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Bill· SS. 2649 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2004
Workforce Investment for Next-Generation Technologies Act - WING Act - Amends the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 to direct the Secretary of Labor to carry out up to twenty pilot projects to establish a system of industry-validated national certifications of skills in: (1) up to sixteen high-technology industries; and (2) up to four cross-disciplinary national certification of skills in homeland security technology. Includes among the high-technology industries: biotechnology, telecommunications, highly automated manufacturing (including semiconductors), advanced materials technology, nanotechnology, and energy technology (including technology relating to next-generation lighting). Directs the Secretary to make three-to-four year grants for such projects to eligible entities with one or more of the following as a primary participant: (1) an institution of higher education; (2) an advanced technology education center; (3) a local workforce investment board; (4) a representative of a business in a target industry for the certification involved; or (5) a representative of an industry association, labor organization, or community development organization. Requires each certification program to be: (1) offered at the completion of, and in addition to, a training and education program which is related to the industry competencies involved and which is offered in a flexible manner that meets the needs of those seeking certification; and (2) consistent with the requirements for a two-year associate degree.
Bill· HRH.R. 4819 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2004
Essential Waterways Operations and Maintenance Act of 2004 - Makes available for each fiscal year to the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Chief of Engineers, for operations and maintenance of essential waterways (in addition to amounts otherwise made available for operations and maintenance), five percent of the amount of duties collected during the preceding fiscal year on articles transported by vessel unladen for purposes of entering the customs territory of the United States. Defines an "essential waterway" as a waterway that: (1) the Secretary of the Army determines provides service to one of the 25 highest ranked U.S. ports in terms of total tonnage of cargo transported through the port; (2) the Secretary of Energy determines is a critical component of the U.S. energy infrastructure; (3) the Secretary of Homeland Security determines provides service to at least one militarily and economically strategic port; or (4) the Secretary of Transportation determines provides service to at least one commercially strategic port.
Bill· SS. 2633 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 8 July 2004
Electricity Gouging Refund Act of 2003 - Amends the Federal Power Act to instruct the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to order a refund (including interest) for that portion of charges on the transmission or sale of electric energy between June 1, 2000, and June 19, 2001, which the Commission finds unjust and unreasonable. States that the total amount of such refunds shall be not less than $8.9 billion. Directs the Commission to order the renegotiation of the long-term electricity contracts entered into between the energy companies and the State of California between January 1 and May 31, 2001.
Bill· SS. 2631 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 8 July 2004
Requires the Federal Trade Commission to investigate the retail price of gasoline in a State to determine if it is being artificially manipulated if, based on weekly data published by the Energy Information Administration of the Department of Energy, the average price of regular grade gasoline has increased 20 percent or more for at least seven days during any three-month period. Requires the Commission to: (1) report investigation results to Congress; (2) present such results in a public hearing in the affected State; and (3) cooperate with the Attorney General of the affected State to take appropriate action if it finds market manipulation. Instructs the Secretary of Energy, within two weeks of notification by the Commission that such increase in gasoline prices is not due to market manipulation, to decide if the Strategic Petroleum Reserve should be used to assure adequate supplies of gasoline.
Resolution· SCONRESS.Con.Res. 121 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 8 July 2004
Expresses support for the goals and ideals of the World Year of Physics, as designated by the General Assembly of the International Union of Pure and Applied Physics. Encourages: (1) the people of the United States to observe such Year as a special occasion for giving impetus to education and research in physics; (2) the Secretary of Energy, all science-related organizations, the private sector, and the media to highlight and give enhanced recognition to the role of physics in social, cultural, and economic development; and (3) the Secretary and all people involved in physics education and research to take additional steps to ensure that support for physics continues and that physics studies continue to attract an adequate number of students. Calls on the Secretary to lead and coordinate Federal activities to commemorate the World Year of Physics.
Bill· HRH.R. 4726 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 June 2004
Describes the following as acts that unreasonably burden and discriminate against interstate commerce, and prohibits States, political subdivisions, and any other taxing authority from: (1) assessing natural gas pipeline property at a value that has a higher ratio to its true market value than the ratio used to assess other commercial and industrial property in the same assessment jurisdiction; (2) levying or collecting a tax on such an assessment; (3) levying or collecting an ad valorem property tax on natural gas pipeline property at a rate that exceeds the rate applicable to commercial and industrial property in the same assessment jurisdiction; or (4) imposing any other tax that discriminates against a natural gas pipeline providing transportation subject to the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Grants jurisdiction to U.S. District Courts over cases involving violations of such prohibitions.
Bill· SS. 2583 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2004
Amends the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to require the Secretary of Agriculture to make loans, loan guarantees, and grants to farmers, ranchers, and rural small businesses to promote the use of anaerobic digesters to produce renewable energy. Amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to include the establishment of anaerobic digesters in the list of structural practices recognized under the environmental quality incentives program for agriculture.
Bill· SS. 2576 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2004
Health Care Reform Expedited Procedures Act of 2004 - Requires, within 30 calendar days after the commencement of the first session of a Congress, the chair of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, the chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, the Majority and Minority Leaders of the Senate, the chairs of the House Committees on Energy and Commerce and on Ways and Means, and the Majority and Minority Leaders of the House each to introduce a bill to provide universal health care coverage for the people of the United States. States that these bills may be introduced by request, but only one qualified bill may be introduced by each such individual within a Congress. Authorizes the ranking minority party member of a committee, if the chair fails to introduce the bill within the 30-day period, to introduce a bill that will qualify for the expedited procedure provided in this Act. Qualifies a bill if: (1) its title reads "to reform the system of the United States and to provide insurance coverage for all Americans;" and (2) it reaches the goal of providing health care coverage to 95 percent of Americans within ten years. Sets forth procedures for consideration of such legislation in both chambers.
Bill· HRH.R. 4704 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2004
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to qualify resources used to produce climate neutral combustion for the tax credit for producing electricity from renewable resources. Defines "climate neutral combustion" as a combustion system for generating electricity which is fueled by biomass or fossil energy carriers, from which the released carbon dioxide is captured or stored, and from which there are no atmospheric emissions of mercury or greenhouse gases nor emissions that form fine particles, smog, or acid rain.
Bill· HRH.R. 4696 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2004
Amends the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to require the Secretary of Agriculture to make loans, loan guarantees, and grants to farmers, ranchers, and rural small businesses to promote the use of anaerobic digesters to produce renewable energy. Amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to include the establishment of anaerobic digesters in the list of structural practices recognized under the environmental quality incentives program for agriculture.
Bill· HRH.R. 4697 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2004
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to make permanent the tax credit for producing electricity from wind facilities.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 694 (108th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2004
Sets forth the rule for consideration of the bill (H.R. 4614) making appropriations for energy and water development for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2005.
Bill· HRH.R. 4652 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2004
Energy Independence Act of 2004 - Amends the Clean Air Act to require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to establish a renewable fuel program for motor vehicle fuel sold or dispensed in the contiguous United States. Authorizes the Administrator to allow participation by noncontiguous States. Prohibits the use of methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) as a fuel additive. Requires Federal agency fleet vehicles to be clean fuel vehicles. Amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (IRC) to expand business tax credits (credits) for electricity produced from renewable resources. Authorizes pro rata allocation of the small ethanol producer credit to patrons of cooperative organizations. Establishes a business credit for energy efficient appliances. Repeals the retail excise tax on diesel fuel for diesel-powered trains. Reduces the excise tax rate on fuel used in inland waterways transportation. Provides a business credit for construction of energy efficient homes and a personal credit for energy efficiency improvements to existing homes. Sets forth special rules applicable to the business credit for renewable electricity production. Establishes a credit against manufacturers excise taxes for alcohol fuel and biodiesel mixtures. Amends the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States to modify date restrictions applicable to additional duties on certain fuels. Amends the IRC to extend the alcohol fuels business credit. Establishes a general business credit for biodiesel fuels. Expands the qualified small-issue bond program. Establishes a personal credit for alternative motor vehicles. Establishes a business credit for engines complying with specified emissions levels.
Bill· HRH.R. 4667 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2004
Tapoco Project Licensing Act of 2004 - Instructs the Secretary of the Interior to engage in a simultaneous specified land exchange with the Alcoa Power Generating Inc. (APGI). Identifies the land within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to be conveyed by APGI. Identifies the land to be conveyed by the Secretary as: (1) adjacent to or flooded by the Chilhowee Reservoir; and (2) within the boundary of the Tapoco Hydroelectric Project as of February 21, 2003. Prescribes procedural requirements, including: (1) reservation of a conservation easement over any land conveyed to APGI; and (2) reversion of title to the United States if the Chilhowee Reservoir ceases to exist, or the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) issues a final order decommissioning the Tapoco Project from which no further appeal may be taken. Grants FERC jurisdiction to license the Tapoco Project upon completion of the land exchange. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture to acquire for the United States any land or interest in land, including specified easements, that may be transferred by APGI to a nongovernmental organization pursuant to a specified Settlement Agreement.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 693 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2004
Waives a specified requirement of rule XIII to provide for consideration of H.R. 4614 (FY 2005 energy and water development appropriations).
Bill· HRH.R. 4627 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2004
21st Century Science for Nuclear Waste Disposal Act of 2004 - Amends the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982 to repeal the authority of the Secretary of Energy (Secretary) to enter into contracts for the acceptance of title, transportation, and disposal of spent nuclear fuel or high-level radioactive waste. Declares that the Nuclear Waste Fund shall be available to the Secretary only to pay the cost of research, development, and utilization in the United States of risk-decreasing technologies, with an emphasis on technologies that: (1) increase the length of time that nuclear waste can be safely stored at or near areas where currently located or where (in the future) generated; (2) require the least amount of transportation of nuclear waste practicable; and (3) reduce the level of radiation of the nuclear waste. Prohibits the government from using funds for research, development, or implementation of a central high-level radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel repository. Repeals the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982, but retains requirements governing: (1) financial arrangements for site closure for low-level radioactive waste; (2) the Nuclear Waste Fund; and (3) Nuclear Regulatory Commission training authorization. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to repeal special rules governing nuclear decommissioning costs.
Bill· HRH.R. 4614 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2004
Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, 2005 - Makes appropriations for energy and water development for FY 2005 for the Departments of: (1) the Army, including for the Corps of Engineers (for civil functions pertaining to rivers and harbors, flood control, shore protection, and aquatic ecosystem restoration); (2) the Interior, including for management and restoration of water and related natural resources, and for the Bureau of Reclamation; and (3) Energy (DOE), including for nuclear waste disposal, including the acquisition of real property or facility construction or expansion (i.e., Yucca Mountain nuclear repository). Limits the use of funds appropriated for contracts awarded without competition for the management and operation of various laboratories unless specified conditions are met. Requires future contracts to be made using competitive procedures, subject to specified requirements. Prohibits the use of appropriated funds to develop or implement a workforce restructuring plan that covers DOE employees. Prohibits the use of funds made available by this Act to use any license, approval, or authorization for the export, re-export, transfer, or re-transfer of nuclear materials and equipment or sensitive nuclear technology to any country whose government has been identified by the Secretary of State as engaged in state sponsorship of terrorist activities, with exceptions and subject to waivers. Makes appropriations for: (1) the Appalachian Regional Commission; (2) the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board; (3) the Delta Regional Authority; (4) the Nuclear Regulatory Commission; (5) the Office of Inspector General; and (6) the Nuclear Waste Technical Review Board.
Bill· HRH.R. 4611 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 17 June 2004
Gasoline Price Reduction and Refinery Tax Fairness Act of 2004 - Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to define "oil and gas exploration, production, processing, or treatment operations or transmission facilities" as all field activities or operations associated with exploration, production, processing, or treatment operations, or transmission facilities, including activities necessary to prepare a site for drilling and for the movement and placement of drilling equipment, whether or not such field activities or operations may be considered to be construction activities. Directs the President to establish the Office of Federal Energy Project Coordination (Office) within the Executive Office of the President. Instructs the Secretary of the Interior to: (1) perform an internal review of Federal onshore oil and gas leasing and permitting practices; and (2) implement certain best management practices to ensure timely action on oil and gas leases and applications for permits to drill on lands otherwise available for leasing. Directs the Secretaries of the Interior and of Agriculture to: (1) enter into a prescribed Memorandum of Understanding regarding oil and gas leasing on public lands; and (2) establish a joint data retrieval system and a joint Geographic Information System mapping system. Amends the Energy Act of 2000 to require the Secretary of the Interior's inventory of all Federal onshore lands to identify restrictions or impediments to oil and gas resource development of such lands. Directs each Federal agency head to require the agency, before it takes action that could have a significant adverse effect on the supply of domestic energy resources from Federal public land, to act in compliance with a certain Executive Order that identifies actions to expedite energy-related projects. Amends the Mineral Leasing Act to set a deadline for expeditious consideration of applications for permits for oil and gas leases. Requires a Federal agency, in issuing any rule or order relating to gasoline production and distribution, to include a detailed analysis of the effects the rule or order would have on gasoline supply and seek to ensure that no rule or order is issued that will increase U.S. dependence on foreign sources of oil. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for accelerated depreciation for refinery machinery. Requires each Federal agency with the authority to do so to approve or disapprove (with specified explanations) within 180 days of its receipt any application for approval of an action affecting the siting or operation of U.S. refineries.
Bill· SS. 2529 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2004
AGOA Acceleration Act of 2004 - Declares the sense of Congress that the preferential market access opportunities for eligible sub-Saharan African countries (SSA countries) will be complemented and enhanced if those countries implement specified existing obligations under the World Trade Organization (WTO). Urges such countries to participate in and support mutual trade liberalization in ongoing negotiations under WTO auspices, recognizing that such commitments may need to reflect special and differential treatment for developing countries. States that eligible SSA countries will benefit from reduction of trade barriers in other developing countries. Urges all countries to make sanitary and phytosanitary decisions on the basis of sound science. Expresses the sense of Congress that the executive branch, including specified Federal agencies, should enforce African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) provisions relating to preferential treatment of textile and apparel articles, broadly in order to expand trade by maximizing opportunities for imports of such articles from eligible SSA countries. Amends the Trade Act of 1974 to extend duty-free treatment for AGOA articles: (1) from FY 2008 through 2015; and (2) made from material produced in former beneficiary SSA countries. Defines former beneficiary sub-Saharan African country as a country that, after being designated as a beneficiary sub-Saharan African country under AGOA, ceased to be designated as such a country by reason of its entering into a free trade agreement with the United States. Amends AGOA to revise requirements for textile and apparel products from SSA countries receiving duty-free and other preferential import treatment, including extensions of such treatment to certain apparels. Authorizes duty-free and preferential treatment for certain apparel articles such as ethnic printed fabric of an SSA country that meets certain conditions. Extends preferential treatment to an article containing fibers or yarns not wholly formed in former beneficiary SSA countries (currently, the United States or one or more beneficiary SSA countries) if the total weight of all such fibers and yarns is not more than ten (currently, seven) percent of the total weight of the article. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury, under specified conditions, to liquidate or reliquidate as free of duty and free of any quantitative restrictions, limitations, or consultative levels any entries of certain apparel. Requires the President to: (1) study each eligible SSA country, identifying sectors of its economy with the greatest potential for growth, including through export sales, and identifying both domestic and international barriers impeding such growth; (2) make recommendations on how the Federal Government and the private sector can provide technical assistance to assist that country in dismantling such barriers and promoting investment in such sectors; and (3) disseminate information to appropriate Federal agencies on each such country. Requires the President to develop and implement policies to encourage the development of investment in SSA countries, particularly in: (1) infrastructure projects supporting development of land transport road and railroad networks and ports, and the continued upgrading and liberalization of the energy and telecommunications sectors; (2) establishment and expansion of modern information and communication technologies and practices to improve the ability of citizens to research and disseminate specified information; and (3) agriculture, particularly in processing and capacity enhancement. Requires the President to: (1) foster improved port-to-port and airport-to-airport relationships in order to facilitate and increase trade flows between eligible SSA countries; (2) encourage the development of infrastructure projects that will help increase trade capacity and a sustainable ecotourism industry in such countries; (3) identify at least ten eligible SSA countries as having the greatest potential to increase marketable exports of agricultural products to the United States and the greatest need for technical assistance, particularly with respect to pest risk assessments and complying with U.S. sanitary and phytosanitary rules; (4) assign at least 20 full-time personnel to provide assistance to such countries to ensure that their exports of agricultural products meet Federal law requirements; and (5) convene the trade advisory committee on Africa established by Executive Order 11846 of March 27, 1975, under the Trade Act of 1974.
Bill· HRH.R. 4568 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2004
Department of the Interior and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2005 - Makes appropriations for FY 2005 for the Department of the Interior for: (1) the Bureau of Land Management; (2) the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; (3) the National Park Service; (4) the U.S. Geological Survey; (5) the Minerals Management Service; (6) the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement; (7) the Bureau of Indian Affairs; (8) departmental offices for insular affairs; (9) departmental management (including transfer of funds); (10) the Office of the Solicitor; (11) the Office of Inspector General; (12) the Office of Special Trustee for American Indians; and (13) natural resource damage assessment and restoration. Makes appropriations for FY 2005 for: (1) the Department of Agriculture for the Forest Service; (2) the Department of Energy for specified activities, including fossil energy research and development activities and energy conservation activities; and (3) the Department of Health and Human Services for the Indian Health Service. Makes appropriations for FY 2005 for specified related agencies, including: (1) the Office of Navajo and Hopi Indian Relocation; (2) the Institute of American Indian and Alaska Native Culture and Arts Development; (3) the Smithsonian Institution; (4) the National Gallery of Art; (5) the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts; (6) the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars; (7) the National Foundation on the Arts and Humanities; (8) the National Endowment for the Arts; (9) the National Endowment for the Humanities; (10) the Commission of Fine Arts; (11) the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation; (12) the National Capital Planning Commission; (13) the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum; and (14) the Presidio Trust.
Law· HRH.R. 4548 (108th)enacted
United States · United States Congress · 14 June 2004
Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005 - Authorizes appropriations for FY 2005 for the conduct of intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the: (1) Central Intelligence Agency; (2) Department of Defense; (3) Defense Intelligence Agency; (4) National Security Agency; (5) Departments of the Army, Navy, and Air Force; (6) Departments of State, the Treasury, Energy, and Justice; (7) Federal Bureau of Investigation; (8) National Reconnaissance Office; (9) National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency; (10) Coast Guard; and (11) Department of Homeland Security. Specifies that the amounts authorized and the authorized personnel ceilings as of September 30, 2005, for such activities are those specified in the classified Schedule of Authorizations, which shall be made available to the Senate and House Appropriations Committees and the President. Allows the Director of Central Intelligence, with the approval of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, to authorize employment of civilian personnel in excess of the number authorized for FY 2005 when necessary for the performance of important intelligence functions. Requires notification of the congressional intelligence committees on the use of such authority. Authorizes appropriations for the Intelligence Community Management Account for FY 2005, as well as for full-time personnel for elements within such Account. Authorizes appropriations for FY 2005 for the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability Fund. Specifies that the authorization of appropriations by this Act shall not be deemed to constitute authority for the conduct of any intelligence activity which is not otherwise permitted by the Constitution or laws of the United States.
Bill· HRH.R. 4549 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 14 June 2004
Arctic Coastal Plain and Surface Mining Improvement Act - Arctic Coastal Plain Domestic Energy Security Act of 2004 - Sets forth an oil and gas leasing exploration and production program within the Arctic Coastal Plain. Amends the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act of 1980 to repeal its prohibition against production of oil and gas from the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, including any leasing or development leading to such production.. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to: (1) designate a maximum total of Coastal Plain acreage as a "Special Area" of unique character and interest; and (2) permit the use of horizontal drilling technology from lease sites located outside a Special Area. Prescribes Coastal Plain environmental protection requirements. Abandoned Mine Lands Reclamation Reform Act of 2004 - Amends the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 to repeal the authorization that certain moneys in the Abandoned Mine Reclamation Fund be used: (1) by the Secretary of Agriculture for reclamation of rural lands; and (2) by the Department of the Interior for studies by contract with organizations for advice and research and development projects technical assistance. Reduces by twenty percent the reclamation fee required to be paid by operators of coal mining operations. Revises guidelines governing the transfer of funds from the Abandoned Mine Reclamation Fund to the United Mine Workers of America Combined Benefit (UMWACB) Fund to: (1) limit the aggregate amount transferred; and (2) coordinate such transfer with certain premiums mandated under the Internal Revenue Code. Revises certification guidelines to prescribe payments to qualified and non-qualified States and Indian tribes. Establishes in the Treasury the Coal Mining Fairness Fund. Appropriates to such Fund certain bonuses, rents, or royalties proceeds received by the United States from the exploration, development, and production of the oil and gas resources of the Coastal Plain. Prescribes guidelines for payments from such Fund to the UMWACB Fund. Amends the Internal Revenue Code (relating to liability of assigned operators) to: (1) waive payment by coal operators of any premium to the Combined Benefit Fund to the extent of the premium amount paid to the Coal Mining Fairness Fund; and (2) set guidelines governing prepayment to the Combined Benefit Fund of premium liability for coal industry health benefits.
Bill· HRH.R. 4545 (108th)failed
United States · United States Congress · 14 June 2004
Gasoline Price Reduction Act of 2004 - Amends the Clean Air Act to authorize the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to waive fuel or fuel additive provisions of applicable State implementation plans for national primary and secondary ambient air quality standards where necessary to address a significant fuel supply disruption in any area subject to a plan. Requires waivers to remain in effect for as long as the Administrator deems necessary. Prohibits enforcement actions against States or persons solely as the result of such waivers. Authorizes the Administrator to give preference to the approval of State implementation plan provisions that require the use of either reformulated gasoline or gasoline having a specified Reid Vapor Pressure for the high ozone season. Declares that the Administrator shall have no authority, when considering State implementation plan revisions, to approve any fuel or fuel additives if such approval would increase the total number of fuels and fuel additives approved in all State plans nationwide prior to June 1, 2004. Requires the Administrator, in cooperation with the Secretary of Energy, to undertake a study of the effects on air quality, the number of fuel blends, fuel availability, and fuel costs associated with the State plan provisions regarding gasoline authorized by this Act and to submit the results of such study to Congress.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 672 (108th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 14 June 2004
Sets forth the rule for consideration of H.R. 4513 (regarding alternative project locations for renewable energy projects) and H.R. 4529 (Arctic Coastal Plain and Surface Mining Improvement Act of 2004).
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 671 (108th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 14 June 2004
Sets forth the rule for consideration of H.R. 4503 (Energy Policy Act of 2004) and H.R. 4517 (United States Refinery Revitalization Act of 2004).
Bill· HRH.R. 4529 (108th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2004
Arctic Coastal Plain and Surface Mining Improvement Act of 2004 - Arctic Coastal Plain Domestic Energy Security Act of 2004 - Sets forth an oil and gas leasing exploration and production program within the Arctic Coastal Plain. Amends the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act of 1980 to repeal its prohibition against production of oil and gas from the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, including any leasing or development leading to such production.. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to: (1) designate a maximum total of Coastal Plain acreage as a "Special Area" of unique character and interest; and (2) permit the use of horizontal drilling technology from lease sites located outside a Special Area. Prescribes Coastal Plain environmental protection requirements. Abandoned Mine Lands Reclamation Reform Act of 2004 - Amends the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 to repeal the authorization that certain moneys in the Abandoned Mine Reclamation Fund be used: (1) by the Secretary of Agriculture for reclamation of rural lands; and (2) by the Department of the Interior for studies by contract with organizations for advice and research and development projects technical assistance. Reduces the reclamation fee required to be paid by operators of coal mining operations. Revises requirements governing the transfer of funds to the United Mine Workers of America Combined Benefit (UMWACB) Fund. Revises certification guidelines to prescribe payments to qualified and non-qualified States and Indian tribes. Establishes in the Treasury the Coal Mining Fairness Fund. Appropriates to such Fund certain bonuses, rents, or royalties proceeds received by the United States from the exploration, development, and production of the oil and gas resources of the Coastal Plain. Prescribes guidelines for payments from such Fund to the UMWACB Fund. Amends the Internal Revenue Code (relating to liability of assigned operators) to: (1) waive payment by coal operators of any premium to the Combined Benefit Fund to the extent of the premium amount paid to the Coal Mining Fairness Fund; and (2) set guidelines governing prepayment to the Combined Benefit Fund of premium liability for coal industry health benefits.
Bill· HRH.R. 4513 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 June 2004
Declares that, with respect to any authorization for a renewable energy project and the attendant preparation of an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, a Federal agency is not required to: (1) identify alternative project locations or actions other than the proposed action and the no action alternative; or (2) analyze the environmental effects of alternative locations or actions other than those submitted by the project proponent. Requires such agency, in any such assessment or impact statement, to identify and analyze solely the environmental effects and potential mitigation measures of: (1) the proposed action; and (2) the no action alternative. Provides that, in preparing an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement, such agency shall only consider public comments that specifically address the preferred action and that are filed within 20 days after publication of a draft environmental assessment or draft environmental impact statement.
Bill· HRH.R. 4517 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 June 2004
United States Refinery Revitalization Act of 2004 - Directs the Secretary of Energy to designate as a Refinery Revitalization Zone any area that: (1) has experienced mass layoffs at manufacturing facilities or contains an idle refinery; and (2) has an unemployment rate of at least 20 percent above the national average, as set forth at the time of designation as a Refinery Revitalization Zone. Designates the Department of Energy (DOE) as Lead Agency for coordinating Federal authorizations and related environmental reviews of the facility upon request of an applicant for a Federal authorization related to the siting and operation of a refinery facility within a Refinery Revitalization Zone. Directs DOE, as lead agency, to prepare a single environmental review document to be used as the basis for all decisions on the proposed project. Directs the Secretary and the appropriate heads of Federal agencies to enter into Memoranda of Understanding to ensure timely, coordinated review and permitting of refinery facilities within a Refinery Revitalization Zone. Permits interested Indian Tribes and State and local agencies to enter into such Memoranda as well.
Bill· HRH.R. 4514 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 June 2004
Arctic Coastal Plain Domestic Energy Security Act of 2004 - Directs the Secretary of the Interior to implement a competitive oil and gas leasing program for exploration and production of oil and gas resources of the Arctic Coastal Plain. Amends the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act of 1980 to repeal its prohibition against production of oil and gas from the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, including any leasing or development leading to such production. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to: (1) designate a maximum total of Coastal Plain acreage as a "Special Area" of unique character and interest; and (2) permit the use of horizontal drilling technology from lease sites located outside a Special Area. States that this Act constitutes the Secretary's sole authority to close Coastal Plain lands to oil and gas leasing, exploration, development, and production. Prescribes Coastal Plain environmental protection requirements. Expedites to 90 days the period of judicial review of any complaint. Limits the scope of such review to compliance with the terms of this Act. Exempts actions of the Secretary from judicial review in any civil or criminal proceeding for enforcement. Declares Title XI of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act of 1980 (governing transportation and utility systems in and across conservation system units) inapplicable to rights-of-way and easements issued by the Secretary for oil and gas transportation across the Coastal Plain. Instructs the Secretary to: (1) include rights-of-way and easements within the leasing program for lands across the Coastal Plain; and (2) convey the surface estate of specified lands to the Kaktovik Inupiat Corporation, and the remaining subsurface estate beneath those lands to the Arctic Slope Regional Corporation. Establishes the Coastal Plain Local Government Impact Aid Assistance Fund to provide limited financial assistance to eligible entities impacted directly by Coastal Plain oil and gas exploration or production.
Law· HRH.R. 4516 (108th)enacted
United States · United States Congress · 4 June 2004
Department of Energy High-End Computing Revitalization Act of 2004 - Instructs the Secretary of Energy to: (1) implement a research and development program to advance high-end computing systems, and to develop and deploy them for advanced scientific and engineering applications; and (2) establish and operate facilities to conduct advanced scientific and engineering research and development using Leadership Systems, and to develop potential advancements in high-end computing system hardware and software.
Bill· HRH.R. 4515 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 June 2004
Instructs the Secretary of the Interior to grant royalty relief for natural gas produced from gas hydrate resources under any lease issued under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, and under any oil and gas lease issued for onshore Federal lands in Alaska, if the eligible lease is issued prior to January 1, 2016, and production of natural gas from the gas hydrate resources commences prior to January 1, 2018. States that any such relief granted shall fully apply to leases in existence on the date of the enactment of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 4500 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 3 June 2004
Energy Science Act of 2004 - Authorizes appropriations through FY 2008 for the following:(1) energy efficiency and conservation; (2) distributed energy and electric energy systems; (3) renewable energy; (4) nuclear energy; (5) fossil energy; and (6) the Office of Science. Instructs the Secretary of Energy to conduct programs of energy research, development, demonstration, and commercial application (R&D) focused upon specified energy technologies, including: (1) a Next Generation Lighting Initiative; (2) a National Building Performance Initiative; (3) a secondary electric vehicle battery use program: (4) an Energy Efficiency Science Initiative; (5) electric motor control technology; and (6) Advanced Energy Technology Transfer Centers. Instructs the Secretary to develop research programs in the following energy technologies: (1) hybrid distributed power systems; (2) high power density industry program; (3) micro-cogeneration energy technology; (4) distributed energy technologies; and (5) after-treatment technologies for industrial reciprocating engines. Directs the Secretary to conduct R&D in the following areas: (1) diversified bioenergy programs; (2) concentrated solar power; and (3) renewable energy in public buildings. Directs the Secretary to implement specified nuclear energy R&D, including: (1) advanced fuel recycling technology; (2) university nuclear science and engineering support; and (3) reactor design security. Requires the Secretary to conduct R&D in: (1) specified aspects of oil and gas research; (2) coal mining technologies; and (3) ultra-deepwater and unconventional natural gas and other petroleum resource exploration and production. Directs the Secretary to establish the Ultra-Deepwater Advisory Committee. Establishes in the Treasury the Ultra-Deepwater and Unconventional Natural Gas and Other Petroleum Research Fund. Prescribes guidelines for United States participation in ITER (the international burning plasma fusion research project). Directs the Secretary to: (1) present an R&D plan to Congress for a fusion energy sciences program; and (2) report on the Spallation Neutron Source as part of the annual budget submission of the Department of Energy. Requires the Secretary to support and establish: (1) science and energy facilities and infrastructure; (2) catalysis research and development; (3) nanoscale science and engineering research; (4) advanced scientific computing for energy missions; (5) genomes to life program; and (6) fission and fusion energy materials research program. Prescribes implementation guidelines to establish: (1) the Energy-Water Supply Program; (2) the United States-Mexico Energy Technology Cooperation Program; (3) the Western Hemisphere Energy Cooperation Program; and (4) a biological nitrogen fixation program. Directs the Secretary to establish the Arctic Engineering Research Center to improve the overall performance of roads, bridges, residential, commercial, and industrial structures, and other infrastructure in the Arctic region. Instructs the Secretary to: (1) establish National Energy Research and Development Advisory Boards to perform external technical review of departmental programs; (2) designate a Technology Transfer Coordinator to perform oversight of and policy development for technology transfer activities at the Department; and (3) establish a Technology Infrastructure Program. Authorizes appropriations for the Secretary to establish a Department of Energy Science and Technology Scholarship Program. Directs the Secretary to require the Director of each National Laboratory to designate a small business advocate.
Bill· HRH.R. 4503 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 3 June 2004
Energy Policy Act of 2004 - Sets forth a program to spur diverse energy research and development including the following: (1) energy efficiency; (2) renewable energy; (3) oil and gas; (4) coal; (5) Indian energy; (6) nuclear matters and security; (7) vehicles and motor fuels, including ethanol; (8) hydrogen; (9) electricity; and (10) energy tax incentives. Amends the National Energy Conservation Policy Act to revise energy reduction goals and performance requirements for Federal buildings. Institutes grant programs for low-income community energy efficiency and energy efficient public buildings. Revises energy conservation standards for: (1) additional consumer products; (2) affordable housing and assisted housing; and (3) Federal Housing Administration (FHA) mortgage insurance incentives for energy efficient housing. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to prescribe incentive payments for renewable energy production facilities. John Rishel Geothermal Steam Act Amendments of 2004 - Amends the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970 to revamp guidelines governing leasing and permitting for geothermal development of public and National Forest System lands, including those withdrawn for military purposes. Amends the Federal Power Act to prescribe guidelines for hydroelectric licensing proposals for alternative conditions and requirements governing project works within a Federal reservation. Instructs the Secretary of Energy to make incentive payments to promote hydroelectric production. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to make permanent: (1) the authority of the Secretary of Energy to operate the Strategic Petroleum Reserve; and (2) standby energy authorities governing the International Energy Program, including summer fill and fuel budgeting programs. Sets forth a program of production incentives that includes: (1) oil and gas royalties in kind; (2) marginal property production; (3) natural gas production in the Gulf of Mexico; and (4) oil and gas leasing in the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska. Directs the President to establish the Office of Federal Energy Project Coordination in the same manner and with the same mission as the White House Energy Projects Task Force established by a specified Executive Order. Prescribes implementation guidelines for access to Federal land for: (1) oil and gas leasing; (2) expedited permits; (3) energy rights-of-way and corridors on public and Federal lands; (4) renewable energy on Federal land; and (5) electricity transmission line rights of way on public land. Alaska Natural Gas Pipeline Act - Requires the President and the Secretaries of the Interior and of Energy to expedite the Federal decision-making process for access to Federal lands for energy projects. Prescribes parameters for Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) authorization of an Alaska natural gas transportation project and pipeline expansion following an expedited approval process. Instructs the Secretary of Labor to award grants to train adult and dislocated workers in Alaska in the skills required to construct and operate an Alaska gas pipeline system. Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to offer Federal loan guarantees to specified certificated entities for infrastructure projects. Sets forth a Clean Coal Power Initiative campaign that includes grants to universities to establish Centers of Excellence for Energy Systems of the Future. Authorizes Federal loan guarantees for designated coal gasification projects, including: (1) a loan to the owner of a specified experimental plant; (2) a coal gasification project that produces power in deregulated energy generation markets; and (3) a petroleum coke gasification polygeneration project. Modifies statutory requirements governing Federal coal leases, including acreage limitations, mining plans, and advance royalty payments. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to direct the Secretary of Energy to implement a program to facilitate production and generation of coal-based power and the installation of pollution control equipment. Indian Tribal Energy Development and Self-Determination Act of 2004 - Amends the Department of Energy Organization Act and the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to establish the Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs to promote Indian tribal energy resource development through a program of grants and loans. Price-Anderson Amendments Act of 2003 [sic] - Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to modify and extend indemnification authority and liability limits for Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) licensees and Department of Energy (DOE) contractors. Prohibits assumption by the U.S. Government of liability for certain foreign incidents. Addresses general nuclear matters, including: (1) establishment of an NRC training and fellowship program for individuals with critical nuclear safety regulatory skills; (2) elimination of pension offset; (3) a DOE decommissioning pilot program; (4) uranium sales; (5) special demonstration projects for the uranium mining industry; (6) whistleblower protection prescriptions; (7) medical isotope production; (8) uranium enrichment facilities; and (9) the national uranium stockpile. Instructs the Secretary of Energy to establish an Advanced Reactor Hydrogen Co-Generation Project. Prescribes implementation guidelines for a training program to respond to threats against designated nuclear facilities, including use of firearms by licensee security personnel and NRC certificate holders. Sets forth a transportation fuels program that uses: (1) alternative fuels for dual-fueled vehicles; (2) fuel credits for medium and heavy duty dedicated vehicles; and (3) lease condensates. Sets forth implementation guidelines for pilot programs that target: (1) alternative fueled vehicles; (2) fuel cell vehicles; (3) advanced vehicles; and (4) hybrid vehicles. Instructs the Secretary of Energy, in partnership with the private sector, to conduct programs that address production of hydrogen from diverse energy sources. Directs the President to establish an interagency task force on hydrogen fuel infrastructure for hydrogen-carrier fuels, including fleet transportation. Directs the Secretary of Energy to implement initiatives that target research, development, and commercial application in the areas of: (1) energy efficiency; (2) distributed energy and electric energy systems; (3) renewable energy; (4) nuclear energy; (5) fossil energy; (6) ultra-deepwater and unconventional natural gas, and other petroleum resource exploration and production; (7) science; and (8) energy and the environment (including international cooperation). Electric Reliability Act of 2004 - Amends the Federal Power Act to grant FERC regulatory jurisdiction over an Electric Reliability Organization. Prescribes guidelines for electric reliability standards, including electric transmission infrastructure, operation and transmission rates. Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to: (1) require electric utilities to make net metering and smart metering available upon consumer request; and (2) terminate mandatory purchase and sale requirements pertaining to cogeneration and small power production utilities. Public Utility Holding Company Act of 2004 - Repeals the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935. Amends the Federal Power Act to: (1) direct FERC to promulgate market transparency rules governing sales of electric energy at wholesale in interstate commerce, or transmission services in interstate commerce; and (2) prohibit round trip trading. Authorizes the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to issue rules that prohibit in the absence of consumer consent: (1) the change of selection of an electric utility ("slamming"); and (2) the sale of goods and services to an electric consumer ("cramming"). Mandates review of Federal agency review authorities over mergers to determine if duplicative authorities exist. Revises Federal Power Act prescriptions governing electric utility mergers. Energy Tax Policy Act of 2004 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish energy tax credits affecting: (1) residential and business property; (2) alternative motor vehicles and fuels; (3) low sulfur diesel fuel; (4) clean coal technology units; and (5) certain alternative minimum tax provisions. Amends the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 to authorize Federal grants to rural and remote communities with specified electricity costs for improved electric generation, transmission, and distribution facilities. Provides royalty payment relief for offshore oil and gas production leases under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act. Amends the Tennessee Valley Authority Act of 1933 to change the composition, operation, and duties of the Board of Directors of the Tennessee Valley Authority. Retains the effect of a specified Department of Energy Order regarding transmission security. Extends the attainment date for certain downwind ozone nonattainment areas. Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (Administrator) to establish criteria for safe and environmentally protective use of specified granular mine tailings. Amends the Clean Air Act to direct the Administrator to promulgate regulations ensuring that domestic motor vehicle fuel consumption includes renewable fuel containing ethanol. Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to make grants to provide assistance to merchant producers of methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) in making the transition from producing MTBE to producing iso-octane, iso-octene, alkylates, or renewable fuels. Prohibits the use of MTBE in motor vehicle fuel by December 31, 2014, in any State that does not specifically authorize it. Authorizes the President to determine by June 30, 2014, that this prohibition against the use of MTBE in motor vehicle fuel shall not take place and that the legal authority to prohibit its use in motor vehicle fuel shall become null and void. Eliminates the oxygen content requirement for reformulated gasoline. Conditions the Administrator's approval of State fuel restrictions upon a finding that they will neither cause fuel supply or distribution interruptions nor have a significant adverse impact on fuel producibility. Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to: (1) make loan guarantees for private sector construction of facilities for the processing and conversion of municipal solid waste and cellulosic biomass into fuel ethanol and other commercial byproducts; and (2) provide grants for construction of ethanol production facilities. Underground Storage Tank Compliance Act of 2004 - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to require the Administrator to distribute specified fund percentages from the Leaking Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund to States to pay costs incurred for regulation of underground storage tanks (USTs). Allows undistributed funds to be used for enforcing UST regulations.
Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 441 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 3 June 2004
States that Congress: (1) recognizes the essential role of nuclear power in the national energy policy of the United States; and (2) supports the increased use of nuclear power and the construction and development of new and improved nuclear power generating plants as a means of contributing to national energy independence and maintaining a clean environment.
Bill· SS. 2457 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2004
Nuclear Waste Cleanup Act - Declares that, with respect to material stored at a Department of Energy (DOE) site at which activities are regulated by the State of South Carolina, high-level radioactive waste does not include radioactive material resulting from the reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel that the Secretary of Energy determines: (1) does not require permanent isolation in a deep geologic repository for spent fuel or highly radioactive waste; (2) has had highly radioactive radionuclides removed in accordance with Nuclear Regulatory Commission-reviewed criteria; and (3) in the case of material derived from storage tanks, is disposed of in a facility (including a tank) within South Carolina. Exempts from this Act any such material transported from South Carolina. Authorizes DOE to implement any action authorized by a State-approved closure plan or State-issued permit in existence on the date of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 4413 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2004
Liquefied Natural Gas Import Terminal Development Act of 2004 - Amends the Natural Gas Act to transfer from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to the Secretary of Energy oversight functions regarding the exportation or importation of natural gas, including free trade agreements and liquefied natural gas. Declares that no person shall site, construct, expand, or operate a liquefied natural gas import terminal without first having secured a FERC authorization. Prohibits any State or local government from requiring any form of authorization with respect to the siting, construction, expansion, or operation of a liquefied natural gas import terminal except as otherwise provided by Federal law. Prescribes guidelines for FERC oversight authority pertaining to scheduling and administrative proceedings. Defines liquefied natural gas import terminal as including all facilities located onshore or in State waters that are used to receive, unload, store, transport, gasify, or process liquefied natural gas imported to the United States from a foreign country, but does excluding the tankers used to deliver liquefied natural gas to such facilities.
Bill· HRH.R. 4462 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2004
Makes appropriations for homeland security programs within the Departments of Energy (DOE), Health and Human Services (HHS), and Homeland Security (DHS) for FY 2005, including to: (1) DOE for atomic energy defense and defense nuclear nonproliferation activities; (2) HHS for the Public Health and Social Services Emergency Fund, the Strategic National Stockpile, and for activities to ensure a year-round influenza vaccine production capacity and the development and implementation of rapidly expandable influenza vaccine production technologies; and (3) DHS for border and transportation security and customs and border protection, Federal air marshals, air and marine interdiction operations and procurement, the Transportation Security Administration (for civil aviation security and maritime and land transportation security), the Office for Domestic Preparedness (including for State and local government grants for terrorism prevention activities and for firefighter assistance grants), countering potential biological, disease, and chemical threats to civilian populations, and emergency management performance grants.
Resolution· SRESS.Res. 364 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2004
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the President should: (1) directly confront OPEC and challenge it to increase oil production immediately; (2) direct the Federal Trade Commission and Attorney General to exercise vigorous oversight over the oil markets to protect the American people from price gouging and unfair practices at the gasoline pump; and (3) suspend deliveries of oil to the SPR and release 1,000,000 barrels of oil per day from the SPR for 30 days following the date of adoption of this resolution, and if necessary, for an additional 30 days beyond that.
Bill· HRH.R. 4388 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2004
Special Exposure Cohort Fairness Act of 2004 - Amends the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act of 2000 to include within its Special Exposure Cohort for compensation purposes certain employees who, during their employment at Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, New Mexico, during the period 1945 through 2000: (1) were monitored through the use of dosimetry badges for exposure at the plant of the external parts of an employee's body to radiation; (2) were monitored through the use of bioassays, in vivo monitoring, or breath samples for exposure at the plant to internal radiation; or (3) worked in a job that had exposures comparable to a job that is monitored under certain DOE standards through the use of dosimetry badges for monitoring external radiation exposures, or bioassays, in vivo monitoring, for internal radiation exposures. Defines Cohort-Eligible Los Alamos Worker as one employed: (1) as a security guard or construction worker; (2) in Area G or at the linear accelerator; or (3) in any area of Los Alamos National Laboratory and in any capacity, if all records necessary for radiation dose reconstruction with respect to such employee have not been received by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health from the Department of Energy or its contractors within 200 days after receipt of a claim under this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 4365 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 2004
Taxpayer Protection Against Wasteful Energy Credits Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to repeal: (1) the inflation adjustment to the phaseout amount for the tax credit for producing fuel from a nonconventional source; and (2) the extension of the tax credit for facilities producing synthetic fuels from coal.
Bill· HRH.R. 4349 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 2004
States that Department of Energy Order No. 202-03-2, issued by the Secretary of Energy on August 28, 2003, is reinstated and shall remain in effect unless rescinded by an Act of Congress (thereby restoring operation of the Cross Sound Cable which transmits excess New York-generated power to Connecticut to help prevent blackouts and brownouts).
Bill· SS. 2403 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 2004
Department of Energy National Security Act for Fiscal Year 2005 - Authorizes appropriations to the Department of Energy (DOE) for FY 2005 for: (1) activities of the National Nuclear Security Administration in carrying out programs necessary for national security, with specified allocations for weapons activities, defense nuclear nonproliferation, naval reactors, and the Office of the Administrator for Nuclear Security; and (2) environmental restoration and waste management activities in carrying out national security programs, with specified allocations for defense environmental management, other defense activities, and defense nuclear waste disposal. Makes certain environmental restoration and waste management funds available for the treatment of disposition waste from reprocessed low-level or transuranic waste. Directs the Secretary of Energy to: (1) establish a local stakeholder organization for each DOE Environmental Management 2006 closure site; (2) provide certain support for public education in the vicinity of the Los Alamos National Laboratory, New Mexico; and (3) conduct a review of the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant, New Mexico. Establishes the Pajarito Plateau Homesteaders Compensation Fund for payments with respect to lands acquired by the United States during World War II for the Manhattan Project. Authorizes appropriations for FY 2005 for the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board. Authorizes the disposal of up to 50,000 tons of ferromanganese from the National Defense Stockpile during FY 2005.
Bill· SS. 2400 (108th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 2004
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005 - Authorizes appropriations for the Department of Defense (DOD), military construction, and national security programs of the Department of Energy for FY 2005. Authorizes appropriations to DOD for: (1) procurement, including aircraft, missiles, weapons and tracked combat vehicles, ammunition, shipbuilding and conversion, and other procurement; (2) research, development, test, and evaluation, including science and technology projects and ballistic missile defense; (3) operation and maintenance, including environmental restoration, defense working capital funds, the defense health program, and chemical agents and munitions destruction; (4) active and reserve military personnel, including end strengths; (5) the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program; (6) Guard and Reserve forces facilities; and (7) the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board. Extends certain bonus, special, and incentive pay authorities. Authorizes certain: (1) travel and transportation allowances; and (2) military retired pay and survivor benefits. Sets forth provisions or requirements concerning: (1) environmental provisions, including cleanup costs at certain military installations; (2) active and reserve military personnel policy, including joint officer duties and management and DOD policy and procedures on prevention and response to sexual assaults involving members of the Armed Forces; (3) military health care, including establishment of a chiropractic health care benefits advisory committee; (4) acquisition policy and management, including major defense acquisition programs, establishment of the Commission on the Future of the National Technology and Industrial Base, and management of the defense acquisition and support workforce; (5) DOD organization and management, including establishment of the Commission on the National Guard and Reserves, and a United States Military Cancer Institute; (6) budget and financial matters, including defense business systems investment management, a space posture review, and a panel on the future of military space launch; (7) additional defenses against terrorism; (8) matters relating to other nations, including assistance to Iraq and Afghanistan military and security forces; (9) DOD civilian personnel policy, including intelligence personnel and personnel of nonappropriated fund instrumentalities; (10) cooperative threat reduction with states of the former Soviet Union; and (11) the national defense stockpile. Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005 - Authorizes military construction, military family housing, and certain military land conveyances.
Bill· SS. 2406 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 2004
States that Department of Energy Order No. 202-03-2, issued by the Secretary of Energy on August 28, 2003, is reinstated and shall remain in effect unless rescinded by an Act of Congress (thereby restoring operation of the Cross Sound Cable which transmits excess New York-generated power to Connecticut to help prevent blackouts and brownouts).
Bill· SS. 2386 (108th)open
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 2004
Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2004 2005 - Authorizes appropriations for FY 2004 2005 for the conduct of intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the: (1) Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); (2) Department of Defense (DOD); (3) Defense Intelligence Agency; (4) National Security Agency (NSA); (5) Departments of the Army, Navy, and Air Force; (6) Departments of State, the Treasury, and Energy, and Justice; (7) Federal Bureau of Investigation; (8) National Reconnaissance Office; (9) National Imagery and Mapping Geospatial-Intelligence Agency; (10) Coast Guard; and (11) Department of Homeland Security. Specifies that the amounts authorized and the authorized personnel ceilings as of September 30, 2004 2005, for such activities are those specified in the classified Schedule of Authorizations. Allows the Director of Central Intelligence (DCI), with the approval of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, to authorize employment of civilian personnel in excess of the number authorized for FY 2004 2005 (by not more than two percent) when necessary to the performance of important intelligence functions. Authorizes appropriations for the Intelligence Community Management Account of the DCI for FY 2004 2005 as well as for full-time personnel for elements within such Account. Earmarks a specified amount of such funds for the National Drug Intelligence Center. Authorizes appropriations for FY 2004 2005 for the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability Fund. Specifies that the authorization of appropriations by this Act shall not be deemed to constitute authority for the conduct of any intelligence activity which is not otherwise authorized by the Constitution or laws of the United States. Permits the use of authorized funds for counterdrug and counterterrorism activities for Colombia. Requires the DCI to carry out pilot programs of the feasibility of: (1) permitting intelligence community (IC) analysts to access and analyze intelligence from other IC elements, including NSA signals intelligence; and (2) training students for employment as intelligence analysts. Directs the National Science Foundation and the Office of Science and Technology Policy to jointly sponsor not less than two workshops on the coordination of Federal research on the use of behavioral, psychological, and physiological assessments of individuals in the conduct of security evaluations. Protects CIA personnel authorized to carry firearms and NSA employees performing special police functions from tort liability when reasonably acting within the scope of their employment. Provides for the protection of NSA operational files. Authorizes DOD funds to be used by DOD IC personnel to award personal service contracts in carrying out authorized missions. Makes permanent (currently expires after September 30, 2003) the CIA voluntary separation incentive program. Amends the Central Intelligence Agency Act of 1949 to authorize the DCI to take certain actions to: (1) protect from unauthorized disclosure intelligence operations, the identities of undercover intelligence officers, intelligence sources and methods, or intelligence cover mechanisms; or (2) meet special requirements of work related to the collection of foreign intelligence or other authorized activities. Permits the use of funds currently authorized for counterdrug activities in Colombia for counterterroism and emergency human health activities.
Bill· HRH.R. 4298 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 2004
Amends the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act of 2000 regarding the composition of physician panels to instruct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to: (1) select an individual to serve as panel member based on experience and competency in diagnosing occupational illnesses; and (2) either appoint such individual as a panel member, or obtain by contract the individual's services as a panel member.
Bill· HRH.R. 4297 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 2004
Amends the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to prescribe guidelines under which cost sharing limitations applicable to grants and loans to farmers, ranchers, and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems and energy efficiency improvements shall not apply to loan guarantees extended to specified projects if the loan will be used to: (1) purchase a renewable energy system associated with a commercial production agricultural enterprise; and (2) promote a solution to an environmental problem of the State in which the project will be implemented. Limits the principal amount of an eligible loan to between $50 million and $100 million. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture, when making loan guarantees for such projects, to give priority to renewable energy projects that promote the production of an agricultural commodity that is imported into the United States.
Bill· HRH.R. 4235 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 28 April 2004
Authorizes the President to export oil to, or secure oil for, any country pursuant to a bilateral international oil supply agreement entered into by the United States with such country before June 25, 1979, or to any country pursuant to the International Emergency Oil Sharing Plan of the International Energy Agency. Declares that the following agreements shall be deemed to have entered into force by operation of law and shall be deemed to have no termination date: (1) the agreement entitled "Agreement amending and extending the memorandum of agreement of June 22, 1979", entered into force November 13, 1994 (TIAS 12580); and (2) the agreement entitled "Agreement amending the contingency implementing arrangements of October 17, 1980", entered into force June 27, 1995 (TIAS 12670).
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 611 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 28 April 2004
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the President and Congress should take both a short-term and a long-term approach to reducing and stabilizing crude oil prices as well as reducing dependence on foreign sources of energy. Urges the President to communicate immediately to the members of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) cartel and non-OPEC countries that participate in the cartel of crude oil producing countries that the United States: (1) seeks to maintain strong relations with crude oil producers around the world while promoting international efforts to remove barriers to energy trade and investment and increased access for U.S. energy firms around the world; (2) believes that restricting supply in a market that is in demand for additional crude oil does serious damage to OPEC member efforts to demonstrate that they represent a reliable source of crude oil supply; (3) believes that stable crude oil prices and supplies are essential for strong economic growth throughout the world; (4) seeks an immediate increase in the OPEC crude oil production quotas; and (5) will temporarily suspend further purchases of crude oil for the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, thereby freeing up additional supply for the marketplace. Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that: (1) the actions and policies of the Administration with respect to energy should be transparent; and (2) the President should further review all administrative policies, programs, and regulations that put an undue burden on domestic energy producers, and consider new legislative policies aimed at increasing the ability of the domestic energy industries of the United States to supply a greater percentage of U.S. energy needs. Urges the House of Representatives to appropriate sufficient funds for the development of domestic energy sources, including measures to increase the use of renewable energy resources and emerging technologies that could increase energy efficiency and reduce overall energy consumption.
Bill· HRH.R. 4218 (108th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 2004
High-Performance Computing Revitalization Act of 2004 - Amends the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 to direct the President to implement a High-Performance Computing Research and Development Program (current law provides for a National High-Performance Computing Program) and revise program requirements. Requires the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy to: (1) establish the goals and priorities for Federal high-performance computing research, development, networking, and other activities; (2) establish Program Component Areas that implement such goals and identify the Grand Challenges (i.e., fundamental problems in science or engineering, with broad economic and scientific impact, whose solutions will require the application of high-performance computing resources) that the Program should address; and (3) develop and maintain a research, development, and deployment road map for the provision of high-performance computing systems. Requires the advisory committee on high-performance computing to conduct periodic evaluations of the funding, management, coordination, implementation, and activities of the Program, and report at least once every two fiscal years to specified congressional committees. Modifies provisions regarding responsibilities of the National Science Foundation, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the Secretary of Energy, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the Environmental Protection Agency.