United States · United States Congress · 18 September 2000
Amends the District of Columbia Home Rule Act to require the District of Columbia government performance and accountability plan to be submitted concurrently with the submission of the District's budget to Congress, beginning with 2001. (Currently, such plan is required to be submitted no later than March 1 of each year, beginning with 1998.)
United States · United States Congress · 13 September 2000
Privacy Commission Act - Establishes the Commission for the Comprehensive Study of Privacy Protection to study and report to Congress and the President on issues relating to protection of individual privacy and the appropriate balance to be achieved between protecting such privacy and allowing appropriate uses of information, including: (1) the monitoring, collection, and distribution of personal information by the government and by individuals or entities; and (2) privacy protection efforts of the public and private sectors.
United States · United States Congress · 7 September 2000
Radio Broadcasting Preservation Act of 2000 - Directs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to modify its rules authorizing the operation of low-power FM radio stations to: (1) prescribe minimum distance separations for third-adjacent channels (as well as co-channels and first- and second-adjacent channels); and (2) prohibit any applicant from obtaining a low-power FM license if such applicant has engaged in the unlicensed operation of any radio station in violation of FCC radio licensing requirements. Prohibits the FCC, without specific authorization by Congress, from: (1) eliminating or reducing such minimum distance separations for third-adjacent channels; or (2) extending the eligibility for low-power FM stations beyond those organizations and entities proposed in MM Docket No. 99-25. Invalidates any previously issued low-power FM station license that does not comply with such rule modifications. Directs the FCC to conduct an experimental program to test whether low- power FM stations will result in harmful interference to existing FM radio stations if such stations are not subject to the minimum distance separation requirements. Requires the FCC to: (1) publish test results and allow an opportunity for public comment; and (2) report test results and FCC recommendations on reducing or eliminating minimum distance standards to specified congressional committees.
United States · United States Congress · 27 July 2000
Amends Internal Revenue Code provisions concerning designated settlement funds to exempt from tax any designated settlement fund established for the principal purpose of resolving and satisfying present and future claims relating to asbestos. Sets forth special rules concerning asbestos liability losses.
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2000
Medicare Geographic Fair Payment Act of 2000 - Amends part C (Medicare+Choice) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to increase the annual minimum Medicare+Choice capitation rates for 2001: (1) to $525 for any area in any Metropolitan Statistical Area with a population over 250,000; and (2) to $475 for any area outside such an area. Amends SSA title XVIII with regard to payment to hospitals for inpatient hospital services to require (except in the case of hospitals in Puerto Rico) that the actual proportion of a hospital's costs attributable to wages and wage-related costs be wage-adjusted based on the most recent available data.
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2000
Middle East Peace Process Support Act - Prohibits U.S. assistance to any unilaterally-declared Palestinian state. Directs the President to instruct the U.S. Representative to the United Nations to oppose admission to the United Nations of a unilaterally-declared Palestinian state or formal recognition by the United Nations of such a state.
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2000
Early Learning Opportunities Act - Provides funds for increasing: (1) availability of early learning programs; and (2) compensation for child care providers. Declares that no person, including a parent, shall be required to participate in any program of early childhood education, early learning, parent education, or developmental screening under this Act. Declares that nothing in this Act shall be construed to affect the rights of parents otherwise established in Federal, State, or local law. Declares that no entity receiving funds under this Act shall be required to provide services under this Act through a particular instructional method or in a particular instructional setting. Authorizes appropriations to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Directs the Secretary of HHS (the Secretary) and the Secretary of Education to develop mechanisms to resolve administrative and programmatic conflicts between Federal programs that would be a barrier to parents, caregivers, service providers, or children related to the coordination of services and funding for early learning programs. Requires nonrestrictive use of equipment and supplies for collaborative activities funded under this Act and other law providing for Federal child care or early learning programs. Directs the Secretary to award grants to States to award subgrants to Local Councils to pay the Federal share of the cost of carrying out early learning programs in the locality served by the Local Council. Sets forth requirements for: (1) non-Federal share; (2) uses of funds; (3) duties of Lead State Agencies and of Local Councils; (4) reservations of funds for Indian tribes, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians; (5) State allotments based on numbers of children age four and younger and of such children in families below the poverty line; (6) Federal and State grant administration; (7) State eligibility and preferences for Local Councils, and Local Council preferences for projects; (8) performance goals; and (9) local allocations, applications, and administration.
United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2000
Declares that: (1) the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President pro tempore of the Senate shall establish a special task force to study the history and contributions of African American slave laborers in the construction of the U.S. Capitol; and (2) such task force shall recommend an appropriate recognition for them which could be displayed in a prominent location in the U.S. Capitol.
United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2000
Medicare Prescription Drug and Modernization Act of 2000 - Title I: Medicare Management and Administration - Subtitle A: Establishment of the Competitive Medicare Agency - Amends the Social Security Act (SSA) to add a new title XXII (Medicare Competition and Prescription Drugs) to establish, as an independent agency in the executive branch, a Medicare Competition Agency, headed by a Commissioner, to administer the Medicare Prescription Drug and Supplemental Benefit Program (program) under part B (established by title II of this Act) and the Medicare+Choice program under part C (Medicare+Choice) of SSA title XVIII (Medicare). (Sec. 101) Establishes a Medicare Competition and Prescription Drug Advisory Board. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 102) Amends SSA title XVIII to make the Commissioner a member of the Board of Trustees of the Medicare trust funds. (Sec. 103) Amends Federal civil service law to provide for a salary increase for the Administrator of the Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA). Subtitle B: Redefined Medicare Solvency Measures - Amends SSA title XVIII to require the Board of Trustees to make a separate annual report on the operation and status of the Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund under Medicare part A (Hospital Insurance) and on the Federal Supplementary Medical Insurance Trust Fund under Medicare part B (Supplementary Insurance), including the Medicare Prescription Drug Account (created by title II of this Act) within it. (Sec. 151) Expresses the sense of Congress that the committees of jurisdiction shall hold hearings on such reports. Title II: Medicare Prescription Drug and Supplemental Benefit Program - Amends SSA title XXII to add a new part B (Medicare Prescription Drug and Supplemental Benefit Program) requiring the Commissioner to establish the Medicare Prescription Drug and Supplemental Benefit Program under which an eligible beneficiary may voluntarily enroll in, and receive access to covered outpatient prescription drugs and other benefits through, a Medicare Prescription Plus plan (plan) offered by a private entity or by a Medicare+Choice plan. Makes the costs of providing program benefits payable from the Medicare Prescription Drug Account. (Sec. 201) Outlines program procedures, including procedures for: (1) enrollment; (2) a Commissioner study and report to Congress on permitting individuals enrolled under Medicare part B but not entitled to benefits under Medicare part A to buy into the program; (3) plan election; (4) beneficiary outreach; (5) application of Medicare+Choice secondary payor requirements to the program in the same manner as they apply under the Medicare+Choice program; (5) alternative coverage requirements; (6) access to negotiated prices; (7) actuarial valuation and determination of annual percentage increases; (8) beneficiary protections, including grievance resolution; (9) requirements for entities offering plans, including licensure; (10) submission and approval of plans; (11) payments to plans for benefits; (12) computation and collection of beneficiary share of premium; (13) additional prescription drug subsidies through reinsurance; (14) plan fees for administrative costs; and (15) creation and use of the Medicare Prescription Drug Account. (Sec. 202) Revises requirements for the Federal Supplementary Medical Insurance Trust Fund to comply with this Act. (Sec. 203) Amends SSA title XVIII part C to prohibit a Medicare+Choice organization from offering prescription drug coverage to a Medicare+Choice plan enrollee unless such drug coverage is at least qualified prescription drug coverage under this Act, and unless specified requirements for such coverage are met. (Sec. 204) Amends SSA title XIX (Medicaid) to require a State, as a condition for receiving Federal financial assistance for its Medicaid plan, to make Medicare prescription drug benefit eligibility determinations for low-income premium and cost-sharing subsidies. Mandates specified increases in applicable Federal matching rates for State expenditures for additional administrative costs. Provides for phased-in Federal assumption of Medicaid prescription drug costs in the case of an individual dually entitled to qualified prescription drug coverage under a Medicaid plan or under a Medicare+Choice plan under Medicare part C. (Sec. 205) Prohibits any new Medigap policy covering prescription drugs from being issued, on or after January 1, 2003, to an individual unless it replaces a Medigap policy that was issued to that individual and that provided some coverage of expenses for prescription drugs. Prohibits the issuer of a Medigap policy from denying or conditioning Medigap coverage for an individual who terminates certain kinds of Medigap policies and applies for certain other kinds. Amends SSA title XVIII (Medicare) to establish Medigap protections for individuals who lose Medicare prescription plus plan coverage. (Sec. 206) Directs the Comptroller General to study and report to Congress on the extent to which reimbursement for drugs and biologicals under the current Medicare payment methodology overpays for the cost of such drugs and biologicals compared to the average acquisition cost paid by physicians or other drug suppliers. Title III: Medicare+Choice Reforms - Amends Medicare part C with respect to: (1) increasing in national per capita Medicare+Choice growth percentage in 2001 and 2002; (2) removing application of budget neutrality beginning in 2002; (3) payments to Medicare+Choice organizations based on risk-adjusted bids; (4) premium reduction and Medicare+Choice monthly supplemental beneficiary premium; (5) rules relating to premiums owed by Medicare+Choice enrollees; (6) allowing plans to include described reductions and other benefits in their basic benefits; (7) a special rule for end-stage renal disease; (8) information comparing plan premiums; (9) national coverage determinations; (10) disclosure requirements; (11) geographic adjustment; (12) Medicare+Choice monthly basic beneficiary premium; (13) a freeze of the health risk adjuster at 20 percent after 2002; and (14) adjustment in payment to include the Commissioner's estimate of the amount of additional payments that would have been made in the area involved if individuals entitled to Medicare+Choice benefits had not received services from facilities of the Departments of Veterans Affairs or of Defense for purposes of calculating annual Medicare+Choice capitation rates. Title IV: Medicare Beneficiary Outreach and Education - Amends SSA title XXII to add a new part C (Medicare Consumer Coalitions) authorizing the Commissioner of the Competitive Medicare Agency to establish Medicare Consumer Coalitions to conduct information programs comparing the original Medicare fee-for-service program, available Medicare+Choice plans, and available Medicare Prescription Plus plans. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2000
Water Resources Development Act of 2000 - Title I: Water Resources Projects - Authorizes the Secretary of the Army (Secretary) to carry out: (1) a specified project for navigation, New York-New Jersey Harbor; and (2) specified water resources projects (subject to completion of a favorable final report of the Chief of Engineers by December 31, 2000) in Alaska, Arizona, California, Florida, Hawaii, Indiana and Kentucky, Louisiana to the Gulf of Mexico, New Jersey, Tennessee, and Wyoming and on the Ohio River. (Sec. 102) Directs the Secretary to conduct a study of, and authorizes the Secretary, if the Secretary determines that a project is feasible, to authorize the Secretary to carry out, a project, for: (1) beach restoration and protection at Lake Palourde and St. Bernard, Louisiana; (2) navigation at Houma Navigation Canal and Vidalia Port, Louisiana; (3) removal of snags and clearing and straightening of channels for flood control at Bayou Manchac and Black Bayou and Hippolyte Coulee, Louisiana; (4) emergency streambank protection at specified locations in Louisiana; (5) flood damage reduction or control at various locations in Idaho, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee; and (6) improvement of the quality of the environment at various locations in Louisiana and Ohio. (Sec. 108) Authorizes the Secretary to carry out projects regarding: (1) beneficial uses of dredged material at specified locations in Louisiana and Ohio; and (2) aquatic ecosystem restoration at specified locations in Louisiana, New Hampshire, Ohio, and Oregon. (Sec. 110) Amends the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 1999 to: (1) include Perry Creek, Iowa, among appropriate locations to be examined with respect to the flood mitigation and riverine restoration program; and (2) authorize the Secretary to design and construct a shore protection project at Fort Canby State Park, Benson Beach, Washington, including beneficial use of dredged material from Federal navigation projects. Title II: General Provisions - Modifies provisions of the Flood Control Act of 1970 regarding water resources projects to provide that an agreement entered into by a State may reflect that it does not obligate future appropriations (currently, future State legislative appropriations) for performance and payment when obligating future appropriations would be inconsistent with State constitutional or statutory limitations of the State or a body politic of the State. (Sec. 202) Amends the WRDA of 1986 to remove provisions authorizing a study of water resources needs of river basins and regions. Authorizes the Secretary to assess the water resources needs of river basins and watersheds of the United States, including needs relating to: (1) ecosystem protection and restoration; (2) flood damage reduction; (3) navigation and ports; (4) watershed protection; (5) water supply; and (6) drought preparedness. Directs the Secretary, in selecting river basins and watersheds for assessment, to give priority to the Delaware River basin. Authorizes the Secretary to accept contributions from Federal, tribal, State, interstate, and local governmental entities to the extent that such contributions will facilitate completion of the assessment. Sets forth cost-sharing requirements. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 203) Authorizes the Secretary to study and determine the feasibility of carrying out water resources development projects that: (1) will substantially benefit Indian tribes; and (2) are located primarily within Indian country or in proximity to Alaska Native villages. Requires the Secretary to: (1) consult with the Secretary of the Interior concerning such studies; (2) integrate civil works activities of the Department of the Army (the Department) with activities of the Department of the Interior; and (3) consider the authorities and programs of the Department of the Interior and other Federal agencies in any recommendations concerning carrying out projects studied. Sets forth provisions regarding priority projects and cost sharing. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 204) Amends the WRDA of 1986 to make any cost-sharing agreement for a feasibility study, or for construction of an environmental protection and restoration project (currently limited to flood control or agricultural water supply projects), subject to the ability of the non-Federal interest to pay. Modifies provisions regarding determination of the ability of a non-Federal interest to pay. Directs the Secretary to promulgate revised criteria and procedures governing such ability within 18 months. Authorizes the Secretary, in revising criteria, to consider criteria relating to: (1) the financial ability of the non-Federal interest to carry out its cost-sharing responsibilities; or (2) additional assistance that may be available from other Federal or State sources. (Sec. 205) Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) carry out a program to reduce vandalism and destruction of property at water resources development projects under the jurisdiction of the Department, including by providing rewards to individuals who furnish information or evidence leading to the arrest and prosecution of individuals causing damage to Federal property; and (2) participate in the National Recreation Reservation Service on an interagency basis and pay the Department's share of activities required to implement, operate, and maintain the Service. (Sec. 207) Amends the WRDA of 1990 to: (1) provide that activities currently performed by personnel under the direction of the Secretary in connection with the operation and maintenance of hydroelectric power generating facilities at Corps of Engineers water resources projects are to be considered as inherently governmental functions and not commercial activities (current law) in cases in which the activities require specialized training relating to hydroelectric power generation; and (2) double the amount authorized to be appropriated for interagency and international support to address problems of national significance to the United States. (Sec. 209) Authorizes the Secretary, in consultation with affected Indian tribes, to identify and set aside areas at Department civil works projects that may be used to re-bury Native American remains that have been: (1) discovered on project land; and (2) rightfully claimed by a lineal descendant or Indian tribe in accordance with applicable Federal law. Permits the Secretary, in consultation with and with the consent of the lineal descendant or the affected tribe, to recover and re-bury, at full Federal expense, the remains at the areas identified and set aside. Authorizes the Secretary to convey to a tribe for use as a cemetery an area at a civil works project that is so identified and set aside. Directs the Secretary to retain any right-of-way, easement, or other property interest that the Secretary determines to be necessary to carry out the authorized purposes of the project. (Sec. 210) Amends the river and harbor Act of March 3, 1899, to provide that the approval required of the location and plans, or any modification of plans, of any dam or dike applies only to a dam or dike that, if constructed, would completely span a waterway used to transport interstate or foreign commerce in such a manner that actual, existing interstate or foreign commerce could be adversely affected. Specifies that any other dam or dike that is proposed to be built in any other navigable water of the United States shall not be subject to the approval requirements of this section. (Sec. 211) Rewrites provisions of the WRDA of 1986 regarding project deauthorizations to direct the Secretary to annually submit to Congress a list of projects and separable elements thereof (projects) that are authorized for construction and for which no Federal funds were obligated for construction during the four preceding fiscal years. Directs that any water resources project authorized for construction be deauthorized effective at the end of the seven-year period beginning on the date of the most recent authorization or reauthorization of the project unless Federal funds have been obligated for construction by the end of that period. Directs the Secretary to submit to Congress annually a list of authorized projects for which no Federal funds have been obligated for construction and for which no Federal funds have been obligated for construction of the project during the two full fiscal years preceding the date of submission of the list. Directs that any water resources project for which Federal funds have been obligated for construction be deauthorized effective at the end of any five-fiscal year period during which Federal funds specifically identified for construction of the project have not been obligated for construction. Defines "construction" and "physical work under a construction contract." Directs the Secretary: (1) upon submission of the lists, to notify each Senator in whose State, and each Member of the House of Representatives in whose district, the affected project is or would be located; and (2) to publish annually in the Federal Register a list of all projects deauthorized under this section. (Sec. 212) Amends the WRDA to: (1) require that guidelines for preparation of flood plain management plans by non-Federal interests address potential measures, practices, and policies (current law) that non-Federal interests shall adopt and enforce to reduce loss of life, injuries, and specified other adverse impacts and to preserve and enhance natural flood plain values; and (2) require non-Federal interests to take measures to preserve the level of flood protection provided by such a project. Makes this section applicable to any project with respect to which the Secretary and the non-Federal interest have not entered a project cooperation agreement on or before the date of this Act's enactment. (Sec. 213) Amends the WRDA of 1990 to provide that, with respect to environmental dredging projects, a non-Federal sponsor may include a nonprofit entity, with the consent of the affected local government. Title III: Project-Related Provisions - Directs the Secretary to credit toward the non-Federal share of the costs of the study to determine the feasibility of the reservoir and associated improvements in the vicinity of Boydsville, Arkansas, authorized by the WRDA of 1999, not more than $250,000 of the costs of the relevant planning and engineering investigations carried out by State and local agencies if the Secretary finds that the investigations are integral to the scope of the feasibility study. (Sec. 302) Amends the WRDA of 1999 regarding the White River Basin project, Arkansas and Missouri, to authorize the Secretary to reallocate the amounts of project storage that are recommended by the report to Congress. Prohibits obligating funds to carry out work unless it does not significantly impact other authorized project purposes. Extends the deadline for submission of the report until July 30, 2002. Requires the report to include determinations concerning whether project storage should be reallocated to sustain the tail water trout fisheries. (Sec. 303) Modifies the project for shore protection, Gasparilla and Estero Island segments, Lee County, Florida, to authorize the Secretary to enter into agreement with the non-Federal interest to carry out the project in accordance with provisions of the WRDA of 1992 if the Secretary determines that the project is technically sound, environmentally acceptable, and economically justified. (Sec. 304) Directs the Secretary to carry out planning, engineering, and design of an adaptive ecosystem restoration, flood damage reduction, and erosion protection project along the upper Snake River within and adjacent to the Fort Hall Indian Reservation, Idaho, provided that the Shoshone-Bannock Indian Tribe provide land, easements, and rights-of-way necessary for implementation of the project. Authorizes the Secretary to construct and adaptively manage for ten years, at full Federal expense, a project if the Secretary determines that the project: (1) is a cost-effective means of providing ecosystem restoration, flood damage reduction, and erosion protection; (2) is environmentally acceptable and technically feasible; and (3) will improve the economic and social conditions of the Shoshone-Bannock Indian Tribe. (Sec. 305) Directs the Secretary to credit toward the non-Federal share of the costs of the study to determine the feasibility of improvements to the upper Des Plaines River and tributaries, phase 2, Illinois and Wisconsin, authorized by the WRDA of 1999, the costs of work carried out by the non-Federal interests in Lake County, Illinois, before the date of execution of the feasibility study cost-sharing agreement, if: (1) the Secretary and the non-Federal interests enter into a feasibility study cost-sharing agreement; and (2) the Secretary finds that the work is integral to the scope of the study. (Sec. 306) Directs the Secretary to credit toward the non-Federal share of the project costs of the Mississippi River and tributaries, Morganza, Louisiana, to the Gulf of Mexico project the cost of any work carried out by the non-Federal interests for interim flood protection after March 31, 1989, if the Secretary finds that the work is compatible with, and integral to, the project. (Sec. 307) Modifies the project for mitigation of fish and wildlife losses, Red River Waterway, Louisiana, to authorize the purchase of mitigation land from willing sellers in any of the parishes that comprise the Red River Waterway District. (Sec. 308) Authorizes the Secretary to provide design and construction assistance for recreational facilities in the State of Maryland at the William Jennings Randolph Lake (Bloomington Dam), Maryland and West Virginia, project. Directs the Secretary to require the non-Federal interest to provide 50 percent of the costs of designing and constructing the recreational facilities. (Sec. 309) Authorizes the project for navigation, New Madrid County Harbor, Missouri. (Sec. 310) Directs the Secretary, regarding the project for navigation, Pemiscot County Harbor, Missouri, to provide credit to the Pemiscot County Port Authority, or an agent of the Authority, for costs incurred by the Authority or agent in carrying out construction work for the project after December 31, 1997, if the Secretary finds that the construction work is integral to the project. (Sec. 311) Provides for an exchange between the United States and S.S.S., Inc., of lands located in Pike County, Missouri, subject to specified conditions. (Sec. 312) Directs the Secretary to carry out a project at Fort Peck Lake, Montana, for the design and construction of a fish hatchery and such associated facilities as are necessary to sustain a multi-species fishery. Sets forth cost sharing provisions. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 313) Authorizes the Secretary to carry out: (1) dredging of Mines Falls Park, New Hampshire (and authorizes appropriations); and (2) maintenance dredging of the Sagamore Creek Channel, New Hampshire. (Sec. 315) Modifies the project for flood control, Passaic River, New Jersey and New York, to emphasize non-structural approaches for flood control as alternatives to the construction of the Passaic River tunnel element, while maintaining the integrity of other separable mainstream project elements, wetland banks, and other independent projects that were authorized to be carried out in the Passaic River Basin before this Act's enactment date. Directs the Secretary to review: (1) the Passaic River Floodway Buyout Study, dated October 1995, to calculate the benefits of a buyout and environmental restoration using a specified method used to calculate the benefits of structural projects under the WRDA of 1990; and (2) the Passaic River Buyout Study of the ten-year floodplain beyond the floodway of the Central Passaic River Basin, dated September 1995, to calculate the benefits of a buyout and environmental restoration using such method. Requires the Secretary: (1) to reevaluate the acquisition, from willing sellers, for flood protection purposes, of wetlands in the Central Passaic River Basin to supplement a wetland acquisition authorized by the WRDA of 1990; and (2) upon determining that the acquisition is cost-effective, to purchase the wetlands, with the goal of purchasing not more than 8,200 acres. Directs the Secretary to review relevant reports and conduct a study to determine the feasibility of carrying out a project for environmental restoration, erosion control, and streambank restoration along the Passaic River from Dundee Dam to Kearny Point, New Jersey. Directs the Secretary to establish the Passaic River Flood Management Task Force to provide advice to the Secretary concerning all aspects of the Passaic River flood management project. Requires the task force to submit annually to the Secretary and to the non-Federal interest a report describing the achievements of the project in preventing flooding and any impediments to completion of the project. Amends provisions of the WRDA of 1986 regarding the Passaic River Basin to direct the Secretary to carry out such provisions in a manner that is consistent with New Jersey's Blue Acres Program. Authorizes the Secretary to study the feasibility of conserving land in the Highlands region of New Jersey and New York to provide additional flood protection for residents of the Passaic River Basin. Prohibits the Secretary from obligating any funds to carry out design or construction of the tunnel element of the Passaic River flood control project. (Sec. 316) Modifies the project for shoreline protection, Rockaway Inlet to Norton Point (Coney Island Area), New York, to authorize the Secretary to construct T-groins to improve sand retention down drift. Specifies the Federal and non-Federal share. (Sec. 317) Extinguishes the reversionary interests and use restrictions relating to port or industrial purposes with respect to specified deeds on properties located on the John Day Pool in Oregon and Washington. Extinguishes the human habitation or other building structure use restriction in each area where the elevation is above the standard project flood elevation. Authorizes the use of fill material to raise low areas above the standard project flood elevation, except in any low area constituting wetland for which a permit under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act would be required. (Sec. 318) Amends the WRDA of 1999 to require that the non-Federal interest for the Fox Point Hurricane Barrier project, Providence, Rhode Island, receive credit toward the non-Federal share of project costs, or reimbursement, for the Federal share of the costs of repairs authorized that are incurred by the non-Federal interest before the date of execution of the project cooperation agreement. (Sec. 319) Requires that: (1) the Secretary enter into an agreement for the city of Grand Prairie, Texas, to assume all responsibilities of the Trinity River Authority under a specified contract, other than financial responsibilities, except that the Authority shall be relieved of all financial responsibilities under the contract as of the date on which the Secretary enters into the agreement with the city; (2) the city pay the Federal Government $4,290,000 in two installments in consideration of the agreement; and (3) the agreement include a provision requiring the city to assume responsibility for all costs associated with operation and maintenance of the recreation facilities included in the contract. (Sec. 320) Authorizes the Secretary to participate in critical restoration projects in the Lake Champlain watershed, New York and Vermont. Sets forth provisions regarding the types of projects eligible for assistance, a public ownership requirement, project selection, and cost sharing. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 321) Modifies the project for sediment control, Mount St. Helens, Washington, to authorize the Secretary to maintain for Longview, Kelso, Lexington, and Castle Rock on the Cowlitz River specified flood protection levels. (Sec. 322) Authorizes the Secretary to participate in critical restoration projects in the area of Puget Sound, Washington, and adjacent waters. Sets forth provisions regarding project selection, prioritization of projects, and cost sharing. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 323) Amends the WRDA of 1992 to provide that, with regard to the Fox River System, Wisconsin, the terms and conditions may include one or more payments to assist the State of Wisconsin in paying the costs of repair and rehabilitation of the transferred locks and appurtenant features. (Sec. 324) Amends the WRDA of 1986 to increase appropriations for projects of alternative or beneficially modified habitats for fish and wildlife. Directs that such projects include the construction of reefs and related clean shell substrate for fish habitat, including manmade three-dimensional oyster reefs, in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries in Maryland and Virginia, which reefs shall be preserved as permanent sanctuaries by the non-Federal interests. Requires the Chief of Engineers to solicit participation by, and the services of, commercial watermen for assistance in the construction of such reefs. (Sec. 325) Directs the Secretary, in operating and maintaining Federal channels and harbors of, and the connecting channels between, the Great Lakes to conduct such dredging as is necessary to ensure minimal operation depths consistent with the original authorized depths of the channels and harbors when water levels in the Great Lakes are, or are forecast to be, below the International Great Lakes Datum of 1985. (Sec. 326) Directs the Secretary, within one year, to develop a plan for activities of the Corps of Engineers that support the management of Great Lakes fisheries. Requires that the plan make use of and incorporate documents that relate to the Great Lakes and that are in existence on the date of this Act's enactment, such as lake-wide management and remedial action plans. Directs the Secretary to: (1) develop the plan in cooperation with the signatories to the Joint Strategic Plan for Management of the Great Lakes Fisheries and other affected interests; (2) plan, design, and construct projects to support the restoration of the fishery, ecosystem, and beneficial uses of the Great Lakes; and (3) develop a program to evaluate the success of such projects. Sets forth provisions regarding cooperative agreements, relationship to other Great Lakes activities, and cost sharing. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 327) Amends provisions of the WRDA of 1990 regarding Great Lakes remedial action plans and sediment remediation to decrease, from 50 to 35, the percentage of project costs that non-Federal interests shall contribute. Authorizes appropriations at an increased level. (Sec. 328) Amends provisions of the WRDA of 1996 regarding sediment management to set the non-Federal share of the costs of developing a tributary sediment transport model at 50 percent. Authorizes additional appropriations. (Sec. 329) Directs the Secretary, by December 31, 2002, to carry out a demonstration project for the use of innovative sediment treatment technologies for the treatment of dredged material from Long Island Sound. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 330) Directs the Secretary to perform an assessment of the condition of water resources and related ecosystems in New England to identify problems and needs for restoring, preserving, and protecting water resources, ecosystems, wildlife, and fisheries, including: (1) development of criteria for identifying and prioritizing the most critical problems and needs; and (2) a framework for development of watershed or regional restoration plans. Requires the Secretary: (1) to develop and make available for public review and comment criteria for identifying and prioritizing critical problems and needs and a framework for development of watershed or regional restoration plans; (2) to submit to Congress a report on the assessment; (3) to develop and submit to Congress a comprehensive plan for restoring, preserving, and protecting the water resources and ecosystem in each watershed and region in New England; and (4) to identify critical restoration projects that will produce independent, immediate, and substantial restoration, preservation, and protection benefits. Sets forth provisions regarding agreements with non-Federal interests, project justification, time and cost limitations, and cost sharing. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 331) Deauthorizes specified navigation projects at: (1) Kennebunk River, Kennebunk and Kennebunkport, Maine; and (2) Wallabout Channel, Brooklyn, New York. Title IV: Studies - Authorizes the Secretary to conduct a study to determine the feasibility of carrying out beach erosion control, storm damage reduction, and other measures along the shores of Baldwin County, Alabama. (Sec. 402) Authorizes the Secretary to conduct a study to determine the feasibility of: (1) a reservoir and associated improvements to provide for flood control, recreation, water quality, and fish and wildlife in the vicinity of Bono, Arkansas; (2) modifying the project for flood control, Cache Creek Basin, California, to authorize construction of features to mitigate impacts of the project on the storm drainage system of the city of Woodland, California, that have been caused by construction of a new south levee of the Cache Creek Settling Basin; and (3) constructing flood control measures in the Estudillo Canal watershed, San Leandro, California, and the Laguna Creek watershed, Fremont, California, to provide a 100-year level of flood protection. (Sec. 406) Authorizes the Secretary to conduct a special study of plans to: (1) mitigate for the erosion and other impacts resulting from the construction of Camp Pendleton Harbor, Oceanside, California, as a wartime measure; and (2) restore beach conditions along the affected public and private shores to the conditions that existed before the construction of such harbor. (Sec. 407) Authorizes the Secretary to conduct: (1) a watershed study for the San Jacinto watershed, California (and authorizes appropriations); (2) a reconnaissance study to determine the Federal interest in dredging the mouth of the Choctawhatchee River, Florida, to remove the sand plug; (3) a study to determine the feasibility of stabilizing the historic fortifications and beach areas of Egmont Key, Florida, that are threatened by erosion; (4) a re-study of flooding and water quality issues in the upper Ocklawaha River basin, south of the Silver River, and the Apopka River and Palatlakaha River basins; (5) a study to determine the feasibility of carrying out multi-objective flood control activities along the Boise River, Idaho; and (6) a reconnaissance study to determine the Federal interest in carrying out multi-objective flood control and flood mitigation planning projects along the Wood River in Blaine County, Idaho. (Sec. 413) Authorizes the Secretary to conduct a study to determine the feasibility of: (1) carrying out projects for water-related urban improvements, including infrastructure development and improvements, in Chicago, Illinois; (2) deepening the navigation channel of the Atchafalaya River and Bayous Chene, Boeuf and Black, Louisiana, from 20 to 35 feet; (3) constructing navigation improvements for ingress and egress between the Port of Iberia, Louisiana, and the Gulf of Mexico, including channel widening and deepening; (4) constructing projects for hurricane protection in the coastal area of the State of Louisiana between Morgan City and the Pearl River; (5) constructing urban flood control measures on the east bank of the Mississippi River in St. John the Baptist Parish, Louisiana; (6) redesigning as anchorage a portion of the 11-foot channel of the project for navigation, Narraguagus River, Milbridge, Maine, and of reauthorizing for the purpose of maintenance as anchorage of portion of that project lying adjacent to and outside the limits of the 11-foot and the nine-foot channel; and (7) modifying the project for navigation, Portsmouth Harbor and Piscataqua River, Maine and New Hampshire, to increase the authorized width of turning basins in the Piscataqua River to 1000 feet. (Sec. 420) Authorizes the Secretary to conduct: (1) a comprehensive study of the water resources needs of the Merrimack River basin, Massachusetts and New Hampshire, taking into consideration studies conducted by the University of New Hampshire on environmental restoration of the Merrimack River System; (2) a study to determine the feasibility of modifying the project for navigation, Gulfport Harbor, Mississippi, to widen the channel from 300 to 450 feet and to deepen the South Harbor channel from 36 to 42 feet and the North Harbor channel from 32 to 36 feet. (Sec. 422) Authorizes the Secretary, in conjunction with the State of New Hampshire, to conduct a study to identify and evaluate potential upland disposal sites for dredged material originating from harbor areas located within the State. (Sec. 423) Authorizes the Secretary to conduct a study to determine the feasibility of conveying to the Secretary of the Interior land that was acquired by the Secretary to carry out the Pick-Sloan Missouri River Basin Program and that is located within the external boundaries of specified reservations in North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska, to be held in trust for the benefit of the Indian tribes involved. (Sec. 424) Rewrites provisions of the WRDA of 1996 regarding the Cuyahoga River, Ohio, to authorize the Secretary to: (1) conduct a study to evaluate the structural integrity of the bulkhead system located on the Federal navigation channel along the Cuyahoga River near Cleveland, Ohio; and (2) provide to the non-Federal interest design analysis, plans and specifications, and cost estimates for repair or replacement of the bulkhead system. Sets the non-Federal share of the cost of the study at 35 percent. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 425) Authorizes the Secretary to conduct a study to determine the feasibility of carrying out projects for water supply and environmental restoration at the Ballville Dam on the Sandusky River at Fremont, Ohio. (Sec. 426) Authorizes the Secretary to evaluate the backwater effects specifically due to flood control operations on land around Grand Lake, Oklahoma and report to Congress on whether Federal actions have been a significant cause of such effects. Authorizes the Secretary to conduct a study to determine the feasibility of: (1) addressing the backwater effects of the operation of the Pensacola Dam, Grand/Neosho River basin; and (2) purchasing easements for any land that has been adversely affected by backwater flooding in the Grand/Neosho River basin. Sets a 100 percent Federal cost share of the feasibility study if the Secretary determines that Federal actions have been a significant cause of the backwater effects. (Sec. 427) Authorizes the Secretary to conduct a study to determine the feasibility of designating a permanent site in the State of Rhode Island for the disposal of dredged material. (Sec. 428) Directs the Secretary to use $200,000 from funds to be transferred from the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) to prepare a report of the Chief of Engineers for a replacement lock at Chickamauga Lock and Dam, Tennessee. (Sec. 429) Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) conduct a study to determine the feasibility of carrying out a project for flood control and related purposes along Miller Farms Ditch, Howard Road Drainage, and Wolf River Lateral D, Germantown, Tennessee; and (2) include environmental and water quality benefits in the justification analysis for the project. Sets forth provisions regarding the Federal and non-Federal share. (Sec. 430) Authorizes the Secretary to conduct a study to determine the feasibility of: (1) modifying the project for flood control, Horn Lake Creek and Tributaries, Tennessee and Mississippi, to provide a high level of urban flood protection to development along Horn Lake Creek (and requires that the study include a limited reevaluation of the project to determine the appropriate design, as desired by the non-Federal interests); (2) constructing a 12 foot deep and 125 foot wide channel from the Houston Ship Channel to Cedar Bayou, mile marker 11, Texas; (3) constructing barge lanes adjacent to both sides of the Houston Ship Channel from Bolivar Roads to Morgan Point, Texas, to a depth of 12 feet; and (4) modifying the project for San Antonio Channel improvement, Texas, to add environmental restoration and recreation as project purposes. (Sec. 434) Authorizes the Secretary to review the report of the Chief of Engineers on the Upper Puyallup River, Washington, and other specified reports to determine whether modifications to the recommendations contained in the reports are advisable to provide improvements to the water resources and watershed of the White River watershed downstream of Mud Mountain Dam, Washington. (Sec. 435) Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) conduct a study to determine the feasibility of providing coastal erosion protection for the Tribal Reservation of the Shoalwater Bay Indian Tribe on Willapa Bay, Washington; and (2) construct and maintain a project to provide coastal erosion protection for such reservation, at full Federal expense, if the Secretary determines that the project: (1) is a cost-effective means of providing erosion protection; (2) is environmentally acceptable and technically feasible; and (3) will improve the economic and social conditions of the Shoalwater Bay Indian Tribe. Requires the Tribe, as a condition of the project, to provide land, easements, right-of-way, and dredged material disposal areas necessary for the implementation of the project. Title V: Miscellaneous Provisions - Amends provisions of the WRDA of 1992 regarding visitors centers to direct the Secretary to: (1) construct a visitors center for the Army Corps of Engineers at Fort Smith, Arkansas (currently, Arkansas River) on land provided by the city of Fort Smith; and (2) establish and operate the Lower Mississippi River Museum and Riverfront Interpretive Site on property between the Mississippi River Bridge and the waterfront in downtown Vicksburg, Mississippi (currently, in the vicinity of that Bridge). (Sec. 502) Authorizes the Secretary to participate with the appropriate Federal and State agencies in the planning and management activities associated with the CALFED Bay-Delta Program. Directs the Secretary to integrate the activities of the Corps of Engineers in the San Joaquin and Sacramento River basins with the long-term goals of the Program. Sets forth provisions regarding cooperative activities and the area covered by the Program. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 503) Authorizes the Secretary to convey to the Ontonagon County Historical Society, at full Federal expense: (1) the lighthouse at Ontonagon, Michigan; and (2) the land underlying and adjacent to the lighthouse that is under the Secretary's jurisdiction. Directs the Secretary to determine the extent of the land conveyance and the exact acreage and legal description of the land to be conveyed and to prepare a map that clearly identifies any land to be conveyed. Authorizes the Secretary to obtain all necessary easements and rights-of-way and to impose such terms, conditions, reservations, and restrictions on the conveyance as the Secretary determines to be necessary to protect the public interest. Makes: (1) the Secretary responsible for any necessary environmental response required as a result of the prior Federal use or ownership of the land and improvements conveyed; and (2) the Ontonagon County Historical Society responsible, after the conveyance of the land, for any additional operation, maintenance, repair, rehabilitation, or replacement costs associated with the lighthouse or the conveyed land and improvements.
United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2000
Restoring the Everglades, an American Legacy Act - Approves the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan contained in the "Final Integrated Feasibility Report and Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement" dated April 1, 1999, as modified by this Act (the Plan) as a framework for modifications and operational changes to the Central and Southern Florida Project that are needed to: (1) restore, preserve, and protect the South Florida ecosystem; (2) provide for the protection of water quality in, and the reduction of the loss of fresh water from, the Everglades; and (3) provide for the water-related needs of the region. Directs the Secretary of the Army (the Secretary): (1) in carrying out the Plan, to integrate such activities with ongoing Federal and State projects and activities; (2) to carry out specified listed projects included in the Plan, taking into account the protection of water quality by considering applicable State water quality standards and including features necessary to ensure that all ground water and surface water discharges from any authorized project feature will meet all applicable water quality standards and applicable water quality permitting requirements; and (3) in developing the projects authorized, to provide for public review and comment in accordance with applicable Federal law. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) specified pilot projects and initial projects included in the plan that are authorized for implementation; (2) conditions (i.e., reporting requirements, funding contingent on approval, modified water delivery, maximum costs of projects) for project implementation; and (3) the maximum cost of authorized project features. Sets forth provisions regarding additional program authority, authorization of future projects, project evaluation, and exclusions and limitations from the Plan. States that the overarching objective of the Plan is the restoration, preservation, and protection of the South Florida Ecosystem while providing for other water-related needs of the region, including water supply and flood protection. Directs that the Plan be implemented to ensure the protection of water quality in, the reduction of the loss of fresh water from, and the improvement of the environment of, the South Florida Ecosystem and to achieve and maintain the benefits to the natural system and human environment described in the Plan and required pursuant to this Act, for as long as the project is authorized. Prohibits any appropriation from being made for the construction of a project contained in the Plan until the President and the Governor of the State ensure, by regulation or other appropriate means, that water made available under the Plan for the restoration of the natural system is available as specified in the Plan. Authorizes any person or entity that is aggrieved by a failure of the President or the Governor to comply with any provision of the agreement to bring a civil action in U.S. district court for an injunction or other appropriate relief, subject to specified limitations. Directs the Secretary, within two years, after notice and opportunity for public comment, and with the concurrence of and consultation with specified parties, to promulgate regulations which shall establish a process to: (1) provide guidance for the development of project implementation reports, project cooperation agreements, and operating manuals that ensure that Plan goals and objectives are achieved; (2) ensure that new information resulting from changed or unforeseen circumstances, new scientific or technical information or information that is developed through the principles of adaptive management contained in the Plan, or future authorized changes to the Plan are integrated into implementation of the Plan; (3) ensure protection of the natural system consistent with Plan goals and purposes; and (4) include a mechanism for dispute resolution to resolve any conflicts between the Secretary and the non- Federal sponsor.. Directs the Secretary and the non-Federal sponsor (subject to specified requirements) to: (1) develop project implementation reports in accordance with the Plan; (2) execute project cooperation agreements in accordance with the Plan; and (3) develop and issue, for each project or group of projects, an operating manual that is consistent with the water reservation or allocation for the natural system described in the project implementation report and cooperation agreement for the project or group of projects. Requires that the Secretary ensure that Plan implementation, including physical or operational modifications to the Central and Southern Florida Project, does not cause significant adverse impact on existing legal water users. Prohibits the Secretary from eliminating existing legal sources of water until a new source of water supply of comparable quantity and quality is available to replace the water to be lost as a result of implementation of the Plan. Directs the Secretary to maintain authorized levels of flood protection in existence on the date of this Act's enactment. Directs the Secretary, the Secretary of the Interior, and the State to establish an independent scientific review panel convened by a body such as the National Academy of Sciences to review the Plan's progress toward achieving the natural system restoration goals of the Plan. Requires the panel to produce a biennial report to Congress, the Secretary, the Secretary of the Interior, and the State of Florida that includes an assessment of ecological indicators and other measures of progress in restoring the ecology of the natural system, based on the Plan. Directs the Secretary to ensure that: (1) in executing the Plan, small business concerns owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals are provided opportunities to participate; and (2) impacts on socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, including individuals with limited English proficiency, and communities are considered during Plan implementation and that public outreach and educational opportunities are provided to individuals of South Florida. Sets forth reporting requirements.
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 2000
Internet Tax Moratorium and Equity Act - Amends the Internet Tax Freedom Act to extend, until December 31, 2005, provisions which prohibit a State or political subdivision from imposing: (1) taxes on Internet access, unless such tax was generally imposed and actually enforced prior to October 1, 1998; and (2) multiple or discriminatory taxes on electronic commerce. Expresses the sense of the Congress that States and localities should work together, with the advice of the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws, to develop a uniform streamlined sales and use tax system that addresses remote sales. Authorizes States to enter into an Interstate Sales and Use Tax Compact which shall describe a uniform, streamlined sales and use tax system consistent with such system.
United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2000
National and Community Service Amendments Act of 2000 - Title I: Amendments to National and Community Service Act of 1990 - Amends the National and Community Service Act of 1990 (NCSA) to reauthorize and revise various programs. (Sec. 103) Revises provisions for school-based and community-based service-learning programs to: (1) include Indian tribes as qualified organizations for program participation; and (2) eliminate a requirement that the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) give priority to grant applications containing specified proposals. (Sec. 104) Revises provisions for the national service trust program to: (1) eliminate provisions authorizing CNCS to transfer funds to another Federal agency to support a national service program; (2) limit the CNCS's share of the aggregate cost of national service positions, through a formula based on a specified amount per participant; (3) eliminate Federal agency positions from eligibility for approval for national service positions or educational awards; (4) establish a State minimum for national service grant awards; (5) provide for grants to increase the participation of individuals with disabilities, and for demonstration programs of outreach to such individuals; (6) reserve certain funds to support programs reducing CNCS costs; and (7) modify provisions relating to participant performance, selection, terms of service, and living allowances. (Sec. 105) Revises provisions for the national service trust to include, as an allowable use of trust funds, national service scholarships (under the program established by this Act). Makes expenditures from the trust available for interest payments during forbearance on loan repayment and for national service scholarship awards. Provides that a prohibition against using the educational award to pay off loans made to parents also applies to loans made to parents under the direct student loan program. Allows educational awards to be used to pay off private or State loans. Permits the trust to be used to support a national service scholarship program to recognize secondary school juniors and seniors engaged in community service activities. (Sec. 106)Authorizes the Director of the Civilian Community Corps (CCC) to select individuals with prior supervisory or service experience to be team leaders. Requires team leaders to be selected without regard to a specified age limitation. Revises authorized benefits for CCC members. (Sec. 107) Repeals the authority of State commissions and any division of CNCS to enter into agreements for coordinating functions. (Sec. 108) Eliminates a provision relating to staggered terms for CNS board members. Allows appointed board members whose terms have expired to continue to serve for a specified limited period. Authorizes the chief executive officer (CEO) of CNCS to enter into agreements with other agencies to carry out activities to implement national service laws. (Sec. 109) Authorizes the CEO of CNCS to serve as an ex officio, nonvoting member of the board of directors of the Points of Light Foundation. (Sec. 110) Extends through FY 2005 the authorization of appropriations for programs under NCSA. Title II: Amendments to the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 - Amends the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 (DVSA) to reauthorize and revise: (1) title I National Volunteer Antipoverty Programs, part A Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA) including VISTA Literacy Corps, part B University Year for VISTA, part C Special Volunteer Programs including literacy challenge grants; and (2) title II National Senior Service Corps (currently National Senior Volunteer Corps), part A Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), part B Foster Grandparent Program (FGP), and part C Senior Companion Program (SCP). (Sec. 203) Includes as a VISTA objective the encouragement of supportive efforts by local agencies and organizations to achieve long-term sustainability of programs in the absence of Federal assistance. Encourages the VISTA Director to enter into agreements under which public agencies and private organizations pay all or part of the direct cost of supporting volunteers. Authorizes the VISTA Director to provide a stipend of a maximum of $200 per month to individuals designated as volunteer leaders. (Sec. 204) Renames the National Senior Volunteer Corps as the National Senior Service Corps (NSSC). Eliminates the priority for enrolling individuals age 60 and older (but continues to allow individuals age 55 and older to enroll). Allows individuals age 55 (currently 60) or older to enroll in FGP, but gives priority to enrolling individuals age 60 or older. Requires any stipend under FGP to be at least $2.55 per hour and be adjusted for inflation once prior September 30, 2005. Allows individuals age 55 (currently 60) or older to enroll in SCP, but gives priority to enrolling individuals age 60 or older. Requires the SCP Director spend certain amounts each year to promote SCP. Prohibits awarding national significance grants for RSVP, FGP, or SCP unless the appropriated allocation for each program exceeds the appropriated allocations for each of the two preceding years. (Sec. 206) Extends through 2005 the authorization of appropriations for programs under DVSA. Title III: Technical Amendments to Other Laws - Revises references and makes other technical and conforming amendments to various other Federal laws.
United States · United States Congress · 14 June 2000
Recognizes the 60th anniversary of the U.S. nonrecognition policy of the Soviet takeover of the Baltic states and the contribution that policy made in supporting the aspirations of the people of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania to reassert their freedom and independence. Commends Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania for the reestablishment of their independence and the role they played in the disintegration of the former Soviet Union in 1990 and 1991, and for their success in implementing political and economic reforms. Expresses support for regional cooperation in Northern Europe among the Baltic and Nordic states and the Russian Federation. Calls for further cooperation in addressing common environmental, law enforcement, and public health problems, and in promoting civil society and business and trade development, and similar efforts that promote a peaceful, democratic, prosperous, and secure future for Europe, Russia and the Nordic-Baltic region.
United States · United States Congress · 13 June 2000
Declares that the Senate: (1) recognizes the need to encourage active involvement of fathers in the rearing and development of their children and that while there are millions of fathers who serve as a wonderful caring parent for their children, there are children on Father's Day who will have no one to celebrate with; (2) urges fathers to participate in their children's lives both financially and emotionally and to understand the level of responsibility required when fathering a child and to fulfill that responsibility; (3) encourages fathers to devote time, energy, and resources to their children; (4) is committed to assist absent fathers become more responsible and engaged in their children's lives; (5) designates June 18, 2000, as National Responsible Father's Day; and (6) calls on fathers around the country to use the day to reconnect and rededicate themselves to their children's lives, to spend such day with them, and to express their love and support for their children.
United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2000
Presidential Transition Act of 2000 - Amends the Presidential Transition Act of 1963 to require the Administrator of General Services, upon request, to pay the expenses of each President-elect and Vice President-elect during the transition for briefings, workshops, or other activities to acquaint key prospective Presidential appointees (primarily those the President-elect intends to nominate as department heads or appoint to key positions in the Executive Office of the President) with the types of problems and challenges that most typically confront new political appointees when they make the transition from campaign and other prior activities to assuming the responsibility for governance after inauguration. States that such activities may include interchange between such appointees and individuals who: (1) held similar leadership roles in prior administrations; (2) are department or agency experts from the Office of Management and Budget or a department or agency Office of Inspector General; or (3) are relevant staff from the General Accounting Office. Permits such activities also to include training in: (1) records management, including training on the separation of Presidential records and personal records to comply with certain requirements; and (2) human resources management and performance-based management. Requires the Administrator to develop a transition directory for such activities, which compile Federal publications and materials with supplementary materials developed by the Administrator that provide information on the officers, organization, and statutory and administrative authorities, functions, duties, responsibilities, and mission of each department and agency. Requires the Administrator also to consult with any candidate for President or Vice President to develop a systems architecture plan for the candidate's computer and communications systems to coordinate a transition to Federal systems, if the candidate is elected. Directs the Office of Government Ethics to study and report to specified congressional committees on improvements to the mandatory financial disclosure process under the Ethics in Government Act of 1978 for presidential nominees. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2000
Calls upon the President to: (1) issue a proclamation recognizing the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Helsinki Final Act of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe, reasserting the U.S. commitment to full implementation of the Act, and urging all signatory states to abide by their obligations under the Act; and (2) convey to all signatory states that respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, democratic principles, economic liberty, and the implementation of related commitments continue to be vital elements in promoting a new era of democracy, peace, and unity in the region.
United States · United States Congress · 6 June 2000
Department of Defense Civilian Workforce Realignment Act of 2000 - Extends through FY 2005 the authority for voluntary separations of Department of Defense (DOD) employees during a reduction in force. (Sec. 3) Amends Federal provisions concerning the use of voluntary separation incentive pay and voluntary early retirement authority to: (1) extend the voluntary separation pay authority through FY 2005; (2) add as a purpose of the voluntary separation incentive program the restructuring of the defense workforce for various purposes; (3) allow separation pay to be paid in either a lump-sum (current law) or installments; and (4) require termination of incentive pay installments when a person accepts other employment with the Federal Government. (Sec. 4) Amends the Civil Service Retirement System and the Federal Employees' Retirement System to entitle to an immediate annuity a DOD employee who, before October 1, 2005, is separated from service after completing 25 years of service or after becoming 50 years of age and completing 20 years of service, as long as such employee: (1) is separated involuntarily other than for cause; and (2) has not declined a reasonable offer of another DOD position which is not lower than two grades below their former grade, and is within the employee's commuting area. Provides related eligibility conditions, including that the employee is separated from service during a major DOD organizational adjustment. (Sec. 5) States that a Federal program for providing employee training shall not include any course of postsecondary education that is administered or conducted by an institution not accredited by a national or regional accrediting body. Allows coverage for training toward an academic degree if the training provides an opportunity to obtain an academic degree pursuant to a planned, systematic, and coordinated program of professional development approved by the head of that agency. (Sec. 6) Directs the Secretary of Defense to submit to the congressional defense, governmental affairs, and government reform committees a strategic plan for exercising the authorities provided or extended by this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2000
Authorizes the President to present gold medals on behalf of Congress to astronauts Neil A. Armstrong, Edwin E. "Buzz" Aldrin, Jr., and Michael Collins, in recognition of their monumental and unprecedented feat of space exploration, as well as their achievements in the advancement of science and promotion of the space program.
United States · United States Congress · 24 May 2000
Declares that it is U.S. policy to: (1) support the integration of the Republic of Slovenia into transatlantic and European political, economic, and security institutions, including the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the European Union; and (2) continue and reinforce the partnership between the United States and Slovenia, particularly their joint efforts to bring lasting peace and stability to all of Europe. Commends the Republic of Slovenia for its commitment to democratic principles, human rights, and the rule of law, its transition from a communist, centrally planned economic system to a free market economy, and its partnership with the United States and NATO during the recent conflicts that have undermined peace and stability in Southeastern Europe.
United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2000
Immigration and Naturalization Service Data Management Improvement Act of 2000 - Amends the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 respecting the automated entry-exit control system to: (1) replace the current requirement that information be collected on every entering and exiting alien with the requirement that such system be an integrated entry and exit data system using available data; (2) state that no additional data collection authority is authorized; (3) extend program implementation deadlines; (4) revise reporting provisions; and (5) authorize appropriations. Directs the Attorney General to determine which Department of Justice and other law enforcement personnel may have access to such data. Directs the Attorney General to establish a task force which shall evaluate specified program-related issues. Authorizes appropriations. Expresses the sense of Congress that the Attorney General, in consultation with the Secretaries of State, Commerce, and the Treasury, should consult with affected foreign governments to improve border management.
United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2000
Amends the Internal Revenue Code revise the excise tax on tires to impose on truck tires of the type used on highway vehicles, if wholly or in part made of rubber, sold by the manufacturer, producer, or importer a tax equal to 8 cents for each 10 pounds of the tire load capacity in excess of 3500 pounds.
United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2000
Amends the National Nuclear Security Administration Act to direct the Administrator for Nuclear Security to ensure that the operations and activities of the National Nuclear Security Administration are executed in full compliance with Federal and State environmental, safety, and health laws and regulations (including any directives issued thereunder, and waivers of Federal sovereign immunity). States that all environmental protection, safety, and health requirements applicable to Department of Energy functions or facilities immediately before the effective date of this Act shall continue to apply to corresponding functions or facilities of the Administration.
United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2000
Brownfields Revitalization Act of 2000 - Title I: Brownfields Revitalization - Amends the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA) to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish programs to provide grants to eligible entities (including local government units, redevelopment agencies, States, and Indian tribes) for site characterization and assessment of, and performance of response actions at, brownfields facilities. Defines a "brownfield facility," with exceptions, as real property, the expansion or redevelopment of which is complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance. Title II: State Response Programs - Adds CERCLA provisions requiring the Administrator to provide grants to States to establish and expand qualifying State response programs, comprised of elements including public participation opportunities, oversight and enforcement authorities, and certification mechanisms. Restricts authority to take enforcement actions under CERCLA in cases of hazardous substance releases subject to a State response plan. Authorizes the President to bring enforcement actions in certain instances, including cases where a State requests assistance or is unable to conduct a response action and there is a public health or environmental emergency or there is migration of contamination across State lines. (Sec. 202) Revises conditions for State financial and other assurances with respect to remedial actions to prohibit the Administrator from providing any funding for such actions unless the State enters into an agreement that provides assurances for State payment of ten percent of the costs of the action and operation and maintenance costs. Title III: Property Considerations - Adds CERCLA provisions governing owner-operator status of persons owning or operating property contiguous to a release site. Absolves such persons of liability as owners or operators, subject to certain conditions. (Sec. 302) Absolves from liability for response actions bona fide prospective purchasers to the extent liability at a facility for a release or threat thereof is based solely on ownership or operation of a facility. Gives a lien upon a facility to the United States for unrecovered response costs in any case in which there are such unrecovered costs for which the owner is not liable by reason of provisions limiting liability of fiduciaries and the facility's fair market value has increased above that which existed 180 days before the action was taken. (Sec. 303) Deems a person, with respect to defenses to liability of an owner of after-acquired property, to have undertaken appropriate inquiry into the property's previous ownership and uses if the person establishes that inquiries were undertaken in accordance with specified requirements (compliance with an American Society for Testing and Materials standard or with standards issued by the Administrator). Deems the appropriate inquiry requirements to be satisfied by a site inspection and title search that reveal no basis for further investigation in the case of property for residential or similar use purchased by a nongovernmental or noncommercial entity. Title IV: Federal Entities and Facilities - Revises provisions regarding the applicability of CERCLA to the U.S. Government. Makes Federal agencies subject to all Federal, State, interstate, and local requirements regarding response or restoration actions or management of, hazardous wastes, pollutants, or contaminants in the same manner as any nongovernmental entity. Waives immunity of the United States with respect to the enforcement of injunctive relief. Makes Federal employees subject to criminal sanctions under State or Federal response or hazardous waste management laws. Authorizes the Administrator to issue an abatement order to a Federal agency and requires initiation of an administrative enforcement action in the same manner as such action would be initiated against any other person. Requires all funds collected by a State from the Federal Government from penalties imposed for violations of response or hazardous waste management laws to be used only for projects to improve or protect the environment or to defray costs of environmental protection or enforcement unless a State law requires such funds to be used differently.
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 2000
National Energy Security Act of 2000 - Title I: Energy Security Actions Required of the Secretary of Energy - Directs the Secretary of Energy (the Secretary) to report annually to the President and Congress on the progress the United States has made toward obtaining the goal of not more than 50 percent dependence on foreign oil sources by 2010. (Sec. 102) Sets a deadline for the Secretary to submit to the President a certain report of the National Petroleum Council, together with recommendations for administrative or legislative actions. (Sec. 103) Directs the Secretary to establish within the National Economic Council an Interagency Work Group on Natural Gas (the Group), whose function shall be to develop a strategy and comprehensive policy for the use of natural gas as an essential component of overall national objectives of energy security, economic growth, and environmental protection. Title II: Amendments to Energy Policy and Conservation Act and Actions Affecting the Strategic Petroleum Reserve - Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA) to authorize drawdown and distribution of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) if: (1) the President concurs in the determination of the Secretary of Defense that it will not impair national security; and (2) the Secretary of Energy finds that it will not have an adverse effect on the domestic petroleum industry. (Sec. 201) Extends through FY 2003 the availability of FY 2000 appropriations for SPR authorities. Extends the expiration date for authorities related to domestic supply availability from March 31, 2000, to December 31, 2003. (Sec. 202) Extends from FY 1997 through 2003 the authorization of appropriations for the interagency working group that coordinates Federal programs affecting exports of renewable energy and energy efficiency products and services. Extends the expiration date for standby energy authorities from March 31, 2000, to December 31, 2003. (Sec. 203) Instructs the President to establish immediately an Interagency Panel on the Strategic Petroleum Study to study and report to the President and Congress regarding oil markets and estimated future fluctuations in the price, supply, and demand for crude oil, and to determine appropriate SPR capacity and use. Title III: Provisions to Protect Consumers and Low Income Families and Encourage Energy Efficiencies - Amends the Energy Conservation and Production Act to repeal: (1) the requirement that participating States share 25 percent of the cost of weatherization programs as a condition for receiving assistance grants; and (2) the mandate that forty percent of weatherization program funds be spent for weatherization program materials. Instructs the Secretary to establish energy audit procedures and techniques. Increases the financial assistance for labor and weatherization materials expenditures per dwelling unit. Includes among such weatherization materials heating and cooling modification costs, including replacement. (Sec. 301) Repeals the mandate for the Secretary to establish, pursuant to State application, a separate average per dwelling unit limitation. (Sec. 302) Amends the EPCA to direct the Secretary, upon State request, to provide information, technical assistance, and funding for specified actions (summer fill programs) to avoid severe seasonal price increases and supply shortages of kerosene, propane, and heating oil during summer months. (Sec. 303) Authorizes appropriations for an Energy Efficiency Science Initiative, managed by the Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, for grants for energy efficiency research. (Sec. 304) Authorizes the Secretary to establish, maintain, and operate a Northeast Home Heating Oil Reserve (Reserve) (containing no more than two million barrels of petroleum distillate) in the Northeast. States that such Reserve shall not be considered to be an SPR component. Restricts release of Reserve petroleum distillate to: (1) a severe energy supply disruption; (2) a severe price increase; or (3) an emergency affecting the Northeast which the President determines to merit such release. Mandates establishment of the Northeast Home Heating Oil Reserve Account in the Treasury subsequent to the Secretary's decision to establish the Reserve. Authorizes appropriations. Title IV: Provisions to Enhance the Use of Domestic Energy Resources - Subtitle A: Hydroelectric Resources - Directs the Secretaries of the Interior and of the Army, respectively, to inventory all dams, impoundments, and other facilities under their jurisdiction and to report to Congress on the potential of such facilities to generate hydroelectric power and on actions planned to do so. (Sec. 402) Directs the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to report to Congress on expedited hydroelectric licensing procedures. Subtitle B: Nuclear Resources - Directs the Chairman of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to report to Congress on: (1) domestic nuclear power generation and production; and (2) the potential for increasing nuclear generating capacity and production as part of the domestic energy mix. Subtitle C: Development of a National Spent Nuclear Fuel Strategy - Establishes an Office of Spent Nuclear Fuel Research within the Office of Nuclear Energy Science and Technology of the Department of Energy, headed by an Associate Director, to implement an integrated research and development program on technologies for the treatment, recycling, and disposal of high-level nuclear radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel, under the general supervision of the Secretary. Confers upon the Secretary grant and contract making authority. Subtitle D: Coal Resources - Directs the Secretary to: (1) report to Congress on the potential for increased generation from existing coal-fired power plants; and (2) provide grants for refinement and demonstration of new technologies for the conversion of coal to liquids. Title V: Arctic Coastal Plain Domestic Energy Security Act of 2000 - Arctic Coastal Plain Domestic Energy Security Act of 2000 - Instructs the Secretary of the Interior to establish and implement a competitive oil and gas leasing program that will: (1) result in an environmentally sound program; (2) not result in significant adverse effects upon fish and wildlife; and (3) ensure the receipt of fair market value by the public for the mineral resources to be leased. (Sec. 503) Amends the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act of 1980 to repeal the prohibition against production of oil and gas from the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, and any leasing or development leading to such production. States that Congress determines that the Coastal Plain oil and gas leasing program and activities authorized by this Act are compatible with the purposes for which the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge was established, and that no further findings or decisions are required to implement this determination. States this Act is the sole authority for Coastal Plain leasing, and that such Plain is considered "Federal land" for purposes of the Federal Oil and Gas Royalty Management Act of 1982. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) designate up to a specified total of Coastal Plain acreage as "Special Areas" and close them to leasing if the Secretary determines that these Areas require special management and regulatory protection; and (2) permit leasing in those Special Areas by setting lease terms that limit or condition surface use and occupancy by lessees but permit the use of horizontal drilling technology from sites on leases located outside the designated Special Areas. Declares that this Act constitutes the Secretary's sole authority to close Coastal Plain lands to oil and gas leasing and to exploration, development, and production. Instructs the Secretary to convey the surface estate of specified lands to the Kaktovik Inupiat Corporation and to the Arctic Slope Regional Corporation in order to remove clouds on title and clarify land ownership patterns within the Coastal Plain. (Sec. 505) Declares that the Final Legislative Environmental Impact Statement on the Coastal Plain of April 1997 is adequate to satisfy the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. (Sec. 506) States that lands may be leased to any person qualified to obtain a lease for oil and gas deposits under the Mineral Leasing Act. Requires the Secretary to prescribe lease procedures. (Sec. 507) Authorizes the Secretary to grant to the highest responsible qualified bidder by sealed competitive cash bonus bid any Coastal Plain lands upon payment of such bonus and a royalty which shall not be less than a certain amount. Prescribes lease terms and conditions. Sets forth bonding requirements to ensure financial responsibility of lessee and avoid Federal liability. (Sec. 512) Directs the Secretary to grant rights-of-way and easements across the Coastal Plain for oil and gas transportation. (Sec. 513) Requires the Secretary to promulgate regulations to provide for: (1) biannual scheduled onsite inspections for compliance of Coastal Plain facilities with environmental or safety regulations; and (2) annual nonscheduled onsite inspections of such facilities. Title VI: Improvements to Federal Oil and Gas Lease Management - Federal Oil and Gas Lease Management Improvement Act of 2000 - Emphasizes that this Act does not give a State a property right or interest in any Federal lease or land. Subtitle A: State Option to Regulate Oil and Gas Lease Operation on Federal Land - Permits a State to notify either the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture (depending upon the appropriate jurisdiction) of its intent to accept authority for regulation of certain oil and gas lease operations on Federal land within such State. Declares an automatic transfer of regulatory authority over designated operations from the appropriate Secretary to the State effective 180 days following receipt of such notification. Bars a Federal agency from exercising authority formerly held by such Secretary with respect to oil and gas lease operations on Federal land. Subtitle B: Use of Cost Savings from State Regulation - Prescribes guidelines to compensate a State for the costs of implementing such transferred authority. Subtitle C: Streamlining and Cost Reduction - Bars the appropriate Secretary from recovering costs for applications and other documents relating to oil and gas leases. (Sec. 632) Requires the Secretary to ensure: (1) timely issuance of Federal agency decisions respecting oil and gas leasing and operations on Federal land; and (2) that unwarranted denials and stays of lease issuance and unwarranted restrictions on lease operations are eliminated from the administration of oil and gas leasing on Federal land. (Sec. 635) Directs the Secretary of the Interior to publish a national inventory of oil and gas reserves and potential resources underlying Federal land and the Outer Continental Shelf. Subtitle D: Federal Royalty Certainty - Amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act and the Mineral Leasing Act pertaining to oil and gas leases to reformulate the payment of their respective lease royalties. Exempts Indian lands from such reformulation. Subtitle E: Royalty Reinvestment in America - Directs the appropriate Secretary, whenever certain crude oil or natural gas prices dip below a specified level, to allow as a credit against the payment of Federal oil and gas production royalties, a specified percentage of expenditures made for capital exploration and development on Federal oil and gas leases. (Sec. 651) Prohibits capital expenditures made on Outer Continental Shelf leases from being credited against onshore Federal royalty obligations. (Sec. 652) Instructs the appropriate Secretary to reduce the royalty rate for marginal oil and gas production following prescribed guidelines whenever certain crude oil or natural gas prices dip below a specified level. (Sec. 653) Prescribes procedural guidelines under which any operator of an oil well leased under specified statutes may notify the Secretary of the Interior of suspension of operation and production at the well. Title VII: Frontier Oil and Gas Exploration and Development Incentives - Frontier Exploration and Development Incentives Act of 2000 - Amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act governing bidding procedures for oil and gas leases to set a certain net profit royalty share for oil and gas production in the Beaufort Sea and Chukchi Sea Planning Areas of Alaska. (Sec. 702) Requires the Secretary of the Interior to reduce any future royalty or rental obligation by a specified percentage after an oil and gas lease has been granted pursuant to the statutory bidding system. Title VIII: Tax Measures to Enhance Domestic Oil and Gas Production - Subtitle A: Marginal Well Preservation - Marginal Well Preservation Act of 2000 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) to specify a tax credit for marginal domestic oil and natural gas well production. (Sec. 803) Authorizes taxpayer election to expense geological and geophysical expenditures and to delay rental payments for domestic oil and gas wells. Subtitle B: Independent Oil and Gas Producers - Amends the IRC to: (1) set forth a five-year net operating loss carryback for losses attributable to operating mineral interests of independent oil and gas producers; and (2) suspend through 2004 the limitation on the total amount of the depletion allowance to 65 percent of taxable income. Title IX: Tax Measures to Enhance the Use of Renewable Energy Sources, Improve Energy Efficiencies, Protect Consumers and Conversion to Clean Burning Fuels - Amends the IRC to: (1) set forth placed-in-service rules and special rules for biomass facilities; (2) deny renewable electricity production credit to electricity sold to utilities under certain contracts; (3) exclude from gross income as contributions to capital certain amounts received by electric energy, gas, or steam utilities; (4) extend the credit for electricity produced from steel cogeneration; (5) declare certain expense limitations on depreciable business assets inapplicable to a storage facility used in connection with home heating oil distribution; and (6) establish a tax credit for certain percentages of residential solar energy photovoltaic and solar water heating property expenditures.
United States · United States Congress · 9 May 2000
Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Act of 2000 - Finds that civilian employees who performed duties in the Department of Energy's nuclear weapons production program over the last 50 years should have efficient, uniform, and adequate compensation for beryllium-related health conditions and radiation-related health conditions in order to assure fairness and equity. Title I: Compensation and Benefits for Illnesses Related to Beryllium Exposure - Directs the Secretary of Labor, for allowed claims, to pay compensation for disability or death, reimburse covered employees for costs and medical expenses, and take other actions regarding exposure to beryllium in the performance of duty. Allows a covered employee or their survivor to elect an alternative compensation of $200,000 plus specified benefits. Establishes the Energy Employees' Beryllium Compensation Fund. Title II: Compensation and Benefits for Illnesses Related to Exposure to Ionizing Radiation, Silica, and Hazardous Substances - Subtitle A: Cancer and Related Illnesses - Directs the Secretary of Labor, for allowed claims, to pay compensation for disability or death, reimburse covered employees for costs and medical expenses, and take other actions regarding exposure to ionizing radiation, a hazardous substance, or silica in the performance of duty. Allows a covered employee or their survivor to elect an alternative compensation of $200,000 plus specified benefits. Subtitle B: Other Illnesses - Allows any covered employee (or their survivor) who can establish that exposure to a hazardous substance at a facility of the Department of Energy (DOE) or of a DOE contractor or uranium vendor was a contributing factor to an illness or disease other than certain illnesses to submit a claim for compensation and benefits under subtitle A. Directs the Secretary of Labor, if the Secretary is unable to make an affirmative claim determination, to refer the claim to the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish physicians panels for evaluation of referred claims. Creates an advisory group to establish a list of illnesses and diseases that are presumed to be attributable to work at a facility of the DOE or of a DOE contractor or uranium vendor. Subtitle C: General Provisions - Establishes the Nuclear Employees' Radiation Compensation Fund.
United States · United States Congress · 4 May 2000
Calls for the Government of the Russian Federation to: (1) drop its charges against Andrei Babitsky, a Russian journalist working for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty; (2) provide a full accounting of Babitsky's detention; and (3) adhere fully to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Condemns the Russian Federation's harassment and intimidation of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty and other news organizations. Urges the Government of the Russian Federation and the President to implement the recommendations in Senate Resolutions 223 and 262. Urges the President to place these issues high on the agenda for his June 4-5 summit meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
United States · United States Congress · 25 April 2000
Authorizes presentation of a gold medal on behalf of Congress to former President Ronald Reagan and his wife Nancy Reagan. Authorizes specified sums to be charged against the United States Mint Public Enterprise Fund for medal costs. Mandates that sale proceeds from duplicate bronze medals be deposited into such Fund.
United States · United States Congress · 13 April 2000
Pope John Paul II Congressional Gold Medal Act - Authorizes the presentation of a gold medal to Pope John Paul II in recognition of his outstanding and enduring contributions to humanity. Authorizes appropriations. Mandates that proceeds from duplicate bronze medal sales be deposited in the U.S. Mint Public Enterprise Fund.
United States · United States Congress · 11 April 2000
Breast Cancer Research Stamp Reauthorization Act of 2000 - Amends the Stamp Out Breast Cancer Act to extend for an additional two years the authority under which postal patrons may contribute to funding for breast cancer research through the voluntary purchase of certain specially issued U.S. postage stamps.
United States · United States Congress · 11 April 2000
Reasonable Search Standards Act - Prohibits Customs Service personnel from subjecting travelers to detention or searches based upon race, religion, gender, national origin, or sexual orientation, except when acting upon specific information that a particular traveler suspected of engaging in illegal activity is described by one or more of such characteristics. Requires Customs Service personnel, before a pat down or intrusive nonroutine search, to document reasons to support a belief that an individual may be carrying contraband in violation of Federal law. Waives such requirement with respect to anyone suspected of carrying a weapon. Instructs the Commissioner of Customs to require Customs Service personnel to undergo periodic training on identification, detention, and search procedures, with particular emphasis on profiling proscriptions. Directs the Commissioner to study and report annually to Congress on detentions and searches of persons by Customs Service personnel during the preceding calendar year. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 5 April 2000
Home Health Payment Fairness Act of 2000 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to eliminate a specified 15 percent reduction in cost and per beneficiary limits with respect to payment rates for home health services under the Medicare prospective payment system.
United States · United States Congress · 5 April 2000
Air Quality Standard Improvement Act of 2000 - Amends the Clean Air Act to require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, in carrying out such Act (including establishing a new or revised air quality standard), to base any scientific or technical conclusions on: (1) the best available, peer-reviewed science and supporting studies conducted in accordance with sound and objective scientific practices; (2) data collected by accepted methods or the best available methods; and (3) data that have been made publicly available. Requires the Administrator to ensure that the presentation of information on public health effects concerning any new or revised air quality standard is comprehensive, informative, understandable, and available for public comment prior to the promulgation of any regulation under the Act. Directs the Administrator, in a document made available to the public in support of a regulation proposed or promulgated under the Act concerning an air quality standard to specify: (1) each population addressed by any estimate of public health effects; (2) the expected risk or central estimate of risk for the specific populations or resources and each upper-bound or lower- bound of risk; (3) each significant uncertainty identified in the process of the assessment of public health effects and studies that would assist in resolving such uncertainties; and (4) peer-reviewed studies that support, are relevant to, or fail to support any estimate of public health effects and the methodologies used to reconcile inconsistencies in the scientific data. Requires the Administrator, as part of the process of proposing a new or revised air quality standard, to publish in the Federal Register and seek public comment on an analysis of specified factors, including: (1) quantifiable and nonquantifiable benefits that are likely to occur as the result of actions taken to comply with the standard; (2) quantifiable and nonquantifiable health benefits that are likely to occur from reductions in related pollutants that may be attributed to compliance with the standard; (3) quantifiable and nonquantifiable costs that are likely to occur as the result of actions taken to comply with or attain the standard; (4) incremental costs and benefits associated with each alternative standard considered; (5) effects of the affected air pollutant on the general population; and (6) risks that may occur as the result of compliance with or attainment of the standard. Authorizes appropriations. Directs the Administrator, for each new or revised air quality standard proposed, to conduct and publish for public comment a cost-benefit analysis to determine whether the benefits of the standard justify or do not justify the costs. Authorizes the Administrator to analyze the potential distributional effects of each such standard. Permits the Administrator, upon determining based on such analysis that the benefits do not justify the costs, to promulgate an alternative standard at a cost that is justified by the benefits. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 4 April 2000
IDEA Full Funding Act of 2000 - Amends the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to authorize funding to reach the Federal Government's goal of providing 40 percent of the national average per pupil expenditure to assist States and local educational agencies with the excess costs of educating children with disabilities. Authorizes appropriations for IDEA part B programs of assistance for education of all children with disabilities, in specified amounts for FY 2001 through 2010, and as necessary thereafter.
United States · United States Congress · 29 March 2000
Worker Economic Opportunity Act - Amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to exempt employee stock option, stock appreciation right, stock purchase, and similar employer-provided grants or rights programs from being included in overtime pay calculations, under specified conditions. Provides that employers have no overtime pay liability because of any employee stock options or similar programs prior to enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 28 March 2000
Government for the 21st Century Act - Establishes the Commission on Government Restructuring and Reform (Commission) to examine and make recommendations to reform and restructure the organization and operations of the executive branch of the Federal Government to improve economy, efficiency, effectiveness, consistency, and accountability in Government programs and services. Authorizes appropriations for FY 2000 through 2003. Terminates the Commission by the end of FY 2003. (Sec. 4) Authorizes the President to submit to the Commission a report consistent with specified criteria, containing a single legislative proposal (including legislation proposed to be enacted), to implement those recommendations for which legislation is necessary or appropriate. Directs the Commission to submit a single preliminary report to the President and the Congress which includes: (1) a description of the Commission's findings and recommendations, taking into account any recommendations submitted by the President to the Commission; and (2) reasons for such recommendations. (Sec. 5) Requires any preliminary report submitted to the President and the Congress to be made immediately available to the public. Directs the Commission to announce and hold public hearings for the purpose of receiving comments on the reports. Requires the Commission, after the conclusion of the period for public hearings, to submit to the President a final report that includes: (1) a description of the Commission's findings and recommendations, including a description of changes made to the report as a result of public comment on the preliminary report; (2) reasons for such recommendations; and (3) a single legislative proposal (including legislation proposed to be enacted) to implement those recommendations for which legislation is necessary or appropriate. Requires such report to be made available to the public on the date of submission to the President. Requires the President to approve or disapprove the report. Directs the President: (1) if the report is approved, to submit the report to the Congress for legislative action; and (2) if the report is disapproved, to report the specific issues and objections, including the reasons for any changes recommended in the report, to the Commission and the Congress. Requires the Commission to consider any issues or objections raised by the President and permits modification of the report based on such issues and objections. Mandates submission of the final report (as modified, if modified) to the President and the Congress no later than 30 calendar days after receipt of the President's disapproval. (Sec. 6) Provides for congressional consideration of the reform proposals. (Sec. 7) Gives the Director of the Office of Management and Budget primary responsibility for implementation of the Commission's report and the Act enacted to implement reform proposals. Directs each affected Federal department and agency, as a part of its annual budget request, to transmit to the appropriate congressional committees its schedule for implementation of the provisions of the Act for each fiscal year. Requires, in addition, that the report contain an estimate of the total expenditures required and the cost savings to be achieved by each action, along with the Secretary's assessment of the effect of the action. Requires that the report also include a report of any activities that have been eliminated, consolidated, or transferred to other departments or agencies. Requires the Comptroller General to periodically report to the Congress and the President regarding the accomplishment, costs, timetable, and effectiveness of the implementation of any Act enacted to implement the reform proposals. (Sec. 8) Provides for any proceeds from the sale of assets of any department or agency resulting from the enactment of an Act to implement the reform proposals to be: (1) applied to reduce the Federal deficit; and (2) deposited in the Treasury and treated as general receipts.
United States · United States Congress · 27 March 2000
Amends the Water Resources Research Act of 1984 to authorize appropriations through FY 2005 for: (1) carrying out certain provisions relating to water resources research and technology institutes; and (2) for reimbursement of the direct cost expenses of additional research or synthesis of research by the institutes which focuses on water problems and issues of a regional or interstate nature beyond those of concern only to a single State and which relate to specific program priorities identified jointly by the Secretary of the Interior and the institutes.
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 2000
2002 Winter Olympic Commemorative Coin Act - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue five dollar gold coins and one dollar silver coins emblematic of the participation of American athletes in the 2002 Olympic Winter Games. Mandates that coin design be selected by the Secretary after consultation with: (1) the Commission of Fine Arts; (2) the United States Olympic Committee; and (3) Olympic Properties of the United States-Salt Lake 2002 (created and owned by the Salt Lake Organizing Committee). States that all surcharges from the coin sales ($35 for a $5 coin and $10 for a $1 coin) shall be distributed by the Secretary to: (1) Salt Lake Organizing Committee for the Olympic Winter Games of 2002; and (2) the United States Olympic Committee.
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2000
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the United States cannot have normal relations with Belgrade as long as the Slobodan Milosevic regime is in power. Declares that the Senate considers international sanctions an essential tool to isolate the Milosevic regime and promote democracy and urges the Administration to intensify, focus, and expand those sanctions that most effectively target the regime and its key supporters. Expresses the Senate's: (1) support for the efforts of the Serbian people to establish a democratic government and endorses their call for early, free, and fair elections; and (2) readiness, once there is such a government in Serbia, to review conditions for Serbia's full reintegration into the international community and to assist such a future government to build a democratic, peaceful, and prosperous society. Calls upon the United States and other Western democracies to publicly announce and demonstrate to the Serbian people the magnitude of assistance they could expect after democratization. Recognizes the progress in democratic and market reform made by Montenegro and urges a peaceful resolution of political differences over the abrogation of Montenegro's rights under the federal constitution.
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2000
Arctic Coastal Plain Domestic Energy Security Act of 2000 - Directs the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Bureau of Land Management, to: (1) establish and implement a competitive oil and gas leasing program for the exploration, development, and production of oil and gas resources in the Coastal Plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (Alaska); (2) ensure that such program does not result in significant adverse effects upon either fish, wildlife, or the environment; and (3) ensure receipt of fair market value by the public for the mineral resources to be leased. (Sec. 3) Amends the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act of 1980 to repeal the proscription against the leasing or development for oil or gas production on the Coastal Plain. Declares that: (1) Congress has determined that such oil and gas leasing activities are compatible with the purposes for which the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge was established; and (2) no further findings or decisions are required. Authorizes the Secretary to designate up to a total of 45,000 acres of the Coastal Plain as Special Areas closed to leasing, but within which the Secretary may permit: (1) restrictive lease terms with respect to surface use and occupancy; and (2) the use of horizontal drilling technology from sites located outside the designated Special Areas. States that this Act constitutes the Secretary's sole authority to close lands to oil and gas exploration and production within the Coastal Plain. Directs the Secretary to convey: (1) the surface estate of specified Coastal Plain lands to the Kaktovik Inupiat Corporation; and (2) the subsurface estate beneath such surface estate to the Arctic Slope Regional Corporation. (Sec. 6) Prescribes procedural guidelines for lease sales on the Coastal Plain, including lease terms, conditions, and bonding requirements. Provides for expedited judicial review in the Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia with respect to actions of the Secretary. (Sec. 12) Directs the Secretary to grant rights of way and easements across the Coastal Plain for oil and gas transportation. Mandates that all revenues received by the Federal Government from competitive transactions and charges derived from Coastal Plain oil and gas leasing be deposited into the Treasury. Instructs the Secretary of the Treasury to pay semiannually to the State of Alaska the same percentage of such revenues as is set forth in specified law.
United States · United States Congress · 6 March 2000
Oil Price Reduction Act of 2000 - Declares it to be U.S. policy: (1) to determine the political, economic, and security relations of the United States with the major net oil exporting countries according to whether they engage in oil price fixing; and (2) to work multilaterally with other countries that are major net oil importers to bring about the complete dismantlement of international oil price fixing arrangements. Directs the President to report to Congress with respect to: (1) the overall economic and security relationship between the United States and each major net oil exporting country (including Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) countries); (2) the effect that coordination among such countries with respect to oil production and pricing has had on the U.S. economy and global energy supplies; (3) information on all assistance programs under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 and the Arms Export Control Act (including licenses for the export of defense articles and defense services) provided to such countries; and (4) whether or not each country is engaging in oil price fixing to the detriment of the U.S. economy. Requires the President, pursuant to such report, to reduce, suspend, or terminate such assistance to each country determined by the President to be engaged in oil price fixing to the detriment of the U.S. economy. Expresses the sense of Congress that the United States should continue to undertake a diplomatic campaign to convince: (1) all major net oil exporting countries that the current oil price levels are unsustainable and will negatively affect global economic growth rates in oil consuming and developing countries; and (2) other major net oil importing countries to join in multilateral efforts to bring about the complete dismantlement of international oil price fixing arrangements. Requires the President to report to Congress with respect to such diplomatic efforts.
![Official portrait of Sen. Voinovich, George V. [R-OH]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/v000126_200.jpg)