Education

Mark J. Gerencser, of New Jersey, to be a Member of the National Security Education Board for a term of four years, vice Robert N. Shamansky, term expired.

United States · United States Senate · 23 July 2008

National Oceans Protection Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2008

National Oceans Protection Act of 2008 - Declares that the purpose of this Act is to secure for future U.S. generations a full range of benefits of healthy marine ecosystems. Specifies a national ocean policy and related principles. Requires each federal agency, as possible and not inconsistent with other laws, to interpret and administer policies, regulations and laws in accordance with such policy. Ernest "Fritz" Hollings National Ocean Policy and Leadership Act - Reestablishes the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). States that: (1) it shall be a civilian agency administered by an Administrator, who shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate; and (2) there shall be transferred to the Administrator any authority that, before the date of the enactment of this Act, was vested in the Secretary of Commerce and pertains to the functions of NOAA. Establishes: (1) a National Ocean Advisor and a Council on Ocean Stewardship in the Executive Office of the President; and (2) a Presidential Panel of Advisers on Oceans and Climate. Designates nine ocean regions to promote coordinated regional efforts to implement the national ocean policy. Requires the NOAA Administrator to establish or designate a Regional Ocean Partnership for each region and requires each Partnership to prepare a Regional Ocean Strategic Plan. Establishes: (1) the Committee on Ocean Science, Education, and Operations; (2) a marine biodiversity research program; (3) a network of regional Ocean Ecosystem Resource Information Systems; (4) a national interagency ocean and coastal public education program; (5) the National Ocean Science and Technology Scholarship Program; (6) the NOAA Office of Education; and (7) an educational partnership with minority-serving institutions. Requires a national mass media campaign to increase public awareness of oceans. Establishes the Ocean and Great Lakes Conservation Trust Fund. Requires payments to coastal states for Regional Ocean Strategic Plan activities. Requires the United States Postal Service (USPS) to print a special postage stamp to enable the public to help protect, maintain, and restore marine ecosystems.

Mental Health on Campus Improvement Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2008

Mental Health on Campus Improvement Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Administrator of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, to award grants to eligible institutions of higher education to improve mental and behavioral health services and outreach on college and university campuses. Directs the Secretary to give special consideration to programs that: (1) demonstrate the greatest need; (2) propose effective approaches for initiating or expanding campus services; (3) target underserved and at-risk populations; (4) coordinate with a community mental health center or other community mental health resources; (5) identify how the college or university will address psychiatric emergencies; and (6) demonstrate the greatest potential for replication and dissemination. Allows the Secretary to provide technical assistance to grantees. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Administrator, to convene an interagency, public-private sector working group to plan, establish, and begin coordinating and evaluating a targeted public education campaign that is designed to focus on mental and behavioral health on college campuses. Requires the Secretary to establish the College Campus Task Force to discuss mental and behavioral health concerns on college and university campuses.

Midwestern Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2008

Midwestern Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2008 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide tax benefits to individuals affected by presidentially-declared natural disasters (i.e., severe storms, tornadoes, or flooding) in the states of Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, and Wisconsin on or after May 20, 2008, and before August 1, 2008 (Midwestern disaster area). Makes specified provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, which currently apply only to residents of the Gulf Opportunity Zone and the Hurricane Katrina disaster area, applicable to the Midwestern disaster area, including: (1) tax-exempt bond financing, the low-income housing tax credit, accelerated depreciation and increased expensing of business assets, an increase in the rehabilitation tax credit, extended carryback of net operating losses, and investment in tax credit bonds; (2) increased tax deductions for tuition and related educational expenses; (3) expensing of environmental remediation costs and demolition and cleanup costs; (4) tax incentives for employer-provided housing; (5) tax-free withdrawals from retirement accounts and recontributions for home purchases; (6) employer tax credits for retention of employees; (7) suspension of limitations on tax deductions for charitable contributions and personal casualty losses; (8) mortgage revenue bonds for owner-occupied residences; (9) tax exemptions for cancellation of indebtedness; and (10) nonrecognition of gain for homes and businesses destroyed in a disaster. Allows taxpayers in the Midwestern disaster area who claimed a tax deduction for a casualty loss to a principal residence and later received a grant under any federal or state program for reimbursement of such loss to file an amended tax return, without incurring tax penalties. Extends through 2009 the additional tax exemption for housing displaced individuals in the Midwestern disaster area. Excludes from gross income, through December 31, 2008, reimbursements to volunteers in the Midwestern disaster area for the use of a personal vehicle for charitable work. Increases the standard mileage rate for the charitable use of personal vehicles. Extends through 2009 the enhanced tax deduction for charitable contributions of food inventories and of book inventories to public schools. Requires tax-exempt charitable organizations to provide the Secretary of the Treasury with specified information, on an annual basis, relating to their disaster relief activities.

Public Health Emergency Response Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2008

Public Health Emergency Response Act of 2008 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to allow the Secretary of Health and Human Services to activate the coverage of short-term emergency health care services if the Secretary determines that there is a public health emergency. Sets forth factors for the Secretary to consider, including the degree to which the emergency is likely to overwhelm health care providers in the region. Requires the Secretary to establish a medical monitoring program for monitoring and reporting on the health care needs of the affected population over time. Limits eligibility for coverage of emergency health care services to: (1) uninsured or underinsured emergency victims who need health care services due to injuries or disease resulting from the public health emergency; or (2) uninsured individuals residing in the affected area whose ability to access care or medicine is disrupted as a result of the emergency. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish a streamlined process for determining eligibility for emergency health care services; (2) report to Congress on the number and adequacy of volunteers enrolled in the Emergency System for Advance Registration of Volunteer Health Professionals (ESAR-VHP) who will be available to each state in the event of a public health emergency; and (3) conduct an outreach and public education campaign to inform health care providers and the general public about the availability of emergency health care coverage during the period of the emergency.

Midwestern Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2008

Midwestern Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2008 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide tax benefits to individuals affected by presidentially-declared natural disasters (i.e., severe storms, tornadoes, or flooding) in the states of Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, and Wisconsin on or after May 20, 2008, and before August 1, 2008 (Midwestern disaster area). Makes specified provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, which currently apply only to residents of the Gulf Opportunity Zone and the Hurricane Katrina disaster area, applicable to the Midwestern disaster area, including: (1) tax-exempt bond financing, the low-income housing tax credit, accelerated depreciation and increased expensing of business assets, an increase in the rehabilitation tax credit, extended carryback of net operating losses, and investment in tax credit bonds; (2) increased tax deductions for tuition and related educational expenses; (3) expensing of environmental remediation costs and demolition and cleanup costs; (4) tax incentives for employer-provided housing; (5) tax-free withdrawals from retirement accounts and recontributions for home purchases; (6) employer tax credits for retention of employees; (7) suspension of limitations on tax deductions for charitable contributions and personal casualty losses; (8) mortgage revenue bonds for owner-occupied residences; (9) tax exemptions for cancellation of indebtedness; and (10) nonrecognition of gain for homes and businesses destroyed in a disaster. Allows taxpayers in the Midwestern disaster area who claimed a tax deduction for a casualty loss to a principal residence and later received a grant under any federal or state program for reimbursement of such loss to file an amended tax return, without incurring tax penalties. Extends through 2009 the additional tax exemption for housing displaced individuals in the Midwestern disaster area. Excludes from gross income, through December 31, 2008, reimbursements to volunteers in the Midwestern disaster area for the use of a personal vehicle for charitable work. Increases the standard mileage rate for the charitable use of personal vehicles. Extends through 2009 the enhanced tax deduction for charitable contributions of food inventories and of book inventories to public schools. Requires tax-exempt charitable organizations to provide the Secretary of the Treasury with specified information, on an annual basis, relating to their disaster relief activities.

INNOVATION IN EDUCATION THROUGH BUSINESS AND EDUCATIONAL STEM PARTNERSHIPS

United States · United States House of Representatives · 22 July 2008

Advancing America's Priorities Act

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2008

Advancing America's Priorities Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to: (1) establish a system to collect data on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and establish a registry for such data; (2) provide for an education and information campaign to promote stroke prevention; and (3) award grants for a pilot project to improve stroke patient outcomes by coordinating health care delivery through telehealth networks. Establishes programs for research, rehabilitation, and quality of life for people with paralysis. Provides for support services to women suffering from postpartum depression and who receive a positive diagnosis of Down syndrome or other prenatally or postnatally diagnosed conditions. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make grants to states to provide vision care for children. Amends the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act to expand services for homeless youth and to reauthorize funding for programs under such Act. Requires the Secretary to conduct a national homeless youth awareness campaign. Provides additional funding to the Department of Justice (DOJ) to investigate and prosecute violations of criminal civil rights statutes that occurred not later than December 31, 1969, and resulted in death. Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to reauthorize through FY2014 the grant programs for: (1) adult and juvenile collaboration for access to adequate mental health treatment; and (2) mental health courts. Authorizes the Attorney General to make grants to train law enforcement and campus security personnel to respond appropriately to incidents involving mentally ill individuals. Expands DOJ's authority to investigate and prosecute child pornography crimes. Extends the program to protect drug-endangered children. Establishes the Star-Spangled Banner and War of 1812 Commemoration Commission for the national observance of the bicentennial of the War of 1812. Directs the Attorney General to implement a national strategy for child exploitation prevention and interdiction. Establishes a National Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program to assist law efforcement efforts to protect children against online enticement by sexual predators. Amends the federal criminal code to enhance prohibitions against Internet child pornography. Amends the Lacey Act Amendments of 1981 to add nonhuman primates to the definition of "prohibited wildlife species" for purposes of the prohibition against the sale or purchase of animals in interstate or foreign commerce. Amends the Chesapeake Bay Initiative Act of 1998 to make permanent the authorization of appropriations for the Chesapeake Bay Gateways and Watertrails Network. Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to include among eligible grant activities the development and implementation of programs for source tracking, sanitary surveys, and prevention efforts to address the identified sources of beach water pollution. Extends funding for programs for Appalachian regional development. Reauthorizes the Appalachian Regional Commission through FY2012. Establishes the Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Foundation to promote and support study abroad programs for U.S. students. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize the President to provide assistance for reconstructing and stabilizing a country or region that is in, or is in transition from, conflict or civil strife. Reauthorizes the Overseas Private Investment Corporation through FY 2011. Amends the Tropical Forest Conservation Act of 1998 to make forests, coral reefs, and associated coastal marine ecosystem activities eligible for U.S. debt reduction benefits for developing countries. (Currently, such provision applies to tropical forests.). Amends the Torture Victims Relief Act of 1998 to provide additional assistance to victims of torture. Authorizes the Secretary of State to provide assistance to the Museum of the History of Polish Jews. Amends the Telecommunications Act of 1996 to revise Federal Communications Commission (FCC) policies for the collection of data on broadband. Authorizes grants to promote the training and placement of closed caption writers. Amends the Hydrographic Services Improvement Act of 1998 to authorize the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to acquire hydrographic data and provide services to support the conservation and management of coastal and ocean resources. Establishes a national ocean exploration and underseas research program within NOAA. Directs the President to establish: (1) a program to develop a federal ocean and coastal mapping plan for the Great Lakes and other coastal areas of the United States; and (2) a national integrated coastal and ocean observation system. Directs the Joint Subcommittee on Ocean Science and Technology of the National Science and Technology Council to: (1) coordinate federal activities on ocean acidification and establish an interagency working group; and (2) develop a strategic plan for federal research and monitoring on ocean acidification. Provides for ocean acidification programs in NOAA and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Authorizes funding over a 10-year period for capital and preventive maintenance projects for the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Area Transit Authority. Directs the Archivist of the United States to preserve relevant records and establish an electronically searchable national database containing historic records of servitude, emancipation, and post-Civil War reconstruction. Amends the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to: (1) increase the amount guaranteed to each state under the pre-disaster mitigation program; (2) require other financial assistance under the program to be awarded on a competitive basis; and (3) authorize appropriations for the program through FY2011. Authorizes the Board of Regents of the Smithsonian Institution to construct a greenhouse facility at its museum support facility in Suitland, Maryland, to maintain its horticultural operations and preserve the orchid collection it holds in trust.

Tom Lantos Pulmonary Hypertension Research and Education Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2008

Tom Lantos Pulmonary Hypertension Research and Education Act of 2008 - Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Director of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, should continue aggressive work on pulmonary hypertension; and (2) the Director of the Institute should continue research to expand the understanding of the causes of, and to find a cure for, pulmonary hypertension. Requires inclusion of information on the status of pulmonary hypertension research at NIH in biennial reports to Congress. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to carry out an educational campaign to increase public awareness of pulmonary hypertension. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Director of CDC, to carry out an educational campaign to increase awareness of pulmonary hypertension among health care providers. Directs the Comptroller General to study and report to Congress on Medicare and Medicaid coverage standards that apply to patients with pulmonary hypertension, including standards for all therapies approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of pulmonary hypertension.

Public Health Emergency Response Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2008

Public Health Emergency Response Act of 2008 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to allow the Secretary of Health and Human Services to activate the coverage of short-term emergency health care services if the Secretary determines that there is a public health emergency. Sets forth factors for the Secretary to consider, including the degree to which the emergency is likely to overwhelm health care providers in the region. Requires the Secretary to establish a medical monitoring program for monitoring and reporting on the health care needs of the affected population over time. Limits eligibility for coverage of emergency health care services to: (1) uninsured or underinsured emergency victims who need health care services due to injuries or disease resulting from the public health emergency; or (2) uninsured individuals residing in the affected area whose ability to access care or medicine is disrupted as a result of the emergency. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish a streamlined process for determining eligibility for emergency health care services; (2) report to Congress on the number and adequacy of volunteers enrolled in the Emergency System for Advance Registration of Volunteer Health Professionals (ESAR-VHP) who will be available to each state in the event of a public health emergency; and (3) conduct an outreach and public education campaign to inform health care providers and the general public about the availability of emergency health care coverage during the period of the emergency.

Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2009

United States · United States Congress · 18 July 2008

Department of State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2009 - Makes FY2009 appropriations for the Department of State (Department) for: (1) administration of foreign affairs and diplomatic and consular programs; (2) the civilian stabilization initiative; (3) the Capital Investment Fund; (4) the Office of Inspector General; (5) educational and cultural exchange programs; (6) representation allowances; (7) protection of foreign missions and officials; (8) U.S. embassy security, construction, and maintenance; (9) emergencies in the diplomatic and consular service; (10) the repatriation loans program account; (11) the American Institute in Taiwan; (12) the Foreign Service Retirement and Disability Fund; (13) international organizations, peacekeeping, and commissions; (14) the International Boundary and Water Commission, United States and Mexico; (15) plan preparation and construction of authorized projects; (16) the International Joint Commission and the International Boundary Commission, United States and Canada; (17) international fisheries commissions; (18) international broadcasting operations; (19) the Asia Foundation; (20) the Center for Middle Eastern-Western Dialogue Trust Fund; (21) the Eisenhower Exchange Fellowships, Incorporated; (22) the Israeli Arab Scholarship Program; (23) East-West Center, Hawaii; (24) the National Endowment for Democracy; (25) the Commission for Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad; (26) the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom; (27) the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe; (28) the Congressional-Executive Commission on the People's Republic of China; (29) the United States-China Economic and Security Review Commission; (30) the United States Senate-China Interparliamentary Group; (31) migration and refugee assistance; and (32) nonproliferation, anti-terrorism, demining, and related programs. Makes FY2009 appropriations for: (1) operating and international development expenses of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and the Office of Inspector General; (2) expenses of the President in carrying out certain programs under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961; (3) global health and child survival; (4) specified development assistance; (5) international disaster assistance; (6) global food security; (7) development credit authority; (8) the Economic Support Fund; (9) promotion of democracy; (10) assistance for Europe, Eurasia, and Central Asia; (11) international narcotics control and law enforcement; (12) counterdrug activities in the Andean region of South America; (13) the Peace Corps; (14) the Millennium Challenge Corporation; (15) the Inter-American Foundation; (16) the African Development Foundation; (17) the Department of the Treasury for international affairs technical assistance activities and debt restructuring; (18) international organizations, financial institutions, and clean energy technology; (19) the Enterprise of the Americas Multilateral Investment Fund; (20) the Asian Development Fund; and (21) the African Development Fund. Makes FY2009 appropriations for: (1) international military education and training; (2) foreign military financing grants; and (3) international peacekeeping operations. Makes FY2009 appropriations for: (1) the Export-Import Bank, including the Office of Inspector General, direct and guaranteed loan and insurance programs, and administrative expenses; (2) Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) credit and insurance programs, including administrative expenses, and for the cost of direct and guaranteed loans; and (3) the Trade and Development Agency. Sets forth certain limits and prohibitions on the use of appropriations for specified activities.

MAYOR AND SUPERINTENDENT PARTNERSHIPS IN EDUCATION: CLOSING THE ACHIEVEMENT GAP

United States · United States House of Representatives · 17 July 2008

American Affordable Fuels Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2008

American Affordable Fuels Act of 2008 - Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (Administrator), upon request, to enter into a domestic fuels facility permitting agreement with the requesting state or Indian tribe under which the process for obtaining all permits necessary for the construction and operation of a domestic fuels facility shall be improved using a systematic interdisciplinary multimedia approach. Directs the Secretary of Commerce and the Economic Development Administration, in making community assistance grants to communities whose economies are injured by military base closures or realignments, to give priority to projects to support commercial-scale cellulosic biomass ethanol projects and coal-to-liquids facilities. Directs the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to appoint a task force to report to Congress on: (1) modernization of the SEC hydrocarbon reserves disclosures classification system; and (2) creation of a renewable reserves classification system for cellulosic biofuels feedstocks. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend: (1) the taxpayer election to expense certain refineries; and (2) the special allowance for cellulosic biomass ethanol plant property to all cellulosic biofuel plant property. Amends the Submerged Lands Act (SLA) to: (1) modify the seaward boundaries of states to 12 miles offshore; and (2) exclude from the rights of states, and declare federal, oil and gas mineral rights for land beneath navigable waters located within specified expanded offshore state seaward boundaries. Amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA) to: (1) modify the determination of Adjacent Zones and Planning Areas in the outer Continental Shelf (OCS) subsoil and seabed; (2) authorize the Secretary of the Interior to grant natural gas leases; (3) modify the OCS leasing program; and (4) require the concurrence of the adjacent state for any construction of a petroleum pipeline within the part of its Adjacent Zone withdrawn from oil and gas or natural gas leasing. Establishes the Federal Energy Natural Resources Enhancement Program to manage wildlife and natural resources related to energy and minerals development on federal lands. Declares without force or effect all existing federal prohibitions against spending appropriated funds for leasing and preleasing OCS oil and natural gas. Requires the Secretary to repurchase and cancel certain federal oil and gas, geothermal, coal, oil shale, tar sands, or other mineral leases, whether onshore or offshore. Redesignates the Minerals Management Service as the National Ocean Resources and Royalty Service. Rigs to Reefs Act of 2008 - Amends the OCSLA to prescribe requirements for the use of decommissioned offshore oil and gas platforms for an artificial reef, scientific research, or other authorized uses. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to repeal the requirement to conduct a comprehensive inventory of OCS oil and natural gas resources. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to provide funds to certain institutions of higher education that maintain engineering programs for petroleum, mining, or mineral engineering. Establishes in the Department of the Interior the Office of Petroleum and Mining Schools. Instructs the Secretary to establish a Committee on Petroleum, Mining, and Mineral Engineering and Energy and Mineral Resource Education. Establishes a Physical Science, Engineering, and Technology Scholarship Program. National Geo Fund Act of 2008 - Directs the Secretary to establish a program for production of: (1) fuels from strategic unconventional resources; and (2) oil and gas resources using CO2 enhanced recovery. Directs the Secretary to establish grant programs for production of: (1) geothermal and geopressure oil and gas energy; (2) liquid fuels; and (3) renewable energy from ocean waves, currents, and thermal resources. Amends OCSLA to repeal the coastal impact assistance program. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to repeal the requirement for payments for oil shale and tar sands leases. Amends the Mineral Leasing Act to prescribe requirements for treatment of oil shale or tar sands lease revenues and royalty rates for commercial leases. Repeals the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act of 2006. Sets forth a leasing program for exploration, leasing, development, production, and transportation of oil and gas in and from the Coastal Plain (Alaska). Amends the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act to repeal the prohibition against production of oil and gas from the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). Establishes the Coastal Plain Local Government Impact Aid Assistance Fund within the Alaska state treasury. Prohibits exportation of oil or gas produced under a lease issued under this Act. Amends the Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2008, to repeal the prohibition against final regulations for a commercial leasing program for oil shale resources on public land. Amends the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 to repeal the limitation placed upon a federal contract for procurement of an alternative or synthetic fuel (including fuel produced from nonconventional petroleum sources) for any mobility-related use. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) eliminate the taxable income limit on percentage depletion for oil and natural gas produced from marginal wells; and (2) allow a new qualified alternative fuel motor vehicle credit for dual fueled automobiles. Amends the Clean Air Act to: (1) redefine renewable fuel to include renewable and nonrenewable natural gas (NG), including compressed natural (CNG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG); and (2) require fuel credit program regulations to provide for generation of credits for renewable and nonrenewable natural gas. Directs the Secretary of Energy, in coordination with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to conduct a program of natural gas vehicle research, development, and demonstration, with a particular emphasis on streamlining the certification of NG conversion systems. Directs the EPA Administrator to: (1) establish a demonstration program to assist states in facilitating the development of alternative-fueled vehicles; and (2) waive requirements for recertification of certain kits for the conversion of vehicles to NG.

Vietnam Education Foundation Amendments Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2008

Vietnam Education Foundation Amendments Act of 2008 - Establishes the Vietnam Education Foundation within the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the Department of State. (Under current law the Foundation is an independent establishment of the executive branch.) Establishes the Vietnam Education Foundation Advisory Committee in lieu of the current Board of Directors. Gives fellowship priority to basic science studies. Authorizes the Secretary of State, through the Assistant Secretary for Educational and Cultural Affairs, to award grants to institutions of higher education for a partnership with the government of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to establish an undergraduate American Research College in Vietnam.

Expressing support for designation of Disability Pride Day and recognizing that all people, including those living with disabilities, have the right, responsibility, and ability to be active, contributing members of our society and fully engaged as citizens.

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2008

Supports the goals and ideals of Disability Pride Day. Acknowledges the efforts of the city of Chicago's 5th Annual Disability Pride Parade organizers to raise awareness concerning the value of people with disabilities. Invites the Nation to join in celebrating the pride, the power, and the potential of people with disabilities by celebrating Disability Pride Day. Urges public officials and the general public to honor Americans with disabilities by educating themselves on ways to support and encourage understanding of persons with disabilities in schools, within the diverse workforce, as well as in our communities.

DEPARTMENTS OF LABOR, HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, AND EDUCATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009

United States · United States Senate · 16 July 2008

National Nanotechnology Initiative Amendments Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 16 July 2008

National Nanotechnology Initiative Amendments Act of 2008 - Amends the 21st Century Nanotechology Research and Development Act to expand the scope of the National Nanotechnology Program (the Program), including directing the Program to utilize the perspectives of the industrial community to promote the rapid commercial development of nanoscale-enabled devices, systems, and technologies. Requires issuing guidance to agencies that describes a strategy for transitioning research into commercial products and technologies. Revises requirements regarding the Program's triennial strategic plans. Requires participating agencies to support the activities of the committees of standards setting bodies involved in the development of standards for nanotechnology. Requires the National Nanotechnology Coordination Office to be supported by funds from each participating agency. Makes the National Nanotechnology Advisory Panel a distinct entity. Instructs the Panel to establish a subpanel to enable it in assessing whether societal, ethical, legal, environmental, and workforce concerns are adequately addressed by the Program. Rewrites provisions for triennial external review of the Program. Designates a Coordinator for Societal Dimensions of Nanotechnology, who shall convene a panel to develop a research plan. Establishes an Education Working Group to coordinate, prioritize, and plan the educational activities supported under the Program. Provides for one or more grants to establish Nanotechnology Education Partnerships to recruit and help prepare secondary school students to pursue postsecondary level courses in nanotechnology. Requires agencies supporting nanotechnology research facilities to provide access to companies that are developing prototypes of nanoscale products, devices, or processes. Sets forth provisions concerning nanotechnology related projects under existing nanotechnology transfer programs. Makes it an objective of the Program to establish industry liaison groups. Requires coordination and leveraging of federal investments with nanotechnology research, development, and technology transition initiatives. Requires the Program to include support for nanotechnology research and development in areas of national importance. Requires the Program to support nanomanufacturing research, including in green nanomanufacturing, energy production, water purification, agriculture, and health care. Requires specified reviews by the Advisory Panel of certain program component areas and nanotechnology research facilities. Sets forth provisions regarding nanoscale characterization and metrology. Requires: (1) a Government Accountability Office (GAO) study of nanotechnology related codes, standards, and regulations; and (2) public outreach.

National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 16 July 2008

National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2008 - Authorizes appropriations to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for FY2009 for: (1) science; (2) aeronautics; (3) exploration; (4) education; (5) space operations; (6) cross-agency support programs; and (7) the inspector general. Authorizes additional appropriations to accelerate the initial operational capability of a U.S.-owned human spacecraft capability. Affirms support for the broad goals of U.S. space exploration policy, utilization of lunar exploration, activity related to Mars exploration, and international participation and cooperation (as well as commercial involvement in exploration). Revises requirements for a compliance report on replacement of the Space Shuttle Orbiter. Limits authority of the NASA Administrator to retire the Space Shuttle and requires a report on recertification of continued flightworthiness through FY2015. Expresses the sense of Congress concerning contributions of the commercial space sector. Requires, with respect to the Commercial Orbital Transportation Services (COTS) project: (1) an assessment of the effects of increased funding under this Act upon development of project capabilities; and (2) a competition for completion of the COTS crewed vehicle demonstration project by the end of FY2011, or as soon thereafter as is practicable. Requires the Administrator to take certain measures in anticipation of retirement of the Space Shuttle fleet. Requires a report on a plan to support the operations of the International Space Station (ISS) beyond FY2015 for a period of not less than five years. Requires the Administrator to report a plan for continuing the activities described in the operation plan of the ISS National Laboratory submitted to Congress in May 2007 and a budget plan that reflects the anticipated use of such activities and the amount projected to be required for FY2010-FY2020 to accomplish the objectives of such activities. Requires establishment of an International Space Station Utilization Advisory Committee and development of an implementation plan for a structure for management of national laboratory research. Establishes in the Treasury an International Space Station Research Fund. Requires the planning and carrying out of an additional Shuttle mission for the scientific utilization of the U.S. portion of the ISS as a National Laboratory by the delivery of launch-ready scientific payloads, such as the alpha magnetic spectrometer, as soon as the assembly of the ISS is completed. Expresses the sense of Congress concerning use of the Space Life Sciences Laboratory at Kennedy Space Center as an asset in ISS National Laboratory capability. Reaffirms support for well-balanced scientific research support by NASA and for nanotechnology research and development and application. Expresses the sense of Congress concerning emphasis on fundamental and basic research and the transition to application development and concerning use by NASA's nanotechnology policy for ongoing research and development in green nanoscience and nanomanufacturing. Expresses the sense of Congress concerning aeronautics research and the impact of sonic booms. Requires research initiatives on certain environmental goals, the fundamental aeronautics research program, sonic booms, aviation safety, and climate change. Requires research and development activities performed by the Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate with the primary objective of assisting in the development of a flight project in another Mission Directorate of the Agency to be funded by the Mission Directorate seeking assistance. Requires the Administrator to award grants to institutions of higher education to establish one or more Centers for Research on Aviation Training under cooperative agreements with appropriate NASA Centers. Revises NASA enhanced-use lease policies. Requires establishment of an interagency commission to study the establishment of a space launch range and facilities dedicated to commercial space missions. Expresses the sense of Congress concerning appointment by the President of members to the National Space Council in accordance with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act, Fiscal Year 1989. Requires the Administrator to review and report on NASA suborbital mission capabilities. Requires the Administrator to initiate discussions with appropriate representatives of other space-faring countries to determine an appropriate framework under which information intended to promote safe access into outer space, operations in outer space, and return from outer space to Earth free from physical or radio-frequency interference can be shared. Requires the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy to study the impact of current export control policies and implementation directives on national security, the U.S. aerospace industry, and the ability of federal agencies to carry out cooperative activities in science and technology and human space flight, including the impact on research carried out under the sponsorship of such agencies. States policies concerning the detection of near-Earth objects and responses to threats posed by them. Requires development of a plan for utilizing the International Space Station in support of educational activities in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Requires establishment as a goal the funding of sounding-rockets, high-altitude balloon, suborbital flight, and small satellite payload opportunities directly linked to programs that provide significant hands-on training, learning, and research opportunities for students and instructors in higher education. Requires continuance of a program of unmanned aerial vehicle development and applications. Specifies funding for the Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research and the National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program. Requires establishment of an Office of Program Analysis and Evaluation. Requires an inventory of natural methane stocks and fluxes in the Polar Region of the United States. Prohibits NASA from initiating or implementing a reduction-in-force of permanent, non-Senior Executive Service, civil servant employees. Limits the number of term positions. Expresses the sense of Congress concerning the dilution, distortion, suppression, or impeding of research or its dissemination and requires a Comptroller General study of such releases.

American History and Civics Achievement Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 July 2008

American History and Civics Achievement Act - Amends the National Assessment of Educational Progress Authorization Act to direct the Commissioner for Education Statistics to give a priority to conducting national assessments of student achievement in history at least once every four years in grades 4, 8, and 12. Requires the Commissioner to conduct, in at least ten geographically diverse states, trial state academic assessments of student achievement in: (1) U.S. history in grades 8 and 12; and (2) civics in grades 8 and 12. Directs the National Assessment of Educational Progress governing board to select the participating states.

Transportation and Housing Choices for Gas Price Relief Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 15 July 2008

Transportation and Housing Choices for Gas Price Relief Act of 2008 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to: (1) carry out a competitive grant program that supports community efforts to invest in transportation alternatives and travel demand management strategies; and (2) award grants to eligible entities, giving priority to activity proposals for reducing single occupancy vehicle trips. Provides certain formula grant funding for specified improvement activities to increase use of public transportation. Requires the Secretary to award grants for a national consumer awareness program on the environmental, energy, and economic benefits of transportation alternatives to the single occupancy vehicle, including carpooling, vanpooling, transit, and bicycles. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) allow a telework tax credit of up to $400 per year; (2) include a qualified bicycle commuting reimbursement as a qualified transportation fringe benefit, excludable from gross income; (3) equalize and increase to $200, with a modified cost-of-living adjustment, the tax exclusion for both transportation and parking fringe benefits; (4) make self-employed individuals eligible for transit pass fringe benefits; (5) include employer-established parking cash-out programs as qualified transportation fringe benefits; and (6) allow a vanpool (general business) tax credit. Requires the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to: (1) incorporate transportation costs associated with location of housing into affordability standards for allocating low-income housing tax credits related to rental assistance vouchers or other affordable housing programs; and (2) develop a model transportation cost field for Multiple Listing Services to measure transportation costs associated with the location of a home. Amends the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) Charter Act and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac) Act to include the use of location-efficient mortgages among their purposes. Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1992 to require the Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency to establish graduated annual goals for the purchase by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac of location-efficient mortgages for single-family, owner-occupied homes. Requires the Secretary of HUD to make grants to states to construct or acquire affordable housing that is location-efficient. Amends the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) to include high schools in the safe routes to school program.

Coordinate to Educate Act

United States · United States Congress · 15 July 2008

Coordinate to Educate Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Education to award: (1) grants of up to three years to local educational agencies (LEAs) to collaborate with health and social service agencies to develop school-linked coordinated service programs for children and families on or near school sites; and (2) grants of up to two years to LEAs to implement such programs pursuant to interagency service delivery plans that have been approved by the Secretary. Requires program services to be available to all children and families in the service area and, where appropriate, paid for on a sliding scale. Directs the Secretary, in awarding grants, to give special consideration to areas with high proportions of educationally at-risk students and areas that have a large number of single parent or two-parent, working families.

Investing in our Human Resources Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 15 July 2008

Investing in our Human Resources Act of 2008 - Amends the Social Security Act to create a new title XXII: Block Grants to States for Transitional Assistance. Creates the Transitional Assistance Trust Fund, consisting of amounts equivalent to taxes attributable to Internet gambling. Entitles each state to a grant each fiscal year for a transitional assistance program which provides for: (1) expanded education and job training opportunities for individuals who are, or were formerly, in foster care; (2) expanded post-secondary education and job training opportunities for individuals who are working in, or had worked in, declining sectors of the economy; and (3) a subsidy for public transportation for unemployed individuals. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a Safe Internet Gambling Practices Program to promote responsible Internet gambling behavior and awareness of unsafe Internet gambling practices.

Recreational Performance Outerwear Apparel Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 14 July 2008

Recreational Performance Outerwear Apparel Act of 2008 - Amends the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States to provide for the duty-free treatment of certain recreational performance outerwear. Establishes the Sustainable Textile and Apparel Research Fund (STAR Fund). Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to: (1) impose and collect, with specified exceptions, a fee of 1.5% of the appraised value of imported recreational performance outerwear and to deposit amounts collected into the STAR Fund; and (2) make quarterly distributions from the STAR Fund to one or more appropriate organizations to conduct applied research, development, and education activities to enhance the competitiveness of U.S. businesses in clean, eco-friendly apparel, other textile and apparel products, and sewn-product design and manufacturing.

Promoting the Safe Use of the Internet by Students Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 14 July 2008

Promoting the Safe Use of the Internet by Students Act of 2008 - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to allow local educational agencies to use state subgrants under the Enhancing Education through Technology program and the Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities program to develop and implement programs promoting safe internet use by students.

A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow expenses relating to all home schools to be qualified education expenses for purposes of a Coverdell education savings account.

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2008

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow payment of home school expenses from Coverdell education savings accounts.

A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to expand the Coverdell education savings accounts to allow home school education expenses, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2008

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow: (1) payment of home school expenses from Coverdell education savings accounts; and (2) an annual inflation adjustment after 2008 to the contribution limit amount for such accounts. Makes permanent provisions of the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001 relating to Coverdell education savings accounts, including an increase in the contribution limit amount for such accounts.

Access to America's Orthopedic Services Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2008

Access to America's Orthopedic Services Act of 2008 - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish criteria for accounting and reporting the effort expended by researchers on musculoskeletal research funded with certain grants. Sets forth reporting requirements related to musculoskeletal health, including on: (1) research funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH); (2) federal programs and activities relating to musculoskeletal trauma care; (3) a standard unit for the measurement of bone mass under the Medicare program; (4) access to orthopedic services by certain federal health program beneficiaries; and (5) childhood musculoskeletal diseases, conditions, and injuries in the United States. Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network to establish the Transplantation Transmission Sentinel Network to track disease transmission from organ, tissue, or eye transplants. Requires the Secretary to issue regulations relating to the accreditation of: (1) establishments engaged in the manufacture of human cells, tissues, and cellular and tissue-based products; and (2) personnel who participate in related activities. Requires the Secretary to conduct studies related to: (1) a national registry of artificial joint replacements in Medicare beneficiaries; (2) severe trauma to extremities resulting from motor vehicle crashes; (3) workplace-related musculoskeletal injuries and conditions; (4) funding available for graduate medical education in orthopedics; (5) methods for measuring bone mass in Medicare beneficiaries; and (6) aging in the United States. Requires the Secretary to: (1) conduct a national public awareness program on musculoskeletal health; and (2) award grants for certain health and aging activities for seniors. Provides for musculoskeletal diseases and conditions to be treated as a priority within the Office of Minority Health.

To apply an alternative payment amount under the Medicare Program for certain graduate medical education programs established to train residents displaced by natural disasters.

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2008

Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, for a cost reporting period beginning on or after July 1, 2005, to provide for payments of direct graduate education costs under title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act in accordance with an alternative payment methodology for eligible hospitals in or adjacent to a major disaster area which have established a program to educate residents displaced from a graduate medical education (GME) program impacted by such disaster.

Schoolchildren's Health Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2008

Schoolchildren's Health Protection Act - Amends the General Education Provisions Act to prohibit the provision of federal education funding to state or local educational agencies that provide unemancipated minors with postcoital emergency contraception or prescriptions for such contraception on the premises of elementary or secondary schools.

Daniel Webster Congressional Clerkship Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2008

Daniel Webster Congressional Clerkship Act of 2008 - Establishes the Daniel Webster Congressional Clerkship Program for the appointment of individuals who are graduates of accredited law schools to serve as Congressional Clerks in the Senate or House of Representatives. Requires the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration and the House Committee on House Administration to each select at least six individuals for a one-year term to serve as employees in their respective chambers. Specifies eligibility criteria for a Congressional Clerk, including that the selected candidate be a graduate of such a law school as of the starting date of his or her clerkship. Requires the committees to ensure that Congressional Clerks selected under this Act are apportioned equally between majority and minority party offices. Entitles each clerk selected to the same compensation as, and comparable benefits to, an individual who holds the position of a judicial clerkship for the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia within three months of graduating from law school.

NASA 50th Anniversary Commemorative Coin Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2008

NASA 50th Anniversary Commemorative Coin Act - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury, in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), to mint and issue $50 gold and $1 silver coins emblematic of the 50 years of exemplary and unparalleled achievements of NASA. Requires all such coin sales to include a surcharge of $50 per $50 coin, and of $10 per $1 coin. Requires distribution of the first $4 million to the NASA Family Assistance Fund for financial assistance to the families of NASA personnel who die as a result of injuries suffered in the performance of their official duties. Requires distribution of: (1) one-half of the next $1 million of the remaining amounts to the Dr. Ronald E. McNair Educational (D.R.E.M.E.) Science Literacy Foundation and the Challenger Center for Space Science Education; and (2) the remainder to the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution for the preservation, maintenance, and display of space artifacts at the National Air and Space Museum (including the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center). Authorizes the Secretary to strike and sell bronze duplicates of the $50 gold coins.

Supporting the goals and ideals of Tay-Sachs Awareness Month.

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2008

Expresses support for the goals and ideals of Tay-Sachs Awareness Month. Encourages and expresses support for education and research efforts with respect to Tay-Sachs disease.

Medicare and Medicaid Extension Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2008

Medicare and Medicaid Extension Act of 2008 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to extend: (1) the physician payment update; (2) the floor on the work geographic adjustment under the Medicare physician fee schedule; (3) the treatment of certain physician pathology services; (4) the exceptions process for therapy caps; (5) the payment rule for brachytherapy and therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals; and (6) the accommodation of physicians ordered to active duty in the Armed Services. Delays generally until after 2011 full implementation of the Medicare competitive acquisition program for the purchase of durable medical equipment (DME), prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies (DMEPOS). Revises such program, dividing its implementation into two rounds, and specifying covered item updates for 2009-2014. Prescribes requirements for application of accreditation in implementing quality standards. Requires suppliers to disclose subcontractors. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to provide for a competitive acquisition ombudsman within the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to respond to complaints and inquiries by suppliers and individuals. Specifies topics for the Comptroller General's required study and report to Congress on the impact of competitive acquisition of DME on suppliers, manufacturers, and patients. Sets forth a special rule for the competitive acquisition program for diabetic testing strips. Amends SSA title XIX (Medicaid) to extend the qualifying individual (QI), transitional medical assistance (TMA), abstinence education, and Medicaid disproportionate share hospital (DSH) programs.

A bill to reduce the amount of financial assistance provided to the Government of Mexico in response to the illegal border crossings from Mexico into the United States, which serve to dissipate the political discontent with the higher unemployment rate within Mexico.

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2008

Directs the Secretary of State to: (1) annually estimate the number of illegal border crossings along the southern U.S. land border; and (2) reduce financial assistance to the government of Mexico by a total of $1,000 for each illegal border crossing from Mexico to the United States during the previous fiscal year. Authorizes the Secretary to not reduce appropriations for the government of Mexico from the International Military Education and Training Fund, the International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement Fund, and the fund to carry out nonproliferation, anti-terrorism, demining, and related programs and activities.

Healthy Americans Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2008

Healthy Americans Act - Requires each adult to have the opportunity to purchase a Healthy Americans Private Insurance Plan (HAPI plan), which includes employer-sponsored health coverage. Makes individuals who are not enrolled in another specified health plan and who are not opposed to coverage for religious reasons responsible for enrolling themselves and their dependent children in a HAPI plan. Sets forth penalties for failure to enroll. Establishes standardized coverage and state options for HAPI plans. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to promulgate guidelines concerning the benefits, items, and services to be covered. Sets forth requirements for setting premiums. Requires the Secretary to establish the Healthy America Advisory Committee to provide annual recommendations concerning modifications to the benefits, items, and services required. Provides for premium subsidies based on income. Authorizes states to establish a State Choices for Long-Term Care Program to provide long-term care coverage to individuals. Requires the Secretary to establish Chronic Care Education Centers. Requires states to establish or designate a state Health Help Agency to carry out the administration of HAPI plans and to promote prevention and wellness for residents. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to require employers and individuals to each make shared responsibility payments for HAPI plan premiums. Sets forth requirements for health insurance issuers offering a HAPI plan. Establishes the Healthy Americans Public Health Trust Fund for the payment of premium subsidies. Terminates federal health benefits coverage, including coverage provided under the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program, state Medicaid coverage, and the State Children's Health Insurance program (SCHIP). Enhanced Health Care Value for All Act of 2007 ( sic )- Provides for a Comparative Effectiveness Advisory Board and a Health Care Comparative Effectiveness Research Trust Fund.

Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2009

United States · United States Congress · 8 July 2008

Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2009 - Department of Labor Appropriations Act, 2009 - Makes appropriations for FY2009 to the Department of Labor. Department of Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2009 - Makes appropriations for FY2009 to the Department of Health and Human Services. Department of Education Appropriations Act, 2009 - Makes appropriations for FY2009 to the Department Education. Makes appropriations for FY2009 to: (1) the Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled; (2) the Corporation for National and Community Service, for domestic volunteer service programs and operating expenses, administrative expenses and salaries, and the Office of Inspector General; (3) the Corporation for Public Broadcasting; (4) the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service; (5) the Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission; (6) the Institute of Museum and Library Services; (7) the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission; (8) the National Council on Disability; (9) the National Labor Relations Board; (10) the National Mediation Board; (11) the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission; (12) the Railroad Retirement Board for the dual benefits payments account, federal payments to the railroad retirement accounts, administration, and the Office of Inspector General; and (13) the Social Security Administration for payments to the Social Security trust funds, the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Program, administrative expenses, and the Office of Inspector General. Specifies certain uses and limits on or prohibitions against the use of funds appropriated by this Act.

Bipartisan Electronic Voting Reform Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

Bipartisan Electronic Voting Reform Act of 2008 - Amends the Help America Vote Act of 2002 to require any voting system other than one using paper ballots personally marked by the voter to permit independent verification of cast ballots by various specified means, including paper or electronic. Requires each state to conduct an audit of every federal election to ensure that each certificate of election is justified by the vote totals. Directs the Federal Election Commission to establish an Audit Guidelines Development Task Force to assist the Commission in developing model audit guidelines. Prescribes election security requirements for voting systems, including: (1) chain of custody protocols; (2) disclosure of election-dedicated software; and (3) minimum state standards to ensure the integrity of the voting process and education and training of poll workers. Establishes accreditation requirements for laboratories involved in testing of voting system hardware and software. Directs the Commission to establish the Testing Escrow Account for payments to accredited laboratories for testing of such hardware and software. Requires the Commission to make grants for: (1) development and testing of new voting systems, technologies, and innovations to meet independent verification requirements under this Act; and (2) pilot programs for such testing. Directs the Commission to establish a task force to study and develop recommendations regarding the appropriate level of funding for requirements payments. Amends the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act to prohibit state refusal to accept voter registration and absentee ballot applications and federal write-in absentee ballots for failure to meet nonessential requirements.

Mentoring for All Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

Mentoring for All Act of 2008 - Amends the National and Community Service Act of 1990 to direct the Corporation for National and Community Service to award competitive, matching, three-year grants to nonpartisan, collaborative, public-private partnerships at the state and local level for efforts to grow and strengthen direct-service youth mentoring programs in all forms and settings in their service areas. Requires partnership grantees to use at least 80% of their grant for competitive subgrants to mentoring programs: (1) operated by or being created by, nonprofit organizations, schools, or local governments; or (2) operated by local collaboratives that each include at least two experienced youth mentoring organizations and at least one entity that provides volunteer mentors. Allows partnership grantees to give subgrant priority to collaboratives. Requires each partnership grantee to participate in a collaborative national network of mentoring partnerships. Directs the Corporation to award competitive, matching, three-year grants to entities or collaboratives of entities enabling the entities or collaboratives to: (1) build the necessary infrastructure to create a state mentoring partnership; or (2) implement national mentoring projects. Requires the Corporation to evaluate this Act's programs and provide training and technical assistance to grant fund recipients that is based on support from the national network of mentoring partnerships.

Naturalized Citizens Assistance Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

Naturalized Citizens Assistance Act - Amends the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 to add to the list of adult education and literacy programs for which certain grants must be used programs of financial literacy education for newly naturalized citizens to help them achieve financial literacy through instruction on such matters as banking, retirement savings, managing credit, as well as predatory lending, identity theft, and other financial abuse schemes.

Americans for American Energy Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

Americans for American Energy Act of 2008 - Deep Ocean Energy Resources Act of 2008 - Amends the Submerged Lands Act (SLA) regarding delineation of offshore state boundaries with respect to the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA), as well as related oil and gas mineral rights. Amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to allow the Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) to grant outer Continental Shelf (OCS) natural gas leases. Revises provisions concerning oil and gas leases and withdrawals of unleased land. Provides for federal agency coordination with adjacent states on the construction of pipelines for OCS crude oil, petroleum, or natural gas. Establishes the Federal Energy Natural Resources Enhancement Program. Declares existing federal prohibitions against spending appropriated funds for leasing and preleasing OCS oil and natural gas to be without force or effect. Prohibits a federal agency from permitting on the federal OCS or in state waters certain activities that are incompatible with: (1) oil or natural gas leasing; and (2) full exploration and production of tracts geologically prospective for oil or natural gas. Renames the Minerals Management Service as the National Ocean Resources and Royalty Service. Rigs to Reefs Act of 2008 - Requires the Secretary to issue regulations regarding the authorization to use decommissioned offshore oil and gas facilities for artificial reef and scientific research. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to repeal a requirement regarding conducting comprehensive inventories of OCS oil and natural gas resources. Directs the Secretary to establish OCS regional headquarters in designated locations. Repeals the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act of 2006. Removes application fees for the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) drill permits. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to set forth provisions concerning: (1) credits and deductions for alternative and nonconventional fuel, the capture of carbon dioxide, energy efficiency and conservation, and renewable energy; (2) extensions of elections to expense certain refineries; and (3) exemptions for electric transmission facilities. American Energy Independence and Price Reduction Act - Requires the Secretary to establish a competitive oil and gas leasing program that will result in an environmentally sound program for the exploration, development, and production of Alaska's Coastal Plain's oil and gas resources. Amends the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act of 1980 to terminate the prohibition against leasing or other development leading to production of oil and gas from the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Oil Shale Opportunity Act of 2008 - Amends the Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2008 to repeal the limitation on the use of funds for implementing a commercial leasing program for oil shale resources on public lands. Amends the Mineral Leasing Act to provide for the treatment of revenues received through an oil shale or tar sands lease. Amends the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 to repeal restrictions on federal agencies procuring alternative or synthetic fuel for mobility-related uses. Coal Liquid Fuel Act - Sets forth provisions concerning: (1) agreements between the Secretary of Energy and qualifying coal-to-liquid projects; and (2) public auctions of coal-to-liquid fuel put option contracts. Amends the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982 to revise provisions concerning the recycling and disposal of spent nuclear fuel or high-level radioactive waste. Establishes the American Energy Trust Fund. Requires the Secretary to implement a program to lease federal lands for the development and operation of commercial photovoltaic and concentration solar power energy systems. Provides for: (1) the coordination of the authorization of federal crude oil refineries; and (2) the designation of closed military bases for the construction of refineries and the designation of brownfield sites for refinery sites. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to repeal certain requirements regarding refinery revitalization. Amends the Clean Air Act to require new source review regulations to provide that routine maintenance and repair do not constitute a modification of an existing source. Strengthening Americas Science and Technology Education Act - Requires the Secretary to appoint a Stakeholder Committee for Science and Technology Education. Establishes the National Science and Technology Education Center. Sets forth provisions concerning educational programs for technology and nuclear science.

Apollo Energy Independence Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

Apollo Energy Independence Act of 2008 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide tax incentives for energy conservation and production, including provisions to: (1) make permanent the tax credit for producing electricity from renewable resources and to include marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy as a resource for purposes of such credit; (2) make permanent the energy tax credit for solar energy, fuel cell, and microturbine property; (3) allow a new energy tax credit for combined heat and power system property; (4) provide for the issuance of new clean renewable energy bonds; (5) increase the tax credit for advanced nuclear power production; (6) make permanent the tax credits for residential energy efficient property, energy efficiency existing homes, the production of energy efficient household appliances, and the tax deduction for energy efficient commercial buildings; (7) allow tax credits for new alternative motor vehicles, including qualified plug-in electric drive motor vehicles, vehicles that achieve a fuel economy standard of 100 miles per gallon, and advanced technology motor vehicles; (8) allow tax credits for the production of cellulosic biofuel and for hydrogen infrastructure costs; (9) increase and make permanent the tax credit for alternative fuel vehicle refueling property expenditures; and (10) allow employers a tax credit for providing transit passes to employees. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to provide full loan guarantees for the construction of advanced nuclear energy facilities. Establishes in the Treasury the Petroleum Reduction Trust Fund. Allocates 90% of civil penalties for automobile fuel economy violations to such Fund for retail purchases of ethanol, biodiesel, and other alternative fuels. Directs the Secretary of Energy to: (1) carry out research programs for onboard storage of hydrogen in light-duty motor vehicles and for the development of plug-in electric drive vehicle technology; and (2) study daily and seasonal energy costs in public schools. Amends the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States to extend the tariff duty on ethanol until December 31, 2010. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish a grant program for green school construction and improvement. Sets forth revenue offset provisions, including: (1) a moratorium on earmarks in the 110th Congress; (2) establishment of fees for oil and gas leases in the Gulf of Mexico and user fees for certain food safety and inspection services; (3) a reduction in payments under the Department of Agriculture commodity program; (4) consolidation of Department of Defense exchange stores system; and (5) a limitation of universal service fund support.

DHS PREP Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

Department of Homeland Security Preparedness, Research, and Education Program Act of 2008 or the DHS PREP Act of 2008 - Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to direct the Secretary of Homeland Security, acting through the Under Secretary for Science and Technology, to establish a program for fellowships and research to enhance domestic preparedness and the collective response to acts of terrorism, natural disasters, and other emergencies. Requires the Secretary to award fellowships to individuals to: (1) promote such research and response; and (2) provide for the development of best practices for the response to and recovery from such events. Requires recipients to be individuals who: (1) are enrolled in an institution of higher education, with priority to those enrolled in minority serving institutions; (2) have demonstrated an interest in homeland security or emergency management and response; and (3) are geographically diverse. Directs recipients to focus their research on, and participate in the rebuilding and recovery of, the Gulf Coast region in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.

Veterans Education Improvement Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

Veterans Education Improvement Act of 2008 - Amends the Montgomery GI Bill educational assistance program for veterans to: (1) increase the rates of basic educational assistance and the time limit for entitlement to and use of such assistance; (2) provide a stipend for individuals using such assistance to pursue a program of education at an institution of higher learning; (3) extend the period for the collection of a fee for the use of such assistance; (4) authorize the use of such assistance for business courses and seminars, courses taken to prepare for licensing or certification tests, and the repayment of federal student loans; (5) allow for withdrawal of the election not to enroll in the program; (6) state that such assistance shall not reduce eligibility for other financial aid; (7) extend the increase in benefits for certain individuals pursuing apprenticeships or on-job training; (8) modify the amount for reimbursement of state and local agencies administering veterans' education benefits; (9) provide educational assistance for veterans discharged under a general discharge; (10) increase the reporting fee payable to educational institutions that enroll veterans receiving assistance; (11) provide additional areas of work-study for veterans; (12) require a five-year pilot program for on-campus work-study positions; (13) increase the number of employees in the Education Service of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA); (14) require an action plan for upgrading VA information technology used in the administration of educational benefits; (15) modify the advance payment of initial educational assistance or subsistence allowance; (16) modify the period of eligibility for educational assistance applicable to spouses of individuals with service-connected disabilities considered permanent; (17) increase the amount of educational assistance for reserve personnel supporting contingency and other operations; and (18) expand the programs of education eligible for the accelerated payment of educational assistance. Revises federal employment provisions with respect to: (1) a voucher plan for Federal Employees Health Benefits Plan (FEHBP) participants; (2) the basis for government contributions for annuitants under the FEHBP; (3) the computation of benefits under the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) and the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS); and (4) the elimination of the annuity supplement under FERS and related retirement systems. National Environment and Energy Development Act - Declares without force or effect all federal prohibitions against the expenditure of appropriated funds to conduct natural gas leasing and preleasing activities for any area of the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS). Revokes all withdrawals of federal submerged lands from leasing for natural gas exploration and production. Amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to prohibit the Secretary of the Interior from: (1) granting a natural gas lease for any OCS located within 25 miles of a state coastline; (2) issuing any lease for natural gas exploration or development in any OCS area within 50 miles of a state coastline unless the state has enacted a law approving such lease; or (3) issuing a lease for natural gas exploration or development in any OCS area more than 50 and less than 100 miles from the coastline of a state if the state has enacted a law disapproving such lease issuance. Authorizes the Secretary to issue leases for development and production of natural gas and associated condensate. American Energy Independence and Price Reduction Act - Directs the Secretary of the Interior to implement a competitive leasing program for the exploration, development, and production of the oil and gas resources on the Coastal Plain of Alaska. Amends the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act of 1980 to repeal the prohibition against leasing or other development leading to production of oil and gas from the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). Deems any oil and gas leasing programs and activities authorized by this Act to be in compliance with ANWR purposes. Authorizes the Secretary, after certain consultation, to designate up to 45,000 acres of the Coastal Plain as a Special Area. Permits directional drilling in the Special Area. Prescribes procedures governing Coastal Plain lease sales, including: (1) environmental protection; (2) federal and state distribution of revenues; (3) rights-of-way; and (4) local government impact aid and community service assistance. Sets forth: (1) a "no significant adverse effect" standard to govern Coastal Plain activities; and (2) guidelines for expedited judicial review of complaints. Establishes the ANWR Alternative Energy Trust Fund.

State Temporary Economic Priority (STEP) Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

State Temporary Economic Priority (STEP) Act - Authorizes states to transfer or consolidate funds made available to them under certain federal transportation, education, and job training programs: (1) beginning with the calendar quarter after the United States experiences economic growth at an annual rate of less than 1% for two consecutive calendar quarters; and (2) continuing until 18 months after it experiences economic growth at an annual rate of 1% or more for two consecutive calendar quarters.

Segal AmeriCorps Education Award Tax Relief Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

Segal AmeriCorps Education Award Tax Relief Act of 2008 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exclude from gross income for income tax purposes AmeriCorps educational awards awarded under the National and Community Service Act of 1990.

Increasing Student Achievement through School Attendance Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

Increasing Student Achievement through School Attendance Act - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to direct the Secretary of Education to award grants to local educational agencies, states, and Indian tribes for the implementation of innovative measures to increase school attendance by preventing student truancy, suspension, and expulsion. Includes among such measures: (1) collaboration between school systems, the legal system, child welfare agencies, and community-based organizations; (2) training school personnel in positive student behavioral interventions and graduated disciplinary practices; and (3) staffing of school suspension and expulsion programs with student support services personnel.

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relating to parental rights.

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

Constitutional Amendment - States that the liberty of parents to direct the upbringing and education of their children is a fundamental right. States that neither the United States nor any state shall infringe upon this right without demonstrating that its governmental interest as applied to the person is of the highest order and not otherwise served. Provides that no treaty may be adopted nor shall any source of international law be employed to supersede, modify, interpret, or apply to the rights guaranteed by this amendment.

Celebrating the 25th anniversary of the first American woman in space, Dr. Sally K. Ride, and honoring her contributions to the space program and to science education.

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

Celebrates the 25th anniversary of Dr. Sally K. Ride as the first American woman in space. Extends the appreciation and gratitude of the House of Representatives for Dr. Ride's excellence in service to the nation as an astronaut, educator, and advocate for the next generation of women scientists and engineers.

Expressing support for the designation of National GEAR UP Day.

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2008

Expresses support for the designation of a National GEAR UP Day. (GEAR UP is the Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Program, created to facilitate the transition of low-income high school students into postsecondary education.)

To amend title 10, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Defense to make grants to recognized science and technology secondary schools to support research and development projects at such schools in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology to supplement the national security functions of the Department of Defense.

United States · United States Congress · 25 June 2008

Directs the Secretary of Defense to carry out a program to provide grants to secondary schools with a recognized science and technology program to support research and development projects in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology in order to supplement Department of Defense (DOD) national security functions.