United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2006
Designates October 12, 2006, as National Alternative Fuel Vehicle Day to promote programs and activities that will lead to the greater use of cleaner, more efficient transportation that uses new sources of energy. Urges Americans to: (1) increase the personal and commercial use of, and promote public sector adoption of, cleaner and energy-efficient alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles; and (2) encourage the enactment of federal policies to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil through the advancement and adoption of alternative, advanced, and emerging vehicle and fuel technologies.
United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2006
National Competitiveness Investment Act - American Innovation and Competitiveness Act of 2006 - Directs the President to: (1) convene a National Science and Technology Summit; (2) establish a President's Council on Innovation and Competitiveness; and (3) establish the Innovation Acceleration Research Program. Directs the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to: (1) establish an Aeronautics Institute for Research; (2) coordinate basic and fundamental research activities related to physical sciences, technology, engineering, and mathematics; and (3) establish a Basic Research Executive Council. Authorizes appropriations for the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) for the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program. Requires the NIST Director to: (1) establish the Standards and Technology Acceleration Research Program; and (2) reestablish the Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Technology. Requires the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to: (1) establish a program of ocean and atmospheric research and development; and (2) develop an ocean, coastal, and atmospheric science education plan. Protecting America's Competitive Edge Through Energy Act or PACE-Energy Act - Directs the Secretary of Energy to: (1) appoint a Department of Energy (DOE) Director of Mathematics, Science, and Engineering Education, and establish a Mathematics, Science, and Engineering Education Fund; (2) award grants for establishing specialty schools for mathematics and science; (3) establish a national laboratories summer internship program for middle and secondary school students; (4) establish Centers of Excellence in Mathematics and Science at schools in regions of national laboratories; (5) establish or expand programs to strengthen mathematics and science teaching skills of public school teachers; (6) establish a program to expand and enhance higher education nuclear science educational capabilities; (7) award grants to outstanding DOE early-career researchers; and (8) establish a program to support the appointment of distinguished scientists by institutions of higher education and national laboratories. Establishes the Advanced Research Projects Authority-Energy. Authorizes the Secretary of Education to award grants to: (1) develop and implement programs to provide courses of study in mathematics, science, engineering, or critical foreign languages with concurrent teacher certification or to enhance teacher knowledge and teaching skills; (2) increase the number of teachers and students teaching or enrolled in advanced placement or international baccalaureate courses in mathematics, science, or critical foreign languages; (3) help low-income students performing below grade level in mathematics; (4) establish programs of study in critical foreign languages; (5) promote content knowledge requirements for secondary school graduation and establish or improve a statewide P-16 education data system. Requires the Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF) to: (1) expand the Graduate Research Fellowship Program and the Integrative Graduate Education and Research Traineeship Program; (2) establish a clearinghouse and pilot programs relating to the creation or improvement of professional science master's degree programs; (4) establish a program to provide mentors for women interested in careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics; and (5) establish a program of basic research in advanced information and communications technologies.
United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2006
Department of State Authorities Act of 2006 - Provides certain authorities for the Department of State and the Broadcasting Board of Governors. Amends provisions respecting: (1) fraud prevention; (2) protective functions; (3) education allowances; (4) property disposition; (5) protection of North Korean refugees; (6) discrimination; (7) passport fees; (8) personal services contracting; (9) contracting prohibition; (10) Foreign Service compensation; (11) maternal and prenatal care for persons in Belarus and Ukraine affected by Chernobyl; and (12) the dual gateway policy of Ireland. Authorizes the President to extend privileges and immunities to the African Union (AU), the Permanent Observer Mission of the Holy See to the United Nations, and the Bank for International Settlements.
United States · United States Congress · 12 September 2006
Rural Energy for America Act of 2006 - Amends the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to rename the renewable energy systems and energy efficiency improvements program as the rural energy for America program (REAP). Makes rural school districts eligible for REAP. Authorizes: (1) production-based incentives in lieu of grants for electricity production from renewable energy systems contingent upon third-party sales; and (2) matching assistance for feasibility studies. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to make grants to eligible entities to provide rebates for farmers, ranchers, rural school districts, and rural small businesses to purchase renewable energy systems and make energy efficiency improvements. Defines eligible entities as: (1) a state energy or agriculture office; (2) a nonprofit state-based energy efficiency or renewable energy organization that uses public funds provided directly or under contract with a state agency; (3) any other nonprofit organization with a demonstrated ability to administer a statewide energy efficiency or renewable energy rebate program; or (4) a consortium of such entities. Limits rebates to the lower of $10,000 or 50% of the cost to purchase a renewable energy system or an energy efficiency improvement. Extends REAP funding through FY 2012 with set-asides for the rebate program. Expresses the sense of the Senate that the Secretary should implement a direct loan program to complement REAP grants.
United States · United States Congress · 11 September 2006
Darfur Peace and Accountability Act of 2006 - Sets forth the sense of Congress with respect to the situation in Darfur, Sudan, including the sense of Congress that the atrocities unfolding in Darfur are genocide, and the need for U.S. and international involvement in Darfur. Amends the Comprehensive Peace in Sudan Act of 2004 to direct the President, with waiver authority upon congressional notification, to block the assets and deny visas and entry to any individual complicit in or responsible for acts of genocide, war crimes, or crimes against humanity in Darfur, including certain family members or associates of such individual. Authorizes the President to provide assistance to reinforce an expanded African Union Mission in Sudan (AMIS). States that the President should take steps to deny the government of Sudan access to oil revenues, including prohibiting U.S. port entry to cargo ships or oil tankers engaged in trade activities in Sudan's oil sector or involved in the shipment of goods for the Armed Forces of Sudan until the government of Sudan has honored its commitments to cease attacks on civilians, demobilize and demilitarize the Janjaweed and associated militias, grant access for humanitarian assistance, and allow for the safe and voluntary return of refugees and internally displaced persons. Exempts from such prohibition cargo ships or oil tankers involved in: (1) an internationally recognized demobilization program or the shipment of economic assistance; or (2) the shipment of certain military assistance. Prohibits, with national interest waiver authority, U.S. assistance to a country in violation of U.N. Security Council Resolutions 1556 and 1591 (embargo on military assistance to Sudan). States that certain restrictions against the government of Sudan shall remain in place until the President makes specified certifications to the appropriate congressional committees regarding the government of Sudan. Amends the Assistance for International Malaria Control Act to repeal provisions authorizing the President to provide additional assistance to, and exempting prohibitions on exports from, areas outside the control of the government of Sudan. Amends the Comprehensive Peace in Sudan Act of 2004 to repeal the provision authorizing the President to provide additional nonmilitary assistance to areas outside the control of the government of Sudan. Authorizes the President, subject to congressional notification by the Secretary of State, to provide economic assistance for Southern Sudan, Southern Kordofan/Nuba Mountains State, Blue Nile State, and Abyei. Authorizes the President to provide specified military assistance to the government of Sudan. Waives prohibitions concerning Sudan in Executive Order No. 13067 regarding activities with respect to Southern Sudan, Southern Kordofan/Nuba Mountains State, Blue Nile State, and Abyei.
United States · United States Congress · 11 September 2006
Commemorates the life of each individual who died as a result of the attacks of September 11, 2001. Extends deepest condolences to the victims, as well as to their families, friends, and loved ones. Condemns the attacks, the terrorists who perpetrated them, and their sponsors. Commits to support the necessary steps to defeat terrorists who plot to harm the American people. Recommits the Senate and the Nation to bringing the perpetrators of the attacks and their sponsors to justice. Honors members of the Armed Forces, law enforcement personnel, first responders, members of the intelligence community, and others who have bravely participated in the War on Terrorism since September 11, 2001. Declares September 11, 2006, to be a National Day of Remembrance, in commemoration of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks against the United States. Declares that when the Senate adjourns today (September 11, 2006), it stand adjourned as a further mark of respect to each individual who died as a result of the attacks of September 11, 2001.
United States · United States Congress · 7 September 2006
Condemns the government of Sudan's: (1) military offensive in Darfur in violation of the terms of the Darfur Peace Agreement (2006) and the N'Djamena cease-fire accord (2004); and (2) rejection of U.N. Security Council Resolution 1706 (2006). Commends the African Union Mission in Sudan (AMIS) for its monitoring of the N'djamena cease-fire agreement and encourages the African Union (AU) to leave the AMIS force in place until a U.N. peacekeeping mission is deployed to Darfur. Calls upon the government of Sudan to: (1) cease its military offensive in Darfur; and (2) comply with the deployment of U.N. peacekeepers to Darfur. Calls upon the United Nations to: (1) deploy as quickly as practicable well trained and equipped peacekeeping troops as authorized by Security Council Resolution 1706; and (2) begin considerations of sanctions as called for by Security Council Resolution 1556 (2004) and Security Council Resolution 1564 (2004). Urges the President to help improve the security situation in Darfur by: (1) pursuing the imposition of a "no-fly zone" in Darfur in cooperation with the United Nations, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), or NATO allies; (2) garnering support for NATO assistance with the AU handover of AMIS to the United Nations; (3) obtaining the support of China, Russia, and U.S. allies in the Arab League to secure Sudan's compliance with U.N. peacekeeper deployment; (4) supporting full funding for the U.N. peacekeeping mission in Sudan; (5) securing U.N. member state support for a special session on Sudan in the U.N. Human Rights Council; and (6) appointing a Special Envoy to Sudan to head the Office of the Presidential Special Envoy. Urges the international community to: (1) support the deployment of U.N. peacekeepers to Darfur financially, with logistical and equipment support, or through troop contributions; (2) fulfill financial obligations to U.N. and international humanitarian aid agencies for responding to the crisis in Darfur or addressing humanitarian needs throughout Sudan; (3) impose targeted sanctions against members of the National Congress Party responsible for human rights violations, war crimes, and crimes against humanity; and (4) impose sanctions consistent with Security Council Resolutions 1556 and 1564.
United States · United States Congress · 5 September 2006
AGOA Extension Act of 2006 - Amends the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) to change from mandatory to discretionary the authority of the President to terminate the designation of an eligible beneficiary sub-Saharan African country for trade benefits for failure to comply with such Act's requirements. Requires the President to notify Congress of the proposed termination and allows the termination only if Congress fails to prohibit it. Revises provisions providing for preferential trade treatment of certain textiles, apparel, and agricultural products. Directs the President to develop a comprehensive plan addressing critical sub-Saharan African agricultural policy issues. Amends the Export-Import Bank Act of 1945 to direct the Export-Import Bank of the United States to ensure that full consideration is given to the extent to which any loan or other assistance is likely to have a positive effect on industries in countries designated as beneficiary sub-Saharan African countries. Requires seeking negotiations for tax treaties and bilateral investment treaties benefiting sub-Saharan African countries. Requires infrastructure and industry-building assistance to sub-Saharan Africa. Expresses the sense of Congress regarding: (1) the October 2005 election of Ms. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf as President of Liberia; and (2) U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) technical assistance to sub-Saharan African countries in developing domestic tax policies, revenue administration, and anti-corruption efforts, as well as policies to replace lost trade tax revenues resulting from trade liberalization.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2006
Health Centers Renewal Act of 2006 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize appropriations for FY2007-FY2011 for health centers to meet the health care needs of medically underserved populations.
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2006
Authorizes the Secretary of State, upon a determination that additional funding for the Emergencies in the Diplomatic and Consular Service account (Account) is necessary as a result of the extraordinary costs of facilitating the evacuation of persons from Lebanon on or after July 16, 2006, to transfer to the Account from unobligated amounts in any Administration of Foreign Affairs account necessary sums to: (1) cover the costs of such evacuations; and (2) replenish the Account to the July 15, 2006, funding level. States that transferred amounts shall be merged with Account amounts, and shall be available for the same purposes and subject to the same conditions as Account amounts. Directs the Secretary to notify the Committee on Foreign Relations and the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate and the Committee on International Relations and the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives at least five days prior to any proposed transfer. Authorizes the Secretary to waive such requirement if exigent circumstances exist, but requires the Secretary to notify the Committees no later than three days after such transfer. Authorizes specified funds to be made available for such evacuation costs.
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2006
Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail Designation Act - Amends the National Trails System Act to designate a corridor of approximately 600 miles following the route taken by the armies of General George Washington and Count Rochambeau between Newport, Rhode Island, and Yorktown, Virginia, in 1781 and 1782, as the "Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail."
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2006
North Korea Nonproliferation Act of 2006 - Amends the Iran and Syria Nonproliferation Act to extend the provisions of such Act to North Korea. States that in view of North Korea's determination to produce missiles, nuclear weapons, and other weapons of mass destruction and to proliferate missiles, and in view of U.N. Security Council Resolution 1695 (prevention by Member states of missile and related transfers to or from North Korea), it should be U.S. policy to impose sanctions on persons who transfer such weapons and related goods and technology to and from North Korea in the same manner as persons who transfer such items to and from Iran and Syria currently are sanctioned under U.S. law. Urges all governments to comply with Resolution 1695 and to impose measures on persons involved in such proliferation that are similar to those imposed by the United States pursuant to the Iran, North Korea, and Syria Nonproliferation Act, as amended by this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2006
Naval Vessels Transfer Act of 2006 - Authorizes the President to transfer on a grant basis to: (1) Lithuania, the OSPREY class minehunter coastal ships KINGFISHER and CORMORANT; (2) Portugal, the OLIVER HAZARD PERRY class guided missile frigates GEORGE PHILIP and SIDES; and (3) Turkey, the OSPREY class minehunter coastal ship BLACK HAWK. Authorizes the President to transfer on a sale basis to: (1) Taiwan, the OSPREY class minehunter coastal ships ORIOLE and FALCON; (2) Turkey, the OSPREY class minehunter coastal ship SHRIKE; and (3) Mexico, the AUSTIN class amphibious transport dock ships OGDEN and CLEVELAND. States that: (1) the value of such vessels transferred on a grant basis shall not be counted against the aggregate value of excess defense articles transferred to countries in any fiscal year under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961; (2) transfer costs shall be charged to the recipient; and (3) to the maximum extent practicable, the country to which a vessel is transferred shall have necessary vessel repair and refurbishment carried out at U.S. shipyards (including U.S. Navy shipyards). Terminates transfer authority two years after enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 20 July 2006
United States-India Peaceful Atomic Energy Cooperation Act - Exempts, subject to a specified determination by the President, from certain requirements of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 exports of nuclear material, equipment and technology from the United States and reexports of such U.S.-origin items to India. United States Additional Protocol Implementation Act - Authorizes the President to implement the 1998 Protocol Additional to the Agreement between the United States of America and the International Atomic Energy Agency for the Application of Safeguards in the United States of America, and designate which executive agency or agencies shall issue or amend and enforce regulations to implement the Protocol.
United States · United States Congress · 20 July 2006
Expresses the sense of Congress that the United States should continue to work with Mongolia to expand bilateral United States-Mongolia trade opportunities and initiate negotiations to enter into a free trade agreement with Mongolia.
United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2006
Fuel Economy Reform Act - Amends federal transportation law to: (1) revise the definition of automobile to require including all automobiles up to 10,000 pounds (currently, not all automobiles up to 10,000 pounds are required to be included in the definition); and (2) continue applying the current minimum corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) standards for non-passenger and passenger automobiles to automobiles manufactured through model year 2011, but, for passenger automobiles, adds an increase of four percent per year in such standard for model years 2009 through 2011. Requires an average fuel economy standard of 27.5 miles per gallon for all automobiles manufactured by all manufacturers for model year 2012, with an increase of four percent in the average fuel economy from the level for the prior model year for model year 2013 and beyond. Requires the average fuel economy standard in a model year for a manufacturer's domestic and foreign fleetwide passenger automobiles under calculation of average fuel economy provisions to be at least 92% of the average fuel economy projected by the Secretary for the combined domestic and foreign fleets manufactured by all manufacturers in that model year. Permits lower fuel economy standards if the minimum standards: (1) are technologically unachievable; (2) materially reduce auto safety; or (3) are not cost effective. Allows, with a specified exception, the selling of credits between manufacturers. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) terminate the limitation on the number of new qualified hybrid and advanced lean burn technology vehicles eligible for the alternative motor vehicle credit; and (2) allow an advanced technology motor vehicles manufacturing credit.
United States · United States Congress · 14 July 2006
North Korea Nonproliferation Act of 2006 - Amends the Iran and Syria Nonproliferation Act to extend the provisions of such Act to North Korea. States that in view of North Korea's determination to proliferate missiles, nuclear weapons, and other weapons of mass destruction it should be U.S. policy to impose sanctions on persons who transfer such weapons and related goods and technology to and from North Korea in the same manner as persons who transfer such items to and from Iran and Syria currently are sanctioned under U.S. law. Urges all governments concerned about the threat of North Korean proliferation to impose measures on persons involved in such proliferation that are similar to those imposed by the United States pursuant to the Iran, North Korea, and Syria Nonproliferation Act, as amended by this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2006
Commends the government of Canada for: (1) its renewed and long-term commitment to Afghanistan; (2) working to secure a democratic Afghanistan; (3) its commitment to reducing poverty, aiding the counternarcotics efforts through counterterrorism and counterinsurgency campaigns, and ensuring a peaceful and terror-free Afghanistan; and (4) its three-pronged commitment to Afghanistan - diplomacy, development, and defense. Commends the leadership of former Canadian Prime Ministers Jean Jacques Chretien and Paul Martin and current Prime Minister Stephen Harper for their commitment to democracy, human rights, and freedom. Expresses the appreciation of the United States for Canada's enduring friendship and leadership in Afghanistan.
United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2006
Condemns the July 11, 2006, terrorist attacks in Mumbai, India. Expresses condolences to the families and friends of those individuals killed in the attacks, and expresses sympathies to those individuals who were injured. Expresses: (1) solidarity with the government and people of India in fighting and defeating terrorism; and (2) support for enhancement of U.S.-India strategic cooperation, with the goal of combating terrorism and advancing peace and security.
United States · United States Congress · 29 June 2006
Coal-to-Liquid Fuel Promotion Energy Act of 2006 - Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to include among the projects eligible for Department of Energy (DOE) loan guarantees large-scale coal-to-liquid facilities that use a feedstock, the majority of which is domestic coal resources, to produce at least 10,000 barrels a day of liquid transportation fuel. Instructs the Secretary of Energy (Secretary) to establish a federal loan program for coal-to-liquid facilities. Directs the Secretary to promulgate regulations to support the development of coal-to-liquid manufacturing facilities and associated infrastructure on DOE and other federal lands, including military bases and military installations closed or realigned under the defense base closure and realignment. Authorizes the Secretary to construct storage facilities: (1) in the vicinity of pipeline infrastructure and at least one military base; but (2) outside the boundaries of any state on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. Authorizes the Secretary to acquire, place in storage, transport, or exchange coal-to-liquid products, not to exceed 20% of the total quantity of petroleum products in the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Authorizes appropriations for the Air Force Research Laboratory to continue support efforts to test, qualify, and procure synthetic fuels developed from coal for aviation jet use. Amends federal law governing Armed Forces fuel procurement to authorize the Secretary of Defense to enter into agreements with private companies to develop and operate coal-to-liquid facilities on or near military installations.
United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2006
Commends the government of Canada for: (1) its renewed and long-term commitment to the Global War on Terror; (2) working to secure a democratic and equal Afghanistan; (3) its commitment to reducing poverty, aiding counternarcotics efforts, and ensuring a peaceful and terror-free Afghanistan; and (4) its three-pronged commitment to Afghanistan of diplomacy, development, and defense. Commends the leadership of former Canadian Prime Ministers Jean Jacques Chretien and Paul Martin and current Prime Minister Stephen Harper for their commitment to democracy, human rights, and freedom. Expresses U.S. gratitude and appreciation for Canada's enduring friendship and leadership in the Global War on Terror in Afghanistan.
United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2006
Alternative Diesel Standard Act of 2006 - Amends the Clean Air Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to promulgate regulations to ensure that diesel sold or introduced into commerce in the United States, on an annual average basis, contains the applicable volume of alternative diesel fuel (increasing from 250 million gallons in 2008 to 2 billion gallons in 2015 and determined per a prescribed formula thereafter). Requires the regulations to: (1) contain compliance provisions applicable to refineries, blenders, distributors, and importers; (2) not restrict areas in which alternative diesel fuel may be used; and (3) not impose any per-gallon obligation for the use of alternative diesel fuel. Requires alternative diesel fuel to constitute 0.6% of diesel dispensed in 2008 if the Administrator fails to promulgate such regulations. Requires EPA to determine and publish the alternative diesel fuel obligation as a percentage of diesel each year for 2008-2015. Requires such regulations to provide for the generation of an appropriate amount of transferable credits by any person that refines, blends, or imports diesel that contains a quantity of alternative diesel fuel greater than required. Authorizes the Administrator to waive alternative diesel fuel requirements on receipt of a state petition by reducing the quantity of alternative diesel fuel required based on a determination that: (1) implementation of the requirement would severely harm the economy or environment of a state, a region, or the United States; or (2) there is inadequate domestic supply of alternative diesel fuel.
United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2006
Higher Education Study Abroad Act of 2006 - Urges the federal government to endorse the goals outlined by the Commission on the Abraham Lincoln Study Abroad Fellowship Program regarding expanding the opportunity for students at institutions of higher education to study abroad. Requires the Secretary of Education to review Commission recommendations and report to Congress on the feasibility of their implementation, including the feasibility of the recommended national scholarship program for study abroad.
United States · United States Congress · 7 June 2006
Mourns the loss of life and suffering caused by the earthquake that occurred on May 27, 2006, in Indonesia. Expresses the condolences of the American people to the families, communities, and government of the victims. Expresses sympathy for the hundreds of thousands of people who have been seriously affected. Commends relief efforts. Urges the provision of all appropriate U.S. assistance to those affected. Recognizes the role of the Indonesian government in providing assistance and promoting recovery.
United States · United States Congress · 7 June 2006
Expresses the sense of Congress that it is the goal of the United States that by January 1, 2025, U.S. agricultural, forestry, and working land should provide from renewable resources not less than 25% of the total U.S. energy consumption and continue to produce safe, abundant, and affordable food, feed, and fiber.
United States · United States Congress · 26 May 2006
Fairness in Asbestos Injury Resolution Act of 2006 or the FAIR Act of 2006 - Establishes in the Department of Labor the Office of Asbestos Disease Compensation (Office), to be headed by an Administrator who is responsible for processing claims for asbestos-related illnesses and paying compensation to eligible claimants. Declares that the purpose of such Office is to provide timely, fair compensation to claimants whose health has been adversely affected by exposure to asbestos, on a no-fault basis and in a nonadversarial manner. Stays any asbestos claim pending in a state or federal court on the date of enactment of this Act, unless the presentation of evidence has begun before a jury or judge, or a verdict, final order, or final judgment has been entered by a trial court. Sets forth: (1) procedures for the filing of claims, including those for multiple injuries and additional awards; and (2) allowable award amounts for asbestos disease, based upon the level of such disease and whether a claimant smokes or has smoked tobacco products. Establishes: (1) the Asbestos Insurers Commission (Commission) to determine the amount each insurer participant is required to pay into the Asbestos Injury Claims Resolution Fund; and (2) the Asbestos Injury Claims Resolution Fund to pay asbestos-related injury claims. Directs the Administrator to establish programs for individuals exposed to asbestos as well as for individuals at risk for developing asbestos-related medical conditions. Establishes the National Mesothelioma Research and Treatment Program for the detection, prevention, treatment, and cure of malignant mesothelioma. Vests in the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia exclusive jurisdiction to review, under expedited consideration, any rules or regulations promulgated under this Act by the Administrator or the Commission. Amends the federal criminal code to prohibit and establish penalties for fraud and false information in connection with Fund claims. Amends the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 to establish criminal penalties for willful violations of occupational standards for exposure to asbestos. Amends the Toxic Substances Control Act to require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to promulgate proposed and final regulations to prohibit the manufacture, processing, or distribution in commerce of asbestos containing products. Requires disposal of asbestos containing products within three years after the enactment of this Act, with certain exemptions.
United States · United States Congress · 26 May 2006
Reconstruction and Stabilization Civilian Management Act of 2006 - States that the purpose of this Act is to provide for the development, as a core mission of the Department of State and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), of an expert civilian response capability to carry out stabilization and reconstruction activities in a country or region that is in, or is in transition from, conflict or civil strife. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize the President to furnish assistance and permit the export of goods and services to assist in stabilizing and reconstructing a country or region that is in, or is in transition from, conflict or civil strife. Amends the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 to establish within the Department an Office of the Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization. Authorizes: (1) the Secretary, in consultation with the Administrator of USAID, to establish a Response Readiness Corps to provide stabilization and reconstruction activities in foreign countries or regions that are in, or are in transition from, conflict or civil strife (up to 250 personnel to serve in the Corps, and such other personnel as the Secretary may designate from the Department of State and USAID); and (2) the Secretary to establish a Response Readiness Reserve of federal and non-federal personnel to augment the Corps. Amend the Foreign Service Act to authorize the Secretary, in cooperation with the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of the Army, to establish a stabilization and reconstruction curriculum for use in programs of the Foreign Service Institute, the National Defense University, and the United States Army War College. Sets forth related personnel provisions.
United States · United States Congress · 26 May 2006
Coal-to-Liquid Fuel Promotion Act of 2006 - Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to add among the projects eligible for Department of Energy (DOE) loan guarantees large-scale coal-to-liquid facilities that use domestic coal resources to produce at least 10,000 barrels a day of liquid transportation fuel. Sets forth: (1) loan guarantee limitations; and (2) a loan guarantee program for coal-to-liquid facilities. Directs the Secretary of Energy to promulgate regulations to support the development of coal-to-liquid manufacturing facilities and associated infrastructure on DOE and other federal lands, military bases, and military installations closed or realigned under the defense base closure and realignment. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) provide an investment tax credit for coal-to-liquid fuels projects; (2) permit taxpayer election to treat the cost of any qualified coal-to-liquid fuels process property as a deductible expense; and (3) extend the alternative fuel credit for fuel derived from coal through the Fischer-Tropsch process. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to instruct the Secretaries of Energy and of Defense to study and report to certain congressional committees on the feasibility and suitability of maintaining coal-to-liquid products in the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Authorizes the Secretary Energy to construct storage facilities: (1) in the vicinity of pipeline infrastructure and at least one military base; but (2) outside the boundaries of any state on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. Authorizes appropriations for the Air Force Research Laboratory to continue support efforts to test, qualify, and procure synthetic fuels developed from coal for aviation jet use. Amends federal law governing Armed Forces fuel procurement to authorize the Secretary of Defense to enter into agreements to develop and operate coal-to-liquid facilities on or near military installations.
United States · United States Congress · 26 May 2006
Amends the Burmese Freedom and Democracy Act of 2003 to extend from three years to six years after enactment of that Act the maximum duration of any renewal under it of import restrictions on Burmese products. Approves the renewal of import restrictions contained in the Act. Deems this resolution a renewal resolution.
United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2006
National Uniformity for Food Act of 2006 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) to prohibit any state or political subdivision from establishing or continuing in effect for any food in interstate commerce any requirement that is not identical to specified FFDCA provisions (that would result in materially different requirements), including those related to adulterated foods, unsafe food additives, new animal drugs, and warnings concerning food safety. Allows state enforcement of identical provisions unless the Secretary of Health and Human Services has determined that such state provisions should not be enforced. Allows a state to petition for an exemption or to establish a national standard regarding any requirement under FFDCA or the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act relating to food regulation. Allows the Secretary to provide such an exemption if the requirement: (1) protects an important public interest that would otherwise be unprotected; (2) would not cause any food to be in violation of any federal law; and (3) would not unduly burden interstate commerce. Allows a state to establish a requirement that would otherwise violate FFDCA provisions relating to national uniform nutrition labeling or this Act if the requirement is needed to address an imminent hazard to health that is likely to result in serious adverse health consequences and if other requirements are met. Declares that this Act does not preempt certain state and local laws relating to labeling or a consumer advisory relating to food sanitation imposed on a food establishment or recommended by the Secretary. Declares that the Act takes effect only if the Secretary certifies to Congress that implementation will pose no additional risk to the public health or safety from terrorist acts relating to the food supply.
United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2006
United States Direct Investment Act of 2006 - Establishes in the Department of Commerce a United States Direct Investment Administration, headed by an Under Secretary of Commerce for United States Direct Investment. Requires the Under Secretary to collect, analyze, and report annually to the President and the appropriate congressional committees: (1) on specified data about direct investment in each state and region; and (2) an agenda based on such data and analysis. Requires the President to establish, and the Under Secretary to assume lead responsibility for, an Interagency United States Direct Investment Promotion Committee. Amends the Internal Revenue Code (relating to designation of renewal communities) to authorize the Under Secretary to designate an additional 10 nominated areas as renewal communities.
United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2006
Designates June 8, 2006, as the day of a National Vigil for Lost Promise. Encourages: (1) young people to choose to live a drug-free life; (2) people to work to stop drug abuse before it starts and remain vigilant against the far reaching loss of promise caused by deaths from drug abuse; and (3) U.S. citizens to remember on such day the lost promise of youth caused by drug abuse.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 2006
Declares that the Senate honors the life and legacy of the Honorable Lloyd Bentsen, a former member of the United States Senate. Extends its warmest sympathies to his family members and friends. Declares that when the Senate adjourns on May 23, 2006, it stand adjourned as a further mark of respect to the memory of Senator Bentsen.
United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2006
Free Flow of Information Act of 2006 - Prohibits federal courts in criminal or civil proceedings from compelling journalists to disclose their confidential sources or information which they obtain in a professional newsgathering capacity. Allows exceptions if a court finds that: (1) alternative means of obtaining such confidential information have been exhausted and reasonable and timely notice of a demand for such information has been given; (2) subpoenas for such information are limited in scope; (3) such information is critical to pending criminal or civil litigation; and (4) nondisclosure of such information would be contrary to the public interest. Denies journalists a privilege against disclosure of confidential information if such information: (1) was obtained by eyewitness observations of criminal conduct by a journalist or involvement of such journalist in criminal or tortious conduct; (2) is necessary to prevent death or substantial bodily harm; (3) is necessary to protect national security; and (4) was provided or obtained without a promise of confidentiality.
United States · United States Congress · 17 May 2006
Expresses support for the goals and ideal of an annual National Time-Out Day as designated by the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses. Congratulates perioperative nurses and representatives of surgical teams for working together to protect patient safety.
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 2006
Biofuels Security Tax Act of 2006 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow until 2017 a tax credit for flexible fuel vehicles. Defines "flexible fuel vehicle" as a motor vehicle which can operate on both gasoline and a blend of 85% ethanol and which is certified as having the same or better fuel economy rating when operating on 85% ethanol or on gasoline only. Extends until 2017 the tax credit for alternative fuel vehicle refueling property (service stations for dispensing alternative motor fuels to retail consumers). Increases the rate of such credit to 50% for all taxpayers and to 75% for taxpayers who place in service not more than five such refueling properties. Denies such credit to major oil companies (companies having at least 4,500 retail service stations).
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 2006
Biofuels Security Act of 2006 - Amends the Clean Air Act to replace provisions prescribing the volume of renewable fuel that gasoline sold in the United States must contain with provisions that require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to determine the applicable volume for 2010 and beyond. Requires such volume to be at least 10 billion gallons in 2010, 30 billion gallons in 2020, and 60 billion gallons in 2030. Requires the Secretary of Energy to promulgate regulations to ensure that each major oil company that sells gasoline in the United States through wholly-owned or branded stations provides pumps that dispense E-85 fuel (a blend approximately 85% of the content of which is derived from ethanol produced in the United States) at not less than: (1) a specified percentage of all of its stations (increasing from 5% in 2007 to 50% in 2016); and (2) a minimum percentage of its stations in each state. Allows a company to earn and sell production credits when it exceeds the percentage required. Prohibits companies from using credits purchased to fulfill geographic distribution requirements. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to increase to 100% the proportion of vehicles acquired by a federal fleet in and after 2007 that must be light duty alternative fueled vehicles. Amends the Clayton Act to: (1) prohibit restricting the right of a franchisee to install a renewable fuel pump; and (2) define "gasohol" as any blend of ethanol and gasoline. Requires makers of new automobiles capable of operating on gasoline or diesel fuel to ensure that a specified percentage of automobiles manufactured in any model year after 2006 for sale in the United States (increasing from 10% in 2007 to 100% in 2016) are dual fueled automobiles. Allows the manufacturer to earn and sell production credits if it exceeds the number required. Requires the Secretary of Transportation to promote the use of fuel mixtures containing gasoline or diesel fuel and one or more alternative fuels. Prescribes formulas to be used by the Administrator to measure the fuel economy of dual fueled automobiles manufactured in model years beginning 18, 30, 42, and 54 months after enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 2006
The Fourteenth Dalai Lama Congressional Gold Medal Act - Directs the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President pro Tempore of the Senate to make appropriate arrangements for the presentation, on behalf of Congress, of a gold medal of appropriate design to Tenzin Gyatso, the Fourteenth Dalai Lama, in recognition of his many contributions to peace and religious understanding.
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 2006
Pharmaceutical Technology and Education Enhancement Act - Requires the Commissioner of Food and Drugs to expand and intensify certain research and education programs regarding pharmaceutical science and engineering through the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Technology and Education (NIPTE) and its member institutions. Requires such programs to focus on medical therapy development and manufacturing, analytical technologies, modeling, and informatics. Requires the Commissioner to establish a Coordinating Committee to: (1) assist with and coordinate research and develop strategies for the rapid design, enhanced manufacturing process, and improved quality of new medical technology; and (2) develop a plan for supporting, through NIPTE and federal agency participants, research and education relating to medical technology development and manufacturing.
United States · United States Congress · 10 May 2006
National Institute of Food and Agriculture Act of 2006 - Establishes within the Department of Agriculture the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, which shall be an agency composed of a Director (who shall be a scientist) and a Standing Council of Advisors. Authorizes the Director to establish standing committees. Requires the Director to establish: (1) an Office of Advanced Science and Application which shall monitor national needs and advances in research to identify problems for which solutions are realistically achievable through research; (2) an Office of Scientific Assessment and Liaison which shall monitor programs and expenditures; (3) an Office of Scientific Personnel which shall assess the number of, and need for additional, agricultural scientists in the United States. Directs the Institute to provide grants to support and promote the highest quality of fundamental agricultural research, including grants to fund research proposals submitted by: (1) individual scientists; (2) research centers composed of a single institution or multiple institutions; and (3) other individuals and entities from the private and public sectors, including Department and other federal researchers.
United States · United States Congress · 4 May 2006
Enhanced Energy Security Tax Incentives Act of 2006 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend through 2010 the tax credits for: (1) producing electricity from certain renewable resources; (2) investment in clean renewable energy bonds; (3) new energy efficient homes; (4) nonbusiness energy property; (5) residential energy efficient property; (6) investment in qualified fuel cell and microturbine property and solar energy property; (7) alternative fuels; and (8) qualified electric vehicles. Extends through 2010 the tax deduction for energy efficient commercial building property. Allows accelerated three-year depreciation of qualified energy management and water submetering devices. Limits depreciation allowances for certain large passenger motor vehicles. Removes the limitation on the number of new qualified hybrid and advanced lean burn technology vehicles eligible for the alternative motor vehicle tax credit. Allows tax credits for investment in advanced technology motor vehicles, fuel-efficient fleets of motor vehicles used in a trade or business, idling reduction devices, and combined heat and power system property. Terminates such credits after 2010. Increases from 30 to 50% the tax credit rate for investment in alternative vehicle refueling property (service stations for dispensing alternative motor vehicle fuels to retail consumers) and extends such credit through 2010. Requires certain integrated oil companies with gross receipts over $1 million and crude oil production levels over 500,000 barrels to revalue their LIFO inventories of crude oil, natural gas, and other petroleum products according to a specified formula. Denies such oil companies: (1) two-year amortization of their geological and geophysical expenditures; and (2) foreign tax credits for payments to foreign countries from which they receive a specified economic benefit.
United States · United States Congress · 3 May 2006
Designates June 8, 2006, as the day of a National Vigil for Lost Promise. Encourages: (1) young people to choose to live a drug-free life; (2) people to work to stop drug abuse before it starts and remain vigilant against the far reaching loss of promise caused by deaths from drug abuse; and (3) U.S. citizens to remember the lost promise of youth caused by drug abuse on this day.
United States · United States Congress · 2 May 2006
United States Ambassador for ASEAN Act - Establishes in the Department of State the position of U.S. Ambassador for ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations). Expresses the sense of Congress that a Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for East Asia and the Pacific should be designated as the Ambassador for ASEAN.
United States · United States Congress · 2 May 2006
Supports the goals and ideals that the creators instilled into the civic engagement initiatives of the Jefferson Awards for Public Service. Salutes and acknowledges the American Institute for Public Service and the role played by the Jefferson Awards for Public Service in promoting public service in the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 1 May 2006
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the President should: (1) place on the agenda for discussion at the North Atlantic Council the merits of establishing a policy and strategy for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) to promote the security of members of NATO through the development of secure, sustainable, and reliable sources of energy; and (2) report to Congress on designated agenda items, including a summary of the debate and a strategy for NATO to develop secure, sustainable, and reliable sources of energy, and contingency plans if current energy resources are put at risk.
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 2006
Newborn Screening Saves Lives Act of 2006 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Associate Administrator of the Maternal and Child Health Bureau of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), to awards grants to eligible entities to: (1) provide education and training in newborn screening and congenital, genetic, and metabolic disorders to health care professionals and newborn screening laboratory personnel; (2) develop educational programs about newborn screening for parents, families, and patient advocacy and support groups; and (3) establish, maintain, and operate a system to assess and coordinate treatment relating to congenital, genetic, and metabolic disorders. Requires the Advisory Committee on Heritable Disorders in Newborns and Children to: (1) recommend a uniform screening panel for newborn screening programs that includes the heritable disorders for which all newborns should be screened; and (2) develop a model decision-matrix for newborn screening program expansion. Directs the Secretary to adopt or reject any new or pending recommendations by the Advisory Committee. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to: (1) provide for quality assurance for screening laboratories; (2) provide for population-based pilot testing for evaluating use of new screening tools on a mass scale; (3) collect, analyze, and make available data on certain heritable disorders; and (4) operate regional centers for the conduct of applied epidemiological research on the prevention of such disorders.
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 2006
Securing America's Energy Independence Act of 2006 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend through 2015: (1) the investment tax credit for solar energy property and qualified fuel cell property; and (2) the tax credit for residential photovoltaic, solar water heating, and fuel cell property expenditures. Modifies the maximum amounts for such residential credits based upon kilowatt of capacity. Allows such credits to be taken against the alternative minimum tax.
![Official portrait of Sen. Lugar, Richard G. [R-IN]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/l000504_200.jpg)