United States · United States Congress · 22 September 1994
Amends the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990 to extend from three years to five years the period during which Medicare select policies may be issued.
United States · United States Congress · 13 September 1994
Missing Service Personnel Act of 1994 - Requires the military commander of the unit, facility, or area to which the following persons are assigned to conduct an investigation as to their whereabouts after receiving factual information that their status is uncertain: (1) military personnel who disappear during a period of war, national emergency, or hostilities; and (2) any civilian Federal employee (including an employee of a Federal contractor) who serves with or accompanies an armed force in the field during such a period. Requires such persons to be placed in a missing status and requires notification of such status to either the officer having general court-martial authority over the person (for military personnel) or the Secretary of the military department employing such person (for civilian and contractor employees). Requires such officials to be kept informed (specifies deadlines) as to all information and inquiries concerning efforts to locate such missing personnel. Requires such officials to appoint a board to conduct an inquiry into the whereabouts and status of such persons. Provides for: (1) board composition, activities, and access to information; (2) inquiry proceedings (requiring the appointment of counsel, with specified duties, to represent the missing person); (3) a board recommendation as to the official status of a person following such an inquiry; (4) board reports to the officials involved as to board conclusions (prohibiting public availability of such reports for a one-year period); (5) report review by the official; (6) a report from such official to interested persons; and (7) an additional investigation and inquiry by an additional board upon receipt of new information within one year after the date of the first official notice of a person's disappearance. Allows interested persons (family members, dependents, next of kin) to participate at the proceedings of the board during such additional inquiry. Provides for the availability of appropriate information to board personnel conducting investigations and inquiries. Provides similar procedures for the second board with respect to meetings (open to the public, with exceptions), recommendations, reports, review by the Secretary of the military department concerned, and reports to interested persons. Requires a board to be reconvened when information becomes available that would directly lead to a determination of a person's status. Requires the Secretary concerned to appoint a board to conduct an inquiry as to the status of a missing person: (1) on or about three years after the first official notice of the disappearance of such person; and (2) not later than every three years thereafter until a total of 12 years after the first official notice. Provides for: (1) the release to a board by the Secretary concerned of all personnel file information concerning missing persons; (2) the treatment of classified information; (3) penalties for the wrongful withholding of information; (4) limited circumstances under which a board may recommend that a missing person be declared officially dead; (5) the submission by the board of appropriate information if such recommendation occurs; and (6) judicial review for interested persons of a board decision to declare a person officially dead. Provides for the appointment of a board to review the status of a person previously declared dead, with board procedures similar to those described above. Requires a person previously declared dead or in a missing status who is subsequently found alive to be paid for the full time of their absence.
United States · United States Congress · 21 August 1994
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Grants for Correctional Facilities Title II: State and Local Law Enforcement Grants Title III: Protection Against Sexually Violent Predators Title IV: Eliminating Excessive and Redundant Appeals Title V: Reform of 'Exclusionary Rule' Title VI: Truth-In-Sentencing Title VII: Prison Work Required; Luxuries Abolished Title VIII: Improving Border Controls Title IX: Enhanced Gun Penalties Title X: Violent Crime Reduction Trust Fund Title XI: Mandatory Life Imprisonment for Persons Convicted of Certain Felonies Back-To-Basics Crime Control Act of 1994 - Title I: Grants for Correctional Facilities - Directs the Attorney General to make grants to States to construct, expand, and improve prisons and jails. Authorizes specified sums to each State without conditions imposed by the Federal Government, except requirements to comply with this title and to use such funds exclusively for the construction of prisons and jails. Authorizes appropriations. Sets forth formulas for the distribution of funds in FY 1995 and in FY 1996 through 1999 based on violent crimes reported by the States to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). (Sec. 102) Specifies that 25 percent of total funds appropriated under this title shall be allocated to each eligible State according to a formula which takes into account the percentage change in the time to be served by persons convicted of violent crimes. Directs that States which have achieved a truth in sentencing standard of violent criminals serving 85 percent of prison time assessed receive the incentive funds, subject to specified requirements. Title II: State and Local Law Enforcement Grants - Requires the Attorney General to make grants to States to increase the number of law enforcement officers in service. Authorizes specified funds, without conditions imposed by the Federal Government (except that the funds be used exclusively to increase the number of law enforcement officers in service). Requires States to allocate 80 percent of their grants to local government for use by local law enforcement, as nearly as possible in proportion to the populations served by such local law enforcement agencies (LEAs). Title III: Protection Against Sexually Violent Predators - Directs the Attorney General to: (1) establish guidelines for State programs to require a sexually violent predator to register a current address with a designated State LEA upon being released from prison or being placed on parole or supervised release; and (2) approve each State program that complies with the guidelines. Makes States that do not implement and maintain such programs ineligible to receive ten percent of the funds that would otherwise be allocated to the State in drug control and system improvement grants under the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968. Requires: (1) the determination that a person is, or is no longer, a sexually violent predator to be made by the sentencing court after receiving a report by a board of experts on sexual offenses; and (2) each State to establish a board composed of experts in the field of the behavior and treatment of sexual offenders. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) notification regarding the duty of an offender to register and to provide any new address to a designated State LEA and of a State prison official to obtain specified information; (2) the transfer of information to the State LEA and to the FBI; (3) quarterly verification of the released offender's address; (4) penalties for failing to register and keep the registration current; (5) termination of the obligation to register; (6) community notification concerning a predator required to register; and (7) immunity for good faith conduct by LEAs, their employees, and State officials. Title IV: Eliminating Excessive and Redundant Appeals - Amends the Federal judicial code to establish a one-year statute of limitations for habeas corpus actions brought by State prisoners. Vests authority to issue certificates for probable cause for appeal of habeas corpus orders exclusively in the courts of appeals. Permits denial on the merits of habeas corpus writs notwithstanding the failure to exhaust State remedies. Establishes a two-year statute of limitations for Federal prisoners filing for collateral relief. (Sec. 406) Sets forth special habeas corpus procedures in capital cases brought by prisoners in State custody who are subject to a capital sentence. Makes such procedures contingent upon: (1) a State establishing by rule of its court of last resort or by statute a mechanism for the appointment, compensation, and payment of reasonable litigation expenses of competent counsel in State post convictions and sentences have been upheld on direct appeal to such court or have otherwise become final; and (2) such rule or statute providing standards of competency for the appointment of counsel. Provides for a mandatory stay of execution during the post-conviction review initiated pursuant to this title. Details conditions which will cause such stay to expire. Prohibits a Federal court from entering a stay of execution or granting relief in a capital case unless specified conditions are met. Sets forth lime limits for determining petitions. Authorizes the State or Government to enforce such time limits by applying to the court of appeals or the Supreme Court for a writ of mandamus. Title V: Reform of 'Exclusionary Rule' - Amends the Federal criminal code to prohibit the exclusion of evidence obtained as a result of a search or seizure, in a proceeding in a court of the United States, on the grounds that the search or seizure was in violation of the Fourth Amendment of the Constitution if it was carried out in circumstances justifying an objectively reasonable belief that it was in conformity with such amendment. Makes the fact that evidence was obtained pursuant to and within the scope of a warrant prima facie evidence of the existence of such circumstances. Prohibits the exclusion of evidence, in a proceeding in a U.S. court, on the ground that it was obtained in violation of a statute, administrative rule or regulation, or rule of procedure unless exclusion is expressly authorized by statute or by a rule prescribed by the Supreme Court pursuant to statutory authority. Title VI: Truth in Sentencing - Amends the Federal criminal code to permit the Bureau of Prisons to add, in its discretion, additional time to a prisoner's sentence of up to 15 percent of the prisoner's term for unsatisfactory behavior. Prohibits a sentence from being reduced for satisfactory behavior to a term less than the original sentence nominally imposed. Title VII: Prison Work Required; Luxuries Abolished - Directs the Attorney General to implement and enforce regulations which: (1) mandate prison work for all able-bodied inmates in Federal penal and correctional institutions; and (2) prohibit the Government provision in inmates' cells of television, radio, telephone, stereo, or similar amenities. (Sec. 702) Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to prohibit awards of Pell grants to prisoners in Federal or State penal institutions. Title VIII: Improving Border Controls - Authorizes appropriations. Authorizes and directs the Attorney General to use such funds to permit the commander of the Border Patrol to increase by at least 6,000 the number of border patrol agent positions above the number of such positions as July 1, 1994. (Sec. 802) Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to provide for expedited deportation and exclusion of criminal aliens. Prohibits reentry of an alien into the United States during the minimum period of confinement to which the alien was sentenced. Authorizes the Attorney General to prescribe special regulations for the registration and fingerprinting of aliens on criminal probation or parole. Expands the definitions of "aggravated felony." (Sec. 805) Sets forth deportation procedures for certain criminal aliens who are not permanent residents. Grants a U.S. district court jurisdiction to enter a judicial order of deportation at the time of sentencing against an alien whose criminal conviction causes such alien to be deportable under provisions relating to conviction of an aggravated felony if requested prior to sentencing by the U.S. Attorney. (Sec. 807) Restricts defenses to deportation for certain criminal aliens. Enhances penalties for failing to depart or reentering after a final order of deportation. (Sec. 810) Authorizes appropriations for a criminal alien information system. Title IX: Enhanced Gun Penalties - Amends the Federal criminal code to enhance penalties imposed upon persons convicted of using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to the commission of a felony. (Sec. 902) Sets a mandatory minimum sentence for unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, fugitive from justice, addict or unlawful user of a controlled substance, or transferor or receiver of a stolen firearm. (Sec. 903) Increases the general penalty for violation of Federal firearms laws. Title X: Violent Crime Reduction Trust Fund - Establishes a Violent Crime Reduction Trust Fund as a separate account in the Treasury into which shall be transferred savings realized from implementation of provisions of the Federal Workforce Restructuring Act of 1994. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) transfers into, and appropriations from, the Fund; (2) annual reporting requirements on the status of the Fund; and (3) allocation of sums in the Fund. Extends authorizations of appropriations for fiscal years for which the full amount authorized is not appropriated. Title XI: Mandatory Life Imprisonment for Persons Convicted of Certain Felonies - Amends the Federal criminal code to provide for mandatory life imprisonment for persons convicted in Federal court of a serious violent felony if: (1) the person has been convicted (and the conviction has become final) on separate prior occasions in a Federal or State court of two or more serious violent felonies, or one or more serious violent felonies and one or more serious drug offenses; and (2) each serious violent felony or serious drug offense used as a basis for sentencing under this title, other than the first, was committed after the defendant's conviction of the preceding serious violent felony or serious drug offense. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) persons subject to the criminal jurisdiction of an Indian tribal government; and (2) resentencing upon the overturning of a prior conviction. (Sec. 1102) Prohibits the court from reducing the sentence of a defendant unless specified conditions are met, including that defendant is at least age 70, has served at least 30 years in prison for the offense or offenses for which the defendant is currently imprisoned, and a determination has been made by the Director of the Bureau of Prisons that the defendant is not a danger to the safety of any other person or the community.
United States · United States Congress · 18 August 1994
Designates the Federal building and United States courthouse located at 100 Northeast Monroe Street in Peoria, Illinois, as the Robert H. Michel Federal Building and United States Courthouse.
United States · United States Congress · 17 August 1994
Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) trade agreements which promote free trade by reducing trade barriers are free in that they do not exact a cost on U.S. taxpayers by reducing net Federal revenues; and (2) budget rules which inaccurately calculate the revenue impact of trade agreements by ignoring the U.S. growth caused by tariff changes in other countries should not be applied to the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade implementing legislation in a way that requires increased taxes or program reductions to "offset" expected tariff revenue reductions.
United States · United States Congress · 12 August 1994
Condemns anti-Christian bigotry and all other forms of religious intolerance. Condemns individuals and organizations that foster intolerance, suspicion, hatred, or fear of individuals who: (1) hold values rooted in religious tenets; (2) participate in the political process to ensure that the laws of the Nation reflect such values; and (3) advocate public policies that are respectful of such values. Declares it to be the policy of the House of Representatives to seek to ensure that the rights of individuals to participate in the political process of the Nation are not infringed on the basis of their religious belief or affiliations.
United States · United States Congress · 12 August 1994
Urges the Secretary of State to: (1) apply consistent criteria in determining whether to restrict the use of U.S. passports in any country; and (2) in deciding whether to extend the ban on the use of such passports in Lebanon, give paramount consideration to the need to ensure the safety of U.S. citizens and full consideration to the improved security situation in Lebanon, the effect of the ban on opportunities for American businesses, to the impact of the ban on American interests in Lebanon and the Middle East, and to whether U.S. interests would be more effectively served by removing the ban and instituting a travel advisory for Lebanon.
United States · United States Congress · 5 August 1994
Condemns, and conveys condolences to the families of the victims of, the bombings: (1) of the Jewish cultural center in Buenos Aires, Argentina; (2) targeted against the Israeli embassy and a building housing a Jewish charity in London, England; and (3) of a commuter aircraft in Panama. Reaffirms support for the Middle East peace process. Condemns the effort to undermine such process through terrorist acts. Urges all countries and peoples to work actively to bring peace to the region. Urges the President to: (1) unilaterally take action to strengthen sanctions against countries which support international terrorism and to strengthen U.S. efforts against radical Islamic groups which engage in terrorist acts; (2) work to place the issue of international terrorism on the agenda for the next summit meeting of the leaders of the G-7 group of nations; and (3) convene a conference on international terrorism and intensify and coordinate an effective international response and sanctions against countries which support international terrorism. Requests the President to work to bring the issue of international terrorism before the Organization of American States as a priority issue and to provide technical support and assistance to the countries of the Americas to improve their intelligence and investigative capacity to counter threats and acts of international terrorism.
United States · United States Congress · 29 July 1994
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Consolidation of Federal Employment Assistance Programs Subtitle A: Block Grants to States Subtitle B: Consolidation and Repeal of Certain Federal Employment Assistance Programs Title II: Notice of Availability of Earned Income Credit Title III: Repeal of Temporary Futa Surtax Employment Enhancement Reform Act - Title I: Consolidation of Federal Employment Assistance Programs - Subtitle A: Block Grants to States - Establishes a block grant program to prepare individuals for employment by increasing their occupational and educational skills. Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to make such grants, for up to five-year periods subject to annual approval and availability of appropriations, to States to provide employment assistance to eligible individuals. Reserves funds for grants to Indian tribes and migrant and seasonal farm worker organizations. (Sec. 103) Allocates such grants to States on the basis of relative numbers of: (1) unemployed in areas of substantial unemployment; (2) excess unemployed; and (3) economically disadvantaged adults. (Sec. 104) Sets forth requirements for applications, use of grants, and conduct of State programs. Requires State programs to provide employment assistance to the following types of eligible individuals: (1) economically disadvantaged and 14 years or older; (2) certain types of dislocated workers; (3) individuals with disabilities; (4) Armed Forces members being separated under other than adverse conditions; (5) unemployed veterans; and (6) displaced homemakers. Requires States to: (1) profile and evaluate individuals to determine the employment assistance services to be provided; (2) notify individuals of other sources of supportive services; (3) provide appropriate employment assistance, within specified limits; (4) monitor rates of individuals successfully obtaining employment after separation from the program, according to specified criteria; and (5) establish one-stop-shop centers throughout the State for program information and profiling and evaluation. Authorizes certain discretionary activities under State programs. (Sec. 107) Directs the Secretary to make biennial determinations of State success in placing individuals in employment. Authorizes reduction or termination of payments when a State has not been successful, and reinstatement or increase of payments when a State implements appropriate modifications of its program. (Sec. 110) Authorizes appropriations. Subtitle B: Consolidation and Repeal of Certain Federal Employment Assistance Programs - Chapter 1: Consolidation of Programs - Amends the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act to eliminate community mental health services demonstration projects for homeless individuals who are chronically mentally ill. (Sec. 112) Amends the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 to add requirements for State collaborative programs of supported employment services for individuals with the most severe disabilities, special recreation activities and services, and projects with industry. Repeals other provisions for special project grants for supported employment programs, special recreational programs, projects with industry, and supported employment services for individuals with severe disabilities. Chapter 2: Repeal of Programs - Repeals Higher Education Act of 1965 provisions for special programs for students whose families are engaged in migrant and seasonal farmwork. (Sec. 122) Repeals: (1) the disabled veterans outreach program and the local veterans employment representative program under Federal law relating to veterans; and (2) the homeless veterans reintegration project under the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act. (Sec. 123) Repeals: (1) the Foster Grandparent and Senior Companion programs under the Domestic Volunteer Service Act; (2) employment and training program provisions under the Food Stamp Act of 1977 (but allowing college students who are parents responsible for care of a dependent child under age 6 to be eligible for the food stamp program); and (3) the older American community service employment program under the Older Americans Act of 1965. (Sec. 124) Repeals the Job Training Partnership Act, except those provisions relating to the Job Corps. Authorizes appropriations for the Job Corps. (Sec. 125) Repeals the Appalachian vocational and other educational facilities and operations program under the Appalachian Regional Development Act of 1965. (Sec. 126) Repeals certain provisions relating to rules for computing the targeted job credit under the Internal Revenue Code. (Sec. 127) Repeals the JOBS (job opportunities and basic skills training) program provisions for recipients of AFDC (aid to families with dependent children) under the Social Security Act. (Sec. 128) Repeals: (1) the Service Members Occupational Conversion and Training Act of 1992; (2) the Adult Education Act; (3) the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Applied Technology Education Act; (4) the National Literacy Act of 1991; and (5) and the Indian Employment, Training and Related Services Demonstration Act of 1992. (Sec. 133) Repeals special programs relating to adult education for Indians, under the Indian Education Act of 1988. (Sec. 134) Repeals special Social Security Act provisions relating to Indian tribes and JOBS training programs. (Sec. 135) Repeals provisions for for the VISTA Literacy Corps under the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973. (Sec. 136) Repeals: (1) the Wagner-Peyser Act (employment agencies); (2) the adult education for the homeless grants program and the job training for the homeless demonstration grants program under the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act; (3) the trade adjustment assistance for workers program under the Trade Act of 1974; (4) FY 1993 and 1994 authorizations of appropriations for certain grants, as well as certain technical assistance conditions, under the Homeownership and Opportunity through HOPE Act; and (5) the State legalization impact-assistance grants program under the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. Subtitle C: Effective Dates - Sets forth effective dates. Title II: Notice of Availability of Earned Income Credit - Amends the Social Security Act and the Food Stamp Act of 1977 to require that notice of availability of the earned income tax credit be provided to applicants for and former recipients of AFDC, Medicaid, or food stamps. (Sec. 202) Amends the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990 to require printing of a notice of the availability of the earned income tax credit and the dependent care tax credit on W-4 forms for employee withholding exemptions. Title III: Repeal of Temporary FUTA Surtax - Repeals the temporary FUTA (Federal Unemployment Tax Act) surtax under the Internal Revenue Code.
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 1994
Establishes the National Commission on Fairness in Military Compensation to: (1) determine the extent to which military personnel or their dependents rely on food stamps, the special supplemental food program under the Child Nutrition Act of 1966, and other Federal or local assistance programs as a necessary supplement to their regular military compensation, and the circumstances that lead to such dependence; and (2) submit to the President and the Congress a report on its findings and its recommendations on possible changes in the military pay structure so that military personnel will receive adequate compensation and no longer rely on such other forms of assistance. Limits to $750,000 the total authorized expenses of the Commission. Requires the Comptroller General to audit Commission books and records in order to ensure compliance with such expense limit. Terminates the Commission 30 days after submission of its report.
United States · United States Congress · 21 July 1994
Prostate Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Act of 1994 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide for coverage of specified prostate cancer screening services and certain drug treatments for such cancer. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish fee schedules for such services. Amends Federal law to cover such screening and treatment services for veterans as a preventive health service. Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize appropriations for certain public health programs related to prostate cancer research and education. Directs the Administrator of the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research to: (1) conduct and support prostate cancer health services and screening and treatment procedures; and (2) provide for the development, periodic review, and updating of clinically relevant guidelines, standards of quality, performance measures, and medical review criteria.
United States · United States Congress · 19 July 1994
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: General Provisions Title II: Federal Reform of Health Care Malpractice Title III: Requirements for ADR Medical Malpractice Fairness Act of 1994 - Title I: General Provisions - Sets forth provisions regarding definitions and the period of applicability of this Act. Title II: Federal Reform of Health Care Malpractice - Prohibits a health care malpractice action from being brought in any: (1) State court unless the claim that is the subject of the action has been initially resolved under an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) system certified by the Secretary of Health and Human Services (or, in the case of a State in which such a system is not in effect, under the alternative Federal system established under this Act); and (2) Federal court based on diversity of citizenship unless the claim has been initially resolved under the system that applied in the State whose law applies. Directs the Attorney General to establish an ADR process for the resolution of tort claims consisting of such claims brought against the United States. Prohibits an action based on such a claim from being brought in any Federal court unless the claim has been initially resolved under such process. Sets forth procedures for filing actions. Makes each defendant in such an action severally but not jointly liable. Directs that each defendant's fault be determined on the basis of the defendant's percentage of responsibility. Limits to $250,000 the total of noneconomic damages that may be awarded to a claimant and the claimant's family for losses resulting from the injury, regardless of the number of parties or actions brought with respect to the injury. Prohibits the award of punitive damages except in cases of gross or criminal negligence. Limits such awards against the manufacturer or seller of a medical product causing injury. Directs that any punitive damages awarded be: (1) paid to the State in which the action is brought or, in a case brought in Federal court, the State in which the health care services that caused the injury were provided; and (2) used for activities to assure the safety and quality of health care services. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) reductions for contributions from collateral sources; (2) periodic payment of damages for future expenses; (3) a uniform statute of limitations; (4) attorney's fees and costs; (5) expert witness qualifications; (6) preemption; and (7) sovereign immunity and choice of law or venue. Title III: Requirements for ADR - Sets requirements for State ADR systems. Provides for the certification of State systems and the applicability of the alternative Federal system, as well as the treatment of States with an alternative system already in effect.
United States · United States Congress · 19 July 1994
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the United States should refrain from signing the seabed mining agreement relating to the Law of the Sea Treaty.
United States · United States Congress · 19 July 1994
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the United States should not undertake any military action against Haiti unless the President first certifies to the Congress that there exists a clear and present danger to the citizens of the United States and that U.S. interests require such action.
United States · United States Congress · 14 July 1994
Recognizes July 10, 1994, as Cost of Government Day. Encourages all Federal, State, and local elected officials to carefully consider Government spending costs and regulatory schemes in the year to come.
United States · United States Congress · 30 June 1994
Establishes a congressional commission to assess the humanitarian, political, and diplomatic conditions in Haiti and to report to the Congress on policy options with respect to Haiti.
United States · United States Congress · 17 June 1994
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that: (1) June 21, 1994, is designated as Freedom Summer Remembrance Day; and (2) it reaffirms the goal of removing remaining barriers to full voter participation in this Nation.
United States · United States Congress · 9 June 1994
Social Security Account Number Anti-Fraud Act - Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) (OASDI) of the Social Security Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to: (1) establish, according to prescribed guidelines, an electronic program for American employers to verify the social security account and other relevant employment information to reduce the use of fraudulent social security documents for employment purposes; (2) implement the Social Security Account Number Anti-Fraud Program according to a prescribed schedule; and (3) report to the Congress on the Program's initial implementation.
United States · United States Congress · 8 June 1994
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Tax and Insurance Provisions Subtitle A: Tax Treatment of Health Care Expenses Subtitle B: Insurance Provisions Subtitle C: Employer Provisions Subtitle D: Federal Preemption Subtitle E: Report Title II: Medicare and Medicaid Reforms Subtitle A: Medicare Subtitle B: Medicaid Title III: Health Care Liability Reform Title IV: Administrative Cost Savings Subtitle A: Standardization of Claims Processing Subtitle B: Electronic Medical Data Standards Subtitle C: Development and Distribution of Comparative Value Information Subtitle D: Preemption of State Quill Pen Laws Title V: Anti-Fraud Subtitle A: Criminal Prosecution of Health Care Fraud Subtitle B: Coordination of Health Care Anti-Fraud and Abuse Activities Title VI: Antitrust Provisions Title VII: Long-Term Care Title VIII: Welfare Restrictions for Aliens Title IX: Increase in Assistance to Community and Migrant Health Centers from Residual Savings Consumer Choice Health Security Act of 1994 - Title I: Tax and Insurance Provisions - Subtitle A: Tax Treatment of Health Care Expenses - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a tax credit for health care expenses based upon percentages of qualified health insurance premiums and adjusted gross income. Provides for employers to make advance payments of such credit. (Sec. 102) Allows individuals a tax credit for a percentage of contributions made to a medical care savings account established for the benefit of an eligible individual. Exempts such accounts from taxation. Establishes an excise tax for excess contributions to medical care savings accounts and makes such accounts subject to the tax on prohibited transactions. (Sec. 103) Terminates the medical expense deduction, the deduction for health insurance costs of self-employed individuals, and the exclusion for employer-provided health insurance. Subtitle B: Insurance Provisions - Part I: Federally Qualified Health Insurance Plans - Sets forth requirements for federally qualified health insurance plans, including coverage for acute medical care, cost-sharing, premium rating practices, and guaranteed issuance and renewability. Part II: Certification of Federally Qualified Health Insurance Plans - Requires States to meet standards for regulatory programs for the certification of federally qualified health insurance plans. Subtitle C: Employer Provisions - Requires employers to: (1) withhold health insurance premiums from employee wages and remit such premiums to the employee's chosen insurer; and (2) notify each employee of their right to claim an advance refundable tax credit for such premiums. (Sec. 122) Provides for the conversion of existing insurance plans to required coverage under this Act. (Sec. 125) Establishes the Benefits Cash Out Commission to propose a procedure under which individuals may cash out Federal health benefits. Provides for congressional consideration of such proposal prior to its implementation. (Sec. 126) Imposes excise taxes on employers and health insurance carriers for noncompliance with this Act. Subtitle D: Federal Preemption - Preempts specified State laws concerning health insurance. Subtitle E: Report - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to report to the Congress five years after the enactment of this Act on certain aspects of health insurance coverage. Title II: Medicare and Medicaid Reforms - Subtitle A: Medicare - Directs the Secretary to study and report to the Congress on the feasibility of permitting future Medicare beneficiaries to elect, upon attaining Medicare eligibility, to retain private health insurance coverage and receive, in lieu of Medicare benefits, certificates for use in purchasing private health insurance coverage. (Sec. 202) Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to eliminate Medicare hospital disproportionate share adjustment payments. (Sec. 203) Revises the formula to reduce the adjustment for indirect medical education. (Sec. 204) Declares that the amount payable for post-hospital extended care services furnished an individual during any spell of illness shall be reduced by a copayment equal to 20 percent of the average of all per day costs for such services. (Sec. 205) Changes payment updates for all payment rates under the hospital insurance program from a fiscal year to a calendar year basis. (Sec. 206) Revises the existing schedule to accelerate the transition to prospective rates for facility costs in hospital outpatient departments. Subtitle B: Medicaid - Amends SSA title XIX (Medicaid) to specify a cap on Federal payments for acute medical services furnished under the Medicaid program. (Sec. 212) Directs the Secretary to establish a process under which a State with an approved plan may apply for waivers of SSA requirements in order to establish innovative and cost effective programs for furnishing acute medical services to eligible Medicaid recipients. (Sec. 213) Terminates disproportionate share payments. (Sec. 214) Directs the Secretary to make grants to States for programs under which individuals with incomes below 150 percent of the income official poverty line are provided health insurance coverage, acute medical services, preventive care, and disease prevention services. Title III: Health Care Liability Reform - Health Care Liability Reform Act of 1994 - Applies this subtitle to any health care malpractice action filed in any Federal or State court and any such claim resolved through arbitration. (Sec. 303) Limits to $100,000 what any person may be required to pay in a single payment in damages for expenses to be incurred in the future, but allows for periodic payments. States that the total amount of damages received by an individual shall be reduced by any other compensatory payments received under certain Federal, State, or private programs. Sets a statute of limitations for medical malpractice liability claims of two years after an alleged injury should reasonably have been discovered, but in no event more than four years after the alleged injury occurred (or in the case of a minor under age six, no later than the tenth birthday). Sets forth limitations on attorney's fees. (Sec. 304) Prohibits the application of strict liability to any manufacturer or seller of a health care product approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for any injury alleged to have resulted from: (1) a defect in product design; or (2) a failure to warn or instruct regarding a risk posed by the product that was neither known nor reasonably knowable at the time the product left the manufacturer's or seller's control. States that a manufacturer or seller of a health care product that is to be prescribed by, or used at the direction of, a health care professional shall not be liable (except in specified circumstances) for harm allegedly caused by a failure to warn or instruct the ultimate product user or recipient (unless the FDA specifically requires a warning or instruction to the ultimate user or recipient), if the manufacturer or seller provided adequate warning or instruction to the user's or recipient's health care professional. (Sec. 305) Limits to $250,000 the total amount of noneconomic damages awardable to a plaintiff and family for losses resulting from the injury which is the subject of a medical malpractice liability action. Declares that the liability of each defendant in such an action shall be several only and not joint, and limited to the defendant's percentage of responsibility. Allows punitive damages only if clear and convincing evidence establishes that the claimant suffered harm as the result of conduct by the defendant exhibiting conscious, flagrant indifference to the health of persons who might be harmed by the product. Prohibits the award of punitive damages against a manufacturer or seller (except in specified circumstances) for harm caused by an FDA-approved health care product. Title IV: Administrative Cost Savings - Subtitle A: Standardization of Claims Processing - Directs the HHS Secretary to adopt (taking into account the recommendations of specified taskforces) standards relating to: (1) data elements for use in paper and electronic claims processing; (2) uniform claims forms; and (3) uniform electronic transmission of the data elements. Sets forth requirements for application of such standards, and their periodic review and revision. Subtitle B: Electronic Medical Data Standards - Directs the HHS Secretary to promulgate electronic medical data standards meeting specified criteria for hospitals and other providers. Sets a deadline for each hospital with a Medicare participation agreement to meet such standards. (Sec. 413) Authorizes the heads of appropriate Federal agencies, as of January 1, 2000, to require health care providers to present and transmit data elements electronically according to such standards. (Sec. 415) Directs the HHS Secretary to establish an advisory commission to monitor and advise about the standards established under this subtitle and operational concerns about their implementation. Authorizes appropriations. Subtitle C: Development and Distribution of Comparative Value Information - Requires States to develop and implement a health care value information program meeting certain criteria according to a specified schedule. Authorizes the HHS Secretary to make grants to States to enable them to develop such programs. (Sec. 422) Directs the HHS Secretary to take necessary action to implement a comparable information program in any State that fails to develop and implement one. (Sec. 423) Requires the head of each Federal agency responsible for provision of health insurance or of health care services to individuals to develop promptly health care comparative value information. Subtitle D: Preemption of State Quill Pen Laws - Preempts any State law that requires medical or health insurance records (including billing information) to be maintained in written rather than electronic form. Title V: Anti-Fraud - Subtitle A: Criminal Prosecution of Health Care Fraud - Amends the Federal criminal code to impose penalties upon a health care provider that knowingly engages in any scheme or artifice to defraud a person in connection with the provision of health care. (Sec. 502) Authorizes the Attorney General to pay a reward of up to $10,000 to a person who furnishes information unknown to the Government relating to a possible prosecution for health care fraud, with exceptions. Subtitle B: Coordination of Health Care Anti-Fraud and Abuse Activities - Amends the Social Security Act to provide for: (1) the application of Federal health anti-fraud and abuse sanctions to all fraud and abuse against any health insurance plan; and (2) treble damages for making or causing to be made false statements or representations involving Medicare or State health care programs, for illegal remuneration, and for false statements or representations with respect to the condition or operation of health care institutions. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, in consultation with State and local health care officials, to: (1) identify opportunities for the satisfaction of community service obligations that a court may impose upon the conviction of a criminal offense involving Medicare or State health care programs; and (2) make information concerning such opportunities available to Federal and State law enforcement officers and State and local health care officials. Title VI: Antitrust Provisions - Exempts from the antitrust laws specified "safe harbor" activities related to the provision of health care services. Sets forth provisions regarding the award of attorney fees and costs of suit to the prevailing party in an action based on a claim involving activity found to be exempt. (Sec. 602) Lists as safe harbors specified: (1) activities relating to health care services of combinations of health care providers with market share below a specified threshold; (2) activities of medical self-regulatory entities relating to standard setting or enforcement activities not conducted for purposes of financial gain; (3) participation of a health care provider in a written survey of the prices of services, reimbursement levels, or the compensation and benefits of employees and personnel; (4) activities relating to health care joint ventures for high technology and costly equipment and services; (5) activities relating to hospital mergers; (6) joint purchasing arrangements; and (7) negotiations. (Sec. 603) Directs the Attorney General to publish a notice in the Federal Register soliciting proposals for additional safe harbors and to review and report to the Congress on proposed safe harbors. Sets forth criteria in establishing safe harbors, including: (1) the extent to which a competitive or collaborative activity will accomplish an increase in health care access and quality, the establishment of cost efficiencies, and increased ability of health care facilities to provide services in medically underserved areas or to underserved populations; and (2) whether designation as a safe harbor will result in specified desirable outcomes. (Sec. 604) Directs the Attorney General to issue certificates of review for providers of health care services and to assist persons in applying for such certificates. Sets forth provisions regarding applications for, revocation of, and review of determinations regarding such certificates. Limits the disclosure of information. (Sec. 605) Sets forth provisions regarding notifications providing for a reduction in certain penalties under the antitrust laws for health care cooperative ventures. (Sec. 606) Directs the Attorney General to: (1) review the safe harbors and certificates of review periodically; and (2) promulgate such rules, regulations, and guidelines as necessary to carry out provisions of this title. Title VII: Long-Term Care - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exclude from gross income certain amounts withdrawn from individual retirement accounts and certain employer cash or deferred arrangements to pay long-term care premiums. (Sec. 702) Provides for the nonrecognition of gain or loss on the exchange of any life insurance contract or an endowment or annuity contract for a long- term care insurance contract. (Sec. 703) Provides for the exclusion as a death benefit of any amount paid or advanced to an individual under a life insurance contract because such individual is terminally ill, or chronically ill and has been permanently confined to a qualified facility. Title VIII: Welfare Restrictions for Aliens - Makes aliens (with exceptions for refugees, aged, and current residents) ineligible for specified public welfare assistance (except for emergency medical assistance). Amends the Social Security Act to require State Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) agencies to provide information on illegal aliens to the Immigration and Naturalization Service. Title IX: Increase in Assistance to Community and Migrant Health Centers From Residual Savings - Directs the HHS Secretary to provide for a program of grants to migrant and community health centers to promote primary health care services for underserved individuals. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 901) Requires the Secretary to study and report to Congress on the impact of such grants on access to health care, birth outcomes, and the use of emergency room services.
United States · United States Congress · 26 May 1994
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that for purposes of issuing final guidelines under title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 relating to unlawful harassment in employment, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission should exclude harassment based on religion.
United States · United States Congress · 25 May 1994
Authorizes the President to present, on behalf of the Congress, to the Lubavitcher rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, a gold medal in recognition of his outstanding and enduring contributions toward world education, morality, and acts of charity. States that no appropriations are authorized to implement this Act. Declares that the medals struck pursuant to this Act are national medals.
United States · United States Congress · 24 May 1994
Designates September 16, 1994, as National POW/MIA Recognition Day. Requires the display of the National League of Families POW/MIA flag at: (1) all national cemeteries and the National Vietnam Veterans Memorial on May 30, 1994 (Memorial Day), September 16, 1994 (National POW/MIA Recognition Day), and November 11, 1994 (Veterans Day); and (2) the White House and the buildings containing the primary offices of the Secretaries of State, Defense, and Veterans Affairs and the Director of the Selective Service System on September 16, 1994 (National POW/MIA Recognition Day).
United States · United States Congress · 24 May 1994
Instructs the House Committees on Agriculture; Banking, Finance and Urban Affairs; Government Operations; the Judiciary; and Small Business to commence hearings on issues within their jurisdiction relating to Madison Guaranty Savings and Loan Association, Whitewater Development Corporation, Capital Management Services Inc., Ray E. Friedman and Company, Lasater and Company, and such appropriate related issues by August 15, 1994, and to submit written findings concerning such matter to the House by the sine die adjournment of the Congress. Directs the respective committees to work to accommodate the work of Special Counsel Robert B. Fiske, Jr., and to not grant immunity, under specified provisions of the Federal criminal code, over the objection of the Special Counsel to any witness called to testify at these hearings. Instructs the Speaker and the majority and minority leaders to meet to determine the appropriate timetable, procedures, and other relevant issues relating to congressional oversight.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1994
Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to study and report to the Congress on future funding options for financing infrastructure projects under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1994
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that any law enacted pertaining to the reform of our Nation's health care system should apply to Members of Congress and all Federal employees enrolled in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program, including any individual who is appointed or elected to a position in the executive, legislative, or judicial branch.
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 1994
National Community Service Commemorative Coin Act - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to issue one-dollar silver coins to commemorate students who volunteer to perform community service. Mandates that all surcharges received from such coin sales be paid to the National Community Service Trust to fund innovative community service programs at American universities, including the service, research, and teaching activities of the faculty and students involved in such programs.
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1994
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Restrictions for Aliens Title II: Restrictions for Drug Addicts and Alcoholics Title III: Benefits for Children Title IV: Fraud Title I: Restrictions For Aliens - Amends title XVI (Supplemental Security Income) (SSI) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to make certain aliens ineligible for SSI benefits. Amends SSA title IV part A (Aid to Families with Dependent Children) (AFDC) to require State AFDC plans to require the State agency to provide the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) with identifying information on any unlawful alien with any children who are U.S. citizens. Title II: Restrictions for Drug Addicts and Alcoholics - Amends SSA title XVI, among other things, to: (1) suspend SSI benefits for certain recipients who test positive for illegal drugs or alcohol until such time that the recipient tests negative; and (2) make various specified representative payee changes, including requiring SSI disability payments based on substance abuse to be paid through representative payees. Title III: Benefits for Children - Amends SSA title XVI to: (1) replace the current cash benefit with a medical voucher for children below 18 to use for items associated with treating child blindness or disability the costs of which are not covered under SSA title XIX (Medicaid); and (2) require disability reviews for SSI recipients upon reaching 18. Title IV: Fraud - Amends SSA title XVI to add additional requirements for: (1) foreign language translation under provisions for filing of applications and furnishing of information; (2) preventing fraud in the SSI program, for example, by establishing civil monetary penalties and assessments, and by making SSI fraud a felony; and (3) developing profiles of cases involving a high probability of fraud. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to request INS and the Centers for Disease Control to provide any relevant medical information for determining alien eligibility for SSI. Directs the Secretary to report annually to appropriate congressional committees on reviews of SSI cases.
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1994
Condemns the death sentence issued against Salman Rushdie. Calls for the immediate withdrawal of such sentence and any associated reward. Calls upon the President to: (1) request that the United Nations Security Council condemn Iran for issuing the edict against Rushdie; (2) call upon the Government of Iran to respect international principles of human rights and lift such sentence; and (3) inform such Government that the House of Representatives has adopted this resolution, that the Iranian Government will be held liable in case an attempt is made on Rushdie's life, and that such Government should attempt to prevent the spread of propaganda promoting Rushdie's assassination. Commends those people of all nations who have firmly stood for freedom of expression despite threats and intimidation. Reaffirms: (1) the commitment of the Congress to the promotion and protection of the right of freedom of expression; and (2) congressional support for basic human rights in the world community.
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1994
Veterans' Persian Gulf War Benefits Act - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) develop and expeditiously implement a uniform case assessment protocol that will ensure thorough assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of all Persian Gulf War veterans suffering from illnesses attributed to service in the Persian Gulf theater of operations during the Persian Gulf War; (2) expedite efforts to develop case definitions or diagnoses for illnesses associated with such service; and (3) develop and implement a comprehensive outreach program to inform such veterans and their families of health-care services, including comprehensive medical evaluations, that may be available through the Department of Veterans Affairs or the Department of Defense. Directs the Secretary to pay compensation to Persian Gulf War veterans suffering from a chronic disability resulting from an undiagnosed illness that became manifest to a degree of ten percent or more within one year after completion of active duty in the Gulf War, with exceptions. Terminates compensation payments three years after the date of enactment of this Act. Authorizes appropriations to the Department of Veterans Affairs for: (1) FY 1995 through 1997 for conducting research of the health risk and effects of service during the Gulf War and the treatment of such effects; and (2) FY 1995 for a survey of Persian Gulf veterans as to the incidence and nature of health problems occurring in such veterans and their families.
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1994
Calls on: (1) the Republic of Azerbaijan and Nagorno Karabagh to cease all hostilities and begin peace negotiations under the framework established by the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe; (2) the parties to the conflict to simultaneously lift all blockades in the region; and (3) the President to take an active role in promoting peace and in monitoring the human rights situation in the region.
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 1994
Charitable Contributions Encouragement Act of 1994 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow taxpayers who do not itemize deductions to deduct a portion of their charitable contributions. Excludes the deduction for charitable contributions from the overall limitation on itemized deductions.
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 1994
House Administration Reform Resolution of 1994 - Transfers specified functions and entities to the Director of Non-Legislative and Financial Services of the House of Representatives. Requires the House Information Systems (HIS), upon transfer to the Director, to be responsible for video teleconferencing, INTERNET access, and related technology services. Directs the Committee on House Administration (Committee) to provide for implementation of recommendations contained in a certain report of the House Task Force on Printing (regarding review of the majority and minority print facilities), provided that such operations are used only for official purposes and are eliminated as soon as practicable or as otherwise directed by the House Subcommittee on Administrative Oversight (Subcommittee). Transfers such operations to the Director. Provides for the elimination of such operations by January 22, 1997. Transfers responsibility for the operation of the Democratic and Republican cloakrooms to the Speaker of the House and the Republican leader, respectively. Amends Rule VI of the Rules of the House of Representatives to require the Director to report to the Subcommittee on all matters (currently, the Director is subject to the policy direction and oversight of the Committee) and makes the Director responsible for simultaneous bipartisan notification of subcommittee members. Requires the Director to review, on a continuing basis, the implementation of employment standards and to report any violation to the Subcommittee. Makes employment and other administrative decisions of the Director final unless otherwise directed by a majority of Subcommittee members. Directs the Committee to conduct a comprehensive, bipartisan review of Committee regulations and eliminate ambiguities and obsolete provisions. Requires the Subcommittee to provide for transfers of functions and entities to the Director as necessary for the improvement of non-legislative and financial services in the House. Deems any action taken by the Subcommittee with regard to any functions and entities within its jurisdiction to be taken on behalf of the full committee, except in the case of proposals to report to the House. Expresses the sense of the House that the changes in public law necessary to delineate the authorities affected by this resolution should be enacted as soon as possible.
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1994
Directs the Secretary of Labor to issue a final rule within one year to amend the exemption from child labor restrictions under the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 for minors between 16 and 18 years of age who operate automobiles or trucks under a certain weight to: (1) eliminate the requirement that such operation be only occasional and incidental to the minor's employment; and (2) add the requirement that such operation not be the primary duty of the minor's employment.
United States · United States Congress · 21 April 1994
Bosnia and Herzegovina Self-Defense Act of 1994 - Directs the President to terminate the U.S. arms embargo of the Government of Bosnia and Herzegovina upon receipt of a request from such government for assistance in exercising its right of self-defense under the United Nations Charter. Authorizes the President to direct the drawdown of defense articles and services and military education and training to provide assistance to Bosnia and Herzegovina if it makes such request. Limits the amount of such assistance. Bars members of the U.S. armed forces who provide such assistance from performing combatant duties outside of the United States. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 14 April 1994
NATO Expansion Act of 1994 - Expresses the sense of the Congress with respect to NATO membership of Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia. Authorizes the President to establish a program to assist the transition to full NATO membership for Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and other European countries emerging from communist domination designated pursuant to this Act. Permits the President to provide specified security assistance to such countries, including excess defense articles, economic support fund assistance, international military education and training, and foreign military financing. Authorizes the President to provide additional assistance from the Nonproliferation and Disarmament Fund and Countries in Transition accounts. Permits the President to designate other European countries emerging from communist domination to receive assistance under this Act if he reports to the appropriate congressional committees that such countries: (1) have made significant progress toward establishing democratic institutions, free market economies, civilian control of their armed forces, and the rule of law; and (2) are likely to be in a position to further the principles of the North Atlantic Treaty and to contribute to the security of the North Atlantic area. Authorizes the President to confer, pursuant to agreement with any country eligible to participate in the Partnership for Peace, rights with respect to the military and related civilian personnel and activities of that country in the United States comparable to those conferred by that country with respect to the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 14 April 1994
Voter Turnout Enhancement Study Commission Act - Establishes the Voter Turnout Enhancement Study Commission to examine the possibility of changing the filing date of Federal income tax returns to the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November (election day). Terminates the Commission upon submission of a required report. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 14 April 1994
Congratulates the residents of Jerusalem and the people of Israel on the 27th anniversary of the reunification of that city. Calls upon the President and the Secretary of State to issue an unequivocal statement in support of the principle that Jerusalem must remain an undivided city and the capital of Israel in which the rights of every ethnic and religious group are protected.
United States · United States Congress · 13 April 1994
Amends the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act) to require pay-as-you-go estimates with respect to legislation implementing trade agreements to take into account increased revenue caused by economic growth resulting from such legislation to offset any loss in tariff revenues due to that legislation.