Education

Captive Wildlife Safety Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 October 2002

Captive Wildlife Safety Act - Amends the Lacey Act Amendments of 1981 to define "prohibited wildlife species" as any live lion, tiger, leopard, cheetah, jaguar, or cougar. Declares it a prohibited act for any person to import, export, transport, sell, receive, acquire, or purchase in interstate or foreign commerce any prohibited wildlife species. Exempts from this prohibition licensed zoos, circuses, accredited sanctuaries, federally-licensed breeders, State entities (universities, wildlife rehabilitators or veterinarians), any incorporated humane society, animal shelter, or society for the prevention of cruelty to animals, persons transporting prohibited wildlife species to any such facility, and specified related organizations.

Maggie's Law: National Drowsy Driving Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 3 October 2002

Maggie's Law: National Drowsy Driving Act of 2002 - Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to enter into agreements with, and make grants to, State highway offices and other driving safety organizations to obtain and distribute national, State, and local drowsy driving education programs and supporting materials. Directs that grant funds be used to: (1) implement programs designed to prevent deaths and injuries due to drivers who are impaired by fatigue and sleep deprivation; (2) develop a standardized curriculum on the risks and prevention of drowsy driving and fall-asleep motor vehicle crashes; (3) collaborate with national drowsy driving campaigns to distribute information and educational messages and to review existing State model programs; (4) adopt policy statements and work plans for the installation and expansion of continuous shoulder rumble strips for interstate highways; (5) adopt codes on accident report forms to report fatigue-related or fall-asleep crashes; (6) provide training in the detection and reporting of drowsy driving as a factor in motor vehicle crashes; and (7) provide education programs to the police and the courts regarding the sanctions available for drowsy driving accidents. Directs the Secretary to study the scope of the problem of fatigue-related automobile crashes.

Providing that development assistance by the United States to foreign countries should be provided only to countries that work toward economic and political freedom to improve the living standards of all of its citizens.

United States · United States Congress · 3 October 2002

Declares that the United States should provide non-humanitarian development assistance only to countries that: (1) encourage free and open market policies, practice free and fair elections, advance democracy and the rule of law, root out corruption, and promote higher standards of living for all its citizens; and (2) make progress toward economic freedom based on such factors as protection of the right of citizens to own property, transparency in government, privatization, investment in health care and education, stable and independent monetary and wage and price policies, trade liberalization, and reduction in government corruption.

Check Truncation Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 October 2002

Check Truncation Act - Sets forth a statutory framework under which a substitute check is the legal equivalent of an original check for all purposes, if the substitute check: (1) accurately represents all of the information on the front and back of the original check as of the time the original check was truncated; and (2) bears the legend: "This is a legal copy of your check. You can use it the same way you would use the original check." Prescribes implementation guidelines, including: (1) indemnity procedures; (2) substitute check warranties; (3) expedited recredit claims for consumers and for banks; (4) procedures for claims; (5) measure of damages; (6) statute of limitations; and (7) consumer education materials.

Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge Complex Expansion and Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge Expansion Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 October 2002

Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge Complex Expansion and Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge Expansion Act - Expands the Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge Complex to include specified land and water in the State of Ohio. Permits the Secretary of the Interior to acquire by donation, purchase, or exchange the land and water and interests in land and water within the boundaries of the Complex. Expands the southern boundary of the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge (the Refuge) to include additional land and water located in the State of Michigan east of Interstate Route 75. Prescribes requirements for administration of the Complex. Directs the Secretary to ensure that hunting, trapping, fishing, wildlife observation and photography, and environmental education and interpretation shall be the priority public uses of the Complex. Requires the Secretary to encourage the State of Ohio to use authority under the recreational trails program under Federal law to provide funding for the acquisition and development of trails within the boundaries of the Complex. Directs the Secretary, acting through the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, study and report to Congress on fish and wildlife habitat and aquatic and terrestrial communities in and around two specified dredge spoil disposal sites in Toledo Harbor.

District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 2003

United States · United States Congress · 2 October 2002

District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 2003 - Makes appropriations to the District of Columbia for FY 2003, including amounts for the Federal payments: (1) for District of Columbia Resident Tuition Support; (2) for emergency planning and security costs in the District; (3) to District of Columbia Courts; (4) for Defender Services in District of Columbia Courts; (5) to the Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency for the District of Columbia (including transfer of funds); (6) to the Department of Transportation in the District; (7) to the Chief Financial Officer of the District; (8) to continue improvements on the Potomac Southwest Waterfront; (9) to reimburse Fairfax County, Virginia, for asbestos remediation on the former site of the Lorton Correctional Complex; (10) to the D.C. Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department to repair, renovate, and rehabilitate fire stations in need of capital improvements; (11) to the D.C. Public Education System for special education transportation services and satellite facilities; (12) to the Credit Enhancement Revolving Fund; (13) for the Family Literacy Program; (14) to the D.C. Water and Sewer Authority to begin implementing the Combined Sewer Overflow Long-Term Plan; and (15) for capital infrastructure development. Appropriates specified sums out of the District's general fund and/or other funds for the current fiscal year for: (1) operating expenses (with limitations); (2) governmental direction and support; (3) economic development and regulation; (4) public safety and justice; (5) the public education system (including transfer of funds); (6) human support services (including transfer of funds); (7) public works; (8) the Reserve; (9) the Emergency and Contingency Reserve Fund; (10) repayment of certain loans and interest; (11) repayment of General Fund Recovery Debt; (12) payment of interest on short-term borrowing; (13) for principal and interest payments on the District's Certificates of Participation, issued to finance the ground lease underlying the building located at One Judiciary Square; (14) refunds and for the payment of legal settlements or judgments that have been entered against the District government; (15) the John A. Wilson Building; (16) workforce investments; (17) the Tobacco Settlement Trust Fund; (18) for certain non-departmental agency costs; (19) pay-as-you-go capital in lieu of capital financing; (20) for the District's costs of public safety expenses related to National Special Security Events and for the costs of providing support to respond to immediate and specific terrorist threats or attacks in the District or surrounding jurisdictions; (21) the Water and Sewer Authority; (22) the Washington Aqueduct; (23) the Stormwater Permit Compliance Enterprise Fund; (24) the Lottery and Charitable Games Enterprise Fund; (25) the Sports and Entertainment Commission; (26) the District of Columbia Retirement Board; (27) the Washington Convention Center Enterprise Fund; (28) the National Capital Revitalization Corporation; and (29) capital outlay (including rescissions).

Recognizing the contributions of Patsy Takemoto Mink.

United States · United States Congress · 2 October 2002

Renames title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (prohibiting discrimination in education based on sex) the "Patsy T. Mink Equal Opportunity in Education Act".

Beneficiary Access to Care and Medicare Equity Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 1 October 2002

Beneficiary Access to Care and Medicare Equity Act of 2002 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to make a variety of changes with regard to rural health care and such matters as: (1) urban and rural standardized payment amounts under the Medicare inpatient hospital prospective payment system (PPS); (2) disproportionate share hospital (DSH) treatment for rural hospitals and urban hospitals with under 100 beds; (3) a temporary increase in payments for certain services furnished by small rural hospitals and for hospice care furnished in a frontier area; (4) the critical access hospital program; (5) the physician fee schedule geographic adjustment factor; (6) the Medicare incentive payment program; and (7) exclusion of certain rural health clinic and federally qualified health center services from the Medicare PPS for skilled nursing facilities. Amends the Public Health Service Act to give the Secretary the authority to make and guarantee loans from the loan fund to any rural entity for projects for capital improvements. Amends SSA title XVIII with respect to revising updates and restoring payments under: (1) Medicare part A (Hospital Insurance) relating to inpatient hospital services, skilled nursing facility services, and hospice services; (2) Medicare part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) relating to physicians' and other services; and (3) both parts A and B relating to home health services, eliminating the 15 percent reduction in PPS payment rates. Amends SSA title XVIII part C (Medicare+Choice) with respect to: (1) the minimum percentage increase for 2003 and 2004; (2) authority regarding disapproval of unreasonable beneficiary cost-sharing; (3) specialized Medicare+Choice plans for special needs beneficiaries; and (4) extension of new entry bonus. Revises requirements for Medicare appeals, regulatory procedures, contracting, education and outreach, prepayment review, overpayment recovery, and enforcement. Amends SSA title XIX (Medicaid) with respect to: (1) Medicaid disproportionate share hospital (DSH) allotments; (2) extension of Medicare cost-sharing for part B premiums for certain additional low-income Medicare beneficiaries; and (3) inpatient drug prices in the best price exemptions for the Medicaid drug rebate program. Amends SSA title XXI (State Children's Health Insurance) (SCHIP) with respect to SCHIP allotments. Amends SSA title XI on the process for the development and implementation of Medicaid and SCHIP waivers. Amends SSA title XX (Block Grants to States for Social Services) to provide for additional temporary grants for State fiscal relief. Establishes the Safety Net Organizations and Patient Advisory Commission to review health care safety net programs.

Chesapeake Bay Watershed Forestry Program Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 1 October 2002

Chesapeake Bay Watershed Forestry Program Act of 2002 - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture, through the Forest Service, to establish a Chesapeake Bay watershed forestry program of grants and technical assistance for: (1) forest conservation in urban, suburban, and rural areas; (2) National Forest System management; (3) research, education, and planning activities; and (4) achievement of Chesapeake Bay Agreement goals. Sets forth grantee and project eligibility criteria. Authorizes a Bay State (Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia) to use funds to hire a State watershed forester to carry out watershed projects. Directs the Secretary to establish for the Chesapeake Bay watershed a: (1) forestry research program; and (2) a forestry research strategy.

Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge Complex Expansion and Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge Expansion Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 October 2002

Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge Complex Expansion and Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge Expansion Act - Establishes a national wildlife refuge complex in Ohio, consisting of the Ottawa, West Sister Island, and Cedar Point National Wildlife Refuges. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to expand the Ottawa Refuge to include specified land and water in Ohio. Permits the Secretary to acquire by donation, purchase, or exchange the land and water and interests in land and water within the boundaries of the Complex. Directs the Secretary, acting through the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, to study and report to Congress on fish and wildlife habitat and aquatic and terrestrial communities in and around two specified dredge spoil disposal sites in Toledo Harbor. Requires the Secretary to expand the southern boundary of the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge (the Refuge) to include additional land and water located in the State of Michigan east of Interstate Route 75. Prescribes requirements for administration of the Complex. Directs the Secretary to ensure that hunting, trapping, fishing, wildlife observation and photography, and environmental education and interpretation shall be the priority public uses of the Complex. Requires the Secretary to encourage the State of Ohio to use authority under the Federal recreational trails program to provide funding for the acquisition and development of trails within the boundaries of the Complex.

Individual and Small Business Tax Simplification Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 1 October 2002

Individual and Small Business Tax Simplification Act of 2002 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code, with respect to individuals, to: (1) increase the alternative minimum tax exemption amount and adjust it for inflation; (2) replace the head of household filing status with a new exemption for single parents; (3) allow itemizers and nonitemizers a 50 percent deduction for capital gains; (4) repeal the two percent floor on miscellaneous itemized deductions; (5) accelerate the repeal of the phaseout of the overall limitation on itemized deductions and the phaseout of the personal exemption; (6) exclude means-tested government benefits from determining support for purposes of the dependency exemption; (7) combine the Hope and Lifetime Learning credits into an education credit; and (8) revise the taxation of social security benefits, the deduction for points on a home mortgage, the taxation of minors, the dependent care credit, the additional exemption for qualifying children, and the definition of qualified higher education expenses. Revises provisions concerning small business taxation to: (1) eliminate the S corporation filing category and permit eligible corporations that are not publicly traded to be treated as a partnership; (2) increase expensing under section 179; (3) repeal provisions concerning collapsible corporations; (4) exclude from net earnings from self-employment partnership income attributable to capital; (5) repeal the ability to elect large partnership reporting rules; and (6) revise provisions concerning the exchange of property held for productive use, the definition of qualified corporate partners for purposes of the at risk rules, payments to retiring partners, foreign currency transactions, and a limited entrepreneur with respect to farming.

Sun Grant Initiative for Renewable Energy and Biobased Products Act

United States · United States Congress · 30 September 2002

Sun Grant Initiative for Renewable Energy and Biobased Products Act - Amends the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to make grants to university-based sun grant centers which shall: (1) establish centers of excellence to pursue research, extension, and educational programs to implement biobased energy technologies, products, and economic diversification in rural areas; and (2) make grants to land-grant colleges and universities for related multiinstitutional and multistate programs. Establishes: (1) a northern sun grant center at South Dakota State University for Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Wyoming; (2) a southeastern sun grant center at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville for Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the United States Virgin Islands; (3) a south central sun grant center at Oklahoma State University for Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas; (4) a western sun grant center at Oregon State University for Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington and other U.S. territories and possessions; and (5) a northeastern sun grant center at Cornell University for Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and West Virginia. Requires the centers to maintain a Sun Grant Information Analysis Center for analysis and data management support. Amends the Biomass Research and Development Act of 2000 to include a representative of the Cooperative Research, Extension, and Educational Service on the Biomass Research and Development Board.

Higher Education Accrediting Agency Responsibility Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 30 September 2002

Higher Education Accrediting Agency Responsibility Act of 2002 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) to remove requirements that institutions of higher education (IHEs) be accredited or preaccredited by a nationally recognized accrediting agency or association in order to receive Federal funds under various HEA programs, including student aid under HEA title IV. Removes such accreditation requirements with respect to IHEs, proprietary IHEs, special institutional aid under HEA title III, historically Black college and university capital financing, distance education demonstration programs, and student assistance program participation agreements. Repeals provisions for: (1) the National Advisory Committee on Institutional Quality and Integrity; and (2) recognition of accrediting agencies or associations under HEA.

A bill to provide information and advice to pension plan participants to assist them in making decisions regarding the investment of their pension plan assets, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2002

Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to provide for information and advice to assist pension plan participants in making decisions regarding the investment of their pension plan assets under defined contribution plans that are individual account plans (IAPs) (401(k) and similar plans) which hold regularly tradable employment securities and permit participants or beneficiaries to exercise control over assets in the account. Requires the plan administrator to include in the account statement a notice that the account may be overinvested in employer securities and real property, whenever assets consisting of employer securities and real property exceed 50 percent of total IAP assets. Excludes from such notice requirement: (1) assets held through pooled investment vehicles; and (2) employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) that have no contributions subject to section 401 (k) or (m) of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC). Amends IRC to limit to$1,500 the aggregate amount which may be excluded from gross income with respect to qualified retirement planning services (QRPS) provided to any individual during a taxable year. Prohibits exclusion of any such amount if the modified adjusted gross income of the taxpayer exceeds $100,000 ($200,000 for married individuals filing a joint return). Provides that no amount (constructive receipt) shall be included in the gross income of any employee solely because the employee may choose between any QRPS provided by a qualified investment advisor, and compensation which would otherwise be includible in the employee's gross income. Applies such provision to highly compensated employees only if such choice is available on substantially the same terms to each member of the group of employees normally provided education and information regarding the employer's qualified employer plan.

Teacher and Nurse Support Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2002

Teacher and Nurse Support Act of 2002 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) to increase to a maximum of $17,500 the aggregate student loan obligation eligible for forgiveness or cancellation programs for teachers who serve full-time for five consecutive complete years in certain elementary or secondary schools (which qualify based on enrollment of disadvantaged students). Includes, under these HEA student loan forgiveness and cancellation programs, nurses who serve five consecutive complete years in a clinical setting or as a member of the nursing faculty at an accredited school of nursing.

Native Act to Transform Imagery in Various Environments

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2002

Native Act to Transform Imagery in Various Environments - Authorizes the Secretary of Education to make: (1) grants to schools that have made formal decisions to discontinue use of a derogatory or discriminatory name or depiction as a team name, mascot, or nickname, to assist them in replacing uniforms or other materials and in altering facilities, including walls, floors, and signs; and (2) school construction or renovation grants to Indian schools and to schools that received discontinuation grants. Establishes within the Department of Education a Committee on Indian Relations. Includes among Committee duties providing cultural proficiency training at schools receiving discontinuation grants to effect positive and long-term change regarding any derogatory or discriminatory name or depiction. Declares a name or depiction to be derogatory or discriminatory if: (1) the name is Indians, Redskins, Braves, or Chiefs; or (2) the Committee determines, after notice and comment, that the name or depiction is derogatory or discriminatory on the basis of race, ethnicity, nationality, or Indian or Native Alaskan tribal affiliation.

Diabetes Prevention Access and Care Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2002

Diabetes Prevention Access and Care Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Director of the National Institutes of Health to expand, intensify, conduct, coordinate, and support research and other activities with respect to pre-diabetes and diabetes, particularly type 2, in minority populations. Directs that the activities shall include research on the causes and effects of health care access disparities and racial discrimination. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to: (1) expand the National Diabetes Education Program; and (2) through the Indian Health Service, conduct research on attention by health care professionals to the American Indian population with regard to diabetes. Directs the Diabetes Mellitus Interagency Coordinating Committee to develop a Federal plan to address diabetes mellitus within communities of color. Requires the Secretary to conduct and support programs to treat diabetes in minority populations, including, through the National Institute of Mental Health, to provide for comprehensive mental health services and treatment to certain individuals. Directs the Secretary, acting through the National Center on Minority Health and Health Disparities, to make grants to expand Minority Access to Research Careers (MARC) program internships and mentoring opportunities for recruitment of minorities in diabetes-focused health fields. Provides for Federal and State loan repayment programs for health profession students of color. Requires the Secretary, acting through the CDC, to: (1) expand the Diabetes Control Program; and (2) fund education and community outreach on diabetes.

Rural Community Revitalization and Transition Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2002

Rural Community Revitalization and Transition Act - Amends the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938 to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to make tobacco transition payments to qualifying quota owners and active growers of covered tobacco (Flue-cured tobacco, Burley tobacco, Fire-cured tobacco, dark-air cured tobacco, and Virginia sun-cured tobacco). Establishes in the Treasury a tobacco farmer trust fund to carry out such program. Expresses the sense of Congress that such payments should be afforded capital gains treatment. Sets forth payment determination provisions for tobacco investment protection payments, including: (1) historic quota production for Flue-cured and Burley tobacco, and for Fire-cured, dark air-cured, and Virginia sun-cured tobacco; (2) counter-cyclical payments for Flue-cured tobacco, and for Burley, dark-air cured, Virginia sun-cured, and Fire-cured tobacco; and (3) direct payments for Flue-cured tobacco, and Burley and other tobacco. Authorizes the establishment of the Center for Agricultural Innovation which shall be located at a land-grant college or university in a traditional quota State, and shall: (1) coordinate work among land-grant colleges and universities in the Southeast to facilitate development, evaluation, and implementation of new agricultural technologies and enterprises for rural communities; and (2) give priority to developing technologies and enterprises in tobacco-dependent communities. Establishes in the Department of Agriculture the Tobacco Advisory Board. Terminates marketing quotas for certain types of tobacco. Repeals provisions regarding: (1) Burley tobacco acreage allotment; (2) mandatory sale of Burley and Flue-cured tobacco acreage allotments and marketing quotas; (3) sale or lease of acreage allotments; and (4) farm poundage quotas for certain types of tobacco. Revises provisions regarding: (1) national marketing quota; (2) apportionment of national marketing quota; (3) lease and transfer of acreage allotments; and (4) acreage-poundage quotas.

Recognizing the contributions of Hispanic-serving institutions.

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2002

Recognizes the significance of Hispanic-serving institutions, and that they are indispensable in meeting the educational needs of one of the Nation's youngest and fastest-growing populations. Commends the Nation's Hispanic-serving institutions for their commitment to academic excellence for all students, including low-income and educationally disadvantaged students. Urges the presidents, faculty, and staff of the Nation's Hispanic-serving institutions to continue their efforts to recruit, retain, and graduate students who might otherwise not pursue a postsecondary education. Recognizes the importance of title V of the Higher Education Act of 1965, which aids in strengthening the academic quality, institutional management, and financial stability of Hispanic-serving institutions. Requests that the President issue a proclamation calling on the people of the United States and interested groups to demonstrate support for Hispanic-serving institutions in the United States during Hispanic Heritage Month with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs.

Rural Community Revitalization and Transition Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2002

Rural Community Revitalization and Transition Act - Amends the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938 to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to make tobacco transition payments to qualifying quota owners and active growers of covered tobacco (Flue-cured tobacco, Burley tobacco, Fire-cured tobacco, dark-air cured tobacco, and Virginia sun-cured tobacco). Establishes in the Treasury a tobacco farmer trust fund to carry out such program. Expresses the sense of Congress that such payments should be afforded capital gains treatment. Sets forth payment determination provisions for tobacco investment protection payments, including: (1) historic quota production for Flue-cured and Burley tobacco, and for Fire-cured, dark air-cured, and Virginia sun-cured tobacco; (2) counter-cyclical payments for Flue-cured tobacco, and for Burley, dark-air cured, Virginia sun-cured, and Fire-cured tobacco; and (3) direct payments for Flue-cured tobacco, and Burley and other tobacco. Authorizes the establishment of the Center for Agricultural Innovation which shall be located at a land-grant college or university in a traditional quota State, and shall: (1) coordinate work among land-grant colleges and universities in the Southeast to facilitate development, evaluation, and implementation of new agricultural technologies and enterprises for rural communities; and (2) give priority to developing technologies and enterprises in tobacco-dependent communities. Establishes in the Department of Agriculture the Tobacco Advisory Board. Terminates marketing quotas for certain types of tobacco. Repeals provisions regarding: (1) Burley tobacco acreage allotment; (2) mandatory sale of Burley and Flue-cured tobacco acreage allotments and marketing quotas; (3) sale or lease of acreage allotments; and (4) farm poundage quotas for certain types of tobacco. Revises provisions regarding: (1) national marketing quota; (2) apportionment of national marketing quota; (3) lease and transfer of acreage allotments; and (4) acreage-poundage quotas.

A bill to provide for the preservation and restoration of historic buildings and structures at historically black colleges and universities.

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2002

Amends the Omnibus Parks and Public Lands Management Act of 1996 to direct the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Director of the National Park Service, to establish a program to preserve and restore historic buildings and structures at historically black colleges and universities (institutions). Requires the Secretary, through the National Trust for Historic Preservation, to: (1) assess all such buildings and structures; (2) obtain an independent estimate of the complete cost of restoring them; and (3) determine the fiscal capacity of each institution to complete the restoration. Instructs the Secretary: (1) to award up to 15 grants each fiscal year to pay the Federal share of the cost of restoring such buildings and structures; and (2) in awarding such grants, to consider the relative severity of the threat to such a building's or structure's historic value and status. Requires grant recipients to agree to provide the non-Federal share and, for a period specified by the Secretary, to: (1) make no alteration to the building or structure without the Secretary's approval; (2) allow public access to the restored building or structure for interpretive and educational purposes; and (3) not receive other funds under the National Historic Preservation Act. Requires the non-Federal share of a project's cost to be 30 percent. Waives such non-Federal share for an institution that does not have an endowment or that has an endowment of under $50 million. Applies such waiver to any grant provided to an institution after November 12, 1996.

Making continuing appropriations for the fiscal year 2003, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2002

Makes continuing appropriations for FY 2003. Appropriates amounts for continuing, at the current rate of operations, projects or activities which were conducted in FY 2002 and for which appropriations, funds, or other authority was made available in: (1) the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2002; (2) the Departments of Commerce, Justice, and State, the Judiciary, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2002; (3) the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2002; (4) the District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 2002; (5) the Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, 2002; (6) the Foreign Operations, Export Financing, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2002; (7) the Department of the Interior and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2002; (8) the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2002; (9) the Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 2002; (10) the Military Construction Appropriations Act, 2002; (11) the Department of Transportation and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2002; (12) the Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act, 2002; and (13) the Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2002. Provides funding under this resolution until enactment into law of any covered appropriation or the applicable appropriations Act (without any provision for the covered appropriation) or October 4, 2002, whichever occurs first. Authorizes continuation of other specified activities through such date.

Expressing the sense of the Congress regarding personal safety for children, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2002

Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies and communities should work together to prevent the victimization of children; and (2) communities, schools, and parents should learn more about the steps that may be taken to safeguard children and teach them the skills they need to be safe. Recognizes the booklet, "Personal Safety for Children," as one of the tools available to help parents and teachers talk with children about personal safety.

Reservist Opportunities and Protection of Education Act

United States · United States Congress · 24 September 2002

Reservist Opportunities and Protection of Education Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to declare that: (1) whenever a student who is a member of the National Guard or other reserve component of the Armed Forces of the United States, or a member of such Armed Forces in a retired status, is called or ordered to active duty, the institution of higher education in which the student is enrolled shall grant the student a military leave of absence from the institution while the student is serving on active duty, and for one year after the conclusion of such service; (2) as a consequence of military leave, upon return, such student is entitled to restoration to his or her previous educational status with regard to academic credits earned, scholarships or grants awarded, or tuition and other fees paid; and (3) the student has the option of having tuition fees refunded, subject to a certain condition, or credited to the next period of enrollment.

Tobacco-Dependent Communities Assistance Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 24 September 2002

Tobacco-Dependent Communities Assistance Act of 2002 - Amends the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938 to direct the Secretary of Agriculture, upon making specified determinations, to establish three-year national production poundage permits for Flue-cured and Burley tobacco, unless disapproved in successive referenda by active growers. Directs the Secretary to establish a tobacco equity reduction program for quota owners and growers of Flue-cured and Burley quota tobacco. Expresses the sense of Congress that quota owners and growers of Flue-cured and Burley tobacco should be able to invest tobacco equity payments in investment retirement accounts. Terminates marketing quotas for Flue-cured and Burley tobacco. Revises provisions regarding: (1) lease and transfer of acreage allotments; and (2) national marketing quota deadlines and apportionment; (3) poundage quotas; (4) purchase intention deadlines for cigarette manufacturers; (5) production and marketing information; (6) quota adjustments; (7) eminent domain; and (8) reconstitution of farms. Repeals provisions providing for mandatory sale of Burley and Flue-cured tobacco acreage allotments and marketing quotas. Prohibits Federal promotion of manufactured tobacco products. Amends the Agricultural Act of 1949 to revise tobacco price support provisions. States that the price support rate for each type of tobacco shall reflect annual production costs. Eliminates references to quota tobacco in the No Net Cost Tobacco Fund and No Net Cost Tobacco Account. Amends the Tobacco Inspection Act to apply the provisions of such Act to nonauction tobacco sales. Amends the Tobacco Adjustment Act of 1983 regarding tobacco inspections. Establishes a tobacco worker transition program under which a group of workers (including workers in any firm, or subdivision, involved in the manufacture, processing, or warehousing of tobacco or tobacco products) may apply for adjustment assistance if the Secretary of Labor determines that a significant number or proportion of the workers have become totally or partially separated, or are threatened to become totally or partially separated, and: (1) sales or production of such firm have decreased; and (2) implementation of the national tobacco settlement contributed importantly to such workers' separation and to the firm's decline in sales or production. Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to establish a farmer opportunity grant program of higher education assistance for qualifying members of tobacco farm families. Amends the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938 to direct the Secretary to make grants to tobacco-growing States in order to carry out economic development initiatives in tobacco-growing communities. Exempts an active tobacco producer, tobacco-related growers association, or tobacco warehouse owner or employee from Federal or State liability resulting from the failure of any tobacco product manufacturer, distributor, or retailer to comply with national tobacco settlement legislation. Prohibits an officer or employee of the Food and Drug Administration from entering a leaf tobacco farm without the written consent of the producer.

Women Discharged From the Military Due to Pregnancy Relief Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 24 September 2002

Women Discharged From the Military Due to Pregnancy Relief Act of 2002 - Expresses the sense of Congress that women who served in the U.S. armed forces before February 23, 1976, should not have been involuntarily discharged due to pregnancy and expresses remorse for the women who endured unnecessary and discriminatory actions because they became pregnant while a member of the armed forces. Requires the Secretary of Defense to identify and pay each woman who was so discharged or separated between June 12, 1948, and February 23, 1976, an amount equal to the total pay and allowances that would have been due had such person not been involuntarily discharged. Directs the Secretary of Education to provide for the discharge or cancellation of the Federal student loan indebtedness of an offspring who was the cause of such a woman's discharge or separation. Makes health benefits provided as a result of military service available to such women and offspring. Requires the Secretary of Defense to establish a single standard discharge code for such women. Expresses the sense of Congress that the Secretary of Defense should establish policies to encourage such women to continue to serve the Nation.

Seniors' Access to Health Care Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 24 September 2002

Seniors' Access to Health Care Act of 2002 - Amends part C (Medicare+Choice) (M+C) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to: (1) provide for the offering of qualified prescription drug coverage under M+C; and (2) create a competitive bidding program for M+C organizations. Revises requirements with regard to Medicare: (1) part A concerning rural health care, inpatient hospital services, skilled nursing facility services, and hospices; (2) part B concerning physicians' and other services; and (3) part A and B concerning home health services, direct graduate medical education, and other specified matters. Establishes the Medicare Benefits Administration. Amends SSA title XVIII part E (Miscellaneous) (previously part D) to include a number of regulatory reduction, contracting, and administrative changes. Establishes the National Bipartisan Commission on the Future of Medicaid. Amends SSA title XIX (Medicaid) to revise requirements regarding State disproportionate share (DSH) allotments.

A bill to provide for improvement of Federal education research, statistics, evaluation, information, and dissemination, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 19 September 2002

Education Sciences Reform Act of 2002 - Establishes in the Department of Education an Institute for Education Sciences, consisting of: (1) an Office of the Director; (2) a National Board for Education Sciences; (3) an Office of Knowledge Utilization, including a school facilities clearinghouse and a National Library of Education; and (4) National Education Centers, including ones for Education Research, Education Statistics, and Education Evaluation. Regional Assistance Act of 2002 - Directs the Secretary of Education to contract with public or private nonprofit entities to establish a network of ten regional educational laboratories for research, development, dissemination, and technical assistance. Authorizes the Secretary to award at least 20 grants to local entities to provide technical assistance and professional development to establish comprehensive centers that work with local educational agencies and schools in regions. National Assessment of Educational Progress Authorization Act - Authorizes appropriations for FY 2003 through 2008 for: (1) the National Assessment Governing Board; and (2) the National Assessment of Educational Progress. Repeals: (1) the National Education Statistics Act of 1994 (title IV of the Improving America's Schools Act of 1994); (2) parts A through E and K through N of the Educational Research, Development, Dissemination, and Improvement Act of 1994 (title IX of the Goals 2000: Educate America Act); and (3) specified provisions under the Department of Education Organization Act.

Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities Prevention Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 19 September 2002

Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities Prevention Act of 2002 - Amends Public Health Service Act provisions concerning the National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities to add disabilities and health to categories of data with regard to which the Secretary of Heath and Human Services is directed to collect, analyze, and make available. Requires the Secretary to conduct research on and promote the prevention of birth defects and disabilities and to support a National Spina Bifida Program to prevent and reduce suffering from the nation's most common permanently disabling birth defect. Removes certain provisions regarding data collection, including one requiring the Secretary to collect and analyze data by gender and ethnic and racial group. Modifies reporting requirements. Declares that certain data and information collected under the Act shall be subject to a specified provision of the General Education Provisions Act pertaining to privacy. Requires that the members of the advisory committee appointed by the Director of the National Center for Environmental Health that have expertise in birth defects, developmental disabilities, and disabilities and health shall be transferred to the National Center on Birth Defects on the date of the enactment of this Act.

Education for Retirement Security Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 19 September 2002

Education for Retirement Security Act of 2002 - Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to award grants to eligible entities to provide financial education programs to mid-life and older individuals who reside in local communities in order to: (1) enhance financial and retirement knowledge among them; and (2) reduce financial abuse and fraud, including telemarketing, mortgage, and pension fraud, among them. Authorizes the Secretary to award a grant to one or more eligible entities to: (1) create and make available instructional materials and information that promote financial education; and (2) provide training and other related assistance regarding the establishment of financial education programs.

Tribal Transportation Program Improvement Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 19 September 2002

Tribal Transportation Program Improvement Act of 2002 - Amends the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century to authorize appropriations for Indian reservation roads under the Federal Lands Highways Program through FY 2009. Prohibits the Secretary of Transportation from distributing, for years after FY 2003, any amount of obligation authority made available for Indian reservation road bridges and roads. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the planning, design, engineering, construction, and inspection of certain projects concerning deficient Indian reservation road bridges through FY 2009. Raises from two percent to four percent the ceiling for the amount of funds made available for Indian reservation roads for each fiscal year that may be allocated to Indian tribal governments applying for transportation planning pursuant to the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to issue grants to Indian tribes to establish rural transit programs on reservations or other land under the jurisdiction of the tribes. Authorizes appropriations. Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the maintenance of roads on Indian reservations is a responsibility of the Bureau of Indian Affairs; and (2) Congress should annually provide to the Bureau such funding as is necessary to carry out all maintenance of roads on Indian reservations.

Aeronautics Research and Development Revitalization Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 19 September 2002

Aeronautics Research and Development Revitalization Act of 2002 - Directs the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Administrator to develop technologies that would: (1) significantly reduce aircraft noise, harmful emissions, and fuel consumption; (2) make certain performance improvements to existing rotorcraft; and (3) enable overland flight of supersonic civil transport aircraft with certain performance characteristics. Directs the NASA Administrator to provide specified congressional committees a plan for the implementation of such initiatives. Directs the NASA Administrator to establish NASA aeronautics scholarships for U.S. citizens enrolled in accredited Masters degree programs in aeronautical engineering at institutions of higher education. Directs the Administrators of NASA and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to participate in a national initiative to define and develop an air traffic management system that meets national long-term aviation security, safety, and capacity needs. Sets forth certain things that the system shall do, including that it ensure seamless global operations for system users. Provides for grants from the FAA Administrator for university-based Centers for Research on Aviation Training. Authorizes appropriations for certain FAA research and development projects and activities. Requires certain aviation-related studies and assessments.

IMPACT Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 September 2002

Improved Nutrition and Physical Activity Act (IMPACT Act) - Amends the Public Health Service Act to address issues of overweight and obesity. Expands certain existing grant programs for health professional training to include the treatment of overweight and obesity. Creates grant programs at the local level to promote increased physical activity and improved nutrition. Targets partnerships with businesses, schools, senior centers, day care facilities and other institutions. Includes tax and other incentives among covered activities. Expands an existing coordinated school health program to include grants for the development of programs which focus on healthy lifestyle, including balanced diet and physical activity. Authorizes the collection and analysis of data concerning the fitness levels of children and youth. Requires a study of the food and nutrition assistance programs run by the Department of Agriculture to determine how they can be improved or altered to help prevent obesity and overweight. Requires an evidence report (study) on the effectiveness of weight reduction programs. Permits the use of preventive health and health services block grants for community education programs which promote healthy eating and exercise habits. Creates a Medicare demonstration project to reduce obesity and other chronic disease risks in older Americans. Makes grants available to local healthcare delivery systems for overweight and obesity treatment and prevention demonstration programs. Requires a report on research into the causes and health implications of obesity and being overweight. Makes grants available for a national campaign to change children's health behaviors.

Check Clearing for the 21st Century Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 September 2002

Check Clearing for the 21st Century Act - Sets forth a statutory framework under which a substitute check is the legal equivalent of an original check for all purposes, if the substitute check: (1) accurately represents all of the information on the front and back of the original check as of the time the original check was truncated; and (2) bears the legend: "This is a legal copy of your check. You can use it the same way you would use the original check." Prescribes implementation guidelines, including: (1) indemnity procedures; (2) substitute check warranties; (3) expedited recredit claims for consumers and for banks; (4) procedures for claims; (5) measure of damages; (6) statute of limitations; and (7) consumer education materials.

Arthur James Collingsworth, of California, to be a Member of the National Security Education Board for a term of four years, vice John W. Hechinger, Sr., term expired.

United States · United States Senate · 18 September 2002

John Portman Higgins, of Virginia, to be Inspector General, Department of Education, vice Lorraine Pratte Lewis, resigned.

United States · United States Senate · 18 September 2002

National Aquatic Invasive Species Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 18 September 2002

National Aquatic Invasive Species Act of 2002 - Amends the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act of 1990 to require the Invasive Species Council (Council) to coordinate with the Aquatic Invasive Species Task Force (Task Force) to combat aquatic invasive species (AIS's). Requires the Task Force to recommend to appropriate Federal agencies additions to the list of AIS's. Requires the Task Force, the Council, and the Secretary of State to coordinate activities to ensure that international efforts to prevent and manage AIS's are coordinated with U.S. policies. Establishes minimum invasive species prevention requirements for all vessels entering U.S. ports. Directs the Task Force to publish a priority pathway management program. Prohibits the importation of live aquatic organisms not in trade without specified screening and approval. Directs the Task Force to develop a national system of ecological surveys to rapidly detect recently-established AIS's in U.S. waters. Requires the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works to construct and maintain a national dispersal barrier program to contain and control aquatic nuisances. Makes any State with a rapid response contingency strategy eligible to receive emergency funding to implement rapid response measures for AIS's. Requires the Task Force to encourage development of regional rapid response contingency strategies and develop a State model for such. Requires the Council, in coordination with the Task Force and the heads of the appropriate Federal agencies, to establish a Federal rapid response team for the ten regions of the Standard Federal Regional Boundary System. Requires the Task Force to establish a national subcommittee on nutria. Provides for expansion of the Brown Tree Snake Control Program and Aquatic Nuisance Species Program information, education and outreach activities. Requires specified agencies and research centers to develop and conduct marine research and demonstration programs to assess rates of, patterns of, and conditions surrounding introductions of nonnative aquatic species into aquatic ecosystems. Requires the Secretary to develop a central national database of information on ballast water management and treatment. Requires specified agencies to develop a vessel pathway standards research program. Requires the National Science Foundation to establish a program of grants to institutions of higher education for research in systematics and taxonomy.

Student Testing Flexibility Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 18 September 2002

Student Testing Flexibility Act of 2002 - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to direct the Secretary of Education to grant waivers of certain annual testing and assessment requirements to States and local educational agencies (LEAs) if they demonstrate that they have: (1) significantly closed the achievement gap between certain groups of students; or (2) exceeded their adequate yearly progress for two or more consecutive years. Requires States and LEAs receiving such waivers to use ESEA annual assessment funds for educational activities which they determine will improve the academic achievement of students attending public elementary schools and secondary schools that fail to make adequate yearly progress. Prohibits such States and LEAs from using such funds to pay a student's private school costs.

Aquatic Invasive Species Research Act

United States · United States Congress · 18 September 2002

Aquatic Invasive Species Research Act - Requires the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, the U.S. Geological Survey, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to develop and conduct a marine and fresh-water research program to support efforts to detect, prevent, and eradicate invasive species in the Aquatic Ecosystem. Requires the program to: (1) develop standardized protocols for conducting ecological and pathway surveys of nonnative aquatic species; (2) create baseline ecological information of the aquatic ecosystem and pathways; (3) designate the number and location of survey sites required; (4) conduct laboratory and field-based marine and fresh-water research experiments on a range of taxonomic groups to identify the relationship between the introduction and establishment of nonnative aquatic species; and (5) analyze the data collected. Directs the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force to convene a workshop with appropriate researchers. Amends the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act of 1990 to: (1) require that ecological and ballast water discharge surveys examine other potential modes of introducing nonnative aquatic species by ship into the Aquatic Ecosystem, including hull fouling; (2) rename the National Ballast Information Clearinghouse as the National Pathway and Ecological Surveys Database; (3) expand the purview of the database to include ballast water management, delivery practices of ships entering United States ports and their compliance with existing regulations; and (3) make the database widely available to the public. Requires the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) establish marine and fresh-water research, development, and demonstration programs with respect to environmental soundness screening and dispersal barrier research. Reauthorizes the ship pathway technology demonstration program. Requires the Coast Guard and the EPA to develop a research program to support implementation of standards to prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species by ships into the Aquatic Ecosystem. Requires the National Science Foundation to establish a grant program for institutions of higher education to carry our research programs in systematics and taxonomy.

National Aquatic Invasive Species Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 18 September 2002

National Aquatic Invasive Species Act of 2002 - Amends the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act of 1990 to require the Invasive Species Council (Council) to coordinate with the Aquatic Invasive Species Task Force (Task Force) to combat aquatic invasive species. Requires the Task Force to recommend to appropriate Federal agencies additions to the list of aquatic invasive species. Requires the Task Force, the Council, and the Secretary of State to coordinate activities to ensure that international efforts to prevent and manage aquatic invasive species are coordinated with U.S. policies. Establishes minimum invasive species prevention requirements for all vessels entering U.S. ports. Requires the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to promulgate regulations for ballast water management standards and certification procedures. Directs the Task Force to publish a priority pathway management program. Prohibits the importation of live aquatic organisms not in trade without specified screening and approval. Requires the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works, with the concurrence of the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, to construct and maintain a national dispersal barrier program to contain and control aquatic nuisances. Declares that a State with a rapid response contingency strategy shall be eligible to receive emergency funding to implement rapid response measures for aquatic invasive species under specified circumstances. Requires the Task Force, with concurrence of the Council, to encourage the development of regional rapid response contingency strategies and develop a State model for such. Requires the Council, in coordination with the Task Force and the heads of the appropriate Federal agencies, to establish a Federal rapid response team for the ten regions of the Standard Federal Regional Boundary System. Requires the Task Force to establish a national subcommittee on nutria. Provides for expansion of the Brown Tree Snake Control Program and Aquatic Nuisance Species Program information, education and outreach activities.

Reducing Education Loan Repayment Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 18 September 2002

Reducing Education Loan Repayment Act of 2002 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code and the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001 to repeal limitations on the deduction for interest on education loans and to make the deduction permanent.

Campus CORT Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 September 2002

Campus Classmate Offenders in Rehabilitation and Treatment Act - Campus CORT Act - Authorizes the Attorney General, through the Office of Justice Programs, to make demonstration grants to accredited universities and colleges to establish up to five programs for campus classmate offenders in rehabilitation and treatment (Campus CORT), modeled after the statewide local drug court programs throughout the United States, for each fiscal year for which funds are provided. Requires Campus CORTS to: (1) be established at accredited colleges or universities; (2) have jurisdiction over substance abuse related disciplinary cases involving students that may or may not be criminal in nature, including illegal drug use, abuse of prescription drugs, alcohol abuse, and other issues; (3) pursuant to Attorney General regulations, establish appropriate quasi-judicial standards and procedures for disciplinary cases; and (4) impose as the ultimate sanction expulsion from school. Prohibits involvement in a Campus CORT of any student deemed to be a danger to the community. Directs the Attorney General to make grants to qualified universities and colleges, the National Association of Drug Court Professionals, the National Drug Court Institute, and other associations and experts to assist in establishing campus drug courts and provide training and technical assistance in support of the program.

21st Century Nanotechnology Research and Development Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 September 2002

21st Century Nanotechnology Research and Development Act - Directs the President to establish a National Nanotechnology Research Program. Requires such Program, through appropriate Federal agencies, councils, and the National Coordination Office, to: (1) establish goals, priorities, grand challenges (fundamental problems in science and engineering that will require the application of nanotechnology), and metrics for evaluating Federal nanotechnology research, development, and other activities; (2) invest in Federal research and development (R&D) programs in nanotechnology and related sciences to achieve those goals; and (3) provide for coordination of Federal nanotechnology activities. Requires the Program, through its participating agencies, to develop, fund, and manage Federal research programs concerning: (1) long-term basic nanoscience and engineering research; (2) essential grand challenges and interdisciplinary research and education teams; (3) interdisciplinary nanotechnology research centers; (4) research infrastructure and equipment; (5) the Center for Ethical, Societal, Educational, Legal, and Workforce Issues Related to Nanotechnology to be established by the Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF); and (6) technology transition. Directs the National Science and Technology Council to oversee the planning, management, and coordination of the Program, including establishment of an Information Services and Applications Council. Directs the President to establish a National Nanaotechnology Advisory Panel and a National Nanotechnology Coordination Office. Provides for the National Research Council of the National Academy of Sciences to conduct a triennial evaluation of the Program and a biennial study of the relative position of the United Sates compared to other nations with respect to nanotechnology R&D. Provides for the Program to monitor the United States' standing in key research fields that support technological innovation. Requires the NSF Director to: (1) collect and disseminate studies on the societal, ethical, educational, and workforce implications of nanotechnology; and (2) collect data on the size of the anticipated nanotechnology workforce needed and assess the adequacy of the trained talent pool to fill such needs.

Higher Education Technical Amendments of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 12 September 2002

Higher Education Technical Amendments of 2002 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA), and the Higher Education Amendments of 1998, to make various technical revisions relating to student aid (title IV) program requirements. Includes as an institution of higher education (IHE) one that admits as regular students those who have been home-schooled (as well as high school graduates or those with equivalency certificates), thus providing that such home-schooled students are eligible for HEA student aid. Exempts Canadian graduate medical schools from title IV requirements relating to student or graduate scores on specified examinations. Exempts foreign veterinary schools from certain title IV requirements if they are public or other nonprofit institutions. Requires students withdrawing from an IHE to return only HEA title IV grant aid amounts exceeding 50 percent of the total (if more than $50). Permits Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) to apply for Federal HSI grants without waiting two years between applications. Authorizes the use of HEA title VII funds for: (1) Federal scholarship aid to low-income and minority students for summer institutes to prepare for law school; and (2) Thurgood Marshall Fellowships to attend law school. Deems an IHE in compliance with certain information requirements if it provides students with such information, including voter registration material, through an e-mail message or an Internet address. Extends through FY 2003, for institutions of higher education (IHEs) having low student loan default rates, HEA exemptions from requirements that the disbursement of loan proceeds be: (1) in multiple installments; and (2) delayed for 30 days after classes start for first-time undergraduate borrowers.

A bill to amend the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act of 2000 to clarify the treatment of title III project funds reserved by countries under such Act for purposes of disbursements under chapter 69 of title 31, United States Code.

United States · United States Congress · 12 September 2002

Amends the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act of 2000 to require that funds collected from National Forest System and Bureau of Land Management Lands payments and reserved for County Projects (search, rescue, and emergency services, community service work camps, easement purchases, forest related educational opportunities, fire prevention and county planning, and community forestry) shall not be treated as amounts received (and so deducted) in calculating Federal payments to counties for national entitlement land.

To amend the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act of 2000 to clarify the treatment of title III project funds reserved by counties under such Act for purposes of disbursements under chapter 69 of title 31, United States Code.

United States · United States Congress · 12 September 2002

Amends the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act of 2000 to require that funds collected from National Forest System and Bureau of Land Management Lands payments and reserved for County Projects (search, rescue, and emergency services, community service work camps, easement purchases, forest related educational opportunities, fire prevention and county planning, and community forestry) shall not be treated as amounts received (and so deducted) in calculating Federal payments to counties for national entitlement land.

Infertility Research Centers Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 11 September 2002

Infertility Research Centers Act of 2002 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to mandate grants or contracts for two centers for improving methods of preventing infertility. Requires each center to: (1) conduct clinical and other applied research; (2) develop training protocols and conduct training; (3) develop model continuing education programs; and (4) disseminate information to professionals. Allows funds to be used for: (1) stipends for training program enrollees; and (2) fees to clinical trial subjects. Establishes a program of agreements with health professionals to conduct infertility prevention research in return for the Government repaying the professionals' educational loans.

Recognizing the contributions of historically Black colleges and universities.

United States · United States Congress · 11 September 2002

Recognizes the significance of historically Black colleges and universities, which have been educating students for more than 100 years, and of title III of the Higher Education Act, which helps strengthen their academic quality, institutional management, and financial stability. Commends them for their commitment to academic excellence for all students, including low-income and educationally disadvantaged students. Urges their presidents, faculty, and staff to continue their efforts to recruit, retain, and graduate students who might otherwise not pursue a postsecondary education. Requests the President to issue a proclamation calling on the people of the Nation and interested groups to demonstrate support for historically Black colleges and universities during a week with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs.

Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 5193) to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow a deduction to certain taxpayers for elementary and secondary education expenses.

United States · United States Congress · 11 September 2002

Sets forth the rule (closed) for the consideration of H.R. 5193 (back to school tax relief).

Native American Contracting and Federal Lands Management Demonstration Project Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 September 2002

Native American Contracting and Federal Lands Management Demonstration Project Act - Amends the Indian Self Determination and Education Assistance Act to direct the Secretary of the Interior to establish the Native American Federal Lands Management Demonstration Project. Requires the project to contract with at least 12 Indian tribes or tribal organizations to perform archeological, anthropological and cultural surveys and analyses, and activities related to the identification, maintenance, or protection of lands considered to have religious, ceremonial or cultural significance to Indian tribes. Sets forth criteria for participation, including demonstrated financial and management stability and capability and significant use of or dependency upon the relevant conservation system unit or other public land unit for which programs, functions, services, and activities are requested to be placed under contract. Makes funding available for planning grants. Amends the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act to direct the Secretary to contract with an applying Indian tribe for the provision of certain services or deliverables that would otherwise be procured from the private sector and for which the tribe to be benefitted by such services or deliverables has not exercised its right to contract.