United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2001
Visa Integrity and Security Act of 2001 - Expresses the sense of Congress, in light of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks against the United States, that the Attorney General should: (1) implement the integrated entry and exit data system; and (2) establish the Integrated Entry and Exit Data System Task Force, which shall focus on biometric technology and tamper-proof identification, and integration with law enforcement databases. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to: (1) direct the Attorney General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation to provide the Department of State with access to specified criminal history records in order to determine whether or not a visa or admissions applicant has a criminal history; and (2) include specified passport-related requirements as part of the visa waiver pilot program. Amends the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 to expand the foreign student tracking system to: (1) include "other approved educational institutions" (including flight and language schools); and (2) require university reporting of student failure to commence studies. Requires an employer who terminates the employment of specified aliens (H-1b visa) to so notify the Attorney General.
United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2001
Constitutional Amendment - Provides that if at any time 25 percent or more of the Members of the House of Representatives are unable to carry out their duties because of death or incapacity, each Governor of a State represented by such Member shall appoint an otherwise qualified individual to take the place of the Member as soon as practicable (but in no event later than seven days) after certification of the Member's death or incapacity. Requires an individual appointed to take the place of the Member to serve until a Member is elected to fill the vacancy by a special election to be held at any time during the 90-day period which begins on the date of the individual's appointment, in accordance with the applicable laws regarding special elections in the State involved; except that if a regularly scheduled general election for the office will be held during such period or 30 days thereafter, no special election shall be held and the Member elected in such regularly scheduled general election shall fill the vacancy upon election. Allows such appointed individual to be a candidate in such a special election or in such a regularly scheduled general election.
United States · United States Congress · 5 October 2001
True American Heroes Act - Authorizes the President to present on behalf of Congress a gold medal to the next of kin or other representation of each officer, emergency worker, or employee of a State and local government agency, including the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and of the Federal Government, who responded to the attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City, and perished in the tragic events of September 11, 2001 (including those who are missing and presumed dead).
United States · United States Congress · 4 October 2001
Medicare Regulatory, Appeals, Contracting, and Education Reform Act of 2001 - Amends part D (Miscellaneous) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) with respect to: (1) timelines for publication of final regulations and compliance with substantive changes after notice; (2) timeframes for the completion of the record in the appeals process; (3) contracts with Medicare administrative contractors for determining payment amounts, making payments, and providing certain provider services; (4) coordination of funding for education of service providers; and (5) standardization of random prepayment review and recovery of overpayments from Medicare administrative contractors.
United States · United States Congress · 4 October 2001
Expresses the sense of Congress that the President should award and present a Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor to those public safety officers who were killed and to those select public safety officers who have earned special recognition for outstanding valor above and beyond the call of duty in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks in the United States on September 11, 2001.
United States · United States Congress · 4 October 2001
Congratulates Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty on a half century of effort in promoting democratic values, particularly freedom of the press and freedom of expression in certain areas of the world. Recognizes such organization's major contribution to the growth of democracy throughout the world and its continuing efforts to advance vital U.S. interests in building a more peaceful, democratic, free, and stable world community.
United States · United States Congress · 3 October 2001
Financial Anti-Terrorism Act of 2001 - Amends Federal law governing monetary transactions and Federal criminal law to establish as a bulk cash smuggling offense the knowing concealment and attempted transport (or transfer) across U.S. borders of currency and monetary instruments in excess of $10,000, with intent to evade specified currency reporting requirements. Subjects to Federal criminal penalties currency couriers who conceal more than $10,000 in currency and transport, or conspire to transport, such currency in interstate commerce knowing that it was either derived from, or intended to promote, unlawful activity. Establishes Federal jurisdiction over foreign money launderers, and over money that is laundered through a foreign bank. Establishes reporting requirements for coin and currency receipts of more than $10,000 received by a nonfinancial trade or business, or criminal court clerks. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952 to declare inadmissible: (1) aliens who have engaged in proscribed money laundering activities; and (2) their immediate family members who have benefitted from such illicit activities. Authorizes Federal enforcement agencies to initiate forfeiture actions regarding funds deposited into a foreign bank that has a correspondent account in the United States. Places the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network as a bureau in the Department of the Treasury. Includes among its duties the maintenance of a financial crimes communications center to coordinate money laundering detection by law enforcement authorities and financial institutions. Extends U.S. Customs Service border searches to international shipments of mail. Establishes criminal penalties for false statements concerning the identity of customers of financial institutions. Requires financial institutions to maintain account holder identification and verification . Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to: (1) establish a highly secure website in the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network that allows financial institutions to file suspicious activities reports through the Internet, and that alerts financial institutions regarding activities that warrant immediate and enhanced scrutiny; (2) provide for a public-private task force on terrorist financing issues; and (3) require registered brokers and dealers to submit suspicious activity reports. Amends the Federal Deposit Insurance Act to authorize the inclusion of suspicions of illegal activity in written employment references. Sets forth special measures for jurisdictions, financial institutions, or international transactions of primary money laundering concern, including a proscription against United States correspondent accounts with foreign shell banks. Empowers the Secretary to enter into international negotiations regarding money laundering investigations, financial crimes, and the finances of terrorist groups. Prohibits the acceptance of any bank instrument in connection with unlawful Internet gambling. Amends the Federal criminal code to increase penalties for counterfeiting domestic and foreign currency and obligations. Includes counterfeiting by analog, digital, or electronic image.
United States · United States Congress · 2 October 2001
Paleontological Resources Preservation Act - Directs Federal land managers to: (1) manage and protect paleontological resources on Federal land using scientific principles and expertise; (2) develop plans for inventorying, monitoring, and the scientific and educational use of such resources; and (3) establish a program to increase public awareness about the significance of paleontological resources and the need to preserve and provide access to them. Prohibits a person from collecting a paleontological resource from Federal land without a permit. Authorizes Federal land managers (with the exception of National Park Service managers) to allow casual collecting of abundant invertebrate and plant paleontological resources for scientific, educational, and recreational uses without a permit where not inconsistent with laws governing management of such lands and this Act. Sets forth permit issuance criteria and requirements. Requires any paleontological resource and associated data and records collected under a permit to be deposited in an approved repository. Prohibits: (1) excavating, removing, or altering a paleontological resource located on Federal lands except in compliance with this Act; (2) exchanging or receiving such a resource that was obtained from Federal lands in violation of Federal law; (3) selling or purchasing a paleontological resource that was obtained from Federal lands; or (4) making or submitting false records, accounts, or identification of any such resources. Sets forth requirements for the assessment of civil penalties by Federal land managers for violations of any prohibitions contained in regulations or permits issued under this Act. Requires any recovered amounts to be available to such a manager for use: (1) to protect or restore the paleontological resources and sites or to acquire sites with equivalent resources and to protect, monitor, and study the resources and sites; (2) to provide educational materials to the public about paleontological resources and sites; and (3) as a reward. Requires that information on the nature and specific location of a paleontological resource that requires a permit under this Act or other Federal law be withheld from the public, including under the Freedom of Information Act, except under specified conditions.
United States · United States Congress · 2 October 2001
Honors Cal Ripken, Jr., for an outstanding career, congratulates him on his retirement, and thanks him for his contributions to baseball, to the State of Maryland, and to the Nation.
United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2001
Criminal Alien Visa Denial Act of 2001 - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to require the Attorney General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to provide the Department of State and the Immigration and Naturalization Service with access to specified criminal history extracts in order to determine whether or not a visa or admissions applicant has a criminal history. Directs the FBI to provide periodic extract updates. Provides for confidentiality.
United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2001
Secure Aviation Employment and Training Enhancement Act of 2001 - Amend Federal aviation law to direct the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to implement a criminal background check program for individuals enrolled or to be enrolled in civilian schools giving instruction in flying or repairing, altering, and maintaining aircraft, aircraft engines, propellers, and appliances. Sets forth program requirements, including: (1) establishment of a standard application form for all civilian schools giving such instruction; (2) maintenance of a database of all processed applications; (3) completion of a standard application by each applicant and a criminal background check; and (4) if a check reveals evidence of criminal, espionage, or terrorist activity or any other evidence that the Administrator determines to be a security threat, establishment of procedures to ensure the applicant does not receive training at such school. Requires the Administrator to establish reasonable fees (not to exceed $100 per individual) to pay expenses incurred in carrying out this Act. Requires the Director of the Office of Homeland Security to conduct a review of the current air carrier employee criminal background check procedures.
United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2001
Aviation Employee Assistance Relief Act of 2001 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exempt from the early withdrawal penalty distributions from qualified retirement plans by individuals separated from employment by air carriers, aircraft manufacturers, or manufacturers of aircraft parts or components.
United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2001
Home Equity Loss Prevention and Economic Recovery Act of 2001 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow a personal interest deduction (up to $10,000, adjustable for inflation) for individuals. Repeals restrictions on the deduction for education loans.
United States · United States Congress · 20 September 2001
Authorizes the President to award posthumously the Congressional Gold Medal to the people aboard United Airlines Flight 93 who helped resist the hijackers and caused their plane to crash prematurely on September 11, 2001.
United States · United States Congress · 20 September 2001
September 11th Families Stamp Act - Directs the U.S. Postal Service to issue a semipostal (first-class postage stamp sold at a premium) with the proceeds from its sale going to the September 11th Families Fund to provide assistance, through the Office for Victims of Crime, Department of Justice, to the families of individuals who were killed in the terrorist attacks against the United States on September 11, 2001. Establishes the September 11th Families Fund.
United States · United States Congress · 20 September 2001
Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) on September 11, 2001, the passengers and crew of hijacked United Airlines Flight 93 possibly averted the use of such aircraft in a further terrorist attack on the United States by attempting to overpower the hijackers; (2) the United States owes its gratitude to the passengers and crew of Flight 93 and extends its condolences to the victims' families and friends; and (3) a memorial plaque to the victims should be placed on the grounds of the Capitol, and a copy of the plaque and this resolution sent to a designated survivor of each victim.
United States · United States Congress · 20 September 2001
Expresses the sorrow of Congress for the death and injuries suffered by first responders as they tried to save innocent people in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon on September 11, 2001. Honors and commends the first responders who participated in evacuating and rescuing the innocent people in the World Trade Center and the Pentagon after the terrorist attacks. Encourages all levels of government to continue to work together to coordinate emergency preparedness effectively by providing the infrastructure, funding, and interagency communication and cooperation necessary to ensure that when another terrorist attack occurs, first responders will be as prepared as possible to respond to the attack effectively.
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 2001
United States Cruise Vessel Act - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to issue a certificate of documentation with a temporary coastwise endorsement for an eligible foreign-built cruise vessel to operate in domestic itineraries in the transportation of passengers in the coastwise trade between U.S. ports if such vessel meets certain requirements, including that: (1) the operator of the vessel promises that any repairs will be performed in a U.S. shipyard; and (2) such operator, with a specified exception, executes a contract with one or more U.S. shipyards for the construction of two or more cruise vessels with a total combined berth or stateroom capacity equal to at least that of the operator's vessel to which a certificate of documentation has been issued. Terminates the coastwise endorsement for an eligible cruise vessel 24 months after the delivery date for any replacement vessel. Authorizes the operator of an eligible cruise vessel issued a certificate of documentation, or a cruise vessel that has been constructed under contract, to place such vessel under foreign registry. Prohibits eligible cruise vessels operating in domestic itineraries from operating as a ferry, regularly carrying for hire both passengers and vehicles or other cargo, or operating between or among the Hawaiian Islands. Directs the Secretary to give priority to U.S.- built cruise vessels over other eligible foreign-built cruise vessels in a comparable market that have been issued a certificate of documentation, if the Secretary determines that the employment in the coastwise trade of an eligible foreign-built cruise vessel will adversely affect the coastwise trade business of any person operating a vessel not documented under this Act. Makes special provision for vessels carrying passengers for hire into Glacier Bay or other National Park Service areas.
United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2001
Amends the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 with respect to the reward paid to an individual under the Department of State's reward program for information leading to the arrest or conviction of any individual in connection with acts of international terrorism against U.S. persons or property or with certain narcotics-related offenses. Increases from $5 million to $25 million the reward paid in connection with the terrorist attacks on the United States on September 11, 2001. Increases the amount of funds that may be appropriated for such program to no more than $50 million.
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 2001
Export-Import Bank Reauthorization Act of 2001 - Amends the Export-Import Bank Act of 1945 to require the Export-Import Bank of the United States, in providing loans, guarantees, insurance, and credits for the export of goods and services, imports, and the exchange of commodities and services between the United States (including its territories or possessions) and other foreign countries, to ensure that such financing is contributing to maintaining or increasing employment of U.S. workers. Extends the authority of the Export-Import Bank of the United States through FY 2005. Increases the aggregate amount of Bank loans, guarantees, and insurance that may be outstanding at any one time to aid in financing exports and imports and the exchange of commodities and services between the United States and other foreign countries. Establishes in the Bank an Office on Africa. Increases from ten percent to 20 percent of its aggregate loan, guarantee, and insurance authority the amount the Bank must make available to finance exports directly by small business concerns, including not less than eight percent for small business concerns employing fewer than 100 employees. Directs the Bank to implement certain technology improvements designed to improve small business outreach. Sets forth provisions: (1) concerning the Tied Aid Credit Fund (renaming it the Export Competitiveness Fund and the tied aid credit program the export competitiveness program); (2) requiring the Bank to promote the export of goods and services related to renewable energy resources; and (3) requiring a reassessment by the Bank with respect to a grant it approved to support the sale of specified computer equipment to a named steel company in China.
United States · United States Congress · 6 September 2001
Rural America Technology Enhancement Act of 2001 - Amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to direct the Secretary of Agriculture, acting through the Administrator of the Rural Utility Service, to: (1) establish a National Centers for Distance Working Program to provide grants to eligible organizations for the Federal share of the cost of establishing National Centers for Distance Working in rural areas (and Indian reservations) to conduct five-year projects to support the use of teleworking in information technology fields; and (2) make grants for studies on teleworking in rural areas. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish the rural telecommunications facilities investment tax credit. Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to direct the Federal Communications Commission to initiate a proceeding to provide Federal universal service support for the deployment of broadband telecommunications service to eligible rural communities. Amends the National Telecommunications and Information Administrative Organization Act to direct the Rural Utilities Service of the Department of Agriculture to make loans or other credit extensions to eligible telecommunications carrier providers, or to companies that accept the obligations of such carriers, to finance the deployment of broadband service to eligible rural communities. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to establish an Office of Rural Technology to act as an information center about programs that offer technology assistance to entities in rural areas. Amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to create a rural high tech employment tax credit. Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to authorize the Secretary of Education to make grants to support the expansion of opportunities in rural areas for instruction in high technology fields and enterprises.
United States · United States Congress · 6 September 2001
Pays tribute to the relationship between the United States and Australia. Reaffirms the U.S. commitment to its alliance with Australia under the ANZUS Treaty and the importance of security cooperation, security commitments, and the trade and economic relationship between the United States and Australia. Expresses strong support for continued close cooperation between Australia and the United States on economic and security issues in the Asia-Pacific region and globally. Welcomes the state visit by Australian Prime Minister John Howard.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 2001
Declares that Congress encourages the Government of China to honor its obligations under the United Nations Convention relating to the Status of Refugees of 1951, as modified by the Protocol relating to the Status of Refugees of 1967, by: (1) making genuine efforts to identify and protect the refugees among the North Korean migrants encountered by Chinese authorities; (2) providing North Korean refugees residing in China with a safe asylum; (3) halting the forced repatriations of North Korean refugees seeking asylum in China; (4) allowing the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to have access to all North Korean refugees residing in China; and (5) cooperating with the UNHCR in efforts to resettle the North Korean refugees residing in China in other countries. Encourages the UNHCR to facilitate the resettlement of North Korean refugees residing in China in other countries.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2001
Expresses the sense of Congress that it is in keeping with U.S. interests that the special nature of the relationship between the United States and Mexico be recognized and further cultivated to the mutual benefit of both countries.
United States · United States Congress · 27 July 2001
Commends and congratulates the people of Ukraine on the tenth anniversary of Ukrainian independence. Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the Ukrainian President and Parliament should continue efforts to maintain the balance of powers between the executive and legislative branches of government and ensure that their cooperation is aimed at furthering democratic reforms and strengthening civil society based on the rule of law; and (2) the United States should continue to assist in building an independent Ukraine through encouraging and supporting democratic and market-economy transformations.
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2001
National Uniformity for Food Act of 2001 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FDCA) to prohibit any State or political subdivision from establishing or continuing in effect as to any food in interstate commerce any requirement for food that is not identical to specified FDCA provisions. Prohibits any State or political subdivision from establishing or continuing in effect any notification requirement for a food that provides for a warning concerning the food's safety that is not identical to FDCA provisions. Allows current State notification or food safety requirements to continue for 180 days after the enactment of this Act, during which such State may petition for an exemption or a new national standard. Allows a State to petition for an exemption and for a national standard regarding any requirement under the FDCA, as amended by this Act, or the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act relating to food regulation. Allows a State to establish a requirement that would otherwise violate FDCA provisions relating to national uniform nutrition labeling or this paragraph if the requirement is needed to address an imminent hazard to health that is likely to result in serious adverse health consequences and if other requirements are met.
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2001
Fort Clatsop National Memorial Expansion Act of 2000 - Authorizes the acquisition of certain additional lands for inclusion within the Fort Clatsop National Memorial in Oregon. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a study of the area near McGowan, Washington, where the Lewis and Clark Expedition first camped after reaching the Pacific Ocean, known as the Station Camp site, as well as the Megler Rest Area and Fort Canby State Park, to determine their suitability for inclusion in the National Park System.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2001
Amends the Asian Development Bank Act to authorize appropriations for: (1) the U.S. contribution to the seventh replenishment of the Asian Development Fund; and (2) the U.S. contribution to the fifth replenishment of the International Fund for Agricultural Development. Amends the International Financial Institutions Act to direct the Secretary of the Treasury to instruct the U.S. Executive Directors at certain international financial institutions to: (1) support continued efforts by such institutions in the fight against HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, and other infectious diseases; and (2) oppose user fees in impoverished countries for primary education or primary healthcare, including prevention and treatment efforts for HIV/AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis, and infant, child, and maternal well-being, in connection with any strategy or country plan, grant, or loan by such institutions. Sets forth provisions promoting greater transparency with regard to such institutions' activities. Directs the Secretary to instruct the U.S. Executive Directors at such institutions to focus on poverty alleviation, economic growth, increased productivity, sustainable development, environmental protection, labor rights, and an increased focus on education. Commends Omar Kabbaj (an official of the Ministry of Finance of Morocco) for his successful reform efforts as President of the African Development Bank and Fund.
United States · United States Congress · 18 July 2001
Recognizes the courage of Serbian democrats, in particular, Serbian Prime Minister Zoran Djindjic, in facilitating the transfer of Slobodan Milosevic to the International Criminal Tribunal for Yugoslavia. Calls for the continued arrest and transfer of other indicted war criminals throughout the Balkans to the Tribunal. Encourages the release of all innocent political prisoners held in Serbian prisons. Declares that the House of Representatives remains committed to providing foreign assistance to support the success of economic, political, and legal reforms in Yugoslavia and other nations of the Balkans region as long as the Yugoslav Government and others continue to cooperate in the matter of war criminals.
United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2001
Export-Import Bank Reauthorization Act of 2001 - Amends the Export-Import Bank Act of 1945 to extend the authority of the Export-Import Bank of the United States through FY 2005. Increases the aggregate amount (including applicable inflation) of Bank loans, guarantees, and insurance that may be outstanding at any one time to aid in financing exports and imports and the exchange of commodities and services between the United States and other foreign countries. Establishes in the Bank an Office on Africa. Directs the Bank, in order to encourage the participation of small business in international commerce, to make available not less than 25 percent (currently, ten percent) of its aggregate for loans, guarantees, and insurance to finance exports directly by small business concerns (including not less than ten percent for small business concerns employing fewer than 100 employees). Directs the Bank to implement certain technology improvements designed to improve small business outreach. Sets forth provisions: (1) concerning the Tied Aid Credit Fund (including renaming the Tied Aid Credit Fund as the Export Competitiveness Fund and the tied aid credit program as the export competitiveness program); (2) requiring the Bank to promote the export of goods and services related to renewable energy resources; (3) requiring certain information and certifications from companies seeking or receiving assistance from the Bank; and (4) requiring a reassessment by the Bank with respect to a grant it approved to support the sale of specified computer equipment to a named steel company in China.
United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2001
Congratulates Tony Gwynn on the announcement of his retirement, honors him for an outstanding career, and thanks him for his contributions to baseball and to his community.
United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2001
Waives time limitations relating to the filing of claim for a tax credit or refund of an overpayment of 1983 Federal income tax by Richard W. Schaffert.
United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2001
Expresses the sense of Congress that the U.S. Postal Service should: (1) provide a maximum degree of effective and regular postal services to all communities, including rural areas and small towns where post offices may not be self-sustaining; and (2) take all necessary steps to ensure that post offices are not closed or consolidated.
United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2001
Home and Farm Wind Energy Systems Act of 2001 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a limited credit for amounts paid for qualified wind energy property from which at least 50 percent of the energy produced is consumed on site.
United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2001
Conservation Tax Incentives Act of 2001 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exclude from gross income 50 percent of any gain from the sale of land or an interest in land or water to an eligible entity if: (1) such land or interest in land or water was owned by the taxpayer or a member of the taxpayer's family at all times during the 3-year period ending on the date of the sale; and (2) such land or interest in land or water is being acquired by an eligible conservation entity which provides the taxpayer, at the time of acquisition, a written letter of intent stating that the purchaser's intent in making the acquisition is to serve specified conservation purposes.
United States · United States Congress · 20 June 2001
Gasoline Access and Stabilization Act of 2001 - Amends the Clean Air Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to promulgate regulations for reformulated and oxygenated gasoline sold for use in all States that: (1) require such gasoline to comply with a national formula; and (2) prohibit the sale in any State of any such gasoline that does not comply with the formula. Allows reformulated gasoline approved by the Administrator for a State for which a waiver is in effect (allowing application of State emissions control standards) to satisfy this Act's requirements. Allows a State Governor to elect to have an area within the State, or the entire State, treated as a covered area for purposes of reformulated gasoline requirements, without regard to existing opt-in requirements. Prohibits States and localities, after December 31, 2004 (other than the State of California pursuant to a waiver or another State opting-in to California's reformulated gasoline standards pursuant to this Act), from prescribing or enforcing a control of any characteristic of a gasoline or additive that is not identical to EPA regulations. Prohibits, after September 1, 2006, the manufacture or introduction into commerce of motor vehicle diesel fuel that contains a concentration of sulfur exceeding 15 parts per million or fails to meet a cetane minimum index of 40 and a maximum aromatic content of 35 volume percent.
United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2001
Amends the Internal Revenue Code respecting the Hope Scholarship Credit to: (1) extend coverage to fees, books, supplies, and equipment, and exempt such expenses from information reporting requirements; and (2) not reduce such Credit by Federal Pell Grant and Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant amounts.
United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2001
World Bank AIDS Trust Fund Amendments Act of 2001 - Amends the Global AIDS and Tuberculosis Relief Act of 2000 to increase to $200 million the authorization of appropriations for FY 2002 for the U.S. payment to the World Bank AIDS Trust Fund. States that the Trust Fund should address, and provide assistance (including grants for measures to ensure affordable access to treatments) for, diseases related to HIV/AIDS, such as tuberculosis, as well as malaria.
United States · United States Congress · 13 June 2001
Rural Health Care Improvement Act of 2001 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide for: (1) revision in the Medicare disproportionate share hospital (DSH) payment adjustment for rural hospitals equalizing DSH payment amounts; (2) a single, standardized amount under the Medicare inpatient hospital prospective payment system (PPS); (3) treatment of certain physician pathology services; (4) elimination of the 15 percent reduction in payment rates under the Medicare PPS for home health services; (5) a permanent increase in the Medicare payment amount for home health services furnished in a rural area; and (6) exclusion of certain rural health clinic services and federally qualified health center services from the PPS for covered skilled nursing facility services. Amends the Public Health Service Act (PHSA) to establish: (1) a capital infrastructure revolving loan program under which the Secretary of Health and Human Services may make described loans to any rural entity for projects for capital improvements from the loan and loan guarantee fund under PHSA; (2) a high technology acquisition grant and loan program under which the Secretary may award grants and make loans to any eligible entity for any costs incurred by the eligible entity in acquiring eligible equipment and services for improving the quality of health care in rural areas; and (3) a program of grants to eligible entities under which the Secretary shall award such grants to public or nonprofit private entities to establish telehealth resource centers for the health care needs of individuals in rural areas. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exclude from gross income for income tax purposes any payments received under the National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Program.
United States · United States Congress · 13 June 2001
Trade Promotion Authority Act of 2001 - Sets forth the overall trade negotiating objectives of the United States for trade agreements (generally similar to the objectives of the Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness Act of 1988 (OTCA)), including to: (1) further strengthen the system of international trading disciplines and procedures, including dispute settlement; and (2) foster economic growth, raise living standards, and promote full employment in the United States and to enhance the global economy. Sets forth the principal U.S. negotiating objectives (generally similar to the principal OTCA negotiating objectives) regarding trade barriers and other trade distortions, trade in services, foreign investment, intellectual property, transparency, improvement of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and other multilateral and bilateral trade agreements, foreign regulatory practices, electronic commerce, reciprocal trade in agriculture, and WTO extended negotiations. Requires the United States Trade Representative (USTR) to consult closely with Congress during trade negotiations. Sets forth the authority of the President (generally similar to the authority under OTCA) to enter into trade agreements with foreign countries regarding tariff and non-tariff barriers. States that a trade agreement may be entered into (before June 1, 2005; or June 1, 2007, if trade authorities procedures (or fast-track procedures) are extended under this Act) only if it makes progress in meeting the overall and principal trade negotiating objectives, and the President satisfies certain notification and consultation requirements set forth in this Act, including submission of the agreement for assessment by the International Trade Commission. Applies trade authorities procedures to bills implementing trade agreements if they consist of: (1) a provision approving a trade agreement entered into under this Act, and approving any statement of administrative action; and (2) if changes in existing laws or new statutory authority are required to implement such agreements, provisions necessary to implement them, either repealing or amending existing laws or providing new statutory law. Authorizes both Houses of Congress to adopt, within 60 days of each other, a procedural disapproval resolution denying trade authorities procedures to any trade agreement if the President has failed or refused to notify or consult with Congress about it. Exempts from the notice and consultation requirements of this Act any tariff or nontariff agreement which results from negotiations commenced before enactment of this Act, and which: (1) is entered into under the auspices of the WTO regarding the rules of origin work program; (2) is entered into with Chile or Singapore; or (3) establishes a Free Trade Area for the Americas. Requires the appointment of a Congressional Oversight Group to serve as advisor to the U.S. delegation after the President notifies Congress of his intention to enter into the negotiation of any tariff or nontariff trade agreement. Requires the President to submit an implementation and enforcement plan at the same time a final text of any tariff or nontariff trade agreement is submitted to Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 13 June 2001
Savings for Working Families Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to permit any qualified financial institution, qualified nonprofit organization, or Indian tribe to establish one or more qualified individual development account programs. Defines such an account as an account established for an eligible individual (income based) as part of a qualified individual development account program (matched individual and entity savings accounts for qualifying educational, first-time home purchase, or business expenses). Sets forth provisions concerning such accounts, including: (1) the structure and administration of account programs; (2) procedures for opening and maintaining an account and qualifying for matching funds; (3) withdrawal procedures; and (4) disregarding account funds for purposes of certain means-tested Federal programs. Provides matching funds through a tax credit for a participating entity's program investment.
United States · United States Congress · 12 June 2001
Russian Democracy Act of 2001 - Declares it shall be U.S. policy to: (1) engage the Government of the Russian Federation to strengthen democratic reform and institutions, and to promote good governance principles based on the internationally recognized norms of transparency in business practices, the rule of law, religious freedom, and human rights; (2) incorporate democratic reforms, independent media, and economic reforms in the broad U.S. agenda with such Government; and (3) encourage such Government to address cross-border issues, including the environment, crime, trafficking, and corruption in a cooperative and transparent manner consistent with internationally recognized principles of the rule of law. Expresses the sense of Congress that the Government of the Russian Federation, as obliged under existing bilateral agreements, should resolve outstanding taxation issues that hinder the deliverance of U.S. assistance programs. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to include among activities eligible for U.S. assistance to the independent states of the former Soviet Union activities for the promotion of democracy, rule of law, human rights, economic reforms, administration of justice, and the development of a free and independent media in Russia. Authorizes the President to carry out specified related activities in providing such assistance to Russia.
United States · United States Congress · 12 June 2001
Amends the Tropical Forest Conservation Act of 1998 to authorize appropriations through FY 2004 for the cost for the reduction of debt owed by a developing country with a tropical forest to the United States as a result of concessional loans made or credits extended to such country under specified laws.
United States · United States Congress · 12 June 2001
Increases from $300 to $500 the authorized allowance for burial and funeral expenses for deceased veterans who: (1) at the time of death were in receipt of veterans' disability compensation or veterans' pension benefits; or (2) were veterans of any war or were discharged or released from active military service for a service-connected disability and for whom there is no next of kin or sufficient resources to cover funeral and burial costs. Increases from $300 to $500 the plot allowance for a veteran who dies in a Department of Veterans Affairs facility or a facility providing Department-contracted care.
United States · United States Congress · 12 June 2001
Amends the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to require the total amount of contributions accepted from in-State individual residents with respect to an election by a candidate for the office of Senator or of Representative in, or Delegate or Resident Commissioner to, Congress to be at least 50 percent of the total amount of contributions from all sources. Exempts from this requirement any opponent of such a candidate who makes expenditures of more than $250,000 from personal funds. Specifies a fine for any candidate violating contribution requirement.
United States · United States Congress · 5 June 2001
Extends the tax benefits available under the Internal Revenue Code for services performed in a combat zone to members of the armed forces for services performed in the Sinai as part of the Multinational Force and Observers of the United Nations.
United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2001
Fair Debt Collection Practices Improvement Act of 2001 - Amends the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act to permit continuation of collection activities and communications during the 30-day period following notice of debt, unless the consumer requests cessation of such activities. Broadens prescriptions governing debtor's civil liability to include a series of class actions arising out of the same violations by the same debt collector. Disallows recovery of legal fees that accrue after the date of a consumer's refusal of a debt collector's settlement offer which is greater than or equal to the final judgment award (including participants in a class action or series of class actions). Requires the court to consider the amount of actual damages awarded when it determines the amount of liability. Declares that a debt collector shall not be liable if the preponderance of the evidence shows that the violation resulted from good faith compliance with either Federal or State rules of civil procedure, or with a non-judicial foreclosure proceeding.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 2001
Small Public Housing Authority Act - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to exempt certain small public housing agencies from the requirement to prepare an annual public agency plan.
United States · United States Congress · 22 May 2001
Korea Defense Service Medal Act - Directs the Secretary of the military department concerned to issue a campaign medal, to be known as the Korea Defense Service Medal, to each member who served in the Republic of Korea or its adjacent waters after July 27, 1954.
![Official portrait of Rep. Bereuter, Doug [R-NE-1]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/b000403_200.jpg)