
(i)(II) for each of the 3 categories of
businesses described in paragraphs (1), (2),
and (4) for the taxable year.
``(C) Effect of election.--
``(i) General rule.--Except as provided in
clause (ii), any election under this paragraph,
once made by the taxpayer with respect to any
dwelling unit, shall continue to apply with
respect to such dwelling unit for each
succeeding taxable year.
``(ii) One-time election per dwelling
unit.--A taxpayer who elects the application of
this paragraph in a taxable year with respect
to any dwelling unit may revoke such
application in a subsequent taxable year. After
so revoking, the taxpayer may not elect the
application of this paragraph with respect to
such dwelling unit in any subsequent taxable
year.
``(D) Denial of double benefit.--
``(i) In general.--Except as provided in
clause (ii), in the case of a taxpayer who
elects the application of this paragraph for
the taxable year, no other deduction or credit
shall be allowed under this subtitle for such
taxable year for any amount attributable to the
portion of a dwelling unit taken into account
under this paragraph.
``(ii) Exception for disaster losses.--A
taxpayer who elects the application of this
paragraph in any taxable year may take into
account any disaster loss described in section
165(i) as a loss under section 165 for the
applicable taxable year, in addition to the
standard home office deduction under this
paragraph for such taxable year.
``(E) Regulations.--The Secretary shall prescribe
such regulations as may be necessary to carry out the
purposes of this paragraph.''.
(b) Modification of Home Office Business Use Rules.--
(1) Place of meeting.--Subparagraph (B) of section
280A(c)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended to
read as follows:
``(B) as a place of business which is used by the
taxpayer in meeting or dealing with patients, clients,
or customers in the normal course of the taxpayer's
trade or business, or''.
(2) De minimis personal use.--Paragraph (1) of section
280A(c) of such Code is amended by striking ``for the
convenience of his employer'' and inserting ``for the
convenience of such employee's employer. A portion of a
dwelling unit shall not fail to be deemed as exclusively used
for business for purposes of this paragraph solely because a de
minimis amount of non-business activity may be carried out in
such portion''.
(c) Reporting of Expenses Relating to Home Office Deduction.--
Within 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the
Secretary of the Treasury shall ensure that all forms and schedules
used to calculate or report itemized deductions and profits or losses
from business or farming state separately amounts attributable to real
estate taxes, mortgage interest, and depreciation for purposes of the
deductions allowable under paragraphs (1), (2), (4), and (7) of section
280A(c) 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, 2008. | Home Office Tax Deduction Simplification and Improvement Act of 2008 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a taxpayer who uses a residence to conduct a trade or business to elect a standard tax deduction equal to the product of a standard rate determined by the Secretary of the Treasury and the square footage of the portion of a residence used to conduct a trade or business (home office tax deduction). Modifies the rules for the home office tax deduction to: (1) allow a deduction for the cost of dealing with patients, clients, or customers even if they are not physically present in the home office; and (2) establish a de minimis exemption for personal use of a home office.
Requires the Secretary to ensure that all self-employment tax forms and schedules separately state amounts attributable to real estate taxes, mortgage interest, and depreciation for purposes of the home office tax deduction. | billsum_train |
Give a brief overview of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``State and Local Economic Stimulus
Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds the following:
(1) State and local governments are a vital part of our
economy and American life. States, cities, counties, school
districts, and other localities and jurisdictions provide
health care, education, public safety, and innumerable social
services to hundreds of millions of Americans.
(2) From September 2007 to June 2008, America's
unemployment rate increased from 4.7 percent to 5.5 percent,
and hundreds of thousands of additional Americans went without
jobs.
(3) America's economic downturn is causing painful budget
problems for State and local governments. The economic slowdown
has lowered State and local tax revenues while the need for
public service is expanding. As a result, most States and many
localities are suffering budget deficits.
(4) Given that 49 of 50 States, and many local governments,
are legally required to balance their budgets, the only way
these governments can reduce deficits is to cut public services
or raise taxes.
(5) In 2003, in response to the prior economic downturn,
Congress enacted a $20,000,000,000 fiscal relief package for
States, including authorizing $10,000,000,000 for flexible
anti-recession grants to stimulate the ailing economy and
protect vital public services.
SEC. 3. ONE-TIME REVENUE GRANT TO STATES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS.
(a) In General.--Chapter 67 of title 31, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following new section:
``Sec. 6721. One-time revenue grant to States and local governments
``(a) Appropriation.--There is appropriated to carry out this
section $40,000,000,000 for fiscal year 2009.
``(b) Allotments.--From the amount appropriated under subsection
(a) for fiscal year 2009, the Secretary of the Treasury shall, as soon
as practicable after the date of the enactment of this section, allot
to each of the States as follows:
``(1) Based on population.--
``(A) State level.--$10,000,000,000 shall be
allotted among States on the basis of the relative
population of each such State, determined based on data
from the 2000 decennial census of the United States.
``(B) Local government level.--$10,000,000,000
shall be allotted among such States as determined under
subparagraph (A) for distribution to the various units
of general local government within such States on the
basis of the relative population of each such unit
within each such State that is unemployed, determined
based on the data referred to in subparagraph (A).
``(2) Based on change in unemployment rate.--
``(A) Tier 1.--
``(i) State level.--$7,500,000,000 shall be
allotted among States that have experienced a
tier 1 unemployment rate on the basis of the
relative number of unemployed individuals for
the period beginning on September 1, 2007, and
ending on June 30, 2008, in each such State,
determined based on unemployment levels for
2007 and 2008 from the Bureau of Labor
Statistics' Local Area Unemployment Statistics.
``(ii) Local government level.--
$7,500,000,000 shall be allotted among States
that have experienced a tier 1 unemployment
rate as determined under clause (i) for
distribution to the various units of general
local government within such States on the
basis of the relative number of unemployed
individuals for the period beginning on
September 1, 2007, and ending on June 30, 2008,
in each such unit within each such State,
determined based on the civilian labor force
unemployment rate, seasonally adjusted, for
September 2007 to June 2008 from the Bureau of
Labor Statistics' Local Area Unemployment
Statistics.
``(B) Tier 2.--
``(i) State level.--$2,500,000,000 shall be
allotted among States that have experienced a
tier 2 unemployment rate on the basis of the
relative number of unemployed individuals for
the period beginning on September 1, 2007, and
ending on June 30, 2008, in each such State,
determined based on unemployment levels for
2007 and 2008 from the Bureau of Labor
Statistics' Local Area Unemployment Statistics.
``(ii) Local government level.--
$2,500,000,000 shall be allotted among States
that have experienced a tier 2 unemployment
rate as determined under clause (i) for
distribution to the various units of general
local government within such States on the
basis of the relative number of unemployed
individuals for the period beginning on
September 1, 2007, and ending on June 30, 2008,
in each such unit within each such State,
determined based on the civilian labor force
unemployment rate, seasonally adjusted, for
September 2007 to June 2008 from the Bureau of
Labor Statistics' Local Area Unemployment
Statistics.
``(c) Use of Payments.--
``(1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2), a State or
unit of local government shall use the funds provided under a
payment made under this section for a fiscal year to--
``(A) provide essential government services;
``(B) cover the costs to the State or unit of local
government, respectively, of complying with any Federal
intergovernmental mandate (as defined in section 421(5)
of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974) to the extent
that the mandate applies to the State or unit of local
government, respectively, and the Federal Government
has not provided funds to cover the costs; or
``(C) compensate for a decline in Federal funding
to the State or unit of local government, respectively.
``(2) Requirements.--A State or unit of local government--
``(A) may use funds provided as a payment under
this section only for types of expenditures permitted
under the most recently approved budget for the State;
``(B) may not use the additional Federal funds paid
to the State or unit of local government as a result of
this section for purposes of increasing any reserve or
rainy day fund maintained by the State; and
``(C) shall expend the additional Federal funds
paid to the State or unit of local government as a
result of this section within 1 year after the date on
which the State receives such funds.
``(3) Certification.--In order to receive a payment under
this section for a fiscal year, a State or unit of local
government shall certify to the Secretary of the Treasury with
a certification that the proposed use of such funds by the
State or unit of local government's, respectively, is
consistent with this subsection.
``(d) Definitions.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) State.--The term `State' means any of the several
States, the District of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of
Puerto Rico.
``(2) Unit of general local government.--
``(A) In general.--The term `unit of general local
government' means--
``(i) a county, parish, township, city, or
political subdivision of a county, parish,
township, or city, that is a unit of general
local government as determined by the Secretary
of Commerce for general statistical purposes;
and
``(ii) the District of Columbia, and the
recognized governing body of an Indian tribe or
Alaskan native village that carries out
substantial governmental duties and powers.
``(B) Treatment of subsumed areas.--For purposes of
determining a unit of general local government under
this section, the rules under section 6720(c) of this
title shall apply.
``(3) Unemployment.--With respect to any State or unit of
general local government--
``(A) Tier 1 unemployment rate.--The term `tier 1
unemployment rate' means an unemployment rate for June
2008 that is 0.7 or more percentage points greater than
such rate for September 2007.
``(B) Tier 2 unemployment rate.--The term `tier 2
unemployment rate' means an unemployment rate for June
2008 that is less than 0.7 percent points greater than
such rate for September 2007.''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--The table of sections for chapter 67 of
title 31, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the
following new item:
``6721. One-time revenue grant to States and local governments.''. | State and Local Economic Stimulus Act - Makes FY2009 appropriations to the Secretary of the Treasury to award one-time revenue grants to state governments for themselves as well as for redistribution to local governments.
Sets forth a schedule for allotments based upon relative population and Tier-1 and Tier-2 unemployment rates.
Requires a state or local government to use such funds to: (1) provide essential government services; (2) cover the costs of complying with any federal intergovernmental mandate for which the federal government has not provided funds; or (3) compensate for a decline in federal funding. | billsum_train |
Make a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Flexibility to Promote Reemployment
Act''.
SEC. 2. REMOVAL OF BARRIERS TO PROMOTE REEMPLOYMENT THROUGH
DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS.
(a) Modification of Numerical Limitation.--Subsection (a) of
section 305 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 505) is amended by
inserting ``per year'' after ``10 States''.
(b) Clarification of Application Requirements.--Subsection (b) of
such section 305 is amended--
(1) by inserting ``or his or her designee'' after ``The
Governor of any State''; and
(2) by striking paragraph (2) and inserting the following:
``(2) for any waiver requested under subsection (c), a
statement describing--
``(A) the specific provision or provisions of law
for which such waiver is requested; and
``(B) the specific aspects of the project to which
such waiver would apply and the reasons why it is
needed;''.
(c) Extension of Eligible Time Period.--Subsection (d) of such
section 305 is amended--
(1) in paragraph (2), by striking ``may not be approved''
and inserting ``may not be conducted''; and
(2) in paragraph (3), by striking ``December 31, 2015'' and
inserting ``December 31, 2017''.
(d) Clarification of Demonstration Activities.--Subsection (e) of
such section 305 is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1), by striking ``for employer-provided
training, such as'' and inserting ``to employers or claimants
for employer-provided training or''; and
(2) in paragraph (2), by striking ``, not to exceed the
weekly benefit amount for each such individual, to pay part of
the cost of wages that exceed the unemployed individual's prior
benefit level'' and inserting ``that include disbursements
promoting retention''.
(e) Selection of Qualifying Applications on a First-Come, First-
Served Basis.--Subsection (f) of such section 305 is amended--
(1) by redesignating paragraphs (1) and (2) as paragraphs
(2) and (3); and
(2) by inserting before paragraph (2) (as redesignated by
this subsection) the following:
``(1) approve completed applications in the order of
receipt;''.
(f) Termination of Demonstration Projects.--Subsection (g) of such
section 305 is amended to read as follows:
``(g) The Secretary of Labor may terminate a demonstration project
under this section if the Secretary--
``(1) determines that the State has violated the
substantive terms or conditions of the project;
``(2) notifies the State in writing with sufficient detail
describing the violation; and
``(3) determines that the State has not taken action to
correct the violation within 90 days after the notification.''.
(g) Effective Date; Transition Rule.--
(1) Effective date.--The amendments made by this section
shall take effect on the date of the enactment of this Act.
(2) Transition rule.--
(A) In general.--Nothing in this Act shall be
considered to terminate or otherwise affect any
demonstration project approved under section 305 of the
Social Security Act before the date of the enactment of
this Act.
(B) Original conditions continue to apply.--A
demonstration project described in subparagraph (A)
shall be conducted in the same manner as if subsections
(a) through (f) had not been enacted.
SEC. 3. EVALUATION OF DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS.
(a) In General.--Section 305 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C.
505) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(i) The Secretary of Labor shall conduct an impact evaluation of
each demonstration project conducted under this section, using existing
data sources to the extent possible and methodology appropriate to
determine the effects of the demonstration project, including on
individual skill levels, earnings, and employment retention.''.
(b) Cooperation by State.--Section 305(b) of the Social Security
Act (42 U.S.C. 505(b)) (as amended by section 2(b) of this Act) is
further amended by striking paragraphs (5) and (6) and inserting the
following:
``(5) a description of the manner in which the State will
determine the extent to which the goals and outcomes described
in paragraph (3) were achieved;
``(6) assurances that the State will cooperate, in a timely
manner, with the Secretary of Labor with respect to the impact
evaluation conducted under subsection (i); and''.
(c) Reporting.--Not later than 90 days after the end of fiscal year
2014 and each fiscal year thereafter, until the completion of the last
evaluation under section 305(i) of the Social Security Act, the
Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Ways and Means of the House
of Representatives and the Committee on Finance of the Senate, a report
that includes a description of--
(1) the status of each demonstration project being carried
out under this section;
(2) the results of the evaluation completed during the
previous fiscal year; and
(3) the Secretary's plan for--
(A) disseminating the findings of the report to
appropriate State agencies; and
(B) incorporating the components of successful
demonstration projects that reduced benefit duration
and increased employment into Federal unemployment law.
(d) Public Dissemination.--In addition to the reporting
requirements under subparagraph (c), evaluation results shall be shared
broadly to inform policy makers, service providers, other partners, and
the public in order to promote wide use of successful strategies,
including by posting evaluation results on the Internet website of the
Department of Labor. | Flexibility to Promote Reemployment Act - Amends title III (Grants to States for Unemployment Compensation Administration) of the Social Security Act, with respect to grants to states by the Secretary of Labor for reemployment demonstration projects, to allow grants to up to 10 states per year instead of a maximum of 10 states altogether. Allows a designee of a state governor, instead of only the governor, to apply for such a grant. Extends the allowable project period through December 31, 2017. Allows direct disbursements under a project to employers who hire individuals receiving unemployment compensation to include disbursements promoting retention. Requires the Secretary of Labor to approve completed grant applications in the order of receipt. Revises requirements for termination of a project to require the Secretary to: (1) notify a state in writing with sufficient detail describing any violation of the substantive terms or conditions of a project justifying its termination, and (2) determine that the state has not taken action to correct the violation within 90 days after notification. Directs the Secretary to evaluate the impact of each demonstration project, using existing data sources and methodology appropriate to determine project effects, including the effect on individual skill levels, earnings, and employment retention. | billsum_train |
Condense the following text into a summary: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Investment Adviser Examination
Improvement Act of 2012''.
SEC. 2. SENSE OF CONGRESS.
It is the sense of the Congress that the Securities and Exchange
Commission should increase the number and frequency of examinations of
investment advisers.
SEC. 3. INSPECTION AND EXAMINATION FEES.
Section 204 of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 (15 U.S.C. 80b-
4) is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection
``(e) Inspection and Examination Fees.--
``(1) In general.--The Commission shall collect an annual
fee from investment advisers that are subject to inspection or
examination by the Commission under this title to defray the
cost of such inspections and examinations.
``(2) Exemptions for certain state-regulated investment
advisers.--No fees shall be collected under this subsection
from any investment adviser that is prohibited from registering
with the Commission under section 203 by reason of section
203A.
``(3) Fee amounts.--
``(A) Amount to be collected.--
``(i) In general.--The Commission shall
seek to ensure that the aggregate amount of
fees collected under this subsection with
respect to a specific fiscal year are equal to
the estimated cost of the Commission in
carrying out additional inspections and
examinations for such fiscal year.
``(ii) Additional inspections and
examinations defined.--For purposes of this
subparagraph and with respect to a fiscal year,
the term `additional inspections and
examinations' means those inspections and
examinations of investment advisers under this
title for such fiscal year that exceed the
number of inspections and examinations of
investment advisers under this title conducted
during fiscal year 2011.
``(B) Fee calculation formula.--The Commission
shall establish by rulemaking a formula for determining
the fee amount to be assessed against individual
investment advisers, which shall take into account the
following factors:
``(i) The anticipated costs of conducting
inspections and examinations of investment
advisers under this title, including the
anticipated frequency of such inspections and
examinations.
``(ii) The investment adviser's size,
including the assets under management of the
investment adviser (excluding any assets under
management attributable to any of the adviser's
clients that are a registered investment
company).
``(iii) The number and type of clients of
the investment adviser.
``(iv) Such other objective factors, such
as risk characteristics, as the Commission
determines to be appropriate.
``(C) Adjustment of formula.--Prior to the end of
each fiscal year, the Commission shall review the fee
calculation formula and, if, after allowing for a
period of public comment, the Commission determines
that the formula needs to be revised, the Commission
shall revise such formula before fees are assessed for
the following fiscal year.
``(4) Public disclosures.--The Commission shall make the
following information publicly available, including on the Web
site of the Commission:
``(A) The formula used to determine the fee amount
to be assessed against individual investment advisers,
and any adjustment made to such formula.
``(B) The factors used to determine such formula,
including any additional objective factors used by the
Commission pursuant to paragraph (3)(B)(iv).
``(5) Audit.--
``(A) In general.--The Comptroller General of the
United States shall, every 2 years, conduct an audit of
the use of the fees collected by the Commission under
this subsection, the reviews of the formula used to
calculate such fees, and any adjustments made by the
Commission to such formula.
``(B) Report.--After conducting each audit required
under subparagraph (A), the Comptroller General shall
issue a report on such audit to the Committee on
Financial Services of the House of Representatives and
the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs of
the Senate.
``(6) Treatment of fees.--
``(A) In general.--Funds derived from fees assessed
under this subsection shall be available to the
Commission, without further appropriation or fiscal
year limitation, to pay any costs associated with
inspecting and examining investment advisers that are
subject to inspection and examination under this title.
``(B) Funds not public funds.--Funds derived from
fees assessed under this subsection shall not be
construed to be Government or public funds or
appropriated money. Notwithstanding any other provision
of law, funds derived from fees assessed under this
subsection shall not be subject to apportionment for
the purpose of chapter 15 of title 31, United States
Code, or under any other authority.
``(C) Funds supplemental to other amounts.--Funds
derived from fees assessed under this subsection shall
supplement, and be in addition to, any other amounts
available to the Commission, under a regular
appropriation or otherwise, for the purpose described
in subparagraph (A).''. | Investment Adviser Examination Improvement Act of 2012 - Declares the sense of Congress that the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) should increase the number and frequency of examinations of investment advisers.
Amends the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 to direct the SEC to collect an annual fee from investment advisers subject to SEC inspection or examination to defray the cost of such inspections and examinations. Exempts certain state-regulated investment advisers from the requirement to pay an annual fee.
Prescribes a fee calculation formula. Requires the SEC to make the formula publicly available on its website along with the factors used to reach the fee determination.
Requires the Comptroller General to audit biennially the use of such fees, SEC reviews of the fee formula, and any adjustments to it.
Makes such fees available to the SEC, without further appropriation or fiscal year limitation, to pay costs associated with inspecting and examining investment advisers. | billsum_train |
Change the following text into a summary: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Identity Theft and Assumption
Deterrence Act of 1998''.
SEC. 2. CONSTITUTIONAL AUTHORITY TO ENACT THIS LEGISLATION.
The constitutional authority upon which this Act rests is the power
of Congress to regulate commerce with foreign nations and among the
several States, set forth in article I, section 8 of the United States
Constitution.
SEC. 3. IDENTITY FRAUD.
(a) Establishment of Offense.--
(1) In general.--Chapter 47 of title 18, United States
Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 1036. Identity fraud
``(a) Definitions.--In this section--
``(1) the term `communication facility' has the meaning
given that term in section 403(b) of the Controlled Substances
Act (21 U.S.C. 843(b));
``(2) the term `means of identification' means any name or
number that may be used, alone or in conjunction with any other
information, to assume the identity of an individual, including
any--
``(A) personal identification card (as that term is
defined in section 1028); or
``(B) access device, counterfeit access device, or
unauthorized access device (as those terms are defined
in section 1029);
``(3) the term `personal identifier' means--
``(A) a name, social security number, date of
birth, official State or government issued driver's
license or identification number, alien registration
number, government passport number, employer or
taxpayer identification number, or any access device
(as that term is defined in section 1029);
``(B) any unique biometric data, such as a
fingerprint, voice print, retina or iris image, or
other unique physical representation;
``(C) any unique electronic identification number,
address, or routing code; or
``(D) any other means of identification not
lawfully issued to the user;
``(4) the term `identification device' means any physical,
mechanical, or electronic representation of a personal
identifier or any personal information or data; and
``(5) the term `personal information or data' means any
information that, when used in conjunction with a personal
identifier or identification device, would facilitate a
misrepresentation or assumption of the identity of another.
``(b) Prohibition.--Whoever in interstate or foreign commerce, or
through the use of a communication facility, knowingly, with intent to
defraud, and in order to receive payment or any other thing of value
the aggregate value of which is equal to or greater than $1,000--
``(1) receives, acquires, obtains, purchases, sells,
transfers, traffics in, or steals, or attempts to receive,
acquire, obtain, purchase, sell, transfer, traffic in, or
steal, or otherwise causes or solicits another to do the same,
any personal identifier, identification device, personal
information or data, or other document or means of
identification of any entity or person;
``(2) possesses or uses, or attempts to possess or use, or
otherwise causes or solicits another to do the same, any
personal identifier, identification device, personal
information or data, or other document or means of
identification of any entity or person; or
``(3) assumes, adopts, takes, acquires, or uses, or
attempts to assume, adopt, take, acquire, or use, or otherwise
causes or solicits another to do the same, the identity of any
entity or person;
shall be fined under this title, imprisoned not more than 15 years, or
both.
``(c) Conspiracy.--Whoever is a party to a conspiracy of 2 or more
persons to commit an offense described in subsection (b), if any of the
parties engages in any conduct in furtherance of the offense, shall be
fined in an amount not to exceed the amount of the fine to which that
person would be subject for that offense under subsection (b),
imprisoned not more than 7.5 years, or both.''.
(2) Investigative authority.--In addition to any other
agency having such authority, the United States Secret Service
may investigate any offense under section 1036 of title 18,
United States Code (as added by this subsection), except that
the exercise of investigative authority under this paragraph
shall be subject to the terms of an agreement, which shall be
entered into by the Secretary of the Treasury and the Attorney
General.
(3) Sentencing enhancement.--Pursuant to its authority
under section 994(p) of title 28, United States Code, the
United States Sentencing Commission shall amend the Federal
sentencing guidelines to provide for sentencing enhancements
under chapter 2 of the Federal sentencing guidelines for a
defendant who is convicted of an offense under section 1036 of
title 18, United States Code, in connection with an offense
under section 513, 514, 1028, 1029, 1341, 1342, 1343, 1344, or
1708 of title 18, United States Code, as follows:
(A) A sentencing enhancement of--
(i) 1 level, if the offense involves not
more than 1 victim;
(ii) 2 levels, if the offense involves not
less than 2 and not more than 4 victims; or
(iii) 3 levels, if the offense involves 5
or more victims.
(B) An appropriate sentencing enhancement, if the
offense involves stealing or destroying a quantity of
undelivered United States mail, in violation of section
1702, 1703, 1708, 1709, 2114, or 2115 of title 18,
United States Code.
(C) An appropriate sentencing enhancement based on
the potential loss (as opposed to the actual loss) that
could have resulted from an identity theft offense
(i.e. the line of credit of the access device, etc.).
(4) Clerical amendment.--The analysis for chapter 47 of
title 18, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end
the following:
``1036. Identity fraud.''.
(b) Forfeiture of Contraband.--Section 80302(a) of title 49, United
States Code, is amended--
(1) in paragraph (5), by striking ``or'' at the end;
(2) in paragraph (6), by striking the period at the end and
inserting a semicolon; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(7) an identification document, false identification
document, or a document-making implement (as those terms are
defined in sections 1028 and 1029 of title 18) involved in a
violation of section 1028 or 1029 of title 18;
``(8) a counterfeit access device, device-making equipment,
or scanning receiver (as those terms are defined in sections
1028 and 1029 of title 18); or
``(9) a means of identification (as that term is defined in
section 1036) involved in a violation of section 1036.''.
(c) Restitution.--Section 3663A of title 18, United States Code, is
amended--
(1) in subsection (c)(1)(A)--
(A) in clause (ii), by striking ``or'' at the end;
(B) in clause (iii), by striking ``and'' at the end
and inserting ``or''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(iv) an offense described in section 1036
(relating to identity fraud); and''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(e) Identity Fraud.--Making restitution to a victim under this
section for an offense described in section 1036 (relating to identity
fraud) may include payment for any costs, including attorney fees,
incurred by the victim--
``(1) in clearing the credit history or credit rating of
the victim; or
``(2) in connection with any civil or administrative
proceeding to satisfy any debt, lien, or other obligation of
the victim arising as a result of the actions of the
defendant.''.
(d) Identity Fraud Information and Study; Inclusion in Suspicious
Activity Reports.--
(1) Definitions.--In this subsection--
(A) the term ``financial institution'' has the same
meaning as in section 20 of title 18, United States
Code; and
(B) the term ``identity fraud'' means an offense
described in section 1036 of title 18, United States
Code (as added by subsection (a) of this section).
(2) Identity fraud information.--Beginning not later than
60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the United
States Secret Service of the Department of the Treasury and the
Federal Bureau of Investigation of the Department of Justice,
in consultation with financial institutions and other
interested private entities, shall collect and maintain
information and statistical data relating to--
(A) the number of identity fraud offenses
investigated;
(B) the number of prosecutions and convictions for
identity fraud; and
(C) any information provided by State and local law
enforcement agencies relating to the investigation of
identity fraud.
(3) Identity fraud study.--Not later than 18 months after
the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the
Treasury, the Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission, the
Attorney General, and the Postmaster General shall--
(A) conduct a comprehensive study of--
(i) the nature, extent, and causes of
identity fraud; and
(ii) the threat posed by identity fraud
to--
(I) financial institutions and
payment systems; and
(II) consumer safety and privacy;
and
(B) based on the results of that study, submit to
Congress a report including an evaluation of the
effectiveness of the provisions of this Act and the
amendments made by this Act and, if necessary, specific
recommendations for legislation to address the problem
of identity fraud.
(4) Suspicious activity reports.--Not later than 90 days
after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the
Treasury shall promulgate such regulations as may be necessary
to include identity fraud as a separate characterization of
suspicious activity for purposes of reports by financial
institutions of suspicious transactions under section 5318(g)
of title 31, United States Code. | Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act of 1998 - Amends the Federal criminal code to prohibit identity fraud. Imposes penalties upon anyone who, in interstate or foreign commerce or through the use of a communication facility, knowingly, with intent to defraud, and in order to receive payment or any thing the aggregate value of which is at least $1,000: (1) receives, acquires, obtains, purchases, sells, transfers, traffics in, steals, possesses, or uses any personal identifier, identification device, personal information or data, or other document or means of identification of any other entity or person; (2) assumes, adopts, takes, acquires, or uses the identity of any other entity or person; or (3) attempts, solicits another person, or conspires with another person to commit such offense.
Authorizes the United States Secret Service to investigate offenses under this Act, subject to terms of an agreement to be entered with the Secretary of the Treasury.
Directs the United States Sentencing Commission to amend the Federal sentencing guidelines to provide for sentencing enhancements for a defendant who is convicted of an offense under this Act in connection with another specified offense, based on: (1) the number of victims involved; (2) whether the offense involves the stealing or destroying of a quantity of undelivered U.S. mail; and (3) the potential loss that could have resulted from such offense.
Includes within the definition of "contraband" (subject to forfeiture) specified equipment pertaining to identity fraud.
Provides for mandatory restitution for victims of identity fraud which may include payment for any costs, including attorney's fees, incurred by the victim: (1) in clearing his or her credit history or credit rating; or (2) in connection with any civil or administrative proceeding to satisfy any debt, lien, or other obligation of the victim arising as a result of the defendant's actions.
Directs: (1) the Secret Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation to collect and maintain certain information and statistical data relating to identity fraud; (2) the Secretary of the Treasury, the Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission, the Attorney General, and the Postmaster General to study and report to the Congress on the nature, extent, and causes of identity fraud and the threat it poses to financial institutions and payment systems and to consumer safety and privacy; and (3) the Secretary of the Treasury to promulgate such regulations as necessary to include identity fraud as a separate characterization of suspicious activity for purposes of reports by financial institutions of suspicious transactions. | billsum_train |
Change the following text into a summary: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``American Indian Trust Fund
Management Reform Act Amendments of 1995''.
SEC. 2. ADMINISTRATIVE AUTHORITIES OF THE OFFICE OF SPECIAL TRUSTEE.
(a) In General.--Section 303(b)(2) of the American Indian Trust
Fund Management Reform Act of 1994 (25 U.S.C. 4043(b)(2)) is amended--
(1) by striking the paragraph heading and inserting the
following new heading: ``Administration of financial trust
services.--''
(2) by redesignating subparagraphs (A) through (C) as
subparagraphs (B) through (D), respectively; and
(3) by inserting before subparagraph (B), as so
redesignated, the following new subparagraph:
``(A) Administrative authority.--The Office of
Special Trustee shall have direct administrative
authority over the human and financial resources
supporting the provision of financial trust services
and functions to Indian tribes and Indian individuals
administered by the Bureau on the day before the date
of enactment of the American Indian Trust Fund
Management Reform Act Amendments of 1995.''.
(b) Transfer of Functions.--The Secretary of the Interior shall
transfer to the Office of Special Trustee for American Indians
established under section 302 of the American Indian Trust Fund
Management Reform Act of 1994 (25 U.S.C. 4042) the functions and
services of the Bureau of Indian Affairs relating to the administration
of human and financial resources supporting the provision of financial
trust services and functions to Indian tribes and Indian individuals in
a manner consistent with section 303(b)(2)(A) of that Act, as amended
by subsection (a).
(c) Administrative Support Services.--
(1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2), for fiscal year
1996, the Secretary of the Interior shall ensure that, to the
extent practicable, the Bureau of Indian Affairs provides
administrative support services for the financial trust
functions and services transferred to the Office of Special
Trustee for American Indians under subsection (b) at a level
that is comparable to the level of administrative support
services provided by the Bureau of Indian Affairs to support
those financial trust functions and services during fiscal year
1995.
(2) Effect of reduction in funding.--If, for fiscal year
1996, the amount of funds made available by appropriations for
the Bureau of Indian Affairs for general administrative support
services is less than the amount made available for such
purposes for fiscal year 1995, the Secretary shall determine
the level of administrative support services described in
paragraph (1) to be provided for fiscal year 1996 on a pro rata
basis, taking into account the total amount of funds made
available by appropriations for the Bureau for general
administrative support services.
SEC. 3. OFFICE OF SPECIAL TRUSTEE.
Section 302(b) of the American Indian Trust Fund Management Reform
Act of 1994 (25 U.S.C. 4042(b)) is amended by adding at the end the
following new paragraph:
``(3) Term of special trustee.--
``(A) In general.--Except as provided in
subparagraphs (B) and (C), the Special Trustee shall
serve for a term of 4 years.
``(B) Termination of office.--If, pursuant to
subsection (c), the Office of Special Trustee is
terminated prior to the expiration of the term
specified in subparagraph (A), the term of the Special
Trustee shall expire on the termination date determined
under that subsection.
``(C) Vacancy.--If a vacancy occurs prior to the
expiration of the term of the Special Trustee, the
vacancy shall be filled in the same manner as the
original appointment and, except as provided in
subparagraph (B), the individual appointed to succeed
shall serve for the unexpired portion of that term.''.
SEC. 4. CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.
Section 303 of the American Indian Trust Fund Management Reform Act
of 1994 (25 U.S.C. 4043), as amended by section 2, is further amended--
(1) in subsection (b)(2)--
(A) in subparagraph (B)--
(i) by striking ``the Bureau'' and
inserting ``the Department''; and
(ii) by striking ``holders,'' and inserting
``holders'';
(B) in subparagraph (C), by striking ``that the
Bureau establishes'' and inserting ``the establishment
of''; and
(C) in subparagraph (D), by striking ``that the
Bureau establishes'' and inserting ``the establishment
of''; and
(2) in subsection (c)--
(A) in paragraph (2), by striking ``Bureau'' each
place it appears and inserting ``Office''; and
(B) in paragraph (3), by striking ``Bureau'' each
place it appears and inserting ``Office''. | American Indian Trust Fund Management Reform Act Amendments of 1995 - Amends the American Indian Trust Fund Management Reform Act of 1994 to grant the Office of Special Trustee for American Indians (of the Department of the Interior) direct administrative authority over the human and financial resources supporting the provision of Indian financial trust services. Provides for the transfer of such functions from the Bureau of Indian Affairs to the Office.
Establishes a four-year term of Special Trustee, unless otherwise terminated. | billsum_train |
Summarize the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Women's Progress Commemoration
Act''.
SEC. 2. DECLARATION.
Congress declares that--
(1) the original Seneca Falls Convention, held in upstate
New York in July 1848, convened to consider the social
conditions and civil rights of women at that time;
(2) the convention marked the beginning of an admirable and
courageous struggle for equal rights for women;
(3) the 150th Anniversary of the convention provides an
excellent opportunity to examine the history of the women's
movement; and
(4) a Federal Commission should be established for the
important task of ensuring the historic preservation of sites
that have been instrumental in American women's history,
creating a living legacy for generations to come.
SEC. 3. ESTABLISHMENT OF COMMISSION.
(a) Establishment.--There is established a commission to be known
as the ``Women's Progress Commemoration Commission'' (referred to in
this Act as the ``Commission'').
(b) Membership.--
(1) In general.--The Commission shall be composed of 15
members, of whom--
(A) 3 shall be appointed by the President;
(B) 3 shall be appointed by the Speaker of the
House of Representatives;
(C) 3 shall be appointed by the minority leader of
the House of Representatives;
(D) 3 shall be appointed by the majority leader of
the Senate; and
(E) 3 shall be appointed by the minority leader of
the Senate.
(2) Persons eligible.--
(A) In general.--The members of the Commission
shall be individuals who have knowledge or expertise,
whether by experience or training, in matters to be
studied by the Commission. The members may be from the
public or private sector, and may include Federal,
State, local, or employees, members of academia,
nonprofit organizations, or industry, or other
interested individuals.
(B) Diversity.--It is the intent of Congress that
persons appointed to the Commission under paragraph (1)
be persons who represent diverse economic,
professional, and cultural backgrounds.
(3) Consultation and appointment.--
(A) In general.--The President, Speaker of the
House of Representatives, minority leader of the House
of Representatives, majority leader of the Senate, and
minority leader of the Senate shall consult among
themselves before appointing the members of the
Commission in order to achieve, to the maximum extent
practicable, fair and equitable representation of
various points of view with respect to the matters to
be studied by the Commission.
(B) Completion of appointments; vacancies.--The
President, Speaker of the House of Representatives,
minority leader of the House of Representatives,
majority leader of the Senate, and minority leader of
the Senate shall conduct the consultation under
subparagraph (3) and make their respective appointments
not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of
this Act.
(4) Vacancies.-- A vacancy in the membership of the
Commission shall not affect the powers of the Commission and
shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment
not later than 30 days after the vacancy occurs.
(c) Meetings.--
(1) Initial meeting.--Not later than 30 days after the date
on which all members of the Commission have been appointed, the
Commission shall hold its first meeting.
(2) Subsequent meetings.--After the initial meeting, the
Commission shall meet at the call of the Chairperson.
(d) Quorum.--A majority of the members of the Commission shall
constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, but a lesser
number of members may hold hearings.
(e) Chairperson and Vice Chairperson.--The Commission shall select
a Chairperson and Vice Chairperson from among its members.
SEC. 4. DUTIES OF THE COMMISSION.
Not later than 1 year after the initial meeting of the Commission,
the Commission, in cooperation with the Secretary of the Interior and
other appropriate Federal, State, and local public and private
entities, shall prepare and submit to the Secretary of the Interior a
report that--
(1) identifies sites of historical significance to the
women's movement; and
(2) recommends actions, under the National Historic
Preservation Act (16 U.S.C. 470 et seq.) and other law, to
rehabilitate and preserve the sites and provide to the public
interpretive and educational materials and activities at the
sites.
SEC. 5. POWERS OF THE COMMISSION.
(a) Hearings.--The Commission may hold such hearings, sit and act
at such times and places, take such testimony, and receive such
evidence as the Commission considers advisable to carry out its duties
of this Act.
(b) Information From Federal Agencies.--The Commission may secure
directly from any Federal department or agency such information as the
Commission considers necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
At the request of the Chairperson of the Committee, the head of such
department or agency shall furnish such information to the Commission.
SEC. 6. COMMISSION PERSONNEL MATTERS.
(a) Compensation of Members.--A member of the Commission who is not
otherwise an officer or employee of the Federal Government shall be
compensated at a rate equal to the daily equivalent of the annual rate
of basic pay prescribed for a position at level IV of the Executive
Schedule under section 5315 of title 5, United States Code, for each
day (including travel time) during which the member is engaged in the
performance of the duties of the Commission. A member of the Commission
who is otherwise an officer or employee of the United States shall
serve without compensation in addition to that received for services as
an officer or employee of the United States.
(b) Travel Expenses.--A member of the Commission shall be allowed
travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, at rates
authorized for employees of agencies under subchapter I of chapter 57
of title 5, United States Code, while away from the home or regular
place of business of the member in the performance of service for the
Commission.
(c) Staff.--
(1) In general.--The Chairperson of the Commission may,
without regard to the civil service laws (including
regulations), appoint and terminate an executive director and
such other additional personnel as may be necessary to enable
the Commission to perform its duties. The employment and
termination of an executive director shall be subject to
confirmation by a majority of the members of the Commission.
(2) Compensation.--The executive director shall be
compensated at a rate not to exceed the rate payable for a
position at level V of the Executive Schedule under section
5316 of title 5, United States Code. The Chairperson may fix
the compensation of other personnel without regard to the
provisions of chapter 51 and subchapter III of chapter 53 of
title 5, United States Code, relating to classification of
positions and General Schedule pay rates, except that the rate
of pay for such personnel may not exceed the rate payable for a
position at level V of the Executive Schedule under section
5316 of that title.
(3) Detail of government employees.--Any Federal Government
employee, with the approval of the head of the appropriate
Federal agency, may be detailed to the Commission without
reimbursement, and the detail shall be without interruption or
loss of civil service status, benefits, or privilege.
(d) Procurement of Temporary and Intermittent Services.--The
Chairperson of the Commission may procure temporary and intermittent
services under section 3109(b) of title 5, United States Code, at rates
for individuals not to exceed the daily equivalent of the annual rate
of basic pay prescribed for a position at level V of the Executive
Schedule under section 5316 of that title.
SEC. 7. FUNDING.
(a) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to the Commission such sums as are necessary to carry out
this Act.
(b) Donations.--The Commission may accept donations from non-
Federal sources to defray the costs of the operations of the
Commission.
SEC. 8. TERMINATION.
The Commission shall terminate on the date that is 30 days after
the date on which the Commission submits to the Secretary of the
Interior the report under section 4.
SEC. 9. REPORTS TO CONGRESS.
Not later 2 years and not later than 5 years after the date on
which the Commission submits to the Secretary of the Interior the
report under section 4, the Secretary of the Interior shall submit to
Congress a report describing the actions that have been taken to
preserve the sites identified in the Commission report as being of
historical significance. | Women's Progress Commemoration Act - Establishes the Women's Progress Commemoration Commission, which shall report to the Secretary of the Interior on: (1) sites of historical significance to the women's movement; and (2) recommended actions, under the National Historic Preservation Act and other law, to rehabilitate and preserve them, and provide to the public interpretive and educational materials and activities.
Authorizes appropriations.
Requires the Secretary, after receipt of the Commission's report, to report to the Congress on actions taken to preserve the sites identified. | billsum_train |
Make a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. PROGRAM ON PROVISION OF READJUSTMENT AND MENTAL HEALTH CARE
SERVICES TO VETERANS WHO SERVED IN OPERATION IRAQI
FREEDOM AND OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM.
(a) Program Required.--Not later than 180 days after the date of
the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall
establish a program to provide--
(1) to veterans of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation
Enduring Freedom, particularly veterans who served in such
operations while in the National Guard and the Reserves--
(A) peer outreach services;
(B) peer support services;
(C) readjustment counseling and services described
in section 1712A of title 38, United States Code; and
(D) mental health services; and
(2) to members of the immediate family of such a veteran,
during the three-year period beginning on the date of the
return of such veteran from deployment in Operation Iraqi
Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, education, support,
counseling, and mental health services to assist in--
(A) the readjustment of such veteran to civilian
life;
(B) in the case such veteran has an injury or
illness incurred during such deployment, the recovery
of such veteran; and
(C) the readjustment of the family following the
return of such veteran.
(b) Contracts With Community Mental Health Centers and Qualified
Entities for Provision of Services.--In carrying out the program
required by subsection (a), the Secretary shall contract with community
mental health centers and other qualified entities to provide the
services required by such subsection in areas the Secretary determines
are not adequately served by other health care facilities of the
Department of Veterans Affairs. Such contracts shall require each
contracting community health center or entity--
(1) to the extent practicable, to employ veterans trained
under subsection (c);
(2) to the extent practicable, to use telehealth services
for the delivery of services required by subsection (a);
(3) to participate in the training program conducted in
accordance with subsection (d);
(4) to comply with applicable protocols of the Department
of Veterans Affairs before incurring any liability on behalf of
the Department for the provision of the services required by
subsection (a);
(5) to submit annual reports to the Secretary containing,
with respect to the program required by subsection (a) and for
the last full calendar year ending before the submission of
such report--
(A) the number of the veterans served, veterans
diagnosed, and courses of treatment provided to
veterans as part of the program required by subsection
(a); and
(B) demographic information for such services,
diagnoses, and courses of treatment;
(6) for each veteran for whom a community mental health
center or other qualified entity provides mental health
services under such contract, to provide the Department of
Veterans Affairs with such clinical summary information as the
Secretary shall require; and
(7) to meet such other requirements as the Secretary shall
require.
(c) Training of Veterans for the Provision of Peer-Outreach and
Peer-Support Services.--In carrying out the program required by
subsection (a), the Secretary shall contract with a national not-for-
profit mental health organization to carry out a national program of
training for veterans described in subsection (a) to provide the
services described in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (1) of
such subsection.
(d) Training of Clinicians for Provision of Services.--The
Secretary shall conduct a training program for clinicians of community
mental health centers or entities that have contracts with the
Secretary under subsection (b) to ensure that such clinicians can
provide the services required by subsection (a) in a manner that--
(1) recognizes factors that are unique to the experience of
veterans who served on active duty in Operation Iraqi Freedom
or Operation Enduring Freedom (including their combat and
military training experiences); and
(2) utilizes best practices and technologies.
(e) Reports Required.--
(1) Initial report on plan for implementation.--Not later
than 45 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the
Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs of
the Senate and the Committee on Veterans' Affairs of the House
of Representatives a report containing the plans of the
Secretary to implement the program required by subsection (a).
(2) Status report.--Not later than one year after the date
of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the
Committee on Veterans' Affairs of the Senate and the Committee
on Veterans' Affairs of the House of Representatives a report
on the implementation of the program. Such report shall include
the following:
(A) Information on the number of veterans who
received services as part of the program and the type
of services received during the last full calendar year
completed before the submission of such report.
(B) An evaluation of the provision of services
under paragraph (2) of subsection (a) and a
recommendation as to whether the period described in
such paragraph should be extended to a five-year
period.
(f) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs such sums as may be
necessary to carry out this section.
SEC. 2. EXTENSION OF ELIGIBILITY FOR HEALTH CARE SERVICES FROM
DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS FOR VETERANS OF SERVICE IN
COMBAT THEATER.
Section 1710(e)(3)(C) of title 38, United States Code, is amended
by striking ``2 years'' and inserting ``5 years''. | Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a program to provide to veterans of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, particularly veterans who served in such Operations while in the National Guard and reserves: (1) peer outreach and support services; (2) readjustment counseling and related services; and (3) mental health services. Directs the Secretary to also provide to immediate family members of such veterans, during the three-year period following the return of the veterans from such a deployment, education, support, counseling, and mental health services to assist in: (1) readjustment to civilian life; (2) recovery from an injury or illness incurred during such deployment; and (3) readjustment of the family following the veteran's return.
Authorizes the Secretary to contract with community health centers and other qualified entities to provide such services in areas not adequately served by health care facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Requires the Secretary to: (1) contract for a program to train veterans to provide the peer outreach and support services; and (2) conduct a training program for clinicians of community health centers and entities contracted to provide such services.
Extends the eligibility for hospital care, medical services, and nursing home care for veterans who served on active duty in a theater of combat operations from two to five years after their discharge or release from such duty. | billsum_train |
Create a condensed overview of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Access to Congressionally Mandated
Reports Act''.
SEC. 2. ESTABLISHMENT OF WEBSITE FOR CONGRESSIONALLY MANDATED REPORTS.
(a) Requirement To Establish Website.--Not later than one year
after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Director of the
Government Publishing Office shall establish and maintain a website
accessible by the public that allows the public to obtain electronic
copies of all congressionally mandated reports in one place. The
Director of the Government Publishing Office may publish other reports
on such website.
(b) Content and Function.--The Director of the Government
Publishing Office shall ensure that the website required under
subsection (a) includes the following:
(1) With respect to each congressionally mandated report,
each of the following:
(A) A citation to the statute or conference report
requiring the report.
(B) An electronic copy of the report, including any
transmittal letter associated with the report, in an
open format that is platform independent and that is
available to the public without restrictions, including
restrictions that would impede the re-use of the
information in the report.
(C) The ability to retrieve a report, to the extent
practicable, through searches based on each, and any
combination, of the following:
(i) The title of the report.
(ii) The reporting Federal agency.
(iii) The date of publication.
(iv) Each congressional committee receiving
the report, if applicable.
(v) Subject tags.
(vi) The serial number, Superintendent of
Documents number, or other identification
number for the report, if applicable.
(vii) The statute or conference report
requiring the report.
(viii) Key words.
(ix) Full text search.
(x) Any other relevant information
specified by the Director of the Government
Publishing Office.
(D) The time and date when the report was required
to be submitted, and when the report was submitted, to
the website.
(E) Access to the report not later than 30 calendar
days after its submission to Congress.
(F) To the extent practicable, a permanent means of
accessing the report electronically.
(2) A means for bulk download of all congressionally
mandated reports or a selection of reports retrieved using a
search.
(3) A means for the head of each Federal agency to publish
on the website each congressionally mandated report of the
agency, as required by section 3.
(4) A list form for all congressionally mandated reports
that can be searched, sorted, and downloaded by--
(A) reports submitted within the required time;
(B) reports submitted after the date on which such
reports were required to be submitted; and
(C) reports not submitted.
(c) Free Access.--The Director of the Government Publishing Office
may not charge a fee, require registration, or impose any other
limitation in exchange for access to the website required under
subsection (a).
(d) Upgrade Capability.--The website required under subsection (a)
shall be enhanced and updated as necessary to carry out the purposes of
this Act.
SEC. 3. FEDERAL AGENCY RESPONSIBILITIES.
(a) Submission of Electronic Copies of Reports.--The head of each
Federal agency shall publish congressionally mandated reports of the
agency on the website required under section 2(a)--
(1) in an open format that is platform independent, machine
readable, and available to the public without restrictions
(except the redaction of information described under section
5), including restrictions that would impede the re-use of the
information in the reports; and
(2) in accordance with the guidance issued under subsection
(c).
(b) Submission of Additional Information.--The head of each Federal
agency shall submit to the Director of the Government Publishing Office
the information required under subparagraphs (A) through (D) of section
2(b)(1) with respect to each congressionally mandated report published
pursuant to subsection (a).
(c) Guidance.--Not later than eight months after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Director of the Office of Management and
Budget, in consultation with the Director of the Government Publishing
Office, shall issue guidance to agencies on the implementation of this
Act.
SEC. 4. REMOVING AND ALTERING REPORTS.
A report submitted to be published to the website required under
section 2(a) may only be changed or removed, with the exception of
technical changes, by the head of the Federal agency concerned with the
express, written consent of the chairman of each congressional
committee to which the report is submitted.
SEC. 5. RELATIONSHIP TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT.
(a) In General.--Nothing in this Act shall be construed to require
the disclosure of information or records that are exempt from public
disclosure under section 552 of title 5, United States Code, or to
impose any affirmative duty on the Director of the Government
Publishing Office to review congressionally mandated reports submitted
for publication to the website established under section 2(a) for the
purpose of identifying and redacting such information or records.
(b) Redaction of Report.--With respect to each congressionally
mandated report, the relevant head of each Federal agency shall redact
any information that may not be publicly released under section 552(b)
of title 5, United States Code, before submission for publication on
the website established under section 2(a), and shall--
(1) redact only such information from the report;
(2) identify where any such redaction is made in the
report; and
(3) identify the exemption under which each such redaction
is made.
(c) Withholding Information.--
(1) In general.--A Federal agency--
(A) may withhold information otherwise required to
be disclosed pursuant to this Act only if--
(i) the Federal agency reasonably foresees
that disclosure would harm an interest
protected by an exemption described in section
552(b) of title 5, United States Code; or
(ii) disclosure is prohibited by law; and
(B) shall--
(i) consider whether partial disclosure of
information is possible whenever the Federal
agency determines that a full disclosure of a
requested record is not possible; and
(ii) take reasonable steps necessary to
segregate and release nonexempt information.
(2) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this subsection
requires disclosure of information that is otherwise prohibited
from disclosure by law, or otherwise exempted from disclosure
under section 552(b)(3) of title 5, United States Code.
SEC. 6. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Congressionally mandated report.--The term
``congressionally mandated report'' means a report that is
required to be submitted to either House of Congress or any
committee of Congress by statute or by a conference report that
accompanies legislation enacted into law.
(2) Federal agency.--The term ``Federal agency'' has the
meaning given that term under section 102 of title 40, United
States Code, but does not include the Government Accountability
Office.
SEC. 7. IMPLEMENTATION.
Except as provided in section 3(c), this Act shall be implemented
not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act and
shall apply with respect to congressionally mandated reports submitted
to Congress on or after the date occurring one year after such date of
enactment. | Access to Congressionally Mandated Reports Act This bill requires the Government Publishing Office (GPO) to establish and maintain a website that provides the public free electronic access to all congressionally mandated reports within 30 calendar days after submission to Congress. Each federal agency shall publish congressionally mandated reports on such website. A report submitted for publication may only be changed or removed, with the exception of technical changes, by the agency concerned with the express, written consent of the chairman of each congressional committee to which the report is submitted. Each agency: (1) must redact from such a report any information that may not be publicly released under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), (2) may withhold information otherwise required to be disclosed pursuant to this bill only if the agency reasonably foresees that disclosure would harm an interest protected by FOIA exemptions or if disclosure is prohibited by law, and (3) shall consider whether partial disclosure of information is possible whenever full disclosure is not and take reasonable steps necessary to segregate and release nonexempt information. | billsum_train |
Provide a condensed version of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Alaska Native Access Card Act''.
SEC. 2. DEFINITION OF ALASKA NATIVE.
(a) Definition.--Section 3 of the Marine Mammal Protection Act of
1972 (16 U.S.C. 1362) is amended--
(1) by redesignating paragraphs (1) through (29) as
paragraphs (7), (5), (8), (11), (12), (14), (15), (17), (19),
(20), (21), (24), (26), (29), (30), (9), (4), (10), (25), (22),
(23), (3), (2), (27), (28), (18), (16), (13), and (6),
respectively;
(2) in paragraph (2) (as so redesignated), by striking
``Indians, Aleuts, or Eskimos'' and inserting ``Alaska
Natives'';
(3) in subparagraph (B) of paragraph (24) (as so
redesignated), by striking ``in section'' and inserting ``In
section''; and
(4) by inserting before paragraph (2) (as so redesignated)
the following:
``(1) Alaska native.--
``(A) In general.--The term `Alaska Native' has the
meaning given the term `Native' in section 3 of the
Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (43 U.S.C. 1602).
``(B) Inclusion.--The term `Alaska Native' includes
any Tsimishian Indian, regardless of whether the
Tsimishian Indian is enrolled in the Metlakatla Indian
Community.''.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Section 101 of the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972
(16 U.S.C. 1371) is amended--
(A) in subsections (a) and (b), by striking
``Indian, Aleut, or Eskimo'' each place it appears and
inserting ``Alaska Native'';
(B) in subsection (a)(5)(D)(iv), by striking
``clauses'' and inserting ``clause''; and
(C) in subsection (b)--
(i) in paragraph (2), by striking
``native'' each place it appears and inserting
``Alaska Native''; and
(ii) in the undesignated matter following
paragraph (3), in the first sentence, by
striking ``Indians, Aleuts, or Eskimos'' and
inserting ``Alaska Natives''.
(2) Section 109 of the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972
(16 U.S.C. 1379) is amended--
(A) in subsection (b)(3)(B)(i), by striking
``section 3(14)(B)'' and inserting ``section
3(29)(B)'';
(B) in paragraphs (1) and (2) of subsection (d), by
striking ``section 3(14)(B)'' each place it appears and
inserting ``section 3(29)(B)''; and
(C) in subsection (e)(2)(B), by striking ``Alaskan
Natives'' and inserting ``Alaska Natives''.
(3) Section 202(a)(7) of the Marine Mammal Protection Act
of 1972 (16 U.S.C. 1402(a)(7)) is amended by striking
``Indians, Eskimos, and Aleuts'' and inserting ``Alaska
Natives''.
(4) Section 408(g)(2) of the Marine Mammal Protection Act
of 1972 (16 U.S.C. 1421f-1(g)(2)) is amended by striking
``section 3(12)(A)'' and inserting ``section 3(24)(A)''.
(5) Section 508(a)(1) of the Marine Mammal Protection Act
of 1972 (16 U.S.C. 1423g(a)(1)) is amended by striking
``Alaskan natives'' and inserting ``Alaska Natives''.
SEC. 3. ALASKA NATIVE ACCESS CARDS.
Section 101(a)(6) of the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 (16
U.S.C. 1371(a)(6)) is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (A)--
(A) in clause (ii), by striking ``or'' after the
semicolon;
(B) in clause (iii), by striking the period at the
end and inserting ``; or''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(iv) is imported into the United States
for noncommercial purposes by an Alaska Native
presenting an Alaska Native Access Card issued
under subparagraph (C).''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(C) Establishment of alaska native access
cards.--
``(i) In general.--Not later than 90 days
after the date of enactment of the Alaska
Native Access Card Act, the Secretary shall
develop and implement a process for issuing an
access card, to be known as an `Alaska Native
Access Card' (referred to in this subparagraph
as an `access card') to any Alaska Native who
applies for an access card.
``(ii) Authorization.--An access card
issued under this subparagraph shall authorize
the import by Alaska Natives of marine mammal
products.
``(iii) Deadline.--Not later than 30 days
after receipt of an application under clause
(i), the Secretary shall issue the access card
to the applicant.''. | Alaska Native Access Card Act This bill amends the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 to direct the National Marine Fisheries Serviceand the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to develop and implement a process for issuing an Alaska Native Access Card. The Alaska Native Access Card authorizes Alaska Natives to import marine mammal products into the United States for noncommercial purposes. | billsum_train |
Make a brief summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Veterinarian Services Investment
Act''.
SEC. 2. VETERINARY SERVICES GRANT PROGRAM.
The National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy
Act of 1977 is amended by inserting after section 1415A (7 U.S.C.
3151a) the following new section:
``SEC. 1415B. VETERINARY SERVICES GRANT PROGRAM.
``(a) Establishment of Program.--
``(1) Competitive grants.--The Secretary shall carry out a
program to make competitive grants to qualified entities that
engage in activities described in paragraph (2) for the purpose
of developing, implementing, and sustaining veterinary
services.
``(2) Eligibility requirements.--To be eligible for a grant
under this subsection, a qualified entity must carry out
programs or activities that the Secretary determines will--
``(A) substantially relieve veterinarian shortage
situations;
``(B) support or facilitate private veterinary
practices engaged in public health activities; or
``(C) support or facilitate practices of
veterinarians who are participating in or have
successfully completed a service requirement under
section 1415A(a)(2).
``(b) Award Processes and Preferences.--
``(1) Application, evaluation, and input processes.--In
administrating the grant program under this section, the
Secretary shall use an appropriate application and evaluation
process and seek the input of interested persons.
``(2) Grant preferences.--In the case of grants to be used
for any of the purposes described in paragraphs (2) through (6)
of subsection (c), the Secretary shall give a preference to the
selection of qualified entities that document coordination
between or with other qualified entities regarding the
applicable purpose.
``(3) Additional preferences.--When awarding grants under
this section, the Secretary may develop additional preferences
by taking into account the amount of funds available for grants
as well as the purposes for which the grant funds will be used.
``(4) Applicability of other provisions.--Sections 1413B,
1462(a), 1469(a)(3), 1469(c), and 1470 shall apply to the
administration of the grant program under this section.
``(c) Use of Grants to Relieve Veterinarian Shortage Situations and
Support Veterinary Services.--Funds provided by grants under this
section may be used for the following purposes to relieve veterinarian
shortage situations and support veterinary services:
``(1) Grants to assist veterinarians with establishing or
expanding practices for the purpose of equipping veterinary
offices, sharing in the reasonable overhead costs of such
practices (as determined by the Secretary), or establishing
mobile veterinary facilities where at least a portion of such
facilities will address education or extension needs.
``(2) Grants to promote recruitment (including programs in
secondary schools), placement, and retention of veterinarians,
veterinary technicians, students of veterinary medicine, and
students of veterinary technology.
``(3) Grants for veterinary students, veterinary interns,
externs, fellows, and residents, and veterinary technician
students to cover expenses (other than the types of expenses
listed in 1415A(c)(5)) to attend training programs in food
safety or food animal medicine.
``(4) Grants establishing or expanding accredited
veterinary education programs (including faculty recruitment
and retention), veterinary residency and fellowship programs,
or veterinary internship and externship programs in
coordination with accredited colleges of veterinary medicine.
``(5) Grants for the assessment of veterinarian shortage
situations and preparation of applications for designation as a
shortage situation.
``(6) Grants in continuing education and extension,
including tele-veterinary medicine and other distance-based
education, for veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and other
health professionals needed to strengthen veterinary programs
and enhance food safety.
``(d) Special Requirements for Certain Grants.--
``(1) Terms of service requirements.--Grants provided under
this section for the purpose specified in subsection (c)(1)
shall be subject to an agreement between the Secretary and the
grant recipient that includes a required term of service for
the recipient, as established by the Secretary. In establishing
such terms, the Secretary shall consider only--
``(A) the amount of the grant awarded; and
``(B) the specific purpose of the grant.
``(2) Breach remedies.--An agreement under paragraph (1)
shall provide remedies for any breach of the agreement by the
grant recipient, including repayment or partial repayment of
the grant funds, with interest. The Secretary may waive the
repayment obligation in the event of extreme hardship or
extreme need, as determined by the Secretary.
``(3) Treatment of amounts recovered.--Funds recovered
under paragraph (2) shall be credited to the account available
to carry out this section and shall remain available until
expended.
``(e) Cost-Sharing Requirements.--
``(1) Recipient share.--A grant recipient shall provide
matching non-Federal funds, either in cash or in-kind support,
in an amount equal to not less than 50 percent of the Federal
funds provided in a grant under this section.
``(2) Waiver.--The Secretary may establish, by regulation,
conditions under which the cost-sharing requirements of
paragraph (1) may be reduced or waived.
``(f) Prohibition on Use of Grant Funds for Construction.--Funds
made available for grants under this section shall not be used for the
construction of a new building or facility or the acquisition,
expansion, remodeling, or alteration of an existing building of
facility, including site grading and improvement and architect fees.
``(g) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) Veterinarian shortage situation.--The term
`veterinarian shortage situation' means a veterinarian shortage
situation determined by the Secretary under section 1415A(b).
``(2) Qualified entity.--The term `qualified entity' means
the following:
``(A) A for-profit or nonprofit entity located in
the United States that operates a veterinary clinic
providing veterinary services--
``(i) in a rural area, as defined in
section 1393(a)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code
of 1986; and
``(ii) in response to a veterinarian
shortage situation.
``(B) A State, national, allied, or regional
veterinary organization or specialty board recognized
by the American Veterinary Medical Association.
``(C) A college or school of veterinary medicine
accredited by the American Veterinary Medical
Association.
``(D) A university research foundation or
veterinary medical foundation.
``(E) A department of veterinary science or
department of comparative medicine accredited by the
Department of Education.
``(F) A State agricultural experiment station.
``(G) A State, local, or tribal government agency.
``(h) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to the Secretary such sums as are necessary to carry out
this section for fiscal year 2012 and each fiscal year thereafter.
Amounts appropriated pursuant to this authorization of appropriations
shall remain available to the Secretary for the purposes of this
section until expended.''.
Passed the House of Representatives September 15, 2010.
Attest:
LORRAINE C. MILLER,
Clerk. | Veterinarian Services Investment Act - Amends the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 to direct the Secretary of Agriculture (USDA) to carry out a matching grant program with qualified entities to develop, implement, and sustain veterinary services.
Requires a qualifying entity to carry out programs that: (1) relieve veterinarian shortage situations; (2) support private veterinary practices engaged in public health activities; or (3) support practices of veterinarians who are participating in or have successfully completed a specified service requirement.
Sets forth grant preference provisions.
Makes such grants available for: (1) assistance for establishing or expanding veterinary practices or establishing mobile veterinary facilities; (2) veterinarian, technician, and student recruitment; (3) grants to attend training programs in food safety or food animal medicine; (4) grants to establish or expand accredited education, internship, residency, and fellowship programs; (5) grants to assess veterinarian shortage situations; and (6) grants for continuing education and extension, including tele-veterinary medicine and other distance-based education.
Prohibits the use of grant funds for construction.
Subjects grants for establishing or expanding veterinary practices to: (1) an agreement between the Secretary and the recipient that includes a required term of service; and (2) remedies for breach of agreement, including repayment or partial repayment of grant funds.
Defines "qualified entity" as a: (1) for-profit or nonprofit entity in the United States that operates a rural veterinary clinic in response to a veterinarian shortage situation; (2) state, national, allied, or regional veterinary organization or specialty board recognized by the American Veterinary Medical Association; (3) college or school of veterinary medicine accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association; (4) university research foundation or veterinary medical foundation; (5) department of veterinary science or department of comparative medicine accredited by the Department of Education; (6) state agricultural experiment station; or (7) state, local, or tribal government agency.
Authorizes appropriations beginning with FY2012. | billsum_train |
Create a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Dirty Bomb Prevention Act of 2003''.
SEC. 2. SENSITIVE RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL SECURITY.
(a) Amendment.--Chapter 14 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (42
U.S.C. 2201 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``SEC. 170C. SENSITIVE RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL SECURITY.
``(a) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) Sensitive radioactive material.--
``(A) In general.--The term `sensitive radioactive
material' means--
``(i) a material--
``(I) that is a source material,
byproduct material, or special nuclear
material; and
``(II) that is any other
radioactive material (regardless of
whether the material is or has been
licensed or otherwise regulated under
this Act) produced or made radioactive
before or after the date of enactment
of this section; and
``(ii) that is in such a form or quantity
or concentration that the Commission
determines, based on and consistent with the
recommendations of the task force, should be
classified as `sensitive radioactive material'
that warrants improved security and protection
against loss, theft, or sabotage.
``(B) Exclusion.--The term `sensitive radioactive
material' does not include nuclear fuel or spent
nuclear fuel.
``(2) Security threat.--The term `security threat' means--
``(A) a threat of sabotage or theft of sensitive
radioactive material;
``(B) a threat of use of sensitive radioactive
material in a radiological dispersal device; and
``(C) any other threat of terrorist or other
criminal activity involving sensitive radioactive
material that could harm the health or safety of the
public due primarily to radiological properties of the
sensitive radioactive material, as determined by the
Commission based on and consistent with the
recommendations of the task force.
``(3) Task force.--The term `task force' means the task
force on sensitive radioactive material security established by
subsection (b).
``(b) Task Force on Sensitive Radioactive Material Security.--
``(1) Establishment.--There is established a task force on
sensitive radioactive material security.
``(2) Membership.--The task force shall be comprised of--
``(A) the chairman of the Commission, who shall
serve as chairperson of the task force;
``(B) the Secretary of Defense;
``(C) the Secretary of Transportation;
``(D) the Administrator of the Environmental
Protection Agency;
``(E) the Attorney General;
``(F) the Secretary of State;
``(G) the Director of the Central Intelligence
Agency;
``(H) the Secretary of Health and Human Services;
``(I) the Director of the Federal Emergency
Management Agency; and
``(J) the Secretary of Homeland Security.
``(c) Duties.--
``(1) In general.--The task force shall--
``(A) evaluate the security of sensitive
radioactive material against security threats; and
``(B) recommend administrative and legislative
actions to be taken to provide the maximum practicable
degree of security against security threats.
``(2) Considerations.--In carrying out paragraph (1), the
task force shall make recommendations to--
``(A) determine the radioactive materials that
should be classified as sensitive radioactive
materials;
``(B) develop a classification system for sensitive
radioactive materials that--
``(i) is based on the potential for use by
terrorists of sensitive radioactive material
and the extent of the threat to public health
and safety posed by that potential; and
``(ii) takes into account--
``(I) radioactivity levels of
sensitive radioactive material;
``(II) the dispersibility of
sensitive radioactive material;
``(III) the chemical and material
form of sensitive radioactive material;
``(IV) the availability of
pharmaceuticals containing sensitive
radioactive materials for use by
physicians in treating patients; and
``(V) other appropriate factors;
``(C) develop a national system for recovery of
sensitive radioactive material that is lost or stolen,
taking into account the classification system
established under subparagraph (B);
``(D) provide for the storage of sensitive
radioactive material that is not currently in use in a
safe and secure manner;
``(E) develop a national tracking system for
sensitive radioactive material, taking into account the
classification system established under subparagraph
(B);
``(F) develop methods to ensure the return or
proper disposal of sensitive radioactive material;
``(G) modify current export controls on sensitive
radioactive materials so that, to the extent feasible,
exports from the United States of sensitive radioactive
materials are made only to foreign recipients that are
willing and able to control the sensitive radioactive
materials in the same manner as recipients in the
United States; and
``(H) establish procedures to improve the security
of sensitive radioactive material in use,
transportation, and storage.
``(3) Procedures to improve security.--The procedures to
improve the security of sensitive radioactive material under
paragraph (2)(H) may include--
``(A) periodic audits or inspections by the
Commission to ensure that sensitive radioactive
material is properly secured and can be fully accounted
for;
``(B) evaluation by the Commission of security
measures taken by persons that possess sensitive
radioactive material;
``(C) imposition of increased fines for violations
of regulations relating to security and safety measures
applicable to licensees that possess sensitive
radioactive material;
``(D) conduct of background checks on individuals
with access to sensitive radioactive material;
``(E) measures to ensure the physical security of
facilities in which sensitive radioactive material is
stored; and
``(F) screening of shipments of sensitive
radioactive material to facilities that are
particularly at risk for sabotage to ensure that the
shipments do not contain explosives.
``(d) Report.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment
of this section, and not less frequently than once every 3 years
thereafter, the task force shall submit to the President and Congress a
report in unclassified form (with a classified annex, if necessary)
describing the administrative and legislative actions recommended under
subsection (c)(1).
``(e) Administrative Action.--Not later than 60 days after the date
of submission of the report under subsection (d), the Commission shall,
based on and consistent with the recommendations of the task force,
take such actions as are appropriate to--
``(1) revise the system for licensing sensitive radioactive
materials based on and consistent with the recommendations of
the task force; and
``(2) ensure that States that have entered into an
agreement under section 274b. establish compatible programs in
a timely manner.''.
(b) Technical and Conforming Amendment.--The table of contents of
the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (42 U.S.C. prec. 2011) is amended by
adding at the end of the item relating to chapter 14 the following:
``Sec. 170B. Uranium supply.
``Sec. 170C. Sensitive Radioactive Material Security.''. | Dirty Bomb Prevention Act of 2003 - Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to establish the task force on sensitive radioactive material security to: (1) evaluate the security of sensitive radioactive material against security threats; and (2) recommend administrative and legislative actions to be taken to provide the maximum practicable degree of security against such threats. Prescribes implementation guidelines. | billsum_train |
Change the following text into a summary: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Litigation Relief for Forest
Management Projects Act''.
SEC. 2. FOREST AND RANGELAND RENEWABLE RESOURCES PLANNING ACT OF 1974.
(a) Consultation Regarding Land Management Plans.--Section 6(d) of
the Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Planning Act of 1974 (16
U.S.C. 1604(d)) is amended--
(1) by striking ``(d) The Secretary'' and inserting the
following:
``(d) Public Participation and Consultation.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(2) No additional consultation required after approval of
land management plans.--
``(A) In general.--Notwithstanding any other
provision of law, no additional consultation shall be
required under this subsection or any other provision
of law (including section 7 of the Endangered Species
Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1536) and section 402.16 of
title 50, Code of Federal Regulations (or a successor
regulation)) with respect to--
``(i) the listing of a species as
threatened or endangered, or a designation of
critical habitat pursuant to the Endangered
Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.),
if a land management plan has been adopted by
the Secretary as of the date of designation; or
``(ii) any provision of a land management
plan adopted as described in clause (i).
``(B) Effect of paragraph.--Nothing in this
paragraph affects any applicable requirement of the
Secretary to consult with the head of any other Federal
department or agency--
``(i) regarding a project carried out, or
proposed to be carried out, in an area
designated as critical habitat pursuant to the
Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531
et seq.); or
``(ii) with respect to the development of a
new land management plan or the revision of an
existing land management plan.''.
(b) Definition of Secretary; Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Definition of secretary.--Section 3(a) of the Forest
and Rangeland Renewable Resources Planning Act of 1974 (16
U.S.C. 1601(a)) is amended, in the first sentence of the matter
preceding paragraph (1), by inserting ``(referred to in this
Act as the `Secretary')'' after ``Secretary of Agriculture''.
(2) Conforming amendments.--The Forest and Rangeland
Renewable Resources Planning Act of 1974 (16 U.S.C. 1600 et
seq.) is amended, in sections 4 through 9, 12, 13, and 15, by
striking ``Secretary of Agriculture'' each place it appears and
inserting ``Secretary''.
SEC. 3. FEDERAL LAND POLICY AND MANAGEMENT ACT OF 1976.
Section 202(f) of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of
1976 (43 U.S.C. 1712(f)) is amended--
(1) by striking ``(f) The Secretary'' and inserting the
following:
``(f) Public Involvement.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(2) No additional consultation required after approval of
land use plans.--
``(A) In general.--Notwithstanding any other
provision of law, no additional consultation shall be
required under this subsection or any other provision
of law (including section 7 of the Endangered Species
Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1536) and section 402.16 of
title 50, Code of Federal Regulations (or a successor
regulation)), with respect to--
``(i) the listing of a species as
threatened or endangered, or a designation of
critical habitat, pursuant to the Endangered
Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.),
if a land use plan has been adopted by the
Secretary as of the date of listing or
designation; or
``(ii) any provision of a land use plan
adopted as described in clause (i).
``(B) Effect of paragraph.--Nothing in this
paragraph affects any applicable requirement of the
Secretary to consult with the head of any other Federal
department or agency--
``(i) regarding a project carried out, or
proposed to be carried out, with respect to a
species listed as threatened or endangered, or
in an area designated as critical habitat,
pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973
(16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.); or
``(ii) with respect to the development of a
new land use plan or the revision of an
existing land use plan.''. | Litigation Relief for Forest Management Projects Act This bill amends the Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Planning Act of 1974 to prohibit any additional consultation from being required with respect to: (1) the listing of a species as threatened or endangered, or a designation of a critical habitat, if a land management plan has been adopted by the Department of Agriculture as of the designation date; or (2) any provision of such an adopted plan. The bill amends the Federal land Policy and Management Act of 1976 to prohibit any additional consultation from being required with respect to: (1) the listing of a species as threatened or endangered, or a designation of critical habitat, if a land use plan has been adopted by the Department of the Interior as of the designation date; or (2) any provision of such an adopted plan. | billsum_train |
Create a condensed overview of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Comprehensive Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
Prevention Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds that--
(1) Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is the leading known cause of
mental retardation, and it is 100 percent preventable;
(2) each year, more than 5,000 infants are born in the
United States with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, suffering
irreversible physical and mental damage;
(3) thousands more infants are born each year with Fetal
Alcohol Effects, which are lesser, though still serious,
alcohol-related birth defects;
(4) Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effects are
national problems which can impact any child, family, or
community, but their threat to American Indians and Alaska
Natives is especially alarming;
(5) in some American Indian communities, where alcohol
dependency rates reach 50 percent and above, the chances of a
newborn suffering Fetal Alcohol Syndrome or Fetal Alcohol
Effects are 30 times greater than national averages;
(6) in addition to the immeasurable toll on children and
their families, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol
Effects pose extraordinary financial costs to the Nation,
including the costs of health care, education, foster care, job
training, and general support services for affected
individuals;
(7) as a reliable comparison, delivery and care costs are
four times greater for infants who were exposed to illicit
substances than for infants with no indication of substance
exposure, and over a lifetime, health care costs for one Fetal
Alcohol Syndrome child are estimated to be at least $1,400,000;
(8) researchers have determined that the possibility of
giving birth to a baby with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome or Fetal
Alcohol Effects increases in proportion to the amount and
frequency of alcohol consumed by a pregnant woman, and that
stopping alcohol consumption at any point in the pregnancy
reduces the risks and the emotional, physical, and mental
consequences of alcohol exposure to the baby; and
(9) we know of no safe dose of alcohol during pregnancy, or
of any safe time to drink during pregnancy, thus, it is in the
best interest of the Nation for the Federal Government to take
an active role in encouraging all women to abstain from alcohol
consumption during pregnancy.
SEC. 3. PURPOSE.
It is the purpose of this Act to establish, within the Department
of Health and Human Services, a comprehensive program to help prevent
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effects nationwide. Such
program shall--
(1) coordinate, support, and conduct basic and applied
epidemiologic research concerning Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and
Fetal Alcohol Effects;
(2) coordinate, support, and conduct national, State, and
community-based public awareness, prevention, and education
programs on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effects;
and
(3) foster coordination among all Federal agencies that
conduct or support Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol
Effects research, programs, and surveillance and otherwise meet
the general needs of populations actually or potentially
impacted by Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effects.
SEC. 4. ESTABLISHMENT OF PROGRAM.
Title III of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 241 et seq.)
is amended by adding at the end thereof the following new part:
``PART O--FETAL ALCOHOL SYNDROME PREVENTION PROGRAM
``SEC. 399G. ESTABLISHMENT OF FETAL ALCOHOL SYNDROME PREVENTION
PROGRAM.
``(a) Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Prevention Program.--The Secretary
shall establish a comprehensive Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal
Alcohol Effects prevention program that shall include--
``(1) an education and public awareness program to--
``(A) support, conduct, and evaluate the
effectiveness of--
``(i) training programs concerning the
prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of Fetal
Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effects;
``(ii) prevention and education programs,
including school health education and school-
based clinic programs for school-age children,
concerning Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal
Alcohol Effects; and
``(iii) public and community awareness
programs concerning Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and
Fetal Alcohol Effects;
``(B) provide technical and consultative assistance
to States, Indian tribal governments, local
governments, scientific and academic institutions, and
nonprofit organizations concerning the programs
referred to in subparagraph (A); and
``(C) award grants to, and enter into cooperative
agreements and contracts with, States, Indian tribal
governments, local governments, scientific and academic
institutions, and nonprofit organizations for the
purpose of--
``(i) evaluating the effectiveness, with
particular emphasis on the cultural competency
and age-appropriateness, of programs referred
to in subparagraph (A);
``(ii) providing training in the
prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of Fetal
Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effects;
``(iii) educating school-age children,
including pregnant and high-risk youth,
concerning Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal
Alcohol Effects, with priority given to
programs that are part of a sequential,
comprehensive school health education program;
and
``(iv) increasing public and community
awareness concerning Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and
Fetal Alcohol Effects through culturally
competent projects, programs, and campaigns,
and improving the understanding of the general
public and targeted groups concerning the most
effective intervention methods to prevent fetal
exposure to alcohol;
``(2) an applied epidemiologic research and prevention
program to--
``(A) support and conduct research on the causes,
mechanisms, diagnostic methods, treatment, and
prevention of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol
Effects;
``(B) provide technical and consultative assistance
and training to States, Tribal governments, local
governments, scientific and academic institutions, and
nonprofit organizations engaged in the conduct of--
``(i) Fetal Alcohol Syndrome prevention and
early intervention programs; and
``(ii) research relating to the causes,
mechanisms, diagnosis methods, treatment, and
prevention of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal
Alcohol Effects; and
``(C) award grants to, and enter into cooperative
agreements and contracts with, States, Indian tribal
governments, local governments, scientific and academic
institutions, and nonprofit organizations for the
purpose of--
``(i) conducting innovative demonstration
and evaluation projects designed to determine
effective strategies, including community-based
prevention programs and multicultural education
campaigns, for preventing and intervening in
fetal exposure to alcohol;
``(ii) improving and coordinating the
surveillance and ongoing assessment methods
implemented by such entities and the Federal
Government with respect to Fetal Alcohol
Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effects;
``(iii) developing and evaluating effective
age-appropriate and culturally competent
prevention programs for children, adolescents,
and adults identified as being at-risk of
becoming chemically dependent on alcohol and
associated with or developing Fetal Alcohol
Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effects; and
``(iv) facilitating coordination and
collaboration among Federal, State, local
government, Indian tribal, and community-based
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome prevention programs;
``(3) a basic research program to support and conduct basic
research on services and effective prevention treatments and
interventions for pregnant alcohol-dependent women and
individuals with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol
Effects;
``(4) a procedure for disseminating the Fetal Alcohol
Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effects diagnostic criteria
developed pursuant to section 705 of the ADAMHA Reorganization
Act (42 U.S.C. 485n note) to health care providers, educators,
social workers, child welfare workers, and other individuals;
and
``(5) the establishment, in accordance with subsection (b),
of an interagency task force on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and
Fetal Alcohol Effects to foster coordination among all Federal
agencies that conduct or support Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and
Fetal Alcohol Effects research, programs, and surveillance, and
otherwise meet the general needs of populations actually or
potentially impacted by Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal
Alcohol Effects.
``(b) Interagency Task Force.--
``(1) Membership.--The Task Force established pursuant to
paragraph (5) of subsection (a) shall--
``(A) be chaired by the Secretary or a designee of
the Secretary, and staffed by the Administration; and
``(B) include representatives from all relevant
agencies and offices within the Department of Health
and Human Services, the Department of Agriculture, the
Department of Education, the Department of Defense, the
Department of the Interior, the Department of Justice,
the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Bureau of
Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, the Federal Trade
Commission, and any other relevant Federal agency.
``(2) Functions.--The Task Force shall--
``(A) coordinate all Federal programs and research
concerning Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol
Effects, including programs that--
``(i) target individuals, families, and
populations identified as being at risk of
acquiring Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal
Alcohol Effects; and
``(ii) provide health, education,
treatment, and social services to infants,
children, and adults with Fetal Alcohol
Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effects;
``(B) coordinate its efforts with existing
Department of Health and Human Services task forces on
substance abuse prevention and maternal and child
health; and
``(C) report on a biennial basis to the Secretary
and relevant committees of Congress on the current and
planned activities of the participating agencies.
``SEC. 399H. ELIGIBILITY.
``To be eligible to receive a grant, or enter into a cooperative
agreement or contract under this part, an entity shall--
``(1) be a State, Indian tribal government, local
government, scientific or academic institution, or nonprofit
organization; and
``(2) prepare and submit to the Secretary an application at
such time, in such manner, and containing such information as
the Secretary may prescribe, including a description of the
activities that the entity intends to carry out using amounts
received under this part.
``SEC. 399I. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
``There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this part,
such sums as are necessary for each of the fiscal years 1995 through
1998.''. | Comprehensive Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Prevention Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to establish a comprehensive Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effects prevention program, including an education and public awareness program, an applied epidemiologic research and prevention program, support for and the conducting of basic research, a procedure for disseminating diagnostic criteria, and an Inter-Agency Task Force on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effects.
Provides for related technical assistance, grants, cooperative agreements, contracts, and professional education.
Authorizes appropriations. | billsum_train |
Make a summary of the following text: SECTION. 1. LOUISIANA COASTAL AREA ECOSYSTEM RESTORATION, LOUISIANA.
(a) In General.--The Secretary may carry out a program for
ecosystem restoration, Louisiana Coastal Area, Louisiana, substantially
in accordance with the report of the Chief of Engineers, dated January
31, 2005.
(b) Priorities.--
(1) In general.--In carrying out the program under
subsection (a), the Secretary shall give priority to--
(A) any portion of the program identified in the
report described in subsection (a) as a critical
restoration feature;
(B) any Mississippi River diversion project that--
(i) protects a major population area of the
Pontchartain, Pearl, Breton Sound, Barataria,
or Terrebonne Basin; and
(ii) produces an environmental benefit to
the coastal area of the State of Louisiana or
the State of Mississippi; and
(C) any barrier island, or barrier shoreline,
project that--
(i) is carried out in conjunction with a
Mississippi River diversion project; and
(ii) protects a major population area.
(c) Non-Federal Share.--
(1) Credit for integral work.--The Secretary shall provide
credit (including in-kind credit) toward the non-Federal share
for the cost of any work carried out by the non-Federal
interest on a project that is part of the program under
subsection (a) if the Secretary determines that the work is
integral to the project.
(2) Carryover of credits.--A credit provided under
paragraph (1) may be carried over between authorized projects
in the Louisiana Coastal Area ecosystem restoration program.
(3) Nongovernmental organizations.--A nongovernmental
organization shall be eligible to contribute all or a portion
of the non-Federal share of the cost of a project under this
section.
(d) Comprehensive Plan.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary, in coordination with the
Governor of the State of Louisiana, shall--
(A) develop a plan for protecting, preserving, and
restoring the coastal Louisiana ecosystem; and
(B) not later than 1 year after the date of
enactment of this Act, and every 5 years thereafter,
submit to Congress the plan, or an update of the plan.
(2) Inclusions.--The comprehensive plan shall include a
description of--
(A) the framework of a long-term program that
provides for the comprehensive protection,
conservation, and restoration of the wetlands,
estuaries (including the Barataria-Terrebonne estuary),
barrier islands, shorelines, and related land and
features of the coastal Louisiana ecosystem, including
protection of a critical resource, habitat, or
infrastructure from the effects of a coastal storm, a
hurricane, erosion, or subsidence;
(B) the means by which a new technology, or an
improved technique, can be integrated into the program
under subsection (a); and
(C) the role of other Federal agencies and programs
in carrying out the program under subsection (a).
(3) Consideration.--In developing the comprehensive plan,
the Secretary shall consider the advisability of integrating
into the program under subsection (a)--
(A) a related Federal or State project carried out
on the date on which the plan is developed;
(B) an activity in the Louisiana Coastal Area; or
(C) any other project or activity identified in--
(i) the Mississippi River and Tributaries
program;
(ii) the Louisiana Coastal Wetlands
Conservation Plan;
(iii) the Louisiana Coastal Zone Management
Plan; or
(iv) the plan of the State of Louisiana
entitled ``Coast 2050: Toward a Sustainable
Coastal Louisiana''.
(e) Task Force.--
(1) Establishment.--There is established a task force to be
known as the ``Coastal Louisiana Ecosystem Protection and
Restoration Task Force'' (referred to in this subsection as the
``Task Force'').
(2) Membership.--The Task Force shall consist of the
following members (or, in the case of the head of a Federal
agency, a designee at the level of Assistant Secretary or an
equivalent level):
(A) The Secretary.
(B) The Secretary of the Interior.
(C) The Secretary of Commerce.
(D) The Administrator of the Environmental
Protection Agency.
(E) The Secretary of Agriculture.
(F) The Secretary of Transportation.
(G) The Secretary of Energy.
(H) The Secretary of Homeland Security.
(I) 3 representatives of the State of Louisiana
appointed by the Governor of that State.
(3) Duties.--The Task Force shall make recommendations to
the Secretary regarding--
(A) policies, strategies, plans, programs,
projects, and activities for addressing conservation,
protection, restoration, and maintenance of the coastal
Louisiana ecosystem;
(B) financial participation by each agency
represented on the Task Force in conserving,
protecting, restoring, and maintaining the coastal
Louisiana ecosystem, including recommendations--
(i) that identify funds from current agency
missions and budgets; and
(ii) for coordinating individual agency
budget requests; and
(C) the comprehensive plan under subsection (d).
(4) Working groups.--The Task Force may establish such
working groups as the Task Force determines to be necessary to
assist the Task Force in carrying out this subsection.
(5) Application of the federal advisory committee act.--The
Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.) shall not apply
to the Task Force or any working group of the Task Force.
(f) Mississippi River Gulf Outlet.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall develop a plan for
modifying the Mississippi River Gulf Outlet that addresses--
(A) wetland losses attributable to the Mississippi
River Gulf Outlet;
(B) channel bank erosion;
(C) hurricane storm surges;
(D) saltwater intrusion;
(E) navigation interests; and
(F) environmental restoration.
(2) Report.--If the Secretary determines necessary, the
Secretary, in conjunction with the Chief of Engineers, shall
submit to Congress a report recommending modifications to the
Mississippi River Gulf Outlet, including measures to prevent
the intrusion of saltwater into the Outlet.
(g) Science and Technology.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall establish a coastal
Louisiana ecosystem science and technology program.
(2) Purposes.--The purposes of the program established by
paragraph (1) shall be--
(A) to identify any uncertainty relating to the
physical, chemical, geological, biological, and
cultural baseline conditions in coastal Louisiana;
(B) to improve knowledge of the physical, chemical,
geological, biological, and cultural baseline
conditions in coastal Louisiana; and
(C) to identify and develop technologies, models,
and methods to carry out this subsection.
(3) Working groups.--The Secretary may establish such
working groups as the Secretary determines to be necessary to
assist the Secretary in carrying out this subsection.
(4) Contracts and cooperative agreements.--In carrying out
this subsection, the Secretary may enter into a contract or
cooperative agreement with an individual or entity (including a
consortium of academic institutions in Louisiana and
Mississippi) with scientific or engineering expertise in the
restoration of aquatic and marine ecosystems for coastal
restoration and enhancement through science and technology.
(h) Analysis of Benefits.--
(1) In general.--Notwithstanding section 209 of the Flood
Control Act of 1970 (42 U.S.C. 1962-2) or any other provision
of law, in carrying out an activity to conserve, protect,
restore, or maintain the coastal Louisiana ecosystem, the
Secretary may determine that the environmental benefits
provided by the program under this section outweigh the
disadvantage of an activity under this section.
(2) Determination of cost-effectiveness.--If the Secretary
determines that an activity under this section is cost-
effective, no further economic justification for the activity
shall be required.
(i) Apportionment.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Secretary, in consultation with the
non-Federal interest, shall enter into a contract with the
National Academy of Sciences under which the National Academy
of Sciences shall conduct a study.
(2) Identification of causes and sources.--The study under
paragraph (1) shall, to the maximum extent practicable,
identify--
(A) each cause of degradation of the Louisiana
Coastal Area ecosystem that is attributable to an
action by the Secretary;
(B) an apportionment of the sources of such
degradation;
(C) any potential reduction in the amount of
Federal emergency response funds that would occur as a
result of ecosystem restoration in the Louisiana
Coastal Area; and
(D) the reduction in costs associated with
protection and maintenance of infrastructure that is
threatened or damaged as a result of coastal erosion in
Louisiana that would occur as a result of ecosystem
restoration in the Louisiana Coastal Area.
(j) Report.--Not later than July 1, 2006, the Secretary, in
conjunction with the Chief of Engineers, shall submit to Congress a
report describing the features included in table 3 of the report
described in subsection (a).
(k) Project Modifications.--
(1) Review.--The Secretary, in cooperation with any non-
Federal interest, shall review each federally-authorized water
resources project in the coastal Louisiana area in existence on
the date of enactment of this Act to determine whether--
(A) each project is in accordance with the program
under subsection (a); and
(B) the project could contribute to ecosystem
restoration under subsection (a) through modification
of the operations or features of the project.
(2) Public notice and comment.--Before modifying an
operation or feature of a project under paragraph (1)(B), the
Secretary shall provide an opportunity for public notice and
comment.
(3) Report.--
(A) In general.--Before modifying an operation or
feature of a project under paragraph (1)(B), the
Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Environment
and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of
Representatives a report describing the modification.
(B) Inclusion.--A report under paragraph (2)(B)
shall include such information relating to the timeline
and cost of a modification as the Secretary determines
to be relevant.
(4) Authorization of appropriations.--There is authorized
to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out modifications
under this subsection $10,000,000. | Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to carry out a program for ecosystem restoration, Louisiana Coastal Area, Louisiana, substantially in accordance with the report of the Chief of Engineers, dated January 31, 2005. Directs the Secretary to give priority to any: (1) portion of the program identified in that report as a critical restoration feature; (2) Mississippi River diversion project that protects a major population area of the Pontchartain, Pearl, Breton Sound, Barataria, or Terrebonne Basin and that produces an environmental benefit to the coastal area of Louisiana or Mississippi; and (3) barrier island or shoreline project that is carried out in conjunction with a Mississippi River diversion project and that protects a major population area.
Directs the Secretary, in coordination with the Governor of Louisiana, to develop a plan for protecting, preserving, and restoring the coastal Louisiana ecosystem. Establishes the Coastal Louisiana Ecosystem Protection and Restoration Task Force.
Directs the Secretary to: (1) develop a plan for modifying the Mississippi River Gulf Outlet that addresses wetland losses attributable to the Outlet, channel bank erosion, hurricane storm surges, saltwater intrusion, navigation interests, and environmental restoration; (2) establish a coastal Louisiana ecosystem science and technology program; (3) contract with the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) to conduct a study to identify causes of degradation of the Area ecosystem attributable to an action by the Secretary; and (4) review each federally-authorized water resources project in the Area to determine whether each project could contribute to ecosystem restoration through modification of the project's operations or features. | billsum_train |
Provide a condensed version of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Equal Treatment of Public Servants
Act of 2014''.
SEC. 2. REPLACEMENT OF THE WINDFALL ELIMINATION PROVISION WITH A
FORMULA EQUALIZING BENEFITS FOR CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS WITH
NON-COVERED EMPLOYMENT.
(a) In General.--Section 215(a) of the Social Security Act (42
U.S.C. 415(a)) is amended by inserting after paragraph (7) the
following:
``(8)(A) In the case of an individual whose primary insurance
amount would be computed under paragraph (1) of this subsection--
``(i) who becomes eligible for old-age insurance benefits
after 2016 or would attain age 62 after 2016 and becomes
eligible for disability insurance benefits after 2016,
``(ii) who subsequently becomes entitled to such benefits,
and
``(iii) who has earnings derived from noncovered service
performed in a year after 1977,
the primary insurance amount of such individual shall be computed or
recomputed under this paragraph.
``(B) The primary insurance amount of an individual described in
subparagraph (A), as computed or recomputed under this paragraph, shall
be the product derived by multiplying--
``(i) the individual's primary insurance amount, as
determined under paragraph (1) of this subsection and
subparagraph (C) of this paragraph, by
``(ii) a fraction--
``(I) the numerator of which is the individual's
average indexed monthly earnings (determined without
regard to subparagraph (C)), and
``(II) the denominator of which is an amount equal
to the individual's average indexed monthly earnings
(as determined under subparagraph (C)),
rounded, if not a multiple of $0.10, to the next lower multiple of
$0.10.
``(C)(i) For purposes of determining an individual's primary
insurance amount pursuant to clauses (i) and (ii)(II) of subparagraph
(B), the individual's average indexed monthly earnings shall be
determined by treating all recorded noncovered earnings (as defined in
clause (ii)(I)) derived by the individual from noncovered service
performed in each year after 1977 as `wages' (as defined in section 209
for purposes of this title), which shall be treated as included in the
individual's adjusted total covered earnings (as defined in clause
(ii)(II)) for such calendar year together with amounts consisting of
`wages' (as so defined without regard to this subparagraph) paid during
such calendar year and self-employment income (as defined in section
211(b)) for taxable years ending with or during such calendar year.
``(ii) For purposes of this subparagraph--
``(I) The term `recorded noncovered earnings' means
earnings derived from noncovered service (other than noncovered
service as a member of a uniformed service (as defined in
section 210(m))) for which satisfactory evidence is determined
by the Commissioner to be available in the records of the
Commissioner.
``(II) The term `adjusted total covered earnings' means, in
connection with an individual for any calendar year, the sum of
the wages paid to the individual during such calendar year (as
adjusted under subsection (b)(3)) plus the self-employment
income derived by the individual during any taxable year ending
with or during such calendar year (as adjusted under subsection
(b)(3)).
``(iii) The Commissioner of Social Security shall provide by
regulation for methods for determining whether satisfactory evidence is
available in the records of the Commissioner for earnings for
noncovered service (other than noncovered service as a member of a
uniformed service (as defined in section 210(m))) to be treated as
recorded noncovered earnings. Such methods shall provide for reliance
on earnings information which is provided to the Commissioner by
employers and which, as determined by the Commissioner, constitute a
reasonable basis for treatment of earnings for noncovered service as
recorded noncovered earnings. In making determinations under this
clause, the Commissioner shall also take into account any documentary
evidence of earnings derived from noncovered service by an individual
which is provided by the individual to the Commissioner and which the
Commissioner considers appropriate as a reasonable basis for treatment
of such earnings as recorded noncovered earnings, except that such
evidence provided by the individual shall be taken into account only to
the extent that such evidence does not relate to earnings for service
with respect to which information regarding earnings has already been
obtained by the Commissioner from the employer and only to the extent
that such evidence does not result in a reduction in the individual's
primary insurance amount as calculated under subparagraph (B).
``(D) Upon the death of an individual whose primary insurance
amount is computed or recomputed under this paragraph, such primary
insurance amount shall be computed or recomputed under paragraph (1) of
this subsection.''.
(b) Modification of Windfall Elimination Provision for Current
Beneficiaries; Recovery of Certain Overpayments.--Section 215(a)(7) of
such Act (42 U.S.C. 415(a)(7)) is amended by adding at the end the
following:
``(F)(i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), for purposes of
determining the amount of monthly insurance benefits for months after
December 2016, the primary insurance amount of an individual described
in subparagraph (A), or an individual described in subparagraph (G)
whose primary insurance amount was calculated or recalculated under
subparagraph (B), shall be deemed to be equal to the sum of--
``(I) the primary insurance amount of such individual
computed or recomputed under subparagraph (B); plus
``(II) the applicable percentage (determined under clause
(ii)) of the amount by which the primary insurance amount of
such individual computed or recomputed under subparagraph (B)
is exceeded by the primary insurance amount of such individual
that would be determined without regard to this paragraph.
``(ii) The applicable percentage determined under this clause shall
be a percentage (but not more than 50 percent) which shall be
determined by the Commissioner on the basis of the amount of the
savings generated as a result of the enactment of the Equal Treatment
of Public Servants Act of 2014. The Commissioner shall determine and
promulgate the applicable percentage determined under this clause on or
before November 1, 2016, based upon the most recent actuarial estimates
then available.
``(G) In the case of an individual whose primary insurance amount
would be computed under paragraph (1) of this subsection who--
``(i) attains age 62 after 1985 and before 2017 (except
where he or she became entitled to a disability insurance
benefit before 1986 and remained so entitled in any of the 12
months immediately preceding his or her attainment of age 62),
or
``(ii) would attain age 62 after 1985 and before 2017 and
becomes eligible for a disability insurance benefit after 1985
and before 2017, and
``(iii) is eligible for old-age insurance benefits or
disability insurance benefits for December 2016,
``(iv) has recorded noncovered earnings (as defined in
paragraph (8)(C)(ii)), and
``(v) has less than 30 years of coverage (as defined in
subparagraph (D)),
the primary insurance amount of such individual shall be computed or
recomputed under this paragraph unless such individual provides to the
Commissioner evidence determined to be satisfactory by the Commissioner
that such individual has not received any periodic payment attributable
to noncovered service. The Commissioner shall, in accordance with
section 204, recover from such individual described in subparagraph
(A), and any other individual receiving benefits under this title on
the basis of the wages and self-employment income of such individual
described in subparagraph (A), any excess of the total amount of
benefits under this title paid to each such individual prior to 2017
over the amount computed on the basis of the primary insurance amount
computed or recomputed under this paragraph without regard to
subparagraph (F).''.
(c) Conforming Amendments.--Section 215(a)(7)(A) of such Act (42
U.S.C. 415(a)(7)(A)) is amended--
(1) by striking ``after 1985'' each place it appears and
inserting ``after 1985 and before 2017''; and
(2) by striking ``hereafter in this paragraph and in
subsection (d)(3)'' and inserting ``in this paragraph,
paragraph (8), and subsection (d)(3)''. | Equal Treatment of Public Servants Act of 2014 - Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) (OASDI) of the Social Security Act to replace the current windfall elimination provision (WEP) (that reduces the Social Security benefits of workers who also have pension benefits from employment not covered by Social Security) for individuals who: (1) become eligible for old-age insurance benefits after 2016 or would attain age 62 after 2016 and become eligible for disability insurance benefits after 2016, (2) subsequently become entitled to such benefits, and (3) have earnings derived from noncovered service performed after 1977. Establishes a new formula for the treatment of noncovered earnings in determining Social Security benefits. Prescribes a second formula to modify WEP for current beneficiaries. Directs the Commissioner of Social Security to recover overpayments from certain individuals. | billsum_train |
Provide a summary of the following text: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Building, Renovating, Improving, and
Constructing Kids' Schools Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress make the following findings:
(1) According to a 1999 issue brief prepared by the
National Center for Education Statistics, the average public
school in America is 42 years old, and school buildings begin
rapid deterioration after 40 years. In addition, 29 percent of
all public schools are in the oldest condition, meaning that
the schools were built before 1970 and have either never been
renovated or were renovated prior to 1980.
(2) According to reports issued by the General Accounting
Office (GAO) in 1995 and 1996, it would cost $112,000,000,000
to bring the Nation's schools into good overall condition, and
one-third of all public schools need extensive repair or
replacement.
(3) Many schools do not have the appropriate infrastructure
to support computers and other technologies that are necessary
to prepare students for the jobs of the 21st century.
(4) Without impeding on local control, the Federal
Government appropriately can assist State and local governments
in addressing school construction, renovation, and repair needs
by providing low-interest loans for purposes of paying interest
on related bonds.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Bond.--The term ``bond'' includes any obligation.
(2) Governor.--The term ``Governor'' includes the chief
executive officer of a State.
(3) Local educational agency.--The term ``local educational
agency'' has the meaning given to such term by section 14101 of
the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965.
(4) Public school facility.--The term public school
facility shall not include--
(A) any stadium or other facility primarily used
for athletic contests or exhibitions, or other events
for which admission is charged to the general public;
or
(B) any facility which is not owned by a State or
local government or any agency or instrumentality of a
State or local government.
(5) Qualified school construction bond.--The term
``qualified school construction bond'' means any bond issued as
part of an issue if--
(A) 95 percent or more of the proceeds of such
issue are to be used for the construction,
rehabilitation, or repair of a public school facility
or for the acquisition of land on which such a facility
is to be constructed with part of the proceeds of such
issue;
(B) the bond is issued by a State entity or local
government;
(C) the issuer designates such bonds for purposes
of this section; and
(D) the term of each bond which is part of such
issue does not exceed 15 years.
(6) Stabilization fund.--The term ``stabilization fund''
means the stabilization fund established under section 5302 of
title 31, United States Code.
(7) State.--The term ``State'' means each of the several
States of the United States, the District of Columbia, the
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the United States Virgin Islands,
Guam, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana
Islands, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated
States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau.
SEC. 4. LOANS FOR SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION BOND INTEREST PAYMENTS.
(a) Loan Authority.--
(1) In general.--From funds made available to a State under
section 5(b) the State shall make loans to State entities or
local governments within the State to enable the entities and
governments to make annual interest payments on qualified
school construction bonds that are issued by the entities and
governments not later than December 31, 2002.
(2) Requests.--The Governor of each State desiring
assistance under this Act shall submit a request to the
Secretary of the Treasury at such time and in such manner as
the Secretary of the Treasury may require.
(b) Loan Repayment.--
(1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2), a State entity
or local government that receives a loan under this Act shall
repay to the stabilization fund the amount of the loan, plus
interest, at the average prime lending rate for the year in
which the bond is issued, not to exceed 4.5 percent.
(2) Exception.--A State entity or local government shall
not repay the amount of a loan made under this Act, plus
interest, and the interest on a loan made under this Act shall
not accrue, prior to January 1, 2005, unless the amount
appropriated to carry out part B of the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1411 et seq.) for any
fiscal year prior to fiscal year 2006 is sufficient to fully
fund such part for the fiscal year at the originally promised
level, which promised level would provide to each State 40
percent of the average per-pupil expenditure for providing
special education and related services for each child with a
disability in the State.
(c) Federal Responsibilities.--The Secretary of the Treasury and
the Secretary of Education--
(1) jointly shall be responsible for ensuring that funds
provided under this Act are properly distributed;
(2) shall ensure that funds provided under this Act only
are used to pay the interest on qualified school construction
bonds; and
(3) shall not have authority to approve or disapprove
school construction plans assisted pursuant to this Act, except
to ensure that funds made available under this Act are used
only to supplement, and not supplant, the amount of school
construction, rehabilitation, and repair in the State that
would have occurred in the absence of such funds.
SEC. 5. AMOUNTS AVAILABLE TO EACH STATE.
(a) Reservation for Indians.--From $20,000,000,000 of the funds in
the stabilization fund, the Secretary of the Treasury shall make
available $400,000,000 to Indian tribes for loans to enable the Indian
tribes to make annual interest payments on qualified school
construction bonds in accordance with the requirements of this Act that
the Secretary of the Treasury determines appropriate.
(b) Amounts Available.--
(1) In general.--From $20,000,000,000 of the funds in the
stabilization fund that are not reserved under subsection (a),
the Secretary of the Treasury shall make available to each
State submitting a request under section 4(a)(2) an amount that
bears the same relation to such remainder as the amount the
State received under part A of title I of the Elementary and
Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6311 et seq.) for
fiscal year 2000 bears to the amount received by all States
under such part for such year.
(2) Disbursal.--The Secretary of the Treasury shall
disburse the amount made available to a State under paragraph
(1), on an annual basis, during the period beginning on October
1, 2000, and ending September 30, 2017.
(c) Notification.--The Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary
of Education jointly shall notify each State of the amount of funds the
State may borrow under this Act. | Sets forth requirements for loan repayment and interest rate. Exempts a State entity or local government from such repayment and interest rate accrual prior to January 1, 2005, unless the amount appropriated to carry out assistance for education of all children with disabilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act for any fiscal year before FY 2009 is sufficient to fully fund such assistance for the fiscal year at the originally promised level, which promised level would provide to each State 40 percent of the average per-pupil expenditure for providing special education and related services for each child with a disability in the State.
Directs the Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary of Education to: (1) ensure that funds provided under this Act are properly distributed, and are used to pay the interest on qualified school construction bonds; and (2) notify each State of the amount of funds it may borrow under this Act. Provides that the Secretaries shall not have authority to approve or disapprove school construction plans assisted pursuant to this Act, except to ensure that funds made available under this Act are used only to supplement, and not supplant, the amount of school construction, rehabilitation, and repair in the State that would have occurred in the absence of such funds. | billsum_train |
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