United States · United States Congress · 4 January 2013
Stop Taxpayer Funded Cell Phones Act of 2011 [ sic ] - Prohibits a provider of commercial mobile communications service from receiving universal service support under specified provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 for the provision of such service through the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) Lifeline program (a program that provides discounts on monthly telephone service to qualifying low-income consumers).
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 2013
Federal Reserve Transparency Act of 2013 - Directs the Comptroller General (GAO) to: (1) complete, within 12 months of enactment of this Act, the required audit of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (Board) and of the Federal Reserve Banks; and (2) submit to Congress, within 90 days of audit completion, a detailed report of audit findings and conclusions. Repeals certain limitations placed upon such audit. Instructs the Comptroller General to audit and report on the review of loan files of homeowners in foreclosure in 2009 or 2010, required as part of the enforcement actions taken by the Board against supervised financial institutions. Prescribes audit contents, including: (1) the guidance given by the Board to independent consultants retained by the supervised financial institutions regarding procedures to be followed in conducting the file reviews, (2) the factors considered by independent consultants when evaluating loan files and the results obtained pursuant to those reviews, and (3) the determinations made by such consultants regarding the nature and extent of financial injury sustained by each homeowner as well as the level and type of remediation offered.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 2013
Strengthening Homeland Security, Intelligence, and Essential Law Enforcement Departments Act of 2013 or the SHIELD Act of 2013 - Requires, in the event that the U.S. public debt limit is reached, priority payment of the pay and allowances of: (1) members of the Armed Forces, including reserves, who perform active service; and (2) critical law enforcement officers employed by federal agencies. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury, during a period of lapsed appropriations for the Armed Forces or federal agencies employing critical law enforcement officers, to make available necessary amounts to continue such pay and allowances.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 2013
Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act - Repeals certain provisions which require the offset of amounts paid in dependency and indemnity compensation from Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) annuities for the surviving spouses of former military personnel who are entitled to military retired pay or who would be entitled to retired pay except for being under 60 years of age. Prohibits requiring repayment of certain amounts previously paid to SBP recipients in the form of a retired pay refund. Repeals the optional authority of (and instead requires) the Secretary of the military department concerned to pay an annuity to a member's dependent children when there is no eligible surviving spouse. Directs the Secretary concerned to restore annuity eligibility to a surviving spouse who earlier agreed to transfer such eligibility to a surviving child or children of a member.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 2013
Title X Abortion Provider Prohibition Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to prohibit the Secretary of Health and Human Service (HHS) from providing any federal family planning assistance to an entity unless the entity certifies that, during the period of such assistance, the entity will not perform, and will not provide any funds to any other entity that performs, an abortion. Excludes an abortion where: (1) the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest; or (2) a physician certifies that the woman suffered from a physical disorder, injury, or illness that would place the woman in danger of death unless an abortion is performed, including a condition caused by or arising from the pregnancy. Excludes hospitals from such requirement so long as the hospital does not provide funds to any non-hospital entity that performs an abortion. Requires the Secretary to provide Congress annually: (1) information on grantees who performed abortions under the exceptions, and (2) a list of entities to which grant funds are made available.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 2013
Fair Tax Act of 2013 - Repeals the income tax, employment tax, and estate and gift tax. Redesignates the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 as the Internal Revenue Code of 2013. Imposes a national sales tax on the use or consumption in the United States of taxable property or services. Sets the sales tax rate at 23% in 2015, with adjustments to the rate in subsequent years. Allows exemptions from the tax for property or services purchased for business, export, or investment purposes, and for state government functions. Sets forth rules relating to: (1) the collection and remittance of the sales tax, and (2) credits and refunds. Allows a monthly sales tax rebate for families based upon criteria related to family size and poverty guidelines. Grants states the primary authority for the collection of sales tax revenues and the remittance of such revenues to the Treasury. Sets forth administrative provisions relating to: (1) the filing of monthly reports and payments of tax; (2) accounting methods; (3) registration of sellers of goods and services responsible for reporting sales; (4) penalties for noncompliance; and (5) collections, appeals, and taxpayer rights. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to allocate sales tax revenues among: (1) the general revenue, (2) the old-age and survivors insurance trust fund, (3) the disability insurance trust fund, (4) the hospital insurance trust fund, and (5) the federal supplementary medical insurance trust fund. Prohibits the funding of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) after FY2017. Establishes in the Department of the Treasury: (1) an Excise Tax Bureau to administer excise taxes not administered by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); and (2) a Sales Tax Bureau to administer the national sales tax. Terminates the sales tax imposed by this Act if the Sixteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution (authorizing an income tax) is not repealed within seven years after the enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 1 January 2013
Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2012 - Amends the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (Stafford Act) to direct the President, for purposes of hazard mitigation assistance, to ensure that: (1) environmental reviews and historic preservation reviews are completed on an expeditious basis, and (2) the shortest existing applicable process under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and the National Historic Preservation Act is utilized. Authorizes the President to provide not more than 25% of the amount of the estimated cost of hazard mitigation measures to a state grantee before eligible costs are incurred. Requires the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to review, update, and revise factors relating to trauma to measure the severity, magnitude, and impact of a disaster. Authorizes the President, acting through the Administrator, to approve public assistance projects for major disasters or emergencies under alternative procedures with the goal of: (1) reducing the costs to the federal government of providing such assistance; (2) increasing flexibility in the administration of assistance; (3) expediting the provision of assistance to a state, tribal or local government, or owner or operator of a private nonprofit facility; and (4) providing financial incentives and disincentives for the timely and cost-effective completion of projects. Requires such alternative procedures, with respect to grants for facility repair, restoration, or replacement, to allow: (1) such grants to be made on the basis of fixed estimates if the state, tribal, or local government or the owner or operator of the private nonprofit facility agrees to be responsible for any actual costs that exceed the estimate; (2) a grantee to elect to receive an in-lieu contribution, without reduction, on the basis of estimates of the cost to repair, restore, reconstruct, or replace a facility and management expenses; (3) consolidating state, local, or tribal facilities as a single project; and (4) the Administrator to permit a grantee, when completed project costs are less than the estimated costs, to use excess funds for activities that reduce the risk of future damage, hardship, or suffering from a major disaster and for other activities to improve future public assistance operations or planning. Requires such alternative procedures, with respect to grants for debris removal, to allow: (1) such grants to be made on the basis of fixed estimates to provide financial incentives and disincentives for the timely or cost-effective completion if the grantee agrees to be responsible for any actual costs that exceed the estimate; (2) use of a sliding scale for determining the federal share for removal of debris and wreckage based on the time it takes to complete; (3) use of program income from recycled debris without offset to the grant amount; (4) reimbursement of wages for grantee employees and extra hires performing or administering debris and wreckage removal; (5) incentives to a state, local, or tribal government to have a debris management plan approved by the Administrator and to have pre-qualified contractors before the date of declaration of the major disaster; and (6) the Administrator to permit a grantee, when actual project costs are less than estimated costs, to use the excess funds for debris management planning, acquisition of debris management equipment for current or future use, and other activities to improve future debris removal operations. Authorizes Indian tribal governments to submit requests for major disaster or emergency declarations directly to the President. Authorizes the President to enter into lease agreements for, and make repairs or improvements to, multifamily rental property located in areas covered by a major disaster declaration when the President determines it would be a cost-effective alternative to other temporary housing options. Directs the President: (1) within one year, to complete an analysis to determine whether an increase in the threshold for eligibility for the provision of federal disaster or emergency assistance on the basis of the amount of the federal estimate of assistance necessary is appropriate; and (2) if so, to establish such threshold, adjust it annually for inflation, and review it every three years. Requires the President to establish a unified interagency review process to ensure compliance with environmental and historic requirements relating to disaster recovery projects in order to expedite the recovery process. Authorizes the President: (1) to provide child care assistance to an individual or household adversely affected by a major disaster; and (2) after declaring a major disaster or emergency for an area within the jurisdiction of a state, tribal, or local government, to reimburse such government for costs relating to basic pay and benefits and overtime and hazardous duty compensation for permanent employees of such government conducting emergency protective measures. Directs the Administrator to revise regulations related to the submission of State Hazard Mitigation Plans to extend the hazard mitigation planning cycle to every five years, consistent with local planning cycles. Authorizes a temporary housing unit purchased by the President for housing disaster victims to be made available directly to a state, other governmental entity, or voluntary organization for an incident caused by a hazard, for which the state governor has taken appropriate action under state law and directed execution of the state emergency plan, but that does not result in a presidential declaration of a major disaster or emergency. Integrated Public Alert and Warning System Modernization Act of 2012 - Directs the Administrator to: (1) take specified steps to modernize and implement the U.S. integrated public alert and warning system to ensure that the President, federal agencies, and state, tribal, and local governments can, under all conditions, alert and warn the civilian population in areas endangered by disasters or other hazards to public safety; and (2) establish a subcommittee to the National Advisory Council to be known as the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System Subcommittee, which shall develop recommendations for an integrated public alert and warning system. Directs the Chair of the Hurricane Sandy Rebuilding Task Force to report on: (1) the impacts of Hurricane Sandy on local government budgets in states where a major disaster has been declared, (2) the availability of private loans and federal resources to address such impacts, (3) the ability of the Community Disaster Loan program to address such impacts, and (4) potential consequences of federal action or inaction to address such impacts. Amends: (1) the Stafford Act to direct the Administrator to: (1) continue to administer the National Urban Search and Rescue Response System to provide for a national network of standardized search and rescue resources to assist states and local governments in responding to hazards, (2) designate task forces to participate in the System, and (3) establish an advisory committee to provide assistance in administering the System. Authorizes the President, upon determining it to be appropriate after a large and complex major disaster, to establish a commission to facilitate and support states and local governments in recovering from such disaster, including by implementing a strategic recovery support plan and coordinating federal agency activities. Amends the Homeland Security Act to establish within FEMA a disaster reserve workforce, to supplement the work of permanent full-time FEMA employees on response and recovery operations and programs. Amends the Post-Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act of 2006 to direct the President to ensure that each federal agency with responsibilities under the National Response Plan or the National Disaster Recovery Framework has designated a lead senior official to: (1) ensure the agency is prepared to execute its response and recovery responsibilities under such plans, and (2) coordinate disaster response and recovery efforts. Directs the Administrator to establish procedures under which an applicant, through December 31, 2015, may request the use of alternative dispute resolution, including arbitration by an independent review panel to resolve disputes relating to eligible assistance.
United States · United States Congress · 17 December 2012
Urges European governments and the European Union (EU) to: (1) designate Hizballah as a terrorist organization so that Hizballah cannot use EU territories for fund raising, recruitment, and propaganda; and (2) impose sanctions on Hizballah for providing material support to Bashar al Assad's violent repression against the people of Syria. Supports Bulgaria's investigation into the July 18, 2012, terrorist attack in Burgas, and urges the President to provide related diplomatic, intelligence, and law enforcement support. Supports Bulgaria as a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and urges the United States, NATO, and the EU to work with Bulgaria to safeguard its territory and citizens from terrorism. Urges the President to make available to European allies and the European public information about Hizballah's terrorist activities, efforts to subvert democracy in Lebanon, and material support for Bashar al Assad's campaign of violence in Syria.
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 2012
Designates the facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) at 9800 West Commercial Boulevard in Sunrise, Florida, as the "William 'Bill' Kling VA Clinic."
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 2012
Public Buildings Reform Act of 2012 - Sets forth new requirements for the purchase or lease of federal office space, for limiting rental costs for such space, and for suspending the construction of new courthouses after November 1, 2012. Requires that the acquisition of new federal office space through lease or purchase be offset by the elimination of at least a corresponding amount of space, and that such space be reduced by a minimum of 1 million square feet in each calendar year through 2016. Requires the Administrator of the General Services Administration (GSA) to: (1) use commercial real estate management services to reduce the cost of federal office space, and (2) reduce the total number of full time employees of the Public Buildings Service (PBS) to 6,000 by FY2015. Suspends until October 1, 2014, the authority to use funds in the Federal Buildings Fund for bonuses, performance awards, or similar expenditures for members of the Senior Executive Service (SES). Requires the Administrator to notify specified congressional committees before entering into any contract related to a conference and to report on expenditures for such conference. Prohibits PBS, through FY2015, from hiring more than 50 individuals for an intern program, recent graduate program, Presidential Management Fellow program, or similar program. Requires the Inspector General of GSA to review PBS internship programs and report on the costs and benefits of such programs. Requires GSA to submit a detailed budget for PBS, including a breakdown of salaries, bonuses, travel and transportation, training, and conferences. Prohibits the Administrator from constructing, repairing, altering, or acquiring by lease, purchase, or otherwise a public building or space unless specifically authorized to do so by Congress. Requires the Administrator to report to Congress on: (1) utilization rates of owned and leased public buildings, (2) vacant public buildings, and (3) any increase or decrease of 5% or more in the cost of public projects.
United States · United States Congress · 11 September 2012
Disapproves of the rule submitted by the Office of Family Assistance of the Administration for Children and Families of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) relating to waiver and expenditure authority under the Social Security Act with respect to the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. Declares that the rule shall have no force or effect.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2012
Protecting Life in Funding Education Act or the PRO-LIFE Act - Amends the General Education Provisions Act to prohibit the provision of federal education funding to state or local educational agencies that make health services available to students through school-based health centers, unless those centers certify that they will not provide students with abortions, abortion-related materials, referrals, or suggestions, or directions to abortion services.
United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2012
Repeal of Obamacare Act - Repeals the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, effective as of its enactment. Restores provisions of law amended by such Act. Repeals the health care provisions of the Health Care and Education and Reconciliation Act of 2010, effective as of the Act's enactment. Restores provisions of law amended by the Act's health care provisions.
United States · United States Congress · 29 June 2012
Temporary Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2012 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation (DOT) to reduce the amount apportioned for a surface transportation program, project, or activity for FY2012 by amounts apportioned or allocated under the Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2012 for the period from October 1, 2011, through June 30, 2012. Prescribes a special rule to provide that the amendments made by this Act shall cease to be effective upon enactment of the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21). Amends the Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2011, Part II to continue through July 6, 2012, and authorizes appropriations through that date for, specified federal-aid highway programs under the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU), the SAFETEA-LU Technical Corrections Act of 2008, the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA), and the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century. Includes among extended funds those for: (1) the surface transportation research, development, and deployment program; (2) training and education; (3) the Bureau of Transportation Statistics; (4) university transportation research; and (5) intelligent transportation systems (ITS) research. Subjects funding for such programs generally to the same manner of distribution, administration, limitation, and availability for obligation, however, at 280/366 of the total amount, as funds authorized to be appropriated for such programs and activities out of the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) for FY2011. Subjects contract authority, however, between October 1, 2011, and July 6, 2012, for such programs to a specified pro rata limitation on obligations included in any Act making appropriations for FY2012 or a portion of that fiscal year. Waives this obligation limitation, though, for emergency relief and for the equity bonus program. Extends the allocation of certain transportation program funds to: (1) states for specific programs, including the Interstate and National Highway System program, the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement program, the highway safety improvement program, the Surface Transportation program, and the Highway Bridge program; and (2) the territories and Puerto Rico. Prohibits use of program funds for a high-speed MAGLEV system between Las Vegas, Nevada, and Anaheim, California. Authorizes appropriations from the HTF (other than the Mass Transit Account) for administrative expenses of the federal-aid highway program for the period from October 1, 2011, through July 6, 2012. Terminates the surface transportation project delivery pilot program on September 30, 2012. Amends SAFETEA-LU to extend, from October 1, 2011, through July 6, 2012, the authorization of appropriations for specified National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) safety programs (including NHTSA administrative expenses) and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) programs. Extends for the same period the funding for hazardous materials (hazmat) research projects. Amends the Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Act to continue, from October 1, 2011, through July 6, 2012, the authorized distribution of funds under such Act for coastal wetlands, recreational boating safety, projects under the Clean Vessel Act of 19921, boating infrastructure projects, and the National Outreach and Communications Program. Extends the set-aside for administrative expenses for carrying out such projects. Extends, from October 1, 2011, through July 6, 2012, the allocation of capital investment grant funds for federal transit programs, including the metropolitan planning program and the state planning and research program. Extends the special rule authority of the Secretary to award urbanized area formula grants to finance the operating cost of equipment and facilities for use in public transportation in an urbanized area with a population of at least 200,000. Allocates, from October 1, 2011, through July 6, 2012, certain amounts for formula and bus grants and capital investment grants for: (1) certain new fixed guideway capital projects; (2) new fixed guideway ferry systems and extension projects in Alaska and Hawaii; (3) payments to the Denali Commission for docks, waterfront development projects, and related transportation infrastructure; (4) ferry boats or ferry terminal facilities; (5) a set-aside for the national fuel cell bus technology development program; (6) projects in nonurbanized areas; (7) intermodal terminal projects; and (8) bus testing. Extends the apportionment of nonurbanized area formula grants for public transportation on Indian reservations. Extends, from October 1, 2011, through July 6, 2012, the apportionment of capital investment grant funds for certain fixed guideway modernization projects. Extends for that same period the authorization appropriations from the HTF Mass Transit Account for: (1) formula and bus grant projects, (2) capital investment grants, (3) transit research, and (4) administration expenses. Extends, from October 1, 2011, through July 6, 2012, certain SAFETEA-LU programs, including: (1) the contracted paratransit pilot program, (2) the public-private partnership pilot program, (3) project authorizations for final design and construction and preliminary engineering of specified fixed guideway projects, and (4) the elderly individuals and individuals with disabilities pilot program. Extends certain allocations for national research and technology programs. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend through July 6, 2012, authority for expenditures from the: (1) HTF Highway and Mass Transit accounts, (2) Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, and (3) Leaking Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund. Extends through July 6, 2012, excise taxes on: (1) fuel used by certain buses, (2) certain alcohol fuels, (3) gasoline (other than aviation gasoline) and diesel fuel or kerosene, (4) certain heavy trucks and trailers, and (5) tires. Extends the Leaking Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund tax. Extends through July 6, 2012, the exemptions from excise taxes on: (1) certain sales, and (2) motor vehicles used by a state and local government. Extends the transfer of: (1) certain highway excise taxes to the HTF, and (2) motorboat fuel taxes from the HTF into the land and water conservation fund. Authorizes the Secretary of Education to delay the origination and disbursement of Direct Stafford loans to undergraduate students under the Higher Education Act of 1965 until enactment of MAP-21, except that the Secretary may only delay the origination and disbursement until July 6, 2012.
United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2012
Temporary Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2012 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation (DOT) to reduce the amount apportioned for a surface transportation program, project, or activity for FY2012 by amounts apportioned or allocated under the Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2012 for the period from October 1, 2011, through June 30, 2012. Prescribes a special rule to provide that the amendments made by this Act shall cease to be effective upon enactment of the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21). Amends the Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2011, Part II to continue through July 15, 2012, and authorizes appropriations through that date for, specified federal-aid highway programs under the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU), the SAFETEA-LU Technical Corrections Act of 2008, the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA), and the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century. Includes among extended funds those for: (1) the surface transportation research, development, and deployment program; (2) training and education; (3) the Bureau of Transportation Statistics; (4) university transportation research; and (5) intelligent transportation systems (ITS) research. Subjects funding for such programs generally to the same manner of distribution, administration, limitation, and availability for obligation, however, at 289/366 of the total amount, as funds authorized to be appropriated for such programs and activities out of the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) for FY2011. Subjects contract authority, however, between October 1, 2011, and July 15, 2012, for such programs to a specified pro rata limitation on obligations included in any Act making appropriations for FY2012 or a portion of that fiscal year. Waives this obligation limitation, though, for emergency relief and for the equity bonus program. Extends the allocation of certain transportation program funds to: (1) states for specific programs, including the Interstate and National Highway System program, the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement program, the highway safety improvement program, the Surface Transportation program, and the Highway Bridge program; and (2) the territories and Puerto Rico. Prohibits use of program funds for a high-speed MAGLEV system between Las Vegas, Nevada, and Anaheim, California. Authorizes appropriations from the HTF (other than the Mass Transit Account) for administrative expenses of the federal-aid highway program for the period from October 1, 2011, through July 15, 2012. Terminates the surface transportation project delivery pilot program on September 30, 2012. Amends SAFETEA-LU to extend, from October 1, 2011, through July 15, 2012, the authorization of appropriations for specified National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) safety programs (including NHTSA administrative expenses) and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) programs. Extends for the same period the funding for hazardous materials (hazmat) research projects. Amends the Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Act to continue, from October 1, 2011, through July 15, 2012, the authorized distribution of funds under such Act for coastal wetlands, recreational boating safety, projects under the Clean Vessel Act of 19921, boating infrastructure projects, and the National Outreach and Communications Program. Extends the set-aside for administrative expenses for carrying out such projects. Extends, from October 1, 2011, through July 15, 2012, the allocation of capital investment grant funds for federal transit programs, including the metropolitan planning program and the state planning and research program. Extends the special rule authority of the Secretary to award urbanized area formula grants to finance the operating cost of equipment and facilities for use in public transportation in an urbanized area with a population of at least 200,000. Allocates, from October 1, 2011, through July 15, 2012, certain amounts for formula and bus grants and capital investment grants for: (1) certain new fixed guideway capital projects; (2) new fixed guideway ferry systems and extension projects in Alaska and Hawaii; (3) payments to the Denali Commission for docks, waterfront development projects, and related transportation infrastructure; (4) ferry boats or ferry terminal facilities; (5) a set-aside for the national fuel cell bus technology development program; (6) projects in nonurbanized areas; (7) intermodal terminal projects; and (8) bus testing. Extends the apportionment of nonurbanized area formula grants for public transportation on Indian reservations. Extends, from October 1, 2011, through July 15, 2012, the apportionment of capital investment grant funds for certain fixed guideway modernization projects. Extends for that same period the authorization appropriations from the HTF Mass Transit Account for: (1) formula and bus grant projects, (2) capital investment grants, (3) transit research, and (4) administration expenses. Extends, from October 1, 2011, through July 15, 2012, certain SAFETEA-LU programs, including: (1) the contracted paratransit pilot program, (2) the public-private partnership pilot program, (3) project authorizations for final design and construction and preliminary engineering of specified fixed guideway projects, and (4) the elderly individuals and individuals with disabilities pilot program. Extends certain allocations for national research and technology programs.
United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2012
Temporary Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2012 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation (DOT) to reduce the amount apportioned for a surface transportation program, project, or activity for FY2012 by amounts apportioned or allocated under the Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2012 for the period from October 1, 2011, through June 30, 2012. Prescribes a special rule to provide that the amendments made by this Act shall cease to be effective upon enactment of the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21). Amends the Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2011, Part II to continue through July 15, 2012, and authorizes appropriations through that date for, specified federal-aid highway programs under the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU), the SAFETEA-LU Technical Corrections Act of 2008, the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA), and the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century. Includes among extended funds those for: (1) the surface transportation research, development, and deployment program; (2) training and education; (3) the Bureau of Transportation Statistics; (4) university transportation research; and (5) intelligent transportation systems (ITS) research. Subjects funding for such programs generally to the same manner of distribution, administration, limitation, and availability for obligation, however, at 289/366 of the total amount, as funds authorized to be appropriated for such programs and activities out of the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) for FY2011. Subjects contract authority, however, between October 1, 2011, and July 15, 2012, for such programs to a specified pro rata limitation on obligations included in any Act making appropriations for FY2012 or a portion of that fiscal year. Waives this obligation limitation, though, for emergency relief and for the equity bonus program. Extends the allocation of certain transportation program funds to: (1) states for specific programs, including the Interstate and National Highway System program, the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement program, the highway safety improvement program, the Surface Transportation program, and the Highway Bridge program; and (2) the territories and Puerto Rico. Prohibits use of program funds for a high-speed MAGLEV system between Las Vegas, Nevada, and Anaheim, California. Authorizes appropriations from the HTF (other than the Mass Transit Account) for administrative expenses of the federal-aid highway program for the period from October 1, 2011, through July 15, 2012. Terminates the surface transportation project delivery pilot program on September 30, 2012. Amends SAFETEA-LU to extend, from October 1, 2011, through July 15, 2012, the authorization of appropriations for specified National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) safety programs (including NHTSA administrative expenses) and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) programs. Extends for the same period the funding for hazardous materials (hazmat) research projects. Amends the Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Act to continue, from October 1, 2011, through July 15, 2012, the authorized distribution of funds under such Act for coastal wetlands, recreational boating safety, projects under the Clean Vessel Act of 19921, boating infrastructure projects, and the National Outreach and Communications Program. Extends the set-aside for administrative expenses for carrying out such projects. Extends, from October 1, 2011, through July 15, 2012, the allocation of capital investment grant funds for federal transit programs, including the metropolitan planning program and the state planning and research program. Extends the special rule authority of the Secretary to award urbanized area formula grants to finance the operating cost of equipment and facilities for use in public transportation in an urbanized area with a population of at least 200,000. Allocates, from October 1, 2011, through July 15, 2012, certain amounts for formula and bus grants and capital investment grants for: (1) certain new fixed guideway capital projects; (2) new fixed guideway ferry systems and extension projects in Alaska and Hawaii; (3) payments to the Denali Commission for docks, waterfront development projects, and related transportation infrastructure; (4) ferry boats or ferry terminal facilities; (5) a set-aside for the national fuel cell bus technology development program; (6) projects in nonurbanized areas; (7) intermodal terminal projects; and (8) bus testing. Extends the apportionment of nonurbanized area formula grants for public transportation on Indian reservations. Extends, from October 1, 2011, through July 15, 2012, the apportionment of capital investment grant funds for certain fixed guideway modernization projects. Extends for that same period the authorization appropriations from the HTF Mass Transit Account for: (1) formula and bus grant projects, (2) capital investment grants, (3) transit research, and (4) administration expenses. Extends, from October 1, 2011, through July 15, 2012, certain SAFETEA-LU programs, including: (1) the contracted paratransit pilot program, (2) the public-private partnership pilot program, (3) project authorizations for final design and construction and preliminary engineering of specified fixed guideway projects, and (4) the elderly individuals and individuals with disabilities pilot program. Extends certain allocations for national research and technology programs. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend through July 15, 2012, authority for expenditures from the: (1) HTF Highway and Mass Transit accounts, (2) Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, and (3) Leaking Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund. Extends through July 15, 2012, excise taxes on: (1) fuel used by certain buses, (2) certain alcohol fuels, (3) gasoline (other than aviation gasoline) and diesel fuel or kerosene, (4) certain heavy trucks and trailers, and (5) tires. Extends the Leaking Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund tax. Extends through July 15, 2012, the exemptions from excise taxes on: (1) certain sales, and (2) motor vehicles used by a state and local government. Extends the transfer of: (1) certain highway excise taxes to the HTF, and (2) motorboat fuel taxes from the HTF into the land and water conservation fund.
United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2012
Healthcare Tax Relief and Mandate Repeal Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) terminate the requirement, added by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), that individuals maintain minimum essential health insurance coverage for themselves and dependents; and (2) repeal provisions added by PPACA requiring certain employers who have a workforce of 50 or more full-time employees to provide health insurance coverage for their employees.
United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2012
Second Amendment Sovereignty Act of 2012 - Expresses the sense of Congress that U.S. sovereignty and the constitutionally protected freedoms of American gun owners must be upheld and not be undermined by a United Nations Arms Trade Treaty. Prohibits funds from being obligated or expended to use U.S. influence, in connection with negotiations for a United Nations Arms Trade Treaty, to restrict the rights of U.S. citizens under the Second Amendment to the Constitution, or to otherwise regulate domestic manufacture, assembly, possession, use, transfer, or purchase of firearms, ammunition, or related items.
United States · United States Congress · 17 May 2012
Declares that the House of Representatives should observe a minute of silence to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the 1972 Munich Olympics terrorist attack and remember those who lost their lives. Urges the International Olympic Committee to: (1) take the opportunity afforded by that anniversary to remind the world that the Olympics were established to send a message of hope and peace through sport and athletic competition; and (2) recognize those who lost their lives at the 1972 Munich Olympics with a minute of silence at every future Olympics Opening Ceremony, beginning with the 2012 London Summer Olympic Games, in an effort to reject and repudiate terrorism as antithetical to the Olympic goal of peaceful competition.
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 2012
Prohibits the Secretary of the Army and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from: (1) finalizing, adopting, implementing, administering, or enforcing the proposed guidance described in the notice of availability and request for comments entitled "EPA and Army Corps of Engineers Guidance Regarding Identification of Waters Protected by the Clean Water Act"; or (2) using such guidance, or any substantially similar guidance, as the basis for any decision regarding the scope of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (commonly known as the Clean Water Act) or any rulemaking. Provides that the use of such guidance as the basis for any rule shall be grounds for vacating such rule.
United States · United States Congress · 24 April 2012
Supports Israel's lawful exercise of self-defense up to and including action to stop Iranian aggression, including a strike against Iran's illegal nuclear program.
United States · United States Congress · 18 April 2012
Rewarding Achievement and Incentivizing Successful Employees Act or RAISE Act - Amends the National Labor Relations Act to declare that neither its prohibition against interference by an employer with employees' right to bargain collectively, nor the terms of a collective bargaining agreement entered into between employees and an employer after enactment of this Act, shall prohibit an employer from paying an employee higher wages, pay, or other compensation than the agreement provides for.
United States · United States Congress · 17 April 2012
Recess Appointment Restoration Act - Prohibits payment from the Treasury to any individual who is appointed to fill a vacancy that must be filled by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, until such appointee has been confirmed by the Senate, unless such individual was appointed while the Senate was adjourned for at least 10 days.
United States · United States Congress · 16 April 2012
Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2012, Part II - Amends the Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2011, Part II to continue through FY2012, and authorizes appropriations through that date for, specified federal-aid highway programs under the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU), the SAFETEA-LU Technical Corrections Act of 2008, the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA), and the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century. Includes among extended funds those for: (1) the surface transportation research, development, and deployment program; (2) training and education; (3) the Bureau of Transportation Statistics; (4) university transportation research; and (5) intelligent transportation systems (ITS) research. Subjects funding for such programs generally to the same manner of distribution, administration, limitation, and availability for obligation as funds authorized to be appropriated for such programs and activities out of the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) for FY2011. Subjects contract authority, however, for such programs to the same limitation on obligations included in any Act making appropriations for FY2012 or a portion of that fiscal year. Waives this obligation limitation, though, for emergency relief and for the equity bonus program. Extends the allocation of certain transportation program funds to: (1) states for specific programs, including the Interstate and National Highway System program, the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement program, the highway safety improvement program, the Surface Transportation program, and the Highway Bridge program; and (2) the territories and Puerto Rico. Prohibits use of program funds for a high-speed MAGLEV system between Las Vegas, Nevada, and Anaheim, California. Authorizes appropriations from the HTF (other than the Mass Transit Account) for administrative expenses of the federal-aid highway program through FY2012. Amends SAFETEA-LU to extend through that date the authorization of appropriations for specified National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) safety programs and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) programs (including NHTSA and FMCSA administrative expenses). Extends through FY2012 the funding for hazardous materials (hazmat) research projects. Amends the Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Act to continue through that date the authorized distribution of funds under such Act for coastal wetlands, recreational boating safety, projects under the Clean Vessel Act of 19921, boating infrastructure projects, and the National Outreach and Communications Program. Extends the set-aside for administrative expenses for carrying out such projects. Extends through FY2012, the allocation of capital investment grant funds for federal transit programs, including the metropolitan planning program and the state planning and research program. Extends the special rule authority of the Secretary to award urbanized area formula grants to finance the operating cost of equipment and facilities for use in public transportation in an urbanized area with a population of at least 200,000. Allocates through FY2012, certain amounts for formula and bus grants and capital investment grants for: (1) certain new fixed guideway capital projects; (2) new fixed guideway ferry systems and extension projects in Alaska and Hawaii; (3) payments to the Denali Commission for docks, waterfront development projects, and related transportation infrastructure; (4) ferry boats or ferry terminal facilities; (5) a set-aside for the national fuel cell bus technology development program; (6) projects in nonurbanized areas; (7) intermodal terminal projects; and (8) bus testing. Extends the apportionment of nonurbanized area formula grants for public transportation on Indian reservations. Eliminates the special rule for the apportionment for October 1, 2011, through June 30, 2012, of capital investment grant funds for certain fixed guideway modernization projects. Extends through FY2012, the authorization of appropriations from the HTF Mass Transit Account for: (1) formula and bus grant projects, (2) capital investment grants, (3) transit research, and (4) administration expenses. Extends through FY2012 certain SAFETEA-LU programs, including: (1) the contracted paratransit pilot program, (2) the public-private partnership pilot program, (3) project authorizations for final design and construction and preliminary engineering of specified fixed guideway projects, and (4) the elderly individuals and individuals with disabilities pilot program. Extends certain allocations for national research and technology programs. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend through FY2012 excise taxes on: (1) fuel used by certain buses, (2) certain alcohol fuels, (3) gasoline (other than aviation gasoline) and diesel fuel or kerosene, (4) certain heavy trucks and trailers, and (5) tires. Extends through FY2012 the exemptions from excise taxes on: (1) certain sales, and (2) motor vehicles used by a state and local government. Extends the transfer of: (1) certain highway excise taxes to the HTF, and (2) motorboat fuel taxes from the HTF into the land and water conservation fund. Extends through FY2012 authority for expenditures from: (1) the HTF Highway and Mass Transit accounts, (2) the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, and (3) the Leaking Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund. North American Energy Access Act - Prohibits construction, operation, or maintenance of the oil pipeline and related facilities described in the Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Keystone XL Pipeline Project issued by the Department of State on August 26, 2011 (including any modified version of that pipeline and related facilities), unless it is in compliance with the terms of a permit prescribed under this Act. Instructs the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to issue, within 30 days after receipt of an application, and without additional conditions, a permit for such pipeline and related facilities implemented in accordance with such Final EIS. Deems a permit to have been issued if FERC has not acted upon a permit application within 30 days after receipt. Declares FERC approval a prerequisite to authorization for a permit applicant to make substantial modifications to either the pipeline route or any other term of the Final EIS. Directs FERC to: (1) enter into a memorandum of understanding with the state of Nebraska for review under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) of any modification to the proposed pipeline route, and (2) complete consideration and approval of such modification within 30 days after receiving the governor's approval. Deems approval to have been issued if FERC has not acted within 30 days after receiving an application for approval of a modification. Authorizes the permit holder to commence or continue construction of a portion of the oil pipeline and related facilities outside Nebraska while any modification of the proposed pipeline route in Nebraska is under review. Considers the final EIS issued by the Secretary of State on August 26, 2011, to satisfy all NEPA requirements. Resources and Ecosystems Sustainability, Tourist Opportunities, and Revived Economies of the Gulf Coast States Act of 2012 - Establishes in the Treasury the Gulf Coast Restoration Trust Fund, to be available: (1) for expenditure to restore the Gulf Coast region from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill for undertaking projects and programs to restore and protect the natural resources, ecosystems, fisheries, marine and wildlife habitats, beaches, coastal wetlands, and economy of that region; and (2) solely to the Gulf Coast states of Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas to restore the ecosystems and economy of the Gulf Coast region.
United States · United States Congress · 28 March 2012
Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2012 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation (DOT) to reduce the amount apportioned for a surface transportation program, project, or activity for FY2012 by amounts apportioned or allocated under the Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2011, Part II for the period from October 1, 2011, through March 31, 2012. Amends the Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2011, Part II to continue through June 1, 2012, and authorizes appropriations through that date for, specified federal-aid highway programs under the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU), the SAFETEA-LU Technical Corrections Act of 2008, the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA), and the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century. Includes among extended funds those for: (1) the surface transportation research, development, and deployment program; (2) training and education; (3) the Bureau of Transportation Statistics; (4) university transportation research; and (5) intelligent transportation systems (ITS) research. Subjects funding for such programs generally to the same manner of distribution, administration, limitation, and availability for obligation, however, at two-thirds of the total amount, as funds authorized to be appropriated for such programs and activities out of the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) for FY2011. Subjects contract authority, however, between October 1, 2011, and June 1, 2012, for such programs to a specified pro rata limitation on obligations included in any Act making appropriations for FY2012 or a portion of that fiscal year. Waives this obligation limitation, though, for emergency relief and for the equity bonus program. Extends the allocation of certain transportation program funds to: (1) states for specific programs, including the Interstate and National Highway System program, the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement program, the highway safety improvement program, the Surface Transportation program, and the Highway Bridge program; and (2) the territories and Puerto Rico. Prohibits use of program funds for a high-speed MAGLEV system between Las Vegas, Nevada, and Anaheim, California. Authorizes the appropriation of $261,903,500 from the HTF (other than the Mass Transit Account) for administrative expenses of the federal-aid highway program for the period from October 1, 2011, through June 1, 2012. Amends SAFETEA-LU to extend for the same period the authorization of appropriations for specified National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) safety programs (including NHTSA administrative expenses) and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) programs. Extends, from October 1, 2011, through June 1, 2012, the funding for hazardous materials (hazmat) research projects. Amends the Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Act to continue for the same period of time the authorized distribution of funds under such Act for coastal wetlands, recreational boating safety, projects under the Clean Vessel Act of 19921, boating infrastructure projects, and the National Outreach and Communications Program. Extends, from October 1, 2011, through June 1, 2012, the allocation of capital investment grant funds for federal transit programs, including the metropolitan planning program and the state planning and research program. Extends the special rule authority of the Secretary to award urbanized area formula grants to finance the operating cost of equipment and facilities for use in public transportation in an urbanized area with a population of at least 200,000. Allocates, from October 1, 2011, through June 1, 2012, certain amounts for formula and bus grants and capital investment grants for: (1) certain new fixed guideway capital projects; (2) new fixed guideway ferry systems and extension projects in Alaska and Hawaii; (3) payments to the Denali Commission for docks, waterfront development projects, and related transportation infrastructure; (4) ferry boats or ferry terminal facilities; (5) a set-aside for the national fuel cell bus technology development program; (6) projects in nonurbanized areas; (7) intermodal terminal projects; and (8) bus testing. Extends the apportionment of nonurbanized area formula grants for public transportation on Indian reservations. Extends, from October 1, 2011, through June 1, 2012, the apportionment of capital investment grant funds for certain fixed guideway modernization projects. Extends for that same period the authorization appropriations from the HTF Mass Transit Account for: (1) formula and bus grant projects, (2) capital investment grants, (3) transit research, and (4) administration expenses. Extends, from October 1, 2011, through June 1, 2012, certain SAFETEA-LU programs, including: (1) the contracted paratransit pilot program, (2) the public-private partnership pilot program, (3) project authorizations for final design and construction and preliminary engineering of specified fixed guideway projects, and (4) the elderly individuals and individuals with disabilities pilot program. Extends certain allocations for national research and technology programs. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend through June 1, 2012, authority for expenditures from the: (1) HTF Highway and Mass Transit accounts, (2) Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, and (3) Leaking Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund. Extends through June 1, 2012, excise taxes on: (1) fuel used by certain buses, (2) certain alcohol fuels, (3) gasoline (other than aviation gasoline) and diesel fuel or kerosene, (4) certain heavy trucks and trailers, and (5) tires. Extends the Leaking Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund tax. Extends through FY2013 the excise tax on certain heavy vehicles. Extends through June 1, 2012, the exemptions from excise taxes on: (1) certain sales, and (2) motor vehicles used by a state and local government. Extends the transfer of: (1) certain highway excise taxes to the HTF, and (2) motorboat fuel taxes from the HTF into the land and water conservation fund.
United States · United States Congress · 28 March 2012
Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2012 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation (DOT) to reduce the amount apportioned for a surface transportation program, project, or activity for FY2012 by amounts apportioned or allocated under the Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2011, Part II for the period from October 1, 2011, through March 31, 2012. Amends the Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2011, Part II to continue through June 30, 2012, and authorizes appropriations through that date for, specified federal-aid highway programs under the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU), the SAFETEA-LU Technical Corrections Act of 2008, the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA), and the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century. Includes among extended funds those for: (1) the surface transportation research, development, and deployment program; (2) training and education; (3) the Bureau of Transportation Statistics; (4) university transportation research; and (5) intelligent transportation systems (ITS) research. Subjects funding for such programs generally to the same manner of distribution, administration, limitation, and availability for obligation, however, at three-quarters of the total amount, as funds authorized to be appropriated for such programs and activities out of the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) for FY2011. Subjects contract authority, however, between October 1, 2011, and June 30, 2012, for such programs to a specified pro rata limitation on obligations included in any Act making appropriations for FY2012 or a portion of that fiscal year. Waives this obligation limitation, though, for emergency relief and for the equity bonus program. Extends the allocation of certain transportation program funds to: (1) states for specific programs, including the Interstate and National Highway System program, the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement program, the highway safety improvement program, the Surface Transportation program, and the Highway Bridge program; and (2) the territories and Puerto Rico. Prohibits use of program funds for a high-speed MAGLEV system between Las Vegas, Nevada, and Anaheim, California. Authorizes appropriations from the HTF (other than the Mass Transit Account) for administrative expenses of the federal-aid highway program for the period from October 1, 2011, through June 30, 2012. Amends SAFETEA-LU to extend for the same period the authorization of appropriations for specified National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) safety programs (including NHTSA administrative expenses) and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) programs. Extends, from October 1, 2011, through June 30, 2012, the funding for hazardous materials (hazmat) research projects. Amends the Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Act to continue for the same period of time the authorized distribution of funds under such Act for coastal wetlands, recreational boating safety, projects under the Clean Vessel Act of 19921, boating infrastructure projects, and the National Outreach and Communications Program. Extends the set-aside for administrative expenses for carrying out such projects. Extends, from October 1, 2011, through June 30, 2012, the allocation of capital investment grant funds for federal transit programs, including the metropolitan planning program and the state planning and research program. Extends the special rule authority of the Secretary to award urbanized area formula grants to finance the operating cost of equipment and facilities for use in public transportation in an urbanized area with a population of at least 200,000. Allocates, from October 1, 2011, through June 30, 2012, certain amounts for formula and bus grants and capital investment grants for: (1) certain new fixed guideway capital projects; (2) new fixed guideway ferry systems and extension projects in Alaska and Hawaii; (3) payments to the Denali Commission for docks, waterfront development projects, and related transportation infrastructure; (4) ferry boats or ferry terminal facilities; (5) a set-aside for the national fuel cell bus technology development program; (6) projects in nonurbanized areas; (7) intermodal terminal projects; and (8) bus testing. Extends the apportionment of nonurbanized area formula grants for public transportation on Indian reservations. Extends, from October 1, 2011, through June 30, 2012, the apportionment of capital investment grant funds for certain fixed guideway modernization projects. Extends for that same period the authorization appropriations from the HTF Mass Transit Account for: (1) formula and bus grant projects, (2) capital investment grants, (3) transit research, and (4) administration expenses. Extends, from October 1, 2011, through June 30,2012, certain SAFETEA-LU programs, including: (1) the contracted paratransit pilot program, (2) the public-private partnership pilot program, (3) project authorizations for final design and construction and preliminary engineering of specified fixed guideway projects, and (4) the elderly individuals and individuals with disabilities pilot program. Extends certain allocations for national research and technology programs. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend through June 30, 2012, authority for expenditures from the: (1) HTF Highway and Mass Transit accounts, (2) Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, and (3) Leaking Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund. Extends through June 30, 2012, excise taxes on: (1) fuel used by certain buses, (2) certain alcohol fuels, (3) gasoline (other than aviation gasoline) and diesel fuel or kerosene, (4) certain heavy trucks and trailers, and (5) tires. Extends the Leaking Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund tax. Extends through FY2013 the excise tax on certain heavy vehicles. Extends through June 30, 2012, the exemptions from excise taxes on: (1) certain sales, and (2) motor vehicles used by a state and local government. Extends the transfer of: (1) certain highway excise taxes to the HTF, and (2) motorboat fuel taxes from the HTF into the land and water conservation fund.
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 2012
Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2012 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation (DOT) to reduce the amount apportioned for a surface transportation program, project, or activity for FY2012 by amounts apportioned or allocated under the Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2011, Part II for the period from October 1, 2011, through March 31, 2012. Amends the Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2011, Part II to continue through June 30, 2012, and authorizes appropriations through that date for, specified federal-aid highway programs under the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU), the SAFETEA-LU Technical Corrections Act of 2008, the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA), and the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century. Includes among extended funds those for: (1) the surface transportation research, development, and deployment program; (2) training and education; (3) the Bureau of Transportation Statistics; (4) university transportation research; and (5) intelligent transportation systems (ITS) research. Subjects funding for such programs generally to the same manner of distribution, administration, limitation, and availability for obligation, however, at three-quarters of the total amount, as funds authorized to be appropriated for such programs and activities out of the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) for FY2011. Subjects contract authority, however, between October 1, 2011, and June 30, 2012, for such programs to a specified pro rata limitation on obligations included in any Act making appropriations for FY2012 or a portion of that fiscal year. Waives this obligation limitation, though, for emergency relief and for the equity bonus program. Extends the allocation of certain transportation program funds to: (1) states for specific programs, including the Interstate and National Highway System program, the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement program, the highway safety improvement program, the Surface Transportation program, and the Highway Bridge program; and (2) the territories and Puerto Rico. Prohibits use of program funds for a high-speed MAGLEV system between Las Vegas, Nevada, and Anaheim, California. Authorizes the appropriation of $294,641,438 from the HTF (other than the Mass Transit Account) for administrative expenses of the federal-aid highway program for the period from October 1, 2011, through June 30, 2012. Amends SAFETEA-LU to extend for the same period the authorization of appropriations for specified National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) safety programs (including NHTSA administrative expenses) and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) programs. Extends, from October 1, 2011, through June 30, 2012, the funding for hazardous materials (hazmat) research projects. Amends the Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Act to continue for the same period of time the authorized distribution of funds under such Act for coastal wetlands, recreational boating safety, projects under the Clean Vessel Act of 1992, boating infrastructure projects, and the National Outreach and Communications Program. Extends, from October 1, 2011, through June 30, 2012, the allocation of capital investment grant funds for federal transit programs, including the metropolitan planning program and the state planning and research program. Extends the special rule authority of the Secretary to award urbanized area formula grants to finance the operating cost of equipment and facilities for use in public transportation in an urbanized area with a population of at least 200,000. Allocates, from October 1, 2011, through June 30, 2012, certain amounts for formula and bus grants and capital investment grants for: (1) certain new fixed guideway capital projects; (2) new fixed guideway ferry systems and extension projects in Alaska and Hawaii; (3) payments to the Denali Commission for docks, waterfront development projects, and related transportation infrastructure; (4) ferry boats or ferry terminal facilities; (5) a set-aside for the national fuel cell bus technology development program; (6) projects in nonurbanized areas; (7) intermodal terminal projects; and (8) bus testing. Extends the apportionment of nonurbanized area formula grants for public transportation on Indian reservations. Extends, from October 1, 2011, through June 30, 2012, the apportionment of capital investment grant funds for certain fixed guideway modernization projects. Extends for that same period the authorization appropriations from the HTF Mass Transit Account for: (1) formula and bus grant projects, (2) capital investment grants, (3) transit research, and (4) administration expenses. Extends, from October 1, 2011, through June 30,2012, certain SAFETEA-LU programs, including: (1) the contracted paratransit pilot program, (2) the public-private partnership pilot program, (3) project authorizations for final design and construction and preliminary engineering of specified fixed guideway projects, and (4) the elderly individuals and individuals with disabilities pilot program. Extends certain allocations for national research and technology programs. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend through June 30, 2012, authority for expenditures from the: (1) HTF Highway and Mass Transit accounts, (2) Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, and (3) Leaking Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund. Extends through June 30, 2012, excise taxes on: (1) fuel used by certain buses, (2) certain alcohol fuels, (3) gasoline (other than aviation gasoline) and diesel fuel or kerosene, (4) certain heavy trucks and trailers, and (5) tires. Extends the Leaking Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund tax. Extends through FY2013 the excise tax on certain heavy vehicles. Extends through June 30, 2012, the exemptions from excise taxes on: (1) certain sales, and (2) motor vehicles used by a state and local government. Extends the transfer of: (1) certain highway excise taxes to the HTF, and (2) motorboat fuel taxes from the HTF into the land and water conservation fund.
United States · United States Congress · 21 March 2012
Small Business Tax Cut Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow domestic businesses a tax deduction for 20% of the lesser of their qualified domestic business income (income effectively connected with a trade or business in the United States) or their taxable income for the taxable year. Limits the amount of such deduction to 50% of the the greater of the W-2 wages (payroll) paid to business non-owners or the sum of the W-2 wages paid to non-owner family members of direct owners (i.e., stockholders), plus any W-2 wages paid to direct owners who have a 10% or less interest in a business.
United States · United States Congress · 5 March 2012
United States-Israel Enhanced Security Cooperation Act of 2012 - States that it is U.S. policy to: (1) reaffirm the commitment to Israel's security as a Jewish state, (2) provide Israel with the military capabilities to defend itself and help preserve its qualitative military edge, (3) expand military and civilian cooperation, (4) assist in a negotiated settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that results in two states living side by side in peace and security, and (5) encourage Israel's neighbors to recognize Israel's right to exist as a Jewish state. Expresses the sense of Congress that the United States should take specified actions to assist in Israel's defense.
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2012
Affirms that it is a vital national interest of the United States to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapons capability and warns that time is limited to prevent that from happening. Urges increasing economic and diplomatic pressure on Iran to secure an agreement that includes: (1) suspension of all uranium enrichment-related and reprocessing activities, (2) complete cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) regarding Iran's nuclear activities, and (3) a permanent agreement that verifiably assures that Iran's nuclear program is entirely peaceful. Supports: (1) the universal rights and democratic aspirations of the Iranian people, and (2) U.S. policy to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons capability. Rejects any U.S. policy that would rely on efforts to contain a nuclear weapons-capable Iran. Urges the President to reaffirm the unacceptability of an Iran with nuclear-weapons capability and oppose any policy that would rely on containment as an option in response to the Iranian nuclear threat.
United States · United States Congress · 28 February 2012
Pro Football Hall of Fame Commemorative Coin Act - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue not more than 50,000 $5-gold coins, 400,000 $1-silver coins, and 750,000 half-dollar coins emblematic of the game of professional football. Requires all sales of such coins to include specified surcharges, which shall be paid by the Secretary to the Pro Football Hall of Fame to help finance the construction of a new building and the renovation of existing Pro Football Hall of Fame facilities.
United States · United States Congress · 28 February 2012
John F. Kennedy Center Reauthorization Act of 2012 - Allows the Trustees of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts (the Board) to undertake such activities as may be necessary for the construction of a specified addition to the south end of the building of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts (the expansion project). Authorizes the Board to construct the expansion project and makes the Board responsible for the planning, design, engineering, and construction of the project. Requires the costs of those activities to be paid for using nonappropriated funds. Instructs the Board, before awarding a contract for the construction of the expansion project, to estimate any additional annual operations and maintenance costs (or savings) associated with the project. Requires a final determination to proceed with such project to be based on the ability of the Board to accommodate any such identified additional costs within its other budget priorities. Authorizes appropriations for FY2013-FY2014 to the Board for: (1) maintenance, repair, and security; and (2) capital projects.
United States · United States Congress · 16 February 2012
States that the property interest of Iran in: (1) a blocked asset shall include an interest in property of any nature whatsoever, including any direct or indirect interest in securities or other financial assets immobilized or in any other manner held in book entry form and credited to a securities account in the United States, or in any funds transfers held in a U.S. financial institution; (2) securities or other financial assets immobilized or in any other manner held in book entry form and credited to a securities account in the United States shall be deemed to exist at every tier of securities intermediary necessary to hold an interest in any such securities or other financial assets; and (3) a funds transfer shall exist at any intermediary bank necessary to complete such funds transfer. States that property of Iran shall be deemed to be property in the United States of Iran if that property is: (1) an interest, held for Iran's benefit or for the benefit of any securities intermediary that directly or indirectly holds the interest for Iran's benefit, in securities or other financial assets that are represented by certificates or are in other physical form and are immobilized, custodized, or held for safekeeping or any other reason in the United States; or (2) an interest in securities or other financial assets held in book entry form or otherwise, and credited to a securities account in the United States by any securities intermediary directly or indirectly for Iran's benefit or for the benefit of any other securities intermediary that directly or indirectly holds the interest for Iran's benefit. States that: (1) an interest in securities or other financial assets is held and credited to a securities account in the United States by a securities intermediary if the securities intermediary is located in the United States; and (2) ownership by Iran, or its central bank or monetary authority, of any property shall be deemed to be commercial activity in the United States and that property, including any interest in that property, shall be deemed not to be held for the central bank's or monetary authority's own account. Revises provisions regarding exceptions to the immunity from attachment or execution of a foreign state's property in the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 16 February 2012
Disapproves and nullifies the rule submitted by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) and published December 22, 2011, relating to representation election procedures.
United States · United States Congress · 15 February 2012
Directs the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President Pro Tempore of the Senate to make arrangements for the presentation of a congressional gold medal to Jack Nicklaus in recognition of his service to the nation in promoting excellence and good sportsmanship. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to strike such gold medal and to strike and sell duplicate bronze medals at a price sufficient to cover the costs of the gold and bronze medals.
United States · United States Congress · 9 February 2012
Keep Employees' Emails and Phones Secure Act or KEEP Secure Act - Amends the National Labor Relations Act to prohibit the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) from requiring an employer to provide the NLRB or a labor organization with employee telephone numbers or email addresses.
United States · United States Congress · 31 January 2012
American Energy and Infrastructure Jobs Act of 2012 - Authorizes appropriations out of the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) (other than the Alternative Transportation Account) equal to current federal highway funding levels for FY2013-FY2016 for: (1) certain core federal-aid highway programs, and (2) Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) administrative expenses. Authorizes appropriations out of the HTF Alternative Transportation Account equal to such levels for FY2013-FY2016 for certain other core federal-aid highway programs. Prescribes ceiling obligations for: (1) federal-aid highway and highway safety construction programs, and (2) the Alternative Transportation Account. Directs the Secretary of Transportation of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to apportion the remainder of federal-aid highway funds to the states for the National Highway System (NHS), the congestion mitigation and air quality improvement (CMAQ), the surface transportation, and the highway safety improvement programs. Directs the Secretary to identify deficient highway bridges in each state and determine their replacement and rehabilitation costs. Requires states to develop and implement a risk-based state asset management plan identifying actions for the maintenance, repair, and rehabilitation of NHS infrastructure and that lead to the achievement of the national goals for infrastructure condition and performance. Replaces the interstate maintenance program with the NHS program. Revises NHS program, surface transportation program, and CMAQ eligibility requirements. Revises formulae for the state apportionment of federal-aid highway funds in urbanized areas with populations over 200,000 as well as in other areas. Authorizes a state to obligate the apportionment of CMAQ funds for projects: (1) resulting in new capacity for single occupant vehicles only if it will contribute to the mitigation of congestion or improvement of air quality, and (2) for PM-10 nonattainment areas. Revises the equity bonus program. Requires the Secretary to ensure that a state's apportionment of funds for specified federal-aid highway programs is at least 94% (currently, 92%) of the amount obtained from a specified formula involving estimated highway use taxes paid into the HTF by a state. Reauthorizes and revises the emergency relief fund program. Revises program eligibility requirements to include the costs of debris removal as an eligible disaster project cost only in certain cases. Authorizes the Secretary to obligate fund amounts for the repair or reconstruction of disaster-affected tribal roads, federal lands highways, and other federally-owned roads open to public travel, whether or not they are federal-aid highways. Revises the apportionment of funds to states for the construction of ferry boats and ferry terminal facilities (excluding ferry maintenance facilities). Revises the highway bridge program. Directs the Secretary to: (1) inventory all highway bridges and tunnels, (2) identify structurally deficient or functionally obsolete bridges or tunnels, (3) assign a risk-based priority for replacement or rehabilitation of each structurally deficient bridge or tunnel, (3) establish national inspection standards for evaluating all highway bridges and tunnels, and (4) establish a training program for highway bridge and tunnel inspectors. Makes 10% of a state's apportionment of certain federal-aid highway funds available only for National Highway System (NHS) bridge replacement projects. Amends the federal-aid highway program to modify the minimum penalties states are required to impose on motorists convicted multiple times for driving while intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol. Requires repeat offenders to have: (1) all their driving privileges (currently, only a driver's license) suspended for at least one year; or (2) their unlimited driving privileges suspended for one year, with limited driving privileges permitted, if an ignition interlock device is installed for at least one year on each of the motor vehicles they own or operate. Amends the the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) to revise DOT's TIFIA program of direct loans, loan guarantees, and credit for surface transportation projects. Makes eligible for TIFIA program assistance: (1) a program of related transportation projects coordinated to achieve a common transportation goal and meet certain other requirements; and (2) a highway, transit, or pedestrian project that improves mobility within the station area of a transit, passenger rail, or intercity bus station. Authorizes a state, local government, state or local government agency, or public authority to apply to the Secretary for assistance under a master credit agreement. Requires the Secretary to establish procedures for processing such applications. Increases from 33% to 49% the maximum amount of direct loans, loan guarantees, and credit for project costs. Revises the state infrastructure bank program. Revises the toll roads, bridges, tunnels, and ferries program. Allows a state, interstate compact of states, or public entity to: (1) reconstruct, restore, or rehabilitate a Interstate System (IS) high occupancy vehicle (HOV) highway, bridge, or tunnel toll facility over which it has jurisdiction provided certain requirements are met, and (2) levy tolls on vehicles (excluding HOVs). Requires all federal-aid highway toll facilities to implement technologies or business practices that provide for the interoperability of electronic toll collection programs. Revises the highway safety improvement program. Requires state strategic highway safety plans to be updated biannually and meet certain requirements. Prohibits a state from obligating highway safety improvement program funds to purchase, operate, or maintain an automated traffic enforcement system. Requires states to report to the Secretary on: (1) the 10 railway-highway crossings with the greatest need for safety improvement; and (2) an action plan that identifies projects to improve safety at those railway-highway crossings. Directs the Secretary to develop a five-year National Freight Policy for the expansion and improvement of freight transportation infrastructure in the United States. Requires the Secretary to encourage states to develop freight plans. Prescribes certain federal weight limitations requirements for trucks operating on the IS. Authorizes tribal transportation and federal lands transportation programs for various transportation planning and highway improvement projects. Repeals specified federal-aid highway programs. Authorizes the governor of a state to use the state's apportionment of federal-aid highway funds for the repair or replacement of transportation facilities in the event of an emergency. Directs the Secretary to conduct a survey to evaluate the capacity of each state to provide adequate parking and rest facilities for commercial motor vehicles. Encourages the Secretaries of Labor and of Education to use funds to develop training and employment education programs for transportation-related careers and trades. Public Transportation Act of 2012 - Revises capital investment grant requirements for new fixed-guideway capital projects. Requires the Secretary to enter into full funding grant agreements for new fixed-guideway capital projects under the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) New Starts and Small Starts programs. Authorizes the Secretary to make bus and bus facilities formula grants to assist states and local governments in financing capital projects to: (1) replace, rehabilitate, and purchase buses and related equipment; and (2) construct bus-related facilities. Directs the Secretary to apportion a specified percentage of rural area formula grants to states to develop and support public transportation and intercity bus transportation in rural areas. Authorizes the Secretary to make competitive coordinated access and mobility program formula grants to states, local governments, nonprofits organizations, or private operators of public transportation services for: (1) public transportation projects to meet the special needs of elderly individuals and individuals with disabilities; (2) job access and reverse commute projects to transport welfare recipients and eligible low-income individuals to and from jobs; and (3) new public transportation services and public transportation alternatives for individuals with disabilities. Authorizes the Secretary to undertake, or make grants and contracts for, programs that provide training and technical assistance to providers of public transportation services. Authorizes the Secretary to award grants or enter into contracts with a public university to establish a National Transit Institute to support training and educational programs for federal, state, and local transportation employees engaged in government-aid public transportation work. Revises the apportionment of appropriations for job access and reverse commute formula grants for certain urbanized areas with populations less than 200,000. Reauthorizes and revises the fixed guideway modernization program. Authorizes appropriations for: (1) formula and bus grants; (2) capital investment grants; (3) transit research, training and outreach, and technical assistance activities; and (4) administration. Prescribes procedures for expediting the environmental review of surface transportation projects. Revises and makes permanent the surface transportation project delivery pilot program. Requires the Secretary to establish an alternative relocation payment process for the payment of relocation assistance to persons displaced by federally-assisted programs and projects. Amends the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970 to provide increases in payments made by a displacing agency for: (1) relocation expenses for displaced farms, nonprofit organizations, or small businesses; and (2) replacement housing for displaced homeowners and certain other tenants. Revises metropolitan transportation planning requirements. Requires the designation of a Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) for an urbanized area with a population of more than 100,000 individuals. Requires MPOs, in cooperation with state and public transportation operators, to develop metropolitan long-range transportation plans and transportation improvement programs (TIPs) that provide for the development and operation of transportation systems and facilities (including environmental mitigation activities) for metropolitan planning areas (i.e. urbanized areas and nonattainment areas for ozone or carbon monoxide). Requires the Secretary to identify as a transportation management area each urbanized area with a population over 200,000 individuals. Requires the selection of congestion mitigation projects for a metropolitan planning area serving a transportation management area from an approved metropolitan long-range transportation plan and TIP. Requires states to develop statewide strategic long-range transportation plans and statewide TIPs. Directs the Secretary to develop a national strategic transportation plan for transportation projects (including major roadways, public transportation facilities, intercity bus facilities, multimodal and intermodal facilities, and intermodal connectors) that facilitate the development of: (1) a national transportation system, and (2) an integrated regional transportation system. Directs the Secretary to establish: (1) a national performance management system, and (2) certain core performance measures. Authorizes appropriations for NHTSA for: (1) highway safety programs, (2) the National Driver Register, and (3) administrative expenses. Revises highway safety program requirements. Revises the formula for the apportionment to states of highway safety funds to require specified percentages of funds going only to states that have enacted and are enforcing: (1) a primary safety belt use law, (2) an ignition interlock law, and (3) a graduated drivers licensing law. Directs the Secretary to require the governor of each state to develop for DOT approval a highway safety plan that includes: (1) certain quantifiable performance targets for traffic crashes and resulting fatalities and serious injuries; and (2) the state's strategy for using its funds apportionment for projects and activities that will allow the state to meet those performance targets. Repeals specified highway safety programs. Motor Carrier Safety, Efficiency, and Accountability Act of 2012 - Authorizes appropriations from the HTF (other than the Alternative Transportation Account) for FY2013-FY2016 for the Secretary to: (1) make grants to states for the development of commercial motor vehicle safety programs, and (2) pay administrative expense of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Authorizes appropriations for: (1) the commercial driver's license (CDL) improvement grant program, and (2) the commercial vehicle information systems and networks deployment grant program. Revises commercial motor vehicle registration requirements. Requires the Secretary to issue a distinctive registration number to persons registered to provide transportation or service as a motor carrier, freight forwarder, or broker. Requires the Secretary to register a person to provide motor carrier services if, in addition to meeting other criteria, that person has also: (1) completed a DOT proficiency examination demonstrating knowledge of motor carrier safety regulations and requirements; (2) disclosed any relationship involving common stock, common ownership, common control, common management, or common familial relationship between the carrier and any other motor carrier in the three-years preceding the filing of an application for registration; and (3) been issued a DOT number. Authorizes the Secretary to register a person to provide transportation of household goods as a household goods motor carrier only after that person demonstrates: (1) the ability to comply with the DOT household goods consumer protection rules, and (2) knowledge of household goods motor carrier safety regulations and requirements through completion of a DOT proficiency examination. Requires the Secretary to register a person to provide service as a freight forwarder or to be a broker for transportation of property if that person is qualified by experience to act as one. Revises requirements for the registration as a motor carrier of freight forwarders and brokers. Authorizes the Secretary to deny, suspend, amend, or revoke the registration of a motor carrier, broker, or freight forwarder for failure to disclose in its application a material fact with respect to its ability to comply with federal law, regulations, or a registration condition. Prohibits two or more employers from using common ownership, common management, common control, or common familial relationship to avoid compliance, or conceal noncompliance or a history of noncompliance with commercial motor vehicle safety regulations or a DOT order. Revises financial security requirements for brokers and freight forwarders. Authorizes the Secretary to register a person as a broker or freight forwarder only if that person files with the Secretary a surety bond, proof of trust fund, or other financial security (or combination of them) to ensure financial responsibility of $100,000. Prohibits certain persons, including certain ocean freight forwarders, customs brokers, or indirect air carriers holding an approved Standard Security Program from providing interstate brokerage services unless the person: (1) is registered and in compliance with federal broker registration requirements, and (2) has satisfied federal financial security requirements. Authorizes an employer (or employee) to operate a commercial motor vehicle only if that employer is registered by the Secretary and receives a DOT number. Requires the Secretary to administer a motor carrier safety assistance program to make grants to states to develop motor carrier safety improvement programs and enforce federal and state commercial motor vehicle safety and hazardous materials transportation safety regulations, standards, and orders. Requires state plans to establish performance targets for enforcement activities and other benchmarks to reduce commercial motor vehicle fatalities and crashes. Requires the Secretary to carry out a performance and registration information systems management program to link federal motor carrier safety information systems with state commercial vehicle registration and licensing systems. Revises commercial motor vehicle driver safety fitness requirements. Directs the Secretary to require a safety review of newly registered commercial motor vehicle owners or operators that: (1) transport hazardous materials (hazmat) within 9 months after the beginning of operations, and (2) transport passengers within 90 days after the beginning of operations. Requires the Secretary to: (1) determine the safety fitness and assign a rating for each registered motorcoach owner and operator; and (2) establish a process for monitoring regularly the safety performance of each owner or operator following the assignment of a rating. Revises medical examiner requirements. Requires the Secretary to establish a national registry of medical examiners. Requires a medical examiner to pass an examination developed by the Secretary in order to be listed in the national registry. Directs the Secretary to issue safety standards for new motorcoaches with respect to: (1) occupant protection systems (including seatbelts) to protect against collisions and rollovers, (2) roof strength, (3) fire prevention and mitigation, and (4) emergency passenger evacuation. Directs the Secretary to revise window glazing standards for new motorcoaches to prevent passenger ejection. Directs the Secretary to establish a national clearinghouse for verified positive alcohol and controlled substance test results and test refusals or failures to comply with testing program requirements. Prohibits an employer from hiring an individual to operate a commercial motor vehicle or perform any other safety sensitive function unless the employer requests information from the clearinghouse that indicates, during the preceding three-year period, the individual: (1) did not violate testing program requirements; or (2) is eligible to return to safety sensitive duties, pursuant to an established return-to-duty process, after violating such requirements. Prescribes new and revises current penalties for violations of certain commercial motor vehicle drug and alcohol prohibitions and specified other requirements. Directs the Secretary to issue final regulations establishing minimum training requirements for commercial motor vehicle operators. Requires states to request information from the CDL information system concerning a CDL applicant from the drug and alcohol clearinghouse before renewing or issuing a CDL. Requires states to submit plans for complying with specified CDL program requirements to avoid the withholding of the state's apportionment of certain federal-aid highway funds. Requires states to have approved CDL program plans to receive a CDL program improvement grant. Prohibits the Secretary from requiring individuals with class A CDLs to obtain a hazmat endorsement to operate a truck carrying diesel fuel of 1,000 gallons or less if: (1) the fuel tank is clearly marked with a placard reading "Diesel Fuel," and (2) the individual is acting within the scope of employment as an employee of certain farm-related service industries. Directs the Secretary to establish accelerated licensing procedures to assist veterans to acquire CDLs. Directs the Secretary to conduct a field study of the efficacy of FMCSA's 2011 restart rule (the 34-hours of service [HOS] restart rule) with respect to commercial motor vehicle operators subject to federal maximum driving time requirements. Requires any regulations the Secretary issues regarding electronic logging devices to monitor compliance with HOS requirements to include specified performance standards. Amends the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) to extend through FY2017 FMCSA's Motor Carrier Safety Advisory Committee. Amends the Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act of 1999 to revise exemptions from federal maximum driving and on-duty time motor carrier regulations for drivers transporting agricultural commodities and farm supplies during planting and harvest periods. Extends such exemptions to drivers transporting agricultural farm supplies between specified points within a 150-mile radius. Extends these exemptions also to drivers transporting grapes: (1) during a harvest period, and (2) to an area within 175 air-miles radius from the location where the grapes are picked or distributed. Exempts certain covered farm vehicles from commercial motor vehicle safety requirements relating to CDLs, drug testing, medical certificates, and HOS. Requires the Comptroller General to study the impact of federal motor carrier safety regulations on small trucking companies. Directs the Secretary to issue a rule to improve the daytime and nighttime visibility of agricultural equipment that may be operated on a public road. Prohibits the transportation of horses in a motor vehicle containing two or more levels stacked on top of each other. Authorizes appropriations for FY2013 and FY2016 for specified transportation research and education programs. Replaces the Surface Transportation Research Program with the Surface Transportation Research, Development, and Technology Program. Replaces the National Technology Deployment Program with the Research and Development Program. Authorizes the Secretary to establish centers for surface transportation excellence. Directs the Secretary to carry out a technology and innovation deployment program. Revises the intelligent transportation system (ITS) program. Directs the Secretary to carry out an ITS program to research and develop intelligent vehicles and intelligent infrastructure systems for application to U.S. surface transportation systems. Repeals the national university transportation centers grant program, as well as grants to specified Tier II centers. Extends the regional university transportation research center grant program through FY2013-FY2016. Repeals or revises certain intercity passenger rail capital grant programs. Amends the Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act of 2008 to authorize appropriations for FY2012-FY2013 for National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak) operations. Prohibits Amtrak from using federal funds to hire or contract with any outside legal professional to pursue any cause of action in federal or state court against a passenger rail service provider, including any action against a provider arising from a competitive bid process in which Amtrak and the provider participated. Allows Amtrak to provide food and beverage service on its trains only if the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) selects a qualified bidder whose bid would result in the lowest cost, or the greatest source of revenue, to Amtrak. (Under current law, Amtrak may provide such services on its trains only if revenues from the services each year at least equal the cost of providing them.) Authorizes the FRA to exempt Amtrak from such requirement if no qualified bidder responds to FRA requests for proposals. Prescribes an environmental review process for freight or intercity passenger rail capital project development decisionmaking. Authorizes the federal lead agency (DOT), at project sponsor request, to adopt and use a planning product (decisionmaking process) that integrates the planning and environmental review process of a rail project in National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) proceedings. Directs the Secretary to establish a program to eliminate duplicative state and federal environmental reviews and approvals of rail projects. Directs the Secretary to treat a rail project as a class of action categorically excluded (because not involving significant environmental impact) from environmental review requirements promulgated by the Council on Environmental Quality, if specified circumstances apply. Directs the Secretary to carry out a rail project delivery program. Makes high-speed rail facilities eligible for railroad rehabilitation and improvement direct loans and loan guarantees. Requires the Secretary to give priority to projects that enhance the installation of positive train control systems. Revises the railroad safety risk reduction program. Extends from December 31, 2015, to December 31, 2020, the deadline for submission to DOT by each Class I railroad carrier and each entity providing regularly scheduled intercity or commuter rail passenger transportation of a plan for implementing a positive train control system on certain of its tracks. Authorizes such plans, in lieu of installing positive train control, to provide an alternative risk reduction strategy that would reduce the risk of release of poison- or toxic-by-inhalation hazmat to the same extent such risk of release would be reduced if positive train control were installed. Prescribes requirements for improving regulations issued by Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). Hazardous Material Transportation Safety, Efficiency, and Accountability Act of 2012 - Revises hazmat transportation safety requirements. Eliminates training grants for training instructors to train hazmat employees in the safe loading, unloading, handling, storing, and transporting of hazmat. Directs the Secretary to review implementation of the hazmat safety permit program. Authorizes the Secretary to make hazmat planning and training grants to states or Indian tribes in a fiscal year only if they certify that they are in compliance with certain fairness requirements for fees charged to transport hazmat. Prohibits the Secretary from denying an application for a modification or renewal of a special permit granting a variance from regulations for the safe transport of hazmat, or an application for party status to an existing special permit, for the sole reason that the applicant has a greater than national average hazmat out-of-service percentage. Directs the Secretary to issue regulations to implement the Uniform Motor Carrier Permit Program. Authorizes a designated DOT officer, employee, or agent to inspect a package for transportation if the officer, employee, or agent reasonably believes that the package may contain an undeclared hazmat and the inspection takes place at a properly equipped DOT-designated facility. Authorizes appropriations for FY2012-FY2016 for specified hazmat transportation safety programs. Directs the Secretary to establish pilot projects to evaluate the feasibility and cost effectiveness of electronic shipping paper systems. Requires DOT studies: (1) of the transportation of flammable liquids in the external product piping of cargo tank motor vehicles (wetlines); and (2) on whether it is necessary to continue to designate any amount or form of finished pharmaceutical, finished cosmetic, or similar product containing ethyl alcohol as a hazmat. Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund is not being used for its intended purpose, (2) the Administration should request full use of the Fund for operating and maintaining the nation's navigation system, and (3) Congress should fully expend amounts in the Fund to operate and maintain such system. Sportfishing and Recreational Boating Safety Act of 2012 - Amends the Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Act to continue through FY2016 the authorized distribution of funds under such Act for coastal wetlands, recreational boating safety, projects under the Clean Vessel Act of 19921, boating infrastructure projects, and the National Outreach and Communications Program. Extends the set-aside for administrative expenses for carrying out such projects. Earmarks amounts allocated to the Secretary for recreational boating safety programs for: (1) payment of expenses of the Coast Guard for personnel and related activities, and (2) National Boating Safety Advisory Council activities. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend through FY2016 authority for expenditures from the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund. Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2012 - Amends the Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2011, Part II to continue through FY2012, and authorizes appropriations through that date for, specified federal-aid highway programs under SAFETEA-LU, the SAFETEA-LU Technical Corrections Act of 2008, the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA), and the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century. Includes among extended funds those for: (1) the surface transportation research, development, and deployment program; (2) training and education; (3) the Bureau of Transportation Statistics; (4) university transportation research; and (5) intelligent transportation systems (ITS) research. Subjects funding for such programs generally to the same manner of distribution, administration, limitation, and availability for obligation as funds authorized to be appropriated for such programs and activities out of the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) for FY2011. Subjects contract authority for such programs, however, to the same limitation on obligations included in any Act making appropriations for FY2012 or a portion of that fiscal year. Waives this obligation limitation, though, for emergency relief and for the equity bonus program. Extends the allocation of certain transportation program funds to: (1) states for specific programs, including the Interstate and National Highway System program, the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement program, the highway safety improvement program, the Surface Transportation program, and the Highway Bridge program; and (2) the territories and Puerto Rico. Authorizes appropriations for administrative expenses of the federal-aid highway program through FY2012. Amends SAFETEA-LU to extend through that date the authorization of appropriations for specified NHTSA safety programs and FMCSA programs (including NHTSA and FMCSA administrative expenses). Extends through FY2012 the funding for hazmat research projects. Amends the Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Act to continue through that date the authorized distribution of funds under such Act for coastal wetlands, recreational boating safety, projects under the Clean Vessel Act of 19921, boating infrastructure projects, and the National Outreach and Communications Program. Extends the set-aside for administrative expenses for carrying out such projects. Extends through FY2012 the allocation of capital investment grant funds for federal transit programs, including the metropolitan planning program and the state planning and research program. Extends the special rule authority of the Secretary to award urbanized area formula grants to finance the operating cost of equipment and facilities for use in public transportation in an urbanized area with a population of at least 200,000. Allocates through FY2012 certain amounts for formula and bus grants and capital investment grants for: (1) certain new fixed guideway capital projects; (2) new fixed guideway ferry systems and extension projects in Alaska and Hawaii; (3) payments to the Denali Commission for docks, waterfront development projects, and related transportation infrastructure; (4) ferry boats or ferry terminal facilities; (5) a set-aside for the national fuel cell bus technology development program; (6) projects in nonurbanized areas; (7) intermodal terminal projects; and (8) bus testing. Extends the apportionment of nonurbanized area formula grants for public transportation on Indian reservations. Eliminates the special rule for the apportionment for October 1, 2011, through June 30, 2012, of capital investment grant funds for certain fixed guideway modernization projects. Extends through FY2012 the authorization appropriations from the HTF Mass Transit Account for: (1) formula and bus grant projects, (2) capital investment grants, (3) transit research, and (4) administration expenses. Extends through FY2012 certain SAFETEA-LU programs, including: (1) the contracted paratransit pilot program, (2) the public-private partnership pilot program, (3) project authorizations for final design and construction and preliminary engineering of specified fixed guideway projects, and (4) the elderly individuals and individuals with disabilities pilot program. Extends certain allocations for national research and technology programs.
United States · United States Congress · 23 January 2012
District of Columbia Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act - Amends the federal criminal code to prohibit any person from performing or attempting to perform an abortion within the District of Columbia except in conformity with this Act's requirements. Requires the physician to first make a determination of the probable post-fertilization age of the unborn child, or reasonably rely upon such a determination made by another physician, by making inquiries of the pregnant woman and performing such medical examinations and tests as a reasonably prudent physician would consider necessary. Prohibits the abortion from being performed if the probable post-fertilization age of the unborn child is 20 weeks or greater. Makes an exception where necessary to save the life of a pregnant woman whose life is endangered by a physical disorder, illness, or injury, excluding psychological or emotional conditions or any claim or diagnosis that the woman will engage in conduct intended to result in her death. Permits a physician to terminate a pregnancy under such exception only in the manner which provides the best opportunity for the unborn child to survive, unless termination of the pregnancy in that manner would pose a greater risk of the death or substantial and irreversible physical impairment of a major bodily function, not including psychological or emotional conditions, of the pregnant woman than would other available methods. Prescribes penalties for violations. Bars prosecution of a woman upon whom an abortion is performed in violation of this Act, but authorizes such a woman or the father or maternal grandparent of the unborn child to obtain appropriate relief through a civil action. Provides for injunctive relief to prevent violations. Sets forth specified privacy protections in court proceedings for the woman upon whom an abortion has been performed. Requires any physician who performs an abortion within the District to report it to the Department of Health of the District of Columbia, which shall issue annual public reports.
United States · United States Congress · 23 January 2012
Airport and Airway Extension Act of 2012 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend through February 17, 2012, increased excise taxes on aviation fuels, the excise tax on air transportation of persons and property, and the expenditure authority for the Airport and Airway Trust Fund. Extends through February 17, 2012: (1) the authorization of appropriations for airport planning and development and noise compatibility planning projects (known as airport improvement projects [AIPs]), and (2) the authority of the Secretary of Transportation (DOT) to make new AIP grants. Extends through February 17, 2012: (1) the pilot program for passenger facility fee authorizations at non-hub airports, and (2) disclosure requirements for large and medium hub airports applying for AIP grants. Authorizes appropriations to the Secretary through February 17, 2012, to make agreements to provide small community air service assistance to underserved airports. Directs the Secretary to extend through February 17, 2012, the termination date of insurance coverage for domestic or foreign-flag aircraft. Grants the Secretary discretionary authority to further extend such coverage through May 17, 2012. Extends through May 17, 2012, the authority of the Secretary to limit air carrier liability for claims arising out of acts of terrorism. Extends through February 17, 2012: (1) grant eligibility for airports located in the Marshall Islands, Micronesia, and Palau; (2) grants to state and local governments for land use compatibility AIPs; and (3) authority for approving an application of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority for an airport development grant or for permission to impose a passenger facility fee. Amends the Vision 100-Century of Aviation Reauthorization Act to extend through February 17, 2012: (1) the temporary increase to 95% of the federal government's share of certain AIP costs, (2) funding for airport development at Midway Island Airport, and (3) the effective period of final orders of the Secretary regarding the eligibility of small communities for essential air service subsidies. Authorizes appropriations to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the period from October 1, 2011, through February 17, 2012, for: (1) FAA operations; (2) air navigation facilities and equipment; and (3) civil aviation research, engineering, and development. Authorizes appropriations out of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund for the period from October 1, 2011, through February 17, 2012, for the essential air service (EAS) program.
United States · United States Congress · 16 December 2011
Equitable Treatment for the Living Victims of Lockerbie Act - Directs the Foreign Claims Settlement Commission to: (1) determine the validity and amount of plaintiff claims for loss of wages and other property in the case Bruce D. Abbott et al. v. Socialist People's Libyan Arab Jamahiriya , (2) publish notice in the Federal Register of the time within which such claims may be filed, and (3) consider such claims as soon as practicable after filing. Requires such claims to be paid from the appropriate Treasury fund before any corporate claims are paid from such fund.
United States · United States Congress · 14 December 2011
Amends the Aviation and Transportation Security Act to require the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to comply with the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act when carrying out certain personnel decisions with respect to the employment of air transportation passenger and property screeners.
United States · United States Congress · 12 December 2011
Designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 401 Old Dixie Highway in Jupiter, Florida, as the "Roy Schallern Rood Post Office Building."
United States · United States Congress · 8 December 2011
Stop TSA's Reach In Policy Act or the STRIP Act - Directs the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security (Transportation Security Administration) to prohibit any employee of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) who has not received federal law enforcement training or is not eligible for federal law enforcement benefits from using the title of "officer" or wearing a uniform and carrying a badge resembling that of a law enforcement officer.
United States · United States Congress · 1 December 2011
Amends the Railway Labor Act to require the National Mediation Board to apply the same procedures, including voting standards, to the direct decertification of a labor organization as are applied to elections to certify a representative.
United States · United States Congress · 30 November 2011
Requires the parties to specified disputes between railway carriers (represented by the National Carriers' Conference Committee of the National Railway Labor Conference) and certain of their railroad employees (represented by specified labor organizations) to take all necessary steps to restore or preserve dispute conditions as they existed before 12:01 a.m. on December 6, 2011, such status to remain in effect through December 31, 2014 (the cooling off period). Makes the report and recommendations of the Presidential Emergency Board No. 243 issued on November 5, 2011, however, binding on the parties, with the same effect as though arrived at by agreement of the parties under the Railway Labor Act, for the period from January 1, 2010, through December 31, 2014 (except with respect to the optional election by a labor organization that is a party to this dispute of the specified interim January 1, 2015, employee wage increase).
United States · United States Congress · 16 November 2011
Stop Green Initiative Abuse Act of 2011 - Amends the Energy Conservation and Production Act to repeal provisions concerning the Department of Energy's (DOE's) weatherization assistance program for low-income persons to increase energy efficiency of dwellings.
United States · United States Congress · 15 November 2011
Achieving a Better Life Experience Act of 2011 or the ABLE Act of 2011 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish tax-exempt ABLE accounts to assist an individual with a disability in building an account to pay for qualified disability expenses. Defines "qualified disability expenses" to include expenses for education, a primary residence, transportation, obtaining and maintaining employment, health and wellness, and other personal support expenses. Treats a qualified ABLE program and an ABLE account in the same manner as a qualified tuition program for income tax purposes (i.e., allowing a tax exemption for such program and an exclusion from gross income of amounts attributable to a contributor to or a beneficiary of a program account). Defines "qualified ABLE program" as a program established and maintained by a state agency under which a person may make contributions to an ABLE account established to pay for qualified disability expenses. Requires amounts in ABLE accounts to be disregarded in determining eligibility for Medicaid and other means-tested federal programs. Suspends the payment of supplemental security income benefits under title XVI (Supplemental Security Income) of the Social Security Act to an individual during any period in which such individual has excess resources attributable to an ABLE account.
![Official portrait of Rep. Mica, John L. [R-FL-7]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/m000689_200.jpg)