Education

Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 14 June 2005

Violence Against Women Act of 2005 - Amends the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) of 1994, VAWA of 2000 (VAWA-2000), the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 (OCCSSA), the Public Health Service Act (PHSA), the Social Security Act (SSA), the Higher Education Amendments of 1998, the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act of 2000, the Safe Homes for Women Act of 1994, the United States Housing Act of 1937, the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act, the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, the Battered Immigrant Women Protection Act of 2000, and the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) to reauthorize, revise, and establish various programs for prevention and treatment of violence against women, including domestic violence, child abuse, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking (violence). Provides for specified VAWA judicial and law enforcement programs, including STOP grants, a stalker database, cyberstalking prevention, and dating violence prohibitions. Establishes VAWA grant programs: (1) by the Department of Justice (Justice) for assisting children and youth exposed to violence, and for engaging men, women, and youth in preventing violence; and (2) by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for services, education, protection, and justice for young victims of violence, and for research on effective interventions in the healthcare setting. Revises OCCSSA requirements for Justice grants for violence against women programs, and establishes programs for sexual assault services and for assistance for victims of abuse. Requires grants for public information campaigns relating to violence prevention. Requires a National Domestic Violence Hotline study. Revises and reauthorizes: (1) grants under the Higher Education Amendments of 1998 to reduce violence against women on campus; (2) safe havens for children under the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act of 2000. Reauthorizes PHSA rape prevention and education programs, including the National Sexual Violence Resource Center. Establishes PHSA grants by HHS for: (1) training and education of health professionals in domestic and sexual violence; (2) fostering public health responses to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking; and (3) identification and treatment services at community health centers. Revises SSA requirements for Federal health programs' response to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. Establishes VAWA grant programs to address the housing needs of victims of violence. Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to require: (1) public and Indian housing authority plans to report on programs offered to victims of violence; and (2) certification and confidentiality with respect to victims of violence in the low-income housing assistance voucher and public housing programs. Requires emergency leave, under VAWA, for employees experiencing domestic or sexual violence. Sets forth provisions relating to the safety of Indian women. Supporting Teens through Education and Protection Act of 2005 - STEP Act - Authorizes the Attorney General through the Director of the Office on Violence Against Women (Justice) to make grants to combat domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking in middle and high schools. Immigrant Victims of Violence Protection Act of 2005 - Revises the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and the Battered Immigrant Women Protection Act of 2000 (under VAWA-2000) with respect to victims of violence, including victims of crimes of human trafficking, VAWA petitioners, and children.

Act for Lyme Education and Research and Tick-Borne Diseases

United States · United States Congress · 14 June 2005

Act for Lyme Education and Research and Tick-Borne Diseases or the ALERT Act - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a five-year plan that provides for activities to be carried out to meet goals related to Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases, including to: (1) develop a sensitive and definitive test for the diagnosis of Lyme disease capable of distinguishing active infection from past infection; (2) accurately determine the prevalence of Lyme disease and other tick-borne disorders in the United States; (3) provide and promote access to a comprehensive, up-to-date clearinghouse of peer-reviewed information on Lyme and other tick-borne diseases through the Director of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ); and (4) establish epidemiological research goals to determine the long term course of illnesses for Lyme disease. Directs the Secretary to request that the Institute of Medicine study chronic Lyme disease. Authorizes additional appropriations for research and educational activities and prevention efforts for Lyme and other tick-borne diseases. Requires the Secretary to establish the Tick-Borne Diseases Advisory Committee.

Federal Pell Grant Eligibility Clarification Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 13 June 2005

Federal Pell Grant Eligibility Clarification Act of 2005 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to revise eligibility requirements for certain Pell Grant awards by modifying the formula for determining total income to include consideration of current year circumstances for students residing in states in which an extended benefit period under the Federal-State Extended Unemployment Compensation Act of 1970 is in effect, or would be effect if a specified circumstance applied.

Access to Affordable Health Care Act

United States · United States Congress · 13 June 2005

Access to Affordable Health Care Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow: (1) tax credits to small businesses for qualified employee health insurance expenses; (2) tax credits for qualified health insurance; (3) deductions for long-term care premiums; and (4) tax credits for individuals with long-term care needs. Requires the Secretary of Labor to award grants to states to assist in planning, developing, and operating qualified small employer purchasing groups for health insurance. Directs the Small Business Administration to award grants to states, local governments, and nonprofit organizations to provide health insurance information to small employers. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (the Secretary) to award demonstration grants for states to demonstrate the effectiveness of innovative ways to increase access to health insurance. Renames title XXI (State Children's Health Insurance) (SCHIP) of the Social Security Act the FamilyCare program and allows states to extend coverage to qualified children, parents, and pregnant women. Allows states to simplify the qualification and enrollment requirements. Requires the Secretary to provide for improved outreach and enrollment in government programs for eligible children and homeless individuals and families. Expresses the sense of the Senate that appropriations for consolidated health centers and the National Health Service Corps should be doubled over the next five fiscal years. Requires the Secretary to: (1) award grants to states for the promotion of healthy lifestyles and for the establishment and operation of worksite wellness programs for small employers and their employees; (2) expand comprehensive school health education programs; and (3) establish demonstration projects related to providing low-cost, high-quality health care and attracting educators and clinical practitioners to underserved areas.

Science, State, Justice, Commerce, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2006

United States · United States Congress · 10 June 2005

Science, State, Justice, Commerce, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2006 - Makes appropriations for FY2006 for science-related programs, the Departments of State, of Justice and of Commerce, and related agencies. Department of Justice Appropriations Act, 2006 - Makes appropriations for the Department of Justice for FY2006 for: (1) general administration; (2) the U.S. Parole Commission; (3) legal activities; (4) the U.S. Marshals Service; (5) interagency crime and drug enforcement; (6) the Federal Bureau of Investigation; (7) the Drug Enforcement Administration; (8) the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; (9) the Federal prison system; (10) Office on Violence Against Women; and (10) Office of Justice Programs. Department of Commerce and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2006 - Makes appropriations for FY2006 for: (1) the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative; (2) the International Trade Commission; (3) the International Trade Administration; (4) the Bureau of Industry and Security; (5) the Economic Development Administration; (6) the Minority Business Development Agency; (7) economic and statistical analysis programs; (8) the Bureau of the Census; (9) the National Telecommunications and Information Administration; (10) public telecommunications facilities planning and construction grants; (11) the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office; (12) the Under Secretary for Technology/Office of Technology Policy; (13) the National Institute of Standards and Technology; (14) the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration; (15) restoration of Pacific salmon populations; (16) the fisheries finance program account; and (17) departmental management, including for the Department of Commerce Office of Inspector General. Science Appropriations Act, 2006 - Makes appropriations for FY2006 for: (1) the Office of Science and Technology Policy; (2) the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, including for the Office of Inspector General; (3) the National Science Foundation; (4) carrying out science and engineering education and human resources programs and activities pursuant to the National Science Foundation Act of 1950; (5) the Office of the National Science Board; and (6) the National Science Foundation Office of Inspector General. Department of State and Related Agency Appropriations Act, 2006 - Makes appropriations for the Department of State for FY2006 for: (1) administration of foreign affairs; (2) the Office of Inspector General; (3) international organizations; (4) the Center for Cultural and Technical Interchange Between East and West in the State of Hawaii; and (5) the Broadcasting Board of Governors. Makes appropriations for FY2006 for: (1) the Antitrust Modernization Commission; (2) the Commission for the Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad; (3) the Commission on Civil Rights; (4) the Commission on International Religious Freedom; (5) the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe; (6) the Congressional-Executive Commission on the People's Republic of China; (7) the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission; (8) the Federal Communications Commission; (9) the Federal Trade Commission; (10) the Helping Enhance the Livelihood of People Around the Globe Commission; (11) the Legal Services Corporation; (12) the Marine Mammal Commission; (13) the Securities and Exchange Commission; (14) the Small Business Administration, including the Office of Inspector General; (15) the Surety Bond Guarantees Revolving Fund; (16) the State Justice Institute; (17) the United States-China Economic and Security Review Commission; and (18) the United States Institute of Peace. Rescinds certain unobligated balances available to the Department of Justice for: (1) legal activities (Assets Forfeiture Fund); and (2) the Office of Justice Programs for State and local law enforcement assistance and community oriented policing services. Rescinds certain unobligated balances available to the: (1) Emergency Steel Guaranteed Loan Program Account; and (2) United States-Canada Alaska Rail Commission.

National Oceans Protection Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2005

National Oceans Protection Act of 2005 - Declares the purpose of this Act is to secure for future U.S. generations a full range of benefits of healthy marine ecosystems. Ernest "Fritz" Hollings National Ocean Policy and Leadership Act - Specifies a national ocean policy. Establishes in federal law (as it already exists under Reorganization Plan No. 4 of 1970) the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Establishes: (1) a Council on Ocean Stewardship; and (2) a Presidential Panel of Advisers on Oceans and Climate. Requires the head of each federal agency that undertakes, authorizes, or funds an activity that affects U.S. ocean or coastal waters or resources to make a certification that such action will not harm the marine ecosystem. Directs the Administrator to develop and maintain a coordinated offshore permit program for certain non-extractive activities in federal waters. Establishes: (1) the Marine Resources Trust Fund; (2) a Committee on Ocean Science, Education, and Operations; and (3) a National Ocean Science and Technology Scholarship Program. Deep Sea Coral Protection Act - Requires the Administrator to: (1) research and map deep sea corals and sponges; and (2) compare areas open to bottom-tending mobile fishing gear with areas designated as a Coral Management Area (CMA). Authorizes the President to permit the Administrator to identify, with foreign entities, areas in international waters that would benefit from additional protection for deep sea corals and deep sea sponges. Amends the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act to establish a habitat protection program to protect seafloor habitats from the adverse impacts of bottom-tending mobile fishing gear and any other gear or practice that damages seafloor habitat. Requires the Secretary to prepare and provide guidance for the development of Fisheries Ecosystem Plans. Requires fishery management plans to: (1) establish and implement a bycatch monitoring and minimization plan; and (2) account for all direct and indirect sources of fishing mortality (including bycatch mortality) in stock assessments, in determining the maximum sustainable yield for the fishery, in establishing total allowable catch and other catch limits necessary to achieve the optimum yield, and in counting the catch. Cetacean and Sea Turtle Conservation Act of 2005 - Directs the Secretary to enter into negotiations with countries that engage in commercial fishing operations that adversely impact cetaceans or sea turtles that result in agreements requiring such countries to reduce bycatch of such animals to at least sustainable levels. Provides grants to persons to carry out research and development (R&D) of appropriate fishing gear and methods for use in oceans inhabited by cetaceans or sea turtles. Revises individual fishing quota provisions to provide for establishment of a fishing quota system through a fishery management plan or amendment. Requires that such a plan: (1) include conservation management measures; (2) establish procedures for a Regional Fishery Management Council (or the Secretary) to review the quota system; (3) allocate, review, and limit or terminate quota shares in accordance with this Act; and (4) not require shares to be held by a person engaged in personal-use fishing, provided the plan designates a separate portion of the allowable catch for such purposes. Requires a Council to make a fair allocation of the total allowable catch limit as quota shares among existing categories of vessels, fishing gear types, or other appropriate qualifiers. Sets forth certain requirements for the allocation, transfer, or termination of a share issued under such a system. Fisheries Science and Management Enhancement Act of 2005 - Requires each science and statistical committee established by a Council to include a fishery and marine science subcommittee to determine biological catch limits that will prevent overfishing in a fishery and any protections required for threatened or endangered species. Amends the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 to authorize the Secretary to establish a gear research mini-grant program for developing new types of fishing gear designed to eliminate or reduce the incidental taking of marine mammals. Establishes a Coastal and Estuarine Land Protection Program. Establishes a Community-Based Restoration Program. Amends the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 to require the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to develop criteria designed to help prevent development and substantial redevelopment in coastal areas. Establishes the NOAA National Office of Education. Ballast Water Management Act of 2005 - Amends the Nonindigenous Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention and Control Act of 1990 to revise certain aquatic invasive species prevention requirements to: (1) apply them to certain U.S. vessels and to certain foreign vessels that are en route to, or have departed from, a U.S. port; and (2) establish ballast water and sediment management standards for vessels of the armed forces. Sets forth protocols for the early detection and monitoring of recently established aquatic invasive species in U.S. waters. Requires certain administering agencies to conduct a marine and freshwater research program to assess rates of, patterns of, and conditions surrounding introductions of nonidigenous aquatic species in aquatic ecosystems. Requires the Invasive Species Council to coordinate with the Aquatic Invasive Species Task Force to combat aquatic invasive species. Requires the Task Force, the Council, and the Secretary of State to ensure that international efforts to prevent and control aquatic invasive species are coordinated with U.S. policies. Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to require the Administrator to: (1) conduct a program to monitor aquatic sediment quality; and (2) promulgate sediment quality criteria and standards protective of the most sensitive aquatic species at their most sensitive life stages. Requires a state whenever it has reviewed or adopted new water standards to adopt certain advanced wastewater treatment standards for the removal of nutrients from discharges into marine and estuarine water and freshwater. Authorizes a person to file a civil suit against any person (including the government) in U.S. district court for violations of this Act.

Teacher Excellence for All Children Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2005

Teacher Excellence for All Children Act of 2005 - Revises and establishes programs relating to recruitment, preparation, distribution, and retention of public elementary and secondary school teachers and principals. Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) to establish: (1) teacher education assistance for college and higher education (TEACH ) grants for undergraduate and graduate students who agree to serve as teachers in high-need schools or fields; and (2) grants to recruit teachers with mathematics, science, or language majors. Extends the authorization of appropriations for HEA teacher quality enhancement grants for states and partnerships. Revises HEA student loan forgiveness requirements to: (1) extend permanently additional amounts for teachers in mathematics, science, or special education provided by the Taxpayer-Teacher Protection Act of 2004; (2) increase other amounts, making reading specialists eligible for such forgiveness; and (3) apply forgiveness in annual increments rather than in a lump sum at end of service. Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA), as amended by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, to establish grant programs to improve teaching at high-need schools. Requires states to provide assurances of their reasonable progress toward equitable access to teacher quality as a condition of assistance under ESEA. Amends the Education Sciences Reform Act to direct the Statistics Commissioner to publish results of certain schools and staffing surveys. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) exclude from gross income up to $15,000 for compensation of teachers and principals in certain high-need schools or teaching certain high-need subjects; and (2) increase to a maximum of $500 and make permanent the above-the-line deduction for certain expenses of elementary and secondary schoolteachers.

National Security and Bioenergy Investment Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2005

National Security and Bioenergy Investment Act of 2005 - Amends the Biomass Research and Development Act of 2000 to redefine "biomass." Revises provisions respecting: (1) Biomass Research and Development Technical Advisory Committee membership; (2) the Biomass Research and Development Initiative; (3) reports; and (4) funding. Eliminates the termination date for authority under such Act. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to: (1) conduct a research, development, and demonstration program on the economic production and use of hydrogen from biofuels, with emphasis on the rural transportation and rural electrical generation sectors; (2) establish an incentive program for the production of cellulosic biofuels; and (3) make small business bioproduct marketing and certification grants; (4) make regional bioeconomy development grants; (5) make preprocessing and harvesting demonstration grants; and (6) contract for a biobased fuels and products education program. Directs the Secretary to establish a position of Assistant Secretary of Agriculture for Energy and Biobased Products, who shall be responsible for: (1) energy programs under title IX of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002; and (2) all other programs and initiatives that the Secretary considers appropriate. Amends the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 respecting federal biobased product procurement. Directs the Architect of the Capitol to establish in the Capitol Complex a public education program regarding biobased product use by the Architect. Expresses the sense of the Senate that Congress should amend the tax code to encourage investment in, and production and use of, biobased fuels and biobased products through investment tax credits for small manufacturers and facilities construction.

Higher Education for Freedom Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2005

Higher Education for Freedom Act - Directs the Secretary of Education to make competitive grants to eligible institutions to prepare elementary, middle, and secondary school history teachers and to strengthen postsecondary programs in fields related to the founding of the United States, free institutions, and Western civilization.

Energy Policy Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2005

Energy Policy Act of 2005 - Sets forth a program to spur diverse energy research and development, including: (1) energy efficiency; (2) renewable energy; (3) oil and gas; (4) coal; (5) Indian energy; (6) nuclear matters; (7) vehicles and motor fuels; (8) hydrogen; (9) electricity infrastucture; and (10) federal loan guarantees for commercial projects that target energy pollutant reduction. Establishes federal programs that target energy savings in public facilities. Establishes energy assistance programs that include: (1) weatherization assistance; (2) state energy programs; (3) energy efficient appliance rebates; and (4) low income community energy efficiency. Establishes programs for energy efficient products including energy conservation initiatives and energy efficiency in housing. Sets forth renewable energy initiatives that address: (1) renewable energy resources and production; (2) renewable content of motor vehicle fuel; (3) federal agency purchasing requirements for ethanol-blended gasoline and biodiesel fuel; (4) a sugar cane ethanol program; (5) an advanced biofuels technology program; (6) a biomass commercial utilization program; (7) geothermal energy enterprises; and (8) hydroelectric power projects. Sets forth an oil and gas program that includes: (1) the Petroleum Reserve and home heating oil; (2) oil and gas production incentives; (3) oil and gas activities on federal land; (4) a coastal impact assistance program; (5) natural gas enterprises; and (6) federal coalbed methane regulation. Sets forth a Clean Coal Power Initiative campaign that includes grants to universities to establish Centers of Excellence for Energy Systems of the Future. Modifies statutory constraints governing federal coal leases, including acreage limitations, mining plans, and advance royalty payments. Indian Tribal Energy Development and Self-Determination Act of 2005 - Amends the Department of Energy Organization Act and the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to establish the Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs to promote Indian tribal energy resource development through a program of grants and loans. Price-Anderson Amendments Act of 2005 - Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to modify and extend indemnification authority and liability limits for Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) licensees and Department of Energy (DOE) contractors. Addresses general nuclear matters, including: (1) extension of indemnification authority; (2) treatment of modular reactors; (3) medical isotope production; (4) safe disposal of greater-than-class-C radioactive waste; (5) a prohibition on nuclear exports to countries that sponsor terrorism; and (5) a DOE decommissioning pilot program. Directs the Secretary of Energy (Secretary) to establish the Next Generation Nuclear Plant Project, a prototype plant that includes a nuclear reactor, to generate electricity and to produce hydrogen. Revises requirements governing: (1) federal agency use of alternative fuels by dual-fueled vehicles; and (2) alternative compliance. Directs the Secretary to establish a cost-shared, public-private research partnership involving the federal government, railroad carriers, locomotive manufacturers and equipment suppliers, and the Association of American Railroads, to develop and demonstrate railroad locomotive technologies that increase fuel economy, reduce emissions, and lower costs of operation. Establishes within the Department of Transportation the Conserve by Bicycling Program. Prescribes guidelines for the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to review reduction of engine idling of heavy-duty vehicles. Directs the Secretary to initiate a project, in partnership with diesel engine, diesel fuel injection system, and diesel vehicle manufacturers and diesel and biodiesel fuel providers, to provide biodiesel testing in advanced diesel engine and fuel system technology. Sets forth a program of federal and state procurement of fuel cell vehicles and hydrogen energy systems. Revamps the Spark M. Matsunaga Hydrogen Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of 1990 to create a statutory framework to: (1) promote development and commercialization of hydrogen and fuel cell technology in partnership with industry; (2) establish the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Task Force; (3) direct the Secretary to provide for the transfer of critical hydrogen and fuel cell technologies to the private sector; and (4) create a hydrogen supply and fuel cell demonstration program. Energy Research, Development, Demonstration, and Commercial Application Act of 2005 - Prohibits appropriations authorized in this Act for energy efficiency research and development from being used for: (1) issuance or implementation of energy efficiency regulations; (2) the weatherization program established under the Energy Conservation and Production Act (ECPA); (3) a state energy conservation plan established under ECPA; or (4) a federal energy management measure implemented under the National Energy Conservation Policy Act. Directs the Secretary to implement initiatives that target research, development, and commercial application in: (1) energy efficiency; (2) distributed energy and electric energy systems; (3) renewable energy; (4) nuclear energy; (5) fossil energy; (6) science; and (8) international cooperation within the Western Hemisphere and with Israel. Sets forth guidelines governing DOE management, including creation of: (1) a national energy research and development advisory boards; (2) a Technology Transfer Working Group; and (3) a Technology Infrastructure Program. Prescribes guidelines for recruitment and training of skilled technical personnel in energy technology industries and educational programs in science and mathematics. Electricity Modernization Act of 2005 - Amends the Federal Power Act to grant Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regulatory jurisdiction over an Electric Reliability Organization. Prescribes guidelines for electric reliability standards, including electric transmission infrastructure, operation and transmission rates. Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to: (1) require electric utilities to make net metering and smart metering available upon consumer request; and (2) terminate mandatory purchase and sale requirements pertaining to cogeneration and small power production utilities. Amends the Federal Power Act to: (1) direct FERC to promulgate market transparency rules governing sales of electric energy at wholesale in interstate commerce, and transmission services in interstate commerce; and (2) prohibit energy market manipulation. Public Utility Holding Company Act of 2005 - Repeals the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935.

A resolution recognizing the importance of sun safety, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2005

Recognizes the importance of sun safety and the need for school-based safety education programs. Congratulates the Sun Safety Alliance for its efforts to promote sun safety and prevent skin cancer. Expresses support for the goals and ideas of National Sun Safety Week (June 5-June 11, 2005).

New Apollo Energy Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2005

New Apollo Energy Act of 2005 - Establishes the New Apollo Energy Act Performance Goals, which the President shall consider when formulating and enforcing national energy policy. Instructs the Secretary of Energy to coordinate the participation of National Laboratories, universities, commercial industry, and other organizations in implementing this Act. Sets forth technology research programs concerning: (1) clean energy; (2) energy efficiency; (3) fusion energy; and (4) ultra-deepwater and extended reach drilling and carbon sequestration technologies. Creates tax incentives, in the form of tax credits and deductions from grosss income, for new technologies. Sets forth a federal framework for support of diverse energy technology initiatives. Directs the President to fill the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to full capacity and ensure that the fill rate minimizes impacts on petroleum markets. Amends the Commodity Exchange Act to grant the Commodity Futures Trading Commission jurisdiction over energy trading markets and metals trading markets. Sets forth federal assistance programs covering weatherization and energy efficient housing. Sets forth a national net metering requirement for utilities and interconnection standards for distributive energy generation. Sets forth initiatives to reduce greenhouse gases including: (1) federal climate change research; (2) national greenhouse gas database; (3) market-driven greenhouse gas reductions; and (4) emission reduction requirements and allocation and use of tradeable allowances. Establishes the Climate Change Credit Corporation to use the tradeable allowances, and proceeds derived from its trading activities in tradeable allowances, to reduce costs borne by consumers as a result of the greenhouse gas reduction requirements. Amends the Clean Air Act to set forth a renewable fuel program. Sets forth a program of loan guarantees for biorefineries and renewable electricity generation facilities. Balanced Energy Supply Tax Policy Act of 2005 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to: (1) limit tax reductions to revenue raised by tax offsets; and (2) deny treaty benefits for certain deductible payments. Prescribes guidelines governing the: (1) doctrine of economic substance; (2) penalty for understatements attributable to transactions lacking economic substance; and (3) understatement of taxpayer's liability by income tax return preparer.

Teacher Excellence for All Children Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2005

Teacher Excellence for All Children Act of 2005 - Revises and establishes programs relating to recruitment, preparation, distribution, and retention of public elementary and secondary school teachers and principals. Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) to establish: (1) teacher education assistance for college and higher education (TEACH ) grants for undergraduate and graduate students who agree to serve as teachers in high-need schools or fields; and (2) grants to recruit teachers with mathematics, science, or language majors. Extends the authorization of appropriations for HEA teacher quality enhancement grants for states and partnerships. Revises HEA student loan forgiveness requirements to: (1) extend permanently additional amounts for teachers in mathematics, science, or special education provided by the Taxpayer-Teacher Protection Act of 2004; (2) increase other amounts, making reading specialists eligible for such forgiveness; and (3) apply forgiveness in annual increments rather than in a lump sum at end of service. Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA), as amended by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, to establish grant programs to improve teaching at high-need schools. Requires states to provide assurances of their reasonable progress toward equitable access to teacher quality as a condition of assistance under ESEA. Amends the Education Sciences Reform Act to direct the Statistics Commissioner to publish results of certain schools and staffing surveys. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) exclude from gross income up to $15,000 for compensation of teachers and principals in certain high-need schools or teaching certain high-need subjects; and (2) increase to a maximum of $500 and make permanent the above-the-line deduction for certain expenses of elementary and secondary schoolteachers.

Higher Education for Freedom Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2005

Higher Education for Freedom Act - Directs the Secretary of Education to make competitive grants to eligible institutions to prepare elementary, middle, and secondary school history teachers and to strengthen postsecondary programs in fields related to the founding of the United States, free institutions, and Western civilization.

PREEMIE Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2005

Prematurity Research Expansion and Education for Mothers who deliver Infants Early Act or PREEMIE Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to expand and coordinate NIH research on preterm labor and delivery, infant mortality, and low birthweight infants. Establishes the Maternal-Fetal Medicine Units Network and the Neonatal Research Units Network within NIH. Requires the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to: (1) expand and coordinate CDC activities on preterm labor and delivery and infant mortality; (2) conduct a study on the relationship between prematurity, birth defects, and developmental disabilities; and (3) review the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring Survey. Requires the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development's national longitudinal study of environmental influences on children's health and development to consider the impact of assisted reproduction technologies. Requires the Director of NIH to contract with the Institute of Medicine to study the health and economic consequences of preterm birth. Directs the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to assess certain core performance and outcome measures utilized under the Social Security Act for purposes of expanding such measures to include known risk factors of low birthweight and prematurity. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to: (1) conduct a demonstration project to improve the provision of information on prematurity to health professionals and the public; (2) conduct projects to support the informational and emotional needs of families during the stay of an infant in a neonatal intensive care unit, during the transition of the infant to the home, and in the event of a newborn death; and (3) establish an Interagency Coordinating Council on Prematurity and Low Birthweight.

Getting Results for Advanced Degrees Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2005

Getting Results for Advanced Degrees Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) to revise and reauthorize provisions relating to graduate student assistance. Extends and increases the authorization of appropriations for: (1) Jacob K. Javits Fellowships (Javits Fellows); and (2) graduate assistance in areas of national need. Sets the amount of a stipend under both such programs at the same level as the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program, without regard to financial need. Revises Board membership requirements under the Javits Fellows program. Establishes, and authorizes appropriations for, the Patsy T. Mink Fellowship program of awards to assist highly qualified minorities and women to acquire the doctoral degree, or highest possible degree available, in academic areas in which such individuals are underrepresented, to enable them to enter the higher education professoriate. Revises cost of attendance calculations for graduate students with one or more dependents to include actual living expenses incurred for dependents, including their room, board and health insurance (as well as, currently, dependent care). Increases unsubsidized Stafford loan limits for graduate and professional students. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to treat reasonable room, board, and special needs services allowances as part of permitted higher education expenses, in cases of qualified scholarships or of tuition reduction programs for teaching and research assistants. Amends HEA, as amended by the Taxpayer-Teacher Protection Act of 2004, to provide for further reduction of certain special allowances to lenders and holders of student loans. Directs the Secretary to use any funds made available thereby to carry out programs and activities under this Act.

Campus Fire Safety Right-to-Know Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2005

Campus Fire Safety Right-to-Know Act of 2005 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to require each institution participating in any program under the Act to provide to all current students and employees, and to any applicant for enrollment or employment upon request, an annual fire safety report containing specified information about the campus fire safety practices and standards of that institution. Requires such institutions to: (1) record all on-campus fires, including the nature, date, time, and general location of each fire and all false fire alarms; and (2) open such information to public inspection. Requires the institutions to report on such information annually to the campus community in a manner that will aid the prevention of similar occurrences. Requires the institutions to request their fraternities and sororities to collect and report such information for each building and property they own or control. Requires the Secretary of Education to report to Congress on fire safety systems in facilities of institutions of higher education and on fire safety standards in all such facilities.

College Access and Affordability Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2005

College Access and Affordability Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) increase to $4,000 the maximum amount of qualified tuition and related expenses eligible for the Hope Scholarship Credit and adjust such amount for inflation beginning in 2006; (2) increase to $58,000 the modified adjusted gross income threshold for determining reductions in the allowable amount of the Hope Scholarship Credit; and (3) increase from two to four the number of years a Hope Scholarship Credit may be claimed. Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to provide for student loan forgiveness up to $20,000 for individuals in qualified public service positions who are not in default of their loan obligations. Defines "qualified public service positions" to include: (1) highly qualified teachers of mathematics, science, and bilingual and special education in low-income communities; (2) firefighters, police officers, or emergency medical technicians serving low-income communities; (3) nurses serving low-income communities; and (4) public or private child welfare workers.

Acknowledging African descendants of the transatlantic slave trade in all of the Americas with an emphasis on descendants in Latin America and the Caribbean, recognizing the injustices suffered by these African descendants, and recommending that the United States and the international community work to improve the situation of Afro-descendant communities in Latin America and the Caribbean.

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2005

Recognizes: (1) African descendants for their contributions to the economic, social, and cultural fabric of the countries in the Americas, particularly in Latin American and Caribbean societies; and (2) that as a result of their skin color and ancestry such descendants have experienced economic, social, and political injustices. Urges the President to encourage the remembrance of the achievements of African descendants in the Americas and a resolution of such injustices. Urges the United States and the international community to work to ensure that poverty is eradicated, universal education is achieved, quality healthcare is made available, environmental resources are provided, and equal access to justice is granted in Afro-descendant communities in Latin America and the Caribbean.

21st Century Federal Pell Grant Plus Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 June 2005

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

Student Nutrition and Health Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 June 2005

Student Nutrition and Health Act - Authorizes the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to make grants to local educational agencies to: (1) purchase or lease qualified vending machines that offer healthy foods or beverages in portions not exceeding specified maximums to place in schools for student use; and (2) offset any loss of revenue resulting from offering only healthy foods and beverages for sale in vending machines. Defines a healthy food or beverage: (1) as one that derives 30 percent or less of its total calories from fat, 10 percent or less of its total calories from saturated fat and trans fat, and 35 percent or less of its total calories from sugars (excluding those sugars occurring naturally in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products); and (2) to include nuts, seeds, and flavored fluid milk. Requires a grantee to: (1) remove any vending machines that sell foods and beverages of minimal nutritional value from each elementary or secondary school in which qualified vending machines will be placed; and (2) use only qualified vending machines in such schools for a prescribed period.

Henry Louis Johnson, of Mississippi, to be Assistant Secretary for Elementary and Secondary Education, Department of Education, vice Raymond Simon.

United States · United States Senate · 6 June 2005

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 · 6 June 2005

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.

Johanna's Law

United States · United States Congress · 6 June 2005

Gynecologic Cancer Education and Awareness Act of 2005 or Johanna's Law - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to carry out a national campaign to increase the awareness and knowledge of women with respect to gynecologic cancers, which shall include: (1) maintaining a supply of written materials to provide information to the public on gynecologic cancers; and (2) developing and placing public service announcements to encourage women to discuss their risks of gynecologic cancers with their physicians. Requires the Secretary to award grants to nonprofit private entities to test different outreach and education strategies for increasing such awareness among women and health professionals.

Climate Stewardship and Innovation Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 26 May 2005

Climate Stewardship and Innovation Act of 2005 - Provides for federal climate change research initiatives and related activities, including: (1) National Science Foundation fellowships for graduate studies in climate change; (2) a report on the impact of the Kyoto Protocol on the United States; (3) abrupt climate change research; (4) research on the impact of climate change on low-income populations worldwide; and (5) a Climate Change Education and Outreach Initiative Program for agricultural organizations and individual farmers. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish and maintain the National Greenhouse Gas Database to collect, verify, and analyze information on greenhouse gas emissions. Establishes a program for market-driven reduction of greenhouse gases (GHGs) through the use of tradeable allowances. Requires certain covered entities that own or control a source of GHG emissions in the electric power, industrial, and commercial sectors of the U.S. economy to submit to the Administrator, beginning in 2010, one tradeable allowance for every metric ton of GHGs emitted. Allows tradeable allowances to be sold, exchanged, purchased, retired, or otherwise used as permitted by this Act. Establishes the Climate Change Credit Corporation to manage tradeable allowances. Renames the Technology Administration in the Department of Commerce as the Innovation Administration. Assigns innovation-related duties to the Secretary of Commerce relating to climate change. Provides for various climate change innovation initiatives, including: (1) technology transfer opportunities; (2) climate innovation partnerships; (3) a climate change science and technology enhancement program for math and science teachers; (4) agricultural sequestration; and (5) energy efficiency audits. Establishes a loan guarantee and technology challenge program to encourage technological innovation for reducing GHGs.

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that the President should designate the week beginning September 11, 2005, as "National Historically Black Colleges and Universities Week".

United States · United States Congress · 26 May 2005

Expresses the sense of the Senate that the President should designate the week beginning September 11, 2005, as National Historically Black Colleges and Universities Week.

Keeping Our Promises to America's Children Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 26 May 2005

Keeping Our Promises to America's Children Act of 2005 - Provides a moratorium on compliance with certain requirements for adequate yearly progress under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 as amended by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (ESEA), for any fiscal year in which amounts appropriated are less than those authorized for the applicable program, project, or activity under ESEA title I (Improving the Academic Achievement of the Disadvantaged) part A (Improving Basic Programs Operated by Local Educational Agencies) (I-A). Authorizes state or local educational agencies receiving I-A funds to observe such moratorium. Directs the Secretary of Education to ensure that otherwise applicable negative consequences shall not apply to such recipients because of such action.

Salt Cedar and Russian Olive Control Demonstration Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 May 2005

Salt Cedar and Russian Olive Control Demonstration Act - Directs the Secretary of the Interior (the Secretary), acting through the Commissioner of Reclamation and the Director of the U.S. Geological Survey, to carry out a salt cedar (Tamarix spp) and Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia) assessment and demonstration program to: (1) assess the extent of the infestation by salt cedar and Russian olive trees in the western United States; (2) demonstrate strategic solutions for the long-term management of such trees and the reestablishment of native vegetation; and (3) assess economic means to dispose of biomass created as a result of removal of those trees. Directs the Secretary and the Secretary of Agriculture to enter into a memorandum of understanding for the administration of such program. Requires the Secretary to: (1) complete an assessment of the extent of the infestation on public and private land; (2) identify and document long-term management and funding strategies that could be implemented by federal, state, and private land managers in addressing the infestation and that should be tested as components of specified demonstration projects; and (3) establish a program that selects and funds at least five projects proposed by and implemented in collaboration with federal agencies, state and local governments, national laboratories, Indian tribes, institutions of higher education, individuals, organizations, or soil and water conservation districts to demonstrate and evaluate the most effective methods of controlling salt cedar and Russian olive trees. Directs the Secretary to complete an analysis of economic means to use or dispose of biomass created by salt cedar and Russian olive tree removal.

College Affordability and Accountability Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 May 2005

College Affordability and Accountability Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) to require state maintenance of effort in providing funding to public institutions of higher education (IHEs). Requires all IHEs to plan, engage in, and report on cost containment strategies. Authorizes the Secretary of Education to conduct research on such strategies. Directs the Secretary to publish an annual report on college affordability and to disseminate certain data, including the net price tuition index (NTPI) for each IHE through a college price calculator on an enhanced college opportunities on line (COOL) website. Establishes a Pell Plus program to provide an increased award to each Pell Grant recipient at IHEs that maintain specified types of: (1) low tuition; (2) guaranteed tuition; or (3) affordable tuition. Establishes a program of grants for cooperative education for IHEs that restrain tuition increases. Authorizes grants and contracts for cooperative education demonstration and innovation projects, training and resource centers, and research. Directs the Secretary to commission the National Research Council to study the viability of developing and implementing standards in environmental, health, and safety areas to provide for differential regulation of: (1) industrial laboratories and facilities; and (2) research and teaching laboratories. Authorizes the Secretary to select IHEs, IHE systems, or IHE consortia for voluntary participation in an articulation agreement demonstration program to specify the acceptability of courses in transfer toward meeting specific degree requirements, as a means to lower tuition prices for students. Directs the Advisory Committee on Student Financial Assistance to convene a task force of experts to: (1) determine the best methods to finance higher education in the long-term; (2) help public institutions utilize long-term budgeting; (3) review the trends of financing of higher education; and (4) define the role played by the states, the federal government, families, and outside entities in financing higher education, and determine the best methods to strengthen this partnership.

Teachers Professional Development Institutes Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 May 2005

Teachers Professional Development Institutes Act - Amends the the Higher Education Act of 1965 to authorize the Secretary of Education to: (1) award grants to Teachers Professional Development Institutes (TPDIs) to encourage the establishment and operation of TPDIs; and (2) provide technical assistance, either directly or through existing TPDIs, to assist local educational agencies and institutions of higher education in preparing to establish and in operating TPDIs. Sets forth selection criteria, including consideration of the extent to which the proposed TPDI will serve a community with a significant low-income population.

Office of Correctional Public Health Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 26 May 2005

Office of Correctional Public Health Act of 2005 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to establish the Office of Correctional Public Health (OCPH) within the Office of Public Health and Science. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of OCPH, to carry out public health activities for individuals who are employees in federal, state, or local penal or correctional institutions or who are incarcerated in such institutions. Includes among such activities disease prevention, health promotion, service delivery, research, and health professions education activities. Authorizes the Secretary to make matching grants to states to provide for correctional populations screenings, immunizations, and treatment for hepatitis A, B, and C. Requires a portion of each grant to be expended to carry out such activities at penal or correctional facilities that are not facilities in which individuals serve terms of imprisonment, including remand facilities.

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the determination and deduction of interest on qualified education loans.

United States · United States Congress · 26 May 2005

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to determine interest amounts on education loans initially disbursed after December 31, 2004, and treat such interest, with certain adjustments and restrictions, as tax deductible.

United States-People's Republic of China Cultural Engagement Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2005

United States-People's Republic of China Cultural Engagement Act - Amends the the Higher Education Act of 1965 to establish grants for Chinese language and cultural studies. Provides funding (including grants) for: (1) elementary, secondary, and higher education Chinese language, art, and cultural studies; (2) Asian business education center programs; (3) educational and governmental exchange programs; and (4) assistance to nongovernmental organizations that facilitate exchanges. Expresses the sense of Congress that the President should negotiate for award of approved destination status to the United States in a manner consistent with U.S. laws. Authorizes: (1) establishment of two additional consulates in the People's Republic of China (PRC); and (2) an increase the number of individuals who provide visa information to persons in the PRC. Provides for feasibility studies regarding: (1) expedited visa processing for scientists; and (2) numerical limitation exemption for H-1B (specialty occupations) visas. Revises J (exchange visitors) visa provisions to provide for: (1) eligible program designation; and (2) inclusion of secondary exchange students from the PRC. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to assign 35 additional Commercial Service employees to the PRC. Provides grants to States for export assistance and outreach to U.S. businesses in the PRC. Authorizes the Small Business Administration (SBA) to facilitate the hiring of an additional export development specialist in each of the Lead Small Business Development Centers to carry out export promotion and outreach services with respect to the PRC. Establishes the United States-People's Republic of China Engagement Strategy Council.

Campus Fire Safety Right-to-Know Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2005

Campus Fire Safety Right-to-Know Act of 2005 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to require each institution participating in any program under the Act to provide to all current students and employees, and to any applicant for enrollment or employment upon request, an annual fire safety report containing specified information about the campus fire safety practices and standards of that institution. Requires such institutions to: (1) record all on-campus fires, including the nature, date, time, and general location of each fire and all false fire alarms; and (2) open such information to public inspection. Requires the institutions to report on such information annually to the campus community in a manner that will aid the prevention of similar occurrences. Requires the institutions to request their fraternities and sororities to collect and report such information for each building and property they own or control. Requires the Secretary of Education to report to Congress on fire safety systems in college and university facilities and on fire safety standards in all such facilities.

College 529 InvEST Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 24 May 2005

College 529 InvEST Act of 2005 - Makes permanent the provision relating to qualified tuition programs enacted by the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001 (EGTRRA).

Foreign Relations Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007

United States · United States Congress · 24 May 2005

Foreign Relations Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007 - Authorizes appropriations to the Department of State for FY 2006 and 2007 for the administration of foreign affairs, international organizations and conferences, certain international commissions, and migration and refugee assistance. Amends federal criminal law to prescribe criminal penalties for interfering with the protective functions of special agents of the Department of State and the Foreign Service. Amends specified Foreign Service and State Department law regarding: (1) retention of medical reimbursements; (2) the Buying Power Maintenance account; (3) no obligation of the Secretary of State to convene an Accountability Review Board pertaining to certain destructive incidents at U.S. government missions in Afghanistan and Iraq; and (4) repeal of the prohibition against the eligibility of persons doing business with Libya for contracts under the Omnibus Diplomatic Security and Antiterrorism Act of 1986. Revises requirements for the organization and personnel of the Department of State, including: (1) education allowances, official residence expenses, increased limits applicable to post differentials and danger pay allowances, and an overseas equalization and comparability pay adjustment; (2) home leave after 12 (currently 18) months of continuous foreign service; (3) a Fellowship of Hope Program; (4) suspension without pay of a foreign service member when reasonable cause exists to believe the member has committed a crime liable to imprisonment; (5) death gratuity for the surviving dependents of a Foreign Service employee; (6) repeal of the recertification requirement for members of the Senior Foreign Service; and (7) limited appointments in the Foreign Service. Expresses congressional support for proposed changes to the career development program for members of the Senior Foreign Service. Urges the Secretary of State to make best efforts to establish U.S. consular posts in Pusan, South Korea, and Hat Yai, Thailand. Authorizes the Secretary to provide for U.S. participation in the Regional Emerging Disease Intervention (REDI) Center in Singapore. Extends the authorization of appropriations for the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom. Repeals the mandate that the United States retain ownership of the Palazzo Corpi building in Istanbul, Turkey, where the International Center for Middle Eastern-Western Dialogue is located. International Broadcasting Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007 - Amends the United States International Broadcasting Act of 1994 to make annual grants available to the Middle East Broadcasting Networks. Makes broadcasting to Cuba independent of the Voice of America, and allows such broadcasts to use, under leasing agreements, the Amplitude Modulation (AM) band (currently prohibited), the Frequency Modulation (FM) band, and the Short-wave (SW) band. Establishes permanent authority for Radio Free Asia. Authorizes the Broadcasting Board of Governors to provide for payment of school expenses for dependents of broadcasting personnel stationed in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Declares statements of policy relating to democracy in Iran, the dual gateway policy of the Government of Ireland, and a Trans-Sahara Counter Terrorism Initiative. Requires certain reports on Haiti, protection of refugees from North Korea, U.S. actions to encourage respect for human rights, services for children with autism at overseas missions, Internet jamming, and Department of State employment composition. Declares the sense of Congress on Korean Fulbright programs and the location of international institutions in Africa. Prohibits State Department participation in commemorations relating to leaders of Imperial Japan connected to the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.

Reduced Asthma Through Air Quality Improvement Act

United States · United States Congress · 24 May 2005

Reduced Asthma Through Air Quality Improvement Act - Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Director of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), and the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish programs to improve indoor air quality in schools and in buildings where there are private or public sector employees. Requires EPA to: (1) enter into an agreement with nongovernmental organizations to establish a permanent program to provide information to school administrators on methods of improving indoor air quality; or (2) publish notice of such an existing program or combination of programs. Requires NIOSH to implement a Building Health Assessment Program to provide building assessments, upon request, to employers and employees on measures to reduce significant indoor air health risks. Requires HHS to establish a grant program to assist schools and employers, respectively, to implement such indoor air quality recommendations from EPA and NIOSH.

To amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to authorize grants for institutions of higher education serving Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.

United States · United States Congress · 24 May 2005

Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 title III part A (Strengthening Institutions) to direct the Secretary of Education to provide grants and related assistance to certain institutions of higher education for activities to improve their capacity to serve students who are Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. Gives priority to eligible institutions with a significant percentage of enrollment made up of such students who are low-income individuals.

No Child Left Behind Improvement Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 24 May 2005

No Child Left Behind Improvement Act of 2005 - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, as amended by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, to revise accountability requirements of title I part A assistance for basic programs operated by local educational agencies to improve the academic achievement of the disadvantaged. Revises such requirements relating to: (1) qualifications of middle school teachers and of special education and corrections education teachers; (2) adequate yearly progress (AYP) standards for students with disabilities and for students with limited English proficiency; (3) longitudinal measurement of AYP; and (4) percentage of students taking assessments.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives supporting the establishment of September as Campus Fire Safety Month, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 24 May 2005

Supports the establishment of September as Campus Fire Safety Month. Encourages administrators and municipalities across the country to: (1) provide educational programs to all students during September and throughout the school year; (2) evaluate the level of fire safety being provided in both on- and off-campus student housing; and (3) take the necessary steps to ensure fire-safe living environments through fire safety education, installation of fire suppression and detection systems, and the development and enforcement of applicable codes relating to fire safety.

Recognizing the achievements and contributions of "Teenangels" and WiredSafety/WiredKids Executive Director Parry Aftab, in addressing the growing problem of cyberbullying in the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 24 May 2005

Commends Dr. Parry Aftab of WiredSafety/WiredKids and the "Teenangels" and "Tweenangels" for their commitment and efforts to educate students, parents, and the public on the dangers of cyberbullying (threatening, insulting, intimidating, and etc. another through electronic means) and on positive alternatives to cyberbullying. Supports the "Teenangels" education and presentation model, which teaches students, teachers, and the community to avoid and combat cyberbullying. Encourages every U.S. school district and community to establish "Teenangels" Chapters to educate students about Internet safety and the dangers of cyberbullying.

Tom Luce, of Texas, to be Assistant Secretary for Planning, Evaluation, and Policy Development, Department of Education, vice Bruno Victor Manno, resigned.

United States · United States Senate · 23 May 2005

Student Loan Abuse Prevention Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 23 May 2005

Student Loan Abuse Prevention Act of 2005 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 as amended by the Taxpayer-Teacher Protection Act of 2004 (HEA) to reduce special allowance payments to holders of student loans by making permanent the ending of a 9.5% minimum guaranteed rate of return to such holders. Directs the Secretary of Education to give incentives, in the form of certain reductions in principal or interest rate, to borrowers to consolidate any current loans for which the holder is entitled to a special allowance that ensures such a 9.5 rate of return, provided such an incentive does not increase the cost of such loan to the federal government. Increases to $23,000 the maximum amount of student loan forgiveness under the Federal Family Education Loan and the Federal Direct Student Loan programs for certain eligible teachers of: (1) mathematics or science in secondary schools; and (2) special education in elementary and secondary schools. Directs the Secretary to use funds available from reduced expenditures resulting from this Act's reduction of special allowances to loan holders, as follows: (1) first, for the student loan cancellation and forgiveness programs for teachers under HEA as amended by this Act; and (2) then, the remainder for payments to nonprofit lenders meeting certain criteria and using such payments to confer grant or scholarship benefits on students eligible for Federal Pell Grants.

International and Foreign Language Studies Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 23 May 2005

International and Foreign Language Studies Act of 2005 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) to extend the authorization of appropriations for international education programs under title VI: (1) part A, international and foreign language studies; (2) part B, business and international education; and (3) part C, Institute for International Public Policy (IIPP). Authorizes the Secretary of Education to use up to 1% of title VI funds for program evaluation, outreach, and information dissemination. Revises VI-A to: (1) include support for instructors of less commonly taught languages among activities of national language and area centers and programs; (2) make undergraduate students eligible for fellowships for foreign language and area or international studies (in addition to graduate students under current law); (3) allow a portion of funds for undergraduate international studies and foreign language programs to be used for subgrants to undergraduate students for educational programs abroad that promote foreign language literacy and cultural knowledge, and are closely linked to grant program goals; (4) authorize the Secretary of Education to support data collection, analysis, and dissemination that helps achieve VI-A purposes; and (5) add to authorized uses of funds for technological innovation and cooperation for foreign information access. Revises VI-C to authorize the IIPP to provide summer stipends and Ralph Bunche scholarships for needy students to participate in IIPP programs. Authorizes: (1) waiver of an eligible recipient's match requirement for a professional development program; (2) broader institutional development; (3) advanced degrees in international relations; and (4) biennial reports.

Head Start Improvements for School Readiness Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 May 2005

Head Start Improvements for School Readiness Act - Amends the Head Start Act to revise and reauthorize Head Start programs. Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to provide financial assistance to Head Start agencies for five-year periods. Extends the authorization of appropriations for Head Start programs through FY 2010. Revises authorized uses of quality improvement funds to include outreach to homeless families, migrant and seasonal farmworker families, and families with children with a limited English proficiency. Directs the Secretary (who is currently authorized) to award collaboration grants for Head Start and other related-agencies within states. Directs the Secretary to issue regulations to require Head Start agencies to ensure that eligible homeless children are identified and prioritized for enrollment. Revises requirements for designation as a Head Start agency. Requires each agency to establish a governing body. Revises the additional educational performance standards included as program quality standards, and performance measures for program monitoring. Requires Head Start agencies to report to the Secretary monthly on enrollment in their Head Start programs. Directs the Secretary to develop plans to reduce or eliminate under-enrollment in program with an enrollment less than 95% of its funded enrollment. Requires each agency to enroll 100% of its funded enrollment, and to maintain an active waiting list and outreach to the community and underserved populations. Establishes a Centers of Excellence in Early Childhood program. Requires Head Start alignment with K-12 education. Changes the Head Start family income eligibility requirement from below the poverty line to below 130 percent of the poverty line. Exempts military housing from being counted as family income in determining a child's eligibility to enroll in a Head Start program. Revises Early Head Start programs, including requiring center-based staff to have specified qualifications. Requires each Head Start agency to ensure that all of its teachers receive ongoing training in language and emergent literacy. Establishes a Tribal Colleges and Universities Head Start Partnership program. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish an independent panel of experts to study research on early childhood; and (2) study the status of children with limited English proficiency and their families in Head Start and Early Head Start programs. Requires Head Start agencies to obtain written parental consent before administering to a child, or referring a child for, a non-emergency intrusive physical examination.

Residents and Public Interest Attorneys Deferrment Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 May 2005

Residents and Public Interest Attorneys Deferment Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to provide, under the Federal Family Education Loan, Federal Direct Student Loan, and Perkins Loan programs, student loan repayment deferment for borrowers: (1) during a period of medical or dental internship or residency; (2) up to two years of serving in a public service fellowship with any public entity, such as service under certain provisions of the National and Community Service Act of 1990; or (3) up to two years of full-time employment as a public defender or prosecutor.

Healthcare Student Financial Assistance Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 May 2005

Healthcare Student Financial Assistance Act - Directs the Secretary of Education to make certain revisions to specified regulations for student loan repayment deferment, under the Federal Family Education Loan, Federal Direct Student Loan, and Perkins Loan programs, with respect to borrowers who are in postgraduate medical and dental residency and fellowship programs. Amends the the Higher Education Act of 1965 to provide that a specified limitation on students in medical residency programs does not apply to students in dental residency programs under certain student loan deferment provisions.

Responsible Education About Life Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 May 2005

Responsible Education About Life 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.

DECLARATION OF EDUCATION: TOWARD A CULTURE OF ACHIEVEMENT IN D.C. PUBLIC SCHOOLS

United States · United States House of Representatives · 20 May 2005

ROUNDTABLE: HIGHER EDUCATION AND CORPORATE LEADERS: WORKING TOGETHER TO STRENGTHEN AMERICA'S WORKFORCE

United States · United States Senate · 19 May 2005