Education

Preparing, Recruiting, and Retaining Education Professionals Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 22 April 2004

Preparing, Recruiting, and Retaining Education Professionals Act of 2004 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) to reauthorize and revise title II part A provisions for teacher quality enhancement grants for States and partnerships (II-A). Revises State grant, partnership grant, and recruitment grant requirements to include provisions relating to: (1) early childhood education; (2) exemplary, highly competent, and highly qualified teachers as these are defined under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965; (3) teacher mentoring; (4) professional development; (5) parental involvement; and (6) high-need schools and local educational agencies. Requires States to submit teacher quality plans. Authorizes the Secretary of Education to award grants to institutions of higher education that are II-A partner institutions to create Academies for Faculty Excellence. Extends the authorization of appropriations for II-A through FY 2010.

To provide uniform criteria for the administrative acknowledgment and recognition of Indian tribes, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 22 April 2004

Requires an Indian tribe to meet specified criteria before Federal acknowledgement or recognition is granted. Amends the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act to repeal the revolving door exemption that allows, under certain conditions, current and former Federal employees and officers assigned to or employed by an Indian tribe to act as agents or attorneys for or appear on behalf of such tribe in connection with matters pending before any department, agency, court, or commission, including matters in which the United States is a party or has a direct and substantial interest.

Recognizing the importance of increasing awareness of autism, supporting programs for increased research and improved treatment of autism, improving training and support for individuals with autism and those who care for individuals with autism, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 22 April 2004

Supports the designation of a National Autism Awareness Month. Recognizes and commends the parents and relatives of children with autism for their sacrifice and dedication in providing for the special needs of children with autism and for absorbing significant financial costs for specialized education and support services. Supports the goal of increasing Federal funding for aggressive research to: (1) determine causes of autism; (2) identify the best methods of early intervention and treatment; (3) expand programs for individuals with autism across their lifespan; and (4) promote understanding of the special needs of individuals with autism. Commends the Department of Health and Human Services for the implementation of the Children's Health Act of 2000, particularly for establishing four centers of excellence at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to study the epidemiology of autism and related disorders and proposing centers of excellence at the National Institutes of Health for autism research. Stresses the need to begin early intervention services soon after an individual has been diagnosed with autism, noting that early intervention strategies are the primary therapeutic options for individuals with autism and early intervention significantly improves outcomes for individuals with autism and can reduce the level of funding and services needed later in life. Supports fulfilling the Federal Government's nearly 30-year-old commitment to provide States with part of the costs needed to educate children with disabilities under part B of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act by funding the maximum 40 percent of such costs. Recognizes the: (1) shortage of appropriately trained teachers who have the skills and support necessary to teach, assist, and respond to special needs students, including those students with autism; and (2) importance of worker training programs that meet the needs of developmentally disabled individuals, including those individuals with autism. Notes that people with autism can be, and are, productive members of the workforce if they are given appropriate support, training, and early intervention services.

Telehealth Improvement Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 21 April 2004

Telehealth Improvement Act of 2004 - Amends the Social Security Act to: (1) increase the type of originating sites allowed to offer telehealth services, including skilled nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, and county or community health clinics; and (2) remove the requirement that such originating sites must be in rural areas. Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to convene a conference of State licensing boards, local telehealth projects, health care practitioners, and patient advocates to promote interstate licensure for telehealth projects. Authorizes the Director of the Office of the Advancement of Telehealth to award grants to: (1) demonstrate how telehealth technologies can be used to expand access to, coordinate, and improve the quality of health care services and to improve and expand the training of health care providers and the quality of health information available; (2) provide telehealth services to patients who reside in areas under the jurisdiction of Indian tribes or tribal organizations; and (3) provide oral health services to patients who reside in rural areas. Directs the Secretary to establish a Joint Working Group on Telehealth to: (1) identify, monitor, and coordinate Federal telehealth projects, data sets, and programs; (2) analyze how telehealth systems are expanding access to health care services, education, and information; (3) analyze the clinical, educational, or administrative efficacy and cost-effectiveness of telehealth applications; (4) analyze the quality of the telehealth services delivered; and (5) make recommendations for coordinating Federal and State efforts to increase access to health services, education, and information in rural and medically underserved areas.

Putting Prevention First Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 April 2004

Putting Prevention First Act - Title X Family Planning Services Act of 2004 - Authorizes appropriations for family planning services grants and contracts under the Public Health Services Act. Family Planning State Empowerment Act - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to allow States to provide family planning services and supplies to certain individuals not otherwise eligible for Medicaid. Equity in Prescription Insurance and Contraceptive Coverage Act - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 and the Public Health Service Act (PHSA) to prohibit a group health plan, and a health insurance issuer providing group coverage, from excluding or restricting benefits in any way for prescription contraceptive drugs, devices, and outpatient services if the plan provides benefits for other outpatient prescription drugs, devices, or outpatient services. Amends the PHSA to apply those prohibitions to coverage offered in the individual market. Emergency Contraception Education Act - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to develop and disseminate information on emergency contraception to the public and to health care providers. Compassionate Assistance for Rape Emergencies Act - Requires hospitals, as a condition of receiving Federal funds, to offer and to provide, upon request, emergency contraception to victims of sexual assault. Family Life Education Act - Requires the Secretary to make grants to States for family life education, including education on abstinence and contraception to prevent teenage pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. Preventing Teen Pregnancy Act - Amends the PHSA to authorize the Secretary to award grants to public and private entities to establish or expand teenage pregnancy prevention programs.

To amend chapter 1606 of title 10, United States Code, to increase the amount of basic educational assistance for members of the Selected Reserve, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 21 April 2004

Revises the rates of basic educational assistance to be paid by the Secretary of the military department concerned to members of the Selected Reserve to make such rate: (1) for a program of education pursued on a full-time basis, specified percentages, increasing for each of FY 2005 through 2009 and beyond, of the monthly rate of veterans' basic educational assistance; (2) for a program pursued on less than a full-time basis, an appropriately reduced rate as determined by the Secretary concerned; and (3) for a program pursued on less than a half-time basis, no such payment if tuition assistance is otherwise available to the person from the military department concerned. Makes members of the Selected Reserve meeting certain other requirements eligible for basic educational assistance if they served a cumulative 24 months of active duty during any five-year period as a member of such Reserve. (Currently, in order to be so eligible, such members must have served two years of continuous active duty.)

Family Life Education Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 April 2004

Family Life Education Act - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make grants to States for family life education, including education on abstinence and contraception, to prevent teenage pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. Expresses the sense of Congress that States are encouraged but not required to provide matching funds. Requires the Secretary to provide for a national evaluation of a representative sample of such programs for effectiveness in changing adolescent sexual behavior, including delaying sexual and high-risk activity, preventing pregnancy and disease (including HIV/AIDS), and increasing contraceptive knowledge. Requires States receiving such grants to provide for an individual evaluation of the State's program by an external, independent entity.

Congratulating charter schools and their students, parents, teachers, and administrators across the United States for their ongoing contributions to education, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 21 April 2004

Acknowledges and commends charter schools and their students, parents, teachers, and administrators across the United States for their ongoing contributions to education and improving and strengthening our public school system. Supports the fifth annual National Charter Schools Week. Declares the sense of the House of Representatives that the President should issue a proclamation calling on the people of the United States to conduct appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities to demonstrate support for charter schools during this week long celebration in communities throughout the United States.

To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to contract for a report on employment placement, retention, and advancement of recently separated servicemembers.

United States · United States Congress · 20 April 2004

Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to contract with a qualified entity to study and report on the employment histories of recently separated servicemembers, including whether: (1) the employment obtained is commensurate with their training and education; and (2) such servicemembers received educational assistance or training and rehabilitation under programs administered by the Secretary. Requires the report to contain specific recommendations to improve such employment opportunities.

American Workers and Manufacturers Support Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 April 2004

American Workers and Manufacturers Support Act - Establishes in the Department of Commerce a Manufacturing and Technology Administration (MTA), which shall include: (1) the National Institute of Standards and Technology; (2) the National Technical Information Service; and (3) the Office of Manufacturing and Technology Policy. Provides for the appointment of: (1) an Under Secretary of Commerce for MTA; and (2) an Assistant Secretary of Manufacturing and an Assistant Secretary of Technology who both shall serve as policy analysts for the Under Secretary. Establishes a Manufacturing Advisory Board within the MTA. Requires the Under Secretary to study and report on: (1) abusive practices by large manufacturers and retailers; and (2) the feasibility and impact of laws and regulations requiring a certain labeling of all products retailing at more than $15. Revises requirements for the Advanced Technology Program. Requires the Director to establish a certain program of assistance to institutions of higher education or nonprofit research institutions that enter into partnerships with for-profit entities to support, promote, and enhance manufacturing research and development. Establishes the World Trade Organizations (WTO) Settlement Review Commission. Amends the Export-Import Bank Act of 1945 and the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to place restrictions on export-import bank assistance and on the overseas private investment corporation. Sets forth a period for the President to negotiate with the governments of countries that engage most egregiously in currency manipulation, in order to seek a prompt and orderly end to such manipulation and ensure the free trade of such currencies on international currency markets. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to redefine: (1) "domestic" to treat the acquiring corporation in a corporate expatriation transaction as a domestic corporation; and (2) " foreign base company income" to include such company's U.S. import income for a taxable year. Denies treaty benefits for certain deductible foreign payments. Repeals the exclusion of extraterritorial income from gross income. Provides for a phased-in deduction for income attributable to certain domestic production activities. Sets forth requirements for waivers of the Buy American Act. Prohibits Federal agencies from entering contracts or subcontracts with foreign entities that result in the manufacture of a dual-use item on the Commerce Control List, unless approval has been received according to specified procedures. Establishes the Congressional Trade Office.

Recognizing the valuable contributions of military impacted schools, teachers, administration, and staff for their ongoing contributions to the education of military children.

United States · United States Congress · 20 April 2004

Recognizes the contributions of the teachers, administration, and staff of military impacted schools and Department of Defense education activity schools worldwide. Commends the teachers in military impacted communities who educate students during times of peace and conflict.

Raquel Egusquiza, of Michigan, to be a Member of the Board of Trustees of the Barry Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Foundation for a term expiring October 13, 2005, vice Lynda Hare Scribante, term expired.

United States · United States Senate · 8 April 2004

Julia L. Wu, of California, to be a Member of the Board of Trustees of the Barry Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Foundation for a term expiring February 4, 2008, vice James Roger Angel, term expired.

United States · United States Senate · 8 April 2004

Employee Stock Ownership Plan Promotion and Improvement Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 2004

Employee Stock Ownership Plan Promotion and Improvement Act of 2004 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) treat certain distributions by S corporations to an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) as deductible dividends; (2) exempt deductions for ESOP dividends from corporate alternative minimum tax adjustments based on adjusted earnings and profits; (3) allow deferral of the recognition of gain for certain sales to ESOP's sponsored by any domestic corporation, including S corporations; (4) allow reinvestment of ESOP stock proceeds eligible for nonrecognition of gain in certain mutual funds; (5) modify certain ESOP stock ownership rules; and (6) allow early distributions from an ESOP for higher education expenses and first-time homebuyer purchases without penalty.

Global Anti-Semitism Review Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 2004

Global Anti-Semitism Review Act of 2004 - Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the United States should continue to support efforts to combat anti-Semitism worldwide through bilateral relationships and interaction with international organizations such as the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE); and (2) the Department of State should thoroughly document acts of anti-Semitism that occur around the world. Directs the Secretary of State to report annually on acts of anti-Semitism around the world, including a description of: (1) acts of physical violence against, or harassment of, Jewish people, and acts of violence against, or vandalism of, Jewish community institutions; and (2) governmental responses to such actions, including enactment and enforcement of laws protecting the right to religious freedom of Jewish people, and efforts to promote anti-bias and tolerance education.

Native American Fish and Wildlife Resources Management Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 2004

Native American Fish and Wildlife Resources Management Act of 2004 - Requires the Secretary of the Interior to establish the Tribal Fish and Wildlife Resource Management Program and the Alaska Native Fish and Wildlife Resource Management Program to conduct specified activities in support of the tribal administration of resources. Directs the Secretary, upon the request of an Indian tribal government, to conduct a survey of the reservation or traditional use area of that tribal government to assess needs regarding management of fish and wildlife resources. Requires the development of Fish and Wildlife Resource Management Plans by Indian tribal governments and Alaska Native fish and wildlife organizations (or alternatively, by the Secretary). Requires such plans to govern the management and administration of tribal or Indian fish and wildlife resources by the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the tribal government. Requires the Secretaries of the Interior, Commerce, and Agriculture to review the management of resources in regional resource management and traditional use areas. Establishes programs supporting research, education, and employment in connection with tribal resource management. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to establish and administer a Tribal Fish Hatchery Assistance Program. Requires the Secretary of Commerce to establish Alaska Native and Tribal Seafood and Resource Marketing Assistance Programs.

Homeland Security Education Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 2004

Homeland Security Education Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to direct the Secretary of Education to establish a program to forgive interest payments on guaranteed and direct student loans for selected borrowers in repayment status who have obtained undergraduate degrees in science (except the social sciences), mathematics, engineering, or specified foreign languages, as an incentive for study in such subjects. Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to direct the Secretary to establish a demonstration program of grants to eligible local educational agencies (LEAs) for building or expanding mathematics and science programs, upgrading laboratories, and purchasing equipment. Directs the Secretary and the Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF) to assess long-term mathematics and science needs of the national security workforce and the larger Federal workforce. Amends ESEA to authorize the Secretary to make grants to eligible partnerships for various authorized activities to encourage early foreign language studies. Directs the Secretary to make grants to institutions of higher education that develop innovative programs for teaching foreign languages. Amends the David L. Boren National Security Education Act of 1991 to: (1) include foreign language immersion programs and activities at sites overseas among authorized activities; and (2) increase the amount of authorized funds for the National Flagship Language Initiative. Directs the Secretary to enter into an agreement with the National Research Council to study the feasibility of establishing a National Language Foundation.

Prescription Drug Stewardship Act

United States · United States Congress · 6 April 2004

Prescription Drug Stewardship 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 establish a program to award matching grants for three years to States to establish, maintain, and improve systems to: (1) track the distribution of prescription drugs from the prescribing health care providers to the pharmacy and to the patient; (2) provide education and training to health care providers concerning prescription drug diversion and abuse by patients and colleagues; and (3) increase public awareness of the problem of prescription drug diversion and abuse.

National Ocean Exploration Program Act

United States · United States Congress · 5 April 2004

National Ocean Exploration Program Act - Directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) a coordinated national ocean exploration program. Authorizes the Secretary, in carrying out the program, to: (1) conduct interdisciplinary exploration voyages or other scientific activities to survey, inventory, observe, and assess little-known areas of the marine environment; (2) promote the development of oceanographic research; (3) conduct public education and outreach activities that improve the public understanding of ocean science, resources, and processes; and (4) accept donations for such purposes. Requires the NOAA to convene an ocean technology and infrastructure task force to develop and implement a strategy to: (1) facilitate the transfer of new exploration technology to the program; (2) improve the availability of communications infrastructure (including satellite) to the program; (3) develop a data management information processing system for information obtained under the program; and (4) encourage cost-sharing partnerships to assist in transferring exploration technology and technical expertise to the program. Authorizes the NOAA, the National Science Foundation, and other Federal agencies participating in the program to participate in interagency financing in carrying out program activities.

Reverend Oliver L. Brown Congressional Gold Medal Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 April 2004

Reverend Oliver L. Brown Congressional Gold Medal Act - Directs the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President pro tempore of the Senate to arrange for the posthumous presentation, on behalf of Congress, of a gold medal in commemoration of the Reverend Oliver L. Brown (the lead plaintiff in the landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision in Brown v. Board of Education) in recognition of his and his fellow plaintiffs' enduring contributions to civil rights and American society.

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide for the exclusion from gross income of certain wages of a certified master teacher, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 2 April 2004

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exclude from gross income up to 25 percent of the wages earned by a certified master teacher in certain schools identified as in need of improvement. Defines "certified master teacher" as a teacher who: (1) has at least five years teaching experience in a public elementary or secondary school; (2) is highly qualified as defined by the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965; (3) has a master's degree; and (4) has advanced certification in the applicable State licensing system. Terminates such exclusion after 2013.

Tornado Research Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 2 April 2004

Tornado Research Act of 2004 - Directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish a tornado research program within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, to be carried out in coordination with the National Weather Service, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the National Science Foundation, and any other appropriate Federal agencies. Requires that the program: (1) include research aimed at understanding and predicting the natural processes that lead to the formation of tornadoes; (2) identify an array of factors that indicate tornado formation; (3) promote the incorporation of the results of such research into the methods used by meteorologists to predict the time and location of tornado formation; (4) provide resources and promote attention to tornado research areas with the greatest potential for improving the understanding of their formation; (5) maximize the effectiveness of the program by encouraging collaborative efforts by operational and research communities in academia and the Government; and (6) provide for the awarding of competitive research grants to, and the entering into of cooperative agreements with, institutions of higher education and other research institutions to conduct peer-reviewed research that may improve the forecast and identification of tornadoes.

Education Tax Care Credit Simplification Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 2 April 2004

Education Tax Credit Simplification Act of 2004 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise the Hope and Lifetime Learning Tax Credits. Combines both credits into an Education Credit that allows certain students a tax credit of 50 percent of their qualified higher education expenses and educational expenses to acquire or improve job skills, up to $3,000 per year. Eliminates the annual cost of living adjustments to the allowable credit amount.

21st Century Citizen Soldier Benefits Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 April 2004

21st Century Citizen Soldier Benefits Act - Amends Federal law relating to the Armed Forces to provide for expanded and improved benefits for members of the National Guard and Reserves who are called or ordered to active duty, with respect to retired pay, burial, education, and other mobilization benefits.

Access and Equity in Higher Education Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 April 2004

Access and Equity in Higher Education Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) to revise title IV student assistance programs with respect to: (1) higher maximum amounts for subsidized and unsubsidized student loans under the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) program; (2) existence or amount of origination fees under FFEL and Federal Direct Loan programs; (3) loan-flex programs with income-sensitive repayment plans; (4) consolidation loan interest rate variation based on income; and (5) loan forgiveness for public service employees. Extends through FY 2010 the authorization of appropriations for programs for Historically Black colleges and universities, under HEA title III part B.

Afghan Women Security and Freedom Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 1 April 2004

Afghan Women Security and Freedom Act of 2004 - Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the international community should commit substantial resources, including peacekeeping forces, for protecting the rights of women, reestablishing democracy, and eliminating terrorism in Afghanistan; (2) the United States should strongly support the Afghan Ministry of Women's Affairs and the Afghan Independent Human Rights Commission; (3) international peacekeeping forces and reconstruction teams should be authorized to stop violations of human rights and women's rights; (4) U.S. foreign policy should ensure restoration of the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan, assist in their recovery from the repression of the Taliban and prolonged warfare, and strengthen Afghan institutions led by women; and (5) assistance to Afghanistan should be conditioned on the Afghan Government's adherence to international standards for women's rights and human rights. Authorizes the President to provide assistance for women and children in Afghanistan for the purpose of promoting women's rights and human rights and providing health care, education, training, security, and shelter.

A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to create Lifetime Savings Accounts.

United States · United States Congress · 31 March 2004

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to create a tax-exempt trust to be known as a "Lifetime Savings Account" for the benefit of an individual taxpayer or his beneficiaries. Allows an individual taxpayer to make cash contributions up to $5,000 each year to such trusts. Prohibits: (1) investment of trust assets in life insurance contracts; and (2) commingling of trust assets with any other property except in a common trust or investment fund. Provides for an annual cost-of-living adjustment to the contribution amount. Excludes from gross income distributions from such a trust. Allows tax-free rollovers to a trust from: (1) another account of the trust beneficiary if the rollover from such other account is completed within 60 days of the date of distribution; (2) from a Lifetime Savings Account of the spouse of the trust beneficiary if the rollover from the spouse's account is completed within 60 days of the date of distribution; (3) from a qualified state tuition plan or a Coverdell education savings account before January 1, 2006.

Piracy Deterrence and Education Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 31 March 2004

Piracy Deterrence and Education Act of 2004 - Requires the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation to: (1) develop a program (including suitable warnings) to deter the public from committing acts of copyright infringement through the Internet; and (2) facilitate the sharing among law enforcement agencies, Internet service providers, and copyright owners of information concerning copyright infringement activities. Directs the Attorney General to ensure that any unit in the Department of Justice responsible for investigating computer hacking or intellectual property crimes is assigned at least one support agent who has received training in the investigation and enforcement of such crimes. Establishes within the Office of the Associate Attorney General an Internet Use Education Program for educating the public about the value of copyrighted works and the effects of their theft. Artists' Rights and Theft Prevention Act of 2004 or ART Act - Amends Federal criminal law to provide criminal penalties for the unauthorized use of an audiovisual recording device in a motion picture theater in order to transmit or make a copy of such motion picture or other copyrighted work. Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) responsible software developers should be commended for their efforts to protect consumers; (2) illegal and dangerous activity on publicly accessible peer-to-peer file sharing services is harmful; and (3) all appropriate measures to protect consumers and children and prevent such illegal activity should be considered. Amends Federal copyright law to provide criminal penalties, as well as civil remedies in damages, for the willful infringement of copyrighted works, including illegal distribution to the public by electronic means. Directs the United States Sentencing Commission to review and, if appropriate, amend its sentencing guidelines and policy statements applicable to the infringement of copyrighted works and related crimes.

Meningococcal Vaccination Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 31 March 2004

Meningococcal Vaccination Act of 2004 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to require entering students who will reside in on-campus housing at postsecondary institutions to have received meningococcal vaccinations.

Colorectal Cancer Mortality Prevention Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 31 March 2004

Colorectal Cancer Mortality Prevention Act of 2004 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to provide matching grants to States to carry out programs to: (1) screen for colorectal cancer as a preventive health measure; (2) provide referrals for medical treatment to individuals screened and ensure appropriate follow-up services; (3) develop and disseminate information and education programs for the detection and control of colorectal cancer; (4) improve the education, training, and skills of health professions in the detection and control of colorectal cancer; (5) establish mechanisms to monitor the quality of screening procedures for colorectal cancer; and (6) evaluate such activities through surveillance or program-monitoring. Requires States to meet specified matching fund requirements and other criteria to receive a grant, including ensuring that 60 percent of grant money is spent on screening and medical treatment, assuring the quality of screening procedures, giving priority to low-income individuals, and limiting the fees charged. Allows the Secretary to provide training, technical assistance, supplies, equipment, and services to aid the State in carrying out such a program. Requires the Secretary to: (1) issue guidelines for assuring the quality of any colorectal screening procedures carried out under this Act; and (2) evaluate the programs annually.

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to create Lifetime Savings Accounts.

United States · United States Congress · 31 March 2004

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to create a tax-exempt trust to be known as a "Lifetime Savings Account" for the benefit of an individual taxpayer or his beneficiaries. Allows an individual taxpayer to make cash contributions up to $5,000 each year to such trusts. Prohibits: (1) investment of trust assets in life insurance contracts; and (2) commingling of trust assets with any other property except in a common trust or investment fund. Provides for an annual cost-of-living adjustment to the contribution amount. Excludes from gross income distributions from such a trust. Allows tax-free rollovers to a trust from: (1) another account of the trust beneficiary if the rollover from such other account is completed within 60 days of the date of distribution; (2) from a Lifetime Savings Account of the spouse of the trust beneficiary if the rollover from the spouse's account is completed within 60 days of the date of distribution; (3) from a qualified state tuition plan or a Coverdell education savings account before January 1, 2006.

A bill to amend part A of title IV of the Social Security Act to exempt preparation for high-skill, high-demand jobs from participation and time limits under the temporary assistance for needy families program.

United States · United States Congress · 30 March 2004

Revises the mandatory work requirements of part A (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) (TANF) of title IV of the Social Security Act with respect to the limitation on the number of persons in a State who may be treated as engaged in work by reason of participation in educational activities. Removes two-parent families from the formula for such limitation. Creates an exception to the limitation for education in preparation for sector-specific, high-skill occupations to meet employer demand. Defines sector-specific, high-demand, high-skill occupation to meet employer demand as an occupation that: (1) has been identified by the State workforce investment board or by the State agency administering the State TANF program as within State needs with regard to current and projected employment opportunities in specific industry sectors; (2) requires occupational training; and (3) provides a wage of at least 75 percent of the State median hourly wage.

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

United States · United States Congress · 30 March 2004

Assistance for Orphans and Other Vulnerable Children in Developing Countries Act of 2004 - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to replace the program of assistance to disadvantaged children in Asia with a program of assistance for orphans and vulnerable children in developing countries. Authorizes the President to provide assistance (grants, international organization contributions, or governmental assistance) for orphans and other vulnerable children in developing countries for: (1) basic care; (2) HIV/AIDS treatment, including mental health services; (3) school food programs; (4) education and employment training assistance; and (5) protection of inheritance rights. Establishes within the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) an Office for Orphans and Other Vulnerable Children. Provides assistance priority for countries with specified HIV levels among women and high-risk groups.

No School Left Behind Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 30 March 2004

No School Left Behind Act of 2004 - Authorizes States, in the event of inadequate Federal funding under part B of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, to waive certain requirements of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965.

United States Assistance for Civilians Affected by Conflict Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 30 March 2004

United States Assistance for Civilians Affected by Conflict Act of 2004 - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize the President to: (1) appoint a Special Coordinator to ensure that Federal departments and agencies responsible for the conduct of foreign affairs and national security undertake advance planning, coordinated action, and harmonized execution to respond to complex humanitarian emergencies in foreign countries and to ensure that such planning and action is consistent with the national interests of the United States; and (2) take specified actions to respond to such emergencies. Authorizes fiscal year appropriations to the President for international disaster assistance. Authorizes the President to develop and undertake protection initiatives, including protection initiatives for women and children who are refugees or displaced persons, or living in areas affected by a complex humanitarian emergency. Expresses the sense of Congress that the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees should review its personnel practices to: (1) ensure that senior protection officers are assigned to the posts where women and children are in the most danger of gender-based violence or exploitation, and to ensure that more female staff are present in refugee or displaced persons camps; and (2) facilitate the permanent hiring of successful junior professional officers following their initial tours of duty. Declares that it shall be U.S. policy to ensure that U.S.-funded organizations that respond to complex humanitarian emergencies in foreign countries have the resources to address the specific health needs of women affected by such emergencies. Amends the Act to authorize the President to provide assistance: (1) to prevent, prepare for, and respond to foreign crises, including acts of ethnic cleansing, mass killings and genocide, peace and humanitarian intervention operations, and armed ethnic or civil conflicts; (2) to support the transition to democracy and long-term development in countries emerging from political instability or conflict; (3) to victims of foreign civil strife and warfare; and (4) for famine relief. Directs the Secretary of State to develop a strategy for the protection of women and children who are internally displaced, made refugees, or otherwise affected by a complex humanitarian emergency. Directs the Special Coordinator to maintain an information database and develop an early warning list related to occurrences of gender-based violence or exploitation of children during a complex humanitarian emergency. Directs the The Secretary to urge the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees to work with nongovernmental organizations to implement a model `whistleblower' system under which humanitarian workers, refugees, and internally displaced persons can report gender-based violence or exploitation of children. Prohibits assistance to a nongovernmental organization that assists refugees or displaced persons if such organization does not adopt a code of conduct that incorporates specified provisions respecting sexual exploitation of children and others by humanitarian workers. Expresses the sense of Congress that all U.S. agencies, nongovernmental organizations, and multilateral organizations that are implementing U.S. humanitarian assistance programs should review their administrative, management, and employment practices at refugee and displaced persons camps for the purposes of: (1) increasing the number of women involved in the distribution of food and humanitarian supplies; and (2) educating providers and beneficiaries of humanitarian assistance about the seriousness of gender-based violence and exploitation of children. Amends the Act to include in foreign military training and education the protection of displaced civilians, especially women and children.

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate regarding the creation of refugee populations in the Middle East, North Africa, and the Persian Gulf region as a result of human rights violations.

United States · United States Congress · 29 March 2004

Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) the United States deplores the past and continuing violation of the human rights and religious freedoms of minority populations in Arab countries; (2) with respect to Jews and Christians displaced from Arab countries, for any comprehensive Middle East peace agreement to be enduring, constitute an end to Middle East conflict, and provide for finality of all claims, the agreement must resolve all outstanding issues, including the rights of all peoples displaced from Arab countries; and (3) the United States will work to ensure that both the Law of Administration for the State of Iraq for the Transitional Period and the permanent constitution are universally applied to all groups forced to leave Iraq. Urges the President to: (1) instruct the U.S. Representative to the United Nations and all U.S. representatives in bilateral and multilateral fora that, when the United States considers resolutions that allude to the issue of Middle East refugees, the U.S. delegation should ensure that the relevant text refers to multiple refugee populations that have been caused by the Arab-Israeli conflict and any explicit reference to the resolution of the Palestinian refugee issue is matched by a similar reference to the resolution of the issue of Jewish refugees from Arab countries; and (2) make clear that the United States supports the position that the issue of refugees and the mass violations of human rights of minorities in Arab countries must be resolved in a manner that includes redress for the rights of all refugees displaced from Arab countries and recognition that Jewish and Christian property, schools, and community property were lost as a result of the Arab-Israeli conflict.

Providing for the consideration of the bill (H.R. 3966) to amend title 10, United States Code, and the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to improve the ability of the Department of Defense to establish and maintain Senior Reserve Officer Training Corps units at institutions of higher education, to improve the ability of students to participate in Senior ROTC programs, and to ensure that institutions of higher education provide military recruiters entry to campuses and access to students that is at least equal in quality and scope to that provided to any other employer.

United States · United States Congress · 29 March 2004

Sets forth the rule for the consideration of H.R. 3966 (ROTC and Military Recruiter Equal Access to Campus Act of 2004).

Welfare Reform Extension Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 25 March 2004

Welfare Reform Extension Act of 2004 - Amends title IV of the Social Security Act (SSA) to extend through June 30, 2004: (1) the TANF block grant program under part A (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) (TANF), including the sexual activity abstinence education program and eligibility for Medicaid under SSA title XIX; (2) the National Random Sample Study of Child Welfare under part B (Child and Family Services); and (3) demonstration projects likely to promote the objectives of part B or part E (Foster Care and Adoption Assistance). Makes appropriations for such purposes. Authorizes grants and payments pursuant to such authority through the third quarter of FY 2004 at the level provided for such activities through the third quarter of FY 2002.

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate relating to the extraordinary contributions resulting from the Hubble Space Telescope to scientific research and education, and to the need to reconsider future service missions to the Hubble Space Telescope.

United States · United States Congress · 25 March 2004

Recognizes the extraordinary contributions resulting from the Hubble Space Telescope to scientific research and education. Recommends that the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) appoint an independent panel of expert scientists and engineers inside and outside of NASA to examine all possible options for safely carrying out the planned servicing mission to the Hubble Space Telescope. Expresses the strong sentiment of the House of Representatives that NASA should continue all planning, preparation, and astronaut training activities for the SM-4 servicing mission without interruption until: (1) the expert panel issues its report; and (2) NASA provides a timetable of compliance with a recommendation of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board report which calls for a fully autonomous capability for all missions, since such compliance will allow both a Hubble servicing mission and missions to the International Space Station to be carried out safely.

Knowledge Utilization in Education Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 25 March 2004

Knowledge Utilization in Education Act of 2004 - Establishes in the Department of Education the National Leadership Office for Knowledge Utilization in Education, to be headed by a Director appointed by the Secretary of Education. Requires the Director to: (1) convene an Interagency Task Force on Knowledge Utilization in Education; (2) establish a Knowledge Utilization Partnership in Education in a network of private and public entities throughout the Nation; and (3) analyze and report biennially on the state of knowledge utilization in education practice and innovation. Authorizes the Director to establish a Partnership Advisory Panel. Directs the Secretary to make competitive grants to and contracts with eligible entities to support projects that promote knowledge utilization in education.

Congressional Medal for Outstanding Contributions in Math and Science Education Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 25 March 2004

Congressional Medal for Outstanding Contributions in Math and Science Education Act of 2004 - Requires the Director of the National Science Foundation to establish a Congressional Medal for Outstanding Contributions in Math and Science Education program. Requires the Director to name as finalists for medals annually up to: (1) 20 private entities with more than 500 employees; and (2) 20 private entities with 500 or fewer employees. Requires the Director to award medals annually from among such finalists up to: (1) five private entities with more than 500 employees; and (2) five private entities with 500 or fewer employees. Makes eligible for such a medal any private entity that has, whether working alone or in partnership with for-profit or nonprofit entities, for at least two years assisted students, teachers, administrators, or other support staff in at least one elementary or secondary school to improve student achievement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in a school or community.

National Intelligence Education and Training Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 March 2004

National Intelligence Education and Training Act - Directs the Attorney General to: (1) maintain an Academy for Law Enforcement Intelligence for training Federal, State, and local law enforcement officers and analysts in the analysis, dissemination, and management of intelligence; and (2) establish the Advisory Board on Law Enforcement Intelligence to advise the Attorney General regarding the Academy's operation, instruction and content of curriculum, appointment of staff and hiring of contract instructors, and efforts to promote the intelligence profession among undergraduate and graduate students. Directs the Attorney General to carry out a pilot program, known as the Law Enforcement Analyst Training Assistance Program, to assess providing for the preparation of selected students for employment as intelligence analysts for U.S. law enforcement agencies. Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to direct that not less than 25 percent of COPS program grant funds be made available for activities to: (1) increase the number of State and local law enforcement officers or employees involved in developing intelligence for countering terrorism, crime, or both; (2) provide specialized training to not more than five intelligence officers per grant recipient to enhance observational, intelligence-gathering, foreign language, and analytical skills; (3) improve Federal-State-local law enforcement coordination; and (4) ensure that not less than one intelligence officer per grant recipient has at least a "top secret" level security clearance.

National Education Advancement (NEA) and Teacher Relief Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 March 2004

National Education Advancement (NEA) and Teacher Relief Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a tax credit for 75 percent of charitable contributions made by a taxpayer: (1) to a school tuition organization that provides certain scholarship aid; (2) for the improvement, renovation, or construction of an elementary or secondary school facility; and (3) for the acquisition of computer technology or equipment, or for related training, for use in an elementary or secondary school facility. Limits the dollar amount of such credit to $500 for individuals and $100,000 for corporations. Allows elementary or secondary school teachers, instructors, counselors, principals, or aides who work at least 900 hours during a school year to claim the tax credit provided by this Act for their expenses in connection with books, supplies (other than nonathletic supplies for courses of instruction in health or physical education), computer equipment (including related software and services), and other equipment and supplementary materials used in the classroom. Revises the definition of "school" for purposes of defining qualified elementary and secondary education expenses to include public, private, religious or home schools.

Supporting the goals and ideals of Financial Literacy Month, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 25 March 2004

Declares that the House of Representatives: (1) supports the goals and ideals of Financial Literacy Month; and (2) requests the President to issue a proclamation calling on the Federal Government, States, localities, schools, nonprofit organizations, businesses, other entities, and the people of the United States to observe the month with appropriate programs and activities.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) should affirm its commitment to a policy of discouraging alcohol use among underage students by ending all alcohol advertising during radio and television broadcasts of collegiate sporting events.

United States · United States Congress · 24 March 2004

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), its member colleges and universities, and athletic conferences should affirm a commitment to a policy of discouraging alcohol use among underage students and other young fans by ending all alcohol advertising during radio and television broadcasts of collegiate sporting events.

National Geologic Mapping Reauthorization Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 23 March 2004

National Geologic Mapping Reauthorization Act of 2004 - Amends the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 to extend deadlines for development of a five-year strategic plan for the geologic mapping program and for appointment of the advisory committee. Removes from program objectives the development of a geophysical- and geochemical- map database. Directs that mapping priorities be based in part on the needs of the Department of the Interior land management agencies. Modifies the composition of the advisory committee. Directs that the national geologic database include information on how to obtain specified maps, databases, and data, including all maps developed with funding provided under the national cooperative geologic mapping program. Authorizes appropriations for each of FY 2006 through 2010. Increases the percentages allocated for the State and education components.

Allied Health Professions Reinvestment Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 23 March 2004

Allied Health Professions Reinvestment Act of 2004 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to issue public service announcements that advertise and promote the allied health professions, highlight the advantages and rewards of those professions, and encourage individuals to enter those professions. Allows the Secretary to award grants to: (1) support similar State and local advertising campaigns; (2) improve the education, practice, and retention of allied health professionals through specified activities; and (3) develop and implement programs and initiatives to train and educate allied health professionals in providing geriatric care. Permits the Secretary to provide scholarships for the cost of tuition in exchange for students agreeing to serve as allied health professionals at health care facilities with critical shortages of such persons for not less than one year for each year of scholarship received. Allows the Secretary, acting through the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration, to enter into an agreement with any higher education institution for the establishment and operation of a student loan fund to increase the number of qualified allied health professions faculty. Directs the Secretary to establish the Council on Health Profession Education in the Health Resources and Service Administration to monitor the status of the allied health professions workforce and make annual reports to Congress.

Establishing the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2005 and setting forth appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2004 and 2006 through 2009.

United States · United States Congress · 19 March 2004

Sets forth the congressional budget for the Federal Government for FY 2005, including the appropriate budgetary levels for FY 2004 and 2006 through 2009. Lists recommended budgetary levels and amounts, for FY 2004 through 2009, with respect to: (1) Federal revenues; (2) new budget authority; (3) budget outlays; (4) deficits (on-budget); (5) debt subject to limit; and (6) debt held by the public. Lists the appropriate levels of new budget authority and outlays for specified major functional categories for FY 2004 through 2009. Sets forth reconciliation instructions for the House Committees on Agriculture, on Education and the Workforce, on Energy and Commerce, on Government Reform, and on Ways and Means. Requires the House Committee on: (1) Ways and Means to report a reconciliation bill providing for specified reductions in revenues; and (2) Armed Services to report to the House Budget Committee on its findings that identify specified savings from activities determined to be a low priority to the successful execution of current military operations, or to be wasteful or unnecessary to national defense. Provides for deficit-neutral reserve funds for: (1) health insurance for the uninsured; (2) medicaid coverage for children with special needs (the Family Opportunity Act); (3) increasing the survivor's benefits under the Military Survivors' Benefit Plan; and (4) pending legislation that provides for the safe importation of FDA-approved prescription drugs or places limits on medical malpractice litigation. Provides for contingency procedures to adjust budget aggregates and new budget authority allocation for surface transportation and infrastructure. Specifies adjustments for highway and transit outlays. Prohibits House legislation that would require advanced appropriations, with a specified exception. States that if legislation is reported that makes supplemental appropriations for FY 2005 for contingency operations related to the global war on terrorism, or for any emergency requirements, then the resulting new budget authority, new entitlement authority, outlays, and receipts shall not count for certain purposes of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 for the provisions of such measure that are designated as making appropriations for such contingency operations. Declares the sense of the House on: (1) spending accountability; and (2) entitlement reform.

FOSTER Act

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 2004

Foster Opportunities for Success Through Higher Education Reform - FOSTER Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) to establish a program of foster care youth outreach and housing services. Directs the Secretary of Education to make grants to institutions of higher education to provide: (1) technical assistance and supportive services to foster care youth who are prospective students to prepare for, enter, and remain in such institutions; and (2) basic housing during the regular academic school year, including interim housing during regular periods of dormitory closing other than summer break, for those foster care youth living in college dormitories. Requires program coordination with: (1) the John H. Chafee foster care independence program under the Social Security Act; and (2) TRIO and GEAR UP programs under HEA. Revises HEA financial need analysis to provide fair treatment for foster care youth.

No Qualified Teacher Left Behind Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 2004

No Qualified Teacher Left Behind Act of 2004 - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) with respect to teacher qualifications. Revises the definition of highly qualified teacher, in the case of middle or secondary school teachers who are new to the profession. Includes consideration of any professional development being pursued, in determining such qualifications for elementary, middle, or secondary school teachers who are not new to the profession. Provides for rural school districts: (1) an extension of a deadline for having highly qualified teachers; and (2) an authorization of additional appropriations for grants for teacher recruitment, retention, and professional development. Revises requirements for qualified teachers under ESEA title I part A (I-A) programs for disadvantaged students to: (1) apply only to teachers of core subjects; and (2) eliminate reference to the proportion of inexperienced teachers. Requires all ESEA grantees, whether under I-A or not, to meet specified qualification deadlines for all teachers of core subjects whom they employ.