Education

Strengthening Protections for Children and Communities From Disease Clusters Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2010

Strengthening Protections for Children and Communities From Disease Clusters Act - Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to: (1) develop, publish, and update guidelines on an approach to investigate suspected or potential disease clusters, environmental pollutants or toxic substances associated with such clusters, or potential causes of such clusters; (2) establish and operate Regional Disease Cluster Information and Response Centers and Regional Disease Cluster Information and Response Teams; (3) ensure that the Office of Children's Health Protection has a prominent role in developing and updating such guidelines and in establishing and operating such Centers and Teams; (4) establish Community Disease Cluster Advisory Committees to provide oversight, guidance, and advice relating to such investigations; (5) provide support to individuals on such Teams and Committees through grants and cooperative agreements with institutions of higher education; (6) compile and update a publicly available, online database that provides information relating to disease clusters; and (7) use available authorities and programs to compile, research, and analyze information generated by actions authorized under this Act. Authorizes any person to submit a petition to the EPA Administrator, the Administrator of the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, and the Director of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences that requests that a Response Team conduct an investigation or take action to address the potential causes of disease clusters. Authorizes the Administrator to make grants to any group of individuals that may be affected by such clusters.

Doctor of Nursing Practice and Doctor of Pharmacy Dual Degree Program Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2010

Doctor of Nursing Practice and Doctor of Pharmacy Dual Degree Program Act of 2010 - Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) there should be established a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) dual degree program; (2) the development of a joint degree in nursing and pharmacology should combine a DNP with a PharmD; (3) such a program would improve patient outcomes; (4) through such a dual collaborative role health providers will be better able to meet the unique needs of rural communities across the age continuum and in diverse settings; (5) such a program would enhance collaboration between DNPs and physicians regarding drug therapy, provide for research concerning and the implementation of safer medication administration, broaden the scope of practice for pharmacists through education and training in diagnosis and management of common diseases, provide new employment opportunities, and assist in filling the need for primary care providers with an expertise in geriatrics and pharmaceuticals; and (6) additional research and evaluation should be conducted to determine the extent to which graduates of such a program improve primary health care, address disparities, diversify the workforce, and increase quality of service for underserved populations.

A resolution supporting "Lights on Afterschool", a national celebration of afterschool programs.

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2010

Expresses the Senate's support for the goals and ideals of "Lights On Afterschool!," a national celebration of after-school programs.

A resolution designating the week beginning October 17, 2010, as "National Character Counts Week".

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2010

Designates the week beginning October 17, 2010, as National Character Counts Week.

A resolution expressing support for the inaugural USA Science & Engineering Festival.

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2010

Expresses the support of the Senate for the inaugural USA Science & Engineering Festival to be held in October 2010 in Washington, DC. Commends the Nobel Laureates, institutions of higher education, corporate sponsors, and all the various organizations whose efforts will make the Festival possible. Encourages students and their families to participate in the activities that will take place on the National Mall and across the United States at satellite locations as part of the inaugural Festival.

DIPLOMA Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2010

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.

21st Century Cancer ALERT (Access to Life-Saving Early detection, Research and Treatment) Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2010

21st Century Cancer ALERT (Access to Life-Saving Early detection, Research and Treatment) Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to revise provisions related to the National Cancer Program, including to require the establishment of an entity within the National Cancer Institute (NCI) to augment ongoing efforts to advance new technologies in cancer research, support the national collection of tissues for cancer research purposes, and ensure the quality of tissue collection. Sets forth provisions governing clinical trials, including ethical and privacy standards. Requires the Director of NCI to award grants for research on cancers with a low five-year survival rate and rare cancers. Expands coverage of colorectal screenings and treatment, including through authorizing grants and allowing states to provide coverage under Medicaid for individuals needing treatment for colorectal cancer. Provides for biomarkers research. Expands coverage of tobacco cessation products under Medicaid. Provides for coverage under Medicare for payment of routine costs of care furnished to individuals participating in cancer clinical trials, comprehensive cancer planning services, and comprehensive cancer patient treatment education services. Requires the Commissioner of Food and Drugs to review and improve the policies, programs and activities of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) relating to oncology products. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to expand and intensify CDC's cancer control programs. Provides for research on cancer survivorship related to childhood cancer and health disparities in outcomes. Requires the Secretary to convene a Workforce Development Collaborative on Psychosocial Care During Chronic Medical Illness.

Native American Small Business Assistance and Entrepreneurial Growth Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2010

Native American Small Business Assistance and Entrepreneurial Growth Act of 2010 - Amends the Small Business Act to establish within the Small Business Administration (SBA) the Office of Native American Affairs, headed by an Associate Administrator, to implement SBA programs for the development of business enterprises by Native Americans. Requires the Office to assist Native American entrepreneurs to: (1) develop small businesses; (2) develop management and technical skills; (3) seek federal procurement opportunities; (4) increase Native American employment opportunities; and (5) increase Native American access to capital markets. Requires: (1) SBA to provide financial assistance to tribal colleges, certain nonprofit organizations, and small business development or women's business centers to create Native American business centers; (2) each business center to conduct five-year projects for business education aid to such entities; and (3) each assistance applicant to submit a five-year plan on proposed assistance and training activities.

Supporting the goals and ideals of Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month.

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2010

Expresses support for the goals and ideals of Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month. Promotes the education of teachers, school nurses, and school personnel in educational strategies such as distance learning and tutoring that will ensure children with Sickle Cell Disease can access and pursue their education.

Expressing support for designation of October 2010 as "Crime Prevention Month".

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2010

Expresses support for the designation of Crime Prevention Month and participation in Celebrate Safe Communities during Crime Prevention Month. Commends the efforts of local law enforcement agencies and their community partners in the fight against crime. Congratulates McGruff the Crime Dog during his 30th anniversary year. Encourages: (1) the National Crime Prevention Council and the National Sheriffs' Association to continue to promote Celebrate Safe Communities and individual and collective action to reduce crime and build safer communities; and (2) government agencies, civic groups, schools, businesses, and youth organizations to educate the public, showcase their accomplishments, and explore new partnerships during Crime Prevention Month.

Working Families Flexibility Act

United States · United States Congress · 24 September 2010

Working Families Flexibility Act - Authorizes an employee to request from an employer a change in the terms or conditions of the employee's employment if the request relates to: (1) the number of hours the employee is required to work; (2) the times when the employee is required to work; or (3) where the employee is required to work. Sets forth certain employer duties with respect to such requests. Makes it unlawful for an employer to interfere with any rights provided to an employee under this Act. Authorizes an employee to file a complaint with the Administrator of the Wage and Hour Division of the Employment Standards Administration of the Department of Labor for any violations of such rights. Provides for the investigation and assessment of civil penalties or the award of relief for alleged violations, including the review in federal courts of appeal of orders of the Administrator. Requires the Secretary of Labor to carry out a research, education, and technical assistance program for employers, labor organizations, and the general public regarding compliance with this Act. Applies the requirements of this Act to certain classes of employees, including employees of the Government Accountability Office (GAO) and the Library of Congress.

National Environmental Education Reauthorization Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 2010

National Environmental Education Reauthorization Act of 2010 - Reauthorizes appropriations for, and revises, the National Environmental Education Act. Revises the duties of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Office of Environmental Education, including by requiring the Office to: (1) develop and support programs to improve the understanding of the benefits of exposure to the natural environment and programs that educate the public on the benefits of reducing dependence on nonrenewable forms of energy promote efforts to prepare citizens for employment in environmentally friendly fields that contribute to healthy communities; and (2) promote research, development, and evaluation of effective approaches to achieving an environmentally literate population. Revises: (1) the Environmental Education and Training Program by expanding the program's functions and activities; (2) the Environmental Education Grants program by expanding its eligibility requirements; (3) environment internships and fellowships by limiting training opportunities to training with EPA staff (currently agency staff); (4) environmental education awards, including by removing requirements that specific awards be given; and (6) the National Environmental Education and Training Foundation, including by renaming it as the National Environmental Education Foundation. Authorizes appropriations to the EPA Administrator for FY2010-FY2021 to carry out such Act and revises how funds shall be distributed.

Education for All Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 2010

Education for All Act - Prohibits the Secretary of Education from using any federal funds to promulgate regulations or guidance regarding the meaning of the term "gainful employment" where it is used in the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to require certain schools to prepare students for such employment to qualify for consideration as an institution of higher education under the Act and participation in the Act's student assistance programs under title IV.

US-STEM Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 2010

Undergraduate Scholarship Awards in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics Act or US-STEM Act - Requires the Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF) to award merit scholarships covering students' final two years of undergraduate studies in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics at four-year institutions of higher education. Restricts scholarship eligibility to students: (1) from families whose taxable income for 2010 did not exceed $75,000, adjusted annually thereafter for inflation; and (2) who maintain at least a 3.0 grade point average, on a scale of 4.0. Allows the Director to award up to 2,500 scholarships each year. Requires the Director to establish an advisory board for the scholarship program.

Charter School Good Governance and Transparency Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 2010

Charter School Good Governance and Transparency Act - Requires states to provide each charter school in the state that receives funds under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 with a list of licensed, independent auditors that perform governmental audits. Requires states to develop and implement policies requiring such charter schools to: (1) maintain their financial records in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and applicable state and federal requirements; (2) be audited annually by a licensed, independent auditor, with the findings made public and filed with their authorized public chartering agency and state; and (3) address all audit findings and report to their authorized public chartering agency on actions taken to do so. Directs states to: (1) require such chartering agencies to report significant audit findings and the measures schools take to address them; and (2) submit overall summary analyses of the annual audits to the Secretary of Education.

National Environmental Education Reauthorization Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 2010

National Environmental Education Reauthorization Act of 2010 - Reauthorizes appropriations for, and revises, the National Environmental Education Act. Revises the duties of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Office of Environmental Education, including by requiring the Office to: (1) develop and support programs to improve the understanding of the benefits of exposure to the natural environment and programs that educate the public on the benefits of reducing dependence on nonrenewable forms of energy promote efforts to prepare citizens for employment in environmentally friendly fields that contribute to healthy communities; and (2) promote research, development, and evaluation of effective approaches to achieving an environmentally literate population. Revises: (1) the Environmental Education and Training Program by expanding the program's functions and activities; (2) the Environmental Education Grants program by expanding its eligibility requirements; (3) environment internships and fellowships by limiting training opportunities to training with EPA staff (currently agency staff); (4) environmental education awards, including by removing requirements that specific awards be given; and (6) the National Environmental Education and Training Foundation, including by renaming it as the National Environmental Education Foundation. Authorizes appropriations to the EPA Administrator for FY2010-FY2021 to carry out such Act and revises how funds shall be distributed.

Expressing support for designation of October as "National Farm to School Month".

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 2010

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that: (1) Farm to School programs should be recognized as a proven strategy that can provide immediate and long-term benefits to child health, small and medium-sized agricultural producer income, and community economic development; and (2) the federal government should partner in assisting schools and local educational agencies in implementing such programs. Supports designation of National Farm to School Month. Encourages: (1) schools and local education agencies to use local produce in meals; and (2) schools, farmers and farm groups, local businesses, nonprofit institutions, churches, cities, state governments, and other local groups to raise awareness of Farm to School efforts in their communities.

Expressing support for designation of the week of April 11, 2011, as "Undergraduate Research Week".

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 2010

Supports the designation of Undergraduate Research Week. Recognizes the importance of undergraduate research and providing research opportunities for this country's talented youth, including females and underrepresented minorities. Encourages institutions of higher education, federal agencies, businesses, philanthropic entities, and others to support undergraduate research and undergraduate researchers and their faculty mentors. Supports the role undergraduate research can and does play in crucial research that serves this country's best economic and security interests.

Expressing support for designation of the month of October 2010 as National Principals Month.

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 2010

Recognizes school principals' and assistant principals' contribution to the success of elementary and secondary school students. Supports the designation of National Principals Month.

Raising awareness of hypertension and helping to reverse its prevalence in the United States through education, community programs, culturally competent strategies, research, and efforts to reduce the excess salt content in foods.

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 2010

Encourages individuals to be proactive about their health and to become knowledgeable of their blood pressure and their risk for hypertension. Expresses support for: (1) community-based programs that use culturally competent and evidence-based strategies to address hypertension; and (2) research that provides a better understanding of how hypertension affects communities that have been historically underrepresented in demographic studies and clinical trials for antihypertensive drugs. Recognizes the importance of linking hypertension awareness programs to other existing programs that address health concerns such as diabetes and obesity at the community health and development levels. Calls for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to set mandatory national standards, including improved nutrition labeling, for the sodium content in foods.

BUDGETING FOR EDUCATION: THE ROLE OF PERKINS LOANS

United States · United States House of Representatives · 22 September 2010

CAPTA Reauthorization Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2010

CAPTA Reauthorization Act of 2010 - Reauthorizes the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA) through FY2015, and revises requirements for: (1) the child abuse prevention and treatment advisory board; (2) the national clearinghouse for information relating to child abuse; (3) research and assistance activities; and (4) specified grants to states, Indian tribes or tribal organizations, and public or private agencies and organizations, including community-based grants. Reauthorizes the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act through FY2015, and revises grant requirements. Directs the Secretary to award formula grants to states and Indian tribes to assist in supporting programs and projects, including through subgrants. Directs the Secretary to award grants for: (1) the establishment of two national resource centers and at least seven special issue resource centers; (2) a National Resource Center on Domestic Violence; and (3) specialized services for abused parents and their children. Revises requirements for grants for State Domestic Violence Coalitions and the National Domestic Violence Hotline. Directs the Secretary to enter into cooperative five-year agreements with State Domestic Violence Coalitions for local community projects to prevent family, domestic, and dating violence, using a coordinated community response model and through prevention and education programs. Reauthorizes through FY2015 the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment and Adoption Reform Act of 1978 and the Abandoned Infants Assistance Act of 1988.

DREAM Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2010

Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors Act of 2010 or DREAM Act of 2010 - Amends the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 to repeal the provision making unlawful aliens ineligible for higher education benefits based on state residence unless a U.S. citizen or national is eligible for such benefits without regard to state residence. Authorizes the Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) to cancel the removal of, and adjust to conditional permanent resident status, an alien who: (1) entered the United States before his or her 16th birthday and has been present in the United States for at least five years immediately preceding this Act's enactment; (2) is a person of good moral character; (3) is not inadmissible or deportable under specified grounds of the Immigration and Nationality Act; (4) has been admitted to an institution of higher education (IHE) or has earned a high school or equivalent diploma; (5) from the age of 16 and older, has never been under a final order of exclusion, deportation, or removal; and (6) was under age 35 on the date of this Act's enactment. Requires aliens to apply for such adjustment of status within one year of being admitted to an IHE or earning a high school or equivalent diploma. Sets forth conditions for maintaining such status and having its conditional basis removed. Authorizes an alien who has satisfied the appropriate requirements before this Act's enactment to petition the Secretary for conditional permanent resident status. Provides for: (1) exclusive jurisdiction; (2) penalties for false application statements; (3) confidentiality; (4) higher education assistance; and (5) a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report respecting the number of aliens adjusted under this Act.

Linked Learning Pathways Affording College and Career Success Act

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2010

Linked Learning Pathways Affording College and Career Success Act - Directs the Secretary of Education to award renewable, competitive, matching grants to local educational agencies that partner with a qualified intermediary and at least one educational stakeholder to establish or expand linked learning pathways and a system of pathways that gives secondary school students pathway options. Defines "linked learning pathways" as comprehensive, multi-year high school programs of study that integrate: (1) rigorous academics that are aligned with entrance requirements for the state's public institutions of higher education; (2) career and technical education geared toward jobs in high pay, high growth, or high skill industries; (3) work-based learning; and (4) supplemental services. Favors grant applications that propose to accomplish at least three of the following: (1) serve students attending underperforming schools with graduation rates below 60% and high concentrations of impoverished students; (2) offer multiple linked learning pathways; (3) encourage students to seek careers in fields where their gender, race, or ethnicity is underrepresented; (4) increase the secondary school completion and post-secondary enrollment rates of traditionally underrepresented students; (5) reduce the academic achievement gap; or (6) utilize research-based practices to implement linked learning pathways. Directs the Secretary to provide for an independent evaluation of this program's grants and disseminate the best practices that emerge to support linked learning pathways.

Life Sciences Jobs and Investment Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2010

Life Sciences Jobs and Investment Act of 2010 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow: (1) an increased research tax credit for qualified initial life sciences research expenses; and (2) certain corporations a tax deduction for investments in the United States to hire scientists and researchers engaged in life science research and to fund life science research at universities, qualified research incubators, and other qualified organizations. Terminates such tax incentives after 2015. Defines "qualified initial life sciences research expenses" as amounts, up to $150 million, attributable to the study of biology, biochemistry, biophysics, bioengineering, microbiology, genetics, or physiology, but excluding sociology or psychology.

Protecting Student Athletes from Concussions Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2010

Protecting Student Athletes from Concussions Act of 2010 - Requires each state educational agency, in order to be eligible to receive funds under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 in FY2013 or subsequent fiscal years, to issue regulations establishing the following minimum requirements for the prevention and treatment of concussions. Requires each local educational agency in the state to develop and implement a standard plan for concussion safety and management that includes: (1) the education of students, parents, and school personnel about concussions; (2) supports for students recovering from a concussion; and (3) best practices designed to ensure the uniformity of safety standards, treatment, and management. Requires each public elementary and secondary school to post on school grounds and make publicly available on the school website information on concussions, including information on risks, responses, symptoms, and effects. Requires public school personnel who suspect that a student has sustained a concussion during a school-sponsored activity to: (1) remove the student from the activity and prohibit such student from participating in school athletic activities until the student submits a written release from a health care professional; and (2) report to the student's parent or guardian regarding such injury and the treatment provided. Prohibits a student who has sustained a concussion in a school-sponsored athletic activity from resuming participation in school-sponsored athletic or academic activities until the school receives a written release from a health care professional that: (1) states that the student is capable of resuming participation; and (2) may require the student to follow a plan designed to aid such individual in recovering and resuming participation in a manner that is coordinated with periods of cognitive and physical rest, and that reintroduces cognitive and physical demands on a progressive basis, based on the student's symptoms.

Rare Earths and Critical Materials Revitalization Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2010

Rare Earths and Critical Materials Revitalization Act of 2010 - Establishes in the Department of Energy (DOE) a research, development, and commercial application program to assure the long-term, secure, and sustainable supply of rare earth materials to satisfy the national security, economic well-being, and industrial production needs of the United States. Directs the Secretary of Energy (Secretary) to: (1) support new or significantly improved processes and technologies (as compared to those currently in use in the rare earth materials industry); (2) encourage multidisciplinary collaborations and opportunities for students at institutions of higher education; (3) collaborate with the relevant directorates of the European Commission to coordinate activities; (4) establish a Research and Development Information Center to catalogue, disseminate, and archive information on rare earth materials; and (5) submit an implementation plan to Congress. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to authorize the Secretary to make loan guarantee commitments for the commercial application of new or significantly improved technologies for specified projects. Amends the National Materials and Minerals Policy, Research and Development Act of 1980 to: (1) instruct the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy to coordinate federal materials research and development through the National Science and Technology Council (instead of, as currently required, the Federal Coordinating Council for Science, Engineering, and Technology); (2) modify the duties of the Secretary of Commerce regarding critical needs assessment; and (3) repeal specified duties of the Secretaries of Defense and of the Interior. Repeals the National Critical Materials Act of 1984.

Celebrating September 30, 2010, as the 60th Anniversary of Impact Aid.

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2010

Celebrates the 60th anniversary of the enactment of the Impact Aid program (which compensates local educational agencies for the financial burden of federal activities affecting their areas) as Impact Aid Recognition Day. Recognizes the importance of the program in ensuring that federally connected children receive a high-quality public education.

Expressing support for designation of the week beginning on November 8, 2010, as National School Psychology Week.

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2010

Supports the designation of National School Psychology Week. Recognizes the contributions of school psychologists to the success of students in schools across this country.

Making full-year continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2011 at lower, previous year levels, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2010

Makes continuing appropriations for FY2011. Appropriates amounts for continuing projects or activities which were conducted in FY2008-FY2010 and for which appropriations, funds, or other authority were made available in section 101 of division A of P.L. 110-329 (Consolidated Security, Disaster Assistance, and Continuing Appropriations Act, 2009) in specified FY2008 appropriations Acts. Provides that, if the amount provided for a project or activity would be higher than the amount provided in appropriation Acts for FY2010, such project or activity shall be funded at the lower amount. Enacts into law: (1) the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2011, as reported in the 111th Congress by the Subcommittee on Defense of the House Committee on Appropriations; (2) the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2011, as reported in the 111th Congress by the Subcommittee on Homeland Security of the House Committee on Appropriations; and (3) the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2011, as passed in the 111th Congress by the House. Makes appropriations, funds, and authority granted pursuant to this joint resolution available through FY2011, unless otherwise provided for in the applicable appropriations Act. Authorizes continuation of other specified activities (including activities for entitlements and other mandatory payments) through such date. Prohibits the use of funds made available in this joint resolution: (1) to carry out any program under, promulgate any regulation pursuant to, or defend against any lawsuit challenging any provision of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010, or any amendment made by either Act; or (2) for a congressional earmark.

Promoting Natural Gas and Electric Vehicles Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2010

Promoting Natural Gas and Electric Vehicles Act of 2010 - Establishes within the Department of Energy (DOE) a Natural Gas Vehicle and Infrastructure Development Program. Requires the Secretary of Energy to establish: (1) a rebate program for owners who convert or repower a conventionally fueled vehicle to a vehicle that operates on compressed or liquefied natural gas or to a mixed-fuel vehicle or a bi-fuel vehicle; (2) an infrastructure deployment program and a manufacturing development program to provide grants for installing natural gas refueling property and developing engines with reduced emissions, improved performance, and lower cost; and (3) a direct loan program to provide loans to manufacturers for the cost of reequipping, expanding, or establishing a facility that will be used for producing new alternative fuel motor vehicles or vehicle components. Establishes within DOE a national plug-in electric drive vehicle deployment program. Directs the Secretary of Energy to: (1) provide technical assistance to state, local, and tribal governments to create deployment programs for such vehicles; (2) make available to the public information regarding the cost, performance, usage data, and technical data regarding such vehicles and associated infrastructure; (3) carry out a national assessment and develop a national deployment plan; and (4) award grants for preparing a community deployment plan and for implementing programs that support such deployment. Directs the Secretary to develop and publish guidance for: (1) model building codes for charging infrastructure in new construction and major renovations of private residences, buildings, or other structures; (2) model construction permitting or inspection processes that allow for the expedited installation of charging infrastructure for purchasers of plug-in electric drive vehicles; and (3) model zoning, parking rules, or other local ordinances that facilitate the installation of, and allow for access to, publicly available charging infrastructure. Requires the Secretary to award grants to educational institutions to: (1) provide training and education for vocational workforce development to ensure that the workforce has the skills needed to work on and maintain plug-in electric drive vehicles and the infrastructure required to support them; and (2) establish programs to provide training and education in designing plug-in electric drive vehicles, components, and infrastructure to ensure U.S. leadership in this field. Directs: (1) the Federal Energy Management Program and the General Services Administration (GSA) to assess and report to Congress on the conversion of federal government fleets to plug-in electric drive vehicles; and (2) the Administrator of General Services to acquire plug-in electric drive vehicles and the requisite charging infrastructure to be deployed in a range of locations in the federal governmental fleets during a five-year period. Establishes within the national deployment program a targeted plug-in electric drive vehicle deployment communities program. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish a program to fund research and development in advanced batteries, plug-in electric drive vehicle components, plug-in electric drive infrastructure, and related technologies; (2) implement a study on recycling of materials from plug-in electric drive vehicles; and (3) establish the Advanced Batteries for Tomorrow Prize for a 500-mile vehicle battery. Establishes in the Treasury the 500-mile Battery Fund. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to study and report to Congress on: (1) the raw materials needed for the manufacture of components for plug-in electric drive vehicles; and (2) the infrastructure needed to support such vehicles. Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (PURPA) to require each electric utility to develop a plan to support the use of plug-in electric drive vehicles in its service area. Amends the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 to direct the Secretary of Energy to guarantee loans for the aggregate purchase of not fewer than 200 qualified automotive batteries in a calendar year that have a total minimum power rating of 1 megawatt and that use advanced battery technology. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to authorize the Secretary to make loan guarantees for charging infrastructure for plug-in drive electric vehicles if the infrastructure will be operational before December 31, 2016. Requires an advanced battery from a plug-in electric drive vehicle to be disposed of in accordance with the Solid Waste Disposal Act. Establishes the Plug-in Electric Drive Vehicle Technical Advisory Committee. Directs the President to establish the Plug-in Electric Drive Vehicle Interagency Task Force to ensure awareness, coordination, and integration of the activities of the federal government relating to plug-in electric drive vehicles. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund financing rate to 21 cents a barrel.

A resolution designating the week beginning on November 8, 2010, as National School Psychology Week.

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2010

Designates the week beginning on November 8, 2010, as National School Psychology Week. Recognizes the contributions of school psychologists to the success of students in schools across this country.

A resolution designating the week beginning September 19, 2010, as "National Hispanic-Serving Institutions Week".

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2010

Recognizes the goals and achievements of Hispanic-serving institutions across this country. Designates the week beginning September 19, 2010, as National Hispanic-Serving Institutions Week.

A resolution designating September 23, 2010, as "National Falls Prevention Awareness Day" to raise awareness and encourage the prevention of falls among older adults.

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2010

Designates September 23, 2010, as National Falls Prevention Awareness Day. Commends the Falls Free Coalition Advocacy Work Group and the 31 state falls coalitions for their efforts to work together to increase education and awareness about the prevention of falls among older adults. Encourages: (1) businesses, individuals, governments, the public health community, and health care providers to work together to promote the awareness of, and reduce the incidence of, falls among older adults in the United States; (2) state health departments to reduce falls among older adults; and (3) experts in the field to share best practices. Urges the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to continue developing and evaluating strategies to prevent falls among older adults that will translate into effective fall prevention interventions, including community-based programs.

Supporting the goals and ideals of National GEAR UP Day.

United States · United States Congress · 20 September 2010

Expresses support for the goals and ideals of a National GEAR UP Day. (GEAR UP is the Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs, created to facilitate the transition of low-income high school students into postsecondary education.) Recognizes the contributions of teachers, counselors, and program staff who encourage and prepare students for success in college. Encourages all students to set ambitious goals and work hard to achieve their dreams.

FOR VETS Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 2010

Formerly Owned Resources for Veterans to Express Thanks for Service Act of 2010 or FOR VETS Act of 2010 - Includes organizations whose membership comprises substantially veterans among the nonprofit educational or public health institutions or organizations to which federal surplus property shall be transferred through state agencies for purposes of education or public health.

Job Creation and Tax Cuts Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 2010

Job Creation and Tax Cuts Act of 2010 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend expiring tax expenditure provisions relating to infrastructure financing, energy, individuals, housing, businesses, health care, and disaster relief. Requires a report to Congress on each tax expenditure extended by this Act. Makes technical corrections and other amendments to laws relating to pension funding. Sets forth tax rules for the treatment of partnership interests transferred in connection with the performance of services. Treats as ordinary income or loss net income or loss from an investment services partnership interest. Extends through 2020 the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund financing rate and increases such rate to 78 cents a barrel. Increases from $1 billion to $5 billion the per incident limitation on expenditures from such Trust Fund. Denies a tax deduction for the payment of punitive damages. Includes in taxpayer gross income punitive damages paid by an insurer. Amends the Public Health Service Act, the Social Security Act, and other statutes relating to health care assistance to individuals. Provides additional funding for: (1) grants to states for youth activities, including summer employment; and (2) the Housing Trust Fund for low-income housing programs. Individual Indian Money Account Litigation Settlement Act of 2010 - Authorizes, ratifies, and confirms the Class Action Settlement Agreement dated December 7, 2009, in the case entitled Elouise Cobell et al. v. Ken Salazar . Establishes in the Treasury the Trust Land Consolidation Fund and the Indian Education Scholarship Holding Fund to carry out terms of the Settlement Agreement. Appropriates funds to the Department of Agriculture to carry out the terms of a settlement agreement to resolve claims raised in the cases consolidated in In re Black Farmers Discrimination Litigation , including Pigford claims (relating to a racial discrimination action against the Department of Agriculture). Amends the Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2010 to authorize expenditures from the Highway Trust Fund for allocations of infrastructure funding to states. Amends the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States to extend through 2013 duty suspensions on certain cotton fabrics. Authorizes transfers from the Treasury to restore payment levels from the Wool Apparel Manufacturers Trust Fund. Trade Adjustment Assistance Extension Act of 2010 - Amends the Trade and Globalization Adjustment Assistance Act of 2009 to extend through 2012 trade adjustment assistance programs. Extends through FY2011, and makes appropriations for, activities authorized by part A of title IV (Temporary Assistance to Needy Families) (TANF) of the Social Security Act (SSA), other than the Emergency Contingency Fund for State Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Programs, in the manner authorized for FY2010, subject to the amendments made by this Act. Increases and extends through FY2011 grant funding to state courts to assess and improve handling of proceedings relating to foster care and adoption. Amends Internal Revenue Code provisions relating to unemployment compensation program integrity. Extends: (1) through December 31, 2019, fees for customs services in connection with processing of merchandise; and (2) through September 30, 2019, fees for custom services in connection with commercial vehicles. Foreign-Held Debt Transparency and Threat Assessment Act - Requires: (1) the President to report to Congress quarterly on the risks posed by foreign holdings of debt instruments of the United States; (2) the Secretary of the Treasury to report annually on such risks; and (3) the Comptroller General to report annually on risks to the United States posed by the federal debt. Requires the President to formulate and implement a plan of action to reduce the risk posed by foreign holdings of debt instruments to U.S. long-term national security or economic stability. Establishes in the Department of the Treasury the Office of the Homeowner Advocate to assist homeowners, housing counselors, and housing lawyers in resolving problems with the Home Affordable Modification Program. Provides for compliance of the budgetary effects of this Act with the Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010.

Education for All Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 2010

Education for All Act of 2010 - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to state that it is U.S. policy to work with foreign countries and international and civil society organizations to achieve universal basic education by: (1) assisting developing countries and nongovernmental and multilateral organizations to provide all children with a quality basic education; and (2) promoting education as the foundation for communities' development. Directs the President to develop a comprehensive U.S. strategy to promote quality universal basic education by 2015. Authorizes the President to provide funds and other assistance to qualifying foreign countries to create the policies, processes, and infrastructure to develop national basic quality education plans. Amends the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 to establish within the Department of State a Coordinator of United States Government Activities to Provide Basic Education Assistance who shall have primary responsibility for the oversight and coordination of all U.S. government resources and international activities to promote quality universal basic education.

Community Health Improvement Councils Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 2010

Community Health Improvement Councils Act of 2010 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish a program for the creation of State Health Improvement Technical Assistance Centers and Community Health Improvement Councils to improve community health through local innovation. Defines "Community Health Improvement Council" to mean a locally driven, private, nonprofit entity that serves as the neutral convener for engaging providers and insurers and that fully engages patients and citizens in coordinating and improving the health care delivery system through community-wide education programs to promote healthier lifestyles, improve local or regional health status, clinical outcomes, and reductions in the growth in medical spending and health disparities through various approaches. Requires the Secretary to award competitive grants to five eligible entities to establish State Health Improvement Technical Assistance Centers, each of which shall: (1) establish up to four Community Health Improvement Councils; (2) provide technical assistance to such Councils; and (3) report on improvements in local and state health status, clinical outcomes, reductions in medical spending growth, and health care disparities. Requires the Secretary, in awarding grants, to give preference to entities that: (1) demonstrate the capacity to attract private sector or local government funding to ensure fiscal sustainability; (2) address significant health disparities; (3) demonstrate coordination or collaboration across governmental and nongovernmental sectors; (4) are committed to promoting full transparency of all deliberations of the Technical Assistance Centers and Community Health Improvement Councils; and (5) are independent from government and the financial self-interest of health care and purchasers stakeholders.

A resolution acknowledging and congratulating Miami Dade College on the occasion of its 50th anniversary of service to the students and residents of the State of Florida.

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 2010

Congratulates Miami Dade College on the occasion of its 50th anniversary for its academic excellence and service to Florida residents.

Better Use of Light Bulbs Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 2010

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.

Supporting the goals and ideals of "Lights On Afterschool!", a national celebration of after-school programs.

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 2010

Supports the goals and ideals of "Lights On Afterschool!," a national celebration of after-school programs.

Commercial Space Jobs and Investment Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2010

Commercial Space Jobs and Investment Act of 2010 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow: (1) a tax credit for 20% of the equity investment in a domestic corporation or partnership the principal trade or business of which is the commercial development of space and which is located in a Commercial Space Enterprise Zone; (2) an increased tax credit for commercial space research expenses; (3) an additional depreciation allowance for qualified commercial space property; and (4) a business-related tax credit for commercial space education and job training expenses.

Green Workforce Development Through Community Colleges Act

United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2010

Green Workforce Development Through Community Colleges Act - Directs the Secretaries of Labor, Energy, and Education to establish and convene an advisory commission to: (1) review and analyze the skill needs of the alternative energy and energy efficiency fields; (2) identify and define career pathways, including coursework, certification, and other training needed for career development in areas related to wind power, solar power, geothermal energy, training of energy auditors for residential and commercial structures, and energy efficient retrofit and renovation of residential and commercial structures; (3) recommend a curriculum framework and best practices for educational and workforce training programs related to such areas; and (4) report its findings and recommendations to the Secretaries. Directs such Secretaries to: (1) post such report on their department websites; and (2) jointly award grants to community colleges for the purposes of providing education and workforce training in the alternative energy and energy efficiency fields. Requires community college recipients to use grant funds to: (1) establish educational and training programs in such fields; (2) assist students and graduates of such programs in apprenticeship and employment placement in such fields; (3) coordinate with and assist area secondary and vocational schools in providing educational services in such fields; and (4) coordinate with local workforce investment boards to ensure program access to individuals participating in workforce investment activities in the local area, dislocated workers, workers who are transitioning into careers in such fields, underrepresented minorities, and low-income individuals. Directs the Secretaries to jointly award grants to up to 10 community colleges identified as leaders in education and workforce training in the alternative energy and energy efficiency fields to develop best practices regarding such education and training.

Veterans Benefits and Economic Welfare Improvement Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2010

Veterans Benefits and Economic Welfare Improvement Act of 2010 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Assistant Secretary of Labor for Veterans' Employment and Training to carry out a joint training program to provide eligible veterans with skills relevant to the job market. Makes eligible for such program any veteran who: (1) is not otherwise eligible for education or training services through the VA; (2) has not acquired a marketable skill since being separated or released from military service; (3) was discharged under honorable conditions; and (4) has been unemployed for at least 90 days during the 180-day period preceding program application, or, during such 180-day period, received a maximum hourly pay rate of not more than 150% of the federal minimum wage. Allows for payments to employers for the provision of apprenticeship or on-job training under such program. Allows a VA benefits claimant to waive any claim development period upon submission of a fully developed claim, and requires the Secretary to provide expeditious treatment of such a claim. Requires the Secretary to notify a claimant of a non-fully developed claim within 30 days after that determination. Extends the 120-day time limit for the filing of a notice of appeal of a final decision of the Board of Veterans' Appeals for such time as justice may require, upon a showing of good cause. Applies such extension retroactively to final Board decisions issued on or after July 24, 2008. Excludes from annual income, for purposes of eligibility for VA pension benefits for veterans and their surviving spouses and children: (1) reimbursements for expenses resulting from any accident, theft or loss, or casualty loss, or medical expenses or pain and suffering related to such accidents or losses; and (2) payments of up to $5,000 paid by a state or municipality as a veterans' benefit due to injury or disease. Extends through FY2015 VA authority to obtain veterans' income verification information from the Commissioner of Social Security or the Secretary of the Treasury. Directs the Secretary to establish the VetStar Award Program to recognize annually businesses for their contribution to veterans' employment. Increases from $1,000 to $2,000 the monthly pension for Medal of Honor recipients. Provides that, for purposes of VA laws and benefits, a person who is mentally incapacitated, deemed mentally incompetent, or experiencing an extended loss of consciousness shall not be considered adjudicated as a mental defective without the order or finding of a judge, magistrate, or other judicial authority of competent jurisdiction that such person is a danger to himself or herself or others.

Recognizing the important role zoos, aquariums, and other wildlife organizations have played in the response efforts in the Gulf region following the Deepwater Horizon oil spill that began on April 20, 2010.

United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2010

Commends the response of zoos, aquariums, and other wildlife organizations in rescue and rehabilitation efforts in the Gulf of Mexico region following the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Acknowledges the role of such organizations in responding to environmental disasters. Expresses support for their expertise and contributions to conservation programs, science education, and community development.

Honoring the historic contributions of veterans throughout all conflicts involving the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2010

Recognizes the courage, service, and sacrifice of all veterans and their historic contributions to the United States. Encourages: (1) the people of the United States to demonstrate their support for Veterans Day each year; and (2) schools and teachers to educate students on the historic contributions veterans have made to the country and its history, both while serving as members of the Armed Forces and after completing their service.

Commending the National Student Leadership Conference for organizing college campus experiences for high school students for more than 20 years.

United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2010

Commends the National Student Leadership Conference for working for more than 20 years toward providing high school students with enhanced educational experiences. Encourages the expansion of such efforts throughout this country and the world.

PROSTATE Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2010

Prostate Research, Outreach, Screening, Testing, Access, and Treatment Effectiveness Act of 2010 or the PROSTATE Act of 2010 - Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to establish the Interagency Prostate Cancer Coordination and Education Task Force to coordinate federal activities relating to prostate cancer, including by: (1) developing a summary of advances in federal prostate cancer research and a list of best practices for treatment of prostate cancer that warrant broader adoption in health care programs; (2) coordinating information on federal research and health care program activities relating to prostate cancer; (3) developing a comprehensive interagency strategy on, and advising agencies in, the solicitation of proposals for collaborative, multidisciplinary research and health care programs relating to prostate cancer; and (4) developing a coordinated message related to screening and treatment for prostate cancer to be reflected in educational and beneficiary materials for federal health programs. Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish and carry out a program to coordinate and intensify prostate cancer research, including by: (1) carrying out research to develop advances in improved early detection, diagnostic, and prognostic methods and tests; (2) carrying out research to better understand the etiology of prostate cancer to improve prevention efforts; (3) expanding basic research into prostate cancer; and (4) establishing clinical registries for prostate cancer. Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, the Secretary of Defense (DOD), and the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to incorporate prostate cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment for medically underserved populations into the telehealth programs of their departments, including by: (1) giving priority to populations in medically underserved areas and in rural and highly rural areas; (2) promoting the efficient use of specialist care; and (3) more effectively employing tumor boards to better counsel patients. Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) carry out a national education campaign to encourage men to seek prostate cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment when appropriate; and (2) award grants to private nonprofit organizations to test alternative outreach and education strategies.

A resolution expressing support for designation of October 7, 2010, as "Jumpstart's Read for the Record Day".

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2010

Supports the designation of October 7, 2010, as Jumpstart's Read for the Record Day. Recognizes the fifth year of Jumpstart's Read for the Record. (Jumpstart is a national nonprofit early childhood education organization.) Encourages adults to: (1) join children in creating the world's largest shared reading experience; and (2) show their support for early literacy and Jumpstart's early education programming for young children in low-income communities.