Energy

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that there should be established a National Weatherization Day to recognize the need for reducing home energy costs, particularly for low-income families, through the use of conservation technologies, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 28 July 2005

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that there should be established a National Weatherization Day to recognize the need for reducing home energy costs, particularly for low-income families, through the use of conservation technologies.

Supporting the goal of the United States establishing a responsible energy policy toward the Gulf of Guinea region in Western Africa that encourages local content development and greater governmental transparency.

United States · United States Congress · 28 July 2005

Expresses support for: (1) the U.S. goal to establish a responsible energy policy toward the Gulf of Guinea region in Western Africa that encourages local content development and greater governmental transparency; and (2) United States Agency for International Development (USAID) funding to support nongovernmental organizations working to overcome corruption in Africa. Urges the Bush Administration to: (1) provide debt-relief and trade benefits to countries that adhere to the principles of transparency, human rights, and democracy; and (2) work with local organizations in Africa that monitor oil wealth management. Urges the United Nations to: (1) support multilateral transparency and make the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act enforceable international law; and (2) use the U.N. development program to promote transparency, poverty reduction, and democratic participation in civil society. Urges oil companies operating in Africa to: (1) pursue local content development projects and participate in joint ventures with indigenous companies; (2) disclose taxes, fees, and other payments made to African governments; and (3) participate with the U.S. African-American business community in economic development opportunities in the Gulf of Guinea region. Urges the President to encourage leaders of African countries to: (1) implement local content development programs; (2) invest a portion of the current oil revenue of each such country to prepare for a post-oil future; (3) guarantee human rights, transparency, and full civil participation in the democratic process; and (4) provide for fair employment of women within the energy sector.

TERRORIST THREATS TO ENERGY SECURITY

United States · United States House of Representatives · 27 July 2005

A bill to amend the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act of 2000 to include certain former nuclear weapons program workers in the Special Exposure Cohort under the energy employees occupational illness compensation program.

United States · United States Congress · 27 July 2005

Amends the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act of 2000 to include certain former nuclear weapons program workers in the Special Exposure Cohort under the energy employees occupational illness compensation program. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to: (1) modify regulations and procedures to conform to amendments under this Act; and (2) initiate a petition to include workers employed at the Bethlehem Steel site in Lackawanna, New York, as a class to be included in the Special Exposure Cohort.

To amend the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act of 2000 to include certain former nuclear weapons program workers in the Special Exposure Cohort under the energy employees occupational illness compensation program.

United States · United States Congress · 27 July 2005

Amends the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act of 2000 to include certain former nuclear weapons program workers in the Special Exposure Cohort under the energy employees occupational illness compensation program. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to: (1) modify regulations and procedures to conform to amendments under this Act; and (2) initiate a petition to include workers employed at the Bethlehem Steel site in Lackawanna, New York, as a class to be included in the Special Exposure Cohort.

Waiving points of order against consideration of the conference report to accompany the bill (H.R. 6) to ensure jobs for our future with secure, affordable, and reliable energy.

United States · United States Congress · 27 July 2005

Waives points of order against the consideration of the conference report on H.R. 6, the Energy Policy Act of 2005.

ENERGY TRENDS IN CHINA AND INDIA: IMPLICATIONS FOR THE UNITED STATES

United States · United States Senate · 26 July 2005

A bill to direct the Secretary of the Interior to convey certain water distribution facilities to the Northern Colorado Water Conservancy District.

United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2005

Directs the Secretary of the Interior (the Secretary) to convey the St. Vrain Supply Canal, the Boulder Creek Supply Canal that extends from the St. Vrain River to Boulder Creek, and the South Platte Supply Canal, all of which are facilities of the Colorado-Big Thompson Project located in the counties of Larimer, Boulder, and Weld, Colorado, to the Northern Colorado Water Conservancy District. Provides that the District shall not be required to provide additional consideration for this conveyance. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to transfer from the reclamation fund in the Treasury to the Secretary specified funds, which shall be derived from amounts collected by the Western Area Power Administration for the sale of electricity from the Loveland Area Projects. Directs the Secretary: (1) if the transferred water distribution facilities have not been conveyed to the District within one year after this Act's enactment, to submit to specified congressional committees a report that describes the reasons for the failure to convey such facilities and the schedule for completing the transfer as soon as practicable; and (2) to provide annual reports until the date on which such facilities are conveyed.

A bill to amend the Federal Power Act to provide for competitive and reliable electricity transmission in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2005

Amends the Federal Power Act with respect to equitability within territory restricted electric systems (the prohibition against any Federal Power Commission order that requires an electric utility, otherwise prohibited by federal law from being a direct or indirect source of power supply outside a particular area, or one of its distributors, to provide transmission services to another entity if the electric energy to be transmitted will be consumed within the area set forth in such federal law, unless the order is in furtherance of a sale of electric energy to that electric utility). Declares that such prohibition shall not apply to any area in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

To direct the Secretary of the Interior to convey certain water distribution facilities to the Northern Colorado Water Conservancy District.

United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2005

Directs the Secretary of the Interior (the Secretary) to convey the St. Vrain Supply Canal, the Boulder Creek Supply Canal that extends from the St. Vrain River to Boulder Creek, and the South Platte Supply Canal, all of which are facilities of the Colorado-Big Thompson Project located in the counties of Larimer, Boulder, and Weld, Colorado, to the Northern Colorado Water Conservancy District. Provides that the District shall not be required to provide additional consideration for this conveyance. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to transfer specified funds from the reclamation fund in the Treasury to the Secretary, which shall be derived from amounts collected by the Western Area Power Administration for the sale of electricity from the Loveland Area Projects. Directs the Secretary: (1) if the transferred water distribution facilities have not been conveyed by the Secretary to the District within one year of this Act's enactment, to submit to specified congressional committees a report that describes the reasons for the failure to convey such facilities and the schedule for completing the transfer as soon as practicable; and (2) to continue to provide annual reports that provide such information until the date on which such facilities are conveyed in accordance with this Act.

Western New York Redevelopment Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 20 July 2005

Western New York Redevelopment Act of 2005 - Modifies the statutory licensing conditions governing operation of a power project by the New York Power Authority regarding utilization of the federal share of the water of the Niagara River whose use is permitted by international agreement. Directs the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to include among additional conditions imposed on any license issued subsequent to the original license: (1) specified mandatory annual payments from the gross proceeds of the Authority to the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation; (2) the payment of one percent of gross proceeds, to be split evenly by the Industrial Development Agencies for the counties of Niagara, Erie, Chautauqua, and Cattaraugus, New York; and (3) a requirement that the licensee acquire property or interests sufficient to provide an effective zone of separation between all project control, switching or generating facilities, and any privately owned real property not used for the generation, transmission, or control of electric energy. Requires the Secretary of Energy to conduct: (1) an audit of Niagara Power Project finances and operations since project inception; and (2) subsequent annual audits to verify payments to host communities. Requires the New York Power Authority to provide to First Responders serving the local jurisdictions in which the Niagara Power Project facilities are located adequate resources and assistance to acquire, operate, maintain, and replace the assets needed to protect human life and property from harm should any feature or facility of the Niagara Power Project be subject to damage of any type because of an act of terror or other criminal behavior.

To expand the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to include alternative fuels, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2005

Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA) to: (1) define "fuel products" to mean petroleum products and alternative fuels, including ethanol and biodiesel; (2) redesignate the Strategic Petroleum Reserve as the Strategic Fuels Reserve; and (3) rename the SPR Petroleum Account as the SFR Fuel Account (thus bringing such alternative fuels within the purview of EPCA).

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend the credit period to 10 years for certain facilities producing electricity from certain renewable resources.

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2005

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for a 10-year credit period for certain facilities eligible for the tax credit for producing electricity from renewable resources.

Higher Education Sustainability Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 14 July 2005

Higher Education Sustainability Act of 2005 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to direct the Secretary of Education to make grants to establish sustainability programs at institutions of higher education. Requires such programs to develop and implement: (1) sustainability practices, including in the areas of energy management, green building, waste management, purchasing, transportation, and toxics management; and (2) other aspects of sustainability that integrate campus operations with multidisciplinary educational programs and are applicable to the private and government sectors.

United Nations Reform Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2005

United Nations Reform Act of 2005 - Declares that it is incumbent upon the United Nations (U.N.) to enact significant reform measures if it is to restore the public trust. Declares it to be U.S. policy to redirect: (1) U.S. contributions to the U.N. To achieve a shift in the funding mechanisms of 18 specified organizational programs of the U.N. from the regular assessed budget to voluntarily funded programs; and (2) a portion of funds from the Public Information and General Assembly affairs and conferences services organizational programs to pursue pursue a streamlined, efficient, and accountable regular assessed budget of the United Nations. Limits the U.S. contribution to the regularly assessed U.N. budget. Requires the redirection of the amount of funds assessed to the United States if, by 2008, the funding mechanisms of one or more of the 18 specified U.N. organizational programs have not been shifted from the regular assessed budget to voluntarily funded programs. States that it shall be U.S. policy to actively pursue weighted voting with respect to budgetary and financial matter in accordance with the level of financial contributions of member states to the regular assessed U.N. budget. Requires the Secretary of State to certify the U.N. budget at an approved level and the withholding of U.S. contributions if certifications cannot be made. Sets forth required U.N.-related certifications respecting: (1) an Independent Oversight Board; (2) the Office of Internal Oversight; (3) an Office of Ethics; (4) a position of Chief Operating Officer; (5) member access to Board of Internal Auditors reports; (6) waiver of immunity; and (7) the oil-for-food program. Directs that U.S. influence be used to: (1) provide for Israel's permanent inclusion in the U.N. Western European and Others Group; (2) provide a mechanism to suspend a member state engaged in genocide or crimes against humanity; (3) establish a human rights body in the U.N.; (4) establish in the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) an Office of Compliance, and a Special Committee on Safeguards and Verification; and (4) reform U.N. peacekeeping operations, including opposing any new or expanded peacekeeping operations until appropriate certification. Directs the Secretary to recruit U.S. citizens for positions within international organizations.

Energy Efficiency Cornerstone Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2005

Energy Efficiency Cornerstone Act of 2005 - Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA) to expand the scope of products encompassed within the Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products Other Than Automobiles, including testing requirements and energy conservation standards for additional consumer and commercial products. Amends the Energy Conservation and Production Act (ECPA) to set forth additional funding incentives for state building energy efficiency codes. Amends the National Manufacturing Housing Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974 to subject its energy conservation standards to the most recent version of the International Energy Conservation Code. Amends the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act to subject energy efficiency standards and a model energy code to the 2004 International Energy Conservation Code. Amends EPCA to establish within the Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency a voluntary program to identify and promote energy-efficient products and buildings through voluntary labeling of, or other forms of communication about, products and buildings that meet the highest energy efficiency standards. Amends the ECPA to: (1) subject federal building performance standards to the 2004 International Energy Conservation Code; and (2) require all housing constructed under the military housing privatization initiative of the Department of Defense to be Energy Star qualified and equipped with Energy Star appliances and FEMP designated appliances, including Energy Star lighting. Amends EPCA and the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to modify compliance requirements governing alternative fuel use by light duty federal vehicles. Amends federal transportation law to modify standards for executive agency automobiles. Directs the Secretary of Energy (Secretary) to enter into voluntary agreements with entities in industrial sectors that consume significant quantities of primary energy for each unit of physical output to reduce the energy intensity of their production activities. Instructs the Secretary to establish a financial assistance pilot program for state implementation of pilot projects for energy efficiency programs and reduction of consumption of electricity or natural gas. Amends the Public Utilities Regulatory Policy Act of 1978 to require a state regulatory authority or non-regulated utility to implement an energy efficiency resource program to reduce consumer electricity or gas consumption. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to set forth business related credits for: (1) construction of new energy efficient homes; (2) energy efficiency improvements to existing homes; and (3) energy efficient appliances. Allows as a deduction from gross income: (1) an amount equal to the cost of energy efficient commercial building property placed in service during the taxable year; and (2) certain energy efficient property used in business and residential rental property. Establishes a tax credit for: (1) energy efficient building property expenditures; (2) installation of qualified fuel cells; and (3) qualified fuel cell motor vehicles and hybrid motor vehicle. Revises requirements for the energy credit for combined heat and power system property.

Oyster Creek Nuclear Generating Station Relicensing Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2005

Oyster Creek Nuclear Generating Station Relicensing Act of 2005 - Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to condition relicensing of nuclear facilities upon an evaluation of: (1) health risks, vulnerability to terrorist attack, evacuation plans, surrounding population increases, ability to store nuclear waste, and safety and security record of the facility; and (2) the impact of a nuclear accident at the facility. Prohibits the Nuclear Regulatory Commission from relicensing the Oyster Creek Nuclear Generating Station until it has considered a report to Congress by the National Academy of Sciences that provides: (1) an independent assessment of safety performance; and (2) recommendations whether the Station should be relicensed and the conditions for such relicensing.

Providing that the House of Representatives will focus on removing barriers to competitiveness of the United States economy.

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 2005

Recognizes that improving the competitiveness of the U.S. economy depends on congressional action to remove barriers to keeping and creating jobs in the United States, particularly barriers in the areas of: (1) trade restrictions and inequality; (2) bureaucratic red tape; (3) innovation and investment; (4) health care security; (5) lifelong learning; (6) tax burden and complexity; (7) lawsuit abuse and litigation management; and (8) energy self-sufficiency and security. Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that every federal agency should review its rules and policies regarding the competitiveness of the U.S. economy.

Supporting a landmark initiative in bilateral energy cooperation between India and Pakistan.

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 2005

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that: (1) it is in the best interests of the United States, as a facilitator of peaceful relations between India and Pakistan, to support the India-Pakistan agreement to construct a natural gas pipeline; (2) a natural gas pipeline through Pakistan to India is a vehicle for furthering U.S. national security, and would ensure energy security for Pakistan and India, while strengthening the peace process and fostering greater economic cooperation between the two historically hostile countries; and (3) India-Pakistan linkages should be encouraged as they have the potential to contribute to world peace.

To ensure that countries that have signed a Small Quantities Protocol also sign, ratify, and implement the Additional Protocol and provide access by IAEA inspectors to their nuclear-related facilities and to direct the United States Permanent Representative to the IAEA to make every effort to rescind and eliminate the Small Quantities Protocol and ensure compliance by all Member States of the IAEA with IAEA obligations and the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations.

United States · United States Congress · 30 June 2005

Directs the President to use all available political, economic, and diplomatic tools to ensure that each U.S. ally or recipient of certain U.S. assistance that has signed a Small Quantities Protocol with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) also signs and implements the Additional Protocol and provides immediate access for IAEA inspectors to its nuclear-related facilities. Prohibits certain defense and dual use assistance to a country that has signed a Small Quantities Protocol but does not satisfy such implementation and inspection requirements. Authorizes the President to waive such prohibitions for up to one fiscal year for reasons of national security. Directs the President to require the U.S. Permanent Representative to the IAEA to use U.S. influence to change IAEA policy regarding the Small Quantities Protocol in order to: (1) eliminate the Small Quantities Protocol; (2) require that any IAEA member state that has signed a Small Quantities Protocol sign and implement the Additional Protocol, and provide IAEA inspectors with access to its nuclear-related facilities; and (3) require that any IAEA member state that does not comply with such implementation and inspection requirements be ineligible to receive nuclear material, technology, equipment, or assistance from any IAEA member state, and be subject to penalties as provided for by this Act.

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to make geothermal heat pump systems eligible for the energy credit.

United States · United States Congress · 30 June 2005

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to treat geothermal heating and cooling equipment as energy property for purposes of the energy tax credit.

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax incentives for the production of qualified hybrid motor vehicles.

United States · United States Congress · 30 June 2005

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow tax credits for purchasers and manufacturers of qualified hybrid motor vehicles. Defines "qualified hybrid motor vehicle" as a motor vehicle which: (1) operates on an internal combustion or heat engine using consumable fuel and a rechargeable energy storage system; (2) meets specified emission standards under the Clean Air Act; (3) is a passenger vehicle or light truck with a gross weight rating of not more than 8,500 pounds; (4) has a maximum available power (defined as the maximum power available from the rechargeable energy storage system during a standard 10-second pulse power or equivalent test, divided by such maximum power and the SAE net power of the heat engine) of at least four percent; and (5) is acquired for use or lease by a taxpayer and not for resale.

West Valley Remediation Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 29 June 2005

West Valley Remediation Act of 2005 - Expresses the intent of Congress that the federal government should achieve complete remediation of all radioactive, solid, and hazardous waste contamination at the Western New York Nuclear Service Center in West Valley, New York. States that this Act: (1) establishes exclusive federal responsibility for the complete remediation of the Center; and (2) replaces and supersedes the West Valley Demonstration Project Act. Directs the Secretary of Energy to employ the best current technologies and develop new state-of-the-art technologies and methodologies to complete remediation of the Center, including: (1) decontamination and decommissioning; (2) transportation of high level radioactive waste to a federal repository for permanent disposal; and (3) disposal of low level radioactive and transuranic waste. Directs the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to regulate the remediation of radioactive waste and nuclear materials at the Center according to prescribed guidelines. Directs the Secretary to: ( 1) consult with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation in implementing this Act; (2) prepare any environmental impact statement for decommissioning or long-term stewardship of the Center in cooperation with the NRC and federal and state agencies; (3) assume exclusive use and possession of the entire Center; (4) take title to land or facilities at the Center that have not been approved by the NRC for release for unrestricted use; and (4) take title to radioactive and nonradioactive wastes and materials located at the Center. Repeals the West Valley Demonstration Project Act upon assumption by the Secretary of exclusive use and possession of the entire Center.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that a Chinese state-owned energy company exercising control of critical United States energy infrastructure and energy production capacity could take action that would threaten to impair the national security of the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 29 June 2005

Declares the sense of the House of Representatives that: (1) the Chinese state-owned China National Offshore Oil Corporation, through control of Unocal Corporation obtained by the proposed acquisition, merger, or takeover of Unocal Corporation, could take action that would threaten to impair the national security of the United States; and (2) if Unocal Corporation enters into an agreement of acquisition, merger, or takeover of Unocal Corporation by the China National Offshore Oil Corporation, the President should initiate immediately a thorough review of the proposed acquisition, merger, or takeover.

IMPACT Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2005

Improved Nutrition and Physical Activity Act or the IMPACT Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to expand an existing grant program for training for health profession students to include the treatment of overweight, obesity, and eating disorders. Allows the Secretary of Health and Human Services to award grants for the training of primary care physicians and other health professions on how to identify, treat, and prevent obesity or eating disorders and aid individuals who are overweight, obese, or who suffer from eating disorders. Requires the Secretary, acting though the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to award grants for the planning and implementation of programs that promote healthy eating behaviors and physical activity. Allows the Secretary, acting through the National Center for Health Statistics, to provide for the collection and analysis of data for determining the fitness levels and energy expenditures of children and data collected as part of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Requires the Director of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) to review the research to determine if the information might be important for the health disparities report. Permits states to use preventive health and health services block grants for activities and community education programs designed to address and prevent obesity and eating disorders. Requires the Secretary to report to the relevant congressional committees on: (1) the causes and health implications of being overweight, obese, or having an eating disorder; and (2) the effectiveness of campaigns to change children's behaviors and reduce obesity.

Renewable Fuels Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2005

Renewable Fuels Act of 2005 - Amends the Clean Air Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish a program to require U.S. motor vehicle fuel to contain a certain volume of renewable fuel. Defines "renewable fuel" to include cellulosic biomass ethanol, waste derived ethanol, and biodiesel. Establishes a system of: (1) tradeable credits for motor vehicle fuel containing more renewable fuel than required; (2) waivers for states and small refineries; and (3) safe harbor standards to protect manufacturers of renewable fuels from civil liability. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to require federal agency heads to ensure that ethanol-blended gasoline and biodiesel-blended diesel fuel are purchased for agency vehicles in areas where such fuel is available at competitive prices. Amends the Clean Air Act to eliminate the oxygen content requirement for reformulated gasoline. Requires the Administrator: (1) to establish standards for toxic air pollutants from the use of reformulated gasoline; and (2) within 30 days of enactment of this Act, to determine the adequacy of any petition from a state governor to exempt gasoline sold in the state from certain requirements for reformulated gasoline. Directs the Administrator (currently, discretionary) to require fuel manufacturers to conduct tests to determine potential public health and environmental effects of fuels and fuel additives prior to registering such fuels. Permits states in the ozone transport region to opt into the reformulated gasoline program. Requires the Administrator, at the request of a state, to enforce state controls on fuel and fuel additives. Sets forth various data collection and reporting requirements.

National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2005

National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2005 - Directs the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to ensure that NASA carries out a balanced set of programs that include: (1) human space flight; (2) aeronautics research and development; and (3) scientific research. Requires the Administrator to manage human space flight programs to: (1) return Americans to the moon by 2020; (2) launch the Crew Exploration Vehicle close to 2010; (3) increase knowledge of the impacts of long stays in space on the human body; and (4) enable humans to land on and return from Mars and other destinations. Prohibits the launch of the Space Shuttle after December 31, 2010. Requires the Administrator to: (1) develop a policy to guide NASA science programs through 2020; and (4) study whether any of NASA's centers should be operated by or with the private sector. Directs the Administrator to transmit to Congress a plan for updating the space communications and navigation architecture for both low Earth orbit and deep space exploration. Requires the Administrator and the Director of the Department of Energy Office of Science to report to Congress on plans for a Joint Dark Energy Mission. Directs the Administrator to develop a transition plan for federal and contractor personnel engaged in the Space Shuttle program. Requires the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy to study and report to Congress on NASA research and development programs. Prohibits the Administrator from contracting for the development phase of a major program unless certain risk management requirements are met. Authorizes NASA to to award competitive cash prizes to stimulate innovation in research, technology development, and prototype demonstration that have the potential for application to NASA space and aeronautics activities. Allows the Administrator to relinquish to a state all or part of U.S. legislative jurisdiction over lands or interests under the Administrator's control in such state. Repeals: (1) the four year limitation on the service obligation of recipients of a National Aeronautics and Space Administration Science and Technology Scholarship; and (2) cost limitations for the International Space Station. Prohibits NASA from launching a mission on a foreign launch vehicle except in accordance with the Space Transportation Policy announced by the President on December 21, 2004. Directs the Administrator and the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to coordinate activities related to earth science missions undertaken by NASA. Charles "Pete" Conrad Astronomy Awards Act - Directs NASA to establish the Charles "Pete" Conrad Astronomy Awards Program. George E. Brown, Jr. Near-Earth Object Survey Act - Directs the Administrator to implement a Near-Earth object survey program to detect, track, catalogue, and characterize the physical characteristics of near-Earth objects (certain asteroids or comets) equal to greater than 100 meters in diameter in order to assess their threat to the Earth..

Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2006

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2005

Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2006 - Makes appropriations for the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and related agencies for FY 2006. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, such funds and transfers of funds. Department of Labor Appropriations Act, 2006 - Makes appropriations for FY 2006 to the Department of Labor for: (1) the Employment and Training Administration; (2) community service employment for older Americans; (3) federal unemployment benefits and allowances; (4) state unemployment insurance and employment service operations; (5) advances to the Unemployment Trust Fund and the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund; (6) employment and training program administration; (7) workers compensation programs; (8) the Employee Benefits Security Administration; (9) the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation; (10) the Employment Standards Administration; (11) certain special benefits, including ones for disabled coal miners; (12) the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Fund; (13) the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund; (14) the Occupational Safety and Health Administration; (15) the Mine Safety and Health Administration; (16) the Bureau of Labor Statistics; (17) the Office of Disability Employment Policy; (18) departmental management; (19) veterans employment and training; (20) the Office of Inspector General; and (21) a working capital fund for a new core accounting system. Department of Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2006 - Makes appropriations for FY 2006 to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for: (1) the Health Resources and Services Administration; (2) health education assistance loans; (3) the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program Trust Fund; (4) the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP), for disease control, research, and training; (5) the National Institutes of Health (NIH), including the John E. Fogarty International Center, the National Library of Medicine, and the Office of the Director; (6) the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration; (7) the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality; (8) the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for grants to states for Medicaid, payments to health care trust funds, and program management; (9) the Health Maintenance Organization Loan and Loan Guarantee Fund; (10) the Administration for Children and Families for payments to states for child support enforcement and family support programs; (11) low-income home energy assistance; (12) refugee and entrant assistance; (13) payments to states for the child care and development block grant; (14) the social services block grant; (15) disabled voter services; (16) children and families services programs; (17) promoting safe and stable families, through family preservation and support; (18) payments to states for foster care and adoption assistance; (19) the Administration on Aging; (20) the Office of the Secretary for general departmental management; (21) administrative law judges for Medicare appeals; (22) the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology; (23) the Office of Inspector General; (24) the Office for Civil Rights; (25) retirement pay and medical benefits for Public Health Service commissioned officers, and medical care of dependents and retired personnel; and (26) the public health and social services emergency fund, for activities related to countering potential biological, disease, and chemical threats to civilian populations, and to developing and implementing rapidly expandable influenza vaccine production technologies and purchasing influenza vaccine as necessary. Department of Education Appropriations Act, 2006 - Makes appropriations for FY 2006 to the Department of Education for: (1) education for the disadvantaged; (2) impact aid; (3) school improvement programs; (4) Indian education; (5) innovation and improvement activities; (6) safe schools and citizenship education; (7) English language acquisition and language enhancement; (8) special education; (9) rehabilitation services and disability research; (10) special institutions for persons with disabilities, including the American Printing House for the Blind, the National Technical Institute for the Deaf, the Kendall Demonstration Elementary School, the Model Secondary School for the Deaf, and Gallaudet University; (11) vocational and adult education; (12) certain student financial assistance programs, as well as federal administrative expenses for such programs (setting a maximum individual Pell Grant amount); (13) specified higher education programs; (14) Howard University; (15) the college housing and academic facilities loans program; (16) the historically Black college and university capital financing program account; (17) the Institute of Education Sciences; (18) departmental management and program administration; (19) the Office for Civil Rights; and (20) the Office of the Inspector General. Makes appropriations for FY 2006 to the: (1) Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled; (2) 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) Corporation for Public Broadcasting; (4) Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service; (5) Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission; (6) Institute of Museum and Library Services; (7) Medicare Payment Advisory Commission; (8) National Commission on Libraries and Information Science; (9) National Council on Disability; (10) National Labor Relations Board; (11) National Mediation Board; (12) Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission; (13) Railroad Retirement Board for the dual benefits payments account, federal payments to the railroad retirement accounts, administration, and the Office of Inspector General; and (14) Social Security Administration for payments to the Social Security trust funds, the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Program, administrative expenses, and the Office of Inspector General.

Nuclear Power Licensing Reform Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2005

Nuclear Power Licensing Reform Act of 2005 - Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to require, for a commercial license for an atomic power production or utilization facility, that: (1) the facility does not pose an unreasonable threat to persons or the environment because of safety or security vulnerabilities (including vulnerability to terrorist attacks); and (2) there exist adequate evacuation plans for emergency events which have been approved by the relevant federal agencies and states within 50 miles of the facility. Conditions renewal of any such license on the same criteria and requirements applicable for an original application for initial construction. Instructs the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to ensure that any changes in the size or distribution of the surrounding population have not resulted in the facility's being located at a site at which a new facility would not be allowed to be built.

THE IMPACTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS ON ENERGY AND MINERAL DEVELOPMENT: THE WILDLANDS PROJECT

United States · United States House of Representatives · 16 June 2005

Gross Overcharging Undermines Gasoline Economics Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2005

Gross Overcharging Undermines Gasoline Economics Act - Prohibits retail sales of gasoline for a price that exceeds the base price index multiplied by twice the rate of inflation, as adjusted according to a certain regional price structure index. Instructs the Secretary of Energy to: (1) develop a regional price structure index to reflect regional variances in gasoline reformulation requirements and transportation costs; and (2) assess a civil penalty for a violation of this Act. Directs the Federal Trade Commission to report annually to Congress on: (1) passive and active collusion to set gasoline prices;(2) antitrust practices throughout all supply chains in the oil industry; and (3) recommendations to protect consumers against gasoline price gouging. Prohibits the Secretary from acquiring new petroleum products for, or placing any petroleum products in, the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR). Directs the Secretary to release from the SPR one million barrels of oil per day. Establishes the Pricing and Economic Impact Commission to report to Congress on the effect of this Act upon: (1) domestic oil production; (2) foreign oil imports; (3) profits of the oil industry; (4) inflation; (5) employment; (6) economic growth; (7) federal revenues; and (8) national security.

Environmentally Responsible Windpower Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2005

Environmentally Responsible Windpower Act of 2005 - States that a wind turbine project must complete its Local Notification Process as a prerequisite to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) issuance of its Exempt-Wholesale Generator Status, Market-Based Rate Authority, or Qualified Facility rate schedule. Requires the lead agency to conduct and complete an environmental impact statement prior to FERC issuance of its Exempt-Wholesale Generator Status, Market-Based Rate Authority, or Qualified Facility rate schedule to a Qualified Wind Project in or near a Highly Scenic Area (or within 20 miles off the coast of a National Wildlife Refuge).

To prohibit the issuance of any Federal or State permit or lease for new oil and gas slant, directional, or offshore drilling in or under one or more of the Great Lakes.

United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2005

Prohibits the issuance of any federal or state permit or lease for new oil and gas slant, directional, or offshore drilling in or under one or more of the Great Lakes.

KEEPING THE POWER ON: EXAMINING THE IMPACT OF SOARING ENERGY COSTS ON THE ELDERLY

United States · United States Senate · 15 June 2005

Rocky Flats Environmental Technology Site Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2005

Rocky Flats Environmental Technology Site Act of 2005 - Instructs the Secretary of Energy to purchase essential mineral rights at the Department of Energy facility, Colorado, known as the Rocky Flats Environmental Technology Site. Includes among conditions for such purchase that certain federal and state officials designated as trustees enter into a natural resources damage settlement providing that the purchase of essential mineral rights satisfies any existing or potential natural resource damage liability claim arising from releases of certain hazardous substances. Requires the settlement to include a covenant not to sue.

Fuels Security Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 14 June 2005

Fuels Security Act of 2005 - Amends the Clean Air Act to require that motor vehicle fuel contain a specified volume of renewable fuel. Defines "renewable fuel" to include motor vehicle fuel that is: (1) produced from grain, starch, or oilseeds; (2) natural biogas; (3) cellulosic biomass fuel; (4) biodiesel; or (5) composed of a mix of components derived from renewable fuel. Establishes a system of: (1) tradeable credits for motor vehicle fuel containing more renewable fuel than required; and (2) waivers of renewable fuel requirements for states and small refineries. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to require federal agency heads to ensure that ethanol-blended gasoline and biodiesel-blended diesel fuel is purchased for agency vehicles in areas where such fuel is available at competitive prices. Amends the Clean Air Act to eliminate the oxygen content requirement for reformulated gasoline. Requires the Administrator to: (1) establish standards for toxic air pollutants from the use of reformulated gasoline; and (2) within 30 days of enactment of this Act, determine the adequacy of any petition from a state governor to exempt gasoline sold in the state from certain requirements for reformulated gasoline. Permits states additional opt-in areas under the reformulated gasoline program. Requires the Administrator, at the request of a state, to enforce state controls on fuels and fuel additives. Sets forth various data collection and reporting requirements. Directs the Secretary of Energy to provide loan guarantees for demonstration projects to convert celllulosic biomass into ethanol.

Supporting responsible fatherhood, promoting marriage, and encouraging greater involvement of fathers in the lives of their children, especially on Father's Day.

United States · United States Congress · 14 June 2005

Commends the millions of fathers who serve as wonderful, caring parents for their children. Calls on fathers across the nation to use Father’s Day to reconnect and rededicate themselves to their children’s lives, to spend Father’s Day with their children, and to express their love and support for their children. Urges men to understand the level of responsibility fathering a child requires, especially in the encouragement of the moral, academic, and spiritual development of children. Encourages active involvement of fathers in the rearing and development of their children, including the devotion of time, energy, and resources.

Renewable Energy Incentives Act

United States · United States Congress · 13 June 2005

Renewable Energy Incentives Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) make permanent the tax credit for the production of electricity from renewable resources; (2) increase the rate of such credit; (3) extend the 10 year credit period to all qualified energy facilities eligible for the credit; (4) include incremental geothermal energy production and incremental hydropower production as qualified energy resources for purposes of the credit; (5) increase the credit rate for co-production facilities and qualified facilities located within certain Indian and Alaskan Native Indian lands; (6) permit the transfer of tax credit amounts earned by certain tax-exempt entities to taxable entities; and (7) allow the credit to offset alternative minimum taxable income. Denies the tax credit for facilities which are not in compliance with applicable state and federal pollution prevention, control and permit requirements.

Environmentally Responsible Windpower Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2005

Environmentally Responsible Windpower Act of 2005 - States that a wind turbine project must complete its Local Notification Process as a prerequisite to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) issuance of its Exempt-Wholesale Generator Status, Market-Based Rate Authority, or Qualified Facility rate schedule. Requires the lead agency to conduct and complete an environmental impact statement prior to FERC issuance of its Exempt-Wholesale Generator Status, Market-Based Rate Authority, or Qualified Facility rate schedule to a Qualified Wind Project in or near a Highly Scenic Area (or within 20 miles off the coast of a National Wildlife Refuge).

National Security and Bioenergy Investment Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2005

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

Energy Policy Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2005

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

New Apollo Energy Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2005

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

Spent Nuclear Fuel Tracking and Accountability Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2005

Spent Nuclear Fuel Tracking and Accountability Act - Directs the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to: (1) establish specific and uniform guidelines for tracking, controlling, and accounting for individual spent fuel rods or segments at nuclear power plants, including procedures for conducting physical inventories; (2) establish uniform inspection procedures to verify any action taken by a nuclear power plant to implement those guidelines; and (3) submit to Congress a status report describing the progress of the Commission in establishing such guidelines.

A bill to prevent certain discriminatory taxation of natural gas pipeline property.

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2005

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 or storage of natural gas subject to the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Grants jurisdiction to U.S. District Courts and provides for specified relief for claims of discriminatory taxation of natural gas pipeline property.

Ratepayers Protection Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2005

Ratepayers Protection Act of 2005 - Requires the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) to study and report to Congress on the effect on certain disadvantaged individuals (e.g., low-income, disabled, and minority groups) of actions taken or considered by regulated electric utilities to reduce their carbon dioxide emissions. Amends the National Climate Program Act to prohibit: (1) regulated electric utilities from recovering additional costs from ratepayers for reducing carbon dioxide emissions; and (2) state utility commissions from compelling ratepayers to pay any amount incurred by a regulated public utility for reducing carbon dioxide emissions.

Clean Energy Bonds Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2005

Clean Energy Bonds Act of 2005 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow holders of clean energy bonds a nonrefundable tax credit of 25 percent of an annual credit amount as determined by the Secretary of the Treasury. Defines "clean energy bond" as any bond issued by a clean energy bond lender, a cooperative electric company, a governmental body, or the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) that is used for capital expenditures for specified projects for producing electricity from certain renewable resources, such as wind, biomass, solar energy, small irrigation power, and municipal solid waste. Sets forth rules for maturity limitations, arbitrage, and expenditures, including a requirement that 95 percent of proceeds from the sale of a bond issue be spent on a renewable resource project within five years from the date of a bond issuance. Terminates the authority to issue clean energy bonds after 2008.

FHA Energy Efficiency Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 June 2005

FHA Energy Efficiency Act - Amends the National Housing Act to require that residential mortgage insurance energy certifications be conducted by an individual certified by an accredited home energy rating system provider.

Henry J. Hyde United Nations Reform Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 7 June 2005

United Nations Reform Act of 2005 - Declares that it is incumbent upon the United Nations (U.N.) to enact significant reform measures if it is to restore the public trust. Declares it to be U.S. policy to redirect: (1) U.S. contributions to the U.N. to achieve a shift in the funding mechanisms of 18 specified organizational programs of the U.N. from the regular assessed budget to voluntarily funded programs; and (2) a portion of funds from the Public Information and General Assembly affairs and conferences services organizational programs to pursue pursue a streamlined, efficient, and accountable regular assessed budget of the U.N. Limits the U.S. contribution to the regularly assessed U.N. budget. Requires the redirection of the amount of funds assessed to the United States if, by 2008, the funding mechanisms of one or more of the 18 specified U.N. organizational programs have not been shifted from the regular assessed budget to voluntarily funded programs. States that it shall be U.S. policy to actively pursue weighted voting with respect to budgetary and financial matter in accordance with the level of financial contributions of member states to the regular assessed U.N. budget. Requires the Secretary of State to certify the U.N. budget at an approved level and the withholding of U.S. contributions if certifications cannot be made. Directs that U.S. influence be used to: (1) provide for Israel's permanent inclusion in the U.N. Western European and Others Group; (2) establish in the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) an Office of Compliance, and a Special Committee on Safeguards and Verification; and (3) reform U.N. peacekeeping operations, including opposing any new or expanded peacekeeping operations until appropriate certification. Directs the Secretary of State to recruit U.S. citizens for positions within international organizations.

Gregory L. Schulte, of Virginia, to be Representative of the United States of America to the International Atomic Energy Agency, with the rank of Ambassador.

United States · United States Senate · 26 May 2005

Climate Stewardship and Innovation Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 26 May 2005

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