Energy

Smarter Funding for All of America's Homeland Security Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 25 February 2009

Smarter Funding for All of America's Homeland Security Act of 2009 - Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish a State and Regional First Responder Grant Program under which the Secretary may make grants to states and eligible regional entities on the basis of the threat to a state or region's population and critical infrastructure, as determined by the Under Secretary for Information Analysis and Infrastructure Protection. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Under Secretary, to evaluate and prioritize grant applications, considering factors such as threats to the population, specific economic sectors, major communications nodes and transportation systems, specific elements of the food supply, the water and energy supplies, civic infrastructure and emergency response capabilities, and specific structures of symbolic national importance. Bars the use of grant funds to supplant state or local funds that would otherwise be available for homeland security or first responder projects. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish the Advisory Council on First Responders, which shall report to the Secretary through the head of the Office of State and Local Government Coordination; and (2) revise the Homeland Security Advisory System to require that any designation of a threat level or other warning be accompanied by a designation of the geographic regions and economic sectors to which it applies. Directs the Under Secretary for Science and Technology to conduct a study of whether there is a need to assign additional bands of frequencies of electromagnetic spectrum to assist first responders.

Renewable Biomass Facilitation Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 25 February 2009

Renewable Biomass Facilitation Act of 2009 - Amends the Clean Air Act to redefine the term "renewable biomass" as: (1) materials, precommercial thinnings, or exotic species that are removed as byproducts of preventive treatments to reduce hazardous fuels, to reduce or contain disease or insect infestation, or to restore ecosystem health, that would not otherwise be used for higher-value products, and that are harvested from National Forest System land or public lands in accordance with federal and state law, land management plans, and requirements for old-growth maintenance, restoration, management direction, and large-tree retention under the Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2003; or (2) any organic matter that is available on a renewable or recurring basis from non-federal land or Indian land held in trust by the United States or subject to a restriction against alienation imposed by the United States, including renewable plant material (including feed grains, other agricultural commodities, other plants and trees, and algae) and waste material (including crop residue, other vegetative waste material, animal waste and byproducts, and construction, food, and yard waste).

ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS FOR 2010

United States · United States House of Representatives · 24 February 2009

ENERGY EFFICIENCY: COMPLEMENTARY POLICIES FOR CLIMATE LEGISLATION

United States · United States House of Representatives · 24 February 2009

DRILL NOW Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 24 February 2009

Developing Resources Immediately and Long-Term through Leases on Our Nation's Offshore Waters Act of 2009 or DRILL NOW Act of 2009 - Amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA) to revoke existing presidential authority to withdraw any unleased lands of the outer Continental Shelf (OCS) from disposition for exploration, development, or production of oil and gas, except as necessary for national security. Prohibits the President from making any such withdrawals. Authorizes a state governor to petition the Secretary of the Interior to issue leases for oil and natural gas exploration and extraction in any area within 50 miles of the coastline of the state and the lateral seaward boundaries of the state extended. Prohibits the Secretary from approving a petition for a drilling activity: (1) unless the state enacts a statute authorizing the issuance of leases; (2) if it would conflict with a military operation or national security; or (3) in any area withdrawn for national security purposes. Instructs the Secretary of the Treasury to deposit 30% of qualified revenues into a separate Clean and Alternative Energy Fund in the Treasury, to be made available to the Secretary of Energy for grants for research and development of clean and alternative energy. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to: (1) deposit into the Clean and Alternative Energy Fund 30% of any funds that would be received by the United States as royalties under any existing federal OCS oil and gas lease of an area located within 50 miles of the coastal zone of the states of Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, or Alabama; and (2) pay 40% of such funds in proportional amounts to states with respect to which a lease tract is located in such an area.

Biogas Production Incentive Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 24 February 2009

Biogas Production Incentive Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a business-related tax credit for the production, sale, or use of biogas. Defines "biogas" as a gas that is derived by processing qualified energy feedstock (i.e., manure of agricultural livestock and other organic agricultural or food industry byproduct waste material) in an anaerobic digester and that contains at least 52% methane and carbon dioxide and trace gases. Provides an increased credit for biogas produced from qualified cellulosic energy feedstock.

Grow American Supply Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 February 2009

Grow American Supply Act - Amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA) with respect to Adjacent Zones and Planning Areas in the outer Continental Shelf (OCS) subsoil and seabed. Revises procedures governing natural gas lease administration. Requires deposit of a portion of OCS receipts from certain new leases into a Special Dedicated Account in the Social Security Trust Fund to reduce Social Security debt. Establishes the Deficit Reduction Trust Fund to accept specified OCS receipts to reduce the federal debt. Prohibits oil and gas leasing east of the Military Mission Line. Cites conditions for granting a federal permit to construct a crude oil or petroleum products pipeline without adjacent state concurrence within the part of the adjacent state's Adjacent Zone that is withdrawn from oil and gas or natural gas leasing. Exempts lease suspensions and preliminary activities on OCS tracts from the requirement to prepare statutory environmental assessments or impact statements. Prohibits construction or operation of any facility, or designation or maintainance of a restricted transportation corridor or operating area, on the federal OCS or in state waters that will be incompatible with oil and gas or natural gas leasing and substantially full exploration and production of tracts that are geologically prospective for oil or natural gas. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to repurchase and cancel specified leases. Amends the Mineral Leasing Act to revise regulations governing onshore surface-disturbing activities. Rigs to Reefs Act of 2009 - Amends OCSLA to prescribe requirements for the use of decommissioned offshore oil and gas platforms for artificial reefs. Instructs the Secretary to establish: (1) OCS regional headquarters for the Atlantic and the Pacific OCS region; and (2) Federal OCS Joint Regional Permitting Offices. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to set royalty rates for leases for oil shale and tar sands. Repeals the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act of 2006. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to require regulations that promote: (1) production of natural gas from gas hydrates; and (2) enhanced oil and natural gas production through carbon dioxide injection. Sets forth: (1) minimum rental rates for future oil, gas, and coal federal leases; and (2) onshore oil and gas royalties.

Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009

United States · United States Congress · 23 February 2009

Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009 - Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2009 - Makes appropriations for FY2009 for specified: (1) agricultural programs; (2) conservation programs; (3) rural development programs; (4) domestic food programs; (5) foreign assistance and related programs; and (6) related agency and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) purposes. Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2009 - Department of Commerce Appropriations Act, 2009 - Makes appropriations for FY2009 to the Department of Commerce, including transfers of funds. Department of Justice Appropriations Act, 2009 - Makes appropriations for FY2009 to the Department of Justice for various agencies and programs. Science Appropriations Act, 2009 - Makes appropriations for FY2009 to: (1) the Office of Science and Technology Policy; (2) the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), including the Office of Inspector General; and (3) the National Science Foundation (NSF), including the Office of the National Science Board and the Office of Inspector General. Makes appropriations for FY2009 to: (1) the Commission on Civil Rights; (2) the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC); (3) the International Trade Commission (ITC); (4) the Legal Services Corporation; (5) the Marine Mammal Commission; (6) the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR); and (7) the State Justice Institute. Rescinds certain unobligated balances. Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2009 - Makes appropriations for FY2009 to the Department of Defense (DOD)-Civil, the Department of the Army, Corps of Engineers-Civil, the Department of the Interior, the Department of Energy (DOE), and related agencies. Makes appropriations for FY2009 to: (1) the Appalachian Regional Commission; (2) the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board; (3) the Delta Regional Authority; (4) the Denali Commission; (5) the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), including the Office of Inspector General; (6) the Nuclear Waste Technical Review Board; and (7) the Office of the Federal Coordinator for Alaska Natural Gas Transportation Projects. Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2009 - Department of the Treasury Appropriations Act, 2009 - Makes appropriations for FY2009 to the Department of the Treasury, including transfers of funds. Rescinds certain unobligated balances. Executive Office of the President Appropriations Act, 2009 - Makes appropriations for FY2009 to the Executive Office of the President. Judiciary Appropriations Act, 2009 - Makes appropriations for FY2009 to the Department of Justice for the U.S. Supreme Court and other federal courts and related offices. District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 2009 - Makes appropriations for FY2009 to the District of Columbia. Makes appropriations for FY2009, including transfers of funds, to: (1) the Administrative Conference of the United States; (2) the Christopher Columbus Fellowship Foundation; (3) the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC); (4) the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC); (5) the Election Assistance Commission (EAC); (6) the Federal Communications Commission (FCC); (7) the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), including the Office of Inspector General; (8) the Federal Election Commission (FEC); (9) the Federal Labor Relations Authority (FLRA); (10) the Federal Trade Commission (FTC); (11) the General Services Administration (GSA), including the Office of Inspector General; (12) the Harry S Truman Scholarship Foundation Trust Fund; (13) the Merit Systems Protection Board; (14) the Morris K. Udall Scholarship and Excellence in National Environmental Policy Foundation, including its Trust Fund; (15) the Environmental Dispute Resolution Fund; (16) the National Archives and Records Administration; (17) the National Historical Publications and Records Commission Grants Program; (18) the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA); (19) the Office of Government Ethics; (20) the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), including the Office of Inspector General; (21) the Office of Special Counsel; (22) the Postal Regulatory Commission; (23) the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board; (24) the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC); (25) the Selective Service System; (26) the Small Business Administration (SBA), including the Office of Inspector General; (27) the U.S. Postal Service, including the Office of Inspector General; and (28) the United States Tax Court. Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2009 - Makes appropriations for FY2009 to the Department of the Interior, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and other related agencies, including transfers of funds. Rescinds certain unobligated balances. Makes appropriations for FY2009 to: (1) the Departments of Agriculture and of Health and Human Services (HHS); (2) the National Institutes of Health (NIH); (3) the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry; (4) the Executive Office of the President, Council on Environmental Quality and Office of Environmental Quality; (5) the Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board; (6) the Office of Navajo and Hopi Indian Relocation; (7) the Institute of American Indian and Alaska Native Culture and Arts Development; (8) the Smithsonian Institution; (9) the National Gallery of Art; (10) the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts; (11) the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars; (12) the National Foundation on the Arts and the Humanities; (13) the National Endowment for the Arts; (14) the National Endowment for the Humanities; (15) the Commission of Fine Arts; (16) the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation; (17) the National Capital Planning Commission; (18) the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum; (19) the Presidio Trust Fund; and (20) the Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial Commission. Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2009 - Department of Labor Appropriations Act, 2009 - Makes appropriations for FY2009 to the Department of Labor, including transfers of funds. Department of Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2009 - Makes appropriations for FY2009 to the Department of Health and Human Services, including transfers of funds. Department of Education Appropriations Act, 2009 - Makes appropriations for FY2009 to the Department of Education, including deferral and transfers of funds. Makes appropriations for FY2009 to: (1) the Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled; (2) the Corporation for National and Community Service, for domestic volunteer service programs and operating expenses, administrative expenses and salaries, and the Office of Inspector General; (3) the Corporation for Public Broadcasting; (4) the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service; (5) the Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission; (6) the Institute of Museum and Library Services; (7) the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission; (8) the National Council on Disability; (9) the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB); (10) the National Mediation Board; (11) the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission; (12) the Railroad Retirement Board for the dual benefits payments account, federal payments to the railroad retirement accounts, administration, and the Office of Inspector General; and (13) the Social Security Administration (SSA) for payments to the Social Security trust funds, the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Program, administrative expenses, and the Office of Inspector General. Afghan Allies Protection Act of 2009 - Authorizes the Secretary of Homeland Security (Secretary), or the Secretary of State in consultation with the Secretary, to provide special immigrant status for an Afghan citizen or national (and accompanying or surviving spouse or child) who: (1) was employed for at least one year by, and provided documented valuable service to, the U.S. government in Afghanistan; and (2) is experiencing an ongoing threat as a result of such service. Authorizes the Secretary to adjust such an alien's status to permanent resident if the alien: (1) was paroled or admitted as a nonimmigrant into the United States; and (2) is otherwise eligible for special immigrant status. Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 2009 - Makes appropriations for FY2009 to the legislative branch, including transfers of funds. Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2009 - Makes appropriations for FY2009 to the Department of State for foreign operations and related programs, including transfers of funds. Makes appropriations for FY2009, including transfers of funds, to: (1) the United States Agency for International Development (USAID); (2) Global Health and Child Survival; (3) Development Assistance; (4) the Economic Support Fund; (5) the International Fund for Ireland; (6) assistance for Europe, Eurasia, and Central Asia; (7) the Department of State; (8) migration and refugee assistance; (9) the Peace Corps; (10) the Millennium Challenge Corporation; (11) the Inter-American Foundation; (12) the African Development Foundation; (13) the Department of the Treasury; (14) international security assistance; (15) multilateral assistance; (16) the Export-Import Bank of the United States; (17) the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC); and (18) the Trade and Development Agency. Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2009 - Department of Transportation Appropriations Act, 2009 - Makes appropriations for FY2009 to the Department of Transportation. Department of Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Act, 2009 - Makes appropriations for FY2009 to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Makes appropriations for FY2009 to: (1) the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board; (2) the Federal Maritime Commission; (3) the National Transportation Safety Board; (4) the Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation; and (5) the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness. Rescinds certain unobligated balances. Makes additional appropriations for FY2009 to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for the U.S. Secret Service. Specifies certain uses and limits on or prohibitions against the use of funds appropriated by this Act.

Wildfire Risk Reduction and Renewable Biomass Utilization Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 February 2009

Wildfire Risk Reduction and Renewable Biomass Utilization Act - Amends the Clean Air Act to revise the definition of "renewable biomass" to include biomass removed from certain federal lands in connection with an authorized hazardous fuel reduction project.

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow the credit for nonbusiness energy property for 2008.

United States · United States Congress · 23 February 2009

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow the tax credit for nonbusiness energy property for property placed in service in 2008.

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide a 15-year recovery period for property used in the transmission or distribution of electricity for sale.

United States · United States Congress · 23 February 2009

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a 15-year recovery period for the depreciation of: (1) certain property used in the transmission or distribution of electricity for sale and which is originally placed in service after enactment of this Act; and (2) initial clearing and grading land improvements with respect to any electric utility transmission and distribution plant.

Home Energy Assistance Targeted for Seniors Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 February 2009

Home Energy Assistance Targeted for Seniors Act - Amends the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Act of 1981 to rename it the Low-Income and Senior Home Energy Assistance Act of 1981. Redefines low-income households as households with incomes which do not exceed that of state median income, with at least 50% of the household income attributable to persons who are at least 65 years old.

Prevent Excessive Speculation Act

United States · United States Congress · 13 February 2009

Prevent Excessive Speculation Act - Amends the Commodity Exchange Act to extend its coverage to specified energy commodities, including: (1) crude oil; (2) natural gas; (3) coal; (4) gasoline, heating oil, diesel fuel, and any other source of energy derived from coal, crude oil, or natural gas; (5) electricity; and (6) renewable biomass-derived fuels. Prohibits the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) from permitting a foreign board of trade providing its members (or other participants subject to CFTC jurisdiction) direct access to its electronic trading and order matching system, unless specified requirements are met. Authorizes the CFTC to: (1) require recordkeeping by any person either located within the United States or entering trades directly into the trade matching system of a foreign board of trade from the United States; and (2) require a person in the United States or subject to CFTC jurisdiction to limit or liquidate any position on a foreign board of trade to reduce the threat of price manipulation. Directs the CFTC to convene a working group of international regulators to develop uniform international reporting and regulatory standards to protect energy futures markets from excessive speculation, manipulation, and other trading practices that may pose systemic risks to energy futures markets, countries, and consumers. Directs the CFTC to establish position limits for energy and agricultural commodities. Authorizes the CFTC to require or permit a contract market, derivatives transaction execution facility, or electronic trading facility, with respect to a significant price discovery contract, to establish and enforce position accountability. Authorizes the CFTC to exercise oversight over any disturbance in a commodity market that disrupts its liquidity and price discovery function from accurately reflecting a commodity's supply and demand ("major market disturbance"). Sets forth reporting requirements for covered traders. Requires the CFTC to identify each large over-the-counter transaction or class of such transactions in order to detect and prevent potential price manipulation of, or excessive speculation in, any contract listed for trading on a registered entity. Instructs the CFTC to: (1) routinely require detailed reporting from index traders and swap dealers in markets under its jurisdiction; and (2) review the trading practices for index traders in markets under its jurisdiction to ensure that index trading is not adversely impacting the price discovery process. Requires the CFTC to disaggregate and make public monthly: (1) the number of positions and total value of index funds and other passive, long-only positions in energy and agricultural markets; and (2) data on speculative positions relative to bona fide physical hedgers in such markets. Directs the CFTC to appoint additional CFTC enforcement employees.

To repeal a requirement with respect to the procurement and acquisition of alternative fuels.

United States · United States Congress · 13 February 2009

Amends the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 to repeal provisions prohibiting any federal agency from entering into a contract for procurement of an alternative or synthetic fuel for any mobility-related use, other than for research or testing, unless the contract specifies that the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions associated with the production and combustion of the fuel must be less than or equal to such emissions from the equivalent conventional fuel.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives concerning membership of the United States in the International Renewable Energy Agency.

United States · United States Congress · 13 February 2009

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States should seek to join the International Renewable Energy Agency.

A bill to amend the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to establish a renewable electricity standard, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 12 February 2009

Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to require a retail electric supplier to submit to the Secretary of Energy for calendar year 2012 and thereafter one or more of the following: (1) specified federal renewable energy credits; (2) certification of the renewable energy generated and electricity savings; and (3) specified alternative compliance payments. Prescribes, for calendar years 2012 through 2039, a schedule of graduated annual percentages of a retail electric supplier's base amount that shall be generated from renewable energy resources. Directs the Secretary to establish a program to: (1) verify and issue federal renewable energy credits to generators of renewable energy; (2) track the sale, exchange, and retirement of the credits; and (3) enforce the federal renewable energy credits program. Directs the Secretary to issue a generator of electric energy one federal renewable energy credit for each kilowatt hour of electric energy generated by the use of a renewable energy resource at an eligible facility. Prescribes rules for federal renewable energy credit trading, and for borrowing and repayment of borrowed federal renewable energy credits. Retains the authority of a state or its political subdivision to: (1) adopt or enforce any law (including regulations) respecting renewable energy; or (2) regulate the acquisition and disposition of federal renewable energy credits by retail electric suppliers. Permits an electric utility that has sales of electric energy subject to rate regulation to recover the full cost of renewable energy obtained to comply with this Act. Directs the Secretary to arrange with the National Academy of Sciences to evaluate and report to Congress on the program established under this Act. Establishes in the Treasury a state renewable energy account.

Condemning Pakistan's release of nuclear scientist Abdul Qadeer Khan from house arrest.

United States · United States Congress · 12 February 2009

Condemns the release from house arrest of Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan, who established and operated an illicit international nuclear proliferation network. Declares that Dr. Khan should be required to give a full accounting of such network to the U.S. government, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and other responsible parties. States that Pakistan's willingness to carry out its nonproliferation commitments should be a guiding element in determining U.S. policy and assistance toward that country. Regards a failure by Pakistan to carry out such commitments as being incompatible with Pakistan's status as a major non-North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) ally of the United States.

Providing for consideration of the conference report to accompany the bill (H.R. 1) making supplemental appropriations for job preservation and creation, infrastructure investment, energy efficiency and science, assistance to the unemployed, and State and local fiscal stabilization, for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2009, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 12 February 2009

Sets forth the rule for consideration of the conference report to accompany the bill (H.R. 1) making supplemental appropriations for job preservation and creation, infrastructure investment, energy efficiency and science, assistance to the unemployed, and State and local fiscal stabilization, for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2009.

GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION'S ECONOMIC RECOVERY ROLE: JOB CREATION, REPAIR, AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY IN FEDERAL BUILDINGS AND ACCOUNTABILITY

United States · United States House of Representatives · 11 February 2009

An original resolution authorizing expenditures by the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

United States · United States Congress · 11 February 2009

Authorizes expenditures by the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources for the 111th Congress.

Derivatives Markets Transparency and Accountability Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 11 February 2009

Derivatives Markets Transparency and Accountability Act of 2009 - Amends the Commodity Exchange Act to prohibit the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) from permitting a foreign board of trade to provide its U.S-located members with access to the CFTC electronic trading system and order matching system with respect to an agreement, contract, or transaction that settles against any price (including the daily or final settlement price) of one or more contracts listed for trading on a registered entity, unless such board meets requirements similar to those imposed upon U.S. exchanges. Directs the CFTC to: (1) define and classify index traders and swap dealers for purposes of data reporting requirements; and (2) set routine detailed reporting requirements for any positions of such entities in contracts traded on designated contract markets, derivatives transaction execution facilities, foreign boards of trade, and electronic trading facilities with respect to significant price discovery contracts. Requires the CFTC, to the extent information is available, to disaggregate and make public monthly: (1) the number of positions and total notional value of index funds and other passive, long-only and short-only positions in all markets; and (2) data on speculative positions relative to bona fide physical hedgers in those markets. Subjects persons involved in derivative and swap transactions, as well as large traders in over-the-counter contracts, to reporting and recordkeeping requirements. Directs the CFTC to set position limits for any one person with respect to: (1) contracts of sale for future delivery; or (2) options on such contracts or commodities traded on or subject to the rules of a contract market or derivatives transaction execution facility or on an electronic trading facility as a significant price discovery contract. Directs the CFTC to: (1) appoint a sufficient number of new full-time employees; (2) review prior actions to ensure compliance with this Act; and (3) review over-the-counter markets. Directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to study and report to specified congressional committees on the international regime for regulating the trading of energy commodity futures and derivatives. Directs the CFTC to assess whether certain derivative, swap, and similar agreements, contracts, or transactions that are fungible with agreements, contracts, or transactions traded on or subject to the rules of any board of trade or electronic trading facility with respect to a significant price discovery contract have the potential to: (1) disrupt the liquidity or price discovery function on a registered entity; (2) cause a severe market disturbance in the underlying cash or futures market; or (3) prevent or otherwise impair the price of a contract listed for trading on a registered entity from reflecting the forces of supply and demand in any market. Authorizes the CFTC, upon a positive finding, to impose position limits. Authorizes the CFTC to use expedited procedures to carry out this Act. Makes specified exclusions and exemptions from the Commodity Exchange Act available only for certain transactions settled and cleared through registered derivatives clearing organizations or other regulated entities, including national banks, state member banks, insured state nonmember banks, affiliates of any of these, or corporations chartered to do foreign banking. Treats as commodities exempt from Commodity Exchange Act coverage: (1) any allowance authorized under law to emit a greenhouse gas; and (2) any credit authorized under law toward the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions or an increase in carbon sequestration. Directs the CFTC to enter into a memorandum of understanding with the Secretary of Agriculture which shall ensure that any procedures and protocols developed for a market-based greenhouse gas program are properly constructed and coordinated to maximize credits for carbon sequestration. Amends the Inspector General Act of 1978 with respect to the Office of Inspector General of the CFTC. Authorizes the CFTC to: (1) suspend trading of credit default swaps; and (2) initiate and conduct criminal litigation relating to a violation of the Commodity Exchange Act if the Attorney General has declined to do so.

To temporarily exempt certain public and private development projects from any requirement for a review, statement, or analysis under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 11 February 2009

Exempts a public or private development project that is to be carried out within three years (other than a project for which a permit for the discharge of dredged or fill material into navigable waters at specified disposal sites is required under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act or that is to be carried out on wetland as defined by the Food Security Act of 1985) from any requirement for a review, statement, or analysis under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. Amends the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to require the Secretary of the Interior, on a state governor's declaration of an emergency, to temporarily exempt from the prohibition against taking and the prohibition against the adverse modification of critical habitat under such Act any action that is reasonably necessary to avoid or ameliorate the impact of the emergency, including the operation of any water supply or flood control project by a federal agency. Gives the United States District Court for the District of Columbia exclusive jurisdiction to hear all causes and claims that arise from any covered energy project. Defines a "covered energy project" as any action or decision by a federal official regarding: (1) the leasing of federal land (including submerged land) for the exploration, development, production, processing, or transmission of oil, natural gas, or any other source or form of energy; or (2) any action under such a lease. Sets forth deadlines for filing and resolving such claims.

Emergency Solar Power Permit Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 February 2009

Emergency Solar Power Permit Act - Amends the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 to exempt any action relating to the development, deployment, or operation of a solar energy project on lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) from environmental impact statement (EIS) requirements. Requires each federal agency, for any such action relating to a solar energy project, to cease the preparation of an EIS to the extent that its preparation would delay or otherwise interfere with the action.

Green Energy Education Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 10 February 2009

Green Energy Education Act of 2009 - Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to contribute energy research and development funds to the National Science Foundation (NSF) for the Integrative Graduate Education and Research Traineeship program to support graduate education related to such energy projects. Authorizes the Secretary to contribute funds for advanced energy technology research and development for high performance buildings to the NSF for curriculum development to improve undergraduate or graduate interdisciplinary engineering and architecture education related to the design and construction of such buildings.

Providing amounts for the expenses of the Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming in the One Hundred Eleventh Congress.

United States · United States Congress · 10 February 2009

Provides amounts for the expenses of the House Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming for the 111th Congress.

Providing amounts for the expenses of the Committee on Energy and Commerce in the One Hundred Eleventh Congress.

United States · United States Congress · 10 February 2009

Provides amounts for the expenses of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce for the 111th Congress.

FAA Reauthorization Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 9 February 2009

FAA Reauthorization Act of 2009 - Reauthorizes appropriations for FY2009-FY2012 for: (1) airport planning and development and noise compatibility planning programs; (2) air navigation facilities and equipment; (3) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) operations; and (4) FAA research, engineering, and development. Authorizes additional authorizations of appropriations from the general fund of the Treasury for aviation programs through FY2012. Amends the airport improvement program (AIP) to increase passenger facility charges that can be imposed by an eligible agency to finance an eligible airport-related project. Makes projects for construction of airport bicycle storage facilities and an intermodal ground access pilot project eligible airport-related projects. Specifies FAA services for which user fees may be charged. Requires adjustment of overflight fees by expedited rulemaking. Prescribes certain registration fees. Revises requirements for the airport improvement program (AIP). Increases the allotment of discretionary funds in a fiscal year for the airport security program. Expresses the sense of Congress that the modernizing of the U.S. air transportation system, through implementation of the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen), is a national priority. Requires the FAA Administrator to report to Congress on the program and schedule for integrating automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast (ADS-B) technology into the national airspace system. Prescribes other requirements for development of the NextGen System. Directs the FAA Administrator to develop a monitoring system for flight service specialist staffing and training under service contracts for flight service stations. Establishes a NextGen research and development center of excellence. Directs the FAA Administrator to: (1) develop a strategic runway safety plan, including systems to alert controllers and/or flight crews to potential runway incursions; (2) prescribe standards for the occupational safety and health of flight attendants; (3) establish a pilot program to provide surveillance for aircraft flying outside of radar coverage in mountainous areas; and (4) review off-airport, low-altitude aircraft weather observation technologies. Requires the Secretary of Transportation to develop a plan for the safe integration of commercial unmanned aircraft systems into the national airspace system. Establishes in the FAA an Aviation Safety Whistleblower Investigation Office. Increases from 24 to 34 the number of slots exempt from specified requirements and prohibitions concerning operation of an aircraft nonstop in air transportation between Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and another airport more than 1,250 statute miles away (Perimeter Rule limit). Increases additional funding and revises requirements for the Essential Air Service program. Requires certain air carriers and airport operators to submit for the Secretary's approval emergency contingency plans for passenger service during grounded aircraft flight delays. Directs the Secretary to establish in the Department of Transportation (DOT): (1) an Office of Rural Aviation; and (2) an advisory committee for aviation consumer protection. Prohibits voice communications using mobile communications devices on scheduled flights. Requires the FAA Administrator to enter into a cooperative agreement with an institution, entity, or consortium to carry out a program for the development, maturing, and certification of CLEEN (continuous lower energy, emissions, and noise) engine and airframe technology for aircraft over the next 10 years. Prohibits operating certain aircraft weighing 75,000 pounds or less that do not comply with stage 3 noise levels. Directs the Secretary to establish: (1) a pilot program to carry out up to six environmental mitigation demonstration projects at public-use airports; and (2) an aircraft departure queue management pilot program. Revises FAA personnel management system requirements with respect to the mediation, alternative resolution, and binding arbitration of disputes between the FAA Administrator and FAA employees about implementation of proposed changes to the system. Directs the FAA Administrator to: (1) increase the number of aviation safety inspectors in the Flight Standards Service; (2) assess training programs for FAA air traffic controllers; and (3) establish an FAA Task Force on Air Traffic Control Facility Conditions. Extends the Secretary's authority to provide insurance and reinsurance against loss or damage arising out of any risk from the operation of a domestic or foreign aircraft. Authorizes the FAA Administrator to access the criminal history records or databases systems of specified federal law enforcement agencies. Establishes within the FAA a working group to make recommendations for the realignment of FAA services and facilities to assist in the transition to next generation facilities. Directs the FAA Administrator to establish a pilot program for redevelopment of airport properties. Federal Aviation Research and Development Reauthorization Act of 2009 - Directs the FAA Administrator to establish a research initiative to assess the impact of aviation on the climate and, if warranted, to evaluate approaches to mitigate such impact. Directs the FAA Administrator to establish a Center for Excellence in Aviation Employment.

Renewable Fuel Pipelines Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 4 February 2009

Renewable Fuel Pipelines Act of 2009 - Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to allow federally-guaranteed loans for renewable fuel pipeline construction without regard to whether an appropriation for the cost has been made. Includes ethanol and biodiesel as renewable fuel. Allows a maximum guarantee by the Secretary of Energy of 90% of the project cost and more than one guarantee for a project (as long as the total guaranteed amount does not exceed 90%). Sets forth factors to be considered in guarantee determinations, including volume and quality of fuel, size of markets served, experience of the entity working with renewable fuel, and associated storage, production, and terminal facilities. Authorizes an entity implementing a fuel pipeline project for which a guarantee is made, when such entity is unable to acquire the necessary right-of-way to construct, operate, and maintain pipelines and the necessary land or property for the location of pump stations, pressure apparatus, and other necessary facilities or equipment by contract, to acquire what is necessary through eminent domain if determined by the Secretary to be necessary or desirable in the public interest. Authorizes the Secretary to provide grants for renewable fuel pipeline projects to assist in carrying out permit acquisition, planning, and other preparatory activities in advance of participation in the guarantee program. Limits the sum of grants and amounts guaranteed for a project that receives both to 90% of the project's cost.

Save American Energy Act

United States · United States Congress · 4 February 2009

Save American Energy Act - Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to establish a federal energy efficiency resource standard for retail electricity and natural gas distributors. Requires the Secretary of Energy to: (1) establish a program to implement, enforce, review, and adjust performance standards for specified cumulative electricity and natural gas savings for 2012 through 2020; (2) promulgate regulations establishing performance standards for 2021 through 2030 and for subsequent years by specified deadlines; and (3) set such standards at levels reflecting the maximum achievable level of cost-effective energy efficiency potential, taking into account cost-effective energy savings achieved by leading retail electricity and natural gas distributors, opportunities for new codes and standard savings, technology improvements, and other indicators of cost-effective energy efficiency potential. Prohibits standards for any year from being lower than the standard for 2020. Requires each retail electricity and natural gas distributor to submit a report annually demonstrating that it has achieved required savings and requires the Secretary to verify that performance standards have been met. Authorizes distributors to use electricity or natural gas savings purchased from another distributor, a state, or a third party efficiency provider to meet such standards. Provides for state administration of an energy efficiency program to meet the requirements of this Act. Requires the Secretary to contract with the National Academy of Sciences to submit a comprehensive evaluation of all aspects of the program established by this Act by July 1, 2017, and every 10 years thereafter.

To expedite the construction of new refining capacity on closed military installations in the United States, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 4 February 2009

Requires the President to designate not less than three closed military installations (or portions of them) that are appropriate for siting a refinery for gasoline or other fuel. Designates the Department of Energy as the lead agency for coordinating applicable federal refinery authorizations and related environmental reviews with respect to a designated refinery. Gives the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia exclusive jurisdiction over civil actions relating to federal refinery authorizations.

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide for a livestock energy investment credit.

United States · United States Congress · 4 February 2009

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a business-related tax credit for: (1) the production of renewable energy from qualified energy feedstock using a technology verified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); and (2) the sale or use of such energy. Defines "qualified energy feedstock" to include manure of livestock, any nonhazardous, organic agricultural or food industry byproduct or waste material derived from renewable biomass, solid wood waste materials, or agricultural or forestry crops. Allows such credit to offset alternative minimum tax (AMT) liability.

To establish procedures for causes and claims relating to the leasing of Federal lands (including submerged lands) for the exploration, development, production, processing, or transmission of oil, natural gas, or any other source or form of energy, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 4 February 2009

Confers exclusive jurisdiction upon the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia to hear causes and claims arising from a covered energy project, any action or decision by a federal official regarding: (1) leasing federal lands for the exploration, development, production, processing, or transmission of any source or form of energy; (2) actions and decisions regarding the selection or offering of federal lands for such leasing; or (3) any action under such a lease. Bars any cause or claim not filed within a 60-day period for filing a complaint. Prescribes a 180-day deadline for court resolution of a complaint or cause of action. Declares that such a complaint or cause of action shall take precedence over all other pending matters before the District Court. Restricts to the Supreme Court any judicial review of an interlocutory or final judgment, decree, or order of the district court. Prescribes a 180-day deadline for Supreme Court resolution of such a matter. Declares that all such proceedings shall take precedence over all other matters then before the Supreme Court.

American Renewable Energy Act

United States · United States Congress · 4 February 2009

American Renewable Energy Act – Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to require the Secretary of Energy to establish a program to implement and enforce a renewable electricity trading program, including requirements governing the issuance, tracking, and retirement of federal renewable electricity credits. Requires each retail electric supplier to submit to the Secretary, annually, a quantity of federal renewable electricity credits equal to the supplier's base amount (electricity sold) for the calendar year multiplied by a specified annual percentage for 2012 though 2039. Authorizes suppliers to satisfy such requirement by submitting, in lieu of each credit, a payment equal to the lesser of: (1) 200% of the average market value of a credit for the previous compliance year; or (2) five cents, adjusted each year after 2009 based on the Gross Domestic Product Implicit Price Deflator. Requires such payments to be deposited in a Renewable Electricity Deployment Fund, from which payments shall be made to suppliers that have submitted credits in compliance with their obligations for the preceding year. Requires the Secretary to issue to each generator of renewable electricity one federal renewable electricity credit for each kilowatt hour of renewable electricity generated. Provides for the issuance of credits: (1) to suppliers for renewable electricity generated with the support of payments from a supplier pursuant to a state renewable electricity program; (2) to distributed generation facilities; (3) for qualifying hydropower; and (4) to generators that produce electricity using both a renewable energy resource and a non renewable resource. Provides for: (1) the trading and banking of credits; (2) Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) oversight of the market for such credits; and (3) civil penalties for noncompliance. Requires the Secretary to contract with the National Academy of Sciences to submit periodic comprehensive evaluations of the federal renewable electricity trading program. Terminates this Act on December 31, 2040.

MORE Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 3 February 2009

Maximize Offshore Resource Exploration Act of 2008 or the MORE Act of 2008 - Declares without force or effect all federal prohibitions against the expenditure of appropriated funds to conduct natural gas leasing and preleasing activities for any area of the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS). Revokes all withdrawals of federal submerged lands from leasing for oil and natural gas exploration and production. Amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to prohibit the Secretary of the Interior from granting an oil or natural gas lease for any OCS located within 25 miles of a state coastline unless the state has enacted a law approving the issuance of such leases by the Sectretary. Sets forth an allocation schedule for a 75% state share of revenues derived from U.S. royalties under qualified oil and gas leases on submerged lands located within the seaward boundaries of a state. Extends the jurisdiction of state civil and criminal law, as appropriate, to the Alaska, Pacific, Gulf of Mexico, and Atlantic OCS Region State Adjacent Zones and OCS Planning Areas. Establishes a separate account in the Treasury to be known as the Renewable Energy Reserve, consisting of 12.5% of revenues derived from U.S. royalties under such oil and gas leases. Makes the Reserve available to offset the cost of subsequently enacted legislation to: (1) accelerate the use of cleaner domestic energy resources and alternative fuels; (2) promote the utilization of energy-efficient products and practices; and (3) increase research, development, and deployment of clean renewable energy and efficiency technologies and job training programs for those purposes.

To require advertising for any automobile model to display information regarding the fuel consumption and fuel cost for that model, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 3 February 2009

Requires any advertisement for any model of automobile or light duty truck to include the Environmental Protection Agency's Combined Miles Per Gallon Rating, City Miles Per Gallon Rating, Highway Miles Per Gallon Rating MPG, and Estimated Annual Fuel Cost Rating for that model. Treats a violation as an unfair or deceptive act or practice under the Federal Trade Commission Act and requires the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to enforce this Act.

Cluster-Based Economy Enhancement Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 3 February 2009

Cluster-Based Economy Enhancement Act of 2009 - Amends the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 to authorize the Secretary of Commerce to make grants to a state or local government, an institution of higher education, or a nonprofit economic development organization to: (1) assess the potential for the development or enhancement of business clusters (geographic concentrations of business entities that are in competing, complementary, or interdependent firms and industries, that do business with one another, and that have common needs for talent, technology, and infrastructure); (2) establish cluster development programs in regions determined by the Secretary to qualify for a grant or which have been designated by the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act and the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 as areas in which regional development commissions have been established; and (3) promote cluster development programs in such regions and support the staff who operate such programs. Limits: (1) the federal share of the cost of projects carried out using funds authorized by this Act to 50%; and (2) the portion of the non-federal share of project costs that may be provided through in-kind contributions to 50%.

Farming Flexibility Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 3 February 2009

Farming Flexibility Act of 2009 - Amends the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 to limit the pilot project permitting the planting of cucumbers, green peas, lima beans, pumpkins, snap beans, sweet corn, and tomatoes grown for processing on base acres to crop year 2009. (Under current law such pilot program is authorized through crop year 2012.) Provides that: (1) as of crop year 2010 producers on a farm may reduce the base acres for any covered commodity if such acres are used for the production of fruits or vegetables for processing; (2) such acres devoted to fruits or vegetables shall be included in base acres for the covered commodity for the subsequent crop year unless the producers on the farm make the election to produce fruits and vegetables for the subsequent crop year; and (3) if a farm's base acres are recalculated the production of fruits or vegetables shall be considered to be the same as the planting, prevented planting, or production of the covered commodity.

Nanotechnology Advancement and New Opportunities Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 February 2009

Nanotechnology Advancement and New Opportunities Act - Directs the Secretary of Commerce, if $100 million is made available from the private sector for establishing a Nanomanufacturing Investment Partnership, to establish such a Partnership to provide funding for precommercial nanomanufacturing research and development projects. Allows the Partnership to provide funding through direct investments in specified mechanisms designed to advance nanomanufacturing. Requires return on investment of amounts resulting from the commercialization of developed technologies to the Partnership. Requires establishment of an advisory board to assist the Secretary in carrying out the Partnership. Amends the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) to allow a tax credit for the purchase of qualified nanotechnology developer stock. Authorizes establishment within the Technology Administration of a grant program to support the establishment and development of incubators (entities affiliated with or housed in degree-granting institutions that provide space and coordinated and specialized services to certain entrepreneurial businesses). Establishes a Nanotechnology Startup Advisory Council. Directs the National Science Foundation (NSF) to establish a Nanoscale Science and Engineering Center for the development of computer aided design tools for nanotechnology applications. Requires the establishment of nanotechnology research grant programs by the: (1) Secretary of Energy to address the need for clean, cheap, renewable energy; (2) Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to address technologies for remediation of pollution and other environmental protection technologies; (3) Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) to address the need for sensors and other materials related to homeland security needs; and (4) Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to address health related applications of nanotechnology. Requires the Director of the National Nanotechnology Coordination Office to transmit a nanotechnology research strategy that establishes priorities for the federal government and industry. Amends the IRC to: (1) allow a tax credit for nanotechnology education and training program expenses; and (2) revise, for purposes of Hope and Lifetime Learning tax credits, the definition of "eligible educational institution" to include commercial nanotechnology training providers. Directs the NSF to establish: (1) a grant program for the development of curriculum materials for interdisciplinary nanotechnology courses at institutions of higher education; and (2) establish a program to encourage manufacturing companies to enter into partnerships with occupational training centers for the development of training to support nanotechnology manufacturing. Directs the Secretary of Energy to transmit a strategy for increasing interaction on nanotechnology issues between scientists and engineers at the Department of Energy's national laboratories and in the informal science education community.

American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 29 January 2009

American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 - American Recovery and Reinvestment Tax Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) allow individual taxpayers a refundable tax credit through 2010 for the lesser of 6.2% of earned income or $500; (2) increase in 2009 or 2010 the earned income tax credit, the refundable portion of the child tax credit, and the Hope scholarship tax credit; (3) allow payment of purchases of computer technology or equipment from qualified tuition plans in 2009 or 2010; (4) extend until September 1, 2009, the first-time home buyer tax credit and waive repayment of credit amounts; (5) exclude from gross income in 2009 the first $2,400 of unemployment compensation; (6) extend through 2009 exemptions from the alternative minimum tax; (7) extend for three years the tax credit for production of electricity from renewable resources; (8) increase allocations of new clean renewable energy and qualified energy conservation bonds; (9) modify and extend the tax credits for nonbusiness energy property and residential energy efficient property; (10) increase and extend through 2010 the tax credit for alternative fuel vehicle refueling property; (11) allow an increased research tax credit in 2009 or 2010 for energy research expenditures; (12) allow a five-year carryback of general business tax credits and a 100% offset of such credits against income tax liabilities; (13) expand the alternative motor vehicle tax credit for the purchase of plug-in electric drive motor vehicles; (14) extend through 2009 bonus depreciation provisions and the increased expensing allowance for depreciable business assets; (15) allow a five-year carryback period for net operating losses, including operating losses of insurance companies, incurred in 2009 or 2010; (16) allow a work opportunity tax credit for the hiring of disconnected youth (certain youth who are not regularly employed or attending school) and certain unemployed veterans in 2009 or 2010; (17) allow the deferral of the recognition of income from the discharge of indebtedness in connection with the repurchase of a debt instrument after 2008 and before 2011; (18) increase the tax exclusion of gain for certain small business stock acquired in 2009 or 2010; (19) allow an investment tax credit for broadband expenditures in rural and underserved areas; and (20) expand tax-exempt bond financing in 2009 or 2010 to include facilities for manufacturing intangible property. Limits the applicability of Treasury Notice 2008-83 (suspending restrictions on the offset of net operating losses and unrealized built-in losses against the taxable income of certain corporate entities that acquire or merge with other entities) to periods prior to January 16, 2009. Provides for the issuance of tax-exempt recovery zone economic development, recovery zone facility, and tribal economic development bonds. Increases the national limitation for allocations of the new markets tax credit. Disregards in 2009 or 2010: (1) certain limitations on the tax deductibility of interest payments made by financial institutions; and (2) interest earned on tax-exempt private activity bonds for purposes of the alternative minimum tax. Delays until 2012 the requirement for withholding 3% of payments made to contractors who provide goods or services to governmental entities. Allows a new tax credit for investment in school construction bonds and build America bonds. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to make a one-time $300 economic recovery payment to recipients of specified social security and other federal benefits. Extends through 2010 provisions of the trade adjustment assistance program. Prohibits the Secretary of Homeland Security from collecting certain payments of antidumping or countervailing duties made under the Continued Dumping and Subsidy Offset Act of 2000. Applies federal wage rate requirements for public building and works to certain energy conservation and other projects financed with the proceeds of tax-exempt bonds. Increases the public debt limit to $12.14 trillion. Assistance for Unemployed Workers and Struggling Families Act - Amends the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2008 to extend the Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC) program. Provides for federal-state agreements for increased regular unemployment compensation payments to individuals. Requires federal payments to states to cover 100% of such additional payments. Amends the Social Security Act (SSA) to direct the Secretary of Labor to make special transfers to state accounts in the Unemployment Trust Fund for unemployment compensation modernization incentive payments and for administration. Amends the SSA to deem, for a specified period through December 31, 2010, that interest payments otherwise due from a state for federal advances to its unemployment fund have been made by the state. Prohibits accrual of interest on such advances during such period. Amends part A (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) (TANF) of title IV of the SSA to establish in the Treasury the Emergency Contingency Fund for State Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Programs. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to make grants from such Fund related to: (1) caseload increases; (2) increased expenditures for non-recurrent short term benefits; and (3) increased expenditures for subsidized employment. Amends the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005, as amended by the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008, to extend TANF supplemental grants. Authorizes a state or tribe to use a TANF grant to provide, without fiscal year limitation, any benefit or service that may be provided under the state or tribal program funded under TANF. Reinstates for a specified period the authority of the Secretary of HHS to provide federal matching payments for state spending of child support incentive payments. Provides for payment of a portion of an individual's premiums for any COBRA coverage (health insurance continuation benefits). Amends SSA title XIX (Medicaid) to extend transitional medical assistance (TMA) through December 31, 2010. Gives states the option of simplifying TMA eligibility determinations. Requires each state to collect and submit to the Secretary of HHS information on: (1) average monthly enrollment and average monthly participation rates for adults and children; and (2) the number and percentage of children who become ineligible for medical assistance whose medical assistance is continued under another eligibility category, or who are enrolled under the state's child health plan under SSA title XXI (State Children's Health Insurance) (SCHIP). Extends the qualifying individual program from December 2009 to December 2010, as well as the total amount under such program available for allocation. Prohibits state Medicaid programs from imposing cost-sharing requirements on an Indian when the beneficiary is receiving an item or service directly from an Indian health care provider or through referral from a Contract Health Services provider. Requires that states disregard certain tribal property in determining the Medicaid or SCHIP eligibility of Indians. Requires that the procedures used by state Medicaid programs for estate recovery exempt certain income, resources, and property that are exempt from related federal requirements because of the federal responsibility for Indian Tribes and Alaska Native Villages. Establishes special rules applicable under Medicaid and SCHIP to managed care entities with respect to Indian enrollees and Indian health care providers and Indian managed care entities. Directs the Secretary to maintain within the Centers for Medicaid & Medicaid Services a Tribal Technical Advisory Group. Requires state Medicaid and SCHIP programs to seek advice on a regular, ongoing basis from Indian Health Programs and Urban Indian Organizations on all matters likely to have a direct effect on them, including plan amendments, waiver request, and proposals for demonstration projects. Requires a state plan to apply prompt pay requirements to nursing facilities. Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act or the HITECH Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to establish the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology. Sets forth provisions governing the development and adoption of a nationwide health information technology infrastructure that allows for the electronic use and exchange of information. Amends SSA title XVIII (Medicare) to establish incentive payments for certain eligible physicians and hospitals that adopt and use certified electronic health record (EHR) technology meaningfully, beginning in FY2011. Directs the Secretary of HHS to recompute payments for certain inpatient hospital discharges without applying the phased-out indirect medical education adjustment factor. Directs the Secretary of HHS to study and report to Congress on: (1) the application of EHR payment incentives for providers not receiving other incentive payments; and (2) the availability of open source health information technology systems. Amends SSA title XIX (Medicaid) to establish incentive payments to encourage the adoption and use by Medicaid providers of qualified electronic health records. Establishes a temporary increase in the federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP) with respect to Medicaid payments, as well as payments under SSA title IV part E (Foster Care and Adoption Assistance), for FY2009-FY2011 for eligible states, with FMAP increases authorized for specified U.S. territories. Extends from FY2008 through FY2013 the special rule for increase of Medicaid disproportionate share (DSH) allotments for low DSH states. Directs the Secretary of HHS to work with each state to reach an agreement on the amount of a payment for the state related to the Medicare program liability as a result of the Special Disability Workload project. Makes appropriations to the HHS Inspector General. Directs the Comptroller General to study and report to the appropriate congressional committees on the period of national economic downturn in effect on the date of enactment of this Act, as well as previous periods of national economic downturn since 1974, for the purpose of developing recommendations for addressing the needs of states during such periods.

Main Street Manufacturing Communities Reinvestment Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 28 January 2009

Main Street Manufacturing Communities Reinvestment Act of 2009 - Amends the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 to revise the economic adjustment assistance grant program. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to: (1) waive the requirement that a manufacturing area suffering from severe unemployment or severe changes in economic conditions have a comprehensive economic develop strategy prior to a request for a grant for a project to alleviate such special need, provided it has a streamlined economic development strategy plan approved by the Governor; and (2) provide assistance to alleviate economic dislocation in a manufacturing area regardless of whether it was sudden or arose more than 24 months before the filing for a grant. Amends the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 to authorize the Secretary of Labor to award national emergency grants to an eligible entity to provide employment and training assistance to manufacturing workers who lost employment due to a plant closure, or mass layoff, or experienced a change in employment status due to a plant shutdown, at a single employment site for 50 or more workers. Allows the use of such a grant to provide a job search allowance and a relocation allowance of up to $1,250 each, as well as needs-related payments to an eligible manufacturing worker. Revises energy efficiency and renewable energy worker training program eligibility requirements. Directs the Secretary of Labor to: (1) award advanced training partnership grants to eligible institutions of higher education for the design, engineering, manufacture, or supply of equipment for new technologically advanced, energy efficient, and renewable fuel powered motor vehicles; and (2) provide other services to upgrade the skills of automobile industry workers (including equipment supply industry workers) to manufacture such vehicles.

Expressing the sense of Congress that the 40th anniversary of the oil spill off the coast of Santa Barbara, California, should be remembered as an ecological and economic disaster that triggered major environmental legislation and helped launch the modern environmental movement, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 28 January 2009

Calls for the 40th anniversary of the oil spill off the coast of Santa Barbara, California, to be: (1) remembered as an ecological and economic disaster that triggered major environmental legislation and helped launch the modern environmental movement; and (2) a reminder of the importance of moving our economy away from its dependence on fossil fuels and towards a clean, renewable energy future.

HEARING ON ENERGY REDUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY IN SURFACE TRANSPORTATION

United States · United States House of Representatives · 27 January 2009

ENERGY REDUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY IN SURFACE TRANSPORTATION [ERRATA] H. Hrg. 111-3

United States · United States House of Representatives · 27 January 2009

American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 27 January 2009

American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 - Makes supplemental appropriations for FY2009 to: (1) the Department of Agriculture; (2) the Department of Commerce; (3) the Department of Justice (DOJ); (4) the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA); (5) the National Science Foundation; (6) the Department of Defense (DOD); (7) the Department of the Army, Corps of Engineers - Civil; (8) the Department of the Interior; and (9) the Department of Energy. Makes additional appropriations for FY2009 to the Secretary of Agriculture to provide a temporary increase in benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Amends the Crop Insurance Act and the Trade Act of 1974 to provide 2008 transition assistance to certain farmers for lost income due to natural disasters and other unforeseen events. Instructs the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to establish a national broadband service development and expansion program in conjunction with the Broadband Technology Opportunities Program. Makes additional borrowing authority available to the Bonneville Power Administration. Amends the Hoover Power Plant Act of 1984 to authorize the Western Area Power Administration to borrow funds from the Treasury for: (1) new or upgraded electric power transmission lines and related facilities; and (2) the delivery of power generated by renewable energy resources after enactment of this Act. Makes technical corrections to the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. Revises requirements with respect to smart grid regional demonstration initiatives. Instructs the Secretary of Energy to establish a smart grid information clearinghouse. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to direct the Secretary to make loan guarantees for rapid deployment before FY2012 of renewable energy and electric power transmission projects. Amends the Energy Conservation and Production Act to increase the income eligibility level for the Weatherization Assistance Program, as well as the maximum amount of financial assistance. Makes supplemental appropriations for FY2009: (1) to the Department of the Treasury; (2) for federal payments to the District of Columbia; (3) to the General Services Administration (GSA); (4) to the Recovery Act Accountability and Transparency Board; and (5) to Small Business Administration (SBA). Provides temporary elimination of SBA fees on: (1) small-business loans; (2) state and local development program loans; and (3) lender oversight fees. Provides increased SBA loan leverage and investment limits. Authorizes the SBA to refinance certain loans to state and local development companies. Makes supplemental appropriations for FY2009 to: (1) the Department of Homeland Security (DHS); (2) the Department of the Interior; (3) the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); (4) the Department of Agriculture; (5) the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS); (6) the Smithsonian Institution; (7) the National Foundation on the Arts and the Humanities; (8) the National Endowment for the Arts; (9) the Department of Labor (DOL), Employment and Training Administration; (10) the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS); (11) the Department of Education; (12) the Corporation for National and Community Service; (13) the National Service Trust; (14) the Social Security Administration (SSA); (15) the Government Accountability Office (GAO); (16) the DOD; (17) the Department of Veterans Affairs; (18) the DOD - Civil; (19) the Department of State; (20) the Department of Transportation; and (21) the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Requires the President to establish an arbitration panel under the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) public assistance program to expedite the recovery efforts from Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, Gustav, and Ike within the Gulf Coast Region. Amends the U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans' Care, Katrina Recovery, and Iraq Accountability Appropriations Act, 2007 to require GAO (currently, the Secretary of Labor) to report on the impact of past and future minimum wage increases in American Samoa and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands regarding living standards and rates of employment. Establishes the Federal Coordinating Council for Comparative Clinical Effectiveness Research. Provides grants for higher education facility modernization, renovation, and repair. Amends the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act to revise the exclusion from the meaning of "employee in the recreational marine industry" of any individuals employed to repair a recreational vessel or to dismantle any part of it in connection with its repair. Amends the Demonstration Cities and Metropolitan Development Act of 1966 to expand temporarily the homeowners assistance plan to respond to mortgage foreclosures and the credit crisis with respect to: (1) acquisition of property at or near military installations that have been ordered to be closed; (2) homeowner assistance for wounded members of the Armed Forces and DOD and U.S. Coast Guard civilian employees and their spouses; and (3) temporary homeowner assistance for members of the Armed Forces permanently reassigned during a specified period involving a mortgage crisis. Provides for payments to eligible persons who served in the Armed Forces in the Far East during World War II. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to invest in the infrastructure necessary to allow for and promote the electronic exchange and use of health information for each individual in the United States, consistent with the goals outlined in the Strategic Plan developed by the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology. Establishes a State Stabilization Fund which the Secretary of Education is to use to provide grants to states: (1) to restore state funding for elementary, secondary, and postsecondary education; (2) to supplement school improvement funds provided to local educational agencies (LEAs) under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965; and (3) for public safety and other government services. Reserves a portion of such Fund for: (1) awarding grants to states that make significant progress in addressing inequities in teacher distribution, establishing longitudinal education data systems, and improving educational assessments; and (2) establishing an Innovation Fund to award states, LEAs, and schools that make significant progress in closing student achievement gaps. Establishes the Recovery Accountability and Transparency Board. Designates each amount in this Act as an emergency requirement, necessary to meet certain emergency needs in accordance with the FY2008-FY2009 congressional budget resolutions. Makes all funds appropriated in this Act available for obligation in such current fiscal year, unless expressly expressly provided otherwise. Prohibits the use of funds for a project for the construction, alteration, maintenance, or repair of a public building or public work unless all of the iron and steel used in the project is domestic, except in certain circumstances. Prohibits a state or local agency from receiving infrastructure investment funding from funds made available under this Act unless its chief executive certifies that: (1) such investment funding has been reviewed and vetted; and (2) the investment is an appropriate use of taxpayer dollars. Amends the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 to revise contracting requirements to include individuals with disabilities and businesses owned by such persons.

Hardrock Mining and Reclamation Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 27 January 2009

Hardrock Mining and Reclamation Act of 2009 - Applies this Act to any mining claim, millsite claim, or tunnel site claim located under the general mining laws or used for beneficiation or mineral processing activities, regardless of whether legal and beneficial title to the mineral is held by the United States. Conditions federal issuance of a patent for any such mining or millsite claim upon specified determinations by the Secretary of the Interior. Subjects production of locatable minerals to a royalty of 8% of the gross income from mining. Imposes a 4% royalty upon federal lands subject to an existing permit, and specified royalties on certain federal land added to an existing operations permit. Prescribes a hardrock mining claim maintenance fee for each unpatented mining claim, mill, or tunnel site on federally owned lands. Designates certain wilderness study areas, areas of critical environmental concern, and related areas as not open to location of mining claims. Permits a state or local government or Indian tribe to petition the Secretary of the Interior for withdrawal of specific federal land from operation of the general mining laws in order to protect specific values. Instructs the Secretary to ensure that mineral activities on federal land subject to a claim are carefully controlled to prevent undue degradation of public lands and resources. Prescribes requirements for the exploration permit process and for operations permits, including financial assurances. Requires restoration of lands to a condition capable of supporting prior uses or other beneficial uses. Establishes the Locatable Minerals Fund composed of: (1) penalties, fees, and royalties; (2) the Hardrock Reclamation Account, and (3) the Hardrock Community Impact Assistance Account. Amends the National Materials and Minerals Policy, Research and Development Act of 1980 to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to initiate prompt actions to improve the availability and analysis of mineral data in public land use decision-making with respect to National Forest System lands. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to subject certain oil shale claims to the reclamation requirements of this Act. Repeals the Building Stone Act and the Saline Placer Act.

Providing for further consideration of the bill (H.R. 1) making supplemental appropriations for job preservation and creation, infrastructure investment, energy efficiency and science, assistance to the unemployed, and State and local fiscal stabilization, for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2009, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 27 January 2009

Sets forth the rule for consideration of H.R. 1 (American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009). Requires the chair of the Committee on Appropriations to insert in the Congressional Record by February 4, 2009, such material as he may deem explanatory of appropriations measures for FY2009. Authorizes the chair of the Committee on Ways and Means to file, on behalf of the Committee, a supplemental report to accompany H.R. 598 (providing for a portion of the economic recovery package relating to revenue measures, unemployment, and health).

A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend the nonbusiness energy property credit for property placed in service during 2008.

United States · United States Congress · 26 January 2009

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend through 2009 the tax credit for nonbusiness energy property.

Rural Revitalization Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 26 January 2009

Rural Revitalization Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) allow the issuance, through December 31, 2010, of tax-exempt facility bonds to finance qualified electric transmission facilities; and (2) extend issuance authority for qualified zone academy bonds and permit bond proceeds to be used for construction. Amends the Federal Power Act to revise the Secretary of Energy's authority to designate national interest electric transmission corridors. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to transfer funds for: (1) electrification loans and loan guarantees; (2) Indian reservation roads and bridge and highway projects; (3) water projects; (4) utilities programs; (5) community facilities programs; (6) business enterprise grants and microenterprise assistance; (7) telemedicine and distance learning services; (8) public works and economic development; and (9) energy programs. Amends the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 to direct the Secretary of Energy to make loan guarantees for renewable fuel pipelines. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to transfer funds for the: (1) emergency food assistance program; (2) commodity supplemental food program; (3) emergency food program infrastructure grant program; and (4) supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children (WIC). Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to use specified Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) funds for the Doug Bereuter section 502 single family housing loan guarantee program. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to transfer funds for National Health Service Corps programs. Amends the Social Security Act to extend: (1) increased payments for certain ground ambulance services; and (2) assistance for rural providers providing services in low population density areas. Amends the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003, as amended by the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005, to extend the payment increase for certain rural home health services. Amends the Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006, as amended by the Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP Extension Act of 2007 and the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008, to extend certain hospital reclassification authority.

Clean Energy Stimulus and Investment Assurance Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 26 January 2009

Clean Energy Stimulus and Investment Assurance Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) allow a new tax credit for investment in projects for manufacturing alternative energy equipment; (2) allow accelerated depreciation for smart meters and smart grid systems; (3) expand carrybacks and carryforwards of unused business tax credits; (4) extend the tax credit for producing electricity from renewable resources and expand such credit to include the production of thermal energy and zero carbon emissions resource facilities; (5) increase the national limitation for issuance of new clean renewable energy bonds; (6) allow expensing of manufacturing facilities for producing plug-in electric drive motor vehicles; (7) allow a tax credit for the cost of converting motor vehicles into plug-in electric drive motor vehicles; (8) extend through 2010 the tax credit for biodiesel and renewable diesel; (9) extend through 2014 the tax credit for alternative fuel vehicle refueling property expenditures; (10) increase the tax credit for residential energy efficient property expenditures; (11) allow an energy tax credit through 2016 for qualified energy storage air conditioner property; (12) extend through 2012 the tax credit for new energy efficient homes; (13) increase the tax deduction for energy efficient commercial buildings; (14) increase and extend the tax credit for nonbusiness energy property; (15) allow an energy tax credit for investment in green roofs; and (16) repeal limitations on the energy tax credit for property financed by subsidized energy financing. Authorizes appropriations for: (1) smart grid research and development; (2) the Bonneville Power Administration; (3) the plug-in electric drive motor vehicle program; (4) the energy storage competitiveness program; (5) advanced battery manufacturing; and (6) the energy efficient appliance rebate program and the Energy Star program. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to allow the federal government to enter into 30-year contracts for the purchase of electricity generated by renewable energy.

To provide for a green building certification program as part of the Energy Star program.

United States · United States Congress · 26 January 2009

Requires the Secretary of Energy to: (1) expand the Energy Star program to include the certification of buildings as green buildings; and (2) study and make recommendations concerning the streamlining of the certification process, development of an online certification program, and design of a program allowing certification by those without green building expertise. Defines "green building" as a building constructed taking into account sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection, indoor environmental quality, life-cycle concerns of building materials (including emissions and environmental impact), and transit and density-oriented development. Requires a report to Congress setting forth the design of the expanded program.