Education

Emergency Student Loan Market Liquidity Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 April 2008

Emergency Student Loan Market Liquidity Act - Amends the Federal Home Loan Bank Act to allow federal home loan banks to: (1) invest surplus funds in student loan securities; (2) accept student loans and student loan-related securities as collateral; and (3) provide secured long-term advances to member banks so that they can finance the origination of student loans or purchase or finance student loan-related securities. Limits the application of this Act to Federal Family Education Loans (FFELs) made under the Higher Education Act of 1965. Makes the banks' authority effective for investments and advances made between February 1, 2008, and two years after this Act's enactment.

Schools Empowered to Respond Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 April 2008

Schools Empowered to Respond Act - Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to establish within the Office of the Secretary of Homeland Security an Office of National School Preparedness and Response. Gives the Director of that office primary responsibility within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for the support of statewide, regional, and national efforts to enhance the collective response to acts of terrorism and other disasters at schools, including by: (1) serving as the principal advisor to the Secretary on the needs of schools and children in response to emergency situations; (2) ensuring that DHS policies, programs, and activities appropriately consider the needs of and impact upon schools and children; (3) creating an Internet clearinghouse that identifies resources available to schools; and (4) ensuring that education officials have input with the Government Coordinating Council. Permits the use of funds under the Urban Area Security Initiative and State Homeland Security Grant Program to enhance school preparedness. Directs the Secretary to condition the receipt of grants on a state including in each state homeland security decision-making body that has authority to determine how grants will be used a representative selected by the state education authority who has an understanding of the emergency planning needs of local schools. Expresses the sense of Congress: (1) promoting the adoption of voluntary national standards in schools to prepare for and enable a collective response to acts of terrorism and other disasters; and (2) regarding what plans for responding should be included to ensure school participation in such collective response.

Pathways Advancing Career Training Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 April 2008

Pathways Advancing Career Training Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to make formula matching grants to states with approved plans for programs that provide preparatory and supportive services, information on career and technical education, training, pre-apprenticeship assistance, and related services, including tuition assistance, to: (1) single parents and displaced homemakers; and (2) individuals pursuing nontraditional training and employment in fields where individuals from one gender compose less than 25% of workers. Requires the Secretary, through the award of competitive grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements with an independent institution of higher education, public or private nonprofit organization, or state agency, to conduct at least one multi-site evaluation of such programs. Requires eligible state agencies to administer such programs, make competitive subgrants to eligible entities, and identify certain core indicators of performance.

Supporting the goals and ideals of the Year of the American Veteran.

United States · United States Congress · 10 April 2008

Encourages the American people to recognize and acknowledge the sacrifices the American veteran demonstrates in the name of freedom. Encourages the education of the American people on the many contributions of the American veteran to American society. Supports the goals and ideals of the Year of the American Veteran.

Honoring and commending The George Washington University in Washington, D.C., for hosting the 2008 Science Olympiad National Tournament.

United States · United States Congress · 10 April 2008

Commends The George Washington University for hosting the 2008 Science Olympiad National Tournament for teams of students from middle schools and high schools across the nation.

Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 9 April 2008

Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008 - Amends federal veterans' benefits provisions to entitle to educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill individuals in certain length-of-service categories who, commencing on or after September 11, 2001, serve on active duty in the Armed Forces. Establishes the duration of such assistance (in most cases 36 months) and assistance amounts. Requires programs of education pursued with such assistance to be approved by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Allows for the pursuit of an approved program of education while on active duty. Allows, under such assistance, for the pursuit of: (1) programs on less than a half-time basis; (2) apprenticeship or other on-job training; (3) correspondence courses; (4) flight training; (5) tutorial assistance; and (6) licensure and certification tests. Makes individuals entitled to assistance under this Act also eligible for supplemental educational assistance for additional active duty service. Requires the Secretary to carry out a program, to be known as the "Yellow Ribbon G.I. Education Enhancement Program," under which colleges and universities may enter into an agreement with the Secretary to cover, for certain individuals, a portion of established charges not otherwise covered and match contributions toward such costs. Requires educational assistance under this Act to be used within 15 years of the individual's discharge or release from active duty (with exceptions). Allows individuals currently under the Montgomery GI Bill educational assistance program to elect to participate in the post-9/11 educational assistance program with respect to any unused entitlement.

Virginia Tech Victims Campus Emergency Response Policy and Notification Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 April 2008

Virginia Tech Victims Campus Emergency Response Policy and Notification Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to require schools participating in title IV student assistance programs to include current campus policies regarding immediate emergency response and evacuation procedures in their required annual security reports to current and prospective students and staff. Requires such procedures to include: (1) notifying students and staff within 30 minutes after confirmation that an emergency exists on campus or public property; and (2) testing such procedures annually.

Emergency Student Loan Market Liquidity Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 April 2008

Emergency Student Loan Market Liquidity Act - Amends the Federal Home Loan Bank Act to allow federal home loan banks to: (1) invest surplus funds in student loan securities; (2) accept student loans and student loan-related securities as collateral; and (3) provide secured long-term advances to member banks so that they can finance the origination of student loans or purchase or finance student loan-related securities. Limits the application of this Act to Federal Family Education Loans (FFELs) made under the Higher Education Act of 1965. Makes the banks' authority effective for investments and advances made between February 1, 2008, and two years after this Act's enactment.

Ensuring Continued Access to Student Loans Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 8 April 2008

Ensuring Continued Access to Student Loans Act of 2008 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to increase the maximum annual and aggregate unsubsidized Stafford loan amounts that may be provided to undergraduate and graduate students under the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) program. Gives parent borrowers of PLUS FFELs the option to defer loan principal repayment for up to six months after the students for whom such loans are borrowed cease to carry at least one-half the normal full-time academic workload. Authorizes lenders, for loans made from July 2008 through June 2009, to determine that borrowers of PLUS loans under the FFEL or Direct Loan programs who are up to 180 days delinquent on their home mortgages meet a specified extenuating circumstances requirement which makes them eligible for such loans despite having an adverse credit history. Includes parent borrowers in the FFEL lender-of-last-resort program for borrowers otherwise unable to obtain such loans. Allows institutions of higher education (IHEs) to participate in such program, thereby requiring guaranty agencies serving as lenders-of-last-resort to make FFELs to student and parent borrowers of such IHEs regardless of their ability to otherwise obtain such loans. Authorizes the Secretary of Education to advance needed funds to guaranty agencies acting as lenders-of-last-resort in such situations. Gives the Secretary the authority, until July 2009, to purchase FFELs from lenders upon the determination that there is an inadequate availability of loan capital to meet the demand for such loans. Prohibits such loan purchases from resulting in any cost to the federal government. Expresses the sense of Congress that the federal financial institutions should consider using available authorities in a timely manner, if needed, to enhance student and family access to federal student loans in a manner that results in no increased costs to taxpayers.

Recognizing and commending the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater for 50 years of service as a vital American cultural ambassador to the world.

United States · United States Congress · 8 April 2008

Recognizes and commends the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater for 50 years of service as a cultural ambassador of the United States to the world, during which it has provided world-class American modern dance to people across the globe. Recognizes that: (1) Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater has been a true pioneer in the world of dance by establishing an extended cultural community which provides dance performances, training, and community programs for all people while using the beauty and humanity of African-American heritage and other cultures to unite people; and (2) the Ailey II company, the Ailey School, and the extensive and innovative Arts in Education and Community Programs train future generations of dancers and choreographers while exposing young people to the arts.

Economic Recovery in Health Care Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 3 April 2008

Economic Recovery in Health Care Act of 2008 - Prohibits the Secretary of Health and Human Services from finalizing, implementing, enforcing, or otherwise taking any action to give effect prior to April 1, 2009, to the following administrative actions: (1) the proposed and final rule (with certain exceptions) entitled "Medicaid Program; Health-Care Related Taxes," published, respectively, on March 23, 2007, and on February 22, 2008; (2) the proposed rule entitled "Medicaid Program; Graduate Medical Education," published on May 23, 2007; (3) the State Health Official Letter 07-001, dated August 17, 2007, issued by the Director of the Center for Medicaid and State Operations in the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services regarding certain requirements under the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) relating to the prevention of the substitution of health benefits coverage for children and the enforcement of medical support orders; (4) the proposed rule entitled "Medicaid Program; Clarification of Outpatient Clinic and Hospital Facility Services definition and Upper Payment Limit," published on September 28, 2007; (5) the interim final rule entitled "Medicaid Program; Optional State Plan Case Management Services," published on December 4, 2007; and (6) the proposed rule entitled "Revisions to Procedures for the Departmental Appeals Board and Other Departmental Hearings," published on December 28, 2007. Amends the U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans' Care, Katrina Recovery, and Iraq Accountability Appropriations Act of 2007 to extend through April 1, 2009, the moratorium relating to the cost limit for providers operated by units of government and provisions to ensure the integrity of the federal-state financial partnership. Amends the Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP Extension Act of 2007 to extend through April 1, 2009, the moratorium relating to rehabilitation services, school-based administration, and school-based transportation. Provides for state fiscal relief through a temporary increase of Medicaid federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP) and targeted grants to Round One (FY2008 and FY2009) and Round Two (FY2009 only) Qualifying States. Makes appropriations for related payments to such states.

Strengthening Student Aid for All Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 April 2008

Strengthening Student Aid for All Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to increase the maximum annual and aggregate unsubsidized Stafford loan amounts that may be provided to undergraduate students under the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) program. Allows parents of dependent students to defer PLUS FFEL principal repayment until such students cease to be enrolled as undergraduates on at least a half-time basis. Directs the Secretary of Education to act as the secondary market of last resort for FFELs, until July 2009, by purchasing such loans from lenders who cannot sell them in the private financial markets and thereby raise the capital needed to make new loans. Permits the Secretary to act in such capacity after such date if economic conditions threaten timely, uninterrupted access to student loans. Changes title IV need analyses by allowing the calculation of a negative expected family contribution. Increases the Pell Grant available to students whose expected family contribution is a negative number. Allows institutions of higher education (IHEs) to participate in the FFEL lender-of-last-resort program, thereby requiring guaranty agencies serving as lenders of last resort to make FFELs to students of such IHEs regardless of their ability to otherwise obtain such loans. Authorizes the Secretary to advance needed funds to guaranty agencies acting as lenders of last resort in such situations.

National Park Centennial Fund Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 April 2008

National Park Centennial Fund Act - Establishes a revolving fund in the Treasury to be known as the National Park Centennial Fund, into which, not later than 30 days after enactment of this Act, on October 1, 2008, and each October 1 thereafter through 2016, there shall be transferred, out of any funds in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, $100 million to carry out this Act. Requires the annual budget submission of the President for the Department of the Interior to include a list of National Park Centennial proposals. Requires the list to include projects under the following initiatives: (1) an Education in Parks Centennial Initiative; (2) a Diversity in Parks Centennial Initiative; (3) a Supporting Park Professionals Centennial Initiative; (4) an Environmental Leadership Centennial Initiative; (5) a Natural Resource Protection Centennial Initiative; (6) a Cultural Resource Protection Centennial Initiative; and (7) a Visitor Enjoyment and Health Centennial Initiative. Sets forth requirements for: (1) the deposit of revenues in excess of specified amounts received from offshore oil and gas activities in the Gulf of Mexico into the Fund; and (2) the establishment of special rate postage stamps as a means through which the public can contribute to the Fund. Treats the amounts received pursuant to such requirements as offsetting receipts for this Act's purposes. Terminates the authority provided for such offsets on September 30, 2017.

Advance Directive Promotion Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 3 April 2008

Advance Directive Promotion Act of 2008 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) and XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to require a service provider, Medicare+Choice organization, or prepaid or eligible organization to include the content of an advanced directive in a prominent part of an individual's current medical record. Requires a service provider to give effect to a valid advance directive executed outside the state in which such directive is presented to the same extent as such provider would give effect to a valid advance directive executed under the law of the state in which it is presented. Requires an initial preventative physical examination to include an end-of-life planning consultation. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, to operate a clearinghouse and a 24-hour toll free telephone hotline in order to provide consumer information about advance directives, end-of-life decisionmaking, and available end-of-life and hospice care services. Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Secretary, directly or through grants to public or nonprofit private entities, to conduct a national public education campaign to increase awareness of advance directive planning.

Calling upon the courts to uphold the fundamental and constitutional right of parents to direct the upbringing and education of their children.

United States · United States Congress · 3 April 2008

Commends the Court of Appeal for the Second Appellate District in Los Angeles, California, for allowing a rehearing of the decision in the In re Rachel L. case, requiring parents to hold a teaching license in order to legally homeschool their children. Calls upon the court to uphold the U.S. Supreme Court's opinion that parents have a fundamental and constitutional right to direct the upbringing and education of their children.

Supporting the goals and ideals of Financial Literacy Month 2008, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 3 April 2008

Supports the goals and ideals of Financial Literacy Month (April 2008), including raising public awareness about financial education. Recognizes the importance of managing personal finances, increasing personal savings, and reducing indebtedness in the United States.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that a Global Marshall Plan holds the potential to demonstrate the commitment of the United States to peace and prosperity.

United States · United States Congress · 3 April 2008

Expresses the sense of the United States House of Representatives that: (1) the elimination of poverty and hunger, assurance of basic health and education for all, and resolution of environmental crises remain key foreign policy goals for the United States; and (2) a Global Marshall Plan holds potentially transformative power to foreign development assistance that would demonstrate U.S. commitment to peace and prosperity to people who may have doubted the dedication of the United States to those ideals.

Global Autism Assistance Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 2 April 2008

Global Autism Assistance Act of 2008 - Directs the Administrator for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to establish and administer a health and education grant program (Global Autism Assistance Program) to: (1) support activities by nongovernmental organizations and other service providers, including advocacy groups, focused on autism in developing countries; and (2) establish a "teach the teachers" program to train health and education professionals working with autistic children in developing countries.

Veterans Education Improvement Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 2 April 2008

Veterans Education Improvement Act of 2008 - Amends the Montgomery GI Bill educational assistance program for veterans to: (1) increase the rates of basic educational assistance and the time limit for entitlement to and use of such assistance; (2) provide a stipend for individuals using such assistance to pursue a program of education at an institution of higher learning; (3) extend the period for the collection of a fee for the use of such assistance; (4) authorize the use of such assistance for business courses and seminars, courses taken to prepare for licensing or certification tests, and the repayment of federal student loans; (5) allow for withdrawal of the election not to enroll in the program; (6) state that such assistance shall not reduce eligibility for other financial aid; (7) extend the increase in benefits for certain individuals pursuing apprenticeships or on-job training; (8) modify the amount for reimbursement of state and local agencies administering veterans' education benefits; (9) provide educational assistance for veterans discharged under a general discharge; (10) increase the reporting fee payable to educational institutions that enroll veterans receiving assistance; (11) provide additional areas of work-study for veterans; (12) require a five-year pilot program for on-campus work-study positions; (13) increase the number of employees in the Education Service of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA); (14) require an action plan for upgrading VA information technology used in the administration of educational benefits; and (15) modify the advance payment of initial educational assistance or subsistence allowance.

Rural America Communication Expansion for the Future Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 2 April 2008

Rural America Communication Expansion for the Future Act of 2008 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to permit taxpayers in rural or underserved areas to elect to expense broadband expenditures, including installation and connection costs. Permits mutual or cooperative telephone companies to reduce their unrelated business taxable income in any year by the amount of their broadband expenditures. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to designate census tracts identifying rural and underserved areas. Prohibits federal or state agencies from adopting regulations and ratemaking procedures that would eliminate or reduce the broadband expense deduction provided by this Act. Allows a business-related tax credit for providing broadband services to rural or underserved subscribers through the radio transmission of energy. Amends the National Telecommunications and Information Administration Organization Act to establish a grant to a local government with at least one rural or underserved area to establish publicly available broadband networks. Extends funding for: (1) public safety communications interoperability; (2) 911 access; and (3) telehealth programs. Revises provisions relating to rural area loans and loan guarantees regarding access to broadband telecommunications services, including revising the definition of "eligible rural community." Requires designation of a National Center for Rural Telecommunications Assessment. Establishes the Community Connect Grant Program to provide broadband service that fosters economic growth and delivers enhanced educational, health care, and public safety services. Amends the Food, Agriculture, Conservation and Trade Act of 1990 to authorize grants to noncommercial education television broadcast stations that serve rural areas to enhance digital services. Extends the termination date of the authority to guarantee bonds or notes for electrification or telephone purposes.

A resolution designating April 2008 as "Financial Literacy Month".

United States · United States Congress · 1 April 2008

Designates April 2008 as Financial Literacy Month to raise public awareness about the importance of personal financial education in the United States and the serious consequences that may result from a lack of understanding about personal finances.

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009

United States · United States Congress · 31 March 2008

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009 - Authorizes appropriations for the Department of Defense (DOD) for FY2009. Authorizes appropriations to DOD for: (1) procurement, including aircraft, missiles, weapons and tracked combat vehicles, ammunition, shipbuilding and conversion, and other procurement; (2) the Rapid Acquisition Fund; (3) the Joint Improvised Explosive Device Defeat Fund; (4) Defense Production Act purchases; (5) research, development, test, and evaluation; (6) operation and maintenance, including working capital funds, the Defense Health Program, chemical agents and munitions destruction, drug interdiction and counter-drug activities, and the Defense Inspector General; (6) active and reserve military personnel, including end strengths; (7) the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program; (8) chemical demilitarization construction; and (9) Guard and reserve forces facilities. Sets forth provisions or requirements concerning: (1) active and reserve military personnel, including officer and reserve personnel policy; (2) military education and training; (3) military pay and allowances; (4) retired pay and survivor benefits; (5) military health care; (6) acquisition policy and management; (7) DOD organization and management, including the chemical demilitarization program and intelligence-related matters; (8) financial matters, including counter-drug activities and matters related to homeland security; (9) civilian personnel matters; (10) matters relating to foreign nations; (11) matters relating to building partner capabilities to combat international terrorism; and (12) base closure and realignment activities. Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009 - Authorizes appropriations for FY2009 for military construction for the Armed Forces and defense agencies.

Comprehensive Cancer Care Improvement Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 31 March 2008

Comprehensive Cancer Care Improvement Act of 2008 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide for coverage of comprehensive cancer care planning services to provide individuals diagnosed with cancer a plan that details all aspects of the care to be provided. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish standards for such services. Directs the Secretary to conduct a two-year demonstration project under which Medicare payments will be made for comprehensive cancer care symptom management services furnished by an eligible entity in accordance with a described plan. Directs the Secretary to make grants to eligible entities to: (1) establish new, or expand existing, palliative care and symptom management programs for cancer patients; (2) improve the quality of graduate and postgraduate training of physicians, nurses, and other health care providers in palliative care and symptom management for such patients; and (3) improve the quality of continuing professional education provided to qualified individuals regarding palliative care and symptom management for cancer patients. Requires the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to establish a program of grants for research on palliative care, symptom management, communication skills, and other end-of-life topics for such patients.

A resolution recognizing the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater for 50 years of service to the performing arts.

United States · United States Congress · 31 March 2008

Recognizes and commends the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater (AAADT) for 50 years of service as a cultural ambassador of the United States to the world, by bringing world-class American modern dance to people around the globe. Recognizes that: (1) AAADT has been a true pioneer in the world of dance by establishing an extended cultural community that provides dance performances, training, and community programs to all people while using the beauty and humanity of African-American heritage and other cultures to unite people; and (2) the Ailey II company, the Ailey School, and the extensive and innovative Arts in Education and Community Programs of AAADT train future generations of dancers and choreographers while exposing young people to the arts.

Duncan Hunter National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009

United States · United States Congress · 31 March 2008

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009 - Authorizes appropriations for the Department of Defense (DOD) for FY2009. Authorizes appropriations to DOD for: (1) procurement, including for aircraft, missiles, weapons and tracked combat vehicles, ammunition, and shipbuilding and conversion; (2) the Rapid Acquisition Fund; (3) the Joint Improvised Explosive Device Defeat Fund; (4) Defense Production Act purchases; (5) research, development, test, and evaluation; (6) operation and maintenance, including for defense working capital funds, the Defense Health Program, chemical agents and munitions destruction, drug interdiction and counter-drug activities, and the Defense Inspector General; (7) active and reserve military personnel, including end strengths and the Armed Forces Retirement Home; (8) the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program; (9) chemical demilitarization construction; and (10) Guard and reserve forces facilities. Sets forth provisions or requirements concerning: (1) active and reserve military personnel policy; (2) military education and training; (3) military pay and allowances; (4) retired pay and survivor benefits; (5) military health care; (6) acquisition policy and management; (7) DOD organization and management, including the chemical demilitarization program; (8) DOD financial matters, including counter-drug activities and matters relating to homeland security; (9) civilian personnel matters; and (10) matters relating to building partner capabilities to combat international terrorism. Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009 - Authorizes appropriations for FY2009 for military construction for the Armed Forces and defense agencies.

Student Veterans' College Affordability Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 14 March 2008

Student Veterans' College Affordability Act of 2008 - Amends federal veterans' benefits provisions to entitle to educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill certain individuals who serve on active duty in the Armed Forces (including the reserves) on or after September 11, 2001. Establishes the duration of such assistance (in most cases 36 months) and assistance amounts. Requires programs of education pursued with such assistance to be approved by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Allows for the pursuit of an approved program of education while on active duty. Allows, under such assistance, for the pursuit of: (1) programs on less than a half-time basis; (2) apprenticeship or other on-job training; (3) correspondence courses; (4) flight training; (5) tutorial assistance; and (6) licensure and certification tests. Authorizes the provision of supplemental veterans' educational assistance for additional service above the qualifying amount for basic educational assistance. Directs the Secretary to carry out a program under which colleges and universities can voluntarily contribute a portion of the educational assistance costs for veterans attending such college or university, which contributions shall be matched by the Secretary. Terminates the educational assistance authorized under this Act 15 years after the qualifying individual's last discharge or release from active duty. Bars the duplication of educational assistance benefits. Directs the Secretary to inform individuals of their entitlement to assistance provided under this Act. Allows individuals currently under the Montgomery GI Bill educational assistance program to elect to participate in the post-9/11 educational assistance program with respect to any unused entitlement. Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to prohibit educational assistance provided under specified benefit programs for veterans and members of the Selected Reserve from being considered in analyses of their need for assistance under title IV (Student Assistance) of the Act.

To provide public charter school options for those students that attend schools that are in need of improvement and have been identified for restructuring and those schools with a graduation rate of less than 60 percent, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 14 March 2008

Pell Grants for Kids Act of 2008 - Directs the Secretary, subject to advance appropriations, to award competitive grants to states, public chartering agencies, local educational agencies, or tax-exempt organizations to enhance the capacity of public charter schools to serve additional students, particularly those transferring from schools identified as needing restructuring under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 for failing to make adequate yearly progress (AYP) pursuant to state academic performance standards for five consecutive school years. Limits grant use to providing subgrants to public charter schools, covering the administrative expenses of grantees and subgrantees, and enhancing the availability of credit for such schools. Fair Share Act of 2008 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code and title II (Old Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance Benefits) (OASDI) of the Social Security Act to treat certain foreign subsidiaries of U.S. companies performing services under a contract with the U.S. government as U.S. employers for purposes of Social Security and Medicare employment taxes.

Expressing support for designation of April 28, 2008, as "National Healthy Schools Day".

United States · United States Congress · 14 March 2008

Supports the designation of a National Healthy Schools Day.

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

United States · United States House of Representatives · 13 March 2008

MEAL Act

United States · United States Congress · 13 March 2008

Howard M. Metzenbaum Menu Education and Labeling Act or the MEAL Act - Amends the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act to require restaurants that are a part of a chain with 20 or more locations doing business under the same trade name to disclose: (1) in a statement adjacent to each menu item, the number of calories, grams of saturated fat plus trans fat, and milligrams of sodium in a standard food serving; (2) other information designed to enable the public to understand the significance of the nutrition information provided in the context of a total daily diet; (3) that such information shall be provided in writing upon request; and (4) in a statement adjacent to the name of the food on a menu board, the number of calories in a serving of the food. Exempts condiments, items placed on a table or counter for general use, daily specials, temporary menu items, and irregular menu items from these requirements. Requires restaurants that sell self-serve food, such as through salad bars or buffet lines, to place a sign that lists the number of calories per standard serving adjacent to each food offered. Permits retail food establishments to voluntarily provide, and states to require, additional nutritional information. Requires vending machine operators to provide a conspicuous sign disclosing the number of calories in each item of food offered.

Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 13 March 2008

Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to replace the hope and lifetime learning tax credits with a higher education opportunity tax credit. Allows a higher education opportunity tax credit for 100% of qualified tuition and related expenses (including a certain allowance for books) up to $1,000, 50% for such expenses between $1,000 and $3,000, and 20% of such expenses between $3,000 and $5,500. Reduces credit amounts for taxpayers with modified adjusted gross incomes over $70,000 ($140,000 in the case of a joint return). Allows an increased tax credit for students who served certain periods of active duty in the Armed Forces after September 11, 2001. Limits such credit to three eligible students per taxpayer in any taxable year and for four taxable years. Denies such credit to certain part-time students and students convicted of a felony drug offense. Repeals the tax deduction for qualified tuition and related expenses.

Kindergarten Plus Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 13 March 2008

Kindergarten Plus Act of 2008 - Authorizes the Secretary of Education to award competitive grants to states to provide Kindergarten Plus (K+) programs of voluntary full days of kindergarten during the summer before and the summer after their traditional kindergarten school year. Directs the Secretary to ensure, to the extent possible, that each grant is of sufficient size to enable the state to provide K+ to all eligible students served by the local educational agencies (LEAs) within the state with the highest concentrations of eligible students. Makes children eligible to participate in such programs if they are: (1) five-years old or will be eligible to attend kindergarten at the beginning of the next school year; (2) from a family with an income at or below 185% of the poverty line; and (3) not already served by a high-quality program in the summer before or the summer after the child enters kindergarten. Requires states, in awarding subgrants, to give priority to LEAs that: (1) serve the greatest number or percentage of eligible students; and (2) propose to reduce class size and student-to-teacher ratios in K+ significantly below the average ratios in regular kindergarten classes served by the LEA. Provides for direct grants to LEAs whose states do not apply for grants. Sets forth K+ teacher and personnel quality standards.

A bill to provide for judicial discretion regarding suspensions of student eligibility under section 484(r) of the Higher Education Act of 1965.

United States · United States Congress · 13 March 2008

Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to suspend students' eligibility for assistance under title IV for being convicted of committing controlled substance offenses while in receipt of such assistance only if the convicting courts order such suspension. (Currently, a conviction suffices.)

A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to increase the per resident payment floor for direct graduate medical education payments under the Medicare program.

United States · United States Congress · 13 March 2008

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to increase, between FY2008 and FY2011, from 85% to 100% of the locality adjusted national average per resident amount the payment floor for direct graduate medical education (GME) payments under the Medicare program.

Light Bulb Freedom of Choice Act

United States · United States Congress · 13 March 2008

Light Bulb Freedom of Choice Act - Amends the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 to repeal provisions concerning energy efficiency standards for general service incandescent lamps, rough service lamps, other designated lamps, and incandescent reflector lamps unless the Comptroller General has transmitted to Congress within six months after this Act's enactment a report that finds that: (1) consumers will obtain a net savings, in terms of dollars spent on monthly electric bills and expenses for new light fixtures to accommodate the use of the light bulbs required by such provisions, compared to dollars spent before their enactment; (2) the phase-out of incandescent light bulbs required by such provisions will reduce overall carbon dioxide emissions by 20% in the United States by 2025; and (3) such phase-out will not pose any health risks, including risks associated with mercury containment in certain light bulbs, to consumers or the general public, including health risks with respect to hospitals, schools, day care centers, mental health facilities, and nursing homes. Requires the report to include monthly and yearly projections of expenses for electric bills and new light fixtures for January 1, 2012, through December 31, 2017.

National Association of Registered Agents and Brokers Reform Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 13 March 2008

National Association of Registered Agents and Brokers Reform Act of 2008 - Amends the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act to reestablish the National Association of Registered Agents and Brokers as a nonprofit corporation whose purpose is to provide a mechanism through which licensing, continuing education, and other insurance producer qualification requirements and conditions can be adopted and applied on a multi-state basis, while preserving the right of states to: (1) license, supervise, and discipline insurance producers; and (2) prescribe and enforce laws and regulations regarding insurance-related consumer protection and unfair trade practices. Sets forth membership requirements, including a mandatory criminal background check applicable to state-licensed insurance producers. Sets limits upon permissible uses of such criminal background information, and imposes a criminal penalty for improper use. Authorizes the Association to deny membership to a state-licensed insurance producer on the basis of the criminal history information obtained. Establishes classes and categories of membership. Declares that membership authorizes an insurance producer to sell, solicit, negotiate, effect, procure, deliver, renew, continue, or bind insurance in any state for any line or lines of insurance specified in such producer's home state license, and exercise all such incidental powers, including claims adjustments and settlement, risk management, employee benefits advice, retirement planning, and any other insurance-related consulting activities. Preserves state consumer protection and market conduct regulation powers. Grants the Association membership probation, suspension and revocation powers. Requires the Association to establish an office of consumer complaints, including a toll-free telephone number. Creates a Board of Directors to govern and supervise the Association and its members. Preempts specified state actions. Permits judicial review over litigation involving the Association.

Protecting the Medicaid Safety Net Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 13 March 2008

Protecting the Medicaid Safety Net Act of 2008 - Amends the U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans' Care, Katrina Recovery, and Iraq Accountability Appropriations Appropriations Act, 2007 to extend until April 1, 2009, the moratorium on implementation of a proposed rule ("Medicaid Program; Cost Limit for Providers Operated by Units of Government and Provisions To Ensure the Integrity of Federal-State Financial Partnership") relating to the federal-state financial partnerships under titles XIX (Medicaid) and XXI (State Children's Health Insurance Program) (SCHIP) of the Social Security Act. Extends until April 1, 2009, the moratorium on any action by the Secretary of Health and Human Services to restrict Medicaid payments for graduate medical education (GME). Amends the Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP Extension Act of 2007 to extend until April 1, 2009, the moratorium on certain restrictions relating to Medicaid coverage or payment for rehabilitation services or school-based administration and school-based transportation, including specified proposed regulations, if such restrictions are more restrictive in any aspect than those applied to such areas as of July 1, 2007. Establishes additional moratoria until April 1, 2009, on specified regulatory actions concerning Medicaid: (1) treatment of optional case management services; (2) outpatient hospital services; and (3) allowable provider taxes.

Fresh Produce Safety Act

United States · United States Congress · 13 March 2008

Fresh Produce Safety Act - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (the Secretary) to establish standards for good manufacturing practices for the minimal processing of produce, including standards related to sanitation and water. Requires the Secretary to provide for unannounced inspections of processing facilities to determine if produce processed in the facilities is in compliance with the requirements of this Act. Directs the Secretary to establish general standards for good agricultural practices for the production of raw agricultural commodities, including requirements related to manure, animals, water, and environmental conditions. Gives officers and employees duly designated by the Secretary the authority to inspect appropriate facilities to determine compliance with the standards for good agricultural practices. Directs the Commissioner of Food and Drugs to establish and maintain an active surveillance system to assess the frequency and sources of human illness in the United States associated with the consumption of fresh produce. Directs the Commissioner and the Secretary of Agriculture to design and implement a national public education program on food safety relating to produce. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct research to assist in the implementation of this Act and the requirements of the FFDCA that relate to produce. Requires the Secretary to establish procedures for equivalency with foreign countries that intend to export raw agricultural commodities and minimally processed produce to the United States.

New American Innovators Act

United States · United States Congress · 13 March 2008

New American Innovators Act - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to treat as a special immigrant, exempt from numerical limitations, any alien who has received a Ph.D. from a U.S. institution of higher education within the three-year period preceding the alien's petition for special immigrant status.

Innovation Employment Act

United States · United States Congress · 13 March 2008

Innovation Employment Act - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to increase the annual H-1B nonimmigrant visa (specialty occupation) cap from 65,000 to 130,000 starting in FY2008. Provides that for FY2010-FY2015 if the cap has been reached in the prior year the current cap would increase to the greater of 180,000 and the limitation applicable for the previous year increased by 20% percent. Exempts from H-1B caps an alien who has earned a master's or higher degree from a U.S. institution of higher education in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics and with respect to whom the petitioning employer requires such education as a condition for employment. Establishes a 20,000 annual cap for aliens who earned a master's or higher degree from an institution of higher education outside of the United States in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics and with respect to whom the petitioning employer requires such education as a condition for employment. Revises H-1B provisions to: (1) require an employer to provide specified job information in the employment advertisement; (2) authorize the Secretary of Labor to initiate an H-1B employer investigation; (3) increase employer penalties; and (4) provide whistleblower protections.

Securing American Families by Educating and Training Youth (SAFETY) Through Nonviolence Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 13 March 2008

Securing American Families by Educating and Training Youth (SAFETY) Through Nonviolence Act of 2008 - Authorizes the Attorney General to award grants to state or local governments, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and faith-based entities to prevent or alleviate the effects of community violence by educating, mentoring, and counseling youth regarding the principles and application of nonviolence in conflict resolution. Gives grant priority to applicants that agree to use the funds in communities experiencing an increase in violence, but lacking the resources to address violence prevention.

Financial Security Accounts for Individuals with Disabilities Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 2008

Financial Security Accounts for Individuals with Disabilities Act of 2008- Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish tax-exempt financial security accounts for individuals with disabilities to pay certain expenses of such individuals, including expenses for education, medical care, and employment training. Allows individual taxpayers a tax deduction, up to $2,000 per year, for cash contributions to such an account. Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to permit the disregard of financial security accounts for disabled individuals in determining eligibility for Medicaid benefits. Permits the disregard of amounts in such accounts for purposes of determining eligibility for certain means-tested federal programs.

Disability Savings Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 2008

Disability Savings Act of 2008 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a tax exemption for disability savings accounts that have a value of $250,000 or less and are established for beneficiaries under the age of 65 who are blind or disabled. Allows tax-free distributions from such accounts for certain services provided to account beneficiaries, including education services, respite care, clothing, therapy, nutritional management, and funeral and burial expenses. Allows tax credits for contributions of up to $2,000 made to a disability savings account and for certain entities that maintain disability savings accounts. Permits disability savings accounts to be disregarded in determining eligibility for Medicaid benefits and certain other means-tested federal programs. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a program for marketing, outreach, and education related to disability savings accounts.

Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 2008

Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Act of 2008 - Expresses the sense of Congress that the Secretary of Homeland Security should extend and modify the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards. Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to set forth provisions governing the regulation of security practices at chemical facilities. Authorizes the Secretary to designate any chemical substance as a substance of concern and establish and revise the threshold quantity for such substance after considering the potential extent of death, injury, and serious adverse effects that would result from a chemical facility terrorist incident. Directs the Secretary to: (1) maintain a list of covered chemical facilities that are of sufficient security risk; (2) assign each covered facility to one of at least four risk-based tiers; (3) establish standards and procedures for security vulnerability assessments and site security plans; (4) require each facility owner or operator to submit and, once approved, to implement such an assessment and plan; (5) provide high-risk facility owners or operators with threat information; (6) conduct red team exercises to identify vulnerabilities at high-risk facilities; (7) establish risk-based chemical security performance standards for site security plans; (8) conduct security inspections of such facilities; and (9) issue regulations requiring high-risk facilities to subject certain individuals to security background checks. Authorizes the Secretary to bring an action to enforce compliance. Permits states to enforce stricter standards. Establishes in the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) an Office of Chemical Facility Security to carry out the Secretary's responsibilities under this Act. Requires the Secretary to establish: (1) a National Chemical Security Center of Excellence to conduct research and education and to develop technologies to lower the risk of terrorist chemical attack; and (2) a Chemical Facility Security Training Program to enhance facility capabilities to prevent and respond to terrorist incidents.

Assuring and Improving Cancer Treatment Education and Cancer Symptom Management Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 2008

Assuring and Improving Cancer Treatment Education and Cancer Symptom Management Act of 2008 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act, as amended by the Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP Extension Act of 2007, to provide for Medicare coverage of comprehensive cancer patient treatment education services. Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to expand, intensify, and coordinate programs for the conduct and support of research with respect to: (1) improving the treatment and management of symptoms and side effects associated with cancer and cancer treatment; and (2) evaluating the role of nursing interventions in the amelioration of such symptoms and side effects. Requires the NIH Director to make nursing intervention research grants for studying cancer symptom management care and services delivered by registered nurses. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to enter into an arrangement under which the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences shall evaluate and report to the Secretary and Congress on the current state of symptom management, patient treatment education, and supportive care given to people with cancer.

Border Health Security Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 2008

Border Health Security Act of 2008 - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (the Secretary), acting through the U.S. members of the United States-Mexico Border Health Commission, to award grants to states, public institutions of higher education, local and tribal governments, nonprofit health organizations, or community health centers to improve border residents' health. Requires the Secretary to award grants to states, local or tribal governments, or public health entities for bioterrorism preparedness in the border area. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the United States-Mexico Border Health Commission Act. Allows the Secretary to coordinate with the Secretary of Homeland Security in establishing a health alert system that: (1) alerts clinicians and public health officials of emerging disease clusters and syndromes along the border area; and (2) is alerted to signs of health threats or bioterrorism along the border area. Requires the Secretary to enter into a contract with the Institute of Medicine for the study of binational public health infrastructure and health insurance efforts. Amends the United States-Mexico Border Health Commission Act to authorize any member or staff of the Commission to provide advice or recommendations to Congress concerning issues that are considered by the Commission.

A resolution supporting the goals and ideals of designating March 2008 as National Multiple Sclerosis Education and Awareness Month.

United States · United States Congress · 10 March 2008

Expresses support for the goals and ideals of National Multiple Sclerosis Education and Awareness Month and invites states and U.S. territories and possessions to issue proclamations designating March 2008 as that month. Reaffirms the nation's commitment to combating multiple sclerosis by promoting awareness about its causes and risks and by promoting new education programs, supporting research, and expanding access to medical treatment. Recognizes all Americans living with multiple sclerosis, expresses gratitude to their family members and friends, and salutes the health care professionals who provide assistance to those afflicted and the researchers who continue to work to find cures and improve treatments.

GIVE Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 March 2008

Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and Education Act, or the GIVE Act - Amends the National and Community Service Act of 1990 (NSCA) and the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 (DVSA) to revise the programs under such Acts and reauthorize appropriations for such programs through FY2012. Revises under NSCA: (1) the School-Based and Community-Based Service-Learning programs and Higher Education Innovative Programs for Community Service (Learn and Serve programs); (2) National Service Trust programs (AmeriCorps); (3) the National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC); and (4) the Investment for Quality and Innovation program. Eliminates the current Community-Based Learn and Serve programs. Establishes a new Learn and Serve program, Innovative Service-Learning Programs and Research, providing matching grants to: (1) provide community service-learning opportunities to elementary and secondary, college, and graduate students, including summer of service programs; and (2) research and evaluate service-learning. Includes among eligible AmeriCorps programs: (1) an E-corp program increasing community access to technology; (2) a program engaging citizens in public safety, health, and emergency preparedness services; (3) a youth mentoring program; (4) a program to reduce recidivism by re-engaging court-involved youth; and (5) the Education Awards Only program. Establishes an AmeriCorp pilot grant program for state-approved, member-selected, national service positions. Increases National Service educational awards for AmeriCorps, NCCC, and Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA) participants. Includes among needs to be met under the NCCC program, disaster relief, infrastructure improvement, environmental and energy conservation, and urban and rural development. Requires states to develop comprehensive plans for volunteer and paid service by Baby Boomers and older adults. Establishes an Office of Outreach and Recruitment in the Corporation for National and Community Service (Corporation). Requires the Corporation to plan pilot service programs to better utilize and serve veterans and displaced workers. Authorizes the Corporation to provide grants to innovative and model service programs that include service programs for disadvantaged youth. Eliminates federal funding for the Points of Light Foundation. Establishes a new Energy Conservation Corps program awarding: (1) matching grants to states for projects providing youth and young adults with career training in support of energy conservation, infrastructure and transportation improvement, and emergency operations; (2) competitive grants for school-based green Learn and Serve programs; and (3) competitive grants to National Senior Service Corps (Senior Corps) programs involving seniors in energy efficient housing, infrastructure rehabilitation, and environmental and energy conservation education projects. Revises under DVSA: (1) the VISTA program; and (2) the Senior Corps, including the Retired and Senior Volunteer program (RSVP), the Foster Grandparent program, and the Senior Companion program. Gives priority in VISTA participant selection to disadvantaged youth and retired adults of any profession. Authorizes new VISTA grant programs of national significance that provide poor and rural communities with: (1) services reintegrating formerly incarcerated individuals into society; (2) financial literacy and planning; (3) before-school and after-school services; (4) community economic development initiatives; (5) assistance to veterans and their families; and (6) health and wellness services. Eliminates the VISTA Literacy Corps, University Year for VISTA, and Literacy Challenge Grant programs. Raises the minimum and maximum stipend provided to VISTA participants. Prioritizes RSVP projects in specified areas. Makes anyone 55 years of age or older eligible as Senior Corps volunteers. Provides, under the Senior Corps demonstration program, incentive matching grants to Senior Corps programs that exceed specified performance measures, enroll most of their volunteers in outcome-based service programs, and increase their enrollment of Baby Boomer volunteers. Expresses the sense of the Congress that the number of AmeriCorps, VISTA, and NCCC participants should reach 100,000 by 2012. Congressional Commission on Civic Service Act - Establishes a Congressional Commission on Civic Service to provide recommendations to Congress on improving opportunities for individuals to volunteer or perform national service. Expresses the sense of Congress that the Corporation should try to: (1) coordinate its service programs so that senior citizens and their grandchildren can share volunteer opportunities and/or be assigned to the same geographic area; and (2) work with the National Endowment for the Humanities to provide opportunities for young service participants to collect oral histories from senior citizens.

Higher Education Extension Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 7 March 2008

Higher Education Extension Act of 2008 - Amends the Higher Education Extension Act of 2005 to extend the programs under the Higher Education Act of 1965 through April 30, 2008.

SAFE Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 March 2008

Security Against Foreclosures and Education Act, or the SAFE Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow proceeds of qualified mortgage bonds to be used to refinance certain residential subprime loans. Requires the Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation to continue to award expeditiously certain funds already provided for mortgage foreclosure counseling. Amends the Code to allow purchasers of certain single-family principal residences a one-time tax credit. Amends the Truth in Lending Act to: (1) revise creditor mortgage loan disclosure requirements; and (2) increase civil damages for noncompliance with such Act. Amends the Code to: (1) allow a five-year carryback of net operating losses for certain taxable years; and (2) suspend through taxable year 2009 the 90% of alternative minimum taxable income limit for certain adjustments to the alternative (minimum) tax net operating loss deduction. Amends the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act of 1940 to expand the period of moratorium on foreclosure sales after a servicemember's service. Requires the Secretary of Defense to develop a program for mortgage foreclosure prevention counseling for members of the Armed Forces returning from service abroad. FHA Modernization Act of 2008 - Amends the National Housing Act (NHA) to: (1) revise requirements for the maximum principal loan obligation eligible for mortgage insurance, as well as the cash investment requirement; and (2) prohibit seller-funded downpayment assistance. Replaces the General Insurance Fund (GIF) with the Mutual Mortgage Insurance (MMI) Fund as the depository of all funds involved in rehabilitation loans for one- to four-family structures. Eliminates the limitation on the aggregate number of home equity conversion mortgages (HECMs) for elderly homeowners insured under the Act. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to insure HECMs. Establishes a single national loan limit for HECMs. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to raise the cap on the price of cost-effective energy efficiency improvements under the energy efficiency mortgages program. Amends the NHA to require the Secretary to establish a pilot program for an automated process to provide alternative credit rating information on mortgagors and prospective mortgagors. Amends the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968 to revise post-purchase housing counseling eligibility requirements. Directs the Secretary to establish a pre-purchase homeownership counseling demonstration program. Places limitations on mortgage insurance premium increases. Imposes a one-year moratorium on implementation by the Secretary of certain risk-based premiums. FHA Manufactured Housing Loan Modernization Act of 2008 - Amends the National Housing Act regarding FHA housing loan insurance for manufactured homes (or lots for such homes). Increases manufactured home loan limits, requiring annual indexing. Sets forth borrower premium charges. Amends the NHA to apply the prohibition against kickbacks and unearned fees in the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act of 1974 (RESPA) to each sale of a manufactured home financed with an FHA-insured loan or extension of credit and related services. Prescribes certain lease requirements as prerequisites for HUD insurance of any loan, advance of credit, or purchase of such a loan or credit to finance a manufactured home intended to be located in a manufactured home community under a lease.