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Bill· HRH.R. 2987 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003
Amends the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act (NSLA) to direct the Secretary of Agriculture (Secretary) to establish a program of competitive incentive grants to selected local educational agencies to create healthy school nutrition environments and assess the impact of such environments on the health and well-being of children enrolled in selected elementary and secondary schools of such agencies. Amends the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 (CNA) to revise requirements relating to the Secretary's CNA and NSLA regulation of competitive foods in schools. Eliminates a provision which barred such regulations from prohibiting the sale of competitive foods approved by the Secretary in food service facilities or areas during the time of service of food under CNA or NSLA, if the proceeds from the sales of such foods would inure to the benefit of the schools or of organizations of students approved by the schools. Allows such regulations to include provisions that regulate the service of competitive foods. Requires regulations regarding competitive foods to: (1) apply to all school grounds during the duration of the school day; (2) not supersede or otherwise affect State and local regulations on competitive foods that the Secretary determines conform to CNA and NSLA nutritional goals; (3) if such sales are allowed, require proceeds to be used for the benefit of schools or school-approved student organizations; (4) take into account differing needs of elementary, middle and junior high, and high schools; and (5) implement recommendations the Institute of Medicine will make to the Secretary regarding regulation of competitive foods in schools.
Bill· HRH.R. 2956 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003
Financial Aid Simplification Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to direct the Advisory Committee on Student Financial Assistance to study and report to specified congressional committees on the feasibility of simplifying the need analysis methodology for all Federal student financial assistance programs and the process of applying for such assistance through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Requires the Secretary of Education within one year after the report's submission to initiate a redesign of the FAFSA Revises eligibility requirements for filing of a simplified FAFSA to allow, as an alternative to not being required to file an income tax return, that the student's parents or the student (and the student's wife, if any) received benefits under a means-tested Federal benefit program. Directs the Secretary to make special efforts, in conjunction with State efforts, to: (1) notify students and their parents who qualify for a free lunch under the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act, the Food Stamps program, or other such programs of their potential eligibility for a maximum Pell Grant; and (2) disseminate such informational materials as necessary.
Bill· HRH.R. 2945 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003
Head Start Assessment Act of 2003 - Prohibits the Secretary of Health and Human Services from proceeding with the full-scale implementation of the Head Start National Reporting System on Child Outcomes, as described in a specified project proposal, until the Secretary certifies to Congress that: (1) congressional oversight hearings have been concluded concerning the development and implementation of the System; (2) the Secretary has concluded public forums in different regions of the United States, and provided an opportunity for written public comments, concerning early childhood assessment proposals; (3) the Secretary has reported to Congress a study by the National Academy of Sciences of early childhood assessments focusing on improving accountability, instruction, and the delivery of services; and (4) sufficient funds are available to develop and implement any new Head Start assessments, and deliver necessary additional technical assistance and professional development required to successfully implement these assessments. Prescribes requirements for participants in such public forums.
Bill· HRH.R. 2986 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003
Cancer Survivorship Research and Quality of Life Act of 2003 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to include demonstration, education, and other programs concerning cancer survivorship among the activities of the National Cancer Institute (Institute) within the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Requires the Director of NIH, acting through the Director of the Institute, to: (1) expand and coordinate NIH activities related to cancer survivorship; and (2) establish an Office on Survivorship within the Institute. Creates the position of Associate Director for Survivorship. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Protection, to study the health challenges associated with cancer survivorship and carry out projects and interventions. Requires the Secretary to make grants for the monitoring and evaluation of cancer care and survivorship.
Bill· HRH.R. 2981 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003
American Indian Trust Fund Management Reform Act Amendments Act of 2003 - Amends the American Indian Trust Fund Management Reform Act of 1994 to revise the accounting duties of the Secretary of the Interior with respect to the daily and annual balances of all monies or proceeds derived from trust assets and funds held in trust by the United States for the benefit of an Indian tribe or an individual Indian. Requires an annual audit only for accounts with over $1,000 in trust funds, but for accounts with less than $1,000, only statistical sampling audit procedures of all such accounts grouped separately. Specifies minimum additional responsibilities of the Secretary. Allows an Indian tribe to use authority granted to the tribe under the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act to manage Indian trust funds and trust assets without terminating the trust responsibility of the Secretary or the trust status of the funds and assets. Replaces the current Office of Special Trustee for American Indians with a Deputy Secretary of the Interior for Indian Affairs to: (1) oversee the Bureau of Indian Affairs; (2) carry out all duties currently assigned to the Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs; and (3) oversee all Indian trust fund and trust asset matters, and consult with Indian tribes and individual trust asset and trust fund account holders. Establishes within the Office of the Secretary the Office of Trust Reform Implementation and Oversight, headed by such Deputy Secretary, to supervise and direct day-to-day activities concerning such assets or funds, including providing accurate inventories, revenue postings, monthly statements, and annual audits. Establishes a Commission for Review of Indian Trust Fund Management Responsibilities to assess the fiduciary and management responsibilities of the Federal Government with respect to Indian tribes and individual Indian beneficiaries.
Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 262 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003
Commends MENC (the National Association for Music Education), the Smithsonian Institution, the American Sportscasters Association, and all those involved in the National Anthem "SingAmerica" project for their initiative to promote national awareness of the patriotic musical heritage of the United States. Urges all Americans to participate in SingAmerica.
Bill· SS. 1451 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2003
Runaway, Homeless, and Missing Children Protection Act - Amends the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act (RHYA) and the Missing Children's Assistance Act (MCAA) to reauthorize and revise programs under such Acts. Amends RHYA part A (Runaway and Homeless Youth Grant Program) to: (1) rename it as the Basic Center Grant Program; (2) include testing for sexually transmitted diseases, at the request of runaway and homeless youth, among the services which local basic centers may provide; and (3) provide for an exception to a 20-youth-maximum-capacity requirement for funding a runaway and homeless youth center or a locally controlled temporary shelter if the applicant assures that there is a State or local law or regulation that requires a higher maximum to comply with licensure requirements for children and youth serving facilities. Includes maternity group homes among the types of transitional living youth projects eligible for grants under part B (Transitional Living Grant Program) of RHYA.. Extends an individual youth's eligibility to remain in a part B shelter beyond the regular 540-day period, until the earlier of the youth's 18th birthday or the 180th day after the end of the 540-day period. Revises RHYA part A coordination assurance and part B coordination agreement requirements to provide for coordinating services with school district liaisons designated under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act to assure that runaway and homeless youth are provided information about the educational services available to them. Requires part B plan development to include referral of homeless youth to postsecondary education, to training services and programs under the Workforce Investment Act of 1998, and welfare programs under the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996. Sets 18 years as the maximum age limit for youth seeking shelter in RHYA part A centers. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to: (1) report on strategies to end youth homelessness; and (2) evaluate RHYA part B programs to report on long-term housing outcomes for youth 12 to 18 months after exiting the program. Prohibits use of RHYA funds for any program of distributing sterile needles or syringes for the hypodermic injection of any illegal drug. Requires RHYA funds recipients who carry out such distribution programs to account for such program funds separately from RHYA funds. Requires NCMEC to coordinate the operation of a cyber tipline for reporting Internet-related child sexual exploitation in the areas of: (1) distribution of child pornography; (2) online enticement of children for sexual acts; and (3) child prostitution.
Bill· HRH.R. 2878 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2003
Community Protection and Response Act of 2003 - Amends the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (the Act) to include a terrorist attack, dispersion of radioactive or other contaminants, dispersion of hazardous substances, or other catastrophic event as a "major disaster" eligible for relief under the Act. Includes as a "private nonprofit facility" for purposes of damages coverage in a major disaster private for-profit telecommunications, phone services, and utilities when losses occur during a homeland security event and are not covered by insurance. Authorizes the President, at the request of a State governor, to declare that a major disaster constitutes a homeland security event and is of such severity and magnitude that effective response is beyond the capacity of the affected State and local government. Provides specified Federal assistance under the Act upon such a declaration, including reimbursement and grant assistance for lost compensation, sustained losses, and required repairs. Includes as critical services under the Act education systems, providers of counseling, and providers of assistance to the homeless. Removes the $5 million limit on community disaster loans provided under the Act. Requires or provides for: (1) standards for reporting information concerning disasters involving homeland security events; (2) a special commission to review air quality following a homeland security event; (3) guidelines concerning health risks associated with the release of materials following a homeland security event and associated monitoring and analysis; and (4) grants for data collection during public health emergencies, research on assisting victims, advance preparation for public health emergencies, and disaster relief for local educational agencies.
Bill· HRH.R. 2892 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2003
Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to provide for forgiveness of Federal Family Education (FFEL) loans and Ford Federal Direct (student) loans to any borrower who has been employed as a full-time school superintendent, principal, or other administrator for five consecutive complete school years in a school district in a low-income area.
Bill· HRH.R. 2883 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2003
Living Well with Fatal Chronic Illness Act of 2003 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a limited refundable long-term care credit. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to: (1) carry out research, demonstration, and education programs with respect to fatal chronic illness through the Public Health Service; and (2) conduct studies on end-of-life care. Directs the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to expand activities with respect to epidemiology and public health in fatal chronic illness. Directs the Director of the National Institutes of Health to expand, intensify, and coordinate the activities of the National Institutes of Health with respect to research on fatal chronic illness. Provides for Medicare pilot programs for the treatment of fatal chronic illnesses. Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) develop and carry out programs to improve the delivery of appropriate health and support services for patients with fatal chronic illnesses; and (2) make grants to support volunteer and community support of veterans living at home who have fatal chronic illnesses.
Bill· HRH.R. 2884 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2003
Dollars to the Classroom Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Education award grants to States for use by States and local educational agencies (LEAs) to improve classroom services and activities for students. Prescribes requirements for participation of private school children and teachers in activities and services. Repeals specified programs under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) and the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act, including: (1) mandatory independent evaluations of State student assessments; (2) grants for schools to develop comprehensive school reforms; (3) the Teacher and Principal Training and Recruiting Fund; (4) mathematics and science partnerships; (5) the Innovation for Teacher Quality; (6) Enhancing Education through Technology; (7) the Fund for Improvement of Education; and (8) Education for Homeless Children.
Bill· HRH.R. 2873 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2003
Fighting Abuse of Inhalants Act of 2003 - Amends the Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1994 to include prevention of the abuse of inhalants under its programs.
Bill· HRH.R. 2880 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2003
Foster Care Mentoring Act of 2003 - Amends title IV part B (Child-Welfare Services) of the Social Security Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to award grants to States to support the establishment or expansion and operation of programs using networks of public and private community entities to provide mentoring for children in foster care. Authorizes a grant award directly to a political subdivision if the subdivision serves a substantial number of foster care youth. Prescribes program implementation guidelines, including: (1) application requirements; (2) training; (3) screening; (4) educational requirements; (5) Federal and non-Federal share of funds for the Program; (6) considerations in awarding grants; and (7) use of funds. Sets forth a maximum grant amount to be awarded to a State or political subdivision. Authorizes the Secretary to award a competitive grant to an eligible entity to establish a National Hotline Service or Website to provide information to individuals interested in becoming mentors to youth in foster care. Instructs the Secretary of Education to implement a program to provide for the discharge or cancellation of the Federal student loan indebtedness of an eligible mentor.
Bill· HRH.R. 2869 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2003
Northern Nevada Rural Economic Development and Land Consolidation Act of 2003 - Directs the Secretary of the Interior, upon the submission of the relevant application or applications by the Placer Dome U.S. Inc., Denver, Co., and Graymont Western U.S. Inc., Murray, Utah (together the Claimant), to sell the Claimant whatever portion is requested of certain public lands subject to mining operations in Eureka, Lander, White Pine, Elko, and Humboldt Counties, Nevada. Directs that the sale of the lands be at market price. States that the value of locatable minerals in such lands shall not be considered or included in the market value of the lands. Subjects all public lands conveyed under this Act to a royalty payable to the United States on locatable minerals, except for lands subject to unpatented mining claims for which the Claimant demonstrates the discovery of a valuable mineral deposit. Directs the Secretary to accept from the Claimant a conveyance of any of certain specified private lands in northern Nevada, with the Claimant to receive a credit equal to the market value of each such transferred property. Subjects all lands conveyed under this Act to valid existing rights. Directs that the proceeds from the sales of the lands be used: (1) to support the State's general education program; (2) to support a trust fund for the California Trail Interpretative Center in Elko County; (3) for the rehabilitation of lands in Nevada that were subject to historic mining activities; and (4) for the reimbursement of costs incurred by the Nevada State Office and relevant Field Offices of the Bureau of Land Management in conducting the sales.
Bill· HRH.R. 2894 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2003
Theodore Roosevelt National Wildlife Refuge Act - Directs the Secretary of the Interior to establish as the Theodore Roosevelt National Wildlife Refuge certain lands, waters, and interests the Secretary shall acquire in the Yazoo-Mississippi Delta, located in Holmes, Humphreys, Issaquena, Leflore, Sharkey, Warren, Washington, and Yazoo Counties, Mississippi, popularly known as the Lower Delta, in order to: (1) restore and preserve native Mississippi River ecosystems; (2) provide habitat for migratory birds and the Louisiana Black Bear, as well as population management of native plants and resident animals (including restoration of extirpated species); (3) maximize fisheries on the Mississippi River and its tributaries, natural lakes, and manmade reservoirs; (4) provide technical assistance to private landowners in fish and wildlife protection, restoration, and enhancement of their lands; and (5) provide the public with opportunities for hunting, angling, trapping, and other outdoor recreational and educational activities. Directs the Secretary to construct, administer, and maintain in the Refuge a multiagency Holt Collier Wildlife Interpretation and Education Center.
Bill· HRH.R. 2882 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2003
Metropolitan Washington Regional Transportation Act - Directs the National Capital Region Transportation Planning Board to: (1) allocate Federal funds received by the Board among projects of regional significance; (2) propose a list of priority transportation projects; (3) propose a regional funding mechanism to fund the needed projects; (4) manage the Metropolitan Washington Regional Transportation Corporation to provide funding for such projects; (5) provide notice and opportunity for public comment; (6) conduct outreach and education activities to promote public participation; (7) promote cooperative action by metropolitan Washington regional jurisdictions on regional transportation issues; and (8) if necessary, assist such jurisdictions in developing an interstate compact or agreement to better meet regional transportation needs. Authorizes one or more of the metropolitan Washington region jurisdictions to enter into an interstate compact or agreement to finance and implement one or more of the priority projects from the Board's long-range plan if consent is granted by: (1) the Governor of each State that enters into the compact or agreement; and (2) the Mayor of the District of Columbia, if the District of Columbia enters into such compact or agreement. Establishes the Metropolitan Washington Regional Transportation Corporation, which shall assist in the management of any initial funding and implementation of an interstate agreement or compact to reduce traffic congestion or improve travel options in the metropolitan Washington region.
Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 253 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2003
Declares the sense of the Congress that a Free Enterprise Education Week should be established to encourage schools and businesses in the United States to educate students about the free enterprise system.
Bill· SS. 1447 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2003
Border Health Security Act of 2003 - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the United States members of the United States-Mexico Border Health Commission (the members), to award grants to eligible entities (as defined by this section) to address priorities and recommendations to improve the health of border residents that are established by the Secretary, the members, and the State border health offices. Sets forth uses for grant funds, including for programs relating to: (1) maternal and child health; (2) substance abuse; and (3) environmental health. Directs the Secretary to award grants to eligible entities (as defined by this section) for bioterrorism preparedness in the border area. Sets forth uses for grant funds, including for the: (1) improvement of infrastructure; and (2) education and training of clinicians, epidemiologists, laboratories, and emergency personnel. Allows the Secretary to coordinate with the Secretary of Homeland Security a health alert system that: (1) alerts clinicians and public health officials of emerging disease clusters and syndromes along the border area; and (2) is alerted to health threats or bioterrorism along the border area.
Resolution· SRESS.Res. 199 (108th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2003
Commends and appreciates John E. Dolibois for his lifetime of service and achievements in global education, understanding, and diplomacy for this country and the world community.
Bill· HRH.R. 2832 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2003
Healthy Nutrition for America's Children Act - Amends the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to reauthorize and expand the fruit and vegetable pilot program.
Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 250 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2003
Recognizes the growing number of community activists, organizations, and municipal governments leading the national effort to establish public access defibrillation (PAD) programs. Encourages the continued development and implementation of PAD programs in schools, sports arenas, large hotels, concert halls, high-rise buildings, gated communities, buildings subject to high-security, and similar facilities to increase the survival rate for victims of cardiac arrest.
Bill· SS. 1444 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2003
Amends the Head Start Act to increase the mandatory allotment for Early Head Start programs by two percent per fiscal year from 12 percent for FY 2004 to 20 percent for FY 2008.
Bill· HRH.R. 2819 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2003
Modern-Day Marshall Plan for Eurasia and the Middle East Act of 2003 - Declares that it shall be the policy of the United States to (1) promote stable democracies and market economies in Eurasia and the Middle East, and (2) encourage dialogue between U.S. officials and human rights organizations, civic organizers, politicians, and activists to further democratic reform and economic stability in developing countries there, and (3) encourage dialogue between U.S. officials and the private sector regarding the opening of markets and transparency in business in Eurasia and the Middle East. Authorizes the President to establish and implement a program to provide economic assistance for the developing countries of Eurasia and the Middle East to foster political stability through programs which promote: (1) economic growth, trade, education and infrastructure; (2) health; and (3) democracy building and human rights. Requires the President to urge other appropriate countries to provide similar assistance.
Bill· HRH.R. 2801 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2003
Minority Serving Institution Digital and Wireless Technology Opportunity Act of 2003- Amends the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 to direct the Secretary of Commerce to establish a Minority Serving Institution Digital and Wireless Technology Opportunity Program to assist eligible educational institutions in acquiring, and augmenting use of, digital and wireless networking technologies to improve the quality and delivery of educational services at such institutions. Defines as eligible institutions: (1) historically Black colleges or universities, (2) a Hispanic-, Alaskan Native-, or Native Hawaiian-serving institution; (3) a tribally controlled college or university; or (4) an institution with a sufficient enrollment of needy students as defined under the Higher Education Act of 1965. Outlines authorized assistance activities. Directs the Under Secretary of Commerce for Technology to: (1) establish an advisory council to advise on the best approaches toward maximum Program participation by eligible institutions; and (2) ensure that grant awards are made to all types of eligible institutions. Requires Program assessment every three years by the National Academy of Public Administration.
Bill· HRH.R. 2811 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2003
Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to authorize the Secretary of Education to make annually renewable grants to local educational agencies to assist them in recruiting and retaining teachers for high-need elementary or secondary schools that: (1) provide a free public education; (2) at least 75 percent of whose students receive a free or reduced-cost lunch in accordance with the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act; and (3) which have been assigned a school locale code of 7 or 8 (rural or high-poverty). Requires the use of such grants to increase by $5000 the salary of each full-time teacher in such a school.
Bill· HRH.R. 2807 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2003
Border Health Security Act of 2003 - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the United States members of the United States-Mexico Border Health Commission (the members), to award grants to eligible entities (as defined by this section) to address priorities and recommendations to improve the health of border residents that are established by the Secretary, the members, and the State border health offices. Sets forth uses for grant funds, including for programs relating to: (1) maternal and child health; (2) substance abuse; and (3) environmental health. Directs the Secretary to award grants to eligible entities (as defined by this section) for bioterrorism preparedness in the border area. Sets forth uses for grant funds, including for the: (1) improvement of infrastructure; and (2) education and training of clinicians, epidemiologists, laboratories, and emergency personnel. Allows the Secretary to coordinate with the Secretary of Homeland Security a health alert system that: (1) alerts clinicians and public health officials of emerging disease clusters and syndromes along the border area; and (2) is alerted to health threats or bioterrorism along the border area.
Bill· HRH.R. 2809 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2003
Central Asia Education Enhancement Act of 2003 - Directs the Secretary of State to establish a pilot program of scholarships for public policy internships for undergraduate and graduate students from Central Asia, with priority to students from Kazakhstan, Kyrgystan, and Uzbekistan.
Bill· HRH.R. 2810 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2003
Afghanistan Education Enhancement Act of 2003 - Directs the Secretary of State to establish a pilot program of scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students from Afghanistan for public policy internships in the United States.
Bill· HRH.R. 2795 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 18 July 2003
Access to Books for Children Act - ABC Act - Amends the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to make grants to local agencies to provide vouchers to women participating in the special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children (WIC) for the purchase of educational books for their infants and children. Limits to one $5 voucher the maximum amount any one woman may receive, regardless of the number of her infants or children. Makes specified amounts from the Department of Education available for such book voucher program. Authorizes additional amounts to be appropriated to the Secretary of Agriculture to administer such program.
Bill· SS. 1422 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2003
Teacher Education for Autistic Children Act of 2003 - TEACH Act of 2003 - Authorizes additional appropriations for: (1) training of special education teachers with expertise in autism spectrum disorders (ASD); and (2) improving results for children with ASD, under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Directs the Secretary of Education (the Secretary) to carry out a student loan forgiveness program of assuming the obligation to repay up to specified amounts of certain loans under the Higher Education Act of 1965 for borrowers who are employed as full-time special education teachers of children with ASD for three consecutive complete school years. Provides for additional amounts to be repaid at the end of each of the next two additional consecutive years of such employment, up to a total maximum amount. Amends IDEA to require local educational agencies receiving IDEA assistance to report on autism early intervention activities. Directs the Secretary: (1) acting through the Assistant Secretary for Special Education and Rehabilitative Services to establish and provide administrative support for a task force on ASD; (2) with the Secretary of Labor to study and report to Congress on the effectiveness of Federal vocational training programs in providing appropriate assistance to individuals with ASD; and (3) to make grants to each State that establishes and operates at least one State autism ombudsman office.
Bill· HRH.R. 2765 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2003
District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 2004 - Makes appropriations to the District of Columbia for FY 2004, 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 DC Water and Sewer Authority; (7) to the Department of Transportation in the District for the Anacostia Waterfront Initiative; (8) to the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council; (9) for capital development in the District; (10) to DC Public Schools; (11) for the Family Literacy Program; (12) for a DC scholarship program (subject to authorization); and (13) to the Chief Financial Officer of the District. 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 Cash Reserve; (9) the Emergency and Contingency Reserve Fund; (10) repayment of certain loans and interest; (11) payment of interest on short-term borrowing; (12) 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; (13) refunds and the payment of legal settlements or judgments that have been entered against the District government; (14) the John A. Wilson Building; (15) workforce investments; (16) certain non-departmental agency costs; (17) pay-as-you-go capital in lieu of capital financing; (18) a Tax Increment Financing Program; (19) making refunds associated with disallowed Medicaid funding; (20) emergency planning and security costs; (21) the Family Literacy Program; (22) a DC Scholarship Program; (23) the Water and Sewer Authority; (24) the Washington Aqueduct; (25) the Stormwater Permit Compliance Enterprise Fund; (26) the Lottery and Charitable Games Enterprise Fund; (27) the Sports and Entertainment Commission; (28) the District of Columbia Retirement Board; (29) the Washington Convention Center Enterprise Fund; (30) the National Capital Revitalization Corporation; and (31) capital outlay (including rescissions).
Bill· SS. 1419 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 16 July 2003
Foster Care Mentoring Act of 2003 - Amends title IV part B (Child-Welfare Services) of the Social Security Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to award grants to States to support the establishment or expansion and operation of programs using networks of public and private community entities to provide mentoring for children in foster care. Authorizes a grant award directly to a political subdivision if the subdivision serves a substantial number of foster care youth. Prescribes program implementation guidelines, including: (1) application requirements; (2) training; (3) screening; (4) educational requirements; (5) Federal and non-Federal share of funds for the Program; (6) considerations in awarding grants; and (7) use of funds. Sets forth a maximum grant amount to be awarded to a State or political subdivision. Authorizes the Secretary to award a competitive grant to an eligible entity to establish a National Hotline Service or Website to provide information to individuals interested in becoming mentors to youth in foster care. Instructs the Secretary of Education to implement a program to provide for the discharge or cancellation of the Federal student loan indebtedness of an eligible mentor.
Bill· HRH.R. 2764 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 16 July 2003
Expanding Education for Military Families Act of 2003 - Removes the requirement that, in order to be eligible to transfer educational entitlement earned under the Montgomery GI Bill's educational assistance program to one or more military dependents, a member must have, or be participating in, a critical military skill or specialty. Requires an individual to make an election not to enroll in such program during the 180-day period beginning on the date the individual enters into active-duty or reserve service.
Bill· HRH.R. 2762 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 16 July 2003
Excellence in Vocational Education Act of 2003 - Authorizes the Secretary of Education to award a competitive grant to local educational agencies for up to half the costs of vocational and technical education programs.
Bill· HRH.R. 2763 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 16 July 2003
Public Private Vocational Partnership Act of 2003 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a limited business credit for charitable contributions of tangible personal property to high schools and community colleges.
Bill· HRH.R. 2732 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 15 July 2003
Home School Non-Discrimination Act of 2003 - Expresses the sense of the Congress that parents who choose private home education should be encouraged within the framework provided by the Constitution. Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) with respect to: (1) student aid eligibility of home-schooled students who have satisfied certain secondary education standards; and (2) institutional aid eligibility of the higher education institutions that such students attend. Amends the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to provide, if a parent does not consent to an initial evaluation or special education or related services for a child with a disability, the local educational agency shall not be required to convene an individualized education program (IEP) meeting or develop an IEP for such child. Amends the Internal Revenue Code with respect to qualified elementary and secondary education expenses (the Coverdell Education Savings Account) to include home schools if they are treated as a home school or private school under State law. Amends the part of the General Education Provisions Act known as the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 to prohibit release of certain information on and educational records of students in non-public education, including any student educated at home or in a private school in accordance with State law, without written parental consent. Amends HEA to include students at home schools, whether treated as a home school or a private school under State law, among those prospective secondary school graduates eligible to apply for the Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship Program for higher education. Amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to direct the Secretary of Labor to extend the hours and periods of permissible employment of employees between the ages of 14 and 16 years who are privately educated at a home school, whether the home school is treated as a home school or a private school under State Law, beyond those hours and periods applicable to employees of such ages who are educated in traditional public schools. (Thus allows home-school students to be employed during the traditional school day.)
Bill· SS. 1401 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 14 July 2003
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Authorization Act of 2003 - Authorizes appropriations for FY 2004 through 2008 to the Secretary of Commerce (Secretary) for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), including specified activities of: (1) the National Weather Service; (2) the Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research; (3) the National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service; (4) the National Ocean Service; (5) the National Marine Fisheries Service; (6) the Office of Program Planning and Integration; (7) NOAA program support; and (8) the Office of Marine and Aviation Operations. Sets forth duties and authorities of the NOAA Administrator with respect to: (1) a business management fund; (2) an external research program; (3) hydrographic service volunteers; (4) an Office of Education; and (5) numbers of NOAA corps officers.
Bill· HRH.R. 2721 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 14 July 2003
Amends the Soldiers' and Sailors' Civil Relief Act of 1940 to apply a provision limiting the rate of interest on student loans during a period of military service to all student loans, including loans under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965.
Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 242 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 14 July 2003
Calls on the Government of Saudi Arabia to ensure that its review of its education curriculum is thorough, objective, and public. Urges the Government of Saudi Arabia to reform its education curriculum so as to promote tolerance, develop civil society, and encourage functionality in the global economy. Expresses extreme disappointment with the slow pace of education reform in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Applauds the public statements by Crown Prince Abdullah; and urges him to implement policies that are consistent with his statements. Urges the U.S. Department of State and other appropriate Federal agencies to work closely with the Government of Saudi Arabia on efforts to address issues related to education curriculum, textbooks, and teacher training. Supports expanding and creating more cultural, academic, visitor, and other exchanges between the United States and Saudi Arabia, subject to appropriate security checks. Requests the U.S. Representative to the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization to encourage UNESCO to examine the educational system in Saudi Arabia and monitor the progress of the efforts to reform the education curriculum.
Bill· SS. 1392 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2003
Amends the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act (NSLA) to direct the Secretary of Agriculture (Secretary) to establish a program of competitive incentive grants to selected elementary and secondary schools to create healthy school nutrition environments and assess the impact of such environments on the health and well-being of children enrolled in the schools. Amends the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 (CNA) to revise requirements relating to the Secretary's CNA and NSLA regulation of competitive foods in schools. Eliminates a provision which barred such regulations from prohibiting the sale of competitive foods approved by the Secretary in food service facilities or areas during the time of service of food under CNA or NSLA, if the proceeds from the sales of such foods would inure to the benefit of the schools or of organizations of students approved by the schools. Allows such regulations to include provisions that regulate the service of competitive foods. Requires regulations regarding competitive foods to: (1) apply to all school grounds during the duration of the school day; (2) not supersede or otherwise affect State and local regulations on competitive foods that the Secretary determines conform to CNA and NSLA nutritional goals; (3) if such sales are allowed, require proceeds to be used for the benefit of schools or school-approved student organizations; (4) take into account differing needs of elementary, middle and junior high, and high schools; and (5) implement recommendations the Institute of Medicine will make to the Secretary regarding regulation of competitive foods in schools.
Bill· SS. 1390 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2003
Child Medication Safety Act of 2003 - Requires States, as a condition of receiving funds under any program or activity administered by the Secretary of Education, to develop and implement policies and procedures prohibiting school personnel from requiring a child, as a condition of attending school or receiving services, to obtain a prescription for a controlled substance in schedule II under the Controlled Substances Act. (Thus prohibits school personnel from coercing children to receive, or their parents to administer, psychotropic medication.) Provides that nothing in such requirement shall be construed to create a Federal prohibition against teachers and other school personnel consulting or sharing classroom-based observations with parents or guardians regarding a student's academic performance or behavior in the classroom or school, or regarding the need for evaluation for special education or related services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Directs the Comptroller General to review and report on: (1) the variation among States in definitions of psychotropic medication as used in regard to State jurisdiction over public education; (2) the prescription rates of medications used in public schools to treat children diagnosed with attention deficit disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and other disorders or illnesses; (3) which such medications are listed under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA); and (4) which such medications are not listed under CSA, including their properties and effects and whether they have been considered for CSA listing.
Bill· HRH.R. 2702 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2003
L-1 Nonimmigrant Reform Act - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to revise L-1 nonimmigrant visa (intracompany transfers) provisions. Prohibits entry of an L-1 worker unless the employer has filed a labor condition application with the Secretary of Labor which shall attest that: (1) wage and working condition comparability exists; (2) no strike or lockout exists in the occupational classification at the employment site; (3) the employer has notified the bargaining representative or the employees about the prospective L-1 hiring; (4) the L-1 application contains occupational classification and wage and working condition information; (5) there has not been nor will there be any lay-off of U.S. workers 180 days before or after the L-1 hiring; and (6) the employer shall not out-source, lease, or contract for L-1 placement with another firm. Directs the Secretary and the Secretary of Homeland Security to: (1) establish processes for receipt, investigation, and disposition of violation claims; (2) establish a process to permit an L-1 alien who files a complaint to work for another employer; and (3) report annually on the use of L-1 workers. Sets forth employer violation provisions. Makes an employer liable for the return transportation costs of an L-1 worker dismissed from employment prior to the end of the authorized admission. Imposes a fee on an L-1 employer. Establishes in the Treasury the L-1 Nonimmigrant Petitioner Account, which shall be used for data processing, labor enforcement, and training and education of U.S. workers. Establishes an annual 35,000 L-1 visa limit. Eliminates L-1 blanket visa authority. Requires: (1) an L-1 worker to have a bachelor's degree or higher in his or her area of special knowledge; and (2) verification by the Secretary of State. Increases the prior foreign employment requirement.
Bill· HRH.R. 2704 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2003
Ferry Transportation Enhancement Act of 2003 - Amends the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 to authorize appropriations for FY 2004 through 2009 for construction of ferry boats and ferry terminal facilities. Amends Federal highway law to make ferry maintenance (currently, only terminal) facilities eligible for Federal funding. Amends Federal transportation law to include ferries within the Federal clean fuels program. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to: (1) establish a Ferry Joint Program Office to coordinate Federal programs affecting ferry boat and facility construction, maintenance, and operation, and to promote ferry service as a component of the Nation's transportation system; (2) maintain a national ferry database containing ferry routes, vessels, passengers and vehicles carried, funding sources, and related information; and (3) make grants to an institution of higher education to establish a National Ferry Transportation Institute for research, development, training programs, etc. relating to U.S. ferry transportation systems.
Bill· HRH.R. 2711 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2003
Student Loan Fairness Act of 2003 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to revise student aid requirements for consolidation loans. Repeals a prohibition against refinancing consolidation loans. Allows borrowers to select lenders of consolidation loans. Requires lenders and institutions to provide certain information on consolidation loans to applicants. Revises interest rates on consolidated and reconsolidated loans.
Bill· SS. 1382 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2003
Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2004 - Appropriates funds for FY 2004 for the Department of Defense (DOD) for: (1) military personnel; (2) operation and maintenance (including for overseas contingency operations, the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces, environmental restoration, overseas humanitarian, disaster, and civic aid, and former Soviet Union threat reduction); (3) procurement (including for shipbuilding and conversion and purchases under the Defense Production Act of 1950); (4) research, development, test and evaluation (RDT&E); (5) revolving and management funds; (6) DOD medical and health care programs; (7) chemical agents and munitions destruction; (8) drug interdiction and counter-drug activities; (9) the Office of the Inspector General; (10) the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System Fund; (11) the Intelligence Community Management Account; (12) the Kaho'olawe Island Conveyance, Remediation, and Environmental Restoration Fund; and (13) the National Security Education Trust Fund. Specifies authorized, restricted, and prohibited uses of appropriated funds. Rescinds specified funds from various accounts under prior defense appropriations Acts, including funds made available for the Iraq Freedom Fund under the Emergency Wartime Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2003. Prohibits the use of appropriated funds for: (1) approving or licensing the sale of the F-22 advanced tactical aircraft to any foreign government; (2) RDT&E, procurement, or deployment of nuclear armed interceptors of a missile defense system; or (3) research and development on the Terrorism Information Awareness program (requires specific authorization by law for the deployment or implementation of such program). Reduces the total amount appropriated in this Act in order to limit excessive growth in the procurement of advisory and assistance services.
Bill· SS. 1385 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2003
Campus Fire Safety Right-to-Know Act of 2003 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to require, beginning in academic year 2004-2005, each eligible institution participating in any program under the Act to provide to all current students and employees, and to any applicant for enrollment or employment upon request, an annual fire safety report containing specified information about the campus fire safety practices and standards of that institution. Requires such institutions to: (1) record all fires reported to local fire departments, including the nature, date, time, and general location of each fire and all false fire alarms; and (2) open such information to public inspection. Requires the institutions to report on such information periodically to the campus community in a manner that will aid the prevention of similar occurrences. Requires the institutions to request their fraternities and sororities to collect and report such information for each building and property they own or control.
Bill· HRH.R. 2678 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2003
Teachers for Tomorrow Act of 2003 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) to establish new programs for teacher student loan forgiveness, under the guaranteed loan program and the direct loan program. Requires three consecutive complete school years of full-time teaching in a public elementary or secondary school as: (1) a secondary school teacher of a subject area relevant to the borrower's academic major; or (2) an elementary school teacher who has demonstrated knowledge and teaching skills in reading, writing, mathematics, and other curriculum areas. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exclude from a teacher's gross income any student loan amounts discharged under both the current HEA programs and those added by this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 2683 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2003
Campus Fire Safety Right-to-Know Act of 2003 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to require, beginning in academic year 2004-2005, each eligible institution participating in any program under the Act to provide to all current students and employees, and to any applicant for enrollment or employment upon request, an annual fire safety report containing specified information about the campus fire safety practices and standards of that institution. Requires such institutions to: (1) record all fires reported to local fire departments, including the nature, date, time, and general location of each fire and all false fire alarms; and (2) open such information to public inspection. Requires the institutions to report on such information periodically to the campus community in a manner that will aid the prevention of similar occurrences. Requires the institutions to request their fraternities and sororities to collect and report such information for each building and property they own or control.
Bill· HRH.R. 2674 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2003
Librarian Education and Development Act of 2003 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to provide for certain types of student loan forgiveness for librarians (as well as, currently, for teachers) in low-income areas where public schools have a combined average of 30 percent or more of their total student enrollments composed of children counted as disadvantaged under title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965.
Bill· HRH.R. 2690 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2003
Native American Languages Act Amendments Act of 2003 - Amends the Native American Languages Act to require the Secretary of Education to make grants to, or enter into contracts with, Native American language educational organizations, Native American language colleges, Indian tribal governments, organizations that demonstrate the potential to become Native American language educational organizations, or consortia of such entities to establish Native American nests that meet specified requirements for students under the age of seven and families of the students. Requires the Secretary to make grants to, or enter into contracts with, Native American language educational organizations, Native American language colleges or universities where such languages are taught, Indian tribal governments, or consortia of such entities, to operate, expand, and increase the number of Native American language survival schools throughout the United States and its territories for Native American children and Native American language-speaking children. Specifies eligibility requirements for recipients of such funds. Requires the Secretary to make grants, or enter into contracts, to establish four demonstration programs that will provide assistance to Native American language survival schools and Native American languages nests located at: (1) Ka Haka 'Ula O Ke'elikolani College of the University of Hawaii at Hilo, in consortium with the 'Aha Punana Leo, Inc., and with other entities if determined to be appropriate by the College; (2) Piegan Institute of Browning, Montana; (3) the Alaska Native Language Center of the University of Alaska at Fairbanks, in consortium with other entities as the Center determines to be appropriate; and (4) the Native American Studies Department of the University of New Mexico at Albuquerque in consortium with the Linguistic Institute for Native Americans and other entities as determined to be appropriate by the consortium.