United States · United States Congress · 25 January 2005
Class Action Fairness Act of 2005 - Amends the Federal judicial code to specify the calculation of contingent and other attorney's fees in proposed class action settlements that provide for the award of coupons to class members. Prohibits a Federal district court from approving: (1) a proposed coupon settlement absent a finding that the settlement is fair, reasonable, and adequate; (2) a proposed settlement involving payments to class counsel that would result in a net monetary loss to class members, absent a finding that the loss is substantially outweighed by nonmonetary benefits; or (3) a proposed settlement that provides greater sums to some class members solely because they are closer geographically to the court. Specifies requirements for notices of proposed settlements. Grants district courts original jurisdiction of any civil action in which the matter in controversy exceeds $5 million, exclusive of interest and costs, and is between citizens of different States, or citizens of a State and a foreign State or its citizens or subjects. Lists those factors pursuant to which a district court may decline to exercise jurisdiction over a class action, and specifies those circumstances in which a district court must decline jurisdiction. Sets forth provisions governing the removal of interstate class actions to Federal district court and the review on appeal of remand orders. Directs the Judicial Conference of the United States to report on class action settlements, incorporating recommendations for best court practices to ensure fairness for class members and appropriate fees for counsel.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 2005
Commends the people and Government of Ukraine for their commitment to democracy and for ensuring a free and fair runoff presidential election. Congratulates Viktor Yushchenko on his election as President of Ukraine. Applauds the Ukrainian presidential candidates, the European Union and other European representatives, and the U.S. Government for the role they played in helping to resolve the crisis. Acknowledges the strong relationship between the United States and Ukraine. Pledges assistance to the strengthening of Ukraine's democracy and a free market system, reaffirmation of its independence and territorial sovereignty, and its full integration into the international community of democracies.
United States · United States Congress · 24 January 2005
Good Samaritan Hunger Relief Tax Incentive Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow individual taxpayers a tax deduction for charitable contributions of food inventory (the deduction is currently available only to certain corporations).
United States · United States Congress · 24 January 2005
Unaccompanied Alien Child Protection Act of 2005 - Addresses the care and custody of unaccompanied alien children, defined as children under the age of 18 with no lawful immigration status and no parent or legal guardian in the United States who is available to provide care and physical custody. Directs immigration officers who find such children at U.S. land borders or ports of entry to permit them to withdraw their applications for admission and return to their country of nationality or last habitual residence in certain circumstances. States that such children shall have the right to consult with a consular officer prior to repatriation and with the Office of Refugee Resettlement (the Office) at the Department of Health and Human Services. Gives the Office jurisdiction over the care and custody of all other such children, including trafficking victims, except those charged with or convicted of felonies (excluding offenses proscribed by the Immigration and Nationality Act) or who threaten national security, whose custody and care is vested in the Directorate of Border and Transportation Security (the Directorate) at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Requires the Secretary of Homeland Security (the Secretary) to notify the Office promptly of the apprehension or discovery of such children. Specifies the order of preference for placing such children, subject to the discretion of the Director of the Office (the Director) and a suitability assessment by the State of the child's proposed residence or a voluntary agency contracted with the Office. Prohibits the placement of such children in adult detention facilities or in facilities housing delinquent children unless they exhibit violent or criminal behavior. Requires the Director and the Secretary to: (1) promulgate regulations incorporating standards for the conditions of detention of such children; and (2) develop procedures prohibiting the unreasonable use of restraints, solitary confinement, or pat or strip searches. Expresses the sense of Congress that the U.S. Government should undertake efforts to ensure that it does not repatriate children in its custody into settings that would threaten their life and safety. Requires: (1) the Secretary of State to include in each year's State Department Country Report on Human Rights an assessment of the degree to which each country protects children from smugglers and traffickers; and (2) the Directorate to consult that report and the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act of 2000: Trafficking in Persons Report in assessing whether to repatriate an unaccompanied alien child. Requires the Director to develop procedures for promptly determining the age of aliens in the custody of DHS or the Office when age is at issue. Authorizes the Director to appoint qualified and duly trained guardians ad litem for such children. Specifies the duties and powers of such guardians ad litem. Requires the Director to: (1) provide professional training for such guardians ad litem; and (2) implement a pilot program for their appointment. States that the Director should ensure that all such children in the Custody of the Office or the Directorate, except those being repatriated to a contiguous country, have competent counsel to represent them in immigration proceedings or matters. Requires the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) to develop and implement model guidelines for the legal representation of alien children in immigration proceedings. States that counsel shall: (1) have reasonable access to such children; (2) be given 24 hours advance notice of a transfer absent compelling and unusual circumstances; and (3) except in emergency situations involving the child's physical safety, be given prompt and adequate notice of all immigration matters affecting or involving such children. Bars such children in the custody of the Office from consenting to immigration actions, including voluntary departure, unless first afforded an opportunity to consult with counsel. Makes such guardian ad litem and counsel provisions applicable to all such children in Federal custody on, before, or after the effective date of this Act. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to specify that: (1) aliens seeking special immigrant juvenile (SIJ) status must be 18 years of age and under on the date of application; (2) court orders declaring such aliens dependent on a juvenile court located in the United States or placing them in the custody of a State entity due to abuse, neglect, abandonment or similar grounds shall be binding on the Secretary for purposes of SIJ adjudications; and (3) the Office must certify to the Director that SIJ classifications with respect to alien children in Federal custody have not been made solely to provide immigration benefits. Excludes presence without admission or parole as a ground for inadmissibility with regard to aliens seeking SIJ status. Authorizes the Secretary to waive certain additional grounds of inadmissibility. Makes the SIJ-related amendments of this Act applicable to all aliens who were in the United States before, on, or after enactment of this Act. Commends the (former) Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) for its issuance of the Guidelines for Children's Asylum Claims and encourages implementation of such guidelines by INS and its successor. Calls upon EOIR to adopt such guidelines in its handling of children's asylum claims. Requires the Secretary to provide periodic comprehensive training under such guidelines. Requires such children apprehended by the Directorate, except those subject to contiguous country rules, to be placed in removal proceedings. Exempts such children from certain bars to seeking asylum. Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (HSA) to make the Director responsible for: (1) continued assessments of the suitability of placements of such children; and (2) ensuring that minimum standards of care are met with regard to such children who reside in settings that are alternatives to detention. States that the amendments to HSA made by this Act shall be effective as if enacted as part of HSA.
United States · United States Congress · 24 January 2005
Extends the U.S. Postal Service's authority to issue special postage stamps to help provide funding for breast cancer research through December 31, 2007.
United States · United States Congress · 24 January 2005
Authorizes the President to extend unconditional and permanent nondiscriminatory (permanent normal trade relations) treatment to the products of the Ukraine. Expresses the sense of Congress regarding full commitment of the United States to a multifaceted engagement with Ukraine. Applies to Ukraine to the same extent as to the People's Republic of China, so long as the 1992 trade agreement between the United States and Ukraine remains in force, the requirement of the Trade Act of 1974 that the President proclaim increased duties or other import restrictions with respect to any product of Ukraine being imported into the United States in such increased quantities or under such conditions as to cause or threaten to cause market disruption to U.S. producers of a like or directly competitive product. Sets forth procedures with respect to: (1) notification by the President to Congress regarding U.S. entry into a bilateral agreement with Ukraine on the terms of accession by Ukraine to the World Trade Organization; (2) a congressional oversight resolution regarding such agreement; and (3) procedures for consideration of the resolution.
United States · United States Congress · 4 January 2005
Expresses: (1) sympathy for the victims and families of the earthquake and tsunami that struck communities throughout Southeast Asia, South Asia, and Eastern Africa on December 26, 2004; and (2) gratitude and respect for the work of all aid and relief personnel, including U.S. military personnel. Supports President George W. Bush's pledge of $350,000,000 in direct financial assistance, and additional indirect assistance, through the dispatch of U.S. military assets and personnel and through substantial voluntary and annual contributions to international organizations and bodies. Commends the ongoing international relief effort. Recognizes that U.S. Government assistance will be greatly supplemented by private U.S. donations and volunteers. Supports the long-term U.S. commitment to provide financial aid and other assistance to the impacted region.
United States · United States Congress · 8 December 2004
Condemns the fraud in the November 21, 2004, runoff presidential election in Ukraine. Supports a peaceful political and legal settlement in Ukraine that is based on democratic principles and reflects the will of the people of Ukraine.
United States · United States Congress · 19 November 2004
Asia Freedom Act of 2004 - Authorizes the President to provide assistance to North and South East Asia (as defined by this Act) for: (1) humanitarian needs; (2) democracy, human rights, and the rule of law; (3) independent media; (4) free market systems; (5) security; (6) social programs; (7) environment; (8) political opposition; (9) parliamentary exchanges; and (10) migration. Sets forth specified funding authorities, including funding for: (1) security assistance; (2) an institute for reform in Asia; (3) law enforcement; (4) promotion of competitive elections; (5) political transitions; and (6) Taiwan and the Republic of Korea. Authorizes the Secretary of Homeland Security to deny entry visas to public or private individuals who have impeded human rights, the rule of law, and economic freedom in North and South East Asia. Directs the Secretary of State to maintain a database of individuals who may be denied entry. Expresses the sense of Congress that any democracy fund established by the United Nations (UN) in response to the September 21, 2004, speech by President George W. Bush to the UN General Assembly should be known as the ``Daw Aung San Suu Kyi Democracy Fund."
United States · United States Congress · 18 November 2004
Congratulates the people of Georgia on the first anniversary of the Rose Revolution, the peaceful and bloodless protests that followed parliamentary elections deemed to be fraudulent, and for their commitment to democracy, peace, stability, and economic opportunity. Commends President Mikheil Saakashvili for his vision of, and commitment to, a peaceful and democratic Georgia, the rule of law, an open market economy, regional cooperation, and closer integration into western institutions.
United States · United States Congress · 18 November 2004
States that the Senate: (1) acknowledges and welcomes the strong relationship formed between the United States and Ukraine since the restoration of Ukraine's independence in 1991; (2) recognizes that a precondition for the full integration of Ukraine into the Western community of nations, including as an equal member in institutions such as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), is its establishment of a democratic political system; (3) urges the Government of Ukraine to guarantee freedom of association and assembly, including the right of candidates, members of political parties, and others to freely assemble, to organize and conduct public events, and to exercise these and other rights free from intimidation or harassment; (4) urges the Government of Ukraine to meet its Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) commitments on democratic elections; (5) urges the Ukrainian authorities to ensure the full transparency of election procedures before, during, and after the 2004 presidential elections; (6) encourages the President to consider visa bans and other sanctions on persons responsible for efforts to improperly influence the election; and (7) pledges its support and assistance to the Ukrainian people's establishment of a free and open democratic system, creation of a free market economy, and their country's assumption of a full and equal membership in the Western community of democracies.
United States · United States Congress · 16 November 2004
Nunn-Lugar Cooperative Threat Reduction Act of 2004 - Amends the Soviet Nuclear Threat Reduction Act of 1991, the Cooperative Threat Reduction Act of 1993, and the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000, respectively, to repeal specified restrictions on the use of Cooperative Threat Reduction program (program) funds and activities. Amends the the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2004 to modify authority to use program funds outside the former Soviet Union, including transferring such authority from the President to the Secretary of Defense. Directs the Secretary of State to report on each country in which a program is being carried out, including its adherence to arms control and nonproliferation agreements.
United States · United States Congress · 16 November 2004
Conventional Arms Threat Reduction Act of 2004 - Directs the Secretary of State to carry out an accelerated global program to secure or eliminate stocks of man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS), other conventional weapons, tactical missile systems, and related equipment and facilities that pose a proliferation threat. Establishes within the Department of State an Office of Conventional Arms Threat Reduction which shall formulate policy on conventional arms threat reduction and plan and administer arms reduction programs.
United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2004
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the United States: (1) applauds the steadfast commitment of the people of Afghanistan to achieve government through democracy; (2) strongly supports self-government and the protection of human rights and freedom of conscience for all men and women in Afghanistan; and (3) remains committed to a long-term partnership with the people of Afghanistan and to a peaceful future for Afghanistan.
United States · United States Congress · 8 October 2004
Declares that the United States: (1) applauds the steadfast commitment of the people of Afghanistan to achieve government through democracy; (2) strongly supports self-government and the protection of human rights and freedom of conscience for all men and women in Afghanistan; and (3) remains committed to a long-term partnership with the people of Afghanistan and to a peaceful future for Afghanistan.
United States · United States Congress · 7 October 2004
Assistance for Orphans and Other Vulnerable Children in Developing Countries Act of 2004 - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize the President to provide assistance, including through nongovernmental or international organizations, for basic care for orphans and other vulnerable children in developing countries, including assistance for: (1) community-based care; (2) school food programs; (3) education and employment training; (4) mental health care; (5) protection of inheritance rights; and (6) HIV/AIDS care. Directs the President to develop a coordinating strategy for such assistance.
United States · United States Congress · 6 October 2004
Nonprofit Athletic Organization Protection Act of 2004 - Exempts a nonprofit athletic organization from liability for harm caused by an act or omission in the adoption of rules for sanctioned or approved athletic competitions or practices if: (1) the organization was acting within the scope of its duties; (2) the organization was properly licensed, certified, or authorized for the competition or practice; and (3) the harm was not caused by the organization's willful or criminal misconduct, gross negligence, or reckless misconduct. Allows exceptions to such protection where State law: (1) requires such an organization to adhere to risk management procedures, including mandatory training; (2) makes the organization liable for the acts or omissions of its employees, agents, and volunteers to the same extent as an employer is liable for its employees; and (3) makes a limitation of liability inapplicable if the civil action was brought by an officer of a State or local government.
United States · United States Congress · 5 October 2004
American Bald Eagle Recovery and National Emblem Commemorative Coin Act - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury, in celebration of the recovery of the bald eagle, in commemoration of the 35th anniversary of the enactment of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, and the placement of the bald eagle on the endangered species list under such Act, to mint and issue not more than: (1) 100,000 $5 gold coins; (2) 500,000 $1 silver coins; and (3) 750,000 half dollar coins. Directs that the design of the coins be emblematic of the bald eagle and its history, natural biology, and national symbolism. Requires that sales of the coins include a surcharge of $35 per coin for the $5 coin, $10 for the $1 coin, and $3 for the half dollar coin, which shall be promptly paid by the Secretary to the American Eagle Foundation of Tennessee to: (1) establish an interest-bearing endowment called the American Eagle Fund as a permanent source of support for the care, monitoring, maintenance, and recovery of the bald eagle and its habitat in the United States; (2) make annual grants to Federal, State, and private eagle restoration, protection, and enhancement projects; (3) administer the Fund in an annual amount not to exceed the lesser of ten percent of the annual income of the Fund or $250,000; and (4) provide financial support for capital projects and for continuation and expansion of the Foundation's efforts to educate the American people about the bald eagle.
United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2004
Special Olympics Sport and Empowerment Act of 2004 - Authorizes the Secretaries of Education, of State, and of Health and Human Services to award grants to, or enter into contracts or cooperative agreements with, Special Olympics for specified education, international, and health activities, including ones promoting Special Olympics and a greater understanding of contributions to society by individuals with intellectual disabilities both within and outside of the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2004
Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial 1-Cent Coin Redesign Act - Instructs the Secretary of the Treasury to issue 1-cent coins during 2009, in accordance with the following design specifications: (1) the obverse of the 1-cent coin shall continue to bear the Victor David Brenner likeness of President Abraham Lincoln; and (2) the reverse of the coins shall bear four different designs each representing a different aspect of the life of Abraham Lincoln.. Mandates that: (1) beginning at the start of each calendar quarter of 2009, the redesigned Lincoln cents bear one of such four designs; and (2) the design on the reverse of the 1-cent coins issued after 2009, bear an image emblematic of President Lincoln's preservation of the United States of America as a single and united country. Expresses the sense of Congress that the original Victor David Brenner design for the 1-cent coin was a dramatic departure from previous American coinage that should be reproduced, using the original form and relief of the likeness of Abraham Lincoln, on the 1-cent coins issued in 2009.
United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2004
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the United Nations Security Council should take responsive actions to the growing threats posed to the Southeast Asia region by conditions in Burma under the illegitimate rule of the State Peace and Development Council, including the threats posed by: (1) human rights violations; (2) the spread of HIV/AIDS; (3) the illicit production and trafficking in narcotics, and trafficking in persons; and (4) alleged efforts by the State Peace and Development Council to purchase weapons from North Korea, China, and Russia.
United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2004
Congratulates the citizens of Greece, the members of the Athens 2004 Organizing Committee for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, the International Olympic Committee, the U.S. Olympic Committee, the members, coaches, and officials of the 2004 U.S. Olympic Team, athletes from around the world, and the security personnel and volunteers who ensured that the 2004 Olympic Summer Games in Athens was a great success for a job well done.
United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2004
Health Promotion Funding Integrated Research, Synthesis, and Training Act or Health Promotion FIRST Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to develop a plan for health promotion that includes coordinating the health promotion activities of the Department of Health and Human Services and addressing how best to: (1) develop the basic and applied science of health promotion; (2) disseminate health promotion research; (3) support the health promotion community; and (4) modify or develop policies, structure, and legislation to integrate health promotion into all health professions and sectors of society. Requires the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), acting through the Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research, to: (1) develop a plan on how best to develop the basic science of health promotion through NIH agencies; and (2) conduct or support early research programs and research training regarding health promotion. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to develop a plan to establish a research agenda regarding health promotion for CDC. Requires the Director of the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion to award grants to develop Health Promotion Research Centers. Requires the Director of CDC to: (1) make an effort to attract grant applications from groups experienced in providing programs; (2) fund research to develop the applied science of health promotion for specified settings; and (3) develop a research agenda for workplace health promotion. Requires the Secretary to modify the application process for grants, cooperative agreements, and contracts awarded under this Act to attract the most qualified individuals and organizations, rather than those most experienced with the application process.
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 2004
Amends the Tropical Forest Conservation Act of 1998 to authorize: (1) appropriations for concessional loan debt reduction for developing countries with tropical forests; (2) specified amounts for program audits and evaluations; and (3) principal and interest payments in local currency (under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 and the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act of 1954).
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 2004
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the President should designate the week beginning September 12, 2004, as "National Historically Black Colleges and Universities Week".
United States · United States Congress · 9 September 2004
Comprehensive Peace in Sudan Act of 2004 - Sets forth the sense of Congress regarding: (1) the Sudan Peace Act and its extension to the Darfur region of Sudan; and (2) actions to address the conflict in Sudan. Amends the Sudan Peace Act to authorize appropriations for assistance to address the humanitarian and human rights crisis in the Darfur region and its impact on eastern Chad. Authorizes additional FY 2005 appropriations for Sudan upon the conclusion of a North-South peace agreement if the President certifies to the appropriate congressional committees that the Government of Sudan has taken steps to stop attacking civilians, disarm militias, and allow humanitarian access to all areas of Sudan, including Darfur. Requires: (1) suspension of assistance and blocking of senior government officials' assets if such certification is not submitted within 120 days of enactment of this Act; and (2) continuation of existing restrictions until such certification.
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2004
Terrorism Insurance Extension Act of 2004 - Amends the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act of 2002 (TRIA) to extend the terrorism risk insurance program from 2005 through 2007. Repeals the condition on the authority of the Secretary of the Treasury to pay or adjust compensation for insured losses after termination of the program that limits such losses to those arising from an act of terrorism occurring only during the period in which the program was in effect. Defines "Program Year 4" as calendar 2006 and "Program Year 5" as calendar 2007. Increases the insurance marketplace aggregate retention amount for Program Years 4 and 5. Directs the Secretary to apply TRIA to providers of group life insurance. Instructs the Presidential Working Group on Financial Markets to report to Congress its recommendations for legislation to address the long-term availability and affordability of insurance for terrorism risk.
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2004
States that ethanol that is imported or derived from imported matter shall not count toward satisfaction of any renewable fuel standard that may be enacted following enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2004
Presidential $1 Coin Act of 2004 - Amends Federal monetary law to set forth requirements for the redesign and issuance of circulating $1 coins emblematic of each President of the United States. Prohibits inclusion of a President who has not completed his or her term of service (sitting President). Instructs the Secretary of the Treasury to issue during the same period in which such $1 coins are issued commemorative coins emblematic of the spouse of each deceased former President so honored. Mandates that all Federal agencies and instrumentalities and entities that operate any business on Federal premises (including vending machines) take action to ensure that business operations they conduct that involve coins or currency shall be fully capable of accepting and dispensing $1 coins in connection with such operations. Expresses the sense of Congress about the issuance of such coins.
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2004
Comprehensive Peace in Sudan Act - Expresses the sense of Congress respecting the crisis in the Darfur region of Sudan. Amends the Sudan Peace Act to authorize the President to assist Sudan to support the implementation of a comprehensive peace agreement that applies to all regions of Sudan, including the Darfur region, and to address the humanitarian and human rights crisis in the Darfur region and its impact on eastern Chad, contingent upon a continuing certification to the appropriate congressional committees that the Government of Sudan is acting to: (1) ensure that the armed forces and militias are not committing atrocities or blocking assistance; (2) demobilize militias; (3) protect civilians, and (4) cooperate with aid workers and the African Union monitoring team.
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2004
States that Congress declares that the atrocities unfolding in Darfur, Sudan, are genocide. Reminds the Contracting Parties to the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, particularly the Government of Sudan, of their legal obligations under the Convention. Declares that the Government of Sudan has violated such Convention. Deplores the United Nations Human Rights Commission's failure to take appropriate action with respect to the crisis in Darfur, particularly the Commission's failure to support U.S.-sponsored efforts to strongly condemn gross human rights violations committed in Darfur. Calls upon the United Nations (UN) and the UN Secretary General to assert leadership by calling the atrocities being committed in Darfur genocide. Calls on UN member states, particularly member states from the African Union, the Arab League, and the Organization of the Islamic Conference, to undertake measures to prevent the genocide in Darfur from escalating further, including the imposition of targeted sanctions against those responsible for the atrocities. Commends the Administration's leadership in seeking a peaceful resolution to the Darfur conflict and in addressing the ensuing humanitarian crisis, including the visit of Secretary of State Colin Powell to Darfur in June 2004, to engage directly in efforts to end the genocide, and the provision of nearly $140 million in bilateral humanitarian assistance through the United States Agency for International Development (AID). Commends the President for appointing former Senator John Danforth as Envoy for Peace in Sudan, and further commends the appointment of Senator Danforth as U.S. Ambassador to the UN. Calls on the Administration to: (1) continue to lead an international effort to stop genocide in Darfur; and (2) impose targeted means, including visa bans and the freezing of assets, against officials of the Government of Sudan and Janjaweed militia commanders who are responsible for the war crimes and crimes against humanity in Darfur. Calls on AID to establish a Darfur Resettlement, Rehabilitation, and Reconstruction Fund.
United States · United States Congress · 20 July 2004
States that the Senate recognizes Israel's right of self-defense against Palestinian terrorist attacks, and supports the construction of a security fence, the route of which, with the support of the Government of Israel, takes into account the need to minimize Palestinian land confiscation and the imposition of hardships on the Palestinian people. Condemns the decision of the International Court of Justice on the legality of the security fence. Urges the United States to vote against any further United Nations action that could delay or prevent the construction of the security fence and to engage in a diplomatic campaign to persuade other countries to do the same.
United States · United States Congress · 15 July 2004
Medicare Rural Home Health Services Improvement Act of 2004 - Amends the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003 to provide for a two-year extension of the temporary Medicare payment increase for home health services furnished in a rural area.
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2004
States that Congress: (1) declares that the atrocities unfolding in Darfur, Sudan, are genocide; (2) reminds the President and the international community of their international legal obligations, as affirmed in the 1948 United Nations Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide; (3) commends the President's leadership in seeking a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Darfur and in addressing the humanitarian crisis caused by that conflict, including the provision of assistance in Darfur and Eastern Chad; (4) urges the President to seek a United Nations Security Council resolution that directs the member states of the United Nations to impose sanctions against those responsible for the atrocities committed in Darfur, authorizes a multinational force to guarantee humanitarian access and security for foreign aid workers and internally displaced persons, urges a halt to violence committed by militias and by the armed forces of Sudan, creates a Commission of Inquiry, and calls for the establishment of a formal peace process between Darfurians and the Government of Sudan; (5) calls on the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development to establish a Darfur Resettlement, Rehabilitation, and Reconstruction Fund; and (6) urges the President to provide political and financial support to the African Union to promote its effective intervention in Darfur.
United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2004
Expresses that the Senate, with respect to the 50th anniversary of the date of enactment of the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act of 1954 on July 10, 1954, recognizes the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the Department of Agriculture, and associated partners for providing emergency food assistance to address famine or other extraordinary relief requirements and for promoting economic, agricultural, educational, and community development in developing countries. Declares that, July 10, 2004, is a day that recognizes: (1) the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the concessional credit program and the Food for Peace program under such Act; and (2) the accomplishments of USAID, the Department of Agriculture, and associated private voluntary organization and nongovernmental organization partners in alleviating hunger and poverty, bolstering development, and restoring hope around the world.
United States · United States Congress · 8 July 2004
SSI Extension for Elderly and Disabled Refugees Act - Amends the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 to provide a two-year extension of supplemental security income (SSI) from FY 2005 through 2007 for qualified aliens (including asylees and certain Cuban and Haitian entrants).
United States · United States Congress · 8 July 2004
Calls for the President to designate the week of November 7-13, 2003, as National Veterans Awareness Week to emphasize educational programs for elementary and secondary school students regarding the contributions and sacrifices of veterans.
United States · United States Congress · 6 July 2004
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the President should: (1) mobilize necessary economic and scientific support to establish a Global HIV Vaccine Enterprise (a virtual consortium to accelerate human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) vaccine development by enhancing coordination, information sharing, and collaboration globally); (2) urge members of the Group of Eight (Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States) to garner support from their own communities for the development of an HIV vaccine; and (3) establish a second vaccine research and development center in the United States. Expresses the sense of the Senate that such countries should: (1) leverage financial contributions from the international philanthropic community to provide funding to promote the development of an HIV vaccine; (2) include the scientific and political leadership of the countries most affected by HIV and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) pandemic; and (3) develop a plan for furthering such efforts at their June 2005 meeting. Urges the President to generate global support for the establishment of a Global HIV Vaccine Enterprise by carrying out an initiative that includes: (1) coordinating and partnering with member countries, the private sector, and other countries; (2) encouraging Group of Eight countries to act swiftly to mobilize resources; (3) following a strategic plan to prioritize the challenges to be addressed, to coordinate research and product development, and to encourage greater use of information-sharing networks and technologies; and (4) encouraging the establishment of coordinated global HIV vaccine development centers.
United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2004
Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) the members of the armed forces and their families have performed courageously and have earned the deep gratitude of the people of the United States; (2) success in Iraq is a global priority and therefore demands cooperation and financial assistance from all states and international organizations; (3) the international community should establish additional police training academies inside and outside of Iraq, contribute additional trainers to those academies, and dedicate experienced police to train Iraq police officers in the field; (4) the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is uniquely qualified to meet Iraq's needs for security and stability; (5) NATO member states should contribute additional military and security forces toward such effort; (6) countries unable to contribute security personnel should contribute in other ways as requested by the Iraqi government; (7) countries holding debt incurred under the Saddam Hussein regime should meaningfully reduce such debt; (8) the United States is committed to a free and peaceful Iraq; and (9) it is appropriate to thank coalition partners and other countries that have helped promote security, stability, reconstruction, and democracy in Iraq.
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2004
Benjamin Franklin Commemorative Coin Act - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue one dollar coins emblematic of the life and legacy of Benjamin Franklin (not more than 250,000 bearing his image as a young statesman and not more than 250,000 with his image as an older numismatist). Directs that all sales of coins minted under this Act include a $10 per coin surcharge, which shall be paid by the Secretary to the Franklin Institute for purposes of the celebration of the Benjamin Franklin Tercentenary.
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2004
Milk Price Forward Contracting Act - Amends the Agricultural Adjustment Act, reenacted with amendments by the Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act of 1937, to convert the dairy forward pricing program from a pilot program to a permanent program.
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2004
Commends national and community organizations and health care providers for supplying information concerning the importance of screening for prostate cancer and the treatment options. Declares that the Federal Government and the States should ensure that health care providers supply patients with appropriate information and tools necessary to receive readily understandable information about all medically efficacious screening and treatments for prostate cancer.
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 2004
Commemorates the 40th anniversary of the enactment of the Wilderness Act on September 3, 1964. Recognizes and applauds the extraordinary work of the individuals and organizations involved in building the National Wilderness Preservation System. Expresses gratitude for the tremendous asset the United States has been able to pass along as a gift to future people of the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2004
Screening Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms Very Efficiently Act of 2004 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide for Medicare coverage of screening ultrasound for abdominal aortic aneurysms. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to carry out a national education and information campaign to promote awareness among health care practitioners and the general public with respect to the importance of early detection and treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysms.
United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2004
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the United States should: (1) intensify efforts to help Kosovo achieve the "Standards", as set out by the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary General in Kosovo and as further elaborated in the UNMIK (the United Nations Interim Administration in Kosovo), to bring about a stable, multiethnic, and democratic society in Kosovo; (2) further encourage Kosovo to become a factor for stability in the region by having good relations with its neighbors, and in particular, by engaging in dialogue with Belgrade; (3) encourage Belgrade to support the standards implementation process in Kosovo; (4) enhance efforts to provide support to KFOR (the North Atlantic Treaty Organization-led international security force in Kosovo), and to call upon the PISG (Provisional Institutions of Self-Government of Kosovo) to ensure the security and freedom of movement for all the people of Kosovo, and the return of refugees and internally displaced persons; (5) urge all people in Kosovo to reject ethnic violence; (6) promote steps to develop the Kosovo economy through strengthened cooperation with the South Central Europe region and Euro-Atlantic institutions; and (7) call upon the leaders of the PISG, and upon the leaders of all political parties and communities of Kosovo to enhance their cooperation with UNMIK, KFOR, and the international community.
United States · United States Congress · 17 June 2004
Advance Directives Improvement and Education Act of 2004 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act, as amended by the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003, to provide for Medicare coverage of end-of-life planning consultations. Requires a service provider, Medicare Advantage organization, or prepaid or eligible organization to give effect to an advance directive executed outside the State in which it is presented, even one that does not appear to meet the formalities of execution, form, or language required by the State in which it is presented, to the same extent as such provider or organization would give effect to an advanced directive that meets such requirements. Permits a provider or organization to decline to honor such a directive if the provider or organization can reasonably demonstrate that it is not an authentic expression of the individual's wishes concerning his or her health care. Makes such advance directive requirements applicable under Medicaid, title XIX of the Social Security Act. Amends the Public Health Service Act to provide for grant programs to increase awareness of advance directive planning issues. Directs the Secretary to conduct a national public education campaign to: (1) raise public awareness of the importance of planning for care near the end of life; (2) improve the public's understanding of the various situations in which individuals may find themselves if they become unable to express their health care wishes; (3) explain the need for readily available legal documents that express an individual's wishes, through advance directives (including living wills, comfort care orders, and durable powers of attorney for health care); and (4) educate the public about the availability of hospice care and palliative care. Directs the Secretary to provide for the establishment of a national, toll-free, information clearinghouse as well as clearinghouses that the public may access to find out about State-specific information regarding advance directive and end-of-life decisions. Requires General Accounting Office studies and reports on end-of-life planning issues.
![Official portrait of Sen. Lugar, Richard G. [R-IN]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/l000504_200.jpg)