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Official portrait of Sen. Specter, Arlen [R-PA]

Sen. Specter, Arlen [R-PA]

United States · Official source

Records

5,049 records where Sen. Specter, Arlen [R-PA] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years

Bill· SS. 2923 (108th)referred

Enhanced Second Chance Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 7 October 2004

Enhanced Second Chance Act of 2004: Community Safety Through Recidivism Prevention or Enhanced Second Chance Act of 2004 - Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to reauthorize, rewrite, and expand provisions regarding adult and juvenile offender reentry demonstration projects, including by authorizing funds to: (1) provide structured post-release housing and transitional housing; (2) facilitate collaboration to promote the employment of people released from prison; and (3) establish or expand the use of reentry courts. Sets forth grant priorities and requirements, including that each State or local government recipient establish a Reentry Task Force or other relevant convening authority. Authorizes the Attorney General to make a grant to provide for the establishment of a National Adult and Juvenile Offender Reentry Resource Center. Directs the Attorney General to establish an interagency task force on Federal programs and activities relating to offender reentry. Authorizes the National Institute of Justice and the Bureau of Justice Statistics to conduct research on offender reentry. Directs: (1) the Secretary of Health and Human Services to review the role of State child protective services at the time of arrest and to establish services for the preservation of families impacted by the incarceration of a family member; (2) the Secretary of Labor to implement a program to educate employers about existing incentives to the hiring of former prisoners; and (3) the Department of Justice to modify existing procedures and policies to improve the transition of Federal prisoners into their communities.

Bill· SS. 2916 (108th)referred

Domestic Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 7 October 2004

Domestic Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2004 - Directs the Attorney General to award grants to States and political subdivisions to establish model law enforcement programs that promote the effective prosecution of purchasers, exploiters, and traffickers of commercial sex acts. Permits the use of grant funds for: (1) prosecutions against purchasers of unlawful commercial sex acts, including through the use of female decoys; (2) prosecutions against traffickers and exploiters of unlawful commercial sex acts, including through surveillance of places of business engaged in such acts; and (3) social service programs operated by non-governmental organizations with special expertise in assisting victims of unlawful commercial sex activities, whose programs offer protection, education, food, and shelter for victims. Amends the Federal criminal code to increase penalties for purchasers of unlawful commercial sex acts. Requires the Departments of Justice (DOJ), Labor, Health and Human Services, and any other Federal agency involved in combating unlawful domestic sex trafficking and providing services to the victims to coordinate their activities with the Senior Policy Operating Group to ensure that Federal programs directed at domestic trafficking are consistent with Federal enforcement of the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000. Requires the Attorney General to: (1) disseminate best practices for training State and local law enforcement personnel at each annual conference conducted by DOJ; and (2) carry out a biennial comprehensive statistical review and analysis of unlawful commercial sex acts.

Bill· SS. 2908 (108th)referred

Animal Fighting Prohibition Enforcement Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 6 October 2004

Animal Fighting Prohibition Enforcement Act of 2004 - Amends the Federal criminal code to prohibit: (1) sponsoring or exhibiting a bird in a fighting venture in a State where it would not otherwise be in violation of the law, only if the person knew that any bird in the venture was knowingly bought, sold, delivered, transported, or received in interstate or foreign commerce for such purpose; or (2) knowingly sponsoring or exhibiting in an animal fighting venture any other animal that was moved in interstate or foreign commerce. Prohibits knowingly: (1) selling, buying, transporting, delivering, or receiving, for purposes of transportation in interstate or foreign commerce, any dog or other animal to participate in an animal fighting venture; (2) using interstate mail service for commercial speech promoting an animal fighting venture except as performed outside the limits of the States (with an exception for bird fights in States whose laws allow them); or (3) selling, buying, transporting, or delivering in interstate or foreign commerce a knife, gaff, or other sharp instrument to be attached to the leg of a bird for use in an animal fighting venture. Sets penalties of a fine under the code, two years' imprisonment, or both for violations of this Act. (Repeals conflicting provisions of the Animal Welfare Act.)

Bill· SS. 2909 (108th)referred

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area Natural Gas Pipeline Enlargement Act

United States · United States Congress · 6 October 2004

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area Natural Gas Pipeline Enlargement Act - Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to grant the Columbia Gas Transmission Corporation an easement to enlarge the diameter of a specified pipeline from 14 inches to not more than 20 inches, consistent with the recreational values and protection of the resources of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area in Pennsylvania. Authorizes the Superintendent of the Recreation Area to issue a permit to the Corporation for the use of the Recreation Area for temporary construction and staging areas required for the construction of the enlarged pipeline. Requires the Corporation to comply with all requirements for certification by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission that are necessary to permit the increase in pipeline size. Prohibits the Secretary from granting additional increases in the diameter of, or easements for, the pipeline within the boundary of the Recreation Area after the date of enactment of this Act.

Bill· SS. 2889 (108th)open

American Bald Eagle Recovery and National Emblem Commemorative Coin Act

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.

Bill· SS. 2860 (108th)referred

Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2004

Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act of 2004 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to classify automatic fire sprinkler systems as five-year depreciable property. .

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 444 (108th)passed

A resolution congratulating and commending the Veterans of foreign Wars of the United States and its national Commander-in-Chief, John Furgess of Tennessee.

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2004

Recognizes the historic significance of the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW). Congratulates the VFW on achieving that milestone. Commends the approximately 2,000,000 veterans who belong to the VFW and thanks them for their service to their fellow veterans and the United States. Recognizes the VFW's national Commander-in-Chief, John Furgess, for his service and dedication to the veterans of the United States.

Bill· SS. 2850 (108th)referred

A bill to authorize the President to posthumously award a gold medal on behalf of the Congress to Fred McFeely Rogers, in recognition of his lasting contributions to the application of creativity and imagination in the early education of our Nation's children, and to his lasting example to the Nation and the world of what it means to be a good neighbor.

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2004

Authorizes the President to posthumously award a gold medal, on behalf of Congress, to Fred McFeely Rogers ("Mister Rogers" of "Mister Rogers Neighborhood" public television program) in recognition of his lasting contributions to the application of creativity and imagination in the early education of our Nation's children, and to his lasting example to the Nation and the world of what it means to be a good neighbor.

Bill· SS. 2819 (108th)referred

Higher Education Preparation Program Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2004

Higher Education Preparation Program Act of 2004 - Directs the Secretary of Education to award: (1) a competitive grant to a nonprofit organization to develop a curriculum-based higher education preparation program curriculum for students in grades eight, nine, and ten; and (2) competitive grants to up to five State educational agencies to use such curriculum in a demonstration project for providing higher education preparation programs to students in such grades in middle and secondary schools.

Bill· SS. 2810 (108th)open

Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2005

United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2004

Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2005 - Makes appropriations for FY 2005 for the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education and related agencies. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, such funds and transfers of funds. Department of Labor Appropriations Act, 2005 - Makes appropriations for FY 2005 to the Department of Labor for: (1) the Employment and Training Administration, training and employment services; (2) community service employment for older Americans; (3) Federal unemployment benefits and allowances; (4) State unemployment insurance and employment service operations; (5) advances to the Unemployment Trust Fund and the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund; (6) employment and training program administration; (7) the Employee Benefits Security Administration; (8) the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation; (9) the Employment Standards Administration; (10) certain special benefits, including ones for disabled coal miners; (11) the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Fund; (12) the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund; (13) the Occupational Safety and Health Administration; (14) the Mine Safety and Health Administration; (15) the Bureau of Labor Statistics; (16) the Office of Disability Employment Policy; (17) departmental management; (18) veterans employment and training; (19) the Office of Inspector General; and (20) a working capital fund for a new core accounting system. Department of Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2005 - Makes appropriations for FY 2005 to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for: (1) the Health Resources and Services Administration, for specified health resources and services activities; (2) health education assistance loans; (3) the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program Trust Fund; (4) the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP), for disease control, research, and training; (5) the National Institutes of Health (NIH), including the John E. Fogarty International Center, the National Library of Medicine, and the Office of the Director; (6) the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, for substance abuse and mental health services; (7) the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality; (8) the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for grants to States for Medicaid, payments to health care trust funds, program management, and the Health Maintenance Organization Loan and Loan Guarantee Fund; (9) the Administration for Children and Families for payments to States for child support enforcement and family support programs; (10) low-income home energy assistance; (11) refugee and entrant assistance; (12) payments to States for the child care and development block grant; (13) the social services block grant; (14) children and families services programs; (15) promoting safe and stable families, through family preservation and support; (16) payments to States for foster care and adoption assistance; (17) the Administration on Aging; (18) the Office of the Secretary for general departmental management; (19) the Office of Inspector General; (20) the Office for Civil Rights; (21) policy research; (22) retirement pay and medical benefits for Public Health Service commissioned officers, and medical care of dependents and retired personnel; and (23) the public health and social services emergency fund, for expenses related to countering potential biological, disease, and chemical threats to civilian populations, for the Strategic National Stockpile, and for activities to ensure a year-round influenza vaccine production capacity and the development and implementation of rapidly expandable influenza vaccine production technologies, as well as any purchase of such vaccine the Secretary determines necessary. Department of Education Appropriations Act, 2005 - Makes appropriations for FY 2005 to the Department of Education for: (1) education for the disadvantaged; (2) impact aid; (3) school improvement programs; (4) Indian education; (5) innovation and improvement activities; (6) safe schools and citizenship education; (7) English language acquisition and language enhancement; (8) special education; (9) rehabilitation services and disability research; (10) special institutions for persons with disabilities, including the American Printing House for the Blind, the National Technical Institute for the Deaf, the Kendall Demonstration Elementary School, the Model Secondary School for the Deaf, and Gallaudet University; (11) vocational and adult education; (12) certain student financial assistance programs, as well as Federal administrative expenses for such programs (and sets a maximum individual Pell Grant amount); (13) specified higher education programs; (14) Howard University; (15) the college housing and academic facilities loans program account; (16) the historically Black college and university capital financing program account; (17) the Institute of Education Sciences; and (18) departmental management and program administration; (19) the Office for Civil Rights; and (20) the Office of the Inspector General. Makes appropriations for FY 2005 to the: (1) Armed Forces Retirement Home; (2) Corporation for National and Community Service, for domestic volunteer service programs and operating expenses; (3) Corporation for Public Broadcasting; (4) Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service; (5) Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission; (6) Institute of Museum and Library Services; (7) Medicare Payment Advisory Commission; (8) National Commission on Libraries and Information Science; (9) National Council on Disability; (10) National Labor Relations Board; (11) National Mediation Board; (12) Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission; (13) Railroad Retirement Board for the dual benefits payments account, Federal payments to the railroad retirement accounts, administration, and the Office of Inspector General; (14) Social Security Administration for payments to the Social Security trust funds, the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Program, and administrative expenses, and the Office of Inspector General; and (15) U.S. Institute of Peace.

Bill· SS. 2811 (108th)referred

9-11 Act

United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2004

Intelligence Reformation Act of 2004 or 9-11 Act - Establishes as an executive department the Department of Intelligence (Department), headed by a Director of Intelligence. Requires the Director to: (1) serve as head of the Intelligence Community (IC); (2) act as principal adviser to the President for intelligence-related activities of the U.S. Government; and (3) determine the annual budget for U.S. intelligence and intelligence-related activities. Establishes a National Counterterrorism Center to, among other things: (1) analyze and integrate all U.S. intelligence pertaining to terrorism or counterterrorism; (2) conduct strategic planning for counterterrorism operations; and (3) ensure that all appropriate U.S. departments, agencies, and elements have access to and receive all-source intelligence support to execute their counterterrorism plans. Requires the Director to establish one or more national intelligence centers to address intelligence priorities established by the National Security Council (established under this Act). Establishes various positions under the Director. Designates the following as elements of the Department, with specified intelligence-related duties: (1) the Central Intelligence Agency; (2) the National Security Agency; (3) the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency; (4) the National Reconnaissance Office; and (5) the Intelligence, Counterterrorism, and Counterintelligence Offices of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Establishes within the Department an Office of Civil Liberties and Privacy. Requires the FBI Director to continue efforts to develop and maintain an FBI national security workforce. Outlines national security authorities of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, including imagery intelligence and improving the means of navigating vessels of the Navy and merchant marine. Authorizes such Agency's Director to provide foreign countries with imagery intelligence and geospatial information support, and to exchange mapping, charting, and geodetic data with foreign countries and international organizations. Authorizes the Director to withhold from the public certain Department operational files. Provides for transfer to the Department of certain IC elements, authorities, and functions.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 427 (108th)passed

A resolution congratulating the citizens of Greece, the members of the Athens 2004 Organizing Committee for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, the International Olympic Committee, the United States Olympic Committee, the 2004 United States Olympic Team, athletes from around the world, and all the personnel who participated in the 2004 Olympic Summer Games in Athens, Greece.

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.

Bill· SS. 2789 (108th)referred

Second Chance Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 10 September 2004

Second Chance Act of 2004: Community Safety Through Recidivism Prevention or Second Chance Act of 2004 - Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to reauthorize, rewrite, and expand provisions regarding adult and juvenile offender reentry demonstration projects, including by authorizing funds to: (1) provide structured post-release housing and transitional housing; (2) facilitate specified collaboration to promote the employment of people released from prison; and (3) establish or expand the use of reentry courts. Sets forth grant priorities and requirements, including that each State or local government recipient establish a Reentry Task Force or other relevant convening authority. Authorizes the Attorney General to make a grant to provide for the establishment of a National Adult and Juvenile Offender Reentry Resource Center. Directs the Attorney General to establish an interagency task force on Federal programs and activities relating to offender reentry. Authorizes the National Institute of Justice and the Bureau of Justice Statistics to conduct research on offender reentry. Directs: (1) the Secretary of Health and Human Services to review the role of State child protective services at the time of arrest and to establish services for the preservation of families impacted by the incarceration of a family member; and (2) the Secretary of Labor to implement a program to educate employers about existing incentives to the hiring of former prisoners and to make grants to community-based organizations to provide mentoring and other transitional services essential to reintegrating ex-offenders and incarcerated persons into society.

Law· SS. 2781 (108th)enacted

Comprehensive Peace in Sudan Act of 2004

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.

Bill· SS. 2774 (108th)open

9/11 Commission Report Implementation Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 7 September 2004

9/11 Commission Report Implementation Act of 2004 - National Intelligence Authority Act of 2004 - Establishes as an independent executive entity the National Intelligence Authority (Authority), headed by a National Intelligence Director (Director), to, among other things: (1) unify and strengthen efforts of the intelligence community (IC); (2) operate the National Counterterrorism Center and national intelligence centers; and (3) establish clear responsibility and accountability for counterterrorism and other intelligence matters relating to U.S. national security. Requires the Director to: (1) serve as the head of the IC; (2) advise the President on intelligence related to national security; and (3) direct, manage, and oversee the execution of the National Intelligence Program (formerly the National Foreign Intelligence Program). Establishes a National Intelligence Council (Council) to produce national intelligence estimates for the U.S. Government and evaluate the collection and production of intelligence by the IC. Establishes a National Counterterrorism Center (Center) to: (1) unify strategy for U.S. civilian and military counterterrorism efforts; and (2) integrate counterterrorism intelligence and operations across agency boundaries, both inside and outside the United States. Requires the President to publicly disclose certain intelligence funding information for fiscal years after 2005. Merges the Homeland Security Council into the Council. Maintains within the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) the direction and execution of clandestine and covert operations. Makes the Secretary of Defense responsible for directing and executing paramilitary operations, whether clandestine or covert. Requires the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to develop and maintain within the FBI a national security workforce of agents, analysts, linguists, and surveillance specialists. Directs the President to: (1) establish an information sharing network to promote the sharing of terrorism information among all relevant Federal departments and agencies, State, tribal, and local authorities, and private sector entities in a manner consistent with national security and the protection of privacy and civil liberties; and (2) submit to Congress a network system design and implementation plan. Establishes an Advisory Council on Information Sharing. Prohibits the 108th Congress from adjourning until jurisdiction over proposed legislation and other matters relating to: (1) the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is consolidated into a single committee in each House with a nonpartisan staff; and (2) intelligence resides in a joint committee or a committee with combined authorization and appropriations authority, with a subcommittee devoted solely to oversight. Requires the President-elect to be provided detailed, classified summaries by relevant outgoing executive officials of specific operational threats to national security, major military or covert operations, and pending decisions on possible use of military force. Outlines procedures for the President-elect to designate, the FBI to investigate, and the Senate to expeditiously consider nominees for high-level national security positions. Requires specified reports from the President to Congress concerning, among other things: (1) terrorist sanctuaries; (2) efforts to support Pakistan; (3) aid to Afghanistan; (4) the U.S.-Saudi Arabia relationship; (5) a strategy to help win the struggle of ideas within the Islamic world; (6) proliferation of weapons of mass destruction; and (7) efforts to curtail the international financing of terrorism. Provides, through specified activities of the Secretary of State, for the expansion of international educational and cultural exchange programs between the United States and countries with sizable Muslim populations. Directs the President to establish an International Youth Opportunity Fund to provide financial assistance for the improvement of public education in the Middle East. Authorizes the President to establish an international counterterrorism policy contact group with leaders of governments of other countries to develop a comprehensive coalition strategy to fight Islamist terrorism. States U.S. policy concerning the humane treatment of prisoners. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security (Secretary) to submit to Congress a: (1) strategy for combining terrorist travel intelligence, operations, and law enforcement into a cohesive effort to intercept terrorists, find terrorist travel facilitators, and constrain terrorist mobility domestically and internationally; and (2) plan describing how DHS and the State Department can acquire and deploy, to all consulates, ports of entry, and immigration benefits offices, technologies that facilitate document authentication and the detection of potential terrorist indicators on travel documents. Directs the Secretary to develop plans: (1) for a comprehensive integrated screening system; (2) to accelerate the full implementation of an automated biometric entry and exit data system for preventing the entry of terrorists; (3) to expedite the processing of registered travelers who enter and exit the United States through a single registered traveler program; and (4) to require biometric passports and other secure identification for all travel into the United States by U.S. citizens and individuals for whom immigration and nationality documentation requirements have previously been waived. Directs the Secretary to develop, implement, and revise as necessary a National Strategy for Transportation Security for the protection from terrorist or other hostile acts of all transportation infrastructure assets. Directs the Secretary to allocate homeland security assistance grants to communities based on threat levels, presence of critical infrastructure, population density, and other criteria. Calls for adoption by all appropriate entities of the Incident Command System (a national, coordinated emergency response system developed by the National Incident Management System). Authorizes specified officials of the National Capital Region to enter into, provide, or request from other Region entities mutual aid assistance for emergency services related to a terrorist or other hostile act. Directs the Secretary to: (1) encourage and support the establishment of consistent and effective communications capabilities in high risk urban areas; (2) establish a program to promote private sector preparedness; (3) undertake certain critical infrastructure readiness assessments; and (4) regularly assess the adequacy of the United States Northern Command to respond to all military and paramilitary threats within the United States. Establishes within the Executive Office of the President a Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board.

Bill· SS. 2776 (108th)referred

A bill to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a program of outreach to veterans of World War II and the Korean conflict on the nature and availability of benefits for veterans, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 7 September 2004

Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) carry out a program to provide outreach to veterans of World War II and the Korean conflict on the nature and availability of benefits for veterans, which shall include a nationwide public service campaign; and (2) establish outreach performance measures to permit its ongoing evaluation.

Bill· SS. 2722 (108th)referred

A bill to maintain and expand the steel import licensing and monitoring program.

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2004

Declares that the steel import licensing and monitoring program established by the Secretaries of the Treasury and of Commerce shall remain in effect and be established by the Secretary of Commerce as a permanent program. Requires the Secretaries to expand the program to include specified iron and steel, and articles of iron and steel. Requires release of the import and licensing data made available to the public as part of this program, based upon classifications at the tenth digit level of the Harmonized Schedule of the United States. Grants the Secretaries authority to maintain the program and to expand it as necessary and appropriate in accordance with this Act.

Bill· SS. 2767 (108th)referred

Small Business Economic Stimulus Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2004

Small Business Economic Stimulus Act of 2004 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend: (1) permanently, the research and development tax credit; (2) a bonus depreciation; and (3) an increased limitation for expensing depreciable business assets. Authorizes appropriations to the Department of Commerce for the Office of Export Trading Company Affairs to carry out the Export Trading Company Act of 1982. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to increase the amount of the annual authorization of appropriations for the U.S. Trade and Development Agency. Small Business Health Fairness Act of 2004 - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to revise provisions relating to access and choice for small business employers with respect to medical care for their employees. Establishes rules governing association health plans (group health plans whose sponsors are trade, industry, professional, chamber of commerce, or similar business associations), including requirements relating to certification, sponsors and boards of trustees, participation, coverage, plan documents, contribution rates, benefit options, applications for certification, notice for voluntary termination, corrective actions, and mandatory termination. Requires association health plans which provide health benefits in addition to health insurance coverage to maintain certain reserves and comply with other solvency requirements. Directs the Secretary of Labor to apply for appointment, and carry out specified duties, as trustee of any such insolvent association health plans which provide health benefits in addition to health insurance coverage. Allows a State to impose a contribution tax on any association health plan commencing operations in such State after the enactment of this Act. Requires association health plans to include in their summary plan descriptions, in connection with each benefit option, a description of the form of any solvency or guarantee fund protection secured under ERISA or applicable State law. Revises requirements relating to treatment of: (1) single employer arrangements; and (2) certain collectively bargained arrangements.

Bill· SS. 2766 (108th)referred

Prescription Drug and Health Improvement Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2004

Prescription Drug and Health Improvement Act of 2004 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA), as amended by the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003, with respect to prescription drug plans, to repeal the prohibition against interference by the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) with negotiations between drug manufacturers and pharmacies and prescription drug plan sponsors, and against the Secretary's requiring a particular formulary or instituting a price structure for the reimbursement of covered part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program) drugs. Grants the Secretary authority similar to that of other Federal entities that purchase prescription drugs in bulk to negotiate contracts with manufacturers of covered part D drugs. Directs the HHS Secretary report regularly to Congress a comparison of the prices for covered part D drugs with the average price a retail pharmacy would charge an individual who does not have health insurance coverage for purchasing the same strength, quanity, and dosage form of such drugs. Amends SSA title XVIII to eliminate the initial standard prescription drug coverage limit of $2,250 (adjusted for inflation). Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the HHS Secretary to make grants available to States to establish reporting systems designed according to guidelines developed by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality to reduce medical errors and improve health care quality. Authorizes the Secretary, acting through the Director of the Agency, to establish a program funding at least 15 demonstration projects to determine the causes of medical errors and develop specified methods to reduce them. Directs the Secretary to: (1) provide for establishment of a national database of medical errors; (2) educate patients and family members about their role in reducing medical errors; (3) develop programs that encourage patients to take a more active role in their medical treatment; and (4) make grants to health professional associations and other organizations to provide training in ways to reduce medical errors. Establishes in the Treasury a Trust Fund for Medical Treatment Outcomes research. Directs the HHS Secretary to: (1) provide grants and contracts to enhance development of information technology standards by the private sector; and (2) establish programs of medical student tutorial program grants and of general medical practice grants. Increases the Medicare reimbursement for physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and clinical nurse specialists. Requires Medicaid coverage of such health professionals as well as certified registered nurse anesthetists.

Bill· SS. 2705 (108th)referred

Comprehensive Peace for Sudan Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2004

Comprehensive Peace for Sudan Act - Authorizes the President to provide: (1) humanitarian assistance for Chad and Darfur; and (2) assistance to support a North-South peace agreement in Sudan, contingent upon a continuing certification to the appropriate congressional committees that the Government of Sudan is acting to demobilize the Janjaweed militia, protect civilians, and cooperate with aid workers and the African Union monitoring team. Directs the President to take specified sanctions against Sudan and its officials if Sudan has not taken actions necessary for such certification. Directs the Secretary of State to require the U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations to pursue a Security Council Resolution condemning Sudan for its actions in Darfur and calling for: (1) accountability for those responsible for the atrocities in Darfur; and (2) member states of the United Nations to freeze the assets of senior members of the Government of Sudan, cease importing Sudanese oil, restrict the entry or transit of senior members of the Government of Sudan, and cease selling arms to the Government of Sudan.

Bill· SS. 2695 (108th)open

Christopher Kangas Fallen Firefighter Apprentice Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 July 2004

Christopher Kangas Fallen Firefighter Apprentice Act - Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to expand the definition of "firefighter" for purposes of death benefit provisions to include fire department members regardless of age, status as an apprentice or trainee, or related duty restrictions. Makes this Act applicable to deaths and injuries which occur on or after May 4, 2002.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 408 (108th)referred

A resolution supporting the construction by Israel of a security fence to prevent Palestinian terrorist attacks, condemning the decision of the International Court of Justice on the legality of the security fence, and urging no further action by the United Nations to delay or prevent the construction of the security fence.

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.

Bill· SS. 2671 (108th)referred

State Fiscal Relief Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 15 July 2004

State Fiscal Relief Act of 2004 - Amends the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 to extend the temporary freeze of the Federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP) under title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act (SSA) for certain States (continuing the FY 2003 FMAP through each calendar quarter of FY 2004, and the FY 2004 FMAP for each calendar quarter of FY 2005 if the FY 2005 FMAP would otherwise be less than the FY 2004 FMAP). Amends the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 to increase the FMAP: (1) by 2.95 percentage points for the last two calendar quarters of FY 2003 and the first three calendar quarters of FY 2004; and (2) by 1.26 percentage points for the last calendar quarter of FY 2004 and each calendar quarter of FY 2005. Increases by 5.9 percent the ceiling on Medicaid payments to specified territories for the last two calendar quarters of FY 2003 and the first three calendar quarters of FY 2004. Increases such ceiling by 2.52 percent for the last calendar quarter of FY 2004 and each calendar quarter of FY 2005. Amends SSA title XIX, with respect to the transitional increased Federal matching rate for increased administrative costs, to require a specified minimum increase for administrative expenditures that would not be incurred but for enactment of the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003. Sets $1.2 billion as the cap on the total amount of additional Federal funds expended as a result of this Act with respect to such administrative expenditures between October 1, 2004, and the later of either: (1) April 1, 2006; or (2) the end of the first fiscal year quarter that begins on or after the date on which benefits are first provided under the voluntary prescription drug benefit program under SSA title XVIII (Medicare) part D.

Bill· SS. 2653 (108th)referred

Reducing Crime and Terrorism at America's Seaport Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 14 July 2004

Reducing Crime and Terrorism at America's Seaports Act of 2004 - Amends the Federal criminal code to prohibit: (1) entry by false pretenses to a secure area of a seaport; (2) knowingly failing to obey an order to heave to by an authorized Federal officer; (3) forcibly interfering with an authorized law enforcement action or providing false information during a boarding; and (4) willfully disabling a passenger vehicle. Sets penalties for knowingly and intentionally: (1) placing in U.S. navigable waters a device or substance likely to destroy or damage a vessel or its cargo or likely to interfere with safe navigation or maritime commerce; (2) discharging or releasing into U.S. navigable water or onto an adjoining shoreline any substance that would endanger human life, health, or welfare or the marine environment; and (3) transporting aboard any vessel explosive, biological, chemical, or radioactive or nuclear material to be used to commit terrorism. Sets penalties for: (1) knowingly transporting aboard any vessel a terrorist or terror suspect; (2) willfully causing destruction of a vessel or maritime facility; and (3) imparting or conveying false information concerning an attempt made to commit certain criminal acts Expands the scope of a prohibition against theft of interstate or foreign shipments. Increases penalties for stowaways on vessels or aircraft. Prohibits bribery affecting port security. Amends the Tariff Act of 1930 to increase penalties for noncompliance with manifest requirements and to expand the scope of those requirements to cover any responsible party, including non-vessel operating common carriers.

Bill· SS. 2623 (108th)referred

SSI Extension for Elderly and Disabled Refugees Act

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).

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 401 (108th)passed

A resolution designating the week of November 7 through November 13, 2004, as "National Veterans Awareness Week" to emphasize the need to develop educational programs regarding the contributions of veterans to the country.

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.

Bill· SS. 2600 (108th)referred

A bill to direct the Architect of the Capitol to enter into a contract to revise the statue commemorating women's suffrage located in the rotunda of the United States Capitol to include a likeness of Sojourner Truth.

United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2004

Requires the Architect of the Capitol to enter into a contract to revise the statue commemorating women's suffrage located in the rotunda of the United States Capitol (known as the Portrait Monument) to include a likeness of Sojourner Truth.

Bill· SS. 2568 (108th)referred

Benjamin Franklin Commemorative Coin Act

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.

Bill· SS. 2570 (108th)referred

Health Care Assurance Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2004

Health Care Assurance Act of 2004 - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) and the Public Health Service Act to: (1) develop a target actuarial value for standard health care coverage offered by any plan or group or individual health insurance coverage; (2) specify how premiums for health care coverage are to be set; and (3) require health plans and issuers to disclose rating practices. Sets forth provisions governing the operation (including premium setting and enrollment) of qualified small employer purchasing groups, qualified association plans, church plans, multi-employer plans, plans maintained by rural electric cooperatives, and plans maintained by rural telephone cooperatives. Requires small employers to offer, but not contribute to, standard health care coverage. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to impose taxes on the failure of specified health insurance plans to comply with this Act. Sets forth provisions regarding "continuation coverage" (COBRA), including regarding deductibles, terminating coverage, length of coverage, and coverage of dependent children. Amends title XXI (State Children's Health Insurance) (SCHIP) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to: (1) revise the definition of an eligible ''low-income child'' to mean a child whose family income is at or below 233 percent (currently, 200 percent) of the poverty line; and (2) authorize States to extend SCHIP coverage to include health care assistance for low-income parents and pregnant women. Increases the authorized appropriations for the Account for Medicare Integrity Program. Requires the Secretary to provide for reporting systems, training, education, and a national database to reduce medical errors. Establishes the Trust Fund for Medical Treatment Outcomes Research to be funded using taxes related to health insurance policies. Sets forth provisions regarding information technology, including regarding how the use of such technology can be encouraged. Requires the Secretary to educate the public about health care choices and to develop ways to improve advance directives and living wills. Amends the title XVIII (Medicare) of the SSA to increase the reimbursement rate for physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and clinical nurse specialists. Requires the Secretary to establish programs to recruit high school or college students to careers in general medicine.

Bill· SS. 2533 (108th)referred

Ronald Reagan Alzheimer's Breakthrough Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2004

Ronald Reagan Alzheimer's Breakthrough Act of 2004 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to make Alzheimer's disease research a priority within the National Institute on Aging. Requires the Director of the Institute to: (1) undertake an Alzheimer's Disease Prevention Initiative to accelerate the discovery of new risk and protective factors, to rapidly identify therapies and preventive interventions, and to implement effective prevention and treatment strategies; (2) conduct and support cooperative clinical research regarding Alzheimer's; and (3) conduct research concerning early detection and diagnosis, the relationship between Alzheimer's and vascular disease, and interventions designed to help caregivers. Authorizes the Director to establish a National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center to facilitate collaboration among Alzheimer's Disease Centers and Alzheimer's Disease Research Centers. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to educate the public and public health community regarding Alzheimer's disease. Authorizes the Secretary to award grants or cooperative agreements to develop coordinated respite care programs on a statewide basis. Defines "respite care" to mean planned or emergency care provided to a child or adult with a special need in order to provide temporary relief to the family caregiver of such child or adult. Directs the Secretary to award a grant or cooperative agreement to a public or private nonprofit entity to establish a National Resource Center on Lifespan Respite Care. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow: (1) a nonrefundable tax credit for each individual certified as having long-term care needs and for whom the taxpayer is acting as a caregiver; (2) a tax deduction for long-term care premiums paid under a qualified insurance contract; and (3) qualified long-term care insurance to be offered in a cafeteria plan and flexible spending arrangements.

Bill· SS. 2525 (108th)referred

National Dairy Equity Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2004

National Dairy Equity Act of 2004 - Amends the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to give producers in a State participating in the national dairy market loss payment program 60 days to decide whether to continue participating in such program or to participate in the program established under this Act. Establishes the following five regional dairy marketing areas: (1) Northeast region - Northeast Dairy Marketing Area (Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Vermont); (2) Southern region - Southern Dairy Marketing Area (Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia); (3) Upper midwest region - Upper Midwest Dairy Marketing Area (Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin); (4) Intermountain region - Intermountain Dairy Marketing Area (Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming) and (5) Pacific region - Pacific Dairy Marketing Area (Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon, and Washington). Administers each region by a Regional Dairy Board. Sets forth Board powers, including authority to establish: (1) over-order price (a price higher than the marketing order or non-marketing area price) for Class I milk; (2) equalization pools to equalize over-order prices to producers throughout a regulated area; and (3) processor administrative fees. Requires producer referendum to approve of a proposed over-order price establishment, amendment, or termination. States that each covered processor that purchases Class I milk during a month that will be sold in the regulated area of a Region shall pay to the Secretary an amount equal to the product of the over-order premium and the quantity of purchased Class I milk. Establishes in the Treasury the National Dairy Producers Fund. Directs the Secretary to make monthly payments from the Fund to the Boards which shall make payments to eligible producers of all milk classes. Amends the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to extend the national dairy market loss payment program.

Law· SS. 2484 (108th)enacted

Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel Enhancement Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 1 June 2004

Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel Enhancement Act of 2003 - Sets forth new pay provisions for physicians and dentists employed by the Veterans Health Administration. Requires total pay to be benchmarked to representative salaries for non-Department positions and to include three components: (1) base pay that is uniform nationwide; (2) market pay that varies based on geographic area, specialty, assignment, personal qualifications, and individual experience; and (3) performance pay linked to the achievement of specific corporate goals and individual performance objectives. Caps total compensation at the amount of annual compensation (excluding expenses) received by the President. Prohibits certain management and executive level physicians and dentists from receiving compensation from affiliated institutions. Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to suspend or waive this limitation in certain circumstances. Sets forth transition provisions for the new pay system. Makes the Under Secretary for Health eligible for market pay (in addition to base pay). Requires the Secretary to: (1) prescribe regulations implementing the new pay system for physicians and dentists; and (2) report to the Committees on Veterans' Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives on implementation 18 months after issuing regulations and annually thereafter for ten years. Authorizes alternate work schedules for registered nurses employed by Department of Veterans Affairs health care facilities and prescribes the pay applicable to such schedules. Requires the Secretary to pay special pay to nurse executives at each Department health care facility or at Central Office (in addition to other pay and allowances).

Bill· SS. 2483 (108th)open

Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 1 June 2004

Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2004 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to increase, as of December 1, 2004, the rates of veterans' disability compensation, additional compensation for dependents, the clothing allowance for certain disabled adult children, and dependency and indemnity compensation for surviving spouses and children. Requires each such increase to be the same percentage as the increase in benefits provided under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act, on the same effective date.

Law· SS. 2486 (108th)enacted

Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 1 June 2004

Veterans' Benefits Improvements Act of 2004 - Increases the voluntary contribution amount that active duty members of the Armed Forces may make in order to receive increased monthly educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB). Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program that allows veterans to extend their eligibility period for using MGIB education benefits to obtain specified instruction or training. Excludes veterans' education benefits from the determination of eligibility for, or the amount of, Federal education grants and loans (except for campus-based student financial assistance that exceeds a veteran's cost of attendance when combined with such benefits). Requires the Secretary to collect required contributions from Reservists before they use MGIB educational assistance (currently, required at the beginning of active duty period). Increases the maximum housing loan guarantee amount for which veterans are eligible. Gives the Secretary permanent authority to guarantee adjustable rate mortgages (ARMs) and hybrid ARMs, and to modify interest rates applicable to hybrid ARMs. Terminates the collection of housing loan fees from veterans rated eligible for compensation at pre-discharge disability examinations. Extends administrative and judicial remedies for violations of veterans' preference requirements to all veterans (currently, limited to preference eligible veterans). Prohibits the collection of copayments from veterans receiving hospice care from the Department of Veterans Affairs. Extends certain authorities relating to benefits for veterans that are set to expire. Modifies the definition of minority group member for purposes of the Advisory Committee on Minority Veterans.

Bill· SS. 2485 (108th)open

Department of Veterans Affairs Real Property and Facilities Management Improvement Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 1 June 2004

Department of Veterans Affairs Real Property and Facilities Management Improvement Act of 2004 - Authorizes the use of certain construction and maintenance project funds available to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for the construction or relocation of surface parking lots incidental to such projects. Modifies business plan-based determinations relating to the Secretary's enhanced-use lease authority. Credits to applicable appropriations of the Veterans Benefits Administration or National Cemetery Association certain funds received under enhanced-use leases implementing business plans proposed by the Under Secretary for Benefits and the Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs. Requires funds received by the Department of Veterans Affairs from disposals of leased property to be deposited into the Capital Asset Fund established by this Act. Authorizes reimbursement from the proceeds of enhanced-used leases of the expenses incurred to develop additional enhanced-use leases. Authorizes the disposal of the Department's real property by specified means. Establishes the Capital Asset Fund to cover the costs of disposal, proposed disposal, or non-recurring capital projects (in order of priority). Limits the Secretary's disposal of real property that has an estimated value in excess of the major medical facility project threshold. Sets forth disposal procedures. Terminates the Nursing Home Revolving Fund. Removes limits on the use of Advanced Planning Fund amounts for major medical facility projects where funds for such projects have been authorized. Authorizes the lease of certain National Cemetery Administration property. Establishes the National Cemetery Administration Facilities Operation Fund to cover costs incurred by the Administration in operating and maintaining its property.

Bill· SS. 2468 (108th)open

Postal Accountability and Enhancement Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2004

Postal Accountability and Enhancement Act - Directs the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) created by this Act to establish a modern system for regulating rates and classes for market-dominant products. Specifies regulatory requirements for workshare discounts. Authorizes the United States Postal Service (USPS) to enter into service agreements with customers that provide for postal service under terms different from those otherwise applicable to market-dominant products. Directs USPS Governors to establish rates and classes for products in the competitive category of mail. Authorizes the USPS to conduct market tests of experimental products. Establishes a Postal Service Competitive Products Fund. Prohibits the USPS from engaging in unfair competition. Abrogates the USPS's immunity from suit for violations of the Trademark Act of 1946 and those provisions of the Federal Trade Commission Act concerning unfair or deceptive acts or practices. Sets forth qualifications and requirements for Governors. Requires the appointment of a mediator (in lieu of current factfinding panel) in the event of USPS labor disputes. Replaces the Postal Rate Commission with the Postal Regulatory Commission. Modifies the USPS's contributions to the Civil Service Retirement System. Establishes a USPS Retiree Health Benefits Fund. Repeals a provision of the Postal Civil Service Retirement System Funding Reform Act of 2003 which addressed the disposition of savings under that Act. Addresses the temporary disability and disability retirement of postal employees.

Bill· SS. 2461 (108th)referred

Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2004

Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to provide for the regulation of tobacco products by the Secretary of Health and Human Services through the Food and Drug Administration, including through disclosure, annual registration, inspection, recordkeeping, and user fee requirements. Sets forth criteria by which tobacco products are deemed adulterated or misbranded. Allows the Secretary to require prior approval of all label statements. Allows the Secretary to restrict the sale or distribution of tobacco products, including advertising and promotion, if the Secretary determines that such regulation would be appropriate for the protection of the public health. Prohibits such regulations from: (1) limiting product sales or distribution to authorization of a practitioner licensed to prescribe medical products; (2) prohibiting product sales in face-to-face transactions by a specific category of retail outlets; or (3) establishing a minimum age greater than 18 years of age for product purchases. Prohibits cigarettes from containing any artificial or natural flavor (other than tobacco or menthol) or an herb or spice, including strawberry, cinnamon, or coffee. Requires the Secretary to establish tobacco product standards to protect the public health, but reserves to Congress the power to ban any tobacco products or reduce the nicotine level to zero. Allows the Secretary to take specified actions, including public notification and recall, against unreasonably harmful products. Requires premarket approval of all new tobacco products. Sets forth standards for the sale of modified risk tobacco products. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) judicial review; (2) coordination with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC); (3) congressional review of regulations; and (4) state and local authority. Requires the Secretary to establish a Tobacco Products Scientific Advisory Committee. Amends the Federal Cigarette Labeling and Advertising Act to change cigarette warning label and advertising requirements. Amends the Comprehensive Smokeless Tobacco Health Education Act of 1986 to change smokeless tobacco warning label and advertising requirements.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 362 (108th)passed

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate on the dedication of the National World War II Memorial on May 29, 2004, in recognition of the duty, sacrifices, and valor of the members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served in World War II.

United States · United States Congress · 13 May 2004

Expresses the grateful thanks of the Nation to the more than 16 million individuals who served in the Army, Army Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marine in World War II and to the millions of Americans on the home front who contributed to the war effort. Recognizes the dedication of the National World War II Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. on May 29, 2004, as an occasion to acknowledge and pay tribute to those members of the Armed Forces who served in World War II, who are known collectively as the Greatest Generation.

Bill· SS. 2411 (108th)open

Assistance to Firefighters Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 11 May 2004

Assistance to Firefighters Act of 2004 - Amends the Federal Fire Protection and Control Act of 1974 to authorize the Secretary of Homeland Security (currently, the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)) to make grants to State fire departments for the purpose of protecting the health and safety of the public and fire-fighting personnel against fire and fire-related hazards, and to provide assistance for fire prevention programs. Authorizes grants to: (1) volunteer emergency medical service (EMS) organizations; and (2) obtain automated external defibrillator devices. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish specific criteria for the preliminary review of applications; (2) review such criteria at least annually; (3) award grants based on the review of grant applications by a panel of fire service personnel appointed by a national organization recognized for expertise in the operation and administration of fire services; (4) provide for the administration of the review panel and ensure that an individual appointed to such panel is a recognized expert in fire-fighting, medical services provided by fire services, fire prevention, or research on firefighter safety; and (5) provide assistance with the preparation of grant applications. Expands program eligibility. Reduces limitations regarding matching funds. Increases the amount a grant recipient may receive. Earmarks funds for volunteer EMS organizations. Directs: (1) the Secretary to study and report to Congress on firefighter assistance; and (2) the Comptroller General to report to Congress on the administration of assistance and on the Secretary's success in administering FEMA.