Budget

Defense of Medicare and Real Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 December 2003

Defense of Medicare and Real Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit Act - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, in applying risk adjustment factors in a budget neutral manner to payment to Medicare+Choice organizations under part C (Medicare+Choice) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA), to assure that such factors, in the aggregate, take into account the actuarial characteristics of the entire Medicare population, and not merely the population of individuals enrolled under a Medicare+Choice plan. Requires the Secretary to provide for adjustment of payment rates to such organizations so that they reflect only the payment rate relating to 100 percent fee-for-service payment. Eliminates the Medicare Advantage (MA) Regional Plan Stabilization Fund established under the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003. Repeals cost containment provisions of such Act. Amends SSA title XVIII (Medicare), as amended by the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003, to: (1) provide for phased-in elimination of the coverage gap; (2) eliminate discriminatory treatment of employer plans; (3) allow Medicaid wrap-around for dual-eligibles (persons eligible for Medicare and full Medicaid benefits, including drugs); (4) eliminate the assets test; and (5) eliminate Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug (MA-PD) plans from the meaning of qualifying prescription drug plans (PDPs) with respect to the choice of a minimum of two qualifying plans a SSA title XVIII part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program) eligible individual shall be allowed to choose between. Prohibits any formulary from being established or applied under the new Medicare prescription drug program under SSA title XVIII part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program) unless the classes and categories used under it are specified by the Secretary. Allows certain Medigap Rx policies that provide wrap-around prescription drug coverage to be sold, issued, and renewed. Directs the Secretary to provide for appropriate adjustments in payments to PDP sponsors under SSA title XVIII part D, and to MA organizations offering MA-PD plans under SSA title XVIII part C, to assure that premiums of part D eligible individuals under PDPs and under MA-PD plans are not increased as a result of this Act. Phases out the phased-down State contribution with respect to the Federal phase-in of the costs of premiums and cost-sharing subsidies for dual eligibles. Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, as amended by the Medicine Equity and Drug Safety Act of 2000, to: (1) direct the Secretary to promulgate regulations permitting pharmacists and wholesalers to import Health Canada-approved prescription drugs from Canada; and (2) exclude an infused or intravenously injected drug, or a drug that is inhaled during surgery. Requires that a Canadian exporter: (1) register with the Secretary its name and place of business (including the place of business of each warehouse and establishment); (2) export only prescription drugs that have been approved by Health Canada and meet all requirements of Canadian law; (3) permit inspections by the Secretary (including inspections of all records, especially financial records) of each warehouse and establishment of the Canadian exporter; and (4) pay an inspection fee to the Secretary on a semiannual basis not to exceed five percent of the total price of prescription drugs exported by the Canadian exporter to the United States under the regulations (which fees the Secretary shall use solely to inspect the warehouses and establishments of Canadian exporters and to monitor imports of prescription drugs at ports of entry). Requires that each prescription drug imported under the regulations be imported directly from a Canadian exporter through a limited number of ports of entry (at which the Secretary shall monitor such imports). Prohibits discrimination in the sale of prescription drugs by manufacturers to pharmacists, wholesalers, or Canadian exporters, requiring: (1) terms as favorable as those provided to foreign purchasers; and (2) full access to drugs permitted to be imported. Continues the requirement that exported donated prescription drugs may only be reimported by the manufacturer. Permits the Secretary to waive the prohibition against importing a prescription drug or device on a case-by-case basis, particularly those from Canada that are FDA-approved and for personal use, not resale. Amends SSA title XVIII, as amended by the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003, to give the Secretary the authority similar to that of other Federal entities that purchase prescription drugs in bulk to negotiate contracts with manufacturers of covered Medicare part D drugs in order to ensure that beneficiaries enrolled under PDPs and MA-PD plans pay the lowest possible price. Amends the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003 to repeal the authorization and tax deduction under the Internal Revenue Code for Health Savings Accounts.

Honest Government Accounting Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 21 November 2003

Honest Government Accounting Act of 2003 - Requires, in a current annual report from the Secretary of the Treasury to the President and Congress on the overall financial position of the U.S. Government, the preparation of a net present value calculation of all major Government liabilities and commitments, including outstanding debt held by the public and all social insurance entitlements such as Social Security and Medicare. Requires each calculation to: (1) be prepared for both a 75-year horizon and an indefinite time horizon; and (2) include the financial and demographic assumptions and details of the methods used in making the calculations. Mandates that if the total of debt held by the public added to the net present value calculation of the overall liabilities and commitments of the Government exceeds 1.25 percent of the present discounted value of all future payrolls no later than September 15, 2005, the President shall submit to Congress and the Commission on Long-Term Government Liabilities and Commitments (established herein) a plan to reduce that percentage to 1.25 or less. Establishes such Commission to make recommendations to the President and Congress for ensuring that such percentage is no greater than 1.25 percent as of September 11, 2011. Requires the President to report to Congress on any legislative recommendations included in the President's budget which have an adverse impact greater than 0.25 percent of the present discounted value of all future payrolls over 75 years or over an indefinite time horizon, as well as a plan to bring the percentage back to 1.25 by September 11, 2011. Amends the Congressional Budget Act to require budget resolutions to include calculations for the immediately preceding fiscal year of the impact of the resolution on the net present value of the Government's overall liabilities and commitments for both the 75-year and indefinite time horizon. Establishes a point of order against legislation that adversely affects the 1.25 percent by 0.25 percent or more. Directs the Secretary to analyze and report to Congress on the methodology and utility of preparing calculations of the net present value of specific provisions of the Internal Revenue Code that defer tax liability or cause long-term revenue effects that are not captured in a cash flow estimate over five or ten years. Bars the use of expedited procedures to enact legislation which has an adverse impact on the budget deficit or reduces the budget surplus. Amends the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act) to reinstate the "pay-as-you-go" budgetary requirements of such Act.

To create the Office of Chief Financial Officer of the Government of the Virgin Islands.

United States · United States Congress · 21 November 2003

Requires the Governor of the Virgin Islands to appoint a Chief Financial Officer with the advice and consent of the Legislature of the Virgin Islands. Transfers the functions of the Director of the Office of Managment and Budget to the Chief Financial Officer. Alters the position of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to that of the Deputy Chief Financial Officer. Implements these changes for a five-year period. Establishes the Virgin Islands Chief Financial Officer Search Commission to recommend candidates for the Chief Financial Officer position. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to provide a financial management system to the Government of the Virgin Islands.

To amend the Federal Credit Reform Act of 1990 to require appropriations to cover the estimated subsidy costs of monetary resources provided by the United States Government to the International Monetary Fund, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 19 November 2003

Amends the Federal Credit Reform Act of 1990 to declare that, beginning with FY 2005, no appropriation may be made for an increase in the quota of the United States in the International Monetary Fund (IMF) unless it includes new budget authority sufficient to cover the estimated costs to the United States of providing direct loans, loan guarantees, other financing mechanisms (and their modifications) made by or through the IMF to IMF borrowing nations at interest rates below the cost to the Government after appropriate adjustments for maturity and credit risk. Requires the expenditures in the President's budget to reflect the costs to the Government of providing credit to IMF borrowing nations at such interest rates.

Social Security Solvency and Modernization Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 18 November 2003

Social Security Solvency and Modernization Act of 2003 - Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) (OASDI) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to require the Personal Retirement Account Board to: (1) establish a federally-administered personal retirement account (PRA) for each eligible individual in the Personal Retirement Account Fund (PRAF); and (2) credit to the eligible individual's PRA the contributions transferred from the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund (Trust Fund) that result from reduced Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) tax rates (provided for in this Act), as well as other specified contributions involving certain tax overpayments treated as contributions and certain rollovers. Requires investment of a PRA in a manner similar to that under the Thrift Savings Plan for Federal employees. Establishes in the Treasury a Personal Retirement Account Fund composed of all established PRAs, and managed by a Personal Retirement Account Board established in the Social Security Administration. Provides for an alternative PRA privately-administered by a certified investment firm, credit union, insurance company, or other certified institution. Prescribes rules for: (1) distribution of an eligible individual's PRA's funds; (2) off-budget treatment of the PRAF and any federally-administered PRAs within it; and (3) privately-administered PRAs. Amends SSA title II to: (1) make adjustments to primary insurance amounts under the OASDI program for eligible individuals with personal retirement accounts; (2) establish a new minimum monthly Social Security benefit for certain low-income beneficiaries; and (3) provide for the treatment of disabled beneficiaries who have not elected supplemental contribution coverage under a PRA. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to reduce FICA tax rates on the income of every eligible individual, and to impose a PRA contribution on such income, to be credited to the eligible individual's PRA. Entitles each qualified eligible individual to a specified limited PRA tax credit for the taxable year involved, treated as a tax overpayment, to be transferred by the Secretary of Health and Human Services for crediting by the Commissioner of Social Security, as a contribution equal to the tax overpayment, to such eligible individual's PRA. Establishes the Commission on the Review of Federal Agencies and Programs to evaluate all agencies and programs and recommend to Congress realignment or elimination of any that has wasted Federal funds. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to transfer annually an amount equal to 1.25 percent of the taxable payroll for the preceding calendar year to the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund. Provides for a reduction in the amount of certain transfers to the Medicare trust fund. Amends SSA title XVII (Administration) to establish a mechanism for remedying unforseen deterioration in social security solvency. Amends SSA title II to make adjustments for widow's and widowers' insurance benefits. Establishes the Commission to Strengthen Financial Education Programs to study all matters relating to programs to increase the financial literacy of Americans.

A bill to require payments to State and local governments for infrastructure and social services needs in the same amount as the amount of relief and reconstruction funds provided to Iraq.

United States · United States Congress · 6 November 2003

Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to make payments to States and local governments to coordinate their budget-related actions with Federal Government efforts to stimulate the economy. Authorizes appropriations for FY 2003 for such payments in an amount equal to the total amount appropriated for for FY 2003 for the Iraq Relief and Reconstruction Fund in the Emergency Wartime Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2003, and subsequent appropriations Acts. Requires not less than one-third of such amount to be made available to local governments. Requires the Secretary to establish a formula for determining the allocation of payments, with priority consideration to the relative unemployment rate, median income, population, and poverty rate. Permits the use of funds received by States and local governments only for: (1) ordinary and necessary maintenance and operating expenses for education, public safety, public health, social services, roads, transportation, water infrastructure, and housing; and (2) ordinary and necessary capital expenditures authorized by law.

Improving Government Accountability Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 6 November 2003

Improving Government Accountability Act of 2003 - Amends the Inspector General Act of 1978 to allow an Inspector General (IG) to be removed from office prior to the expiration of his term on the grounds of: (1) permanent disability; (2) inefficiency; (3) neglect of duty; (4) malfeasance; or (5) conviction of a felony or conduct involving moral turpitude. Establishes the term of office of each IG as seven years. Directs that any individual appointed to fill a vacancy in that position, occurring before the expiration of the term for which his predecessor was appointed, be appointed for the remainder of that term. Authorizes an IG, for each fiscal year, to transmit an appropriation estimate and request to the Office of Management and Budget and to the appropriate congressional committees or subcommittees, in addition to the head of the establishment involved. Directs that each Government budget submitted by the President include a separate statement regarding amounts requested by IGs, including a comparison with the amounts requested by the head of the establishment involved. Establishes within the Executive Branch the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency to increase the professionalism and effectiveness of personnel by developing policies, standards, and approaches to aid in the establishment of a well-trained and highly skilled workforce in the offices of the IG. Directs the Office of Personnel Management to maintain a personnel management system applicable to the officers and employees of IG offices. Prohibits reprisals because of comments on proposed regulations.

School Nutrition Enhancement Act

United States · United States Congress · 5 November 2003

School Nutrition Enhancement Act - Amends the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to phase out reduced price lunches and breakfasts by phasing in increases in income eligibility for free lunches and breakfasts by specified increments from 130 percent of the Office of Management and Budget nonfarm income poverty guidelines for July 1, 2003, to 185 percent of such guidelines for July 1, 2008, and every subsequent school year.

State Assistance Accountability Act

United States · United States Congress · 30 October 2003

State Assistance Accountability Act - Amends title VI (Temporary State Fiscal Relief) of the Social Security Act to revise the provision concerning the limitation on temporary State fiscal relief, to permit the use of such funds only for types of expenditure authorized under: (1) the budget of the State for the fiscal year for which the funds are to be expended that, as of May 28, 2003, was most recently approved by the State legislature; or (2) in the absence of such a budget, the budget of the State for the fiscal year for which the funds are to be expended that, as of May 28, 2003, was at the furthest stage of development by the State legislature. Requires the Secretary to: (1) audit a State's use of such funds; and (2) require remittance of all inappropriately expended funds, plus a penalty and interest. Defines an "essential government service" as reduction in the amount of debt held or planned to be held by a State, and not any activity that was not funded by a State in its previous fiscal year.

Truthfulness, Responsibility, and Accountability in Contracting Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 30 October 2003

Truthfulness, Responsibility, and Accountability in Contracting Act of 2003 - Requires the head of each Federal agency to submit to the Director of the Office of Management and Budget a certification that a contracting function decision was based on a public-private competition and that the agency: (1) has established a centralized reporting system; (2) is not managing Federal employees by any arbitrary limitations; and (3) is reviewing work performed by contractors, recompeting or contracting in work when appropriate, and subjecting to public-private competition a certain number of Federal employee and contractor positions. Prohibits the head of an agency from entering into any contract for the performance of services until the Director, after reviewing the certification required, determines that the agency is making substantial progress toward meeting requirements under this Act. Allows the Director to waive the applicability of this Act for national security and other specified reasons. Requires that any decision by an agency to either transfer the performance of a function from Federal employees to a contractor or to assign to a contractor the performance of a function not currently performed by Federal employees to be based on the results of a public-private competition process that formally compares the costs of Federal employee versus contractor performance. Directs the Comptroller General to monitor agency compliance with this Act. Authorizes: (1) the Secretaries of Defense and of Homeland Security to waive the application of the public-private competition requirements under specified circumstances; and (2) the Director to carry out a limited pilot program regarding the use of alternative public-private competition processes.

Crime Victims Assistance Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 28 October 2003

Crime Victims Assistance Act of 2003 - Amends: (1) the Victims' Rights and Restitution Act of 1990 to require a responsible official to arrange for a victim (and any other person whose safety, by reason of a relationship with the victim, may reasonably be threatened) (victim) to receive reasonable protection from a suspected offender, to consult with a victim prior to a detention hearing, and to consider the victim's views about any contemplated plea agreement; (2) the Federal criminal code to require the judicial officer to inquire regarding the victim's views on detention; and (3) Rule 11 of the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure to prohibit the court from entering a judgment upon a guilty plea without inquiring regarding the victim's views. Provides for expanded victim's rights regarding standing to attend the trial and rights at sentencing. Specifies victim rights regarding notice of sentence adjustment, executive clemency, and the death of the offender in custody. Directs the Attorney General to promulgate regulations to enforce victims' rights and to establish and carry out pilot programs regarding victims' rights. Amends the Victims of Crime Act of 1984 to authorize grants for: (1) state-of-the-art systems for notifying crime victims of important dates and developments; (2) restorative justice programs; (3) interdisciplinary coordinated service programs for crime victims; and (4) the extension of services to victims with special communication needs. Modifies provisions regarding the formula for Crime Victims Fund distributions. Directs that any limitation on spending from the Fund included in the President's budget or enacted in appropriations legislation for FY 2004 or any subsequent fiscal year not be scored as discretionary savings.

Family Budget Protection Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 21 October 2003

Family Budget Protection Act of 2003 - Amends the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act) to require, within 15 days after the end of each congressional session, a sequestration to eliminate any deficit that exceeds the excess margin (maximum permissible deficit). Requires half of the required outlay reductions to come from non-exempt defense accounts and half to come from non-exempt non-defense accounts. Provides decreasing maximum deficit amounts for FY 2005 and thereafter, with a zero balance for FY 2012 and beyond. Requires adjustment of the maximum deficit in the event of negative Federal revenue growth. Provides discretionary spending limits for FY 2005 through 2013. Repeals the Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act expiration date. Directs the Chairman of the House Budget Committee to maintain the Family Budget Protection Discretionary Account, to be debited and credited by new budget increases and reductions. Provides spending caps on the growth of entitlements and mandatory budget outlays. Excludes benefits payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act and Tier 1 railroad retirement benefits from required reductions under the Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act, along with specified Government accounts and activities. Provides other exceptions, limitations, and special rules with respect to sequestration exemptions. Directs the Chairman to maintain the Family Budget Protection Mandatory Account, to be debited and credited by increases or decreases in mandatory budget authority. Freezes at current levels spending authority for each unearned entitlement, high-cost discretionary spending program and authorized and unauthorized discretionary spending programs. Requires: (1) joint (currently, concurrent) and biennial (currently, annual) budget resolutions; (2) biennial appropriations Acts; and (3) biennial Government strategic and performance plans. Requires the appropriation of funds out of any available Treasury amounts to continue in a new fiscal year any previously-authorized Government project or activity in the event that a regular appropriations bill does not become law by the beginning of that fiscal year.

To provide for additional responsibilities for the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Homeland Security relating to geospatial information.

United States · United States Congress · 21 October 2003

Directs the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to establish and carry out a program to provide for the efficient use of geospatial information, which shall include: (1) providing such geospatial information as may be necessary to implement the critical infrastructure protection programs; (2) providing leadership in meeting the requirements of, and populating the databases used by, those responsible for planning, prevention, mitigation, assessment and response to emergencies, critical infrastructure and other DHS functions; and (3) assuring interoperability and preventing unnecessary duplication of geospatial information among all users. Includes among the Chief Information Officer's responsibilities: (1) managing DHS geospatial information needs and activities; (2) establishing standards to assure the interoperability of geospatial information pertaining to homeland security among all users of such information within DHS, other agencies, State and local government, and the private sector; (3) coordinating with and providing liaison to the Federal Geographic Data Committee and carrying out DHS's responsibilities pursuant to Office of Management and Budget Circular A-16 and Executive Order 12906; (4) providing grants to fund data creation and to execute information sharing agreements with State, local, and tribal governments; and (5) ensuring that DHS utilizes available commercial geospatial data and services by awarding contracts to entities in the private sector.

Credit Card Abuse Prevention Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 16 October 2003

Credit Card Abuse Prevention Act of 2003 - Directs the head of each executive agency that issues and uses purchase cards and convenience checks to establish and maintain specified safeguards and internal controls. Requires the Inspector General of each executive agency to: (1) periodically conduct risk assessments of the agency's purchase card program and associated internal controls and analyze identified weaknesses and the frequency of improper activity; (2) perform periodic audits of purchase cardholders; (3) report to the agency head on the results of such audits; and (4) report to the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the Comptroller General on implementation of recommendations made to the agency head to address findings during audits. Prohibits applying all such requirements above to the Department of Defense (DOD). Amends Federal law provisions relating to management of purchase cards issued to DOD personnel to require the Inspector General of DOD, Inspector General of the Army, Naval Inspector General, and Inspector General of the Air Force to perform risk assessments of DOD's purchase card program and associated internal controls and analyze identified weaknesses and the frequency of improper activity in order to develop a plan for using such risk assessments to determine the scope, frequency, and number of periodic audits of purchase cardholders. Amends the Travel and Transportation Reform Act of 1998 to direct each executive agency head that has employees that use travel charge cards to establish and maintain specified safeguards and internal controls. Requires the Inspector General of each executive agency to: (1) periodically conduct risk assessments of the agency's travel card program and associated internal controls and analyze identified weaknesses and the frequency of improper activity; (2) perform periodic audits of travel cardholders; (3) report to the agency head the results of such audits; and (4) report to the OMB Director and the Comptroller General on implementation of recommendations made to the agency head to address findings during audits.

Credit Card Abuse Prevention Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 16 October 2003

Credit Card Abuse Prevention Act of 2003 - Directs the head of each executive agency that issues and uses purchase cards and convenience checks to establish and maintain specified safeguards and internal controls. Requires the Inspector General of each executive agency to: (1) periodically conduct risk assessments of the agency's purchase card program and associated internal controls and analyze identified weaknesses and the frequency of improper activity; (2) perform periodic audits of purchase cardholders; (3) report to the agency head on the results of such audits; and (4) report to the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the Comptroller General on implementation of recommendations made to the agency head to address findings during audits. Prohibits applying all such requirements above to the Department of Defense (DOD). Amends Federal law provisions relating to management of purchase cards issued to DOD personnel to require the Inspector General of DOD, Inspector General of the Army, Naval Inspector General, and Inspector General of the Air Force to perform risk assessments of DOD's purchase card program and associated internal controls and analyze identified weaknesses and the frequency of improper activity in order to develop a plan for using such risk assessments to determine the scope, frequency, and number of periodic audits of purchase cardholders. Amends the Travel and Transportation Reform Act of 1998 to direct each executive agency head that has employees that use travel charge cards to establish and maintain specified safeguards and internal controls. Requires the Inspector General of each executive agency to: (1) periodically conduct risk assessments of the agency's travel card program and associated internal controls and analyze identified weaknesses and the frequency of improper activity; (2) perform periodic audits of travel cardholders; (3) report to the agency head the results of such audits; and (4) report to the OMB Director and the Comptroller General on implementation of recommendations made to the agency head to address findings during audits.

Border Economic Recovery Act for Health and the Environment

United States · United States Congress · 8 October 2003

Border Economic Recovery Act for Health and the Environment - Amends the United States-Mexico Border Health Commission Act to authorize appropriations. Amends the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 with respect to funding for State-furnished emergency health services for undocumented aliens in the United States-Mexico border area ("border area"). Amends the Child Nutrition Act of 1966, with respect to the special supplemental nutrition program, to require the Secretary of Agriculture to utilize partnerships for increased coordination of food and nutrition assistance for residents of colonias in the border area. Amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to increase funding for grants and loans for water and waste facilities in communities whose residents face significant health risks. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to make grants to selected colleges in Arizona, California, New Mexico, and Texas to provide community resource centers to serve colonias. Amends the Public Health Service Act with respect to funding of: (1) tuberculosis prevention activities in the border area; and (2) interdisciplinary, community-based linkages and centers addressing unmet health care needs in such area and in the State of Florida. Authorizes funding for the Border Center for the Application of Prevention Technologies (concerning youth substance abuse prevention in the border area). Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make awards of grants or cooperative agreements to: (1) conduct cancer screenings in the border area and report diagnosis information to the appropriate State cancer registry; (2) expand a diabetes study; and (3) support community-based sexually transmitted disease control programs. Provides funding for the Department of HUD's Healthy Homes Initiative, reserving specified amounts for border area activities. Provides funding for: (1) the Materials Corridor Partnership Initiative; (2) the Southwest Center for Environmental Research and Policy; (3) environmental infrastructure projects carried out by the International Boundary and Water Commission (and requires a long-range water supply strategic plan); (4) the U.S. contribution to the Commission for Environmental Cooperation; (5) innovative water conservation programs; (6) the International Consortium for the Environment established at Brooks Air Force Base; (7) the Border Environmental Cooperation Commission for environmental infrastructure projects; and (8) grants for high-priority projects carried out through the North American Development Bank's Border Environmental Infrastructure Fund.

Independent Counsel Reform Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 3 October 2003

Independent Counsel Reform Act of 2003 - Rewrites the Independent Counsel (IC) statute to: (1) limit application of the statute to the President, Vice President, Level I positions of the Executive Schedule (Cabinet members, the Commissioner of Social Security, and the Chairman of the Federal Reserve Board), and the President's Chief of Staff; (2) expand to 120 days the period of time in which the Attorney General must conduct a preliminary investigation; (3) authorize the Attorney General to convene grand juries and issue subpoenas in a preliminary investigation; (4) heighten the evidentiary threshold for seeking appointment of an IC from "reasonable" to "substantial" grounds; (5) require the IC to serve on a full-time basis; (6) limit the scope of inquiry to matters "directly" related to the IC's prosecutorial jurisdiction; (7) delete provisions authorizing expansion of the IC's prosecutorial jurisdiction; (8) require the IC to submit a budget for each year to the Attorney General and the General Accounting Office; (9) require the courts of the United States to expedite consideration and review of matters relating to an IC's investigation and prosecution; (10) delete the requirement directing an IC to advise the House of Representatives of any information that may support impeachment; and (11) terminate an IC's term at the end of two years after appointment, with the possibility of an extension for good cause or to compensate for dilatory tactics. Amends the Federal judicial code to: (1) extend to three years the period of service of judges assigned to the division of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia that appoints ICs; and (2) require the Chief Justice to assign three judges for such division by a lottery of all circuit court judges.

Community Economic Development Expertise Enhancement Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 3 October 2003

Community Economic Development Expertise Enhancement Act of 2003 - Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to make grants to increase the capacity and expertise of qualifying community-based economic development organizations. Directs the Secretary to: (1) conduct an assessment of such organizations' capability needs; and (2) establish the Advisory Council on Community Economic Development. Directs the President to include with each annual budget request a report regarding Federal financial support for community economic development.

National Preparedness Standards Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 October 2003

National Preparedness Standards Act - Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish clearly defined standards and guidelines for Federal, State, and local government emergency preparedness and response capability, including standards and guidelines for training, interoperable communication systems, and response equipment. Requires such standards to be: (1) sufficiently flexible to allow local government officials to set priorities based on their needs, while reaching nationally-determined preparedness levels within a fixed time period; and (2) measurable and subject to Federal audit. Directs the Secretary to: (1) determine minimum essential emergency preparedness and response capabilities for each State; (2) measure the progress of each State in achieving such capabilities and in complying with standards issued by the Secretary; and (3) include in the FY 2005 budget request for the Department of Homeland Security a separate minimum essential emergency preparedness and response capability standard for metropolitan areas and for rural areas with respect to weapons of mass destruction and terrorism-related disaster equipment and training.

Early Medicare Access and Affordability Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2003

Early Medicare Access and Affordability Act of 2003 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to add part D (Purchase of Medicare Benefits by Certain Individuals Age 62-to-65 Years of Age) (Medicare buy-in) entitling to the same Medicare benefits as an individual entitled to benefits under Medicare part A (Hospital Insurance) and enrolled under Medicare part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) an enrolled individual age 62 to 65 who: (1) would be eligible for such benefits if 65; but (2) is not eligible for benefits under a Federal health insurance program or a group health plan. Provides for monthly premiums, and creates the Medicare Early Access Trust Fund to hold them. Amends SSA title XVIII to provide access to Medicare benefits to displaced workers age 55-to-62 and their spouses. Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), the Public Health Service Act, and the Internal Revenue Code to provide for COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985) continuation benefits for certain retired workers who lose retiree health coverage. Amends SSA title XIX (Medicaid) to require State Medicaid plans to provide for Federal Medicare-cost sharing premium assistance for certain low-income individuals enrolled under the part D program.

Predisaster Mitigation Program Reauthorization Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2003

Predisaster Mitigation Program Reauthorization Act of 2003 - Amends the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to reauthorize through FY 2006 the program of technical and financial assistance to States and local governments for cost-effective predisaster hazard mitigation measures. Increases from 7.5 to 15 percent of the estimated aggregate amount of disaster assistance grants for a particular major disaster the total contributions the President may make to the cost of hazard mitigation measures with respect to such disaster (applicable to any major disaster declared after September 30, 2002). Authorizes the President to provide additional repair assistance to an individual or household that is unable, using insurance proceeds, loans, or other financial assistance, including Small Business Administration assistance, to complete repairs of an owner-occupied private residence, utilities, or residential infrastructure (such as a private access route) damaged by a major disaster declared after enactment of this Act. Amends the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 to extend until September 30, 2005, the deadline for completion by the Director of the Congressional Budget Office of a study estimating the reduction in Federal disaster assistance that has resulted and is likely to result from enactment of such Act.

To provide for reduction of the Federal budget deficit by reducing wasteful government spending.

United States · United States Congress · 24 September 2003

Abolishes the following Federal agencies: (1) the U.S. Travel and Tourism Promotion Advisory Board; (2) The Council on Environmental Quality; and (3) The Advanced Technology Program of the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Directs the President to ensure that the total number of political appointees, as defined by this Act, does not exceed 2,000 after September 30, 2004.

To extend the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families block grant program, and certain tax and trade programs, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 2003

Extends the TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) program under part A of title IV of the Social Security Act (SSA), and related provisions, including those providing for abstinence education and for extending eligibility for medical assistance under Medicaid (SSA title XIX) for six months for former TANF recipients. Provides for: (1) a similar extension with respect to the national random sample study of child welfare under SSA title IV part B (Child and Family Services); and (2) treatment of such provisions as direct spending for purposes of the Scorekeeping Guidelines. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for the extension of the authority for: (1) disclosure to Department of Education officers and staff of tax return information to carry out the program for income contingent repayment of student loans; and (2) Internal Revenue Service user fees. Amends the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 to provide for an extension of the authority for fees for certain customs services. Amends SSA title XIX to provide for the extension of Medicare cost-sharing for certain low-income individuals.

Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 2003

Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2003 - Extends Federal highway, highway safety, motor carrier safety, and transit programs for five months, and authorizes appropriations, through February 29, 2004. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to: (1) apportion funds made available for Federal-aid highway programs under the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21) to each State according to the ratio of the State's FY 2003 obligation authority to the FY 2003 obligation authority for all States; and (2) ensure that each State is apportioned funds for the Interstate maintenance program, the National Highway System program, the bridge program, the surface transportation program, the congestion mitigation and air quality improvement program, the recreational trails program, the Appalachian development highway system program, and the minimum guarantee. Sets forth provisions: (1) for reducing future apportionments, and for recovering funds not apportioned, under a law reauthorizing the Federal-aid highway program that is enacted after enactment of this Act; (2) prohibiting States from obligating any Federal-aid highway program funds after February 29, 2004, until the earlier of the date of enactment of a multi-year law reauthorizing such program or June 30 2004; and (3) directing the Secretary of Transportation, on the earlier of such enactment date or June 1, 2004, to distribute to each State any remaining amounts of obligation authority for Federal-aid highways and highway safety construction programs by allocation as provided in an Act making appropriations for the Department of Transportation for FY 2004. Amends the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 and TEA-21, respectively, to set related discretionary spending limits and obligation limitations for FY 2004.

Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 2003

Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2003 - Extends Federal highway, highway safety, motor carrier safety, and transit programs for six months, and authorizes appropriations, through March 31, 2004. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to: (1) apportion funds made available for Federal-aid highway programs under the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21) to each State according to the ratio of the State's FY 2003 obligation authority to the FY 2003 obligation authority for all States; and (2) ensure that each State is apportioned funds for the Interstate maintenance program, the National Highway System program, the bridge program, the surface transportation program, the congestion mitigation and air quality improvement program, the recreational trails program, the Appalachian development highway system program, and the minimum guarantee. Sets forth provisions: (1) for reducing future apportionments, and for recovering funds not apportioned, under a law reauthorizing the Federal-aid highway program that is enacted after enactment of this Act; (2) prohibiting States from obligating any Federal-aid highway program funds after March 31, 2004, until the earlier of the date of enactment of a multi-year law reauthorizing such program or June 30 2004; and (3) directing the Secretary of Transportation, on the earlier of such enactment date or June 1, 2004, to distribute to each State any remaining amounts of obligation authority for Federal-aid highways and highway safety construction programs by allocation as provided in an Act making appropriations for the Department of Transportation for FY 2004 Amends the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 and TEA-21, respectively, to set related discretionary spending limits and obligation limitations for FY 2004.

Homeland Security Technology Improvement Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 11 September 2003

Homeland Security Technology Improvement Act of 2003 - Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to give the Office for Domestic Preparedness at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) responsibility for coordinating a multi-agency program allowing for the transfer of homeland security technology, equipment, and information to State and local law enforcement agencies. Requires the Director of the Office for Domestic Preparedness to: (1) identify counterterrorism technologies, equipment, and information by consulting with the DHS's Undersecretary for Science and Technology and State and local law enforcement agencies, establishing an advisory committee, and coordinating with other Federal agencies to maximize effectiveness; (2) make these technologies, equipment, and information available to State and local law enforcement agencies annually; (3) accept and review, in coordination with the advisory committee, applications from State and local law enforcement agencies wishing to acquire such technologies, equipment, and information; and (4) transfer the approved technology, equipment, and information and provide appropriate training while applications are pending. Limits expenditures for administrative costs to 10 percent of the program budget.

Social Security Solvency Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 10 September 2003

Social Security Solvency Act of 2003 - Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) (OASDI) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to create a new Individual Retirement Security Program (Program). Establishes in the Treasury an Interim Investment Fund (IIF) governed by the Board of Trustees of the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund and the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund. Authorizes a participating individual and spouse, upon the attainment of a minimum deposit balance of $2,500 in the IIF, to designate one or more personal retirement savings accounts, to which the Secretary of the Treasury shall make deposits from the IIF with respect to the individual according to prescribed formulae. Mandates that the Board divide the IIF into three accounts for investment in common stock and corporate bonds. Requires the Secretary to deposit into the IIF, from amounts otherwise available in the general fund of the Treasury, a total amount equal, in the aggregate, to 100 percent of the redirected social security taxes for such calendar year of each covered individual for such calendar year. Requires a reduction in Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance appropriations, according to a certain formula. Provides for adjustments to primary OASDI insurance amounts of such covered individuals with designated accounts in the IIF. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) allow a tax deduction in the case of an electing personal retirement savings account participant in an amount equal to 50 percent (up to $2,000) of the amount the individual contributed during the taxable year to a personal retirement savings account; (2) exclude from gross income any amount deposited in a personal retirement savings account; (3) include distributions in gross income as if they were social security benefits; and (4) establish an Individual Retirement Security Program refundable credit. Amends SSA title II to provide for: (1) transfers of budget surpluses to the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund; (2) revisions in social security benefits, such as a gradual increase in retirement age and early retirement age; and (3) reimbursement of Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund for certain costs of disability insurance benefits. Directs the Commissioner of Social Security to study and report to the Congress on the most appropriate and feasible means of providing for individuals to opt out of OASDI coverage. Amends the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001 to make permanent its pension and individual retirement arrangement provisions. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for accelerated phase-in of scheduled increases in individual retirement account and pension plan contribution limits, and to revise requirements for long-term care insurance contracts and dependent care and other matters affecting seniors.

Transportation, Treasury, and General Government Appropriations Act, 2004

United States · United States Congress · 8 September 2003

Transportation, Treasury, and General Government Appropriations Act, 2004 - Makes appropriations for FY 2004 to the Department of Transportation for: (1) the Office of the Secretary; (2) the Federal Aviation Administration; (3) the Federal Highway Administration; (4) the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration; (5) the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration; (6) the Federal Railroad Administration; (7) the Federal Transit Administration; (8) the Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation; (9) the Maritime Administration; (10) the Research and Special Programs Administration; (11) the Office of Inspector General; and (12) the Surface Transportation Board. Makes appropriations for FY 2004 to the Department of the Treasury for: (1) Departmental Offices; (2) the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network; (3) the Financial Management Service; (4) the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau; (5) the U.S. Mint; (6) the Bureau of the Public Debt; and (7) the Internal Revenue Service. Makes appropriations for FY 2004 to the Executive Office of the President and to the President for: (1) compensation of the President and the White House Office; (2) the Executive Residence at the White House; (3) Special Assistance to the President and the Official Residence of the Vice President; (4) the Council of Economic Advisers; (5) the Office of Policy Development; (6) the National Security Council; (7) the Homeland Security Council; (8) the Office of Administration; (9) the Office of Management and Budget; (10) the Office of National Drug Control Policy; (11) Federal Drug Control Programs; and (12) unanticipated needs. Makes appropriations for FY 2004 to: (1) the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board; (2) the Committee for Purchase from People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled; (3) the Election Assistance Commission; (4) the Federal Election Commission; (5) the Federal Labor Relations Authority; (6) the Federal Maritime Commission; (7) the General Services Administration; (8) the Merit Systems Protection Board; (9) the Morris K. Udall Scholarship and Excellence in National Environmental Policy Foundation; (10) the National Archives and Records Administration; (11) the National Historical Publications and Records Commission; (12) the National Transportation Safety Board; (13) the Office of Government Ethics; (14) Office of Personnel Management; (15) the Office of Special Counsel; (16) the United States Postal Service; (17) the United States Tax Court; and (18) the White House Commission on the National Moment of Remembrance. Sets forth general provisions.

A bill to amend the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to phase out reduced price lunches and breakfasts by phasing in an increase in the income eligibility guidelines for free lunches and breakfasts.

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2003

Amends the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to phase out reduced price lunches and breakfasts by phasing in increases in income eligibility for free lunches and breakfasts by specified increments from 130 percent of the Office of Management and Budget nonfarm income poverty guidelines for July 1, 2003, to 185 percent of such guidelines for July 1, 2008, and every subsequent school year.

Program Reform Commission Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003

Program Reform Commission Act of 2003 - Establishes an independent Program Reform Commission to: (1) identify unnecessary Federal programs; (2) review such programs; (3) conduct public hearings on agency recommendations regarding unnecessary programs; and (4) report to Congress recommendations for termination, modification, or retention of each program reviewed. Requires each Federal agency to include in budget documents submitted in FY 2005 a list of programs within that agency that are unnecessary, together with recommendations for appropriate action. Expresses the sense of Congress that, following submission of the Commission's report, the House of Representatives and the Senate should promptly consider legislation that would enact changes in Federal statutes necessary to implement the Commission's recommendations.

Corporate Subsidy Reform Commission Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003

Corporate Subsidy Reform Commission Act of 2003 - Establishes an independent Corporate Subsidy Reform Commission to: (1) identify Federal programs and laws that provide inequitable Federal subsidies; (2) review such subsidies; (3) conduct public hearings on agency recommendations regarding inequitable subsidies; and (4) report to Congress recommendations for termination, modification, or retention of each subsidy reviewed. Requires each Federal agency to include in budget documents submitted in FY 2005 a list of programs or laws within that agency that provide inequitable Federal subsidies, together with recommendations for appropriate action. Expresses the sense of Congress that, following submission of the Commission's report, the House of Representatives and the Senate should promptly consider legislation that would enact changes in Federal statutes necessary to implement the Commission's recommendations.

Concerning United States assessed contributions to the United Nations.

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003

Declares the sense of the House of Representatives that the Representative of the United States to the United Nations should seek an agreement to lower the assessment level of the United States for the regular budget of the United Nations when the United Nations General Assembly considers the scale of assessments for member nations for the period 2004 through 2006.

Forestry and Community Assistance Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2003

Forestry and Community Assistance Act of 2003 - Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior to conduct hazardous fuels reduction projects on National Forest System lands, and Bureau of Land Management lands, respectively. Provides for: (1) a collaborative project selection process; and (2) an expedited planning and implementation process. Directs the Secretaries to track firefighter safety and training funds and include a line item for such expenditures in all budget requests after October 1, 2003. Exempts the Forest Service from the competitive sourcing initiative. Directs the Secretaries to ensure that forest health programs include research on: (1) best use of mechanical thinning and prescribed fire to reduce fire risk, and to improve the scientific basis for implementation of hazardous fuels reduction treatments; (2) insect and associated diseases and related prevention and early warning activities; and (3) new technologies and markets for value-added products that use the byproducts of insect and disease infestation or hazardous fuels reduction treatments. Amends the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978 to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a watershed forestry assistance program to provide States, through State foresters or Indian tribes, with technical, financial, and related assistance to: (1) expand forest stewardship capacities and activities through best management practices; and (2) prevent water quality degradation, and address watershed issues, on non-Federal forest land. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to designate ten forest and rangeland health demonstration projects at the watershed scale, and the Secretary of the Interior to designate five such projects. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to establish the healthy forests reserve program for the purpose of restoring and enhancing forest ecosystems to promote the recovery of threatened and endangered species as well as improve biodiversity and enhance carbon sequestration. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to establish: (1) the Rural Community Forestry Enterprise Program to enhance necessary skills and establish organizations to promote forest-related products and activities; (2) at least one Forest Enterprise Center at each Research Station of the Forest Service; and (3) the forest enterprise technical assistance and grant program.

Emergency Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Relief Act, 2003

United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2003

Emergency Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Relief Act, 2003 - Makes emergency supplemental appropriations to the Department of Homeland Security for FY 2003 for disaster relief in carrying out the functions of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. Designates such amount as an emergency requirement under the FY 2004 concurrent budget resolution.

COBRA Coverage Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2003

COBRA Coverage Act of 2003 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide a tax credit for employer-provided COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985) continuation coverage for covered employees and their families.

Adoption Incentive Program Reauthorization Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2003

Adoption Incentive Program Reauthorization Act of 2003 - Amends part E (Foster Care and Adoption Assistance) of title IV of the Social Security Act to reauthorize adoption incentive payments and to revise requirements with respect to determination of numbers of adoptions of older children. Amends the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act) and the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to increase the congressional discretionary spending limit with respect to adoption incentive payments.

Federal Aviation Administration Research and Development Reauthorization Act

United States · United States Congress · 15 July 2003

Federal Aviation Administration Research and Development Reauthorization Act - Authorizes appropriations for Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Research and Development programs, projects and activities. Requires the FAA and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to establish a Joint Program Office (JPO) to conduct long-term Next Generation Air Traffic Management research and development. Amends Federal transportation law to require future FAA budgets to identify all research and development activities that would be classified as basic research, applied research, or development under the guidelines established by the Office of Management and Budget Circular A-11, regardless of the budget category in which they appear in the budget request. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish an airport cooperative research grant program to identify problems shared by airport operating agencies that can be solved through applied research, and to fund research addressing those problems. Requires the Secretary to appoint an independent governing board for the program from candidates proposed by national associations representing airport executives, public airport operating agencies, State aviation officials, and the scheduled airlines. Directs FAA to conduct research to: (1) promote development of analytical tools to improve existing certification methods (for new aircraft, engines, and aircraft systems); and (2) reduce overall certification costs for new products. Establishes a program to fund research on the impact of new technologies and procedures, particularly those related to aircraft flight deck and air traffic management functions, on training requirements for pilots and air traffic controllers.

Joel David Kaplan, of Massachusetts, to be Deputy Director of the Office of Management and Budget, vice Nancy Dorn.

United States · United States Senate · 11 July 2003

Federal Election Administration Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2003

Federal Election Administration Act of 2003 - Amends the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to create a new independent establishment, the Federal Election Administration (FEA), replacing the Federal Election Commission (FEC), with enhanced authority to enforce Federal campaign finance laws, while leaving reporting and disclosure provisions largely the same. Gives the FEA exclusive jurisdiction with respect to the civil enforcement of the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971, the Presidential Election Campaign Fund Act, and the Presidential Primary Matching Payment Account Act. Requires under this new system for the Administration to be composed of three members, appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, one of whom shall serve as the Chair of the Administration, while the two other members are prohibited from being affiliated with the same political party. Requires the Chair to be appointed for a term of ten years, while the two other members shall be appointed for a term of six years, with one of the initial members appointed for a term of three years. Imposes on members a general one-term limitation. Bars present and former FEC members and others from the regulated community as well as individuals employed in certain executive branch positions from serving as FEA members. Requires enforcement proceedings for violations of campaign finance laws to be conducted before administrative law judges. Allows any final determination made by an administrative law judge to be appealed to the FEA for final agency action, subject to judicial review. Includes under the enhanced authority of the FEA to enforce Federal campaign laws the authority to impose civil penalties, issue cease-and-desist orders, and to report apparent violations to the appropriate law enforcement authorities. Allows the FEA to conduct audits and field examinations of campaign committees. Directs the Comptroller General to conduct: (1) an examination of the enforcement of Federal campaign finance laws by the Attorney General for a report to the Attorney General and Congress; and (2) an ongoing study on the level of funding that constitutes an adequate level of resources for the FEA to competently execute its responsibilities, for reports to the Director of the Office of Management and Budget and Congress.

Federal Election Administration Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2003

Federal Election Administration Act of 2003 - Amends the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to create a new independent establishment, the Federal Election Administration (FEA), replacing the Federal Election Commission (FEC), with enhanced authority to enforce Federal campaign finance laws, while leaving reporting and disclosure provisions largely the same. Gives the FEA exclusive jurisdiction with respect to the civil enforcement of the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971, the Presidential Election Campaign Fund Act, and the Presidential Primary Matching Payment Account Act. Requires under this new system for the Administration to be composed of three members, appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, one of whom shall serve as the Chair of the Administration, while the two other members are prohibited from being affiliated with the same political party. Requires the Chair to be appointed for a term of ten years, while the two other members shall be appointed for a term of six years, with one of the initial members appointed for a term of three years. Imposes on members a general one-term limitation. Bars present and former FEC members and others from the regulated community as well as individuals employed in certain executive branch positions from serving as FEA members. Requires enforcement proceedings for violations of campaign finance laws to be conducted before administrative law judges. Allows any final determination made by an administrative law judge to be appealed to the FEA for final agency action, subject to judicial review. Includes under the enhanced authority of the FEA to enforce Federal campaign laws the authority to impose civil penalties, issue cease-and-desist orders, and to report apparent violations to the appropriate law enforcement authorities. Allows the FEA to conduct audits and field examinations of campaign committees. Directs the Comptroller General to conduct: (1) an examination of the enforcement of Federal campaign finance laws by the Attorney General for a report to the Attorney General and Congress; and (2) an ongoing study on the level of funding that constitutes an adequate level of resources for the FEA to competently execute its responsibilities, for reports to the Director of the Office of Management and Budget and Congress.

Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 2004

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2003

Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 2004 - Makes FY 2004 appropriations for the Senate for: (1) expense allowances; (2) representation allowances for the Majority and Minority Leaders; (3) salaries of specified officers, employees, and committees (including the Committee on Appropriations); (4) agency contributions for employee benefits; (5) inquiries and investigations; (6) the U.S. Senate Caucus on International Narcotics Control; (7) the Offices of the Secretary and of the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper of the Senate; (8) miscellaneous items; (9) the Senators' Official Personnel and Office Expense Account; and (10) official mail costs. Makes FY 2004 appropriations for salaries and/or expenses of: (1) the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies of 2005, and the Joint Economic and Taxation Committees; (2) the Office of the Attending Physician; (3) the Capitol Guide Service and Special Services Office; (4) the preparation of statements of appropriations; (5) the Capitol Police; (6) the Office of Compliance; (7) the Congressional Budget Office; (8) the Architect of the Capitol (AOC), including for the care and operation of Capitol buildings and grounds, the Senate office building, the Capitol power plant, the Library of Congress buildings and grounds, the Capitol Police buildings and grounds, the Botanic Garden; and (9) the Capitol Visitor Center. Appropriates funds for: (1) the Library of Congress for salaries and expenses, the Copyright Office, Congressional Research Service, and Books for the Blind and Physically Handicapped; (2) the Government Printing Office (GPO) for congressional printing and binding (including transfer of funds); (3) GPO for the Office of Superintendent of Documents (including transfer of funds); (4) the General Accounting Office for salaries and expenses; (5) a payment to the Government Printing Office Revolving Fund; and (6) a payment to the Open World Leadership Center Trust Fund. Makes emergency supplemental appropriations, under specified conditions, for FY 2003 for: (1) the Department of Homeland Security, Emergency Preparedness and Response, Disaster Relief Fund; (2) the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Human Space Flight; (3) the Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Wildland Fire Management; (4) the Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Wildland Fire Management; and (5) the Corporation for National and Community Service, National and Community Service Programs Operating Expenses (relating to activities including the AmeriCorps program) and for educational awards.

Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 2004

United States · United States Congress · 1 July 2003

Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 2004 - Makes appropriations for the House of Representatives for FY 2004 for: (1) salaries and/or expenses of the House leadership offices, committees (including the Committee on Appropriations), officers and employees, and the Child Care Center; (2) Members' representational allowances; and (3) the preparation of statements of appropriations. Makes appropriations for salaries and/or expenses of: (1) the Joint Economic and Taxation Committees; (2) the Office of the Attending Physician; (3) the Capitol Guide Service and Special Services Office; (4) the Capitol Police; (5) the Office of Compliance; (6) the Congressional Budget Office; and (7) the Architect of the Capitol (AOC), including for the care and operation of Capitol buildings and grounds, House office buildings, the Capitol power plant, the Library of Congress buildings and grounds, the Capitol Police buildings and grounds, and the Botanic Garden. Appropriates funds for: (1) the Library of Congress for salaries and expenses, the Copyright Office, Congressional Research Service, and Books for the Blind and Physically Handicapped; (2) the Government Printing Office (GPO) for congressional printing and binding (including transfer of funds); (3) GPO for the Office of Superintendent of Documents (including transfer of funds); (4) the General Accounting Office for salaries and expenses; (5) a payment to the Government Printing Office Revolving Fund; and (6) a payment to the Open World Leadership Center Trust Fund.

Cambodia Democracy and Accountability Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2003

Cambodia Democracy and Accountability Act of 2003 - Directs that an additional $21.5 million in foreign assistance be made available for Cambodia above the FY 2004 budget request, but only after the Secretary of State certifies and reports to the congressional appropriations and foreign relations committees that new leadership in Cambodia has been elected in free and fair elections, and that Prime Minister Hun Sen is no longer in power. Allows assistance to support a Khmer Rouge tribunal, trial, or other legal venue (venue) established by the Government of Cambodia with the assistance of the United Nations if the President determines and reports to such committees that such venue: (1) is not subject to the control or influence of the ruling Cambodian People's Party; (2) includes participation of judges of high moral character; (3) is supported by democratic Cambodian political parties; and (4) meets international standards of justice. Directs the Federal Bureau of Investigation to resume its investigation into the March 1997 grenade attack in Cambodia, and to regularly report to such committees until such investigation is completed.

National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program Reauthorization Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2003

National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program Reauthorization Act of 2003 - Amends the Earthquake Hazards Reduction Act of 1977 to reauthorize the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program through FY 2006. Requires that Program activities be designed to: (1) develop effective measures for earthquake hazards reduction; (2) promote the adoption of such measures through grants, contracts, cooperative agreements, and technical assistance, development of standards and guidelines, and development and maintenance of a repository of information on seismic risk and hazards reduction; and (3) improve the understanding of earthquakes and their effects. Establishes an Interagency Coordinating Committee on Earthquake Hazards Reduction, to be chaired by the Director of National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), to: (1) oversee the planning, management, and coordination of the Program; and (2) develop and update a strategic plan for Program activities, a management plan, and a coordinated interagency budget for the Program. Requires the Director to establish an Advisory Committee on Earthquake Hazards Reduction. Places the primary responsibility for planning and coordinating the Program with NIST (currently, with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)). Instructs the NIST Director, in carrying out the Program, to support the development and commercial application of performance-based seismic engineering tools through earthquake-related building codes, standards, and construction practices. Revises and authorizes appropriations for the responsibilities of the United States Geological Survey under the Program, including funds for the completion of the Advanced National Seismic Research and Monitoring System. Authorizes appropriations to the National Science Foundation for the George E. Brown, Jr. Network for Earthquake Simulation for operations and maintenance.

Calfed Bay-Delta Authorization Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2003

Calfed Bay-Delta Authorization Act - Approves the August 28, 2000, Federal programmatic Record of Decision issued by specified Federal agencies and supported by the State of California as a framework for addressing Calfed Bay-Delta Program components. Authorizes the Secretary and the heads of such agencies to carry out Stage 1 activities (projects and programs planned for the first seven years) in the following categories if such activities have been subject to environmental review and approval under Federal and State law and have been certified by the California Bay-Delta Authority to be consistent with the Record of Decision and all applicable State and Federal law: water storage; conveyance; water use efficiency; water transfers; the Environmental Water account; integrated regional water management plans; ecosystem restoration; watersheds; water quality; levee stability; science; program management, oversight, and coordination; refuge water supplies; groundwater management. Prohibits the authorization of any Federal funds for a project under the Program for increasing water supply, water yield, water storage, or water conveyance that is intended for any agricultural, municipal and industrial, domestic, or hydroelectric power purposes unless a feasibility study is prepared, a report on findings is submitted, and the Secretary certifies that: (1) the study and report indicate that total project benefits will equal or exceed total project costs; (2) the beneficiaries have demonstrated a willingness and ability to pay for costs allocated to them under the beneficiaries pay principle; and (3) such beneficiaries are obligated to repay such costs. Requires the Federal agencies to: (1) coordinate their activities with specified California agencies; (2) cooperate with local and tribal governments and the public through a federally chartered advisory committee or other means; and (3) implement the Program using the best available scientific information and scientific review. Directs the Secretary: (1) to report monthly on the Authority's progress in achieving the water supply targets, environmental water account requirements, and water quality targets described in the Record and on any pending actions that may affect the Authority's ability to achieve those targets and requirements; (2) to report annually on Program implementation, expenditures, and accomplishments; (3) to certify in such annual report whether the Program is progressing in a balanced manner in advancing Program components (requires the Authority to prepare a revised implementation schedule to ensure balanced progress if balance is not certified); (4) to submit annual financial reports containing a detailed accounting of all Federal and State funds received and obligated under the Program and all projects to be carried out in the upcoming year; (5) prior to December 2004, to report to Congress on the Program's accomplishments, the specific steps remaining to be undertaken, the specific funding levels and sources to accomplish such steps, and recommendations necessary to accomplish Program goals and objectives. Requires: (1) the President's budget to include requests for an appropriate funding level for each Federal agency to carry out its Program responsibilities; and (2) the Office of Management and Budget to submit an interagency budget crosscut report displaying the budget proposed for each such agency for the Program. Prohibits the Federal share of the total cost of implementing Stage 1 from exceeding 33.3 percent.

A resolution to amend Rule XVI of the Standing Rules of the Senate with respect to new or general legislation and unauthorized appropriations in general appropriations bills and amendments thereto, and new or general legislation, unauthorized appropriations, new matter, or nongermane matter in conference reports on appropriations Acts, and unauthorized appropriations in amendments between the Houses relating to such Acts, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 17 June 2003

Amends rule XVI (Committee procedures) of the Standing Rules of the Senate to allow a point of order to be made by any Senator against: (1) the inclusion of new or general legislation or unauthorized appropriation in any general appropriation bill; (2) amendment to such bill that adds an unauthorized appropriation; (3) the inclusion of new or general legislation or any unauthorized appropriation, new matter, or nongermane matter in any conference report on a general appropriation bill; (4) and the inclusion of an unauthorized appropriation in any amendment between the Houses, or any amendment thereto, in relation to a general appropriation bill. Sets forth procedures by which, if the point of order is sustained in either of the above, then under specified conditions: (1) the new or general legislation or unauthorized appropriation shall be struck from the bill; and (2) any modification of total amounts appropriated necessary to reflect the stricken matter shall be made and the allocation of discretionary budgetary resources allocated under the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 (CBA) shall be reduced. Provides that the disposition of a point of order made under any other paragraph of this Rule, or under any other Standing Rule of the Senate, that is not sustained or is waived, does not preclude or affect a point of order under this Act with respect to the same matter. Allows such point of order to be waived only by a motion agreed to by the affirmative vote of three-fifths (60) of the Senators duly chosen and sworn. States that if an appeal is taken from the ruling of the Presiding Officer with respect to such point of order, the ruling of the Presiding Officer shall be sustained absent the affirmative vote. Makes it in order for a Senator to raise a single point of order that several provisions of a general appropriation bill, a conference report on it, or an amendment between the Houses on it violates this rule. Authorizes the Presiding Officer to sustain the point of order as to some or all of the provisions against which the Senator raised the point of order. States that if such action is taken, then only those provisions against which the Presiding Officer sustains the point of order shall be deemed stricken. Allows any Senator, before the Presiding Officer rules on such point of order, to move to waive it as it applies to some or all of the provisions against which the point of order was raised. Makes such motion to waive amendable in accordance with the rules and precedents of the Senate. Allows, after such ruling, any Senator to appeal the ruling as it applies to some or all of the provisions. Prohibits any point of order provided under the CBA to lie against the striking of any matter, the modification of total amounts to reflect the stricken matter, or the reduction of an allocation of discretionary budgetary resources allocated under CBA to reflect the stricken matter (or to the bill, amendment, or conference report as affected by such striking, modification, or reduction) pursuant to a point of order under this Rule. Makes it out of order to proceed to the consideration of a general appropriation bill if the report on that bill contains matter that requires or permits the obligation or expenditure of any amount appropriated in that bill for the benefit of an identifiable person, program, project, entity, or jurisdiction by earmarking or other specification, whether by name or description, in a manner that: (1) discriminates against other persons, programs, projects, entities, or jurisdictions similarly situated that would be eligible, but for the requirement or permission, for the amount appropriated; or (2) applies only to a single identifiable person, program, project, entity, or jurisdiction. Exempts from a point of order any matter involving an identifiable person, program, project, entity, or jurisdiction which is described or otherwise clearly identified in a law or Treaty stipulation (or an Act or resolution previously passed by the Senate during the same session or in the estimate submitted in accordance with law). Amends rule XXVIII (Conference committees; reports; open meetings) to make it similarly out of order to consider a conference report on a general appropriations bill if the joint explanatory statement contains similarly earmarked matter. Vitiates the Standing Order of the Senate regarding the reading of conference reports established by Division A of Appendix D--H.R. 5666 of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2001. Establishes as a Standing Order of the Senate that the presentation of a conference report includes the presentation of the joint explanatory statement of the conferees required by rule XXVIII and that a demand for the reading of the statement be subject to the same rule, precedents, and procedures that applies to a demand for the reading of the conference.

District of Columbia Budget Autonomy Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2003

District of Columbia Budget Autonomy Act of 2003 - Amends the District of Columbia Home Rule Act to provide that the District of Columbia budget passed by the Council of the District of Columbia shall be enacted without referral to the President or approval by the Congress, unless it is the budget for a fiscal year which is a control year. Prohibits the Mayor of the District during a control year from transmitting the budget, or amendments or supplements thereto, to the President until the completion of the budget procedures contained in this Act and the District of Columbia Financial Responsibility and Management Assistance Act of 1995. Prohibits obligations or expenditures by District government officers and employees without the Council's approval and in the case of a control year, congressional approval. Allows the Council to reenact provisions of any line-item veto by the Mayor in a budget Act without submitting such veto to the President, unless such item or provision is contained in a budget act fora control year. Permits hiring of full or part-time District government employees and their transfer among programs only if such position is authorized by an Act of the Council or, in the case of a control year, an Act of Congress. Provides that in the case of the consideration in the Senate of a general appropriations bill that includes the appropriations of Federal payments to the District, an amendment proposing a limitation on the use of District funds by the District shall not constitute general legislation under Rule XVI (Appropriations and amendments to general appropriation bills) of the Standing Rules of the Senate. (Thus exempts appropriations of Federal payments to the District from certain prohibitions and points of order with respect to the reporting or consideration of appropriation bills.)

District of Columbia Budget Autonomy Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2003

District of Columbia Budget Autonomy Act of 2003 - Amends the District of Columbia Home Rule Act to provide that the District of Columbia budget passed by the Council of the District of Columbia shall be enacted without referral to the President or approval by the Congress, unless it is the budget for a fiscal year which is a control year. Prohibits the Mayor of the District during a control year from transmitting the budget, or amendments or supplements thereto, to the President until the completion of the budget procedures contained in this Act and the District of Columbia Financial Responsibility and Management Assistance Act of 1995. Prohibits obligations or expenditures by District government officers and employees without the Council's approval and in the case of a control year, congressional approval. Allows the Council to reenact provisions of any line-item veto by the Mayor in a budget Act without submitting such veto to the President, unless such item or provision is contained in a budget act for a control year. Permits hiring of full or part-time District government employees and their transfer among programs only if such position is authorized by an Act of the Council or, in the case of a control year, an Act of Congress.

Veterans Health Care Full Funding Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2003

Veterans Health Care Full Funding Act - Requires each fiscal year budget submitted to Congress by the President to include requests for amounts for veterans health care programs. Requires amounts appropriated for such programs to be available for two consecutive fiscal years. Establishes the Veterans Health Care Funding Review Board within the Department of Veterans Affairs. Directs the Board, beginning with FY 2005, to determine the level of funding needed for such programs for that fiscal year and the next and to publish such determination in the Federal Register. Outlines veterans' health care needs factors to be considered by the Board in arriving at such determination. Repeals requirements for certain congressional notifications in connection with a funding request for a Department major medical facility project or lease. Provides a 30-day standard for access to medical care for veterans seeking primary or specialized care, as measured from: (1) the time the veteran contacts the Department seeking an appointment until the date a visit is completed (primary care); and (2) the date on which the veteran is referred to a specialist until the date a visit is completed (specialty care). Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to develop a standard of waiting time during a visit and to periodically review the performance of Department facilities compared to that standard.

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to authorize the line item veto.

United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2003

Constitutional Amendment - Authorizes the President, in the case of any bill, order, resolution, or vote presented to the President by the House of Representatives and the Senate, to decline to approve in whole any dollar amount of discretionary budget authority, any item of new direct spending, or any tax benefit.