United States · United States Congress · 21 October 2009
Declares that the Senate has heard with profound sorrow and deep regret the announcement of the death of the Honorable Cliff Hansen, a former Senator of Wyoming. Declares that when the Senate adjourns on October 21, 2009, it stand adjourned as a further mark of respect to the memory of Senator Hansen.
United States · United States Congress · 15 October 2009
Fair Sentencing Act of 2009 - Amends the Controlled Substances Act and the Controlled Substances Import and Export Act to: (1) increase the amount of a controlled substance or mixture containing a cocaine base (i.e., crack cocaine) required for the imposition of mandatory minimum prison terms for crack cocaine trafficking to eliminate the sentencing disparity between crack and powder cocaine; (2) increase monetary penalties for drug trafficking and for the importation and exportation of controlled substances. Eliminates the five-year mandatory minimum prison term for first-time possession of crack cocaine. Directs the U.S. Sentencing Commission to review and amend, if appropriate, its sentencing guidelines for trafficking in a controlled substance to reflect the use of a dangerous weapon or violence in such crime and the culpability and the role of the defendant in such crime, taking into account certain aggravating and mitigating factors. Directs the Comptroller General to report on the effectiveness of drug court programs funded by the Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of Justice Programs.
United States · United States Congress · 15 October 2009
Honorable Stephanie Tubbs Jones College Fire Prevention Act - Directs the Secretary of Education to make competitive demonstration grants to institutions of higher education (IHEs), fraternities, and sororities for up to half the cost of installing fire sprinkler systems, or other fire suppression or prevention technologies, in student housing and dormitories owned or controlled by such entities. Gives grant priority to applicants that demonstrate the greatest financial need. Reserves the following portions of grant funds made available for each fiscal year: (1) at least 10% for historically Black colleges and universities, Hispanic-serving institutions, tribally controlled colleges and universities, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian-serving institutions, and IHEs that are eligible for Institutional Aid under the Higher Education Act of 1965; and (2) at least 10% for social fraternities and sororities. Provides that any application for assistance under this Act, any negative determination on the part of the Secretary with respect to such application, or any statement of reasons for the determination, shall not be admissible as evidence in any proceeding of any court, agency, board, or other entity (except a proceeding to enforce an agreement entered into between the Secretary and a grantee under this Act).
United States · United States Congress · 13 October 2009
Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) a highly capable and knowledgeable individual should be nominated with all expediency to serve as the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID); and (2) USAID must be empowered to be the primary development agency of the United States and to serve as the principal advisor to the President and national security organs of the U.S. government on the capacity and strategy of U.S. development assistance.
United States · United States Congress · 6 October 2009
Protecting Older Workers Against Discrimination Act - Amends the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 to declare that a plaintiff establishes an unlawful employment practice if the plaintiff demonstrates by a preponderance of the evidence that: (1) an impermissible factor or authority was a motivating factor for the practice complained of, even if other factors also motivated that practice; or (2) the practice complained of would not have occurred in the absence of an impermissible factor. Specifies the types of: (1) evidence that a plaintiff may utilize; and (2) relief and damages available to a successful plaintiff.
United States · United States Congress · 6 October 2009
Mourns the loss of life resulting from the earthquakes in Indonesia, the tsunami in Samoa, American Samoa, and Tonga, and Typhoon Ketsana in the Philippines, Vietnam, and Cambodia. Expresses condolences to the victims' families and sympathies to the survivors who are still suffering in the aftermath of these natural disasters. Supports the efforts provided by the U.S. government, relief agencies, and private citizens. Urges the U.S. government and the internal community to provide additional humanitarian and reconstruction assistance.
United States · United States Congress · 1 October 2009
Enhancing Flight Crewmembers' Training - Directs the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to prescribe regulations to require each air carrier to develop and implement standards and methods to ensure flight crewmembers have proper qualifications and experience to serve as crewmembers.
United States · United States Congress · 1 October 2009
Roadless Area Conservation Act of 2009 - Prohibits road construction and road reconstruction in inventoried roadless areas of the National Forest System. Specifies exceptions, including because: (1) there is threat of a catastrophic event; (2) a natural resource restoration action is necessary; or (3) a federal-aid highway project is in the public interest or is consistent with the purposes for which the land was reserved or acquired. Prohibits timber from being cut, sold, or removed in an inventoried roadless area. Permits various exceptions, including for specified environmental reasons, if the responsible official determines that the cutting, sale, or removal of timber is expected to be infrequent. Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture, acting through the Chief of the Forest Service, to make modifications to roadless area maps to improve their accuracy or inclusiveness. Instructs the Secretary, in order to evaluate the effect of a modification to a roadless area map, to prepare an environmental impact statement or similar analysis required under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. Declares that this Act does not: (1) revoke, suspend, or modify legal instruments and decisions concerning the use of NFS land made before January 12, 2001; (2) compel the amendment or revision of any land and resource management plan; or (3) apply to specified activities in the Tongass National Forest. States that the prohibitions and restrictions of this Act cannot be reconsidered, modified, or terminated under the Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Planning Act of 1974.
United States · United States Congress · 30 September 2009
Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act - Provides for the establishment of a cap and trade system for greenhouse gas (GHG) emission allowances and sets goals of reducing U.S. emissions by 20% by 2020 and by 83% by 2050. Sets forth provisions concerning the establishment of: (1) economy-wide GHG emission reduction goals; (2) transportation-related GHG emissions reduction goals and standards; (3) a coordinated approach to certifying and permitting geological storage of carbon dioxide; (4) regulations for geological storage wells; (5) performance standards for new coal-fired power plants; (6) the Carbon Storage Research Corporation; (7) programs to research the safety and performance of nuclear power plants, train nuclear workers, and develop understanding of, and new technologies for, spent nuclear waste management; (8) water use efficiency programs, a research program to assist drinking water utilities in adapting to the effects of climate change, and a water system mitigation and adaptation partnership program to provide funds to states for water system adaptation projects; (9) an Office of Consumer Advocacy within the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC); (10) a national product carbon disclosure program; (11) a State Recycling Program; (12) a Greenhouse Gas Reduction Incentives Program to provide financial assistance to owners and operators of agricultural lands and forest land for projects that increase carbon sequestration or reduce GHG emissions; (13) the Economic Development Climate Change Fund for sustainable economic development; (14) efficiency standards for buildings; (15) a program to promote dispatchable power generation projects that can accelerate the reduction of power sector carbon dioxide and other GHG emissions; (16) the Strategic Interagency Board on International Climate Investment to develop and improve mitigation policies and actions that reduce deforestation and forest degradation or conserve and restore forests in developing countries; (17) programs to assist developing countries in reducing emissions from deforestation; (18) the International Clean Energy Deployment Program to assist developing countries in reducing, sequestering, or avoiding GHG emissions; (19) an International Climate Change Adaptation and Global Security Program to assist the most vulnerable developing countries in climate change adaptation programs; (20) a National Climate Change Adaptation Program within the United States Global Change Research Program to increase the effectiveness of climate change adaptation efforts; (21) to create within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) a National Climate Service; (22) a Natural Resources Climate Change Adaptation Panel and strategies for making natural resources more resilient to the impacts of climate change; (23) a National Climate Change and Wildlife Science Center within the United States Geological Survey (USGS) to provide assistance and tools for adaptation to climate change; (24) habitat and corridors information systems of geographical information system databases; (25) a Flood Control, Protection, Prevention and Response Program to provide assistance to states; and (26) a program to reduce the risk of wildfires in fire-ready communities. Sets forth provisions concerning: (1) advancing or encouraging clean, renewable, alternative, innovative and/or efficient energy technology, projects, research and/or practices; (2) supporting the development of programs to aid workers in the fields of clean energy, renewable energy, energy efficiency, climate change mitigation, and adaptation; (3) climate change adjustment assistance for workers displaced as a result of this Act; (4) implementing a strategic action plan to assist health professionals in preparing for and responding to the impacts of climate change on public health; (5) distributing funding to coastal states for projects addressing the impacts of climate change in the Great Lakes coastal watershed; and (6) reducing emissions of black carbon. Green Taxis Act of 2009 - Authorizes states to prescribe requirements for fuel economy for taxicabs if they are at least as stringent as federal standards. Amends the Clean Air Act (CAA) to require the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to: (1) promulgate regulations to cap and reduce GHG emissions, annually, so that GHG emissions from capped sources are reduced to 97% of 2005 levels by 2012, 80% by 2020, 58% by 2030, and 17% by 2050; (2) set aside a specified percentage of emission allowances to be used to achieve an additional 10% reduction from 2005 U.S. emission levels in 2020 by providing incentives to reduce emissions from international deforestation; and (3) establish a federal GHG registry. Designates carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, sulfur hexafluoride, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) from a chemical manufacturing process at an industrial stationary source, perfluorocarbons, and nitrogen trifluoride as GHGs. Authorizes the EPA Administrator to designate additional athropogenic GHGs. Requires EPA to establish specified emission allowances (tonnage limits) for each of 2012-2050. Authorizes the Administrator to either: (1) regulate the production of perfluorocarbon under such limits; or (2) subject such production to the best available control technology and regulations phasing down the consumption of perfluorocarbon and importation of products containing perfluorocarbon. Provides for the establishment and distribution of compensatory allowances for the destruction and conversionary use of fluorinated gases and the non-emissive use of petroleum-based or coal-based liquid or gaseous fuel, petroleum coke, natural gas liquid, or natural gas as a feedstock. Prohibits any person from manufacturing, introducing into interstate commerce, or emitting a significant quantity of certain fluorinated gas that is generated as a byproduct during the production or use of another fluorinated gas. Phases in prohibitions against covered entities (including electricity sources, fuel producers and importers, industrial gas producers and importers, nitrogen trifluoride sources, geological sequestration sites, industrial stationary sources, industrial fossil fuel-fired combustion devices, natural gas local distribution companies, resource and development facilities that emitted 25,000 tons per year or more of carbon dioxide equivalent, algae-based fuels, and fugitive emissions) exceeding allowable emission levels. Requires covered entities to demonstrate compliance through: (1) holding emission allowances at least as great as attributable emissions; or (2) using offset credits. Provides for trading, banking and borrowing, auctioning, selling, exchanging, transferring, holding, or retiring emission allowances. Sets forth provisions governing the disposition of emission allowances, including giving allowance values to: (1) benefit energy consumers and low income consumers, energy-intensive, trade-exposed industries, local distribution companies, merchant coal units, generators, refineries, and renewable energy and energy efficiency efforts; (2) address the impacts of climate change; and (3) reduce the deficit. Requires EPA to promulgate regulations to phase down the consumption of, and regulate the production of, HFCs. Specifies consumption allowances for: (1) each of 2012-2032; and (2) 2033 and thereafter. Provides for: (1) the distribution, auction, banking, exchange, and international transfer of such allowances; and (2) the issuance of offset credits for the destruction of chlorofluorocarbons.
United States · United States Congress · 30 September 2009
Service Members Home Ownership Tax Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) exempt members of the uniformed services, the Foreign Service, and employees of the intelligence community on official extended duty service from the recapture requirements of the first-time homebuyer tax credit; (2) extend the first-time homebuyer tax credit through November 30, 2010, for individuals serving on official extended duty service outside the United States for at least 90 days in 2009; (3) exclude from gross income payments to military personnel to compensate for declines in housing values due to a base closure or realignment; and (4) increase penalties for failure to file a partnership or S corporation tax return. Amends the Corporate Estimated Tax Shift Act of 2009 to increase corporate estimated tax payments in the third quarter of 2014 by an additional 0.5%.
United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2009
Supports the goals and ideals of National Adoption Day and National Adoption Month. Recognizes that every child should have a permanent and loving family. Encourages the citizens of the United States to consider adoption during the month of November and all throughout the year.
United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2009
Declares that the Senate has heard with profound sorrow and deep regret the announcement of the death of the Honorable Henry Bellmon, a former member of the U.S. Senate. Declares that when the Senate adjourns on September 29, 2009, it stand adjourned as a further mark of respect to the memory of Senator Bellmon.
United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2009
Amends the United States International Broadcasting Act of 1994 to extend the authority of the Broadcasting Board of Governors to make grants to operate Radio Free Asia through September 30, 2010.
United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2009
Amends the Foreign Affairs Reform and Restructuring Act of 1998 to reauthorize the United States Advisory Commission on Public Diplomacy through October 1, 2010.
United States · United States Congress · 24 September 2009
Amends the Act commonly known as the Indian Reorganization Act to apply the Act to all federally recognized Indian tribes, regardless of when any tribe became recognized. (This effectively overrules the Supreme Court's decision in Carcieri v. Salazar, which held that the Secretary of the Interior could not take land into trust for a specified tribe because that tribe had not been under federal jurisdiction when the Act was enacted.)
United States · United States Congress · 24 September 2009
Enhanced Partnership with Pakistan Act of 2009 - Specifies principles that Congress declares should be the basis of the relationship between the United States and Pakistan. Authorizes the President to provide assistance to Pakistan to support: (1) democratic institutions; (2) efforts to expand rule of law, build the capacity, transparency, and trust in government institutions, and promote internationally recognized human rights; (3) economic freedom and development; (4) investments in people, particularly women and children; and (5) strengthen public diplomacy to combat militant extremism and promote a better understanding of the United States. Authorizes FY2010-FY2014 appropriations for assistance to Pakistan under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, including: (1) international military education and training (IMET); and (2) foreign military financing for the purchase of defense articles and services, among other things. Authorizes the Secretary of State to establish an exchange program between military and civilian personnel of Pakistan and certain other countries, including North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) member countries. Prohibits any security-related assistance and arms transfers to Pakistan during FY2010-FY2014 until the Secretary of State certifies that: (1) Pakistan's government is continuing to cooperate with the United States in efforts to dismantle supplier networks relating to the acquisition of nuclear weapons-related materials; (2) Pakistan's government during the preceding fiscal year has demonstrated a sustained commitment to and is making significant efforts towards combating terrorist groups; and (3) Pakistan's security forces are not materially and substantially subverting Pakistan's political or judicial processes. Provides for a national security waiver of such limits. Prescribes FY2010 requirements for the Department of State's Pakistan Counterinsurgency Capability Fund. Restricts the provision of any direct cash security-related U.S. assistance or non-assistance payments to Pakistan to civilian authorities of a civilian government. Provides for a national security waiver of such restriction. Directs the Secretary to submit a Pakistan Assistance Strategy Report to the appropriate congressional committees. Requires the Comptroller General to review and comment on the Report, and recommend any additional actions that could help improve the efficiency and effectiveness of U.S. efforts to meet the objectives of this Act. Directs the President to develop and report to the appropriate congressional committees on a comprehensive interagency regional security strategy to eliminate terrorist threats and close safe havens in Pakistan.
United States · United States Congress · 23 September 2009
Unemployment Compensation Extension Act of 2009 - Amends the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2008 with respect to the state-established individual emergency unemployment compensation account (EUCA). Requires a further additional Tier-3 period for deposits to an individual's EUCA, using the current formula, if, at the time the amount added to such individual's account under the Act is exhausted or at any time thereafter, the individual's state is in an extended benefit period. Prescribes a formula for determining if a state is in an extended benefit period. Allows the Tier-3 period augmentation to be applied to the individual's EUCA only once. Authorizes a state to pay extended compensation to an otherwise eligible individual before any further additional emergency unemployment compensation (EUC), if such individual claimed extended compensation for at least one week of unemployment after the exhaustion of additional EUC. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend from 2009 through 2010 the 6.2% surtax on employers under the Federal Unemployment Tax Act (FUTA). Delays the scheduled 2010 reduction in the surtax to 6% until 2011. Amends title IV part D (Child Support and Establishment of Paternity) of the Social Security Act to require an employer to report to the state Directory of New Hires, in addition to other information, the date services for remuneration were first performed by a newly hired employee. Qualifies the requirement that an employer file new hire reports on a W-4 or equivalent form by adding the phrase "to the extent practicable." Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise conditions for state collection of unemployment compensation debts resulting from fraud. Repeals the limitation to residents of the state seeking such an offset of the requirement that the Secretary of the Treasury reduce an individual's overpayment of federal income tax to offset any covered unemployment compensation debt the individual owes such state. (Literally, repeals the requirement that the address shown on the federal tax return for the taxable year of the overpayment be an address within the state seeking the offset.) Permits the Secretary to make such an offset regardless of whether the person resides in the state seeking it.
United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2009
Requires, notwithstanding specified provisions of the Digital Television Transition and Public Safety Act of 2005, that sums made available to administer the Public Safety Interoperable Communications Grant Program remain available until expended, but not beyond September 30, 2012. Extends the period for performance of any investment approved under the Program as of enactment of this Act by one year, but not later than September 30, 2011. Allows the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to extend, on a case-by-case basis, the period of performance for any such investment for a period of not more than 2 years, but not later than September 30, 2012.
United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2009
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the: (1) Minute Man National Historical Park in Massachusetts serves an essential role in preserving the sites and vistas in New England where the American Revolution began, and in educating the public about the historic events that led to the birth of the United States; (2) Park honors and commemorates the ideals of democracy, liberty, and freedom that are the foundation of the United States and sources of inspiration for people everywhere; and (3) creation of the Park 50 years ago represents a remarkable achievement that continues to benefit the people of the United States, preserves the proud legacy of the Revolution, and serves as an enduring resource for future generations.
United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2009
Designates September 2009 as National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Declares that steps should be taken to: (1) raise awareness about prostate cancer screening and treatment; (2) increase funding for prostate cancer research; and (3) improve access to, and the quality of, health care services for detecting and treating prostate cancer.
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 2009
Health Insurance Industry Antitrust Enforcement Act of 2009 - Declares that nothing in the McCarran-Ferguson Act shall be construed to permit health insurance issuers or issuers of medical malpractice insurance to engage in any form of price fixing, bid rigging, or market allocations in connection with providing health insurance coverage or coverage for medical malpractice claims or actions. Makes this Act inapplicable to any information gathering and rate setting activities of any state commission of insurance or any other state regulatory entity with authority to set insurance rates.
United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2009
Improving Access to Clinical Trials Act of 2009 - Amends title XVI (Supplemental Security Income) (SSI) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to exclude from income for SSI eligibility purposes any compensation in the amount of the first $2,000 per year received by an individual for participation in clinical trials involving research and testing of treatments for rare diseases or conditions. Amends SSA title XIX (Medicaid) to make a similar exclusion from income of such compensation for the purposes of eligibility under the Medicaid program. Directs the Comptroller General to study and report to Congress on the impact of this Act on enrollment of individuals who receive SSI benefits in clinical trials for rare diseases or conditions.
United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2009
Equal Access to Medicare Options Act of 2009 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide all Medicare beneficiaries, regardless of whether they have enrolled in Medicare part B, as well as Medicare Advantage and Medicaid enrollees with the right to guaranteed issue of a supplemental insurance (Medigap) policy. Amends part C (Medicare+Choice) of SSA title XVIII to permit enrollment of individuals with end stage renal disease (ESRD) in Medicare Advantage.
United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2009
National Oilheat Research Alliance Reauthorization Act of 2009 - Amends the National Oilheat Research Alliance Act of 2000 to extend the national oilheat research alliance program until February 6, 2011.
United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2009
Recognizes the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15, 2009, through October 15, 2009. Esteems the integral role of Latinos and their manifold heritage in the American economy, culture, and identity.
United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2009
Recognizes the contributions that former President of the AFL-CIO (1995-2009) John Sweeney has made to the U.S. labor movement. Congratulates and honors John Sweeney for his dedicated service and commitment to economic and social justice and tireless advocacy on behalf of U.S. working families.
United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2009
Declares the sense of Congress that: (1) stable and affordable housing is an essential component of an effective strategy for HIV prevention, treatment, and care; and (2) the United States should make a commitment to providing adequate funding for developing housing as a response to the AIDS pandemic.
United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2009
Abrupt Climate Change Research Act of 2009 - Directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish within the Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and carry out a program of extramural awards to conduct scientific research on abrupt climate change (defined as change in climate that occurs so rapidly or unexpectedly that human or natural systems have difficulty adapting).
United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2009
Designates room 325 of the Russell Senate Office Building, commonly referred to as the "Caucus Room," as the "Kennedy Caucus Room," in recognition of the service to the Senate and the people of the United States of Senators Edward Moore Kennedy, Robert Francis Kennedy, and John Fitzgerald Kennedy.
United States · United States Congress · 9 September 2009
Full-Service Community Schools Act of 2009 - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to authorize the Secretary of Education to award grants to: (1) consortia composed of a local educational agency and one or more community-based, nonprofit, or other public or private entities to assist public elementary or secondary schools to function as full-service community schools; and (2) state collaboratives to support the development of full-service community school programs. Requires such schools to: (1) participate in community-based efforts to coordinate educational, developmental, family, health, and other comprehensive services through community-based organizations and public and private partnerships; and (2) provide access to such services to students, families, and the community. Gives local grant priority to consortia that: (1) will serve at least two full-service community schools eligible for schoolwide programs under the Act, and more than one full-service community school as part of a community or districtwide strategy; (2) demonstrate a record of effectiveness in coordinating multiple qualified services; and (3) will be connected to a school and community partnership group that brings together key stakeholders across varied sectors to improve results for students and their families. Establishes a Full-Service Community Schools Advisory Committee.
United States · United States Congress · 8 September 2009
Federal Judgeship Act of 2009 - Directs the President to appoint specified additional: (1) permanent circuit judges for the first, second, third, sixth, and ninth circuit courts of appeals and temporary circuit judges for the third, eighth, and ninth circuits; and (2) permanent district judges for various districts in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, South Carolina, Texas, and Washington and temporary district judges for Alabama, Arizona, California, Florida, Idaho, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, New York, and Virginia.
United States · United States Congress · 8 September 2009
Declares that the Senate has received with profound sorrow and deep regret the announcement of the passing of the Honorable Edward Moore Kennedy, the great Senator from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Declares that when the Senate adjourns on September 8, 2009, it stand adjourned as a further mark of respect to the memory of the deceased Senator.
United States · United States Congress · 7 August 2009
Assistance for Unemployed Workers Extension Act - Amends the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2008, as amended by the Unemployment Compensation Extension Act of 2008 and the Assistance for Unemployed Workers and Struggling Families Act, with respect to the state-established individual emergency unemployment compensation account (EUCA). Extends the Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC) program through December 31, 2010. Amends the Assistance for Unemployed Workers and Struggling Families Act to extend until January 1, 2011, federal-state agreements increasing regular unemployment compensation payments to individuals. Amends the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2008, as amended by the Unemployment Compensation Extension Act of 2008, to require a further additional Tier-3 period for deposits to an individual's EUCA, using the current formula, if, at the time the amount added to such individual's account under the Act is exhausted or at any time thereafter, the individual's state is in an extended benefit period. Prescribes a formula for determining if a state is in an extended benefit period. Authorizes a state to pay extended compensation to an otherwise eligible individual before any further additional EUC, if such individual claimed extended compensation for at least one week of unemployment after the exhaustion of additional EUC. Allows the Tier-3 period augmentation to be applied to the individual's EUCA only once. Amends the Assistance for Unemployed Workers and Struggling Families Act to extend until January 1, 2011, the requirement that federal payments to states cover 100% of EUC. Amends the Unemployment Compensation Extension Act of 2008, as amended by such Act, to extend through May 30, 2011, federal matching for the first week of extended EUC for states with no waiting week. Amends the Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act to extend through December 31, 2010, the temporary increase in extended unemployment benefits for employees with 10 or more years of service and for those with less than 10. Makes additional appropriations to cover such cost. Amends the Assistance for Unemployed Workers and Struggling Families Act to make additional appropriations to the Railroad Retirement Board to cover administrative expenses associated with such additional extended benefits.
United States · United States Congress · 7 August 2009
Keep Americans Working Act - Declares that the purpose of this Act is to keep Americans working by strengthening and expanding short-time compensation programs that provide employers with an alternative to layoffs. Requires the Secretary of Labor to: (1) provide guidance to states in enacting short-term compensation programs; and (2) award start-up grants to state agencies in states that have enacted programs and meet certain requirements. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to define "short-time compensation program" as one in which: (1) participation of an employer is voluntary; (2) an employer reduces the number of hours worked by employees through certifying that such reductions are in lieu of temporary layoffs; (3) an employee whose workweek that has been reduced by at least 10% is eligible for unemployment compensation; (4) an eligible employee may participate in an employer-sponsored job skills training program; and (5) an employer is required to certify that continuation of employee health and retirement benefits will not be affected by participation in the program. Directs the Secretary to make payments to a state's unemployment compensation trust fund for the payment of unemployment compensation if the Secretary approves a state's application for certification to operate a short-time compensation program that requires the maintenance of health and retirement employee benefits.
United States · United States Congress · 7 August 2009
Congratulates the women and women-led organizations of Afghanistan on the launch of the Five Million Afghan Women Campaign. Urges the government of Afghanistan to ensure that sufficient staffing is in place in women's polling stations, including security staff and equipment and appropriate polling place personnel, and include women in committees charged with election security and related processes. Urges the government of Afghanistan, the religious, community, and cultural leaders to encourage women to participate in the August 2009 elections. Urges the government of Afghanistan and the Independent Electoral Commission to continue to consult with the Afghan Ministry of Women's Affairs, the Afghan Independent Human Rights Commission, and women-led nongovernmental organizations regarding women's participation in the elections. Encourages the Secretary of State to continue to mobilize U.S. resources for programs throughout Afghanistan to raise the awareness of women in Afghanistan regarding governance and their rights as citizens. Urges the new government of Afghanistan to meaningfully engage women in such new government.
United States · United States Congress · 6 August 2009
Medical Bankruptcy Fairness Act of 2009 - Amends federal bankruptcy law to cite circumstances under which a medically distressed debtor may elect to exempt from the property of the estate in bankruptcy up to $250,000 of the debtor's aggregate interest in specified real or personal property that the debtor (or debtor's dependent) uses as a residence, in a cooperative, or in a burial plot for the debtor or a dependent. Revises requirements for dismissal or conversion of a Chapter 7 case to prohibit the court or specified parties in interest from filing a motion to dismiss or convert to Chapter 11 or 13 if the debtor is a medically distressed debtor. Waives the credit counseling prerequisite for filing for relief from debt in the case of a medically distressed debtor. Denies a discharge in bankruptcy from any debt incurred that relates to attorneys' fees generated as a result of the debtor's filing of a Chapter 7 petition. Requires a debtor who seeks relief as a medically distressed debtor to attest in writing, and under penalty of perjury, that the medical expenses of the debtor are genuine, and not specifically incurred to bring the debtor within the coverage of the medical bankruptcy provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 6 August 2009
Amends Internal Revenue Code provisions relating to the tax deduction for donations of fractional interests in tangible personal property to: (1) permit donors to claim an increased deduction based upon the market value of subsequent gifts of fractional interests; (2) extend to 20 years the period in which donors of fractional interests must contribute their entire interest in donated property; and (3) require donors of fractional interests greater than $1 million to attach a statement of value obtained from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to their tax returns.
United States · United States Congress · 6 August 2009
Efficient Vehicle Leadership Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) allow a new income tax credit for certain fuel-efficient motor vehicles with a purchase price not exceeding $50,000, beginning with model year 2011; (2) allow such credit as an offset against the alternative minimum tax (AMT); and (3) revise the gas guzzler excise tax to impose an increased tax on fuel guzzler motor vehicles, beginning with model year 2013, based on specified fuel efficiency ratings.
United States · United States Congress · 5 August 2009
Employment Non-Discrimination Act of 2009 - Prohibits employment discrimination on the basis of actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity by covered entities (employers, employment agencies, labor organizations, or joint labor-management committees). Prohibits preferential treatment or quotas. Allows only disparate treatment claims. Prohibits related retaliation. Makes this Act inapplicable to: (1) religious organizations; and (2) the relationship between the United States and members of the Armed Forces. Declares that this Act does not repeal or modify any federal, state, territorial, or local law creating a special right or preference concerning employment for a veteran. Provides for the construction of this Act regarding: (1) enforcement by employers of rules and policies; (2) sexual harassment; (3) certain shared facilities such as showers or dressing facilities; (4) construction of new or additional facilities; (5) dress and grooming standards; and (6) provision of employee benefits to married vs. unmarried couples. Declares that, in this Act, "married" refers to a legal union between one man and one woman. Prohibits the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) from collecting statistics from covered entities on actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity or compelling the collection by covered entities of such statistics. Provides for enforcement, including giving the EEOC, the Librarian of Congress, the Attorney General, and U.S. courts the same enforcement powers as they have under specified provisions of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Government Employee Rights Act of 1991, and other specified laws. Allows actions and proceedings, subject to exception, against the United States and the states.
United States · United States Congress · 5 August 2009
New Markets Tax Credit Extension Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) extend the new markets tax credit through 2014; (2) provide for an inflation adjustment to the limitation amount for such credit after 2009; and (3) allow an offset against the alternative minimum tax (AMT) for such credit.
United States · United States Congress · 5 August 2009
Commemorates the 45th anniversary of the Wilderness Act under which the National Wilderness Preservation System was established for the protection of wilderness in the United States. Recognizes and commends the work of the individuals and organizations involved in the building of the National Wilderness Preservation System.
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 2009
Veteran Voting Support Act of 2009 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide mail voter registration application forms to each veteran who: (1) seeks to enroll in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care system at the time of such enrollment; and (2) is already enrolled in such system when there is a change in the veteran's enrollment status or when there is a change in the veteran's address. Requires the Secretary to accept completed application forms for transmittal to appropriate state election officials. Instructs that forms accepted at VA medical centers, community living centers, community-based outpatient centers, and domiciliaries be transmitted within ten days of acceptance, unless a completed form is accepted within five days before the last day for registration to vote in an election in which case the application shall be transmitted to the appropriate state election official within five days of acceptance. Prohibits any information relating to registering to vote or a declination to register to vote under this Act from being used for any purpose other than voter registration. Requires each Director of a VA community living center, domiciliary, or medical center to provide assistance in voting by absentee ballot to resident veterans. Requires such assistance to include: (1) providing information relating to the opportunity to request an absentee ballot; (2) making available absentee ballot applications upon request, as well as assisting in completing such applications and ballots; and (3) working with local election administration officials to ensure the proper transmission of the applications and ballots. Directs the Secretary to permit nonpartisan organizations to provide voter registration information and assistance at facilities of the VA health care system. Prohibits the Secretary from banning any election administration official, whether state or local, party-affiliated or non-party affiliated, or elected or appointed, from providing voting information to veterans at any VA facility. Directs the Secretary to provide reasonable access to facilities of the VA health care system to state and local election officials for the purpose of providing nonpartisan voter registration services to individuals.
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 2009
NATO-Western Balkans Support Act of 2009 - States that Congress supports the commitment to further enlargement of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) to include Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro. Expresses the sense of Congress that the existing position of political advisor within the NATO Mission in Sarajevo should be filled by an ambassadorial-level U.S. diplomat as senior civilian representative to the NATO Mission in Sarajevo. Deems Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro as eligible to receive assistance under the NATO Participation Act of 1994. States that such designation: (1) is in addition to the designation of Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Slovenia pursuant to the NATO Enlargement Facilitation Act of 1996, the designation of Romania, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Bulgaria pursuant to the European Security Act of 1998, and the designation of Slovakia pursuant to the Gerald B. H. Solomon Freedom Consolidation Act of 2002, and the designation of the Republic of Albania, the Republic of Croatia, Georgia, the Republic of Macedonia (FYROM), and Ukraine pursuant to the NATO Freedom Consolidation Act of 2007 as eligible to receive assistance under the NATO Participation Act of 1994; and (2) shall not preclude the designation by the President of other countries as eligible to receive assistance under the NATO Participation Act of 1994. Authorizes FY2010 appropriations under the Arms Export Control Act for assistance to Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro.
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 2009
Designates August 16, 2009, as National Airborne Day (to recognize the airborne forces of the U.S. Armed Forces). Calls on the people of the United States to observe National Airborne Day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2009
Safe Babies Act of 2009 - Amends the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974 to authorize the Administrator of the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention to create, and provide technical assistance to, local court teams to promote the well-being of maltreated infants and toddlers and their families, prevent the recurrence of child abuse and neglect, and promote timely reunification of families. Defines "maltreated infant or toddler" as any child three years of age or younger who is the victim of a substantiated case of physical abuse, neglect, medical neglect, sexual abuse, or emotional abuse. Directs the Administrator to award a grant to establish a National Court Teams for Maltreated Infants and Toddlers Resource Center to provide information, training, and other assistance to local court teams and to establish a uniform data collection system related to the operation and outcomes of projects initiated by such teams. Sets forth required activities for local court teams, including: (1) conducting monthly reviews of cases handled by such teams; (2) incorporating child-focused services into case plans for maltreated infants and toddlers; (3) organizing training of community members working with court teams; (4) identifying areas for improvement in providing mental health and substance abuse treatment for families; and (5) prioritizing after-care services for families.
United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2009
Scleroderma Research and Awareness Act - Requires the Director of the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases to expand, intensify, and coordinate the research and training activities with respect to scleroderma. Directs the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to carry out an educational campaign to increase public awareness of scleroderma.
United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2009
Zero Tolerance for Veterans Homelessness Act of 2009 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to establish a program within the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) for the prevention of veteran homelessness by identifying veterans who are homeless or at imminent risk of becoming homeless and providing assistance, including short and medium term rental assistance and housing relocation and stabilization services, to ensure that such veterans do not become or remain homeless. Makes VBA regional offices responsible for oversight and coordination of: (1) any housing programs for veterans supported by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD); and (2) the program described above. Includes new construction projects as projects under which eligible entities may receive grants for furnishing certain services to homeless veterans. Requires the study of the payment method for the reimbursement of grant recipients for per diem payments for furnishing services to homeless veterans and the development of an improved method to reimburse grant recipients for services furnished to homeless veterans. Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to set forth requirements for public housing agencies to provide vouchers for rental assistance to veterans (under current law, on behalf of homeless veterans with chronic mental illnesses or chronic substance use disorders) through the HUD-VA supported housing program. Establishes in HUD a Special Assistant for Veterans Affairs in the Office of the Secretary. Requires: (1) establishment of a method for the annual collection and aggregation of data on homeless veterans who participate in VA-HUD programs; and (2) submission to Congress of a comprehensive plan for ending homelessness among veterans.
United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2009
Liability for Aiding and Abetting Securities Violations Act of 2009 - Amends the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to subject to liability in a private civil action any person that knowingly or recklessly provides substantial assistance to another person (aids and abets) in violation of such Act.
United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2009
Protect Citizens and Residents from Unlawful Detention Act - Sets forth protections against unlawful detentions of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents regarding: (1) notifications; (2) access to counsel; (3) notice and charges; (4) issuance of detainers; (5) access to telephones; (6) protection of community institutions, faith-based organizations, and other institutions; (7) transfer of detainees; and (8) immigration enforcement-related training of personnel. Sets forth protections for specified vulnerable populations. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) to establish secure alternative custody programs to ensure public safety and appearances at immigration proceedings. Establishes within DHS a position of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Ombudsman.
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