United States · United States Congress · 22 March 2010
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide that health care coverage provided by the TRICARE program and the Nonappropriated Fund Health Benefits Program of the Department of Defense (DOD) shall constitute minimal essential health care coverage as required by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 2010
Congratulates the people of Greece as they celebrate the 189th anniversary of the independence of Greece. Supports the principles of democratic governance to which the people of Greece are committed. Notes the important role that Greece has played in the wider European region and in the community of nations since gaining its independence.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 2010
Low Income Housing Tax Credit Recovery Act of 2010 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code, with respect to the low-income housing tax credit, to allow: (1) a five-year carryback period for unused tax credit amounts; (2) an extended carryback period for new investments in housing in 2010 and 2011; and (3) a full offset of such credit against regular income tax liability.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 2010
Veterans Pensions Protection Act - Excludes monetary veterans' benefits paid to a veteran from a state or municipality from consideration as income for purposes of pension benefits paid by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA).
United States · United States Congress · 15 March 2010
Amends the Whale Conservation and Protection Study Act to rename it as the International Whale Conservation and Protection Act of 2010. Requires the Secretary of Commerce (Secretary), in cooperation with the Secretary of State, to: (1) restate strong U.S. opposition to commercial whaling and any reinterpretation of the International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling that would weaken the moratorium on commercial whaling, create new categories of whaling, condone lethal scientific whaling, or weaken whale conservation and protection; and (2) support subsistence whaling carried out by indigenous peoples and the development of the Aboriginal Whaling Management Scheme. Sets forth provisions concerning the International Whaling Commission. Requires the Secretary, in cooperation with the Coast Guard, to: (1) pursue the establishment of guidelines for minimizing the introduction of incidental noise from commercial shipping operations into marine environments to reduce the potential adverse affects on whales and other marine life; and (2) promote the use of areas to be avoided by commercial vessels and other navigational measures to minimize the threat of injury to whales. Requires the Secretary, in cooperation with the Secretary of the Interior, to encourage each country that holds a reservation under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora to the great whales listed in Appendix I to withdraw such reservations and terminate commercial trade in whale meat and products. Provides for international cooperation and compliance with regulations governing trade in or takings of whales. Requires the Secretary to: (1) negotiate with Canada with the goal of concluding a North Atlantic Whale Conservation Agreement within 18 months; (2) develop international action plans to reduce threats to whales and other cetaceans through the establishment of new International Marine Protected Areas (IMPAs) and IMPA networks; and (3) establish whale research initiatives to enhance whale conservation efforts. Requires the Secretary and the Secretary of State to support efforts to study and reduce the adverse effects of anthropogenic noise on whales and other marine life.
United States · United States Congress · 10 March 2010
Recognizes the life of Orlando Zapata Tamayo, whose death on February 23, 2010, highlights the lack of democracy in Cuba and the injustice of the treatment of more than 200 political prisoners by the government of Cuba. Calls for the release of all political prisoners in Cuba. Pays tribute to the courageous citizens of Cuba who are suffering abuses for engaging in peaceful efforts to exercise their basic human rights. Supports freedom of speech and the rights of journalists and bloggers in Cuba to express their views without government repression. Calls on the United States to continue policies that focus on respect for the fundamental tenets of freedom, democracy, and human rights in Cuba and encourage peaceful democratic change consistent with the aspirations of the people of Cuba.
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2010
Organization of American States Revitalization and Reform Act of 2010 - Directs the Secretary of State to submit a multiyear strategy to the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations and the House Committee on Foreign Affairs that: (1) outlines an approach to the Organization of American States (OAS) that encourages the adoption of International Public Sector Accounting Standards, provides for a budgeting process that prioritizes mandates, and encourages transparent hiring practices; and (2) reflects inputs and coordination from other executive branch agencies.
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2010
Reaffirms Senate support for the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. Urges the President to work to: (1) ensure that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has the necessary oversight resources as they relate to the Treaty; and (2) achieve universality in Treaty adherence.
United States · United States Congress · 5 March 2010
Export Promotion Act of 2010 - Amends the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act to require the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), in making awards for the creation and support of regional centers for the transfer of manufacturing technology, to encourage the submission of applications with significant potential for increasing the competitiveness of small and medium-sized U.S. manufacturers in the global marketplace. Authorizes the Director to: (1) give a preference to such applications; and (2) consider such potential when awarding grants under the NIST's technology innovation program. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to increase the number of full-time departmental employees whose primary responsibilities involve promoting or facilitating participation by U.S. businesses in the global marketplace and facilitating the entry into, or expansion of, such participation. Requires the Secretary to ensure that global marketplace promotional activities include promoting and facilitating participation by small and medium-sized manufacturing businesses. Authorizes appropriations for the Department of Commerce's program to improve access to the global marketplace for goods and services provided by rural businesses.
United States · United States Congress · 4 March 2010
Expresses support for the goals and ideals of Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week. Reaffirms the U.S. people's commitment to combating multiple sclerosis by promoting awareness about its causes and risks, promoting new education programs, supporting research, and expanding access to medical treatment. Recognizes people living with multiple sclerosis and salutes the health care professionals and medical researchers who assist those living with multiple sclerosis and continue to work to find cures and improve treatments.
United States · United States Congress · 4 March 2010
Reaffirms the commitment of the United States to building a long-term partnership with Iraq that strengthens Iraq's security, stability, economy, and democracy. Urges the Administration to: (1) devote continued support for the people and government of Iraq, especially during the critical months after the elections of March 7, 2010; and (2) work with the international community to provide support for the Iraqi elections. Calls upon all parties in Iraq to ensure that the elections are free, without intimidation, and to not inflame communal tensions. Urges the surrounding countries to: (1) refrain from exercising destabilizing interference in Iraq's internal affairs; and (B) allow the Iraqi people to determine their own future. Calls for the timely formation of an inclusive post-election Iraqi government. Expresses gratitude to the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces, the Foreign Service, and other federal government agencies for their service and heroism in Iraq. Commends the Iraqi people for their courage, sacrifice, and hard-won gains in fighting terrorism and building a peaceful democracy.
United States · United States Congress · 4 March 2010
Mourns the loss of life and expresses condolences to the families of those killed and injured by floods and mudslides from the February 2010 storm that hit Madeira Island. Expresses solidarity between the people of the United States and Madeira and recognizes the historical ties between Portuguese-Americans, Portugal, and the Madeira Autonomous Region. Applauds the rescue efforts of fire, medical, and military personnel and other volunteers.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 2010
Military Readiness Enhancement Act of 2010 - Repeals current Department of Defense (DOD) policy concerning homosexuality in the Armed Forces. Prohibits the Secretary of Defense (Secretary), and the Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) with respect to the Coast Guard when it is not operating as a service in the Navy, from discriminating on the basis of sexual orientation against any member of the Armed Forces or any person seeking to become a member. Authorizes the re-accession into the Armed Forces of otherwise qualified individuals previously separated on the basis of sexual orientation. Directs the Secretary to establish in DOD the Pentagon Working Group to report recommendations regarding the implementation of this Act. Requires such report to be submitted to the congressional defense committees. Requires the Secretary to: (1) revise DOD regulations and issue new regulations as necessary to implement this Act; and (2) direct each military department Secretary to do the same. Directs the Secretary to report on the compliance of institutions of higher education with federal law concerning the denial of access by such institutions to Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) military recruiting on campus, as well as a description of actions taken to effect the denial of certain federal funding to institutions that continue to prevent ROTC access.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 2010
Expresses deepest sympathies and solidarity to the people and government of Chile following the massive earthquake of February 27, 2010. Encourages: (1) the U.S. government to offer all appropriate assistance to aid in the government of Chile's rescue and recovery efforts; and (2) the international community to join in relief efforts.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 2010
Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize appropriations for FY2012-FY2016 for: (1) type I diabetes research; and (2) diabetes prevention and treatment through Indian health facilities.
United States · United States Congress · 25 February 2010
Recognizes the progress made by the people of Ukraine in establishing democratic institutions and carrying out elections on January 17, 2010, and on February 7, 2010. Encourages all parties to respect Ukraine's independence and territorial sovereignty as well as its integration into the international democratic community. Pledges support for the development of a free democratic system and a free market economy in Ukraine. Reaffirms the Senate's commitment to engage the government of Ukraine in further development of bilateral cooperation through the United States-Ukraine Strategic Partnership Commission.
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 2010
StartUp Visa Act of 2010 - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to establish an employment-based, conditional immigrant visa (StartUp visa) for a sponsored alien entrepreneur: (1) with required amounts of financial backing from a qualifying investor or venture capitalist; and (2) whose commercial activities will generate required levels of employment, revenue, or capital investment. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) to terminate the status of a sponsored entrepreneur (and the alien spouse and children of such entrepreneur) if not later than three years after the date on which such permanent resident status was conferred: (1) the sponsoring venture capitalist or investor fails to meet investment requirements; or (2) the entrepreneur fails to meet job creation, capital investment, or revenue requirements.
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 2010
Medicare Mental Health Inpatient Equity Act - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to eliminate the 190-day lifetime limit on inpatient psychiatric hospital services.
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 2010
P2P Cyber Protection and Informed User Act - Makes it unlawful for any commercial entity that developed a file sharing program or distributed such a program (if the distributor is owned by the developing entity) to install, make available for installation, or download a file sharing program without: (1) immediately before program installation or downloading, providing conspicuous notice that the program allows files to be searched and copied by one or more other computers and obtaining informed consent to the installation; and (2) immediately before initial activation of a file sharing function of the program, providing conspicuous notice of which files will be made available and obtaining informed consent. Exempts: (1) modifications or upgrades of a program that was originally installed in compliance with this Act, provided certain requirements are met; and (2) pre-installed software. Makes it unlawful for such an entity to prevent the reasonable efforts of an owner or authorized user to block the installation of such a program or to prevent such a user from having a reasonable way to disable or remove the program. Makes this Act non-applicable to lawfully authorized investigative, protective, and intelligence activities of U.S. intelligence agencies or of U.S. and state law enforcement agencies. Treats a violation of this Act as a violation of a rule defining an unfair or deceptive act or practice prescribed under the Federal Trade Commission Act. Prohibits construing this Act to limit or supersede any other federal or state law.
United States · United States Congress · 11 February 2010
Pays tribute to the democracy and human rights advocates in the Islamic Republic of Iran who are engaged in peaceful efforts to encourage democratic reform. Notes that it is the right of the people of the Islamic Republic of Iran to peacefully assemble and to express their opinions without intimidation and violence. Supports freedom of speech and judicial due process in the Islamic Republic of Iran. Expresses concern over the government of the Islamic Republic of Iran's suppression of its citizens through censorship, imprisonment, and violence and denounces the atmosphere of impunity in Iran for those who employ intimidation or violence to suppress freedoms of speech, expression, assembly, and the press. Calls upon the Islamic Republic of Iran to observe the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and abide by U.N. General Assembly resolutions. Communicates deep concern that, despite the Islamic Republic of Iran's standing invitation to all thematic special procedures mandate holders, it has not fulfilled any requests from those special mechanisms to visit the country in four years and has not answered numerous communications from those special mechanisms. Encourages the U.N. Human Rights Council to fully examine these issues during its Universal Periodic Review of the Islamic Republic of Iran on February 15, 2010.
United States · United States Congress · 9 February 2010
Urges the U.S. government and the international community to provide resources to support the government of Haiti's leadership of international assistance efforts and to conduct a post-disaster needs assessment that will focus on: (1) social sector services; (2) population resettlement; (3) stable and democratic governance; (4) economic sustainability; and (5) public order and rule of law. Encourages the U.S. government and the international community to support the leadership of the government of Haiti and key nongovernmental and private sector Haitian stakeholders to create a national recovery and development strategy. Applauds the international community's response to the preliminary appeal for assistance. Encourages: (1) international financial institutions and international organizations to continue their engagement in support of critical economic and security priorities; and (2) the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank, and the Inter-American Development Bank to relieve Haiti of its external debt obligations and seek new resources without adding to Haiti's existing debt obligations. Urges the U.S. government to assign a single person to coordinate U.S. assistance to Haiti.
United States · United States Congress · 9 February 2010
Declares that the Senate has heard with profound sorrow and deep regret the announcement of the death of the Honorable John P. Murtha, late a Representative from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Declares that when the Senate adjourns or recesses on February 9, 2010, it stand adjourned or recessed as a further mark of respect to the memory of Representative Murtha.
United States · United States Congress · 4 February 2010
10 Million Solar Roofs and 10 Million Gallons of Solar Water Heating Act of 2010 - Requires the Secretary of Energy to establish a program to provide rebates for the purchase and installation of solar photovoltaic systems and solar water heating systems for residential and commercial properties in order to install over 10 years at least : (1) an additional 10 million solar systems with a cumulative capacity of at least 30,000 megawatts; and (2) an additional 200,000 solar water heating systems with a cumulative capacity of 10 million gallons. Establishes rebate eligibility criteria and the amount of rebates.
United States · United States Congress · 4 February 2010
Haitian Emergency Life Protection Act of 2010 or the H.E.L.P. Act - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act with respect to V- visa nonimmigrants (spouses and minor children of lawful permanent residents who come to the United States to wait for completion of the immigrant visa process) to include Haitian nationals whose petition for a family-sponsored immigrant visa was approved on or before January 12, 2010. Authorizes the Department of State to use secondary evidence to verify eligibility for such status or for immediate relative status. Sunsets the provisions of this Act two years after its enactment.
United States · United States Congress · 4 February 2010
International Violence Against Women Act of 2010 - Directs: (1) the Secretary of State to designate an Ambassador-at-Large for Global Women's Issues; and (2) the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to designate a Women's Development Advisor. Directs the Secretary to: (1) develop a comprehensive strategy to prevent violence against women and girls; (2) prepare a public report on best practices for preventing and addressing violence against women and girls internationally; and (3) determine emergency response measures to identified critical or widespread incidents of violence against women and girls in situations of armed conflict. Authorizes the Secretary and the Administrator to provide assistance to nongovernmental organizations, multilateral institutions, and foreign countries to implement such strategy and related activities. Requires that special efforts be made to award amounts appropriated under this Act to community-based and women's nongovernmental organizations in recipient countries. Directs the Secretary and the Secretary of Defense (DOD) to: (1) incorporate training on prevention and response into the basic training curricula of foreign military forces and judicial officials; and (2) ensure that U.S. assistance to units involved in regional or multilateral peacekeeping operations includes such training. Authorizes the Ambassador to provide guidance to the Administrator and the Assistant Secretary for Population, Refugees, and Migration. Authorizes the Secretary to provide guidance on preventing and responding to violence against women and girls to the Secretary of Defense when U.S. military personnel, military contractors, and military observers are to be deployed in humanitarian relief, conflict, and post-conflict settings. Directs the Secretary to make U.S. financial, material, human, and other resources available to assist U.N. efforts to: (1) implement training programs in prevention and response to violence against women and girls for peacekeeping and humanitarian personnel; (2) enhance the deployment of military and civilian women in peacekeeping missions; and (3) improve protection mechanisms at U.N. managed refugee and internally displaced persons camps.
United States · United States Congress · 4 February 2010
Calls on the Ugandan Parliament to reject the proposed "Anti-Homosexuality Bill." Urges all governments to reject and repeal similar criminalization laws. Encourages the Secretary of State to closely monitor human rights abuses that occur because of sexual orientation and to encourage the repeal or reform of laws such as the proposed "Anti-Homosexuality Bill" in Uganda.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 2010
Safe Kids' Jewelry Act - Bans as a hazardous substance and prohibits the manufacture, sale, or distribution in commerce of jewelry containing cadmium, barium, or antimony for children 12 years old or younger. Sets forth: (1) factors to determine whether jewelry is designed or intended for wear or use by such children; and (2) penalties for violations of such prohibition.
United States · United States Congress · 29 January 2010
Foreign Relations Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 2010 and 2011 - Transfers statutory responsibility for performing actuarial duties related to the Department of State's retirement systems from the Secretary of the Treasury to the Secretary of State (Secretary). Authorizes Department and Foreign Service special agents to investigate: (1) illegal passport or visa issuance or use; (2) Department-related identity theft and document fraud; and (3) federal offenses committed in the special maritime and territorial jurisdictions (nonmilitary) of the United States. Includes Pakistan among the countries (Afghanistan and Iraq) for which the Secretary is not required to convene an Accountability Review Board in an instance of serious injury, loss of life, or significant property destruction related to a U.S. government mission. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) provide security enhancements at overseas schools; and (2) use Department uniformed guards to protect buildings and areas in the United States. Revises provisions regarding: (1) local guard contracts abroad; and (2) overseas procurement. Renames the Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs as the Bureau of Oceans, Environment, and Science. Extends the U.S. reimbursement period with respect to seized commercial fishermen. Increases the Emergency Refugee and Migration Assistance Fund maximum. Provides Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty employees with federal service parity of pay. Extends: (1) grant authority for Radio Free Asia; (2) the United States Advisory Commission on Public Diplomacy; and (3) the International Broadcasting Bureau (IBB) personal services contractor program. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) increase the number of scientific, medicine, research, and academic educational and cultural exchange activities; (2) establish science and technology fellowship programs; and (3) establish international documentary exchange programs. Permits applicants for refugee admission to simultaneously pursue other forms of admission. Authorizes the refugee admission of certain separated or orphan children or children of refugee spouses. Revises requirements for adjustment of refugee status to permanent resident status. Eliminates the exception to the visa ineligibility of a person involved in child abduction based upon the child's location in a country that is party to the Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction. Exempts certain children, including certain siblings, who have been adopted in a foreign country from admissions vaccination documentation requirements. Authorizes the Secretary and the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to hire additional Foreign Service members. Foreign Service Overseas Pay Equity Act of 2009 - Extends comparability pay adjustments on a phased-in schedule to (non-Senior) Foreign Service members assigned abroad. Treats such payments as basic pay. Revises provisions concerning the computation of the death gratuity payable to surviving dependents of Foreign Service employees who die from injuries sustained in the performance of duty abroad. Extends the Secretary's authority to recruit retired Foreign Service or Civil Service employees or members of the Response Readiness Corps as reemployed annuitants to serve in Pakistan, Iraq, or Afghanistan. Repeals the recertification requirement for Senior Foreign Service members. Authorizes the Secretary to establish: (1) exchange programs under which Department officers or employees and members of the Foreign Service may be temporarily assigned to a position with any foreign government or international entity that permits an employee to be assigned to the Department; and (2) a personal services pilot program for services in the United States or abroad. Authorizes the U.S. share of assessed contributions for each U.N. peacekeeping operation after 2010 at 27.5%. Establishes in the Treasury the Buying Power Maintenance, International Organizations account. Authorizes the readmission and participation of the United States in the Inter-Parlimentary Union. Limits specified assistance to governments of countries in default to the United States. Increases authority for foreign law enforcement training. Authorizes Millenium Challenge Compact extensions and concurrent Compacts. Authorizes the Inspector General of USAID to temporarily reemploy annuitants for positions in the Office of Inspector General in Iraq, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. Prohibits assistance to a country for production of agricultural commodities which would be available in surplus quantities on world markets and would adversely affect U.S. agricultural producers. Authorizes FY2010-FY2011 appropriations to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 29 January 2010
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 · 28 January 2010
Haiti Recovery Act - Urges the Secretary of the Treasury to direct the U.S. Executive Director to each international financial institution to advocate: (1) the cancellation of all remaining debt obligations of Haiti, including obligations incurred after the date of the enactment of this Act and before February 1, 2012; (2) the provision of debt service relief for all of Haiti's remaining payments; and (3) that new assistance to Haiti should be primarily grants rather than loans. Urges the Secretary to: (1) instruct the U.S. Executive Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to advocate the use of certain proceeds to provide debt stock relief, debt service relief, and grants for low-income countries that are eligible for the Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility or any other programs to assist low-income countries, including Haiti; (2) support the creation of an Inter-American Development Bank trust fund for Haiti that would leverage U.S. contributions and promote bilateral donations for the purpose of investing in Haiti's infrastructure; and (3) direct the U.S. Executive Director of the Inter-American Development Bank to increase earnings transfer to the Fund for Special Operations, which finances programming in Haiti and other weak economies in the Western Hemisphere. Urges the Secretary and the Secretary of State to use all appropriate diplomatic influence to secure cancellation of all remaining bilateral debt of Haiti.
United States · United States Congress · 28 January 2010
Reaffirms the Senate's commitment to: (1) helping prevent state collapse in Yemen, denying terrorists a safe-haven, and supporting the people and government of Yemen in dealing with Yemen's challenges; and (2) defeating al-Qaeda and affiliated movements worldwide. Urges: (1) the government of Yemen to strengthen efforts against al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula; and (2) a political settlement between the government of Yemen and the Houthi rebellion. Calls upon: (1) the government of Yemen to address corruption, respect human rights, and work with its citizens and the international community to address the significant factors driving instability in Yemen; and (2) the international community to strengthen assistance programs in Yemen. Recognizes the critical role of Saudi Arabia and other members of the Gulf Cooperation Council in such programs. Requests that the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Defense, and the Director of National Intelligence submit a comprehensive strategy for Yemen and urges the President to work with Yemen, the international community, and international organizations to implement such strategy.
United States · United States Congress · 26 January 2010
Declares that the Senate has heard with profound sorrow and deep regret the announcement of the death of the Honorable Charles McC. Mathias, Jr., former Member of the United States Senate. Declares that when the Senate adjourns on January 26, 2010, it stand adjourned as a further mark of respect to the memory of Senator Mathias, Jr.
United States · United States Congress · 22 January 2010
Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act of 2010 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to classify automatic fire sprinkler systems as five-year depreciable property. Makes this Act applicable to property placed in service after April 11, 2003.
United States · United States Congress · 21 January 2010
Expresses sympathy to: (1) the people of Haiti who face catastrophic conditions in the aftermath of the January 12, 2010, earthquake; (2) the members of the international community in Haiti, including the U.S. Embassy staff in Port-au-Prince; and (3) the families and colleagues of U.N. officials who lost their lives. Applauds the rapid mobilization by President Obama to provide emergency humanitarian assistance to Haiti and the leadership of Secretary of State Clinton, United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Administrator Shah, and General Fraser of the U.S. Southern Command. Urges that all appropriate efforts be made to: (1) secure the safety of Haitian orphans; and (2) sustain long-term assistance to Haiti. Expresses appreciation for the international community's ongoing and renewed commitment to Haiti's recovery. Urges all nations to commit to assisting the people of Haiti with their long-term needs. Expresses support for the U.S. Embassy team in Port-au-Prince, members of the Armed Forces and Coast Guard, and other U.S. government agencies who are rescuing thousands of U.S. citizens and Haitians.
United States · United States Congress · 20 January 2010
Treats cash contributions made after January 11, 2010, and before February 16, 2010, for the relief of earthquake victims in Haiti as having been made on December 31, 2009, for purposes of the tax deduction for charitable contributions.
United States · United States Congress · 20 January 2010
Suspends limitations on the tax deduction for charitable contributions made by individuals and corporations, including contributions for relief efforts related to the earthquake in Haiti and cash contributions in 2010 to specified public charities. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend through 2010 the tax deduction for charitable contributions of food inventory from any trade or business (including corporations other than C corporations).
United States · United States Congress · 20 January 2010
Haiti Assistance Income Tax Incentive Act - Treats cash contributions made after January 11, 2010, and before March 1, 2010, for the relief of earthquake victims in Haiti as having been made on December 31, 2009, for purposes of the tax deduction for charitable contributions. Deems a contribution as meeting the recordkeeping requirements of the Internal Revenue Code if the taxpayer produces a telephone bill showing the name of the donee organization and the date and amount of the contribution.
United States · United States Congress · 6 January 2010
Pancreatic Cancer Research and Education Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish and implement a Pancreatic Cancer Initiative to assist in coordinating activities to address the high mortality rate associated with pancreatic cancer. Requires the Secretary to establish the Interdisciplinary Pancreatic Cancer Coordinating Committee to: (1) provide advice on overall research objectives and benchmarks for pancreatic cancer research; (2) develop and annually update a strategic plan for pancreatic cancer research awareness; and (3) conduct evaluations and make recommendations to the Secretary, the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the Director of the National Cancer Institute regarding the prioritization and award of NIH research grants relating to pancreatic cancer. Requires the Secretary to develop a primary care provider education program on pancreatic cancer. Requires the Director of NIH and the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to develop a communication tool kit for patients and their families that focuses on specific pancreatic cancer issues relating to patient choices and patient care. Allows the Secretary to award grants to research institutions for use in developing innovative compounds or technologies for the prevention, early detection, or treatment of those cancers with five-year survival rates of less than 50%. Requires the Secretary to focus on pancreatic cancer during the initial five fiscal years of awarding such grants. Allows the Secretary to designate two additional Specialized Programs of Research Excellence focusing solely on pancreatic cancer research.
United States · United States Congress · 17 December 2009
Compassionate Care for Servicewomen Act - Requires emergency contraception in drug form to be included on the basic core formulary of the uniform formulary of pharmaceutical agents for the pharmacy benefits program of the Department of Defense. Allows emergency contraception in other-than-drug form to also be so included. States that prior authorization shall not be required for such contraception.
United States · United States Congress · 15 December 2009
Taxpayer Responsibility, Accountability and Consistency Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) require reporting to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of payments (including payments of amounts in consideration for property or of gross proceeds) of $600 or more made by or to corporations (other than tax-exempt organizations); (2) set forth safe harbor criteria and rules relating to the treatment of workers as employees or independent contractors; and (3) increase penalties for failure to file correct tax return information or comply with other information reporting requirements. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to issue an annual report on worker misclassification.
United States · United States Congress · 14 December 2009
FCC Commissioners' Technical Resource Enhancement Act - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to permit each commissioner to appoint an electrical engineer or computer scientist to provide technical consultation and to interface with the Office of Engineering and Technology and other Federal Communications Commission (FCC) bureaus and technical staff. Requires such engineer or scientist to hold an undergraduate or graduate degree in his or her respective field of expertise.
United States · United States Congress · 11 December 2009
Broadband Opportunity and Affordability Act - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to require the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to implement a two-year pilot program to expand the Lifeline program to reduce the cost of broadband service for low-income consumers.
United States · United States Congress · 10 December 2009
Small Business Job Creation and Access to Capital Act of 2009 - Amends the Small Business Act to increase maximum amounts of loans under the following Small Business Administration (SBA) loan programs: (1) the section 7(a) (general small business loans) guaranteed loan program; (2) the section 504 (state and local development company) program; and (3) the Microloan (small-scale loans to start-up, newly-established, and growing small businesses) program. Amends the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 to extend through 2010 SBA authority to reduce or eliminate loan fees on section 7(a) and 504 loans. Amends the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 to apply single-business investment limits to SBA-recognized new markets venture capital companies. Directs the SBA Administrator to establish for prospective borrowers an alternative small business size standard that uses maximum tangible net worth and average net income as an alternative to the use of industry standards. Expresses the sense of Congress that the Administrator should establish a website that: (1) lists SBA lenders and provides loan rate information; and (2) allows prospective borrowers to compare rates on SBA-guaranteed loans. Amends provisions of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 relating to the local development business loan program to allow a small business borrower under such program to refinance a previous business debt: (1) that was incurred no less than two years before application for the SBA loan; (2) that is a commercial loan; (3) that is not guaranteed by a federal agency; (4) the proceeds of which were used to acquire a fixed asset for the benefit of the small business; (5) that is collateralized by fixed assets; and (6) for which the borrower has been current on all payments for at least one year. Allows the Administrator to provide financing under such program for a borrower that meets certain job creation or retention goals. Provides an alternate job retention goal for which a borrower may qualify.
United States · United States Congress · 10 December 2009
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 2009 - 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 · 9 December 2009
Coral Reef Conservation Amendments Act of 2009 - 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 · 9 December 2009
Small Business Export Enhancement and International Trade Act of 2009 - Amends the Small Business Act to: (1) require the Office of International Trade of the Small Business Administration (SBA) to implement small business export promotion programs that increase the number of small businesses that export as well as the volume of their exports; and (2) establish an Associate Administrator for International Trade as the head of the Office. Repeals the five-person limit on the number of additional Associate Administrators the SBA Administrator may appoint. Requires Export Assistance Centers (one-stop shops for U.S. exporters) to aid the Associate Administrator in promoting export assistance programs through SBA district and regional offices, the small business development center network, Export Assistance Centers, the network of women's business centers, chapters of the Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE), state and local export promotion programs, and partners in the private sector. Requires the Associate Administrator to establish annual goals to enhance the export capabilities of small businesses and small manufacturers to compete against foreign entities. Directs the Associate Administrator, in order to provide small businesses access to certain export financing programs, to appoint at least one trade financial specialist within the SBA to oversee international loan programs and assist SBA employees with trade finance issues. Directs the SBA Administrator to establish an export and trade counseling certification program for employees of lead small business development centers and lead women's business centers in providing export assistance to small businesses. Requires the Associate Administrator to develop performance measures to support export growth goals for Office activities to promote exports by small businesses. Directs the SBA Administrator to carry out a comprehensive program to help small businesses to resolve international trade disputes. Directs the SBA Administrator, in coordination with the Secretary of Commerce, to ensure that the number of export finance specialists assigned to the Export Assistance Centers is at least the number that were assigned on January 1, 2003. Requires that there are at least three specialists in each SBA region. Increases the total outstanding amount of a loan guaranteed by the SBA under the Export Working Capital Program. Caps SBA participation in an international trade loan at 90%. Authorizes the SBA to make a guaranteed loan for working capital that will allow an eligible small business concern engaged in or adversely affected by international trade to improve its competitive position. Allows such loan to be secured by a second lien position on the property or equipment financed by the loan or on other assets of the small business concern. (Currently, a first lien position or first mortgage on the property, equipment, or other business assets is required.) Names the foreign market development loan guarantee program the Export Working Capital Program. Establishes the Export Express Program to authorize the SBA Administrator to guarantee loans to small businesses for export development activities. Directs the Associate Administrator to establish a three-year State Trade and Export Promotion Grant (pilot) Program to make grants to states to carry out export promotion programs for small businesses, including those owned and controlled by women and socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. Requires the SBA Administrator to report to Congress on rural export promotion programs for small businesses. Requires a small business development center that counsels a small business concern on international trade issues to: (1) consult with state trade agencies and Export Assistance Centers to provide appropriate services to the small business concern; and (2) refer the small business concern to a State trade agency or an Export Assistance Center, as necessary, for further counseling or assistance. Requires: (1) the United States Trade Representative (USTR) to notify the SBA Administrator at least 90 days before entering into trade agreement negotiations with a foreign country; and (2) the SBA Administrator to present recommendations relating to small business exporter concerns to the USTR at least 30 days before negotiations begin.
United States · United States Congress · 9 December 2009
Brittany Wilkinson Mitochondrial Disease Research and Treatment Enhancement Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to establish the Office of Mitochondrial Disease within the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Requires the Director of the Office to develop, make publicly available, and implement a written plan to facilitate and coordinate research into mitochondrial disease. Authorizes the Director to award grants for: (1) integrated, multi-project research programs related to mitochondrial disease and planning activities associated with such programs; and (2) the establishment of Mitochondrial Disease Centers of Excellence to promote interdisciplinary research and training related to mitochondrial disease. Requires the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to establish: (1) a national registry of medical information collected from patients with mitochondrial disease for research purposes; and (2) a national biodepository of tissues and DNA collected from patients with mitochondrial disease for research purposes.
United States · United States Congress · 4 December 2009
Declares that the Senate has heard with profound sorrow and deep regret the announcement of the death of the Honorable Paula F. Hawkins, former member of the U.S. Senate from Florida. Declares that when the Senate adjourns on December 4, 2009, it stand adjourned as a further mark of respect to the memory of Senator Hawkins.
![Official portrait of Sen. Kerry, John F. [D-MA]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/k000148_200.jpg)