United States · United States Congress · 8 February 2011
Medical Foods Equity Act of 2011 - Amends titles XVIII (Medicare), XIX (Medicaid), and XXI (Children's Health Insurance Program) (CHIP, formerly known as SCHIP) of the Social Security Act to include coverage of: (1) medically necessary food and food modified to be low protein that is formulated to be consumed or administered under the supervision of a physician and the medical equipment and supplies necessary to administer such food; and (2) pharmacological doses of vitamins and amino acids used for the treatment of inborn errors of metabolism. Applies such coverage requirements to the TRICARE program (military health care). Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), the Public Health Service Act, and the Internal Revenue Code to require health plans to provide coverage of such food, vitamins, and amino acids. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to determine the minimum yearly coverage for all health insurance plans based upon the expanded coverage provided by this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to establish age-specific minimum levels of coverage. Declares that the minimum yearly coverage determined by the Secretary shall not preempt any state standards that require a higher minimum yearly coverage level for the same services and benefits.
United States · United States Congress · 8 February 2011
National Criminal Justice Commission Act of 2011 - Establishes the National Criminal Justice Commission. Directs the Commission to: (1) review all areas of the criminal justice system, including federal, state, local, and tribal governments' criminal justice costs, practices, and policies; (2) make findings regarding such review and recommendations for changes to prevent, deter, and reduce crime and violence, reduce recidivism, improve cost-effectiveness, and ensure the interests of justice at every step of the criminal justice system; (3) consult with government and nongovernment leaders, including the United States Sentencing Commission; and (4) submit a final report on its findings, conclusions, and recommendations to Congress, the President, and state, local, and tribal governments and make such report available to the public. Expresses the sense of Congress that the Commission should work toward unanimously supported findings and recommendations.
United States · United States Congress · 3 February 2011
Acknowledges the importance of the U.S.-Egyptian strategic partnership in advancing both countries' common interests, including peace and security in the Middle East and North Africa. Reaffirms the commitment of the United States to the freedoms of assembly, speech, and access to information and supports the people of Egypt in their peaceful calls for a democratic government. Condemns efforts to provoke violence. Expresses support for freedom of the press and condemns the intimidation or targeting of journalists. Urges the Egyptian military to demonstrate professionalism and restraint and emphasizes the importance of working to peacefully restore calm while allowing for nonviolent freedom of expression. Calls on President Mubarak to begin an orderly and peaceful transition to a democratic political system. Pledges support for Egypt's transition to a representative democracy and calls on all nations to support the people of Egypt as they work to conduct a successful transition to democracy. Expresses concern over any organization that espouses an extremist ideology, including the Muslim Brotherhood, and calls upon all political movements and parties in Egypt to affirm their commitment to nonviolence and the rule of law, equal rights of all individuals, accountable institutions of justice, religious tolerance, peaceful relations with Egypt's neighbors, and fundamental democratic principles. Underscores the importance of any Egyptian government continuing to fulfill its international obligations, including commitments under the Egypt-Israel Peace Treaty and freedom of navigation through the Suez Canal. States that U.S. assistance to the Egyptian government, military, and people must advance the goal of ensuring respect for the universal rights of the Egyptian people and will further U.S. security interests in the region.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 2011
Repeals certain provisions which require the offset of amounts paid in dependency and indemnity compensation from Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) annuities for the surviving spouses of former military personnel who are entitled to military retired pay or would be entitled to such pay, except for being under 60 years of age. Prohibits recoupment by the Secretary of Defense (DOD) of certain amounts previously paid to SBP recipients in the form of a retired pay refund. Repeals the optional authority of (and instead requires) the Secretary of the military department concerned to pay an annuity to a member's dependent children when there is no eligible surviving spouse. Directs the Secretary concerned to restore annuity eligibility to a surviving spouse who earlier agreed to transfer such eligibility to a surviving child or children of a member.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 2011
Small Business Broadband and Emerging Information Technology Enhancement Act of 2011 - Amends the Small Business Act to direct the Administrator of the Small Business Administration (SBA) to assign an SBA employee to coordinate SBA programs and activities relating to broadband and emerging information technology (BEIT). Requires the Administrator to provide SBA employees BEIT training in order to assist small businesses in the use of such technologies. Requires reports from the coordinator to the congressional small business committees on coordinator activities and on federal programs that provide BEIT assistance to small businesses. Includes accessing and using BEIT as an authorized activity of small business development centers. Authorizes the use of capital provided under certain SBA loans for the purchase of equipment for BEIT. Directs the Administrator to report on ways to assist with the development of broadband and wireless technology that would benefit small businesses.
United States · United States Congress · 1 February 2011
Authorizes the use of the Capitol rotunda, during the 112th Congress, for a ceremony to honor the longest surviving veteran of the First World War, Mr. Frank Woodruff Buckles, as a tribute and recognition of all U.S. military members who served in the First World War.
United States · United States Congress · 31 January 2011
Guardians of Freedom Act of 2011 - Directs the Chief of the National Guard Bureau (Chief) to serve as an advocate and liaison for the National Guard of each state, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia, Guam, and the Virgin Islands (the states and such areas) and inform such National Guards of all actions that could affect their federal or state missions, including any equipment level or force structure changes. Requires the Chief to: (1) be a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, with responsibility for advocating for the National Guards of the states and such areas; and (2) consult with state governors and adjutants general before any changes are made in National Guard force structure or equipment levels.
United States · United States Congress · 31 January 2011
Expresses support for the designation of a National Data Privacy Day. Encourages: (1) educators and privacy professionals to discuss data privacy and protection issues with teens in high schools across the United States; (2) corporations to take steps to protect the privacy and security of the personal information of their clients and consumers, to design privacy into products they create where possible, and to promote trust in technologies; and (3) individuals across the nation to be aware of data privacy concerns and to take steps to protect their personal information.
United States · United States Congress · 26 January 2011
Stop the OverPrinting (STOP) Act of 2011 - Requires the Public Printer to make bills and resolutions available for the use of offices of Members of Congress only in an electronic format accessible through the Internet.
United States · United States Congress · 26 January 2011
Expresses the sense of Congress that an appropriate site on Chaplains Hill in Arlington National Cemetery be provided for a memorial marker, to be paid for with private funds, to honor the memory of the Jewish chaplains who died while on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces, so long as the Secretary of the Army has exclusive authority to approve the design and site of the memorial marker.
United States · United States Congress · 26 January 2011
Honors: (1) those who lost their lives due to the tragic earthquake of January 12, 2010; and (2) the sacrifice of the men and women of the Haitian government, the U.S. government, the United Nations (U.N.), and the international community for their response to those affected by the earthquake. Expresses solidarity with the people of Haiti as they work to rebuild. Reaffirms the Senate's commitment to support long-term Haitian reconstruction. Supports the Executive Branch's efforts to improve Haitian water, sanitation, and health systems. Supports: (1) all U.S. personnel and members of international organizations who have persevered through adverse conditions to serve Haiti, and (2) the continued efforts of the Interim Haiti Recovery Commission to bring donors and the Haitian government together to effectively lead the reconstruction process. Urges the international community to: (1) call on Haitian leaders to reach a democratic resolution to the current electoral crisis, (2) focus assistance on the priorities of the Haitian government, (3) involve Haitian civil society in all disaster responses, and (4) give priority to programs that protect and involve vulnerable populations. Urges aid agencies to: (1) train and use Haitian local and national authorities to deliver assistance, and (2) enhance coordination with the Haitian people and key Haitian government ministries. Supports: (1) continuing the work of U.S. agencies, nongovernmental organizations, regional institutions, and U.N. agencies to confront the consequences of the Haitian crises; (2) assessments of the long-term needs for confronting the Haiti's cholera epidemic; and (3) continuing humanitarian and development efforts between all actors supporting a better future for Haiti.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 2011
Coral Reef Conservation Amendments Act of 2011 - Amends the Coral Reef Conservation Act of 2000 to direct the Secretary of Commerce to submit to Congress a national coral reef ecosystem action strategy. Directs the Secretary to make grants for projects for the conservation of coral reef ecosystems. (Current law refers to conservation of coral reefs.) Authorizes the Secretary to make agreements with nonprofit organizations for public-private partnerships promoting coral reef ecosystem conservation. (Current law refers to a nonprofit organization.) Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) execute contracts, leases, grants, or cooperative agreements to carry out the Act, including agreements with universities and research centers; (2) use the resources of any domestic or foreign governmental entity, tribal government, or international organization; and (3) utilize grants from any federal source operating competitive grant programs. Authorizes the Secretary to provide assistance to any state, local, or territorial government agency for any unforeseen or disaster-related circumstance regarding coral reef ecosystems. (Current law refers to the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration [NOAA].) Authorizes the Secretary to conduct activities, including with local, regional, or international programs and partners, to conserve coral reef ecosystems. (Current law does not does not provide for the inclusion of local, regional, or international programs and partners.) Directs the Secretary to: (1) provide for the long-term stewardship of environmental data; (2) establish the Emergency Response, Stabilization, and Restoration Account in the existing Damage Assessment Restoration Revolving Fund; and (3) conduct a study of the trade in corals. Directs the Secretary to carry out international coral reef conservation activities in waters outside the U.S. jurisdiction. Directs the Secretary to: (1) report to Congress regarding an international coral reef ecosystem strategy, and (2) establish an international coral reef ecosystem partnership program. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) make grants to work with federal, state, and local entities to increase protection of priority coral reef areas; and (2) maintain an inventory of all vessel reef grounding incidents and identify reef ecosystems with a high incidence of vessel impacts. Makes it unlawful to destroy, take, cause the loss of, or injure any coral reef or part except if caused by: (1) permitted fishing gear use, (2) a federally or state permitted use, (3) bona fide marine scientific research, (4) certain federal emergency activity, or (5) a vessel master's actions to ensure vessel safety or to save a life at sea. Makes anyone who engages in an activity that injures a coral reef ecosystem liable for response costs and damages, costs of seizure, forfeiture, storage, disposal, and related interest. Provides for in rem liability. Bars the commencement of a civil action for response costs and damages unless filed within three years after the date on which the Secretary completes a damage assessment and restoration plan for the coral reef. Provides for enforcement, including through civil administrative and judicial penalties and denial, suspension, amendment, or revocation of any permit involved. Provides for in rem jurisdiction, criminal and civil forfeiture, and injunctive relief. Authorizes the Secretary to issue permits for research and activities that would otherwise be prohibited by the Act. Directs the Secretary and other federal members of the Coral Reef Task Force to work in coordination with other federal agencies, states, and U.S. territorial governments to implement the strategies developed under this Act to address multiple threats to coral reefs and coral reef ecosystems.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 2011
International Fisheries Stewardship and Enforcement Act - Directs the Secretary of Commerce (Secretary) and the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to enforce specified laws concerning fisheries and fish products, as applicable to specified provisions of this Act. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) civil and criminal penalties; (2) search, inspection, shipment detention, arrest, and subpoena authorities; and (3) prohibited actions. Amends the High Seas Driftnet Fishing Moratorium Protection Act to direct the Secretary to identify nations or certain entities that are engaged or have been engaged during the preceding three years in illegal or unregulated fishing, or that have violated related conservation and management measures. Prohibits certain activities under specified fishing and marine Acts, including: (1) refusing, resisting, or interfering with searches, investigations, inspections, or observers; (2) importing, exporting, transporting, selling, or purchasing fish or fish products in violation of a treaty or any binding conservation measure to which the United States is a party; or (3) falsifying records, accounts, labels, or product identification. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) identify vessels and vessel owners engaged in illegal or unregulated fishing; and (2) take appropriate action against such vessels and vessel owners in accordance with U.S. and international law. Applies any action restricting port privileges to all U.S. and territorial ports. Directs the Secretary to establish an International Fisheries Enforcement Program in the Office of Law Enforcement of the National Marine Fisheries Service to investigate illegal or unregulated fishing activity and enforce the provisions of this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to establish an international cooperation and assistance program to provide assistance for international capacity building efforts. Authorizes information disclosure to the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization, international fishery management organizations, or arrangements made under an international fishery agreement, if those organizations or arrangements have unauthorized information disclosure safeguards. Amends the High Seas Fishing Compliance Act to revise high seas fishing permit provisions. Antigua Convention Implementing Act of 2011 - Amends the Tuna Conventions Act of 1950 to revise provisions regarding: (1) the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission; (2) the General Advisory Committee; (3) the Scientific Advisory Subcommittee; (4) prohibited acts; and (5) enforcement. Repeals the Eastern Pacific Tuna Licensing Act of 1984.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 2011
Commercial Seafood Consumer Protection Act - Directs the Secretary of Commerce (Secretary) to strengthen federal activities for ensuring that commercially distributed seafood meets federal food quality and safety requirements. Directs the Secretary and other appropriate federal agencies to enter into agreements to strengthen interagency cooperation on seafood safety, labeling, and fraud, including regarding examining and testing seafood imports, inspections of foreign facilities, establishing a distribution chain tracking system, data sharing, and public outreach. Requires the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to report deceptive seafood marketing and fraud to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Directs the Secretary to increase the number of laboratories certified to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) standards in the United States and in countries that export seafood to the United States to analyze food and ensure that the laboratories comply with applicable federal laws. Authorizes the Secretary to increase the number and capacity of laboratories operated by NOAA involved in testing and other activities under this Act as necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act and as provided for in appropriations Acts. Sets forth provision authorizing: (1) the refusal of admission of imported seafood or seafood products originating from a country or exporter if such seafood does not meet federal requirements, and (2) increased inspection of shipments of seafood from countries that do not meet federal requirements and that lack adequate certified laboratories. Authorizes the Secretary to send inspectors to an originating country or exporter to assess seafood practices and processes and to provide technical assistance related to U.S. requirements. Requires the development and publication of an annual list of standardized names to identify seafood at the distribution, marketing, and consumer retail stages.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 2011
Veteran Employment Transition Act of 2011- Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise the definition of "qualified veteran" for purposes of the work opportunity tax credit to mean recently discharged veterans and any veteran receiving specified benefits. Defines "recently discharged veteran" to mean: (1) any individual who has served on active duty (other than active duty for training) in the Armed Forces for more than 180 consecutive days, (2) any individual who has been discharged or released from active duty for a service-connected disability, and (3) any member of the National Guard who has served for more than 180 consecutive days in active duty, full-time National Guard duty, or duty in state status. Defines "veteran receiving specified benefits" as any veteran who is certified as being a member of a family receiving assistance under a supplemental nutrition assistance program and is entitled to compensation for a service-connected disability. Requires the Department of Defense (DOD) and the National Guard to inform military personnel who are discharged or released from active duty of the work opportunity tax credit and provide them with documentation relating to eligibility for and use of such credit.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 2011
Equal Access to Tax Planning Act - Deems any strategy for reducing, avoiding, or deferring tax liability insufficient to differentiate a claimed invention from the prior art when evaluating specified conditions of patentability under federal patent law.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 2011
Ban Poisonous Additives Act of 2011 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to deem to be adulterated: (1) food intended for children three years of age or younger if the container is composed of bisphenol A (BPA); (2) a baby bottle or cup that is intended for use by children three years of age or younger, that does not contain a food when such bottle or cup is sold or distributed at retail, and that is composed of BPA; and (3) infant formula if the container (excluding packaging on the outside of a container that does not come into contact with infant formula powder) is composed of BPA. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to: (1) issue a revised safety assessment for food containers composed of BPA, taking into consideration different types of such containers and the use of such containers with respect to different foods; and (2) determine whether there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result from aggregate exposure to BPA through food containers or other items composed of BPA, taking into consideration potential adverse effects from low-dose exposure and the effects of exposure on vulnerable populations, including pregnant women, infants, children, the elderly, and populations with high exposure to BPA.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 2011
Reduce Unnecessary Spending Act of 2011 - Amends the Impoundment Control Act of 1974 to require the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to transmit, within 45 calendar days after enactment of the funding in question, a message to Congress with specified information requesting any rescission the President proposes under the procedures in this Act. Prescribes requirements for timing and packaging of rescission requests. Authorizes OMB, subject to a specified time limit, to withhold funding from obligation temporarily if the President proposes a rescission. Prohibits the President from invoking such expedited procedures or such authority to withhold funding on more than one occasion for any Act providing funding. Sets forth procedures for expedited congressional consideration of proposed rescissions.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 2011
Small Business Paperwork Mandate Elimination Act of 2011 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to repeal a provision (added by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act) that extends to corporations that are not tax-exempt the requirement to report payments of $600 or more.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 2011
Pharmacist Student Loan Repayment Eligibility Act of 2011 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to make pharmacists eligible for educational loan repayment through the National Health Service Corps in exchange for service in a health professional shortage area.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 2011
Gun Show Background Check Act of 2011 - Amends the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act to require registration of gun show promoters and to set forth the responsibilities of promoters, licensees, and other transferors. Provides that if any part of a firearm transaction takes place at a gun show, each licensed importer, manufacturer, and dealer who transfers one or more firearms to a person who is not licensed shall, within 10 days after the transfer, submit a report of the transfer to the Attorney General. Sets forth penalties for violations. Grants the Attorney General authority to enter the place of business of any gun show promoter and any place where a gun show is held, during business hours and without a showing of reasonable cause or a warrant, for purposes of examining records and the inventory of licensees conducting business to determine compliance with this Act. Increases penalties for: (1) serious record-keeping violations by licensees; and (2) violations of criminal background check requirements.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 2011
Amends the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966 to designate a portion of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) in Alaska as a component of the National Wilderness Preservation System under the Wilderness Act.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 2011
Large Capacity Ammunition Feeding Device Act - Amends the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act to prohibit: (1) the transfer or possession of a large capacity ammunition feeding device, except for its lawful possession within the United States on or before the date of this Act's enactment; and (2) the importation or bringing into the United States of such a device. Sets forth exceptions to such ban. Sets penalties for violations. Requires a large capacity ammunition feeding device manufactured after this Act's enactment to be identified by a serial number that clearly shows that the device was manufactured after enactment and such other identification as the Attorney General may prescribe.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 2011
Public Safety Spectrum and Wireless Innovation Act - Directs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to: (1) ensure the deployment of a nationwide public safety interoperable broadband network in the 700 MHz band which is deployed in both rural and urban areas; (2) reallocate and integrate the 700 MHz D block spectrum for use by public safety entities; (3) permit flexible use of the narrowband spectrum; (4) ensure that the nationwide public safety broadband network is fully interoperable on a nationwide basis; and (5) establish a 10-year public safety advisory board. Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to increase the electromagnetic spectrum allocation for public safety services by 10 megahertz. Permits the FCC, if consistent with the public interest for a licensee to relinquish voluntarily some or all of its licensed spectrum usage rights in order to permit the assignment of new initial licenses, to disburse to that licensee portions of the auction proceeds related to the new use that are attributable to the licensee's relinquished spectrum usage. Extends FCC auction authority until September 30, 2020. Authorizes secondary use of the public safety spectrum, subject to specified limitations and conditions. Establishes in the Treasury: (1) the Public Safety Interoperable Broadband Network Construction Fund; and (2) the Public Safety Interoperable Broadband Network Maintenance and Operation Fund. Directs the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to establish a grant program to assist public safety entities establish a nationwide public safety interoperable broadband network in the 700 MHz band.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 2011
Cyber Security and American Cyber Competitiveness Act of 2011 - Calls for the enactment of bipartisan legislation to secure the United States against cyber attack, enhance American competitiveness and create jobs in the information technology industry, and protect the identities and sensitive information of American citizens and businesses by: (1) enhancing the security and resiliency of U.S. government communications and information networks against cyber attack; (2) incentivizing the private sector to quantify, assess, and mitigate cyber risks to networks; (3) promoting investments in the American information technology sector; (4) improving the capability of the government and the private sector to assess cyber risks and prevent, detect, and respond to cyber attacks; (5) preventing and mitigating identity theft; (6) enhancing U.S. diplomatic capacity and international cooperation to respond to emerging cyber threats; (7) protecting and increasing the resiliency of U.S critical infrastructure and assets against cyber attacks; (8) expanding resources for investigating and prosecuting cyber crimes in a manner that respects privacy rights and civil liberties and promotes American innovation; and (9) maintaining robust protections of the privacy of American citizens and their on-line activities and communications.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 2011
Family Economic Success Act - Expresses the sense of the Senate that Congress should: (1) guarantee pay equity for women; (2) reward companies that promote flexible work environments for working parents with children and for workers who are caregivers; (3) guarantee paid family and medical leave and paid sick days; and (4) improve the quality and affordability of child care.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 2011
Political Reform and Gridlock Elimination Act - Expresses the sense of the Senate that Congress should: (1) pass the DISCLOSE Act to prevent a corporate takeover of our elections and ensure that our democracy is open, transparent, and controlled by the people; and (2) reform Senate rules and procedures to reduce excessive obstruction and delay, while protecting the legitimate rights of individual Senators and the minority.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 2011
Reform America's Broken Immigration System Act - Expresses the sense of the Senate that Congress should: strengthen our commitments to border security; pass legislation, such as the DREAM Act, supporting national and economic security; implement a rational legal immigration system to ensure that the best and brightest can come to the United States and create jobs; require all U.S. workers to have tamper-proof identification to further prevent and penalize illegal hiring; hold accountable people here illegally by requiring them to either earn legal status or be immediately deported; and adopt practical and fair immigration reforms to help ensure that families are able to be together.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 2011
Make America the World's Leader in Clean Energy Act - Expresses the sense of the Senate that Congress should: promote investment in clean energy jobs and industries; free the United States from dependence on oil, especially foreign oil; reduce costs and pollution by promoting energy efficiency; promote clean energy by retooling the infrastructure and workforce of the United States; ensure the government is a leader in reducing pollution, promoting the use of clean energy sources, and implementing energy efficient practices; reduce harmful energy-related air, land, and water pollution; eliminate wasteful tax subsidies that promote pollution.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 2011
Fiscal Responsibility and Spending Control Act - Expresses the sense of the Senate that Congress should: (1) address the rising national debt and long-term fiscal challenges through a bipartisan agreement that significantly corrects our nation's long-term fiscal imbalances, closes the gap between projected revenues and expenditures, ensures U.S. economic security, and enhances future prosperity and growth; (2) reduce the deficit and stabilize the national debt without damaging the economic recovery; (3) consider deficit reduction proposals by leading budget experts and establish a plan that can attract broad bipartisan support; (4) ensure that any plan to address long-term fiscal problems is balanced and provides fundamental reform of the federal tax code along with prudent controls on spending; (5) eliminate tax expenditures that only serve special interests and take aggressive measures to close the tax gap and stop cheating; (6) ensure that the tax code fairly distributes the tax burden and helps American businesses compete in the global marketplace; (7) extend the solvency of Social Security and ensure that no savings are used to meet deficit reduction goals in the remainder of the budget; (8) achieve savings through the elimination or consolidation of duplicative programs and activities while modernizing government procurement practices to reduce waste and leverage better value; and (9) reject efforts to exempt tax breaks for millionaires and special interests from strong pay-as-you-go budgetary rules.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 2011
Middle Class Success Act - Expresses the sense of the Senate that Congress should: (1) support middle class tax relief; (2) help families afford the cost of college and improve opportunities for a secure retirement; (3) invest in infrastructure and other measures to create good, well-paying jobs; (4) help ensure that families have access to affordable child and elder care; (5) preserve and improve affordable health care; (6) ensure that all workers earn enough to meet basic living standards and do not live in poverty; (7) ensure that tax dollars do not support companies that break the law or mistreat their workers; (8) keep Social Security's promise and block proposals to privatize the program; (9) ensure that families have access to a healthy and clean environment, including access to safe drinking water; (10) ensure that workers can secure representation without employer obstruction; (11) ensure that our streets and communities are safe; and (12) address the serious housing problems facing many American families.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 2011
Condemns in the strongest possible terms the horrific attack that occurred at the "Congress on your Corner" event hosted by Representative Gabrielle Giffords in Tucson, Arizona, on January 8, 2011. Offers heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of those killed in that attack. Expresses hope for the rapid and complete recovery of those wounded in the shooting. Honors the memory of Christina-Taylor Green, Dorothy Morris, John Roll, Phyllis Schneck, Dorwan Stoddard, and Gabriel Matthew Zimmerman. Applauds the bravery and quick thinking exhibited by those who prevented the gunman from taking more lives and helped to save those who had been wounded. Recognizes the service of the first responders who raced to the scene and the health care professionals who tended to the victims once they reached the hospital and whose service and skill saved lives. Reaffirms the bedrock principle of American democracy and representative government, memorialized in the First Amendment and which Representative Giffords herself read in the Hall of the House of Representatives on January 6, 2011, of "the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances." Stands firm in the belief in a democracy in which all can participate and in which intimidation and threats of violence cannot silence the voices of any American. Honors the service and leadership of Representative Giffords, a distinguished Member of the House of Representatives, as she courageously fights to recover. States that when the Senate adjourns on this day, it does so out of respect to the victims of this attack.
United States · United States Congress · 5 January 2011
Authorizes use of the rotunda of the Capitol on January 20, 2011, for a ceremony in honor of the 50th anniversary of the inaugural address of President John F. Kennedy.
United States · United States Congress · 22 December 2010
Helping Heroes Keep Their Homes Act of 2010 - Amends the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 to extend through December 31, 2012, a specified protection for servicemembers against mortgage foreclosure, maintaining through such date the stay of proceedings period of 9 months (instead of 90 days, as under previous law).
United States · United States Congress · 22 December 2010
Amends Senate Resolution 105 (101st Congress), as amended, to extend the authority for the Senate National Security Working Group from December 31, 2010, until December 31, 2012.
United States · United States Congress · 17 December 2010
Workplace Religious Freedom Act of 2010 - Amends provisions of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 related to equal employment opportunities to include in the term "religion" all aspects of religious observance and practice, as well as belief, unless an employer demonstrates that the employer is unable, after initiating and engaging in an affirmative and bona fide effort to reasonably accommodate to an employee's or prospective employee's religious observance or practice without undue hardship on the conduct of the employer's business. (Current law makes no reference to an employer's affirmative and bona fide effort.) Provides that an employer's accommodation of an employee's practice of wearing religious clothing or a religious hairstyle, or of taking time off for a religious reason, imposes an undue hardship on the conduct of an employer's business in accommodating such practice only if the accommodation imposes a significant difficulty or expense on the conduct of the employer's business when considered in light of specified factors set forth in the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, including: (1) the nature and cost of the accommodation needed; (2) the financial resources and size of the business; and (3) the type of operation of the business. Requires an employer's accomodation, before it may be considered a reasonable accomodation, to remove the conflict between employment requirements and the employee's religious practice. Prohibits an accomodation from being a reasonable accomodation if it requires an employee to be segregated from customers or the general public.
United States · United States Congress · 16 December 2010
Security Screening Confidential Data Privacy Act - Amends the federal criminal code to impose a fine and/or prison term of up to one year on any individual who: (1) photographs or otherwise records an image produced using advanced imaging technology during the screening of an individual at an airport or upon entry into any building owned or operated by the federal government without express authorization pursuant to a federal law or regulation; or (2) distributes such image to any individual who is not authorized pursuant to a federal law or regulation to receive it. Exempts: (1) individuals who record or distribute an image soley to be used in a criminal investigation or prosecution; and (2) journalists who publish an image in good faith that the image was not recorded or distributed in violation of such prohibition.
United States · United States Congress · 10 December 2010
Don't Ask, Don't Tell Repeal Act of 2010 - Provides for repeal of the current Department of Defense (DOD) policy concerning homosexuality in the Armed Forces, to be effective 60 days after the Secretary of Defense has received DOD's comprehensive review on the implementation of such repeal, and the President, Secretary, and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) certify to the congressional defense committees that they have considered the report and proposed plan of action, that DOD has prepared the necessary policies and regulations to exercise the discretion provided by such repeal, and that implementation of such policies and regulations is consistent with the standards of military readiness and effectiveness, unit cohesion, and military recruiting and retention. Provides that, until such time as the above conditions are met, the current policy shall remain in effect.
United States · United States Congress · 29 November 2010
Unemployment Insurance Stabilization Act of 2010 or USA Act - Amends the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2008 with respect to the state-established individual emergency unemployment compensation account (EUCA). Extends the final date for entering a federal-state agreement under the Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC) program through January 3, 2012. Postpones the termination of the program until June 9, 2012. Amends the Assistance for Unemployed Workers and Struggling Families Act to extend until January 4, 2012, requirements that federal payments to states cover 100% of EUC. Amends the Unemployment Compensation Extension Act of 2008 to exempt weeks of unemployment between enactment of this Act and June 10, 2012, from the prohibition in the Federal-State Extended Unemployment Compensation Act of 1970 against federal matching payments to a state for the first week in an individual's eligibility period for which extended compensation or sharable regular compensation is paid if the state law provides for payment of regular compensation to an individual for his or her first week of otherwise compensable unemployment. (Thus allows temporary federal matching for the first week of extended benefits for states with no waiting period.) Amends the Federal-State Extended Unemployment Compensation Act of 1970 to authorize a state by law to apply certain requirements of the Act, with specified substitutions, for determining an extended unemployment compensation period. Requires the state's "on" and "off" indicators to be based on its rate of insured unemployment and rate of total unemployment for the period between enactment of this Act (or, if later, the date established pursuant to state law), and ending on or before December 31, 2011.
United States · United States Congress · 18 November 2010
Diesel Emissions Reduction Act of 2010 - Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to reauthorize and extend funding for a grant program for reducing diesel emissions. Authorizes the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to: (1) provide contracts and rebates to eligible entities to achieve significant reductions in diesel emissions; and (2) support rebate programs administered by states that are designed to achieve such reductions. Includes among entities eligible to receive funding for reducing diesel emissions: (1) an entity that has the capacity to sell diesel vehicles or equipment to, and arrange financing for, individuals or entities that own or operate diesel fleets or to upgrade diesel vehicles or equipment with verified or EPA-certified engines or technologies; and (2) any private individual or entity that is the owner of record of a diesel vehicle or fleet and that acts pursuant to a contract, license, or lease with a federal, regional, state, local, or tribal agency or port authority with jurisdiction over transportation or air quality and in accordance with requirements for notice and approval as the Administrator of the EPA may establish for the use of vehicles to be purchased or retrofitted using a grant, rebate, or loan under such Act. Includes Puerto Rico within the meaning of "state" under such Act. Revises provisions concerning the distribution and use of, and applications for, funds.
United States · United States Congress · 18 November 2010
Supports the development of a democratic political system and free market economy in Moldova and a November 2010 parliamentary election process that comports with international standards. Recognizes that the government of Moldova's commitment to economic and political reforms since 2009 has resulted in progress towards integration into European institutions. Acknowledges that continued reform and commitment to a free election process will remain necessary for Moldova's full integration into the Western community of nations. Notes that continued reforms in Moldova could provide for an additional basis for the repeal of the Jackson-Vanik trade restrictions. Encourages ongoing negotiations between the European Union (EU) and the Republic of Moldova concerning visa liberalization and an Association Agreement.
United States · United States Congress · 18 November 2010
Recognizes the commitment and ever-increasing sacrifices military families make every day during the current era of protracted conflict. Honors the families of the Armed Forces and thanks them for their dedication and service to the United States. Encourages the citizens of the United States to recognize, commemorate, and honor the role and contribution of the military family.
United States · United States Congress · 18 November 2010
Authorizes use of the rotunda of the Capitol on January 20, 2011, for a ceremony in honor of the 50th anniversary of the inaugural address of President John F. Kennedy.
United States · United States Congress · 17 November 2010
Amends the Asian Development Bank Act to authorize the United States Governor of the Asian Development Bank to: (1) contribute on behalf of the United States to the ninth replenishment of the resources of the Asian Development Fund; and (2) subscribe on behalf of the United States to additional shares of the capital stock of the Bank. Authorizes appropriations. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to instruct the U.S. Executive Director of the Asian Development Bank to: (1) advocate for the Bank to encourage best practices in the areas of climate change adaptation, water resource management, aquatic and terrestrial systems management, and food security; and (2) encourage the Bank to enhance its coordination with other multilateral and bilateral assistance programs in the Mekong River Basin to reduce risks to the region's environment, economy, and food security. States that it is U.S. policy to: (1) support the adoption of policies and practices that ensure conflict sensitivity in lending; (2) discourage multilateral development banks from providing financing for coal-fired power plants unless the bank has provided financing or technical assistance to develop the borrower country's capacity to examine alternatives to coal-fired power; and (3) promote the phasing out of fossil fuel subsidies and provide financial assistance to support deployment of sustainable clean energy in developing countries.
United States · United States Congress · 17 November 2010
Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code, with respect to regulated investment companies (RICs), to: (1) allow an unlimited carryforward of the net capital losses of RICs; (2) eliminate restrictions on the investment of RICs in commodities; (3) limit penalties for the failure of RICs to satisfy gross income and asset tests; (4) modify rules for allocating RIC capital gain dividend distributions; (5) include certain nondeductible items of RIC income in earnings and profit calculations; (6) allow RICs that invest exclusively in the shares of other RICs to pass through to their shareholders tax-exempt interest and foreign tax credits, without regard to certain investment limitations; (7) modify rules relating to the declaration of RIC dividends, return of capital distributions, and stock redemptions; (8) allow certain RICs with shares that are redeemable upon demand to treat distributions in redemption of stock as an exchange of fund shares or a dividend for tax purposes; (9) allow a deferral of end-of-year losses of RICs; (10) exempt certain regularly declared exempt-interest dividends of RICs from holding period requirements; (11) increase the annual amount of capital gain net income of RICs required to be distributed; and (12) modify excise tax and penalty rules applicable to RICs.
United States · United States Congress · 17 November 2010
Medicare Premium Fairness Act - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act with respect to the part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance Benefits for Aged and Disabled) premium for 2011. Makes such premium, and the related monthly actuarial rate, the same as those for 2009.
![Official portrait of Sen. Kerry, John F. [D-MA]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/k000148_200.jpg)