Rep. Dold, Robert J. [R-IL-10]

An amendment to increase funding in the United States Coast Guard Operating Expenses by $5,200,000 and reduce funding in the Automation Moderization systems account by $5,200,000.

United States · United States Congress

An amendment numbered 2 printed in House Report 112-388 to require the OMB Director to prepare all budgets submitted to the President according to both accrual-basis and cash-basis GAAP accounting standards.

United States · United States Congress

An amendment to increase EPA/EPM geographic programs by $24.7 million.

United States · United States Congress

An amendment numbered 9 printed in House Report 114-790 to allow projects funded under section 506(c) of the Water Resources Development Act of 2000 to include compatible recreation features, not to exceed 10 percent of the ecosystem restoration costs of the project.

United States · United States Congress

Amendment sought to reduce funding for FAA Operations by $200 million and restore the amount to the Capital Investment Grants account for use in mass transit rail systems.

United States · United States Congress

Amendment sought to reduce funding for FAA Operations by $290 million and increase funding for Capital and Debt Service Grants to the National Railroad Passenger Corporation by a similar amount for use in upgrading or replacing infrastructure that Amtrak owns, along with the acquisition and maintenance of Amtrak's fleet of locomotives, passenger cars, and other equipment.

United States · United States Congress

Amendment sought to remove language in the bill which allows the Secretary to increase the Federal share of costs above 80 percent for projects in rural areas so as to put all transportation projects on an even playing field and allow all qualified projects to fairly compete for TIGER grants, regardless of whether they take place in an urban area or a rural area.

United States · United States Congress

Amendment ensures that federal education dollars go toward their intended use for student benefit in the classroom by clarifying that funds received under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act shall not be diverted by the States to fill prior unfunded liability shortfalls in teacher pension programs. Amendment also prohibits the state from requiring LEAs to make a contribution to a pension program that is in excess of the "normal cost" of that teacher's participation in the pension program.

United States · United States Congress

Congratulating the Chicago Cubs on winning the 2016 Major League Baseball World Series.

United States · United States Congress · 8 December 2016

Congratulates the Chicago Cubs on their league-best regular season and 2016 Major League Baseball World Series Championship.

Protect the Flag Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 December 2016

Protect the Flag Act This bill makes an institution of higher education ineligible for federal funds if it has an official policy that prohibits or limits the display of the U.S. flag.

Climate Solutions Commission Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Climate Solutions Commission Act of 2016 This bill establishes a bipartisan National Climate Solutions Commission that must: undertake a comprehensive review of economically viable actions or policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the United States; make recommendations for reducing greenhouse gas emissions to the President, Congress, and the states; and use as its goals for emissions reductions those estimated rates of reduction that reflect the latest scientific findings of what is needed to avoid serious human health and environmental consequences of a changing climate. In order to be eligible for membership on the Commission, an individual must be a representative from: (1) nongovernmental organizations with expertise in the economy, energy, climate, or public health; or (2) industry organizations from relevant sectors. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) must conduct a study of programs, financial tools, and institutions that are focused on: (1) reducing the level of greenhouse gas emissions; or (2) encouraging the research, development, prototyping, and deployment of energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies. The GAO must then report on: (1) the study results; and (2) an assessment of those financial tools, policies, and institutions that are most successful at reducing greenhouse gas emissions while protecting economic growth and employment.

Establishing a Joint Committee on the Organization of Congress.

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Establishes an ad hoc Joint Committee on the Organization of the Congress to make a full and complete study of the organization, operations, functions, and relevant interactions of the Members of Congress and to make recommendations that serve specified objectives. Requires the committee to include in its report to both chambers at the end of a congressional session recommendations for its continuation or designation of a similar entity to continue the pursuit of improvements in the congressional process.

Medicare Enrollment Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2016

Medicare Enrollment Protection Act This bill amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to: (1) create a special Medicare enrollment period for individuals enrolled in, or transitioning out of, continuation coverage under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA); and (2) exempt such individuals from certain monthly premium increases associated with delaying Medicare coverage.

Regulatory Relief for Small Businesses, Schools, and Nonprofits Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2016

Regulatory Relief for Small Businesses, Schools, and Nonprofits Act This bill postpones from December 1, 2016, until June 1, 2017, the effective date of a final rule of the Department of Labor revising income thresholds for determining overtime pay for executive, administrative, professional, outside sales, and computer ("white collar") employees exempt from regular minimum wage and overtime pay requirements.

American Innovation $1 Coin Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2016

American Innovation $1 Coin Act This bill directs the Department of the Treasury to mint and issue American Innovation $1 coins commemorating an innovation, an individual innovator or pioneer, or a group of innovators or pioneers from each state, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territory. Four such coins shall be issued each year for 14 years until one coin for each of the states, the District of Columbia, and the territories has been issued. Such coins shall be issued in alphabetic order of the jurisdiction represented.

Campus Sexual Assault Whistleblower Protection Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 8 September 2016

Campus Sexual Assault Whistleblower Protection Act of 2016 This bill amends title IV (Student Assistance) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 to prohibit the suspension of federal student aid eligibility for a student who: (1) admits, in a sexual assault report, unlawful consumption of a controlled substance or alcohol; and (2) is convicted of a drug offense involving controlled substance possession based on conduct described in such admission. The bill also modifies eligibility requirements for an institution of higher education (IHE) to participate in federal student aid programs. Specifically, it prohibits an IHE from taking a retaliatory action (e.g., suspension or expulsion) against an enrolled student who reports a sexual assault and admits, in such report: (1) sexual activity, or (2) unlawful consumption of a controlled substance or alcohol. An IHE must annually inform enrolled students that such retaliatory action is prohibited.

United States Appreciation for Olympians and Paralympians Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 7 September 2016

United States Appreciation for Olympians and Paralympians Act This bill amends the Internal Revenue Code to exclude from gross income, for income tax purposes, the value of any medal or prize money received on account of competition in the Olympic Games or Paralympic Games.

To designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 1101 Davis Street in Evanston, Illinois, as the "Abner J. Mikva Post Office Building".

United States · United States Congress · 14 July 2016

Designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 1101 Davis Street in Evanston, Illinois, as the "Abner J. Mikva Post Office Building."

Expressing support for fostering closer economic and commercial ties between the United States and the United Kingdom following the decision of the people of the United Kingdom to withdraw from the European Union.

United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2016

Calls upon the President to begin negotiations for a trade agreement between the United States and the United Kingdom.

Condemning the terrorist attack on the Pulse Orlando nightclub, honoring the memory of the victims of the attack, offering condolences to and expressing support for their families and friends and all those affected, and applauding the dedication and bravery of law enforcement, emergency response, and counterterrorism officials in responding to the attack.

United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2016

Condemns the terrorist attack on the Pulse Orlando nightclub on June 12, 2016. Honors those who were killed and expresses hope for the recovery of those who were injured. Applauds the dedication and bravery of the law enforcement and counterterrorism officials who responded to the attack. Declares that the House of Representatives stands together with all people of the United States in the face of terror and hate. Reaffirms the commitment of the United States and its allies to defeat the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant and other terrorist groups at home and abroad and to address the threat posed by homegrown terrorism.

Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2016

Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act of 2016 This bill declares that it is U.S. policy that all diplomatic and coercive economic means should be used to compel the government of Bashir al-Assad to halt the slaughter of the Syrian people and actively work toward transition to a democratic government. This bill directs the President to impose specified entry and U.S.-based property sanctions against a foreign person that knowingly provides significant financial, material, or technological support: (1) to the government of Syria and the Central Bank of Syria, including Syria's intelligence and security services or its armed forces, including through money laundering or with respect to Syria's gas or petroleum production or civilian aircraft services; and (2) that materially contributes to Syria's ability to acquire or develop ballistic missiles, chemical, biological, or nuclear weapons, or destabilizing numbers and types of advanced conventional weapons. The Syria Human Rights Accountability Act of 2012 is amended to direct the President to impose entry and U.S.-based property sanctions against persons responsible for or complicit in: (1) directing the commission of serious human rights abuses against citizens of Syria or their family members, regardless of whether such abuses occurred in Syria; or (2) transferring to Syria certain military items or goods or technologies that may be used to commit human rights abuses. The Department of State and the Agency for International Development shall report on the monitoring and evaluation of ongoing assistance programs in Syria and to the Syrian people. The bill requires the President to: (1) submit an updated list of Syrian officials who are responsible for or complicit in the commission of serious human rights abuses against Syrian citizens, and (2) assess the potential effectiveness of a no-fly zone over Syria. The State Department shall provide assistance to entities taking criminal and evidence gathering actions for prosection of individuals who have committed crimes against humanity or war crimes in Syria since March 2011. The President may suspend sanctions against Syria under specified conditions. The bill: (1) expresses the sense of Congress with respect to a transitional government in Syria, and (2) sets forth activities and transactions that are exempt from sanctions.

To designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 6300 N. Northwest Highway in Chicago, Illinois, as the "Officer Joseph P. Cali Post Office Building".

United States · United States Congress · 7 July 2016

Designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 6300 N. Northwest Highway in Chicago, Illinois, as the "Officer Joseph P. Cali Post Office Building."

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives regarding the life and work of Elie Wiesel in promoting human rights, peace, and Holocaust remembrance.

United States · United States Congress · 7 July 2016

Honors the life, work, and legacy of Elie Wiesel. Extends the deepest sympathies of the House of Representatives to the members of Wiesel's family. Reaffirms Wiesel's efforts to preserve the memory of those who perished and prevent the recurrence of another Holocaust, to combat hate and intolerance, and to never forget and also learn from the lessons of history.

Stranded Nuclear Waste Accountability Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 6 July 2016

Stranded Nuclear Waste Accountability Act of 2016 This bill directs the Department of Energy (DOE) to establish a program to provide compensation to communities in which a nuclear waste storage facility is located. DOE must provide payments equal to $15 per kilogram of spent nuclear fuel stored at the nuclear waste facility. Each local government within the jurisdictional boundaries of a nuclear waste facility must submit an annual application to DOE for compensation. DOE may make only one payment per fiscal year to eligible local governments.

To posthumously award a Congressional Gold Medal to Lawrence Eugene "Larry" Doby in recognition of his achievements and contributions to American major league athletics, civil rights, and the Armed Forces during WWII.

United States · United States Congress · 5 July 2016

This bill directs the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President pro tempore of the Senate to arrange for the posthumous presentation of a Congressional Gold Medal to Larry Doby in recognition of his achievements and contributions to American major league athletics, civil rights, and the Armed Forces during World War II.

Providing for a joint session of Congress to receive a presentation from the Comptroller General of the United States regarding the audited financial statement of the executive branch.

United States · United States Congress · 5 July 2016

Requires both chambers of Congress to assemble annually in the Hall of the House of Representatives to receive a presentation from the Comptroller General on the Government Accountability Office's audited financial statement of the accounts and associated activities of the executive branch, together with an analysis of the financial position and condition of the federal government.

To authorize the Attorney General to deny the transfer of firearms and explosives and Federal firearms and explosives licenses and permits to known or suspected terrorists.

United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2016

This bill authorizes the Department of Justice (DOJ) to deny the transfer of a firearm or explosive, or the issuance of an explosives license or permit, to known or suspected terrorists. Specifically, the bill authorizes DOJ to deny those transfers, licenses, or permits if the citizens or permanent residents of the United States are included in the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Terrorist Screening Database's no-fly list or the selectee list. DOJ and federal, state, and local law enforcement must be notified immediately of requests to transfer a firearm or explosive to a person who is, or in the last five years was, identified on the database. The bill establishes a judicial review process for appealing a denial by DOJ.

Recognizing American Children Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 June 2016

Recognizing American Children Act This bill authorizes the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to cancel the removal of, and adjust to conditional nonimmigrant for an initial five-year period the status of, an alien who: was younger than 16 years old when he or she initially entered the United States and who has been physically present in the United States since January 1, 2010; is a person of good moral character; is not inadmissible or deportable on specified grounds under the Immigration and Nationality Act; has not participated in the persecution of any person on account of race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion; has not been convicted of certain offenses under federal or state law; is 18 years or older and has earned a high school diploma, general education development certificate, or high school equivalency diploma in the United States, has been admitted to an institution of higher education, or has a valid work authorization; and has never been under a final order of exclusion, deportation, or removal unless the alien has remained in the United States under color of law after such order's issuance or received the order before attaining the age of 18. An alien applying for relief under this bill shall: (1) register under the Military Selective Service Act if so required, (2) undergo a medical examination, (3) submit biometric and biographic data, and (4) complete security and law enforcement background checks. Conditional nonimmigrant status shall include employment and military enlistment authorization. DHS shall terminate the conditional nonimmigrant status of an alien who is at least 18 years old and who: (1) is an enlistee who fails to enlist or be accepted for enlistment or who receives a dishonorable or other than honorable military discharge; (2) becomes a public charge; (3) is a postsecondary student who fails to enroll or to remain so enrolled in an accredited U.S. institution of higher education; (4) fails to meet employment requirements; or (5) ceases to be a person of good moral character, becomes inadmissible or deportable under specified grounds, has participated in racial, religious, social, or political persecution, or has been convicted of certain federal or state offenses. DHS shall extend such conditional status for an additional five-year period if the alien: (1) has demonstrated good moral character; (2) is not inadmissible or deportable under specified grounds, has not participated in racial, religious, social, or political persecution, and has not been convicted of certain federal or state offenses; (3) has not abandoned U.S. residency; and (4) is at least 18 years old and has graduated from an accredited U.S. institution of higher education, satisfied certain employment requirements, or served in the Armed Forces on active duty status for at least three years and, if discharged, received an honorable discharge. A conditional nonimmigrant may file an application to adjust his or her status to that of an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence during a specified period. Such application must show that the alien: (1) has demonstrated good moral character; (2) is not inadmissible or deportable under specified grounds, has not participated in racial, religious, social, or political persecution, and has not been convicted of certain federal or state offenses; and (3) has not abandoned U.S. residency. An alien who adjusts to permanent resident status may apply for naturalization upon compliance with all immigration law requirements.

PROVE IT Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2016

Providing Retrospective Observations Validating Economics and Increasing Transparency Act of 2016 or the PROVE IT Act of 2016 This bill requires a federal agency that publishes a final major rule in the Federal Register to publish, biannually while the rule remains in effect, a report on the benefits and costs of such rule to regulated entities. The report shall: assess the impacts of the rule on such entities, include a determination about how the actual benefits and costs of the rule have varied from those anticipated when the rule was issued, assess the effectiveness and benefits of the rule in producing its regulatory objectives, and be reviewed by the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) when required under executive order. The agency shall: (1) within 90 days after determining that the cost of a rule to regulated entities has exceeded the cost anticipated, report to Congress on the effectiveness and necessity of, and lower-cost alternatives to, the rule; and (2) reopen the public docket to receive additional comments and consider modifications or alternatives that reduce costs and increase benefits to regulated entities. The bill defines "major rule" as any rule that OIRA finds has resulted in or is likely to result in: an annual effect on the economy of $100 million or more; a major increase in costs or prices for consumers, individual industries, government agencies, or geographic regions; or significant adverse effects on competition, employment investment, productivity, innovation, or the ability of U.S.-based enterprises to compete with foreign-based enterprises.

Recognizing the Boy Scouts of America for its long history of service on the 100th anniversary of the day it was granted a Federal charter.

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2016

Recognizes the Boy Scouts of America for over 100 years of promoting community service and leadership development. Encourages the Boy Scouts of America to continue to emphasize character building, responsible citizenship, and outdoor stewardship. Applauds the Boy Scouts of America for instilling the values of the Scout Oath and the Scout Law in young Americans. Congratulates the Boy Scouts of America on the 100th anniversary of June 15, 1916, the day it was granted a federal charter.

Family First Prevention Services Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 13 June 2016

Family First Prevention Services Act of 2016 This bill amends Part E (Foster Care and Adoption Assistance) of title IV of the Social Security Act (SSAct) regarding: (1) mental health and substance abuse prevention and treatment services and in-home parenting skill-based programs, (2) foster care maintenance payments for children with parents in a licensed residential family-based treatment facility for substance abuse, and (3) payments for evidence-based kinship navigator programs. Part B (Child and Welfare Services) of SSAct title IV is amended regarding: (1) time limits for family reunification services for children in foster care or returning home, (2) grants for the development of an electronic interstate case-processing system to expedite the interstate placement of children in foster care or guardianship or for adoption, and (3) targeted grants to increase the well-being of children affected by substance abuse. The Department of Health and Human Services shall identify reputable model standards for the licensing of foster family homes. SSAct title IV part B is amended regarding tracking and preventing child maltreatment. SSAct title IV part E is amended regarding: (1) kinship guardianship assistance and prevention services, (2) foster care maintenance payments program and limited federal financial participation, and (3) assessment and judicial documentation of the need for placement of a child in a qualified residential treatment program. SSAct title IV part B is amended regarding procedures and protocols a state has established to ensure that children in foster care placements are not inappropriately diagnosed with mental illness, other emotional or behavioral disorders, medically fragile conditions, or developmental disabilities, and as a result placed in settings that are not foster family homes. SSAct title IV part E is amended regarding children in foster care who have been placed in a child care institution or other setting that is not a foster family home. SSAct title IV part B to reauthorize through FY2021: (1) the Stephanie Tubbs Jones Child Welfare Services Program, (2) promotion of safe and stable families programs, (3) funding reservations for monthly caseworker visits and regional partnership grants, and (4) funding for state courts. SSAct title IV part E is amended to: (1) revise the John H. Chaffee Foster Care Independence Program and related programs, and (2) reauthorize the adoption and legal guardianship incentive programs through FY2021. SSAct title IV part B is amended to delay the adoption assistance phase-in. The Government Accountability Office shall study the extent to which states comply with certain SSAct requirements relating to the effects of phasing out the Aid to Families with Dependent Children program income eligibility requirements for adoption assistance payments.

Small Business Health Care Relief Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 10 June 2016

Small Business Health Care Relief Act This bill amends the Internal Revenue Code, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), and other laws to exempt qualified small employer health reimbursement arrangements (HRA) from certain requirements that apply to group health plans. A qualified small employer HRA is offered by employers that have fewer than 50 full-time employees and do not offer group health plans to any of their employees. A qualified small employer HRA must: be provided on the same terms to all eligible employees of the employer; be funded solely by the employer without salary reduction contributions; provide, after an employee provides proof of coverage, for the payment or reimbursement of medical expenses of the employee and family members; and limit annual payments and reimbursements to specified dollar amounts. HRAs that meet these requirements are not considered group health plans and are exempt from various requirements that apply to group health plans, including coverage and cost-sharing requirements. (Under current law, employers that sponsor group health plans that do not meet specified requirements are subject to an excise tax.) Coverage and payments under a qualified HRA are excluded from gross income, unless the employee does not have minimum essential coverage for the month in which the medical care was provided. Employers offering a qualified HRA must notify employees in advance regarding permitted benefits and report benefit information on W-2 forms and to health exchanges. The bill sets forth requirements for determining whether an employee covered under an HRA is also eligible for premium subsidies under PPACA.

Stand Up For Students Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2016

Stand Up For Students Act This bill amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to limit the use of ESEA funds for contributions to teacher retirement or pension systems in excess of the normal cost of benefits for an applicable plan year. Specifically, the bill prohibits a state from requiring a local educational agency to use ESEA funds to make such excess payments to a teacher retirement or pension system. However, this limitation shall not apply to a system for a given plan year if the system certifies that, with respect to the plan year, the ratio of the value of the system's assets to its accrued liability exceeds 50%.

No Veterans Crisis Line Call Should Go Unanswered Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 June 2016

No Veterans Crisis Line Call Should Go Unanswered Act This bill directs the Department of Veterans Affairs to develop: a quality assurance document for carrying out the toll-free Veterans Crisis Line (VCL), including at backup call centers; and a plan to ensure that each telephone call, text message, and other communications received by the VCL, including at backup call centers, is answered in a timely manner by a person, consistent with the guidance established by the American Association of Suicidology.

Checkpoint Optimization and Efficiency Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 26 May 2016

Checkpoint Optimization and Efficiency Act This bill expresses the sense of Congress that airport checkpoint wait times should not take priority over the security of passengers. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) of the Department of Homeland Security shall begin and complete, within 30 days after enactment of this bill, an assessment of its staffing allocation model to determine the necessary staffing positions, including use of canine explosives detection teams and technology, at all U.S. airports at which the TSA operates passenger checkpoints. The staffing allocation model shall be based on staffing levels necessary to maintain minimal passenger wait times. The Government Accountability Office shall review the assessment. The TSA shall also: require Transportation Security Officers to be assigned to passenger and baggage security screening functions; use other TSA and appropriate personnel for tasks not directly related to security screening, including restocking bins and giving instructions and support to passengers in security lines; assess headquarters personnel; and reassign appropriate personnel to assist with airport security screening activities on a permanent or temporary basis. Within 30 days after enactment of this bill the TSA shall: utilize TSA Behavior Detection Officers to verify traveler documents, particularly at designated PreCheck lanes to ensure that they are operational for use and maximum efficiency; make every practicable effort to grant additional flexibility and authority to Federal Security Directors in matters related to checkpoint and checked baggage staffing allocation and employee overtime; disseminate to air carriers, airport operators, and appropriate TSA personnel a list of checkpoint optimization best practices; expand efforts to increase the public's participation in the TSA PreCheck program; and direct the Aviation Security Advisory Committee to make recommendations within 60 days on checkpoint operations optimization. By the same 30-day deadline the TSA shall establish: a staffing advisory working group at each airport at which the TSA oversees or performs passenger security screening to coordinate a service level agreement and minimum TSA staffing numbers, and a staffing advisory committee at the national level to coordinate and share information relating to best practices concerning TSA staffing numbers being given to airports.

FASTER Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 May 2016

Funding for Aviation Screeners and Threat Elimination Restoration Act or the FASTER Act This bill repeals the requirement that a portion of aviation security service fees be credited as offsetting receipts and deposited into the general fund of the Treasury.

Condemning the Dog Meat Festival in Yulin, China, and urging China to end the dog meat trade.

United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2016

Condemns the Dog Meat Festival in Yulin, China, because it: (1) is a spectacle of extreme animal cruelty, (2) is a commercial activity not grounded in Chinese history, (3) is opposed by a majority of the Chinese people, and (4) threatens global public health. Urges: the government of China and the Yulin authorities to ban the killing and eating of dogs as part of Yulin's festival and to enforce China's food safety laws regulating the processing and sale of animal products and the 2011 Agriculture Ministry of China Regulation on the Quarantine of Dogs at the Place of Origin requiring one certificate for one dog on trans-provincial transport trucks, and the National People's Congress of China to enact an animal anticruelty law that bans the dog meat trade. Affirms the commitment of the United States to the protection of animals and to the progress of animal protection.

Stamp Out Invasive Species Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2016

Stamp Out Invasive Species Act This bill directs the U.S. Postal Service to issue and sell a Combating Invasive Species Semipostal Stamp. Proceeds from the sale of the stamp must be transferred in equal proportion to the Department of the Interior and the Department of Agriculture for combating invasive species. (Invasive species are nonnative species whose introduction poses a serious threat to natural ecosystems and causes detrimental economic damage to local communities.) The stamp must be made available to the public for two years.

Expressing the commitment of the House of Representatives to work to combat the nationwide problem of invasive species threatening native ecosystems.

United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2016

Expresses the commitment of the House of Representatives to create a comprehensive solution to the threat of invasive, nonnative species throughout the United States by controlling and eradicating established invasive species populations, and preventing the further introduction of nonnative species into native ecosystems. (An invasive species is an organism that is not native to an ecosystem and is ecologically or economically harmful in the new environment where it is not native.)

Air Traffic Controller Hiring Improvement Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 19 May 2016

Air Traffic Controller Hiring Improvement Act of 2016 This bill directs the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), in appointing air traffic controllers, to give preferential consideration to qualified individuals maintaining 52 consecutive weeks of experience involving the active separation of air traffic after receipt of an air traffic certification or facility rating within 5 years of application while serving at an FAA air traffic control facility, a civilian or military air traffic control facility of the Department of Defense, or a tower operating under contract with the FAA. The FAA shall consider additional applicants by referring an approximately equal number of employees for appointment among two applicant pools. The number referred from each group shall not differ by more than 10%. Pool one shall consist of applicants who: have successfully completed air traffic controller training and graduated from an institution participating in the Collegiate Training Initiative program and have received an appropriate recommendation or endorsement from such institution, are eligible for a veterans recruitment appointment and provide a Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty within 120 days of the announcement closing, are veterans eligible for veterans' benefits who maintain aviation experience obtained in the course of the individual's military experience, or are preference eligible veterans. Pool two shall consist of applicants who apply under a vacancy announcement recruiting from all U.S. citizens. The FAA: (1) may not use a biographical assessment when hiring, (2) must provide an individual who applied in response to a specified 2014 vacancy announcement and was disqualified as the result of a biographical assessment an opportunity to reapply under the revised hiring practices, and (3) must waive any maximum age limit for such reapplying applicants who met such requirement when they applied under such announcement. Otherwise, the maximum age limit for an original appointment as an air traffic controller under this bill shall be 35 years of age. The FAA shall consider directly notifying secondary schools and institutes of higher learning of a vacancy announcement for pool one applicants.

Reaffirming the commitment of the United States to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2016

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that: (1) the United States reaffirms its commitment to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) as the foundation of transatlantic security and defense, (2) NATO serves as a critical coalition in preserving transatlantic peace and stability, and (3) NATO's continuing development of new capabilities and technologies to combat terrorism and a changing international security environment are crucial to enhancing national security and strengthening the ability of the United States to combat security threats.

Expressing support for the expeditious consideration and finalization of a new, robust, and long-term Memorandum of Understanding on military assistance to Israel between the United States Government and the Government of Israel.

United States · United States Congress · 13 May 2016

Reaffirms: that Israel is a major U.S. strategic partner, that it is U.S. policy and law to ensure that Israel maintains its qualitative military edge and self-defense capacity, and support of an Israeli tiered missile defense program. Urges finalization of a new Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and Israel. Supports a long-term Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and Israel that increases the amount of aid from previous agreements and enhances Israel's military capabilities.

HELP for Students and Parents Act

United States · United States Congress · 11 May 2016

Higher Education Loan Payments for Students and Parents Act or the HELP for Students and Parents Act This bill amends the Internal Revenue Code to expand the tax exclusion for employer-provided educational assistance programs to exclude from the gross income of an employee: (1) employer payments of principal or interest on loans for higher education expenses incurred by an employee, and (2) any qualified dependent 529 contributions made by the employer. (Under current law, the maximum exclusion for educational assistance programs is $5,250 per year.) A "qualified dependent 529 contribution" is any amount contributed by an employer to a qualified tuition program the designated beneficiary of which is an employee's child who: (1) has not attained the age of 19 at the time of the contribution, or (2) is a student who has not attained the age of 24 at the time of the contribution. The bill also allows a business tax credit for employer-provided higher education assistance, including: (1) 50% of the student loan repayment expenditures of the taxpayer for the year, and (2) 50% of the qualified dependent 529 contributions made by the taxpayer for the year. The amount taken into account for each expenditure with respect to any employee for any taxable year may not exceed $5,250.

Promoting Life-Saving New Therapies for Neonates Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 10 May 2016

Promoting Life-Saving New Therapies for Neonates Act of 2016 This bill amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to require the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to award the sponsor of a new drug or biological product for the treatment of newborns a neonatal drug exclusivity voucher upon approval of the medication. A neonatal drug exclusivity voucher is a transferable voucher for a one-year extension of all existing patents and marketing exclusivities for a brand name medication. For a sponsor to be eligible for a voucher, the new medication must: (1) treat a condition identified in the Priority List of Critical Needs for Neonates required under this bill, and (2) have been studied in newborns. A voucher may be revoked if the new medication is not marketed in the United States within one year of approval. A voucher may not be used: (1) to extend the marketing exclusivity period for a drug for which the FDA requires an assessment of the safety and effectiveness in newborns, or (2) on the same product as a priority review voucher. A sponsor intending to use a voucher must notify the FDA at least 15 months before the expiration of the patents or exclusivity to be extended. The Government Accountability Office must study the effectiveness of this voucher program.

Social Impact Partnerships to Pay for Results Act

United States · United States Congress · 6 May 2016

Social Impact Partnerships to Pay for Results Act This bill amends title IV of the Social Security Act to require the Department of the Treasury to publish in the Federal Register a request for proposals from states or local governments for social impact partnership projects which produce one or more measurable, clearly defined outcomes that result in social benefit, such as employment for the unemployed between ages 16 and 24, high school graduation, and reduction of teen and unplanned pregnancies as well as incidences and adverse consequences of child abuse and neglect. Treasury shall decide whether to enter into an agreement for such a social impact partnership project within six months after receiving an application. The bill requires an independent evaluation to determine whether the state or local government project has met an outcome specified in the agreement in order for such governments to receive outcome payments. The bill establishes the Federal Interagency Council on Social Impact Partnerships and a Commission on Social Impact Partnerships.

To prohibit further action on the proposed rule regarding testing of Medicare part B prescription drug models.

United States · United States Congress · 29 April 2016

This bill prohibits the Department of Health and Human Services from taking any further action on a proposed rule to change how Medicare pays for certain drugs that are typically not self-administered (such as some intravenous medications and chemotherapy drugs).

Curb Opioid Misuse By Advancing Technology Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 29 April 2016

Curb Opioid Misuse By Advancing Technology Act of 2016 This bill amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to extend the marketing exclusivity period for certain brand name drugs that the Food and Drug Administration approves: (1) on the basis of new clinical abuse potential studies, and (2) with labeling that characterizes the drug's abuse-deterrent properties. This extension does not apply to the marketing exclusivity period for new chemical entities. The bill also extends the marketing exclusivity period for generics of these drugs.

Moving to Work Reform and Expansion Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 29 April 2016

Moving to Work Reform and Expansion Act of 2016 This bill amends the Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 1996 to revise the public housing/section 8 (rental voucher) Moving to Work demonstration program. The bill makes the program permanent and replaces its current purposes with the purpose to develop measures to promote employment and economic independence for: families with children whose head of household is working, seeking work, or preparing for work; able-bodied individuals; and persons with disabilities who are able to work on a limited basis. Any number of public housing agencies (PHAs) may participate in the program. The plan in a PHA's application to participate shall include criteria for: a speedy process to determine a tenant's temporary hardship exemption from program requirements; and an informal administrative hearing or grievance process, made public on tenant request, before eviction or termination of assistance. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) shall establish standards for a 10-year participation by all PHAs that have not been designated as troubled during the most recent two fiscal years. These PHAs must include in their applications lists of innovative proposals designed to reduce the cost and increase the cost-efficiency of housing, and of innovative ways to assist families and accomplish annual goals. HUD shall review and process applications to enable the transition to the program of at least 25 PHAs per year, with reserved spots for small and rural PHAs. Each PHA shall: submit annually to HUD budget plans meeting specified requirements, and hold as many meetings as necessary to give all assisted families a good-faith opportunity to hear and comment on the budget plan and related PHA reports. HUD shall review annually the activities of each participating PHA and determine its impact, effectiveness, and progress toward meeting program goals. HUD shall not terminate the program participation of any PHA except upon certain findings concerning performance, including persistent failure to meet the goals identified in its application or failure to cure a material deficiency in performance. The Government Accountability Office shall review the program every eight years.

To ensure that air transportation between the United States and the European Union complies with the intent of article 17 bis of the United States-European Union-Norway-Iceland Air Transport Agreement of June 21, 2011.

United States · United States Congress · 28 April 2016

This bill bars the Department of Transportation (DOT) from issuing a foreign air carrier permit, or an exemption from certain economic regulations, to furnish foreign air transportation under the United States-European Union-Norway-Iceland Air Transport Agreement of June 21, 2011, unless DOT: finds that issuing the permit or exemption would be consistent with the intent of the parties, set forth in article 17 bis of the agreement, that opportunities created by the agreement do not undermine labor standards or the labor-related rights and principles contained in the parties' respective laws; and imposes conditions on the permit or exemption necessary to ensure that the foreign air transportation furnished complies with the intent of article 17 bis .

EUREKA Act

United States · United States Congress · 27 April 2016

Ensuring Useful Research Expenditures is Key for Alzheimer's Act or the EUREKA Act This bill amends the Public Health Service Act to require the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to establish EUREKA prize competitions to achieve high-priority breakthroughs in Alzheimer's disease and dementia prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and care. The NIH must: (1) convene an advisory council of nongovernmental experts in Alzheimer's disease and dementia to develop the EUREKA prize competitions, and (2) appoint a panel of judges to evaluate submissions. The council and panel are not subject to the Federal Advisory Committee Act. Support for EUREKA prize competitions may be provided by private organizations and individuals.