Budget

Medicare Beneficiaries' Choice Stabilization Act of 2000

United States · United States Congress · 12 September 2000

Medicare Beneficiaries' Choice Stabilization Act of 2000 - Amends part C (Medicare+Choice) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) with respect to payments to Medicare+Choice organizations to provide for: (1) establishment of a floor for Medicare+Choice payment rates after applying risk-adjustment methodology; (2) elimination of budget neutrality adjustment for 2001 and 2002; (3) an increase in national per capita Medicare+Choice growth percentage in 2001 and 2002: (4) election by a Medicare+Choice organization to apply an area- specific percentage of 50 percent and a national percentage of 50 percent for 2001 and 2002 rather than the rate currently applicable for 2002 in determining the blended capitation rate used in determining the calculation of annual Medicare+Choice capitation rates; (5) an increased update for payment areas with only one or no Medicare+Choice contracts; (6) higher negotiated rates in certain Medicare+Choice payment areas below national average; and (7) a ten year phased-in risk adjustment based on data from all settings. Delays from July to November 2000 the deadline for withdrawing the offer, or rescinding the withdrawal, of Medicare+Choice plans for 2001. Amends SSA title XVIII part C to Medicare+Choice program data collection requirements with regard to: (1) issuance of encounter data submission requirements; (2) post- stabilization guidelines; and (3) on-line enrollment. Prohibits the Secretary from making any changes in the enrollment and disenrollment instructions and related materials (including operational policy letters and evidence of coverage) under Medicare+Choice between enactment of this Act and January 1, 2002, except as may be specifically and only required to comply with a change in statute.

CALFED Extension Act of 2000

United States · United States Congress · 7 September 2000

CALFED Extension Act of 2000 - Directs Federal agencies, through the CALFED Bay-Delta Program, to develop a program to achieve increased water supply, system reliability, water quality, water use efficiency, water transfers, levee protection, and environmental benefits in the Central Valley water system in California. Requires funding for water supply enhancements and environmental benefits to proceed concomitantly. Directs such Federal agencies to: (1) ensure that Federal participation results in continuous, measurable, and significant benefits in increased water supply yield, water supply reliability, and improved water quality; and (2) participate with involved State agencies to develop and recommend by May 30, 2001, a proposed structure for CALFED operations to be authorized by Congress and the California legislatures. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) management of the Environmental Water Account to reduce the risk of water supply delivery disruptions, to reduce Delta water quality degradation, and to mitigate such impacts; (2) land acquisition; (3) reporting requirements; (4) Program participant coordination; and (5) a required Office of Management and Budget interagency crosscut budget report. Directs CALFED to: (1) provide a statement of goals for long term water quality, water supply reliability, and ecosystem restoration; (2) provide ecological monitoring plans to gauge project performance relative to ecological goals; (3) establish a Coordination Program to ensure the coordination of goal-setting, funding, and implementation so as to ensure the effective expenditure of Federal funds for CALFED related activities.

Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel Act of 2000

United States · United States Congress · 6 September 2000

Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel Act of 2000 - Title I: Personnel Matters - Revises pay adjustment authority for nurses employed by the Department of Veterans Affairs to require the director of such Department health-care facility to use third-party industry wage surveys in making such adjustments. Prohibits any adjustment from reducing the rate of basic pay applicable to any nurse grade. Prohibits a director, in determining whether to carry out an adjustment, from considering the absence of a current recruitment or retention problem for personnel in that position. Requires a director to make such determination based on whether there is a significant pay-related staffing problem for such position at that facility. Authorizes the Department's Under Secretary for Health to modify any adjustment determination made by a facility director. Requires each director to report annually to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs on staffing for covered positions at that facility. Requires the Secretary to report annually on such staffing to the congressional veterans' committees. Makes annual (currently terminated in 1993) a reporting requirement from the Secretary to the veterans' committees regarding pay adjustments. Requires the Under Secretary to ensure that: (1) the director of a geographic service area, in formulating policy for the provision of patient care, consult regularly with a senior nurse executive(s); and (2) the director of a health-care facility include a registered nurse on any committee providing recommendations or decisions on medical center operations or policies affecting clinical services, clinical outcomes, budget, or resources. (Sec. 102) Increases the special pay for dentists for: (1) full-time status; (2) completing a post-graduate year of accredited hospital-based training; (3) length-of-service pay; (4) scarce specialty pay; (5) service in a geographic location in which there exists extraordinary difficulties in the recruitment and retention of qualified dentists; and (6) service in certain executive positions. Credits toward civil service retirement calculations 25 percent of the special pay for length-of-service pay for each two years that the dentist completes as a dentist in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). (Sec. 103) Exempts VHA pharmacists from a required ceiling on special salary rates for certain VHA health professionals. (Sec. 104) Requires a physician assistant with appropriate experience to advise the Under Secretary on all matters relating to the utilization and employment of VHA physician assistants. (Sec. 105) Revises generally provisions regarding the temporary appointment of graduates of physician assistant training programs. Provides a three-year term for temporary full-time appointments of certain medical support personnel (with authorized renewals for additional three-year periods). (Sec. 106) Requires VHA social workers to be licensed or certified to independently practice social work in a State (with an authorized waiver on an individual basis for a reasonable period). (Sec. 107) Amends the Department of Veterans Affairs Employment Reduction Assistance Act of 1999 to: (1) revise the number of authorized participants in a plan for voluntary separation incentive payments; (2) revise the percentage of required agency contributions to the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund to cover such payments; and (3) extend payment authority through 2002. Title II: Construction Authorization - Authorizes the Secretary to carry out major medical facility projects at Department medical centers in Palo Alto, California, Miami, Florida, and Long Beach, California. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out a renovation project at the Department medical center in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. (Sec. 202) Authorizes appropriations for FY 2001 and 2002 for the Construction, Major Projects, account for such projects. Title III: Military Service Issues - Directs the Secretary to ensure that: (1) a protocol is used during at least one clinical evaluation of a patient to identify pertinent military experiences and exposures that may contribute to the health of the patient; and (2) such information is included in the patient's medical records. Requires a report from the Secretary to the veterans' committees on the feasibility and desirability of using a computer-based system in conducting such evaluations. (Sec. 302) Directs the Secretary to contract with an appropriate entity to conduct a follow-up study on post-traumatic stress disorder in Vietnam veterans. Requires a report to the veterans' committees. Title IV: Medical Administration - Authorizes the Secretary to carry out a pilot program in not more than four geographically dispersed areas to improve access to and coordination of inpatient care of eligible veterans. Terminates the pilot program on September 30, 2005. Authorizes the Secretary, under such program to pay the cost of hospital care and medical services furnished on an inpatient basis in a non-Department hospital to a veteran participant. Directs the Secretary to limit program care and services to general medical and surgical services, and to require that such services be provided only upon preauthorization by the Secretary. Makes eligible for the program a veteran who: (1) is enrolled to receive medical services from a nearby Department outpatient clinic; (2) has received care within 24 months preceding the veteran's application for program enrollment (3) requires such care and services for a non-service-connected condition and could not receive such care and services from a Department clinic; and (4) elects to receive such care and services under an entitled health plan. Directs the Secretary to ensure that at least 15 percent of program participants are veterans without a health care plan. Requires two reports from the Secretary to the veterans' committees on program implementation and operation. Limits to $50 million the total authorized program expenditure for any fiscal year. (Sec. 402) Authorizes the payment of veterans' disability compensation for veterans who are disabled during participation in a compensated work therapy program. (Sec. 403) Extends through December 31, 2005, the authority of the Secretary to establish nonprofit research and education corporations. (Sec. 404) Authorizes the Secretary to furnish temporary lodging in Fisher houses (guest houses) or other appropriate facilities, in connection with the examination, care, and treatment of a veteran, to: (1) a veteran who must travel a significant distance to receive such care and treatment; and (2) a family member and others who accompany such veteran and provide familial support. Authorizes the Secretary to establish charges for such lodging. (Sec. 405) Extends through 2004 an annual reporting requirement describing activities of the Committee on Care of Severely Chronically Mentally Ill Veterans. (Sec. 406) Excludes from the right of the Department to recover certain costs from a State for veterans' care facilities not so used for at least 20 years the establishment and operation of an outpatient clinic at such a facility. (Sec. 407) Prohibits the Secretary from entering into an enhanced-use lease of Department property until 90 days after notifying the veterans' committees of the intention to designate property for such use. (Sec. 409) Authorizes the Secretary to employ veterans claims examiners (also known as veterans service representatives) on a fee basis. Requires two reports on the implementation of such authority. (Sec. 410) Directs the Secretary to release a reversionary interest in certain real property in Johnson City, Tennessee, previously transferred to the State of Tennessee.

Fälligkeit der Erbschaftssteuer

Austria · National Council · 5 September 2000

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Theresia Haidlmayr, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Finanzen betreffend Fälligkeit der Erbschaftssteuer

Grundsätze einer sozial ausgewogenen Budgetkonsolidierung

Austria · National Council · 5 September 2000

Unselbständiger Entschließungsantrag der Abgeordneten Friedrich Verzetnitsch, Kolleginnen und Kollegen betreffend Grundsätze einer sozial ausgewogenen, zukunftsorientierten und nachhaltigen Budgetkonsolidierung

Befreiung von der motorbezogenen Versicherungssteuer

Austria · National Council · 5 September 2000

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Theresia Haidlmayr, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Finanzen betreffend Befreiung von der motorbezogenen Versicherungssteuer <i>(für Behinderte)</i>

Befreiung von der Schenkungssteuer

Austria · National Council · 5 September 2000

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Theresia Haidlmayr, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an die Bundesministerin für soziale Sicherheit und Generationen betreffend Befreiung von der Schenkungssteuer <i>(im Zusammenhang mit der Zulassung eines Kraftfahrzeuges auf</i> <i>einen Behinderten)</i>

Befreiung von der Schenkungssteuer

Austria · National Council · 5 September 2000

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Theresia Haidlmayr, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Justiz betreffend Befreiung von der Schenkungssteuer <i>(im Zusammenhang mit der Zulassung eines Kraftfahrzeuges auf</i> <i>einen Behinderten)</i>

Entfall der Mehrwertsteuer auf Hilfsmittel und Heilbehelfe

Austria · National Council · 5 September 2000

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Theresia Haidlmayr, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Finanzen betreffend Entfall der Mehrwertsteuer auf Hilfsmittel und Heilbehelfe

budgetärer Belastungskurs der österreichischen Bundesregierung

Austria · National Council · 5 September 2000

Dringliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Dr. Alfred Gusenbauer, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Finanzen betreffend Fortsetzung des budgetären Belastungskurses der österreichischen Bundesregierung

Vollziehung von § 1 Ziffer 3 Normverbrauchsabgabegesetz (NOVA)

Austria · National Council · 5 September 2000

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Mag. Johann Maier, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Finanzen betreffend Vollziehung von § 1 Ziffer 3 Normverbrauchsabgabegesetz (NOVA)

Fördergelder an den Jewish Welcome Service (JWS)

Austria · National Council · 5 September 2000

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Mag. Johann Maier, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundeskanzler betreffend Fördergelder an den Jewish Welcome Service (JWS)

Sonderzahlung Österreichs an die Tschechische Republik für den Verzicht auf das Kernkraftwerk Temelin

Austria · National Council · 5 September 2000

Unselbständiger Entschließungsantrag der Abgeordneten Dr. Eva Glawischnig, Kolleginnen und Kollegen betreffend einmalige Sonderzahlung Österreichs an die Tschechische Republik für den Verzicht auf das Kernkraftwerk Temelin und Verankerung derselben im Budget 2001

Beseitigung von Steuerprivilegien für Kapitaleinkommen im Rahmen von Stiftungen durch steuerliche Gleichstellung mit Zinseinkommen aus Sparguthaben

Austria · National Council · 5 September 2000

Unselbständiger Entschließungsantrag der Abgeordneten Mag. Maria Kubitschek, Kolleginnen und Kollegen betreffend Beseitigung von Steuerprivilegien für Kapitaleinkommen im Rahmen von Stiftungen durch steuerliche Gleichstellung mit Zinseinkommen aus Sparguthaben und steuerliche Gleichstellung der Veräußerung von Beteiligungen und Beteiligungsveräußerung durch natürliche Personen

Zurücknahme der von der Bundesregierung unter "Belastungsstop" angekündigten Maßnahmen

Austria · National Council · 5 September 2000

Unselbständiger Entschließungsantrag der Abgeordneten Mag. Maria Kubitschek, Kolleginnen und Kollegen betreffend Zurücknahme der im Rahmen der Budgetkonsolidierung vorgesehenen, aber im Gegensatz zu dem von der Bundesregierung angekündigten "Belastungsstop" stehenden angekündigten Maßnahmen

Bundesgesetz über die Veräußerung von unbeweglichem Bundesvermögen

Austria · National Council · 31 August 2000

Bundesgesetz über die Veräußerung von unbeweglichem Bundesvermögen

Anzahl der Beitragszahler in der gesetzlichen Rentenversicherung, Summe der Beitragseinnahmen, Zuschüsse aus dem Bundeshaushalt, Summe der ausgeschütteten Renten (G-SIG: 14042073)

Germany · German Bundestag · 11 August 2000

Rural Health Care in the 21st Century Act of 2000

United States · United States Congress · 27 July 2000

Rural Health Care in the 21st Century Act of 2000 - Title I: High Technology - Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a High Technology Acquisition Grant and Loan program for the purpose of: (1) improving the quality of health care in rural areas through the acquisition of advanced medical technology; (2) fostering the development of described networks; (3) promoting resource sharing between urban and rural facilities; and (4) improving patient safety and outcomes through the acquisition of high technology. Authorizes appropriations. Amends the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 (BBA '97) to: (1) revise the Medicare (title XVIII of the Social Security Act (SSA)) telehealth payment methodology; (2) make other specified revisions to the telehealth program; and (3) extend telehealth coverage to certain services furnished by a physician. Directs the Secretary to: (1) study and report to Congress on additional telehealth items and services that would be appropriate for Medicare coverage; and (2) maintain through September 30, 2003, the grant and operational phases of any ongoing Medicare telemedicine demonstration project. Title II: Improvements in the Disproportionate Share Hospital (DSH) Program - Amends SSA title XVIII to revise DSH adjustments for payments to rural and urban hospitals for inpatient services. Title III: Improvements in the Critical Access Hospital (CAH) Program - Amends SSA title XVIII with regard to payment to skilled nursing facilities for routine service costs to provide for the treatment of: (1) swing-bed services furnished by CAHs; (2) ambulance services furnished by certain CAHs; and (3) home health services furnished by certain CAHs. Amends SSA title XVIII to: (1) direct the Secretary to designate a national agency or organization with an agreement to perform (single fiscal intermediary) functions with respect to each CAH electing to have such functions performed by such agency or organization; and (2) establish an all-inclusive payment option for outpatient CAH services. Title IV: Outpatient Services Furnished by Rural Providers - Amends SSA title XVIII to provide for: (1) a permanent guarantee of pre-BBA' 97 payment levels for outpatient services furnished by rural hospitals; (2) repeal of the termination date for (thus permanently allowing) direct payment to a physician assistant for certain physician assistant services; (3) exclusion of rural health clinic services from the prospective payment system for skilled nursing facilities; and (4) bonus payments for rural home health agencies. Title V: Bad Debt - Amends SSA title XIX (Medicaid) to provide for restoration of full payment for bad debts (uncollectible copayments) of qualified Medicare beneficiaries. Title VI: National Health Service Corps Scholarship Program - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exclude from an individual's gross income certain amounts received under the National Health Service Corps Scholarship program. Title VII: Technical Corrections to the Balanced Budget Refinement Act of 1999 - Amends SSA title XVIII to: (1) extend the option to use rebased target amounts to all sole community hospitals; and (2) provide for supplementary medical insurance payments for the aged and disabled to CAHs for clinical diagnostic laboratory tests.

Medicare Choice Preservation Act of 2000

United States · United States Congress · 27 July 2000

Medicare Choice Preservation Act of 2000 - Title I: Improvements in Payments - Amends part C (Medicare+Choice) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to provide for: (1) increasing the national per capita Medicare+Choice growth percentage in 2001 and 2002; (2) increasing the minimum payment amount in 2001 for any of the 50 States and the District of Columbia; (3) allowing a Medicare+Choice organization to elect to apply an area-specific percentage of 50 percent and a national percentage of 50 percent for 2002 rather than the rate currently applicable for that year in determining the blended capitation rate used in determining the calculation of annual Medicare+Choice capitation rates; (4) increasing the minimum percentage increase in 2001 under provisions for calculation of annual Medicare+Choice capitation rates; (5) increasing the update for payment areas with only one or no Medicare+Choice contracts; (6) eliminating the budget neutrality adjustment for 2001 and 2002 under blended capitation rate provisions; (7) revising calculation of area-specific and national percentage capitation rates; and (8) phasing-in over a ten year period of risk adjustment methodology based on data from all settings. Title II: Additional Improvements - Delays from July to November 2000 the deadline for withdrawing the offer, rescinding the withdrawal, of Medicare+Choice plans for 2001. Amends SSA title XVIII part C to revise data collection requirements under the Medicare+Choice program with regard to: (1) issuance of encounter data submission; (2) post-stabilization guidelines; (3) effectiveness of elections and changes of elections; (4) uniform premium and benefits; and (5) Medicare+Choice program compatibility with employer or union group health plans.

Medicare Fairness in Reimbursement Act of 2000

United States · United States Congress · 27 July 2000

Medicare Fairness in Reimbursement Act of 2000 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act with regard to payments to Medicare+Choice organizations concerning the calculation of annual Medicare+Choice capitation rates. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to promptly conduct a new survey of levels of wages and wage-related costs for different occupational categories of hospital employees and to use the survey data in computing a certain hospital wage index for discharges occurring on or after October 1, 2001. Provides that, in applying any wage-related geographic area adjustment to a portion of a payment amount or rate under Medicare, the portion to which the adjustment is applied shall be 75 percent of the portion otherwise computed, and 25 percent of such portion shall not be subject to any such geographic area adjustment. Applies such provision to geographic adjustments made under specified Medicare provisions, including those with regard to home health and clinical laboratory services. Amends part C (Medicare+Choice) of title XVIII to permanently remove application of the budget neutrality factor under the Medicare+Choice program beginning in 2002. Allows a Medicare+Choice organization to elect to apply an area-specific percentage of 50 percent and a national percentage of 50 percent for 2002 rather than the rate currently applicable for that year in determining the blended capitation rate used in determining the calculation of annual Medicare+Choice capitation rates. Amends SSA title XVIII to require the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission to review the extent to which the adjustments made in payment rates on a geographical basis for variations in costs accurately reflect the actual costs of items and services in low reimbursement areas and the impact of such adjustments on the health infrastructure in such areas.

Medicare Community Nursing Organization Demonstration Project Revision and Extension Act of 2000

United States · United States Congress · 27 July 2000

Medicare Community Nursing Organization Demonstration Project Revision and Extension Act of 2000 - Amends the Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP Balanced Budget Refinement Act of 1999 with respect to the extension of Medicare community nursing organization demonstration projects. Repeals the requirement for a reduction in payments for such projects in the extension period so that total Federal expenditures do not exceed what they would have been had the projects not been extended. Adds specified terms and conditions for the conduct of any such demonstration project for the period of October 2000 through December 2001, with specified reduced basic capitation rates for certain project services. Declares that a targeted case management fee shall be paid only for enrollees classified as moderate or at risk through a baseline health assessment. Requires greater uniformity in clinical features among project sites. Requires enrollee satisfaction surveys and reporting on specified quality indicators for the enrolled population. Makes this Act effective as if its amendments were included in the enactment of the Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP Balanced Budget Refinement Act of 1999.

Fair Care for Seniors and Children Act of 2000

United States · United States Congress · 27 July 2000

Fair Care for Seniors and Children Act of 2000 - Title I: Medicare Program - Subtitle A: Medicare+Choice Program - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to provide for: (1) increasing the minimum payment amount in 2001 for any area in a metropolitan statistical area with a population of more than 250,000; (2) increasing the national per capita Medicare+Choice growth percentage in 2001 and 2002; (3) eliminating the budget neutrality adjustment beginning in 2002 under blended capitation rate provisions; (4) revising calculation of area-specific and national percentage capitation rates; (5) increasing the update for payment areas with only one or no Medicare+Choice contracts; (6) permitting higher negotiated rates in certain Medicare+Choice payment areas below the national average; (7) permitting reasonable cost reimbursement for payment areas with no more than one Medicare+Choice contract under certain conditions; and (8) phasing in risk adjustment methodology over a ten year period based on data from all settings. Delays from July to November 2000 the deadline for offering and withdrawing Medicare+Choice plans for 2001. Subtitle B: Inpatient Hospital Services - Amends SSA title XVIII with regard to payment to hospitals for inpatient hospital services to provide for the elimination of authority to estimate costs incurred by a hospital for wages. Subtitle C: Home Health Services - Amends SSA title XVIII with regard to the prospective payment system (PPS) for home health services to eliminate the 15 percent reduction in the cost limits and per beneficiary limits under such PPS. Title II: Medicaid Program - Subtitle A: Expansion of Coverage of Children under the Medicaid Program - Amends SSA title XIX (Medicaid) to provide for the use of funds under the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) under SSA title XXI for an enhanced matching rate for coverage of additional children under the Medicaid program. Provides for the expansion of eligibility option for children under the Medicaid program. Provides for the expansion of the presumptive eligibility option for children under the Medicaid program. Amends SSA title XIX to provide for use of an enhanced match for expanded Medicaid child coverage. Amends SSA title XXI to provide for application of an increased proportion of the SCHIP allotment for special initiatives and similar purposes. Subtitle B: Prospective Payment System for Federally-qualified Health Centers and Rural Health Clinics - Amends SSA title XIX to provide for establishment of a PPS for Federally-qualified health centers and rural health clinics.

Federal Information Policy Act of 2000

United States · United States Congress · 27 July 2000

Federal Information Policy Act of 2000 - Amends Federal law to revise provisions regarding Federal information policy. Removes a provision which excludes the General Accounting Office from the definition of "agency" for purposes of applying such policy. Establishes an Office of Information Policy in the Executive Office of the President to be headed by a Chief Information Officer (Officer) of the United States who shall be the principal adviser to the President on matters relating to the efficient and effective development, use, and management of information technology and resources by the Federal Government. Outlines the Officer's duties and grants the Officer certain authorities and duties currently given to the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) under existing law. Incorporates certain provisions of the Government Paperwork Elimination Act concerning the use and acceptance of electronic signatures by executive agencies. Grants the Officer duties under such provisions currently given to the Director. Requires the Officer to monitor the implementation of electronic signature requirements of this Act and related laws to ensure that the Federal Government: (1) maintains an efficient and effective information infrastructure for undertaking Government operations using electronic information processes; (2) provides efficient and effective means for the public to interact with the Government by means other than such processes; and (3) manages its increasing reliance on information technology in a manner consistent with this Act. Directs the Officer to review the Federal information systems standards setting process and report to the President on its efficiency and effectiveness and any recommendations for improvement. Requires the Officer to establish minimum evaluation criteria to be used for independent evaluations of: (1) agency implementation of information technology management processes and capabilities; (2) cost, schedule, risk, and return status of major information management and technology initiatives; and (3) results of major information technology investments and programs in achieving progress toward improvements in mission performance and programmatic outcomes. Requires annual submissions of agency evaluations to the Officer, Director, and Congress. Establishes a Chief Information Officers Council in the executive branch to assist and advise in, and carry out other related activities with respect to, Federal information resource management. Requires the Officer to report annually to Congress on: (1) efforts undertaken to improve the development, application, and management of information resources; and (2) results of major activities undertaken by the Council. Authorizes appropriations to carry out Federal information policy provisions for FY 2001 through 2005. (Sec. 4) Incorporates provisions similar to those under existing law with respect to paperwork reduction. Requires the Director to extend the annual Governmentwide goal for the reduction of information collection burdens by at least five percent through FY 2005. Requires the Director to encourage the use of the Government Information Locator Service to provide information regarding agency information collection activities and opportunities to maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of agency collections of information and the reduction of paperwork burdens on the public. Authorizes appropriations to carry out paperwork reduction activities for FY 2001 through 2005. (Sec. 5) Establishes an Office of Information Security and Technical Protection in the Office of Information Policy (established by this Act). Requires the Officer to establish Government-wide policies for the management of programs that: (1) support the cost-effective security of Federal information systems by promoting security as an integral component of each agency's business operations; and (2) include information technology architectures(integrated frameworks for evolving or maintaining existing information technology and acquiring new technology to achieve strategic goals and information resources management goals). Requires such policies to: (1) be founded on a continuous risk management cycle; (2) implement controls that adequately address the risk; (3) promote continuing awareness of information security risks; (4) continually monitor and evaluate information security policy; and (5) control effectiveness of information security practices. Outlines information security responsibilities of each agency, including the development and implementation of an agency-wide security program for the operations and assets of such agency. Makes each program subject to Officer approval and annual review by agency program officials. Requires each agency to annually undergo an independent evaluation of its information security program and practices. Requires related reports. Authorizes appropriations for FY 2001 through 2005 to carry out information security provisions. (Sec. 6) Requires the: (1) Secretary of Commerce to develop, issue, review, and update standards and guidance for the security of Federal information systems; (2) Secretary of Defense and Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) to develop and issue more stringent information security policies for mission critical systems of such entities and ensure the implementation of such policies; (3) Department of Justice to review and update guidance to agencies on legal remedies regarding security incidents and coordination with law enforcement agencies concerning such incidents; (4) General Services Administration to review and update guidance on addressing security considerations relating to the acquisition of information technology; and (5) Office of Personnel Management to review and update regulations concerning computer security training for Federal civilian employees. Allows mission critical information security policies developed by the Department of Defense, CIA, and other agencies to be adopted by the Officer and heads of other Federal agencies with respect to mission critical systems of such agencies. Allows agencies to develop and implement more stringent information security policies than those required under this Act. (Sec. 7) Incorporates provisions of the Clinger-Cohen Act with respect to management of information technology. Grants the Officer certain authorities currently granted to the Director. Makes certain information technology provisions inapplicable to national security systems. (Sec. 8) Makes conforming amendments to specified Acts.

Comprehensive Rural Telecommunications Act

United States · United States Congress · 27 July 2000

Comprehensive Rural Telecommunications Act - Title I: Rural Telework - Amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to direct the Secretary of Agriculture, acting through the Rural Utility Service, to establish a National Centers for Distance Working Program to provide grants to eligible organizations for the Federal share of establishing National Centers for Distance Working in rural areas. Directs a recipient Center to use grants for five-year projects to: (1) identify needed skills and provide training and employment-related services to persons in rural areas and Indian tribes to support the use of teleworking (the use of telecommunications to perform work functions over a distance) in technology fields; and (2) recruit employers and provide for high-speed employer-employee communications. Authorizes the Secretary to make limited grants for teleworking studies, including development of best practices for businesses that employ teleworkers. Authorizes appropriations. Title II: Rural Telecommunications Modernization - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish the rural telecommunications facilities investment tax credit. Title III: Rural Broadband Enhancement - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to direct the Federal Communications Commission to initiate a proceeding to provide Federal universal service support for the deployment of broadband telecommunications service (high speed voice, data, graphic, and video telecommunications) to eligible rural communities (communities not located in an area designated as a metropolitan area by the Office of Management and Budget). Amends the National Telecommunications and Information Administrative Organization Act to direct the Rural Utilities Service of the Department of Agriculture to make loans or other credit extensions to eligible telecommunications carrier providers, or to companies that accept the obligations of such carriers, to finance the deployment of broadband service to eligible rural communities. Authorizes appropriations for FY 2001 through 2005.

Patient Fairness and Indigent Care Promotion Act of 2000

United States · United States Congress · 27 July 2000

Patient Fairness and Indigent Care Promotion Act of 2000 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act, as amended by the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, to terminate at the end of FY 2000 the current schedule of reductions in the amount of bad debts treated as allowable costs attributed to deductibles and coinsurance. (Thus provides for: (1) treatment of reductions in copayments as bad debt; and (2) reimbursement of hospitals for 100 percent of Medicare beneficiary bad debt.) Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a bad debt deduction for cash basis health care providers for at least 75 percent of unpaid services provided to low-income individuals.

Sole Community Hospital Fair Payment Act of 2000

United States · United States Congress · 27 July 2000

Sole Community Hospital Fair Payment Act of 2000 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act, as amended by the Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP Balanced Budget Refinement Act of 1999, with respect to the target amount component of operating costs of inpatient hospital services for Federal payment purposes, to extend the option to use rebased target amounts to all sole community hospitals.

Health Security for All Americans Act

United States · United States Congress · 27 July 2000

Health Security for All Americans Act - Title I: Health Security for All Americans - Expansion Phase (Phase I) - Amends the Social Security Act (SSA) to add a new title XXII (Health Security For All Americans) with a part A (Expansion Phase (Phase I) Plans) providing funds to participating States to enable them to ensure universal health insurance coverage by voluntarily establishing State administered systems which offer at least the benefits provided under the Federal Employees Health Benefits program standard Blue Cross-Blue Shield preferred provider option service benefit plan. Makes appropriations. Title II: Health Security for All Americans - Universal Phase (Phase II) - Amends SSA title XXII to add a part B (Universal Phase (Phase II) Plans) requiring States by January 1, 2006, to establish and implement State-administered systems to ensure universal health insurance coverage equal to the benefits provided under the Federal Employees Health Benefits program standard Blue Cross-Blue Shield preferred provider option service benefit plan. Provides for funds to States for the establishment and implementation of such systems. Makes necessary appropriations. (Sec. 202) Adds a part C (Consumer Protections) listing home care standards and providing for consumer protection: (1) in the event of termination or suspension of health services; (2) through disclosure of information regarding health care workers; and (3) through notice of changes in health care delivery. Title III: Patient Protections - Enacts into Federal law certain provisions of H.R. 2723 of the 106th Congress, as passed the House of Representatives on October 7, 1999 and H.R. 137 of the 106th Congress, as introduced on January 6, 1999. Title IV: Health Care Quality, Patient Safety, and Workforce Standards - Establishes within the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, the Health Care Quality, Patient Safety, and Workforce Standards Institute to: (1) demonstrate how patient safety issues and workplace conditions are linked to quality patient care and the reduction of the incidence of medical errors; and (2) reduce the incidence of medical errors and improve patient safety and quality of care. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 402) Establishes a Health Care Quality, Patient Safety, and Workforce Standards Committee to advise the Director of the Health Care Quality, Patient Safety, and Workforce Standards Institute. Title V: Improving Medicare Benefits - Requires that each individual entitled to benefits under Medicare part A (Hospital Insurance) or enrolled under Medicare part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) be provided full mental health and substance abuse treatment parity under Medicare consistent with SSA title XXII (as added by this Act). Title VI: Long-Term and Home Health Care - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to: (1) conduct studies and demonstration projects, through grant, contract, or interagency agreement, that are designed to identify model programs for the provision of long-term and home health care services; and (2) report to Congress on results. Title VII: Miscellaneous - Makes specified provisions of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) inapplicable to health benefits provided under a group health plan qualified to offer such benefits under an expansion phase (phase I) plan or a universal phase (phase II) plan under SSA title XXII. (Sec. 702) Expresses the sense of Congress that any sums necessary for the implementation of this Act should be offset by: (1) general revenues available as a result of an on-budget surplus for a fiscal year; (2) direct savings in health care expenditures resulting from the implementation of this Act; and (3) reductions in unnecessary Federal tax benefits available only to individuals and large corporations in the maximum tax brackets.

Social Security Guarantee Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2000

Social Security Guarantee Act - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to issue to each individual receiving benefits under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) (OASDI) of the Social Security Act (SSA) and, thereafter, to each individual who applies for such benefits, a certificate representing a legally enforceable guarantee: (1) of the monthly amount of benefits that the individual will receive under that title, as determined on the certificate's date of issuance; and (2) that the benefits will be adjusted at least annually on the basis of an accurate determination of the increase in the individual's cost-of-living, and as a result in a change in the eligibility status of the individual under that title. States that any certificate issued under the authority of this Act constitutes budget authority in advance of appropriations Acts and represents the obligation of the Federal Government to provide for the payment to the individual to whom the certificate is issued OASDI benefits in the amounts set forth in the certificate and subsequently adjusted.

Chronic Illness Care Improvement Act of 2000

United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2000

Chronic Illness Care Improvement Act of 2000 - Title I: National Commission on Improving Chronic Illness Care - Establishes the National Commission on Improving Chronic Illness Care to: (1) develop a national policy to coordinate the multiple Federal resources devoted to health care for persons with serious and disabling chronic illnesses in order to facilitate a comprehensive continuum of care; (2) review and analyze whether coordination of the multiple Federal resources is best accomplished by a completely new governmental structure, or a new structure within an existing department, or a new mechanism for coordination of the various Government programs; (3) identify statutory and regulatory barriers to effective care for serious and disabling chronic illness and to develop legislative and regulatory recommendations; (4) develop a plan to integrate Medicare and Medicaid (titles XVIII and XIX of the Social Security Act (SSA)) Federal budget functions for purposes of projecting future costs of serious and disabling chronic conditions and cost savings from improved care of the chronically ill;(5) develop guidelines for payment methods that establish compatible financial incentives among health care providers and professionals serving the same chronically ill persons; (6) commission an expert panel to make recommendations for the design of the prototypes (the National Diabetes Pilot Initiative to Improve Chronic Illness Care and the National Alzheimer's Disease Pilot Initiative To Improve Chronic Illness Care established under title III of this Act) in order to enhance the design of the later expanded program (The National Initiative to Improve Chronic Illness Care); (7) commission an expert panel to develop a plan to introduce a single, integrated medical record for patients with chronic conditions; (8) commission an expert panel to recommend new outcome measures of cost-effectiveness based on improvements in or maintenance of functional status, delayed dependency, and other appropriate related matters; (9) contract for reports detailing the need for changes in current laws and regulations; (10) recommend national goals for reduction in serious and disabling chronic illness and cost savings over the next generation; (11) analyze the impact of emerging trends in the management of serious and disabling chronic illness, disability, and long-term care; and (12) report to the President and Congress. (Sec. 101) Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 102) Defines "serious and disabling chronic illness," which includes Alzheimer's Disease and related disorders, arthritis, cancer, diabetes, hypertension, multiple sclerosis, and renal disease. Title II: Preparing the Groundwork for the National Initiative to Improve Chronic Illness Care - Subtitle A: Expansion of Preventive Benefits - Amends SSA title XVIII concerning authority to provide preventive services under part B (Supplemental Medical Insurance) of the Medicare program to prevent, reduce, delay, or detect serious and disabling chronic illness. Defines "qualified preventive services" to include smoking cessation services, screening for hypertension, screening for cholesterol, screening for end stage renal disease and kidney function, screening for reduced visual and audio acuity and low vision rehabilitation services, and screening for glaucoma. (Sec. 201) Provides for alternative payment for preventive services, authorizing the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to waive copayments for certain preventive services. Waives the deductible applicable to such services. Adds lancets to the definition of durable medical equipment. (Sec. 202) Directs the Secretary to carry out a nationwide education campaign to promote awareness about the nature of chronic diseases and disabilities and strategies for preventing, delaying, or minimizing disability progression at various stages of chronic conditions, including health promotion and self-care activities. (Sec. 203) Directs the Secretary to study and report to Congress on what preventive care services, if furnished to individuals before Medicare eligibility, could reasonably be expected to save Medicare and other Government programs more in future discounted costs under those programs than the cost of furnishing such preventive services. (Sec. 204) Requires the Director of the Congressional Budget Office to report to Congress on methodologies to measure aggregate savings, to both society and the individual, in payments that would otherwise be made under the Medicare, Medicaid, and other Federal health care programs that are attributable to certain preventive services, if such services were furnished over the course of an individual's life before entitlement to benefits under those programs. Subtitle B: Development of National Goals and Measures for the Effective Management of Chronic Illness - Establishes within HHS the Office of Integration and Coordination of Care for Chronic Illness. (Sec. 212) Directs the Secretary to develop the National Database for Serious and Disabling Chronic Illness to: (1) generate accurate information about the prevalence, demographics, health status, functional status, financial status, support systems, and quality of life of persons suffering from serious and disabling chronic illnesses; (2) compile aggregate data on the utilization, cost, and outcomes of chronic illness; and (3) enable the Secretary to set goals and measure progress in reducing the cost to society of improving care of the chronically ill. (Sec. 213) Directs the Secretary to establish and report annually on targets for reducing the prevalence of the highest-cost and fastest-growing chronic illnesses, as well as national goals for reducing the prevalence of high-cost chronic care conditions. (Sec. 214) Directs the Secretary to: (1) identify risk factors associated with progression of serious and disabling chronic illnesses, and identify interventions for primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention; (2) conduct patient-oriented research trials that will have the greatest and most immediate impact on the largest number of people with chronic illness; (3) develop disease prevention guidelines for the highest-cost chronic diseases and disabilities, measured by severity and prevalence; and (4) develop disability-based outcome measures that evaluate effectiveness in preventing, delaying, or minimizing the progression of chronic diseases and disabilities and associated comorbidities and loss of independence on a longitudinal basis. Requires each Medicare+Choice organization under SSA title XVIII part C (Medicare+Choice) to conduct annually: (1) at least one new continuous quality improvement initiative involving chronic care focusing on delaying the progression of disability and preventing the emergence of disease-related complications; or (2) at least one new initiative to reduce preventable medical errors involving chronic care. (Sec. 215) Directs the Secretary to establish and implement standard patient assessment instruments under the Medicare program that provide comparability of information and reduce the need for repeated evaluations and data entry at each new site of service. Provides that by January 1, 2005, standard patient assessment instruments established under this section shall be the sole patient assessment instrument utilized by the Secretary with respect to Medicare and Medicaid items and services. (Sec. 216) Directs the Agency of Healthcare Research and Quality to develop and make available in electronic format an authoritative, reliable national resource center for serious and disabling chronic illnesses, to be used by patients and their families that include information necessary for patient education and facilitate self-management. Subtitle C: Payment Incentives for Furnishing Quality Services to the Chronically Ill - Creates within the Federal Supplemental Medical Insurance Trust Fund the Performance Bonus Pool Account to consist of amounts attributable to certain reductions in payments to Medicare+Choice organizations. Provides for bonus payments from such account to organizations that meet or exceed chronic illness target goals. (Sec. 223) Directs the Secretary to study and report to Congress on the need for additional physician and nonphysician health care staff and expertise in the management of chronic illness for Medicare beneficiaries. Grants the Secretary authority to adjust graduate medical education payments for approved medical residency training programs under certain conditions. Title III: Development of Prototypes of Integration and Coordination of Care for 2 Chronic Illness Subpopulations to be Expanded in 2007 to All Serious and Disabling Chronic Illnesses - Amends SSA title XVIII to provide for disease management services for eligible individuals for serious and disabling chronic illness through the National Initiative to Improve Chronic Illness Care program which the Secretary shall establish and implement in accordance with specified guidelines that involve specified initial pilot projects. Provides for coverage of disease management services as a Medicare part B medical service. Authorizes appropriations. Title IV: Integrating Medicare and Medicaid for Dual Eligibles - Amends SSA title XVIII to allow a State, health plan, or provider to request the Secretary to waive Medicare requirements to permit States to enhance the coordination and integration of Medicare and Medicaid items and services and administration.

Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act, 2001

United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2000

Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act, 2001 - Makes appropriations for FY 2001 for the Treasury Department, the U.S. Postal Service, the Executive Office of the President, and certain independent agencies. Title I: Department of the Treasury - Treasury Department Appropriations Act, 2001 - Makes appropriations for the Department of the Treasury for: (1) departmental offices; (2) department-wide systems and capital investments programs for development and acquisition of automatic data processing equipment, software, and services; (3) the Office of Inspector General; (4) the Inspector General for Tax Administration; (5) repair and restoration of the Treasury building and annex; (6) programs to expand access to financial services for low- and moderate-income individuals; (7) the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network; (8) reimbursement of Treasury Department organizations for costs of providing support to counter, investigate, or prosecute terrorism; (9) the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, including an amount for maintenance and facility improvements; (10) interagency crime and drug enforcement; (11) the Financial Management Service; (12) the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms; (13) the U.S. Customs Service, including amounts for collection of the Harbor Maintenance Fee, operation and maintenance of marine vessels and aircraft, and automation modernization; (14) the Bureau of the Public Debt; (15) the Internal Revenue Service, including amounts for tax law enforcement, earned income tax credit compliance and error reduction initiatives, and information systems and telecommunications support; and (15) the Secret Service, including an amount for construction and improvement of facilities. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, such funds. (Sec. 120) Amends Federal law to extend the Treasury Franchise Fund until October 1, 2002. Title II: Postal Service - Postal Service Appropriations Act, 2001 - Makes appropriations for payment to the Postal Service Fund for revenue foregone on free and reduced rate mail. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, such funds. Title III: Executive Office of the President and Funds Appropriated to the President - Executive Office Appropriations Act, 2001 - Makes appropriations for: (1) compensation of the President and the White House office; (2) operating, maintenance, and reimbursable expenses of the Executive Residence at the White House; (3) White House repair and restoration; (4) special assistance to the President and the official residence of the Vice President; (5) the Council of Economic Advisers; (6) the Office of Policy Development; (7) the National Security Council; (8) the Office of Administration; (9) the Office of Management and Budget (OMB); (10) the Office of National Drug Control Policy; (11) the Counterdrug Technology Assessment Center; and (12) Federal drug control programs, including amounts for the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Program and for a national anti-drug campaign for youth. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, such funds. Title IV: Independent Agencies - Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2001 - Makes appropriations for: (1) the Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled; (2) the Federal Election Commission; (3) the Federal Labor Relations Authority; (4) the General Services Administration (GSA), including amounts for the Federal Buildings Fund, Government-wide policy and operations, Office of Inspector General, and allowances and office staff for former Presidents; and (5) carrying out the Presidential Transition Act of 1963. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, such funds. (Sec. 408) Amends the Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act, 2000 to extend to April 30, 2002, the date through which the GSA Administrator is authorized to offer voluntary separation incentives to specified employees to provide for the closing of the Federal Supply Service distribution centers, forward supply points, and associated programs. (Sec. 409) Designates the Federal building and courthouse located at 102 North 4th Street in Grand Forks, North Dakota, as the Ronald N. Davies Federal Building and United States Courthouse. (Sec. 411) Designates the U.S. bankruptcy courthouse at 1100 Laurel Street in Columbia, South Carolina, as the J. Bratton Davis United States Bankruptcy Courthouse. (Sec. 412) Designates the U.S. Courthouse Annex located at 901 19th Street in Denver, Colorado, as the Alfred A. Arraj United States Courthouse Annex. (Sec. 413) Designates the dormitory building currently being constructed on the Core Campus of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Glynco, Georgia, as the Paul Coverdell Dormitory. Makes appropriations for: (1) the Merit Systems Protection Board; (2) the Morris K. Udall Scholarship and Excellence in National Environmental Policy Foundation; (3) the Environmental Dispute Resolution Fund to carry out activities authorized in the Environmental Policy and Conflict Resolution Act of 1998; (4) the National Archives and Records Administration, including amounts for repairs and restoration of archives; (5) the National Historical Publications and Records Commission; (6) the Office of Government Ethics; (7) the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), including an amount for the Office of Inspector General; (8) Government contributions for health and life insurance benefits for annuitants; (9) the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund; (8) the Office of Special Counsel; and (9) the U.S. Tax Court. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, such funds. Title V: General Provisions - Sets forth authorized and prohibited uses of funds made available under this Act. (Sec. 506) Sets forth Buy American provisions. (Sec. 509) Prohibits funds appropriated by this Act from being available for an abortion or the administrative expenses of any Federal employee health plan which provides benefits for abortions. Makes such prohibition inapplicable if the mother's life would be endangered if the fetus were carried to term or in cases of rape or incest. (Sec. 514) Directs the Archivist of the United States to transfer certain Federal land located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to the Gerald R. Ford Foundation in trust for the purpose of supporting the facilities and programs of the Gerald R. Ford Museum in Grand Rapids and the Gerald R. Ford Library in Ann Arbor. (Sec. 515) Requires the Director of OMB to issue guidelines under the Paperwork Reduction Act that provide policy and procedural guidance to Federal agencies for ensuring and maximizing the quality, objectivity, utility, and integrity of information disseminated by agencies in fulfillment of such Act. (Sec. 517) Prohibits the use of funds appropriated by this Act to propose or issue rules or orders for implementing the Kyoto Protocol. (Sec. 518) Requires the Director of OMB to submit a report to specified congressional committees that: (1) evaluates, for each agency, the extent to which Federal accounting and collection provisions, as amended by the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, have reduced burdens imposed by rules issued by the agency; and (2) includes a determination of the need for additional procedures to ensure achievement of such provisions' purposes, evaluates the burden imposed by each major rule that imposes more than 10 million hours of burden, and identifies specific reductions expected to be achieved in FY 2001 and 2002 in the burden imposed by all rules issued by each agency that issued such a major rule. Title VI: General Provisions - Sets forth authorized and prohibited uses of funds appropriated for Federal departments, agencies, and corporations. (Sec. 619) Bars the use of funds made available for the Customs Service in this Act to allow the importation of any good produced or manufactured by forced or indentured child labor. (Sec. 624) Requires the OMB Director to report to Congress: (1) estimates of annual costs and benefits of Federal rules and paperwork; (2) impacts of Federal regulation on State, local, and tribal government, small business, wages, and economic growth; and (3) recommendations for reform. Requires the Director to issue guidelines to agencies to standardize measures of costs and benefits and the format of accounting statements. (Sec. 630) Bars the use of funds appropriated by this Act to enter into or renew a contract which includes a provision providing prescription drug coverage, except where the contract also includes a provision for contraceptive coverage. Makes exceptions to such prohibition for religious health plans. (Sec. 633) Authorizes the use of appropriated funds by executive agencies to provide child care services for Federal civilian employees. (Sec. 634) Authorizes a woman to breastfeed her child on Federal property if the woman and child are otherwise authorized to be present at the location. (Sec. 636) Authorizes qualified Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) police officers, upon written election, to be treated as law enforcement officers for purposes of Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) or Federal Employees' Retirement System (FERS) provisions and to have prior service similarly treated. Defines a "qualified MWAA police officer" as any individual who is currently so employed and is subject to CSRS or FERS by virtue of Federal transportation provisions governing certain Federal employees who transferred to the MWAA. Describes prior service as service as an MWAA or Federal Aviation Administration police officer prior to the effective date of such election. (Sec. 637) Authorizes the President's pay agent, for purposes of determining appropriate pay localities and making comparability payment recommendations, to make comparisons of General Schedule (GS) and non-Federal pay within metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) within the continental United States that have a high level of nonfarm employment and at least 2,500 GS employees using data from Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) surveys and salary data sets from any entity that regularly compiles similar data for businesses in the private sector. Permits the pay agent to make further determinations or recommendations based on such comparisons for purposes of payments becoming payable between January 1, 2002, and 2007, respectively. Requires the pay agent, based on such comparisons, to determine whether any of the five MSAs with the highest levels of nonfarm employment that have not been previously surveyed by the BLS as discrete pay localities for purposes of provisions governing locality-based comparability payments for Federal employees warrants designation as a discrete pay locality and if so, make recommendations as to the level of payments appropriate during 2002. Requires any MSA that warrants such designation to be designated as a discrete pay locality in time for 2002 comparability payments. Directs the pay agent to report to specified congressional committees on the ongoing efforts of OPM, OMB, and the BLS to revise the methodology currently used by the BLS in performing surveys related to comparability payments. (Sec. 639) Amends Federal civil service provisions to require the removal from employment of Federal law enforcement officers convicted of felonies. (Sec. 640) Amends Federal retirement provisions to reduce to seven percent after December 31, 2000, the required retirement contribution by Federal employees participating under CSRS (such contribution currently is scheduled to be 7.5 percent for calendar years 2001 and 2002 and 7 percent after 2002). Reduces similarly the required percentage contribution under CSRS for Members of Congress and congressional employees, law enforcement and firefighting personnel, certain judges and magistrates, the Capitol police, and nuclear materials couriers. Makes similar reductions for participants in FERS. Makes conforming reductions with respect to military and volunteer service under FERS. Amends the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement Act, and the Foreign Service Act of 1980 to make similar employee retirement contribution reductions under the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System, the Foreign Service Retirement and Disability System, and the Foreign Service Pension System. Prescribes agency contributions for October 1 through December 31, 2002, in lieu of those required under current law, under CSRS, the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System, and the Foreign Service Retirement and Disability System. (Sec. 643) Amends the Treasury, Postal Service and General Government Appropriations Act, 1988 to require all existing and newly hired workers in any child care center located in an executive facility to undergo a criminal history background check. Defines an "executive facility" as a facility owned or leased by an office or entity within the executive branch (including one owned or leased by the GSA on behalf of an office or entity within the judicial branch). (Sec. 644) Prohibits the use of funds made available in this Act by any Federal agency to: (1) collect, review, or create aggregate lists that include personally identifiable information about an individual's access to or use of any Internet site of the agency; or (2) enter into an agreement with a third party to collect, review, or obtain any such list that includes personally identifiable information relating to an individual's access to or use of any nongovernmental Internet site. (Sec. 645) Amends Federal civil service provisions to set forth provisions regarding pay for certain administrative appeals judges. (Sec. 646) Requires the Inspector General of each agency to report to Congress any agency activity related to: (1) the collection or review of singular data, or the creation of aggregate lists that include personally identifiable information about individuals who access any Internet site of the agency; and (2) entering into agreements with third parties to collect, review, or obtain such lists or data relating to any individual's access or viewing habits for governmental and nongovernmental Internet sites.

Federal Courts Improvement Act of 2000

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2000

Federal Courts Improvement Act of 2000 - Title I: Judicial Financial Administration - Amends Federal judicial code provisions regarding the Judiciary Information Technology Fund to repeal provisions subjecting information technology procurement to provisions of the Clinger-Cohen Act of 1996 (also known as the Information Technology Management Reform Act) applicable to executive agencies (thus subjecting the Fund to the budget management process of the executive branch). (Sec. 102) Authorizes the Judicial Conference of the United States to require the debtor in a chapter 11 bankruptcy case in a district that is not part of a United States trustee region to pay fees equal to those imposed in districts that are part of such a region. Provides for transfers to the fund of specified: (1) reimbursement to the judiciary for civil and criminal forfeiture expenses; and (2) retirement funds. Increases fees: (1) in chapter nine bankruptcy filings; and (2) for converting a chapter seven or chapter 13 bankruptcy case to a chapter 11 bankruptcy case. Title II: Judicial Process Improvements - Provides authority for the appointment of magistrate judges in the district courts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. Amends: (1) the Federal Magistrates Act to grant U.S. magistrate judges the power to exercise contempt authority within his or her territorial jurisdiction, including summary criminal contempt authority and criminal and civil contempt authority in civil consent and misdemeanor cases; and (2) the Federal criminal and judicial codes to remove certain limitations on the authority of magistrate judges to try petty offense cases. (Sec. 205) Authorizes judges retired from regular active service to serve as members of the judicial council of the circuit. Provides for the sunset of provisions requiring a civil justice expense and delay reduction plan. Repeals a U.S. Court of Federal Claims fee for the filing of any petition. (Sec. 210) Amends the Criminal Justice Act to: (1) increase the maximum amounts of compensation permitted for attorneys; and (2) authorize reimbursement of expenses in defense of certain malpractice actions. Title III: Judicial Personnel Administration, Benefits, and Protections - Amends the judicial code to include within the definition of "service" for purposes of retirement provisions applicable to the Directors of the Administrative Office of the United States Courts, the Federal Judicial Center, and the Administrative Assistant to the Chief Justice, service as a congressional employee in the capacity of primary administrative assistant to a Member of Congress or in the capacity of staff director or chief counsel for the majority or the minority of a House or Senate committee or subcommittee. (Sec. 302) Makes applicable to employees of the United States Sentencing Commission provisions regarding incentive awards, leave, compensation for work injuries, retirement, unemployment compensation, life and health insurance, and payment for accumulated and accrued leave. Permits continued payment from retired or retainer pay into a military survivors' benefits plan with respect to a regular, reserve, or former member of a uniformed service receiving such pay who becomes employed as a U.S. justice or judge. Authorizes the Director of the Administrative Office to designate judicial branch officers and employees to be disbursing and certifying officers. Authorizes the Judicial Conference to prescribe fees for technology resources in the courts. (Sec. 306) Authorizes: (1) the clerk under the supervision of the court, if the jury selection plan so authorizes, to determine qualification for jury service; and (2) the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit to appoint a circuit executive. (Sec. 308) Exempts retired judges of the Court of Federal Claims (CFC) from restrictions as to residence and considers the place where a retired judge maintains the actual abode in which such judge customarily lives to be the judge's official duty station. Provides for the recall of any CFC judge on disability status who, in the estimation of the chief judge, has recovered sufficiently to render judicial service. Deems a CFC judge to be an "officer" for purposes of provisions regarding Federal employees. (Sec. 311) Includes: (1) for purposes of entitlement to lump-sum payment for accumulated and accrued leave on separation, an officer in the legislative or judicial branch who is transferred to a position appointed by the President; and (2) an office, agency, or other establishment in the judicial branch within the scope of provisions regarding the employment of personal assistants for handicapped employees. (Sec. 311) Repeals a requirement for mandatory retirement for the Director of the Federal Judicial Center at age 70. Title IV: Federal Public Defenders - Exempts Federal public defenders from the Tort Claims Act for claims related to representational services.

Indian Gaming Regulatory Improvement Act of 2000

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2000

Indian Gaming Regulatory Improvement Act of 2000 - Amends the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act to require the National Indian Gaming Commission to submit to the Director of the Office of Management and Budget a strategic plan for Indian gaming activities. Requires the first such plan within one year after the enactment of this Act. Requires background investigations on appropriate tribal gaming commissioners and tribal gaming commission employees on an ongoing basis before the Commission may approve any tribal ordinance or resolution concerning the conduct or regulation of class II gaming on Indian lands. Directs the Commission to establish a schedule of fees to be paid annually by each gaming operation that conducts a class II or III Indian gaming activity. Provides fee rates. Limits to $8 million the total amount of fees imposed in a fiscal year. Requires quarterly fee payment. Requires the aggregate amount of fees assessed to be reasonably related to the costs of Commission services provided to Indian tribes. Outlines specified factors to be considered in such determination, including the extent of regulation of the gaming activity by the State or Indian tribe, and the extent of Indian self-regulating activities. Requires the Commission to consult with Indian tribes in establishing the fee schedule. Establishes the Indian Gaming Trust Fund and requires the Secretary of the Treasury to transfer to the Fund the aggregate amount of gaming fees collected. Requires Fund amounts to be used to carry out Commission duties. Places class I gaming on Indian lands within the exclusive jurisdiction of the Indian tribes. Requires an Indian tribe, in a manner that meets or exceeds Federal minimum standards, to retain the rights with respect to class II gaming activities to: (1) monitor and regulate gaming; (2) conduct required background investigations; and (3) establish and regulate internal control systems. Requires an Indian tribe to conduct such activities with respect to class III gaming conducted under a compact entered into with the Commission, or under a related tribal ordinance or resolution. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to provide grants and technical assistance to Indian tribes for training and assistance related to Indian gaming. Directs the Secretary to develop and publish proposed regulations relating to the classification of gaming conducted by Indian tribes. Includes the Commission as an executive agency for purposes of the strategic plan requirements of the Government Performance and Results Act.

Medicare Early Access and Tax Credit Act of 2000

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2000

Medicare Early Access and Tax Credit Act of 2000 - Title I: Access to Medicare Benefits for Individuals 62-to-65 Years of Age - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to add a new part D (Purchase of Medicare Benefits by Certain Individuals Age 62-to-65 Years of Age) under which an enrollee is entitled 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). Provides for the determination and payment of monthly premiums under the new part D program. Creates in the Treasury the Medicare Early Access Trust Fund to hold the premiums paid pursuant to this Act and savings from new fraud and abuse initiatives that are obtained pursuant to the Medicare Fraud and Reimbursement Reform Act of 1999. Provides for oversight and accountability concerning the status of the Trust Fund. Title II: Access to Medicare Benefits for Displaced Workers 55-to-62 years of Age - Amends SSA title XVIII to provide access to Medicare benefits to displaced workers (and their spouse) 55-to-62 years of age. Title III: COBRA Protection for Early Retirees - Subtitle A: Amendments to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to provide for COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985) continuation benefits for certain retired workers who lose retiree health coverage. Subtitle B: Amendments to the Public Health Service Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to provide for COBRA continuation benefits for certain retired workers who lose retiree health coverage. Subtitle C: Amendments to the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for COBRA continuation benefits for certain retired workers who lose retiree health coverage. Title IV: Financing - Provides that any increase in Medicare payments resulting from enactment of this Act shall be offset by reductions in Medicare payments pursuant to the anti-fraud and -abuse provisions of the Medicare Fraud and Reimbursement Reform Act of 1999. Title V: Credit Against Income Tax for Medicare Buy-In Premiums and for Certain COBRA Continuation Coverage Premiums - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide an individual with a tax credit for 25 percent of certain COBRA continuation coverage premiums and Medicare buy-in premiums.

District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 2001

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2000

District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 2001 - Makes appropriations for the District of Columbia for FY 2001, including amounts for the Federal payments: (1) for District of Columbia Resident Tuition Support; (2) for incentives for adoption of children; (3) to the Chief Financial Officer of the District; (4) to the District of Columbia Corrections Trustee Operations; (5) to the District of Columbia Courts; (6) to the Defender Services in District of Columbia Courts; (7) to the Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency for the District of Columbia (including transfer of funds); (8) to the Washington Interfaith Network for costs incurred in carrying out preconstruction activities at the former Fort Dupont Dwellings and Additions; (9) for a study of tax reform in the District; (10) for a study and design of a simplified District government personnel system; (11) for construction of a Metrorail station to be located at New York and Florida Avenues, Northeast (including transfer of funds); (12) for a National Museum of American Music; and (13) to reimburse the District for expenses incurred in connection with presidential inauguration activities. Appropriates specified sums out of the District's general fund (and other funds, in some cases) for the current fiscal year for: (1) operating expenses (with certain limits); (2) the District of Columbia Financial Responsibility and Management Assistance Authority (Authority); (3) governmental direction and support; (4) economic development and regulation; (5) public safety and justice; (6) the public education system; (7) human support services; (8) public works; (9) receivership programs; and (10) the Reserve (subject to specified conditions). Amends the District of Columbia Financial Responsibility and Management Assistance Act of 1995 to revise Reserve requirements. Appropriates funds for: (1) repayment of loans and interests; (2) repayment of general fund recovery debt; (3) payment of interest on short-term debt; (4) reimbursement for necessary expenses incurred in connection with presidential inauguration activities; (5) lease payments in accordance with the Certificates of Participation involving the land site underlying the building located at One Judiciary Square; (6) expenses associated with the John A. Wilson Building; (7) optical and dental insurance payments; (8) management supervisory service; (9) the implementation of a Cafeteria Plan; (10) the Water and Sewer Authority and the Washington Aqueduct; (11) the Lottery and Charitable Games Enterprise Fund; (12) the Sports and Entertainment Commission; (13) the District of Columbia Health and Hospitals Public Benefit Corporation; (14) the District of Columbia Retirement Board; (15) the Correctional Industries Fund; (16) the Washington Convention Center Enterprise Fund; and (17) capital outlay (including rescissions). Amends the District of Columbia Home Rule Act to declare that: (1) beginning July 1, 2001, the fiscal year for the District of Columbia Public Schools and the District of Columbia Public Charter Schools shall begin on July 1 and end on June 30 of each calendar year; and (2) the District's public schools shall take appropriate action to ensure that its financial books are closed by June 30, 2003. Specifies conditions for the replacement of funds expended during FY 2000 from the Reserve established by the District of Columbia Financial Responsibility and Management Assistance Act of 1995, and for the use and allocation of the unexpended portion carried over into FY 2001. Transfers specified funds to the Tobacco Settlement Trust Fund to be spent pursuant to local law. Requires the Mayor and District Council to make reductions of specified amounts for operational improvements savings and for management reform savings in local funds to one or more of the appropriation headings in this Act. Sets forth authorizations as well as limitations and prohibitions on the uses of appropriations under this Act, and directives to the Mayor, the Council, and the Board of Education identical with or similar to those in the District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 2000. (Sec. 107) Requires the Mayor to maintain an index of all employment personal services and consulting contracts (except collective bargaining agreements or related contracts) in effect on behalf of the District government, including severance clause information. (Sec. 127) Provides that nothing in the Federal Grant and Cooperative Agreements Act of 1977 may be construed to prohibit the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency from negotiating and entering into cooperative agreements and grants authorized by law which affect Federal real property in the District if the principal purpose of such agreements or grant is to provide comparable benefits for Federal and Non-Federal properties in the District. (Sec. 128) Amends the District of Columbia School Reform Act to establish conditions for granting preference in use of surplus school properties to public charter schools. (Sec. 129) Amends such Act to modify contracting requirements for public charter schools with respect to: (1) specify exceptions to the notice requirements for procurement contracts; and (2) submission of contracts to the eligible chartering authority. Provides that no provision of any law regarding the establishment, administration, or operation of District public charter schools shall apply if it duplicates or is inconsistent with such Act. Subjects a public charter school which offers a preschool or prekindergarten program to the same child care licensing requirements (if any) which apply to a District public school which offers such a program. Allows a public charter school to: (1) assign payments made to the school to a financial institution for use as collateral to secure a loan or for the repayment of a loan; (2) acquire goods and services through the General Services Administration (GSA) and participate in GSA programs in the same manner and to the extent as any District government entity; and (3) delegate to a nonprofit, District tax-exempt organization the school's authority to participate in such programs. (Sec. 130) Prohibits the expenditures of funds appropriated under this Act for abortions except where the mother's life would be endangered if the fetus were carried to term or in cases of rape or incest. (Sec. 131) Bars the use of funds under this Act to implement or enforce: (1) the District of Columbia Health Care Benefits Expansion Act of 1992 (also known as the District Domestic Partner Act); or (2) any system of registration of unmarried, cohabiting couples for purposes of extending them benefits on the same basis as such benefits are extended to legally married couples. (Sec. 136) Allows the Mayor to accept, obligate, and expend Federal, private, and other grants received by the District government that are not reflected in the amounts appropriated in this Act if the Chief Financial Officer reports to the Authority on detailed information regarding such grant, and the Authority approves such activity. Prohibits any obligation or expenditure from the general fund or other District government funds in anticipation of the approval or receipt of a Federal, private, or other grant not subject to this Act. (Sec. 142) Requires recipients of funds under this Act to comply with the Buy American Act. Expresses the sense of Congress that, to the greatest extent practicable, such funds should be used to purchase only American-made equipment and products. Declares a person ineligible to receive any contract made with funds provided under this Act if the person has been judicially determined to have intentionally affixed a "Made in America" label to a product that is not U.S.-made. (Sec. 147) Prohibits the use of funds contained in this Act to transfer or confine inmates classified above the medium security level, as defined by the Federal Bureau of Prisons classification instrument, to the Northeast Ohio Correctional Center located in Youngstown, Ohio. (Sec. 148) Amends the District of Columbia Financial Responsibility and Management Assistance Act of 1995, as amended by the District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 2000, to require the financial plan or budget for the District of Columbia to contain a $150 million Reserve, which shall only be expended according to certain criteria and shall not fund District agencies under court ordered receivership or shortfalls in projected reductions in the District budget for general supply schedule savings, management reform savings, or cafeteria plan savings. Requires annual replenishment of the Reserve to maintain the $150 million balance. Amends the District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 2000 to require the District to maintain an annual positive balance at the end of each fiscal year in an amount not less than four percent of the projected general fund expenditures for the following fiscal year. (Sec. 149) Amends Federal law to transfer from the Comptroller General of the United States to the District's Inspector General responsibility for the annual financial statement audit of the District's Highway Trust Fund. (Sec. 150) Prohibits the use of: (1) Federal funds contained in this Act for any program of distributing sterile needles or syringes for the hypodermic injection of any illegal drug; or (2) funds in this Act for rental payments under a lease for the use of real property by the District government, or to enter a lease, or purchase or manage real property for the District, unless specified conditions are met. (Sec. 152) Terminates such conditioned prohibition on the use of funds contained in this Act to lease, purchase, or manage real property for the District if the District enacts legislation to reform the practices and procedures governing such activities and disposition of its surplus real property. (Sec. 153) Amends Federal law to provide a specified sum from the National Highway System funds apportioned to the District to complete all design requirements and all requirements for compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act for the construction of expanded lane capacity for the Fourteenth Street Bridge. (Sec. 154) Prohibits the use of funds under this Act 30 days after its enactment to pay the salary of any chief financial officer of any District government office who has not filed a certification with the Mayor and the Chief Financial Officer that the officer understands the duties and restrictions applicable, including reports required as a result of this Act or its amendments. Subjects chief financial officers who violates such provisions to civil money penalties. (Sec. 155) Provides that District government employees will only receive compensation for overtime work in excess of 40 hours per week (or other applicable tour of duty) or work actually performed, in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act. Makes this provision effective December 27, 1996 in order to ratify and approve the Resolution and Order of the Authority, dated December 27, 1996. (Sec. 156) Requires the proposed FY 2002 budget of the District government to specify potential adjustments that might become necessary in the event that the management savings achieved by the District during the year do not meet the level of management savings projected. (Sec. 157) Requires any document showing the budget for a District government office that contains specified general, nondescriptive labels categorizing activities to include descriptions of the types of activities covered and a detailed breakdown of the amount allocated for each one. (Sec. 158) Prohibits the use of funds under this Act to enact or carry out any law, rule, or regulation to legalize or otherwise reduce penalties associated with the possession, use, or distribution of any schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act or any tetrahydrocannabinols (THC) derivative. Provides that the Legalization of Marijuana for Medical Treatment Initiative of 1998, also known as Initiative 59, approved by the electors of the District on November 3, 1998, shall not take effect. (Sec. 159) Authorizes the Mayor to allocate the District's limitation amount of qualified zone academy bonds among qualified District zone academies. (Sec. 160) Amends the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 to treat the Trustee and employees of the Office of the Trustee and the Office of Adult Probation, the employees of the Office of Parole, and the employees of the Pretrial Services Agency as Federal employees solely for purposes relating to the Civil Service Retirement System, the Federal Employees Retirement System, life insurance, and health insurance. (Sec. 161) Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the patients of Saint Elizabeths Hospital and the District taxpayers are being poorly served by the current facilities and management of the Hospital; (2) the Authority should quickly complete the sale of the Franklin School property which has been vacant for over 20 years; and (3) the District government should take all necessary steps to ensure that its officials maintain a fiduciary duty to the District taxpayers in the administration of funds under their control. (Sec. 164) Prohibits any amounts from being made available during FY 2001 to the District of Columbia Health and Hospitals Public Benefit Corporation (through reprogramming, transfers, loans, or any other mechanism) other than the amounts which are otherwise provided for in this Act. (Sec. 165) Requires the Chief Financial Officer for each payment or group of payments made by or on behalf of the Corporation to sign an affidavit certifying that the making of the payment does not constitute a violation of Federal law provisions about limitations, exceptions, and penalties with respect to appropriations. (Sec. 166) Prohibits the Corporation from obligating or expending any amounts during FY 2001 unless (at the time of the obligation or expenditure) the Corporation certifies that such activity is within the budget authority provided in this Act. (Sec. 167) Declares that nothing in this Act bars the District of Columbia Corporation Counsel from reviewing or commenting on briefs in private lawsuits, or from consulting with officials of the District government regarding such lawsuits. (Sec. 168) Provides that the Health Insurance Coverage for Contraceptives Act of 2000 shall not take effect. Declares that: (1) nothing in this Act shall be construed to prevent the Council or Mayor from addressing the issue of the provision of contraceptive coverage by health insurance plans; but (2) it is the intent of Congress that any legislation enacted on such issue should include a "conscience clause" which provides exceptions for religious beliefs and moral convictions. (Sec. 169) Repeals the Medical Examiner chapter of the District of Columbia Code. Makes such repeal effective on the date on which legislation enacted by the Council to establish the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in the executive branch of the District government takes effect. (Sec. 170) Requires the Superior Court of the District or the District of Columbia Court of Appeals to assign interest on a voucher submitted by a court-appointed attorney for payment if the voucher is not paid within 45 days of its submission.

Medicare Beneficiaries' Choice Stabilization Act of 2000

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2000

Medicare Beneficiaries' Choice Stabilization Act of 2000 - Amends part C (Medicare+Choice) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) with respect to payments to Medicare+Choice organizations to provide for: (1) establishment of a floor for Medicare+Choice payment rates after applying risk-adjustment methodology; (2) elimination of budget neutrality adjustment for 2001 and 2002; (3) an increase in national per capita Medicare+Choice growth percentage in 2001 and 2002: (4) election by a Medicare+Choice organization to apply an area- specific percentage of 50 percent and a national percentage of 50 percent for 2001 and 2002 rather than the rate currently applicable for 2002 in determining the blended capitation rate used in determining the calculation of annual Medicare+Choice capitation rates; (5) an increased update for payment areas with only one or no Medicare+Choice contracts; (6) higher negotiated rates in certain Medicare+Choice payment areas below national average; and (7) a ten year phased-in risk adjustment based on data from all settings. Delays from July to November 2000 the deadline for withdrawing the offer, or rescinding the withdrawal, of Medicare+Choice plans for 2001. Amends SSA title XVIII part C to Medicare+Choice program data collection requirements with regard to: (1) issuance of encounter data submission requirements; (2) post- stabilization guidelines; and (3) on-line enrollment. Prohibits the Secretary from making any changes in the enrollment and disenrollment instructions and related materials (including operational policy letters and evidence of coverage) under Medicare+Choice between enactment of this Act and January 1, 2002, except as may be specifically and only required to comply with a change in statute.

Presidential Transition Act of 2000

United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2000

Presidential Transition Act of 2000 - Amends the Presidential Transition Act of 1963 to require the Administrator of General Services, upon request, to pay the expenses of each President-elect and Vice President-elect during the transition for briefings, workshops, or other activities to acquaint key prospective Presidential appointees (primarily those the President-elect intends to nominate as department heads or appoint to key positions in the Executive Office of the President) with the types of problems and challenges that most typically confront new political appointees when they make the transition from campaign and other prior activities to assuming the responsibility for governance after inauguration. States that such activities may include interchange between such appointees and individuals who: (1) held similar leadership roles in prior administrations; (2) are department or agency experts from the Office of Management and Budget or a department or agency Office of Inspector General; or (3) are relevant staff from the General Accounting Office. Permits such activities also to include training or orientation in: (1) records management, including training on the separation of Presidential records and personal records to comply with certain requirements; and (2) human resources management and performance-based management. Requires the Administrator to develop a transition directory for such activities, which compile Federal publications and materials with supplementary materials developed by the Administrator that provide information on the officers, organization, and statutory and administrative authorities, functions, duties, responsibilities, and mission of each department and agency. Requires the Administrator also to consult with any candidate for President or Vice President to develop a systems architecture plan for the candidate's computer and communications systems to coordinate a transition to Federal systems, if the candidate is elected. Directs the Office of Government Ethics to study and report to specified congressional committees on improvements to the mandatory financial disclosure process under the Ethics in Government Act of 1978 for presidential nominees. Authorizes appropriations.

Medicare Early Access and Tax Credit Act of 2000

United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2000

Medicare Early Access and Tax Credit Act of 2000 - Title I: Access to Medicare Benefits for Individuals 62-to-65 Years of Age - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to add a new part D (Purchase of Medicare Benefits by Certain Individuals Age 62-to-65 Years of Age) under which an enrollee is entitled 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). Provides for the determination and payment of monthly premiums under the new part D program. Creates in the Treasury the Medicare Early Access Trust Fund to hold the premiums paid pursuant to this Act and savings from new fraud and abuse initiatives that are obtained pursuant to the Medicare Fraud and Reimbursement Reform Act of 1999. Provides for oversight and accountability concerning the status of the Trust Fund. Title II: Access to Medicare Benefits for Displaced Workers 55-to-62 years of Age - Amends SSA title XVIII to provide access to Medicare benefits to displaced workers (and their spouse) 55-to-62 years of age. Title III: COBRA Protection for Early Retirees - Subtitle A: Amendments to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to provide for COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985) continuation benefits for certain retired workers who lose retiree health coverage. Subtitle B: Amendments to the Public Health Service Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to provide for COBRA continuation benefits for certain retired workers who lose retiree health coverage. Subtitle C: Amendments to the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for COBRA continuation benefits for certain retired workers who lose retiree health coverage. Title IV: Financing - Provides that any increase in Medicare payments resulting from enactment of this Act shall be offset by reductions in Medicare payments pursuant to the anti-fraud and -abuse provisions of the Medicare Fraud and Reimbursement Reform Act of 1999. Title V: Credit Against Income Tax for Medicare Buy-In Premiums and for Certain COBRA Continuation Coverage Premiums - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide an individual with a tax credit for 25 percent of certain COBRA continuation coverage premiums and Medicare buy-in premiums.

Medicare Protection and Fairness Act of 2000

United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2000

Medicare Protection and Fairness Act of 2000 - Title I: Increase in Payments for Inpatient Hospital Services - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) with respect to payment to hospitals for inpatient hospital services to provide for: (1) elimination of reduction to market basket percentage increase in FY 2001 and 2002; (2) increase in payments for disproportionate share (DSH) hospitals in FY 2001 and 2002; and (3) elimination of reduction in payments for indirect costs of graduate medical education. Title II: Increase in Payments for Home Health Services - Amends SSA title XVIII with regard to the prospective payment system (PPS) for home health services to eliminate the 15 percent reduction in the cost limits and per beneficiary limits under such PPS. Makes such amendment effective as if included in the enactment of the Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP Balanced Budget Refinement Act of 1999. Title III: Increase in Payments to Medicare+Choice Organizations - Subtitle A: Modifications to Risk Adjustment Methodology - Amends SSA title XVIII part C (Medicare+Choice) with respect to payments to Medicare+Choice organizations to require that the Medicare+Choice risk adjustment methodology be implemented in a budget neutral manner. Provides for a ten year phased-in implementation of such methodology. Subtitle B: Modifications to the Blended Capitation Rate - Authorizes Medicare+Choice organizations to elect to apply blended capitation rate area-specific and national percentages for 2001 and 2002 (instead of one or the other in different years). Provides for an increase in the national per capita Medicare+Choice growth percentage in 2001 and 2002. Subtitle C: Reporting Requirements for Medicare Health Care Services Furnished in Military Treatment Facilities - Amends SSA title XVIII with respect to the Medicare subvention demonstration project for military retirees to add reporting requirements for costs incurred under the project for purposes of calculating Medicare+Choice payment rates.

Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act, 2001

United States · United States Congress · 20 July 2000

Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act, 2001 - Makes appropriations for FY 2001 for the Treasury Department, the U.S. Postal Service, the Executive Office of the President, and certain independent agencies. Title I: Department of the Treasury - Treasury Department Appropriations Act, 2001 - Makes appropriations for the Department of the Treasury for: (1) departmental offices; (2) department-wide systems and capital investments programs for development and acquisition of automatic data processing equipment, software, and services; (3) the Office of Inspector General; (4) the Inspector General for Tax Administration; (5) repair and restoration of the Treasury building and annex; (6) the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network; (7) programs to expand access to financial services for low- and moderate-income individuals; (8) reimbursement of Treasury Department organizations for costs of providing support to counter, investigate, or prosecute terrorism; (9) the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, including amounts for maintenance and facility improvements; (10) interagency crime and drug enforcement; (11) the Financial Management Service; (12) the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms; (13) the U.S. Customs Service, including amounts for operations and maintenance of marine vessels and aircraft, automation modernization, and collection of the Harbor Maintenance Fee; (14) the Bureau of the Public Debt; (15) the Internal Revenue Service, including amounts for tax law enforcement, earned income tax credit compliance and error reduction initiatives, and information systems and telecommunications support; and (15) the Secret Service, including an amount for construction and improvement of facilities. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, such funds. (Sec. 118) Amends Federal law to extend the Treasury Franchise Fund until October 1, 2002. (Sec. 119) Prohibits the obligation or expenditure of funds made available in this Act by the Customs Service for closing the Customs Office at the Port of Racine, Wisconsin. Title II: Postal Service - Postal Service Appropriations Act, 2001 - Makes appropriations for payments to the Postal Service Fund for revenue foregone on free and reduced rate mail. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, such funds. Title III: Executive Office of the President and Funds Appropriated to the President - Executive Office Appropriations Act, 2001 - Makes appropriations for: (1) compensation of the President and the White House office; (2) operating, maintenance, and reimbursable expenses of the Executive Residence at the White House; (3) White House repair and restoration; (4) special assistance to the President and the official residence of the Vice President; (5) the Council of Economic Advisers; (6) the Office of Policy Development; (7) the National Security Council; (8) the Office of Administration; (9) the Office of Management and Budget (OMB); (10) the Office of National Drug Control Policy; (11) the Counterdrug Technology Assessment Center; and (12) Federal drug control programs, including amounts for the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Program and for a national anti-drug campaign for youth. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, such funds. Title IV: Independent Agencies - Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2001 - Makes appropriations for: (1) the Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled; (2) the Federal Election Commission; (3) the Federal Labor Relations Authority; (4) the General Services Administration (GSA), including amounts for the Federal Buildings Fund, Government-wide policy and operations, Office of Inspector General, and allowances and office staff for former Presidents; and (5) carrying out the Presidential Transition Act of 1963. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, such funds. (Sec. 408) Designates the Federal building and courthouse located at 102 North 4th Street in Grand Forks, North Dakota, as the Ronald N. Davies Federal Building and United States Courthouse. (Sec. 410) Designates the U.S. bankruptcy courthouse at 1100 Laurel Street in Columbia, South Carolina, as the J. Bratton Davis United States Bankruptcy Courthouse. (Sec. 411) Designates the U.S. Courthouse Annex located at 901 19th Street in Denver, Colorado, as the Alfred A. Arraj United States Courthouse Annex. (Sec. 412) Designates the dormitory building currently being constructed on the Core Campus of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Glynco, Georgia, as the Paul Coverdell Dormitory. Makes appropriations for: (1) the Merit Systems Protection Board; (2) the Morris K. Udall Scholarship and Excellence in National Environmental Policy Foundation; (3) the Environmental Dispute Resolution Fund to carry out activities authorized in the Environmental Policy and Conflict Resolution Act of 1998; (4) the National Archives and Records Administration, including amounts for repairs and restoration of archives; (5) the National Historical Publications and Records Commission; (6) the Office of Government Ethics; (7) the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), including an amount for the Office of Inspector General; (8) Government contributions for health and life insurance benefits for annuitants; (9) the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund; (8) the Office of Special Counsel; and (9) the U.S. Tax Court. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, such funds. Title V: General Provisions - Sets forth authorized and prohibited uses of funds made available under this Act. (Sec. 506) Sets forth Buy American provisions. Stamp Out Domestic Violence Act of 2000 - Amends Federal law to require the Postal Service to establish a special rate of postage for first class mail that is up to 25 percent higher than the regular rate as a voluntary alternative that the public may use to contribute to funding for domestic violence programs. Requires collected amounts to be paid to the Department of Justice. Expresses the sense of the Congress that nothing in this Act should: (1) cause a net decrease in total funds received by the Department or any other Federal agency below the level that would have otherwise been received but for this Act's enactment; or (2) affect first-class or other regular postage rates. Requires special postage stamps to be made available to the public. Directs the Comptroller General to report to Congress on the operation of this Act. (Sec. 514) Requires the Director of OMB to submit a report to specified congressional committees that: (1) evaluates, for each agency, the extent to which Federal accounting and collection provisions, as amended by the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, have reduced burdens imposed by rules issued by the agency; and (2) includes a determination of the need for additional procedures to ensure achievement of such provisions' purposes, evaluates the burden imposed by each major rule that imposes more than 10 million hours of burden, and identifies specific reductions expected to be achieved in FY 2001 and 2002 in the burden imposed by all rules issued by each agency that issued such a major rule. (Sec. 515) Prohibits the use of funds made available in this Act to implement a preference for the acquisition of a firearm or ammunition based on whether the manufacturer or vendor of the firearm or ammunition is a party of an agreement with a Federal agency regarding codes of conduct, operating practices, or product design specifically related to the business of importing, manufacturing, or dealing in firearms or ammunition under the Federal criminal code. Title VI: General Provisions - Sets forth authorized and prohibited uses of funds appropriated for Federal departments, agencies, and corporations. (Sec. 621) Bars the use of funds made available for the Customs Service in this Act to allow the importation of any good produced or manufactured by forced or indentured child labor. (Sec. 627) Requires the OMB Director to report to Congress: (1) estimates of annual costs and benefits of Federal rules and paperwork; (2) impacts of Federal regulation on State, local, and tribal government, small business, wages, and economic growth; and (3) recommendations for reform. Requires the Director to issue guidelines to agencies to standardize measures of costs and benefits and the format of accounting statements. (Sec. 633) Bars the use of funds appropriated by this Act to enter into or renew a contract which includes a provision providing prescription drug coverage, except where the contract also includes a provision for contraceptive coverage. Makes exceptions to such prohibition for religious health plans. (Sec. 636) Authorizes the use of appropriated funds by executive agencies to provide child care services for Federal civilian employees. (Sec. 637) Authorizes a woman to breastfeed her child on Federal property if the woman and child are otherwise authorized to be present at the location. National Health Museum Site Selection Act - Directs the GSA Administrator to convey specified property to the National Health Museum, Inc. (the Museum), to provide a site for the construction and operation of a new building to serve as the National Health Museum. Requires the Museum to provide written notification to the Administrator of the date on which it will accept conveyance of the property. Sets forth provisions regarding the purchase price for the property, including requiring the Administrator to report the purchase price to Congress and to deposit it into the Federal Buildings Fund. Provides for reversion of the property to the United States and repayment of the purchase price to the Museum if : (1) it is used for a purpose other than construction and operation of the Museum; (2) the Museum does not commence construction on the property within three years after conveyance, other than for a reason not within the Museum's control; or (3) the Museum ceases to be a nonprofit corporation. Permits the Museum to: (1) demolish or renovate any existing or future improvement on the property; (2) build, own, operate, and maintain new improvements on the property; (3) finance and mortgage the property on customary terms and conditions; and (4) manage the property. Requires the United States to cooperate with the Museum on any zoning or other matter relating to the development or improvement of the property or the demolition of any improvement. Requires the costs of remediation of any environmental hazards existing on the property, including all asbestos-containing materials, to be borne by the United States. Requires the Museum to submit annual reports to the Administrator and Congress on the status of planning, development, and construction of the Museum. (Sec. 640) Amends Federal civil service provisions to require the removal from employment of Federal law enforcement officers convicted of felonies. (Sec. 641) Amends Federal retirement provisions to reduce to seven percent after December 31, 2000, the required retirement contribution by Federal employees participating under the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) (such contribution currently is scheduled to be 7.5 percent for calendar years 2001 and 2002 and 7 percent after 2002). Reduces similarly the required percentage contribution under CSRS for Members of Congress and congressional employees, law enforcement and firefighting personnel, certain judges and magistrates, the Capitol police, and nuclear materials couriers. Makes similar reductions for participants in the Federal Employees' Retirement System (FERS). Makes conforming reductions with respect to military and volunteer service under FERS. Amends the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement Act, and the Foreign Service Act of 1980 to make similar employee retirement contribution reductions under the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System, the Foreign Service Retirement and Disability System, and the Foreign Service Pension System. Prescribes agency contributions for October 1 through December 31, 2002, in lieu of those required under current law, under CSRS, the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System, and the Foreign Service Retirement and Disability System.

Belastungspaket für die Länder

Austria · Federal Council · 19 July 2000

Anfrage der Bundesräte Albrecht Konecny und Genossen an den Bundesminister für Finanzen betreffend Belastungspaket für die Länder

Health Security for All Americans Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2000

Health Security for All Americans Act - Title I: Health Security for All Americans - Expansion Phase (Phase I) - Amends the Social Security Act (SSA) to add a new title XXII (Health Security For All Americans) with a part A (Expansion Phase (Phase I) Plans) providing funds to participating States to enable them to ensure universal health insurance coverage by voluntarily establishing State administered systems which offer at least the benefits provided under the Federal Employees Health Benefits program standard Blue Cross-Blue Shield preferred provider option service benefit plan. Makes appropriations. Title II: Health Security for All Americans - Universal Phase (Phase II) - Amends SSA title XXII to add a part B (Universal Phase (Phase II) Plans) requiring States by January 1, 2006, to establish and implement State-administered systems to ensure universal health insurance coverage equal to the benefits provided under the Federal Employees Health Benefits program standard Blue Cross-Blue Shield preferred provider option service benefit plan. Provides for funds to States for the establishment and implementation of such systems. Makes necessary appropriations. (Sec. 202) Adds a part C (Consumer Protections) listing home care standards and providing for consumer protection: (1) in the event of termination or suspension of health services; (2) through disclosure of information regarding health care workers; and (3) through notice of changes in health care delivery. Title III: Patient Protections - Enacts into Federal law certain provisions of H.R. 2723 of the 106th Congress, as introduced on August 5, 1999, and H.R. 137 of the 106th Congress, as introduced on January 6, 1999. Title IV: Health Care Quality, Patient Safety, and Workforce Standards - Establishes within the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, the Health Care Quality, Patient Safety, and Workforce Standards Institute to: (1) demonstrate how patient safety issues and workplace conditions are linked to quality patient care and the reduction of the incidence of medical errors; and (2) reduce the incidence of medical errors and improve patient safety and quality of care. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 402) Establishes a Health Care Quality, Patient Safety, and Workforce Standards Committee to advise the Director of the Health Care Quality, Patient Safety, and Workforce Standards Institute. Title V: Improving Medicare Benefits - Requires that each individual entitled to benefits under Medicare part A (Hospital Insurance) or enrolled under Medicare part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) be provided full mental health and substance abuse treatment parity under Medicare consistent with SSA title XXII (as added by this Act). (Sec. 502) Directs the Director of the Institute of Medicine to study and report to Congress and the President legislative recommendations for adding a comprehensive, accessible, and affordable prescription drug benefit to Medicare. Title VI: Long-Term and Home Health Care - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to: (1) conduct studies and demonstration projects, through grant, contract, or interagency agreement, that are designed to identify model programs for the provision of long-term and home health care services; and (2) report to Congress on results. Title VII: Miscellaneous - Makes specified provisions of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) inapplicable to health benefits provided under a group health plan qualified to offer such benefits under an expansion phase (phase I) plan or a universal phase (phase II) plan under SSA title XXII. (Sec. 702) Expresses the sense of Congress that any sums necessary for the implementation of this Act should be offset by: (1) general revenues available as a result of an on-budget surplus for a fiscal year; (2) direct savings in health care expenditures resulting from the implementation of this Act; and (3) reductions in unnecessary Federal tax benefits available only to individuals and large corporations in the maximum tax brackets.

Waiving points of order against the conference report to accompany the bill (H.R. 4810) to provide for reconciliation pursuant to section 103(a)(1) of the concurrent resolution on the budget for fiscal year 2001.

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2000

Waives points of order against consideration of the conference report on H.R. 4810 (budget reconciliation).

Tariff Suspension and Trade Act of 2000

United States · United States Congress · 18 July 2000

Miscellaneous Trade and Technical Corrections Act of 2000 - Title I: Tariff Provisions - Subtitle A: Temporary Duty Suspensions and Reductions - Amends the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States to provide for temporary duty suspensions through December 31, 2003 for: (1) certain HIV-AIDS drugs; (2) specified chemicals and dyes; (3) instant print film in rolls; (4) certain compound optical microscopes; (5) certain cathode-ray tubes; (6) certain categories of raw cotton; (7) rhinovirus drugs; (8) tungsten concentrates; (9) certain ion-exchange resin; (10) vision inspection systems; (11) anode presses; (12) trim and form for forming capacitor leads; (13) certain assembly machines; (14) certain herbicides, fungicides, and pesticides; (15) rackers used for attaching raw anodes to process bars; (16) certain self-adhesive sheets; (17) certain polyamides; (18) certain plastic additives; (19) a certain organic surface-active agent; (20) monochrome glass envelopes; and (21) ceramic coater for laying down and drying ceramic. Reduces the duty through December 31, 2003 on: (1) color instant print film; (2) certain cathode-ray tubes; (3) a certain herbicide and fungicide; and (4) specified chemicals. Reduces the duty on a certain chemical for the period December 31, 2000, through December 31, 2003. Reduces the duty on certain dyes for the period December 31, 2000, through December 31, 2002. Extends the existing suspension of duty through December 31, 2003 for: (1) certain chemicals and dyes; (2) a certain polymer; and (3) certain semi-manufactured forms of gold. Grants duty-free treatment to certain chemicals through December 31, 2003. Subtitle B: Other Tariff Provisions - Directs the U.S. Customs service to liquidate or reliquidate (refund duty on) specified entries with respect to: (1) certain telephone systems; (2) certain color television receivers; (3) copper and brass sheet and strips; and (4) certain antifriction bearings. Product Development and Testing Act of 2000 - Amends the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States to grant duty-free treatment to imports of prototypes used to promote product development, testing, product evaluation or quality control in the United States. Dog and Cat Protection Act of 2000 - Amends the Tariff Act of 1930 to make it unlawful for any person to: (1) import into, or export from, the United States any dog or cat fur product; or (2) introduce into interstate commerce, manufacture for introduction into interstate commerce, sell or offer to sell, trade, advertise, or transport or distribute in interstate commerce, any dog or cat fur product. Sets forth certain exceptions. Subjects a person to civil penalties for violations of this Act. (Sec. 1431) Changes from discretionary to mandatory the Secretary of the Treasury's authority to prescribe an alternative mid-point interest accounting methodology with respect to the assessment of interest due to an underpayment of duties, fees, or interest. (Sec. 1432) Exempts from provisions requiring the arrival of certain vessels to make formal entry at a U.S. customhouse any vessel required to anchor at the Belle Isle Anchorage, Michigan, for purposes of awaiting the availability of cargo or berthing space or for taking on a pilot or awaiting pilot services, or at the direction of the Coast Guard, before proceeding to the Port of Toledo, Ohio, where the vessel makes entry or obtains clearance to enter a customhouse. (Sec. 1433) Directs the Commissioner of the Customs Service to designate the San Antonio International Airport in San Antonio, Texas, as an airport at which certain private aircraft arriving in the United States from a foreign area may land for processing by the Customs Service. (Sec. 1434) Requires the Secretary of Transportation to establish by regulation a separate class of bonded warehouse for the storage and manipulation of international travel merchandise (duty-free or domestic merchandise which is placed on board aircraft on international flights for sale to passengers, but which is not merchandise incidental to the operation of a duty-free sales enterprise) pending its placement on board aircraft departing for foreign destinations. Sets forth specified requirements with respect to the treatment of such merchandise stored at bonded warehouses and staging areas (outside of the warehouse). (Sec. 1435) Amends the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States to decrease the rate of duty, over a specified period of time, on goods purchased abroad and brought back into the United States by U.S. travelers. (Sec. 1436) Grants duty-free treatment to the personal effects of, and other equipment imported and used by, participants, their families and associated members, and officials involved in an athletic event held in the United States like the Olympics, the Goodwill Games, the Special Olympics World Games, the World Cup Soccer Games, or any similar international athletic event. Declares that such articles shall be: (1) free of applicable taxes and fees; but (2) not exempt from routine customs inspections. (Sec. 1437) Amends the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 to permit collection of customs fees for the arrival of certain ferries. (Sec. 1438) Directs the U.S. Customs Service to treat N-cyclohexyl-2-benzothiazolesulfenamide and N-tert-Butyl-2-benzothiazolesulfenamide as 'commercially interchangeable" for purposes of allowing a drawback (refund of duty) on imports of N-cyclohexyl-2-benzothiazolesulfenamide (certain rubber vulcanized accelerators). (Sec. 1439) Exempts gum arabic and other byproducts (other than balsams, tragacanth, and karaya) from the prohibition on the import of products from Sudan. (Sec. 1440) Directs the Commissioner of Customs to implement a fee-for-service agreement with Broward County, Florida, to provide personnel and infrastructure necessary to conduct cargo clearance, inspection, and other customs services in order to accommodate international air cargo carriers for a two year period if and when such county enters into a contract with one or more such carriers for services at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. (Sec. 1441) Amends the Tariff Act of 1930 with respect to substitution of finished petroleum derivatives. (Sec. 1442) Authorizes the U.S. Customs Service, upon application of an importer, to treat as a single entry for tariff treatment purposes two or more entries of merchandise that are part of a single commercial transaction but are imported into the United States in such multiple separate entries due to the size or nature of the merchandise or due to the inability of the carrier to include all of the merchandise in a single shipment. (Sec. 1443) Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to report to Congress on U.S. customs procedures. Subtitle C: Effective Date - Sets forth the effective date of this Act. Title II: Other Trade Provisions - Declares that a worker shall be certified by the Secretary of Labor as eligible to apply for trade adjustment assistance under the Trade Act of 1974 if such worker was: (1) determined to be covered under Trade Adjustment Assistance Certification TA-W-31,402; and (2) necessary for the environmental remediation or closure of a copper mining facility. (Sec. 2002) Amends the Internal Revenue Code with respect to cigarettes manufactured for export, but which nevertheless are sold domestically. Sets additional restrictions on tobacco products labeled for export. (Sec. 2004) Amends the Tariff Act of 1930 to set forth certain restrictions with respect to the importation of certain cigarettes. Sets forth civil penalties for violations of such requirements.

Scientifically Based Education Research, Statistics, Evaluation, and Information Act of 2000

United States · United States Congress · 18 July 2000

Scientifically Based Education Research, Statistics, Evaluation, and Information Act of 2000 - Requires that a specified portion of amounts for discretionary programs of the Department of Education (ED) be made available for FY 2002 through 2006 to carry out certain programs under titles I and II of this Act. Title I: National Academy for Education Research, Statistics, Evaluation, and Information - Establishes a National Academy for Education Research, Statistics, Evaluation, and Information (the Academy) as an independent agency in the executive branch, whose Director shall: (1) coordinate with the Secretary of Education to ensure that ED and each of the Centers within the Academy use common sources of data in standardized formats; and (2) ensure that the Commissioner of each Center (under title II, subtitle A) establishes and maintains a regular schedule of data releases for all of the information it collects, with such data to be archived in electronic format and made accessible to the public in a timely fashion. (Sec. 102) Provides for the Academy's board of directors, which is to be known as the National Board for Education Research, Statistics, Evaluation, and Information. (Sec. 103) Establishes within the Academy a National Education Library and Clearinghouse Office (Library), to be headed by a Deputy Director appointed by the Director. Title II: National Centers for Education Research, Evaluation, and Statistics; National Assessment Governing Board - Subtitle A: National Centers for Education Research, Evaluation, and Information - Chapter 1: National Center for Education Research - Establishes within the Academy a National Center for Education Research (NCER). (Sec. 203) Requires the President to appoint a Commissioner of Educational Research (CER), who will head NCER and appoint a Senior Scientist and staff. (Sec. 204) Requires NCER to oversee and support the conduct of an evaluative summary of the primary education priority areas of each of the National Research and Development Centers (NRDCs) which are eligible grantees. Directs CER, on the basis of an NRDC's priorities and research plan, and the extent to which its work has met the standards of scientifically valid research, to: (1) extend or renegotiate any existing grant, contract, or cooperative agreement for a period not to extend beyond FY 2005; or (2) terminate it or prohibit its renewal. (Sec. 205) Establishes within NCER a Committee for Education Research. (Sec. 208) Requires NCER to: (1) ensure that research under its direction follows scientific standards, is published in peer-reviewed journals, and comply with Federal guidelines regarding research misconduct; (2) develop other necessary standards for research conduct and evaluation; (3) review procedures of other Federal agencies engaged in research and development, and solicit recommendations from research organizations and the public; and (4) use specified minimum standards with regard to awarding of funds and evaluation of applicants and recipients of such funds. Chapter 2: National Center for Program Evaluation - Establishes within the Academy a National Center for Program Evaluation (NCPE). (Sec. 212) Requires the President to appoint a Commissioner for Program Evaluation (CPE). (Sec. 213) Requires NCPE to: (1) evaluate programs under title I (Helping Disadvantaged Children Meet High Standards) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA), other Federal education programs as determined by the Director, and education programs on a contractual basis for other Federal or State agencies; and (2) administer all operations and contracts associated with evaluations under ESEA title I (which are currently administered by ED), including the national assessment, a longitudinal evaluation of the effectiveness of school interventions, and national longitudinal surveys of schools. Sets forth quality standards and other requirements for such evaluations. (Sec. 214) Authorizes CPE to establish one or more independent review panels for each evaluation, or set of evaluations, to assist NCPE. Chapter 3: National Center for Education Statistics - National Education Statistics Act of 2000 - Reauthorizes, revises, and establishes within the Academy the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). (Sec. 224) Requires the President to appoint the Commissioner for Education Statistics (CES), who heads NCES and appoints a Deputy Commissioner, Associate Commissioners, and staff. Extends the term of CES to six years. (Sec. 225) Requires NCES to collect, analyze, and disseminate statistics and other information related to education in the United States and in other nations, including specified types of data. Directs CES to make customer service a priority and ensure customer satisfaction through certain means. Authorizes CES to establish: (1) a program to train employees of public and private educational agencies, organizations, and institutions in the use of NCES's standard statistical procedures and concepts; and (2) a fellows program to appoint such employees as temporary fellows to assist NCES. (Sec. 226) Authorizes CES to award grants, and enter into contracts and cooperative agreements, on a competitive basis, for a maximum five-year period, and to renew such grants for an additional maximum five-year period. Gives CES final authority within the Academy with respect to decisions regarding the implementation of data collection activities, including the appropriateness of specific collection methodologies, except with respect to the National Assessment of Educational Progress under subtitle B of this title. Authorizes CES to use: (1) the statistical sampling method; (2) information collected from specified types of sources; and (3) interagency agreements or other arrangements with any agencies, organizations, or institutions for collection of information. Directs CES to: (1) provide technical assistance to ED offices that gather data for statistical purposes; (2) coordinate closely with other ED offices in the collection of data; and (3) notify sources of information, at least six months advance, of hardware and software requirements for new collection activities for which electronic submission will be required, and of any other new requirements for data collection and submission. (Sec. 227) Directs CES to submit to the President and the appropriate congressional committees, an annual statistical report on the condition and progress of education in the United States, and to issue regular statistical reports on appropriate education topics. (Sec. 228) Establishes within NCES an Advisory Council for Education Statistics. (Sec. 229) Requires NCES to develop and enforce confidentiality standards. Prohibits use of individually identifiable information for any purpose other than statistical. Sets forth confidentiality provisions relating to NCES administration, employees, staff, temporary staff, and penalties. Allows access to NCES records, including individual identifiers, by the Academy Director, the U.S. Comptroller General, the Director of the Congressional Budget Office, and the Librarian of Congress; but makes disclosure restrictions applicable to such officials. (Sec. 230) Directs NCES to: (1) provide State and local educational agencies (SEAs and LEAs) opportunities to suggest development of particular compilations of statistics, surveys, and analyses that would assist those agencies; (2) furnish special statistical compilations and surveys at the request of appropriate congressional committees; (3) provide access to other Federal agencies needing educational data it receives; and (4) provide all interested parties, for research and statistical information purposes, direct access to data it collects. Allows NCES to: (1) furnish copies of statistical records; and (2) make special statistical compilations and surveys for various entities and to charge fees for such work or services. Authorizes CES to engage in joint statistical projects with various entities. (Sec. 231) Authorizes CES to establish and provide grants, contracts, cooperative agreements, and technical assistance for one or more: (1) national cooperative education statistics systems; and (2) postsecondary education data advisory groups. Subtitle B: National Assessment Governing Board and National Assessment of Educational Progress - Chapter 1: National Assessment Governing Board - Establishes within the Academy the National Assessment Governing Board (NAGB), which shall have full authority to formulate policy and carry out the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP). Sets forth requirements for establishment of policy for NAEP. Makes NAGB independent of the Director and the other offices and officers of the Academy. (Sec. 252) Directs NAGB to establish policy for the NAEP (which collectively refers to a long-term trend assessment, national assessment, and State assessments), and carry it out through grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements with one or more qualified entities or consortia. Sets forth requirements relating to: (1) the schedule for such assessments, including frequency, student ages, grades, and subject areas; (2) prohibited data; (3) public access and confidentiality; (4) voluntary participation by SEAs and LEAs; (5) non-Federal share; (6) student performance levels; (7) reviews and reports; and (8) coverage agreements with schools operated by the Department of Defense or operated or supported by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. (Sec. 253) Prohibits use of funds by ED, NAGB, the Academy, or an applicable program for activities related to any federally sponsored national test in reading, mathematics, or any other subject that is not specifically and explicitly provided for in authorizing legislation enacted into law. Makes such prohibition inapplicable to the Third International Mathematics and Science Study or other international comparative assessments developed under the authority of specified provisions of this Act and administered only to a representative sample of pupils in the United States and in foreign nations. Repeals specified provisions of the Department of Labor, Health and Human Services and Education and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1999 of the Omnibus Consolidated and Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act for 1999 (Public Law 105-277) relating to the authority of the NAGB over the direction and all policies and guidelines for developing voluntary national tests. Title III: Activities Within the Department of Education - Amends the Department of Education Organization Act to replace provisions for the Office of Educational Research and Improvement. Establishes the Office of Planning, Performance Measurement, and Technical Assistance. Requires the Office Director to provide: (1) assistance for planning and program performance measurement; (2) assistance to SEAs and LEAs in developing and maintaining management information systems; (3) technical assistance and information dissemination for the regional comprehensive technical assistance and reform initiatives which the Office Director establishes and coordinates, and (4) technical assistance and information dissemination for a school-based customer driven technical assistance program under which the Secretary shall award competitive grants to States. (Sec. 302) Authorizes appropriations. Title IV: Miscellaneous Provisions - Requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget provide for a transition of the activities described in this Act previously administered through the Department of Education (ED) and transferred under this Act. (Sec. 402) Repeals: (1) the Educational Research, Development, Dissemination, and Improvement Act of 1994; (2) the National Education Statistics Act of 1994 (which is title IV of the Improving America's Schools Act of 1994); and (3) specified provisions relating to educational research, Federal evaluations, demonstrations, and transition projects, or national education statistics under the Department of Education Organization Act, the Goals 2000: Educate America Act, ESEA, and the General Education Provisions Act.

Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act, 2001

United States · United States Congress · 18 July 2000

Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act, 2001 - Makes appropriations for FY 2001 for the Treasury Department, the U.S. Postal Service, the Executive Office of the President, and certain independent agencies. Title I: Department of the Treasury - Treasury Department Appropriations Act, 2001 - Makes appropriations for the Department of the Treasury for: (1) departmental offices; (2) department-wide systems and capital investments programs for development and acquisition of automatic data processing equipment, software, and services; (3) the Office of Inspector General; (4) the Inspector General for Tax Administration; (5) repair and restoration of the Treasury building and annex; (6) a demonstration project to expand access to financial services for low-income individuals; (7) the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network; (8) the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, including amounts for maintenance and facility improvements; (9) interagency crime and drug enforcement; (10) the Financial Management Service; (11) the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms; (12) the U.S. Customs Service, including amounts for operations and maintenance of marine vessels and aircraft, collection of the Harbor Maintenance Fee, and automation modernization; (13) the Bureau of the Public Debt; (14) the Internal Revenue Service, including amounts for tax law enforcement, earned income tax credit compliance and error reduction initiatives, and information systems and telecommunications support; and (15) the Secret Service, including an amount for construction and improvement of facilities. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, such funds. (Sec. 122) Bars the obligation or expenditure of funds appropriated to the Department of the Treasury in any Act for establishment of a new law enforcement training facility until an assessment of the need for, and cost-effectiveness of, such facility has been carried out by the Comptroller General and approved by the Appropriations Committees. Title II: Postal Service - Postal Service Appropriations Act, 2001 - Makes appropriations for payments to the Postal Service Fund for revenue foregone on free and reduced rate mail. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, such funds. Title III: Executive Office of the President and Funds Appropriated to the President - Executive Office Appropriations Act, 2001 - Makes appropriations for: (1) compensation of the President and the White House office; (2) operating, maintenance, and reimbursable expenses of the Executive Residence at the White House; (3) White House repair and restoration; (4) special assistance to the President and the official residence of the Vice President; (5) the Council of Economic Advisers; (6) the Office of Policy Development; (7) the National Security Council; (8) the Office of Administration; (9) the Office of Management and Budget (OMB); (10) the Office of National Drug Control Policy; (11) the Counterdrug Technology Assessment Center; and (12) Federal drug control programs, including amounts for the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Program and for a national anti-drug campaign for youth. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, such funds. Title IV: Independent Agencies - Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2001 - Makes appropriations for the: (1) Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled; (2) Federal Election Commission; (3) Federal Labor Relations Authority; and (4) General Services Administration (GSA), including amounts for the Federal Buildings Fund, Government-wide policy and operations, Office of Inspector General, and allowances and office staff for former Presidents. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, such funds. (Sec. 408) Amends the Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act, 2000 to extend to April 30, 2002, the date through which the GSA Administrator is authorized to offer voluntary separation incentives to specified employees to provide for the closing of the Federal Supply Service distribution centers, forward supply points, and associated programs. Makes appropriations for: (1) the Merit Systems Protection Board; (2) the Morris K. Udall Scholarship and Excellence in National Environmental Policy Foundation; (3) the Environmental Dispute Resolution Fund to carry out activities authorized in the Environmental Policy and Conflict Resolution Act of 1998; (4) the National Archives and Records Administration, including amounts for repairs and restoration of archives; (5) the National Historical Publications and Records Commission; (6) the Office of Government Ethics; (7) the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), including an amount for the Office of Inspector General; (8) Government contributions for health and life insurance benefits for annuitants; (9) the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund; (8) the Office of Special Counsel; and (9) the U.S. Tax Court. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, such funds. Title V: General Provisions - Sets forth authorized and prohibited uses of funds made available under this Act. (Sec. 506) Sets forth Buy American provisions. (Sec. 509) Prohibits funds appropriated by this Act from being available for an abortion or the administrative expenses of any Federal employee health plan which provides benefits for abortions. Makes such prohibition inapplicable if the mother's life would be endangered if the fetus were carried to term or in cases of rape or incest. (Sec. 514) Directs the Archivist of the United States to transfer certain Federal land located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to the Gerald R. Ford Foundation in trust for the purpose of supporting the facilities and programs of the Gerald R. Ford Museum in Grand Rapids and the Gerald R. Ford Library in Ann Arbor. (Sec. 515) Requires the Director of OMB to issue guidelines under the Paperwork Reduction Act that provide policy and procedural guidance to Federal agencies for ensuring and maximizing the quality, objectivity, utility, and integrity of information disseminated by agencies in fulfillment of such Act. (Sec. 516) Prohibits the use of funds made available in this Act to implement a preference for the acquisition of a firearm or ammunition based on whether the manufacturer or vendor of the firearm or ammunition is a party to an agreement with a Federal agency regarding codes of conduct, operating practices, or product design specifically related to the business of importing, manufacturing, or dealing in firearms or ammunition under the Federal criminal code. (Sec. 517) Bars the use of funds made available in this Act to allow the placement in interstate or foreign commerce of diamonds that have been mined in Sierra Leone, Liberia, Burkina Faso, Cote d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), the Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Angola, except for diamonds the country of origin of which has been certified as the Republic of Sierra Leone by government officials of that country who are recognized by the General Assembly of the United Nations. (Sec. 518) Prohibits the use of funds appropriated by this Act to propose or issue rules or orders for implementing the Kyoto Protocol. (Sec. 520) Bars the use of funds made available in this Act to pay the salary of any OMB employee who makes apportionments under Federal provisions regarding appropriation accounting that prevent the expenditure or obligation by December 31, 2000, of at least 75 percent of the appropriations made for FY 2001 to carry out the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act of 1954, the Food for Progress Act of 1985, and a specified agricultural assistance provision of the Agricultural Act of 1949. Title VI: General Provisions - Sets forth authorized and prohibited uses of funds appropriated for Federal departments, agencies, and corporations. (Sec. 619) Bars the use of funds made available for the Customs Service in this Act to allow the importation of any good produced or manufactured by forced or indentured child labor. (Sec. 624) Requires the OMB Director to report to Congress: (1) estimates of annual costs and benefits of Federal rules and paperwork; (2) impacts of Federal regulation on State, local, and tribal government, small business, wages, and economic growth; and (3) recommendations for reform. Requires the Director to issue guidelines to agencies to standardize measures of costs and benefits and the format of accounting statements. (Sec. 631) Bars the use of funds appropriated by this Act to enter into or renew a contract which includes a provision providing prescription drug coverage, except where the contract also includes a provision for contraceptive coverage. Makes exceptions to such prohibition for religious health plans. (Sec. 634) Authorizes the use of appropriated funds by executive agencies to provide child care services for Federal civilian employees. Permits amounts paid to licensed or regulated child care providers to be paid in advance of services rendered, covering agreed upon periods. (Sec. 635) Authorizes a woman to breastfeed her child on Federal property if the woman and child are otherwise authorized to be present at the location. (Sec. 637) Amends the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to provide for election cycle reporting of certain expenditures. Adds provisions to such Act authorizing the use of facsimile devices or electronic mail for reporting certain contributions or expenditures. Excludes from the definition of "contribution" under such Act any loan of money derived from an advance on a line of credit available to a candidate if such loan is made in accordance with applicable law under commercially reasonable terms and if the person making such loan makes loans in the normal course of business. Changes the deadline for reporting contributions exceeding $1,000 received after the 20th day before an election to require notification of such contribution within 24 (currently, 48) hours of receipt. Requires filing (currently, reporting) of independent expenditure statements for certain expenditures aggregating $1,000 within 24 hours of the expenditure being made. Considers the receipt date (in lieu of the postmark date) to be the date of filing. Applies this section's amendments to elections occurring after January 2001. (Sec. 638) Authorizes qualified Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) police officers, upon written election, to be treated as law enforcement officers for purposes of Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) or Federal Employees' Retirement System (FERS) provisions and to have prior service similarly treated. Defines a "qualified MWAA police officer" as any individual who is currently so employed and is subject to CSRS or FERS by virtue of Federal transportation provisions governing certain Federal employees who transferred to the MWAA. Describes prior service as service as an MWAA or Federal Aviation Administration police officer prior to the effective date of such election. (Sec. 639) Authorizes the President's pay agent, for purposes of determining appropriate pay localities and making comparability payment recommendations, to make comparisons of General Schedule (GS) and non-Federal pay within metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) within the continental United States that have a high level of nonfarm employment and at least 2,500 GS employees using data from Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) surveys and salary data sets from any entity that regularly compiles similar data for businesses in the private sector. Permits the pay agent to make further determinations or recommendations based on such comparisons for purposes of payments becoming payable between January 1, 2002, and 2007, respectively. Requires the pay agent, based on such comparisons, to determine whether any of the five MSAs with the highest levels of nonfarm employment that have not been previously surveyed by the BLS as discrete pay localities for purposes of provisions governing locality-based comparability payments for Federal employees warrants designation as a discrete pay locality and if so, make recommendations as to the level of payments appropriate during 2002. Requires any MSA that warrants such designation to be designated as a discrete pay locality in time for 2002 comparability payments. Directs the pay agent to report to specified congressional committees on the ongoing efforts of OPM, OMB, and the BLS to revise the methodology currently used by the BLS in performing surveys related to comparability payments. (Sec. 640) Amends Federal retirement provisions to reduce to seven percent after December 31, 2000, the required retirement contribution by Federal employees participating under CSRS (such contribution currently is scheduled to be 7.5 percent for calendar years 2001 and 2002 and 7 percent after 2002). Reduces similarly the required percentage contribution under CSRS for Members of Congress and congressional employees, law enforcement and firefighting personnel, certain judges and magistrates, the Capitol police, and nuclear materials couriers. Makes similar reductions for participants in FERS. Makes conforming reductions with respect to military and volunteer service under FERS. Amends the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement Act, and the Foreign Service Act of 1980 to make similar employee retirement contribution reductions under the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System, the Foreign Service Retirement and Disability System, and the Foreign Service Pension System. Prescribes agency contributions for October 1 through December 31, 2002, in lieu of those required under current law, under CSRS, the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System, and the Foreign Service Retirement and Disability System. (Sec. 641) Amends the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to require certain information to be filed with the Federal Election Commission in cases where the principal campaign committee of a candidate for the House of Representatives or the Senate uses any Federal Government aircraft for purposes that include carrying out the candidate's election campaign. Makes this section applicable to elections occurring after December 31, 2000.

Waiving a requirement of clause 6(a) of rule XIII with respect to consideration of certain resolutions reported from the Committee on Rules.

United States · United States Congress · 18 July 2000

Waives provisions of Rule XIII of the Rules of the House of Representatives that require a two- thirds vote to consider a report from the Committee on Rules on the same day it is presented to the House with respect any resolution reported on the legislative day of July 19, 2000, providing for the consideration or disposition of any Senate amendments to H.R. 4810 (concurrent budget resolution for FY 2001).

Debt Relief Reconciliation Act for Fiscal Year 2001

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2000

Debt Relief Reconciliation Act for Fiscal Year 2001 - Amends Federal public finance provisions to establish the Public Debt Reduction Payment Account in the Treasury. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to use amounts in the Account to pay at maturity, or redeem or buy before maturity, any Government obligation held by the public and included in the public debt. Provides that any obligation which is paid, redeemed, or bought with amounts from the Account shall be canceled and retired and prohibits its reissuance. Appropriates funds for the Account. Prohibits such appropriation from being considered as direct spending for purposes of pay-as-you-go provisions of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act). Reduces the public debt limit by the amount appropriated into the Account. Bars Account receipts and disbursements from being counted as new budget authority, outlays, receipts, or deficit or surplus for purposes of : (1) the Federal Government budget as submitted by the President; (2) the congressional budget; or (3) the Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act. Requires the Secretary to report to specified congressional committees on the Account.

Providing for consideration of a motion to go to conference on any Senate amendments to the bill (H.R. 4810) to provide for reconciliation pursuant to section 103(a)(1) of the concurrent resolution on the budget for fiscal year 2001.

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2000

Makes it in order, upon receipt of a message from the Senate transmitting any Senate amendments to H.R. 4810 (concurrent budget resolution for FY 2001), to consider in the House of Representatives a motion to disagree to such Senate amendments and to request a conference thereon.

2000/487/EC: Council Decision of 17 July 2000 on the acceptance, by the European Community, of the amendment to the Agreement establishing the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean with a view to establishing an autonomous budget for that organisation

European Union · EUR-Lex · 17 July 2000

Auswirkungen der "Headline Goal" der EU auf die Bundeswehrplanung und den Haushalt des Bundesministeriums der Verteidigung (G-SIG: 14052046)

Germany · German Bundestag · 14 July 2000