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Official portrait of Sen. Talent, Jim [R-MO]

Sen. Talent, Jim [R-MO]

United States · Official source

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1,459 records where Sen. Talent, Jim [R-MO] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years

Resolution· SCONRESS.Con.Res. 119 (109th)referred

A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of Congress that public policy should continue to protect and strengthen the ability of farmers and ranchers to join together in cooperative self-help efforts.

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2006

Expresses the sense of Congress that public policy should continue to protect and strengthen the ability of farmers and ranchers to join together in cooperative self-help efforts to: (1) improve their income from the marketplace and their economic well-being; (2) capitalize on new market opportunities; and (3) help meet the food and fiber needs of consumers, provide for increased energy production, promote rural development, maintain and create needed jobs, and contribute to a growing U.S. economy.

Bill· SS. 3936 (109th)open

National Competitiveness Investment Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2006

National Competitiveness Investment Act - American Innovation and Competitiveness Act of 2006 - Directs the President to: (1) convene a National Science and Technology Summit; (2) establish a President's Council on Innovation and Competitiveness; and (3) establish the Innovation Acceleration Research Program. Directs the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to: (1) establish an Aeronautics Institute for Research; (2) coordinate basic and fundamental research activities related to physical sciences, technology, engineering, and mathematics; and (3) establish a Basic Research Executive Council. Authorizes appropriations for the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) for the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program. Requires the NIST Director to: (1) establish the Standards and Technology Acceleration Research Program; and (2) reestablish the Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Technology. Requires the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to: (1) establish a program of ocean and atmospheric research and development; and (2) develop an ocean, coastal, and atmospheric science education plan. Protecting America's Competitive Edge Through Energy Act or PACE-Energy Act - Directs the Secretary of Energy to: (1) appoint a Department of Energy (DOE) Director of Mathematics, Science, and Engineering Education, and establish a Mathematics, Science, and Engineering Education Fund; (2) award grants for establishing specialty schools for mathematics and science; (3) establish a national laboratories summer internship program for middle and secondary school students; (4) establish Centers of Excellence in Mathematics and Science at schools in regions of national laboratories; (5) establish or expand programs to strengthen mathematics and science teaching skills of public school teachers; (6) establish a program to expand and enhance higher education nuclear science educational capabilities; (7) award grants to outstanding DOE early-career researchers; and (8) establish a program to support the appointment of distinguished scientists by institutions of higher education and national laboratories. Establishes the Advanced Research Projects Authority-Energy. Authorizes the Secretary of Education to award grants to: (1) develop and implement programs to provide courses of study in mathematics, science, engineering, or critical foreign languages with concurrent teacher certification or to enhance teacher knowledge and teaching skills; (2) increase the number of teachers and students teaching or enrolled in advanced placement or international baccalaureate courses in mathematics, science, or critical foreign languages; (3) help low-income students performing below grade level in mathematics; (4) establish programs of study in critical foreign languages; (5) promote content knowledge requirements for secondary school graduation and establish or improve a statewide P-16 education data system. Requires the Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF) to: (1) expand the Graduate Research Fellowship Program and the Integrative Graduate Education and Research Traineeship Program; (2) establish a clearinghouse and pilot programs relating to the creation or improvement of professional science master's degree programs; (4) establish a program to provide mentors for women interested in careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics; and (5) establish a program of basic research in advanced information and communications technologies.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 576 (109th)passed

A resolution supporting the goals of Red Ribbon Week.

United States · United States Congress · 20 September 2006

Expresses support for the goals of Red Ribbon Week. Encourages: (1) children and teens to live drug-free lives; and (2) people to promote the creation of drug-free communities and to participate in drug prevention activities.

Bill· SS. 3912 (109th)referred

Securing Effective and Necessary Individual Outpatient Rehabilitation Services (SENIORS) Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 19 September 2006

Securing Effective and Necessary Individual Outpatient Rehabilitation Services (SENIORS) Act of 2006 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act with respect to the temporary process for obtaining an exception from the uniform dollar limitation on Medicare payment for medically necessary physical therapy services (Medicare therapy cap exceptions process). Extends the exceptions process period from the beginning of calendar 2006 through calendar 2007.

Bill· SS. 3894 (109th)referred

A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to alleviate poverty by encouraging the employment of residents by empowerment zone businesses through the employment of residents in designated areas of pervasive poverty, unemployment, and general distress.

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2006

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow enterprise zone businesses operating in empowerment zones (economically depressed areas) who file necessary information with the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development documenting reasonable efforts to meet the residency requirement applicable to zone employees to receive an exemption from such requirement if at least 35% of their employees during the final three months of a taxable year are residents of the empowerment zone or any area within a 15-mile radius of the qualified business which has been designated by any governmental unit as an area of pervasive poverty, unemployment, and general distress.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 565 (109th)passed

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate upon the five-year anniversary of the terrorist attacks against the United States on September 11, 2001.

United States · United States Congress · 11 September 2006

Commemorates the life of each individual who died as a result of the attacks of September 11, 2001. Extends deepest condolences to the victims, as well as to their families, friends, and loved ones. Condemns the attacks, the terrorists who perpetrated them, and their sponsors. Commits to support the necessary steps to defeat terrorists who plot to harm the American people. Recommits the Senate and the Nation to bringing the perpetrators of the attacks and their sponsors to justice. Honors members of the Armed Forces, law enforcement personnel, first responders, members of the intelligence community, and others who have bravely participated in the War on Terrorism since September 11, 2001. Declares September 11, 2006, to be a National Day of Remembrance, in commemoration of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks against the United States. Declares that when the Senate adjourns today (September 11, 2006), it stand adjourned as a further mark of respect to each individual who died as a result of the attacks of September 11, 2001.

Bill· SS. 3862 (109th)referred

A bill to amend the Animal Health Protection Act to prohibit the Secretary of Agriculture from implementing or carrying out a National Animal Identification System or similar requirement, to prohibit the use of Federal funds to carry out such a requirement, and to require the Secretary to protect information obtained as part of any voluntary animal identification system.

United States · United States Congress · 7 September 2006

Amends the Animal Health Protection Act to prohibit the Secretary of Agriculture from implementing or carrying out (and prohibits use of federal funds to implement or carry out) a National Animal Identification System or similar requirement that mandates the participation of livestock owners. Sets forth requirements governing disclosure of information obtained through a voluntary animal identification system established by the Secretary to identify and trace animals.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 560 (109th)passed

A resolution supporting efforts to increase childhood cancer awareness, treatment, and research.

United States · United States Congress · 7 September 2006

Calls for Congress to support: (1) efforts to promote awareness of cancer in children; (2) investment in childhood cancer research; (3) medical trainees and investigators in the field of pediatric oncology; (4) incentives to encourage the development of drugs and biologics designed to treat pediatric cancers; (5) policies that encourage participation in clinical trials; (6) medical education curricula designed to improve pain management for cancer patients; and (7) enhanced education, services, and other resources related to late effects from treatment.

Bill· SS. 3855 (109th)open

Emergency Farm Relief Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 6 September 2006

Emergency Farm Relief Act of 2006 - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to provide financial assistance for: (1) crop disaster assistance for qualifying quantity or quality losses for the 2005 or 2006 crop due to weather or related conditions (including disease, insects, and delayed harvest; (2) livestock assistance for 2005 and 2006 disaster-caused losses; (3) livestock indemnity payments for 2005 and 2006 disaster-caused losses (including wildfires, hurricanes, floods, and anthrax); (4) ewe lamb replacement and retention; (5) sugar beet disaster assistance for crop year 2005; (6) sugarcane growers in Hawaii through a payment to an agricultural transportation cooperative in Hawaii; (7) flooded crop and grazing land in the Devils Lake basin, the McHugh, Lake Laretta, and Rose Lake closed drainage areas, North Dakota; and (8) bovine tuberculosis indemnification. Directs the Secretary to provide financial assistance for: (1) state grants to promote agriculture; and (2) grants for value of production. Requires a recipient state to give priority for livestock and specialty crops. Directs the Secretary to make supplemental economic loss payments to: (1) producers on a farm who received a crop year 2005 direct payment; and (2) dairy producers eligible to receive a 2005 national dairy market loss payment. Directs the Secretary to make grants to state agriculture departments or comparable agencies in qualified states for direct economic loss payments to eligible small businesses. Directs the Secretary to use specified funds to: (1) carry out emergency measures under the emergency watershed protection and emergency conservation programs; and (2) hire additional state and county Farm Service Agency personnel to expedite the delivery of agricultural disaster and economic assistance.

Bill· SS. 3824 (109th)referred

National Park System Uniform Penalty Amendment Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 August 2006

National Park System Uniform Penalty Amendment Act - Provides for uniform penalties, enforced by the Secretary of the Interior, for violations of certain rules and regulations relating to the National Park System which may occur at a park, site, monument, memorial, or an area that is part of such System.

Bill· SS. 3808 (109th)referred

Joshua Omvig Veterans Suicide Prevention Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 August 2006

Joshua Omvig Veterans Suicide Prevention Act - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to develop and implement a comprehensive program for reducing the incidence of suicide among veterans. Requires the program to include: (1) a national mental health campaign to increase mental health awareness in the veteran community; (2) mandatory training on suicide and suicide prevention for appropriate Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) employees and contractor personnel; (3) family education and peer support counseling; (4) veterans' health assessments, counseling, and access to mental health services; (5) suicide prevention counselors; (6) research on suicide prevention and on mental health of veterans who experienced sexual trauma; (7) 24-hour veterans' mental health care availability; and (8) a toll-free hotline. Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) suicide among veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a serious problem; and (2) the Secretary should take into consideration the special needs of veterans suffering from PTSD in developing and implementing the program.

Bill· SS. 3817 (109th)referred

Match Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 3 August 2006

Match Act of 2006 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow employers and other individuals maintaining a retirement savings plan for certain low and moderate income individuals ($50,000 adjusted gross income limit for taxpayers filing joint returns) an investment tax credit for matching contributions of the first $2,000 in contributions to such plans. Sets forth rules relating to limits on matching contributions, eligibility of participating individuals, tax treatment of matching contributions, and penalties for matching contributions made on behalf of ineligible individuals.

Bill· SS. 3771 (109th)open

Health Centers Renewal Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2006

Health Centers Renewal Act of 2006 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize appropriations for FY2007-FY2011 for health centers to meet the health care needs of medically underserved populations.

Bill· SS. 3711 (109th)open

Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 20 July 2006

Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act of 2006 - Instructs the Secretary of the Interior to offer the 181 Area and the 181 South Area for oil and gas leasing, notwithstanding their omission from the Outer Continental Shelf leasing program. Subjects the following areas to a moratorium upon oil and gas leasing (or any related activity): (1) any area east of the Military Mission Line in the Gulf of Mexico; (2) any area in the Eastern Planning Area that is within 125 miles of the Florida coastline; or (3) specified areas within the Central Planning Area and within 100 miles of the Florida coastline. Reserves to the United States the right to designate national defense areas on the Outer Continental Shelf. Directs the Secretary to permit any person who has entered into an oil or gas lease with the Secretary in any area described in this Act, as of the date of enactment of this Act, to exchange the lease for a bonus or royalty credit that may only be used in the Gulf of Mexico. Prescribes requirements for: (1) disposition of qualified Outer Continental Shelf revenues from the 181 Area, the 181 South Area, and the 2002-2007 planning areas of the Gulf of Mexico; (2) allocation among Gulf producing states and coastal political subdivisions; (3) historical lease sites; and (4) payments to coastal political subdivisions. Sets forth the authorized uses of amounts received by Gulf producing states and coastal political subdivisions, including for certain environmental protection projects and activities. Sets limitations upon the amount of distributed qualified Outer Continental Shelf Revenues.

Bill· SS. 3691 (109th)referred

Veterans Corporation Reauthorization Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2006

Veterans Corporation Reauthorization Act of 2006 - Amends the Small Business Act to make it the principal purpose of the Veterans Corporation to establish and maintain a national network of information and assistance centers for use by veterans and the public. Revises requirements for appointment of voting members of the Board of the Corporation. Shortens the term of appointment from six to four years. Provides for removal of a Board member deemed unable to fulfill his or her duties. Postpones from October 1, 2006, to October 1, 2009, the date upon which the Corporation shall assume the duties of the Advisory Committee on Veterans Affairs. Extends the authorization of appropriations. Revises grant matching requirements, establishing limitations on the Corporation's nonfederal sources of revenue. Directs the Corporation to develop and implement a plan to raise private funds and become a self-sustaining corporation within six months after enactment of this Act.

Bill· SS. 3681 (109th)referred

Agricultural Protection and Prosperity Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 18 July 2006

Agricultural Protection and Prosperity Act of 2006 - Amends the Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA) to: (1) include the definition of "manure"; and (2) exclude manure from the meaning of "hazardous substance" or "pollutant or contaminant" under that Act. Provides that such exclusion shall not: (1) impose liability under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-To-Know Act of 1986 with respect to manure; (2) affect any provision of the Air Quality Agreement entered into between the Administrator and operators of animal feeding operations; or (3) affect the applicability of any other environmental law as it relates to the definition of manure or the responsibilities or liabilities of any person regarding the treatment, storage, or disposal of manure. Amends the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986 to exempt releases associated with manure (as defined under CERCLA) from the emergency notification requirements under that Act.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 535 (109th)passed

A resolution commending the Patriot Guard Riders for shielding mourning military families from protesters and preserving the memory of fallen service members at funerals.

United States · United States Congress · 18 July 2006

Expresses appreciation to the Patriot Guard Riders who: (1) attend military funerals across the country to show respect for fallen members of the Armed Forces and, when needed, shield mourning family members and friends of the deceased from war protesters who interrupt, or threaten to interrupt, the dignity of a funeral; and (2) in so doing, help preserve the memory and dignity of the nation's fallen heroes.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 534 (109th)passed

A resolution condemning Hezbollah and Hamas and their state sponsors and supporting Israel's exercise of its right to self-defense.

United States · United States Congress · 18 July 2006

Reaffirms steadfast support for Israel. Supports Israel's right of self-defense and its right to take appropriate action to deter aggression by terrorist groups and their state sponsors. Urges the President to continue to fully support Israel in exercising its right of self-defense in Lebanon and Gaza. Calls for the immediate and unconditional release of Israeli soldiers held captive by Hezbollah or Hamas. Condemns the governments of Iran and Syria for their continued support for Hezbollah and Hamas and holds these governments responsible for the acts of aggression carried out by Hezbollah and Hamas against Israel. Condemns Hamas and Hezbollah for exploiting civilian populations as shields and locating their military activities in civilian areas. Urges the President to use all available political and diplomatic means, including sanctions, to persuade the governments of Syria and Iran to end their support of Hezbollah and Hamas. Calls on the government of Lebanon to do everything in its power to free the kidnapped Israeli soldiers held in Lebanon and to fulfill its responsibility under U.N. Security Council Resolution 1559 to disband and disarm Hezbollah. Calls on the Security Council to: (1) condemn these unprovoked acts; and (2) demand compliance with Resolution 1559, which requires that Hezbollah and other militias be disbanded and disarmed and that all foreign forces leave Lebanon. Urges all sides to protect innocent civilian life and infrastructure and strongly supports the use of all diplomatic means to free the captured Israeli soldiers. Recognizes that thousands of American nationals reside peacefully in Lebanon and that those American nationals in Lebanon concerned for their safety should receive full U.S. government assistance.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 531 (109th)referred

A resolution to urge the President to appoint a Presidential Special Envoy for Sudan.

United States · United States Congress · 14 July 2006

Commends the efforts of former Deputy Secretary of State Robert Zoellick in Darfur and the contributions of White House Policy Advisor Michael Gerson, Ambassador Cindy Courville, and Ambassador Michael Ranneberger. Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) the United States needs an individual of Ambassadorial rank and high stature to devote exclusive attention to Darfur and related issues concerning peace and stability in Sudan; (2) such individual should formulate and coordinate policy, lead negotiations, engage with parties to the conflict to monitor their compliance with the May 2006 Darfur Peace Agreement, gather donor resources, and ensure that this crisis remains a top U.S. government priority; and (3) the President should appoint a Presidential Special Envoy for Sudan with the rank of Ambassador and should provide not less than $250,000 to support the Presidential Special Envoy.

Bill· SS. 3633 (109th)referred

PUNT Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 2006

Protection against United Nations Taxation Act of 2006, the PUNT Act of 2006, or the Helms-Biden Reauthorization Act of 2006 - Requires the withholding of 20% of U.S. contributions to the regular budget of the United Nations (U.N.) and other applicable international organizations until the President certifies that neither the United Nations (or U.N. agencies) nor any other international organization has authority under U.S. law to impose, or has imposed or proposed, taxes or fees on the U.S. government, states, or U.S. corporations or nationals. States that such provision shall not apply to: (1) fees for publications or other fees that are not tantamount to a tax on U.S. citizens; (2) the World Intellectual Property Organization; or (3) staff assessment costs of the United Nations and its agencies.

Bill· SS. 3564 (109th)referred

Border Security First Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2006

Border Security First Act of 2006 - Sets forth border security and enforcement provisions, including provisions respecting: (1) personnel and asset increases and enhancements; (2) a National Strategy for Border Security; (3) improving Mexico's southern border security; (4) border security initiatives, including biometric data enhancements and a biometric entry-exit system, document integrity, and mandatory detention of aliens apprehended at or between ports of entry; and (5) National Guard deployment on the U.S. southern border. Border Tunnel Prevention Act - Provides criminal penalties for construction, financing, or use of illegal border tunnels or passages. Provides for: (1) the emergency deployment of additional Border Patrol agents; and (2) an increase in full-time agents. Border Law Enforcement Relief Act of 2006 - Authorizes a border relief grant program for a tribal, state, or local law enforcement agency in a county: (1) no more than 100 miles from a U.S. border with Canada or Mexico; or (2) more than 100 miles from any such border but which is a high impact area. Sets forth law enforcement provisions respecting: (1) reimbursement for state costs in processing illegal aliens; (2) expedited removal of criminal aliens; (3) increased federal detention space for aliens; (4) the Northern Border Prosecution Initiative; and (5) reimbursement of Southern Border State and county prosecutors for prosecuting federally initiated drug cases. Affirms state law enforcement authority to assist (including transfer to federal custody) the federal government in enforcing U.S. immigration laws during the normal course of law enforcement duties. Provides for related federal reimbursement of state costs. Border Infrastructure and Technology Modernization Act - Provides for: (1) a port of entry infrastructure assessment study; (2) a national land border security plan; (3) expansion of the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism programs along the northern and southern borders; and (4) a port of entry technology demonstration program. Provides for the implementation of programs to: (1) fully integrate and utilize aerial surveillance technologies, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs); (2) procure additional automated surveillance assets to achieve operational control of U.S. borders; and (3) achieve border security on certain federal land along the borders.

Bill· SS. 3548 (109th)referred

A bill to authorize appropriate action if negotiations with Japan to allow the resumption of United States beef exports are not successful, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2006

Directs: (1) the U.S. Trade Representative to certify to Congress by August 31, 2006, that Japan is no longer prohibiting the importation of U.S. beef; (2) the Secretary of the Treasury, if such certification is not made, to impose additional tariffs (which shall continue until the certification is submitted to Congress) on Japan by September 30, 2006; and (3) the Secretary of Agriculture to begin negotiations with Japan to end such beef import prohibitions.

Bill· SS. 3555 (109th)referred

VIP Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2006

Veterans Identity Protection Act or VIP Act - Establishes as an independent office in the executive branch the Office of Veterans Identity Protection Claims, headed by a Director, to receive, process, and pay claims for injuries suffered as a result of the unauthorized use, disclosure, or dissemination of identifying information stolen from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Authorizes judicial review of claim determinations.

Bill· SS. 3535 (109th)referred

Expanding American Homeownership Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2006

Expanding American Homeownership Act of 2006 - FHA Modernization Act of 2006 - Amends the National Housing Act to: (1) modify guidelines governing the maximum principal housing loan obligation; (2) extend the mortgage term to 40 years; and (3) revise requirements for cash payment by the mortgagor in the eligibility criteria for mortgage insurance. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to establish a mortgage insurance premium structure involving a single premium payment collected prior to the insurance of the mortgage that may vary during the mortgage term. Requires the Secretary to notify specified entities whenever the Secretary takes discretionary action to suspend or revoke approval of a mortgagee to participate in any mortgage insurance program. Permits the Secretary to insure any mortgage covering a one-family unit in a condominium project if the project has a certain blanket mortgage insured by the Secretary. Revises requirements for the Mutual Mortgage Insurance (MMI) Fund. Limits the Secretary's authority to enter into commitments for loan guarantees. Requires annual independent actuarial studies of the Fund. Declares that insurance of a Native Hawaiian or Indian reservation mortgage is the obligation of the MMI Fund (instead of the General Insurance Fund). Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) insure a home equity conversion mortgage for specified elderly mortgagors; and (2) enter into agreements to insure temporarily certain mortgages for a single family residence located within a presidentially declared major disaster area. Federal Housing Administration Manufactured Housing Loan Act of 2006 - Exempts a manufactured home (including its appurtenant lot) from the limitation placed upon federal insurance of financial institutions. Makes any mortgage insurance contract related to a manufactured housing loan conclusive evidence of the eligibility for such insurance of the financial institution involved. Authorizes the Secretary to establish a mortgage insurance single premium structure for manufactured homes. Increases the maximum dollar amounts of loan limits.

Bill· SS. 3478 (109th)referred

Easement Owners Fair Compensation Claims Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2006

Easement Owners Fair Compensation Claims Act of 2006 - Prescribes the time for filing suit by the owner of property subject to an interim use of railroad right-of-way for damage claims brought against the United States.

Resolution· SCONRESS.Con.Res. 97 (109th)referred

A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of Congress that it is the goal of the United States that, not later than January 1, 2025, the agricultural, forestry, and working land of the United States should provide from renewable resources not less than 25 percent of the total energy consumed in the United States and continue to produce safe, abundant, and affordable food, feed, and fiber.

United States · United States Congress · 7 June 2006

Expresses the sense of Congress that it is the goal of the United States that by January 1, 2025, U.S. agricultural, forestry, and working land should provide from renewable resources not less than 25% of the total U.S. energy consumption and continue to produce safe, abundant, and affordable food, feed, and fiber.

Bill· SS. 3454 (109th)referred

Independent Health Record Bank Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 6 June 2006

Independent Health Record Bank Act of 2006 - Requires the Secretary of Commerce to prescribe standards for the establishment and certification of independent health record banks to store individual electronic health records. Gives an individual ownership over his/her entire health record with the right to review its contents at any time during normal business hours. Allows a bank to generate revenue through the sale of nonidentifiable and partially identifiable health information contained in the bank for research purposes, but requires that such revenue be shared with account holders and allows such revenue to be shared with health care providers and payers. Excludes any such revenue from the gross income of the bank, account holder, or health care provider or payer. Requires prior authorization by an individual before access can be given to his/her electronic health record. Permits access to a limited, authenticated data set concerning an individual for emergency response purposes without the individual's prior consent. Requires each state with a record bank operating in the state to designate a state agency to be responsible for addressing complaints. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Under Secretary for Technology or other appropriate official, to: (1) develop a program to certify entities to operate independent health record banks; and (2) establish an interagency council to develop standards for federal security auditing for entities operating banks. Imposes fines and/or imprisonment for the wrongful disclosure of information collected, maintained, or made available by a record bank. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish an independent health record bank account investment credit for amounts paid by an employer towards the maintenance of an employee's record bank account.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 500 (109th)passed

A resolution expressing the sense of Congress that the Russian Federation should fully protect the freedoms of all religious communities without distinction, whether registered or unregistered, as stipulated by the Russian Constitution and international standards.

United States · United States Congress · 6 June 2006

Expresses the sense of Congress that the United States should: (1) urge the government of the Russian Federation to ensure full protection of freedoms for all religious communities and end the harassment of unregistered religious groups; (2) urge vigorous investigation and prosecution of criminal acts against registered and unregistered religious communities; (3) continue to raise concerns with the government of the Russian Federation over violations of religious freedom; (4) ensure that U.S. Embassy officials engage local officials throughout the Russian Federation and undertake outreach activities; (5) urge the government of the Russian Federation to invite representatives of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief to visit the Russian Federation and discuss issues relating to freedom of religion; and (6) urge the Council of Europe and other members of the G-8 to raise such issues with Russian officials in the context of the presidency of the council and membership in the G-8.

Bill· SS. 3122 (109th)referred

Patriot Loan Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2006

Patriot Loan Act of 2006 - Amends the Small Business Act to increase from $1.5 million to $2 million the loan limit that may be made to a small businesses that has suffered or is likely to suffer substantial economic injury as a result of an essential employee being ordered to active military duty during a period of military conflict. Limits to $25,000 any such loan that is made without collateral. Directs the Administrator of the Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Secretary of Defense to: (1) develop a joint website and printed material providing information on such loan program; and (2) conduct a joint study on the feasibility of creating a business mobilization and interruption insurance program and a debt insurance program for mobilized Guard and reserve personnel who own or operate small businesses.

Bill· SS. 3055 (109th)referred

Family-Based Meth Treatment Access Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2006

Family-Based Meth Treatment Access Act of 2006 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to expand the grant program to provide residential substance abuse treatment to pregnant and postpartum women to include: (1) parenting women substance abuse treatment (including treatment for addiction to methamphetamine); and (2) outpatient treatment services. Requires that such treatment programs be accessible to pregnant and parenting women in health disparity populations. Gives priority in awarding grants to any entity that agrees to use the award for programs serving: (1) an area that is a rural area, an area with a shortage of mental health professionals, or an area with a shortage of family-based substance abuse treatment options; or (2) an area that has high rates of addiction to methamphetamine or other drugs. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Administrator of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, to award grants, cooperative agreements, or contracts for the purpose of assisting local jails and detention facilities in providing comprehensive, family-based substance abuse treatment services to pregnant and parenting adults who are considered nonviolent offenders. Sets forth criteria that must be met if such a grant is used for a family drug treatment program that is an alternative to incarceration.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 495 (109th)passed

A resolution designating June 8, 2006, as the day of a National Vigil for Lost Promise.

United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2006

Designates June 8, 2006, as the day of a National Vigil for Lost Promise. Encourages: (1) young people to choose to live a drug-free life; (2) people to work to stop drug abuse before it starts and remain vigilant against the far reaching loss of promise caused by deaths from drug abuse; and (3) U.S. citizens to remember on such day the lost promise of youth caused by drug abuse.

Bill· SS. 2990 (109th)referred

Medicare Teaching Anesthesiology Funding Restoration Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 23 May 2006

Medicare Teaching Anesthesiology Funding Restoration Act of 2006 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act with respect to part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) to set forth a special payment rule of 100% of the fee schedule amount for teaching anesthesiologists involved in the training of physician residents, if certain presence and availability requirements are met.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 489 (109th)passed

A resolution relative to the death of Lloyd Bentsen, distinguished member of the United States Senate.

United States · United States Congress · 23 May 2006

Declares that the Senate honors the life and legacy of the Honorable Lloyd Bentsen, a former member of the United States Senate. Extends its warmest sympathies to his family members and friends. Declares that when the Senate adjourns on May 23, 2006, it stand adjourned as a further mark of respect to the memory of Senator Bentsen.

Bill· SS. 2810 (109th)open

Medicare Late Enrollment Assistance Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 16 May 2006

Medicare Late Enrollment Assistance Act of 2006 - Amends part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to eliminate months in 2006 from the calculation of any late enrollment penalty under Medicare part D. Makes appropriations to the Secretary of Health and Human Services for FY2007 to: (1) make grants to states for state health insurance counseling programs receiving assistance under the Omnibus Reconciliation Act of 1990; and (2) enable the Assistant Secretary on Aging to provide grants to states for area agencies on aging to provide eligible Medicare beneficiaries with Medicare benefits information. Amends SSA title XVIII to set additional limitations on the total amount of expenditures from the Medicare Advantage Regional Plan Stabilization Fund for periods prior to October 1, 2007, and between October 1, 2007, and September 30, 2011.

Law· SS. 2784 (109th)enacted

Fourteenth Dalai Lama Congressional Gold Medal Act

United States · United States Congress · 11 May 2006

The Fourteenth Dalai Lama Congressional Gold Medal Act - Directs the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President pro Tempore of the Senate to make appropriate arrangements for the presentation, on behalf of Congress, of a gold medal of appropriate design to Tenzin Gyatso, the Fourteenth Dalai Lama, in recognition of his many contributions to peace and religious understanding.

Bill· SS. 2791 (109th)open

A bill to amend title 46 and 49, United States Code, to provide improved maritime, rail, and public transportation security, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 11 May 2006

Public Transportation Terrorism Prevention Act of 2006 - Requires the Department of Transportation's (DOT) Federal Transit Administration to submit all public transportation security assessments to the Secretary of Homeland Security to review and augment such assessments. Requires the Secretary to: (1) establish and update annually security improvement priorities; (2) conduct security assessments of all public transportation agencies considered to be at greatest risk of a terrorist attack; (3) conduct security assessments to determine the specific needs of local bus-only public transportation systems and of selected rural transportation systems; and (4) use information collected to establish the process for developing security guidelines. Directs the Secretary to award grants: (1) directly to public transportation agencies for allowable capital security improvements; and (2) to public or private entities to conduct research into, and demonstrate, methods to reduce and deter terrorist threats or mitigate damages resulting from terrorist attacks against public transportation systems. Directs the Secretary to: (1) ensure that DOT receives timely notification of all credible terrorist threats against U.S. public transportation assets; and (2) award grants for research, development, and demonstration of technologies and methods to reduce and deter terrorist threats or mitigate damages resulting from such attacks. Rail Security Act of 2006 - Directs the Secretary to establish a task force to complete, and make prioritized recommendations regarding, a vulnerability and risk assessment of freight and passenger rail transportation for identification of: (1) critical assets and infrastructures, and vulnerabilities and risks, to such assets and infrastructures; (2) vulnerabilities and risks specific to the transportation of hazardous materials via railroad; and (3) security weaknesses in passenger and cargo security, transportation infrastructure, protection systems, procedural policies, communications systems, employee training, emergency response planning, and any other area. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants for certain system-wide Amtrak security upgrades. Directs the Secretary to require rail carriers transporting high hazardous materials to develop high hazard material security threat mitigation plans containing appropriate measures (including alternative routing and temporary shipment suspension options) to address assessed risks to high consequence targets. Maritime Security Improvement Act of 2006 - Establishes interagency operational centers to provide greater protection against terrorism at high priority ports. Directs the Secretary to identify foreign assistance programs that could facilitate implementation of port security antiterrorism measures in foreign countries.

Bill· SS. 2782 (109th)referred

National Institute of Food and Agriculture Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 10 May 2006

National Institute of Food and Agriculture Act of 2006 - Establishes within the Department of Agriculture the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, which shall be an agency composed of a Director (who shall be a scientist) and a Standing Council of Advisors. Authorizes the Director to establish standing committees. Requires the Director to establish: (1) an Office of Advanced Science and Application which shall monitor national needs and advances in research to identify problems for which solutions are realistically achievable through research; (2) an Office of Scientific Assessment and Liaison which shall monitor programs and expenditures; (3) an Office of Scientific Personnel which shall assess the number of, and need for additional, agricultural scientists in the United States. Directs the Institute to provide grants to support and promote the highest quality of fundamental agricultural research, including grants to fund research proposals submitted by: (1) individual scientists; (2) research centers composed of a single institution or multiple institutions; and (3) other individuals and entities from the private and public sectors, including Department and other federal researchers.