Rep. Boucher, Rick [D-VA-9]

An amendment to authorize a four lane access to the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, Virginia, upon the completion a tunnel and another highway access.

United States · United States Congress

At the end of the bill add the following: "No natural parent, brother, or sister, if any, shall by virtue of such relationship, be accorded any right, privilege, or status under the Immigration and Nationality Act.".

United States · United States Congress

Amendment requires universities to certify that all claims for indirect cost recovery are appropriate and allowable expenditures; and permits the director of the National Science Foundation to grant universities a 1-year delay in the 26 percent cap for administrative costs that is contained in the bill.

United States · United States Congress

An amendment numbered 4 as printed in House Report 105-573 to expand the definition of "household goods" which are exempt in chapters 7 and 13 bankruptcy to include any personal property that is reasonable or necessary to maintain and support a dependent child, thereby ensuring that exempt household possessions used for the benefit of the child will not be taken away from a parent filing bankruptcy by a secured creditor who did not finance the purchase of those possessions.

United States · United States Congress

An amendment to to allow a class action to be removed to a district court before or after a State has certified the class. Except that a plaintiff who is not a named class member of the action may not seek removal of the action before a class containing the plaintiff has been certified.

United States · United States Congress

An amendment numbered 2 printed in House Report 110-508 to authorize $10,000,000 to award grants to provide rehabilitation service s to current and former miners suffering from mental health impairments, including drug addiction and substance abuse issues, which may have been caused or exacerbated by their work as miners.

United States · United States Congress

An amendment numbered 1 printed in House Report 110-370 to provide the shiel can be pierced to prevent or identify the perpetrator of a terrorist attack or harm to national security. It also provides that the disclosure of a leaker's identity can be compelled in cases involving leaks of properly classified information. It also permits law enforcement to obtain an order compelling disclosure of documents and information obtained as the result of eyewitness observations of alleged criminal or tortious conduct. It also limits the Act's coverage to a person who "regularly" engages in the listed journalistic activities. Finally, it adds three new exceptions to the definition of "covered person:" Specially Designated Global Terrorist, as designated by the Treasury Department; a specially designated terrorist, as defined by federal regualtions; and a terrorist organization, as defined by immigration law.

United States · United States Congress

To designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 5003 Westfields Boulevard in Centreville, Virginia, as the "Colonel George Juskalian Post Office Building".

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2010

Designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 5003 Westfields Boulevard in Centreville, Virginia, as the "Colonel George Juskalian Post Office Building."

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives with respect to legislation relating to raising the retirement age under title II of the Social Security Act.

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2010

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the retirement age under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) (OASDI) of the Social Security Act should not be raised.

To provide for 100 percent expensing for capital property placed in service on or after September 8, 2010, and before 2012.

United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2010

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to suspend the dollar limitation and other limitations on the expensing allowance for depreciable business assets placed in service on or after September 8, 2010, and before January 1, 2012.

Electricity Reliability Protection Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2010

Electricity Reliability Protection Act of 2010 - Prohibits the use of funds made available to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Corps of Engineers, or the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) of the Department of the Interior to implement, administer, or enforce any policy or procedure set forth in either the memorandum entitled "Enhanced Surface Coal Mining Pending Permit Coordination Procedures" or the EPA guidance entitled "Improving EPA Review of Appalachian Surface Coal Mining Operations under the Clean Water Act, National Environmental Policy Act, and the Environmental Justice Executive Order," until the EPA, the Corps of Engineers, or OSMRE promulgates regulations to implement it after providing notice and an opportunity for comment in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act.

Seniors Protection Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2010

Seniors Protection Act of 2010 - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to disburse a $250 payment to recipients of Social Security, SSI (Supplemental Security Income under title XVI of the Social Security Act), railroad retirement benefits, and veterans disability compensation or pension benefits if no cost-of-living adjustment is payable in 2011.

Electronic Health Record Incentives for Multi-Campus Hospitals Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2010

Electronic Health Record Incentives for Multi-Campus Hospitals Act of 2010 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA), with respect to payments to hospitals for inpatient hospital services, to prescribe a special rule for applying Medicare electronic health record (EHR) incentive payments, at the election of a qualified main hospital, to its remote inpatient locations. Prohibits administrative or judicial review of: (1) the methodology and standards for determining a remote inpatient location, a qualified remote inpatient location, a component facility, a qualified component facility, a main provider, and a qualified main provider, and which such locations, facilities, and providers are qualified; and (2) the methodology and standards for the election in connection with such special rule. Amends SSA title XIX (Medicaid) to set forth a special rule for applying Medicaid EHR incentive payments, at the election of a qualified main hospital, to its remote locations.

Chiropractic Membership in the Public Health Service Commissioned Corps Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2010

Chiropractic Membership in the Public Health Service Commissioned Corps Act of 2010 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to make chiropractic personnel eligible for appointment in the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Surgeon General to ensure that Doctors of Chiropractic are trained, equipped, and otherwise prepared to fulfill public health and emergency response service responsibilities in the Commissioned Corps. Requires the President to appoint no fewer than six Doctors of Chiropractic into the commissioned Regular Corps and the Ready Reserve Corps. Directs the Surgeon General to submit a quarterly report to the relevant congressional committees on measures taken by the President, Surgeon General, and the Secretary to carry out this Act.

Honoring and recognizing the exemplary service and sacrifice of the 60th Air Mobility Wing, the 349th Air Mobility Wing, the 15th Expeditionary Mobility Task Force, and the 615th Contingency Response Wing civilians and families serving at Travis Air Force Base, California.

United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2010

Recognizes the service and sacrifice of the 60th Air Mobility Wing, the 349th Air Mobility Wing, the 15th Expeditionary Mobility Task Force, and the 615th Contingency Response Wing civilians and families serving at Travis Air Force Base, California. Offers condolences to the families of the men and women of Team Travis who lost their lives defending the United States. Commends the actions of private citizens and organizations in the Travis Air Force Base community for their steadfast support of members of the Armed Forces and their families.

Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Improvements Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 29 July 2010

Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Improvements Act of 2010 - Revises provisions concerning the post-9/11 veterans' educational assistance program to, among other things: (1) revise definitions concerning eligibility, and include certain National Guard service as service qualifying for such assistance; (2) revise assistance amounts (including monthly stipends), and types of approved programs of education; (3) allow the pursuit of educational programs at institutions other than institutions of higher learning, including on-job training and apprenticeships, flight training, and correspondence courses; (4) provide an assistance amount for programs of education pursued while on active duty; (5) repeal the limit on the use of such assistance for the payment of only one licensing or certification test; (6) allow an individual entitled to supplemental educational assistance to transfer such entitlement to the post-9/11 program; (7) bar the duplication of benefits under other educational assistance programs; (8) increase the amount of the reporting fee paid by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to an educational institution for providing information concerning an individual's enrollment in a program of education; (9) extend to certain National Guard and reserve personnel members eligibility to receive public-private contributions for additional educational assistance; (10) reauthorize through 2016 the Veterans' Advisory Committee on Education; and (11) revise cost-of-living adjustments under the Montgomery GI Bill educational assistance program. Provides an alternate subsistence allowance amount for veterans entitled to such allowance due to service-connected disabilities.

Voluntary Incentive Auctions Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 29 July 2010

Voluntary Incentive Auctions Act of 2010 - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that, if consistent with the public interest for a licensee to voluntarily relinquish some or all of its spectrum usage rights in order to permit the assignment of new initial licenses or the allocation of spectrum for unlicensed use, the proceeds from the use of a competitive bidding system may be shared with any licensee who agreed to voluntarily relinquish such usage rights. Prohibits the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) from reclaiming frequencies of broadcast television licensees or any other licensees on an involuntary basis for certain licensing purposes.

Protecting Gun Owners in Bankruptcy Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2010

Protecting Gun Owners in Bankruptcy Act of 2010 - Amends federal bankruptcy law to permit an individual debtor to exempt from the property of the estate in bankruptcy a single rifle, shotgun, or pistol of any value or any combination of rifle, shotgun, or pistol in aggregate value not to exceed $1,500. Declares the date of enactment as the effective date of this Act.

Universal Service Reform Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2010

Universal Service Reform Act of 2010 - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 regarding the review of universal service requirements to require: (1) the Federal-State Joint Board on Universal Service to complete recommendations for changes within 9 months after the date of enactment of this Act; and (2) the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to complete consideration of such recommendations within 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act. Includes high-speed broadband services within universal service. Revises universal service principles. Sets forth methodology provisions for assessing contributions to universal service support mechanisms from communications service providers. Provides support contribution limits. Directs the FCC to develop: (1) a new cost model for the provision of high-cost support to eligible communications service providers for universal service in rural, insular, and high cost areas; and (2) a mechanism for reducing or eliminating the high-cost support provided to an incumbent local exchange carrier in the competitive portions of such carrier's service areas. Prohibits the FCC from reducing high-cost support to tribal lands absent a finding that such reductions are in the public interest. Revises the eligibility criteria communications service providers must meet in order to receive universal service support. Authorizes the FCC to waive minimum data rate requirements under specified circumstances. States that a recipient of universal service support in any service area prior to the date of enactment of this Act that relinquishes its eligible telecommunications carrier or eligible communications service provider designation shall continue to offer and receive support for providing life-line and link-up service throughout its service area unless another provider is so designated. Directs the FCC to establish the amount of high-cost support to be distributed to all mobile wireless communications service providers designated as eligible communications service providers through a competitive bidding process. Eliminates specified limitations on universal service support and the individual caps imposed upon carriers. Prohibits the FCC from limiting the distribution and use of high-cost support to a single connection or primary line. Authorizes a state to adopt regulations not inconsistent with FCC rules to preserve and advance universal service. Directs the FCC to: (1) adopt a minimum data rate requirement for high-speed broadband service; (2) establish outcome-oriented performance goals for each universal service support program; (3) establish audit methodology for recipients of universal service support; and (4) submit specified reports to Congress. Grants the FCC authority to reform intercarrier compensation systems for both interstate and intrastate traffic. Requires communications service providers to ensure that all traffic contains or preserves sufficient information to allow traffic identification by other communications service providers that transport or terminate the traffic. Prohibits access charge recovery when an entity that has a business, financial, or contractual relationship with a local exchange carrier relating to switched access revenues from such services offers a free or below cost service. Directs the FCC to require a communications service provider to provide covered services for the provision of health care services to any rural public or not-for-profit health care provider at rates that are reasonably comparable to rates charged for similar services in the state's urban areas.

Home Health Care Access Protection Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2010

Home Health Care Access Protection Act of 2010 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act, as amended by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, with respect to the prospective payment system (PPS) for home health services and adjustments to it for case mix changes. Requires for years beginning with 2011 that any evaluation of case mix changes and any such adjustment be made using standards developed consistent with specified processes, taking certain criteria into account. Directs the Secretary to convene a Technical Advisory Group to advise on the development of such standards.

Renewable Fuels Marketing Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 20 July 2010

Renewable Fuels Marketing Act of 2010 - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to issue guidelines for determining whether underground storage tanks and associated dispensing equipment are compatible with any fuel or fuel additive that is authorized by the Administrator or by statute for use in a motor vehicle, nonroad vehicle, or engine. Deems tanks and equipment that have been listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory as compatible with such a fuel or fuel additive as of the date of enactment of this Act to be compatible under the guidelines. Declares that no person shall be liable under any federal or state law, and no provider of financial assurance may deny payment for a claim, on the basis that a tank (or associated dispensing equipment) is not compatible with such fuel or fuel additive if such tank or equipment has been determined to be compatible pursuant to the guidelines issued under this Act. Amends the Clean Air Act to direct the Administrator to promulgate regulations that establish requirements for the labeling of associated dispensing equipment to prevent the introduction into a motor vehicle, nonroad vehicle, or engine of transportation fuel that contains a fuel or fuel additive that is authorized, after January 1, 2010, by the Administrator or by statute for use in motor vehicles, nonroad vehicles, or engines but that is not compatible with such vehicle or engine. Shields a person selling such fuel who complies with such regulations from liability for: (1) a self-service purchaser's introduction of such a fuel into a vehicle or engine that is not compatible with such fuel; or (2) the voiding of the manufacturer's warranty of such vehicle or engine from introduction of such fuel. Sets penalties for violation of such regulations.

To observe the contributions of the chiropractic profession and recognize National Chiropractic Health Month.

United States · United States Congress · 15 July 2010

Recognizes: (1) the contributions of the chiropractic profession; and (2) National Chiropractic Health Month.

Expressing support for designation of the last week of September as National Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Week and the last Wednesday of September as National Previvor Day.

United States · United States Congress · 15 July 2010

Expresses support for designation of: (1) National Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Week; and (2) National Previvor Day.

Commending Google Inc. and other companies for advocating for an uncensored Internet, adhering to free speech principles, and keeping the Internet open for users worldwide.

United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2010

Commends Google Inc. and other companies for advocating for an uncensored Internet, adhering to free speech principles, and keeping the Internet open for users worldwide. Encourages other companies and institutions to protect freedom of speech and monitor cybersecurity issues around the world by encouraging their participation in the Global Network Initiative. Calls on the President, Secretary of State, and the U.S. Trade Representative to make Internet access for lawful uses an important part of U.S. foreign policy.

Digital Goods and Services Tax Fairness Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 30 June 2010

Digital Goods and Services Tax Fairness Act of 2010 - Prohibits a state or local jurisdiction from imposing multiple or discriminatory taxes on or with respect to the sale or use of digital goods or services delivered or transferred electronically to a customer. Restricts taxation of digital goods and services to the retail sale of such goods and services and by the jurisdiction encompassing a customer's tax address. Prohibits the use of existing regulations or administrative rulings relating to the taxation of tangible personal property or other services to impose any tax on the sale or use of digital goods or services. Prohibits taxation on or with respect to the sale or use of digital medical, education, or energy management services. Provides that if charges for digital goods and services are not separately stated from charges for other goods or services, the charges for digital goods and services may be taxed at the same rate and on the same basis as charges for other goods and services unless the seller can reasonably identify the charges for digital goods and services from its business records. Grants jurisdiction to federal district courts to prevent a violation of this Act. Expresses the sense of Congress that each state shall take reasonable steps to prevent multiple taxation of digital goods and services where a foreign country has imposed a tax on such goods and services.

Commemorating the 75th Anniversary of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

United States · United States Congress · 30 June 2010

Commemorates the 75th anniversary of the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina and Virginia. Acknowledges the historic and enduring scenic, recreational, and economic value of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Medicare Enrollment Protection Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2010

Medicare Enrollment Protection Act of 2010 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to: (1) establish a special Medicare part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) enrollment period period for individuals enrolled in COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act) continuation coverage who elected not to enroll under part B during the individual's initial enrollment period; (2) require a continuous open Medicare part B enrollment, apart from an initial enrollment period or a special enrollment period, during which there shall be an increase in the monthly premium; (3) provide for special enrollment periods to correct errors, misrepresentations, or the inaction of officers, employees, or agents of group health plans or plan sponsors; and (4) direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to ensure appropriate coordination of Medicare part B with American Health Benefit Exchanges under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA). Directs the Comptroller General to report to Congress on enrollment in the Medicare part B program.

RAPID Claims Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 June 2010

Rating and Processing Individuals' Disability Claims Act or the RAPID Claims Act - Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA), if a veteran's claim is submitted that is determined to be a fully developed claim, to provide: (1) the claimant with the opportunity to waive any claim development period with respect to such claim; and (2) expeditious treatment to such claim. Provides that: (1) if a person notifies the Secretary of the intention to submit a fully developed claim and does so within a one-year period thereafter, the Secretary shall provide expeditious treatment to the claim; and (2) if the Secretary determines that a claim submitted as fully developed is not fully developed, the Secretary shall notify such person within 30 days of the information and evidence required to fully develop the claim. Requires the Secretary, when denying a benefit, to notify the claimant of any form or application required to appeal such decision.

Firearms Excise Tax Improvement Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 17 June 2010

Firearms Excise Tax Improvement Act of 2010 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to require: (1) excise taxes on recreational equipment to be due and payable on the date for filing the return for such taxes (i.e., quarterly); and (2) the Secretary of the Treasury to assess and collect, in the same manner as delinquent taxes are assessed and collected, mandatory orders of restitution for victims of crime.

Supporting the goals and ideals of United States Military History Month.

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2010

Supports the goals and ideals of United States Military History Month. Encourages the President to issue a proclamation to emphasize the importance of such Month.

Chesapeake Bay Program Reauthorization and Improvement Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 June 2010

Chesapeake Bay Program Reauthorization and Improvement Act - Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (commonly known as the Clean Water Act or CWA) to establish: (1) financial reporting requirements for restoration activities in the Chesapeake Bay watershed; and (2) the Independent Evaluation and Technical Advisory Committee to review and report on restoration activities in the Bay ecosystem and to provide recommendations to the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Secretary of the Department of Agriculture (USDA) on such activities. Authorizes appropriations for FY2010-FY2015. Authorizes a total maximum daily load (TMDL) for nitrogen, phosphorus, or sediment for the Bay and its tributaries to include load expressions for wasteload allocations or load allocations using time frames other than daily for sectors where non-daily allocations are most appropriate to implement applicable water quality standards. Sets forth provisions governing issuing National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permits for discharges that include waste load allocations that are consistent with TMDL plans. Authorizes individuals or entities undertaking land development activities to be permitted to meet requirements for managing stormwater by on-site infiltration by paying to offset them through the establishment of equivalent stormwater management practices off-site within the Bay ecosystem. Establishes an independent Chesapeake Bay Nutrient and Sediment Trading Commission in the Office of the Chesapeake Bay Program to: (1) administer the nitrogen and phosphorus trading program for Delaware, Maryland, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia to ensure that credits are generated to attract market participants and facilitate trading mechanisms among and within such jurisdictions to meet water quality goals; (2) operate a registry for interstate water quality trading; and (3) develop a system to allow for trading to occur between point source and non-point source dischargers in Bay states. Terminates the Commission on September 30, 2015. Amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to require the Secretary to: (1) establish standards for risk assessment, conservation planning, verification, water quality, and auditing practices that states can incorporate into their Chesapeake Bay management plan under the CWA; (2) provide conservation technical assistance to educate agricultural and private forest landowners in the Bay regarding water quality requirements; (3) publish a list of eligible agricultural and forestry activities that result in environmental service benefits; and (4) establish a pilot program for the Bay watershed for the facilitation of creating environmental service markets.

CARE Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2010

Coal Accountability and Retired Employee Act of 2010 or CARE Act - Amends the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 with respect to transfers of interest earned by the Abandoned Mine Reclamation (AMR) Fund. Requires the transfer during any fiscal year to the trustees of the 1974 United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) Pension Plan, to be used solely to pay pension benefits under such plan, of certain excess funds remaining after: (1) transfer from the AMR Fund to the UMWA Combined Benefit Fund; and (2) application of the annual $490 million cap on such transfers.

To amend the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 to extend for 6 months the increase provided under that Act in the Medicaid Federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP).

United States · United States Congress · 28 May 2010

Amends the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) to extend until January 1, 2011, the temporary increase in the federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP), under title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act (SSA), for any state with a certain unemployment increase percentage during the recession adjustment period. Extends the entire recession adjustment period from December 31, 2010, through December 31, 2011. Declares that increases in the FMAP for a state shall apply to Medicaid payments attributable to expenditures for medical assistance provided to nonpregnant childless adults made eligible under a state plan who would have been eligible for child health assistance or other health benefits under eligibility standards in effect as of December 31, 2009, of a waiver of the state child health plan under SSA title XXI (Children's Health Insurance Program) (CHIP). Prohibits any additional federal payments to a state under this temporary FMAP increase for a calendar quarter occurring between January 1, 2011, and June 30, 2011, unless, within 45 days after enactment of this Act, the state's chief executive officer certifies that the state will request and use such additional federal funds.

To exclude an external power supply for certain security or life safety alarms and surveillance system components from the application of certain energy efficiency standards under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act.

United States · United States Congress · 28 May 2010

Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to exempt from the applicability of No-Load Mode energy efficiency standards an external power supply manufactured before July 1, 2017, that: (1) is an AC-to-AC external power supply; (2) has a nameplate output of 20 watts or more; (3) is certified by the Secretary of Energy (DOE) as being designed to be connected to a security or life safety alarm or surveillance system component; and (4) is permanently marked with a distinguishing mark established within the External Power Supply International Efficiency Marking Protocol for Single Voltage External AC-DC and AC-AC Power Supplies. Defines a "security or life safety alarm or surveillance system" as equipment designed and marketed to, on a continuous basis: (1) monitor, detect, record, or provide notification of intrusion or access to real property or physical assets or notification of threats to life safety; (2) deter or control access to real property or physical assets or to prevent the unauthorized removal of physical assets; or (3) monitor, detect, record, or provide notification of fire, gas, smoke, flooding, or other physical threats to real property, physical assets, or life safety. Directs the Secretary to: (1) require, with appropriate safeguard for the protection of confidential business information, the submission of unit shipment data on an annual basis; and (2) restrict the eligibility of external power supplies for the exemption provided on a finding that a substantial number of external power supplies are being marketed to or installed in applications other than security or life safety alarm or surveillance systems.

Nursing Home Patient and Medicaid Assistance Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 28 May 2010

Nursing Home Patient and Medicaid Assistance Act of 2010 - Makes appropriations to the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), who, acting through the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicare Services, shall pay an amount directly to an eligible dually-certified facility to reimburse it for furnishing quality care to Medicaid-eligible individuals. Defines "dually-certified facility" as one meeting several requirements, including participation as a nursing facility under title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act (SSA) and as a skilled nursing facility under SSA title XVIII (Medicare) during the entire year. Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to prohibit a state Medicaid plan from being considered to meet the requirement for methods and procedures relating to the utilization of care and services unless, by April 1 before the beginning of any plan year (beginning with 2011), the state submits to the Secretary a plan amendment specifying the payment rates for such services, including data on how rates for payments to Medicaid managed care organizations take such payment rates into account. Requires the Secretary to review each such plan amendment and approve or disapprove it. Requires a state participating in the Medicaid program to submit to the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services: (1) information on the determination of payment rates for service providers; and (2) an explanation of the process used to allow providers, beneficiaries and their representatives, and other concerned state residents a reasonable opportunity to review and comment on such rates, methodologies, and justifications before the state made such rates final.

Puppy Uniform Protection and Safety Act

United States · United States Congress · 27 May 2010

Puppy Uniform Protection and Safety Act - Amends the Animal Welfare Act to define a "high volume retail breeder" as a person who, in commerce, for compensation or profit: (1) has an ownership interest in or custody of one or more breeding female dogs; and (2) sells, via any means of conveyance, more than 50 of the offspring of such dogs for use as pets in any one-year period. Considers such a breeder of dogs to be a dealer. Requires dealers to include on licensing applications and annual renewals the total number of dogs exempted from exercise on the premises of the dealer in the preceding year by a licensed veterinarian. Requires the Secretary of Agriculture to promulgate requirements for the exercise of dogs at facilities owned or operated by a dealer, including requiring daily access to exercise that: (1) allows the dogs to move sufficiently in a way that is not forced, repetitive, or restrictive; and (2) is in an area that is spacious, cleaned at least once a day, free of infestation by pests or vermin, and designed to prevent the dogs from escaping. Allows an exemption if: (1) a licensed veterinarian determines that a dog should not exercise because of the health, condition, or well-being of the dog; and (2) such determination is reviewed and updated at least once every 30 days by the veterinarian, unless the basis for the determination is a permanent condition. Subjects such a determination to review and approval by the Secretary.

Textile Enforcement and Security Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2010

Textile Enforcement and Security Act of 2010 - Requires the seizure and forfeiture of an imported textile or apparel article for which a trade preference has been claimed in cases where the importer: (1) has either misdescribed or not verified the article's country of origin; or (2) provides false information as to his or her address or does not meet certain documentation or informational requirements upon entry of an article. Requires the Secretary of Homeland Security (Secretary) or the Secretary of the Treasury to use amounts from fines, penalties, and forfeitures of articles due to violations of the U.S. customs laws to pay for expenses related to the investigation and enforcement of such violations. Authorizes also the use of such amounts to pay for a reward of the lesser of at least 20% of that amount or $20,000 to any person who furnishes information that leads to an arrest, conviction, civil penalty assessment, or forfeiture of articles due to violations enforced by the Secretary. Directs the Commissioner of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to ensure specified staffing of the Textile Operations Branch of the Textile and Apparel Policy and Programs (TAPP) division of the Office of International Trade within CBP and of the Textile/Apparel Policy Branch of TAPP. Requires the Commissioner to allocate, to the 15 largest U.S. ports of entry for textile or apparel articles, a certain number of Import Specialists trained in preventing textile or apparel importer fraud. Amends the Tariff Act of 1930 to require certain documentation or information from an importer upon the entry of textile or apparel articles to include an affidavit with specified information that may be electronically filed with CBP. Prescribes additional bonding requirements for the importation of textile or apparel articles. Specifies producers, manufacturers, suppliers, sellers, importers, exporters subject to certain prohibitions against fraud, gross negligence, or negligence in the documentation of imported merchandise. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury (who is now merely authorized) to publish in the Federal Register: (1) the names of persons located outside of the U.S. customs territories against whom the CBP has issued a penalty claim for violating U.S. customs laws; and (2) a list of high risk countries involved in the transshipment of textile or apparel products. Requires the President, acting through the CBP Commissioner and in coordination with the head of the Office of Textiles and Apparel of the Department of Commerce, to establish an electronic verification system for tracking textile or apparel articles imported or exported under the Dominican Republic-Central America-United States Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR), the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), or any other free trade agreement to which the United States is a party to ensure compliance with such agreements. Requires the President to establish a nonresident importer declaration program for the import of textile or apparel articles. Directs the Attorney General to establish within the Department of Justice (DOJ) the Office of Textile and Apparel Trade Enforcement.

Patent and Trademark Office Funding Stabilization Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2010

Patent and Trademark Office Funding Stabilization Act of 2010 - Authorizes the Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office (Director) to set or adjust patent and trademark fees in order to recover costs, including administrative costs, for patent and trademark processing, activities, services, and materials. Reduces such fees for micro and small entities. Terminates the Director's authority to establish and adjust fees upon the expiration of the 10-year period beginning on the date of enactment of this Act. Makes, as of October 1, 2011, funds for the United States Patent and Trademark Office available until expended. Establishes in the Treasury the United States Patent and Trademark Office Public Enterprise Fund. Revises patent service fees. Establishes a 15% patent fee surcharge through September 30, 2011.

Commending the National Rifle Association for developing the Eddie Eagle GunSafe Program and teaching 23,000,000 children its lifesaving message.

United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2010

Commends the National Rifle Association for developing the Eddie Eagle GunSafe Program to teach firearm safety to children and supports the goals and objectives of such program. Encourages: (1) educators to incorporate gun education programs in elementary school curricula; and (2) civic and community organizations to support funding for the Eddie Eagle GunSafe Program.

Honoring the workers who perished on the Deepwater Horizon offshore oil platform in the Gulf of Mexico off the coast of Louisiana, extending condolences to their families, and recognizing the valiant efforts of emergency response workers at the disaster site.

United States · United States Congress · 11 May 2010

Recognizes the untimely and tragic loss of the 11 workers from the states of Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas who died on the Deepwater Horizon offshore oil platform in the Gulf of Mexico off the coast of Louisiana. Extends the deepest condolences of the nation to the families of these men. Recognizes all employees on the Deepwater Horizon for their hard work and sacrifice. Commends the rescue crews for their valiant efforts to rescue these workers and others on the platform. Honors the many volunteers who provided support and comfort for the families of these people during this difficult time.

PBM Audit Reform and Transparency Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 6 May 2010

PBM Audit Reform and Transparency Act of 2010 - Amends the Public Health Service Act, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), the Internal Revenue Code, and part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to prohibit a group health plan from entering into a contract with any pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) to manage the prescription drug coverage provided under the plan, or to control the costs of such coverage, unless the PBM satisfies the following requirements. Requires the PBM to report at least annually to each plan, including regarding the PBM's payments to pharmacies, payments received by the PBM from plans and drug manufacturers, and information on generic drugs. Sets forth provisions governing the interaction between a PBM and pharmacies that contract with the PBM, including: (1) requiring the PBM to disclose reimbursement information; (2) requiring prompt payment for clean claims; (3) prohibiting the exclusion of qualified pharmacies from participation in a network; and (4) requiring a pharmacy owner to sign a contract with a PBM before assuming responsibility to participate in a network managed by the PBM. Prohibits a PBM from requiring or offering incentives to a beneficiary to fill a prescription at a pharmacy that the PBM has an ownership interest in or at a pharmacy with an ownership interest in the PBM. Sets forth requirements for PBM audits of a contract pharmacy, including requirements for prior written notice and an appeals process. Establishes limitations on a PBM seeking to sell, lease, or rent utilization or claims data that a PBM possesses as a result of a contract with a health plan, including requiring a PBM to: (1) provide prior notification of, and receive written approval from, the plan; and (2) provide an opportunity for covered individuals to opt-out of a sale, leasing, or renting of data related to such individual. Prohibits a PBM from directly contacting a covered individual without express written permission of the plan and the individual. Limits data sharing with PBM-owned pharmacies or pharmacies with ownership interests in the PBM. Applies the provisions of this Act to health insurance coverage offered in the individual market.

Medicare Access to Diabetes Supplies Act

United States · United States Congress · 6 May 2010

Medicare Access to Diabetes Supplies Act - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to exempt from Medicare competitive acquisition programs blood glucose self-testing equipment and supplies furnished by small retail community pharmacies.

Appalachian Veterans Outreach Improvement Act

United States · United States Congress · 5 May 2010

Appalachian Veterans Outreach Improvement Act - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Appalachian Regional Commission to carry out a program of outreach to veterans who reside in the Appalachian region in order to increase their awareness, access, and use of federal, state, and local programs providing compensation and other benefits available as a result of service in the Armed Forces.

Reaffirming "In God We Trust" as the official motto of the United States and supporting and encouraging the public display of the national motto in all public buildings, public schools, and other government institutions.

United States · United States Congress · 5 May 2010

Recognizes that trust in God is embedded into the fabric of this country's society and history. Rejects the notion that the laws and Constitution of this country require the exclusion of God from matters of government and public life. Reaffirms "In God We Trust" as the official motto of the United States. Supports and encourages its display in all public buildings, public schools, and other government institutions.

To restore Second Amendment rights in the District of Columbia.

United States · United States Congress · 28 April 2010

Second Amendment Enforcement Act - Amends specified law prohibiting the killing of wild birds and wild animals in the District of Columbia to declare that nothing in it or any other provision of law shall authorize or be construed to permit the Council, the Mayor, or any governmental or regulatory authority of the District to prohibit, constructively prohibit, or unduly burden the ability of persons otherwise not prohibited from possessing firearms under federal law from acquiring, possessing in their homes or businesses, transporting for legitimate purposes, or using for sporting, self-protection or other lawful purposes, any firearm neither prohibited by federal law nor subject to the National Firearms Act. Denies the District any authority to enact laws or regulations that discourage or eliminate the private ownership or use of firearms. Declares that nothing in such prohibitions shall be construed to prohibit the District from regulating the carrying of firearms by a person, either concealed or openly, other than at the person's dwelling place, place of business, or on other land possessed by the person. Amends the Firearms Control Regulations Act of 1975 (FCRA) to repeal the definition of a machine gun as any firearm which shoots, is designed to shoot, or can be readily converted or restored to shoot semiautomatically, more than 12 shots without manual reloading. (Thus repeals the ban on semiautomatic weapons.) Redefines "machine gun" as any firearm which shoots, is designed to shoot, or can be readily restored to shoot automatically, more than one shot without manual reloading by a single function of the trigger. Includes also the frame or receiver of any such firearm, any part designed and intended solely and exclusively, or combination of parts designed and intended, for use in converting a firearm into a machine gun, and any combination of parts from which a machine gun can be assembled if such parts are in the possession or under the control of a person. Repeals the District's: (1) registration requirement for possession of firearms; and (2) requirement that licensed firearms dealers keep records of ammunition received into inventory and ammunition sold or transferred. Maintains the current ban on the possession and control of a sawed-off shotgun, machine gun, or short-barreled rifle. Permits a licensed firearms dealer to sell or transfer ammunition, excluding restricted pistol bullets, to persons not otherwise prohibited from possessing or receiving ammunition. Declares that, in the case of a sale or transfer of a handgun to a District resident, a federally licensed importer, manufacturer, or dealer of firearms in Maryland or Virginia shall be treated as a dealer licensed under this Act if: (1) the transferee meets in person with the transferor to accomplish the transfer; and (2) the sale, delivery, and receipt fully comply with the legal conditions of sale in both the District and the jurisdiction in which the transfer occurs. Amends FCRA to allow an individual to possess ammunition in the District if the individual owns (currently, holds the valid registration certificate for) a firearm of the same gauge or caliber as such ammunition. (In effect, repeals the handgun ammunition ban.) Repeals the requirement that firearms in the possession of individuals (other than law enforcement personnel) must be kept unloaded, disassembled, or with the trigger locked, unless the firearm is kept at an individual's place of business, or while being used for lawful recreational purposes within the District . Continues current criminal penalties for allowing access of a minor (under age 16) to loaded firearms, except in specified circumstances. Repeals increased penalties for violations of the prohibition against allowing access of a minor to loaded firearms if injury or death results to the minor or another person. Requires the U.S. attorney, however, to consider both the extent of the minor's injuries and the effect of the minor's injury or death on both of the minor's parents when deciding whether to file charges. Prohibits any prosecution in such circumstances unless the person who committed the violation behaved in a grossly negligent manner, or unless similarly egregious circumstances exist. Eliminates criminal penalties for possessing an unregistered firearm. Amends the District of Columbia Code to: (1) allow private persons or entities owning property in the District to prohibit or restrict the possession of firearms on their property (other than authorized law enforcement personnel or lessees occupying residential or business premises); (2) prohibit unauthorized carrying of rifles or shotguns in the District; (3) authorize certain individuals to carry firearms in certain places and for certain purposes; (4) prescribe requirements for lawful transportation of firearms; and (5) prohibit the use of toy and antique pistols to commit a violent or dangerous crime. Authorizes the District of Columbia to prohibit or restrict the possession of firearms (except to lessees occupying residential or business premises) within any building or structure under its control, or in any area of it, which has implemented security measures to identify and exclude unauthorized or hazardous persons or articles. Amends the Office of Administrative Hearings Establishment Act of 2001 to grant jurisdiction to the Office of Administrative Hearings to hear cases pertaining to denial or revocation of firearm dealer licenses. Repeals the Firearms Registration Amendment Act of 2008 and the Inoperable Pistol Amendment Act of 2008. Restores and revives any provision of law amended or repealed by such Acts as if such Acts had not been enacted into law.

National Criminal Justice Commission Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 27 April 2010

National Criminal Justice Commission Act of 2010 - Establishes the National Criminal Justice Commission. Directs the Commission to: (1) review all areas of the criminal justice system, including federal, state, local, and tribal governments' criminal justice costs, practices, and policies; (2) make findings regarding such review and recommendations for changes to prevent, deter, and reduce crime and violence, reduce recidivism, improve cost-effectiveness, and ensure the interests of justice at every step of the criminal justice system; (3) consult with government and nongovernment leaders, including the United States Sentencing Commission; and (4) submit a final report on its findings, conclusions, and recommendations to Congress, the President, and state, local, and tribal governments and make such report available to the public. Expresses the sense of Congress that the Commission should work toward unanimously supported findings and recommendations.

To provide that Members of Congress shall not receive a cost of living adjustment in pay during fiscal year 2011.

United States · United States Congress · 27 April 2010

Eliminates automatic cost of living adjustments for Members of Congress during FY2011.

Small Business Paperwork Mandate Elimination Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 April 2010

Small Business Paperwork Mandate Elimination Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to repeal a provision (added by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act) that extends to corporations that are not tax-exempt the requirement to report payments of $600 or more.

Girls Protection Act of 2010

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.

Expressing support for designation of the week beginning May 9, 2010, as National Nursing Home Week.

United States · United States Congress · 22 April 2010

Expresses support for the designation of a National Nursing Home Week. Recognizes that a majority of people in the United States will require long-term care services at some point. Honors nursing home patients and the people who care for them.