Agriculture

AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS FOR 2010

United States · United States House of Representatives · 1 January 2009

AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS FOR 2011

United States · United States House of Representatives · 1 January 2009

AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009

United States · United States Senate · 31 December 2008

Carson City Vital Community Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 19 November 2008

Carson City Vital Community Act of 2008 - Provides for the conveyance of specified Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land or interest in such land (the federal land) in Nevada by the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior in exchange for specified non-federal land by Carson City Consolidated Municipality, Nevada. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to reserve a perpetual conservation easement to the Silver Saddle Ranch and Carson River Area. Releases the reversionary interest of BLM in certain of the conveyed federal land. Provides for the conveyance of such land by the City. Makes the non-federal land part of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. Provides for the conveyance of specified non-federal land administered by the City to the BLM. Transfers administrative jurisdiction over certain Forest Service land from the Secretary of Agriculture to the Secretary of the Interior. Requires the City to be granted a right-of-way for maintenance of flood management facilities on such land. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to conduct sales of specified BLM land to qualified bidders. Amends the Southern Nevada Public Land Management Act of 1998 to make amounts in the special account available to the City for the development of parks, trails, and natural areas and up to 10% of amounts in the account available for conservation initiatives on federal land in the City administered by the Department of the Interior or the Department of Agriculture. Makes the City eligible to nominate for expenditure amounts to acquire lands or interests for parks and natural areas and for conservation initiatives adjacent to and within the floodplain of Carson River. Provides for specified land to be held in trust for the Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California. Prohibits the use of such land for class II and class III gaming. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to implement a cooperative agreement ensuring access by the Tribe's members and others in its community across National Forest System land from the City to Lake Tahoe for cultural and religious purposes. Requires the City to notify the Tribe of proposed ground disturbing activities to provide the Tribe with time for inventorying and collecting tribal artifacts. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to convey specified land to Clark County, Nevada, for use for: (1) a centralized off road vehicle recreation park; and (2) a designated area and facilities to discourage unauthorized use of off-highway vehicles in environmentally sensitive areas. Provides for the reservation of specified airspace easements above the surface of the land conveyed to the county. Designates the Nellis Dunes as the Nellis Dunes National Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area. Transfers administrative jurisdiction over certain land from BLM to the Department of the Air Force for the enlargement and protection of Nellis Air Force Base. Affirms and validates a specified patent and its associated land reconfiguration issued by the BLM for the benefit and recovery of the desert tortoise and other species. Ratifies the process used by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the BLM for the reconfiguration of those lands.

Economic Recovery Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 17 November 2008

Economic Recovery Act of 2008 - Makes supplemental appropriations for FY2009 for infrastructure, energy, and economic recovery for: (1) the Department of Agriculture; (2) the Department of Commerce; (3) the Department of Justice (DOJ); (4) the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA); (5) the Legal Services Corporation; (6) the Department of Defense (DOD) - Civil for the Department of the Army Corps of Engineer; (7) the Department of Energy (DOE); (8) the Department of the Treasury, including the Office of Inspector General; (9) the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC); (10) the General Services Administration (GSA); (11) the Small Business Administration (SBA); (12) the Department of Homeland Security (DHS); (13) the Department of the Interior; (14) the Smithsonian Institution; (15) the Department of Labor (DOL), Employment and Training Administration; (16) the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS); (17) the Department of Education; (18) DOD military construction, Navy and Marine Corps, and DOD family housing construction, Army and Air Force; (19) the Department of Transportation (DOT); and (20) the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Makes appropriations for FY2009 to the Secretary of Agriculture to provide a temporary increase in benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Farm Relief Act of 2008 - Amends the U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans' Care, Katrina Recovery, and Iraq Accountability Appropriations Act, 2007 to make appropriations to the Secretary of Agriculture for emergency financial assistance to producers on a farm that incurred qualifying quantity or quality losses for the 2008 crop due a natural disaster or any related condition, particularly sugar and sugarcane crops in Florida and Louisiana. Prescribes: (1) a temporary increase in the federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP) title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act; and (2) a temporary reinstatement of authority to provide federal matching payments for state spending for child support incentive payments. Amends the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2008 to increase and extend emergency unemployment compensation (EUC). Exempts weeks of unemployment between enactment of this Act and December 8, 2009, from the prohibition in the Federal-State Extended Unemployment Compensation Act of 1970 against federal matching payments to a state for the first week in an individual's eligibility period for which extended compensation or sharable regular compensation is paid if the state law of such state provides for payment (at any time or under any circumstances) of regular compensation to an individual for his or her first week of otherwise compensable unemployment. (Thus allows temporary federal matching for the first week of extended benefits for states with no waiting period.) National Park Centennial Fund Act - Establishes in the Treasury the National Park Centennial Fund. Amends the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (EESA) to direct the Secretary of the Treasury to make emergency direct loans of up to $25 billion in the aggregate to certain automobile manufacturers and component suppliers. Requires the Secretary, in allocating loan amounts, to prioritize applications based on the magnitude of the impact of the applicant's manufacturing operations in the United States on the overall U.S. economy and other segments of the automobile industry, including the impact on levels of employment, domestic manufacturing of automobiles and automobile components, and automobile dealerships. Authorizes the automobile manufacturer or component supplier, at the Secretary's discretion, to issue to the Secretary preferred stock in lieu of receiving a loan, on analogous terms and conditions as those described for such EESA loans. Requires any applicant automobile manufacturer or component supplier to submit to the Secretary a detailed plan on how the government funds requested will: (1) be utilized to ensure the long-term financial posture of the company; and (2) stimulate U.S. automobile production and improve the company's capacity to pursue the timely and aggressive production of energy-efficient advanced technology vehicles. Declares that the costs incurred by the federal government in making such loans, including credit subsidy costs and administrative expenses, shall be covered out of proceeds from the sale of government bonds and the third tranche of the $700 billion made available under EESA. Specifies timing of loan disbursements, and terms and conditions. Directs the Secretary to require any loan recipient to meet specified standards for executive compensation and corporate governance. Applies certain EESA oversight requirements to any loans made under this Act. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a taxpayer, other than a corporation, an above-the-line deduction for interest, state sales tax, or excise tax paid or accrued during the taxable year on any indebtedness incurred after November 12, 2008, and before January 1, 2010, in acquiring any qualified motor vehicle which is secured by such vehicle. Designates each amount in this Act as an emergency requirement, necessary to meet certain emergency needs in accordance with the FY2008-FY2009 congressional budget resolutions.

Renewable Power for Agriculture Incentive Program Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 2 October 2008

Renewable Power for Agriculture Incentive Program Act of 2008 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a business-related tax credit for excessive fuel costs for creditable fuel (i.e., fossil fuel or electricity) used by a taxpayer in the trade or business of farming. Defines "excessive fuel cost" as the excess amount paid for creditable fuel over the adjusted base price for such fuel (the average price for such fuel on September 6, 2004, for the region in which the taxpayer purchased such fuel). Terminates such credit after 2013.

Dairy COOL Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2008

Dairy COOL Act of 2008 - Amends the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946 to include dairy products as a covered commodity. Defines "dairy product" as: (1) fluid milk; (2) cheese, including cottage cheese and cream cheese; (3) yogurt; (4) ice cream; (5) butter; and (6) any other dairy product. Requires the retailer of a covered commodity that is a dairy product to designate such commodity's country of origin as each country in which: (1) one or more of the commodity's components or ingredients were produced, originated, or sourced; and (2) the commodity was processed. Provides that with respect to a covered commodity that is a dairy product produced exclusively in the United States, retailer designation of the U.S. state, region, or locality of the commodity's production shall be sufficient to identify the United States as the country of origin.

Research, Hazard Intervention, and National Outreach for Healthier Homes Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2008

Research, Hazard Intervention, and National Outreach for Healthier Homes Act of 2008 - Directs the Director of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to evaluate the health effects of housing-related health hazards for which limited research or understanding of causes or associations exists. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to implement studies by the Office of Healthy Homes and Lead Hazard Control of the assessment, prevention, and control of housing-related health hazards. Directs the Administrator of the EPA to study how sustainable building features in existing housing affect the quality of the indoor environment, the prevalence of housing-related health hazards, and the health of occupants. Directs the Secretary of HUD to complete the analysis of data collected for the National Survey on Lead and Allergens in Housing and the American Healthy Housing Survey. Directs the Administrator of the EPA to expand current indoor environmental monitoring efforts to establish baseline levels of indoor chemical pollutants and their sources. Requires the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to determine the data and resources needed to establish a healthy housing data collection system. Directs the Secretary of HUD to: (1) develop improved methods for evaluating, reducing, and preventing health hazards in housing; (2) support development of objective measures for a healthy residential environment; (3) promote the incorporation of healthy housing principles in post-disaster environments as well as ongoing practices and systems, and of health considerations into green and energy-efficient construction and rehabilitation; (4) improve the dissemination of healthy housing information; and (5) promote state and local level healthy housing efforts. Amends the Public Health Service Act with respect to the CDC Program Capacity on Housing-Related Health Hazard. Directs the Administrator of the EPA, acting through the director of the Office of Children's Health Protection and Environmental Education, to address health hazards in the home environment, with particular attention to children, the elderly, and families with limited resources. Directs the Secretary of HUD to award health hazard reduction grants to reduce significant structural, health, and safety hazards in the home. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture, acting through the Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service, to establish a competitive grant program to promote education and outreach on housing-related health hazards. Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1992 with respect to enforcement of the lead disclosure rule. Establishes within the EPA voluntary products and materials and housing labeling programs. Specifies the duties of the EPA Administrator with respect to the Healthy Home Seal of Approval. Directs the EPA Administrator to provide public education and outreach on environmental health risks experienced by the elderly, and low-cost methods for addressing them. Directs the Secretary of HUD to award funds for a Health Hazards Outreach competitive grant program. Directs the Secretary of HUD, the Director of the CDC, and the Administrator of the EPA to establish a national healthy housing media campaign.

Farm Relief Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2008

Farm Relief Act of 2008 - Amends the U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans' Care, Katrina Recovery, and Iraq Accountability Appropriations Act, 2007 to appropriate funds for: (1) emergency financial assistance to producers on a farm that incurred qualifying natural disaster-caused quantity or quality losses for the 2008 crop; (2) certain processors in Florida for natural disaster-caused crop and other losses in 2008; (3) certain first processors of sugarcane that operate in a county affected by a natural disaster or obtain sugarcane from a county affected by a natural disaster in Louisiana; and (4) certain sugarcane growers in Texas for natural disaster-caused demurrage, storage, and transportation costs in 2008. Provides specified Commodity Credit Corporation funds for grants to state departments of agriculture for assistance to eligible catfish producers to help offset natural disaster-caused feed costs or economic losses in 2008.

Farm Relief Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2008

Farm Relief Act of 2008 - Amends the U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans' Care, Katrina Recovery, and Iraq Accountability Appropriations Act, 2007 to appropriate funds for: (1) emergency financial assistance to producers on a farm that incurred qualifying natural disaster-caused quantity or quality losses for the 2008 crop; (2) certain processors in Florida for natural disaster-caused crop and other losses in 2008; (3) certain first processors of sugarcane that operate in a county affected by a natural disaster or obtain sugarcane from a county affected by a natural disaster in Louisiana; and (4) certain sugarcane growers in Texas for natural disaster-caused demurrage, storage, and transportation costs in 2008. Provides specified Commodity Credit Corporation funds for grants to state departments of agriculture for assistance to eligible catfish producers to help offset natural disaster-caused feed costs or economic losses in 2008.

LEAN Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2008

Labeling Education and Nutrition Act of 2008 or the LEAN Act of 2008 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to authorize a food service establishment to provide nutrition information for a food item by: (1) providing calories and nutrient information required for food intended for human consumption; (2) disclosing such information in written form; and (3) making such disclosure available upon request prior to purchase. Requires the labeling of a standard food item served or offered for sale in a food service establishment that is part of a chain that operates 20 or more establishments under the same trade name to disclose, in a clear and conspicuous manner, prior to the point of purchase: (1) the number of calories on a menu board, on a sign meeting certain requirements, in the menu, or as part of or supplement to the menu; (2) specified nutrient information, in writing and upon request; (3) a statement directing the consumer to the availability of additional nutrient information; and (4) a statement providing suggested daily caloric intake, on a menu or menu board that does not list calories. Declares a person to have knowingly or willfully violated the requirements of this Act if the person: (1) purposefully fails to make a disclosure required by this Act; or (2) makes a disclosure with the intent to deceive. Provides that a reasonable basis determination of nutrition information shall be required only once per standard food item if certain requirements are met. Preempts state laws not identical to this Act.

Department of Homeland Security Authorization Act of 2008 and 2009

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2008

Department of Homeland Security Authorization Act of 2008 and 2009 - Authorizes appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for FY2008-FY2009. Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to provide for the establishment within DHS of an Under Secretary for Policy. Requires the Secretary of DHS to ensure that DHS develops and maintains the capability to coordinate operations and strategically plan across all of its component organizations. Authorizes the Secretary to establish within DHS an Office of Operations Coordination and Planning. Directs the Secretary to consolidate key headquarters of DHS. Establishes within DHS an Office of International Affairs. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish a process for the review of proposed investments by DHS and a DHS-wide Acquisition Review Board; (2) establish within DHS's Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization a mentor-protege program; and (3) submit to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs and the House Committee on Homeland Security an annual report on the exercise of other transaction authority. Requires the Chief Procurement Officer and the Chief Human Capital Officer to develop and deliver to relevant congressional committees a five-year strategic plan for the acquisition workforce. Authorizes the Secretary to convert competitive service positions within the Office of Intelligence and Analysis to, and establish new, excepted service positions. Establishes within DHS an Office of the Chief Learning Officer. Directs the Secretary to establish an open source collection, analysis, and dissemination program within the Office of Intelligence and Analysis. Establishes: (1) within the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Cyber Security and Communications a National Cyber Security Division; (2) within DHS a National Cyber Security Center; and (3) the National Cyber Security Private Sector Advisory Board. Directs: (1) the Secretary to perform a comprehensive assessment of the cyber threat to critical infrastructure; and (2) the Under Secretary for Science and Technology to carry out a research and development program to improve the security of information systems. Designates DHS's Chief Medical Officer as Assistant Secretary for Health Affairs. Establishes: (1) in the Directorate of Science and Technology a Test, Evaluation, and Standards Division; and (2) in DHS a Director of Operational Testing. Increases the number of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers and support personnel and agriculture specialists. Directs the President, through the Secretary and the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), to develop a national planning system that provides common processes across federal departments and agencies for developing plans to prevent, prepare for, protect against, respond to, and recover from natural disasters, acts of terrorism, and other man-made disasters. Establishes in DHS a Metropolitan Medical Response System to assist governments in preparing for and responding to mass casualty incidents. Directs the Administrator to establish a Task Force for Emergency Readiness pilot program. Establishes within DHS's Office of Infrastructure Protection an Office for Bombing Prevention. Directs the President to develop and update a national strategy to prevent and prepare for terrorist attacks in the United States using explosives or improvised explosive devices. Authorizes funding for specified personnel levels for the Federal Protective Service.

National Hunger Relief Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2008

National Hunger Relief Act of 2008 - Amends the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 to revise, and provide for increases in, the annual October adjustments to the thrifty food plan upon which supplemental nutrition assistance program (formerly, the food stamp program) benefits are based. Amends the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to provide semiannual reimbursement rate adjustments for: (1) national school lunch and breakfast programs; (2) the special milk program; (3) the child and adult day care program; and (4) the summer food service program.

Economic Recovery Act, 2008

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2008

Economic Recovery Act, 2008 - Makes emergency supplemental appropriations for FY2008 for infrastructure, energy, and economic recovery to: (1) the Department of Agriculture; (2) the Department of Commerce; (3) the Department of Justice (DOJ); (4) the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA); (5) the Legal Services Corporation; (6) the Department of Defense (DOD) - Civil Corps of Engineers; (7) the Department of the Interior; (8) the Department of Energy (DOE); (9) the Department of the Treasury, including the Office of Inspector General; (10) the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC); (11) the General Services Administration (GSA); (12) the Small Business Administration (SBA); (13) the Department of Homeland Security (DHS); (14) the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); (15) the Department of Labor (DOL); (16) the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS); (17) the Department of Education; (18) the legislative branch; (19) the Department of Transportation (DOT); and (20) the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Makes supplemental appropriations for FY2008 to provide a temporary increase in benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Makes supplemental appropriations for FY2008 to provide a temporary: (1) increase in the Medicaid federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP) under the Social Security Act; and (2) reinstatement of authority to provide federal matching payments for state spending of child support incentive payments. Makes supplemental appropriations for FY2008 to extend the period of emergency unemployment compensation (EUC). Exempts weeks of unemployment between enactment of this Act and December 8, 2009, from the prohibition in the Federal-State Extended Unemployment Compensation Act of 1970 against federal matching payments to a state for the first week in an individual's eligibility period for which extended compensation or sharable regular compensation is paid if the state law of such state provides for payment (at any time or under any circumstances) of regular compensation to an individual for his or her first week of otherwise compensable unemployment. (Thus allows temporary federal matching for the first week of extended benefits for states with no waiting period.) National Park Centennial Fund Act - Establishes in the Treasury the National Park Centennial Fund. Designates each amount in the Economic Recovery Act, 2008 as: (1) an emergency requirement and necessary to meet emergency needs; and (2) a supplemental appropriation for FY2008, or, if enacted after FY2008, for FY2009.

Food Safety Modernization Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2008

Food Safety Modernization Act of 2007 [ sic ] - Establishes in the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) the Food Safety Administration. Assigns all the authorities and responsibilities of the Secretary of Health and Human Services related to food safety to the Administrator of Food Safety. Transfers to the Administration all functions of specified federal agencies that relate to the administration or enforcement of food safety laws. Renames the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) the Federal Drug and Device Administration. Directs the Administrator to: (1) develop, administer, and annually update a national food safety program based on a comprehensive analysis of the hazards associated with different food and with the processing of different food; and (2) ensure that persons who produce, process, or distribute food meet their responsibility to prevent or minimize food safety hazards related to their products. Sets forth requirements for the Administrator to carry out such duties, including: (1) requiring food establishments to register and adopt preventive process controls; (2) establishing and enforcing performance standards for food safety; (3) establishing an inspection program of food and facilities; (4) requiring imported food to meet the same standards as U.S. food; and (5) establishing a national traceability system for food. Requires the Administrator to: (1) identify priorities for food safety research and data collection; (2) maintain a DNA matching system and epidemiological system dedicated to foodborne illness identification, outbreaks, and containment; (3) establish guidelines for a sampling system; (4) establish a national public education program on food safety; and (5) conduct research on food safety. Sets forth provisions regarding prohibited acts, administrative detention, condemnation, temporary holds, recalls, penalties for violations of food safety laws, whistleblower protections, and civil actions.

America's Wildlife Heritage Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2008

America's Wildlife Heritage Act - Sets forth requirements concerning the maintenance of viable populations of existing native and desired non-native species within each planning area in the National Forest System's or the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) public lands. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior to adopt and implement a comprehensive monitoring program for determining the status and trends of wildlife populations on System and BLM lands. Requires the Secretaries to coordinate the management of species populations in planning areas of the System and the BLM with the management of such populations on lands within the National Wildlife Refuge System and National Park System, and with other federal agencies, state fish and wildlife agencies, tribes, local governments, and non-governmental organizations engaged in species conservation.

Science Free Speech Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2008

Science Free Speech Act - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) to provide that a food or dietary supplement is not a drug solely because a claim is made regarding legitimate scientific research in accordance with this Act. States that a food is not misbranded if its label makes a claim regarding legitimate scientific research in accordance with this Act. Declares that the use of truthful and not misleading information on legitimate scientific research in connection with the sale or distribution of a food or dietary supplement to consumers shall not be treated as a violation under the FFDCA and shall not be deemed evidence of an intent to sell a drug. Prohibits the Secretary of Health and Human Services from: (1) restricting in any way the distribution of truthful and not misleading information on legitimate scientific research; or (2) prohibiting manufacturers or distributors of foods or dietary supplements from including citations to legitimate scientific research in the labeling of a food or dietary supplement, even if the citation expressly or implicitly references a disease or a disease condition. Places the burden of proof on the Secretary in any administrative or judicial proceeding in which the Secretary contests the use of material being disseminated or cited as legitimate scientific research. Prohibits the Secretary from prohibiting or restricting a retailer or wholesaler of any agricultural product, including fresh produce, in any way from: (1) testing any of its agricultural products for any pathogens that may potentially be transmitted to humans or potentially cause illness or disease in humans; or (2) communicating the results of such tests to the public.

Job Creation and Unemployment Relief Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2008

Job Creation and Unemployment Relief Act of 2008 - Makes supplemental appropriations for FY2009 for infrastructure investments for: (1) transportation to the Department of Transportation (DOT); (2) clean water to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); (3) flood control and water resources to the Department of Defense (DOD) - Civil for the Department of the Army Corps of Engineers and the Department of the Interior Bureau of Reclamation; (4) for 21st century green high-performing public school facilities to the Department of Education; (5) for public and Indian housing and the Public Housing Capital Fund to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD); (7) energy development to the Department of Energy (DOE); and (8) the Department of Labor (DOL), Employment and Training Administration, for job training and employment services, as well as state unemployment insurance and employment service operations. Amends the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2008 to increase and extend unemployment compensation (UC). Prescribes: (1) a temporary increase in the federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP) title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act; and (2) an adjustment in computation of Medicaid FMAP to disregard an extraordinary employer pension contribution. Makes appropriations for FY2009 to the Secretary of Agriculture to provide a temporary increase in benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

Healthy Food for Healthy Lives Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2008

Healthy Food for Healthy Lives Act of 2008 - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to provide demonstration grants to eligible entities to purchase eligible local or regional products from participating vendors to improve the availability of nutritious meals for: (1) patients and employees of, and visitors to, eligible hospitals, including Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical and nursing facilities; and (2) clients of eligible social service organizations that provide nutrition services.

A bill to provide that funds allocated for community food projects for fiscal year 2008 shall remain available until September 30, 2009.

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2008

Amends the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 to replace "Food and Nutrition Act of 2008" with "Food Stamp Act of 1977" in a provision reauthorizing grant funds to assist eligible private nonprofit entities to establish and carry out community food projects. Makes such grant funds for FY2008 available until September 30, 2009, to fund proposals solicited in FY2008.

Carson City Vital Community Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2008

Carson City Vital Community Act of 2008 - Provides for the conveyance of specified Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land or interest in such land (the federal land) in Nevada by the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior in exchange for specified non-federal land by Carson City Consolidated Municipality, Nevada. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to reserve a perpetual conservation easement to the Silver Saddle Ranch and Carson River Area. Releases the reversionary interest of BLM in certain of the conveyed federal land. Provides for the conveyance of such land by the City. Makes the non-federal land part of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. Provides for the conveyance of specified non-federal land administered by the City to the BLM. Transfers administrative jurisdiction over certain Forest Service land from the Secretary of Agriculture to the Secretary of the Interior. Requires the City to be granted a right-of-way for maintenance of flood management facilities on such land. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to conduct sales of specified BLM land to qualified bidders. Amends the Southern Nevada Public Land Management Act of 1998 to make amounts in the special account available to the City for the development of parks, trails, and natural areas and up to 10% for conservation initiatives on federal land in the City administered by the Department of the Interior or the Department of Agriculture. Makes the City eligible to nominate for expenditure amounts to acquire lands or interests for parks and natural areas and for conservation initiatives adjacent to and within the floodplain of Carson River. Provides for specified land to be held in trust for the Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California. Prohibits the use of such land for class II and class III gaming. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to implement a cooperative agreement ensuring access by the Tribe's members and others in its community across National Forest System land from the City to Lake Tahoe for cultural and religious purposes. Requires the City to notify the Tribe of proposed ground disturbing activities to provide the Tribe with time for inventorying and collecting tribal artifacts.

Obesity Prevention, Treatment, and Research Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2008

Obesity Prevention, Treatment, and Research Act of 2008 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (the Secretary) to convene a United States Council on Overweight-Obesity Prevention with duties to include developing strategies to comprehensively prevent, treat, and reduce overweight and obesity. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to establish a grant demonstration and pilot program to address overweight and obesity issues, including through promoting increased physical activity and healthier lifestyles. Authorizes the Secretary, acting through the Director of CDC, to award grants to promote health behaviors for women and children in target populations. Provides for the collection and analysis of data on fitness levels, health, and nutrition. Includes community education programs designed to address and prevent overweight, obesity, and eating disorders as activities states may carry out under preventive health services and health services block grants. Requires the Secretary and the Secretary of Agriculture to update and reform federal oversight of food and beverage labeling. Amends the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to provide for additional funding for a program to make free fresh fruits and vegetables available in elementary schools. Amends the Medicare, Medicaid, State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP), and Maternal and Child Health Services Block Grant titles of the Social Security Act to provide for coverage of certain services related to overweight and obesity, including diet and exercise counseling, medical nutrition therapy services, and weight and body mass index (BMI) measurement and monitoring.

LEAN Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2008

Labeling Education and Nutrition Act of 2008 or the LEAN Act of 2008 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to authorize a food service establishment to provide nutrition information for a food item by: (1) providing calories and nutrient information required for food intended for human consumption; (2) disclosing such information in written form; and (3) making such disclosure available upon request prior to purchase. Requires the labeling of a standard food item served or offered for sale in a food service establishment that is part of a chain that operates 20 or more establishments under the same trade name to disclose, in a clear and conspicuous manner, prior to the point of purchase: (1) the number of calories on a menu board, on a sign meeting certain requirements, in the menu, or as part of or supplement to the menu; (2) specified nutrient information, in writing and upon request; (3) a statement directing the consumer to the availability of additional nutrient information; and (4) a statement providing suggested daily caloric intake, on a menu or menu board that does not list calories. Declares a person to have knowingly or willfully violated the requirements of this Act if the person: (1) purposefully fails to make a disclosure required by this Act; or (2) makes a disclosure with the intent to deceive. Provides that a reasonable basis determination of nutrition information shall be required only once per standard food item if certain requirements are met. Preempts state laws not identical to this Act.

America's Right-to- Eat Rescue Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2008

America's Right-to-Eat Rescue Act of 2008 - Applies, for a specified six-month period, the poverty line used in making eligibility determinations under the Food Stamp and School Lunch programs in Alaska to the same eligibility determinations in all states and the District of Columbia.

Act to Save America's Forests

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2008

Act to Save America's Forests - Amends the Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Planning Act of 1974 to revise eligibility criteria for members of the land and resource management scientific committee. Revises the committee termination date. Directs the Chief of the Forest Service, the Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Director of the Bureau of Land Management to each prepare a continuous inventory of forest land administered by each agency head and to document whole-system measures that will be taken as a result of the inventory. Requires the Secretary of Agriculture to provide for conservation and restoration of native biodiversity in forested areas. Prohibits clearcutting or other even-age logging operations on any stand or watershed on certain federal land, National Forest System land, and National Wildlife Refuge System land. Provides for federal enforcement and a private right of action. Designates special areas which shall be subject to restrictions on road construction and logging in Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Requires the Secretaries concerned to appoint a committee of independent scientists to recommend additional special areas. Restricts road construction and logging on federal land in ancient forests, special areas, roadless areas, and watershed protection areas. Provides for federal enforcement and a private right of action. States that this Act and the amendments made by this Act shall not apply to federal wilderness areas designated under the Wilderness Act. Adds specified land to the Giant Sequoia National Monument. Transfers administrative jurisdiction over the Monument from the Secretary to the Secretary of the Interior. Establishes the Giant Sequoia National Monument Advisory Board. Adds specified parts of Sequoia National Forest that are not included in the Monument to: (1) Sierra National Forest; and (2) Inyo National Forest. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to conduct reconnaissance surveys of areas classified as Level III ecoregions of the continental United States by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to determine if there are resources that possess national significance and to evaluate their suitability for inclusion as units of the National Park System. Requires the appointment of a committee of scientists to provide the Secretary and Congress with advice and counsel on such surveys.

Recognizing the importance of the United States wine industry to the American economy.

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2008

Recognizes the importance of the U.S. wine, winegrape, and grape products industry to the American economy. Directs the Secretary of the Senate to transmit a copy of this resolution to the Commissioner of the Texas Department of Agriculture and the Texas Wine and Grape Growers Association in Grapevine, Texas.

To authorize the conveyance of certain National Forest System lands in the Los Padres National Forest in California.

United States · United States Congress · 24 September 2008

Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to convey real property within Los Padres National Forest in California, to the White Lotus Foundation.

A bill to amend the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 to suspend a prohibition on payments to certain farms with limited base acres for the 2008 and 2009 crop years, to extend the signup for direct payments and counter-cyclical payments for the 2008 crop year, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 2008

Amends the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 with respect to producers, including peanut producers, with 10 or fewer base acres to: (1) suspend a prohibition on direct payments, counter-cyclical payments, or average crop revenue election payments; and (2) extend the 2008 signup deadline for direct payments and counter-cyclical payments until December 31, 2008. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to ensure that no penalty is assessed against producers for failure to submit reports or comply with other program requirements as a result of compliance with the extended signup deadline.

Investment in After-School Programs Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 2008

Investment in After-School Programs Act of 2008 - Amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to award grants to local educational agencies, community-based organizations, or other entities to improve, expand, or establish rural after-school programs that provide students with a broad array of activities when school is not in session that improve their academic performance and promote their positive development. Requires eligible programs to be implemented in active collaboration with the schools the students attend and take place in safe and easily accessible facilities. Gives grant priority to partnerships between two or more entities eligible for such grants.

NAFTA Modernization Trade Negotiating Authority Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 2008

NAFTA Modernization Trade Negotiating Authority Act - Requires that any renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) resulting in any new trade agreement with Canada, Mexico, or both to: (1) meet the standards established in the areas of labor and environment, dispute settlement, intellectual property, services, foreign investment, and agriculture of trade agreements negotiated under the Bipartisan Trade Promotion Authority Act of 2002; and (2) take into account specified U.S. domestic objectives set out in this Act, including protection of health and safety, security, environmental, consumer, and employment opportunity interests. Authorizes the President before August 1, 2009, to enter into a trade agreement with such countries to: (1) reduce or eliminate a duty, restriction, barrier, or other distortion of trade that unduly burdens or restricts U.S. trade or adversely affects the U.S. economy; or (2) prohibit, or limit the imposition of, such barrier or other distortion. Sets forth congressional notification and consultation requirements for implementation of any trade agreement. Directs the chairman of the Committee on Ways and Means of the House of Representatives and the chairman of the Committee on Finance of the Senate, within 30 days after the convening of each Congress, to convene the Congressional Oversight Group. Requires the United States Trade Representative (USTR) to develop written guidelines to facilitate the useful and timely exchange of information between the USTR and the Group, particularly for the closest practicable coordination between them at all critical periods during NAFTA renegotiations. Requires the President to submit to Congress a plan for implementing and enforcing any agreement.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the Commissioner of Food and Drugs should evaluate the scientific evidence on the question of whether to add more folic acid to enriched grain products and expand folic acid fortification into cornmeal and corn-based food products to help prevent further serious birth defects.

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 2008

Calls for the Commissioner of Food and Drugs to evaluate the scientific evidence on the question of whether to add more folic acid to enriched grain products and expand folic acid fortification into cornmeal and corn-based food products to help prevent further serious birth defects.

Global Food Security Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2008

Global Food Security Act of 2008 - States that is U.S. policy to promote global food security, improve agricultural productivity, and support the development of institutions of higher learning. Directs the President to designate an individual to serve as the Special Coordinator for Food Security to advise the President on international food security issues and oversee implementation of a comprehensive food security strategy. Amends the the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize appropriations for programs of agriculture, rural development, and nutrition. Permits certain of such funds to be made available for: (1) the collaborative research support program; and (2) the consultative group on international agricultural research. Establishes: (1) the higher education collaboration for technology, agriculture, research, and extension to provide assistance for policies and programs in eligible countries that advance agricultural productivity and hunger alleviation through partnerships with institutions of higher education; (2) the Board for Global Agricultural Education; and (3) a United States Emergency Food Assistance Fund.

To make technical corrections to section 4406 of the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008.

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2008

Amends the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 to replace "Food and Nutrition Act of 2008" with "Food Stamp Act of 1977" in a provision reauthorizing grant funds to assist eligible private nonprofit entities to establish and carry out community food projects. Makes such grant funds for FY2008 available until September 30, 2009, to fund proposals solicited in FY2008.

Recognizing the importance of the Department of Agriculture Forest Service Experimental Forests and Ranges on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the first experimental forest at Fort Valley, Arizona.

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2008

Recognizes, on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the first experimental forest at Fort Valley, Arizona, the important contributions that the 77 current experimental forests and ranges have made in understanding and conserving the environment and the natural resources of the United States.

Preventing Manipulation in Commodity Markets Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 18 September 2008

Preventing Manipulation in Commodity Markets Act of 2008 - Amends the Commodity Exchange Act to define "energy commodity." Prohibits the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) from permitting a foreign board of trade to provide its U.S-located members with access to the CFTC electronic trading system and order matching system for energy or agricultural commodities unless such board meets requirements similar to those imposed upon U.S. exchanges. Subjects swap transactions, transactions for agricultural and energy commodities, and large traders in over-the-counter contracts to reporting and recordkeeping requirements. Directs the Commission to: (1) set position limits for any one person with respect to designated contract markets, derivative transaction execution facilities, and electronic trading facilities; (2) convene a Position Limit Agricultural Advisory Group and a Position Limit Energy Group; (3) appoint at least 100 new full-time employees; (4) review prior actions to ensure compliance with this Act; and (5) review over-the-counter markets. Revises the core principles applicable to position limits for contracts in agricultural and energy commodities to require position limits for speculators. Directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to conduct a study of: (1) the international regime for regulating the trading of energy commodity futures and derivatives; and (2) speculators' effects on agriculture and energy futures markets and prices. Directs the Commission to: (1) require regular reporting of fungible over-the-counter agricultural and energy transactions; and (2) determine if such transactions have the potential to disrupt market liquidity or cause market or price disturbances, and if so, to use its discretion to impose position limits. Authorizes the Commission to use expedited procedures to carry out this Act.

Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie Expansion Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 18 September 2008

Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie Expansion Act of 2008 - Transfers administrative jurisdiction over the Joliet Training Area (JTA) from the Secretary of the Army to the Secretary of Agriculture. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to convey a specified parcel of land to Will County, Illinois. Requires the deed for such land to contain restrictive covenants enforceable by such Secretary for the benefit of the appurtenant federal lands and the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie. Requires the conveyed lands to only be used for: (1) parks and recreation; (2) firing ranges for small arms; (3) office and training facilities for fire fighters, police, and emergency personnel; (4) public safety facilities (but not for incarceration); and (5) offices for county and municipal governments. Prohibits the use of such lands for industrial or commercial purposes. Provides for environmental remediation of the lands conveyed to the county. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to convey to CenterPoint Properties, LLC, an easement to specified lands to permit the construction of roads and railroads for access to appurtenant properties. Provides for certain cash payments. Requires the Secretary of the Army to provide a preliminary assessment/site inspection to the Secretary of Agriculture for the lands comprising the JTA and to develop plans for remediation of the recognized environmental conditions identified by the preliminary assessment/site inspection.

HEARING TO REVIEW DRAMATIC MOVEMENTS IN AGRICULTURE AND ENERGY COMMODITY MARKETS

United States · United States House of Representatives · 11 September 2008

Bottled Water Safety and Right to Know Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 11 September 2008

Bottled Water Safety and Right to Know Act of 2008 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to identify and establish standards for contaminants in bottled water that are at least as protective as standards established by: (1) the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for national primary drinking water; or (2) the World Health Organization, the European Union, or the state of California. Authorizes the Secretary to award grants to states for the enforcement of standards adopted under this Act. Transfers all functions of the Secretary relating to inspections and enforcement concerning bottled water to the EPA if the Secretary fails to publish the final regulation concerning such standards within two years. Requires the Secretary to: (1) promulgate regulations that require each manufacturer of bottled water to submit reports on its water and display required information on bottle labels; (2) make such reports available to the public; (3) make certain additional information available to the public about the regulation of contaminants in bottled drinking water; (4) publish information regarding violations of bottled water regulations; and (5) establish a grant program to gather information on such violations. Prohibits a manufacturer of bottled water from failing to submit an annual report or to display the required information on bottle labels in accordance with this Act.

Energy and Technology Advancement Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 11 September 2008

Energy and Technology Advancement Act of 2008 - Amends the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to require the Secretary of Agriculture, in order to further the adoption of technologies developed by the Department of Agriculture (USDA), to establish criteria and procedures to facilitate and encourage businesses and other organizations to: (1) rent government equipment and property for the development of new and improved products and processes; (2) authorize USDA and private sector employees to work together in experimental or production facilities owned by the federal government or a private entity; (3) provide business support services to start-up and small businesses; and (4) enter into cooperative agreements with educational and governmental units to support business incubators for businesses that use technologies and products of interest to the Secretary. Requires the Secretary to submit to the appropriate congressional committees a plan for the development and construction of a biorefinery pilot plant that is able to: (1) produce liquid fuels from woody, agricultural, and other biomass in a flexible, multi-bioproduct manner, in a sustainable manner that addresses life-cycle inputs and outputs, and in quantities sufficient to provide proof of process and to allow for business incubator and support services; and (2) employ thermochemical and biochemical conversion processes in the production of liquid fuels. Requires the Secretary to include in the plan a comprehensive estimate of each cost relating to the development and construction of the biorefinery pilot plant.

A bill to amend the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to establish pilot project offices to improve Federal permit coordination for renewable energy.

United States · United States Congress · 10 September 2008

Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to require the Secretary of Energy to: (1) designate field or district offices of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in Arizona, California, New Mexico, Nevada, Montana, and Wyoming to serve as Renewable Energy Pilot Project Offices for coordination of federal permits for renewable energy projects and transmission lines to integrate renewable energy; and (2) enter into an amended memorandum of understanding with the Secretary of Agriculture, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Chief of Engineers to provide for the inclusion of the additional Renewable Energy Pilot Project Offices in the Federal Permit Streamlining Pilot Project. Amends the Mineral Leasing Act to make the BLM Permit Processing Improvement Fund available to the Secretary of the Interior for expenditures for the coordination and processing of oil and gas and renewable energy use authorizations on onshore federal land under the jurisdiction of the Pilot Project Offices.

To amend the commodity provisions of the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 to permit producers to aggregate base acres and reconstitute farms to avoid the prohibition on receiving direct payments, counter-cyclical payments, or average crop revenue election payments when the sum of the base acres of a farm is 10 acres or less, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 9 September 2008

Amends the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 to exempt from the prohibition on receiving direct payments, counter-cyclical payments, or average crop revenue election payments when the sum of a farm's base acres is 10 acres or less: (1) a farm owned by a socially disadvantaged or limited resource farmer or rancher; or (2) a producer whose aggregate total base acres of all farms are greater than 10 acres, including farms owned by a producer or operated by a producer with the owner's concurrence, including farms operated under a crop-share lease arrangement. Permits a producer to reconstitute any farms to exceed the 10 base acre minimum through consolidation of the farms' base acreage.

Critical Feed Use Fairness Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2008

Critical Feed Use Fairness Act of 2008 - Permits an owner or operator of land enrolled in the conservation reserve program who submits an affidavit to the Secretary of Agriculture stating that the owner or operator attempted or intended to enroll in the critical feed use program prior to July 8, 2008, to participate in the critical use feed program (including haying or grazing).

Food Tracking Improvement Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2008

Food Tracking Improvement Act - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to prohibit failing to comply with any requirement of this Act. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to: (1) establish a traceability system for all stages of manufacturing, processing, packaging, and distribution of food; and (2) convene an advisory committee to assist in implementing the system. Requires the system to identify each article of food shipped in interstate commerce in a manner that enables the Secretary to retrieve the history, use, and location of the article through a recordkeeping and audit system, a secure, online database, or registered identification. Authorizes the Secretary to direct each person required to identify an article of food to maintain accurate records regarding the purchase, sale, and identification of the article. Requires each such person to allow authorized representatives of the Secretary to examine and copy records. Prohibits any person from: (1) falsifying or misrepresenting information as to the location at which any article of food was held; or (2) altering, detaching, or destroying any records or other means of identification for use in determining such a location.

To provide for grants to assist municipalities to facilitate the ability of local farmers to grow food crops and certain livestock to be sold locally, grants to enable local nongovernmental farming associations to support the formation of community-supported agricultural projects, and grants to provide start-up funds to farmers who must diversify their operations in order to participate in the projects, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2008

Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to make grants to: (1) municipalities to facilitate the ability of local farmers to grow food crops or raise livestock for local community sale; (2) local nongovernmental farming associations that promote community-based farming or to qualified farmers to provide technical, advisory, and other assistance for a municipally-based agricultural project; and (3) provide startup funding to agricultural producers who must diversify in order to participate in a community-supported agricultural project. Directs the Secretary to provide marketing assistance to a participating farmer who has received a lease or loan guarantee that has not been terminated to assist the farmer in marketing to community institutions, including schools, child care centers, and senior centers.

Families and Small Business Energy Tax Relief Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2008

Families and Small Business Energy Tax Relief Act of 2008 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow an individual taxpayer an income-based refundable tax credit for the lesser of 50% of such taxpayer's residential energy costs for a taxable year or $750 ($1,500 for married taxpayers filing jointly). Defines "residential energy costs" as amounts paid in 2008 or 2009: (1) to any utility for natural gas used in the taxpayer's principal residence during the heating season (September through March); and (2) for heating oil or propane. Allows a certain small farming or commercial fishing businesses (gross receipts of not more than $20 million) a tax credit for up to 15% of amounts paid in 2008 or 2009 for gasoline, diesel fuel, heating oil, propane, and natural gas. Increases and makes permanent the tax credit for nonbusiness energy property expenditures. Amends the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Act of 1981 to authorize additional appropriations for outreach activities to inform eligible households of available energy-related assistance and for residential weatherization and repair activities for low-income households.

Healthy Forests, Healthy Planet Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2008

Healthy Forests, Healthy Planet Act of 2008 - Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture, with respect to the National Forest System, and the Secretary of the Interior, with respect to other federal land, or both Secretaries acting jointly when a Carbon Cooperative Zone will include multiple types of federal land, to: (1) establish Carbon Cooperative Zones consisting of forested federal land and forested land in the same contiguous geographical area in private ownership or owned by a state or local government or Indian tribe; and (2) establish, for each Zone, a Carbon Cooperative and Partnership Council that is comprised of a Carbon Cooperative and a Carbon and Biomass Partnership. Declares the purpose of such Zones to be: (1) identification of viable biofuels and carbon storage market areas from forested land within a contiguous geographic area; (2) management of effects on forest ecosystems from potential activities that drive carbon storage and biofuels markets; (3) management of effects of potential leakage, permanence, and other market distortions in a carbon trading system; and (4) management of the forest carbon registry. Sets forth the duties of the Council, Cooperative, and Partnership, including requiring the Council to: (1) coordinate the land ownership plans of partnering entities in the corresponding Cooperative in order to sustain forest ecosystems in the Zone while developing the biomass and carbon storage markets of the Zone; (2) administer the Forest Carbon Registry for the Zone; and (3) establish the forest carbon baseline for the Zone and determine all credits due to partnering entities in the Cooperative. Establishes an Environmental Services Standards Board to develop consistent performance standards for quantifying carbon storage credits to facilitate the development of credit markets for conservation and land management activities that are forest based. Requires: (1) the Secretary of Agriculture to serve as the Board's chairperson; and (2) such Board to promulgate rules for tradable forest carbon credits and a forest carbon replacement reserve. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise provisions concerning credits for energy produced within such Zones and credits for forest biomass producers. Authorizes the Secretary concerned to make grants for small energy generation facilities where the output is expected to be used within a single Zone. Requires biomass production from federal lands to be generated through forest activities that enhance ecosystem services.

Carson City Vital Community Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2008

Carson City Vital Community Act of 2008 - Provides for the conveyance of specified Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land or interest in such land (the federal land) in Nevada by the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior in exchange for specified non-federal land by Carson City Consolidated Municipality, Nevada. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to reserve a perpetual conservation easement to the Silver Saddle Ranch and Carson River Area. Releases the reversionary interest of BLM in certain of the conveyed federal land. Provides for the conveyance of such land by the City. Makes the non-federal land part of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. Transfers administrative jurisdiction over certain Forest Service land from the Secretary of Agriculture to the Secretary of the Interior. Requires the City to be granted a right-of-way for maintenance of flood management facilities on such land. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to conduct sales of specified BLM land to qualified bidders. Amends the Southern Nevada Public Land Management Act of 1998 to make amounts in the special account available to the City for the development of parks, trails, and natural areas and up to 10% of amounts in the account available for conservation initiatives on federal land in the City administered by the Department of the Interior or the Department of Agriculture. Makes the City eligible to nominate for expenditure amounts to acquire lands or interests for parks and natural areas and for conservation initiatives adjacent to and within the floodplain of Carson River. Provides for specified land to be held in trust for the Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California. Prohibits the use of such land for class II and class III gaming. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to implement a cooperative agreement ensuring access by the Tribe's members and others in its community across National Forest System land from the City to Lake Tahoe for cultural and religious purposes. Requires the City to notify the Tribe of proposed ground disturbing activities to provide the Tribe with time for inventorying and collecting tribal artifacts.

Beef Checkoff Modernization Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2008

Beef Checkoff Modernization Act of 2008 - Amends the Beef Research and Information Act to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to establish and maintain (as a subcommittee of the Cattlemen's Beef Promotion and Research Board) an importers qualified beef council to promote nondomestic beef or to pursue any other authorized purpose of a qualified beef council. Replaces the definition of "qualified state beef council" with a definition of "qualified beef council" that includes an importers qualified beef council. Requires a beef promotion and research order to provide that: (1) at least 30% of U.S. producer assessments be made available to promote and market products derived from cattle born and raised in the United States; and (2) the importers qualified beef council reserve a percentage of its funds to promote products derived from cattle not born and raised in the United States, or for any other purpose allowed under this Act for any other qualified beef council. Requires the Secretary, beginning in 2010 and at least every seven years thereafter, upon receipt of a petition of a group comprising 10% or more of cattle producers, to conduct a referendum to: (1) determine whether cattle producers favor the termination or suspension of the order; and (2) vote on any other amendments to the order.

FDA Food Safety Modernization Act

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2008

FDA Food Safety Modernization Act - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to expand the authority of the Secretary of Health and Human Services (the Secretary) to regulate food, including by authorizing the Secretary to: (1) suspend the registration of a food facility; and (2) order a cessation on distribution or recall of food. Directs the Secretary to allocate resources based on the risk profile of food facilities or food. Requires the Secretary and the Secretary of Agriculture to prepare a National Agriculture and Food Defense Strategy. Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to assist state, local, and tribal governments in preparing for, assessing, decontaminating, and recovering from an agriculture or food emergency. Requires the Secretary to: (1) assess fees on domestic food facilities and food importers; (2) promulgate regulations on sanitary transportation practices for food; and (3) develop a policy to manage the risk of food allergy and anaphylaxis in schools and early childhood education programs. Directs the Secretary to: (1) recognize accreditation bodies that accredit food testing laboratories; and (2) improve the capabilities to track and trace raw agricultural commodities. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to enhance foodborne illness surveillance systems. Provides for: (1) foreign supplier verification programs; (2) a voluntary qualified importer program; and (3) the inspection of foreign facilities registered to import food.

Superior National Forest Land Adjustment Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2008

Superior National Forest Land Adjustment Act of 2008 - Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture, after consideration of specified public interest factors, to sell certain lands in Superior National Forest in Minnesota. Requires: (1) consideration for a sale of lands to be not less than the appraised market value of those lands; and (2) the first offer for the sale of the lands under this Act to be made to Poly Met Mining, Inc.