Education

National Security Education Program Enhancement Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2004

National Security Education Program Enhancement Act of 2004 - Amends the Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1992 to require the Director of Central Intelligence (DCI) to transfer specified amounts to the Secretary of Education from Intelligence Community Management (ICM) appropriations to carry out national security education scholarship, fellowship, and grant programs. Revises post-education service obligations for such programs to: (1) allow a delay in the commencement of service obligations; (2) require only a one-year obligation for scholarship recipients; and (3) allow service obligations to be served with a variety of Federal agencies. Requires the DCI to transfer ICM funds to carry out grant programs for the National Flagship Language Initiative (an Initiative for achieving advanced proficiency in languages designated as critical to national security). Amends the David L. Boren National Security Education Act of 1991 to require students receiving training under the Initiative to enter into service agreements with the intelligence community element providing such training or reimburse the United States. Directs the Secretary of Defense to take steps to increase the number of qualified educational institutions receiving Initiative grants. Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to award scholarships to U.S. citizens who are native speakers of languages designated as critical and not proficient at a professional level in English to enable them to pursue English studies. Requires recipients to enter into service agreements. Requires the DCI to transfer ICM funds to carry out such program.

Intelligence Community Language Capabilities Enhancement Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2004

Intelligence Community Language Capabilities Enhancement Act of 2004 - Amends the National Security Act of 1947 to create the position of Assistant Director of Central Intelligence for Language and Education (ADCI for Language and Education) who shall be appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. Establishes a foreign language proficiency requirement for certain senior level positions in the Central Intelligence Agency. Authorizes the Secretary of Defense (Secretary) and the Director of Central Intelligence (DCI) jointly to establish a program for the advancement of foreign language skills in languages critical to the intelligence community's national security activities. Authorizes heads of elements of the intelligence community, in carrying out the program, to: (1) enter into education partnership agreements with U.S. educational institutions to encourage and enhance the study of critical foreign languages; and (2) accept from dedicated personnel voluntary services in support of the program. Authorizes the DCI, acting through the heads of elements of the intelligence community, to assign certain employees of such elements as foreign language students at accredited institutions of higher education. Requires the DCI to conduct a pilot project to establish a Civilian Linguist Reserve Corps of U.S. citizens with advanced foreign language proficiency. Clarifies the functions of the National Virtual Translation Center. Directs the Secretary to conduct a study and report to appropriate congressional committees on methods to improve the recruitment and retention of qualified foreign language instructors at the Foreign Language Center of the Defense Language Institute.

Carol D'Amico, of Indiana, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the National Board for Education Sciences for a term of two years. (New Position)

United States · United States Senate · 14 June 2004

Defending America's Most Vulnerable: Safe Access to Drug Treatment and Child Protection Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 14 June 2004

Defending America's Most Vulnerable: Safe Access to Drug Treatment and Child Protection Act of 2004 - Amends the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) to expand penalties for drug distribution to persons under age 21 and to cover attempts, conspiracy, and distribution, without regard to the type of controlled substance and schedule. Modifies provisions regarding distributing or manufacturing drugs in or near schools to delete the "100 feet" limitation, to include public libraries and daycare facilities, and to increase imprisonment terms. Increases or expands the scope of penalties regarding employing children to distribute drugs near schools and playgrounds, employing persons under age 18 in drug distribution, and distributing drugs to underage persons. Directs the U.S. Sentencing Commission to amend the sentencing guidelines to: (1) increase base offense levels for drug-related offenses involving minors; and (2) provide for specified sentencing enhancements for persons possessing or brandishing a firearm. Prohibits distributing or manufacturing a controlled substance within 1,000 feet of a drug treatment facility. Modifies: (1) Federal criminal code provisions regarding the sentencing of a defendant who substantially assists the Government in an investigation and prosecution, and regarding detention prior to sentencing; and (2) the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure regarding the acceptance or rejection of plea agreements. Amends the CSA to: (1) increase penalties for, and expand the scope of provisions regarding, endangering human life while illegally manufacturing a controlled substance; and (2) provide for life imprisonment without release for drug felons and violent criminals convicted a third time.

Youth Suicide Early Intervention and Prevention Expansion Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 14 June 2004

Youth Suicide Early Intervention and Prevention Expansion Act of 2004 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to award grants or cooperative agreements to eligible entities that: (1) develop and implement statewide youth suicide early intervention and prevention strategies in schools, educational institutions, juvenile justice systems, substance abuse programs, mental health programs, foster care systems, and other child and youth support organizations; (2) collect and analyze data on statewide youth suicide early intervention and prevention services to monitor the effectiveness of such services and for research, technical assistance, and policy development; and (3) assist States in achieving their targets for youth suicide reductions. Provides for preferential treatment in the award of grants for entities that engage in certain specified activities. Requires the Secretary to: (1) award technical assistance grants and cooperative agreements to State agencies to conduct assessments of the development of such intervention and prevention strategies; (2) conduct research and development on the efficacy of new and existing youth suicide early intervention techniques and technology; (3) promote the sharing of this research and development with relevant Federal and State agencies and statewide entities for the purpose of applying and integrating new techniques and technology into existing intervention systems; (4) collaborate with specified agencies, organizations, and individuals to carry out this Act; and (5) conduct an evaluation of the effectiveness of the activities conducted under this Act.

To provide for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, to authorize appropriations for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 14 June 2004

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Act - Re-establishes the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in the Department of Commerce, headed by the Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere who will serve as the Administrator of NOAA. Establishes within NOAA the positions of: (1) Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere; (2) Deputy Under Secretary for Oceans and Atmosphere; (3) Deputy Assistant Secretary for Oceans and Atmosphere; (4) Deputy Assistant Secretary for International Affairs; (5) Deputy Assistant Secretary for Science and Technology; and (6) General Counsel. Places within NOAA: (1) the National Weather Service; (2) operational and service programs to support routine data collection and direct services and products regarding satellite, observations, and coastal, ocean, and Great Lakes information; (3) programs to conduct and support research and education and the development of technologies relating to weather, climate, and the coasts, oceans, and Great Lakes; and (4) a Science Advisory Board. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Authorization Act of 2004 - Authorizes appropriations for FY 2005 through 2007 for NOAA for: (1) program support; (2) the National Ocean Service; (3) the Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research; (4) the National Weather Service; (5) the National Environmental Satellite Data and Information Service; and (6) the Office of Program Planning and Integration. Coastal Ocean Science Program Act of 2004 - Establishes within NOAA a Coastal Ocean Science Program (replacing the Coastal Ocean Program) that supports Great Lakes, estuarine, and coastal ocean research and assessment through competitive, peer-reviewed research programs. Marine Research Act - Directs the President to coordinate and support a national marine research program. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to establish a Marine Research Initiative to coordinate and implement NOAA research and activities related to the program. Ocean and Coastal Observation Systems Act - Directs the President to establish and maintain an integrated ocean and coastal observing system of marine monitoring, data communication and management, data analysis, and research to provide data and information for rapid and timely detection and prediction of changes occurring in the marine environment that impact the Nation's social, economic, and ecological systems. Abrupt Climate Change Research Act of 2004 - Directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish within NOAA and carry out a scientific research program on abrupt climate change. United States Weather Research Program Act of 2004 - Declares that the United States Weather Research Program's focus shall be on: (1) hurricanes, floods, and heavy precipitation, including both snow and rain; (2) dramatic improvement in weather forecasts; (3) providing attention and resources in areas where progress can be made quickly and where the impact will be the greatest; and (4) making research grants to universities and other research institutions.

To amend title 10, United States Code, to allow nationals of the United States to attend military service academies and receive Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) scholarships on the condition that the individual naturalize before graduation.

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2004

Directs the Secretary of the military department concerned, as a condition to admitting a person who is a U.S. national but not a citizen into a military precommissioning program (a pre-officer program provided through a military service academy or the Senior Reserve Officers' Training Corps program), to require such person to enter into a written agreement under which the person shall agree: (1) to apply for and complete naturalization under requirements of the Immigration and Nationality Act before completion of the precommissioning program; and (2) that if failing to apply for and complete such naturalization, to be subject to the same penalties placed on individuals for failing to complete the requirements for advanced education assistance.

Better Nutrition for School Children Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 4 June 2004

Better Nutrition for School Children Act of 2004 - Amends the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 (CNA) to revise nutritional requirements for the school breakfast program under CNA and the school lunch program under the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act (NSLA). Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to base regulations for the school breakfast and lunch programs on sound nutritional science. Authorizes the Secretary, through such Federal regulations, to prohibit the sale of certain competitive foods in food service facilities or areas during the time of school breakfast or school lunch program service (by eliminating a provision of current law that bars such regulations from prohibiting such sale of competitive foods approved by the Secretary during such time). Requires Federal regulations relating to service of foods in schools participating in the breakfast or lunch programs to apply throughout the entire school, including the school grounds, until the end of the time of service of food under the school lunch program. Directs the Secretary, in promulgating such regulations, to consider: (1) the nutritional needs of students in various grade levels; (2) the proximity of any area where foods of minimal nutritional value may be sold, donated, or served without charge to the food service facilities or areas; (3) the extent to which students will likely substitute consumption of foods of minimal nutritional value for other food served in participating schools; and (4) the benefits to a school of permitting the sale, donation, or service without charge of foods of minimal nutritional value, including the extent to which the proceeds of such sales inure to the benefit of a school or an organization of students approved by a school.

Assistance for Orphans and Other Vulnerable Children in Developing Countries Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 3 June 2004

Assistance for Orphans and Other Vulnerable Children in Developing Countries Act of 2004 - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize the President to provide assistance for basic care for orphans and other vulnerable children in developing countries, including assistance for: (1) community-based care; (2) school food programs; (3) education and employment training; (4) mental health care; and (5) protection of inheritance rights. Directs the President to develop a coordinating strategy for such assistance.

Small Investor Protection Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 3 June 2004

Small Investor Protection Act of 2004 - Establishes the Division of the Investor within the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to: (1) serve as advocate for individual investors, including serving as liaison between investor advocacy organizations and the SEC; and (2) assist and educate individual investors by performing the functions previously performed by the Director of the Office of Investor Education and Assistance (previously known as the Office of Consumer Affairs), paying particular attention to the needs and interests of small investors. Establishes the Office of Risk Assessment within the SEC to: (1) assess industry practices within the jurisdiction of the SEC to identify any risks associated with those practices that could most likely harm investors and the public; and (2) develop strategies to address and mitigate such risks, and prevent or lessen the potential harm to investors and the public. Requires the Commission, whenever it considers requiring significant disclosures to investors (whether in advertising, on web sites, or in documents required by law or regulation), to consider and give weight to empirical evidence as to: (1) whether the proposed disclosure as a whole is likely to improve meaningfully individual investor understanding to assist investors in making wise financial decisions; and (2) whether alternative disclosures would be more effective in improving investor understanding. Amends the Investment Company Act of 1940 to declare that it shall be unlawful for an open-end registered investment company to offer its securities for sale, unless, prior to completion of the sale, it provides investors with a summary of relevant characteristics of the investment, including information on expenses, risk, and diversification, and any other information that the SEC determines will assist investors in making wise financial decisions.

A concurrent resolution concerning the importance of the distribution of food in schools to hungry or malnourished children around the world.

United States · United States Congress · 3 June 2004

States that Congress: (1) expresses its grave concern about the continuing problem of hunger and the need to feed hungry and malnourished children around the world; (2) recognizes that the global distribution of food in schools increases attendance, particularly for girls, and improves literacy rates and increases job opportunities; (3) recognizes that education of children addresses several of the root causes of international terrorism; (4) expresses its gratitude to former Senators George McGovern and Robert Dole for supporting the distribution of food in schools around the world and for working to eradicate hunger and poverty around the world; (5) commends the Department of Agriculture, the Agency for International Development, the Department of State, the United Nations World Food Program, private voluntary organizations, non-governmental organizations, and cooperatives for facilitating the distribution of food in schools around the world; (6) expresses its continued support for the distribution of food in schools around the world; (7) supports expansion of the George McGovern-Robert Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program; and (8) requests the President to work with the United Nations and its member states to expand international contributions for the distribution of food in schools around the world.

Safe and Timely Interstate Placement of Foster Children Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 3 June 2004

Orderly and Timely Interstate Placement of Foster Children Act of 2004 - Amends the Social Security Act to require each State to: (1) have in effect procedures for orderly and timely placement of children, in foster care or for adoption, across State lines; and (2) complete home studies for such purpose within 60 days of another State's request. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make incentive grants to States that complete timely interstate home studies. Revises requirements for checking of child abuse registries to eliminate an opt-out provision. Allows access to the Federal parent locator service to courts in foster care or adoptive placement cases. Provides for consideration of out-of-state placements in permanency hearings, case plans, and case reviews. Revises provisions relating to caseworker visits, health and education records, notice of proceedings, and use of interjurisdictional resources. Directs the Comptroller General to study State performance of background checks for child placements. Expresses the sense of Congress that States should: (1) revise the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children; and (2) use private agencies to conduct home studies and give full faith and credit to other States' home study reports.

Small Employers Health Benefits Program Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 3 June 2004

Small Employers Health Benefits Program Act of 2004 - Directs the Office of Personnel Management to administer a separate health insurance program for non-Federal employees who are either self-employed or employees of a small business with fewer than 100 employees. Allows the Office to contract with carriers to provide health insurance under this Act. Requires rates charged to reasonably and equitably reflect the costs of the benefits provided. Permits rates and premiums to vary based on age but not on health status factors. Permits the Office to reimburse a carrier for costs that exceed premiums received by a specified percentage. Requires a carrier to make payments to a contingency reserve fund established by the Office if the carrier's costs are lower than expected by a specified percentage. Allows the Office to use such funds to provide assistance to carriers that experience unanticipated financial hardships. Requires the Office to establish a reinsurance fund to provide payments to carriers that experience a catastrophic claim (a claim over $50,000) for benefits provided to an individual enrolled under this Act. Allows a participating employer to offer supplemental coverage options to employees for excepted benefits that are not subject to the Public Health Service Act requirements for health plans. Authorizes the Office to contract with entities to administer this health program regionally. Allows certain benefits to be offered to Medicare beneficiaries. Requires the Office to implement a public education campaign regarding this health insurance program. Allows a refundable tax credit for health insurance expenses of small employers who pay a specific percentage of employee expenses under such a health plan.

Energy Policy Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 3 June 2004

Energy Policy Act of 2004 - Sets forth a program to spur diverse energy research and development including the following: (1) energy efficiency; (2) renewable energy; (3) oil and gas; (4) coal; (5) Indian energy; (6) nuclear matters and security; (7) vehicles and motor fuels, including ethanol; (8) hydrogen; (9) electricity; and (10) energy tax incentives. Amends the National Energy Conservation Policy Act to revise energy reduction goals and performance requirements for Federal buildings. Institutes grant programs for low-income community energy efficiency and energy efficient public buildings. Revises energy conservation standards for: (1) additional consumer products; (2) affordable housing and assisted housing; and (3) Federal Housing Administration (FHA) mortgage insurance incentives for energy efficient housing. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to prescribe incentive payments for renewable energy production facilities. John Rishel Geothermal Steam Act Amendments of 2004 - Amends the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970 to revamp guidelines governing leasing and permitting for geothermal development of public and National Forest System lands, including those withdrawn for military purposes. Amends the Federal Power Act to prescribe guidelines for hydroelectric licensing proposals for alternative conditions and requirements governing project works within a Federal reservation. Instructs the Secretary of Energy to make incentive payments to promote hydroelectric production. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to make permanent: (1) the authority of the Secretary of Energy to operate the Strategic Petroleum Reserve; and (2) standby energy authorities governing the International Energy Program, including summer fill and fuel budgeting programs. Sets forth a program of production incentives that includes: (1) oil and gas royalties in kind; (2) marginal property production; (3) natural gas production in the Gulf of Mexico; and (4) oil and gas leasing in the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska. Directs the President to establish the Office of Federal Energy Project Coordination in the same manner and with the same mission as the White House Energy Projects Task Force established by a specified Executive Order. Prescribes implementation guidelines for access to Federal land for: (1) oil and gas leasing; (2) expedited permits; (3) energy rights-of-way and corridors on public and Federal lands; (4) renewable energy on Federal land; and (5) electricity transmission line rights of way on public land. Alaska Natural Gas Pipeline Act - Requires the President and the Secretaries of the Interior and of Energy to expedite the Federal decision-making process for access to Federal lands for energy projects. Prescribes parameters for Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) authorization of an Alaska natural gas transportation project and pipeline expansion following an expedited approval process. Instructs the Secretary of Labor to award grants to train adult and dislocated workers in Alaska in the skills required to construct and operate an Alaska gas pipeline system. Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to offer Federal loan guarantees to specified certificated entities for infrastructure projects. Sets forth a Clean Coal Power Initiative campaign that includes grants to universities to establish Centers of Excellence for Energy Systems of the Future. Authorizes Federal loan guarantees for designated coal gasification projects, including: (1) a loan to the owner of a specified experimental plant; (2) a coal gasification project that produces power in deregulated energy generation markets; and (3) a petroleum coke gasification polygeneration project. Modifies statutory requirements governing Federal coal leases, including acreage limitations, mining plans, and advance royalty payments. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to direct the Secretary of Energy to implement a program to facilitate production and generation of coal-based power and the installation of pollution control equipment. Indian Tribal Energy Development and Self-Determination Act of 2004 - Amends the Department of Energy Organization Act and the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to establish the Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs to promote Indian tribal energy resource development through a program of grants and loans. Price-Anderson Amendments Act of 2003 [sic] - Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to modify and extend indemnification authority and liability limits for Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) licensees and Department of Energy (DOE) contractors. Prohibits assumption by the U.S. Government of liability for certain foreign incidents. Addresses general nuclear matters, including: (1) establishment of an NRC training and fellowship program for individuals with critical nuclear safety regulatory skills; (2) elimination of pension offset; (3) a DOE decommissioning pilot program; (4) uranium sales; (5) special demonstration projects for the uranium mining industry; (6) whistleblower protection prescriptions; (7) medical isotope production; (8) uranium enrichment facilities; and (9) the national uranium stockpile. Instructs the Secretary of Energy to establish an Advanced Reactor Hydrogen Co-Generation Project. Prescribes implementation guidelines for a training program to respond to threats against designated nuclear facilities, including use of firearms by licensee security personnel and NRC certificate holders. Sets forth a transportation fuels program that uses: (1) alternative fuels for dual-fueled vehicles; (2) fuel credits for medium and heavy duty dedicated vehicles; and (3) lease condensates. Sets forth implementation guidelines for pilot programs that target: (1) alternative fueled vehicles; (2) fuel cell vehicles; (3) advanced vehicles; and (4) hybrid vehicles. Instructs the Secretary of Energy, in partnership with the private sector, to conduct programs that address production of hydrogen from diverse energy sources. Directs the President to establish an interagency task force on hydrogen fuel infrastructure for hydrogen-carrier fuels, including fleet transportation. Directs the Secretary of Energy to implement initiatives that target research, development, and commercial application in the areas of: (1) energy efficiency; (2) distributed energy and electric energy systems; (3) renewable energy; (4) nuclear energy; (5) fossil energy; (6) ultra-deepwater and unconventional natural gas, and other petroleum resource exploration and production; (7) science; and (8) energy and the environment (including international cooperation). Electric Reliability Act of 2004 - Amends the Federal Power Act to grant FERC regulatory jurisdiction over an Electric Reliability Organization. Prescribes guidelines for electric reliability standards, including electric transmission infrastructure, operation and transmission rates. Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to: (1) require electric utilities to make net metering and smart metering available upon consumer request; and (2) terminate mandatory purchase and sale requirements pertaining to cogeneration and small power production utilities. Public Utility Holding Company Act of 2004 - Repeals the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935. Amends the Federal Power Act to: (1) direct FERC to promulgate market transparency rules governing sales of electric energy at wholesale in interstate commerce, or transmission services in interstate commerce; and (2) prohibit round trip trading. Authorizes the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to issue rules that prohibit in the absence of consumer consent: (1) the change of selection of an electric utility ("slamming"); and (2) the sale of goods and services to an electric consumer ("cramming"). Mandates review of Federal agency review authorities over mergers to determine if duplicative authorities exist. Revises Federal Power Act prescriptions governing electric utility mergers. Energy Tax Policy Act of 2004 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish energy tax credits affecting: (1) residential and business property; (2) alternative motor vehicles and fuels; (3) low sulfur diesel fuel; (4) clean coal technology units; and (5) certain alternative minimum tax provisions. Amends the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 to authorize Federal grants to rural and remote communities with specified electricity costs for improved electric generation, transmission, and distribution facilities. Provides royalty payment relief for offshore oil and gas production leases under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act. Amends the Tennessee Valley Authority Act of 1933 to change the composition, operation, and duties of the Board of Directors of the Tennessee Valley Authority. Retains the effect of a specified Department of Energy Order regarding transmission security. Extends the attainment date for certain downwind ozone nonattainment areas. Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (Administrator) to establish criteria for safe and environmentally protective use of specified granular mine tailings. Amends the Clean Air Act to direct the Administrator to promulgate regulations ensuring that domestic motor vehicle fuel consumption includes renewable fuel containing ethanol. Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to make grants to provide assistance to merchant producers of methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) in making the transition from producing MTBE to producing iso-octane, iso-octene, alkylates, or renewable fuels. Prohibits the use of MTBE in motor vehicle fuel by December 31, 2014, in any State that does not specifically authorize it. Authorizes the President to determine by June 30, 2014, that this prohibition against the use of MTBE in motor vehicle fuel shall not take place and that the legal authority to prohibit its use in motor vehicle fuel shall become null and void. Eliminates the oxygen content requirement for reformulated gasoline. Conditions the Administrator's approval of State fuel restrictions upon a finding that they will neither cause fuel supply or distribution interruptions nor have a significant adverse impact on fuel producibility. Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to: (1) make loan guarantees for private sector construction of facilities for the processing and conversion of municipal solid waste and cellulosic biomass into fuel ethanol and other commercial byproducts; and (2) provide grants for construction of ethanol production facilities. Underground Storage Tank Compliance Act of 2004 - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to require the Administrator to distribute specified fund percentages from the Leaking Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund to States to pay costs incurred for regulation of underground storage tanks (USTs). Allows undistributed funds to be used for enforcing UST regulations.

Vocational and Technical Education for the Future Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 June 2004

Vocational and Technical Education of the Future Act - Amends the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Applied Technology Education Act of 1998 to reauthorize and revise its programs.

Providing Resources and Education for Kids Act (Pre-K)

United States · United States Congress · 3 June 2004

Providing Resources and Education for Kids Act (Pre-K) - Authorizes the Secretary of Education to provide grants to applicant State educational agencies to make subgrants to local educational agencies to establish or expand prekindergarten early learning programs, which meet specified requirements, for children ages five and younger.

JUBILEE Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 3 June 2004

Justice and Understanding By IMF Loan Elimination and Equity (JUBILEE) Act of 2004 - Amends the International Financial Institutions Act to require the Secretary of the Treasury to commence immediate efforts, within the Paris Club of Official Creditors, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and other appropriate multilateral development institutions (MDI's), to accomplish: (1) cancellation of all debts owed to the IMF by specified eligible poor countries, and the financing of such debt cancellation from ongoing IMF operations, procedures, and accounts established as of the end of the most recent fiscal year, including the Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility (formerly known as the Enhanced Structural Adjustment Facility or ESAF); (2) limitation of any waiting period before receipt of debt cancellation to one month from the date of an eligible poor country's application for it; and (3) encouragement of the government of each eligible poor country to allocate at least 20 percent of its national budget, including the savings from such debt cancellation, for the provision of basic health care services, education services, and clean water services to individuals in the country. Sets forth requirements for: (1) a prohibition against the IMF's requiring any country receiving new concessional loans to privilege the IMF as a creditor over the United States; (2) establishment of a framework to ensure the transparency regarding each international financial institution's activities; and (3) availability on the Treasury Department's website of U.S. Executive Directors' remarks at meetings of international financial institutions' Boards of Directors. Requires the Secretary to commence immediate efforts, within the Paris Club, the IMF, and other appropriate MDI's, to ensure that the provision of debt cancellation to such countries is not conditioned on any agreement by such a country to implement or comply with specified policies that deepen poverty or degrade the environment. Bars funds appropriated in any Act (except those providing for debt relief to poor countries) from being obligated or made available to IMF unless specified conditions are met relating to debt cancellation for all eligible poor countries and termination of conditioning debt relief on certain structural adjustment.

Marine Debris Research Prevention and Reduction Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 June 2004

Marine Debris Research and Reduction Act - Establishes within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) a Marine Debris Prevention and Removal Program of certain activities and grants for projects to reduce and prevent the occurrence and adverse impacts of marine debris on the marine environment and navigation safety. Requires the Under Secretary for Oceans and Atmosphere of the Department of Commerce to: (1) undertake marine debris mapping, impact assessment, prevention, and removal efforts, with a focus on marine debris posing a threat to living marine resources (particularly endangered or protected species) and navigation safety; (2) improve efforts and actively seek to prevent and reduce commercial fishing gear losses, as well as to reduce adverse impacts of such gear on living marine resources and navigation safety; and (3) undertake outreach and education of stakeholders in the fishing, gear manufacturers, and other marine-dependent industries on threats associated with marine debris and approaches to identify, prevent, and remove such debris. Directs the Commandant of the Coast Guard to undertake measures to reduce violations of MARPOL Annex V (Annex V of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973) and the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships with respect to the discard of plastics and other garbage from vessels. Establishes an Interagency Committee on Marine Debris to: (1) coordinate a comprehensive program of marine debris research and activities among Federal agencies, in cooperation with nongovernmental organizations, industry, universities, State governments, Indian tribes, and other nations; and (2) foster cost-effective mechanisms to identify, reduce, and prevent marine debris.

Ocean and Coastal Mapping Integration Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 June 2004

Coastal and Ocean Mapping Integration Act - Directs the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to establish an integrated coastal and ocean mapping program for the Great Lakes and Coastal State waters, the territorial sea, the exclusive economic zone, and the U.S. continental shelf that enhances conservation and management of marine resources, improves decision-making regarding research priorities and the siting of research and other platforms, and advances coastal and ocean science. Establishes an Interagency Committee on Coastal and Ocean Mapping to coordinate Federal ocean and coastal mapping and surveying activities with other Federal efforts, including the Digital Coast, Geospatial One-Stop, and the Federal Geographic Data Committee. Directs the Administrator of NOAA to develop, and submit to Congress, a plan for an integrated coastal and ocean mapping initiative within NOAA that: (1) identifies all coastal and ocean mapping programs within NOAA; (2) encourages the development of innovative coastal and ocean mapping technologies and applications through research and development (R&D) cooperative agreements at joint institutes; and (3) documents available and developing technologies, best practices in data processing and distribution, and leveraging opportunities with other Federal agencies, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to establish joint hydrographic centers of excellence in institutions of higher education to conduct specified activities, including mapping of the U.S. outer continental shelf.

Allied Health Reinvestment Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 June 2004

Allied Health Reinvestment Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to develop public service announcements to promote the allied health professions. Requires the Secretary to award grants to promote such professions by: (1) supporting relevant State and local campaigns; (2) increasing education opportunities; (3) carrying out programs to facilitate the entry of students into relevant careers; (4) expanding enrollment into such programs; (5) providing education through new technologies and methods; (6) enhancing the workforce through retention programs; (7) developing retention strategies; (8) expanding area health education centers to develop models of excellence for such professionals; and (9) developing clinical education, internship, and resident programs that encourage mentoring and the development of specialties. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration, to enter into agreements to establish faculty loan funds to increase the number of qualified allied health faculty. Requires the Secretary to: (1) provide scholarships to individuals seeking allied health education who agree to provide service in rural and other medically underserved areas with personnel shortages; (2) develop a system for collecting and analyzing workforce data to determine education pipeline and practitioner shortages and to project future needs for such a workforce; and (3) include allied health schools among the schools eligible to receive grants to support Centers of Excellence in health professions education for underrepresented minority individuals. Requires the Comptroller General to conduct an evaluation of whether this Act has demonstrably increased the number of allied health education program applicants.

Grey Towers National Historic Site Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 2 June 2004

Grey Towers National Historic Site Act of 2004 - Designates all lands and improvements formerly encompassed within Grey Towers National Historic Landmark in Milford, Pennsylvania, as Grey Towers National Historic Site. Directs that the Site be administered for specified purposes, including: (1) education, public demonstration projects, and research related to natural resource conservation, management, and use; (2) leadership development within the natural resource professions and the Federal civil service; (3) study and interpretation of the life and works of Gifford Pinchot who was the first Chief of the Forest Service and a major influence in formulating and implementing forest conservation policies in the early 20th century; and (4) protection and enjoyment of the scenic and natural environs. Requires the Secretary of Agriculture (the Secretary) to administer federally owned lands and interests at the Site and associated lands and improvements outside of the Grey Towers National Historic Landmark within Pike County, Pennsylvania, as components of the National Forest System. Authorizes the Secretary and the Secretary of the Interior to cooperate in promoting public use of Grey Towers and Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and in furthering the administration and purposes for which both areas were designated. Allows the Secretary to impose fees and charges for admission to and use of facilities on Grey Towers. Requires: (1) any monies received by the Forest Service in administering Grey Towers to be deposited into the Grey Towers National Historic Site Fund for support of programs at Grey Towers and any other expenses; and (2) funds generated at Grey Towers to be retained for enhancing the Site and furthering its programs. Authorizes the Secretary to provide financial assistance for operations of the Pinchot Institute.

Newborn Screening Saves Lives Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 2 June 2004

Newborn Screening Saves Lives Act of 2004 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Associate Administrator of the Maternal and Child Health Bureau of the Health Resources and Services Administration, to awards grants to eligible entities to: (1) provide education and training in newborn screening and congenital, genetic, and metabolic disorders to health care professionals and State health department laboratory personnel; (2) develop educational programs about newborn screening for parents, families, and parents advocacy and support groups; and (3) establish, maintain, and operate a system to assess and coordinate treatment relating to congenital, genetic, and metabolic disorders.

John H. Hager, of Virginia, to be Assistant Secretary for Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, Department of Education, vice Robert Pasternack.

United States · United States Senate · 1 June 2004

Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 1 June 2004

Veterans' Benefits Improvements Act of 2004 - Increases the voluntary contribution amount that active duty members of the Armed Forces may make in order to receive increased monthly educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB). Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program that allows veterans to extend their eligibility period for using MGIB education benefits to obtain specified instruction or training. Excludes veterans' education benefits from the determination of eligibility for, or the amount of, Federal education grants and loans (except for campus-based student financial assistance that exceeds a veteran's cost of attendance when combined with such benefits). Requires the Secretary to collect required contributions from Reservists before they use MGIB educational assistance (currently, required at the beginning of active duty period). Increases the maximum housing loan guarantee amount for which veterans are eligible. Gives the Secretary permanent authority to guarantee adjustable rate mortgages (ARMs) and hybrid ARMs, and to modify interest rates applicable to hybrid ARMs. Terminates the collection of housing loan fees from veterans rated eligible for compensation at pre-discharge disability examinations. Extends administrative and judicial remedies for violations of veterans' preference requirements to all veterans (currently, limited to preference eligible veterans). Prohibits the collection of copayments from veterans receiving hospice care from the Department of Veterans Affairs. Extends certain authorities relating to benefits for veterans that are set to expire. Modifies the definition of minority group member for purposes of the Advisory Committee on Minority Veterans.

Educational Opportunity for the 21st Century Department of Education Appropriations Act, 2005

United States · United States Congress · 1 June 2004

Educational Opportunity for the 21st Century Department of Education Appropriations Act, 2005 - Makes appropriations for the Department of Education for FY 2005. Includes specified amounts for various programs under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA), Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA), Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Technical Education Act of 1998, Adult Education and Family Literacy Act, Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Assistive Technology Act of 1998, Helen Keller National Center Act, Education of the Deaf Act of 1986, and other education laws. Prohibits the Secretary of Education from implementing or enforcing for award year 2005-2006 any annual update to an allowance for State and other taxes in HEA need analysis to determine students' expected family contributions. Provides for additional amounts for specified ESEA programs for disadvantaged students to be available for those local educational agencies that would otherwise receive, under the Department of Education Appropriations Act, 2004, smaller allocations for FY 2004 than FY 2003. Reduces by 55.7 percent the tax reduction for taxpayers with adjusted gross incomes above $1,000,000 for 2004 resulting from enactment of the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 and the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001.

Thrift Savings Plan Open Elections Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2004

Thrift Savings Plan Open Elections Act of 2004 - Allows an election by a Federal employee or member to make contributions under the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) of the Federal Employees' Retirement System to be made at any time. Provides that such an election shall take effect on the earliest date after the election that is administratively feasible and shall remain in effect until modified or terminated. Prohibits agency contributions from beginning to be made for an employee or member until the date that such contributions would have begun to be made in accordance with regulations as administered on the date preceding the enactment of this Act. Instructs the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board to: (1) periodically evaluate whether the tools available to participants provide the information needed to understand, evaluate, and compare financial products, services, and opportunities offered through the TSP; (2) use these evaluations to improve its existing program for TSP participants; and (3) annually report on its TSP education efforts on behalf of plan participants. Directs the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), as part of the retirement training offered by OPM, to develop and implement a retirement financial literacy and education strategy for Federal employees that: (1) educates Federal employees on the need for retirement savings and investment; and (2) provides information related to how Federal employees can receive additional information on how to plan for retirement and calculate what their retirement investment should be in order to meet their retirement goals.

Accessing College through Comprehensive Early Outreach, State Partnerships, and Simplification Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2004

Accessing College through Comprehensive Early Outreach, State Partnerships, and Simplification Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to replace the current special leveraging educational assistance partnership program with a program of allotments to enable States to: (1) expand and enhance partnerships with institutions of higher education, early information and intervention, mentoring, or outreach programs, private corporations, philanthropic organizations, and other interested parties to carry out specified activities and provide coordination and cohesion among Federal, State, and local governmental and private efforts providing financial assistance to help low-income students attend college; (2) provide need-based grants for college access and increased college persistence to eligible low-income students; (3) provide early notification to low-income students of their eligibility for financial aid; and (4) encourage increased participation in early information and intervention, mentoring, or outreach programs. Sets 66.66 percent as the Federal share of the cost of establishing partnerships under the program. Requires partnerships for the award of grants between a State agency and: (1) at least one public and one private degree granting institution of higher education located in the State; and (2) new or existing early information and intervention, mentoring, or outreach programs also located in the State. Permits partnerships with philanthropic organizations located in, or which provide funding in, the State, as well as private corporations located in, or doing business in, the State. Prescribes requirements for the amounts of grants awarded in partnerships with institutions of higher learning: (1) serving less than a majority of students in the State; and (2) serving the majority of students in the State. Requires annual early notification of low-income students of their potential eligibility for student financial assistance. Prescribes minimum eligibility requirements for such students. Revises requirements for the simplified needs test to take into account dislocated workers and recipients of means-tested Federal benefits (such as the supplemental security income program under title XVI of the Social Security Act, the food stamp program, and the free and reduced price school lunch program under the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act). Directs the Secretary of Education to develop and use a simplified paper application form of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), to be called the FAFSA-EZ, for students who meet the requirements of the automatic zero expected family contribution. Requires the Secretary to: (1) phase-out by the 2009-2010 award year the paper form (the long form or full FAFSA) for students who do not meet the requirements for a FAFSA-EZ; and (2) produce, distribute, and process common forms in electronic format, including a simplified electronic application form on the Internet. Directs the Secretary to make every effort to provide students with early information about potential financial aid eligibility, both through a widely disseminated printed form and the Internet or other electronic means, including a system for individuals to determine easily, by entering relevant data, approximately the amount of grant, work-study, and loan assistance for which an individual would be eligible. Directs the Secretary to make special efforts to notify: (1) students who qualify for specified means-tested Federal benefits of their potential eligibility for a maximum Federal Pell Grant; and (2) middle school and secondary school students of the availability of student financial assistance and of the approximate amounts of grant, work-study, and loan assistance for which they would be eligible. Requires the Secretary to contract for or establish a toll-free telephone service to provide an application mechanism and timely and accurate information to the general public. Revises requirements for determining the income contribution of dependent students, independent students without dependents other than spouse, and independent students with dependents other than spouse (generally increasing allowances). Excludes qualified education benefits (prepayment and savings plans, State tuition programs, and Coverdell education savings accounts) from consideration as an asset in a needs analysis. Revises the purposes of the independent Advisory Committee on Student Financial Assistance to reflect this Act.

21st Century Federal Pell Grant Plus Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2004

21st Century Federal Pell Grant Plus Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to establish a Federal Pell Grant Plus program that increases, to double the amount calculated for the student, the Federal Pell Grant for those students who pursue programs of study in engineering, mathematics, science, or foreign languages.

Community Security Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2004

Community Security Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish a volunteer first responder employee tax credit. Allows a deduction for a volunteer first responder for training expenses. Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to direct: (1) the Under Secretary for Emergency Preparedness and Response to establish a standard of basic preparedness for local first responders and to provide for the award of need-based, competitive grants to States and local governments for basic personal equipment and communications enhancement needed to perform disaster response, mitigation, and recovery missions; and (2) the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish a Homeland Security Competitive Research Grant Program and to award research grants to colleges and universities for purposes including understanding how the Homeland Security Advisory System operates as a useful communication tool for citizens. Amends: (1) the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to direct the Secretary of Education to award grants to eligible entities to pay the Federal share of the cost of carrying out activities including training elementary and secondary school teachers and administrators to identify and prevent avoidable disasters, and to assist children in dealing with the aftermath of terrorism and disasters; and (2) the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to provide for financial assistance to affected State and local governments for school-based community mental health counseling.

Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2004

Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to provide for the regulation of tobacco products by the Secretary of Health and Human Services through the Food and Drug Administration, including through disclosure, annual registration, inspection, recordkeeping, and user fee requirements. Sets forth criteria by which tobacco products are deemed adulterated or misbranded. Allows the Secretary to require prior approval of all label statements. Allows the Secretary to restrict the sale or distribution of tobacco products, including advertising and promotion, if the Secretary determines that such regulation would be appropriate for the protection of the public health. Prohibits such regulations from: (1) limiting product sales or distribution to authorization of a practitioner licensed to prescribe medical products; (2) prohibiting product sales in face-to-face transactions by a specific category of retail outlets; or (3) establishing a minimum age greater than 18 years of age for product purchases. Prohibits cigarettes from containing any artificial or natural flavor (other than tobacco or menthol) or an herb or spice, including strawberry, cinnamon, or coffee. Requires the Secretary to establish tobacco product standards to protect the public health, but reserves to Congress the power to ban any tobacco products or reduce the nicotine level to zero. Allows the Secretary to take specified actions, including public notification and recall, against unreasonably harmful products. Requires premarket approval of all new tobacco products. Sets forth standards for the sale of modified risk tobacco products. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) judicial review; (2) coordination with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC); (3) congressional review of regulations; and (4) state and local authority. Requires the Secretary to establish a Tobacco Products Scientific Advisory Committee. Amends the Federal Cigarette Labeling and Advertising Act to change cigarette warning label and advertising requirements. Amends the Comprehensive Smokeless Tobacco Health Education Act of 1986 to change smokeless tobacco warning label and advertising requirements.

Ecoterrorism Prevention Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2004

Ecoterrorism Prevention Act of 2004 - Amends the Federal criminal code to prohibit plant enterprise terrorism (offenses to disrupt or damage a plant enterprise). Enhances penalties for animal enterprise terrorism and establishes penalties for plant enterprise terrorism. Prohibits the use of explosives or arson against animal or plant enterprises. Authorizes restitution for economic damage resulting from the violation. Makes animal and plant enterprise terrorism predicate offenses under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act. Includes within prohibitions under the Hobbs Act denying another the right to exercise control over another's property by threatening to violate animal and plant enterprise terrorism prohibitions. Requires the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation to establish and maintain a national clearinghouse for information on incidents of crime and terrorism committed or directed against: (1) any animal or plant enterprise; (2) any commercial activity because of the perceived impact or effect of such commercial activity on the environment; or (3) any person because of such person's perceived connection with or support of any such enterprise or activity. Requires the Director to report annually on domestic terrorist organizations. Requires the Director of the National Science Foundation to make security upgrade and technical assistance grants on a competitive basis to colleges and universities. Includes animal and plant enterprise terrorism within the scope of provisions regarding harboring or concealing terrorists and providing material support to terrorists. Establishes procedures for designation by the Attorney General of domestic terrorist organizations. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for the suspension of the tax-exempt status of such organizations.

No Child Left Behind Reform Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2004

No Child Left Behind Reform Act - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to revise certain requirements which were added by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, including ones relating to: (1) adequate yearly progress (AYP); (2) academic assessment and local educational agency and school improvement; (3) school choice and supplemental services options; and (4) teacher qualifications. Allows schools to be given credit for performing well on measures other than test scores when calculating student achievement. Authorizes the Secretary of Education to award competitive grants to State educational agencies to: (1) develop or increase the capacity of data systems for accountability purposes; and (2) subgrants to increase the capacity of local educational agencies to upgrade, create, or manage information databases for the purpose of measuring AYP. Allows schools to target school choice and supplemental services to the students who are members of specified types of groups that fail to make AYP. Requires placement and service in the least restrictive environment for students who receive services under the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act who use an option to transfer under ESEA. Revises the definition of highly qualified teacher to authorize States to: (1) use a generalist exam for middle school teachers; and (2) issue certificates that qualify teachers to teach a number of subjects in social studies or in science.

No Child Left Behind Reform Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2004

No Child Left Behind Reform Act - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to revise certain requirements which were added by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, including ones relating to: (1) adequate yearly progress (AYP); (2) academic assessment and local educational agency and school improvement; (3) school choice and supplemental services options; and (4) teacher qualifications. Allows schools to be given credit for performing well on measures other than test scores when calculating student achievement. Authorizes the Secretary of Education to award competitive grants to State educational agencies to: (1) develop or increase the capacity of data systems for accountability purposes; and (2) subgrants to increase the capacity of local educational agencies to upgrade, create, or manage information databases for the purpose of measuring AYP. Allows schools to target school choice and supplemental services to the students who are members of specified types of groups that fail to make AYP. Requires placement and service in the least restrictive environment for students who receive services under the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act who use an option to transfer under ESEA. Revises the definition of highly qualified teacher to authorize States to: (1) use a generalist exam for middle school teachers; and (2) issue certificates that qualify teachers to teach a number of subjects in social studies or in science.

ASU/MCCCD Land Conveyance Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2004

ASU/MCCCD Land Conveyance Act - Directs the Secretary of Education to release, without consideration, the reversionary interests retained by the United States and all other terms, conditions, reservations, and restrictions imposed, in connection with the conveyance of portions of former Williams Air Force Base, Arizona, to Arizona State University and Maricopa County Community College District under the authority of the February 1995 Record of Decision for the disposal of excess Federal property at that installation.

Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2004

Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to provide for the regulation of tobacco products by the Secretary of Health and Human Services through the Food and Drug Administration, including through disclosure, annual registration, inspection, recordkeeping, and user fee requirements. Sets forth criteria by which tobacco products are deemed adulterated or misbranded. Allows the Secretary to require prior approval of all label statements. Allows the Secretary to restrict the sale or distribution of tobacco products, including advertising and promotion, if the Secretary determines that such regulation would be appropriate for the protection of the public health. Prohibits such regulations from: (1) limiting product sales or distribution to authorization of a practitioner licensed to prescribe medical products; (2) prohibiting product sales in face-to-face transactions by a specific category of retail outlets; or (3) establishing a minimum age greater than 18 years of age for product purchases. Prohibits cigarettes from containing any artificial or natural flavor (other than tobacco or menthol) or an herb or spice, including strawberry, cinnamon, or coffee. Requires the Secretary to establish tobacco product standards to protect the public health, but reserves to Congress the power to ban any tobacco products or reduce the nicotine level to zero. Allows the Secretary to take specified actions, including public notification and recall, against unreasonably harmful products. Requires premarket approval of all new tobacco products. Sets forth standards for the sale of modified risk tobacco products. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) judicial review; (2) coordination with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC); (3) congressional review of regulations; and (4) state and local authority. Requires the Secretary to establish a Tobacco Products Scientific Advisory Committee. Amends the Federal Cigarette Labeling and Advertising Act to change cigarette warning label and advertising requirements. Amends the Comprehensive Smokeless Tobacco Health Education Act of 1986 to change smokeless tobacco warning label and advertising requirements.

Making appropriations for the Departments of Agriculture, Education, Health and Human Services, and Transportation for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2005, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2004

Appropriates FY 2005 appropriations to the Department of Agriculture for the: (1) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service; (2) Rural Community Advancement Program; (3) Rural Housing Service; and (4) Rural Utilities Service (rural telephone bank program account, and distance learning, telemedicine, and broadband program). Appropriates FY 2005 appropriations to the Department of Education for the rural education achievement program. Appropriates FY 2005 appropriations to the Department of Health and Human Services for rural programs of the Health Resources and Services Administration. Appropriates FY 2005 appropriations to the Department of Transportation for air carrier payments. States that for taxpayers with adjusted gross income in excess of $1 million for calendar year 2004 the amount of the tax reduction resulting from enactment of the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 and enactment of the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001 shall be reduced by 5.1 percent.

Navajo Nation Higher Education Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2004

Navajo Nation Higher Education Act of 2004 - Authorizes the Navajo Nation's Dine College to receive all Federal funding and resources under this Act and other laws for its operation, improvement, and growth. Authorizes the College to expend certain funds to undertake all renovations and repairs to its infrastructure, as identified by a strategic plan approved by it College and submitted to the Secretary of the Interior. Allows funds to be treated as non-Federal, private funds of the College. Authorizes appropriations to the College for: (1) operation and maintenance, to be funded by the Secretary separately from funding institutions under the Tribally Controlled College or University Assistance Act of 1978; and (2) facilities and capital projects, to be funded through any of specified Federal agencies. Supersedes and repeals the Navajo Community College Act.

Teacher Shortage Response Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2004

Teacher Shortage Response Act of 2004 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to increase the amount of student loans that may be forgiven for highly qualified teachers in mathematics, science, and special education and for reading specialists. Directs the Secretary of Education to notify local educational agencies eligible to participate in the Small Rural Achievement Program under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 of the benefits available under the amendments made by this Act, and to encourage such agencies to notify their teachers of such increased benefits.

To amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to extend loan forgiveness for certain loans to certified or licensed teachers.

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2004

Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to expand eligibility for certain student loan forgiveness for teachers to those who were new borrowers on or after October 1, 1986. (Current law makes eligible only new borrowers as of October 1, 1998.)

Teacher Training Enhancement Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2004

Teacher Training Enhancement Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) to revise provisions and reauthorize appropriations for title II (Teacher Quality Enhancement): (1) part A, Teacher Quality Enhancement Grants for States and Partnerships; and (2) part B, Preparing Tomorrow's Teachers to Use Technology. Sets forth a new part C, Centers of Excellence, for recruiting and preparing teachers, including minority teachers, to become highly qualified teachers in elementary and secondary school classrooms (K-12).

Priorities for Graduate Studies Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2004

Priorities for Graduate Studies Act of 2004 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) to revise requirements and reauthorize appropriations for the following Graduate and Postsecondary Improvement Programs under title VII: (1) the Jacob K. Javits fellowship program; (2) the program of graduate assistance in areas of national need; (3) the Thurgood Marshall legal educational opportunity program; (4) the Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education; and (5) demonstration projects to ensure that students with disabilities receive a quality higher education. Eliminates the Urban Community Service program and certain continuation awards.

Supporting the goals and ideals of National Celiac Awareness Month, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2004

Declares that Congress: (1) supports the goals and ideals of National Celiac Awareness Month (May 2004); (2) should work with health care providers and celiac disease advocacy and education organizations to encourage screening and early detection of celiac disease; and (3) should increase Federal funding for celiac disease research.

To amend the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to clarify the exemption from the minimum wage and overtime compensation requirements of that Act for certain construction engineering and design professionals.

United States · United States Congress · 19 May 2004

Amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to set forth conditions for exemption of employees who are construction engineering and design professionals from minimum wage and overtime compensation requirements. Includes among such conditions specified types of: (1) professional education, licensing, certification, or work experience; (2) duties; and (3) services provided.

Technology Administration and National Institute of Standards and Technology Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 19 May 2004

Technology Administration and National Institute of Standards and Technology Act of 2004 - Authorizes appropriations to the Secretary of Commerce for the: (1) Under Secretary for Technology and the Office of Technology Policy's activities; (2) National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) scientific and technical research and services laboratories activities; (3) Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award program; (4) NIST facilities construction and maintenance; (5) NIST industrial technology services; (6) Teacher Science and Technology Enhancement Institute program; and (7) NIST under the Enterprise Integration Act of 2002. Requires: (1) the Director of NIST to carry out a Standards Education program to award competitive, merit-reviewed grants to institutions of higher education to support their efforts to develop curricula on the role of standards in the fields of engineering, business, science, and economics.

TRAIN Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 19 May 2004

Technology Retraining And Investment Now Act of 2004 (TRAIN Act of 2004) - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow businesses and individuals a tax credit for 50 percent of their information and communications technology education and training expenses up to $8,000 for a taxable year. Increases the allowable amount of the credit to $10,000 for expenses for a program operated: (1) in an empowerment zone, enterprise community, or renewal community; (2) in a school district in which at least 50 percent of the students are eligible for free or reduced-cost lunches under the National School Lunch Act; (3) in an area designated as a disaster area under the Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act; (4) in a designated rural enterprise community; (5) in an area designated as a Rural Economic Area Partnership Zone; (6) in an area over which an Indian tribal government has jurisdiction; (7) by an employer who has 200 or fewer employees for each business day in each of 20 or more calendar weeks in the current or preceding calendar year; or (8) for an individual with a disability. Defines "information technology education and training program expenses" to include: (1) course work: (2) certification testing; (3) apprenticeship programs registered by the Department of Labor; and (4) other expenses that are essential to assessing skill acquisition. Redefines" eligible educational institution" to include a commercial information and communications technology training provider.

Student Bill of Rights

United States · United States Congress · 17 May 2004

Student Bill of Rights - Directs the Secretary of Education to make annual determinations as to whether each State's public school system provides all its students with educational resources to succeed academically and in life. Requires such education to enable students to: (1) acquire knowledge and skills necessary for responsible citizenship; (2) meet challenging academic achievement standards; and (3) compete and succeed in a global economy. Requires each system to do so through: (1) providing specified fundamentals of educational opportunity to students at each public elementary and secondary school; (2) providing educational services in school districts that receive funds for disadvantaged students that are, taken as a whole, at least comparable to educational services provided in school districts not receiving such funds; and (3) complying with any final Federal or State court order in any matter concerning the adequacy or equitableness of the system. Requires withholding of specified portions of its Federal funding for administrative expenses if a system: (1) fails to meet a yearly interim goal; (2) does not remedy, after two school years, a failure to provide comparable educational services to schools that receive funds for disadvantaged children; or (3) does not comply with a court order. Allows students or parents aggrieved by violations of this Act to bring civil actions for enforcement in Federal district courts.

A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of Congress in support of the ongoing work of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) in combating anti-Semitism, racism, xenophobia, discrimination, intolerance, and related violence.

United States · United States Congress · 17 May 2004

Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the U.S. Government and Congress should condemn acts of anti-Semitism and intolerance; (2) officials and elected leaders of all Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) participating states, including all OSCE Mediterranean Partner for Cooperation countries, should also condemn acts of anti-Semitism, racism, xenophobia, and discrimination; (3) the participating OSCE states should be commended for supporting the Berlin Declaration and for bringing increased attention to incidents of anti-Semitism and intolerance; (4) the U.S. Government should work with other OSCE participating states to encourage compliance with OSCE commitments and, if necessary, urge the creation of legal mechanisms to combat and track acts of anti-Semitism and intolerance; (5) all participating states should forward their respective laws and data on incidents of anti-Semitism and other hate crimes to the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights; (6) the United States should encourage appointment of a high level "personal envoy" to ensure sustained attention to OSCE commitments on the reporting of anti-Semitic crimes; (7) the United States should urge OSCE participating states that have not already done so to join the Task Force for International Cooperation on Holocaust Education, Remembrance, and Research; and (8) all OSCE participating states should renew efforts to implement their existing commitments to fight anti-Semitism and intolerance.

FERMI Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 May 2004

Furthering Education and Research through Mantis Improvements Act or FERMI Act - Requires the Secretary of State to: (1) provide consular officers with improved guidance regarding the operational structure and requirements of the Visas Mantis security check program (which protects against illegal transfers of sensitive technology); and (2) provide greater specificity in the Technology Alert List used under the program. Requires the Secretary and the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation to make fully interoperable the data systems used under the program. Directs the Secretary to report to Congress on progress toward implementing these provisions. Establishes a three-year validity period for Visas Mantis security checks and revalidations. Permits revalidations in the United States. Allows multiple entries on a nonimmigrant visa for which a security check is required. Makes security checks valid across changes in nonimmigrant classifications. Creates an exception for national security concerns as determined by the Secretary. Requires the Secretary to submit annual reports on the Visas Mantis program to Congress.

Direct Loan Reward Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 17 May 2004

Direct Loan Reward Act of 2004 - Amends title IV (Student Assistance) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 to direct the Secretary of Education to carry out a Direct Loan Reward Program to encourage institutions of higher education to participate in the student loan program under part D, Federal Perkins Loans. Makes the amount of financial reward payment to an institution under this Act equal to 50 percent of the savings to the Federal Government generated by the institution's participation in such part D student loan program instead of its participation in the student loan program under the part B Federal Family Education Loan Program.

Edward R. McPherson, of Texas, to be Under Secretary of Education, vice Eugene Hickok, to which position he was appointed during the last recess of the Senate.

United States · United States Senate · 13 May 2004