United States · United States Congress · 1 November 2007
Flood Insurance Reform and Modernization Act of 2007 - Amends the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (Act) to extend the national flood insurance program (Program) through FY2013. Requires the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to make national flood insurance available for multifamily properties. Revises requirements for: (1) escrow of flood insurance payments; (2) debt forgiveness with respect to FEMA funding of flood insurance claims resulting from the hurricanes of 2005; and (3) minimum deductibles for specified properties. Instructs the Director to establish in the Treasury a National Flood Insurance Reserve Fund. Prohibits FEMA from denying payment of certain flood insurance claims by condominium owners. Establishes the Technical Mapping Advisory Council. Requires FEMA and the heads of specified federal agencies to: (1) coordinate and share flood risk determination data and geospatial data; and (2) make an interagency budget crosscut report to Congress. Directs the National Academy of Public Administration to study and report to Congress on how FEMA can: (1) improve interagency coordination on flood mapping; and (2) establish joint funding mechanisms with other governmental agencies. States that any area located within the 500-year flood plain is not subject to certain mandatory purchase requirements of the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973. Provides for: (1) permissible testing of new flood proofing technology; and (2) mandatory participation of FEMA representatives in state disaster claims mediation programs. Instructs FEMA to continue to implement minimum training and education standards for insurance agents who sell flood insurance policies. Authorizes FEMA to to make expense reimbursements to certain private sector companies that have paid claims. Extends the pilot program for mitigation of severe repetitive loss properties. Establishes the Office of the Flood Insurance Advocate to assist insureds resolve problems with FEMA.
United States · United States Congress · 1 November 2007
Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2007 - Amends the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act to: (1) redefine an act of terrorism; (2) extend the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program through calendar 2014; (3) modify an insurer's annual liability cap; (4) direct the Secretary of the Treasury to notify Congress within 15 days on whether estimated aggregate insured losses following an act of terrorism will exceed $100 billion; (5) require insurers to disclose to policyholders the $100 billion cap on liability; and (6) direct the Comptroller General to study and report to specified congressional committees on the availability and affordability of insurance coverage for nuclear, biological, chemical, and radiological terrorist events.
United States · United States Congress · 31 October 2007
Aeronautics Competitiveness Act of 2007 - Authorizes appropriations for FY2009-FY2011 for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for Science, Aeronautics, and Exploration for aeronautics research. Establishes an advisory committee on priorities in aeronautics research. Requires the NASA Administrator to develop particular aeronautics technologies, including for the Next Generation Air Transportation System, to a demonstration ready level. Sets the maximum number of NASA aeronautics scholarships at no more than seven at any one time. Requires the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to establish a program to provide fellowships for graduate students in research in aviation or aeronautics. Requires the Secretary of the Department of Defense (DOD) to prescribe regulations governing DOD's payment of contractors' costs for education and professional development of their aeronautics workforce.
United States · United States Congress · 31 October 2007
International Violence Against Women Act of 2007 - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to establish in the Department of State the Office of Women's Global Initiatives (which shall replace the Office of International Women's Issues) to coordinate U.S. government efforts respecting international women's issues. Establishes within the Department an Advisory Commission on International Violence Against Women. Directs the President to develop a comprehensive strategy to prevent violence against women and girls. Directs the Coordinator of the Women's Global Initiatives to ensure that foreign assistance programs incorporate measures to prevent and respond to violence against women and girls. Provides that U.S. training of foreign military and police forces incorporates training on prevention of violence against women and girls. Directs the Department and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to assist programs that prevent and respond to violence against women and girls in all humanitarian relief, conflict, and post-conflict operations. Directs the Secretary of State to: (1) encourage U.N. member states to expand the number of female members of U.N. peacekeeping missions; and (2) take emergency measures to respond to violence against women and girls during conflict or post-conflict operations. Expresses the sense of Congress that the United Nations should strengthen its ability to prevent violence against women and girls by U.N. military and civilian personnel. Provides that Foreign Service training include instruction on prevention of violence against women and girls. Authorizes appropriations to support the United Nations Development Fund for Women Trust Fund in Support of Actions to Eliminate Violence Against Women.
United States · United States Congress · 31 October 2007
Sudan Accountability and Divestment Act of 2007 - Authorizes state and local governments to divest from certain companies directly invested in specified Sudanese sectors. Amends the Investment Company Act of 1940 to provide a safe harbor from civil, criminal, or administrative actions against investment companies or their employees, officers, or directors for investment policy changes respecting Sudan. Prohibits U.S. government contracts for business operations in Sudan.
United States · United States Congress · 29 October 2007
Burma Democracy Promotion Act of 2007 - States that it is U.S. policy to: (1) condemn the repression carried out by the State Peace and Development Council (SPDC); (2) support a peaceful transition to constitutional democracy in Burma; and (3) hold accountable individuals responsible for the repression of peaceful political activity in Burma. Directs the President to submit to the appropriate congressional committees a list of: (1) SPDC officials who play or have played a substantial role in political repression in Burma or in the commission of human rights abuses; and (2) other Burmese SPDC supporters. Subjects persons so identified to U.S. entry prohibition and financial sanctions (blocked property, financial transaction prohibitions, and banking sanctions). Exempts medical and humanitarian assistance from such restrictions. Authorizes additional waivers for diplomatic and travel purposes. Terminates such prohibitions upon a presidential certification to the committees that the SPDC has: (1) released all political prisoners, including Aung San Suu Kyi and other members of the National League for Democracy; (2) entered into a dialogue with democratic forces led by the National League for Democracy and the ethnic minorities of Burma on transitioning to democratic government; and (3) allowed humanitarian access to populations affected by armed conflict in all regions of Burma. Amends the the Burmese Freedom and Democracy Act of 2003 to prohibit the importation into the United States of Burmese gems, teak, or other hardwood timber. Directs the President to appoint a Special Representative and Policy Coordinator for Burma. Authorizes: (1) the Secretary of the Treasury to issue multi-year licenses for humanitarian or religious activities in Burma; and (2) the President to assist nonviolent democracy activists in their efforts to promote freedom, democracy, and human rights in Burma. Directs the Secretary of State to report to the appropriate committees respecting countries that provide military aid to Burma. Expresses the sense of Congress that the United States should lead U.N. Security Council efforts to impose an international arms embargo on Burma.
United States · United States Congress · 29 October 2007
Congratulates the Boston Red Sox for winning the 2007 Major League Baseball World Series and the Colorado Rockies for winning the National League Championship.
United States · United States Congress · 25 October 2007
States that any offensive military action taken by the United States against Iran must be explicitly approved by Congress before such action may be initiated.
United States · United States Congress · 19 October 2007
Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to authorize the Secretary of Education to: (1) award grants to encourage the establishment and operation of Teachers Institutes; and (2) provide technical assistance, either directly or through the Yale-New Haven Teachers Institute, to assist local educational agencies (LEAs) and institutions of higher education (IHEs) in establishing and operating Teachers Institutes. Sets forth selection criteria, including consideration of the extent to which the proposed Institute will serve a community or communities that have a significant low-income population. Defines a Teachers Institute as a partnership or joint venture between one or more IHEs and one or more LEAs with significant low-income populations that is established to improve the quality of teaching and learning through collaborative seminars.
United States · United States Congress · 18 October 2007
Amends P.L. 109-116 (relating to obtaining a statue of Rosa Parks and placing it in the U. S. Capitol in National Statuary Hall) to extend the time period that the Joint Committee on the Library has to enter into an agreement to obtain a statue of Rosa Parks. Allows the Joint Committee to authorize the Architect of the Capitol to enter into the agreement and related contracts required under such law on its behalf, under such terms and conditions as it may require. Makes such amendments effective as if included in the enactment of P.L. 109-116.
United States · United States Congress · 18 October 2007
Calls for free presidential elections in Lebanon. Condemns the governments of Syria and Iran for their interference in Lebanon's internal political affairs. Affirms support for Lebanon's armed forces. Urges the Secretary of State to continue efforts in support of a Special Tribunal for Lebanon to end impunity for political assassinations. Urges the President to use all peaceful means to help promote an independent, democratic, and prosperous Lebanon.
United States · United States Congress · 17 October 2007
Student Bill of Rights - Directs the Secretary of Education to make annual determinations as to whether each state's public school system provides all its students with educational resources to succeed academically and in life. Requires such education to enable students to: (1) acquire knowledge and skills necessary for responsible citizenship; (2) meet challenging academic achievement standards; and (3) compete and succeed in a global economy. Requires each system to do so by: (1) providing specified fundamentals of educational opportunity to students at each public elementary and secondary school; (2) providing educational services in school districts that receive funds for disadvantaged students that are at least comparable to educational services provided in school districts not receiving such funds; and (3) complying with any final federal or state court order in any matter concerning the adequacy or equitableness of the system. Requires each state receiving federal financial assistance for elementary and secondary education to submit an accountability plan to the Secretary annually. Requires withholding of specified portions of its federal funding for administrative expenses if a system: (1) fails to meet a yearly interim goal; (2) does not remedy, after two school years, a failure to provide comparable educational services to schools that receive funds for disadvantaged children; or (3) does not comply with a court order. Allows students or parents aggrieved by violations of this Act to bring civil actions for enforcement in federal district courts.
United States · United States Congress · 17 October 2007
Honors Vice President Albert Arnold Gore, Jr., and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change for receiving the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of their efforts to promote understanding of the threats posed by global warming.
United States · United States Congress · 16 October 2007
Jubilee Act for Responsible Lending and Expanded Debt Cancellation of 2007 - Amends the International Financial Institutions Act to direct the Secretary of the Treasury, within the Paris Club of Official Creditors, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (World Bank), and other international financial institutions, to: (1) provide for debt cancellation of eligible low-income countries (as defined by this Act) to such institutions and to the United States; (2) provide for establishment of frameworks for creditor transparency and responsible lending; and (3) provide that such debt cancellation is not conditioned on harmful economic or environmental conditions. Directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to audit the debt portfolios of previous governments in certain countries, including South Africa and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
United States · United States Congress · 15 October 2007
Expresses support for: (1) the goals and ideals of Fire Prevention Week, October 7-October 13, 2007; and (2) the work of firefighters to educate and protect the nation's communities.
United States · United States Congress · 4 October 2007
National Guard and Reserve Educational Benefits Fairness Act of 2007 - Provides educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill for members of the National Guard and Reserve for extended service on continuous active duty that includes prolonged service in certain theaters of operation.
United States · United States Congress · 3 October 2007
Helping Families Save Their Homes in Bankruptcy Act of 2007 - Amends federal bankruptcy law to permit a bankruptcy plan to: (1) modify a loan secured by the principal residence (mortgage) of a chapter 13 debtor (individual with regular income); and (2) provide for payment of such loan at a fixed annual percentage rate of interest, over a 30-year period. Exempts a chapter 13 debtor from the requirement for credit counseling if the court receives certification that debtor's principal residence has been scheduled for a foreclosure sale. Conditions any fees, costs, or charges that may be added to the mortgage debt during pendency of the bankruptcy case upon notice to the court within a specified deadline. Requires the court to waive such additional fees, costs, or charges if the court has not been notified on time. Permits a bankruptcy plan to provide for waiver of any prepayment penalty contained on a claim secured by debtor's principal residence. Authorizes the trustee in bankruptcy to request joinder or substitution for the debtor as the real party in interest in any action in state or federal court with respect to a claim or defense asserted by an individual debtor that was not scheduled in the debtor's petition. Permits the debtor to proceed as the real party in interest if the trustee does not make such a request. Amends the judicial code to authorize the court in any core proceeding under bankruptcy law to hear and determine a proceeding in lieu of referral to arbitration if the case involves an individual debtor whose debts are primarily consumer debts. Exempts from the estate in bankruptcy up to $75,000 of the debtor's aggregate interest in real property used as debtor's principal residence if the debtor is age 55 or older. Prohibits the court from allowing a claim that is subject to any remedy for damages or rescission due to failure to comply with the Truth in Lending Act or any other state or federal consumer protection law.
United States · United States Congress · 3 October 2007
Child Soldiers Accountability Act of 2007 - Amends the federal criminal code to impose a fine and/or 20-year prison term for recruiting, enlisting, or conscripting a person under 15 years of age into an armed force or group or knowingly using such person to participate actively in combat hostilities or attempting or conspiring to do so. Provides for: (1) expanded jurisdiction for prosecuting U.S. nationals and aliens who violate this Act; and (2) a 10-year limitation period for prosecuting violations. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to render any alien who has recruited or used child soldiers inadmissible or deportable.
United States · United States Congress · 2 October 2007
Recognizes the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15, 2007, through October 15, 2007. Honors the heritage and culture of Hispanic Americans and their immense contributions to the life of the nation.
United States · United States Congress · 1 October 2007
Public Safety Employer-Employee Cooperation Act of 2007 - Provides collective bargaining rights for public safety officers employed by states or local governments. Directs the Federal Labor Relations Authority (Authority) to determine whether state law provides specified rights and responsibilities for public safety officers, including: (1) granting public safety employees the right to form and join a labor organization which excludes management and supervisory employees, and which is, or seeks to be, recognized as the exclusive bargaining agent for such employees; and (2) requiring public safety employers to recognize and agree to bargain with the employees' labor organization. Requires the Authority to issue in accordance with the public safety employee rights and responsibilities regulations establishing collective bargaining procedures for public safety employers and employees in states that do not substantially provide for such rights and responsibilities. Directs the Authority , in such cases, to: (1) determine the appropriateness of units for labor organization representation; (2) supervise or conduct elections to determine whether a labor organization has been selected as an exclusive representative by a voting majority of the employees in an appropriate unit; (3) resolve issues relating to the duty to bargain in good faith; (4) conduct hearings and resolve complaints of unfair labor practices; and (5) resolve exceptions to arbitrator's awards. Grants a public safety employer, employee, or labor organization the right to seek enforcement of such Authority regulations and orders through appropriate state courts. Prohibits public safety employers, employees, and labor organizations from engaging in lockouts, sickouts, work slowdowns, or strikes. Provides that existing collective bargaining units and agreements shall not be invalidated by this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 1 October 2007
Social Investment and Economic Development for the Americas Act of 2007 - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to direct the President, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), to provide assistance to reduce poverty, expand the middle class, and foster increased economic opportunity in Western Hemisphere countries. Establishes within USAID the Western Hemisphere Economic Investment and Development Advisory Committee which shall: (1) serve as a link among the U.S. government, nongovernmental organizations, the private sector, and other interested parties; and (2) review projects funded under this Act. Amends the Inter-American Development Bank Act to direct the Secretary of the Treasury to instruct the United States Executive Director at the Bank to use U.S. influence to urge the Bank to establish a Social Investment and Economic Development Fund for the Americas to provide assistance to reduce poverty, expand the size of the middle class, and foster increased economic opportunity in Western Hemisphere countries. Authorizes appropriations for payment to the Inter-American Development Bank of arrears owed by the United States to the Multilateral Investment Fund.
United States · United States Congress · 1 October 2007
Expresses the sense of the Senate: (1) condemning the use of violence against peaceful protesters in Burma; (2) calling on the government of Burma to refrain from further violence, release arrested demonstrators, cease attacks against ethnic minorities, release Aung Sang Suu Kyi and other political prisoners, and begin tripartite political dialogue with Suu Kyi, the National League for Democracy, and the ethnic minorities; (3) calling on the People's Republic of China (PRC) to remove objections to U.N. Security Council efforts to condemn actions taken by the government of Burma against the protesters; (4) calling on the PRC and other nations to suspend military assistance to Burma until civilian democratic rule is restored; (5) recognizing the many constructive statements issued by various nations, and particularly the statement issued by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on September 27, 2007; (6) that the United States and the United Nations should strongly encourage the PRC, India, and Russia to modify their position on Burma and use their influence to convince the government of Burma to engage in dialogue with opposition leaders and ethnic minorities; (7) supporting the U.N. mission to Burma led by Ibrahim Gambari; and (8) that the United States should work with the international community to pressure the government of Burma to lift restrictions on humanitarian aid delivery.
United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2007
Emergency Contraception Education Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to develop and disseminate to the public information on emergency contraception, including, at a minimum, a description of emergency contraception and an explanation of the use, safety, efficacy, and availability of such contraception. Requires that the Secretary, acting through the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), to develop and disseminate to health care providers, including pharmacists, information on emergency contraception that includes, at a minimum: (1) information describing the use, safety, efficacy, and availability of emergency contraception; (2) a recommendation regarding its use in appropriate cases; and (3) information explaining how to obtain copies of information from the CDC.
United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2007
Ending the Medicare Disability Waiting Period Act of 2007 - Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) (OASDI) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to: (1) phase out the waiting period for disabled individuals to become eligible for benefits under SSA title XVIII (Medicare); and (2) eliminate the waiting period for individuals with life-threatening conditions to become eligible for such benefits. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to request the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences to study the range of disability conditions that can be delayed or prevented if individuals receive access to health care services and coverage before a condition reaches disability levels.
United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2007
Protecting Employees and Retirees in Business Bankruptcies Act of 2007 - Amends federal bankruptcy law to increase the maximum amount per individual or corporation of unsecured claims ranked in the fourth (wages, salaries, or commissions) and fifth (employee benefit plan contributions) order of priority. Includes within the scope of a claim in bankruptcy certain equity securities held in a defined contribution plan for the benefit of certain individuals. Ranks in sixth order of priority the diminished value of debtor's equity securities held in a defined contribution plan if the employer or plan sponsor committed fraud regarding the plan. Permits within administrative expenses certain severance pay for termination or layoffs. Prohibits certain senior executive compensation from being disproportionate in light of economic concessions by debtor's nonmanagement workforce. Disallows as an administrative expense specified executive compensation enhancements. Revises requirements governing: (1) rejection of collective bargaining agreements; (2) insurance benefits for retired employees; and (3) the status of certain employee benefits in a sale of business assets. Allows defined benefit plan participants to file claims for certain shortfalls in pension benefits. Permits inclusion within the necessary costs and expenses of preserving property the mandatory recovery of unpaid obligations owed to employees. Directs the court to consider the extent to which alternative reorganization plans maintain: (1) jobs; (2) defined benefit plans; and (3) retiree health benefits. Prohibits assumption of deferred compensation for the benefit of insiders or senior management if an employee defined benefit plan has been terminated. Limits the recovery of executive compensation if the debtor has reduced its contractual obligations under either a collective bargaining agreement or retiree benefits plan. Excepts from an automatic stay: (1) a dispute resolution proceeding established by a collective bargaining agreement prior to commencement of bankruptcy; or (2) an award or settlement under such proceeding. Authorizes the bankruptcy trustee to avoid transfers made for the benefit of an insider or certain consultants in anticipation of bankruptcy. Revises prerequisites to court confirmation of a business reorganization plan which continues retiree benefits.
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 2007
Global Resources and Opportunities for Women to Thrive Act of 2007 or GROWTH Act of 2007 - Targets assistance for women in developing countries with respect to: (1) microenterprises; (2) small and medium enterprises; (3) private property rights and land tenure security; (4) employment access; (5) trade benefits; (6) exchanges with U.S. entrepreneurs; (7) Millennium Challenge Account assistance; and (8) indigenous women's organizations. Directs the Secretary of State to establish the Global Resources and Opportunities for Women to Thrive (GROWTH) Fund to enhance economic opportunities for very poor, poor, and low-income women in developing countries with a focus on: (1) increasing women-owned enterprise development; (2) increasing property rights for women; (3) increasing women's access to financial services; (4) increasing women in leadership in implementing organizations, such as indigenous nongovernmental organizations, community-based organizations, and regulated financial intermediaries; (5) improving women's employment benefits and conditions; and (6) increasing women's ability to benefit from global trade.
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 2007
Reaffirms the Senate's commitment to: (1) a lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict based on the establishment of two states, Israel and Palestine; and (2) Israel's security. Denounces the use of violence and terror. Calls on: (1) President Bush to engage Israel and the Palestinian Authority (PA) to begin negotiations; (2) Hamas to recognize Israel's right to exist, renounce and end all terror and incitement, and accept past agreements and obligations with Israel; (3) moderate Arab states to intensify their diplomatic efforts toward a two-state solution; and (4) Israeli and Palestinian leaders to embrace efforts to achieve peace and refrain from taking any actions that would prejudice final status negotiations. Welcomes the Arab League Peace Initiative. Urges President Bush to consider appointing as Special Envoy for Middle East Peace an individual who has held cabinet rank or someone equally qualified with an extensive knowledge of foreign affairs and the Middle East region in particular.
United States · United States Congress · 18 September 2007
Airline Flight Crew Technical Corrections Act - Amends the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 with respect to hours-of-service requirements airline flight crews must meet to qualify for leave under such Act. Declares that a flight attendant or flight crewmember will be considered to meet such requirements if he or she has been paid for or has worked 60% of the employer's monthly hour or trip guarantee, or the equivalent annualized over the previous 12-month period.
United States · United States Congress · 18 September 2007
Fair Home Health Care Act of 2007 - Amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to exempt certain home health care workers who are employed on a casual basis from the minimum wage and maximum hour requirements under such Act. Defines employment on a "casual basis" as employment which is irregular or intermittent and does not exceed 20 hours per week in the aggregate.
United States · United States Congress · 18 September 2007
Teachers at the Table Act - Amends title I (Improving the Academic Achievement of the Disadvantaged) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to direct the Secretary of Education to establish the Volunteer Teacher Advisory Committee to monitor the effects of such title (amended by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001) in classrooms, with its focus solely on children and families. Requires that committee membership consist of a diverse group of public school classroom teachers who are past or present Teachers of the Year.
United States · United States Congress · 12 September 2007
Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) a commemorative postage stamp honoring Rosa Louise McCauley Parks should be issued; (2) the provision requiring that an honoree must have died at least five years before this honor should be waived; and (3) the Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee should recommend that such a stamp be issued.
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 2007
Free Flow of Information Act of 2007 - Prohibits a federal entity from compelling a covered person (journalists and their employers, etc.) to testify or produce any document relating to protected information unless a court makes specified determinations by a preponderance of the evidence, including that all reasonable alternative sources have been exhausted and that nondisclosure would be contrary to the public interest, taking into account both the public interest in compelling disclosure and the public interest in gathering news and maintaining the free flow of information. Requires the content of compelled testimony or documents to be limited and narrowly tailored. Creates exceptions relating to criminal or tortious conduct, prevention of death, kidnapping, or substantial bodily injury, prevention of terrorist activity, or prevention of national security harm. Applies this Act to communications service providers with regard to testimony or any record, information, or other communication that relates to a business transaction between such providers and covered persons. Sets forth notice requirements. Permits a court to delay notice to a covered person upon determining that such notice would pose a substantial threat to the integrity of a criminal investigation. Declares that this Act does not supersede, dilute, or preclude any law or court decision compelling or not compelling disclosure by a covered person or communications service provider of information identifying a source who provided information without a confidentiality promise made as part of engaging in journalism or records, communication data, documents, or information obtained without a confidentiality promise.
United States · United States Congress · 6 September 2007
Tropical Forest and Coral Conservation Reauthorization Act of 2007 - Renames the Tropical Forest Conservation Act of 1998 as The Tropical Forest and Coral Conservation Act of 2007 (Act). Includes tropical forests and coral reefs and associated coastal marine ecosystems within the scope of such Act. Renames the Tropical Forest Facility as the Conservation Facility. Authorizes U.S. government representation on the administering body that oversees the implementation of grants from a debt-for-nature swap or debt buy-back regardless of whether the United States is a party to any agreement between the eligible purchaser and the government of the beneficiary country. Requires U.S. government and beneficiary country government review of Conservation Fund grants in excess of $250,000. Repeals Enterprise of the Americas Board authority to carry out activities under the Act.
United States · United States Congress · 5 September 2007
Declares that as Senator Tim Johnson returns to the Senate, his fellow Members of the Senate extend their warmest welcome and express their personal happiness at his return, and offer their very best wishes for his continued good health.
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 2007
International Child Marriage Prevention and Protection Act of 2007 - Requires the Secretary of State to develop a comprehensive strategy to reduce the incidences of child marriage by further integrating this issue into U.S. development efforts. Requires the Secretary to report to Congress on such strategy and on child marriage and related U.S. assistance programs. Authorizes the President to provide assistance for programs to reduce the incidences of child marriage and promote the empowerment of girls, including support for the treatment and reduction of fistula in countries with high rates of such surgery. Requires the Secretary to work through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and other appropriate agencies as part of their ongoing research and data collection activities concerning child marriage. Requires the Secretary to include in the Department of State's Annual Country Reports on Human Rights Practices a section for each country where child marriage is prevalent, outlining the status of the practice.
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 2007
Export Enforcement Act of 2007 - Amends the Export Administration Act of 1979 (the Act) to place the Office of Foreign Availability under the direction of the Under Secretary of Commerce for Industry and Security (under current law, the Under Secretary of Commerce for Export Administration). Increases penalties for violations of the Act. Sets forth a five-year statute of limitations for commencing a proceeding in which a civil penalty or other administrative sanction is sought under the Act. Modifies enforcement mechanisms under the Act. Subjects tangible items lawfully seized by U.S. designated officers or employees to forfeiture. Specifies the use of funds made available for undercover investigation operations by the Office of Export Enforcement. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce, without fiscal year limitations, to expend funds transferred to, paid to, received by, or made available to the Bureau of Industry and Security of the Department of Commerce as a reimbursement. Exempts functions exercised under the Export Administration Regulations as maintained and amended under the authority of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act from administrative procedure and judicial review. Amends the Tariff Act of 1930 to subject every person involved in the export of merchandise contrary to law to a monetary penalty.
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 2007
Recognizes the extraordinary bravery and courage of the Little Rock Nine (the first African-American students at Little Rock Central High School). Commemorates the 50th anniversary of the desegregation of Little Rock Central High School. Encourages all people of the United States to reflect on the importance of this event and acknowledges that continued efforts and resources should be directed to enable all children to achieve equal opportunity in education in the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 2007
Prohibits an individual in the custody or control of the U.S. government, regardless of nationality or physical location, from being subject to any treatment or technique of interrogation not authorized by specified sections of the U.S. Army Field Manual on Human Intelligence Collector Operations. Specifically prohibits the following treatment or techniques: (1) forcing an individual to be naked, perform sexual acts, or pose in a sexual manner; (2) placing a hood or sack over an individual's head, or duct tape over the eyes; (3) beating, electrical shock, burns, or other forms of physical pain; (4) the procedure known as "waterboarding"; (5) threats or attack from a military working dog; (6) inducing hypothermia or heat injury; (7) conducting a mock execution of an individual; and (8) deprivation of necessary food, water, or medical care.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 2007
Addressing the Disaster Needs of Children Act of 2007 - Establishes in the legislative branch the National Commission on Children and Disasters, which shall: (1) assess facts and causes relating to the needs of children before, during, and after all hazards, disasters, and emergencies, including child health and welfare, housing, and juvenile justice needs and emergency mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery activities; (2) evaluate relevant laws and past events regarding the mitigation, preparedness, response, recovery, coordination, and service delivery policies of federal, state, and local governments and nongovernmental entities relative to addressing such needs; and (3) report to the President and Congress. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a National Resource Center on Children and Disasters, which shall: (1) establish a clearinghouse for information and resources on issues relating to such needs; and (2) develop and maintain a website and related systems for disseminating information on such issues. Directs the Secretary to: (1) collaborate with any executive department and specified parties responsible for policies and regulations relevant to such needs; and (2) enter into a memorandum of understanding with the Secretaries of Homeland Security, Education, Housing and Urban Development, and Transportation and the Attorney General to collaborate on the functions of the Center.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 2007
Support for Injured Servicemembers Act - Amends the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 to entitle an eligible employee who is the spouse, son, daughter, parent, or next of kin of a covered servicemember to a total of 26 workweeks of leave during a single 12-month period to care for the servicemember. Defines covered servicemember as a member of the U.S. Armed Forces, including a member of the National Guard or a Reserve, who is undergoing medical treatment, recuperation, or therapy, is otherwise in medical hold or medical holdover status, or is otherwise on the temporary disability retired list, for a serious injury or illness incurred in the line of duty on active duty that may render the member medically unfit to perform his or her duties. Provides for the substitution of accrued paid vacation, personal, family leave, or medical or sick leave for any part of the 26-week period. Declares that nothing in this Act shall be construed to limit the availability of such leave during any other 12-month period. Amends federal civil service law to entitle civilian federal employees to the same leave allowance. Provides for the substitution of accrued paid annual or sick leave for any part of the 26-week period.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 2007
No Child Left Inside Act of 2007 - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to require states, as a prerequisite to receiving implementation grants, to develop environmental literacy plans, approved by the Secretary of Education, for kindergarten through grade 12 (K-12) that include environmental education standards and teacher training. Directs the Secretary to award Environmental Education Professional Development Grants to states and, through them, competitive subgrants to partnerships that include an LEA and, permissibly, institutions of higher education (IHE), other educational entities, or state or local natural resource or environmental agencies, for activities involving, among other things, teacher training and the operation of model environmental education programs. Authorizes the Secretary to award competitive matching grants to nonprofit organizations, states, LEAs, or IHEs for activities to improve and support environmental education that include: (1) advancing content and achievement standards; (2) developing or disseminating innovations or model programs; (3) research; and (4) creating new funding sources. Authorizes the use of grants to states out of the Teacher and Principal Training and Recruiting Fund for activities incorporating field-based learning, service learning, and outdoor experiential learning into the curricula and instruction. Authorizes the use of funds under the Fund for the Improvement of Education program to advance environmental education. Amends the Department of Education Organization Act to create an Office of Environmental Education to advance K-12 environmental education and administer environmental education grant programs.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 2007
Hire a Hero Act - Expresses the sense of Congress that the federal government should support private sector employment initiatives for military personnel to help ensure that those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces have access to gainful employment. Authorizes the Chief of the National Guard Bureau (Chief) to award grants to nonprofit organizations to assist the following individuals in securing employment in the private sector: (1) a member of the National Guard or reserve; (2) a member of the Armed Forces who is nearing separation, discharge, or release; and (3) a former member of the Armed Forces. Expresses the sense of Congress that the Chief, in awarding such grants, should consider organizations that partner with private entities and associations involved in construction, energy, transportation, aerospace, domestic security, and other areas in which the employment of individuals having past military service would be of particular utility. Requires the Chief to establish fiscal control, accountability, and program performance measures for grantees.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 2007
Public School Repair and Renovation Act of 2007 - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to direct the Secretary of Education to allocate funds to states for competitive school repair and renovation grants to local educational agencies (LEAs). Requires each state, in awarding such grants, to: (1) award high-need and rural LEAs, in the aggregate, at least the same proportion of this Act's LEA funds for the state that they received of total LEA school improvement funds for the state under part A of Title I of the ESEA; and (2) consider the percentage of poor children LEAs serve, the condition of their public schools, and their fiscal capacity to cover repairs and renovations without such a grant. Directs each state to reserve a portion of their allocation for a state-level database of public school facility inventory, condition, design, and utilization. Requires the Comptroller General to study and report to Congress on the costs of, and public and private expenditures for, repairing, renovating, and constructing public elementary and secondary schools.
![Official portrait of Sen. Dodd, Christopher J. [D-CT]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/d000388_200.jpg)