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United States · Official source
2,346 records where Rep. Wu, David [D-OR-1] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years
United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2008
Designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 19300 South Molalla Avenue in Oregon City, Oregon, as the "Alice Norris Post Office Building."
United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2008
Reaffirms the nation's commitment to equal justice under the law for all people in celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Civil Liberties Act of 1988. Continues to support the congressional goal embodied in the Civil Liberties Act of 1988 that all persons living under protection of the U.S. Constitution have a right to enjoy freedom and equality without the constraint of prejudice and discrimination or the lack of due process.
United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2008
Honors the 28th Infantry Division of the U.S. Army for serving and protecting the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 15 July 2008
Transportation and Housing Choices for Gas Price Relief Act of 2008 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to: (1) carry out a competitive grant program that supports community efforts to invest in transportation alternatives and travel demand management strategies; and (2) award grants to eligible entities, giving priority to activity proposals for reducing single occupancy vehicle trips. Provides certain formula grant funding for specified improvement activities to increase use of public transportation. Requires the Secretary to award grants for a national consumer awareness program on the environmental, energy, and economic benefits of transportation alternatives to the single occupancy vehicle, including carpooling, vanpooling, transit, and bicycles. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) allow a telework tax credit of up to $400 per year; (2) include a qualified bicycle commuting reimbursement as a qualified transportation fringe benefit, excludable from gross income; (3) equalize and increase to $200, with a modified cost-of-living adjustment, the tax exclusion for both transportation and parking fringe benefits; (4) make self-employed individuals eligible for transit pass fringe benefits; (5) include employer-established parking cash-out programs as qualified transportation fringe benefits; and (6) allow a vanpool (general business) tax credit. Requires the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to: (1) incorporate transportation costs associated with location of housing into affordability standards for allocating low-income housing tax credits related to rental assistance vouchers or other affordable housing programs; and (2) develop a model transportation cost field for Multiple Listing Services to measure transportation costs associated with the location of a home. Amends the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) Charter Act and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac) Act to include the use of location-efficient mortgages among their purposes. Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1992 to require the Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency to establish graduated annual goals for the purchase by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac of location-efficient mortgages for single-family, owner-occupied homes. Requires the Secretary of HUD to make grants to states to construct or acquire affordable housing that is location-efficient. Amends the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) to include high schools in the safe routes to school program.
United States · United States Congress · 14 July 2008
Designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 501 4th Street in Lake Oswego, Oregon, as the "Judie Hammerstad Post Office Building."
United States · United States Congress · 14 July 2008
Timley Due Process for the Disabled Act of 2008 - Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) (OASDI) of the Social Security Act to direct the Commissioner of Social Security to: (1) establish time frames, within specified limits, to ensure timely disability determinations; and (2) establish a program for the monitoring of disability determinations in reconsideration.
United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2008
Organ Transplant Authorization Act of 2008 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to increase the maximum amount of funds provided for the establishment and operation of the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network for any fiscal year.
United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2008
Jose Rivera Correctional Officer Protection Act - Requires the Bureau of Prisons to: (1) provide all its correctional officers with stab-resistant personal body armor; and (2) require such officers to wear such body armor while on duty.
United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2008
Healthy Americans Act - Requires each adult to have the opportunity to purchase a Healthy Americans Private Insurance Plan (HAPI plan), which includes employer-sponsored health coverage. Makes individuals who are not enrolled in another specified health plan and who are not opposed to coverage for religious reasons responsible for enrolling themselves and their dependent children in a HAPI plan. Sets forth penalties for failure to enroll. Establishes standardized coverage and state options for HAPI plans. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to promulgate guidelines concerning the benefits, items, and services to be covered. Sets forth requirements for setting premiums. Requires the Secretary to establish the Healthy America Advisory Committee to provide annual recommendations concerning modifications to the benefits, items, and services required. Provides for premium subsidies based on income. Authorizes states to establish a State Choices for Long-Term Care Program to provide long-term care coverage to individuals. Requires the Secretary to establish Chronic Care Education Centers. Requires states to establish or designate a state Health Help Agency to carry out the administration of HAPI plans and to promote prevention and wellness for residents. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to require employers and individuals to each make shared responsibility payments for HAPI plan premiums. Sets forth requirements for health insurance issuers offering a HAPI plan. Establishes the Healthy Americans Public Health Trust Fund for the payment of premium subsidies. Terminates federal health benefits coverage, including coverage provided under the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program, state Medicaid coverage, and the State Children's Health Insurance program (SCHIP). Enhanced Health Care Value for All Act of 2007 ( sic )- Provides for a Comparative Effectiveness Advisory Board and a Health Care Comparative Effectiveness Research Trust Fund.
United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2008
Expresses support for the goals and ideals of National Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month. Recognizes that a strong, sustained commitment of resources is needed to learn what causes pancreatic cancer, ways to detect and diagnose it earlier, and test compounds that will extend survival and improve quality of life.
United States · United States Congress · 8 July 2008
Commends the Arizona State University softball team for winning the 2008 Women's College World Series.
United States · United States Congress · 8 July 2008
Honors and recognizes the: (1) 125 Oregon National Guard Youth Challenge Program (Program) cadets who graduated on June 18, 2008; and (2) more than 3,500 cadets who have entered the Program since 1994. Encourages all Program graduates to further their intellectual inquiry and academic studies. Supports the continued social engagement of such graduates to utilize their knowledge and skills for the betterment of their communities and the social, cultural, and economic advancement of the United States. Recognizes the Program as a national model.
United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008
Girl Scouts USA Centennial Commemorative Coin Act - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue up to 350,000 $1 coins in commemoration of the centennial of the founding of the Girl Scouts of the USA. Requires the coin design to be emblematic of the 100 years of the organization. Restricts issuance of such coins to calendar year 2011. Subjects coin sales to a surcharge of $10 per coin. Requires payment of such surcharges to the Girl Scouts of the United States of America for efforts involved in marking the Centennial, which may include preservation efforts of the birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low.
United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008
Medical Device Safety Act of 2008 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to provide that provisions preempting state and local requirements for medical devices intended for human use shall not be construed to modify or otherwise affect any action for damages or the liability of any person under state law. Makes this Act effective as if it were included in the Medical Device Amendments of 1976 and applicable to any civil action pending or filed on or after the date of enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008
Commemorates Bhutan's participation in the 2008 Smithsonian Folklife Festival. Recognizes the important cultural, artistic, agricultural, and environmental achievements of Bhutan and the Bhutanese people. Commends the Bhutanese people, the government of the Kingdom of Bhutan, and His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck for their commitment to conducting parliamentary elections and transitioning from an absolute monarchy to a parliamentary democracy.
United States · United States Congress · 20 June 2008
Authorizes additional appropriations for FY2008-FY2009 to the Secretary of Labor for summer youth employment activities under the Workforce Investment Act of 1998.
United States · United States Congress · 20 June 2008
Prevent Unfair Manipulation of Prices Act of 2008 - Amends the Commodity Exchange Act (CEA) to extend the regulatory authority of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) to certain transactions in derivatives involving specified energy commodities ("included energy transactions"), including those on foreign boards of trade. Defines "included energy transaction" as a contract, agreement, or transaction in an energy commodity for future delivery that: (1) provides for a delivery point in the United States; or (2) is transacted on a computer terminal located in the United States. Prohibits the CFTC from exempting from regulation any "included energy transaction" unless certain notice to Congress and public comment requirements are met. Declares null and void any CFTC "no-action letter" exemptions from CEA requirements for "included energy transactions." Requires the CFTC to establish uniform limits on the aggregate number of positions with respect to "included energy transactions" which may be held by any person for the prompt month, for each month, and for all months in all markets subject to CFTC jurisdiction. Excludes swaps involving "included energy transactions" from any CEA exemption for bona fide hedging transactions. Defines "bilateral included energy transaction" as an included energy transaction executed or traded other than on or through a trading facility. Exempts such transactions from the requirement that transactions be made on or through a designated contract market. Applies to "bilateral included energy transactions" certain reporting and recordkeeping requirements. Instructs the CFTC to publish monthly on its website: (1) the aggregate number and value of long and short positions held by a person in any portfolio constructed to match or track the components of an index of all commodities; and (2) the portion of the positions that are net long positions in "included energy transactions." Amends the Natural Gas Act and the Federal Power Act to set forth enforcement powers of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), including cease-and-desist proceedings, temporary orders, and general implementation authority.
United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2008
Climate Market, Auction, Trust & Trade Emissions Reduction System Act of 2008, or the Climate MATTERS Act of 2008 - Declares the purpose of this Act to establish a federal program to reduce US greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions substantially enough by 2050 to avert the catastrophic impacts of global climate change. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to establish an international reserve GHG emission allowance program, whose allowance sales proceeds shall be used to mitigate the negative impacts of global climate change on disadvantaged communities in World Trade Organization (WTO) participant countries. Establishes the International Climate Change Commission to determine annually whether a WTO participant country has taken certain action to limit its GHG emissions. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) establish a system for issuing, auctioning, recording, and tracking GHG emission allowances; and (2) impose an excess emissions penalty on owners or operators of covered facilities that fail to submit one or more emission allowances to the Secretary for any year. Establishes a Carbon Market Efficiency Board to: (1) analyze information on the GHG emission allowance market; and (2) authorize the Secretary to carry out cost relief measures if the market poses a substantial harm to the U.S. economy. Provides for the distribution of emission allowances to owners and operators of fossil fuel-fired electric power generating facilities and of energy intensive manufacturing facilities. Establishes: (1) the Deficit Reduction Trust Fund; and (2) the Citizen Protection Trust Fund (CPTF). Directs the Secretary to administer a Climate Change Rebate Program. Provides for a healthy families fund. Sets forth allocations of specified CPTF account funds for: (1) investment in natural resource adaptation to impacts of climate change and ocean acidification; (2) owners and operators of covered facilities who take actions that result in verified GHG emission reductions; (3) states that comply with certain federal building energy standards; (4) states with GHG emission reduction programs exceeding federal GHG emission reduction targets; (5) reductions in GHG emissions from the agriculture and forestry sectors, including those from deforestation activities in foreign countries; and (6) states and load-serving entities that implement energy-efficiency programs. Requires distribution of certain funds for grants for fixed guideway transit and other specified alternative transportation projects. Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to: (1) develop a federal greenhouse gas registry; (2) make certain GHG emission determinations for covered facilities; and (3) promulgate regulations that require that U.S. GHG emissions in uncovered sectors do not grow.
United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2008
Expresses the sense of Congress that the United States: (1) supports the spirit of peace and desire for unity displayed both in the letter from 138 leading Muslim scholars to the Pope and to other Christian leaders, and in the Pope's response to the letter; (2) should encourage those Muslims throughout the world who stand for peace; and (3) appreciates those voices within all faiths who have condemned genocide, terrorism, death, and destruction and who call for global peace between the Abrahamic religions.
United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2008
Oregon Treasures Act of 2008 - Adjusts the boundary of the Oregon Caves National Monument (Monument). Directs the Secretary of Agriculture or the Interior to: (1) implement forest restoration activities within the boundary of the Monument; and (2) accept any grazing permit or lease donated by a permitee or lessee (i.e., livestock operators who hold valid leases or permits for a grazing allotment). Amends the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to designate certain additional segments of the Monument and the Rogue River, Oregon, as components of the national wild and scenic rivers system.
United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2008
Lewis and Clark Mount Hood Wilderness Act of 2008 - Designates specified wilderness additions in Oregon as wilderness areas and components of the National Wilderness Preservation System. Designates certain federal land as the "Richard L. Kohnstamm Memorial Area." Designates the Roaring River Wilderness as a potential wilderness area. Requires the inclusion of certain federal land in the Mount Hood Wilderness and the Salmon-Huckleberry Wilderness. Designates specified segments of creeks and rivers in Mount Hood National Forest as components of the national wild and scenic rivers system. Amends the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area Act to permanently protect the Hood River, Oregon. Establishes the Mount Hood National Recreation Area (Area) within the Mount Hood National Forest. Requires, upon completion of the Cooper Spur-Government Camp land exchange, the establishment of a Crystal Springs Watershed Special Resources Management Unit (Unit). Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to manage the federal lands known as Upper Big Bottom and Cultus Creek in a manner that preserves the natural and primitive character of such lands for recreational, scenic, and scientific use. Provides for land exchanges in Clackasmas County, Oregon and in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Requires the Secretary to impose conditions on land conveyances to require that applicable construction activities and alterations be conducted according to: (1) nationally recognized building and property maintenance codes; and (2) nationally recognized codes for development in the wildland-urban interface and wildfire hazard mitigation. Directs the Secretary participate in the development of a transportation plan developed by the Oregon Department of Transportation for the Mount Hood Region to promote economic development, preserve the landscape of the Mount Hood Region, and enhance public safety. Directs the Secretary, in consultation with Indian tribes with treaty-reserved gathering rights on land encompassed by Mount Hood National Forest, to develop and implement a management plan that meets the cultural foods obligations of the United States under applicable treaties. Authorizes the construction of a trail in Mount Hood National Forest suitable for use by persons with disabilities.
United States · United States Congress · 17 June 2008
Congratulates the Special Olympics on its 40th anniversary.
United States · United States Congress · 17 June 2008
Recognizes and honors the contributions of Timothy John Russert, Jr., as an award-winning political analyst. Expresses condolences upon his death to his wife, Maureen Orth, his son Luke, and his surviving family members and friends.
United States · United States Congress · 12 June 2008
Amends the Commodity Exchange Act to make it unlawful for a person to enter into or execute an otherwise excluded swap transaction or exempt transaction involving crude oil, heating oil, gasoline, or diesel fuel (specified energy commodity), unless the person has been certified by the Commodities Future Trading Commission (CFTC) as having the capacity of accepting physical delivery of the commodity. Makes it unlawful, as well, for any person to hold a contract or agreement of sale of a specified energy commodity for future delivery, which is otherwise an excluded swap transaction or an exempt transaction, unless the CFTC has certified that the person has the capacity to produce or manufacture the commodity.
United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2008
Modifies the procedures the U.S. Postal Service must follow in connection with the closing or consolidation of any post office, including: (1) requiring an assessment of the need for the closure or consolidation; (2) eliminating a requirement to consider the resulting Postal Service economic savings; (3) requiring a posting in each affected post office at least 90 days before the final decision is made; and (4) requiring (currently, allowing) suspension of the determination pending an appeal to the Postal Regulatory Commission. Provides for exceptions for emergency suspensions (as defined under Postal Service regulations) or lease termination or cancellation by a party other than the Postal Service. Defines "post office," for the provisions amended by this Act, to include an office, branch, station, or other facility operated by the Postal Service.
United States · United States Congress · 5 June 2008
Cure and Understanding through Research for Alzheimer's Act of 2008 or La Cura Act of 2008 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to ensure sufficient resources for activities relating to Alzheimer's disease and Hispanic communities, including by: (1) increasing efforts in epidemiological work in Hispanic subgroups; (2) allocating resources to the National Institute on Aging Alzheimer's disease research centers and other academic centers involved in such research to increase participation of Hispanics and other underrepresented ethnic groups in research and clinical trials in sufficient numbers to draw valid conclusions; and (3) conducting social, behavioral, and health services research to understand the underlying reasons why Hispanic individuals delay diagnosis and underutilize services, to identify culturally and linguistically appropriate approaches to address such delays and underutilization, and to identify approaches for providing, and improving the quality of, culturally competent care. Requires the Director to expand and intensify NIH efforts to educate communities about the importance of research relating to Alzheimer's disease and to respond effectively to cultural concerns about participation in such research. Authorizes appropriations for a program of grants to states to carry out demonstration programs related to Alzheimer's disease. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to conduct an aggressive, evidence-based education and outreach program to promote public awareness and risk reduction with respect to Alzheimer's disease, particularly to Hispanic populations.
United States · United States Congress · 5 June 2008
Recognizes the urgency and complexity of the obesity epidemic. Commends the Campaign to End Obesity for identifying actionable steps that Congress can take toward reversing the epidemic. Commits to considering opportunities for addressing the epidemic, such as improving nutrition, increasing physical activity, and expanding access to care in all major legislative action.
United States · United States Congress · 3 June 2008
Expresses support for the designation of a National Health Information Technology Week. Recognizes the value of information technology and management systems to transforming health care. Encourages the President to issue a proclamation calling upon all stakeholders to promote the use of such systems to transform the U.S. health care system.
United States · United States Congress · 22 May 2008
Pension Protection Act ERISA Amendments of 2008 - Makes technical corrections to the Pension Protection Act of 2006 and the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) of 1974. Repeals certain requirements governing the termination date of a defined benefit pension plan of an employee in cases of an employer filing for bankruptcy. Requires the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC), with regard to single-employer plan guaranteed benefits in the case of commercial airline pilots required by Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulation to retire before age 65, to compute the actuarial value of monthly benefits in the form of a life annuity commencing at the required retirement age. Revises requirements to: (1) limit the amount a fiduciary may recover in actions against third parties (Pro-Rata Recovery) to enforce the terms of defined benefit plans on behalf of plan participants or beneficiaries; (2) prohibit the post-retirement reduction of retiree health benefits by group health plans; and (3) establish the Emergency Retiree Health Loan Guarantee Program. Modifies requirements with respect to: (1) crediting and termination of surcharges in connection with multiemployer pension plans in critical status upon adoption of rehabilitation plan; and (2) funding rules for multiemployer pension plans. Requires certain adjustments to determinations of the value of single-employer pension plan assets that are based on the averaging of fair market values (asset smoothing). Prohibits certain payments of benefits from single-employer pension plans that have an adjusted funding target attainment percentage of less than 80% for the year. Applies certain age discrimination safe harbor rules under ERISA and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 to civil actions brought on or after April 25, 2007, alleging any age discrimination violation occurring before June 29, 2005, with respect to any benefit provided under the Young Women's Christian Association Pension Plan. Exempts transactions involving the sale of employer securities held in a pension plan account from certain fiduciary requirements under specified conditions. Revises requirements with respect to: (1) special funding rules for at-risk pension plans for employees offered early retirement in 2007; and (2) pension plan funding target determinations. Treats employees of certain cooperatives as affiliated service group employees for purposes of single employer pension plans. Revises requirements regarding: (1) parties in interest affected by the prohibited transaction exemption for block trading; and (2) the scope of the prohibited transaction exemption for electronic communication. Increases bonding requirements for fiduciaries of pension plans primarily invested in employer securities.
United States · United States Congress · 22 May 2008
Honors the valedictorians and graduating seniors of the class of 2008 for their academic achievements and contributions to their communities. Encourages all valedictorians and graduating seniors to continue their studies. Supports the continued social engagement of valedictorians and graduating seniors.
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2008
Enhancing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Education Act of 2008 - Requires the President to establish, in the Office of Science and Technology Policy, a Committee on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Education (STEM education) within the National Science and Technology Council. Establishes an Office of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Education in the Department of Education, to be administered by an Assistant Secretary. Requires the Assistant Secretary to conduct an annual evaluation of the STEM education programs administered by the department. Requires the Secretary of Education to award a grant to establish a voluntary State Consortium on STEM Education and a grant to the National Science Digital Library to establish a National STEM Education Research Repository.
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2008
Employee Misclassification Prevention Act - Amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to require every employer to: (1) keep records of non-employees (contractors) who perform labor or services (except substitute work) for remuneration; and (2) provide certain notice to each employee and non-employee, including their classification as an employee or non-employee and information concerning their rights under the law. Makes it unlawful for any person to fail to accurately classify an employee or non-employee. Doubles the amount of liquidated damages for maximum hours, minimum wage, and notice of classification violations by an employer. Subjects a person who repeatedly or willfully violates such notice requirements to a civil penalty not to exceed $10,000 for each violation. Directs the Secretary of Labor to establish a web page on the Department of Labor website that summarizes the rights of employees under the Fair Labor Standards Act and other federal laws. Requires, as a condition for a federal grant for the administration of state unemployment compensation, for the state's unemployment compensation law to include a provision for: (1) auditing programs that identify employers that have not registered under the state law or that are paying unreported compensation where the effect is to exclude employees from unemployment compensation coverage; and (2) establishing administrative penalties for misclassifying employees or paying unreported unemployment compensation to employees. Requires any office, administration, or division of the Department of Labor to report any misclassification of an employee by an employer that it discovers to the Department's Employment Standards Administration (ESA). Authorizes the ESA to report such information to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2008
Recognizes the important social and economic contributions and accomplishments of the New Deal to our nation on the 75th anniversary of legislation establishing the initial New Deal social and public works programs. Encourages observation of National New Deal Week.
United States · United States Congress · 19 May 2008
Authorizes the National District Attorneys Association to use the National Advocacy Center in Columbia, South Carolina, for a training program to improve the professional skills of state and local prosecutors and to enhance the ability of federal, state, and local prosecutors to work together. Authorizes the National Advocacy Center to provide comprehensive legal education in trial practice, provide substantive legal updates, and support staff training.
United States · United States Congress · 15 May 2008
National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2008 - Authorizes appropriations to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for FY2009 for: (1) science; (2) aeronautics; (3) exploration; (4) education; (5) space operations; (6) cross-agency support programs; and (7) the inspector general. Authorizes additional appropriations for use to accelerate the initial operational capability of the Orion Crew Exploration Vehicle and the Ares I Crew Launch Vehicle. Requires: (1) a process for transitioning NASA experimental earth science and space weather research into operational services; and (2) a plan for the continuation of Landsat thermal infrared data collection or its equivalent. Reauthorizes the Glory Mission. Requires development of a plan for a Deep Space Climate Observatory (DSCOVR). Sets forth provisions concerning environmental aviation research initiatives. Requires a review of NASA's aviation safety-related research programs. Requires the establishment of an aviation weather research program. Requires the awarding of grants for the establishment of university-based Centers for Research on Aviation Training. Sets forth provisions concerning NASA's lunar exploration activities. Requires the establishment of an exploration technology development program that is not tied to specific flight projects. Sets forth provisions concerning: (1) a common docking system standard to maximize the ability to rescue astronauts from disabled space vehicles; and (2) a cross-directorate technology development program. Requires the development of a plan to restart the production of radioisotope thermoelectric generator material for deep space and other science missions. Ensures that the International Space Station (ISS) remains capable for potential U.S. utilization through at least 2020. Requires specified Space Shuttle flights to be flown prior to the retirement of the Space Shuttle. Requires development of a strategy for providing commercial launch services in support of NASA's small and medium-sized science, space operations, and exploration missions. Provides for notifying federal agencies and relevant emergency response institutions of an impending near-Earth object threat. Sets forth requirements for the use of commercial crew transfer and crew rescue services. Requires: (1) a review of NASA's information security controls; (2) a report on intrusions of NASA's network resources; and (3) a review of NASA's laboratories. Requires a survey regarding astronaut health care. Increases the maximum award amount for an innovation prize. Sets forth provisions for specified earth science, aeronautics, international exploration, space science, and space operations activities, missions, initiatives, studies, and programs.
United States · United States Congress · 15 May 2008
Supports the goals and ideals of a National Guard Youth Challenge Day to improve the education, life skills, and employment potential of America's high school dropouts though public awareness, scholarships, higher education assistance, mentoring, and job development programs.
United States · United States Congress · 15 May 2008
Expresses the sense of Congress that the 225th Anniversary of the Continental Congress meeting at Nassau Hall in Princeton, New Jersey, should be commemorated.
United States · United States Congress · 14 May 2008
Extends condolences and sympathy to the people of the People's Republic of China (PRC) for the loss of life and destruction caused by the earthquake centered in Sichuan Province. Vows full support for the people of the PRC as well as the members of the Chinese American community who have relatives in the affected areas.
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 2008
Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to allow a surviving spouse of a U.S. citizen who was married for less than two years at the time of the citizen's death who proves by a preponderance of the evidence that the marriage was entered into in good faith and not for the purpose of obtaining an immigration benefit to self-petition (within the required two years) for continued immediate relative status. Extends the petition filing deadline for two years after the date of the enactment of this Act for an alien spouse who failed to file within the required two-year period but would be considered by reason of this Act to remain an immediate relative.
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 2008
Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to include among those aliens not subject to worldwide numerical immigrant limitations persons who have earned a master's or higher degree from a U.S. institution of higher education in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics and who have an employment offer from a U.S. employer in a field related to such degree.
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 2008
Expresses support for: (1) the goals and ideals of World Hepatitis Awareness Month; and (2) raising awareness of the consequences of untreated viral hepatitis and the urgency to seek appropriate care as a serious public health issue.
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 2008
Strategic Petroleum Reserve Fill Suspension and Consumer Protection Act of 2008 - Directs the Secretary of the Interior to suspend petroleum acquisition for the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) through the royalty-in-kind program during the period between enactment of this Act and December 31, 2008. Instructs the Secretary of Energy to suspend petroleum acquisition for the SPR through any acquisition method during such period. Authorizes both Secretaries to resume acquisition during such period, but no earlier than 30 days after the President notifies Congress that the weighted average price of petroleum in the United States for the most recent 90-day period is $75 or less per barrel. Directs the Secretary of Energy, to the extent practicable, to: (1) accept delivery of royalty-in-kind oil scheduled for delivery to the Department of Energy (DOE) for the SPR pursuant to an existing contract with the Secretary of the Interior; and (2) negotiate deferral of any oil delivery scheduled for the SPR pursuant to a contract entered into by DOE before, and in effect on, the date of enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 2008
Extends condolences to the people of Burma for the grave loss of life and vast destruction caused by Cyclone Nargis, and vows full support with the people of Burma. Calls on Americans to provide emergency assistance to cyclone victims in Burma through humanitarian agencies. Calls for the Burmese military junta to consider the well-being of its people and accept international assistance.
United States · United States Congress · 1 May 2008
Creates, for veterans who were subjected to certain chemical or biological warfare testing involving Project 112 conducted through Deseret Test Center (including the Shipboard Hazard and Defense Project, also known as Project SHAD), a presumption that a disease was incurred in or aggravated by service, notwithstanding that there is no record of evidence of the disease during the period of service, if the disease warrants presumtion of service connection by reason of increased exposure to a biological, chemical, or other toxic agent.
United States · United States Congress · 1 May 2008
National Nanotechnology Intiative Amendments Act of 2008 - Revises the 21st Century Nanotechology Research and Development Act with regard to strategic plans developed pursuant to the National Nanotechnology Program. Requires agencies participating in the Program to support the setting of standards for nanotechnology. Sets forth a new funding requirement with respect to the National Nanotechnology Coordination Office. Requires the Office to be supported by funds from each agency participating in the Program. Sets forth annual reporting requirements regarding the Office. Makes the National Nanotechnology Advisory Panel a distinct entity. Instructs the Panel to form a subpanel to enable it in assessing whether societal, ethical, legal, environmental, and workforce concerns are adequately addressed by the Program. Rewrites provisions for triennial external review of the Program. Provides for the designation of an associate director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy as the Coordinator for Societal Dimensions of Nanotechnology. Requires the Coordinator to convene a panel to develop a research plan. Provides for one or more grants to establish Nanotechnology Education Partnerships. Establishes an Education Working Group. Requires agencies supporting nanotechnology research facilities to provide access to such facilities to assist companies in the development of prototypes of nanoscale products, devices, or processes. Sets forth requirements for the support of nanotechnology related projects under existing nanotechnology transfer programs. Establishes industry liaison groups. Requires coordination and leveraging of federal investments with states' nanotechnology initiatives. Requires the Program to include support for nanotechnology research and development in areas of national importance. Sets forth provisions regarding nanomanufacturing research, including green nanomanufacturing research. Requires specified reviews.
United States · United States Congress · 1 May 2008
National Trauma Center Stabilization Act of 2008 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to revise provisions governing grants to trauma centers. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish four programs to award grants to public or nonprofit trauma centers to: (1) assist in defraying substantial uncompensated care costs; (2) further a center's core mission; (3) provide emergency relief to ensure continued and future availability of trauma service; and (4) support the development and maintenance of innovative information technology systems. Sets forth: (1) minimum qualifications of eligible centers, including requirements for levels of uncompensated care provided; and (2) preferences for awarding grants among level I, II, III, and IV trauma centers and among centers based on the changing availability of or demand for trauma care in the area served and financial need. Requires grantees to submit a long-term plan for providing trauma care. Requires the Secretary to: (1) annually determine and notify centers of their eligibility to receive a grant; and (2) periodically report on the status of such grants, the financial stability of the centers, the populations using the centers, and the effectiveness and efficiency of center activities. Authorizes appropriations for such grants for FY2009-FY2014 and specifies percentages to be reserved for the different types of grants.
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 2008
Mark O. Hatfield Scholarship and Excellence in Tribal Governance Act of 2008 - Establishes as an independent executive branch entity the Mark O. Hatfield Scholarship and Excellence in Tribal Governance Foundation, to be located in Portland, Oregon. Requires the Foundation to: (1) develop resources to train Native American and Alaska Native tribal council members in self-government and related fields; (2) foster greater recognition and understanding of the role of tribal self-government in the development of the United States; (3) identify critical issues facing tribal governments; (4) establish a program for tribal governance research at the Institute for Tribal Government at Portland State University; and (5) provide educational outreach regarding tribal self-government. Authorizes the Foundation to award: (1) scholarships to outstanding undergraduate students who intend to pursue careers relating to tribal governance and to Native American and Alaska Native undergraduate students intending to pursue careers in tribal public policy; (2) fellowships to outstanding graduate students who intend to pursue advanced degrees in fields relating to tribal governance, to Native American and Alaska Native graduate students intending to pursue advanced degrees in tribal public policy, law, or medicine, and to faculty from a variety of disciplines to bring their expertise to the Foundation; and (3) internships to individuals to work in government agencies or in offices of major tribal governance organizations and to Native American and Alaska Native individuals to work in agencies or in offices of major public health or public policy organizations. Directs the Foundation to award grants to the Institute to: (1) provide for an annual panel of experts to discuss contemporary tribal governance issues; (2) conduct research in tribal governance policy and on Native American and Alaska Native tribal public policy issues; and (3) invite visiting policymakers to share practical experiences with the Foundation. Requires the Foundation to assist in the development and implementation of a program for tribal governance research to be located at the Institute.
United States · United States Congress · 29 April 2008
High Skilled Per Country Level Elimination Act - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to: (1) eliminate the per-country numerical limitation for employment-based immigrants; (2) increase the per-country numerical limitation for family-sponsored immigrants; (3) establish the fiscal year worldwide level of employment-based immigrants at 140,000 plus the previous year's unused visas; and (4) establish the fiscal year worldwide level of family-sponsored immigrants at 480,000 minus the number of certain aliens not subject to direct numerical limitations plus the previous year's unused visas. (States that such annual level shall not be less than 226,000.)
United States · United States Congress · 24 April 2008
Recognizes that the incredible diversity of different racial and ethnic groups, including Asian American and Pacific Islander, is a source of strength for the United States. Recognizes that the Asian American and Pacific Islander community is influential and crucial to the society and culture of the United States. Reaffirms the commitment of the House of Representatives to the goals and ideals of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. Celebrates the contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 24 April 2008
Recognizes: (1) on its 60th anniversary year the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as a singular achievement of the community of nations; and (2) the contribution in the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution to the development of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Urges all U.N. member states to uphold the principles of human dignity enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, especially on behalf of the world's most vulnerable persons.