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United States · Official source
1,914 records where Rep. Pearce, Stevan [R-NM-2] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2006
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide that individual taxpayers who receive Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) periodic health care or medical services shall not be disqualified from making tax deductible contributions to health savings accounts.
United States · United States Congress · 20 July 2006
National Historic Preservation Act Amendments of 2006 - Amends the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) to prohibit a federal agency from requiring an applicant for federal assistance, licenses, or permits to take into account the effects of a federal undertaking that occur outside the area of potential effects as determined by the federal agency. Declares that, if a State Historic Preservation Officer or a Tribal Historic Preservation Officer fails to concur within 30 days of receipt of an adequately documented finding of either "no historic properties affected" or "no adverse effect," the applicant or agency may proceed with the undertaking. Specifies additional criteria for certification of local governments to implement the NHPA. Extends through FY2015 the period of funding for the Historic Preservation Fund. Expands: (1) from five to eight the number of federal agencies on the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (Council); and (2) from nine to eleven the number of Council members constituting a quorum. Grants the Council discretion to reach an agreement with any federal agency other than the Department of the Interior, or with a private entity, to provide the Council with financial and administrative services. Authorizes the Council to enter into cooperative agreements with any federal agency that administers a grant or assistance program for the purpose of improving the effectiveness of program administration. Permits such cooperative agreements to: (1) modify the selection criteria for a grant or assistance program to further NHPA purposes; or (2) allow the Council to participate in the selection of recipients. Authorizes the Council to review the operation of any federal grant or assistance program to evaluate its effectiveness in meeting NHPA purposes and policies.
United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2006
Pueblo of Isleta Settlement and Natural Resources Restoration Act of 2006 - Establishes in the Treasury the Pueblo of Isleta Natural Resources Restoration Fund for: (1) settlement of the claims of the Pueblo of Isleta; and (2) the acquisition, restoration, improvement, development, and protection of land, natural resources, and cultural resources within the exterior boundaries of the Pueblo. Provides for the maintenance and investment of the restoration fund. Ratifies the Agreement of Compromise and Settlement entered into between the United States and the Pueblo dated 12, 2005, as modified by the Extension and Modification Agreement executed by the United States and the Pueblo on June 22, 2006, to settle the claims in the case of Pueblo of Isleta v. United States , Docket No. 98-166L, pending in the United States Court of Federal Claims. Directs the Pueblo and the United States to execute and file a joint stipulation for entry of final judgment in dismissal of such case. Provides for the payment of compensation to the Pueblo from the permanent judgment appropriation for all monetary damages and attorney fees, interest, and other fees and costs of any kind that were or could have been presented in connection with Docket No. 98-166L.
United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2006
Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to prohibit the Secretary of Homeland Security from paroling an alien into the United States solely because he or she: (1) falls ill while seeking admission at a port of entry; or (2) approaches a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) agent at the border to seek emergency medical assistance.
United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2006
Condemns Hamas and Hezbollah for engaging in the terrorist act of taking hostages. Affirms Israel's right to conduct operations, both inside and outside its own borders and in the territory of countries supporting the hostage takers, in pursuit of the hostages' release. Notes that all governments that have provided continued support to Hamas or Hezbollah share responsibility for the hostage taking and urges these countries to use all efforts to secure the hostages' unconditional release. Urges all parties to protect innocent life and civilian infrastructure. Declares continued commitment to aiding Israel and the administration of President George W. Bush in battling terrorism and securing the unconditional release of hostages. Expresses condolences to all innocent victims of recent violence in Israel, Lebanon, and the Palestinian territories and their families, including those of the three Israeli hostages.
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2006
NPS Concessions Reform Act of 2006 - Amends the National Park Service Concessions Management Improvement Act of 1998 to increase the anticipated annual gross receipts eligible for a concessioner's preferential right of renewal. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to provide to any entity that submitted a proposal and who was not awarded a proposed concessions contract a debriefing as to why it was not selected as submitting the best proposal for that concessions contract. Modifies requirements governing the use as pledged security for other National Park Service (NPS) contracts of a leasehold surrender interest in a capital improvement upon U.S.-owned land within an NPS unit under a concessions contract. Revises guidelines governing commercial use authorizations.
United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2006
Government Efficiency Act of 2006 - Authorizes the establishment of Federal Review Commissions with respect to specific aspects of federal programs and agencies. Requires a Commission to review and make recommendations on how to improve the operations, effectiveness, and efficiency of such federal programs and agencies in order to determine whether a reorganization, consolidation, abolishment, expansion, or transfer of existing federal programs and agencies is necessary to carry out any U.S. policy for promoting more effective management of the executive branch. Permits establishment of a Commission only through the issuance of an executive order or the enactment of a joint resolution that: (1) describes the federal programs and agencies to be reviewed; and (2) grants the Commission powers and authorities specified by, and subjects it to the requirements of, this Act. Describes what a Federal Review Commission shall consider in reviewing federal programs and agencies. Requires a Commission to submit to the President: (1) an assessment of the operations, effectiveness, and efficiency of the federal programs and agencies reviewed; and (2) a legislative proposal, if appropriate, to reorganize, consolidate, abolish, expand, or transfer such federal programs and agencies. Provides for expedited congressional consideration of Federal Review Commission recommendations. Directs the President to submit to Congress a schedule for establishment of Federal Review Commissions.
United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2006
Voter Bounty Registration Act of 2006 - Amends the Help America Vote Act of 2002 to prescribe standards for paid distribution of voter registration application forms. Prohibits any individual from distributing a voter registration application form for federal elections in a state if the individual: (1) is not registered to vote in such elections; (2) has been convicted of a felony under any state or federal law; (3) does not sign and print legibly the individual's name on the form; or (4) does not provide identifying information to the election official to whom the form will be submitted. Excepts from this prohibition the distribution of a voter registration application form by an individual who is not compensated directly or indirectly for it. Establishes criminal penalties for: (1) individuals not meeting such standards; and (2) anyone who employs such an individual knowingly, or who should reasonably be expected to know the individual is ineligible.
United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2006
Fair Voter Education Act of 2006 - Amends the Help America Vote Act of 2002 to prohibit a state from using election administration funds received under such Act for public communications which promote or oppose a candidate for public office or political party.
United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2006
Supports the goals and ideals of National Life Insurance Awareness Month.
United States · United States Congress · 29 June 2006
HSA Improvement and Expansion Act of 2006 - Amends Internal Revenue Code provisions relating to health savings accounts (HSAs) to: (1) allow a one-time, tax-free transfer of balances in employer flexible spending arrangements, health reimbursement arrangements, and individual retirement accounts to HSAs; (2) revise HSA eligibility criteria for spouses covered by flexible spending arrangements, individuals over age 65 automatically enrolled in Medicare part A, and veterans receiving medical benefits; (3) increase contribution limits for HSAs; (4) allow payment of high deductible health insurance premiums from HSAs; and (5) allow payment from an HSA of certain medical expenses incurred before the establishment of such HSA.
United States · United States Congress · 29 June 2006
Repeals Rule XXVII (Statutory Limit on Public Debt) of the Rules of the House of Representatives. (Thus abolishes the procedure for automatic adjustment of the public debt level upon passage of a new concurrent resolution on the budget setting forth an amount different from the amount of the statutory limit on the public debt otherwise in effect for the period covered by the budget resolution.) Redesignates Rule XXVIII (General Provisions) as Rule XXVII.
United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2006
Cruise Line Accurate Safety Statistics Act - Requires the owner of a cruise ship that calls at a U.S. port to report to the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating each: (1) crime that occurred on the cruise ship in which a U.S. citizen was a victim; (2) incident on a cruise ship in which a U.S. citizen was missing or reported overboard for four hours or more; and (3) crime and incident that occurred on the cruise ship in the preceding three-month period. Requires the Secretary to make such information available to the public, including on a site on the Internet. Directs the Secretary to inspect each cruise ship that enters a U.S. port to determine whether such ship has adequate equipment and trained personnel to investigate such crimes. Requires a cruise line that sells a ticket for carriage of an individual on a cruise ship that will call at a U.S. port to: (1) refer such individual to the Internet site before selling the ticket; and (2) provide the individual with the name of each country the cruise ship will visit, as well as the locations of each U.S. embassy and consulate in such country. Sets forth civil penalties for persons that violate the requirements of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2006
Expresses the sense of Congress that U.S. officials who: (1) leak sensitive classified national security secrets (secrets) should be investigated and, if necessary, brought to justice; (2) are concerned over certain U.S. covert operations have a number of lawful means to effectively express those concerns, including contacting appropriate congressional oversight committees; and (3) leak such secrets and are determined to maintain malevolent intentions should be tried for treason. Expresses the sense of Congress that members of the media have the right to abstain from publishing such secrets for fear that U.S. operations may be compromised and Islamofascism may advance.
United States · United States Congress · 20 June 2006
Reaffirms a commitment to protecting private property rights and strong support for the Private Property Rights Protection Act of 2005.
United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2006
Provides for an initial 36-month admission period for a nonimmigrant alien employed as a dairy worker under an H-2A visa (temporary or seasonal agricultural worker).
United States · United States Congress · 14 June 2006
Screening Applied Fairly and Equitably to Truckers Act of 2006 or the SAFE Truckers Act of 2006 - Amends the Homeland Security Act 2002 to prohibit an individual from operating a motor vehicle in commerce while transporting a security sensitive material, unless the operator of the motor vehicle holds a security sensitive material permit issued by the Secretary of Homeland Security. Prohibits a person from offering a security sensitive material for transportation by motor vehicle or causing the transportation of such material by motor vehicle, unless the operator of the motor vehicle holds a security sensitive material permit issued by the Secretary of Homeland Security. Requires the Secretary to conduct a fingerprint-based background records check before issuing a security sensitive material permit to an individual. Allows the Secretary to issue a security sensitive material permit to an individual as an integrated component of a transportation security card. Sets forth both civil and criminal penalties for persons who violate the requirements of this Act. Prohibits a motor vehicle registered in Mexico or Canada from transporting security sensitive material in U.S. commerce until the operator of the motor vehicle has undergone a similar background records check. Establishes task forces on: (1) highway security; (2) disqualifying crimes; and (3) redundant background checks.
United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2006
Calls on the government of Germany to take action to combat sex trafficking in connection with the 2006 Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) World Cup. Urges European countries to support public awareness campaigns to educate the general public, particularly athletes, sports fans, and financial sponsors of the 2006 World Cup, about the potential for trafficking in human beings. Encourages governments, international and nongovernmental organizations, 2006 World Cup sponsors, tour operators, and air transportation providers to join the efforts to end the sexual exploitation of women and girls and prevent trafficking in human beings. Commends the "Final Whistle--Stop Forced Prostitution Campaign" launched by the National Council of German Women's Organizations and calls on sports associations, including FIFA, the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA), the German Football Association to support this campaign. Urges Germany and all countries to ratify or accede to, and to implement, the United Nations Convention Against Transnational Organized Crime and the United Nations Protocol to Prevent, Suppress, and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children.
United States · United States Congress · 7 June 2006
Firearms Transfer Improvement Act - Amends the federal criminal code to provide that in-person interstate firearms sales between a federal firearms licensee and a nonresident purchaser shall be governed only by the state law of the licensee (currently, such sales must comply with the state laws of both the licensee and the purchaser).
United States · United States Congress · 7 June 2006
Supports the goals and ideals of National Homeownership Month, and recognizes the importance of homeownership in building strong communities and families.
United States · United States Congress · 6 June 2006
Constitutional Amendment - Marriage Protection Amendment - Declares that: (1) marriage in the United States shall consist only of the union of a man and a woman; and (2) neither the U.S. Constitution nor the constitution of any state shall be construed to require that marriage or the legal incidents of marriage be conferred upon any other union.
United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2006
Veterans Identity Protection Act or VIP Act - Establishes as an independent office in the executive branch the Office of Veterans Identity Protection Claims, headed by a Director, to receive, process, and pay claims for injuries suffered as a result of the unauthorized use, disclosure, or dissemination of identifying information stolen from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Authorizes judicial review of claim determinations.
United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2006
Securities Litigation Attorney Accountability and Transparency Act - Amends the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Securities Act of 1933 to require, in any private action in which the court enters a final judgment, that the court award the defendant reasonable fees and expenses, and impose such fees and expenses on the plaintiff's attorney, if the plaintiff's position was not substantially justified. Requires each plaintiff and plaintiff's attorney in a private action to provide sworn certifications, filed with the complaint, that identify any conflict of interest, including any direct or indirect payment, between the attorney and the plaintiff. Authorizes the court, in exercising its discretion over the approval of lead counsel, to employ alternative means in the selection and retention of counsel for the most adequate plaintiff, including a competitive bidding process.
United States · United States Congress · 24 May 2006
Calls on the government of Iran to cease repressive activities aimed at the Iranian Baha'i community and holds the government of Iran responsible for upholding the rights of its nationals, including the Baha'i community. Requests the President to: (1) call for the government of Iran to emancipate the Baha'i community by granting those rights guaranteed by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other international human rights covenants; (2) emphasize that the United States regards the government of Iran's human rights practices as a significant factor in U.S.-Iran foreign policy; and (3) initiate a consistent dialogue with other governments and the European Union (EU) in order to persuade the government of Iran to rectify its human rights practices.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 2006
Veterans Eagle Parks Pass Act - Makes the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass available at a discount to certain veterans.
United States · United States Congress · 22 May 2006
Veterans' Disability Compensation Automatic COLA Act - Requires that, whenever there is an increase in benefit amounts payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall increase by the same percentage the amounts payable as veterans' disability compensation, additional compensation for dependents, the clothing allowance for certain disabled adult children, and dependency and indemnity compensation for surviving spouses and children.
United States · United States Congress · 19 May 2006
Condemns the murder of Philadelphia Police Officer Danny Faulkner. Urges the municipal government of St. Denis, France, to change the name of Rue Mumia Abu-Jamal and, if such action is not taken by the municipal government of St. Denis, urges the government of France to take appropriate action against St. Denis to change the name of Rue Mumia Abu-Jamal. Commends all police officers in the United States and throughout the world for their commitment to public service and public safety.
United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2006
Valley Fever Vaccine Development Act - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Resources, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to make grants for research toward the development of a vaccine against coccidioidomycosis (commonly known as Valley Fever).
United States · United States Congress · 17 May 2006
Directs the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Director of the National Park Service, to carry out a demonstration program that provides that receipts from timber sales shall be retained for expenditure within units of the National Park System from which the timber is removed as part of an approved plan for the restoration or protection of park resources or values. Instructs the Secretary to permit each of the existing 24 National Battlefields, National Battlefield Parks, National Military Parks, and National Battlefield Sites to participate in the demonstration program if the unit has in place a general management plan, cultural landscape plan, or other resources management plan approved pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 that identifies specific timber for removal for purposes of cultural or historic landscape restoration or fuel load reduction. Requires each unit selected to participate in the demonstration program to retain receipts from the sale or disposal of timber removed. Provides for such receipts to be available for expenditure for within a unit for the following purposes only: (1) landscape restoration; (2) interpretive services; (3) eradication of disease, insects, or invasive species; or (4) fuel load reduction. Requires the Secretary to submit a report containing a specific timeline for timber removal in each of the units authorized to participate in such demonstration program.
United States · United States Congress · 17 May 2006
Social Security Number Fraudulent Use Notification Act of 2006 - Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act to require the Commissioner of Social Security to notify an individual when: (1) the Social Security account number ascribed to the individual in the wage records provided by an employer to the Social Security Administration does not match relevant Administration records; or (2) the individual's Social Security account number has otherwise been used by any other person in a fraudulent or otherwise illegal manner.
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 2006
National Emergency Management Reform and Enhancement Act of 2006 - Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to provide for the establishment within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) of a Directorate of Emergency Management (DEM) (replacing the Directorate of Emergency Preparedness and Response). Requires DEM to be headed by an Under Secretary for Emergency Management and to include Deputy Under Secretaries for: (1) Emergency Preparedness and Mitigation; and (2) Emergency Response and Recovery. Directs the Under Secretary to serve as a Cabinet Officer during an Incident of National Significance. Establishes within DEM: (1) an Office of State, Local, and Tribal Government Coordination and an Office of Public and Community Preparedness; (2) a National Citizen Corps Council; (3) a National Incident Management System and National Response Plan Integration Center; and (4) a National Urban Search and Rescue Response System. Establishes in DHS Offices of Grants and Planning, Training and Exercises, Emergency Communications, Infrastructure Protection, and Cybersecurity and Telecommunications. Establishes the Emergency Communications Preparedness Center. Directs the Secretary of DHS to: (1) regularly update, revise, or replace essential capabilities for state, local, and tribal government emergency preparedness; (2) require any state or urban area that applies for federal homeland security assistance to maintain a catastrophic emergency plan; (3) establish the National Advisory Council on Emergency Management, a System Assessment and Validation for Emergency Responders Program, a Homeland Security Education Program in the National Capital Region, a Prepositioned Equipment Program, and a National Asset Inventory Program; (4) develop an integrated national public alert and warning system; and (5) establish within DHS a Gulf Coast Long-Term Recovery Office. Redesignates the Directorate for Information Analysis and Infrastructure Protection as the Office of Intelligence and Analysis. Requires the Secretary to: (1) ensure that all programs within DEM administering federal assistance maintain proper internal management controls to prevent and detect fraud, waste, and abuse; and (2) annually certify that such controls are in place. Provides for the establishment within DHS of a Deputy Inspector General for Response and Recovery.
United States · United States Congress · 10 May 2006
Reform of National Security Reviews of Foreign Direct Investments Act - Amends the Defense Production Act of 1950 to direct the President, upon receiving written notification by any party involved of a possible merger, acquisition, or takeover which could result in foreign control of any person engaged in interstate commerce in the United States (covered transaction), or upon a motion of a member of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), to review the covered transaction to determine whether it threatens to impair U.S. national security and whether such threat can be mitigated. Requires CFIUS, if it determines that the covered transaction is a foreign government-controlled transaction, to conduct its own investigation. Requires the President, in his investigation, to take necessary action to protect national security with respect to the covered transaction. Makes any review final and complete only after its findings and report are approved and signed by both the Secretaries of the Treasury and Homeland Security. Requires the Director of National Intelligence to carry out an analysis of the threat to national security of any covered transaction. Makes CFIUS a statutory committee under the Defense Production Act of 1950, with a revised membership. Requires the consideration, as additional factors in determining whether it should be investigated, of whether a covered transaction: (1) has a security-related impact on critical infrastructure; and (2) is a foreign government-controlled transaction. Authorizes CFIUS to: (1) negotiate, impose, and enforce any agreement or condition with any party to a covered transaction in order to mitigate any threat to national security; (2) track withdrawn notifications; and (3) monitor the enforcement of any agreements. Requires reports to Congress by the President and CFIUS concerning investigations of covered transactions.
United States · United States Congress · 9 May 2006
401Kids Family Savings Act of 2006 - Amends the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001 to extend through 2015 provisions allowing increased annual contributions to Coverdell education savings accounts. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) allow tax-free distributions from a Coverdell education savings account for first-time homebuyer expenses; (2) permit rollovers from Coverdell education savings accounts to Roth individual retirement accounts (Roth IRAs); and (3) rename Coverdell education savings accounts as 401Kids Savings Accounts.
United States · United States Congress · 4 May 2006
States that it shall be U.S. policy to: (1) undertake measures to deny the Cuban regime the financial resources to engage in activities that threaten U.S. national security and other interests, threaten the environment and natural resources of northern Cuba and Florida, and prolong the dictatorship that oppresses the Cuban people; and (2) deter foreign investments that would enhance the Cuban regime's ability to develop its petroleum resources. Amends the Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity (LIBERTAD) Act of 1996 to exclude from U.S. entry an alien who: (1) is an officer or principal of an entity, or a shareholder who owns a controlling interest in an entity that makes an investment (as defined by this Act) of $1 million or more (or any combination of investments that equals or exceeds $1 million in any 12-month period), that significantly contributes to Cuba's ability to develop petroleum and natural gas resources off its north coast; or (2) is a spouse, minor child, or agent of such person. Exempts on a case-by-case basis entries: (1) for medical reasons or property-related litigation; or (2) where a transition government is in place. Defines "investment" for purposes of this Act. Directs the President to impose two or more specified export, procurement, financial institution, loan, or Export-Import Bank sanctions if the President determines that a person has made an investment of $1 million or more (or any combination of investments that in the aggregate equals or exceeds $1 million in any 12-month period) that contributes to the enhancement of Cuba's ability to develop petroleum resources of the submerged lands of Cuba's northern coast.
United States · United States Congress · 4 May 2006
Gang Elimination Act of 2006 - Directs the Attorney General to report to Congress on a national strategy to eliminate the illegal operations of National Threat Drug Gangs (i.e., the top three international drug gangs that present the greatest threat to law and order in the United States). Sets forth criteria for the Attorney General to consider in identifying a National Threat Drug Gang, including (1) ties to international terrorist organizations or state-sponsored terrorism; (2) the volume of controlled substances imported or distributed by such gangs; and (3) the threat to children and schools in the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 3 May 2006
Condemns the terrorist attacks on Dahab and Northern Sinai, Egypt and other terrorist attacks directed against Egypt. Expresses condolences to the families and friends of those killed in the attacks and expresses sympathies to those who were injured. Joins with President George W. Bush in expressing the solidarity of the people and government of the United States with the people and government of Egypt. Expresses readiness to support the Egyptian authorities' efforts to bring to justice those persons responsible for such attacks and to pursue and dismantle the responsible networks.
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 2006
Tax and Education Assistance for Children (TEACH) Act of 2006 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to establish a tax credit for the tuition paid by taxpayers to send their dependents to private or religious elementary or secondary schools. Sets the annual credit limit at $4,500 for single individuals and taxpayers filing a joint return, and $2,250 for a married individual filing a separate return.
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 2006
Small Business Paperwork Amnesty Act of 2006 - Amends the Paperwork Reduction Act to direct agency heads not to impose civil fines for first-time paperwork violations by small business concerns unless there is potential for serious harm to the public interest, the detection of criminal activity would be impaired, the violation is not corrected within six months, the violation is a violation of internal revenue law or a law concerning the assessment or collection of any tax, debt, revenue, or receipt, or the violation presents a danger to the public health or safety. Permits an agency to determine that a fine should not be imposed for a violation that presents a danger to public health or safety if the violation is corrected within 24 hours after receipt by the small business owner of notification of the violation in writing. Makes this Act inapplicable to any violation by a small business of a requirement regarding the collection of information by an agency if the small business previously violated any requirement concerning the collection of information by that agency.
United States · United States Congress · 25 April 2006
Fair and Speedy Treatment (FAST) of Medicare Prescription Drug Claims Act of 2006 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to require prompt payment of clean claims to pharmacies by prescription drug plans (PDPs) and Medicare Advantage prescription drug plans (MA-PD Plans). Defines prompt payment as within 14 calendar days from submission for claims submitted electronically, and within 30 calendar days for claims submitted otherwise. Requires payment of interest, also, if a payment is not issued, mailed, or otherwise transmitted within the applicable number of calendar days. Makes it unlawful for a PDP sponsor of a prescription drug plan to display on the prescription drug card the name, brand, or trademark (co-branding) of any pharmacy. Requires each PDP sponsor to charge not less than the minimum dispensing fee, $14, adjusted annually for inflation, for generic covered Medicare part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program) drugs. Revises requirements for a covered medication therapy management service, allowing it to be furnished by a health care provider, other than a pharmacist, with advanced training in medication management. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to specify: (1) the population of part D eligible individuals appropriate for services under a medication therapy management program, based on certain characteristics; and (2) a minimum defined package of medication therapy management services that shall be provided to each enrollee. Revises requirements for pharmacy fees. Directs the Secretary to establish: (1) a two-year demonstration program to examine the impact of medication therapy management furnished by a pharmacist in a community-based or ambulatory-based setting on quality of care, spending, and patient health; and (2) a Best Practices Commission to develop a best practices model for medication therapy management.
United States · United States Congress · 25 April 2006
Supports the observance of a "National Day of the American Cowboy."
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 2006
Expanding American Homeownership Act of 2006 - Amends the National Housing Act to: (1) modify guidelines governing the maximum principal loan obligation; (2) extend the mortgage term; and (3) revise requirements for cash payment by the mortgagor in the eligibility criteria for mortgage insurance. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (Secretary) to establish a mortgage insurance premium structure involving a single premium payment collected prior to the insurance of the mortgage that may vary during the mortgage term as long as the basis for determining the variable rate is established before the execution of the mortgage. Permits the Secretary to insure any mortgage covering a one-family unit in a condominium project if the project has a certain blanket mortgage insured by the Secretary. Revises requirements for the Mutual Mortgage Insurance (MMI) Fund. Sets limitations upon the Secretary's authority to enter into commitments for loan guarantees. Makes insurance of a Native Hawaiian or Indian reservation mortgage the obligation of the MMI Fund (instead of the General Insurance Fund). Eliminates the limitation placed upon the aggregate number of home equity conversion mortgages insured under the Act. Authorizes the Secretary to insure a home equity conversion mortgage when its primary purpose is to enable an elderly mortgagor to purchase a 1-to 4 family dwelling in which the mortgagor will occupy one of the units. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into agreements to insure temporarily certain mortgages for a single family residence located within a presidentially declared major disaster area.
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 2006
Amends the Public Health Service Act to: (1) include physical therapy within the definition of "primary health services;" and (2) make physical therapists eligible for the National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Program (to assure an adequate supply of physical therapists among other health professionals).
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 2006
Counterfeit Drug Prevention Act of 2006 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to establish criminal penalties of a fine and imprisonment for not more than 20 years, or both, for any person who commits a prohibited act relating to counterfeiting knowing that: (1) the conduct concerns the rendering of a drug as a counterfeit drug; (2) the conduct will cause a drug to be a counterfeit drug; or (3) a drug, held, sold, or dispensed is a counterfeit drug. Increases the term of imprisonment to any term of years or for life if the use of a counterfeit drug is the proximate cause of a consumer's death. Modifies provisions pertaining to criminal fines for committing certain prohibited acts involving food, drugs, devices, or cosmetics.
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 2006
Tax Return Choice Act of 2006 - Prohibits the Internal Revenue Service from providing individual taxpayers with free electronic tax preparation and filing services except through the Free File program and the Internal Revenue Service's Taxpayer Assistance Centers, Tax Counseling for the Elderly, and volunteer income tax assistance programs. Repeals the provision of the Internal Revenue Service Restructuring and Reform Act of 1998 directing the Secretary of the Treasury to develop a return-free tax system.
United States · United States Congress · 5 April 2006
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (BATFE) Modernization and Reform Act of 2006 - Amends the firearms provisions of the federal criminal code to revise the civil penalties for violations of firearms law and the procedures for assessing such penalties. Requires fines to be based upon the nature and severity of the violation, the size of the firearms business involved, and the prior record of the firearm's licensee. Requires the Attorney General to make a preliminary determination on federal firearms license applications and to notify applicants in writing of intent to deny an application. Grants applicants the right to a hearing for license denials. Directs the Attorney General to establish guidelines for Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) investigations of firearms violations. Requires the Inspector General of the Department of Justice to review the operations of ATF relating to the gun show enforcement program and blanket residency checks of prospective and actual firearms purchasers. Limits the authority of federal agencies to disclose information on firearms purchasers. Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to repeal the authority of the Attorney General to delegate to ATF responsibility for investigating violent crimes and acts of domestic terrorism. Grants a firearm licensee whose license has expired or has been suspended or revoked 60 days to liquidate inventory. Allows purchasers of existing firearms businesses the right to cure firearms violations attributable to such businesses.
United States · United States Congress · 5 April 2006
Supports the goals and ideals of National Campus Safety Awareness Month.
United States · United States Congress · 4 April 2006
Military Spouses Employment Act of 2006 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to include spouses of members of the Armed Forces on extended active duty (more than 90 days or for an indefinite period) as members of a targeted group for purposes of the work opportunity tax credit (thus giving employers a tax incentive for hiring military spouses).
United States · United States Congress · 4 April 2006
Declares that the House of Representatives expresses its: (1) gratitude and appreciation for the professional manner in which the U.S. Capitol Police carry out their diverse missions; and (2) appreciation for the dedication such officers have for protecting the Capitol Complex. Commends them for their continued courage and professionalism in protecting the Capitol Complex and its employees and visitors.
United States · United States Congress · 30 March 2006
Border Security and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2006 - Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to: (1) take all appropriate actions, including development of a national border strategy, to maintain operational control over the U.S. international land and maritime borders; (2) report on cross-border security agreements with Mexico and Canada; (3) provide for biometric data enhancements; (4) report on the One Face at the Border Initiative; (5) implement a secure communications plan for Border Patrol and border security use; (6) increase Border Patrol agents, port of entry inspection personnel, and canine detection teams; and (7) report on the airspace security mission's impact on the National Capital Region. Directs the Secretary to reimburse (up to prior-to-damage value) property owners for costs associated with repairing damages to the property owners' private infrastructure constructed on a U.S. government right-of-way delineating the international land border when such damages are the result of unlawful entry of aliens. Directs the Secretary to establish at least one Border Patrol unit for the U.S. Virgin Islands by September 30, 2006. Directs the Secretary to report to the Committee on Homeland Security respecting DHS progress in tracking Central American gangs across the U.S.-Mexico border. Directs the Secretary to compile specified health care-related data respecting unauthorized aliens taken into U.S. custody. Directs the Secretary to deploy radiation detection portal monitors at all U.S. ports of entry and facilities within one year of enactment of this Act. Directs the Secretary: (1) and the Secretary of Defense (DOD) to develop a plan to increase the availability of DOD surveillance equipment along the U.S. international land and maritime borders; (2) to assess border security vulnerabilities on Department of Interior land directly adjacent to the U.S. border; (3) to conduct a border security threat assessment and information sharing exercise; and (4) to establish the Border Security Advisory Committee. Authorizes the Secretary to permit a state, local government, or Indian tribe to use specified federal funds for border security activities usually performed by a federal agency but which, pursuant to an agreement, are being performed by state, local, or tribal government. Directs the Secretary to establish a university-based Center for Excellence for Border Security. Requires mandatory detention of an alien apprehended illegally seeking to enter the United States at a U.S. port of entry or land or maritime border as of October 1, 2006, unless such alien is: (1) paroled into the United States for humanitarian or public benefit reasons; or (2) is permitted to withdraw an application for admission and immediately departs from the United States. Provides that during the period 60 days after enactment of this Act and prior to October 1, 2006, an apprehended alien may be released with notice to appear only if: (1) the Secretary determines that the alien is not a national security risk; and (2) the alien provides a bond of not less than $5,000. Directs the Secretary, subject to appropriations, to fully utilize: (1) all Department of Homeland Security (DHS) bed space; and (2) all other options to cost effectively increase detention capacity. Denies admission to the nationals of a country that refuses or delays acceptance of its nationals ordered removed from the United States. Directs the Secretary to place an alien (other than from Mexico or Canada) who has not been admitted or paroled into expedited removal if apprehended within 100 miles of the border and within 14 days of unauthorized entry. Directs the Secretary to take specified actions to ensure coordination of DHS border security efforts. Establishes in DHS an Office of Air and Marine Operations whose primary mission shall be to prevent the entry of terrorists, other unlawful aliens, instruments of terrorism, narcotics, and other contraband into the United States, and whose secondary mission shall be to assist other agencies with such protective functions. Directs the Office to operate and maintain the Air and Marine Operations Center in Riverside, California, or other designated facility. Directs the Secretary to transfer to United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement all functions of the Customs Patrol Officers unit operating on the Tohono O'odham Indian reservation (the "Shadow Wolves" unit). Authorizes the Secretary to establish within United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement additional Customs Patrol units to operate on Indian lands.
United States · United States Congress · 30 March 2006
Sets forth the congressional budget for the federal government for FY2007, including the appropriate budgetary levels for FY2008-FY2011. Lists recommended budgetary levels and amounts for FY2007-FY2011 with respect to: (1) federal revenues; (2) new budget authority; (3) budget outlays; (4) deficits (on-budget); (5) debt subject to limit; and (6) debt held by the public. Lists the appropriate levels of new budget authority and outlays for specified major functional categories for FY2007-FY2011. Sets forth reconciliation instructions for the Committees on: (1) Agriculture; (2) Armed Services; (3) Education and the Workforce; (4) Energy and Commerce; (5) Government Reform; (6) Resources; (7) Transportation and Infrastructure; and (8) Ways and Means. Requires the Committee on Ways and Means to report a reconciliation bill providing for revenue reduction. Requires the Committee on Veterans' Affairs to submit to the Committee on the Budget its findings that identify savings amounting to 1% of total spending under its jurisdiction from activities that are wasteful, unnecessary, or lower-priority. Establishes a reserve fund for emergencies. Prohibits House legislation that would require advanced appropriations, with a specified exception. Makes rule XXVII of the House (the Gephardt Rule, relating to mandatory adjustment of the statutory limit on the public debt to conform to a budget resolution) inapplicable with respect to the adoption by Congress of a budget resolution for FY2007. Requires: (1) reported legislation designated as an emergency requirement to include an explanation of the manner in which the legislation meets specified criteria; and (2) if such legislation is to be considered without being reported, the explanation to be published in the Congressional Record in advance of floor consideration. Provides for changes in allocations and aggregates resulting from realistic scoring of measures affecting federal revenues. Prohibits the use of revenue increases to comply with budget allocations and aggregates. Makes it out of order in the House to consider direct spending legislation that would increase an on-budget deficit or decrease an on-budget surplus for any specified applicable time period. Requires the chairman of the Committee on the Budget to maintain a: (1) Budget Protection Mandatory Account; and (2) Budget Protection Discretionary Account.