Education

Supporting the goals and ideals of Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week.

United States · United States Congress · 2 March 2011

Expresses support for the goals and ideals of Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week. Reaffirms the nation's commitment to creating a world free of multiple sclerosis by promoting awareness about people that are affected with the disease, promoting new education programs, supporting research, and expanding access to medical treatment. Recognizes people living with multiple sclerosis and salutes the health care professionals and medical researchers who assist those so afflicted and continue to work to find ways to stop the progression of the disease, restore nerve function, and end multiple sclerosis forever.

EDUCATION REGULATIONS: WEIGHING THE BURDEN ON SCHOOLS AND STUDENTS

United States · United States House of Representatives · 1 March 2011

DIPLOMA Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2011

Developing Innovative Partnerships and Learning Opportunities that Motivate Achievement Act or DIPLOMA Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Education to award renewable five-year grants to states and, through them, subgrants to local consortia that include a local educational agency (LEA) and other community partners to: (1) ensure the academic, physical, social, emotional, and civic development of disadvantaged youth; and (2) strengthen their families and communities. Requires each state grantee to develop and implement a state child and youth strategy that assesses children's needs and the assets within the state that can be mobilized, coordinated, and integrated to achieve quantifiable progress toward goals that include ensuring that: (1) children are ready for school; (2) students are engaged and achieving in school; (3) students are physically, mentally, socially, and emotionally healthy; (4) schools and neighborhoods are safe and provide a positive climate for learning; (5) families are supportive and engaged in their children's education; (6) students are ready for postsecondary education and 21st Century careers; and (7) students are contributing to their communities. Directs the consortia to develop and implement a local child and youth strategy that integrates multiple private and public services into a comprehensive, coordinated continuum of services directed toward achieving quantifiable progress toward such goals. Requires the Secretary to award competitive grants directly to local consortia if appropriated funds fall below a specified amount.

An original resolution authorizing expenditures by committees of the Senate for the periods March 1, 2011, through September 30, 2011, and October 1, 2011, through September 30, 2012, and October 1, 2012, through February 28, 2013.

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2011

Authorizes expenditures by the following Senate committees from March 1, 2011-September 30, 2011, October 1, 2011-September 30, 2012, and October 1, 2012-February 28, 2013: (1) Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry; (2) Armed Services; (3) Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs; (4) Budget; (5) Commerce, Science, and Transportation; (6) Energy and Natural Resources; (7) Environment and Public Works; (8) Finance; (9) Foreign Relations; (10) Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions; (11) Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs; (12) Judiciary; (13) Rules and Administration; (14) Small Business and Entrepreneurship; (15) Veterans' Affairs; (16) Special Committee on Aging; (17) Select Committee on Intelligence; and (18) Indian Affairs. Authorizes establishment of a special reserve within funds in the account "Expenses of Inquiries and Investigations," appropriated by the legislative branch appropriations Acts for FY2011-FY2013, to be available to any committee to meet specified unpaid obligations or expenses.

A resolution designating March 2, 2011, as "Read Across America Day".

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2011

Designates March 2, 2011, as Read Across America Day. Honors Theodor Geisel (Dr. Seuss) for his success in encouraging children to discover the joy of reading. Honors the 14th anniversary of Read Across America Day. Encourages parents to read with their children for at least 30 minutes on Read Across America Day.

Keep Our PACT Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2011

Keep Our Promise to America's Children and Teachers Act or Keep Our PACT Act - Makes appropriations for: (1) school improvement programs under part A of title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 for FY2011-FY2015; and (2) the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, including specified amounts for FY2011-FY2015 and an amount determined pursuant to a specified formula (based on the number of children who received special education, the average per-pupil expenditure, and the rate of change in a state's population) for FY2016 and thereafter. Requires such appropriated amounts to be expended consistent with pay-as-you-go requirements.

Teacher Exchange Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2011

Teacher Exchange Act of 2011 - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to authorize states to use their grant under part A (Teacher and Principal Training and Recruiting Fund) of title II of the ESEA to carry out a teacher exchange sending highly qualified teachers with at least three years of teaching experience to another state in a different region for a school year. Requires: (1) at least one of the states involved in an exchange to serve a high-need local educational agency (LEA), or (2) the states to be exchanging teachers in subjects that have a high need for qualified teachers. Requires states to maintain the employment terms of teachers participating in the exchange, cover their expenses, and provide them with training. Requires the teachers to return to their state following their participation in the exchange. Authorizes LEAs to use their subgrant under part A of title II of the ESEA to carry out a teacher exchange (regardless of whether or not their states are participating in the exchange) sending highly qualified teachers with at least three years of teaching experience to another LEA in a different region for a school year. Requires: (1) at least one of the LEAs involved in an exchange to be a high-need LEA, or (2) the LEAs to be exchanging teachers in subjects that have a high need for qualified teachers. Requires LEAs to maintain the employment terms of teachers participating in the exchange, cover their expenses, and provide them with training. Requires the teachers to return to their LEA following their participation in the exchange.

Transition-to-Success Mentoring Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2011

Transition-to-Success Mentoring Act - Amends title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to reauthorize appropriations under part H (School Dropout Prevention). Establishes a transition-to-success mentoring program under part H of the ESEA requiring the Secretary of Education to award five-year grants to local educational agencies (LEAs) or partnerships between LEAs and community-based nonprofit organizations to establish, expand, or support school-based mentoring programs to assist at-risk students in transitioning from middle to high school. Requires grantees to assign to each at-risk student in his or her middle school a success coach who: (1) creates a plan of success for the student; (2) enters into an agreement with the student's parents regarding their role in implementing such plan; (3) meets with the student at least once a month to assess and assist the student's progress; (4) meets at least quarterly with the student and the student's parents, teachers, or counselors to evaluate the student's progress and revise or establish new goals for the next academic year; and (5) serves as the student's advocate between the student's parents and teachers. Authorizes the use of grant funds to train success coaches and cover the cost of any materials they use under the mentoring program.

Kelsey Smith Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2011

Kelsey Smith Act - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to require telecommunication carriers to provide, at the request of a law enforcement agency, call location information of users of a commercial mobile service or an IP-enabled voice service (e.g., cell phones) to such agencies and other public safety agencies to respond to emergency situations. Directs the Attorney General (DOJ), under the Byrne Law Enforcement Grant Program, to: (1) provide education and training to state and local law enforcement agencies and officials to collect and use call location information in emergency situations, and (2) develop and disseminate procedures to ensure that such agencies and officials have the necessary contact information to request and obtain call location information.

Light Bulb Freedom of Choice Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2011

Light Bulb Freedom of Choice Act - Amends the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 to repeal provisions concerning energy efficiency standards for general service incandescent lamps, rough service lamps, other designated lamps, and incandescent reflector lamps unless the Comptroller General has transmitted to Congress within six months after this Act's enactment a report that finds that: (1) consumers will obtain a net savings, in terms of dollars spent on monthly electric bills and expenses for new light fixtures to accommodate the use of the light bulbs required by such provisions, compared to dollars spent before their enactment; (2) the phase-out of incandescent light bulbs required by such provisions will reduce overall carbon dioxide emissions by 20% in the United States by 2025; and (3) such phase-out will not pose any health risks, including risks associated with mercury containment in certain light bulbs, to consumers or the general public, including health risks with respect to hospitals, schools, day care centers, mental health facilities, and nursing homes. Requires the report to include monthly and yearly projections of expenses for electric bills and new light fixtures for January 1, 2012, through December 31, 2017.

Expressing the need to raise awareness and promote capacity building to strategically address the lionfish invasion in the Atlantic Ocean.

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2011

Urges development of a comprehensive, scientifically based, region-wide strategy, including local management plans and international partnerships, to address the lionfish invasion in the Atlantic Ocean. Encourages raising public awareness about the lionfish invasion across the United States and its territories through outreach and education.

Encouraging Americans to recognize March 2, 2011 as "Read Across America Day".

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2011

Honors Theodor Geisel (Dr. Seuss) for his success in encouraging children to discover the joy of reading. Honors the 14th anniversary of Read Across America Day, which occurs on March 2, 2011. Encourages parents to read with their children for at least 30 minutes on Read Across America Day.

Expressing support for designation of the fourth Friday of March as "Cesar E. Chavez Day".

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2011

Expresses support for the designation of, and requests the President to issue a proclamation recognizing, Cesar E. Chavez Day. Expresses support for a curriculum in public elementary and secondary schools in the United States focusing on the goals and ideals of Chavez and his dedication to farm workers' children by organizing migrant schools. Recognizes the legacy of Chavez in denouncing the abuse of human dignity and the exploitation of the vulnerable, in promoting education, and in advancing the American Dream.

Foster Care Mentoring Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 28 February 2011

Foster Care Mentoring Act of 2011 - Amends part B (Child-Welfare Services) of title IV of the Social Security Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to award grants to states to support the establishment or expansion and operation of programs using networks of public and private community entities to provide mentoring for children in foster care. Authorizes a grant award directly to a political subdivision if the subdivision serves a substantial number of foster care youth. Prescribes program implementation guidelines, including: (1) application requirements, (2) training, (3) screening, (4) educational requirements, (5) federal and nonfederal share of funds for the program, (6) considerations in awarding grants, and (7) use of funds. Sets forth a maximum grant amount to be awarded to a state or political subdivision. Authorizes the Secretary to award a competitive grant to an eligible entity to establish a National Hotline Service or website to provide information to individuals interested in becoming mentors to youth in foster care. Instructs the Secretary of Education to implement a program to provide for the discharge or cancellation of the federal student loan indebtedness of an eligible mentor.

Further Continuing Appropriations Amendments, 2011

United States · United States Congress · 28 February 2011

Further Continuing Appropriations Amendments, 2011 - Amends the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2011 (CAA of 2011) (P.L. 111-242) to extend through March 18, 2011, specified continuing appropriations for FY2011. Designates for contingency operations directly related to the global war on terrorism pursuant to H.Res. 5 (112th Congress) and as emergency requirements pursuant to S.Con.Res. 13 (FY2010 budget resolution) certain amounts: (1) incorporated by reference in the CAA of 2011 that were previously designated as available for overseas deployments and other activities pursuant to the budget resolution, and (2) made available pursuant to paragraph (8) of section 101 of such Act. States that any language specifying an earmark in an appropriations Act for FY2010, or in a committee report or joint explanatory statement accompanying such an Act, shall have no legal effect with respect to funds appropriated by the CAA of 2011. Makes certain provisions under the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2010 relating to "Rural Development Programs--Rural Utilities Service–Distance Learning, Telemedicine, and Broadband Program" for the principal amount of broadband telecommunication loans and for the cost of certain broadband loans inapplicable to funds appropriated by the CAA of 2011. Provides funds for "Corps of Engineers-Civil-Investigations--Construction--Operations and Maintenance" at a specified rate of operations. Provides funds at a specified rate of operations for: (1) "Department of the Interior–Bureau of Reclamation (BOR)–Water and Related Resources," (2) "Department of Energy (DOE)–Energy Programs–Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy," (3) DOE–Energy Programs–Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability," (4) DOE Programs–Nuclear Energy," (5) "DOE–Energy Programs–Fossil Energy Research and Development," and (6) "DOE–Energy Programs–Science." Provides funds at a specified rate of operations for: (1) "DOE–Atomic Energy Defense Activities–National Nuclear Security Administration–Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation," (2) "DOE–Atomic Energy Defense Activities–National Nuclear Security Administration–Office of the Administrator," (3) "DOE–Environmental and Other Defense Activities–Defense Environmental Cleanup" (transfers specified funds to the "Uranium Enrichment Decontamination and Decommissioning Fund"), and (4) "DOE–Environmental and Other Defense Activities–Other Defense Activities." Makes certain provisions under the Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2010 inapplicable to funds appropriated by the CAA of 2011. Provides funding for "Independent Agencies–Election Assistance Commission (EAC)–Election Reform Programs"at a specified rate for operations. Provides funding at a specified rate for operations for: (1) "Department of Homeland Security (DHS)–Office of the Under Secretary for Management"; (2) DHS–U.S. Customs and Border Protection–Salaries and Expenses"; (3) DHS–U.S. Customs and Border Protection–Construction and Facilities Management"; (4) "DHS–Transportation Security Administration (TSA)–Aviation Security"; (5) "DHS–Coast Guard–Operating Expenses"; (6) "DHS–Coast Guard–Acquisition, Construction, and Improvements"; (7) "DHS–Coast Guard–Alteration of Bridges"; (8) "DHS–National Protection and Programs Directorate–Infrastructure Protection and Information Security"; (9) "DHS–Office of Health Affairs"; (10) "DHS–Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)–State and Local Programs"; (11) "DHS--FEMA--National Predisaster Mitigation Fund"; and (12) "DHS–Science and Technology–Research, Development, Acquisition, and Operations." Transfers specified funds from "FEMA--State and Local Programs" to "FEMA--Management and Administration." States that requirements under the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2010 shall have no force or effect with respect to: (1) reallocation of appropriated funds for the National Predisaster Fund referenced in a certain explanatory statement, or (2) the Secretary of DHS's authorized use of certain FY2008-FY2009 unobligated Coast Guard funds. Provides funding for "Smithsonian Institution–Legacy Fund" at a specified rate for operations. Provides funding at a specified rate for operations for: (1) "Department of Labor–Employment and Training Administration–Training and Employment Services," (2) "Department of Labor–Mine Safety and Health Administration–Salaries and Expenses," and (3) "Department of Labor–Departmental Management." Provides funding at a specified rate for operations for: (1) "Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)–Health Resources and Services Administration–Health Resources and Services"; (2) HHS–Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention–Disease Control, Research, and Training"; (3) HHS-Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration--Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services"; (4) HHS-Administration for Children and Families–Payments to States for the Child Care and Development Block Grant"; (5) "HHS--Administration for Children and Families–Children and Families Services Programs"; (6) "HHS–Administration on Aging, Aging Services Programs"; and (7) HHS–Office of the Secretary–General Departmental Management." Transfers amounts from the Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund and the Federal Supplementary Medical Insurance Trust for "HHS-Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services–Program Management" at a specified rate for operations. Provides funding at a specified rate for operations for: (1) "Department of Education–Education for the Disadvantaged"; (2) "Department of Education–School Improvement Programs"; (3) "Department of Education–Innovation and Improvement"; (4) "Department of Education–Safe Schools and Citizenship Education"; (5) "Department of Education–Special Education"; (6) "Department of Education–Rehabilitation Services and Disability Research"; (7) "Department of Education–Career, Technical, and Adult Education"; (8) "Department of Education–Student Financial Assistance"; and (9) "Department of Education–Higher Education." Bars the use of such funds for certain activities under the Higher Education Amendments of 1992 or the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act of 2006. Provides funding for "Institute of Museum and Library Services–Office of Museum and Library Services: Grants and Administration" at a specified rate for operations. Provides funding for "Library of Congress–Salaries and Expenses" at a specified rate for operations. Provides funding at a specified rate for: (1) "Department of Transportation (DOT)–Federal Highway Administration–Surface Transportation Priorities," and (2) "DOT–Federal Railroad Administration–Rail Line Location and Improvement Program." Bars funding for apportionment to states for the restoration, repair, construction, and other projects eligible under the surface transportation program. Makes certain provisions in the Department of Transportation Appropriations Act, 2010 within the Federal Highway Administration, the Federal Railroad Administration, and the Federal Transit Administration, inapplicable to funds appropriated by this Act. Provides funding for "Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)–Community Planning and Development–Community Development Fund" at a specified rate for operations. Specifies certain uses and limits on or prohibition against the use of funds appropriated by this Act.

Department of Peace Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 18 February 2011

Department of Peace Act of 2011 - Establishes a Department of Peace, which shall be headed by a Secretary of Peace (Secretary). Sets forth the mission of the Department, including: (1) cultivation of peace as a national policy objective; and (2) development of policies that promote national and international conflict prevention, nonviolent intervention, mediation, peaceful conflict resolution, and structured conflict mediation. Establishes in the Department: (1) the Office of Peace Education and Training, (2) the Office of Domestic Peace Activities, (3) the Office of International Peace Activities, (4) the Office of Technology for Peace, (5) the Office of Arms Control and Disarmament, (6) the Office of Peaceful Coexistence and Nonviolent Conflict Resolution, (7) the Office of Human Rights and Economic Rights, and (8) the Intergovernmental Advisory Council on Peace. Directs the Secretary of Defense (DOD) and the Secretary of State to consult with the Secretary concerning nonviolent means of conflict resolution when a conflict between the United States and any other government or entity is imminent or occurring. Transfers to the Department the functions, assets, and personnel of various federal agencies. Establishes the Federal Interagency Committee on Peace. Directs the Secretary to encourage citizens to celebrate the blessings of peace and endeavor to create peace on a Peace Day.

Equity for Injured Veterans Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 18 February 2011

Equity for Injured Veterans Act of 2011 - Extends the period of eligibility for training and rehabilitation through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for veterans with service-connected disabilities until the end of the 15 (under current law, 12) year period after the veteran's discharge from active-duty service. Allows a service-disabled veteran a subsistence allowance for six (under current law, two) months of full-time employment training following completion of a vocational rehabilitation program. Allows such a veteran who has unused VA educational assistance entitlement to use such assistance to pursue a program of education as part of a vocational rehabilitation program, as long as the Secretary of Veterans Affairs approves the educational, professional, or vocational objective chosen by the veteran. Directs the Secretary to provide reimbursement for the actual cost of child care provided by a licensed provider to a veteran who is participating in a vocational rehabilitation program, is the sole caretaker of a child, and would not otherwise be able to afford such care. Requires the Secretary to include in annual budget materials submitted to Congress information on veterans receiving vocational rehabilitation assistance who: (1) became employed, and (2) achieved independence in daily living.

Prescribe A Book Act

United States · United States Congress · 18 February 2011

Prescribe A Book Act - Creates a Pediatric Early Literacy program under which the Secretary of Education awards matching grants to nonprofit organizations for the implementation of three-part models through which: (1) health care providers encourage parents to read aloud to their children and offer them recommendations and strategies for doing so; (2) health care providers give each visiting child between the ages of six months and five-years a new, developmentally appropriate children's book to take home and keep; and (3) volunteers reading to children in health care facility waiting areas show parents the techniques and pleasures of reading aloud to children. Requires that the books provided to children under the program be obtained at a discount.

Providing amounts for the expenses of the Committee on Education and the Workforce in the One Hundred Twelfth Congress.

United States · United States Congress · 18 February 2011

Provides amounts for the expenses of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce for the 112th Congress.

Congratulating Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., on the historic milestone of 100 years of serving local and international communities, maintaining a commitment to the betterment of mankind, and enriching the lives of collegiate men throughout the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 18 February 2011

Congratulates Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., on 100 years of serving local communities and enriching the lives of collegiate men throughout the nation.

Cybersecurity and Internet Freedom Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 17 February 2011

Cybersecurity and Internet Freedom Act of 2011 - Internet Freedom Act - Declares that neither the President, the Director of the National Center for Cybersecurity and Communications, nor any officer or employee of the U.S. government shall have the authority to shut down the Internet. Establishes in the Executive Office of the President an Office of Cyberspace Policy, which shall: (1) develop a national strategy to increase the security and resiliency of cyberspace; (2) oversee, coordinate, and integrate federal policies and activities relating to cyberspace security and resiliency; (3) ensure that all federal agencies comply with appropriate guidelines, policies, and directives from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), other federal agencies with responsibilities relating to cyberspace security or resiliency, and the National Center for Cybersecurity and Communications (established by this Act); and (4) ensure that federal agencies have access to, receive, and appropriately disseminate law enforcement, intelligence, terrorism, and any other information relevant to the security of specified federal, military, and intelligence information infrastructure. Requires the President to appoint a Director of Cyberspace Policy. Provides for access by the Director to specified cybersecurity-related information. Requires the Director to submit an annual report describing the activities, ongoing projects, and plans of the federal government designed to meet national strategy goals and objectives. Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (HSA) to establish within DHS a National Center for Cybersecurity and Communications (NCCC), which shall be headed by a Director, who shall: (1) work cooperatively with the private sector and lead the federal effort to secure, protect, and ensure the resiliency of the federal and national information infrastructure; and (2) work with the Assistant Secretary for Infrastructure Protection to coordinate the information, communications, and physical infrastructure protection responsibilities and activities of NCCC and the Office of Infrastructure Protection. Transfers to NCCC the National Cyber Security Division, the Office of Emergency Communications, and the National Communications System. Establishes within NCCC the United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team, which shall: (1) collect, coordinate, and disseminate information on risks to specified federal information infrastructure and security controls; and (2) establish a mechanism for engagement with the private sector. Requires the NCCC Director to: (1) establish a program for sharing information with and between NCCC and other federal agencies; (2) develop guidelines to protect the privacy and civil liberties of U.S. persons and intelligence sources and methods; (3) establish a program to promote and provide technical assistance relating to the implementation of best practices and related standards and guidelines for securing the national information infrastructure; and (4) identify and evaluate the cyber risks to covered critical infrastructure on a continuous and sector-by-sector basis and issue regulations establishing risk-based security performance requirements to secure covered critical infrastructure against cyber risks. Authorizes the President to issue a declaration of a national cyber emergency to covered critical infrastructure if there is an ongoing or imminent action by any individual or entity to exploit a cyber risk in a manner that attempts to disrupt the operation of the information infrastructure essential to the reliable operation of covered critical infrastructure. Requires the President to notify the owners and operators of the infrastructure of the nature of the emergency, consistent with the protection of intelligence sources and methods. Requires the NCCC Director to take specified steps, including immediately directing the owners and operators to implement required response plans and to ensure that emergency actions represent the least disruptive means feasible to operations. Prohibits any other federal entity, pursuant to such authority, from: (1) restricting or prohibiting communications over, and not specifically directed to or from, covered critical infrastructure unless the Director determines that no other emergency action will preserve the reliable operation of such infrastructure or the national information infrastructure; (2) controlling covered critical infrastructure; (3) compelling the disclosure of information unless specifically authorized by law; or (4) intercepting a wire, oral, or electronic communication, accessing a stored electronic or wire communication, installing or using a pen register or trap and trace device, or conducting electronic surveillance relating to an incident unless otherwise authorized by specified statutes. Requires the President to ensure that any declaration or extension is reported to the appropriate congressional committees before the Director mandates any emergency measure or actions. Terminates such an emergency measure or action 30 days after the President's declaration and authorizes extensions for not more than 3 additional 30-day periods under certain conditions if approved by a joint resolution by Congress. Requires each owner or operator of covered critical infrastructure to certify to the NCCC Director whether the owner or operator has developed and implemented approved security measures and any applicable emergency measures or actions required for any cyber risks and national cyber emergencies. Sets forth civil penalties for violations. Requires the DHS Secretary and the private sector to develop, periodically update, and implement a supply chain risk management strategy designed to ensure the security of the federal information infrastructure. Sets forth provisions regarding the information security authority and functions of the NCCC Director and executive agency responsibilities. Requires the Director to annually oversee, coordinate, and develop guidance for the effective implementation of operational evaluations of the federal information infrastructure and agency information security programs and practices to determine their effectiveness. Authorizes the Director to order the isolation of any component of the federal information infrastructure if: (1) an agency does not implement measures in an approved risk-based plan; and (2) the failure to comply presents a significant danger to the federal information infrastructure. Establishes in the executive branch a Federal Information Security Taskforce, which shall be the principal interagency forum for collaboration regarding best practices and recommendations for agency information security and the security of the federal information infrastructure. Requires each agency with an Inspector General appointed under the Inspector General Act of 1978 to assess the adequacy and effectiveness of the information security program and evaluations. Requires the assessments to be performed in accordance with standards developed by the Government Accountability Office, in collaboration with the Council of Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency, with assistance from the Taskforce. Provides for the delegation of the Director's authorities to the Secretary of Defense and the Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) under specified circumstances where unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction of information would have a debilitating impact on the missions of the Department of Defense (DOD) and the CIA. Requires the Director of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and the NCCC Director to assess the readiness and capacity of the federal workforce to meet the needs of the cybersecurity mission of the federal government. Requires the OPM Director to develop a comprehensive workforce strategy that enhances the readiness, capacity, training, and recruitment and retention of federal cybersecurity personnel. Requires the head of each federal agency to: (1) develop a strategic cybersecurity workforce plan as part of its performance plan; and (2) measure and collect information on indicators of the effectiveness of the recruitment and hiring of a workforce needed to fulfill the agency's cybersecurity mission. Requires the OPM Director, in coordination with: (1) the NCCC Director, to develop and issue comprehensive occupation classifications for federal employees engaged in cybersecurity missions; and (2) the NCCC Director, the Director of National Intelligence, the Secretary of Defense, and the Chief Information Officers Council (CIOC), to establish a cybersecurity awareness and education curriculum that shall be required for all federal employees and contractors engaged in the design, development, or operation of agency information infrastructure. Amends HSA to direct the Under Secretary for Science and Technology, in coordination with the NCCC Director, to carry out a research and development program for the purpose of improving the security of information infrastructure. Directs the DHS Secretary to establish a National Cybersecurity Advisory Council to advise the NCCC Director. Amends HSA to direct the Secretary: (1) in establishing and maintaining a prioritized critical information infrastructure list, to consider cyber risks and consequences by sector; and (2) to establish and maintain a list of systems or assets that constitute covered critical infrastructure. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) identification of covered critical infrastructure, compliance with requirements regarding such designation, and development of a process under which an owner or operator of a system or asset that may constitute covered critical infrastructure may request that it be identified as such; and (2) the use of acquisition authorities by NCCC and a semiannual reporting requirement. Requires the Administrator for Electronic Government and Information Technology, in coordination with CIOC, the Taskforce, and the Council on Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency, to evaluate and report on agency adoption and implementation of appropriate information security related policies, memoranda, and directives issued by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).

Critical Minerals and Materials Promotion Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 17 February 2011

Critical Minerals and Materials Promotion Act of 2011 - Directs the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the United States Geological Survey (USGS), to establish a research and development program to: (1) provide data and scientific analyses for research on, and assessments of the potential for, undiscovered and discovered resources of critical minerals and materials in the United States and other countries; (2) analyze and assess current and future critical minerals and materials supply chains; and (3) cooperate with international partners to ensure that the research and assessment programs provide analyses of the global supply chain of critical minerals and materials. Directs the Secretary of Energy (DOE) to conduct a research, development, and demonstration program to strengthen the domestic critical minerals and materials supply chain for clean energy technologies, and to ensure the long-term, secure, and sustainable supply of critical minerals and materials sufficient to strengthen the national security and meet the clean energy production needs of the United States. Directs the Secretary of Energy to promote the development of the critical minerals and materials industry workforce in the United States by supporting: (1) critical minerals and materials education by providing undergraduate and graduate scholarships and fellowships at institutions of higher education, including technical and community colleges; (2) partnerships between industry and institutions of higher education, including technical and community colleges, to provide onsite job training; and (3) development of courses and curricula on critical minerals and materials. Expresses the policy of the United States to promote an adequate and stable supply of critical minerals and materials necessary to maintain national security, economic well-being, and industrial production with appropriate attention to a long-term balance between resource production, energy use, a healthy environment, natural resources conservation, and social needs. Directs the President take specified steps to implement such policy.

Better Use of Light Bulbs Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 February 2011

Better Use of Light Bulbs Act - Repeals provisions of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 concerning lighting energy efficiency, including provisions that: (1) prescribe energy efficiency standards for general service incandescent lamps, rough service lamps, and other designated lamps; (2) direct the Secretary of Energy (DOE) to conduct and report to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) on an annual assessment of the market for general service lamps and compact fluorescent lamps; (3) direct the Secretary to carry out a proactive national program of consumer awareness, information, and education about lamp labels and energy-efficient lighting choices; (4) prohibit a manufacturer, distributor, retailer, or private labeler from distributing in commerce specified adapters for incandescent lamps; (5) authorize the Secretary to carry out a lighting technology research and development program; (6) set forth minimum energy efficiency standards for incandescent reflector lamps; (7) sets forth requirements for the use of energy efficient lighting fixtures and bulbs in public building construction, alteration, and acquisition; and (8) require metal halide lamp fixtures and energy efficiency labeling for designated consumer electronic products to be included within the Energy Policy and Conservation Act's (EPCA) regulatory oversight. Provides that EPCA shall be applied and administered as if such provisions had not been enacted.

Prescribe A Book Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 February 2011

Prescribe A Book Act - Creates a Pediatric Early Literacy program under which the Secretary of Education awards matching grants to nonprofit organizations for the implementation of three-part models through which: (1) health care providers encourage parents to read aloud to their children and offer them recommendations and strategies for doing so; (2) health care providers give each visiting child between the ages of six months and five-years a new, developmentally appropriate children's book to take home and keep; and (3) volunteers reading to children in health care facility waiting areas show parents the techniques and pleasures of reading aloud to children. Requires that the books provided to children under the program be obtained at a discount.

Promoting Health as Youth Skills In Classrooms And Life Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 February 2011

Promoting Health as Youth Skills In Classrooms And Life Act - Amends the Department of Education Organization Act to establish an Office of Safe and Healthy Students in the Department of Education to assume the responsibilities of the Office of Safe and Drug-Free Schools and expand such responsibilities to broader health and physical education issues. Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to include health education and physical education in the definition of "core academic subjects." Requires each state to determine the most feasible measure for assessing students in health education and physical education, including through adaptive assessments, to measure student knowledge and performance against state standards. Authorizes the Secretary of Education to award grants to, and enter into contracts with, local educational agencies (LEAs), community-based organizations, and nonprofit organizations to initiate, expand, and improve health education programs for students in kindergarten through grade 12, especially in rural areas. Authorizes appropriations for FY2012-FY2016 for the Carol M. White Physical Education Program, which provides matching grants to LEAs and community-based organizations to initiate, expand, and improve physical education programs (including after-school programs) for students in kindergarten through grade 12.

I Teach Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 17 February 2011

Incentives to Educate American Children Act of 2011 or the I Teach Act of 2011- Amends the Internal Revenue Code to permit a refundable tax credit of $1,000 for: (1) teachers in public elementary or secondary schools or public kindergartens in rural areas or areas with high poverty; and (2) teachers certified by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. Increases such credit to $2,000 for a teacher meeting both requirements.

Phylicia's Law

United States · United States Congress · 17 February 2011

Phylicia's Law - Requires each local educational agency (LEA) that receives funds under the Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities program to develop and make publicly available a written school safety policy for off-premises, overnight field trips. Encourages the Secretary of Education to provide guidance to such LEAs by taking the steps necessary, such as hosting a conference of interested parties, to further the development of a model school safety policy for such trips.

Graduation Promise Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 17 February 2011

Graduation Promise Act of 2011 - Authorizes the Secretary of Education to make grants to states and, through them, subgrants to local educational agencies (LEAs) for differentiated high school improvement systems targeting support to schools with low student achievement and graduation rates after such schools fail for two consecutive years to make adequate yearly progress (AYP) pursuant to state academic performance standards. Allots grant funds to states pursuant to a formula that favors states with low graduation rates and a high percentage of students attending low-income LEAs. Requires state grantees to establish comprehensive school performance indicators and minimum annual improvement benchmarks for use, in addition to current AYP measures, in analyzing school performance and determining the improvement category into which a school is placed. Directs LEA subgrantees to: (1) categorize each of their schools that fail to make AYP for two consecutive years as needing targeted intervention, whole school reforms, or replacement; (2) convene a local school improvement team for each of such schools that will use performance indicators, AYP measures, and other relevant data to conduct a school needs assessment and develop a multiyear school improvement plan tailored to the school's need categorization; and (3) support the successful implementation of such plans and district-wide high school improvement strategies. Authorizes the Secretary to award competitive grants to LEAs, nonprofit organizations, and institutions of higher education to develop and implement, or replicate, effective secondary school models for struggling students and dropouts.

Mental Health in Schools Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 17 February 2011

Mental Health in Schools Act of 2011 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to revise a community children and violence program to assist local communities and schools in applying a public health approach to mental health services, including by: (1) revising eligibility requirements for a grant, contract, or cooperative agreement; and (2) providing for comprehensive school mental health programs that are culturally and linguistically appropriate and age appropriate. Makes only a partnership between a local educational agency and at least one community program or agency that is involved in mental health eligible for such funding. Sets forth assurances required for eligibility, including that: (1) the local education agency will enter into a memorandum of understanding with relevant community-based entities that clearly states the responsibilities of each partner; (2) the program will include training of all school personnel, family members of children with mental health disorders, and concerned members of the community; and (3) the program will demonstrate the measures to be taken to sustain the program after funding terminates. Requires the Administrator of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to develop a process for evaluating grant program activities, including: (1) the development of guidelines for the submission of program data by recipients; and (2) the development of measures of outcomes to be applied by recipients in evaluating programs, to include student and family measures and local educational measures.

THE VALUE OF EDUCATION CHOICES: SAVING THE D.C. OPPORTUNITY SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

United States · United States Senate · 16 February 2011

Budget Control Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 16 February 2011

Amends the Education Sciences Reform Act of 2002 to make any contract of the Institute of Education Sciences for the establishment of a regional educational laboratory that is effective on, or entered into after, January 1, 2011, subject to 1 extension of not more than 12 months, at the Secretary of Education's discretion.

Pancreatic Cancer Research and Education Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 February 2011

Pancreatic Cancer Research and Education Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish and implement a Pancreatic Cancer Initiative to assist in coordinating activities to address the high mortality rate associated with pancreatic cancer. Requires the Secretary to establish the Interdisciplinary Pancreatic Cancer Coordinating Committee to: (1) provide advice on overall research objectives and benchmarks for pancreatic cancer research; (2) develop within six months of establishment of the committee and every five years thereafter a strategic plan for pancreatic cancer research awareness; and (3) conduct evaluations and make recommendations as needed to the Secretary, the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the Director of the National Cancer Institute (NCI) regarding the prioritization and award of NIH research grants relating to pancreatic cancer. Requires the Secretary to develop a primary care provider education program on pancreatic cancer. Requires the Director of NCI and the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to develop a communication tool kit for patients and their families that focuses on specific pancreatic cancer issues relating to patient choices and patient care. Allows the Secretary to award grants to research institutions for use in developing innovative compounds or technologies for the prevention, early detection, or treatment of those cancers with five-year survival rates of less than 50%. Requires the Secretary to focus on pancreatic cancer during the initial five fiscal years of awarding such grants. Allows the Secretary to designate two additional Specialized Programs of Research Excellence focusing solely on pancreatic cancer research.

Seven Point Plan for Growing Jobs Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 February 2011

Seven Point Plan for Growing Jobs Act - Amends the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 to direct the Secretary of Labor to establish a Manufacturing Job Training National Program and make grants to state governors and agencies with responsibility for labor programs to plan and develop a new program of employment and training activities that targets the specific needs of manufacturers. Amends the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 to direct the Secretary to provide workplace development and economic assistance to eligible recipients affected by the base realignment and closure (BRAC) activities established by the Secretary of Defense (DOD) in 2005. Directs the Secretary to review job training programs to identify ways to increase efficiency and reduce duplicative and unnecessary processes and activities in such programs. Directs the Secretary of Energy to: (1) carry out an offshore wind energy research and deployment program, and (2) award grants to institutions of higher education to establish one or more national offshore wind centers. Amends the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010 to extend reductions in the employment tax to employers and certain self-employed individuals. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) make permanent accelerated depreciation for qualified leasehold and restaurant buildings and improvements, nonresidential real property and residential rental property, and increased depreciation and expensing allowances for business and investment property; (2) extend through 2016 the tax credit for increasing research activities; (3) increase the rate of the alternative simplified research tax credit; (4) repeal provisions added by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act that require reporting of payments made to corporations of $600 or more; and (5) eliminate the tax credit for ethanol used as fuel. Imposes new requirements on federal agencies relating to regulatory actions. Allows a reduction or waiver of civil penalties on small entities for failures to comply with regulatory requirements. Extends to all portions of the Interstate Highway System in Maine and Vermont the application of vehicle weight limit laws and regulations of those states in lieu of federal vehicle weight limits. Amends the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States to eliminate the additional tariff on ethanol and ethanol fuel mixtures. Prohibits the consideration by Congress of any legislation that would cause discretionary spending limits to exceed levels specified for FY2012-FY2014. Amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to impose limits on farm subsidies based upon the adjusted gross income of the recipient.

An original resolution authorizing expenditures by the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.

United States · United States Congress · 16 February 2011

Authorizes expenditures by the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions for the 112th Congress.

Recalcitrant Cancer Research Act of 2012

United States · United States Congress · 16 February 2011

Pancreatic Cancer Research and Education Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish and implement a Pancreatic Cancer Initiative to assist in coordinating activities to address the high mortality rate associated with pancreatic cancer. Requires the Secretary to establish the Interdisciplinary Pancreatic Cancer Coordinating Committee to: (1) provide advice on overall research objectives and benchmarks for pancreatic cancer research; (2) develop and update not less than every five years a strategic plan for pancreatic cancer research awareness; and (3) conduct evaluations and make recommendations as needed to the Secretary, the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the Director of the National Cancer Institute (NCI) regarding the prioritization and award of NIH research grants relating to pancreatic cancer. Requires the Secretary to develop a primary care provider education program on pancreatic cancer. Requires the Director of NCI and the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to develop a communication tool kit for patients and their families that focuses on specific pancreatic cancer issues relating to patient choices and patient care. Allows the Secretary to award grants to research institutions for use in developing innovative compounds or technologies for the prevention, early detection, or treatment of those cancers with five-year survival rates of less than 50%. Requires the Secretary to focus on pancreatic cancer during the initial five fiscal years of awarding such grants. Allows the Secretary to designate two additional Specialized Programs of Research Excellence focusing solely on pancreatic cancer research.

Coral Reef Conservation Act Reauthorization and Enhancement Amendments of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 16 February 2011

Coral Reef Conservation Act Reauthorization and Enhancement Amendments of 2011 - Amends the Coral Reef Conservation Act of 2000 to extend the award of remaining coral reef conservation program grant funds to appropriate projects, including monitoring and assessment, research, pollution reduction, education, and technical support. Authorizes actions to: (1) minimize injury to a coral reef or loss of an ecosystem function resulting from human activities; and (2) stabilize, repair, or restore the reef. Deems specified terms (such as "sanctuary resources" and "national marine sanctuary") to include any coral reef that is subject to the jurisdiction of the United States or (subject to state consent) any state, regardless of whether the reef is in a national marine sanctuary. Makes the destruction, loss, or injury of a coral reef not unlawful in certain circumstances, including if it was: (1) from permitted usage of fishing gear; (2) caused by an authorized activity; (3) subject to exception, the necessary result of marine scientific research; (4) caused by a federal agency in certain circumstances; or (5) unavoidable. Modifies the Act's purposes, the goals and objectives of the national coral reef action strategy, and the Act's authorized activities. Allows the Coral Reef Conservation Fund to be used to address emergency response actions. Authorizes the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to: (1) make community-based planning grants for increased protection of high priority coral reefs; (2) maintain an inventory of all coral reef vessel groundings; (3) identify all coral reefs with a high incidence of vessel impacts; and (4) identify measures to reduce such impacts. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to submit an international coral reef ecosystem strategy to Congress and authorizes the Secretary to establish an international coral reef ecosystem partnership program. Establishes the U.S. Coral Reef Task Force to coordinate federal actions. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior, subject to appropriations, to provide financial assistance for coral reef conservation.

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the medical device tax, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 16 February 2011

Repeals the provision of the Internal Revenue Code, added by the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010, that imposes an excise tax on medical devices. Rescinds $39 billion of appropriated but unobligated discretionary funds. Exempts unobligated funds of the Department of Defense (DOD) or the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to determine and identify from which appropriation accounts such recissions shall apply and report to the Secretary of the Treasury and Congress on such recissions.

Youth Corps Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 15 February 2011

Youth Corps Act of 2011 - Amends the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 to authorize the Secretary of Labor to make grants to eligible public or private nonprofit agencies or organizations to carry out Youth Corps programs that utilize the Youth Corps model to provide eligible youth age 16 through 24 with education and work readiness training to enable them to find employment in the economy of the 21st century, and instill in them a sense of civic engagement and environmental stewardship. Defines "Youth Corps model" as a youth education and training program for which an eligible entity provides eligible youth, among other things, with stipended or paid work experience and basic and technical skills training leading to: (1) enrollment in postsecondary education or training, (2) attainment of an industry-recognized certification or credential, (3) meaningful employment in the economy of the 21st century, or (4) military service.

Hospital Energy Independence Act

United States · United States Congress · 15 February 2011

Hospital Energy Independence Act - Directs the Secretary of Energy (DOE) to establish a pilot program to award grants and loan guarantees to no more than six hospitals, including academic facilities that specialize in scientific research, provide patient care, and serve as health and medical education centers, during FY2011-FY2012 to carry out energy conservation projects for: (1) significantly improving energy efficiency; and (2) encouraging on-site power generation and energy storage, capable of operating independent of the grid, and providing sufficient on-site emergency backup power for essential hospital functions.

Ana Margarita Guzman, of Texas, to be a Member of the National Security Education Board for a term of four years, vice George M. Dennison, term expired.

United States · United States Senate · 14 February 2011

Michael E. Guest, of South Carolina, to be a Member of the National Security Education Board for a term of four years, vice James William Carr, term expired.

United States · United States Senate · 14 February 2011

To deauthorize and rescind funding for the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and health-care-related provisions of the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010.

United States · United States Congress · 14 February 2011

Deauthorizes appropriations to carry out the provisions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the health care provisions of Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010. Rescinds any unobligated balances of funds appropriated to carry out such provisions.

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States regarding the right of all citizens of the United States to a public education of equal high quality.

United States · United States Congress · 14 February 2011

Constitutional Amendment - Provides that all persons shall enjoy the right to a public education of equal high quality.

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States restoring religious freedom.

United States · United States Congress · 14 February 2011

Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits: (1) infringement of the right to pray and recognize religious beliefs, heritage, or traditions on public property, including schools; and (2) government from requiring any person to join in religious activity, initiate or designate school prayers, discriminate against religion, or deny equal access to a benefit on account of religion.

African Investment and Diaspora Act

United States · United States Congress · 11 February 2011

African Investment and Diaspora Act - Directs the President to appoint a Special Representative for United States-Africa Trade, Development, and Diaspora Affairs within the Department of State. States that the Special Representative should be a person of distinction, culturally sensitive to the underserved African Diaspora in the United States, with substantial experience in matters of trade or economic development and in matters relating to African Diaspora relations with Africa. Directs the Secretary of State to establish, within the Department of State, the Office of United States-Africa Trade, Development, and Diaspora Affairs, with the Special Representative as its head. Directs the Special Representative to establish five regional United States-Africa Trade, Development, and Diaspora Affairs public outreach, education, and liaison centers. Requires the Special Representative and the Office to: (1) promote U.S.-African trade and investment relations and foster socioeconomic development and economic growth; (2) design and implement public outreach, education, and liaison programs and activities intended to foster U.S.-African economic, technical, social, and cultural ties; (3) facilitate and increase the number of international learning exchange, professional, training, and educational programs between Africa and the United States; (4) establish a publicly accessible database through which U.S. and African businesses, academics, and organizations can communicate and establish ties; and (5) consult with African governments, the African Union, African intergovernmental subregional organizations, public-private partnership entities, private businesses and foundations, nongovernmental organizations, and U.N. agencies with respect to matters of Africa-related trade, economic development, and African-African Diaspora relations.

Urban Jobs Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 11 February 2011

Urban Jobs Act of 2011 - Amends the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 to authorize the Secretary of Labor to make grants to the National Urban League to operate, through local affiliates, an Urban Jobs Program to provide job training, education, and support services and activities for eligible young adults to prepare them for entry into the workforce. Defines "eligible young adults" as individuals ages 18 to 24 who: (1) are not enrolled in secondary or post-secondary school, or (2) are or have been subject to the criminal justice process. Directs the Secretary to establish a National Jobs Council Advisory Committee. Expresses the sense of Congress that National Urban League affiliates should establish local jobs council advisory committees to aid in establishing local community support for local implementation of the program.

Put School Counselors Where They're Needed Act

United States · United States Congress · 11 February 2011

Put School Counselors Where They're Needed Act - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to direct the Secretary of Education to implement a demonstration project providing competitive, 4-year grants to at least 10 secondary schools that have a 4-year adjusted cohort graduation rate of 60% or lower, for the provision of additional school counselors and counselor resources. Expresses the sense of Congress that grantees should provide one additional counselor for every 250 students at risk. Requires the additional school counselors to serve primarily students identified as being at risk of not graduating in four years. Makes grantees that demonstrate progress in improving their graduation rates eligible for subsequent grants.

Save Our States Act

United States · United States Congress · 11 February 2011

Save Our States Act - Delays the effective date of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the health care provisions of the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010, and prohibits the federal government from promulgating any further regulations or otherwise preparing to implement the the provisions of such Acts, until the U.S. Supreme Court renders a judgment that includes a holding on the constitutionality of the requirement to maintain minimum essential coverage in any case pending before a federal court on the date of the enactment of this Act.

Disaster Relief Appropriations Act, 2013

United States · United States Congress · 11 February 2011

Full-Year Continuing Appropriations Act, 2011 - Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2011 - Appropriates funds for FY2011 to the Department of Defense (DOD) for: (1) military personnel; (2) operation and maintenance, including for the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces, environmental restoration, overseas humanitarian, disaster, and civic aid, former Soviet Union cooperative threat reduction, and the DOD Acquisition Workforce Development Fund; (3) procurement, including for aircraft, missiles, weapons, tracked combat vehicles, ammunition, shipbuilding and conversion, National Guard and Reserve equipment, and purchases under the Defense Production Act of 1950; (4) research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E); (5) Defense Working Capital Funds and the National Defense Sealift Fund; (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) overseas contingency operations, including military, reserve, and National Guard personnel, operation and maintenance, the Afghanistan Infrastructure Fund, the Afghanistan Security Forces Fund, the Iraq Security Forces Fund, procurement, the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicle Fund, RDT&E, and the Joint Improvised Explosive Device Defeat Fund. Specifies authorized, restricted, and prohibited uses of appropriated funds. Rescinds specified funds from various accounts under prior defense appropriations Acts. Makes continuing appropriations for FY2011. Appropriates amounts for continuing operations, projects, or activities which were conducted in FY2010 and for which appropriations, funds, or other authority were made available in: (1) the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2010; (2) the Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2010; (3) the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2010; (4) the Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2010; (5) the Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 2010; (6) the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2010; (7) chapter 1 of title I of the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2010 that addresses guaranteed loans in the rural housing insurance fund (except for the Secretary of Agriculture's authority to waive certain fees for very low- and low income borrowers); and (8) the United States Patent and Trademark Office Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2010 for the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Provides funding under this division through FY2011. Authorizes continuation of other specified activities (including activities for entitlements and other mandatory payments) through such fiscal year. Bars any language specifying an earmark in an appropriations Act for FY2010, or in a committee report or joint explanatory statement accompanying such an Act, from having legal effect with respect to funds appropriated by this Act. Prohibits the use of funds appropriated or otherwise made available to transfer, release, or assist in the transfer of, or release to or within the United States, its territories, or possessions of, Khalid Sheikh Mohammed or any other detainee who: (1) is not a U.S. citizen or a member of the U.S. Armed Forces; and (2) is or was held by DOD on or after June 24, 2009, at the U.S. Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Establishes the level of funding for specified agricultural and rural development programs, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and related agencies programs. Establishes the level of funding for the Department of Commerce, the Department of Justice (DOJ), and for science and related agencies. Authorizes, restricts, or prohibits specified uses of appropriated funds in the Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2010, with respect to funds appropriated by this Act. Establishes the level of funding for: (1) energy and water development, and related agencies; (2) financial services and general government; (3) the Department of Homeland Security (DHS); and (4) the Department of the Interior, the Environmental and Protection Agency (EPA), and related agencies. Requires specified federal departments and agencies to report to congressional appropriations committees on a spending, expenditure, or operating plan for FY2011 at a detail level below the account level. Establishes the level of funding for: (1) the Departments of Labor, of Health and Human Services (HHS), of Education, and related agencies; (2) the legislative branch; and (3) DOD military construction, Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA), and related agencies. Establishes the level of funding for: (1) the Department of State, foreign operations, and related programs; and (2) the Department of Transportation (DOT), the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and related agencies. Specifies authorized, restricted, and prohibited uses of appropriated funds. Rescinds and/or reduces specified funds from or within various accounts. Rescinds all unobligated balances remaining available as of February 11, 2011, of the discretionary appropriations provided by division A of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2000. Excludes from such requirement funds appropriated or otherwise made available to Offices of Inspector General and the Recovery Act Accountability and Transparency Board by such division A. Specifies the amounts by which each applicable allocation of new budget authority made by the Committee on Appropriations exceeds the amount of related proposed new budget authority (thereby establishing a spending reduction account).

EDUCATION IN THE NATION: EXAMINING THE CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FACING AMERICA'S CLASSROOMS

United States · United States House of Representatives · 10 February 2011