United States · United States Congress · 8 December 2010
Designates buildings occupied by the Department of Transportation (DOT) located at 1200 New Jersey Avenue, Southeast, and 1201 4th Street, Southeast, in the District of Columbia as the James L. Oberstar United States Department of Transportation Building Complex for the period the buildings are occupied by the DOT.
United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2010
Marine and Hydrokinetic Renewable Energy Promotion Act of 2010 - Amends the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 to revise the program of marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy technology research, development, demonstration, and commercial application, including by requiring the program to include specified activities, including: (1) determining the potential availability, extractability, and cost-effectiveness of marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy generation in the United States; (2) designing and developing evaluation and performance standards domestically and with international partners; and (3) improving interagency collaboration to address challenges associated with the development of such technologies. Requires such program to be separate from the Department of Energy's (DOE) Wind and Hydropower Program. Requires the Secretary of Energy to establish a competitive marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy technology demonstration grant program to: (1) verify the performance, reliability, maintainability, environmental impact, and cost of technology components, devices, and system designs in an operating environment; and (2) facilitate the commercial application of technology components, devices, and systems at a variety of scales. Requires the Secretary to establish a competitive research, development, and demonstration grant program to identify and assess ways to avoid and minimize environmental impacts potentially arising from marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy technologies, devices, and systems. Requires the Secretary to award competitive grants to support modifying or constructing three or more geographically dispersed marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy technology research, development, and demonstration test facilities for the demonstration of multiple technologies in actual operating environments. Authorizes National Marine Renewable Energy Research, Development, and Demonstration Centers to serve as technology test facilities.
United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2010
Expresses the support of the House of Representatives for the goals and ideals of the inaugural USA Science & Engineering Festival to promote science scholarship and an interest in scientific research and development as the cornerstones of innovation and competition in America. Supports festivals, such as the USA Science & Engineering Festival, which focus on the importance of science and engineering to our everyday lives. Congratulates all the individuals and organizations whose efforts will make the Festival possible. Encourages families and their children to participate in the activities and exhibits which will occur on the National Mall and across America as satellite events of the Festival.
United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2010
Recognizes the 40th anniversary of the Coastal States Organization. Supports the role of states, territories, and commonwealths in the stewardship of coastal, ocean, and Great Lakes resources.
United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2010
Recognizes the courage, service, and sacrifice of all veterans and their historic contributions to the United States. Encourages: (1) the people of the United States to demonstrate their support for Veterans Day each year; and (2) schools and teachers to educate students on the historic contributions veterans have made to the country and its history, both while serving as members of the Armed Forces and after completing their service.
United States · United States Congress · 27 July 2010
Nuclear Energy Research and Development Act of 2010 - Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to authorize appropriations for FY2011-FY2013 for: (1) core programs; (2) research and development technology (R & D) for the fuel cycle; (3) certain nuclear energy research programs; and (4) nuclear energy enabling technologies, including crosscutting nuclear energy concepts. Repeals the requirement that the Secretary of Energy implement: (1) the nuclear power 2010 program; (2) the generation IV nuclear energy systems initiative; and (3) the reactor production of hydrogen. Directs the Secretary to implement: (1) R & D to advance fission power systems and technologies (reactor concepts) to sustain currently deployed systems; (2) a small modular reactor program to promote R&D of small modular reactors; and (3) R&D on fuel cycle options that improve uranium resource utilization, maximize energy generation, minimize nuclear waste creation, improve safety, and mitigate risk of proliferation in support of a national strategy for spent nuclear fuel and reactor concepts. Instructs the Secretary, in carrying out certain optional initiatives, to consider the final report on a long-term nuclear waste solution produced by the Blue Ribbon Commission on America's Nuclear Future. Directs the Secretary to conduct a program to support the integration of certain activities undertaken through R&D programs for reactor concepts and crosscutting nuclear energy concepts. Requires the Secretary to report to Congress on: (1) the quantitative risks associated with the potential of a severe accident arising from the use of nuclear power; and (2) current technologies to mitigate the consequences of such an accident. Changes the location of the prototype Next Generation Nuclear reactor and associated Plant from the Idaho National Laboratory (IDL) to a construction site determined by the IDL-organized consortium of appropriate industrial partners through an open and transparent competitive selection process. Directs the Comptroller General to submit to Congress a status update of the Next Generation Nuclear Plant program. Requires the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to establish a nuclear energy standards committee to facilitate the development or revision of technical standards for new and existing nuclear power plants and advanced nuclear technologies.
United States · United States Congress · 14 July 2010
Congratulates the crew of the Ocean Watch on the completion of their voyage circumnavigating North and South America with the mission of inspiring, educating, and engaging citizens on the importance of protecting the oceans. Expresses support for the goals and mission of Around the Americas in raising awareness and educating others about ocean health issues. Declares that the House of Representatives continues to promote scientific research and educational programs aimed at the preservation of U.S. oceans and coasts.
United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2010
Acknowledges the family planning services programs operating under title X of the Public Health Service Act as a critical component of the U.S. public health care system. Expresses support for the mission of such programs. Recognizes family planning providers at Title X health centers who work tirelessly to provide quality care to millions of low-income individuals.
United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2010
Supports the designation of a National ESIGN Day. Recognizes the previous contribution made by Congress to the adoption of modern solutions that keep the United States on the leading technological edge. Reaffirms the commitment of Congress to facilitating interstate and foreign commerce in an increasingly digital world.
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 2010
Expresses support for: (1) Olympic Day and the goals that Olympic Day pursues; and (2) the goals of World Fit. Congratulates: (1) Team USA on their Vancouver 2010 accomplishments; and (2) World Fit's participants on the 2010 results.
United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2010
Green Railcar Enhancement Act of 2010 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow, through 2011, a new business-related tax credit for 25% of the cost of acquiring or rebuilding freight railcars which achieve an increase in capacity or fuel efficiency of at least 8%.
United States · United States Congress · 28 May 2010
Observes the 15th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide. Supports the designation of Srebrenica Remembrance Day in the United States. Commends the official bodies that have recognized the Srebrenica genocide, including the European Parliament which declared a Srebrenica Remembrance Day in the European Union (EU). Honors the memory of the thousands of innocent people who died at Srebrenica in Bosnia and Herzegovina in July 1995, along with all individuals who were killed during the 1992-1995 conflict in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Extends condolences to the families and friends of those who died at Srebrenica and during the conflict in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Reaffirms support for: (1) the independence and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina; (2) peace in southeastern Europe; and (3) the right of all people living in the region to return to their homes and enjoy the benefits of democratic institutions. Thanks the International Commission on Missing Persons for outstanding achievement in identifying persons missing from Srebrenica and from the conflict in the western Balkans in the 1990s. Expresses satisfaction at the apprehension and transfer of Radovan Karadzic to the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) and urges all countries to cooperate fully with the ICTY and apprehend all persons indicted by the ICTY, including Ratko Mladic.
United States · United States Congress · 27 May 2010
Supports the goals and ideals of High-Performance Building Week. Recognizes and reaffirms the nation's commitment to High-performance Buildings by promoting awareness about their benefits and new education programs, supporting research, and expanding access to information. Recognizes the unique role that the Department of Energy (DOE) plays through the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy's Building Technologies Program, which works closely with the building industry and manufacturers to conduct research and development on technologies and practices for building energy efficiency. Recognizes the important role that the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) plays in developing the measurement science needed to develop, test, integrate, and demonstrate the new building technologies. Encourages further research and development of high-performance building standards, research, and development.
United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2010
Lewis and Clark National and State Historical Parks Partnership Act of 2010 - Amends the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park Designation Act to add lands along the lower Columbia River in the state of Washington associated with the arrival of the Lewis and Clark Expedition at the Pacific Ocean in 1805 and identified as Fort Columbia to the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park.
United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2010
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States should use its position of global leadership to strengthen whale conservation efforts and to ensure that commercial, scientific, and other lethal whaling does not occur for any purpose other than aboriginal subsistence.
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 2010
Dairy Price Stabilization Program Act of 2010 - Amends the Dairy Production Stabilization Act of 1983 to direct the Secretary of Agriculture (USDA) to publish in the Federal Register a proposed order to establish the dairy price stabilization program that shall apply to all dairy facilities within the contiguous United States that produce milk for sale commercially. Sets forth program provisions.
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 2010
West Coast Ocean Protection Act of 2010 - Amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to prohibit Secretary of the Interior from issuing a lease for the exploration, development, or production of oil or natural gas in any area of the outer Continental Shelf off the coast of California, Oregon, or Washington.
United States · United States Congress · 29 April 2010
Smuggled Tobacco Prevention Act of 2010 or the STOP Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to restrict the sale, lease, importation, or delivery of tobacco production machines to persons lawfully engaged in: (1) the sale, lease, or delivery of such machines; (2) the manufacture or processing of tobacco products, including for personal use; or (3) the application of unique identification markings onto tobacco product packages. Defines "tobacco production machine" as a machine used to manufacture, process, or package tobacco products or to apply unique identification markings to packages of tobacco products. Requires any person leasing, importing, exporting, or delivering a tobacco production machine to keep records relating to any transfers or deliveries of such machines. Requires manufacturers and importers of tobacco products to affix a unique identification marking to each package of tobacco products prior to sale or distribution of such products. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to design a system of unique identification markings that does not interfere with state and local tax stamps and markings. Requires wholesalers of tobacco products to obtain permits for selling or exporting tobacco products. Establishes new criminal offenses relating to the distribution of tobacco products. Increases the civil penalty for tobacco-related infractions from $1,000 to $10,000. Establishes in the Treasury the Anti-Contraband Tobacco Trafficking Fund to finance the enforcement provisions of this Act and other laws relating to contraband or illegal tobacco products using the increased civil and criminal fines provided by this Act. Amends the Tariff Act of 1930 to impose a civil penalty for the importation of tobacco products and cigarette papers and tubes by fraudulent means.
United States · United States Congress · 28 April 2010
Urges the Administration to raise, at all appropriate fora, the case of Tristan Anderson, a U.S. citizen from Oakland, California, who, on March 13, 2009, was critically injured at a demonstration in the West Bank village of Ni'lin after being struck in the head by a tear gas canister fired by Israeli Border Police. Encourages the governments of the United States and Israel to intensify their cooperation in determining the circumstances that led to this incident and to ensure that any incident of this kind never occurs again. Expresses sympathy to Tristan Anderson and his family, friends, and loved ones during this trying time.
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 2010
Girls Protection Act of 2010 - Amends the federal criminal code to impose a fine or five-year prison term, or both, on any U.S. citizen or alien admitted for permanent residence who knowingly transports in foreign commerce a girl under the age of 18 for the purposes of female genital mutilation.
United States · United States Congress · 22 April 2010
America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 - Establishes, revises, and extends specified science, technology, education, and mathematics (STEM) programs, as well as engineering, research, and training programs. Authorizes appropriations for FY2011-FY2015 for: (1) the National Science Foundation (NSF); (2) the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST); and (3) the Department of Energy (DOE) for activities of the Office of Science.
United States · United States Congress · 21 April 2010
Amends the federal criminal code to impose a fine and/or maximum prison term of five years for anyone who knowingly sells or offers to sell an animal crush video in interstate or foreign commerce for commercial gain. States that this prohibition shall not be construed to prohibit the selling or offering to sell videos that depict hunting. Defines "animal crush video" as any visual depiction of animals being intentionally crushed, burned, drowned, or impaled that: (1) depicts actual conduct in which a living animal is tortured, maimed, or mutilated that violates any criminal prohibition on intentional cruelty under federal law or the law of the state in which the depiction is sold; and (2) taken as a whole, does not have religious, political, scientific, educational, journalistic, historical, or artistic value.
United States · United States Congress · 20 April 2010
Expresses: (1) deepest condolences for the horrific loss of life and the physical and psychological damage caused by the January 12, 2010, earthquake that struck Haiti; and (2) solidarity with Haitians, Haitian-Americans, and all those who lost loved ones or have otherwise been affected by the tragedy. Commends and honors the efforts of the Israelis who worked on the ground in Haiti, the State of Israel, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), and the Israeli people for their contributions to earthquake relief in Haiti.
United States · United States Congress · 20 April 2010
Supports the goals and ideals of National Healthy Schools Day. Recognizes the effect that poor quality buildings have on students' health and performance and the importance of having healthy school buildings for the nation's schoolchildren. Supports energy efficiency and the use of renewable resources in schools. Supports the goals of state and local educational agencies of modernizing, renovating, and repairing their facilities to become healthier and safer places to learn.
United States · United States Congress · 15 April 2010
Expresses support for: (1) the designation of Mental Health Month; and (2) the finding of the President's Commission on Mental Health that the nation's failure to prioritize mental health is a national tragedy. Recognizes that mental well-being is as important as physical well-being for citizens, communities, businesses, and the economy. Applauds the coalescing of national and community organizations in working to promote public awareness of mental health and in providing critical information and support to the people and families affected by mental illness. Encourages all organizations and health practitioners to use Mental Health Month as an opportunity to promote mental well-being and awareness, ensure access to appropriate services, and support overall quality of life for those living with mental illness.
United States · United States Congress · 15 April 2010
Expresses condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of the victims of the fire at the Tesoro refinery in Anacortes, Washington. Honors Matthew C. Bowen, Darrin J. Hoines, Daniel J. Aldridge, Kathryn Powell, Lew Janz, and Donna Van Dreumel who died as a result of the fire.Offers best wishes to Matt Gumbel, who suffered severe burns and is recovering at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle.
United States · United States Congress · 13 April 2010
Dental Coverage Value and Transparency Act of 2010 - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to prescribe certain health care coverage value and transparency requirements for dental benefits under group health plans.
United States · United States Congress · 25 March 2010
Celebrates the achievement of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the Television Infrared Observation Satellite (TIROS I) team who worked together to enable the successful operation of the TIROS I to establish applications of space systems and technology for the benefit of people worldwide. Supports science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education programs which are critical for preparing the next generation of scientists and engineers to lead future U.S. space endeavors. Recognizes the role of the U.S. space program in strengthening the scientific and engineering foundation that contributes to U.S. innovation and economic growth. Looks forward to the next 50 years of U.S. achievements in the peaceful use of space.
United States · United States Congress · 24 March 2010
Supports the ideals of National Lab Day (during the first week of May). Calls upon the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) and the National Science Foundation (NSF) to continue fostering partnerships such as those involved in National Lab Day.
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 2010
Department of Energy Office of Science Authorization Act of 2010 - Directs the Secretary of Energy to carry out, through the Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science, research, development, demonstration, and commercial application activities in science in support of missions of DOE. Requires the Director of the Office of Science to: (1) carry out a basic energy sciences program to provide scientific foundations for new energy technologies; and (2) support construction of the National Synchrotron Light Source II and a Second Target Station at the Spallation Neutron Source. Requires the Director to carry out a grant program to provide awards for up to five years to multi-institutional collaborations or other appropriate entities for meeting energy research, development, demonstration, and commercial application needs identified in: (1) the Grand Challenges report; (2) energy-related Grand Challenges for Engineering; or (3) other relevant reports identified by the Director. Requires the Director to carry out a biological, climate, and environmental systems science research program to support DOE energy and environmental missions. Provides for a biological systems science subprogram and a climate and environmental sciences research subprogram. Directs the Secretary to develop a comprehensive plan of federally supported research and development activities to support energy and environmental missions of DOE and to accelerate the growth of a synthetic biology industry in the United States. Directs the Secretary to carry out an inertial fusion energy research and technology development program. Requires the Director to carry out: (1) an advanced scientific computing research program; (2) a fusion energy sciences research program; (3) a high energy physics program; (4) a nuclear physics research program; and (5) a program for improving infrastructure at Office of Science laboratories. Requires the Secretary to submit specified reports. Authorizes appropriations for FY2011-FY2015 to the Secretary for activities of the Office of Science for (1) basic science energy sciences; (2) biological and environmental research; and (3) advanced scientific computing research.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 2010
Global Democracy Promotion Act - States that in determining eligibility for assistance under part I of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 foreign nongovernmental organizations shall not: (1) be ineligible for such assistance solely on the basis of health or medical services provided by such organizations with non-U.S. government funds if such services do not violate the laws of the country in which they are being provided and would not violate U.S. federal law if provided in the United States; and (2) be subject to requirements relating to the use of non-U.S. government funds for advocacy and lobbying activities other than those that apply to U.S. nongovernmental organizations receiving assistance under part I of such Act.
United States · United States Congress · 17 March 2010
Commends Lance Mackey on his record-breaking fourth consecutive Iditarod victory during the 2010 Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. Applauds each musher who was courageous enough to compete in the 2010 Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. Expresses appreciation to all volunteers and staff who help make this Alaskan race possible every year.
United States · United States Congress · 11 March 2010
Expresses support for the goals and ideals of National Women's History Month. Recognizes and honors the women and organizations in the United States that have fought for and continue to promote the teaching of women's history.
United States · United States Congress · 10 March 2010
Global Science Program for Security, Competitiveness, and Diplomacy Act of 2010 - Directs the Secretary of State to establish the Global Science Program for Security, Competitiveness, and Diplomacy grant program, which shall provide for: (1) global research competitions to address global challenges and collaborative research; (2) science and engineering institutional capacity building; (3) nonproliferation research and training; and (4) online access to worldwide science journals. Authorizes the Secretary to establish the Embassy Science Fellows Program to: (1) pay for the costs of federal scientists to serve for up to three years in the Department of State; and (2) enhance scientists' role in U.S. diplomatic efforts. Authorizes the Secretary to establish the Jefferson Science Fellows Program to: (1) provide an opportunity for tenured research-active scientists and engineers from the U.S academic community to serve in the Department of State for one year; and (2) enhance the availability at the Department of up-to-date scientific knowledge relevant to foreign policy and international relations. Directs the Secretary to establish the Scientific Envoys Program under which the Secretary shall appoint scientists and engineers to serve as envoys on behalf of the United States to: (1) represent the U.S. commitment to promote, in collaboration with other countries, the advancement of science and technology; and (2) facilitate partnerships with eligible countries. Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the Office of the Science and Technology Advisor should be further integrated into Department activities; and (2) relevant federal agencies should work to improve the visa process to ensure that the United States remains a central destination for scientific conferences and programs.
United States · United States Congress · 10 March 2010
Stem Cell Research Advancement Act of 2009 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to conduct and support research that utilizes human stem cells, including human embryonic stem cells. Limits such research to stem cells that meet the following requirements: (1) the stem cells were derived from human embryos donated from in vitro fertilization clinics, were created for the purposes of reproductive treatment, and were in excess of the needs of the individuals seeking such treatment; (2) it was determined through consultation with the individuals seeking reproductive treatment that the embryos would never be implanted in a woman and would otherwise be discarded; and (3) the individuals seeking reproductive treatment donated the embryos with written informed consent and received no financial or other inducements. Requires the Secretary to maintain, review every three years, and update as scientifically warranted, guidelines applicable to the conduct or support of human stem cell research by HHS. Prohibits the Secretary from using any funds for the conduct or support of human cloning. Requires the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to include in its biennial report to Congress a summary of research activities on human stem cells.
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2010
Recognizes Apolo Anton Ohno for: (1) his historic performances in short track speed skating at the 2002, 2006, and 2010 Olympic Winter Games; and (2) winning more Olympic Winter Games medals than any other American athlete.
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2010
Supports the mission of the World Economic Forum and encourages the ongoing pursuit of international collaboration through economic, political, cultural, and intellectual engagement. Honors: (1) Klaus Schwab for creating the Forum and for his 40 years of successful leadership; and (2) the 40th anniversary of the Forum's global economic and social leadership.
United States · United States Congress · 26 February 2010
Expresses support for the goals and ideals of the Year of the Lung (an initiative to raise awareness about lung health, initiate action worldwide, and advocate for resources to combat lung disease).
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 2010
National September 11 Memorial & Museum Commemorative Medal Act of 2009 - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to strike and make available for sale not more than 2 million silver national medals, containing one ounce of silver each, in commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States and the establishment of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum at the World Trade Center. Declares that all sales of medals under this Act shall include a surcharge of $10 per medal, which shall be paid to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum at the World Trade Center to support its operations and maintenance.
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 2010
Columbia River Restoration Act of 2010 - Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to: (1) establish within EPA a Columbia River Program Team, located within the Oregon Operations Office for EPA's Region 10; and (2) appoint a Team Leader who shall be highly qualified to support the development and implementation of projects, programs, and studies necessary to implement the Columbia River Basin Toxics Reduction Action Plan developed by EPA and the Columbia River Toxics Reduction Working Group in 2010. Directs the Administrator, acting through the Team Leader, to: (1) assist and support the implementation of the Action Plan and the Estuary Partnership Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan adopted by EPA and the Governors of Oregon and Washington on October 20, 1999; (2) coordinate the implementation of, and the development of any updates to, those Plans, with programs and projects in the Middle and Upper Columbia River Basin; (3) make other appropriate updates; (4) provide funding and make grants for implementation consistent with Plan priorities; (5) promote innovative methodologies and technologies that are cost effective and consistent with Plan goals and objectives and EPA's permitting processes; (6) coordinate the major functions of the federal government related to Plan implementation; (7) coordinate authorized research and planning projects; (8) track progress toward meeting Plan goals and objectives; and (9) collect and make available to the public information regarding the environmental quality of the Lower Columbia River and Estuary. Requires the Administrator, through the Team Leader, to carry out projects, programs, and studies to implement the Plans. Authorizes the Administrator to give special emphasis to those projects, programs, and studies identified as priorities by the Estuary Partnership in the Plans. Authorizes the Administrator, through the Team Leader, to make grants to implement the Plans. Sets forth requirements regarding grant allocations and the federal share of costs. Directs the President, as part of his annual budget submission to Congress, to submit information regarding each federal agency involved in protection and restoration of the Columbia River Basin.