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Bill· HRH.R. 4753 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 June 2004
Enhancing America's Guard and Reserve Act - Entitles a Federal employee who is a member of a reserve component to receive the difference in pay between military compensation and civilian compensation during periods of active duty exceeding 30 days. Directs the Secretary of the military department concerned to reimburse States or local governments for 50 percent of the civilian compensation paid by such governments to equalize military and civilian pay. Increases the reimbursement rate to 100 percent if active duty extends beyond nine months. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish an active-duty reserve component employee credit for employers who provide compensation to employees on active duty. Modifies age and service requirements for receipt of retired pay for non-regular service. Permanently extends authority for certain TRICARE benefits for members of reserve components. Makes permanent the extended time period during which members of the Armed Forces separated from active duty may seek transitional health care (repealing time limits set forth in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2004 and the Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act for Defense and for the Reconstruction of Iraq and Afghanistan). Increases the amount of basic educational assistance for members of reserve components under the Montgomery GI Bill and indexes such payments to the cost of higher education. Prohibits the termination of educational assistance for a member's failure to participate satisfactorily in required training due solely to a call to active duty. Authorizes the limited use of telecommuting to satisfy inactive-duty training. Requires the Secretary of Defense to give Selected Reserve members eligibility for travel on Department of Defense aircraft on a space-available basis.
Bill· HRH.R. 4749 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 June 2004
Transparency and Accountability in Security Contracting Act - Directs that each "covered contract" (i.e., a contract entered into by the Government with a private security contractor, or a task order issued under the contract) require contractors to provide the appropriate Government contracting officer with information at the time the contract is awarded and to update the information during contract performance regarding: (1) the number of persons being used by the contractor and subcontractors; (2) how such persons are trained; (3) their salaries and benefits; and (4) a description of each category of activity required by the covered contract. Directs that the contractor provide, before: (1) award of the contract, cost estimates of salary, insurance, materials, logistics, travel, administrative costs, and other costs of carrying out the contract; and (2) closeout of the contract, a report on the actual costs. Sets forth provisions regarding casualty reporting, oversight, waiver authority (in an emergency or exceptional situation), and revision of the Federal Acquisition Regulation. Directs the Secretary of Defense to: (1) prescribe minimum standards for the persons that private security contractors may hire for the performance of any covered contract; (2) perform a cost and effectiveness analysis, before a Federal agency enters into such a contract, for every category of potential activity that may be carried out by the private security contractor under the contract; and (3) ensure that the overall military mission would not be significantly affected if the contractor personnel refused to perform work as required under the contract.
Bill· HRH.R. 4746 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 June 2004
Selective Service Registration Termination Act - Amends the Military Selective Service Act to terminate the selective service registration requirement except in the event of a declaration of war by Congress. Prohibits sanctions against persons previously subject to registration who failed to so register prior to enactment of this Act. Suspends appointments to and meetings of civilian local boards, civilian appeal boards, or other similar local agencies of the Selective Service System during any period in which registration requirements are terminated.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 698 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 June 2004
Recognizes the 54th anniversary of the start of the Korean War. Honors members of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Bill· SS. 2573 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2004
Gold Star Parents Annuity Act - Directs the Secretary of Defense to pay a special pension to each person who has received a Gold Star lapel button as a parent of a member of the armed forces who died while serving.
Bill· SS. 2601 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2004
Requires the payment of special monthly pay to members of the uniformed services whose enlistment period is extended, or whose eligibility for retirement is suspended, due to a stop-loss order or similar mechanism.
Resolution· SRESS.Res. 397 (108th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2004
Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) the members of the armed forces and their families have performed courageously and have earned the deep gratitude of the people of the United States; (2) success in Iraq is a global priority and therefore demands cooperation and financial assistance from all states and international organizations; (3) the international community should establish additional police training academies inside and outside of Iraq, contribute additional trainers to those academies, and dedicate experienced police to train Iraq police officers in the field; (4) the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is uniquely qualified to meet Iraq's needs for security and stability; (5) NATO member states should contribute additional military and security forces toward such effort; (6) countries unable to contribute security personnel should contribute in other ways as requested by the Iraqi government; (7) countries holding debt incurred under the Saddam Hussein regime should meaningfully reduce such debt; (8) the United States is committed to a free and peaceful Iraq; and (9) it is appropriate to thank coalition partners and other countries that have helped promote security, stability, reconstruction, and democracy in Iraq.
Bill· HRH.R. 4709 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2004
Military Sexual Assault Crimes Revision Act of 2004 - Amends the Uniform Code of Military Justice to define as the crime of aggravated sexual abuse engaging in a sexual act: (1) through the use of force; (2) by threatening or placing a person in fear that any person will be subjected to death, grievous bodily harm, or kidnapping; (3) by rendering another person unconscious; (4) by administering to another person an impairing drug or intoxicant; or (5) with a person under 12 years of age whether or not the accused knew the person's age. Defines as the crime of sexual abuse engaging in a sexual act: (1) by threatening or placing a person in fear (other than in a manner that would constitute aggravated sexual abuse); (2) with a person who is incapable of either appraising the nature of the conduct or physically incapable of declining; or (3) with a person who is at least 12 but under 16 who is not the spouse of the accused whether or not the accused knew the person's age. Establishes as an affirmative defense the accused's reasonable belief that the person was at least 16. Defines sexual abuse of a prisoner as knowingly engaging in a sexual act with a person who is: (1) in official detention or confinement; (2) under the custodial, supervisory, or disciplinary authority of the accused; and (3) is not the accused's spouse. Makes the above crimes punishable by court-martial and sets forth interim maximum punishments for each.
Bill· HRH.R. 4711 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2004
Fairness in Veterans Education Act of 2004 - Eliminates reductions in basic pay applicable to eligibility for basic educational assistance for veterans under the Montgomery GI Bill.
Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 465 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2004
Commends the efforts of women and civil society in the Republic of Colombia to mitigate violence in their communities, advocate for a negotiated solution to conflict, and develop a common agenda for peace. Reaffirms the importance of including the expertise, knowledge, and experiences of Columbian women in peace dialogues, negotiations, and decisionmaking roles. Supports the protection of women and their organizations and the defense of fundamental human rights in Columbia. Calls on the Department of State, the Department of Defense, and other appropriate Federal agencies to: (1) integrate a gender perspective in U.S. policies, programs, and activities regarding the situation in Columbia; and (2) support the efforts by Columbian women to promote peace, respect for human rights, and an end to conflict and violence in Columbia.
Bill· SS. 2561 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2004
Montgomery GI Bill Enhancement Act of 2004 - Authorizes an individual, during the year following enactment of this Act, to make an irrevocable election for entitlement to basic educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill if such individual: (1) first became a member of the armed forces or entered active duty before July 1, 1985; (2) has served on active duty without a break in service and continues to serve for some or all of the year before enactment of this Act; (3) has completed requirements of a secondary school diploma or the equivalent of 12 semester hours in a program leading to a standard college degree; and (4) is discharged or released from active duty honorably. Requires such individual's basic pay to be reduced, over an 18-month period, until the total reduction is $2,700, as a contribution toward such educational assistance.
Bill· HRH.R. 4658 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2004
Servicemembers Legal Protection Act of 2004 - Amends the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) to define "judgment" for purposes of that Act as any judgment, decree, order, or ruling, whether final or temporary. Requires written waivers of rights and protections provided by the SCRA to be executed as separate instruments and in 12 point type. Extends to plaintiffs the same right to request stays of civil proceedings as is granted to defendants under the SCRA. States that a servicemember's termination of a residential or motor vehicle lease shall terminate any obligation of the servicemember's dependents under such lease. Specifies that motor vehicle lease termination provisions apply to servicemembers who receive military orders: (1) for a permanent change of station from a location in the continental United States to a location outside the continental United States or from a location in a State outside the continental United States to any location outside that State; or (2) to deploy with a military unit or as an individual in support of a military operation for not less than 180 days. Prohibits tax jurisdictions from imposing use, excise, or similar taxes on the personal property of nonresident servicemembers absent a credit for such taxes paid on the same property in another tax jurisdiction.
Bill· HRH.R. 4659 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2004
USERRA Health Care Coverage Extension Act of 2004 - Extends from 18 to 24 months the maximum period of employer-sponsored health care coverage that a person covered by the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994 (USERRA) may elect to receive while absent from employment due to service in the uniformed services. Reinstates reporting requirements for the Secretary of Labor relative to USERRA cases.
Bill· HRH.R. 4655 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2004
Patriotic Employers of Guard and Reservists Act of 2004 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow employers a business tax credit for 50 percent of the lesser of: (1) actual compensation paid to each Ready Reserve-National Guard employee while on active duty; or (2) $30,000. Allows employers a refundable credit against payroll taxes for wages paid to employees who are first responders (i.e., law enforcement officials, firefighters, paramedics, and Ready Reserve-National Guard employees). Allows employers a tax credit for 50 percent of the lesser of: (1) the wages paid to each employee hired to replace a Ready Reserve-National Guard employee or self-employed Reservist while on active duty; or (2) $12,000. Increases the amount of the credit for certain U.S. manufacturers. Disqualifies an employer for the tax credit if the employer has failed to comply with employment or reemployment rights of military personnel.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 689 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2004
Requests that the President, and directs the Secretary of State, Secretary of Defense, and Attorney General (AG) to transmit to the House of Representatives all documents in their possession (as more specifically identified in this Resolution) relating to the treatment of prisoners or detainees in Iraq, Afghanistan, or Guantanamo Bay and any instructions for handling such documents, with the exception of those documents in the AG's possession that are protected by Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 6(e) in proceedings in which the AG or the Department of Justice are parties.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 691 (108th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2004
States that the House of Representatives: (1) congratulates the Interim Government of Iraq on its forthcoming assumption of sovereign authority in Iraq; (2) offers its continued support to the people and government of Iraq as they deal with the consequences of decades of misrule by the former regime of Saddam Hussein; (3) expresses its gratitude to the U.S. armed forces for their ongoing valiant service to their country and commitment to the highest ideals and traditions of the American people; (4) expresses its gratitude to the families of U.S. armed forces personnel, especially the families of those who have lost loved ones in Operation Iraqi Freedom and of those wounded in the service of their country; (5) expresses its condolences to the families of the innocent Iraqis who have been killed or wounded during the conflict, including those who were victimized by the illegal and terrorist tactics of the enemy; (6) expresses its gratitude to the Coalition forces, the Coalition Provisional Authority, the Iraqi Governing Council, the current Iraqi cabinet and government officials, and the many international bodies and voluntary organizations which have come to the aid of the people of Iraq; (7) offers its continued support to the U.S. armed forces, civilians associated with the United States Government, Coalition forces, and Iraqi security forces; (8) calls on the international community to promote the welfare of the Iraqi people by rendering, in addition to the generous assistance provided by the American people and, in varying degrees, by some nations, immediate assistance to the Iraqi people in the reconstruction of their nation; (9) reaffirms that the U.S. armed forces operating in Iraq after June 30, 2004, will remain under the full authority and control of their American commanders; and (10) urges the people of the United States and of other countries to celebrate the restoration of Iraqi freedom.
Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 462 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2004
States that: (1) Congress reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the Taiwan Relations Act as the cornerstone of United States-Taiwan relations; (2) the military modernization and weapons procurement program of the People's Republic of China (PRC) is a matter of grave concern, particularly the missile deployment directed toward Taiwan; (3) the President should direct U.S. officials to raise these military concerns with PRC officials; (4) the President and Congress should determine whether the escalating arms buildup, including deployment of offensive weaponry and missiles in areas adjacent to the Taiwan Strait, requires that additional defense articles and services be made available to Taiwan, and the United States should encourage Taiwan to devote sufficient financial resources to its defense; (5) as recommended by the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission, the Department of Defense should provide the appropriate congressional committees with a comprehensive report on Russian military sales to the PRC; (6) the President should encourage further dialogue between Taiwan and the PRC; and (7) the United States should not discourage Taiwan officials from visiting the United States on the basis that doing so would violate the "one China policy."
Bill· SS. 2559 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 2004
Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2005 - Appropriates funds for FY 2005 for the Department of Defense (DOD) for: (1) military personnel; (2) operation and maintenance (O&M) (including for overseas contingency operations, the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces, environmental restoration, overseas humanitarian, disaster, and civic aid, and former Soviet Union threat reduction); (3) procurement (including for shipbuilding and conversion and purchases under the Defense Production Act of 1950); (4) research, development, test and evaluation (RDT&E); (5) revolving and management funds; (6) DOD medical and health care programs; (7) chemical agents and munitions destruction; (8) drug interdiction and counter-drug activities; (9) the Office of the Inspector General; (10) the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System Fund; (11) the Intelligence Community Management Account; and (12) the National Security Education Trust Fund. Specifies authorized, restricted, and prohibited uses of appropriated funds. Rescinds specified funds from various accounts under prior defense appropriations Acts. Reduces the total amount appropriated in this Act in order to: (1) reflect savings from revised economic assumptions; (2) reflect certain cash balance and rate stabilization adjustments; (3) limit excessive growth in the procurement of advisory and assistance services; (4) reflect excessive unobligated balances; and (5) limit excessive growth in travel and transportation expenses. Prohibits the use of appropriated funds for: (1) approving or licensing the sale of the F-22 advanced tactical aircraft to any foreign government; (2) RDT&E, procurement, or deployment of nuclear armed interceptors of a missile defense system; or (3) the Terrorism Information Awareness Program (with an exception). Appropriates additional funds for the Iraq Freedom Fund, to be used only to support operations in Iraq or Afghanistan. Allocates such funds among specified accounts. Authorizes the use of O&M funds for specified activities in Iraq and Afghanistan, including supporting U.S. military and security forces, assistance to the New Iraqi Army and the Afghan National Army, and providing humanitarian and reconstruction assistance.
Bill· HRH.R. 4637 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 2004
Combat Military Medically Retired Veteran's Fairness Act of 2004 - Authorizes the payment of special compensation to members of the Armed Forces retired due to disability with less than 20 years of active service who were awarded the Purple Heart. States that such payments shall be made without regard to special rules applicable to other disability retirees which require offsetting reductions.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 688 (108th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 2004
States that the House of Representatives: (1) is grateful for the support of the people and Government of Portugal; (2) commends the Government of Portugal and the Portuguese people for their friendship, leadership, and support; (3) commends the bravery of all members of the Portuguese armed forces who have participated in the effort to bring an end to international terrorism; and (4) expects the unique friendship between the United States and Portugal to continue.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 687 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 2004
States that the House of Representatives: (1) recognizes the United Nations International Day in Support of the Victims of Torture and expresses support for all victims (and families) of torture and other forms of cruel, inhumane, or degrading treatment or punishment who are struggling to overcome such practices' physical scars and psychological effects; (2) condemns the use of torture and other forms of cruel, inhumane, or degrading treatment or punishment in the United States and all countries; (3) encourages the training of law enforcement and military personnel and private contractors in the prevention of torture and other forms of cruel, inhumane, or degrading treatment or punishment; (4) reaffirms the commitment of the United States to eliminate torture in all countries and to ensure that no individual in the employment of the United States Government or under contract with the United States Government engages in torture or any act of physical or mental abuse that is cruel, inhumane, or degrading; and (5) reaffirms the commitment of the United States to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the Convention Against Torture, the Torture Victims Relief Reauthorization Act of 2003, the prohibitions against war crimes in title 18, Untied States Code, and any international convention or law that protects individuals from torture or other cruel, inhumane, or degrading punishment or treatment.
Bill· HRH.R. 4630 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2004
Requires officers on the active-duty list of the Army or Air Force to complete a tour of duty of at least one year in a Guard or Reserve duty assignment (other than a Reserve Officers Training Corps unit) in order to be eligible for promotion to brigadier general. Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to waive this requirement: (1) when necessary for the good of the service; (2) in cases where the proposed promotion is based primarily upon scientific and technical qualifications for which Guard or Reserve requirements do not exist; (3) in the case of specified medical, chaplaincy, or judge advocate positions; or (4) if the officer selected for appointment to brigadier general by a promotion board had completed at least 180 days of a Guard or Reserve duty assignment on the date such board was convened. Requires the Secretary to prescribe regulations to carry out this Act that specifically identify those categories of officers for whom the waiver applicable to scientific and technical qualifications is available.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 683 (108th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2004
Sets forth the rule for consideration of the bill (H.R. 4613) making appropriations for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2005.
Law· HRH.R. 4613 (108th)enacted
United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2004
Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2005 - Appropriates funds for FY 2005 for the Department of Defense (DOD) for: (1) military personnel; (2) operation and maintenance (including for the Overseas Contingency Operations Transfer Account, the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces, environmental restoration, overseas humanitarian, disaster, and civic aid, and former Soviet Union threat reduction); (3) procurement (including for shipbuilding and conversion, and purchases under the Defense Production Act of 1950); (4) research, development, test and evaluation; (5) revolving and management funds; (6) the Defense Health Program; (7) chemical agents and munitions destruction; (8) drug interdiction and counter-drug activities; (9) the Office of the Inspector General; (10) the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System Fund; (11) the Intelligence Community Management Account; and (12) the National Security Education Trust Fund. Specifies authorized, restricted, and prohibited uses of appropriated funds. Rescinds specified funds from various accounts under prior defense appropriations Acts. Reduces by specified amounts the total amount appropriated in this Act to: (1) reflect savings attributable to efficiencies and management improvements in the funding of miscellaneous or other contracts in military departments; (2) reduce cost growth in information technology development and modernization; (3) reflect cash balance and rate stabilization adjustments in DOD Working Capital Funds and the DOD Transportation Working Capital Fund; (4) reflect savings from revised economic assumptions; (5) reflect savings attributable to the offsetting of payments to contractors for the collection of unpaid taxes owed to the United States; and (6) reduce amounts budgeted in anticipation of the application of non-statutory funding set-asides. Appropriates additional funds, to be designated for overseas contingency operations, for DOD for: (1) military personnel; (2) operation and maintenance; (3) the Iraq Freedom Fund; (4) procurement (including National Guard and reserve equipment); (5) revolving and management funds; and (6) the Defense Health Program. Appropriates additional funds, with the same designation, for the Department of State for diplomatic and consular programs, embassy security, international disaster and famine assistance, and migration and refugee assistance. Authorizes the use of DOD funds for specified activities in Iraq and Afghanistan, including supporting U.S. military and security forces, combating terrorism, and providing humanitarian and reconstruction assistance. Reaffirms U.S. policy against the torture of prisoners of war and detainees.
Bill· HRH.R. 4621 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2004
Requires certain injuries and deaths sustained after January 1, 1980, as the result of an individual's participation in medical research programs conducted by the Department of Veterans Affairs to be treated in the same manner as injuries and deaths resulting from military service. Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide, by contract, for an independent study of the Department's experience in adjudicating claims under the statutory provision governing benefits for persons disabled by treatment or vocational rehabilitation. Requires the results of such study and related recommendations to be reported to the Secretary and the House and Senate Committees on Veterans' Affairs within one year of enactment of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 4614 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2004
Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, 2005 - Makes appropriations for energy and water development for FY 2005 for the Departments of: (1) the Army, including for the Corps of Engineers (for civil functions pertaining to rivers and harbors, flood control, shore protection, and aquatic ecosystem restoration); (2) the Interior, including for management and restoration of water and related natural resources, and for the Bureau of Reclamation; and (3) Energy (DOE), including for nuclear waste disposal, including the acquisition of real property or facility construction or expansion (i.e., Yucca Mountain nuclear repository). Limits the use of funds appropriated for contracts awarded without competition for the management and operation of various laboratories unless specified conditions are met. Requires future contracts to be made using competitive procedures, subject to specified requirements. Prohibits the use of appropriated funds to develop or implement a workforce restructuring plan that covers DOE employees. Prohibits the use of funds made available by this Act to use any license, approval, or authorization for the export, re-export, transfer, or re-transfer of nuclear materials and equipment or sensitive nuclear technology to any country whose government has been identified by the Secretary of State as engaged in state sponsorship of terrorist activities, with exceptions and subject to waivers. Makes appropriations for: (1) the Appalachian Regional Commission; (2) the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board; (3) the Delta Regional Authority; (4) the Nuclear Regulatory Commission; (5) the Office of Inspector General; and (6) the Nuclear Waste Technical Review Board.
Bill· HRH.R. 4616 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2004
Veterans' Adjustable Rate Home Loan Extension Act of 2004 - Extends through FY 2009 the hybrid adjustable rate mortgage guarantee demonstration program for veterans.
Bill· SS. 2541 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 17 June 2004
NASA Authorization Act of 2004 - Authorizes appropriations for FY 2005 through 2009 to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for: (1) the International Space Station (ISS); (2) space shuttle; (3) space flight support; (4) transportation systems; and (5) human and robotic technology. Authorizes appropriations for FY 2005 through 2009 to NASA for the following programs: (1) space science; (2) earth science; (3) biological and physical research; (4) aeronautics technology; and (5) education. Authorizes appropriations for FY 2005 through 2009 to NASA for the: (1) Office of Inspector General; and (2) Technical Engineering Authority. Directs the Administrator of NASA to: (1) establish an agency-wide lessons-learned and best practices program to ensure availability of lessons learned and best practices to NASA's employees; (2) establish within NASA a Technical Engineering Authority; (3) provide the Office of Safety and Mission Assurance direct line authority over Space shuttle safety organization and independent funding; (4) reorganize the Space Shuttle Integration Office to ensure integration of all Space Shuttle program elements; (5) recertify Space shuttle orbiters for operation prior to any operations beyond 2010; (6) establish a program to upgrade Space shuttle and ISS engineering drawing systems; and (7) submit plans for launching assembly elements, crew, and supplies to the ISS from 2010 through 2014. Prohibits the return of the Space shuttle program to launch until all safety recommendations of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board report identified as "Return to Flight" tasks have been completely satisfied. Directs the Administrator to establish a program to implement an initiative to explore the solar system and beyond. Instructs the Administrator to: (1) report on all activities and funding that support human missions to the Moon and the planet Mars; (2) submit a system requirements document for the conduct of such a mission to the Moon by 2014 and eventually to Mars; (3) submit a life cycle cost estimate for a manned mission to the Moon and annual revised estimates; (4) develop a commercialization plan to support the human missions to the Moon and Mars; and (5) develop an assessment of private sector capability to support the manned missions to the Moon and Mars. Requires program managers for major systems of the solar system exploration initiative specified above to submit quarterly reports on the total life cycle costs for such systems. Sets forth stop-loss provisions for 15 and 25 percent cost overruns. Directs NASA to report on opportunities for international cooperation from all space faring nations on a human mission to the Moon and Mars. Directs the Administrator to: (1) establish a Technology Transfer and Licensing Office within the solar system exploration initiative program and develop a technology transfer plan; (2) submit a plan for robotic lunar missions to the Moon within three years; (3) submit a legal review and interpretation of the laws and treaties governing space exploration and the possible ownership of resources on the Moon and Mars; and (4) establish a NASA Engineering School for NASA employees and contractors. Directs the NASA Chief Financial Officer to report on NASA's ability to improve its financial management. Directs the Administrator to: (1) transmit a plan for future space vehicle launches; and (2) establish an Industry Advisory Board to review opportunities for the private sector to invest in and take advantage of activities at NASA. Sets forth provisions for implementation of a pilot program for reduction in the waiting period between publication of notice of a proposed contract action and release of the solicitation for procurements conducted by NASA for certain non-commercial acquisitions with a total value in excess of $100,000, but not more than $5 million, including options. Allows the Administrator to relinquish to a State all or part of U.S. jurisdiction over lands or interests under the Administrator's control in that State. Authorizes the Administrator to carry out the Centennial Challenge Program to award prizes to stimulate innovation in research, technology development, and prototype demonstration that have the potential for application to the performance of NASA activities. Directs the Administrator to conduct a NASA-wide assessment to identify and define areas of cultural and organizational changes and to develop a plan to: (1) create a culture that promotes effective communication and encourages expression of dissenting views; (2) increase NASA's focus on human elements management and organizational development; (3) develop procedures for leadership, management, and employee training and skill development; and (4) create a system of checks and balances to ensure NASA's technical and safety standards. Authorizes the Administrator to provide to NASA civilian and military personnel stationed outside the United States allowances and benefits comparable to those provided to officers and employees of the Foreign Service. Requires the Administrator, within 60 days after the National Academy of Sciences issues its study on the future of the Hubble Space Telescope, to submit a plan on the future of the telescope. Creates the position of Assistant Administrator for Legislative Affairs in NASA. Instructs the Administrator to report on the advisability of establishing a charitable and non-profit corporation to encourage private gifts for, or in connection with, NASA and to further the public's knowledge of the Earth and space. Directs the Administrator to: (1) implement a near-Earth object survey program to detect, track, and catalog the characteristics of near-Earth asteroids and comets of 100 meters or more in diameter in order to assess the threat of such objects striking Earth; (2) submit a plan for the development and demonstration of technologies that result in specified commercial aircraft performance characteristics; (3) submit a feasibility study for the development and demonstration of technologies to enable overland flight of supersonic civil transport aircraft; and (4) establish a scholarship program for full-time graduate students in Masters degree programs in aeronautical engineering to have the opportunity for paid employment at one of the NASA Centers engaged in aeronautics research and development.
Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 453 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 17 June 2004
States that Congress: (1) celebrates the establishment of democracy in Iraq; (2) recognizes the importance of the freedoms that are being restored to the Iraqi people; (3) supports the five-step plan outlined by President Bush for the restoration of Iraqi sovereignty; (4) expresses gratitude to the members of the U.S. Armed Forces who are participating in Operation Iraqi Freedom to end the regime of Saddam Hussein and bring democracy and freedom to Iraq; (5) encourages all the people of Iraq to work together to create a new Iraq; and (6) urges the people of the United States and of other countries in all communities and congregations to ring bells on June 30, 2004, in recognition of the establishment of democracy in Iraq and the restoration of freedom to the people of Iraq.
Bill· SS. 2534 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2004
Montgomery GI Bill for the 21st Century Act - Reduces, for purposes of certain student financial aid computations, the expected family contribution for individuals receiving educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) by an amount equal to the statutory reduction in basic pay or voluntary separation incentives for such individuals. Authorizes enrollment in the MGIB basic educational assistance program by certain individuals who participated in or were eligible to participate in the post-Vietnam era veteran's educational assistance program. Provides for commencement of the ten-year delimiting period for the receipt of certain training program benefits by veterans, survivors, and dependents upon commencement of such training. Makes MGIB educational benefits available for payment of fees associated with national admissions exams and national exams for credit at institutions of higher education. Increases the maximum loan guarantee amount for veterans seeking assistance under the Veterans Administration home loan guaranty program by indexing that amount to the Freddie Mac conforming loan limit, adjusted annually.
Bill· SS. 2524 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2004
Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (Secretary) to establish and operate at least one, but not more than three, centers for research, education, and clinical activities on blast injuries. Requires the Secretary to designate a center or centers upon the recommendation of the Under Secretary for Health subject to specified requirements and findings. Requires the official within the central office of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) responsible for blast injury matters to establish a peer review panel to assess the scientific and clinical merits of proposals for the designation of centers. Authorizes clinical and scientific investigation activities at each center to compete on a priority basis for the award of funds from amounts appropriated to the Department of Veterans Affairs for medical and prosthetics research. Requires the Under Secretary for Health to ensure that useful information produced by the centers is disseminated throughout the VHA. Gives responsibility for supervising operation of the centers to the official within the central office of the VHA responsible for blast injury matters. Requires the Secretary to designate at least one center no later than January 1, 2005. Directs the Secretary to submit reports on center activities to the House and Senate Veterans' Affairs Committees.
Bill· SS. 2531 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2004
Keeping American Jobs at Home Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) prohibit tax credits or deductions for certain expenses relating to the outsourcing of goods and services from the United States; (2) provide for advance payments of the health insurance tax credit for trade adjustment assistance workers (TAA workers) for months prior to the issuance of a qualified health insurance costs credit eligibility certificate; (3) cover spouses of Medicare-eligible TAA workers under such tax credit; and (4) increase the amount of such tax credit from 65 to 75 percent of health insurance costs. Amends the Trade Act of 1974 to: (1) extend trade adjustment assistance to workers in the service sector and public agencies; (2) increase funding levels for job retraining programs; and (3) establish a wage insurance program for displaced workers which includes health insurance benefits. Creates a business judgment defense to shareholder lawsuits to protect corporate officers or directors who determine that it is in the best interest of their corporations to keep jobs or other business activities in the United States. Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), the Public Health Service Act, and the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) prevent a lapse of health care coverage for TAA workers; and (2) align coverage periods under such Acts with eligibility periods for TAA workers. Amends the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 to require a State or entity to use national emergency grant funds to provide TAA workers and their family members with health insurance coverage for periods prior to their first eligibility month.
Bill· HRH.R. 4599 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2004
Guard and Reserve Retirement Retainer Act of 2004 - Provides that, in the case of a person to whom the payment of military retired pay for non-regular (reserve) service commences after the person attains 55 years of age and before the person attains 60 years of age, the amount of such pay shall be reduced by: (1) 12.5 percent for age 55; (2) 9 percent for age 56; (3) 6 percent for age 57; (4) 3.5 percents for age 58; and (5) 1.5 percent for age 59. Prohibits any such person from receiving medical and dental care through facilities of the Department of Defense until the person has attained 60 years of age.
Bill· HRH.R. 4584 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2004
Directing Community Integration Act - Amends the National Security Act of 1947 to require the Director of Central Intelligence (DCI) to serve as head of the U.S. intelligence community (IC) "acting through the Central Intelligence Agency" (CIA), while continuing to head the CIA and serve as principal adviser to the President for national security-related intelligence matters. (Currently, requires the DCI to serve as head of the IC, head of the CIA, and serve as principal adviser to the President for national security-related intelligence matters.) Eliminates the position of Deputy Director of Central Intelligence for Community Management. Creates eight associate directorships and five assistant directorships to assist the DCI with IC responsibilities and lists their duties. Gives certain directors overlapping CIA or cross-agency duties. Establishes the positions of General Counsel of the IC, Inspector General of the IC, and Executive Director of the CIA. Strikes a statutory provision that allows the National Security Council and the President to circumscribe the DCI's access to national security-related intelligence. Requires the DCI to prepare budgets of IC elements within the National Foreign Intelligence Program and to guide budget development for other IC elements. Removes time limits applicable to personnel transfers among IC elements. Makes the DCI responsible to the President for ensuring positive IC relationships with the intelligence or security services of foreign governments. Authorizes the DCI to exercise his or her CIA authority with respect to any IC element upon written request of the element head. Requires: (1) greater coordination between the Secretary of Defense and the DCI; and (2) the DCI's concurrence in additional agency appointments. Repeals the sunset provision applicable to limits on the establishment or operation of diplomatic intelligence support centers.
Bill· HRH.R. 4590 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2004
States that the cost of delivering protective body armor to a member of the Armed Forces for use in connection with Operation Noble Eagle, Operation Enduring Freedom, or Operation Iraqi Freedom shall be included in any reimbursement for such body armor that is provided by the Secretary of Defense to the member or to another person on the member's behalf.
Bill· HRH.R. 4587 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2004
Department of Defense Office of the Victim Advocate Act of 2004 - Establishes an Office of the Victim Advocate within the Office of the Secretary of Defense to assist victims of sexual misconduct and interpersonal violence occurring among members of the Armed Forces or between members of the Armed Forces and family members and partners. Requires the Director of the Office to carry out specified coordination, evaluation and review, policy, and education and training functions, and to submit to the Secretary an annual report assessing the current state of affairs within military departments relative to interpersonal violence and sexual misconduct. Requires the Secretary to transmit the Director's report to Congress with additional comments.
Bill· SS. 2522 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2004
Amends Federal veterans' benefits law to revise the maximum amount of home loan guaranty available under the home loan guaranty program of the Department of Veterans Affairs, specifically the guaranty of any loan of more than $144,000. Replaces the current formula of the lesser of $60,000 or 25 percent of the loan with the lesser of a certain maximum guaranty amount or 25 percent of the loan. Defines maximum guaranty amount as the dollar amount equal to 25 percent of the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac) conforming loan limit limitation determined under the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation Act for a single-family residence, as adjusted for the year involved.
Bill· HRH.R. 4574 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2004
National Security Education Program Enhancement Act of 2004 - Amends the Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1992 to require the Director of Central Intelligence (DCI) to transfer specified amounts to the Secretary of Education from Intelligence Community Management (ICM) appropriations to carry out national security education scholarship, fellowship, and grant programs. Revises post-education service obligations for such programs to: (1) allow a delay in the commencement of service obligations; (2) require only a one-year obligation for scholarship recipients; and (3) allow service obligations to be served with a variety of Federal agencies. Requires the DCI to transfer ICM funds to carry out grant programs for the National Flagship Language Initiative (an Initiative for achieving advanced proficiency in languages designated as critical to national security). Amends the David L. Boren National Security Education Act of 1991 to require students receiving training under the Initiative to enter into service agreements with the intelligence community element providing such training or reimburse the United States. Directs the Secretary of Defense to take steps to increase the number of qualified educational institutions receiving Initiative grants. Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to award scholarships to U.S. citizens who are native speakers of languages designated as critical and not proficient at a professional level in English to enable them to pursue English studies. Requires recipients to enter into service agreements. Requires the DCI to transfer ICM funds to carry out such program.
Bill· HRH.R. 4573 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2004
Intelligence Community Language Capabilities Enhancement Act of 2004 - Amends the National Security Act of 1947 to create the position of Assistant Director of Central Intelligence for Language and Education (ADCI for Language and Education) who shall be appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. Establishes a foreign language proficiency requirement for certain senior level positions in the Central Intelligence Agency. Authorizes the Secretary of Defense (Secretary) and the Director of Central Intelligence (DCI) jointly to establish a program for the advancement of foreign language skills in languages critical to the intelligence community's national security activities. Authorizes heads of elements of the intelligence community, in carrying out the program, to: (1) enter into education partnership agreements with U.S. educational institutions to encourage and enhance the study of critical foreign languages; and (2) accept from dedicated personnel voluntary services in support of the program. Authorizes the DCI, acting through the heads of elements of the intelligence community, to assign certain employees of such elements as foreign language students at accredited institutions of higher education. Requires the DCI to conduct a pilot project to establish a Civilian Linguist Reserve Corps of U.S. citizens with advanced foreign language proficiency. Clarifies the functions of the National Virtual Translation Center. Directs the Secretary to conduct a study and report to appropriate congressional committees on methods to improve the recruitment and retention of qualified foreign language instructors at the Foreign Language Center of the Defense Language Institute.
Bill· HRH.R. 4572 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2004
Prohibits the Secretary of Defense from entering into any contract or agreement with the Government of Bulgaria concerning U.S. military cooperation with that Government within the territory of Bulgaria unless the Secretary certifies to Congress that U.S. citizens and corporations are afforded full due process in Bulgaria, which would be evidenced at least in part by the full and fair resolution of the claims of IBE Trade Corporation for the wrongful conversion of its shares of stock in a fertilizer plant located in Bulgaria, consistent with New York State court decisions.
Bill· SS. 2516 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 14 June 2004
Service Act for Care and Relief Initiatives for Forces Injured in Combat Engagements (SACRIFICE) of 2004 - Honors the sacrifice of members of the U.S. Armed Forces who have been killed or critically wounded in service, recognizes the heroic efforts of Armed Forces medical personnel, and supports advanced medical technologies that assist such personnel in saving lives and reducing disability rates among members of the Armed Forces. Requires the Secretary of Defense to: (1) prescribe Department of Defense (DOD) policy for providing timely notification to next of kin of the status of members of the Armed Forces who are seriously ill or injured in a combat zone; and (2) transmit a copy of that policy to the House and Senate Armed Services Committees. Authorizes FY 2005 appropriations to fund medical equipment and combat casualty technologies for the DOD.
Law· HRH.R. 4548 (108th)enacted
United States · United States Congress · 14 June 2004
Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005 - Authorizes appropriations for FY 2005 for the conduct of intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the: (1) Central Intelligence Agency; (2) Department of Defense; (3) Defense Intelligence Agency; (4) National Security Agency; (5) Departments of the Army, Navy, and Air Force; (6) Departments of State, the Treasury, Energy, and Justice; (7) Federal Bureau of Investigation; (8) National Reconnaissance Office; (9) National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency; (10) Coast Guard; and (11) Department of Homeland Security. Specifies that the amounts authorized and the authorized personnel ceilings as of September 30, 2005, for such activities are those specified in the classified Schedule of Authorizations, which shall be made available to the Senate and House Appropriations Committees and the President. Allows the Director of Central Intelligence, with the approval of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, to authorize employment of civilian personnel in excess of the number authorized for FY 2005 when necessary for the performance of important intelligence functions. Requires notification of the congressional intelligence committees on the use of such authority. Authorizes appropriations for the Intelligence Community Management Account for FY 2005, as well as for full-time personnel for elements within such Account. Authorizes appropriations for FY 2005 for the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability Fund. Specifies that the authorization of appropriations by this Act shall not be deemed to constitute authority for the conduct of any intelligence activity which is not otherwise permitted by the Constitution or laws of the United States.
Bill· SS. 2514 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2004
The Global Peacekeeping Operations Initiative Act of 2004 - Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to transfer funds to the Secretary of State for assistance to foreign military or security forces in order to enhance a country's international peacekeeping capability. States that such assistance: (1) may be used to provide equipment, supplies, training, or funding; and (2) is in addition to any other authority to provide assistance or military assistance to a foreign country.
Bill· SS. 2515 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2004
Intelligence Community Accountability Act of 2004 - Amends the National Security Act of 1947 to establish an independent Office of Inspector General for Intelligence (Office), to be headed by an Inspector General for Intelligence (IG) appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. Gives the IG responsibility for: (1) investigating, auditing, or reviewing each significant failure of the intelligence community; (2) identifying means of improving the discharge of intelligence missions; (3) keeping the Director Central Intelligence (DCI) informed about significant failures in the discharge of such missions, corrective actions, and means of improvement; and (4) identifying policies and practices of the intelligence community that may serve as a model for other components of the U.S. Government. Authorizes the IG to commence investigations. Requires the IG and other Inspector Generals in the intelligence community to mutually cooperate in the performance of their respective duties. Authorizes the IG to report to the President, DCI, or head of any element of the intelligence community on investigations conducted by the IG, as appropriate. Requires the IG to: (1) submit to the Attorney General a report on information, allegations, or complaints received by the IG regarding violations of Federal criminal law that involve intelligence community programs or operations; and (2) submit biannual reports on the activities of the IG and Office to the congressional intelligence committees.
Bill· HRH.R. 4532 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2004
Directs the Secretary of the military department concerned, as a condition to admitting a person who is a U.S. national but not a citizen into a military precommissioning program (a pre-officer program provided through a military service academy or the Senior Reserve Officers' Training Corps program), to require such person to enter into a written agreement under which the person shall agree: (1) to apply for and complete naturalization under requirements of the Immigration and Nationality Act before completion of the precommissioning program; and (2) that if failing to apply for and complete such naturalization, to be subject to the same penalties placed on individuals for failing to complete the requirements for advanced education assistance.
Bill· HRH.R. 4524 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2004
Requires the Secretary of Defense to expand the Central Command Rest and Recuperation Leave Program to provide or pay for transportation for a member of the Armed Forces who: (1) is assigned to duty inside or outside the United States in an area not previously designated for inclusion in the program; (2) receives orders for deployment to an area for which imminent danger pay is available; and (3) is granted leave in anticipation of such deployment.
Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 445 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2004
Recognizes the outstanding contribution of Native Americans to the U.S. Armed Forces and especially honors those Native Americans who gave their lives to defend freedom and democracy. Encourages Americans to study and appreciate this contribution. Thanks the members of Native American tribes whose men and women serve and have served in the Armed Forces.
Bill· SS. 2496 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 3 June 2004
Directs the Secretary of Defense to pay Helen L. O'Leary of South Bend, Indiana a specified amount representing the balance of the unpaid survivor benefits payable to her by reason of the death of her husband, Francis O'Leary, a former member of the Armed Forces, in September 1979.
Bill· HRH.R. 4512 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 3 June 2004
Medicare Prescription Drug Improvement Act - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to repeal provisions prohibiting the Secretary of Health and Human Services from interfering with the negotiations between drug manufacturers and pharmacies and prescription drug plan sponsors. Grants the Secretary authority similar to that of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Secretary of Defense, and the heads of other Federal agencies and departments that purchase prescription drugs in bulk to negotiate contracts with manufacturers of covered Medicare part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program) drugs. Eliminates the initial coverage limit on the maximum costs that may be recognized for payment purposes (including the annual deductible) with respect to prescription drug benefits. Pharmaceutical Market Access Act of 2004 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act to: (1) repeal certain sections of the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003 relating to importation of prescription drugs from Canada. and (2) restore previous law. Amends such restored law to direct the Secretary to promulgate regulations allowing qualifying individuals (in addition to pharmacists and wholesalers) to import covered products. Repeals the mandate that the Secretary require that a foreign seller specify the original source of the product and the amount of each lot of the product originally received. Amends provisions regarding the testing of imported covered products. Declares that specified tests shall not be required unless the importer is a wholesaler. Requires such tests to be conducted by the importer-wholesaler unless a product is a prescription drug subject to the provisions of this Act pertaining to counterfeit-resistant packaging. Classifies prescription drugs as misbranded if they do not incorporate specified counterfeit-resistant technologies in packaging. Directs the Secretary to require that the packaging of any subject drug incorporate specified overt optically variable counterfeit-resistant technologies.
Bill· HRH.R. 4503 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 3 June 2004
Energy Policy Act of 2004 - Sets forth a program to spur diverse energy research and development including the following: (1) energy efficiency; (2) renewable energy; (3) oil and gas; (4) coal; (5) Indian energy; (6) nuclear matters and security; (7) vehicles and motor fuels, including ethanol; (8) hydrogen; (9) electricity; and (10) energy tax incentives. Amends the National Energy Conservation Policy Act to revise energy reduction goals and performance requirements for Federal buildings. Institutes grant programs for low-income community energy efficiency and energy efficient public buildings. Revises energy conservation standards for: (1) additional consumer products; (2) affordable housing and assisted housing; and (3) Federal Housing Administration (FHA) mortgage insurance incentives for energy efficient housing. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to prescribe incentive payments for renewable energy production facilities. John Rishel Geothermal Steam Act Amendments of 2004 - Amends the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970 to revamp guidelines governing leasing and permitting for geothermal development of public and National Forest System lands, including those withdrawn for military purposes. Amends the Federal Power Act to prescribe guidelines for hydroelectric licensing proposals for alternative conditions and requirements governing project works within a Federal reservation. Instructs the Secretary of Energy to make incentive payments to promote hydroelectric production. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to make permanent: (1) the authority of the Secretary of Energy to operate the Strategic Petroleum Reserve; and (2) standby energy authorities governing the International Energy Program, including summer fill and fuel budgeting programs. Sets forth a program of production incentives that includes: (1) oil and gas royalties in kind; (2) marginal property production; (3) natural gas production in the Gulf of Mexico; and (4) oil and gas leasing in the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska. Directs the President to establish the Office of Federal Energy Project Coordination in the same manner and with the same mission as the White House Energy Projects Task Force established by a specified Executive Order. Prescribes implementation guidelines for access to Federal land for: (1) oil and gas leasing; (2) expedited permits; (3) energy rights-of-way and corridors on public and Federal lands; (4) renewable energy on Federal land; and (5) electricity transmission line rights of way on public land. Alaska Natural Gas Pipeline Act - Requires the President and the Secretaries of the Interior and of Energy to expedite the Federal decision-making process for access to Federal lands for energy projects. Prescribes parameters for Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) authorization of an Alaska natural gas transportation project and pipeline expansion following an expedited approval process. Instructs the Secretary of Labor to award grants to train adult and dislocated workers in Alaska in the skills required to construct and operate an Alaska gas pipeline system. Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to offer Federal loan guarantees to specified certificated entities for infrastructure projects. Sets forth a Clean Coal Power Initiative campaign that includes grants to universities to establish Centers of Excellence for Energy Systems of the Future. Authorizes Federal loan guarantees for designated coal gasification projects, including: (1) a loan to the owner of a specified experimental plant; (2) a coal gasification project that produces power in deregulated energy generation markets; and (3) a petroleum coke gasification polygeneration project. Modifies statutory requirements governing Federal coal leases, including acreage limitations, mining plans, and advance royalty payments. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to direct the Secretary of Energy to implement a program to facilitate production and generation of coal-based power and the installation of pollution control equipment. Indian Tribal Energy Development and Self-Determination Act of 2004 - Amends the Department of Energy Organization Act and the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to establish the Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs to promote Indian tribal energy resource development through a program of grants and loans. Price-Anderson Amendments Act of 2003 [sic] - Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to modify and extend indemnification authority and liability limits for Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) licensees and Department of Energy (DOE) contractors. Prohibits assumption by the U.S. Government of liability for certain foreign incidents. Addresses general nuclear matters, including: (1) establishment of an NRC training and fellowship program for individuals with critical nuclear safety regulatory skills; (2) elimination of pension offset; (3) a DOE decommissioning pilot program; (4) uranium sales; (5) special demonstration projects for the uranium mining industry; (6) whistleblower protection prescriptions; (7) medical isotope production; (8) uranium enrichment facilities; and (9) the national uranium stockpile. Instructs the Secretary of Energy to establish an Advanced Reactor Hydrogen Co-Generation Project. Prescribes implementation guidelines for a training program to respond to threats against designated nuclear facilities, including use of firearms by licensee security personnel and NRC certificate holders. Sets forth a transportation fuels program that uses: (1) alternative fuels for dual-fueled vehicles; (2) fuel credits for medium and heavy duty dedicated vehicles; and (3) lease condensates. Sets forth implementation guidelines for pilot programs that target: (1) alternative fueled vehicles; (2) fuel cell vehicles; (3) advanced vehicles; and (4) hybrid vehicles. Instructs the Secretary of Energy, in partnership with the private sector, to conduct programs that address production of hydrogen from diverse energy sources. Directs the President to establish an interagency task force on hydrogen fuel infrastructure for hydrogen-carrier fuels, including fleet transportation. Directs the Secretary of Energy to implement initiatives that target research, development, and commercial application in the areas of: (1) energy efficiency; (2) distributed energy and electric energy systems; (3) renewable energy; (4) nuclear energy; (5) fossil energy; (6) ultra-deepwater and unconventional natural gas, and other petroleum resource exploration and production; (7) science; and (8) energy and the environment (including international cooperation). Electric Reliability Act of 2004 - Amends the Federal Power Act to grant FERC regulatory jurisdiction over an Electric Reliability Organization. Prescribes guidelines for electric reliability standards, including electric transmission infrastructure, operation and transmission rates. Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to: (1) require electric utilities to make net metering and smart metering available upon consumer request; and (2) terminate mandatory purchase and sale requirements pertaining to cogeneration and small power production utilities. Public Utility Holding Company Act of 2004 - Repeals the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935. Amends the Federal Power Act to: (1) direct FERC to promulgate market transparency rules governing sales of electric energy at wholesale in interstate commerce, or transmission services in interstate commerce; and (2) prohibit round trip trading. Authorizes the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to issue rules that prohibit in the absence of consumer consent: (1) the change of selection of an electric utility ("slamming"); and (2) the sale of goods and services to an electric consumer ("cramming"). Mandates review of Federal agency review authorities over mergers to determine if duplicative authorities exist. Revises Federal Power Act prescriptions governing electric utility mergers. Energy Tax Policy Act of 2004 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish energy tax credits affecting: (1) residential and business property; (2) alternative motor vehicles and fuels; (3) low sulfur diesel fuel; (4) clean coal technology units; and (5) certain alternative minimum tax provisions. Amends the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 to authorize Federal grants to rural and remote communities with specified electricity costs for improved electric generation, transmission, and distribution facilities. Provides royalty payment relief for offshore oil and gas production leases under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act. Amends the Tennessee Valley Authority Act of 1933 to change the composition, operation, and duties of the Board of Directors of the Tennessee Valley Authority. Retains the effect of a specified Department of Energy Order regarding transmission security. Extends the attainment date for certain downwind ozone nonattainment areas. Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (Administrator) to establish criteria for safe and environmentally protective use of specified granular mine tailings. Amends the Clean Air Act to direct the Administrator to promulgate regulations ensuring that domestic motor vehicle fuel consumption includes renewable fuel containing ethanol. Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to make grants to provide assistance to merchant producers of methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) in making the transition from producing MTBE to producing iso-octane, iso-octene, alkylates, or renewable fuels. Prohibits the use of MTBE in motor vehicle fuel by December 31, 2014, in any State that does not specifically authorize it. Authorizes the President to determine by June 30, 2014, that this prohibition against the use of MTBE in motor vehicle fuel shall not take place and that the legal authority to prohibit its use in motor vehicle fuel shall become null and void. Eliminates the oxygen content requirement for reformulated gasoline. Conditions the Administrator's approval of State fuel restrictions upon a finding that they will neither cause fuel supply or distribution interruptions nor have a significant adverse impact on fuel producibility. Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to: (1) make loan guarantees for private sector construction of facilities for the processing and conversion of municipal solid waste and cellulosic biomass into fuel ethanol and other commercial byproducts; and (2) provide grants for construction of ethanol production facilities. Underground Storage Tank Compliance Act of 2004 - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to require the Administrator to distribute specified fund percentages from the Leaking Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund to States to pay costs incurred for regulation of underground storage tanks (USTs). Allows undistributed funds to be used for enforcing UST regulations.