United States · United States Congress · 5 October 1999
Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act of 1999 - Amends the Federal criminal code to prohibit any physician from knowingly performing a partial-birth abortion in or affecting interstate or foreign commerce, unless it is necessary to save the life of the mother. Prescribes penalties. Defines a "partial birth abortion" as an abortion in which a person, deliberately and intentionally, partially vaginally delivers a living fetus before killing the fetus and completing the delivery. Authorizes the father, if married to the mother at the time of the abortion, and the maternal grandparents of the fetus, if the mother is under 18 years of age, to obtain specified relief in a civil action, unless the pregnancy resulted from the plaintiff's criminal conduct or the plaintiff consented to the abortion. Authorizes a defendant accused of an offense under this Act to seek a hearing before the State Medical Board on whether the physician's conduct was necessary to save the life of the mother. Prohibits the prosecution of a woman upon whom a partial-birth abortion is performed for conspiracy to violate this Act or under provisions regarding punishment as a principal or an accessory or for concealment of a felony.
United States · United States Congress · 24 September 1999
Earth, Wind, and Fire Authorization Act of 1999 - Title I: Earthquake Hazards Reduction Act - Amends the Earthquake Hazards Reduction Act of 1977 (the Act) to authorize appropriations for FY 2000 through 2002 for: (1) the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to carry out specified activities under the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program; (2) the Secretary of the Interior for responsibilities assigned to the Director of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), with specified funds earmarked for the Global Seismic Network and for carrying out a competitive, peer-reviewed program under which FEMA awards grants to or enters into cooperative agreements with State and local governments and persons or entities from the academic community and the private sector; (3) the National Science Foundation (NSF) for engineering research and geosciences research; and (4) the National Institute of Standards and Technology. (Sec. 102) Repeals provisions of the Act concerning: (1) non-Federal cost sharing for certain supplemental funds; (2) the authorization of appropriations in prior fiscal years for certain required adjustments in employee salaries and benefits; and (3) the availability of FY 1991-1993 funding. (Sec. 103) Requires the USGS Director to establish and operate an Advanced National Seismic Research and Monitoring System to organize, modernize, and standardize U.S. national, regional, and urban seismic monitoring systems. Requires such Director to transmit to Congress a five-year management plan for establishing and operating the System. Authorizes appropriations for FY 2001 through 2005, and additional amounts for FY 2001 and 2002 for System operation. (Sec. 104) Requires the NSF Director to establish a Network for Earthquake Engineering Simulation that will upgrade, link, and integrate a system of geographically distributed experimental facilities for earthquake engineering testing of full-sized structures and partial-scale models. Authorizes appropriations for FY 2000 through 2004. (Sec. 105) Directs FEMA to: (1) annually provide guidance to other agencies involved in the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (Program) concerning the preparation of requests for appropriations for Program activities; and (2) prepare and submit to the Office of Management and Budget an annual Program budget. Requires each Program agency to specify Program activities in their annual request for appropriations. (Sec. 106) Requires the FEMA Director to report to Congress describing Program elements that specifically address the needs of at-risk populations. (Sec. 107) Requires FEMA's comprehensive earthquake education and public awareness program to include increasing public access to available locality-specific information to assist the public in preparing for or responding to earthquakes. Title II: National Weather Service and Related Agencies Authorization Act - Authorizes appropriations for FY 2000 and 2001 to the Secretary of Commerce to enable the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to carry out: (1) Operations, Research, and Facilities activities of the National Weather Service (NWS); (2) Procurement, Acquisition, and Construction activities of NWS; (3) Atmospheric Research Operations, Research, and Facilities environmental research and development activities of the Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OOAR); (4) Atmospheric Research Procurement, Acquisition, and Construction environmental research and development activities of OOAR; (5) Operations, Research, and Facilities environmental research and development and related activities of the National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS); and (6) Procurement, Acquisition, and Construction environmental research and development and related activities of NESDIS. (Sec. 205) Directs the NOAA Administrator to make available through the NOAA Internet home page information relating to all research grants and awards made with funds authorized by this Act. Title III: Fire Administration Authorization Act - Amends the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974 to authorize appropriations for FY 2000 through 2002 for Federal fire prevention and control activities. Prohibits the obligation of such funds until the Administrator of the United States Fire Administration (USFA) has verified to specified congressional committees that such obligation is consistent with the strategic plan. (Sec. 302) Directs the USFA Administrator to prepare and submit to such committees: (1) a five-year strategic plan of USFA program activities; and (2) a report describing USFA's research agenda and a plan for implementing such agenda. (Sec. 303) Directs the USFA Administrator to make publicly available, including through the Internet, information on procedures for: (1) acquiring surplus and excess equipment or property that may be useful to State and local fire, emergency, and hazardous material handling service providers; and (2) establishing cooperative agreements between State and local fire and emergency services and Federal facilities in their region for the coordinated provision of such services. (Sec. 306) Directs the USFA Administrator to conduct and report to Congress on an assessment of the need for additional capabilities for Federal counterterrorism training of emergency response personnel.
United States · United States Congress · 24 September 1999
Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) this Congress has taken strong steps to reform our Nation's educational system and allowed States, local schools and parents more flexibility and authority over their children's education; and (2) the reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 will enable this Congress to continue its efforts to send decision making back to States, local schools, and families.
United States · United States Congress · 23 September 1999
National Health Museum Site Selection Act - Directs the Administrator of General Services to convey specified property to the National Health Museum, Inc. (the Museum), to provide a site for the construction and operation of a new building to serve as the National Health Museum. Requires the Museum to provide written notification to the Administrator of the date on which it will accept conveyance of the property. Sets forth provisions regarding the purchase price for the property, including requiring the Administrator to report the purchase price to Congress and to deposit it into the Federal Buildings Fund. Provides for reversion of the property to the United States and repayment of the purchase price to the Museum if : (1) it is used for a purpose other than construction and operation of the Museum; (2) the Museum does not commence construction on the property within three years after conveyance, other than for a reason not within the Museum's control; or (3) the Museum ceases to be a nonprofit corporation. Permits the Museum to: (1) demolish or renovate any existing or future improvement on the property; (2) build, own, operate, and maintain new improvements on the property; (3) finance and mortgage the property on customary terms and conditions; and (4) manage the property. Requires the United States to cooperate with the Museum on any zoning or other matter relating to the development or improvement of the property or the demolition of any improvement. Requires the costs of remediation of any environmental hazards existing on the property, including all asbestos-containing materials, to be borne by the United States. Requires the Museum to submit annual reports to the Administrator and Congress on the status of planning, development, and construction of the Museum.
United States · United States Congress · 22 September 1999
Delta Regional Authority Act of 1999 - Amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to establish the Delta Regional Authority to: (1) develop comprehensive and coordinated plans and programs, establish priorities, and approve grants for the economic development of the Mississippi Delta region (parts of Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, and Tennessee surrounding such Delta); (2) provide for research, demonstration, investigation, assessment and evaluation of such region's assets and needs; (3) encourage the formation and capacity of local development districts and private investment in industrial, commercial, and other economic development projects; and (4) provide a forum for the consideration of problems and possible solutions of the region. Provides conflict-of-interest requirements with respect to Authority members, alternates, officers, and employees. Authorizes the Authority to approve grants to States and public and private entities for projects to: (1) assist the region in obtaining necessary job training or employment-related education, leadership and civic development, and business development, especially entrepreneurship for such region; (2) provide special assistance to severely distressed and underdeveloped counties within such region; and (3) fund research, demonstration, evaluations, assessments, training programs, construction of necessary facilities, and the provision of technical assistance of and for the region. Provides the following priority for the use of grant funds: (1) basic infrastructure in distressed counties; (2) job-related infrastructure; (3) job training or employment-related education; (4) leadership and civic development; and (5) business development, with an emphasis on entrepreneurship. Authorizes the Federal co- chairman of the Authority to use grant amounts as required Federal contributions to grant-in-aid programs for which the region is eligible but cannot supply the required matching share. Prohibits the Federal share of project costs for which assistance is provided under this title from exceeding 80 percent, and prohibits a grant period of more than three years. Defines a "local development district" as a certified entity having a charter or authority that includes the economic development of counties or other parts of the region. Outlines certification requirements. Authorizes the Authority to make grants to such districts for administrative expenses. Requires the Authority to: (1) annually designate distressed and economically strong counties, and isolated areas of distress, within the region; and (2) allocate at least 50 percent of the appropriations made available under this Act for programs and projects for the distressed counties. Prohibits (with an exception) such funds from being used within economically strong counties. Makes isolated areas of distress eligible for such assistance at the Authority's discretion. Requires each State member of the Authority to submit a development plan for the area of the region represented by the member. Outlines factors to be considered by the Authority in considering programs and projects for assistance under this Act and in establishing priorities among assistance requests. Requires the Authority to review for approval any State or regional development plan submitted. Outlines plan approval requirements. Directs the Authority to: (1) maintain appropriate records; and (2) annually prepare and submit to the President, for transmittal to Congress, a report on its activities. Authorizes appropriations to the Authority to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 1999
Victims Restitution Fairness Act - Amends Federal law to require the Secretary of Defense: (1) before purchasing a product listed in the latest edition of the Federal Prison Industries (FPI) catalog, to conduct market research to determine whether the FPI product is comparable in price, quality, and time of delivery to products available from the private sector; and (2) upon determining that an FPI product is not comparable, to use competitive procedures for the procurement of the product (and in conducting such a competition, to consider a timely offer from FPI for award in accordance with the specifications and evaluation factors specified in the solicitation). Specifies that the Secretary shall not be required to: (1) purchase from FPI any product that is a national security system or that is integral to, or embedded in, a product that is not available from FPI; or (2) make a purchase from FPI in a total amount that is less than the micropurchase threshold. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 5 August 1999
Older Americans Act Amendments of 1999 - Title I: Amendment to Title I of the Older Americans Act of 1965 - Amends the Older Americans Act of 1965 to add certain definitions. Title II: Amendments to Title II of the Older Americans Act of 1965 - Revises the duties of the Administration on Aging. Provides for a set of performance outcome measures to be used for planning, managing, and evaluating activities performed and services provided under the Act. Reauthorizes appropriations for the Administration on Aging. Title III: Amendments to Title III of the Older Americans Act of 1965 - Authorizes appropriations indefinitely for making grants relating to: (1) supportive services, (2) senior centers; (3) congregate nutrition services, (4) home delivered nutrition services; (5) in-home services; and (6) special needs. Authorizes appropriations for a nutrition services incentive program. Authorizes a State to require or permit cost sharing by recipients for all direct services, with specified exceptions, provided for in the Act. Expands the list of supportive services for which grants to States are provided. Establishes grant programs for support services for family caregivers, education and training related to programs for older individuals, and pension counseling projects. Title IV: Amendments to Title IV of the Older Americans Act of 1965 - Repeals provisions regarding training, research, and discretionary projects Title V: Amendments to Title V of the Older Americans Act of 1965 - Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to establish projects to place community service employment program participants in unsubsidized employment in both the public and private sectors. Reauthorizes the community service employment for older Americans program. Title VI: Amendments to Title VI of the Older Americans Act of 1965 - Makes the authorization of appropriations for title VI of the Act indefinite, with exceptions. Establishes programs for grants to carry out vulnerable elder rights protection activities and for a Native American caregiver support program. Title VII: Amendments to Title VII of the Older Americans Act of 1965 - Revises provisions regarding the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program. Title VIII: Technical and Conforming Amendments - Makes technical and conforming amendments.
United States · United States Congress · 5 August 1999
Superfund Recycling Equity Act of 1999 - Amends the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 to absolve persons (other than owners or operators) who arranged for the recycling of recyclable material from liability for environmental response actions. Deems transactions involving scrap paper, plastic, glass, textiles, or rubber (other than whole tires) to be arranging for recycling if the person who arranged the transaction demonstrates that the following criteria were met: (1) the recyclable material met a commercial specification grade and a market existed for the material; (2) a substantial portion of the material was made available for use as a feedstock for the manufacture of a new saleable product; (3) the material (or product to be made from the material) could have been a replacement for a virgin raw material; and (4) with respect to transactions occurring 90 days after this Act's enactment, the person exercised reasonable care to determine that the facility where the material would be managed by another was in compliance with Federal, State, or local environmental laws or regulations. Deems transactions involving scrap metal to be arranging for recycling if the person who arranged the transaction demonstrates that: (1) the criteria for scrap materials were met; (2) he or she complied with applicable standards regarding activities associated with the recycling of scrap metals; and (3) the scrap metal was not melted prior to the transaction. Deems transactions involving spent lead-acid, nickel-cadmium, or other batteries to be arranging for recycling if the person involved demonstrates that: (1) the criteria for scrap materials were met; and (2) he or she complied with applicable Federal environmental regulations or standards regarding such batteries. Makes the exemptions from liability under this Act inapplicable if the person: (1) had an objectively reasonable basis to believe at the time of the recycling transaction that the recyclable material would not be recycled or would be burned as fuel or for energy recovery or incineration or that the consuming facility was not in compliance with Federal, State, or local environmental laws or regulations; (2) had reason to believe that hazardous substances had been added to the material for purposes other than processing for recycling; or (3) failed to exercise reasonable care with respect to the management of the material. Makes such exemptions inapplicable if the recyclable material contained polychlorinated biphenyls in excess of 50 parts per million or any new Federal standard.
United States · United States Congress · 5 August 1999
Community Broadcasters Protection Act of 1999 - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to direct the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to prescribe regulations to establish a class A license for qualifying low-power television (LPT) stations. Requires notification of LPT licensees of the requirements for class A designation. Requires requesting licensees to submit to the FCC a certification of eligibility based on the requirements of this Act. Requires the FCC to: (1) grant such certification absent a material deficiency; and (2) act to preserve the contours of LPT stations pending final resolution of such applications. Allows an LPT station to submit an application for class A designation only within 30 days after final regulations are adopted. Defines as a qualifying LPT station one which, during the 90 days preceding the date of enactment of this Act: (1) broadcast for at least 18 hours per day; (2) broadcast an average of at least three hours per week of programming that was produced within the market area served by such station or the market area served by a group of commonly controlled stations that carry common local or specialized programming not otherwise available to their communities; and (3) complied with other requirements applicable to LPT stations and, after the date of its license application, complies with the FCC's operating rules for full power television stations. Allows the FCC to treat non-qualifying stations as LPT stations under this Act if public interest, convenience, and necessity would be so served. Provides that: (1) the FCC is not required to issue any additional licenses for advanced television services to the licensees of class A television stations; and (2) the FCC shall approve such license applications proposing facilities that will not cause interference to any other broadcast facility authorized on the date of the filing of the class A advanced television application. States that nothing in this Act shall preempt Federal provisions concerning the allocation and assignment of new public safety services licenses and commercial licenses. Prohibits the FCC from granting a class A license to an LPT station operating between 698 and 806 megahertz, but requires the FCC to provide to LPT stations assigned to and temporarily operating within such bandwidth the opportunity to meet the licensing requirements.
United States · United States Congress · 5 August 1999
Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to increase from 17 to 19 the membership of the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC), staggering the initial terms of the additional members, and to include on MedPAC individuals with national recognition for their expertise in manufacturing and distributing finished medical goods.
United States · United States Congress · 5 August 1999
Expresses: (1) profound appreciation for the service of Captain Jose A. Santiago, Captain Jennifer J. Odem, Chief Warrant Officer, W-2, Thomas G. Moore, Private First Class T. Bruce Cluff, and Private First Class Ray E. Krueger, all of the United States Army, who lost their lives in service of their country during an antidrug mission in Colombia; (2) condolences to the families and loves ones of the U.S. and Colombian personnel killed during that mission; and (3) gratitude to all members of the U.S. armed forces who fight the scourge of illegal drugs and protect the security and well-being of all people of the United States through their detection and monitoring of illicit production and trafficking of illicit narcotics. Urges U.S. and Colombian officials to take all practicable measures to recover the remains of the victims and to fully inform the family members of the circumstances of the accident which cost their lives.
United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1999
Cardiac Arrest Survival Act of 1999 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to: (1) assist in providing for an improvement in the survival rates of individuals who experience cardiac arrest in Federal buildings by publishing in the Federal Register for public comment recommendations with respect to placing automatic external defibrillators in such buildings; and (2) assist Federal agencies in implementing programs for such placement. Requires the Secretary to determine criteria for: (1) the selection of the Federal public buildings in which defibrillators should be placed; (2) defibrillator maintenance; and (3) the coordination of the use of the defibrillators in public buildings with emergency medical services providers for the geographic areas in which the buildings are located. Provides that any person who provides emergency medical care through the use of a defibrillator, any person who maintained, tested, or provided training in the use of the device, any physician who provided medical oversight of the device, and the person who acquired the device (if specified conditions have been met) is immune from civil liability for any personal injury or wrongful death resulting from the provision of such care, unless the person engaged in gross negligence or willful or wanton misconduct under the applicable circumstances.
United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1999
Tax Deduction Fairness Act of 1999 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a taxpayer to elect, when itemizing, to deduct State and local general sales taxes in lieu of State and local income taxes. Limits such deduction to a tax imposed at one rate in respect of the sale at retail of a broad range of classes of items (including food, clothing, medical supplies, and motor vehicles).
United States · United States Congress · 30 July 1999
United States Capitol Visitor Center Commemorative Coin Act of 1999 - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to issue ten-dollar bimetallic coins, one-dollar silver coins, half-dollar clad coins, and if the Secretary determines that the minting and issuance of bimetallic coins is not feasible, five-dollar gold coins emblematic of the first meeting of the United States Congress in the U.S. Capitol Building. Mandates that all surcharges received from the coin sales be deposited in the Capitol Preservation Fund and made available to the U.S. Capitol Preservation Commission to aid in the construction, maintenance, and preservation of a Capitol Visitor Center.
United States · United States Congress · 29 July 1999
Regulatory Openness and Fairness Act of 1999 - Title I: Issuance and Continuation of Tolerances - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FDCA) to apply the requirements of this paragraph to any proposed or final rule, order, notice, report, guidance document, or risk assessment (document) based on any review or reassessment by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of a tolerance or of the uses of a pesticide chemical for which a tolerance is in effect (except when the Administrator finds or recommends that no adverse action regarding a tolerance is required) issued after 1998 and before the completion of the review of tolerances mandated by current law. Requires the Administrator to conduct a transition analysis before any such document is issued and to include with the document a report (with specified contents) on the analysis. Defines "tolerance," for this paragraph and the next paragraph, to mean a tolerance for a pesticide chemical residue, or an exemption from the requirement of such a tolerance, established under specified FDCA provisions. (Sec. 102) Applies this paragraph to any review or reassessment by the Administrator of a tolerance (initiated by the Administrator or by petition) or of any registration of a pesticide chemical under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) associated with that tolerance review issued after 1998 and before the completion of the review of tolerances mandated by current law. Prohibits the Administrator, notwithstanding any other provision of law, from basing an adverse action regarding a tolerance or registration on any information, calculation, or assumption described under specified provisions of this Act. (Sec. 103) Directs the Administrator, in implementing provisions regarding pesticide chemical residue tolerances (as amended by this Act), to issue rules and guidance, including guidance regarding aggregate pesticide chemical exposure and cumulative effects of exposure to two or more chemicals having a common toxicity mechanism. (Sec. 104) Directs the Administrator to issue guidelines specifying the kinds of information that will be required to support the issuance or continuation of a tolerance or a tolerance exemption. Requires the guidelines to specify the conditions under which data requirements will apply to particular types of pesticide chemical residues. Amends the FDCA and FIFRA to mandate notice and an opportunity to comment. (Sec. 105) Amends FIFRA to require the Administrator to expedite the review of a pesticide registration or amended registration, an experimental use permit, or an emergency exemption in specified circumstances. Amends the FDCA to require the Administrator to give priority to petitions to establish or modify a tolerance or exemption that is needed in connection with an application under specified FIFRA provisions for approval of an effective and economic alternative. Authorizes establishment of a tolerance associated with an emergency exemption without regard to other tolerances and before reviewing those other tolerances if the Administrator finds that any incremental exposure that may result will not pose any significant risk to food consumers. Title II: Studies and Reports - Defines "tolerance," for this title, to mean a tolerance for a pesticide chemical residue, or an exemption from the requirement of such a tolerance, established under specified FDCA provisions. (Sec. 202) Directs the Administrator to prepare a proposal for revising the priorities of and resources available to the Administrator that will allow the Administrator to: (1) process promptly all FIFRA pesticide registration applications, FDCA tolerance petitions, experimental use permits requests, new inert ingredient approval requests, emergency exemption requests, and requests for decisions on the merits of those applications, petitions, and requests; and (2) perform tolerance reviews and other duties regarding pesticide chemicals under the FDCA and FIFRA. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to prepare a proposal for revising the priorities of and resources available to the Secretary that will allow the Secretary to: (1) obtain and provide to the Administrator adequate and timely information on food consumption, pesticide residues in or on food and drinking water, and pesticide use; (2) review actions proposed by the Administrator under the FDCA and FIFRA; and (3) perform other duties regarding pesticide regulation. Directs the Administrator and the Secretary to report to Congress on those proposals. (Sec. 203) Directs the Secretary to establish and administer a program to continuously assess the strength of major U.S. agricultural commodities and products in the international marketplace, including regarding the sustainability and competitive strength of each commodity and product in that marketplace and the relationship of those factors to regulatory actions under the FDCA and FIFRA. Mandates periodic reports to specified congressional committees. (Sec. 204) Establishes the Pesticide Advisory Committee to: (1) provide advice to the Administrator and the Secretary regarding implementation of specified FDCA and FIFRA provisions; (2) foster communication between the Administrator, the Secretary, and interested organizations; and (3) carry out the functions performed by the Tolerance Reassessment Advisory Committee. Makes inapplicable to the Pesticide Advisory Committee provisions of the Federal Advisory Committee Act mandating the termination of any advisory committee two years after the committee is established.
United States · United States Congress · 29 July 1999
Taxpayer's Defense Act - Amends Federal provisions concerning discretionary congressional review of agency rules to set forth provisions mandating that a rule that establishes or increases a tax, however denominated, shall not take effect before the enactment of a bill the text of which has been submitted to each House of Congress by the agency promulgating the rule in a report that contains the text of the part of the rule that establishes or increases a tax, and an explanation of the bill. Exempts a rule promulgated under the Internal Revenue Code. Outlines introduction, referral, and consideration procedures for approval of the bill.
United States · United States Congress · 28 July 1999
Sudan Peace Act - Declares that Congress: (1) condemns violations of human rights on all sides of the conflict in Sudan (including the Government of Sudan), the ongoing slave trade there, and the Government's increasing use and organization of "murahalliin", Popular Defense Forces (PDF), and regular Sudanese Army units into raiding and slaving parties in Bahr al Ghazal, the Nuba Mountains, Upper Nile, and Blue Nile regions; and (2) recognizes that the use of raiding and slaving parties is a tool for creating food shortages as a systematic means to destroy the societies, culture, and economies of the Dinka and Nuba peoples in a policy of low-intensity ethnic cleansing. (Sec. 5) Expresses the sense of Congress that it: (1) declares its support for the efforts by U.S. executive branch officials to lead in a reinvigoration of the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD)-sponsored peace process; (2) calls on IGAD member states, the European Union, the Organization of African Unity, Egypt, and other key states to support such process; (3) urges Kenya's leadership in the implementation of the process; and (4) views any such diplomatic efforts toward resolution of the conflict in Sudan are best made through IGAD and that the President must not create any process which could be viewed as a parallel or competing diplomatic track. Authorizes the Secretary of State to utilize Department of State personnel for the support of: (1) the secretariat of IGAD; (2) the ongoing negotiations between the Government of Sudan and opposition forces; (3) any peace settlement planning to be carried out by the National Democratic Alliance and IGAD Partners' Forum (IPF); and (4) other U.S. diplomatic efforts with respect to Sudan. (Sec. 6) Expresses the sense of Congress that the President, acting through the U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations, should take specified actions to increase pressure on the combatants involved in the war in Sudan. (Sec. 7) Imposes certain trade and financial sanctions against Sudan, subject to waiver on national security grounds, until the President determines, and certifies to Congress, that it has: (1) fully committed to and has made progress toward a peaceful solution to the war within the IGAD-sponsored peace process or has otherwise committed in a good faith effort with both northern and southern opposition toward a solution to the conflict based on the Declaration of Principles reached in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 20, 1994; (2) made substantial progress in controlling the raiding and slaving activities of all regular and irregular forces, including PDF and other militias and murahalliin; (3) instituted reforms with regard to providing basic human and civil rights to all Sudanese; and (4) ceased aerial bombardment of civilian targets. Declares that it is the sense of Congress that such sanctions should be applied to include the sale of stocks in the United States or to any U.S. person, wherever located, or any other form of financial instruments or derivatives, in support of a commercial, industrial, public utility, or government project or transaction in or with Sudan. (Sec. 8) Expresses the sense of Congress that the President should organize and maintain a formal consultative process with the European Union, the United Nations Security Council, and other relevant parties on coordinating an effort within the UN to revise the terms of Operation Lifeline Sudan (OLS) to end the Government of Sudan's veto power over OLS plans for air transport relief flights. (Sec. 9) Expresses the sense of Congress that the President should continue to increase the use of non-OLS agencies in the distribution of relief supplies in southern Sudan. (Sec. 10) Directs the President to develop and report to Congress on a contingency plan to provide, outside UN auspices, the greatest amount of U.S. Government and privately donated relief to all affected areas in Sudan, including the Nuba Mountains, Upper Nile, and southern Blue Nile, in the event the Government of Sudan imposes a ban on OLS air transport relief flights. (Sec.11) Supports the President's ongoing efforts to diversify and increase effectiveness of U.S. assistance to populations in areas of Sudan outside of the control of the Government of Sudan, especially the long-term focus shown in the Sudan Transition Assistance for Rehabilitation (STAR) program with its emphasis on promoting democracy, self- reliance, and actively supporting people-to-people reconciliation efforts. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 12) Expresses the sense of Congress that the President should assess the humanitarian needs in the Nuba Mountains, Red Sea Hills, and Blue Nile regions of Sudan, and respond appropriately to those needs. (Sec. 13) Authorizes the President, for purposes of minimizing diversions of food assistance and to insulate noncombatants and the relief operations which serve them from combatants in areas outside the control of the Government of Sudan, to provide such assistance directly to the National Democratic Alliance or other groups engaged in the protection of civilian populations from attacks from regular government forces, associated militias, or other paramilitary groups supported by the Government of Sudan. Sets forth certain limits on, and eligibility requirements with, such assistance.
United States · United States Congress · 28 July 1999
Medicare Renal Dialysis Fair Payment Act of 1999 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to increase the payment amount for renal dialysis services furnished under the Medicare program.
United States · United States Congress · 28 July 1999
Amends the Food Security Act to extend the wetlands reserve program. Replaces the total program acreage limitation with an annual acreage enrollment limitation through FY 2005. Includes within program eligibility land that: (1) is suitable for wetland functions; (2) would contribute to habitat objectives of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan; or (3) has not historically been wetlands. Authorizes program related cooperative agreements for goods and services.
United States · United States Congress · 27 July 1999
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to permit a second or third advance refunding of bonds if the original bond was issued to finance governmental facilities used for essential government functions.
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 1999
Medicare Home Health Beneficiary Equity and Payment Simplification Act of 1999 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act, as amended by the Tax and Trade Relief Extension Act of 1998, to: (1) revise the interim prospective payment system (PPS) for home health services that was enacted under the Balanced Budget Act of 1997; and (2) base the payment rates for such services on the location of the home health agency rather than on the location at which such service is furnished. Divides patients, and PPS payments, into four categories: (1) post-hospital, short stay beneficiaries ($2,603); (2) medically stable, long-stay beneficiaries ($3,335); (3) medically complex, long-stay beneficiaries ($4,228); and (4) medically unstable and complex, extremely high use beneficiaries ($21,864). Specifies a formula for annual payment updates. Amends the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 to repeal the 15 percent reduction in Medicare home health reimbursement currently scheduled to go into effect on October 1, 2000.
United States · United States Congress · 21 July 1999
Technology Administration Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 2000, 2001, and 2002 - Authorizes appropriations to the Department of Commerce for FY 2000 through 2002 for: (1) the Scientific and Technical Research and Services laboratory activities of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST); (2) construction and maintenance of NIST facilities; (3) activities of the Under Secretary of Technology, the Office of Technology Policy, and the Office of Space Commercialization; and (4) NIST industrial technology services activities. (Sec. 6) Authorizes appropriations for FY 2000 for the National Technical Information Service. Prohibits any such funds from being obligated until the Secretary of Commerce has submitted to the congressional technology committees a plan on the future of such Service. (Sec. 7) Amends the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act with respect to the Advanced Technology Program to: (1) require each applicant for a contract or award to certify that the applicant has made an effort to secure private market funding for the research project involved; (2) permit a large business to participate in a research project that is the subject of a contract or award only as a member of a joint venture that includes one or more small businesses as members; (3) authorize the Secretary to vest title to tangible personal property in any recipient of financial assistance, under specified conditions; and (4) require all amounts appropriated for grants to be used for grants awarded on the basis of general open competition. (Sec. 8) Requires the: (1) NIST Director to report to the technology committees on manufacturing in the digital age; (2) Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy to report to such committees on issues concerning the national laboratories; and (3) NIST Director to report to such committees on issues concerning technical standards.
United States · United States Congress · 21 July 1999
Declares that Congress should: (1) actively oversee the Health Care Financing Administration's (HCFA) administration of the Medicare home health program; (2) pay particular attention, in overseeing such administration, to HCFA's compliance with the public notice and comment requirements of the Administrative Procedures Act, HCFA's consideration of input from the home health community, and HCFA's coordination and consistent application of policies among HCFA's central and regional offices; and (3) monitor HCFA's adherence to and implementation of congressional intent when executing changes during such administration.
United States · United States Congress · 20 July 1999
Expresses the sense of Congress that the 30th Anniversary of the first lunar landing should be a day of celebration and reflection on the Apollo-11 mission to the moon and the accomplishments of the Apollo program throughout the 1960's and 1970's.
United States · United States Congress · 20 July 1999
Expresses the sense of Congress that the 30th Anniversary of the first lunar landing should be a day of celebration and reflection on the Apollo-11 mission to the moon and the accomplishments of the Apollo program throughout the 1960's and 1970's.
United States · United States Congress · 19 July 1999
Calls upon the Senate, when it adjourns on July 19, 1999, to do so as a further mark of respect for the grieving families of John F. Kennedy, Jr., Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, and Lauren Bessette.
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 1999
Natural Disaster Protection and Insurance Act of 1999 - Amends the Earthquake Hazards Reduction Act of 1977 (the Act) to provide for an expanded Federal program of hazard mitigation, relief, and natural disaster insurance. (Sec. 6) Requires each State to either: (1) develop a statewide strategic mitigation plan (plan) to reduce hazards of future natural disasters; or (2) designate a plan in effect at the time as the applicable plan. Outlines required plan elements, including: (1) ensuring that structures in hazard-prone areas are built with hazard mitigation techniques; and (2) improving the capabilities of emergency response teams to natural disasters. Requires the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to review and approve a plan if it contains the required elements. Requires such plans to be submitted to the Director within two years after enactment of this Act. Outlines procedures regarding plan implementation, plan updates, and noncompliance with plan requirements (including an opportunity to cure). Denies hazard mitigation funds for any State which is still non-compliant 180 days after receiving from the Director notification of noncompliance. Authorizes the Director to allocate funds to States from the Natural Disaster Protection Fund, according to a pro rata formula based on reinsurance coverage premiums. Requires States to use allocated funds to support specified natural disaster hazard mitigation activities. Requires the Director, at least once every three years, to evaluate each State's progress in implementing its plan, and to base future allotments on such evaluation. Directs the Comptroller General to: (1) conduct a study to identify all Federal programs that provide assistance for public facilities and lifelines; and (2) report to Congress on study results. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 7) Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to grant loans to a private, non-governmental, and nonprofit membership corporation to be known as the Natural Disaster Insurance Corporation. Requires the Corporation to provide reinsurance coverage for hurricanes, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, windstorms, and wildfires. Requires Corporation members to own shares in the Corporation and to consist of private insurers and State insurance pools that purchase the reinsurance coverage provided by the Corporation. Outlines Corporation administrative procedures, including: (1) the naming of a Corporation administrator; (2) loans for start-up costs; and (3) the election of a Board of Directors. Requires the Corporation to develop a plan of operation describing Corporation administration and the provision of insurance coverages. Directs the Natural Disaster Insurance Board of Actuaries to review and approve such plan and any amendments thereto. Requires the Board of Directors to report annually to Corporation members and the Independent Board of Actuaries on Corporation operations. Directs the Corporation to carry out a program to make reinsurance coverage available through contracts for such coverage for purchase only: (1) by eligible State programs; and (2) through auctions. Requires each contract to provide insurance coverage against residential property losses to homes and the contents of apartment buildings and to cover all the natural disasters named above. Makes a program eligible to purchase an insurance or reinsurance contract under this section only if such program is a State-operated program that meets specified requirements, including: (1) the offering of residential property and apartment content coverage; and (2) mitigation provisions that require not less than ten percent of the net investment income of the State insurance or reinsurance program to be used to mitigate losses from natural disasters for which the State program was established. Outlines coverage requirements and contract terms and conditions. Directs the Corporation to carry out a program to auction on a regional basis contracts for reinsurance coverage to private insurers and reinsurers, State insurance and reinsurance programs, and other interested entities. Requires the Corporation, in such auction, to set a reserve price as the lowest price for that contract, to be determined based upon specified factors such as risk and administrative costs. Provides auction contract terms and conditions. Requires the Corporation, in making reinsurance coverage available, to provide a conditional minimum level of retained losses (similar to a deductible) and a maximum level of Federal liability for losses from a single covered event. Establishes the Independent Natural Disaster Board of Actuaries to review and approve the Corporation plan of operation and to advise the Corporation regarding the estimated loss costs associated with the contracts for reinsurance coverage and carrying out Corporation functions. Requires the Corporation, within 15 months after enactment of this Act, to submit to the Independent Board a draft plan of operation. Provides for plan approval (with an opportunity to cure if disapproved) and plan amendments. Requires the Independent Board to prepare and submit to the Secretary a report on its findings regarding such plan. Requires the Corporation Board of Directors to submit to the Independent Board for approval proposed prices and reserve prices for reinsurance contracts issued by the Corporation. Provides for Independent Board approval of such prices (with an opportunity to cure if not immediately approved). Directs the Corporation to establish and maintain a Reinsurance Coverage Trust Account to: (1) hold funds collected from insurance payments and investments; and (2) pay claims to entities that have purchased reinsurance coverage. Directs the Secretary to provide direct loans to such Account to the extent that accumulated assets are insufficient to pay reinsurance claims and expenses. Requires recoupment from the Corporation of such direct loans and interest. Prohibits any Federal funds from being authorized or appropriated to fund any Corporation activity. Directs the Comptroller General, every three years, to conduct audits of activities of the Corporation and the Independent Board. Requires audit results to be submitted to Congress. (Sec. 8) Establishes in the Treasury the Natural Disaster Protection Fund and establishes in such Fund a Private Loss Account and a Mitigation Account. Requires the Private Loss Account to be used to provide direct Federal loans to cover shortfalls in the Corporation's reinsurance account. Requires the Mitigation Account to support natural disaster hazard mitigation activities. Authorizes appropriations to the Mitigation Account for FY 2000 and annually thereafter for prenatural disaster mitigation activities conducted under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act.
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 1999
Preserve Access to Care in the Home (PATCH) Act of 1999 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) and the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 (BBA '97) to eliminate the scheduled automatic 15 percent reduction in payment amounts to home health agencies furnishing home health services under the Medicare program. Amends SSA title XVIII to: (1) create outlier provisions for home health services; (2) revise the definition of homebound; and (3) restructure the review process for claims submitted by home health agencies. Amends BBA '97 for the stated purpose of restoring periodic interim payments for home health agencies. Expresses the sense of the Senate that the Secretary of Health and Human Services should: (1) ensure that the prospective payment system (PPS) for home health services provides for appropriate payment of services provided to beneficiaries at rates that include incentives to provide services efficiently to all beneficiaries and do not create unintentional incentives to discriminate against beneficiaries with complex medical conditions; (2) ensure that the establishment of the case mix adjustment for such services does not penalize agencies that serve such beneficiaries, provides some predictive value, and accounts for appropriate variables, such as age and health status; (3) establish a nationally uniform process to ensure that fiscal intermediaries have the training and ability to provide timely and accurate coverage and payment information to Medicare home health agencies; (4) assess home health agency regulatory costs associated with the PPS for home health services and consider the cost impact on the agency's ability to provide such services; and (5) provide periodic updates to Congress and home health agencies on the Secretary's progress in implementing such PPS.
United States · United States Congress · 1 July 1999
Organ Donor Leave Act - Permits a Federal employee, in any calendar year, to use not to exceed: (1) seven days of paid leave to serve as a bone-marrow donor; and (2) 30 days of paid leave to serve as an organ donor.
United States · United States Congress · 1 July 1999
Citizen Congress Act - Makes Members of Congress (Members) ineligible to participate in the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) or the Federal Employees' Retirement System (FERS) except as otherwise provided under this Act. Allows Members to participate in the Thrift Savings Plan during the 12-year period beginning on the date the Member begins his or her first term. Permits refunds to be made in accordance with otherwise applicable law on account of an individual becoming ineligible to participate in CSRS or FERS as a result of this Act's enactment (provides that, for purposes of any such refund, a Member who becomes ineligible to participate in either of the retirement systems shall be treated as if separated from service). Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) annuities; and (2) preservation of rights based on prior service. Amends the Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 1965 to provide for the disclosure of information necessary to enable the public to accurately compute the Federal retirement benefits of each Member based on various assumptions of years of service and age of separation from service by reason of retirement. Eliminates for Members automatic: (1) annuity cost-of-living adjustments; and (2) pay adjustments under the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946. Requires a roll call vote for any matter relating to congressional pay.
United States · United States Congress · 1 July 1999
Amends the Appalachian Regional Development Act of 1985 to add Hickman, Lawrence, Lewis, Perry, and Wayne Counties, Tennessee, to the Appalachian region.
United States · United States Congress · 30 June 1999
Home Health Equity Act of 1999 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act and the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 to eliminate the 15 percent home health services payment reduction which would occur if the Secretary of Health and Human Services did not establish a prospective payment system (PPS) for such services as provided for in such Act. Provides for: (1) outlier payments to home health agencies (agencies) in spite of applicable per beneficiary payment limits when a provider demonstrates to the Secretary that an individual was furnished appropriate home health services at a reasonable cost that significantly exceeded such applicable per beneficiary limit because of certain conditions; and (2) recoupment of overpayments by the Secretary to agencies over a 36-month period as specified. Makes various Medicare amendments under reasonable cost provisions with regard to an increase in payment amounts to agencies with limits under the national average and an increase in the per visit limit for cost reporting periods beginning on or after October 1, 1999, with regard to the amount of payments that may be made under Medicare for services furnished by agencies. Eliminates timekeeping requirements under the prospective payment system for home health services. Provides for periodic interim payment for certain agencies under Medicare provisions regarding payment to service providers. Revises surety bond requirements for agencies. Excludes additional Medicare part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) costs from determination of the Medicare part B premium.
United States · United States Congress · 24 June 1999
Safety Net Preservation Act of 1999 - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to establish a new prospective payment system for federally-qualified health centers and rural health clinics.
United States · United States Congress · 24 June 1999
Amends the Tennessee Valley Authority Act of 1933 to increase the membership of the board of directors of the Tennessee Valley Authority and to revamp its structure and composition.
United States · United States Congress · 24 June 1999
Health Care Access and Equity Act of 1999 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) allow for the deduction of 100 percent of the health insurance costs of individuals not covered by an employer-subsidized plan; (2) expand the availability of medical savings accounts; (3) permit the carryover of unused benefits from cafeteria plans, flexible spending arrangements, and health flexible spending accounts; and (4) permit contributions towards a Medical Savings Account through the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program.
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 1999
Twenty-First Century Research Laboratories Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act with respect to: (1) biomedical and behavioral research facilities, adding congressional reporting requirements about the status of such facilities and the availability and condition of technologically sophisticated laboratory equipment, authorizing appropriations: and (2) construction programs for regional primate research centers, reauthorizing and extending them. Reauthorizes on a permanent basis the Shared Instrumentation Grant Program.
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 1999
Pain Relief Promotion Act of 1999 - Title I: Use of Controlled Substances Consistent With the Controlled Substances Act - Amends the Controlled Substances Act to provide that for purposes of such Act, alleviating pain or discomfort in the usual course of professional practice is a legitimate medical purpose for the dispensing, distributing, or administering of a controlled substance consistent with public health and safety even if the use of such a substance may increase the risk of death. Declares that nothing in this Act authorizes intentionally dispensing or administering a controlled substance for purposes of causing death or assisting another person in causing death. Prohibits the Attorney General, in determining whether a controlled substance manufacturer, distributor, or dispenser registration is consistent with the public interest under the Act, from giving force and effect to State law permitting assisted suicide or euthanasia. Authorizes certain educational and research programs carried out by the Attorney General under the Act to include educational and training programs for local, State, and Federal personnel on the necessary and legitimate use of controlled substances in pain management and palliative care and means by which investigation and enforcement actions by law enforcement personnel may accommodate such use. Title II: Promoting Palliative Care - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Administrator of the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research to carry out a program to: (1) develop and advance scientific understanding of palliative care; and (2) collect and disseminate protocols and evidence-based practices regarding such care, with priority given to pain management for terminally ill patients, and make such information publicly available. Defines "palliative care" as the active total care of patients whose prognosis is limited due to progressive, far-advanced disease. Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to award grants, cooperative agreements, and contracts to health professions schools, hospices, and other entities for programs to provide education and training to health care professionals in palliative care. Sets forth requirements for grant applicants. Provides for the evaluation of such programs to determine their effect on knowledge and practice regarding palliative care. Makes funds available for such grants and contracts.
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 1999
Education Express Act - Title I: Direct Check - Directs each State Governor to notify the Secretary of Education regarding its election to receive its portion of funding for various education programs (applicable funding) under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) according to: (1) a Direct Check option, through a State allotment based on its relative funding under part B (State and Local Activities) of title II (Dwight D. Eisenhower Professional Development Program) of ESEA; or (2) a Federal statute option, according to the various ESEA provisions for the applicable funding programs or activities. (Sec. 101) Applies such options to all funds appropriated for the Department of Education for FY 2000 through 2004 to carry out such programs or activities under various ESEA provisions. (Sec. 102) Sets forth requirements for allotment and use of Direct Check funds. Requires States to use at least 98 percent of Direct Check allotments to award assistance to local educational agencies (LEAS) for authorized educational improvement activities, according to a formula developed by the Governor that targets the funds to the lowest achieving school districts according to most recent State assessments. Allows States to use not more than two percent of such allotments for administrative expenses. (Sec. 103) Authorizes the Secretary to make awards to States selecting the Federal statute option, according to the specified ESEA provisions for the various applicable funding programs and activities, from the applicable funding that remains after making the Direct Check allotments. Title II: Challenge Fund - Establishes a Challenge Fund. Directs the Secretary to reserve a portion of Fund appropriations for assistance to outlying areas or Bureau of Indian Affairs schools. (Sec. 201) Authorizes the Secretary to award amounts from such Fund allotments to State Governors for use by LEAS. Requires such allotments to be made to each State on the basis of its relative funding under ESEA title II part B. Requires a ten percent increase in such Fund allotment for States selecting the Direct Check option (paid for by ratable reductions in allotments for States that do not select such option). Requires States to use at least 98 percent of Challenge Fund allotments to award assistance to local educational agencies (LEAS) for authorized educational improvement activities. Authorizes appropriations. Title III: Teacher Quality Fund - Establishes a Teacher Quality Fund. Directs the Secretary to reserve a portion of such Fund appropriations for assistance to outlying areas or Bureau of Indian Affairs schools. (Sec. 301) Authorizes the Secretary to award amounts from such Fund allotments to State Governors for use by LEAS. Requires such allotments to be made to each State on the basis of its relative funding under ESEA title II part B. Requires a ten percent increase in such Fund allotment for States selecting the Direct Check option (paid for by ratable reductions in allotments for States that do not select such option). Requires States to use at least 85 percent of Teacher Quality Fund allotments to award assistance to local educational agencies (LEAS) for authorized teacher quality improvement activities. Allows States to use not more than 13 percent of such allotments for statewide efforts to improve elementary and secondary school teacher quality. Authorizes appropriations. Title IV: Academic Opportunity Fund - Establishes an Academic Opportunity Fund. Directs the Secretary to reserve a portion of such Fund appropriations for assistance to outlying areas or Bureau of Indian Affairs schools. (Sec. 401) Authorizes the Secretary to award funds from such Fund allotments to State Governors for use by LEAS. Requires such allotments to be made to each State on the basis of its relative funding under ESEA title II part B. Requires a ten percent increase in such Fund allotment for any States that: (1) agrees to devote 25 percent or more of the allotted funds to meet the educational needs of children with disabilities in a manner that supplements and does not supplant existing Federal, State, and local funding for such children; (2) demonstrates that it has improved the educational performance of limited English proficient students, students who at one time or another have dropped out of school, and students who are eligible for a free school lunch; or (3) adopts or shows improved performance on the State-level National Assessment of Educational Progress (paid for by ratable reductions in allotments for States that do not qualify for such increase). Requires State Governors to use at least 98 percent of Academic Opportunity Fund allotments to: (1) implement statewide education reforms such as implementing standards and assessments; or (2) provide bonus payments to elementary schools, secondary schools, or LEAS that adopt reforms or achieve goals determined important by the Governor, including rewarding schools that encourage more students to take honors courses or the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), or rewarding LEAS that improve discipline policies or teacher training. Allows States to use not more than 13 percent of such allotments for statewide efforts to improve elementary and secondary school teacher quality. Authorizes appropriations. Title V: General Provisions - Sets forth requirements for State five-year educational reform plans and annual progress reports. (Sec. 502) Requires LEAS receiving assistance under title I or II of this Act to: (1) use such funds to design and implement programs to improve student learning; (2) set yearly targets for how to achieve the goals in the State plan and describe plans for corrective action if the targets are not met; and (3) use not more than 25 percent of the total amount of funds it receives under titles I and II for a fiscal year to carry out any one of specified authorized activities. Includes among authorized activities any activity focused on improved student learning, new books, additional technology, high standards and assessments, teacher hiring and quality improvements, class size reduction, alternative schools, school-to-work programs or partnerships with institutions of higher education, school construction, special education, vouchers, charter schools or other school choice initiatives, character education, dropout prevention, tutoring and remedial help for struggling students, or any activity determined by the Governor or LEA to improve the educational achievement of all children. (Sec. 503) Sets forth requirements relating to: (1) supplementation, rather than supplanting, of other funds; and (2) civil rights. Directs the Commissioner of Education Statistics to: (1) develop key definitions for terms and uniform and comparable reporting methods related to core indicators of State education performance; (2) report to Congress and the American people regarding such core indicators; and (3) provide technical assistance to States in developing accountability systems relating to the academic performance goals that States establish under this Act. Authorizes the Commissioner to make awards, at the Commissioner's discretion, through the National Cooperative Educational Statistics System to assist States in developing such measures. Directs the Secretary to work with the Commissioner to provide any necessary personnel support to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) to carry out such activities. Authorizes appropriations to NCES for such activities.
United States · United States Congress · 18 June 1999
Prostate Cancer Research and Prevention Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to: (1) revise the prostate cancer screening preventive health program; and (2) reauthorize National Institute of Health research on prostate cancer.
United States · United States Congress · 17 June 1999
Family Friendly Workplace Act - Amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to provide for: (1) time-and-a-half compensatory time off; and (2) biweekly work programs (allowing more than 40 hours of work in one week and correspondingly less in the other). (Thus provides private sector employees opportunities under such programs similar to those enjoyed by Federal employees). Requires, with respect to such compensatory time and biweekly work programs, that employee participation be voluntary, and that collective bargaining agreements be honored. Sets forth: (1) procedures for employer discontinuance of, or employee withdrawal from, certain of such programs; and (2) prohibitions against coercion. Amends the exemption from minimum wage and maximum hour requirements for certain executive, administrative, and professional employees and outside salesmen. Prohibits from consideration in determining whether an employee is exempt: (1) the fact that the employee is subject to deductions in compensation for absences from employment of less than a full workday or less than a full workweek; or (2) the payment of overtime compensation or other additions to the compensation of an employee employed on a salary based on hours worked. Allows consideration, in such a determination, of an actual reduction in compensation, with a specified exception. Amends the Federal bankruptcy code to grant third priority (allowed unsecured claims for wages, salaries, or commissions) in bankruptcy proceedings to claims relating to compensatory time off.
United States · United States Congress · 9 June 1999
Open Competition Act of 1999 - Amends the National Labor Relations Act to prohibit discrimination against any bidder on a prime contract for a federally funded project on the basis of a requirement that such person enter into or adhere to a collective bargaining agreement or any similar agreement as a condition of performing work on such contract.
United States · United States Congress · 7 June 1999
Lewis and Clark Expedition Bicentennial Commemorative Coin Act - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue one-dollar coins emblematic of the expedition of Lewis and Clark. Allocates surcharges from coin sales between the National Lewis and Clark Bicentennial Council and the National Park Service for activities associated with the bicentennial commemoration of the expedition.
United States · United States Congress · 27 May 1999
Physical Education for Progress Act - Amends title X (Programs of National Significance) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to authorize the Secretary of Education to award grants to, and enter into contracts with, local educational agencies (LEAs) to initiate, expand, and improve physical education programs for all kindergarten through 12th grade students. Requires such grants and contracts to be used for: (1) providing equipment and support to enable students to actively participate in physical education activities; (2) developing or enhancing physical education curricula to meet national goals for physical education developed by the Secretary in consultation with the National Association for Sport and Physical Education; and (3) providing funds for staff and teacher training and education. Requires LEA applications for such assistance to contain plans for school physical education programs that meet specified requirements, including: (1) curricula providing students with at least 150 minutes per week of instructional physical education per week, along with certain types of instructional contents; (2) physical education teachers with baccalaureate degrees qualifying them as physical education specialists; and (3) professional development opportunities for physical education teachers. Prohibits extracurricular activities such as team sports and Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) program activities from being considered as part of the curriculum of a physical education program assisted under this Act. Sets forth requirements relating to: (1) proportionality of awards; (2) private school students and home-schooled students; (3) LEA reports for continued funding; (4) the Secretary's report to the Congress; (5) administrative costs; and (6) Federal share. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 27 May 1999
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Small Business Lawsuit Abuse Protection Title II: Product Seller Fair Treatment Small Business Liability Reform Act of 1999 - Title I: Small Business Lawsuit Abuse Protection - Allows punitive damages to be awarded against a small business only if the claimant establishes by clear and convincing evidence that conduct carried out by the defendant through willful misconduct or with a conscious, flagrant indifference to the rights or safety of others was the proximate cause of the harm that is the subject of the action. Limits such punitive damages to the lesser of two times the amount awarded for economic and noneconomic losses, or $250,000. (Sec. 104) States that, in any civil action against a small business: (1) each defendant shall be liable only for the amount of noneconomic loss allocated to that defendant in direct proportion to the percentage of responsibility of that defendant for the harm caused to the plaintiff; and (2) the court shall render a separate judgment against each defendant describing such percentage of responsibility. (Sec. 105) Excepts from such liability limitations any misconduct of a defendant: (1) that constitutes a crime of violence, international terrorism, or a hate crime; (2) that results in liability for damages under specified provisions of the Oil Pollution Control Act of 1990 or the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980; (3) that involves a sexual offense or violation of a Federal or State civil rights law; or (4) caused by being under the influence of intoxicating alcohol or a drug. (Sec. 106) Preempts inconsistent State law. Title II: Product Seller Fair Treatment - States that this title governs any product liability action brought in any Federal or State court. Excludes from this title actions for commercial loss, negligent entrustment, negligence per se concerning firearms and ammunition, and actions brought under a dram-shop or third-party liability arising out of the sale or provision of alcohol to an intoxicated person or a minor. (Sec. 204) Mandates that, in any product liability action covered by this Act, a product seller other than a manufacturer shall be liable to a claimant only if such claimant establishes that: (1) the product that caused the harm was sold, rented, or leased by the seller, the seller failed to exercise reasonable care with respect to the product, and such failure was the proximate cause of harm to the plaintiff; (2) the seller made an express warranty applicable to such product, the product failed to conform to the warranty, and such failure caused the harm to the plaintiff; or (3) the product seller engaged in intentional wrongdoing (as determined under applicable State law), and such wrongdoing caused the harm to the plaintiff. States that a seller shall not be considered to have failed to exercise reasonable care with respect to a product based upon a failure to inspect if: (1) there was no reasonable opportunity to inspect; or (2) such inspection would not have revealed the aspect of the product that allegedly caused the claimant's harm. Allows a seller to be liable as a manufacturer if: (1) the manufacturer is not subject to appropriate service of process; or (2) the court determines that the claimant is or would be unable to enforce a judgment against the manufacturer. Provides limited liability for persons engaged in the business of renting or leasing a product.
United States · United States Congress · 27 May 1999
Declares that the Senate: (1) condemns the National Islamic Front (NIF) Government in Sudan for its support for terrorism and its continued human rights violations; and (2) deplores the slave raids in southern Sudan and calls on such Government to end immediately slavery in Sudan. Calls on the United Nations Security Council to: (1) condemn such slave raids and bring to justice those responsible; (2) implement the existing air embargo and impose an arms embargo on such Government; (3) implement reforms of Operation Lifeline Sudan (OLS) to enhance the independence of that operation from such Government; (4) determine whether or not such Government's war policy constitutes genocide; and (5) implement the recommendations of UN Special Rapporteur for Sudan, Leonardo Franco, who has called for the posting of human rights monitors throughout Sudan. Calls for the President to take leadership on policies to: (1) increase support for relief organizations working outside the umbrella of OLS; (2) instruct the Agency for International Development (AID) and other appropriate to provide additional support to nongovernmental relief organizations that work outside the OLS umbrella and to enhance the independence of OLS from such Government; (3) double the funds that are made available through the STAR Program for the promotion of the rule of law to advance democracy and the enhancement of infrastructure in areas in Sudan controlled by the opposition to such Government; (4) instruct AID to provide humanitarian assistance directly to indigenous service groups in southern Sudan and the Nuba Mountains; (5) intensify and expand U.S. diplomatic and economic pressure on such Government in conjunction with and urging other countries to impose sanctions on such Government that are similar to U.S.-imposed sanctions; (5) continue to enhance the peace process in Sudan supported by the Inter-governmental Authority for Development; and (6) report to Congress on efforts or plans to promote the end of slavery in Sudan.
United States · United States Congress · 26 May 1999
Y2K Act - Makes this Act: (1) applicable to any Y2K action brought in a Federal or State court after January 1, 1999, for a Y2K failure occurring before January 1, 2003; and (2) inapplicable to a claim for personal injury or wrongful death. Preempts inconsistent State law. (Sec. 5) Mandates that, in any Y2K action in which punitive damages are permitted, the defendant shall not be liable unless the plaintiff proves that the applicable standard for awarding damages has been met. Limits punitive damages in such an action to the lesser of three times the amount awarded for compensatory damages or $250,000. Makes such limitation applicable to: (1) individuals whose net worth does not exceed $500,000; or (2) an entity employing fewer than 50 full-time employees. Waives such limitation when specific intent to injure is established. Prohibits punitive damages from being awarded against a government entity. (Sec. 6) Requires the application of proportionate liability upon each person against whom a final judgment is entered in a Y2K action. Makes the liability of a defendant in such an action joint and several if the trier of fact determines that such defendant: (1) acted with specific intent to injure the plaintiff; or (2) knowingly committed fraud. Makes any other defendant proportionately liable for the uncollectible share of a judgment against a defendant for compensatory damages, with a limitation. States that a defendant who settles a Y2K action at any time before final verdict or judgment shall be discharged from all claims for contribution brought by other persons. Entitles a defendant who is jointly and severally liable in a Y2K action to recover contribution from any other person who, if joined in the original action, would have been liable for the same damages. Applies a six-month statute of limitations for such contribution. (Sec. 7) Requires a prospective plaintiff, before commencing a Y2K action (except in an action seeking only injunctive relief), to serve on each prospective defendant a written notice that identifies with particularity the manifestations of any material defect causing harm or loss, the harm or loss suffered, the remedy sought, and certain information identifying any individual authorized to negotiate on behalf of the plaintiff. Requires a response to such notice within 30 days proposing remedial actions. Allows a plaintiff to immediately commence a legal action if the defendant fails to respond to such notice or does not propose remedial actions. Allows a defendant 60 days after an appropriate response to complete any proposed remedial action. (Sec. 8) Outlines pleading requirements, including specification of the nature, amount, and factual basis for calculating damages. Requires damages awarded to exclude compensation for damages the plaintiff would reasonably have avoided in light of disclosures. (Sec. 10) Requires the application of the doctrines of impossibility and commercial impracticability, as such doctrines were in existence as of January 1, 1999, in any Y2K action involving breach or repudiation of contract. Prohibits the award of damages by contract unless such damages are allowed by the express terms of the contract or by operation of State or Federal law. (Sec. 12) Prohibits a party to a Y2K action making a tort claim from recovering damages for economic loss unless such damages are permitted under applicable Federal or State law and: (1) such recovery is provided for under a contract entered into by the party; or (2) such losses result directly from damage to tangible property caused by the Y2K failure. Excludes from such limitation patent, copyright, trade-secret, or trademark action, or any claim for defamation or invasion of privacy under Federal or State law. (Sec. 13) Requires the plaintiff, in a Y2K action other than a claim for breach or repudiation of contract, to prove a defendant's state of mind when the defendant's actual or constructive awareness of the Y2K failure is an element of the claim. Provides specific limitations on bystander liability for Y2K failures. Applies to this Act the protections for the exchange of information afforded under the Year 2000 Information and Readiness Disclosure Act. (Sec. 14) Authorizes the appointment in any U.S. district court of special masters or magistrate judges for hearing Y2K actions. (Sec. 15) Provides that, in any Y2K action involving a claim that a product or service is defective, a class action may be maintained only if: (1) it satisfies all other Federal or State class action procedural laws or rules; and (2) the court finds that the alleged defect would be material to the majority of such class. Requires specified notice to class members. Provides jurisdiction in U.S. district court for class action Y2K suits involving more than $1 million, with an exception when the parties concerned or the claims asserted primarily involve only one State.
![Official portrait of Sen. Frist, William H. [R-TN]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/f000439_200.jpg)