Agriculture

Tongass Rain Forest Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 22 November 2002

Tongass Rain Forest Protection Act - Designates all roadless areas in the Tongass National Forest in Alaska, including Duke Island, as the Tongass Rainforest Nature Preserve. Requires native animal and plant species within the Preserve to be protected in their natural and wild state. Prohibits activities in the Preserve that disturb native animal or plant species or their habitats, including the construction of roads or structures, logging, mining, and the use of any mechanized vehicle or equipment. Designates all of Duke Island and the Duke Inventoried Roadless Area as the Duke Island Trumpeter Swan Wilderness Area. Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to acquire: (1) inholdings in the Tongass National Forest from willing sellers; and (2) an inholding of exceptional importance for biological or scenic reasons through eminent domain at full fair market value.

A bill to amend the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938 to extend the farm reconstitution provision to the 2003 and 2004 crops.

United States · United States Congress · 20 November 2002

Amends the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938 to extend the Secretary of Agriculture's authority to allow tobacco-related farm reconstitutions in lieu of lease and transfer of allotments and quotas.

Protection of Family Farmers and Family Fisherman Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 19 November 2002

Protection of Family Farmers and Family Fishermen Act of 2002 - Amends the Federal Bankruptcy Code to reenact Chapter 12, Adjustment of Debts of a Family Farmer with Regular Annual Income (thus reinstating permanently family farmer bankruptcy relief). Provides periodic adjustments for inflation of the debt limit for family farmers. Cites circumstances under which the claim of a governmental unit that arises from the disposition of a farm asset used in the debtor's farming operation shall be treated as an unsecured claim not entitled to priority. Increases from $1.5 million to $3.237 million the maximum aggregate debt that permits a farming operation to qualify as a family farming operation for debt adjustment purposes. Decreases from 80 percent to 50 percent the minimum percentage of aggregate, noncontingent liquidated debts arising out of such a farming operation. Repeals the requirement that a family farmer and spouse receive over 50 percent of income from farming operations in the year before a bankruptcy petition is filed. Prohibits: (1) retroactive assessment of disposable income; and (2) post-confirmation modification of a bankruptcy plan that would increase the amount of payments that were due before such modification. Requires debtor's consent for post-confirmation increase in payments. Extends Chapter 12 coverage to family fishermen whose aggregate debts do not exceed $1.5 million, of which at least 80 percent of aggregate noncontingent, liquidated debts arise out of a commercial fishing operation.

Fort Donelson National Battlefield Expansion Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 14 November 2002

Fort Donelson National Battlefield Expansion Act of 2002 - Revises the boundary of Fort Donelson National Battlefield to include Fort Donelson National Cemetery in Stewart County, Tennessee, and Fort Heiman and any associated land in Calloway County, Kentucky. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to acquire from a willing seller eligible land for inclusion in the Battlefield. Limits the total area of the Battlefield to 2,000 acres. Directs the Secretary and the Secretary of Agriculture to enter into a memorandum of understanding to provide for the cooperative protection and interpretation of Fort Henry and any other Civil War resources in the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area that are associated with the campaign to capture Fort Donelson.

Emergency Agricultural Disaster Assistance Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 14 November 2002

See summary of: S. 3099

Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 November 2002

Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to define " major food allergen" as any of the following: milk, eggs, fish, Crustacea, tree nuts, wheat, peanuts, and soybeans. Includes spices, flavorings, colorings, or incidental additives that are or intentionally contain a major food allergen. Requires food that is not a raw agricultural commodity, and that is, or intentionally bears or contains, a major food allergen, to state that information on its label by January 1, 2006. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to give priority to increasing the number of inspections under the Act to ensure that foods comply with practices to reduce or eliminate cross-contact with major food allergen residues and to ensure that major food allergens are properly labeled on foods. Sets forth reporting requirements. Requires the Secretary to contract with the Institute of Medicine to conduct a review of the science relating to glutens in food and celiac disease, and to issue a report to the Secretary and Congress on its findings. Directs the Secretary to issue a proposed rule followed by a final rule to define, and permit use of, the term "gluten-free" on the labeling of foods. Directs the Secretary, in the Conference for Food Protection, as part of its cooperative activities between the States under the Public Health Service Act, to pursue certain revisions of the Food Code to provide guidelines for preparing allergen-free foods in food establishments. Requires the Secretary to include assistance relating to the use of different modes of treatment for and prevention of allergic responses to foods when he or she provides technical assistance relating to trauma care and emergency medical services under the Public Health Service Act.

T'uf Shur Bien Preservation Trust Area Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 November 2002

T'uf Shur Bien Preservation Trust Area Act - Establishes the T'uf Shur Bien Preservation Trust Area (the "Area") within the Cibola National Forest and the Sandia Mountain Wilderness in New Mexico. Recognizes and protects in perpetuity the Pueblo of Sandia's rights and interests in such Area. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture (Secretary), acting through the Forest Service, to continue to administer the Area as National Forest System lands. Sets forth the rights and interests of the Pueblo in such Area, including free and unrestricted access for traditional and cultural uses (except as they conflict with the Wilderness Act and Federal wildlife protection laws). Requires the United States to compensate the Pueblo as if it held fee title interest in the affected portion if Congress: (1) diminishes the Wilderness and National Forest designation of the Area by authorizing a prohibited use in all or any portion of it; or (2) permanently denies the Pueblo access for any traditional and cultural uses in all or any portion of the Area. Limits the Pueblo's rights and interest in the Area to exclude certain activities, including any right to sell, grant, lease, convey, encumber or exchange lands in the Area. Specifies allocation of criminal and civil jurisdiction over such Area among the Pueblo, New Mexico, and the United States. Extinguishes all Pueblo claims not specifically recognized within this Act. Declares that the Pueblo, the County of Bernalillo, New Mexico, and any person who owns or has owned property inside the exterior boundaries of the Area, and incurred cost as a result of participating in the case of Pueblo of Sandia v. Babbitt, may apply for reimbursement.

Food Choking Prevention Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 14 November 2002

Food Choking Prevention Act of 2002 - Directs the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in collaboration with the Consumer Product Safety Commission to establish an Office of Choking Hazard Evaluation to require warning labels on food products primarily consumed by children that pose a demonstrably high choking risk to them. Grants the Office mandatory recall authority over food products determined to pose a significant and unacceptable choking hazard to the general public. Mandates establishment of a Choking Hazard Evaluation Task Force whose staff shall be designated jointly by such agencies to establish criteria for determining whether a food product poses a significant and unacceptable choking hazard, using age-differentiated criteria for choking hazards. Directs the FDA to: (1) establish a national database of unusual food choking incidents; and (2) provide for an adequate reporting system throughout its field offices, which members of the health care profession and the general public can readily access to report new incidents.

Expressing the sense of Congress that the Secretary of Agriculture should reexamine the authorities governing the Conservation Reserve Program and adjust the program to the maximum extent practicable to assist agricultural producers adversely affected by severe drought conditions.

United States · United States Congress · 14 November 2002

Expresses the sense of Congress that the Secretary of Agriculture should: (1) reevaluate the conditions under which the conservation reserve program is designated to permit haying and grazing, taking into consideration rainfall, temperature, crop production, partial county designations, State disaster relief criteria, and other relevant factors; and (2) review and promulgate new rules and regulations regarding the appropriate use and availability of haying and grazing on conservation reserve program lands to better reflect the needs of farmers and ranchers in times of disaster.

San Isabel National Forest Land Exchange Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 13 November 2002

San Isabel National Forest Land Exchange Act of 2002 - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to convey all right, title, and interest of the United States in and to certain land in the San Isabel National Forest, Colorado, to E. Michael Senter of Buena Vista, Colorado, in exchange for certain other land within the boundaries of the San Isabel National Forest. States that the lands exchanged shall be equal. Declares that the Secretary shall pay all direct costs associated with the conveyance. Directs that the land received by the Secretary shall become part of the San Isabel National Forest.

To designate certain lands in Colorado as wilderness.

United States · United States Congress · 13 November 2002

Amends the Colorado Wilderness Act of 1993, Public Law 96-560 (designating certain National Forest System lands in the State of Colorado for inclusion in the National Wilderness Preservation System), and the American Wilderness Act of 1978 to designate specified lands in Acorn Creek, Gunnison, and Pitkin Counties, Colorado, as wilderness areas. Designates certain land in Eagle County, Colorado, as wilderness, the Red Table Mountain Wilderness Area (the "Area"). Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to allow for the maintenance of rights-of-way and access roads located within the Area in order to operate a transmission line or electrical power line. Withdraws all Federal lands within the Area from: (1) entry, appropriation, or disposal under the public land laws; (2) location, entry, and patent under the mining laws; and (3) the operation of the mineral leasing, mineral materials, and geothermal leasing laws. Permits continued aerial navigation training exercises by the Colorado Army National Guard in the Area. Declares that Congress does not intend for the establishment of protective perimeters or buffer zones around the Area. States that nothing in this Act shall be construed to: (1) constitute a reservation of any water or water rights in lands designated as wilderness; (2) affect any conditional or absolute water rights in Colorado; (3) establish a precedent with regard to future wilderness designations; or (4) affect compacts and decrees apportioning water among and between Colorado and other States. Prohibits the Secretary from making instream flow permit conditions within or upstream of the Area on existing facilities on National Forest System lands.

Homeland Security Information Sharing Act

United States · United States Congress · 12 November 2002

Homeland Security Act of 2002 - Establishes a Department of Homeland Security (DHS), headed by the Secretary of Homeland Security. Establishes in DHS the Directorate for Information Analysis and Infrastructure Protection, headed by an Under Secretary for Information Analysis and Infrastructure Protection. Critical Infrastructure Information Act of 2002 - Exempts from the Freedom of Information Act and other Federal and State disclosure requirements critical infrastructure information voluntarily submitted to a covered Federal agency for its use regarding the security of critical infrastructure and protected systems, analysis, warning, interdependency study, recovery, reconstitution, or other informational purpose. Requires the Secretary to: (1) establish procedures for sharing information; and (2) appoint a senior Privacy Officer to assume primary responsibility for privacy policy. Cyber Security Enhancement Act of 2002 - Directs the U.S. Sentencing Commission to amend Federal sentencing guidelines and otherwise address crimes involving fraud in connection with computers and access to protected information, protected computers or restricted data in interstate or foreign commerce or involving a computer used by or for the Federal Government. Exempts from criminal penalties any emergency disclosures to a governmental entity by an electronic communication service and specified disclosures made in good faith. Abolishes the Office of Science and Technology of the National Institute of Justice and transfers its functions to an Office of Science and Technology hereby established within the Department of Justice. Requires the Director of the Office to operate and support National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Centers. Establishes in DHS: (1) a Directorate of Science and Technology, headed by an Under Secretary for Science and Technology; (2) a Homeland Security Advanced Research Projects Agency; (3) a Homeland Security Science and Technology Advisory Committee; (4) a Homeland Security Institute; (5) a Directorate of Border and Transportation Security, headed by an Under Secretary for Border and Transportation Security; and (6) the U.S. Customs Service (transferred from the Department of the Treasury, but with certain customs revenue functions remaining with the Secretary of the Treasury). Transfers to DHS certain agricultural inspection functions of the Department of Agriculture. Maintains the Transportation Security Administration, transferred to DHS from the Department of Transportation, as a distinct entity. Vests in the Secretary of DHS all authority relating to U.S. consular officials to grant or refuse visas for entry into the Unite States. Establishes in DHS an Office for Domestic Preparedness to prepare the United States for acts of terrorism. Transfers to Under Secretary for Border and Transportation Security from the Commissioner of Immigration and Naturalization (INS Commissioner) all functions performed under the Border Patrol, detention and removal, intelligence, investigations, and inspections programs. Establishes in DHS: (1) a Bureau of Border Security, headed by an Assistant Secretary; (2) a Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services, headed by a Director; and (3) a Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman. Transfers from the INS Commissioner to the Director of the Office of Refugee Resettlement of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) functions under Federal immigration law with respect to the care of unaccompanied alien children. Abolishes the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) of the Department of Justice. Authorizes the Attorney General and the Secretary to: (1) make voluntary separation incentive payments to employees of the INS, the DHS Bureau of Border Security, and the DHS Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services; and (2) conduct a demonstration project to determine whether changes in the policies or procedures relating to methods for disciplining employees would result in improved personnel management. Establishes within the Office of Deputy DHS Secretary a Director of Shared Services to coordinate resources for the Bureau of Border Security and the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services. Establishes in DHS a Directorate of Emergency Preparedness and Response, headed by an Under Secretary. Declares that, at the direction of the DHS Secretary (in connection with an actual or threatened terrorist attack, major disaster, or other emergency in the United States), the Nuclear Incident Response Team shall operate as an organizational unit of DHS. Provides for Johnny Micheal Spann Patriot Trusts for surviving spouses, children, or dependent parents, grandparents, or siblings of members of the U.S. Armed Forces, certain personnel (including contractors) of elements of the intelligence community, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) employees, and Federal officers, employees, or contract employees whose deaths occur in the line of duty and arise out of terrorist attacks, military operations, intelligence operations, or law enforcement operations or accidents connected with activities occurring after September 11, 2001, and related to domestic or foreign efforts to curb international terrorism. Specifies the duties of the DHS Under Secretary for Management. Requires the Secretary to appoint an Officer for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties to assess information alleging abuses of civil rights, civil liberties, and racial and ethnic profiling by DHS employees and officials. Establishes within the Office of the DHS Secretary an Office for State and Local Government Coordination to oversee and coordinate departmental programs for and relationships with State and local governments. Subjects the DHS Inspector General to the Secretary's authority with respect to audits or investigations, or issuance of subpoenas, that require access to sensitive information concerning specified matters the disclosure of which would constitute a serious threat to national security. Specifies the law enforcement powers of Inspector General agents. Transfers the United States Secret Service to DHS. Prohibits the Secretary from entering into contracts with any foreign incorporated entity treated as an inverted domestic corporation (corporate expatriate). Authorizes the Secretary to establish a human resources management system for the organizational units of DHS. Declares that no agency or agency subdivision transferred to DHS shall be excluded from coverage of Federal civil service labor-management relations law unless: (1) the agency's (or subdivision's) mission and responsibilities materially change; and (2) a majority of the employees within such agency (or subdivision) have as their primary duty intelligence, counterintelligence, or investigative work directly related to terrorism investigation. Prescribes requirements, including expedited procedures, for procurements for defense against or recovery from terrorism or nuclear, biological, chemical, or radiological attack. Support Anti-terrorism by Fostering Effective Technologies Act of 2002' or the SAFETY Act - Authorizes the Secretary to designate anti-terrorism technologies that qualify for protection under a prescribed system of risk management (including mandatory liability insurance). Creates a Federal cause of action for claims arising out of, relating to, or resulting from an act of terrorism when qualified anti-terrorism technologies have been deployed in defense against or response or recovery from such act and such claims result or may result in loss to the Seller. Directs the Secretary to appoint a senior DHS counternarcotics officer to coordinate policy and operations within DHS and between it and other Federal agencies with respect to interdicting the entry of illegal drugs into the United States, and tracking and severing connections between illegal drug trafficking and terrorism. Establishes within the Office of the Secretary an Office of International Affairs. Prohibits all Federal activities to implement the proposed component program of the Citizen Corps known as Operation TIPS (Terrorism Information and Prevention System). Establishes within the Office of the Secretary an Office for National Capital Region to oversee and coordinate Federal programs for and relationships with State, local, and regional authorities in the National Capital Region Coordination. Requires DHS to comply with Federal laws protecting equal employment opportunity and providing whistleblower protections. Authorizes the Secretary to establish a permanent Joint Interagency Homeland Security Task Force composed of representatives from military and civilian Federal agencies to anticipate terrorist threats and prevent terrorist attacks against the United States. Declares the sense of Congress reaffirming the continued importance and applicability of the Posse Comitatus Act prohibiting the use of the Armed Forces as a posse comitatus to execute the law except as expressly authorized by the Constitution or Act of Congress. Transfers the Coast Guard to DHS, but prohibits the Secretary from substantially or significantly reducing the missions of the Coast Guard or its capability to perform them, except as specified in subsequent Acts. Homeland Security Information Sharing Act - Directs the President to prescribe and implement procedures under which relevant Federal agencies: (1) share relevant and appropriate homeland security information with other Federal agencies, including DHS, and appropriate State and local personnel; (2) identify and safeguard homeland security information that is sensitive but unclassified; and (3) to the extent such information is in classified form, determine whether, how, and to what extent to remove classified information, as appropriate, and with which such personnel it may be shared after such information is removed. Amends the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure to authorize the disclosure of grand jury information: (1) to personnel of a foreign government; and (2) to appropriate Federal, State, local, or foreign government officials to prevent or respond to specified hostile foreign power or domestic or international terrorist threats or actions, or foreign intelligence gathering activities. Authorizes Federal investigative or law enforcement officers to share electronic, wire, and oral interception information with foreign investigative or law enforcement officers. Establishes within the Executive Office of the President a National Homeland Security Council to: (1) assess U.S. objectives, commitments, and risks in the interest of homeland security; (2) oversee and review Federal homeland security policies; and (3) make recommendations to the President. Federal Information Security Management Act of 2002 - Amends Federal law to revise requirements for the coordination of Federal information policy to require: (1) the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to oversee agency information security policies and practices; and (2) each Federal agency head to provide information security protections. Requires the Director to prescribe standards for Federal information systems based on proposals by the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Renames the Computer System Security and Privacy Advisory Board the Information Security and Privacy Advisory Board. Transfers the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) from the Department of the Treasury to the Department of Justice. Establishes within ATF an Explosives Training and Research Facility at Fort AP Hill, Fredericksburg, Virginia. Safe Explosives Act - Amends the Federal criminal code to provide for $50 one-year limited permits to receive explosive materials no more than six times during the permit period, and only from licensees or permittees whose premises are located in the State where the limited permittee resides. Prohibits limited permit holders from transporting, shipping, or receiving explosive materials in interstate or foreign commerce. Prohibits knowing distribution of explosive materials to or possession by: (1) certain illegal aliens; (2) persons with a dishonorable discharge from the Armed Forces; or (3) anyone who has renounced U.S. citizenship. Authorizes the Secretary to grant relief from specified prohibitions, depending on the relief applicant's record and reputation. Extends through calendar 2003 the authority of the Secretary of Transportation to declare an air carrier a victim of terrorism not liable for third party claims arising out of acts of terrorism. Grants the Secretary of Transportation authority to extend through calendar 2003 the termination date of any insurance policy issued to an air carrier. Chief Human Capital Officers Act of 2002 - Amends Federal civil service law to require the heads of specified agencies to appoint or designate Agency Chief Human Capital Officers to set agency workforce development strategy. Establishes a Chief Human Capital Officers Council. Requires OMB to design a set of systems for assessing the management of human capital by Federal agencies. Amends Federal civil service law to authorize OMB to establish alternative ranking and selection procedures for the competitive service hiring process. Provides for permanent extension and revision of authorities for use of voluntary separation incentive pay and voluntary early retirement. Amends Federal civil service law to repeal recertification requirements of the Senior Executive Service. Revises requirements with respect to employee academic degree training and the National Security Education Program. Arming Pilots Against Terrorism Act - Amends Federal transportation law to require the Under Secretary of Transportation for Security to establish a program to deputize volunteer pilots of passenger air carriers as Federal law enforcement officers to defend the aircraft flight decks with firearms or less-than-lethal weapons against acts of criminal violence or air piracy (Federal flight deck officers). Provides for flight crew training. Requires the President to transmit a DHS reorganization plan to the appropriate congressional committees within 60 days after enactment of this Act. Revises Federal transportation law with respect to airline transportation security. Allows U.S. nationals, as well as U.S. citizens, as airport screeners. Transfers to the DHS Secretary the mandate to protect Federal Government officers, employees, and property. of certain security and law enforcement functions and authorities. Establishes in the Department of Defense a National Bio-Weapons Defense Analysis Center. Amends Federal transportation law to extend certain requirements with respect to railroad and hazardous materials (hazmat) safety to railroad and hazmat security.

Florida National Forest Land Management Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 16 October 2002

Florida National Forest Land Management Act of 2002 - Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to sell or exchange specified land in Florida. Requires the concurrence of the Secretary of the Air Force with respect to the sale or exchange of certain of such land.

Inclusive Home Design Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 16 October 2002

Inclusive Home Design Act of 2002 - Requires new covered dwellings (certain residences designed, constructed, commissioned, or contracted with Federal financial assistance) to include at least one entrance that is accessible to, and usable by, people with disabilities. Exempts buildings from that and other entrance requirements on account of the terrain or due to unusual physical limitations. Makes further requirements of covered dwellings pertaining to: (1) accessible interior doors; (2) accessible environmental controls; and (3) accessible habitable space and an accessible bathroom. Requires each applicant for Federal financial assistance to submit to the relevant Federal agency an assurance that all of its programs and activities are in compliance with this Act. Requires each person who arranges for design or construction of a covered dwelling to submit architectural and construction plans to the relevant State or local department or agency for approval. Prohibits any Federal financial assistance from being disbursed to a State or local government unit unless the recipient is taking certain enforcement actions with regard to covered dwellings. Provides for civil actions in an appropriate United States District Court or State court for alleged misconduct under this Act. Permits the Attorney General to commence civil actions or intervene in civil actions under this Act. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, the Secretary of Agriculture, and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue any regulations necessary to carry out this Act. Prohibits any State, political jurisdiction, or other such jurisdiction from requiring or permitting any action that would violate this Act.

A bill to compensate agricultural producers in the State of New Mexico that suffered crop losses as a result of use of a herbicide by the Bureau of Land Management.

United States · United States Congress · 15 October 2002

Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to compensate agricultural producers in New Mexico for 2002 crop damage caused by the Bureau of Land Management's use of the herbicide tebuthiuron.

Comprehensive Wildlife Disease Testing Acceleration Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2002

Comprehensive Wildlife Disease Testing Acceleration Act of 2002 - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture, with respect to chronic wasting disease (a disease affecting deer and elk), to: (1) issue guidelines for animal tissue collecting and laboratory testing; (2) establish a laboratory certification and inspection program; and (3) accelerate testing research. Establishes the Interagency Task Force on Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease to coordinate epizootic hemorrhagic disease (a disease affecting deer and other wild ruminants) prevention activities.

Emergency Agricultural Disaster Assistance Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2002

Emergency Agricultural Disaster Assistance Act of 2002 - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to provide: (1) emergency financial assistance to agricultural producers (without regard to Federal crop insurance coverage) who have incurred qualifying 2001 and/or 2002 crop losses due to weather or related conditions; and (2) payments to livestock producers who have incurred 2001 and/or 2002 losses in an emergency-designated county, with set-asides for the American Indian livestock program.

A bill to amend the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to clarify the rates applicable to marketing assistance loans and loan deficiency payments for other oilseeds, dry peas, lentils, and small chickpeas.

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2002

Amends the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to include crambe and sesame seeds within the definition of "other oilseeds." Itemizes such oilseeds and applies the same marketing assistance loan rate and the same loan deficiency payment rate to each of them.

A bill to authorize the extension of nondiscriminatory treatment (normal trade relations treatment) to the products of Ukraine, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2002

Authorizes the President to extend nondiscriminatory treatment (normal trade relations treatment) to the products of the Ukraine. Declares that it is the policy of the United States to remain fully committed to a multifaceted engagement with the Ukraine, including by: (1) urging the Ukraine to continue its policy of providing for the free emigration of its citizens and recognizing human rights; and (2) ensuring that Ukraine's terms of accession to the World Trade Organization provide meaningful market access opportunities for U.S. businesses, farmers, and workers.

Genetically Engineered Foods Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2002

Genetically Engineered Foods Act - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to require Food and Drug Administration review and approval of all genetically engineered foods (as defined by this Act) prior to introduction into interstate commerce. (Includes split-use food, as defined by this Act, in such requirement.) Authorizes approval exemptions for a food category deemed not to be a food safety risk. Provides for trade secret protection. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish: (1) a program to test for the presence of genetically engineered ingredients in food from all stages of agricultural production to retail distribution; and (2) a genetically engineered food registry that contains the regulatory status of all such approved foods. Applies provisions respecting adulterated drugs and devices to genetically engineered animals (as defined by this Act). Sets forth application criteria, including provisions for: (1) protection of trade secrets; (2) environmental assessments. Subjects the provisions of this Act to prohibitions respecting: (1) unlawful use of trade secret information; and (2) adulterated food. Sets forth approval transition provisions for genetically engineered animals or food that enter interstate commerce before enactment of this Act.

Family Dairy Farmer and Rural Community Rescue Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2002

Family Dairy Farmer and Rural Community Rescue Act of 2002 - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to carry out counter-cyclical income support programs for dairy producers in participating and nonparticipating States through 2011. (Each State to be a participant unless it elects otherwise.) Limits individual or entity payments to 230,000 pounds of milk per month. Provides with respect to the participating State program for: (1) specified marketing area target prices; (2) five regional supply management districts; (3) specified payment rates; and (4) establishment in the Treasury of a National Dairy Producers Trust Fund.

Comprehensive Wildlife Disease Testing Acceleration Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2002

Comprehensive Wildlife Disease Testing Acceleration Act of 2002 - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture, with respect to chronic wasting disease (a disease affecting deer and elk), to: (1) issue guidelines for animal tissue collecting and laboratory testing; (2) establish a laboratory certification and inspection program; and (3) accelerate testing research. Establishes the Interagency Task Force on Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease to coordinate epizootic hemorrhagic disease (a disease affecting deer and other wild ruminants) prevention activities.

Clearwater Basin Project Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2002

Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to establish and maintain the Clearwater Advisory Panel (CAP), which shall provide advice and recommendations to the Forest Service regarding the Clearwater Basin pilot project (the "Project") within the Clearwater and Nez Perce National Forests, Idaho. States that the CAP shall: (1) make recommendations regarding activities for high priority implementation; (2) provide early and continuous coordination with Federal officials; and (3) provide for public input into its proceedings. Directs the CAP, in consultation with and receiving technical assistance from the applicable Forest Supervisor, to develop and submit for approval from the Forest Supervisor five-year schedules of high priority activities for the Project. Requires that the activities included in such schedules have funding authorized and appropriated under this Act or other law and that they be consistent with the applicable forest land and resource management plan ("LRMP"). Directs the Forest Service to complete any applicable National Environmental Policy Act ("NEPA") procedures for the approval of the activities at the site-specific, project level. Directs the CAP to consult with the Nez Perce Tribe in developing and recommending each schedule. Directs the Forest Supervisor to issue a project or activity decision document regarding approval of the recommended schedule in accordance with NEPA and other applicable procedures. Provides for the schedules and activities authorized under this section to supplement certain other schedules, plans, and projects or other activities authorized and implemented under other law.

Wood Preservation Safety Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2002

Wood Preservation Safety Act of 2002 - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to require the Forest Products Laboratory in Madison, Wisconsin, to conduct a FY 2003 and 2004 study of silver-based biocides' effectiveness as a wood preservation treatment.

Idaho Panhandle National Forest Improvement Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2002

Idaho Panhandle National Forest Improvement Act of 2002 - Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to sell or exchange certain National Forest System lands in Idaho, and to use the proceeds to acquire or rehabilitate: (1) facilities for a new ranger station in the Silver Valley area of the Panhandle National Forest; and (2) other facilities in such Forest. Authorizes the Secretary to use other funds if sale or exchange proceeds are insufficient for the acquisition or improvement of the ranger station and associated land.

Companion Disaster Assistance Program Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 9 October 2002

Companion Disaster Assistance Program Act of 2002 - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to provide emergency financial assistance to agricultural producers who have incurred qualifying 2001 or 2002 crop losses due to weather or related conditions. Requires a producer with qualifying losses in both years to elect to receive payments in either, but not both, of such years. States that: (1) a producer may not receive assistance for losses to more than one 2001 crop or 2002 crop on the same acreage unless there is an established practice of planting two or more crops for harvest on such acreage in the same crop year; and (2) the Secretary shall give a producer an opportunity to designate the 2001 or 2002 crop for which the producer requests assistance.

To protect certain lands held in fee by the Pechanga Band of Luiseno Mission Indians from condemnation until a final decision is made regarding a pending fee to trust application for that land, to provide an environmentally sound process for the expeditious consideration and approval of an electricity transmission line right-of-way through the Trabuco Ranger District of the Cleveland National Forest and adjacent Federal lands, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 9 October 2002

Declares that specified lands held in fee by the Pechanga Band of Luiseno Mission Indians shall not be transferred or made available for condemnation until the Secretary of the Interior renders a final decision (and all appeals are exhausted) on the pending fee to trust application, or the application is withdrawn. Directs the Secretaries of the Interior and Agriculture (the "Secretaries") to issue the necessary grants, easements, permits, plan amendments, and other approvals to allow for the siting and construction of a high-voltage electricity transmission line in part of the Cleveland National Forest in California and adjacent lands under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Land Management and the Forest Service. Forbids any portion of the transmission line from entering any identified wilderness area. Assigns primary responsibility for completing the environmental and other reviews necessary for the implementation of this Act to the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Bureau of Land Management. States that it is anticipated that this Act will make it unnecessary to construct regional transmission lines through heavily populated lands in the Temecula Valley. Subjects the right-of-way to such terms and conditions as the Secretaries set forth to protect historic, cultural, and natural resources under their respective jurisdictions.

A bill to amend the Agricultural Adjustment Act to require the Secretary of Agriculture to use the price of feed grains and other cash expenses as factors to determine the basic formula price for milk under milk marketing orders.

United States · United States Congress · 7 October 2002

Amends the Agricultural Adjustment Act to require the Secretary of Agriculture to use the price of feed grains and other cash expenses as factors to determine the basic formula price for milk under milk marketing orders.

Indian Technical Corrections Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 October 2002

Indian Technical Corrections Act - Amends Federal law regarding the lease, sale, or surrender of allotted or unallotted Indian lands to: (1) declare that leases of restricted lands for less than seven years do not require approval of the Secretary of the Interior; and (2) authorize the Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes of the Fort Peck Reservation to lease the Northern Border Pipeline Company tribally-owned land on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation for interstate gas pipelines. Amends the Navajo-Hopi Land Settlement Act of 1974 to require the Office of Navajo and Hopi Indian Relocation to study and report on the effects of the relocation program. Authorizes specified Indian Health Service demonstration projects, including ones related to fetal alcohol syndrome, illegal narcotics traffic, and certain rural health facilities. Amends the Indian Health Care Improvement Act to authorize the Eagle Butte Service Unit of the Indian Health Service to carry out a program to increase salaries and grant bonuses to health care professionals. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to terminate the outstanding balances on expert assistance loans made to the Oglala Sioux Tribe and the Seminole Tribe of Oklahoma. Declares that specified Indian lands be held in trust by the United States for the benefit of Indian tribes. Requires the Secretary of Agriculture to convey specified cemetery articles to corporations that have received title. Authorizes the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community to lease, sell, convey, warrant, or otherwise transfer real property that is not held in trust by the United States. Tribal Governments and Forest Service Collaboration Act of 2002 - Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to provide financial, technical, educational, and related forestry and resource management assistance to specified Indian tribes. Places all right, title, and interest of the United States in specified lands to be held by the United States in trust for the Pueblo of Santa Clara and the Pueblo of San Ildefonso, New Mexico.

Wood Preservation Safety Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 4 October 2002

Wood Preservation Safety Act of 2002 - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to require the Forest Products Laboratory in Madison, Wisconsin, to conduct a study of silver-based biocides' effectiveness as a wood preservation treatment.

Finger Lakes Initiative Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 3 October 2002

Finger Lakes Initiative Act of 2002 - Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to establish the Finger Lakes Initiative to protect the environmental integrity and cultural and economic benefits of the region. Establishes the Finger Lakes Management Conference to carry out the Initiative through the development of a comprehensive plan. Includes a technical advisory committee as part of the Conference. Requires the comprehensive plan to address issues of water quality and level, native habitats, and recreational and economic activities. Subjects the plan to approval by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. Directs the Conference to establish a Finger Lakes Institute as an interdisciplinary environmental research and education program at an academic institution within the region. Limits the Federal share of costs to 75 percent, permitting the non-Federal share to be made up of in-kind contributions. Requires coordination with the relevant Federal programs of the Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, and the Interior.

Idaho Panhandle National Forest Improvement Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 3 October 2002

Idaho Panhandle National Forest Improvement Act of 2002 - Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to sell or exchange certain National Forest System lands in Idaho, and to use the proceeds to acquire or rehabilitate: (1) facilities for a new ranger station in the Silver Valley area of the Panhandle National Forest; and (2) other facilities in such Forest. Authorizes the Secretary to use other funds if sale or exchange proceeds are insufficient for the acquisition or improvement of the ranger station and associated land.

Sandpoint Land and Facilities Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 3 October 2002

Sandpoint Land and Facilities Act of 2002 - Directs the Administrator of General Services to transfer to the Secretary of Agriculture jurisdiction over certain land in Sandpoint, Idaho (the "property"), with the Secretary assuming the obligation of the Administrator to repay to the Federal Finance Bank the debt incurred with respect to the property. Permits the Secretary to exchange all right, title, and interest of the United States in and to the property in an exchange of equal value, in which the recipient of the property may agree to construct administrative facilities for the National Forest System in Bonner County, Idaho. Requires a recipient to honor any outstanding indebtedness on the property to the Federal Finance Bank. Directs the Secretary to use proceeds from the sale of the property for : (1) the acquisition, construction, or improvement of administrative facilities and associated land in the Northern Region of the Forest Service in Idaho; and (2) the acquisition of land and interests in land for addition to National Forest System land in such region. Forbids any proceeds from being distributed to States or counties or from being considered moneys received from units of the National Forest System under specified laws. Requires the Secretary to manage any land acquired under this Act in accordance with the Weeks Act.

Sandpoint Land and Facilities Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 3 October 2002

Sandpoint Land and Facilities Act of 2002 - Directs the Administrator of General Services to transfer to the Secretary of Agriculture jurisdiction over certain land in Sandpoint, Idaho (the "property"), with the Secretary assuming the obligation of the Administrator to repay to the Federal Finance Bank the debt incurred with respect to the property. Permits the Secretary to exchange all right, title, and interest of the United States in and to the property in an exchange of equal value, in which the recipient of the property may agree to construct administrative facilities for the National Forest System in Bonner County, Idaho. Requires a recipient to honor any outstanding indebtedness on the property to the Federal Finance Bank. Directs the Secretary to use proceeds from the sale of the property for : (1) the acquisition, construction, or improvement of administrative facilities and associated land in the Northern Region of the Forest Service in Idaho; and (2) the acquisition of land and interests in land for addition to National Forest System land in such region. Forbids any proceeds from being distributed to States or counties or from being considered moneys received from units of the National Forest System under specified laws. Requires the Secretary to manage any land acquired under this Act in accordance with the Weeks Act.

Chesapeake Bay Watershed Forestry Program Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 1 October 2002

Chesapeake Bay Watershed Forestry Program Act of 2002 - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture, through the Forest Service, to establish a Chesapeake Bay watershed forestry program of grants and technical assistance for: (1) forest conservation in urban, suburban, and rural areas; (2) National Forest System management; (3) research, education, and planning activities; and (4) achievement of Chesapeake Bay Agreement goals. Sets forth grantee and project eligibility criteria. Authorizes a Bay State (Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia) to use funds to hire a State watershed forester to carry out watershed projects. Directs the Secretary to establish for the Chesapeake Bay watershed a: (1) forestry research program; and (2) a forestry research strategy.

A bill to amend the Food Security Act of 1985 to suspend the requirement that rental payments under the conservation reserve program be reduced by reason of harvesting or grazing conducted in response to a drought or other emergency.

United States · United States Congress · 1 October 2002

Amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to eliminate rental payment reduction authority under the conservation reserve program because of harvesting of forage or grazing during a drought-caused emergency for 2002.

Prescott and San Isabel National Forests Land Exchange Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 1 October 2002

Yavapai Ranch Land Exchange Refinement Act of 2002 - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to convey certain land in the Prescott, Coconino, and Kaibab National Forests, Arizona, to the Yavapai Ranch Limited Partnership or the Northern Yavapai, L.L.C. (both referred to respectively as the "YLRP"), in exchange for land within the boundaries of the Prescott National Forest, Arizona. Grants to the YLRP perpetual, unrestricted, and nonexclusive easements that run with and benefit land transferred to the YLRP. Requires the YLRP to execute, record, and amend two declarations it made with regard to water and the future development of lands in the Prescott National Forest. Reserves for the YLRP unrestricted easements and water rights for not more than three existing wells and related equipment on the land it is transferring to Federal control, with certain water rights from the wells to be reserved for the United States. Prescribes that if any part of either territory being transferred is unacceptable to the entity receiving it due to the presence of hazardous materials or any other reason, such section shall be deleted from the exchange and an adjustment shall be made. Requires the values of the land exchanged to be equal. Revokes any public orders withdrawing any of the Federal land from appropriation or disposal as necessary for the implementation of this Act. Withdraws the Federal land from all forms of entry and appropriation under the public land laws, including the mining and mineral leasing laws and the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970, until the date of the exchange. Prescribes that the land acquired by the United States shall become part of the Prescott National Forest and shall be managed to maintain its present character and natural values.

Individual and Small Business Tax Simplification Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 1 October 2002

Individual and Small Business Tax Simplification Act of 2002 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code, with respect to individuals, to: (1) increase the alternative minimum tax exemption amount and adjust it for inflation; (2) replace the head of household filing status with a new exemption for single parents; (3) allow itemizers and nonitemizers a 50 percent deduction for capital gains; (4) repeal the two percent floor on miscellaneous itemized deductions; (5) accelerate the repeal of the phaseout of the overall limitation on itemized deductions and the phaseout of the personal exemption; (6) exclude means-tested government benefits from determining support for purposes of the dependency exemption; (7) combine the Hope and Lifetime Learning credits into an education credit; and (8) revise the taxation of social security benefits, the deduction for points on a home mortgage, the taxation of minors, the dependent care credit, the additional exemption for qualifying children, and the definition of qualified higher education expenses. Revises provisions concerning small business taxation to: (1) eliminate the S corporation filing category and permit eligible corporations that are not publicly traded to be treated as a partnership; (2) increase expensing under section 179; (3) repeal provisions concerning collapsible corporations; (4) exclude from net earnings from self-employment partnership income attributable to capital; (5) repeal the ability to elect large partnership reporting rules; and (6) revise provisions concerning the exchange of property held for productive use, the definition of qualified corporate partners for purposes of the at risk rules, payments to retiring partners, foreign currency transactions, and a limited entrepreneur with respect to farming.

Thomas C. Dorr, of Iowa, to be Under Secretary of Agriculture for Rural Development, vice Jill L. Long, resigned, to which position he was appointed during the last recess of the Senate.

United States · United States Senate · 30 September 2002

Sun Grant Initiative for Renewable Energy and Biobased Products Act

United States · United States Congress · 30 September 2002

Sun Grant Initiative for Renewable Energy and Biobased Products Act - Amends the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to make grants to university-based sun grant centers which shall: (1) establish centers of excellence to pursue research, extension, and educational programs to implement biobased energy technologies, products, and economic diversification in rural areas; and (2) make grants to land-grant colleges and universities for related multiinstitutional and multistate programs. Establishes: (1) a northern sun grant center at South Dakota State University for Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Wyoming; (2) a southeastern sun grant center at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville for Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the United States Virgin Islands; (3) a south central sun grant center at Oklahoma State University for Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas; (4) a western sun grant center at Oregon State University for Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington and other U.S. territories and possessions; and (5) a northeastern sun grant center at Cornell University for Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and West Virginia. Requires the centers to maintain a Sun Grant Information Analysis Center for analysis and data management support. Amends the Biomass Research and Development Act of 2000 to include a representative of the Cooperative Research, Extension, and Educational Service on the Biomass Research and Development Board.

Rural Community Revitalization and Transition Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2002

Rural Community Revitalization and Transition Act - Amends the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938 to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to make tobacco transition payments to qualifying quota owners and active growers of covered tobacco (Flue-cured tobacco, Burley tobacco, Fire-cured tobacco, dark-air cured tobacco, and Virginia sun-cured tobacco). Establishes in the Treasury a tobacco farmer trust fund to carry out such program. Expresses the sense of Congress that such payments should be afforded capital gains treatment. Sets forth payment determination provisions for tobacco investment protection payments, including: (1) historic quota production for Flue-cured and Burley tobacco, and for Fire-cured, dark air-cured, and Virginia sun-cured tobacco; (2) counter-cyclical payments for Flue-cured tobacco, and for Burley, dark-air cured, Virginia sun-cured, and Fire-cured tobacco; and (3) direct payments for Flue-cured tobacco, and Burley and other tobacco. Authorizes the establishment of the Center for Agricultural Innovation which shall be located at a land-grant college or university in a traditional quota State, and shall: (1) coordinate work among land-grant colleges and universities in the Southeast to facilitate development, evaluation, and implementation of new agricultural technologies and enterprises for rural communities; and (2) give priority to developing technologies and enterprises in tobacco-dependent communities. Establishes in the Department of Agriculture the Tobacco Advisory Board. Terminates marketing quotas for certain types of tobacco. Repeals provisions regarding: (1) Burley tobacco acreage allotment; (2) mandatory sale of Burley and Flue-cured tobacco acreage allotments and marketing quotas; (3) sale or lease of acreage allotments; and (4) farm poundage quotas for certain types of tobacco. Revises provisions regarding: (1) national marketing quota; (2) apportionment of national marketing quota; (3) lease and transfer of acreage allotments; and (4) acreage-poundage quotas.

Protection of Family Farmers Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2002

Amends the Omnibus Consolidated and Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act, 1999 to extend from January 1, 2003, until July 1, 2003, the reenactment of chapter 12 of the Federal Bankruptcy Code (Adjustment of Debts of a Family Farmer with Regular Annual Income) (thereby extending family farmer bankruptcy relief).

To amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to provide the Food and Drug Administration with authority to recall food when there is a reasonable basis for believing that the food is adulterated and presents a risk to human health, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2002

Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to order the cessation of the distribution of food if there is a reasonable basis for believing the food is adulterated and a risk to human health. Requires an informal hearing to be held with respect to any such action. Directs the Secretary to vacate an order upon finding that insufficient evidence exists to support it, or to order a recall of food upon finding that such action is necessary. Prohibits noncompliance with such an order. Requires the Secretary to specify a timetable for any recall. Applies special rules for the recall of infant formula.

Great Plains Grasslands Wilderness Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2002

Great Plains Grasslands Wilderness Act - Establishes the Great Plains Historic Grassland Wilderness Area (the "Area") in North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wyoming, to be managed (with certain exceptions) by the Secretary of Agriculture. Allows the Indian tribe located on a reservation nearest to a grassland that is in the Area to assist in the management of the grassland. Declares that grasslands located within the boundaries of a reservation shall be under the total control of that reservation. Withdraws, subject to existing rights and treaties with Native American tribes, all Federal lands within the Area from provisions in certain laws, including from the operation of the mineral leasing laws and all forms of entry, appropriation, or disposal under the public land laws. Directs the Secretary to maintain or restore fish and wildlife populations and their habitats. Provides for the reintroduction of noncommerical American bison into the Area, and forbids hunting of such bison. Prohibits grazing by cattle, sheep, or other commercialized animals in the Area. Protects tribal rights, and directs the Secretary to permit access for tribes to the Area for traditional cultural and ceremonial purposes. Directs that a study of certain rivers be conducted to ensure that wildlife in the Area have access to clean drinking water. Establishes within the Department of the Interior the Office of Native American Wilderness Management. Requires the Director of such Office to coordinate programs that provide assistance to eligible tribal governments in their management of natural environments. Requires the Director to initiate a two-year study of the Area by Indian tribes with the aim of discovering how to restore the grasslands in the Area to their original, natural states as closely as possible.

To eliminate the authority to reduce rental payments under the conservation reserve program in calendar year 2002 by reason of harvesting of forage or grazing on land in an emergency caused by a drought.

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2002

Amends the Food Security Act of 1985 eliminate rental payment reduction authority under the conservation reserve program because of harvesting of forage or grazing during a drought-caused emergency for 2002.

Family Farmers and Family Fishermen Protection Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2002

Requires the Clerk of the House of Representatives to make specified corrections in the enrollment of H.R. 2215 (21st Century Department of Justice Appropriations Authorization Act) to add the Family Farmers and Family Fishermen Protection Act of 2002.

Craig Recreation Land Purchase Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2002

Craig Recreation Land Purchase Act - Requires: (1) the Secretary of Agriculture to accept any tender by the City of Craig, Alaska (the City), of all right, title, and interest in and to specified municipal lands identified as the "Sunnahae Property and Trail"; (2) the City to use the funds received for such transfer to purchase the "Wards Cove Property"; (3) that the lands being transferred shall be of equal value; (4) the Secretary, prior to any conveyance, to conduct an appraisal of the municipal lands in accordance with the United States Department of Justice Uniform Standards of Appraisal; and (5) that the municipal lands received by the Secretary shall become part of the Tongass National Forest.

Rural Community Revitalization and Transition Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2002

Rural Community Revitalization and Transition Act - Amends the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938 to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to make tobacco transition payments to qualifying quota owners and active growers of covered tobacco (Flue-cured tobacco, Burley tobacco, Fire-cured tobacco, dark-air cured tobacco, and Virginia sun-cured tobacco). Establishes in the Treasury a tobacco farmer trust fund to carry out such program. Expresses the sense of Congress that such payments should be afforded capital gains treatment. Sets forth payment determination provisions for tobacco investment protection payments, including: (1) historic quota production for Flue-cured and Burley tobacco, and for Fire-cured, dark air-cured, and Virginia sun-cured tobacco; (2) counter-cyclical payments for Flue-cured tobacco, and for Burley, dark-air cured, Virginia sun-cured, and Fire-cured tobacco; and (3) direct payments for Flue-cured tobacco, and Burley and other tobacco. Authorizes the establishment of the Center for Agricultural Innovation which shall be located at a land-grant college or university in a traditional quota State, and shall: (1) coordinate work among land-grant colleges and universities in the Southeast to facilitate development, evaluation, and implementation of new agricultural technologies and enterprises for rural communities; and (2) give priority to developing technologies and enterprises in tobacco-dependent communities. Establishes in the Department of Agriculture the Tobacco Advisory Board. Terminates marketing quotas for certain types of tobacco. Repeals provisions regarding: (1) Burley tobacco acreage allotment; (2) mandatory sale of Burley and Flue-cured tobacco acreage allotments and marketing quotas; (3) sale or lease of acreage allotments; and (4) farm poundage quotas for certain types of tobacco. Revises provisions regarding: (1) national marketing quota; (2) apportionment of national marketing quota; (3) lease and transfer of acreage allotments; and (4) acreage-poundage quotas.

Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2002

Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to require food that is not a raw agricultural commodity, and that is, or intentionally bears or contains, a major food allergen, to state that information on its label by January 1, 2006. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to give priority to increasing the number of inspections under the Act to ensure that foods comply with practices to reduce or eliminate cross-contact with major food allergen residues and to ensure that major food allergens are properly labeled on foods. Requires the Secretary, through the National Institutes of Health, to convene a panel of nationally recognized experts to review basic and clinical research efforts related to food allergies and to develop a plan for expanding, intensifying, and coordinating such research. Directs the Secretary, in the Conference for Food Protection, as part of its cooperative activities between the States under the Public Health Service Act, to pursue certain revisions of the Food Code to provide guidelines for preparing allergen-free foods in food establishments. Requires the Secretary to include assistance relating to the use of different modes of treatment for and prevention of allergic responses to foods when providing technical assistance relating to trauma care and emergency medical services under the Public Health Service Act.

Making continuing appropriations for the fiscal year 2003, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2002

Makes continuing appropriations for FY 2003. Appropriates amounts for continuing, at the current rate of operations, projects or activities which were conducted in FY 2002 and for which appropriations, funds, or other authority was made available in: (1) the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2002; (2) the Departments of Commerce, Justice, and State, the Judiciary, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2002; (3) the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2002; (4) the District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 2002; (5) the Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, 2002; (6) the Foreign Operations, Export Financing, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2002; (7) the Department of the Interior and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2002; (8) the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2002; (9) the Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 2002; (10) the Military Construction Appropriations Act, 2002; (11) the Department of Transportation and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2002; (12) the Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act, 2002; and (13) the Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2002. Provides funding under this resolution until enactment into law of any covered appropriation or the applicable appropriations Act (without any provision for the covered appropriation) or October 4, 2002, whichever occurs first. Authorizes continuation of other specified activities through such date.