Energy

Additional Protocol to the U.S.-IAEA Safeguards Agreement Implementation Act of 200- [sic]

United States · United States Congress · 9 December 2003

Additional Protocol to the U.S.-IAEA Safeguards Agreement Implementation Act of 200- (sic) - Authorizes the President to: (1) implement this Act and the Protocol Additional to the Agreement between the United States of America and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for the Application of Safeguards in the United States of America, which was signed by both parties in Vienna on June 12, 1998 (Additional Protocol); and (2) designate which Federal agencies shall issue, or revise and enforce regulations to implement this Act and the provisions of the Additional Protocol. Authorizes complementary IAEA access to any location in the United States subject to access under the Additional Protocol only in accordance with this Act. Prescribes complementary access procedures, including consents, warrants, and warrantless complementary access. Exempts information acquired by the U.S. Government under this Act or under the Additional Protocol from certain statutory disclosure requirements. Prescribes recordkeeping procedures and penalties for recordkeeping violations. Grants U.S. district courts jurisdiction over civil actions by the Attorney General to restrain such violations and compel any actions required by this Act or the Additional Protocol.

Western Waters and Surface Owners Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 December 2003

Western Waters and Surface Owners Protection Act - Amends the Mineral Leasing Act to require operators producing oil or gas (including coalbed methane), to: (1) replace water supplies affected by drilling; (2) reinject water produced by drilling into the aquifer from which it was extracted or one of no better quality; and (3) submit water management plans along with their lease applications. Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to require pollution discharge permits for the production of oil or gas and permit stipulations to minimize adverse effects from the disposal of extracted waters. Prohibits the Secretary of the Interior from authorizing exploration and drilling operations on lands where title to oil and gas resources are owned by the United States but the surface estate is owned by a non-Federal entity unless: (1) an agreement has been reached with the surface owner (with the possibility of arbitration); or (2) the operator has made a good faith attempt to secure such an agreement and meets other specified requirements. Requires the Secretary to give surface owners advance notice of lease sales. Requires operators to meet specified reclamation standards for lands affected by oil or gas production and to post reclamation bonds. Directs the Secretary to: (1) develop a Federal remediation program for abandoned wells drilled to explore or develop Federally owned minerals or located on Federal lands; and (2) establish a technical assistance program for States and Tribes addressing environmental problems caused by abandoned wells on other lands.

To amend the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act of 2000 to provide for certain additional former nuclear weapons program workers to be included in the Special Exposure Cohort under the compensation program established by that Act.

United States · United States Congress · 8 December 2003

Amends the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act of 2000 to include within its Special Exposure Cohort certain employees engaged in the nuclear weapons program at the Bethlehem Steel plant in Lackawanna, New York, who were directly exposed to material (including residual material) that emitted radiation beginning January 1, 1949, and ending on the date (to be determined by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) of the Department of Health and Human Services) by which all such residual material was removed.

AGOA III Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 November 2003

AGOA III Act - Declares the sense of Congress that beneficiary sub-Saharan African countries (SSA countries) under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) will benefit if they: (1) implement specified existing obligations under the World Trade Organization (WTO); and (2) take steps to promote regional integration, including through agreements to eliminate regional trade barriers. Amends the Trade Act of 1974 to repeal the requirement that certain non-apparel articles that are the growth, product, or manufacture of an SSA country shall receive duty-free treatment only if the President determines that they are not import-sensitive in the context of imports from such countries. Extends duty-free treatment for AGOA articles from FY 2008 through FY 2020. Amends AGOA to revise requirements for textile and apparel products from SSA countries receiving duty-free and other preferential import treatment. Permits certain articles to contain fabric or yarn not originating from an SSA country or the United States (third country fabric), regardless of commercial availability in the United States (as long as it is not the component that determines the classification of the article under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States). Extends through FY 2008 the current special rule for lesser developed SSA countries. Extends duty-free treatment to: (1) apparel articles formed on seamless knitting machines in an SSA country from yarns originating either in the United States or one or more SSA countries; and (2) ethnic printed fabric of an SSA country meeting certain criteria. Authorizes the President to extend duty-free treatment, subject to specified conditions, for up to two additional years to a particular lesser developed SSA country lacking sufficient domestic fabric-making capacity, taking into account the extent to which the country has taken steps to increase such capacity by attracting investment. Declares the sense of the Congress that, in negotiating free trade agreements with other countries, the President should negotiate rules of origin for textile and apparel products that allow the use of inputs from SSA countries. Amends the Trade Act of 1974 to extend duty-free treatment to agricultural products from SSA countries that would otherwise be excluded for exceeding a tariff-rate quota. Requires the President to assess a duty (according to a specified formula) on over-quota imports of any agricultural product for which preferential treatment is claimed, if the President determines that the product's unit import price when it enters the United States, determined on an F.O.B. basis, is less than the annual trigger price. Amends AGOA to direct the Secretary of Agriculture (Secretary) to develop a comprehensive plan for public policies and incentives for the private sector to: (1) identify SSA products that can be exported to the United States; (2) analyze critical constraints to U.S.-Africa agricultural trade; and (3) develop a strategy for increasing such SSA agricultural exports. Directs the President to assign at least 20 full-time personnel of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, to not less than ten eligible SSA countries with the greatest potential to increase marketable exports of agricultural products to the United States and the greatest need for technical assistance, particularly in conducting pest risk assessments. Authorizes the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to provide grants to governmental and nongovernmental entities located in eligible SSA countries that can provide assistance, consultation, and equipment to agribusinesses located in those countries in order to enable agricultural products to meet U.S. import requirements. Requires the Secretary to direct the Foreign Agriculture Service (FAS) to work with national African agricultural organizations to identify agricultural equipment and supply needs and implement programs that strengthen the ability of members of African agricultural organizations to fulfill these needs in conjunction with export credit guarantee programs. Amends AGOA to condition the President's termination of the designation of an SSA country upon Congress' not prohibiting it. Requires the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) to focus funding on investments in agriculture, tourism, and nature tourism. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to waive certain prohibitions against OPIC issuance of any contract of insurance or reinsurance, guaranty, or agreement to provide financing for an eligible investor's proposed investment in an SSA country even if such investment is likely to cause a significant reduction in the number of employees in the United States. Amends the Export-Import Bank Act of 1945 to require the Bank to implement regulations and procedures appropriate to ensure that full consideration is given to the extent to which any credit extension is likely to have a positive effect on industries, including the textile and apparel industry and agricultural production, in SSA countries. States the sense of Congress that USAID, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of the Treasury, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (World Bank), and the African Development Bank, should continue to provide technical assistance to SSA countries in tax policy and revenue administration, especially domestic policies and measures to replace lost trade tax revenues resulting from trade liberalization. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to seek negotiations with those SSA countries which the Secretary determines will benefit most from an income tax treaty with the United States to avoid double taxation. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a taxpayer a deduction from income for cash contributions to the Global Fund to Fight HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. Directs the USTR to seek to negotiate bilateral investment agreements with interested SSA countries. Directs the USAID Administrator to study the economy of each SSA country, identifying growth sectors and barriers impeding growth, as well as how the U.S. Government and the private sector can provide technical assistance to help dismantle such barriers and promote investment in such sectors. Directs the President to develop and implement policies to assist and encourage: (1) the development of infrastructure projects that will help to increase trade capacity and a sustainable ecotourism industry in SSA countries; and (2) investment in transportation, energy, agriculture, and telecommunications infrastructure in such countries. Directs the USAID Administrator to foster specified port-to-port and airport-to-airport relationships. Authorizes the USTR to provide grants to U.S. nongovernmental organizations and to U.S. representatives of the private sector to host AGOA forums. Directs the President to assemble an interagency task force to facilitate the goals and objectives of this Act.

Intelligent Transportation Systems Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 21 November 2003

Authorizes appropriations for FY 2004 through 2009 for: (1) surface transportation research, development, and deployment; (2) training and education; (3) the Bureau of Transportation Statistics; (4) university transportation research; and (5) intellligent transportation systems research. Revises requirements for transportation: (1) research strategic planning to include development priorities; and (2) deployment grants, cooperative agreements, and contracts. Directs the Secretary to establish a program to demonstrate the application of innovative technology in surface transportation infrsstructure construction and safety. Directs the Secretary to arrange with the National Academy of Sciences for establishment of a Future Strategic Highway Research Program. Amends the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century to revise the Intelligent Transportation Systems Act of 1998 and rename it the Intelligent Transportation Systems Act of 2003. Directs the Secretary to establish a National Multimodal Trends Policy Research Program that systematically addresses critical short-term, medium-term, and long-term social science issues affecting and affected by the transportation system. Authorizes appropriations for FY 2004 through 2009 for transit research and development. Amends Federal highway law to direct the Secretary to establish an Innovative Practices and Technologies Demonstration and Deployment Program. Directs the Secretary to establish: (1) a multimodal energy and climate change program to study the relationship of transportation, energy, and climate change as part of the National Climate Change Technology Initiative and the Climate Change Research Initiative; and (2) a national cooperative freight transportation research program.

United States-Africa Partnership Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 20 November 2003

United States-Africa Partnership Act of 2003 - Amends the Trade Act of 1974 to repeal the requirement that certain non-apparel articles that are the growth, product, or manufacture of a beneficiary sub-Saharan African country (SSA country) under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) shall receive duty-free treatment only if the President determines that they are not import-sensitive in the context of imports from such countries. Extends duty-free treatment for AGOA articles from FY 2008 through FY 2015. Amends AGOA to revise requirements for textile and apparel products from SSA countries receiving duty-free and other preferential import treatment. Permits certain articles to contain fabric or yarn not originating from an SSA country or the United States (third country fabric), regardless of commercial availability in the United States. Extends through FY 2008 the current special rule for lesser developed SSA countries. Extends duty-free treatment to ethnic printed fabric of an SSA country meeting certain criteria. Amends AGOA to direct the Secretary of Agriculture (Secretary) to develop a comprehensive plan for public policies and incentives for the private sector to: (1) identify SSA products that can be exported to the United States; (2) analyze critical constraints to U.S.-Africa agricultural trade; and (3) develop a strategy for increasing such SSA agricultural exports. Requires the President and the Secretary to direct the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to evaluate methods for training African agricultural producers and for implementing capacity building programs to help the producers meet U.S. food safety standards. Directs the President to assign at least 20 full-time APHIS personnel to at least ten eligible SSA countries with the greatest: (1) potential to increase marketable exports of agricultural products to the United States; and (2) need for technical training and capacity building in meeting phytosanitary standards for such products. Amends AGOA to condition the President's termination of the designation of an SSA country upon Congress' not prohibiting it. Requires the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) to focus funding on investments in agribusiness, electronics, textiles, and apparel. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to waive certains prohibitions against OPIC issuance of any contract of insurance or reinsurance, guaranty, or agreement to provide financing for an eligible investor's proposed investment in an SSA country even if such investment is likely to cause a significant reduction in the number of employees in the United States. Amends the Export-Import Bank Act of 1945 to require the Bank to implement regulations and procedures appropriate to ensure that full consideration is given to the extent to which any credit extension is likely to have a positive effect on industries, including the textile and apparel industry and agricultural production, in SSA countries. Requires the Secretary to direct the Foreign Agriculture Service (FAS) to work with national African agricultural organizations to identify agricultural equipment and supply needs and implement programs that strengthen the ability of members of African agricultural organizations to fulfill these needs in conjunction with export credit guarantee programs. States the sense of Congress that USAID, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of the Treasury, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (World Bank), and the African Development Bank, should continue to provide technical assistance to SSA countries in tax policy and revenue administration. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to seek negotiations with those SSA countries which the Secretary determines will benefit most from an income tax treaty with the United States to avoid double taxation. Directs the USAID Administrator to study the economy of each SSA country, identifying growth sectors and barriers impeding growth, as well as how the U.S. Government and the private sector can provide technical assistance to help dismantle such barriers and promote investment in such sectors. Directs the President to develop and implement policies to encourage, and assist with, investment in transportation, energy, agriculture, and telecommunications infrastructure in SSA countries. Directs the USAID Administrator to foster specified port-to-port and airport-to-airport relationships. Directs the President to assemble an interagency task force to facilitate the goals and objectives of this Act. Authorizes the USTR to provide grants to U.S. nongovernmental organizations and to U.S. representatives of the private sector to host AGAO forums.

Surface Transportation Research and Development Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 20 November 2003

Surface Transportation Research and Development Act of 2003 - Authorizes appropriations for FY 2004 through 2009 for: (1) surface transportation research, development, and deployment; (2) training and education; (3) the Bureau of Transportation Statistics; (4) university transportation research; and (5) intellligent transportation systems research. Revises requirements for transportation: (1) research strategic planning to include development priorities; and (2) deployment grants, cooperative agreements, and contracts. Directs the Secretary to establish a program to demonstrate the application of innovative technology in surface transportation infrsstructure construction and safety. Requires the Director of the Bureau of Transportation Statistics to: (1) develop an integrated, multimodal data strategic plan and revise it triennially; and (2) establish an Advisory Council on Transportation Statistics. Directs the Secretary to arrange with the National Academy of Sciences for establishment of a Future Strategic Highway Research Program. Amends the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century to revise the Intelligent Transportation Systems Act of 1998 and rename it the Intelligent Transportation Systems Act of 2003. Directs the Secretary to establish a National Multimodal Trends Policy Research Program that systematically addresses critical short-term, medium-term, and long-term social science issues affecting and affected by the transportation system. Authorizes appropriations for FY 2004 through 2009 for: (1) transit research and development; (2) highway safety research and development; and (3) motor carrier research and development. Amends Federal highway law to direct the Secretary to establish an Innovative Practices and Technologies Demonstration and Deployment Program. Authorizes the Secretary (or the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development when required for urban transportation planning) to make grants to nonprofit institutions of higher learning to: (1) conduct competent research and investigations into the theoretical or practical problems of urban transportation; and (2) train individuals to conduct further research or obtain employment in an organization that plans, builds, operates, or manages an urban transportation system. Directs the Secretary to establish: (1) a motor carrier research and technology program; (2) a multimodal energy and climate change program to study the relationship of transportation, energy, and climate change as part of the National Climate Change Technology Initiative and the Climate Change Research Initiative; (3) a national cooperative freight transportation research program; (4) data exchange formats to ensure that highway and transit monitoring systems data, including statewide incident reporting systems, can readily be exchanged across jurisdictional boundaries; and (5) a planning capacity building initiative to support enhancements in transportation planning. Directs the President shall establish a Next Generation National Transportation Policy Study Commission.

Expressing the deep concern of Congress regarding the failure of the Islamic Republic of Iran to adhere to its obligations under a safeguards agreement with the International Atomic Energy Agency and the engagement by Iran in activities that appear to be designed to develop nuclear weapons.

United States · United States Congress · 20 November 2003

Deplores the development by Iran of a nuclear weapons program and the failure of the Government of Iran to report material, facilities, and activities to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in contravention of its obligations under the safeguards convention it signed in connection with the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (Treaty). Concurs with the conclusion of the Department of State that Iran is pursuing a program to develop nuclear weapons. Calls on the President to use all appropriate means to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, with particular attention to the needs of the IAEA for information and access, including information concerning gas centrifuges and the conduct of uranium conversion experiments. Calls on Russia to suspend all nuclear cooperation with Iran until Iran fully complies with a specified IAEA resolution, with particular attention to spent fuel. Calls on the IAEA to declare Iran in violation of the Treaty. Calls on the United Nations Security Council to consider immediately the passage of a Security Council resolution or the taking of other actions that may be necessary to impose diplomatic and economic sanctions against Iran if it fails to meet its obligations to the IAEA. Calls on the Government of Iran to cease all efforts to acquire nuclear fuel cycle capabilities and to end the enrichment and processing of uranium until it is able to provide specific, verifiable assurances that it is not engaged in a clandestine nuclear weapons program.

Tax Relief Extension Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 19 November 2003

Tax Relief Extension Act of 2003 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend provisions concerning: (1) parity in the application of certain limits to mental health benefits; (2) the credit for electricity produced from certain renewable resources; (3) the work opportunity credit; (4) the welfare-to-work credit; (5) the taxable income limit on percentage depletion for oil and natural gas produced from marginal properties; (6) qualified zone academy bonds; (7) the cover over tax on distilled spirits; (8) the deduction for corporate donations of computer technology; (9) the credit for qualified electric vehicles; (10) the deduction for clean-fuel vehicles and certain refueling property; (11) the deduction for certain expenses of school teachers; (12) the availability of medical savings accounts; (13) the expensing of environmental remediation costs; (14) the expansion of the work opportunity tax credit to the New York Liberty Zone; (15) the temporary special rules for taxation of life insurance companies; (16) certain tax incentives for investment in the District of Columbia; (17) the combined employment tax reporting program; (18) transfers of excess pension assets to retiree health accounts; and (19) IRS user fees. Adds to the definition of taxable vaccines any vaccine against hepatitis A and any trivalent vaccine against influenza.

Environmental Restoration Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 19 November 2003

Environmental Restoration Act of 2003 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish a waste coal energy production per ton credit equal to $1.50 per million Btu of heat input utilized by the taxpayer to produce energy in an eligible facility from qualified waste coal during the 10-year period beginning on the date the facility was originally placed in service (or, if later, the date of the enactment of this section). Permits transfer of the credit through sale and repurchase agreements.

Home Energy Generation Act

United States · United States Congress · 18 November 2003

Home Energy Generation Act - Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to require that: (1) each retail electric supplier make available an electric energy meter capable of net metering to certain retail customers that have installed an energy generation unit intended for net metering; and (2) rates, charges, and contract terms for electric energy sales to customer-generators be the same as those that would be applicable if the customer-generator did not own or operate a qualified generation unit and use a net metering system. Prescribes the manner in which such retail electric suppliers shall calculate the net energy measurement and billing for a customer using a net metering system. Subjects qualified generation units and net metering systems to specified safety, performance, and reliability standards. Authorizes the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to: (1) adopt additional control and testing requirements for customer-generators necessary to protect public safety and system reliability; and (2) prohibit additional charges by electric suppliers and local distribution systems for equipment or services for safety or performance additional to those necessary to meet such standards. Sets a deadline for FERC to promulgate: (1) model standards for the physical connection between local distribution systems and qualified generation units and other specified electric generation units; and (2) regulations ensuring simplified contracts will be used for the interconnection of electric energy by electric energy transmission or distribution systems and generating facilities with a power production capacity of 250 kilowatts or less.

To amend the Federal Power Act to authorize a State to regulate the sale at wholesale of electric energy generated, transmitted, and distributed solely within that State, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 18 November 2003

Amends the Federal Power Act to authorize State regulation of intrastate sales of electric energy at wholesale prices, including fixing rates for such sales, if the electric energy is generated solely within that State for transmission and distribution solely within that State. Denies the Federal Energy Commission (FERC) jurisdiction to regulate such intrastate sales of electric energy at wholesale prices to the extent that the State regulates those sales.

Waiving points of order against the conference report to accompany the bill (H.R. 2754) making appropriations for energy and water development for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2004, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 17 November 2003

Waives points of order against the consideration of the conference report on H.R. 2754 (Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, 2004).

Waiving points of order against the conference report to accompany the bill (H.R. 6) to enhance energy conservation and research and development, to provide for security and diversity in the energy supply for the American people, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 17 November 2003

Waives points of order against the consideration of H.R. 6 (Energy Policy Act of 2003).

Security Enhancement Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 14 November 2003

Security Enhancement Act of 2003 - Defense Trade Cooperation Act of 2003 - Amends the Arms Export Control Act (AECA) , with respect to country exemptions for licensing of defense items for export to foreign countries, to declare that specified requirements for a bilateral agreement under such Act shall not apply to a bilateral agreement between the U.S. Government and: (1) the Government of Australia with respect to transfers or changes in end use within Australia of defense items that will remain subject to the licensing requirements of such Act after the agreement enters into force; or (2) the Government of the United Kingdom (UK) for an exemption from the licensing requirements of such Act. Requires the President to report annually to specified congressional committees on issues raised during the previous year in consultations pursuant to bilateral agreements with Australia and the UK. Requires the Secretary of State to notify the appropriate congressional committees of any credible information regarding the unauthorized end-use or diversion of U.S. exports made pursuant to any agreement with a country to gain exemption from AECA licensing requirements. Radiological Terrorism Threat Reduction Act of 2003 - Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) propose that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) conclude agreements with up to eight countries that would provide temporary secure storage for orphaned, unused, surplus, or other radioactive sources (other than special nuclear material, nuclear fuel, or spent nuclear fuel); and (2) make voluntary contributions to the IAEA for use by its Department of Nuclear Safety (DNS) to fund the U.S. share (which may be 100 percent) of the costs of activities associated with or under such agreements. Declares that the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 shall not apply with respect to any temporary secure storage facility constructed outside the United States under such an agreement, but any applicable environmental laws of the host country shall apply. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) provide assistance, including through voluntary contributions to the IAEA, to support a program of the DNS Division of Radiation and Waste Safety to promote the discovery, inventory, and recovery of radioactive sources in IAEA member nations; and (2) assist the Government of the Russian Federation to substitute solar (or other non-nuclear) power sources for radioisotope thermal power units operated by it and by other independent states of the former Soviet Union in applications such as lighthouses in the Arctic, remote weather stations, and for providing electricity in remote locations. Authorizes the Secretary to assist foreign countries, or to propose that the IAEA assist foreign countries, in the development of appropriate national radioactive material hazard response plans and the training of first responders. Requires the Secretary to report to the appropriate congressional committees on: (1) the preparations made at U.S. diplomatic missions abroad to detect and mitigate a radiological attack on such missions and other U.S. facilities under the Secretary's control; (2) the Secretary's priorities for improving radiological security and consequence management at U.S. missions; and (3) the missions where such improvement is most important. Global Pathogen Surveillance Act of 2003 - Declares that priority for U.S. assistance to eligible developing countries under this title shall be given to those countries that permit personnel from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP) to: (1) investigate outbreaks of infectious diseases on their territories; (2) provide early notification of such outbreaks; and (2) provide pathogen surveillance data to appropriate U.S. departments and agencies in addition to international health organizations (including WHO and the Pan American Health Organization). Prohibits to foreign nationals participating in programs authorized under this title any access to select agents that may be used as, or in, a biological weapon, except in a supervised and controlled setting. Establishes a fellowship program under which the Secretary shall award fellowships to eligible nationals (including, on a case-by-case basis, U.S. citizens) to pursue specified public health education or training. Requires foreign recipients, upon completion of such education or training, to return to their countries of nationality or last habitual residence (if it is an eligible developing country) and complete at least four years of employment in a public health position in the government or a nongovernmental, not-for-profit entity in that country or, with the Secretary's approval, through service with an international health organization without geographic restriction. Directs the Secretary to support short training courses in-country (not in the United States) for laboratory technicians and other public health personnel from eligible developing countries in laboratory techniques of: (1) identification, diagnosis, and tracking of pathogens responsible for possible infectious disease outbreaks; and (2) syndrome surveillance reporting and rapid analysis of syndrome information using Geographic Information System (GIS) and other Internet-based tools. Authorizes the President to furnish assistance to eligible developing countries to purchase and maintain specified: (1) public health laboratory equipment; and (2) communications equipment and information technology necessary to collect, analyze, and transmit public health information effectively. Authorizes a Federal agency head, upon specified request, to assign to a U.S. mission or organization any agency officer or employee occupying a public health position to enhance disease and pathogen surveillance efforts in developing countries. Requires the CDCP and the Department of Defense each to: (1) increase the number of personnel assigned to their laboratories in eligible developing countries that conduct research and other activities with respect to infectious diseases; and (2) expand the operations of those laboratories, especially with respect to implementation of on-site training of foreign nationals and regional outreach efforts involving neighboring countries. Authorizes the President to provide assistance to: (1) enhance the surveillance and reporting capabilities of WHO and existing regional health networks; and (2) develop new regional health networks. Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish new country or regional Foreign Epidemiology Training Programs in eligible developing countries. Authorizes the President to transfer: (1) certain naval vessels to specified foreign countries; and (2) certain obsolete or surplus defense articles in the war reserve stockpiles for allies to Israel.

Security Enhancement Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 14 November 2003

Security Enhancement Act of 2003 - Radiological Terrorism Threat Reduction Act of 2003 - Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) propose that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) conclude agreements with up to eight countries that would provide temporary secure storage for orphaned, unused, surplus, or other radioactive sources (other than special nuclear material, nuclear fuel, or spent nuclear fuel); and (2) make voluntary contributions to the IAEA for use by its Department of Nuclear Safety (DNS) to fund the U.S. share (which may be 100 percent) of the costs of activities associated with or under such agreements. Declares that the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 shall not apply with respect to any temporary secure storage facility constructed outside the United States under such an agreement, but any applicable environmental laws of the host country shall apply. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) provide assistance, including through voluntary contributions to the IAEA, to support a program of the DNS Division of Radiation and Waste Safety to promote the discovery, inventory, and recovery of radioactive sources in IAEA member nations; and (2) assist the Government of the Russian Federation to substitute solar (or other non-nuclear) power sources for radioisotope thermal power units operated by it and by other independent states of the former Soviet Union in applications such as lighthouses in the Arctic, remote weather stations, and for providing electricity in remote locations. Authorizes the Secretary to assist foreign countries, or to propose that the IAEA assist foreign countries, in the development of appropriate national radioactive material hazard response plans and the training of first responders. Requires the Secretary to report to the appropriate congressional committees on: (1) the preparations made at U.S. diplomatic missions abroad to detect and mitigate a radiological attack on such missions and other U.S. facilities under the Secretary's control; (2) the Secretary's priorities for improving radiological security and consequence management at U.S. missions; and (3) the missions where such improvement is most important. Global Pathogen Surveillance Act of 2003 - Declares that priority for U.S. assistance to eligible developing countries under this title shall be given to those countries that permit personnel from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP) to: (1) investigate outbreaks of infectious diseases on their territories; (2) provide early notification of such outbreaks; and (2) provide pathogen surveillance data to appropriate U.S. departments and agencies in addition to international health organizations (including WHO and the Pan American Health Organization). Prohibits to foreign nationals participating in programs authorized under this title any access to select agents that may be used as, or in, a biological weapon, except in a supervised and controlled setting. Establishes a fellowship program under which the Secretary shall award fellowships to eligible nationals (including, on a case-by-case basis, U.S. citizens) to pursue specified public health education or training. Requires foreign recipients, upon completion of such education or training, to return to their countries of nationality or last habitual residence (if it is an eligible developing country) and complete at least four years of employment in a public health position in the government or a nongovernmental, not-for-profit entity in that country or, with the Secretary's approval, through service with an international health organization without geographic restriction. Directs the Secretary to support short training courses in-country (not in the United States) for laboratory technicians and other public health personnel from eligible developing countries in laboratory techniques of: (1) identification, diagnosis, and tracking of pathogens responsible for possible infectious disease outbreaks; and (2) syndrome surveillance reporting and rapid analysis of syndrome information using Geographic Information System (GIS) and other Internet-based tools. Authorizes the President to furnish assistance to eligible developing countries to purchase and maintain specified: (1) public health laboratory equipment; and (2) communications equipment and information technology necessary to collect, analyze, and transmit public health information effectively. Authorizes a Federal agency head, upon specified request, to assign to a U.S. mission or organization any agency officer or employee occupying a public health position to enhance disease and pathogen surveillance efforts in developing countries. Requires the CDCP and the Department of Defense each to: (1) increase the number of personnel assigned to their laboratories in eligible developing countries that conduct research and other activities with respect to infectious diseases; and (2) expand the operations of those laboratories, especially with respect to implementation of on-site training of foreign nationals and regional outreach efforts involving neighboring countries. Authorizes the President to provide assistance to: (1) enhance the surveillance and reporting capabilities of WHO and existing regional health networks; and (2) develop new regional health networks. Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish new country or regional Foreign Epidemiology Training Programs in eligible developing countries. Authorizes the President to transfer certain naval vessels to specified foreign countries.

Security Enhancement Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 14 November 2003

Security Enhancement Act of 2003 - Defense Trade Cooperation Act of 2003 - Amends the Arms Export Control Act (AECA) , with respect to country exemptions for licensing of defense items for export to foreign countries, to declare that specified requirements for a bilateral agreement under such Act shall not apply to a bilateral agreement between the U.S. Government and: (1) the Government of Australia with respect to transfers or changes in end use within Australia of defense items that will remain subject to the licensing requirements of such Act after the agreement enters into force; or (2) the Government of the United Kingdom (UK) for an exemption from the licensing requirements of such Act. Requires the President to report annually to specified congressional committees on issues raised during the previous year in consultations pursuant to bilateral agreements with Australia and the UK. Requires the Secretary of State to notify the appropriate congressional committees of any credible information regarding the unauthorized end-use or diversion of U.S. exports made pursuant to any agreement with a country to gain exemption from AECA licensing requirements. Radiological Terrorism Threat Reduction Act of 2003 - Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) propose that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) conclude agreements with up to eight countries that would provide temporary secure storage for orphaned, unused, surplus, or other radioactive sources (other than special nuclear material, nuclear fuel, or spent nuclear fuel); and (2) make voluntary contributions to the IAEA for use by its Department of Nuclear Safety (DNS) to fund the U.S. share (which may be 100 percent) of the costs of activities associated with or under such agreements. Declares that the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 shall not apply with respect to any temporary secure storage facility constructed outside the United States under such an agreement, but any applicable environmental laws of the host country shall apply. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) provide assistance, including through voluntary contributions to the IAEA, to support a program of the DNS Division of Radiation and Waste Safety to promote the discovery, inventory, and recovery of radioactive sources in IAEA member nations; and (2) assist the Government of the Russian Federation to substitute solar (or other non-nuclear) power sources for radioisotope thermal power units operated by it and by other independent states of the former Soviet Union in applications such as lighthouses in the Arctic, remote weather stations, and for providing electricity in remote locations. Authorizes the Secretary to assist foreign countries, or to propose that the IAEA assist foreign countries, in the development of appropriate national radioactive material hazard response plans and the training of first responders. Requires the Secretary to report to the appropriate congressional committees on: (1) the preparations made at U.S. diplomatic missions abroad to detect and mitigate a radiological attack on such missions and other U.S. facilities under the Secretary's control; (2) the Secretary's priorities for improving radiological security and consequence management at U.S. missions; and (3) the missions where such improvement is most important. Global Pathogen Surveillance Act of 2003 - Declares that priority for U.S. assistance to eligible developing countries under this title shall be given to those countries that permit personnel from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP) to: (1) investigate outbreaks of infectious diseases on their territories; (2) provide early notification of such outbreaks; and (2) provide pathogen surveillance data to appropriate U.S. departments and agencies in addition to international health organizations (including WHO and the Pan American Health Organization). Prohibits to foreign nationals participating in programs authorized under this title any access to select agents that may be used as, or in, a biological weapon, except in a supervised and controlled setting. Establishes a fellowship program under which the Secretary shall award fellowships to eligible nationals (including, on a case-by-case basis, U.S. citizens) to pursue specified public health education or training. Requires foreign recipients, upon completion of such education or training, to return to their countries of nationality or last habitual residence (if it is an eligible developing country) and complete at least four years of employment in a public health position in the government or a nongovernmental, not-for-profit entity in that country or, with the Secretary's approval, through service with an international health organization without geographic restriction. Directs the Secretary to support short training courses in-country (not in the United States) for laboratory technicians and other public health personnel from eligible developing countries in laboratory techniques of: (1) identification, diagnosis, and tracking of pathogens responsible for possible infectious disease outbreaks; and (2) syndrome surveillance reporting and rapid analysis of syndrome information using Geographic Information System (GIS) and other Internet-based tools. Authorizes the President to furnish assistance to eligible developing countries to purchase and maintain specified: (1) public health laboratory equipment; and (2) communications equipment and information technology necessary to collect, analyze, and transmit public health information effectively. Authorizes a Federal agency head, upon specified request, to assign to a U.S. mission or organization any agency officer or employee occupying a public health position to enhance disease and pathogen surveillance efforts in developing countries. Requires the CDCP and the Department of Defense each to: (1) increase the number of personnel assigned to their laboratories in eligible developing countries that conduct research and other activities with respect to infectious diseases; and (2) expand the operations of those laboratories, especially with respect to implementation of on-site training of foreign nationals and regional outreach efforts involving neighboring countries. Authorizes the President to provide assistance to: (1) enhance the surveillance and reporting capabilities of WHO and existing regional health networks; and (2) develop new regional health networks. Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish new country or regional Foreign Epidemiology Training Programs in eligible developing countries.

Sanctions Policy Reform Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 November 2003

Sanctions Policy Reform Act - Prescribes procedural guidelines and informational requirements for legislation and executive actions that must be met before imposition of unilateral economic sanctions intended to achieve foreign policy goals. (Excludes from this Act any trade remedies or trade sanctions imposed because of market access restrictions, unfair trade practices, or violations of U.S. commercial or trade laws.) Requires both legislation and executive actions to: (1) terminate within two years; (2) provide contract sanctity; (3) target a sanction as narrowly as possible on foreign governments, entities, and officials responsible for the conduct being targeted; (4) exclude restrictions on the provision of medicine, medical equipment, or food; (5) seek to minimize any adverse impact on the humanitarian activities of U.S. and foreign nongovernmental organizations in any country against which the sanction may be imposed; and (6) direct the Secretary of Agriculture to expand agricultural export assistance under U.S. market development, food assistance, or export promotion programs to offset any potential damage to incomes of producers of any affected agricultural commodity. Requires any such legislation to provide authority for the President both to adjust the timing and scope of the sanction and to waive the sanction, if the President determines it is in the national interest to do so. Requires Congress to consider findings by executive branch officials that evaluate the impact of proposed sanctions on American agriculture, energy requirements, and capital markets. Requires the President, before imposing any new unilateral economic sanction, to report to specified congressional committees certain explanations, including an assessment of the sanction's likelihood to achieve specific foreign policy or national security objectives within a stated period of time. Establishes an executive branch Sanctions Review Committee to coordinate U.S. policy regarding unilateral economic sanctions, evaluate the effect of any proposed sanctions, and provide appropriate recommendations to the President before their imposition. Authorizes the President to waive the application of any sanction or prohibition under the Arms Export Control Act, the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, or the Export Import Bank Act of 1945 if the President determines that such a waiver would advance the purposes of such Acts or U.S. national security interests. Requires the President to consult with the appropriate congressional committees before exercising such waiver authority.

A concurrent resolution expressing the concern of Congress over Iran's development of the means to produce nuclear weapons.

United States · United States Congress · 13 November 2003

Deplores the development by Iran of a nuclear weapons program and the failure of the Government of Iran to report material, facilities, and activities to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in contravention of its obligations under Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Concurs with the conclusion of the Department of State that Iran is pursuing a program to develop nuclear weapons. Calls on the President to use all appropriate means to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, with particular attention to the needs of the IAEA for information and access, including information concerning gas centrifuges and the conduct of uranium conversion experiments. Calls on Russia to suspend all nuclear cooperation with Iran until Iran fully complies with a specified IAEA resolution, with particular attention to spent fuel. Calls on the United Nations Security Council to consider immediately the passage of a Security Council resolution or the taking of other actions that may be necessary to impose diplomatic and economic sanctions against Iran if it fails to meet its obligations to the IAEA. Calls on the Government of Iran to cease all efforts to acquire nuclear fuel cycle capabilities and to end the enrichment and processing of uranium until it is able to provide specific, verifiable assurances that it is not engaged in a clandestine nuclear weapons program.

Clear Skies Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 10 November 2003

Clear Skies Act of 2003 - Amends the acid deposition control provisions of the Clean Air Act with respect to emissions limitations and allowances programs for sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and mercury by: (1) revising the allowance system and associated transfer, tracking, permit, compliance plan, and penalty requirements, including those for auctions; and (2) establishing new emissions limitations and trading programs (including implementation of a separate sulfur dioxide scheme for States in the Western Regional Air Partnership). Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to: (1) promulgate performance standards (limiting emissions of sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, and mercury) for new boilers, integrated gasification combined cycle plants, and combustion turbines; and (2) conduct a comprehensive research and environmental assessment program to enhance understanding of health and environmental effects of particulate matter and mercury and to demonstrate the efficacy of emission reductions under this Act. Excludes the following units from consideration as major emitting facilities or major stationary sources (or parts thereof) for purposes of compliance with provisions concerning prevention of significant deterioration of air quality and plan requirements for nonattainment areas: those that achieve a specified limit on particulate matter emissions or certain national emissions standards for hazardous pollutants or those with properly operated and maintained equipment to limit particulate matter emissions and that use good combustion practices to minimize carbon monoxide emissions. Establishes procedures by which owners or operators may petition the Secretary of Energy for a determination that electricity reliability will likely be threatened by the need to install pollution control technology. Allows a compliance delay in the case of a successful petition. Requires States to ensure in implementation plans that: (1) in an attainment or unclassifiable area, any emissions increase from the construction or modification of an affected unit will not result in exceeding a national ambient air quality standard; and (2) in a nonattainment area, the emissions increase will not interfere with a program to assure the achievement of such a standard. Provides for designation of transitional areas under implementation plans and states requirements for emissions inventories, the attainment of standards by the end of 2015, and penalties for not meeting the eight-hour ozone or fine particles standard.

Waiving points of order against the conference report to accompany the bill (H.R. 1588) to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2004 for military activities of the Department of Defense, for military construction, and for defense activities of the Department of Energy, to prescribe personnel strengths for such fiscal year for the Armed Forces, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 6 November 2003

Waives points of order against the consideration of the conference report on H.R. 1588 (FY 2004 Department of Defense authorization).

Nuclear Waste Financing Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 4 November 2003

Nuclear Waste Financing Act of 2003 - Requires that, beginning in FY 2005, and through the end of FY 2010, the receipts, proceeds, and recoveries realized by the Secretary of Energy relating to contracts for transportation and disposal of high-level radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel shall be credited to the Nuclear Waste Fund as offsetting collections. Prescribes implementation procedures, including adjustments to the levels of budgetary resources from offsetting collections and preservation of the corpus of the Fund.

Rural Renaissance Act

United States · United States Congress · 29 October 2003

Rural Renaissance Act - Amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to establish the Rural Renaissance Corporation to issue rural renaissance bonds for the financing of qualified projects. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a limited credit to the holder of a rural renaissance bond. Sets an annual rural renaissance bond limit and provides for allocation among the States. Describes qualified projects as: (1) a water or waste treatment project; (2) a conservation project, including any project to protect water quality or air quality (including odor abatement), any project to prevent soil erosion, and any project to protect wildlife habitat, including any project to assist agricultural producers in complying with Federal, State, or local regulations; (3) an affordable housing project; (4) a community facility project, including hospitals, fire and police stations, and nursing and assisted-living facilities; (5) a value-added agriculture or renewable energy facility project for agricultural producers or farmer-owned entities, including any project to promote the production or processing of ethanol, biodiesel, animal waste, biomass, raw commodities, or wind as a fuel; (6) a rural venture capital project for, among others, farmer-owned entities; (7) a distance learning or telemedicine project; (8) a project to expand broadband technology; and (9) a rural teleworks project.

Poverty Reduction and Prevention Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 October 2003

Poverty Reduction and Prevention Act - Amends the Community Services Block Grant Act to: (1) extend the community services block grant (CSBG) program; (2) stipulate that 125 percent of the official poverty line is the minimum level a State can set as its maximum eligibility requirement and 60 percent of State median income is the maximum level a State can set as its maximum eligibility requirement; (3) revise fund use, application and plan, and corrective action provisions; (4) require States to implement a financial and organizational assessment protocol; (5) require States to submit a separate CSBG audit; (6) include "religion" among the prohibited categories of exclusion; (7) revise the Secretary of Health and Human Services' discretionary authority; (8) extend community food and nutrition programs; and (9) extend national or regional programs to provide instructional activities to low-income youth. Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Amendments of 2003 - Amends the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Act of 1981 to: (1) extend the low-income home energy assistance program; and (2) establish extreme weather- and energy cost-based triggers for the release of emergency funds. Assets for Independence Reauthorization Act - Amends the Assets for Independence Act extend the programs under such Act. Revises provisions respecting: (1) qualified expenses; (2) the reserve fund; (3) eligibility for participation; and (4) deposits by qualified entities.

LIHEAP Emergency Reform Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 October 2003

LIHEAP Emergency Reform Act - Amends the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Act of 1981 to authorize the Governor of a State to apply to the Secretary of Health and Human Services for certification of an emergency in that State and for an allotment of certain appropriated amounts. Directs the Secretary to adopt prescribed procedures for equitable consideration of such applications.

Expressing the deep concern of Congress regarding the failure of the Islamic Republic of Iran to adhere to its obligations under a safeguards agreement with the International Atomic Energy Agency and the engagement by Iran in activities that appear to be designed to develop nuclear weapons.

United States · United States Congress · 20 October 2003

Deplores the development by Iran of a nuclear weapons program and its failure to report material, facilities, and activities to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in contravention of its obligations under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Calls on the President to use all appropriate means to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, including specified measures. Calls on Russia to suspend all nuclear cooperation with Iran until Iran fully and completely complies with the IAEA resolution. Calls on the IAEA to find Iran in violation of its commitments as a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and refer the matter to the United Nations Security Council if Iran fails to meet its obligations to the IAEA. Calls on the United Nations Security Council to consider the passage of a Security Council resolution or other actions that may be necessary to impose diplomatic and economic sanctions against Iran if it fails to meet its obligations. Calls on Iran to cease all efforts to acquire nuclear fuel cycle capabilities.

Electric Reliability Security Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 17 October 2003

Electric Reliability Security Act of 2003 - Amends the Federal Power Act (FPA) to grant the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) jurisdiction over a domestic electric reliability organization, any regional entities, and all users, owners and operators of the bulk power system for purposes of approving reliability standards. Directs FERC, upon petition of certain States, to establish a regional advisory body to provide advice regarding: (1) an existing or proposed regional reliability entity; and (2) proposed standards and fees. Excludes Alaska and Hawaii from the provisions of this Act. Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (PURPA) to direct the Secretary of Energy to develop a model code to ensure electric facility safety and reliability. Amends the FPA to grant the consent of Congress to an agreement to establish a regional transmission planning agency subject to specified FERC determinations. Establishes an Electricity Outage Investigation Board to investigate the causes of a major domestic bulk-power system failure. Requires the Secretary to contract with the National Academy of Sciences to study and report to the President and Congress on the reliability of the U.S. electricity grid. Directs the Secretary of Energy to establish a System Benefits Trust Fund Board which shall create the System Benefits Trust Fund to provide matching funds to States and Indian tribes for public benefits programs. Requires electric retail suppliers to: (1) implement energy efficiency and peak load reduction programs in retail customer facilities and the distribution systems that serve them ; and (2) produce savings by specified percentages in total peak power demand and electricity use by retail customers. Directs the Secretary to publish a final rule by a certain date to determine whether the standards in effect for central air conditioners and heat pumps should be amended. Grants the Secretary loan guarantee authority for activities that enhance the reliability, security, efficiency and cost-effectiveness of electricity generation, transmission, or distribution. Amends PURPA to require electric utilities to make net metering service available upon request of any electric consumer. Amends the FPA to prescribe interconnection guidelines to distribution and transmission facilities. Instructs the Secretary to establish a demonstration program for innovative technologies for renewable uninterruptible power supply systems located in eligible buildings (on-site generation for emergency facilities).

National Defense Energy Savings Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 17 October 2003

National Defense Energy Savings Act of 2003 - Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to: (1) enter into an energy savings performance contract (for a period of up to 25 years) for the sole purpose of achieving ancillary energy savings and benefits; and (2) incur obligations under the contract to finance energy conservation measures so long as guaranteed savings exceed the debt service requirements. Directs the Secretary to issue final rules establishing implementation procedures and methods that meet specified requirements. Authorizes the Secretary to implement a pilot program to enter into up to ten energy savings performance contracts in nonbuilding applications.

Arizona Voluntary Grazing Permit Buyout Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 17 October 2003

Arizona Voluntary Grazing Permit Buyout Act of 2003 - Authorizes a permittee or lessee to waive to the Secretary of Agriculture, Secretary of the Interior, Secretary of Energy, or Secretary of Defense, as appropriate, a valid existing grazing permit or lease authorizing livestock grazing on Federal land in Arizona. Directs the Secretary concerned to cancel and permanently retire from grazing such waived allotments. Sets forth compensation provisions.

To clarify congressional approval of certain State energy production tax practices.

United States · United States Congress · 17 October 2003

Permits a State to provide tax incentives for production of electricity from: (1) coal mined in the State and used in a facility, if such production meets Federal and State laws and if the facility uses clean coal technology, including scrubbers; (2) a renewable source such as wind, solar, or biomass; or (3) ethanol. Declares that any such State tax incentive shall: (1) be considered to be a reasonable regulation of commerce, and (2) not be considered to impose an undue burden on interstate commerce or to otherwise impair, restrain, or discriminate, against interstate commerce.

A concurrent resolution expressing the deep concern of Congress regarding the failure of the Islamic Republic of Iran to adhere to its obligations under a safeguards agreement with the International Atomic Energy Agency and the engagement by Iran in activities that appear to be designed to develop nuclear weapons.

United States · United States Congress · 15 October 2003

Deplores the development by Iran of a nuclear weapons program and the failure of the Government of Iran to report material, facilities, and activities to the International Atomic Energy Commission (International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)) in contravention of its obligations under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Concurs with the conclusion of the State Department that Iran is pursuing a program to develop nuclear weapons. Calls on the President to use all appropriate means to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, with particular attention to the needs of the IAEA for information and access, including information concerning gas centrifuges and the conduct of uranium conversion experiments. Calls on Russia to suspend all nuclear cooperation with Iran until Iran fully complies with a specified IAEA resolution. Calls on the United Nations Security Council to consider immediately the passage of a Security Council resolution or the taking of other actions that may be necessary to impose diplomatic and economic sanctions against Iran if it fails to meet its obligations to the IAEA. Calls on the Government of Iran to cease all efforts to acquire nuclear fuel cycle capabilities until it is able to provide specific assurances that it is not engaged in a clandestine nuclear weapons program.

Susan Johnson Grant, of Virginia, to be Chief Financial Officer, Department of Energy, vice Bruce Marshall Carness, resigned.

United States · United States Senate · 14 October 2003

A bill to amend the Mineral Leasing Act to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to issue separately, for the same area, a lease for tar sand and a lease for oil and gas, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 14 October 2003

Amends the Mineral Leasing Act to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to issue separately, for the same area, a lease for tar sand and a lease for oil and gas. Declares that such a lease shall not be further subject to the Combined Hydrocarbon Leasing Act of 1981. Requires a lease for tar sand to be issued using the same bidding process, annual rental, and posting period as a lease issued for oil and gas. Sets the minimum acceptable bid for a tar sand lease at $2 per acre. Authorizes the Secretary, in order to promote any resource covered by a combined hydrocarbon lease, to waive, suspend, or alter any requirement that a permittee under a permit authorizing prospecting for tar sand must exercise due diligence.

Faster and Smarter Funding for First Responders Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 8 October 2003

Faster and Smarter Funding for First Responders Act of 2003 - Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish a State and Regional First Responder Grant Program under which the Secretary may make grants to States and eligible regional entities on the basis of the threat to a State or region's population and critical infrastructure, as determined by the Under Secretary for Information Analysis and Infrastructure Protection. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Under Secretary, to evaluate and prioritize grant applications, considering factors such as threats to the population, specific economic sectors, major communications nodes and transportation systems, specific elements of the food supply, the water and energy supplies, civic infrastructure and emergency response capabilities, and specific structures of symbolic national importance. Bars the use of grant funds to supplant State or local funds that would otherwise be available for homeland security or first responder projects. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish the Advisory Council on First Responders, which shall report to the Secretary through the head of the Office of State and Local Government Coordination; and (2) revise the Homeland Security Advisory System to require that any designation of a threat level or other warning be accompanied by a designation of the geographic regions and economic sectors to which it applies. Directs the Under Secretary for Science and Technology to conduct a study of whether there is a need to assign additional bands of frequencies of electromagnetic spectrum to assist first responders.

To direct the Secretary of Energy to convey a parcel of land at the facility of the Southwestern Power Administration in Tupelo, Oklahoma.

United States · United States Congress · 8 October 2003

Directs the Secretary of Energy to convey, without consideration, a parcel of land consisting of approximately 6.3 acres of the facility of the Southwestern Power Administration in Tupelo, Oklahoma, to Rural Enterprises of Oklahoma, Incorporated. Directs the Secretary to require that Rural Enterprises agree to use the parcel in conjunction with Tri County Nations Enterprise Community and to honor the terms of any existing lease. Provides for the Secretary to retain an easement to the parcel for the purpose of maintaining a sewage connection to an adjacent electrical substation and lagoon facility.

National Oilheat Research Alliance Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2003

National Oilheat Research Alliance Act of 2003 - Amends the National Oilheat Research Alliance Act of 2000 to repeal its sunset provisions (thus making the Act permanent).

To require a temporary moratorium on leasing, exploration, and development on lands of the Outer Continental Shelf off the State of California, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2003

Prohibits the Secretary of the Interior from conducting a lease sale or issuing a lease for oil or gas in the Southern, Central, and Northern California Panning Areas until the later of January 1, 2011, or 45 days of continuous session of Congress after issuance of the final environmental impact statement relating to the second five-year oil and gas leasing program prepared under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act after enactment of this Act. Prohibits the Secretary from approving any exploration plan, development and production plan, or application for permit to drill, or from permitting any drilling, for oil and gas in such Planning Areas until 45 days of continuous session of Congress after submission to Congress of certain completed and peer-reviewed environmental studies.

FHA Energy Efficiency Act

United States · United States Congress · 24 September 2003

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.

Nuclear Terrorist Threat Reduction Act

United States · United States Congress · 24 September 2003

Nuclear Terrorist Threat Reduction Act - Instructs the Secretary of Energy to purchase or otherwise secure excess Russian plutonium and highly enriched uranium. Authorizes appropriations to implement such mandate, including funds for: (1) improving security and accounting for nuclear material in Russia; (2) downsizing and restructuring of Russia's excess nuclear complex; and (3) ensuring transparency in Russia and verifying progress.

Making continuing appropriations for the fiscal year 2004, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 24 September 2003

Makes continuing appropriations for FY 2004. Appropriates amounts for continuing, at the current rate of operations, projects or activities which were conducted in FY 2003 and for which appropriations, funds, or other authority were made available in the: (1) Agricultural, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2003; (2) Departments of Commerce, Justice, and State, the Judiciary, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2003; (3) District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 2003; (4) Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, 2003; (5) Foreign Operations, Export Financing, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2003; (6) Department of the Interior and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2003; (7) Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2003; (8) Military Construction Appropriations Act, 2003; (9) Department of Transportation and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2003; (10) Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act, 2003; and (11) Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2003. Provides funding under this resolution until the earliest of: (1) enactment of an appropriation for any project or activity provided for in this joint resolution; (2) enactment of the applicable appropriations Act without any provision for such project or activity; or (3) October 31, 2003. Authorizes continuation of other specified activities (including activities for entitlements and other mandatory payments) through such date.

A bill to amend the Petroleum Marketing Practices Act to extend certain protections to franchised refiners or distributors of lubricating oil.

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2003

Amends the Petroleum Marketing Practices Act to extend to contracts between refiners (franchisors) and franchised distributors of trademarked lubricating oil the protections of the Act. Permits termination or non-renewal of such franchise relationships by the franchisor in good faith and in the normal course of business if the franchisor decides to withdraw from the marketing of the lubricating oil in the relevant geographic market in which the oil is distributed, and: (1) the decision is made after the date on which the franchise is entered into or renewed, and on the basis of a change in relevant facts or circumstances relating to the franchise that occurs after such date; and (2) the termination or nonrenewal is not for the purpose of converting any accounts subject to the franchise to the franchisor's account.

Renewable Energy Act for Credit on Taxes

United States · United States Congress · 18 September 2003

Renewable Energy Act for Credit on Taxes - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a refundable limited credit through 2007 for expenditures for qualifying renewable energy property (solar water heating, photovoltaic, wind energy, or fuel cell properties) installed on or in connection with a U.S.-sited residential or nonresidential structure.

To amend the Mineral Leasing Act to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to issue separately, for the same area, a lease for tar sand and a lease for oil and gas, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 10 September 2003

Amends the Mineral Leasing Act to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to issue separately, for the same area, a lease for tar sand and a lease for oil and gas. Declares that such a lease shall not be further subject to the Combined Hydrocarbon Leasing Act of 1981. Requires a lease for tar sand to be issued using the same bidding process, annual rental, and posting period as a lease issued for oil and gas. Sets the minimum acceptable bid for a tar sand lease at $2 per acre. Authorizes the Secretary, in order to promote any resource covered by a combined hydrocarbon lease, to waive, suspend, or alter any requirement that a permittee under a permit authorizing prospecting for tar sand must exercise due diligence.

Gasoline Availability Stabilization (GAS) Reserves Act

United States · United States Congress · 5 September 2003

Gasoline Availablity Stabilization (GAS) Reserves Act - Directs the Secretary [of Energy] to: (1) establish a Gasoline Availability Stabilization Reserve (GAS Reserve) system with a total capacity of 20 million barrels of regular unleaded gasoline; and (2) determine a site for one GAS Reserve each in the Northeast and Midwest regions and one in California, to be operational within two years after the date of enactment of this Act. Instructs the Secretary to: (1) transmit to Congress, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the Governor of each State in which a reserve will be sited a plan for the transportation of the contents of the GAS Reserve to consumers in the event of an emergency sale; and (2) complete the process of filling the GAS Reserve by March 1, 2006. Prescribes procedural guidelines for emergency sales by the Secretary from the GAS Reserve upon written request from the Governor of a State for GAS Reserve emergency sales assistance owing to a physical disruption in the gasoline supplies that is likely to result in price volatility for retail gasoline in the Governor's State. Authorizes the Secretary to conduct purchases and sales of gasoline at wholesale for maintenance of the GAS Reserve system.

Electric Reliability Improvement Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 4 September 2003

Electric Reliability Improvement Act of 2003 - Amends the Federal Power Act to grant the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) jurisdiction over a FERC-certified Electric Reliability Organization (ERO), established under this Act to enforce, subject to FERC review, reliability standards for the bulk-power system. Includes within such jurisdiction regional entities and all users, owners, and operators of the bulk-power system for purposes of approving reliability standards and enforcing compliance with this Act. Urges the President to negotiate international agreements with the governments of Canada and Mexico to provide effective compliance with reliability standards and the effectiveness of the ERO in the United States, Canada, or Mexico. Restricts to the bulk-power system only the ERO authority to develop and enforce compliance with reliability standards. Declares that this Act does not authorize the ERO or FERC to order construction of additional generation or transmission capacity, or to set and enforce compliance with standards for adequacy or safety of electric facilities or services. Directs FERC to establish a regional advisory body on the petition of at least two-thirds of the States within a region that have more than one-half of their electric load served within the region. Authorizes such body to advise the ERO, a regional entity, or FERC. Declares this Act inapplicable to Alaska or Hawaii.

A bill to extend the deadline for commencement of construction of a hydroelectric project in the State of Wyoming.

United States · United States Congress · 3 September 2003

Authorizes the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to extend, at the request of the project licensee, the deadline for commencement of construction of hydroelectric project number 1651 in the State of Wyoming for three consecutive two-year periods from the expiration of the extension originally issued by the Commission.

A bill to amend the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to require electric utilities to provide net metering service.

United States · United States Congress · 28 July 2003

Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to require each electric utility to make net metering service available upon consumer request. Permits a State regulatory authority, one year after enactment of this Act, to determine whether it is in the public interest to decline to implement such requirement. Permits a State to establish incentives to encourage on-site generating facilities and net metering in addition to the requirements of this Act. Requires an electric utility to charge the owner or operator of an on-site generating facility rates that are identical to those charged to its other electric consumers in the same rate class. Bars such utility from charging the owner or operator of an on-site generating facility any additional standby, capacity, interconnection, or other charges. Prescribes guidelines for: (1) electric energy sales to the owner or operator of an on-site generating facility; and (2) measurements of electric energy consumed. Directs the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to promulgate additional control, testing, and interconnection requirements for on-site generating facilities and net metering systems deemed necessary to protect public safety and system reliability.

Wind Power Tax Incentives Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 28 July 2003

Wind Power Tax Incentives Act of 2003 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow: (1) passive activity losses and credits attributable to qualified wind energy facilities; (2) the wind energy credit to be used against the alternative minimum tax; and (3) the pass-through of a cooperative's wind energy credit to the cooperative's members.

Weapons of Mass Destruction Prohibition Improvement Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003

Weapons of Mass Destruction Prohibition Improvement Act of 2003 - Amends the Federal criminal code to expand the jurisdictional bases and scope of the prohibition against the use of, and threat, attempt, or conspiracy to use, weapons of mass destruction (WMD) to cover such actions against property within the United States under specified circumstances, including property owned, leased, or used by a foreign government. Restores the coverage of chemical weapons under the prohibition. Expands the categories of restricted persons subject to prohibitions relating to select agents to cover persons acting for or on behalf of, or operating subject to the direction or control of: (1) a government or official of a country that Secretary of State has determined has repeatedly provided support for acts of international terrorism; or (2) a terrorist organization. Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to prohibit participation in the development or production of any special nuclear material or atomic weapon except as authorized by that Act. Prohibits anyone within the United States or subject to U.S. jurisdiction from willfully participating in or providing material support or resources to a nuclear weapons program or other WMD program of a foreign terrorist power (or attempting or conspiring to do so). Establishes extraterritorial Federal jurisdiction over such offense.

Nuclear Waste Terrorist Threat Assessment and Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003

Nuclear Waste Terrorist Threat Assessment and Protection Act - Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to coordinate the development and implementation of an interagency plan to prepare for and defend against terrorist crimes targeting the Yucca Mountain Project (high-level nuclear waste repository being studied at Yucca Mountain, Nevada). Requires that the plan: (1) include a comprehensive analysis of the safety and vulnerability of the Project to terrorism; (2) address specified types of attacks; (3) give special emphasis to addressing the use of nuclear waste as a radiological weapon, the use of specified technologies, and sabotage or theft of high-level nuclear waste; and (4) include a comprehensive strategy for defending against terrorism and an analysis of the economic, public health, and environmental costs and impacts of implementing the interagency plan. Directs the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to coordinate the development and implementation of a comprehensive interagency plan to ensure that Federal, State, and local government response plans and programs can respond adequately to the consequences of terrorism against the Project. Requires the Secretary and FEMA to enter into appropriate arrangements with the National Research Council for technical review of the plans. Prohibits the Secretary of Energy from submitting a license application regarding, and prohibits the Nuclear Regulatory Commission from issuing a license for, a Yucca Mountain repository unless: (1) such plans are completed and included in the final environmental impact statement for Yucca Mountain; (2) public hearings have been held for affected populations; (3) the Secretary has certified that the Project is not vulnerable to terrorism; and (4) the Secretary has prepared and transmitted to Congress a report on the potential liability costs and damages resulting from a wide range of Federal terrorism crimes against the Project.