Education

Health Care Workforce Incentive Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 17 June 2009

Health Care Workforce Incentive Act of 2009 - Establishes an independent National Health Workforce Advisory Board to advise Congress on issues affecting the health care workforce. Establishes a National Center for Workforce Data and Analysis in the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Directs the HHS Secretary, through the Center, to establish a competitive State Health Workforce Shortage grants program to harmonize health workforce needs and medical education.

Primary Care Training Enhancement Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 June 2009

Primary Care Training Enhancement Act - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to reimburse hospitals for the costs of teaching health centers to train primary care residents, including reimbursement to cover indirect medical education costs. Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Secretary to make grants: (1) to teaching health centers to establish new or expand existing medical residency training programs; (2) to public or private nonprofit organizations to provide technical support to such centers; (3) for state primary care scholarship and loan repayment programs; and (4) for Primary Care Training Institutes. Permits participants in the National Health Service Corps to count teaching hours as time spent toward their service obligation.

Comprehensive Problem Gambling Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2009

Comprehensive Problem Gambling Act of 2009 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), acting through the Administrator of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, to establish and implement programs for the identification, prevention, and treatment of problem and pathological gambling. Requires the Secretary to carry out a national campaign to increase knowledge and raise awareness of problem gambling. Requires the Secretary to: (1) administer and coordinate the voluntary donation of resources to assist in implementing new programs and augmenting existing national campaigns to provide national strategies for dissemination of information intended to address problem gambling; (2) encourage media outlets to provide information aimed at preventing problem gambling; and (3) target radio and television audiences of, but not limited to, sporting events and gambling. Requires the President to: (1) establish and implement a national program of research on problem gambling; (2) appoint an advisory commission to coordinate federal research; and (3) consider the National Gambling Impact Study Commission's recommendations. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to states, local, and tribal governments, and nonprofit agencies to provide comprehensive services with respect to treatment and prevention of, and education about, problem gambling. Directs the President, acting through the Administrator, to develop a Treatment Improvement Protocol for problem gambling Expresses the sense of Congress that every state should contribute a percentage of its revenue from gambling towards prevention and treatment of, and services and education about, problem gambling.

Broadband Internet Fairness Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2009

Broadband Internet Fairness Act - Makes it unlawful for major broadband Internet service providers to offer volume usage service plans imposing rates, terms, and conditions that are unjust, unreasonable, or unreasonably discriminatory. Treats a violation as an unfair or deceptive act or practice under the Federal Trade Commission Act. Requires major broadband Internet service providers offering or proposing to offer volume usage plans to file a service plan analysis with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Requires the FTC to enforce this Act. Defines "major broadband Internet service provider" as a broadband Internet service provider that, directly or through an affiliate, provides broadband Internet service to 2 million or more subscribers. Defines "volume usage service plan" as any choice of service offerings to a residential consumer that includes two or more different sets of rates, terms, or conditions directly or indirectly based on the amount of data transmitted to or from the consumer within a fixed period of time. Includes nonprofit organizations or higher education institutions in the term "residential consumer."

High School Athletics Accountability Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2009

High School Athletics Accountability Act of 2009 - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to direct coeducational elementary and secondary schools that participate in any ESEA program to annually: (1) report certain information on equality in their school athletic programs to the Commissioner for Educational Statistics; and (2) make such information available, upon request, to their students, potential students, and the public. Directs the Commissioner to ensure that such data are posted on the Department of Education's Web site within a reasonable period of time.

Senior Navigation and Planning Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2009

Senior Navigation and Planning Act of 2009 - Amends titles XVIII (Medicare) and XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to provide for Medicare and Medicaid coverage of advanced illness care management services. Amends the Public Health Services Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), through grants or contracts, to conduct a national public education campaign on planning for care near the end of life, including advance directives. Directs the Secretary to provide for the establishment of a national, toll-free information telephone line and a clearinghouse regarding advance directive and end-of-life decisions. Directs the Secretary to establish the Senior Navigation Advisory Board. Requires physicians and nurse practitioners to inform individuals with specified diseases about advance directives and other end-of-life planning tools. Requires a service provider, Medicare Advantage organization, or prepaid or eligible organization to give effect to an advance directive executed outside the state in which such directive is presented (portability). Requires medical providers to honor written orders for medical care. Provides incentive payments to hospitals for accreditation and certification in hospice and palliative care. Directs the Secretary to conduct a pilot program under Medicare to test the use of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services discharge checklist. Directs the Secretary to establish or designate an Office on Medicare/Medicaid Integration. Directs the Secretary to establish and maintain a website providing information, online training, and instructional materials for entities, including faith-based organizations, on end-of-life issues. Authorizes grants to such entities to develop such training and materials. Authorizes the Secretary to award grants to entities to develop and provide services for terminally ill individuals who are receiving hospice care in their own homes. Directs the Secretary to study and report to Congress on the storage of advance directives, and the Comptroller General to study and report on the provisions of this Act.

Medical Efficiency and Delivery Improvement of Care Act (MEDIC) of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2009

Medical Efficiency and Delivery Improvement of Care Act (MEDIC) of 2009 - Physician Workforce Enhancement Act of 2009 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), acting through the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), to establish a program to provide loans to eligible hospitals to establish residency training programs. Preserving Patient Access to Primary Care Act of 2009 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to authorize the Secretary of Education to award grants or contracts toenable graduate medical schools to improve primary care education and training for medical students. Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the HHS Secretary, acting through the HRSA Administrator, to award grants to enable critical shortage health facilities to provide scholarships to individuals who agree to serve as physicians at such facilities after completing a residency in a primary care field. Directs the Secretary to establish a program of contracts with eligible individuals who agree to serve as primary care physicians or primary care providers in a primary care field and in an area that is not a health professional shortage area but has a critical shortage of primary care physicians and primary care providers. Requires the Secretary to agree to pay, for each year of such service, up to $35,000 of the principal and interest of the individual's undergraduate or graduate educational loans. Authorizes a similar loan repayment program for physicians in the fields of obstetrics and gynecology and certified nurse midwives. Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to authorize deferment of medical student loans during residency and internships. Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Secretary to award grants to eligible state and local government entities for development of informational materials that promote careers in primary care and encourage medical students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to become primary care physicians. Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act (SSA) with respect to transformation grants to support patient-centered medical homes under Medicaid and SSA title XXI (Children's Health Insurance Program, or CHIP). Amends SSA title XVIII (Medicare) to require the Secretary to: (1) increase budget neutrality limits under the physician fee schedule to account for anticipated savings resulting from payments for certain services and the coordination of beneficiary care; and (2) pay for designated primary care services and comprehensive care coordination services furnished to an individual. Authorizes Medicare coverage of patient-centered medical home services. Directs the Secretary to develop a methodology to increase payments for designated evaluation and management services provided by primary care physicians, primary care providers, and principal care providers. Creates an additional incentive payment program for primary care services furnished in health professional shortage areas. Extends permanently the Medicare incentive payment program for physician scarcity areas. Revises Medicare requirements for preventive services, eliminating the time restriction for an initial preventive physical examination as well as cost-sharing for preventive benefits. Requires additional payments for providing Medicare services to individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP). Requires various studies and reports. Directs the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MEDPAC) to assess the impact of changes in Medicare payment policies in improving access to and equity of payments to primary care physicians and primary care providers. Outlines requirements for distribution of additional residency positions and the counting of resident time in outpatient settings and for didactic and scholarly activities and other activities. Requires the Secretary to establish a process under which, in the case where a hospital with an approved medical residency program closes on or after the date of enactment of the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, the Secretary will increase the otherwise applicable resident limit for other hospitals. Directs the Secretary to revise the 9th Statement of Work under the Quality Improvement Program to require that, in order to be an eligible Quality Improvement Organization (QIO) for the 9th Statement of Work contract cycle, a QIO shall provide assistance, including technical assistance, to physicians under the Medicare program that seek to acquire the elements necessary to be recognized as a patient-centered medical home practice under the National Committee for Quality Assurance's Physician Practice Connections--PCMH module. Medicare Payment Improvement Act of 2009 - Directs the Secretary to determine a value index for each Medicare physician fee schedule area. Home and Community Balanced Incentives Act of 2009 - Amends SSA title XIX to establish an enhanced federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP) for states to: (1) expand provision of non-institutionally-based long-term services and supports; and (2) maintain provision of home and community-based services (HCBS). Authorizes grants to make structural changes to the state Medicaid program. Revises the income eligibility level for HCBS services for elderly and disabled individuals. Revises the income eligibility limit for the state option to provide HCBS services under a waiver. Replaces the income limit of 150% of the poverty line with a limit of 300% of the supplemental security income (SSI) benefit rate. Authorizes additional state options with respect to HCBS services. Applies spousal impoverishment rules to recipients of HCBS. Project 2020: Building on the Promise of Home and Community-Based Services Act of 2009 - Amends the Social Security Act to add a new title XXII (Long-Term Services and Supports), requiring the Secretary to establish and carry out a single-entry point system program, a healthy living program, and an enhanced nursing home diversion program.

Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2009

Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2009 - Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay travel expenses for veterans receiving treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities at the rate of 41.5 cents per mile. (Under current law the rate is that provided to federal employees in connection with the performance of official duties.) Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities; (2) establish a grant program to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in highly rural areas; (3) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding care for veterans in rural areas; (4) establish a program to provide peer support, readjustment, and mental health services to veterans who served in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom (and related services to their family members); (5) assign an Indian Veterans Health Care Coordinator for each of the ten VA facilities that serve communities with the greatest per capita number of Indian veterans; (6) report to Congress jointly with the Secretary of Health and Human Services on the advisability of the joint establishment and operation by the VA's Veterans Health Administration and the Indian Health Service of health clinics to serve populations of Indian reservations, including Indian veterans; and (7) report annually to Congress on matters related to VA care for veterans residing in rural areas.

Helping Active Duty Deployed Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2009

Helping Active Duty Deployed Act of 2009 - Amends the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to prohibit a cell phone company from charging an early termination penalty for a cellular telephone contract entered into on behalf of a service member who has received orders for foreign deployment or for permanent change of station within the United States. (Current law provides such protection for a contract entered into by the service member.) Revises provisions concerning arrearages and other obligations to prohibit a lessor from charging an early termination charge with respect to a residential, professional, business, or agricultural rental lease or a motor vehicle lease entered into by a person who subsequently enters military service, or for a service member who has received orders for permanent change of station or for deployment in support of a military operation. States that: (1) lease amounts for a period preceding the lease termination shall be paid on a prorated basis; and (2) other unpaid lease charges shall be paid by the lessee. Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to require an institution of higher education to refund the tuition and fees paid by a student whose absence is due to military service for the payment period or period of enrollment for which such student did not receive academic credit as a result of such absence.

Digital TV Transition Fairness Act

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2009

Digital TV Transition Fairness Act - Requires the Department of Commerce to implement and administer a program to obtain coupons that can be applied toward: (1) the cost to install a digital-to-analog converter box; (2) the purchase and installation of an indoor or outdoor antenna, or both if needed, to facilitate the reception and display of signals of channels broadcast in digital television service; and (3) the cost to install, or the cost of any other equipment needed to receive and display, basic broadcast television service. Sets forth consumer and product eligibility criteria. Provides for a website and telephone hotline to provide relevant information to assist consumers that have degraded or lost signals or channels as a result of the full power transition from analog to digital television that is to occur on February 17, 2009. Requires the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to develop anti-fraud measures and procedures to ensure that only eligible households and individuals receive a coupon. Requires the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to promulgate rules requiring that each multichannel video programming distributor providing broadcast television for a local market provide to eligible consumers in that local market access to basic broadcast television service. Requires the FCC to develop anti-fraud measures and procedures to ensure that only eligible consumers are provided access to basic broadcast television service. Directs the FCC to carry out an education and outreach campaign to inform and educate consumers on the availability, benefits, and advantages of the programs and requirements established under this Act.

To direct the Administrator of the Small Business Administration to provide education and resources to small business concerns that assist such concerns to protect themselves from phishing, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 12 June 2009

Requires the Administrator of the Small Business Administration (SBA) to establish and carry out a program for providing education and resources to small business concerns that assists them in: (1) understanding the dangers and identification of phishing; (2) training employees to understand those dangers and identification; and (3) determining methods to protect such concerns from phishing.

Recognizing and honoring the restoration and renovation of the Bishop Museum's historic Hawaiian Hall, the Nation's premier showcase for Hawaiian culture and history, on the occasion of the Museum's 120th anniversary.

United States · United States Congress · 12 June 2009

Recognizes the reopening of historic Hawaiian Hall of the Bishop Museum in Honolulu, Hawai'i, on the 120th anniversary of the founding of the Museum. Honors and praises the Bishop Museum for its work in ensuring the preservation, study, education, and appreciation of Native Hawaiian culture and history.

Expressing support for designation of June as "Home Safety Month".

United States · United States Congress · 12 June 2009

Supports the designation of Home Safety Month. Recognizes the contributions of: (1) home safety related nonprofit organizations; and (2) the Home Safety Council for introducing www.MySafeHome.org to help adults identify the dangers present in and around the home, and for promoting the Hands on Home Safety Campaign. Encourages adults, parents, and caregivers to take greater actions to reduce unintentional injuries and educate themselves on the importance of home safety. Encourages: (1) manufacturers to develop innovative safety products and features to help lessen the number of home injuries and accidents; and (2) local and national government leaders to support funding for critical home safety education programs.

Senior Navigation and Planning Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 11 June 2009

Senior Navigation and Planning Act of 2009 - Amends titles XVIII (Medicare) and XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to provide for Medicare and Medicaid coverage of advanced illness care management services. Amends the Public Health Services Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), through grants or contracts, to conduct a national public education campaign on planning for care near the end of life, including advance directives. Directs the Secretary to provide for the establishment of a national, toll-free information telephone line and a clearinghouse regarding advance directive and end-of-life decisions. Directs the Secretary to establish the Senior Navigation Advisory Board. Requires physicians and nurse practitioners to inform individuals with specified diseases about advance directives and other end-of-life planning tools. Requires a service provider, Medicare Advantage organization, or prepaid or eligible organization to give effect to an advance directive executed outside the state in which such directive is presented (portability). Requires medical providers to honor written orders for medical care. Provides incentive payments to hospitals for accreditation and certification in hospice and palliative care. Directs the Secretary to conduct a pilot program under Medicare to test the use of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services discharge checklist. Directs the Secretary to establish or designate an Office on Medicare/Medicaid Integration. Directs the Secretary to establish and maintain a website providing information, online training, and instructional materials for entities, including faith-based organizations, on end-of-life issues. Authorizes grants to such entities to develop such training and materials. Authorizes the Secretary to award grants to entities to develop and provide services for terminally ill individuals who are receiving hospice care in their own homes. Directs the Secretary to study and report to Congress on the storage of advance directives, and the Comptroller General to study and report on the provisions of this Act.

Methamphetamine Education, Treatment, and Hope Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 11 June 2009

Methamphetamine Education, Treatment, and Hope Act of 2009 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Director of the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment to collaborate with professionals in the addiction field and primary health care providers to raise awareness about how to: (1) recognize the signs of a substance abuse disorder; and (2) apply evidence-based practices for screening and treating individuals with, or at-risk for developing, an addiction. Revises provisions governing a grant program for substance abuse residential treatment for pregnant and parenting women (currently, for postpartum women), to: (1) include treatment for addiction to methamphetamine, outpatient treatment services, and referrals for dental services; and (2) require programs to be accessible to pregnant and parenting women in low-income households and in health disparity populations. Requires the Director to give grant priority to a program serving an area that: (1) is a rural area, an area with a shortage of mental health professionals, or an area with a shortage of family-based substance abuse treatment options; and (2) has high rates of addiction to methamphetamine or other drugs. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to expand, intensify, and coordinate efforts to provide pregnant and parenting women treatment for addiction to methamphetamine or other drugs. Requires the Director of the Office for Substance Abuse Prevention to develop a clearinghouse that provides information and educational materials to employers and employers about drug testing policies and programs. Authorizes amounts made available for methamphetamine or inhalant prevention programs in schools and communities to be used to develop a student-driven methamphetamine awareness project.

Healthy Schools Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 11 June 2009

Healthy Schools Act of 2009 - Amends titles XIX (Medicaid) and XXI (Children's Health Insurance) (CHIP, formerly known as SCHIP) of the Social Security Act to require the state to certify that it has implemented procedures to pay for covered items and services furnished by school-based health clinics under Medicaid and CHIP.

Expressing support for the HHT Foundation International's designation of a "National Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT) Month" and supporting efforts to educate the public about HHT.

United States · United States Congress · 11 June 2009

Expresses support for: (1) the HHT Foundation International's designation of a National Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia Month; and (2) the Foundation's work to find a cure while saving lives and improving the well-being of those affected by Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT) through research, outreach, education, and support. Recognizes the need to pursue research into better treatments and a cure for HHT.

Expressing the sense of Congress regarding people in the United States with bleeding disorders.

United States · United States Congress · 11 June 2009

Expresses the sense of Congress regarding the federal government's responsibility with respect to research, funding, access to treatment, public education and awareness, and support for screening for bleeding disorders. Calls for: (1) the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to provide Congress with a five-year research plan for people with bleeding disorders; (2) the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to continue to improve outreach, treatment, and prevention for such disorders by facilitating an educational relationship between treatment centers, university health clinics, and undergraduate student populations; and (3) referrals of people with bleeding disorders to federally sponsored hemophilia treatment centers as critical to comprehensive treatment of such disorders. Urges: (1) physicians to screen all women presenting with menorrhagia for von Willebrand's disease; (2) patient advocate organizations and medical specialty societies to continue to collaborate on public education campaigns about bleeding disorders; and (3) physicians to screen all adolescents attending institutions of higher education for von Willebrand's disease.

Chesapeake Bay Science, Education, and Ecosystem Enhancement Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 10 June 2009

Chesapeake Bay Science, Education, and Ecosystem Enhancement Act of 2009 - Amends the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Authorization Act of 1992 to require the Director of the Chesapeake Bay Office of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to: (1) collaborate with constituents in the Bay's watershed to support the development of an integrated observations system for the Bay; (2) further the development and implementation of the Chesapeake Bay Interpretive Buoy System, including supporting the establishment and implementation of the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail and incorporating the Chesapeake Bay Interpretive Buoy System into the Integrated Ocean Observing System regional network of observatories; (3) establish a Chesapeake Bay watershed education and training program (authorizes related grants); and (4) establish a Chesapeake Bay coastal living resources management and habitat program. Requires peer review for projects funded under the Act. Authorizes appropriations (at an increased level) for the Office for FY2011-FY2014.

SPEAK Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 June 2009

Standards to Provide Educational Achievement for Kids Act or the SPEAK Act - Amends the National Assessment of Educational Progress Authorization Act (the Act) to require the Commissioner for Educational Statistics to add science to the mandatory biennial national and state academic achievement assessments of students in grades four, eight, and twelve in reading and mathematics. Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to require states receiving school improvement funds to participate in such science assessments of students in grades four and eight, beginning with the 2010-2011 school year. Amends the Act to task the National Assessment Governing Board with creating or adopting voluntary American education content standards in mathematics and science for kindergarten through grade 12 which reflect the knowledge students need to enter college or the workforce and compete in the global economy. Requires the Secretary of Education to establish the American Standards Incentive fund to award competitive four-year grants to states which agree to: (1) adopt such voluntary mathematics and science standards as the core of their own academic content standards in such subjects; and (2) align their teacher certification and professional development requirements to such standards. Provides additional funds to successful grantees for the enhancement of their student performance data systems. Authorizes the Secretary to extend by two to four years for such grantees the 12-year period at the end of which students must meet or exceed state academic performance standards established under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965.

Paperless Enrollment for School Meals Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 10 June 2009

Paperless Enrollment for School Meals Act of 2009 - Amends the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to allow schools and local educational agencies (LEAs) to receive special assistance payments for free or reduced price meals under the school lunch or breakfast programs that are based not on applications for such meals, but on estimates of the number of children eligible for such meals. Requires such estimates to be derived from recent data, such as survey, welfare, or tax data. Permits schools and LEAs from high poverty areas to receive special assistance payments for free or reduced price meals that are not based on applications, if they directly certify a specified minimum percentage of their students as eligible for free meals due to such students' eligibility for certain other public assistance. Reimburses such schools and LEAs pursuant to a formula that factors in the percentage of students directly certified as eligible for free meals. Requires schools and LEAs reimbursed on the basis of estimates or certifications to provide free meals to all their students under the school lunch and breakfast programs and cover, from nonfederal sources, the costs of serving such meals that exceed the assistance received under such programs.

Paperless Enrollment for School Meals Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 10 June 2009

Paperless Enrollment for School Meals Act of 2009 - Amends the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to allow schools and local educational agencies (LEAs) to receive special assistance payments for free or reduced price meals under the school lunch or breakfast programs that are based not on applications for such meals, but on estimates of the number of children eligible for such meals. Requires such estimates to be derived from recent data, such as survey, welfare, or tax data. Permits schools and LEAs from high poverty areas to receive special assistance payments for free or reduced price meals that are not based on applications, if they directly certify a specified minimum percentage of their students as eligible for free meals due to such students' eligibility for certain other public assistance. Reimburses such schools and LEAs pursuant to a formula that factors in the percentage of students directly certified as eligible for free meals. Requires schools and LEAs reimbursed on the basis of estimates or certifications to provide free meals to all their students under the school lunch and breakfast programs and cover, from nonfederal sources, the costs of serving such meals that exceed the assistance received under such programs.

SPEAK Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 June 2009

Standards to Provide Educational Achievement for Kids Act or the SPEAK Act - Amends the National Assessment of Educational Progress Authorization Act (the Act) to require the Commissioner for Educational Statistics to add science to the mandatory biennial national and state academic achievement assessments of students in grades four, eight, and twelve in reading and mathematics. Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to require states receiving school improvement funds to participate in such science assessments of students in grades four and eight, beginning with the 2010-2011 school year. Amends the Act to task the National Assessment Governing Board with creating or adopting voluntary American education content standards in mathematics and science for kindergarten through grade 12 which reflect the knowledge students need to enter college or the workforce and compete in the global economy. Requires the Secretary of Education to establish the American Standards Incentive fund to award competitive four-year grants to states which agree to: (1) adopt such voluntary mathematics and science standards as the core of their own academic content standards in such subjects; and (2) align their teacher certification and professional development requirements to such standards. Provides additional funds to successful grantees for the enhancement of their student performance data systems. Authorizes the Secretary to extend by two to four years for such grantees the 12-year period at the end of which students must meet or exceed state academic performance standards established under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965.

DEPARTMENTS OF LABOR, HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, AND EDUCATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2010

United States · United States Senate · 9 June 2009

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate on United States policy during the political transition in Zimbabwe, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2009

Expresses the sense of the Senate that the U.S. government, in coordination with other democratic governments and international institutions, should: (1) continue to provide humanitarian assistance to the people of Zimbabwe; (2) make available increased resources for nongovernmental entities to provide assistance in the critical areas of education, health, water, and sanitation; (3) encourage international efforts to support reforms made by ministries within the government of Zimbabwe, especially the Ministry of Finance; (4) provide financial and technical assistance for efforts to enact a new constitution based on democratic values; (5) work with and encourage regional governments and leaders to promote human rights, the restoration of the rule of law, and economic growth in Zimbabwe; (6) maintain the existing ban on the transfer of defense items and services and the suspension of most non-humanitarian government-to-government assistance until there is demonstrable progress toward restoring the rule of law and respect for human rights in Zimbabwe; and (7) support the continuation of financial sanctions and travel bans against those individuals responsible for the deliberate breakdown of the rule of law in Zimbabwe.

Veterans Nonprofit Research and Education Corporations Enhancement Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2009

Veterans Nonprofit Research and Education Corporations Enhancement Act of 2009 - Amends federal provisions concerning the establishment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facilities of nonprofit research and education corporations (NRECs) to allow an NREC to facilitate the conduct of research or education, or both, at more than one VA medical center. States that such an NREC shall be known as a multi-medical center research corporation (MCRC). Allows an NREC to act as a MCRC if: (1) the NREC board of directors approve a resolution permitting that NREC to act as a MCRC; and (2) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs approves the resolution. Requires each NREC and MCRC (corporation) to be established in accordance with the nonprofit corporation laws of the state in which the VA medical center which it supports is located. States that neither such corporation shall be considered to be owned by, or an agent or instrumentality of, the United States. Restates the purposes of the corporations. Modifies the composition of, and standards applicable to, corporation boards of directors, including by changing applicable conflict of interest requirements. Expands the required areas of experience or expertise with respect to non-VA members of corporation boards of directors. Increases authorized corporate powers of the corporations to include entering into contracts and setting fees for education and training facilitated through a corporation. Revises audit requirements to require submission of an Internal Revenue Service return form applicable to organizations exempt from income tax.

Recognizing and supporting the National Day on Writing.

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2009

Expresses the House of Representatives' support for the National Day on Writing. Encourages participation in the National Gallery of Writing, which is maintained by the National Council of Teachers of English and contains examples of writing by individuals throughout our country. Encourages educational institutions to submit the compositions of their students and employees to such Gallery and support the efforts of community members to submit compositions to the Gallery.

Congratulating the Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity on the occasion of its 100th Anniversary.

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2009

Congratulates the Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity on the occasion of its 100th Anniversary. Recognizes its members for their work and dedication to making the fraternity an outstanding and honorable association.

Thelma Melendez de Santa Ana, of California, to be Assistant Secretary for Elementary and Secondary Education, Department of Education, vice Kerri Layne Briggs.

United States · United States Senate · 8 June 2009

Josh Miller HEARTS Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2009

Josh Miller Helping Everyone Access Responsive Treatment in Schools Act of 2009 or the Josh Miller HEARTS Act - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to direct the Secretary of Education to award matching grants to local educational agencies (LEAs) to: (1) purchase automated external defibrillators (AEDs) for use in their schools; and/or (2) provide training to meet the grant requirement that at least five adult employees or volunteers at each school where an AED is to be used successfully complete training in its use and in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Requires LEA grant applicants also to demonstrate that: (1) the AEDs are integrated into the schools' emergency response procedures; and (2) emergency services personnel are notified of their locations. Gives grant priority to schools that: (1) lack an AED; (2) typically have a significant number of students, staff, and visitors present during the day; (3) generally have a longer wait for emergency medical services than other public facilities in the community; and (4) have not received funds under the Rural Access to Emergency Devices Act.

STEM Education Coordination Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2009

STEM Education Coordination Act of 2009 - Requires the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) to establish a committee under the National Science and Technology Council that has the responsibility of coordinating federal programs and activities in support of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education. Directs such committee to: (1) coordinate the STEM education activities and programs of federal agencies; (2) develop, implement through participating agencies, and update once every five years, a five-year STEM education strategic plan; and (3) establish, periodically update, and maintain an inventory of federally sponsored STEM education programs and activities, including documentation of assessments of the effectiveness of such programs and activities and rates of participation by women, underrepresented minorities, and persons in rural areas. Requires the Director to annually report to Congress on the STEM education strategic plan.

High Quality Teaching Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2009

High Quality Teaching Act of 2009 - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to direct the Secretary of Education to award competitive five-year grants to up to 250 local educational agencies (LEAs) to recruit, support, and retain highly qualified and effective teachers through participation in the Targeted High Need Initiative program of the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. Gives priority to LEAs that have: (1) the highest number of disadvantaged students; (2) the highest number of schools identified for school improvement, corrective action, or restructuring; and (3) the lowest number of teachers certified by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. Requires LEAs to use such grants to: (1) partner with institutions of higher education or other appropriate entities in conducting grant activities; (2) provide teachers participating in the Targeted High Need Initiative program with training, mentoring, and technological resources; (3) cover the assessment fee for teachers who apply for certification by such Board and agree to teach at the participating school for at least three years after their certification; (4) provide specified monetary awards to teachers and their sponsoring schools after completion of the Targeted High Need Initiative program; and (5) conduct an independent evaluation of such program's affect on teaching quality and student performance.

[H.A.S.C. No. 111-74]THINKERS AND PRACTITIONERS: DO SENIOR PROFESSIONAL MILITARY EDUCATION SCHOOLS PRODUCE STRATEGISTS?

United States · United States House of Representatives · 4 June 2009

A bill to require the Secretary of Agriculture to carry out the Philadelphia universal feeding pilot program until the last day of the 2012-2013 school year of the School District of Philadelphia.

United States · United States Congress · 4 June 2009

Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to extend, through the 2012-2013 school year, the Philadelphia universal feeding pilot program, which allows certain high-poverty schools in Philadelphia to be reimbursed for free and reduced price meals under the School Lunch program on the basis of school-wide demographic surveys of family income, rather than individual applications.

Community Mental Health Services Improvement Act

United States · United States Congress · 4 June 2009

Community Mental Health Services Improvement Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), acting through the Administrator of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), to award grants for demonstration projects to provide coordinated and integrated services to individuals with mental illnesses who have co-occurring primary care conditions and chronic diseases through the co-location of primary and specialty care services in community-based mental and behavioral health settings. Requires the Secretary to make funds available for the development or expansion of programs to provide integrated treatment services for individuals with a serious mental illness and a co-occurring substance abuse disorder. Deems certain community mental health centers to be automatically designated as having health professional shortage areas for purposes of the National Health Service Corps. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration, to award matching grants to states, territories, and Indian tribes or tribal organizations for programs to address behavioral and mental health workforce needs of designated mental health professional shortage areas. Directs the Secretary, acting through the Administrator of SAMHSA, to award grants for: (1) establishing or expanding accredited behavioral and mental health education programs; and (2) providing tele-mental health services in medically-underserved areas. Requires the Secretary to: (1) implement a plan for ensuring that various components of the National Health Information Infrastructure address the needs of mental health and substance abuse treatment providers; and (2) finance related infrastructure improvements, technical support, personnel training, and ongoing quality improvements.

Border Law Enforcement Anti-Drug Trafficking Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 4 June 2009

Border Law Enforcement Anti-Drug Trafficking Act of 2009 - Authorizes the Attorney General to award grants on a competitive basis to eligible law enforcement agencies and institutions of higher education to assist such agencies in addressing drug-related criminal activity within their jurisdictions. Requires such grants to be used to: (1) combat criminal activities along the southern border of the United States; (2) facilitate information sharing and collaboration by law enforcement agencies; (3) enhance jails, community corrections, and detention operations; and (4) provide training and technical assistance related to negotiation and rescue tactics, intelligence and information sharing on drug trafficking organizations, and interdiction. Defines "eligible law enforcement agency" as a tribal, state, or local law enforcement agency, including a community corrections agency and any agency that employs prosecutors, probation officers, or parole officers, that is located or performs duties in: (1) Arizona, California, New Mexico, or Texas; or (2) a jurisdiction that has been designated as a high intensity drug trafficking area.

Nurse Training and Retention Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 4 June 2009

Nurse Training and Retention Act of 2009 - Directs the Secretary of Labor to establish a partnership grant program to award matching grants to eligible entities to carry out comprehensive programs to provide education to nurses and create a pipeline to nursing for incumbent ancillary health care workers who wish to advance their careers.

Veterans and Survivors Behavioral Health Awareness Act

United States · United States Congress · 4 June 2009

Veterans and Survivors Behavioral Health Awareness Act - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to provide scholarships to individuals pursuing education or training in behavioral health care specialties that are critical to the operations of Vet Centers (centers for readjustment counseling and related mental health services for veterans) in order to recruit and retain individuals with such specialties for service in Vet Centers. Conditions the scholarship on the recipient's agreeing to serve in such a capacity for whatever period the Secretary specifies in the agreement. Directs the Secretary, on receipt of a request for counseling from an individual who has been discharged or released from active service, to: (1) provide referrals to assist the individual in obtaining mental health care and services outside the VA; and (2) if pertinent, advise such individual of the individual's rights to apply for review of the discharge or release. Directs the Secretary to award grants to nonprofit organizations that provide emotional support services for survivors of deceased members of the Armed Forces and deceased veterans through the survivors' peers.

To authorize the designation of National Environmental Research Parks by the Secretary of Energy, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 4 June 2009

Requires the Department of Energy (DOE) to designate as permanent protected outdoor research reserves for the purpose of conducting long-term environmental research on the impacts of human activities on the natural environment: (1) Savannah River National Environmental Research Park; (2) Idaho National Environmental Research Park; (3) Los Alamos National Environmental Research Park; (4) Fermi Lab National Environmental Research Park; (5) Hanford National Environmental Research Park; (6) Oak Ridge National Environmental Research Park; and (7) Nevada National Environmental Research Park. Requires each site to support environmental research and monitoring activities and public outreach and education activities to characterize and monitor site conditions and serve as control areas for comparison with environmental impacts of DOE land management, energy technology development, remediation, and other site activities outside the Park areas. Requires areas of research and monitoring on the sites to include: (1) ecology of the site and the region; (2) population biology and ecology; (3) radioecology; (4) ecosystem science; (5) pollution fate and transport research; (6) surface and groundwater modeling; and (7) student training. Requires DOE to enter into a cooperative agreement with specified universities to ensure the independence of the research, monitoring, public education, and outreach activities. Requires each site to support an outreach program to inform the public of the diverse ecological activities conducted and to educate students at various levels in environmental science.

Indian Health Care Improvement Act Amendments of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 4 June 2009

Indian Health Care Improvement Act Amendments of 2009 - Amends the Indian Health Care Improvement Act to revise requirements for health care programs and services for Indians, Indian tribes, tribal organizations, and urban Indian organizations. Replaces the Urban Health Programs Branch with a Division of Urban Indian Health. Authorizes grants to urban Indian organizations for health information technology, telemedicine services development, and related infrastructure. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Indian Health Service, to provide programs of comprehensive behavioral health, prevention, and treatment. Excludes from gross income: (1) services or benefits provided or purchased by the Service; and (2) services or benefits provided by a tribe or tribal organization, directly or through insurance. Declares that these provisions are not intended as an inference to the tax treatment of governmental benefits provided by tribes to Indians. Reauthorizes the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. Amends the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act to direct the Secretary to establish the Native American Health and Wellness Foundation. Expands coverage for qualified Indians in the State Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP, formerly known as SCHIP) under title XXI of the Social Security Act (SSA), as well as under Medicare (SSA title XVIII) and Medicaid (SSA title XIX). Authorizes related payments to Indian Health Programs operating in the state.

IDEA Fairness Restoration Act

United States · United States Congress · 4 June 2009

IDEA Fairness Restoration Act - Amends the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act to include expert witness fees, including the reasonable costs of any test or evaluation necessary for the preparation of the parent or guardian's case in the action or proceeding, within the definition of "attorneys' fees" that may be awarded to the prevailing party in a civil action brought under such Act.

Enhancing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Education Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 4 June 2009

Enhancing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Education Act of 2009 - Requires the President to establish, in the Office of Science and Technology Policy, a Committee on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Education (STEM education) within the National Science and Technology Council. Establishes an Office of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Education in the Department of Education, to be administered by an Assistant Secretary. Requires the Assistant Secretary to conduct at least every five years an evaluation of the STEM education programs administered by the department. Requires the Secretary of Education to award a grant to establish a voluntary State Consortium on STEM Education and a grant to the National Science Digital Library to establish the STEM Education Resource Alliance.

Student-to-School Nurse Ratio Improvement Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 4 June 2009

Student-to-School Nurse Ratio Improvement Act of 2009 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to allow the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to make demonstration grants to states in which the student-to-school nurse ratio in public secondary schools, elementary schools, and kindergarten is 1,000 or more students to every school nurse to reduce such ratio.

Veterans Nonprofit Research and Education Corporations Enhancement Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 4 June 2009

Veterans Nonprofit Research and Education Corporations Enhancement Act of 2009 - Amends federal provisions concerning the establishment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facilities of nonprofit research and education corporations (NRECs) to allow an NREC to facilitate the conduct of research or education, or both, at more than one VA medical center. States that such an NREC shall be known as a multi-medical center research corporation (MCRC). Allows an NREC to act as a MCRC if: (1) the NREC board of directors approve a resolution permitting that NREC to act as a MCRC; and (2) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs approves the resolution. Requires each NREC and MCRC (corporation) to be established in accordance with the nonprofit corporation laws of the state in which the VA medical center which it supports is located. States that neither such corporation shall be considered to be owned by, or an agent or instrumentality of, the United States. Restates the purposes of the corporations. Modifies the composition of, and standards applicable to, corporation boards of directors, including by changing applicable conflict of interest requirements. Expands the required areas of experience or expertise with respect to non-VA members of corporation boards of directors. Increases authorized corporate powers of the corporations to include entering into contracts and setting fees for education and training facilitated through a corporation. Revises audit requirements to require submission of an Internal Revenue Service return form applicable to organizations exempt from income tax.

Recognizing National Physical Education and Sport Week, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 4 June 2009

Recognizes National Physical Education and Sport Week and the central role of physical education and sports in creating a healthy lifestyle for all children and youth. Calls on school districts to implement local wellness policies, as defined by the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004, that include ambitious goals for physical education, physical activity, and other activities addressing the childhood obesity epidemic and promoting child wellness. Encourages schools to offer physical education classes to students and work with community partners to provide opportunities and safe spaces for physical activities before and after school and during the summer months for all children and youth.

Commending efforts to teach the history of both Israelis and Palestinians to students in Israel and the West Bank in order to foster mutual understanding, respect, and tolerance.

United States · United States Congress · 4 June 2009

Applauds the efforts of those who attempt to build tolerance and mutual understanding among Israelis and Palestinians through education. Encourages the Department of State to continue supporting programs that promote understanding between Israelis and Palestinians and Israeli Jews and Israeli Arabs.

Expressing support for designation of the first week of June as "National Education Freedom Week", and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 4 June 2009

Supports the designation of National Education Freedom Week.

DEPARTMENTS OF LABOR, HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, AND EDUCATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2010

United States · United States Senate · 3 June 2009

Preserving Patient Access to Primary Care Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 3 June 2009

Preserving Patient Access to Primary Care Act of 2009 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to authorize the Secretary of Education to award recruitment incentive grants or contracts to graduate medical schools to enable them to improve primary care education and training for medical students. Amends the Public Health Service Act (PHSA) to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration, to: (1) award grants to critical shortage health facilities to enable them to provide scholarships to individuals who agree to serve as physicians at such facilities after completing a residency in a primary care field; (2) establish an educational loan repayment program for individuals who agree to serve as primary care physicians or primary care providers (including nurse practitioners) in an area that is not a health professional shortage area but has a critical shortage of such physicians or providers; and (3) establish an educational loan repayment program for individuals who agree to serve as physicians in the field of obstetrics and gynecology or as certified nurse midwives in an area that is not a health professional shortage area. Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to provide for deferment of education loans during medical residency and internships in a primary care field. Amends the PHSA to direct the Secretary to award grants to eligible state and local government entities for the development of informational materials that promote careers in primary care. Amends the PHSA to extend the authorization of appropriations for training in a family medicine, general internal medicine, general geriatrics, general pediatrics, physician assistance, general dentistry, and pediatric dentistry Authorizes increased appropriations for the national health service corps scholarships and loan repayment programs. Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to allow the use of Medicaid transformation payments for methods for improving medical assistance under Medicaid and SSA title XXI (Children's Health Insurance Program) (CHIP, formerly known as SCHIP) by encouraging certain medical practices to qualify as patient centered medical homes. Amends SSA title XVIII (Medicare) to: (1) increase budget neutrality limits under the physician fee schedule to account for anticipated savings resulting from payments for certain services and the coordination of beneficiary care; and (2) require a separate Medicare payment for designated primary care services and comprehensive care coordination services. Amends SSA title XVIII to cover patient-centered medical home services. Directs the Secretary to develop a methodology to increase payments for designated evaluation and management services provided by primary and principal care providers. Requires: (1) additional incentive payments for primary care services furnished in health professional shortage areas; (2) permanent extension of the floor on the Medicare work geographic adjustment under the physician fee schedule; and (3) permanent extension of the Medicare incentive payment program for physician scarcity areas. Directs the Secretary to study and report to Congress on the process for determining relative value under the Medicare physician fee schedule. Eliminates cost sharing for preventive benefits and the time restriction for initial preventive physical examination. Directs the Secretary to study and report to Congress on: (1) facilitating the receipt of Medicare preventive services by Medicare beneficiaries; (2) increasing the ability of physicians and primary care providers to assist Medicare beneficiaries in obtaining needed prescriptions under Medicare part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program); and (3) developing and implementing mechanisms to promote and increase interaction between physicians or primary care providers and the families of Medicare beneficiaries, as well as other caregivers who support such beneficiaries, for the purpose of improving patient care under the Medicare program. Requires additional payments to physicians for services to individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP). Requires various specified studies. Directs the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MEDPAC) to provide an ongoing assessment of the impact of changes in Medicare payment policies in improving access to and equity of payments to primary care physicians and primary care providers. Authorizes distribution of additional residency positions and the counting of resident time in certain outpatient settings. Establishes rules for counting resident time in a nonhospital setting primarily engaged in furnishing patient care in non-patient care activities, such as didactic and scholarly activities and other activities (but not research not associated with the treatment or diagnosis of a particular patient). Authorizes redistribution of residency slots after a hospital closes or is acquired by another entity with the approval of a bankruptcy court. Directs the Secretary to revise the 9th Statement of Work under the Quality Improvement Program to include a requirement that, in order to be an eligible Quality Improvement Organization (QIO) for the 9th Statement of Work contract cycle, a QIO provide assistance, including technical assistance, to physicians under the Medicare program that seek to acquire the elements necessary to be recognized as a patient centered medical home practice under the National Committee for Quality Assurance's Physician Practice Connections -- PCMH module.

Allied Health Reinvestment Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 June 2009

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