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![Official portrait of Rep. Kilroy, Mary Jo [D-OH-15]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/k000372_200.jpg)
United States · Official source
353 records where Rep. Kilroy, Mary Jo [D-OH-15] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years
United States · United States Congress · 23 October 2009
Congratulates President Barack Hussein Obama for winning the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize, on behalf of all the people of the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 23 October 2009
Affirms the commitment of the House of Representatives to international child survival and development programs that prioritize protection, prevention, and treatment against pneumonia. Salutes the health professionals and community health workers in the world's poorest countries who are extending preventative care and treatment to children most at-risk of contracting pneumonia. Reaffirms the U.S. commitment to reaching the Millennium Development Goals, particularly for reducing child mortality. Recognizes World Pneumonia Day.
United States · United States Congress · 21 October 2009
Accountability and Transparency in Rating Agencies Act - Amends the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to direct the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to review credit ratings issued by each nationally recognized statistical rating organization (NRSRO) to ensure that the NRSRO has established and documented internal processes for determining credit ratings consistent with SEC rules. Requires each NRSRO to make available and maintain such records and information as the SEC may prescribe. Modifies SEC powers to impose fines and censure a noncompliant NRSRO, including NRSRO failure to: (1) guard against certain violations; and (2) conduct sufficient surveillance to ensure that credit ratings remain current and reliable. Prescribes rules for NRSRO corporate governance, organization, and management of conflicts of interest. Requires the SEC to issue specified rules governing management and disclosure of conflicts of interest regarding credit ratings issued by an NRSRO (including a one-year look-back requirement to determine whether a conflict of interest exists among employees of entities subject to credit ratings who were NRSRO employees during the one-year period preceding the rating date). Requires the SEC to: (1) conduct periodic reviews of NRSRO compliance with the look-back requirement; (2) establish an office that administers SEC rules governing NRSRO practices; (3) require each NRSRO to disclose publicly information on initial ratings and subsequent changes to such ratings; and (4) prescribe rules requiring each NRSRO to adopt certain credit ratings methodologies that include risk assessment and the assumptions underlying the procedures and methodologies used to determine a credit rating. Requires an NRSRO to report to the SEC any case where it can reasonably be expected to know that a former employee obtained employment with any issuer, underwriter, or sponsor of an instrument for which the NRSRO issued a credit rating during the 12-month period prior to such employment. Directs the SEC to: (1) make such information publicly available; and (2) require issuers to disclose preliminary credit ratings received from NRSROs on structured products and corporate debt. Prohibits an NRSRO from engaging in specified rating services for which additional compensation is paid to an issuer, underwriter or placement agent of a security, including: (1) risk management advisory services; and (2) consulting services regarding any merger, sales, or disposition of the assets of an issuer. Requires each federal agency to report to Congress on a review of its policies, practices, and regulations to assess the creditworthiness of a security or money market instrument. Directs the SEC to study and report to Congress on creating a system that assigns NRSROs on a rotating basis to issuers seeking a credit rating.
United States · United States Congress · 15 October 2009
Strengthening and Updating Resources and Equipment Act or the SURE Act - Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to permit grants awarded under the State Homeland Security Grant Program or the Urban Area Security Initiative to be used for maintenance agreements, user fees, or sustainment costs for purchased equipment related to preventing, preparing for, protecting against, and responding to acts of terrorism. Prohibits the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) from imposing: (1) a limit on the amount of any such award that may be used to pay for equipment purchase and maintenance costs; and (2) any additional limitation, including any fiscal year limitation, on the amount of any such award that may be used for a specific type, purpose, or category of equipment purchase or maintenance cost.
United States · United States Congress · 13 October 2009
Designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 3900 Darrow Road in Stow, Ohio, as the "Corporal Joseph A. Tomci Post Office Building."
United States · United States Congress · 13 October 2009
Affordable Access to Prescription Medications Act of 2009 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act, the Public Health Service Act, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), and the Internal Revenue Code, with respect to prescription drug plans, to limit the required co-payment or coinsurance for any one prescription to $200, and for all prescriptions in any month to $500. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), for plan years beginning on or after January 1, 2011, to expand the formulary tier exception request process to allow Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in a prescription drug plan to request an exception for a specialty prescription drug as a non-preferred prescription drug. Requires the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission to study and report to Congress on: (1) the prescription drug program under Medicare part D and the interaction of such program with Medicare beneficiary access to covered drugs under part B; and (2) cost-sharing for prescription drugs under Medicare parts B and D, including an analysis of the impact of eliminating cost-sharing for covered part D drugs for Medicare beneficiaries who incur annual out-of-pocket cost-sharing, after the initial coverage limit, that exceeds 5% of their income and who do not otherwise qualify for an income-related subsidy or other extra help or cost-sharing relief.
United States · United States Congress · 13 October 2009
Amends part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance Benefits for Aged and Disabled) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to repeal the Medicare competitive acquisition program for durable medical equipment and prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies (DMEPOS).
United States · United States Congress · 13 October 2009
Congratulates Northwestern University on winning the 2009 NCAA women's lacrosse championship. Commends Northwestern University for its pursuit of athletic and academic excellence.
United States · United States Congress · 8 October 2009
Supports the goals and ideals of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that Congress should: (1) continue to raise awareness of domestic violence in the United States and its devastating effects on families and communities; and (2) support programs designed to end domestic violence.
United States · United States Congress · 6 October 2009
Supports the goals and ideals of National Cyber Security Awareness Month. Declares that the House of Representatives intends to work with federal agencies, national organizations, businesses, and educational institutions to encourage the development and implementation of existing and future security consensus standards, practices, and technologies in order to enhance the state of cyber security in the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 1 October 2009
Expand School Meals Act of 2009 - Amends the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act and the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to expand eligibility for free meals under the school lunch and breakfast programs to children whose family income falls at or below 185% of the federal poverty guidelines. (This makes children who are currently eligible for reduced price meals eligible for free meals.)
United States · United States Congress · 1 October 2009
National Forest Roadless Area Conservation Act - Identifies roadless areas within the National Forest System set forth in specified maps as National Forest Inventoried Roadless Areas, and directs the Secretary of Agriculture to manage such Areas to maintain their roadless character. Authorizes the Forest Service to modify such maps for the sole purpose of improving their accuracy or inclusiveness. Requires any substantial modification of those maps to be made through the national forest management planning process and documented in an environmental impact statement.
United States · United States Congress · 30 September 2009
National Quality Cancer Care Demonstration Project Act of 2009 - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a quality cancer care demonstration project for the purpose of establishing quality metrics and aligning payment incentives under title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act in the areas of treating planning and follow-up cancer care for Medicare beneficiaries with cancer.
United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2009
Honors the 2,560th anniversary of the birth of Confucius and recognizes his invaluable contributions to philosophy and social and political thought.
United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2009
Consistency, Accuracy, Responsibility, and Excellence in Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy Act of 2009 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require personnel who perform or plan the technical component of either medical imaging examinations or radiation therapy procedures for medical purposes to possess, effective January 1, 2013: (1) certification in each medical imaging or radiation therapy modality and service provided from a certification organization designated by the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS); or (2) state licensure or certification where such services and modalities are within the scope of practice as defined by the state for such profession and where the requirements for licensure, certification, or registration meet or exceed the standards established by the Secretary. Exempts physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish minimum standards for personnel who perform, plan, evaluate, or verify patient dose for medical imaging examinations or radiation therapy procedures; (2) establish a program for designating certification organizations after consideration of specified criteria; (3) provide a method for the recognition of individuals whose training or experience are determined to be equal to, or in excess of, those of a graduate of an accredited educational program in that specialty; and (4) approve and publish a list of accrediting bodies for such certification organizations. Authorizes the Secretary to develop alternative standards for rural or health professional shortage areas as appropriate to assure access to quality medical imaging. Amends the Social Security Act to allow Medicare payment for medical imaging and radiation therapy services furnished on or after January 1, 2013, only if the examination or procedure is planned or performed by an individual who meets this Act's requirements.
United States · United States Congress · 24 September 2009
Expedited CARD Reform for Consumers Act of 2009 - Amends the Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure Act of 2009 (Credit CARD Act of 2009) to move up the effective date of the Act from February 20, 2010, to December 1, 2009. Amends the Truth in Lending Act to move up also to December 1, 2009: (1) the deadline by which the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System must issue final implementing rules for required creditor reviews of changes in factors considered in past consumer annual percentage interest rate (APR) increases when determining whether to reduce the APR; and (2) the effective date of the creditor review requirement. Moves up to the same date: (1) the effective date of the requirement that any penalty fee or charge that a credit card issuer may impose, including a late payment fee, over-the-limit fee, or any other penalty fee or charge, be reasonable and proportional to the omission or violation to which it relates; and (2) the deadline for the Board to issue final implementing rules establishing standards for assessing whether any such penalty fee or charge is reasonable and proportional. Amends the Electronic Fund Transfer Act to move up to December 1, 2009, as well the effective dates of the Act's: (1) prohibition against the imposition of a dormancy fee, an inactivity charge or fee, or a service fee with respect to general use prepaid cards, certificates, and store gift cards; and (2) the deadline by which the Board must issue final implementing regulations.
United States · United States Congress · 24 September 2009
Expresses support for the goals and ideals of a National Mesothelioma Awareness Day.
United States · United States Congress · 23 September 2009
Expresses support for the designation of a National Animal Rescue Day to create awareness for animal rescue programs, address overpopulation through continued spaying and neutering of adopted pets, and bring Americans together to support this common goal.
United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2009
Respect for Marriage Act of 2009 - Amends the Defense of Marriage Act to repeal provisions allowing states, territories, possessions of the United States, or Indian tribes to give no effect to a public act, record, or judicial proceeding of any other such entity respecting a relationship between persons of the same sex that is treated as a marriage under that entity's laws or a right or claim arising from such relationship. Amends the federal rules of construction added by such Act concerning the definitions of "marriage" and "spouse" to provide that, for purposes of any federal law in which marital status is a factor, an individual shall be considered married if that individual's marriage is valid in the state where the marriage was entered into or, in the case of a marriage entered into outside any state, if the marriage is valid in the place where entered into and the marriage could have been entered into in a state.
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 2009
National September 11 Memorial & Museum Commemorative Coin Act of 2009 - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury, in commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States and the establishment of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum at the World Trade Center, to mint and issue up to two million $1 coins emblematic of the courage, sacrifice, and strength of those who perished and who risked their lives to save others during such attacks. Requires: (1) all coin sales to include a surcharge of $10 per coin; and (2) all surcharges received from the sale of coins to be paid to support the operations and maintenance of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum at the World Trade Center.
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 2009
Commends the public servants of the federal agencies for their contributions to homeland security. Salutes the efforts of government officials, the private sector, and citizens across the country to prevent, deter, protect against, and prepare to respond to potential acts of terrorism. Expresses appreciation for the commitment of law enforcement and emergency response personnel in preventing and preparing to respond to acts of terrorism. Expresses support for the goals and ideals of National Preparedness Month as they relate to the threat of terrorism.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2009
Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to enter into an agreement with a volunteer employees' beneficiary association (VEBA) established after enactment of this Act for the benefit of eligible separated employees of Delphi Corporation (and their dependents) in order to transfer amounts to the VEBA for purposes of establishing, or obtaining coverage under, a health care plan for the benefit of such employees (and dependents). Limits the application of this Act to employees with respect to whom the obligation of Delphi Corporation or General Motors Corporation to provide health care coverage has been discharged in a bankruptcy proceeding. Directs the Secretary to make available up to $3 billion in Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) funds, under the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (EESA), to provide health care coverage that is substantially the same as the coverage the obligation for which was so discharged.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2009
Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to automatically enroll in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical system certain veterans who served on active duty in combat operations during a period of war after the Persian Gulf War or in combat against a hostile force during a period of hostilities after November 11, 1998. Gives such veterans the option of declining enrollment.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2009
Enable Divestment from Sudan and Iran Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to promote the divestment of investments in Iran or the Sudan by permitting the deferral of tax on gain from the sale of securities in any business that is engaged in certain discouraged activities in Iran or the Sudan if the holder of such securities purchases replacement securities from a business not engaged in such discouraged activities. Includes as discouraged activities in Iran: (1) investment of $20 million or more in the energy sector of Iran (i.e., petroleum, natural gas, or nuclear power) or in a person who provides Iran with oil or liquefied natural gas tankers or pipelines; (2) an extension of credit of $20 million or more to a person who invests in the energy sector of Iran; (3) investment that enhances Iran's ability to develop petroleum resources; (4) the sale of goods, services, technology, information, or support to Iran that allows it to maintain or expand its petroleum industry; or (5) providing Iran with refined petroleum resources. Defines "Sudan discouraged activity" as an investment in any business operation described in the Sudan Accountability and Divestment Act of 2007 (e.g., businesses engaged in power production activities, mineral extraction activities, oil-related activities, or the production of military equipment). Includes as an Iran or Sudan discouraged activity business transactions with or charitable donations to any Iranian or Sudanese person designated as a terrorist or to any foreign terrorist organization. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to publish and update every six months a list of business entities engaging in any Sudan or Iran discouraged activities.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2009
Recognizes the contributions of U.S. automobile dealerships. Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that a quantifiable number of automobile dealerships that have been successful and are being closed not of their own doing, but as a function of the auto market as a whole, should be given an opportunity to obtain a dealership franchise when auto manufacturers seek new partners to open dealerships in their respective geographic areas.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2009
Congratulates Nancy Goodman Brinker for receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2009
Urges the Sri Lankan government to guarantee the safety and release of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in camps and to ensure the rights of these refugees in the reestablishment of their homes and properties. Calls on the Sri Lankan government to turn the operation of the camps over to civilian authorities and allow international agencies and independent nongovernmental organizations to assist in the care of the IDPs. Urges the Tamil people to continue to be patient while the government reestablishes normalcy and urges the Sri Lankan government to move forward in creating political reforms that will resolve the political concerns of the Tamil people.
United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2009
Medical Debt Relief Act of 2009 - Amends the Fair Credit Reporting Act to prohibit a consumer reporting agency from making any report containing information related to a fully paid or settled medical debt that had been characterized as debt in collection for credit reporting purposes, which, from the date of payment or settlement, antedates the report by more than 30 calendar days.
United States · United States Congress · 29 July 2009
Improper Payments Elimination and Recovery Act of 2009- Amends the Improper Payments Information Act of 2002 to require the head of each federal agency to review agency programs and activities every three fiscal years and identify those that may be susceptible to significant improper payments. Defines "significant" to mean improper payments in program or activity payments in the preceding fiscal year that may have exceeded: (1) $10 million and 2.5% of program outlays (1.5% prior to FY2013); or (2) $100 million. Sets forth risk factors for conducting improper payment reviews, including: (1) whether the program or activity is new to the agency; (2) the volume of payments made; (3) whether payment decisions are made outside of the agency; (4) recent major changes in program funding, authorities, practices, or procedures; (5) the level and quality of personnel training; and (6) significant deficiencies in auditing practices. Requires agency heads to: (1) produce a statistically valid estimate of the improper payments in their agencies; and (2) include such estimates in their annual financial statements. Expands agency reporting requirements with respect to improper payments to require reports on actions to reduce and recover improper payments. Requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to: (1) report to specified congressional committees in each fiscal year on actions agencies have taken to report on and recover improper payments; and (2) provide guidance to agencies for implementing actions to reduce improper payments and strategies for addressing risks and establishing internal controls. Requires agency heads to conduct recovery audits for agency programs that expend $1 million or more annually if such audits would be cost-effective. Requires each agency's Inspector General to report each fiscal year on agency compliance with this Act. Authorizes the Director of OMB to establish one or more pilot programs to test accountability mechanisms to ensure compliance with this Act and eliminate improper payments.
United States · United States Congress · 29 July 2009
Protect America's Wildlife Act of 2009 - Amends the Fish and Wildlife Act of 1956 to impose criminal penalties on anyone who knowingly violates any regulation prohibiting the shooting or harassing of birds, fish, or other animals from aircraft (airborne hunting). Increases the monetary penalty for airborne hunting from $5,000 to $50,000. Expands the exceptions to the prohibition against airborne hunting to include enhancing the propagation and survival of wildlife or preventing the extinction of a species threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act of 1973.
United States · United States Congress · 29 July 2009
Expresses support for the goals and ideals of Tay-Sachs Awareness Month. Encourages and expresses support for education and research efforts with respect to Tay-Sachs disease.
United States · United States Congress · 28 July 2009
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that: (1) high school students should spend at least one week in September of their senior year learning about the U.S. Constitution, as knowledge of this country's founding document is critical to being an effective citizen; and (2) upon reaching voting age, high school seniors should demonstrate their understanding of the rights and responsibilities of citizenship by petitioning the government on an issue of importance to them.
United States · United States Congress · 27 July 2009
Proxy Voting Transparency Act of 2009 - Amends the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to require that a proxy, consent, or authorization for an annual shareholders meeting provide for a separate shareholder vote to approve the compensation of executives pursuant to compensation disclosure rules promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Requires such SEC disclosure rules to include: (1) the compensation committee report; (2) compensation discussion and analysis; (3) the compensation tables; and (4) any related materials. Requires the person making proxy or consent solicitation material regarding a disposition of an issuer's assets to disclose and submit for separate shareholder approval: (1) any compensation agreements made with principal executive officers of the issuer; and (2) the aggregate total of compensation that may be paid or become payable to or on behalf of such executive officer (golden parachute compensation). States that the shareholder vote: (1) shall not be binding upon either the corporation or the board of directors; (2) shall not be construed as overruling a decision by such board; (3) shall not be construed as creating or implying any additional fiduciary duty by such board; nor (4) shall be construed to restrict or limit shareholder ability to make proposals for inclusion in proxy materials related to executive compensation. Requires certain institutional investment managers to report at least annually how they voted on any shareholder vote (unless such vote is otherwise required to be reported publicly by SEC rule or regulation).
United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2009
Afterschool Flexibility to Expand Reimbursement for School Meals Act of 2009 or the AFTERSchool Meals Act of 2009 - Amends the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to make institutions in any state eligible for reimbursement for meals provided to at-risk school children under programs organized primarily to provide care to at-risk school children during after-school hours, weekends, or holidays during the regular school year. (Currently, reimbursement is limited to institutions in 10 states.) Assists states in providing meals and meal supplements to children participating in after-school programs in elementary and secondary schools. (Currently, assistance is provided for meal supplements.) Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to award grants to states to encourage institutions and schools to participate in these expanded programs.
United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2009
Child Care Criminal Background Check Act of 2009 - Amends the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990 to require child care providers that are licensed by a state or receive funds under the Child Care and Development Block Grant Program to: (1) obtain a comprehensive criminal background check of each employee who provides child care services, each applicant for employment, and each family child care provider who provides or applies to provide such services; and (2) refuse to employ individuals convicted of crimes of violence or crimes against children. Reduces by 10% allotments to states that fail to comply with the requirements of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2009
Investor Advisory Committee Act of 2009 - Amends the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to establish the Investor Advisory Committee to advise and consult with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on: (1) regulatory priorities and issues regarding new products, trading strategies, fee structures, and the effectiveness of disclosures; (2) initiatives to protect investor interest; and (3) initiatives to promote investor confidence in the integrity of the marketplace. States that the SEC is not required to accept, agree, or act upon the findings or recommendations of the Committee.
United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2009
Corporate and Financial Institution Compensation Fairness Act of 2009 - Amends the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to require that any proxy or consent or authorization for an annual shareholders meeting provide for a separate shareholder vote to approve executive compensation as disclosed pursuant to rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). States that the shareholder vote: (1) shall not be binding on the corporation or the board of directors; (2) shall not be construed as overruling a board decision, nor as creating or implying any additional fiduciary duty by such board; nor (3) shall such vote be construed to restrict or limit the ability of shareholders to make proposals for inclusion in such proxy materials related to executive compensation. Sets forth procedures for disclosure and shareholder approval of golden parachute compensation. Directs the SEC to prescribe standards relating to compensation committees. Requires each member of the compensation committee of the issuer's board of directors to be a member of the issuer's board of directors, and to be otherwise independent. Requires a compensation consultant, legal counsel, or other adviser to the compensation committee of any issuer to meet SEC standards for independence. Authorizes the compensation committee of each issuer to engage independent counsel and advisors. Directs the SEC to study and report to Congress on the use of compensation consultants meeting certain standards for independence. Requires the appropriate federal regulators to prescribe jointly regulations requiring each covered financial institution to disclose to the appropriate federal regulator the structures of the incentive-based compensation arrangements for the institution's officers and employees sufficient to determine whether the compensation structure: (1) is aligned with sound risk management; (2) is structured to account for the time horizon of risks; and (3) meets other criteria appropriate to reduce unreasonable incentives for officers and employees to take undue risks. Requires such regulators to prescribe joint regulations that prohibit any compensation structure or incentive-based payment arrangement that encourages inappropriate risks by financial institutions or their officers or employees that could: (1) threaten the safety and soundness of covered financial institutions; or (2) present serious adverse effects on economic conditions or financial stability.
United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2009
Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits denying or abridging equality of rights under the law by the United States or by any state on account of sex.
United States · United States Congress · 20 July 2009
Establishing Grants for College Access and Completion Act of 2009 - Directs the Secretary of Education to award competitive five-year grants to certain nonprofit organizations for the provision of mentoring, support, outreach, and other services that encourage disadvantaged students to attend institutions of higher education. Prohibits a grant from covering more than 85% of the cost of the services the grant supports. Requires nonprofit applicants to have met certain requirements, including that they have provided scholarship and support programs to students in more than one state, and have a business plan in place to expand into other states.
United States · United States Congress · 16 July 2009
Provide a Return on Financial Investment for the Taxpayer Act of 2009 or the PROFIT Act of 2009 - Amends the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (EESA) to require the Secretary of the Treasury to sell through a public auction any warrants associated with EESA assistance each time a financial institution makes a repayment of such assistance. Exempts from such requirement warrants associated with a repayment made by a financial institution that has received less than $250 million of such assistance.
United States · United States Congress · 7 July 2009
Expresses support for: (1) the goals and ideals of Fragile X Awareness Day; (2) raising awareness and educating the public about fragile X syndrome and associated disorders; and (3) increased funding for research into the causes, treatment, and cure for fragile X syndrome. Applauds efforts to encourage awareness, promote research, and provide education, support, and hope to those impacted by fragile X syndrome. Recognizes the commitment of those dedicated to finding an effective treatment and cure. Urges physicians, health care providers, and specialists, with respect to the syndrome and related disorders, to: (1) learn the clinical signs and symptoms; (2) use diagnostic, developmental screening, and surveillance modalities for detection; (3) test individuals exhibiting signs of developmental delay or an autism spectrum disorder to determine the status of their FMR1 gene; (4) gain a full understanding of the genetic implications and make appropriate referrals to a geneticist or genetic counselor; and (5) provide diagnosed patients with supplemental information. Encourages health insurance entities to provide full coverage for screening technologies, appropriate follow-up referrals, and genetic counseling services. Recommends that the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and related member institutes fully implement the research plan on fragile X syndrome and associated disorders developed by the Trans-NIH Fragile X Research Coordinating Group and Scientific Working Groups.
United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2009
Twenty-first Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2009 - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to define: (1) "disability" to have the meaning given the term under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990; (2) "advanced communications" as interconnected VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) service, non-interconnected VoIP service, electronic messaging, and video conferencing; and (3) other specified terms. Requires that equipment providing advanced communications via a built-in speaker provide an internal means for hearing aid use. Redefines "telecommunications relay services." Requires interconnected and non-interconnected VoIP providers to contribute to the Telecommunications Relay Services Fund. Requires, unless it would be an undue burden (significant difficulty or expense), that equipment and services for advanced communications be usable by individuals with disabilities. Requires, if that requirement is an undue burden, that the equipment or service be compatible with existing commonly used peripheral devices or specialized customer equipment, unless that requirement would be an undue burden. Establishes an accessible products and services clearinghouse that is publicly available. Authorizes Lifeline and Link Up programs and other federal universal service support mechanisms to be used for those telecommunications services, Internet access services, and advanced communications that are needed by individuals with disabilities. Defines as eligible for universal service support certified programs that distribute equipment to make telecommunications service, Internet services, and advanced communications accessible by deaf-blind individuals. Requires every provider of Internet access service and every manufacturer of Internet access equipment, unless it would be an undue burden, to make user interfaces accessible to individuals with disabilities. Requires that apparatus that receives or plays back video programming and has a picture screen of any size be capable of decoding closed captioning, transmitting and delivering video description, and conveying emergency information. (Current law: (1) requires closed caption decoders only for apparatus having a picture screen that is at least 13 inches; and (2) does not require video description or emergency information conveyance capability.) Requires that apparatus to record video programming retain and pass through closed captions and video descriptions. Ratifies and considers in full force and effect the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC's) video description regulations contained in a specified Report and Order. Defines, for certain portions of this Act, "video programming" as including programming distributed over the Internet or by other means. Requires video programming owners, providers, and distributors to convey emergency information accessibly to blind or visually-impaired individuals. Requires that apparatus to receive or play back video, including using the Internet, allow control by individuals with disabilities and that on-screen menus be accompanied by integrated or peripheral audio output to enable control by blind or visually impaired individuals. Requires each provider or owner of video programming and each multichannel programming distributor to ensure that video programming information and selection provided by means of a navigational device, guide, or menu is accessible in real-time by individuals with disabilities who are unable to read the visual display.
United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2009
Investments for Manufacturing Progress and Clean Technology Act of 2009 or the IMPACT Act of 2009 - Amends the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act to: (1) direct the Secretary of Commerce to award grants to states to establish revolving loan funds to provide loans to small and medium-sized manufacturers for producing clean energy technology and energy efficient products and for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from manufacturing facilities; and (2) include within the activities of Regional Centers for the Transfer of Manufacturing Technology the establishment of a clean energy manufacturing supply chain initiative.
United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2009
Expresses sympathy to Falun Gong practitioners and their family members who have suffered persecution and even death because of adherence to their personal beliefs. Calls upon: (1) the government of the People's Republic of China (PRC) to cease its campaign against Falun Gong practitioners, including harassment activities within the United States; (2) the Secretary of State to ensure that officials of foreign embassies and consulates are not engaged in activities in the United States that are incompatible with their diplomatic status; and (3) the President and Members of Congress to mark the 10th anniversary of Chinese official repression of the Falun Gong spiritual movement.
United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2009
Expresses support for the goals and ideals of the second annual National Clinicians HIV/AIDS Testing and Awareness Day. Encourages: (1) primary care physicians and other clinicians nationwide to become actively involved in HIV/AIDS awareness, testing, treatment, and referral services; and (2) individuals to get tested for HIV and educate themselves about the prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS.
United States · United States Congress · 25 June 2009
Forewarn Act - Amends the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (the Act) to: (1) redefine the terms "employer," "plant closing," and "mass layoff" for purposes of the Act; and (2) among other things, apply it to employers of 75 or more employees (currently, 100 employees), including any parent company of which the business enterprise is a subsidiary. Requires an employer to: (1) give 90-day written notice (currently, 60-day) to employees and appropriate state and local governments before ordering a plant closing or mass layoff; (2) notify the Secretary of Labor and the governor of the state in which the closing or layoff will occur; and (3) provide affected employees with information regarding benefits and services available to them, including unemployment compensation, trade adjustment assistance, COBRA benefits, onsite access to rapid response teams, and certain other services. Exempts from such notice requirements plant closings or mass layoffs which are due directly to a terrorist attack. Requires the Secretary to notify the appropriate U.S. Senators and Members of the House of Representatives who represent the area where such closing or mass layoff is to occur. Makes an employer who violates such notice requirements liable to the employee for, among other things, two days pay (currently, back pay for each day of violation) multiplied by the number of calendar days for which the employer was required but failed to provide notice, including interest on such pay. Authorizes an affected employee to file a complaint with the Secretary alleging a violation of the notice requirements. Requires the Secretary to investigate and attempt to resolve such complaints. Authorizes the Secretary to bring an action in court to recover on behalf of an affected employee any backpay (including interest), benefits, and liquidated damages due. Requires an employer to post conspicuously upon its premises pertinent provisions of this Act and information on the filing of a complaint. Requires the Secretary to maintain a guide on the benefits and services available to affected employees. Prohibits the waiver of rights and remedies provided under this Act (including the right to maintain a civil action) by any agreement or settlement negotiated on behalf of affected employees.
United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2009
Employment Non-Discrimination Act of 2009 - Prohibits employment discrimination on the basis of actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity by covered entities (employers, employment agencies, labor organizations, or joint labor-management committees). Prohibits preferential treatment or quotas. Allows only disparate treatment claims. Prohibits related retaliation. Makes this Act inapplicable to: (1) religious organizations; and (2) the relationship between the United States and members of the Armed Forces. Declares that this Act does not repeal or modify any federal, state, territorial, or local law creating a special right or preference concerning employment for a veteran. Provides for the construction of this Act regarding: (1) enforcement by employers of rules and policies; (2) sexual harassment; (3) certain shared facilities such as showers or dressing facilities; (4) construction of new or additional facilities; (5) dress and grooming standards; and (6) provision of employee benefits to married vs. unmarried couples. Declares that, in this Act, "married" refers to a legal union between one man and one woman. Prohibits the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) from collecting statistics from covered entities on actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity or compelling the collection by covered entities of such statistics. Provides for enforcement, including giving the EEOC, the Librarian of Congress, the Attorney General, and U.S. courts the same enforcement powers as they have under specified provisions of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Government Employee Rights Act of 1991, and other specified laws. Allows actions and proceedings, subject to exception, against the United States and the states.
United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2009
Trade Reform, Accountability, Development, and Employment Act of 2009 or the TRADE Act of 2009 - Directs the Comptroller General to: (1) review biennially certain free trade agreements (including Uruguay Round Agreements) between the United States and foreign countries to evaluate their economic, environmental, national security, health, safety, and other effects; and (2) report on them to the Congressional Trade Agreement Review Committee (established by this Act), including analyses of specified aspects of each agreement and certain information about agreement parties, such as whether the country has a democratic form of government, respects certain core labor rights and fundamental human rights, protects intellectual property rights, and enforces environmental laws. Declares that implementing bills of new trade agreements shall not be subject to expedited consideration or special procedures limiting amendment, unless such agreements include certain standards with respect to: (1) labor; (2) human rights; (3) environment and public safety; (4) food and product health and safety; (5) provision of services; (6) investment; (7) procurement; (8) intellectual property; (9) agriculture; (10) trade remedies and safeguards; (11) dispute resolution and enforcement; (12) technical assistance; (13) national security; and (14) taxation. Requires the President to submit to Congress a plan for the renegotiation of existing trade agreements to bring them into compliance with such standards. Establishes a Congressional Trade Agreement Review Committee. Expresses the sense of Congress that certain processes for U.S. trade negotiations should be followed when Congress considers legislation providing special procedures for implementing bills of trade agreements.
United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2009
MRSA Infection Prevention and Patient Protection Act - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to promulgate regulations relating to MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), including regulations that provide a list of best practices for preventing MRSA infections and such other antibiotic resistant pathogens as the Secretary determines appropriate. Requires each acute care hospital to screen each patient entering an intensive care unit or other high-risk hospital department. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish a process and a timetable for extending the screening requirements to patients admitted to all hospitals by January 1, 2014; and (2) report to Congress on whether payment adjustments should be made under Medicare to assist certain hospitals in defraying the cost of screening for, and the subsequent treatment of, MRSA or other infections. Requires all hospitals to: (1) comply with specified MRSA best practices, including contact precautions and patient notification; and (2) report hospital-acquired MRSA and other infections that occur in the facility. Requires the Secretary to: (1) establish systems for identifying infected transferred patients and for promptly informing any facility that has transferred an infected patient; and (2) publish the names of providers who fail to take steps to reduce the incidence of MRSA infections. Permits a hospital to apply to the Secretary for a one-year increase in the amount of the capital-related costs payment made to the hospital under the prospective payment system to provide for the rapid implementation of MRSA screening programs and initiatives. Requires the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to award a grant for a pilot program to develop a rapid, cost-effective method for testing for MRSA using a molecular testing method. .
United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2009
Supports the designation of the week of December 7 as National Computer Science Education Week. Encourages: (1) identification by schools, teachers, researchers, universities, and policymakers of mechanisms for teachers to receive cutting edge professional development so that they can provide sustainable learning experiences in computer science; (2) exposure of students to computer science concepts; and (3) opportunities for females and underrepresented minorities in computer science. Supports research in computer science to address what would motivate increased participation in such field.