Environment

Oil Spill Prevention and Liability Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 8 December 2004

Oil Spill Prevention and Liability Act of 2004 - Amends the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 to double liability limits associated with oil spills for double-hull tank vessels, other vessels, offshore facilities (except deepwater ports), and onshore facilities and deepwater ports. Gradually phases out (over six years) liability limits for single-hull vessels. Authorizes the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to establish separate liability limits for the transportation of oil by vessel to deepwater ports. Amends the Ports and Waterways Safety Act to require the Secretary to promulgate regulations under which port owners or operators may request that the Secretary place restrictions on the entry of tank vessel shipments presenting a risk of severe harm to the environment, economy, or public safety of the port or port region. Requires single-hull tank vessels that are more than 15 years old to undergo annual inspections. Directs the Commandant of the Coast Guard to contract with the National Academy of Sciences for a study assessing the total economic cost of oil spills, and the types of costs resulting from such spills, and to report the findings to Congress.

Oil Spill Prevention and Liability Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 7 December 2004

Oil Spill Prevention and Liability Act of 2004 - Amends the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 to double liability limits associated with oil spills for double-hull tank vessels, other vessels, offshore facilities (except deepwater ports), and onshore facilities and deepwater ports. Gradually phases out (over six years) liability limits for single-hull vessels. Authorizes the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to establish separate liability limits for the transportation of oil by vessel to deepwater ports. Amends the Ports and Waterways Safety Act to require the Secretary to promulgate regulations under which port owners or operators may place restrictions on the entry of tank vessel shipments presenting a risk of severe harm to the port or port region. Requires single-hull tank vessels that are more than 15 years old to undergo annual inspections. Directs the Commandant of the Coast Guard to contract with the National Academy of Sciences for a study assessing the total economic cost of oil spills, and the types of costs resulting from such spills, and to report the findings to Congress.

Innovation Competitiveness Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 20 November 2004

Innovation Competitiveness Act of 2004 - Directs the Secretary of Commerce to designate a Technology Transfer Director within the Technology Administration to perform oversight and policy and development for technology transfer activities at the Department of Commerce. Requires the Director to: (1) coordinate activities of the Interagency Working Group on Technolgy Transfer; (2) coordinate with certain technology partnership ombudsmans; and (3) establish procedures for coordinating the Commerce Department's technology transfer outreach activities between appropriate Federal agencies, including the National Technical Information Service and the Federal Laboratory Consortium for Technology Transfer. Directs the Secretary to establish a research program within the Technology Administration that: (1) involves consultation with the various units of the Commerce Department; (2) builds upon ongoing private sector efforts; and (3) involves consortia. Instructs the Director to work with industry, trade associations, professional societies, and others to: (1) develop improved technology transfer research tools and practices; and (2) conduct a specified study. Requires the Director to oversee a dissemination and technical assistance program for the immediate dissemination and implementation of the practices, standards, and codes developed by the Technology Administration. Directs the Secretary to designate a small business advocate within the Commerce Department to: (1) increase the participation of small business concerns; and (2) establish guidelines for a small business program under this Act. Directs the Secretary to establish a State and Industry Task Force to highlight areas where the Federal Government can help States to provide a complementary research and development environment.

Save Our Waters From Sewage Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 20 November 2004

Save Our Waters From Sewage Act of 2004 - Prohibits the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, in administering the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit program, from promulgating regulations or issuing guidance authorizing a publicly-owned treatment works to divert flows to bypass a portion of its treatment facility. Creates an exception for situations where the bypass is unavoidable to prevent loss of life, personal injury, or severe property damage.

Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Amendments Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 19 November 2004

Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Amendments Act of 2004 - Amends the Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control Act of 1998 to remove the President's authority to disestablish the Interagency Task Force on Harmful Algal Blooms and Hypoxia. Requires the Task Force to consult with specified entities with expertise in coastal zone science and management. Directs the President to submit to Congress a report describing and evaluating the effectiveness of measures to protect the environment and public health from the impacts of harmful algal blooms. Requires the Secretary of Commerce to provide for local and regional scientific assessments of hypoxia and harmful algal blooms, as requested by States, Indian tribes, and local governments, or for affected areas as identified by the Secretary. Directs the Task Force to submit to Congress: (1) various scientific assessments; and (2) a plan for a national research program to develop and demonstrate prevention, control, and mitigation methods to reduce the impacts of harmful algal blooms on coastal ecosystems (including the Great Lakes), public health, and the economy. Authorizes the Secretary to make available to the University of Miami real property under the administrative jurisdiction of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) on Virginia Key, Florida, for development by the University of a Marine Life Science Center. Authorizes the Secretary to convey to the Government of Mexico the NOAA vessel WHITING.

Asia Freedom Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 19 November 2004

Asia Freedom Act of 2004 - Authorizes the President to provide assistance to North and South East Asia (as defined by this Act) for: (1) humanitarian needs; (2) democracy, human rights, and the rule of law; (3) independent media; (4) free market systems; (5) security; (6) social programs; (7) environment; (8) political opposition; (9) parliamentary exchanges; and (10) migration. Sets forth specified funding authorities, including funding for: (1) security assistance; (2) an institute for reform in Asia; (3) law enforcement; (4) promotion of competitive elections; (5) political transitions; and (6) Taiwan and the Republic of Korea. Authorizes the Secretary of Homeland Security to deny entry visas to public or private individuals who have impeded human rights, the rule of law, and economic freedom in North and South East Asia. Directs the Secretary of State to maintain a database of individuals who may be denied entry. Expresses the sense of Congress that any democracy fund established by the United Nations (UN) in response to the September 21, 2004, speech by President George W. Bush to the UN General Assembly should be known as the ``Daw Aung San Suu Kyi Democracy Fund."

To amend title 23, United States Code, relating to high occupancy vehicle lanes.

United States · United States Congress · 19 November 2004

Amends the Federal Aid Highways program to require a State agency that has jurisdiction over the operation of a HOV facility to establish the occupancy requirements of vehicles operating on the facility. Requires such agency to permit motorcycles and bicycles to use the HOV facility. Permits a State agency to restrict use of the HOV facility by motorcycles or bicycles (or both) if it certifies to the Secretary of Transportation that such use would create a safety hazard. Prescribes guidelines under which a State agency may permit use of an HOV facility by: (1) public transportation vehicles and high occupancy toll vehicles; and (2) inherently low-emission vehicles and other low emission and energy-efficient vehicles. Permits tolls to be charged on a HOV facility on the Interstate System. Requires a State agency that allows low-emission and energy-efficient vehicles to use a HOV facility to certify to the Secretary that it will establish: (1) a continuous monitoring, assessment, and reporting program regarding the impacts such vehicles may have on the operation of the facility and adjacent highways; and (2) an enforcement program that ensures the facility is operated in accordance with this Act. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection to issue a final rule establishing certification requirements for low emission and energy-efficient vehicles.

A bill entitled the "Hybrid HOV Access Act".

United States · United States Congress · 18 November 2004

Amends the Federal Aid Highways program to require a State agency with jurisdiction over the operation of a HOV facility to establish the occupancy requirements of vehicles operating on the facility. Requires such agency to permit motorcycles and bicycles to use the HOV facility. Permits a State agency to restrict use of the HOV facility by motorcycles or bicycles (or both) if it certifies to the Secretary of Transportation that such use would create a safety hazard. Prescribes guidelines under which a State agency may permit use of an HOV facility by: (1) public transportation vehicles and high occupancy toll vehicles; (2) inherently low-emission vehicles and low emission and energy-efficient vehicles; and (3) advanced lean burn technology vehicles. Permits tolls to be charged on a HOV facility on the Interstate System. Requires a State agency that allows low-emission and energy-efficient vehicles to use a HOV facility to certify to the Secretary that it will establish: (1) a continuous monitoring, assessment, and reporting program regarding the impacts such vehicles may have on the operation of the facility and adjacent highways; and (2) an enforcement program that ensures the facility is operated in accordance with this Act. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection to issue a final rule establishing certification requirements for low emission and energy-efficient vehicles and for advanced lean burn technology vehicles.

A concurrent resolution commending the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and its employees for its dedication and hard work during Hurricanes Charley, Frances, Ivan, and Jeanne.

United States · United States Congress · 18 November 2004

Declares that Congress commends the employees of the National Weather Service for their extraordinary dedication and hard work during Hurricanes Charley, Frances, Ivan, and Jeanne, especially: (1) the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Tropical Prediction Center/National Hurricane Center, Hydrometeorological Prediction Center, and National Data Buoy Center; (2) the NOAA Aircraft Operations Center at MacDill Air Force Base, Tampa, Florida; (3) the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron of the 403rd Wing of the Air Force Reserve Command at Keesler Air Force Base, Biloxi, Mississippi; (4) the Hurricane Liaison Team; (5) the National Ocean Service; and (6) the National Environmental Satellite Data and Information Service. Declares that Congress commends the Southern, Eastern, and Central Region Weather Forecast Offices of San Juan, Miami, Tampa Bay, Key West, Melbourne, Jacksonville, Tallahassee, Atlanta, Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile, Morristown, Charleston, Morehead City, Wilmington, Wakefield, Taunton, Lake Charles, New Orleans, Jackson, Nashville, and Houston for their extraordinary dedication and hard work during such Hurricanes. Declares that Congress: (1) commends the employees of the Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research, especially the Hurricane Research Division; (2) thanks the commercial and media meteorologists for their contributions in disseminating the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecasts and warnings to the public; and (3) expresses its support for the ongoing hard work and dedication of all who provide accurate and timely hurricane forecasts.

Wauconda Technical and Environmental Remediation Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 18 November 2004

Wauconda Technical and Environmental Remediation Act of 2004 - Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to: (1) provide bottled water to individuals living within a 1.5-mile radius of the Wauconda Sand and Gravel Superfund site in Lake County, Illinois (Wauconda residents) who are served by residential wells with any contamination of vinyl chloride; and (2) increase testing and monitoring of such wells. States that nothing in this Act may be construed to relieve the Administrator, other Federal agency heads, or potentially liable parties of legal liability with respect to site cleanup. Directs the Administrator to: (1) study possible long-term solutions to remediate the site and provide a clean drinking water source for Wauconda residents; and (2) recommend and implement a long-term solution to provide a clean drinking water source for such residents. Requires the Administrator to work with the heads of other appropriate Federal and State agencies to seek a comprehensive resolution to the short- and long-term environmental and health problems related to the site.

Hybrid HOV Access Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 18 November 2004

Hybrid HOV Access Act of 2004 - Amends the Federal Aid Highways program to require a State agency that has jurisdiction over the operation of a HOV facility to establish the occupancy requirements of vehicles operating on the facility. Requires such agency to permit motorcycles and bicycles to use the HOV facility. Permits a State agency to restrict use of the HOV facility by motorcycles or bicycles (or both) if it certifies to the Secretary of Transportation that such use would create a safety hazard. Prescribes guidelines under which a State agency may permit use of an HOV facility by: (1) public transportation vehicles and high occupancy toll vehicles; (2) inherently low-emission vehicles and low emission and energy-efficient vehicles; and (3) advanced lean burn technology vehicles. Permits tolls to be charged on a HOV facility on the Interstate System. Requires a State agency that allows low-emission and energy-efficient vehicles to use a HOV facility to certify to the Secretary that it will establish: (1) a continuous monitoring, assessment, and reporting program regarding the impacts such vehicles may have on the operation of the facility and adjacent highways; and (2) an enforcement program that ensures the facility is operated in accordance with this Act. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection to issue: (1) a final rule establishing certification requirements for low emission and energy-efficient vehicles and advanced lean burn technology vehicles; and (2) guidance on methods for determining whether a vehicle meets the fuel efficiency standards required to qualify as a hybrid vehicle.

A resolution celebrating the anniversaries of the International Polar Years (1882-1883 and 1932-1933) and International Geophysical Year (1957-1958) and supporting a continuation of this international science year tradition in 2007-2008.

United States · United States Congress · 11 October 2004

Expresses the sense of the Senate that the President should: (1) endorse the concept of a worldwide campaign of scientific activity for the 2007-2008 time frame; (2) require the Director of the National Science Foundation and the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to continue interagency and international inquiries and discussions that ensure a successful worldwide international science year in such time frame, emphasizing activities dedicated to global environmental research, education, and protection; and (3) report to Congress on the steps taken to carry out this resolution, including possible activities and organizational structures for an international science year in 2007-2008.

Local Control of Broadcast Towers Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 October 2004

Local Control of Broadcast Towers Act - Prohibits the Federal Communications Commission from adopting a final rule or otherwise implementing any portion of a proposed rule regarding the preemption of State and local zoning and land use restrictions on the siting, placement, and construction of broadcast station transmission facilities. Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to allow a State or local government to deny an application to place, construct, or modify such facilities on the basis that alternative technologies, systems, or structures are capable of delivering such services in a manner less intrusive to the local community. Places the burden of proving the appropriateness of proposed facilities on applicants. Allows a State or local government to regulate the location, height, or modification of such facilities in order to address the effects of radio frequency interference on local communities and the public. Prohibits the Act from being interpreted to prohibit a State or local government from requiring environmental or other studies, reports, or documentation concerning the placement, construction, or modification of such facilities.

Coordinated Environmental Health Network Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 8 October 2004

Coordinated Environmental Health Network Act of 2004 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to establish and operate the Coordinated Environmental Health Network (the Network), including by: (1) identifying, expanding, and coordinating among existing Federal public health and environmental infrastructure; (2) providing for public access to an electronic national database on the incidence and prevalence of specified priority chronic conditions and relevant environmental and other factors; (3) operating a National Environmental Health Rapid Response Service to develop strategies to rapidly respond to, and conduct investigations of, higher than expected incidence and prevalence rates of priority chronic conditions and environmental exposures; (4) awarding grants to States, local governments, territories, and Indian tribes to establish, maintain, and operate State Environmental Health Networks; (5) developing minimum standards and procedures for data collection and reporting for State Networks, including mechanisms for allowing States to set priorities and allocate resources accordingly; (6) establishing an Advisory Committee for the Network; (7) awarding John H. Chafee Public Health Scholarships to eligible students who are enrolled in an accredited school of public health or medicine; and (8) entering into a cooperative agreement with the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists to train and place applied epidemiology fellows in State and local health departments. Allows the Secretary to award grants to accredited schools or programs of public health to establish, maintain, and operate Centers of Excellence for research and demonstration with respect to chronic conditions and relevant environmental factors, which may include investigating causal connections between chronic conditions and environmental factors.

Little Butte/Bear Creek Subbasins Water Feasibility Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 October 2004

Little Butte/Bear Creek Subbasins Water Feasibility Act - Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Bureau of Reclamation, to conduct the Water for Irrigation, Streams and the Economy Project water management feasibility study and environmental impact statement in accordance with the Memorandum of Agreement Between City of Medford and Bureau of Reclamation for the Water for Irrigation, Streams and the Economy Project, dated July 2, 2004.

Local Control of Cellular Towers Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 October 2004

Local Control of Cellular Towers Act - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to repeal the prohibition against a State or local government regulating the placement, construction, and modification of personal wireless service facilities on the basis of the environmental effects of radio frequency emissions to the extent that such facilities comply with emission regulations of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Requires, in any action in which a person is seeking to place, construct, or modify such a facility, that person to bear the burden of proof, regardless of who commences the action. Prohibits the FCC from adopting a final rule or otherwise implementing any portion of a proposed FCC rule regarding relief from State and local regulation of such facilities. Allows a State or local government to deny an application to place, construct, or modify such facilities on the basis that alternative technologies, systems, or structures are capable of delivering such services in a manner less intrusive to the local community. Requires the burden of proving the appropriateness of proposed facilities to be the applicant's. Allows a State or local government to regulate the location, height, or modification of such facilities in order to address the effects of radio frequency interference on local communities and the public. Prohibits the Act from being interpreted to prohibit a State or local government from requiring environmental or other studies, reports, or documentation concerning the placement, construction, or modification of such facilities.

Safe Drinking Water for Healthy Communities Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 8 October 2004

Safe Drinking Water for Healthy Communities Act of 2004 - Amends the Safe Drinking Water Act to require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to promulgate a national primary drinking water regulation for perchlorate.

Disaster Area Health and Environmental Monitoring Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 8 October 2004

Disaster Area Health and Environmental Monitoring Act of 2004 - Amends the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to authorize the President to carry out a program for the protection, assessment, monitoring, and study of the health and safety of individuals if chemicals or substances associated with potential acute or chronic human health effects (substances of concern) are being or have been released in a disaster area. Makes participation in any registry or study that is part of the program voluntary. Requires the President to take appropriate measures to protect the privacy of registry or study participants. Authorizes the President to carry out such a program through a cooperative agreement with a medical institution (including a local health department) or a consortium of medical institutions. Requires the President to carry out such a program in accordance with certain privacy regulations promulgated under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to enter jointly into a contract with the National Academy of Sciences to study and report on disaster area health and environmental protection and monitoring. Amends the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to extend through September 30, 2006, the President's authority to establish a program to provide technical and financial assistance to State and local governments for the implementation of cost-effective predisaster hazard mitigation measures.

Clean Trucks Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 8 October 2004

Clean Trucks Act of 2004 - Amends Federal transportation law to require motor carriers, as part of registering with the Secretary of Transportation to provide transportation, to comply with the heavy duty vehicle and engine emission performance standards and related regulations established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Directs the Administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to: (1) collect annually information on the year, make, model, certification level, travel routes, trip duration, fuel quality and consumption, and related activities of long-haul heavy duty trucks operating in the United States; and (2) submit such information to the Adminstrator of the EPA for use in developing and publishing estimates of the total national emissions of all criteria pollutants and hazardous air pollutants associated with long-haul heavy duty trucks.

Coordinated Environmental Health Network Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 8 October 2004

Coordinated Environmental Health Network Act of 2004 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to establish and operate the Coordinated Environmental Health Network (the Network), including by: (1) identifying, expanding, and coordinating among existing Federal public health and environmental infrastructure; (2) providing for public access to an electronic national database on the incidence and prevalence of specified priority chronic conditions and relevant environmental and other factors; (3) operating a National Environmental Health Rapid Response Service to develop strategies to rapidly respond to, and conduct investigations of, higher than expected incidence and prevalence rates of priority chronic conditions and environmental exposures; (4) awarding grants to States, local governments, territories, and Indian tribes to establish, maintain, and operate State Environmental Health Networks; (5) developing minimum standards and procedures for data collection and reporting for State Networks, including mechanisms for allowing States to set priorities and allocate resources accordingly; (6) establishing an Advisory Committee for the Network; (7) awarding John H. Chafee Public Health Scholarships to eligible students who are enrolled in an accredited school of public health or medicine; and (8) entering into a cooperative agreement with the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists to train and place applied epidemiology fellows in State and local health departments. Allows the Secretary to award grants to accredited schools or programs of public health to establish, maintain, and operate Centers of Excellence for research and demonstration with respect to chronic conditions and relevant environmental factors, which may include investigating causal connections between chronic conditions and environmental factors.

Combating Methamphetamine Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 7 October 2004

Combating Methamphetamine Act of 2004 - Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to authorize the Attorney General, through the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), to make grants to States to address the manufacture, sale, and use of methamphetamine (methamphetamine use) to enhance public safety. Lists eligible programs, projects, and activities, including: (1) arresting individuals violating methamphetamine laws; (2) undertaking clandestine methamphetamine lab seizures and environmental cleanup; (3) providing community-based education, awareness, and prevention; and (4) providing Drug Court and Family Drug Court services to address methamphetamine use. Sets forth grant application requirements. Authorizes the Attorney General, through BJA, to make grants to States, Indian tribal governments, and multijurisdictional or regional consortia thereof to develop a comprehensive, cooperative strategy to address methamphetamine use to enhance public safety. Earmarks specified sums (according to a specified formula) to each State. Authorizes the Attorney General to: (1) collect systematic data on the effectiveness of the programs assisted under this Act in reducing methamphetamine use; (2) establish a national clearinghouse of information on effective programs to address such use that shall disseminate to State and local agencies a description of the results of research on reduction efforts and information on effective programs, best practices, and Federal resources; (3) establish a program within the Department of Justice to facilitate the sharing of knowledge in best practices among States addressing such use; and (4) provide technical assistance to State and local agencies implementing effective programs to reduce methamphetamine use.

Brownfields Revitalization Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 7 October 2004

Brownfields Revitalization Act of 2004 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a business tax credit for up to 50 percent of qualified remediation expenditures for contaminated sites (property used in a trade or business on which there has been a release (or threat of release) or disposal of any hazardous substance) in certain poverty-rated areas. Defines "qualified remediation expenditures" as expenditures for: (1) the abatement or control of any hazardous substance, petroleum, or any petroleum by-product at a contaminated site in accordance with a State-approved remediation and redevelopment plan; (2) the complete demolition of a structure; (3) the removal and disposal of property; and (4) the reconstruction of utilities on a contaminated site. Requires States to allocate credit amounts under an allocation plan that considers specified criteria, including: (1) poverty rates: (2) location of a contaminated site; and (3) the amount of new employment expected to result from redevelopment. Imposes a ceiling on the State environmental remediation credit and limits the national environmental remediation credit for each calendar year to $1 billion. Sets forth special rules for: (1) allocating unused environmental remediation credit carryover amounts among States: (2) adjusting the limitation on the national environmental remediation credit for inflation; (3) assigning portions of the credit; and (4) recapturing credit amounts if a taxpayer fails to properly complete environmental remediation under a State approved remediation and redevelopment plan.

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that the United States should prepare a comprehensive strategy for advancing and entering into international negotiations on a binding agreement that would swiftly reduce global mercury use and pollution to levels sufficient to protect public health and the environment.

United States · United States Congress · 7 October 2004

Expresses the sense of the Senate that the United States should engage in international dialogue regarding mercury pollution, use, mining, and trade. Calls for the President to: (1) prepare a strategy to advance and enter into international negotiations on an agreement that addresses the reduction of the global use, trade, and releases of mercury; (2) enter into agreements to align global mercury production with reduced global demand and to minimize global mercury releases while negotiating such an agreement; (3) initiate and support a parallel international research effort to collect global data for a comprehensive inventory of mercury use, mining, trade, and releases and to develop less emitting technologies and technologies to reduce the need for, and use of, mercury in commerce; (4) review U.S. monitoring capabilities and data collection efforts for mercury use, trade, and releases; and (5) work through existing international organizations to encourage the development of programs, standards, and trade agreements to reduce the use and trade of mercury, eliminate primary mercury mining, and reduce releases of mercury and other long-range transboundary air pollutants.

Specialty Crops Competitiveness Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 6 October 2004

Specialty Crops Competitiveness Act of 2004 - Defines "specialty crop" as each U.S. agricultural crop other than wheat, feed grains, oilseeds, cotton, rice, peanuts, sugar, and tobacco. Amends the Agricultural Adjustment Act to provide for marketing order specialty crop food safety programs. Amends the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to: (1) increase assistance for the tree assistance program; (2) provide for increased fruit, vegetable, and specialty crop purchases; and (3) increase and extend specialty crop technical assistance. Authorizes appropriations for maintenance of the Agricultural Marketing Service inspection training center in Fredericksburg, Virginia. Makes grants to enhance specialty crop competitiveness. Amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to obligate funds for specialty crop operating loans. Provides for: (1) the study of the extent to which U.S. specialty crops have or have not benefited from any reductions of foreign trade barriers; and (2) a foreign market access strategy plan based on such study. Establishes a division in the Department of Agriculture to process petitions for reducing sanitary and phytosanitary export barriers and an office to develop and protect intellectual property rights in plants and plant materials. Amends Federal patent law to define "essentially derived plant." Provides for specified additional research initiatives. Establishes a fund to support emergency eradication and research activities. Provides for independent scientific advice and peer review with regard to specialty crop import and export requests. Amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to remove the income limitation from the environmental quality incentives program. Addresses the development of voluntary sustainable practices guidelines for producers and processors of specialty crops.

A concurrent resolution recognizing the essential role of nuclear power in the national energy policy of the United States and supporting the increased use of nuclear power and the construction and development of new and improved nuclear power generating plants.

United States · United States Congress · 6 October 2004

Declares that Congress: (1) recognizes the essential role of nuclear power in the national energy policy of the United States; and (2) supports the increased use of nuclear power and the construction and development of new and improved nuclear power generating plants as a means of contributing to national energy independence and maintaining a clean environment.

Eastern Santa Clara River Basin Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 6 October 2004

Eastern Santa Clara River Basin Protection Act - Requires the Secretary of the Army to participate in studies and other investigative activities and in the construction, planning, and design of projects determined by the Secretary to offer a long-term solution to groundwater perchlorate contamination in the Eastern Santa Clara River Basin in Santa Clarita, California. Requires investigative activities and projects to include sites that are sources of perchlorate and located in Santa Clarita. Amends the Water Resources Development Act of 1992 to authorize the Secretary to provide environmental infrastructure and construction assistance for such projects. Directs the Secretary to allow credit for in-kind services provided by a non-Federal sponsor before initiation of a project.

Emergency Supplemental Appropriations for Hurricane Disasters Assistance Act, 2005

United States · United States Congress · 5 October 2004

Emergency Supplemental Appropriations for Hurricane Disasters Assistance Act, 2005 - Makes FY 2005 emergency supplemental appropriations for additional storm disaster assistance to: (1) the Department of Agriculture for the Forest Service for the National Forest System, including for capital improvements and maintenance; (2) the Department of Commerce for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for operations, research, and facilities, procurement, acquisition, and construction; (3) the Department of Defense for military personnel for the Navy and Airforce, operation and maintenance of the Army, Navy, Airforce, Defense-Wide, Army Reserve, Navy Reserve, Army National Guard and Air National Guard, the Defense Health Program, Other Procurement, Air Force and Procurement, Defense-Wide, military construction for the Navy and Army Reserve, the Base Realignment and Closure Account, Family Housing, Operation and Maintenance, Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and the Working Capital Fund, Defense-Wide; (4) the Department of Health and Human Services for the Public Health and Social Services Emergency Fund; (5) the Department of Homeland Security for the Disaster Relief Fund; (6) the U.S. Coast Guard for operating expenses; (7) the Department of Housing and Urban Development for the Community Development Fund; (8) the Department of the Interior for the U.S. Geological Survey for surveys, investigations, and research, the Fish and Wildlife Service for resource management and for construction, the National Park Service for construction and major maintenance; (9) the Department of Justice for the Federal Prison System for buildings, facilities, salaries, and expenses; (10) the Department of Transportation for the Federal Aviation Administration for operations, emergency assistance to airports (to be derived from the Airport and Airway Trust Fund), the Federal Highway Administration for the Emergency Relief Program (to be derived from the Highway Trust Fund other than the Mass Transit Account); (11) the Department of Veterans Affairs for the Veterans Health Administration for medical services, facilities, and administration, for general operating expenses, the National Cemetery Administration, and construction and minor projects; (12) the Corps of Engineers-Civil Works for general operation and maintenance, flood control and coastal emergencies, and Flood Control, Mississippi River and Tributaries, Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, and Tennessee; (13) the Environmental Protection Agency for buildings and facilities; (14) the Agency for International Development for International Disaster and Famine Assistance; (15) the National Aeronautics and Space Administration for space flight capabilities; (16) the Small Business Administration for the Disaster Loans Program Account; and (17) the Executive Office of the President for unanticipated needs.

National Health Museum Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2004

National Health Museum Act of 2004 - Directs the Administrator of General Services to convey specified property in the District of Columbia as a site for a national health museum, under an agreement with the National Health Museum, Inc., including certain terms and conditions. Provides for the Administrator's leasing of a certain portion of a building to be constructed by the Museum on such site, at a rent below prevailing market rates. Authorizes the Administrator to apply any or all of the proceeds from conveyance of the property toward rental charges incurred by the Federal Government under such lease. Sets forth related provisions regarding environmental matters, incidental costs, and land use approvals.

Boutique Fuels Reduction Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2004

Boutique Fuels Reduction Act of 2004 - Amends the Clean Air Act (CAA) to authorize the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to temporarily waive controls or prohibitions on the use of a fuel or fuel additive regulated under specified provisions of that Act or prescribed in an applicable State Implementation Plan (SIP) if the Administrator determines that: (1) extreme and unusual circumstances exist in a State or region that prevent distribution of an adequate supply of the fuel or fuel additive to consumers; (2) such circumstances are the result of a natural disaster, an Act of God, a pipeline or refinery equipment failure, or another unforeseeable event; and (3) it is in the public interest to grant the waiver. Permits such a waiver only if it: (1) applies to the smallest necessary geographic area; (2) is effective for 20 days or the shortest practicable time period; (3) permits a transitional period after the termination of the temporary waiver to allow wholesalers and retailers to blend down their inventory; (4) applies to all persons in the motor fuel distribution system; and (5) is preceded by public notice to all parties in the distribution system, local and State regulators, public interest groups, and consumers in the State or region covered by the waiver. States that the Administrator shall have no authority, when considering a SIP or SIP revision regarding State controls or prohibitions on motor vehicle fuel or fuel additives, to approve any fuel: (1) if doing so would increase the total number of approved and fully implemented fuels as of September 1, 2004, in all SIPs; and (2) unless that fuel was approved and fully implemented in at least one SIP in the applicable Petroleum Administration for Defense District (with the exception of fuels with a specified summertime Reid Vapor Pressure). Requires the Administrator and the Secretary of Energy jointly to study and report to Congress on the effects on air quality, number of fuel blends, fuel availability, fuel fungibility, and fuel costs of SIPs adopted pursuant to CAA provisions regarding State controls or prohibitions on motor vehicle fuel or fuel additives.

Recognizing the 20th anniversary of the Bhopal disaster and expressing the commitment of Congress to work with the Government of India and others to ensure that Union Carbide provides environmental and medical rehabilitation of the affected area and is held responsible for its actions.

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2004

Recognizes the 20th anniversary of the Bhopal disaster and the continuing environmental problems in Bhopal, India, caused by the policies and practices of the Union Carbide Corporation. Expresses the commitment of Congress to working with the Government of the Republic of India, the Dow Chemical Corporation, and the victims of the Bhopal disaster to ensure that Union Carbide: (1) provides complete medical, social, and economic rehabilitation to the victims and to obtain the medical information necessary to help the victims; (2) completely restores the polluted plant site; and (3) a appears before the Bhopal District Court for prosecution on the criminal charges.

Clean Trucks Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 2004

Clean Trucks Act of 2004 - Amends Federal transportation law to require motor carriers, as part of registering with the Secretary of Transportation to provide transportation, to comply with the heavy duty vehicle and engine emission performance standards and related regulations established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Directs the Administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to: (1) collect annually information on the year, make, model, certification level, travel routes, trip duration, fuel quality and consumption, and related activities of long-haul heavy duty trucks operating in the United States; and (2) submit such information to the Adminstrator of the EPA for use in developing and publishing estimates of the total national emissions of all criteria pollutants and hazardous air pollutants associated with long-haul heavy duty trucks.

Oglala Sioux Tribe Angostura Irrigation Project Modernization and Development Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 2004

Oglala Sioux Tribe Angostura Irrigation Project Modernization and Development Act - Directs the Secretary of the Interior to: (1) carry out the modernization and improvement of the irrigation facilities at the Angostura Unit of the Pick-Sloan Missouri River basin program; and (2) provide for the delivery of the water saved through such modernization and improvement for fish and wildlife purposes and environmental restoration on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation (South Dakota) . Establishes the Oglala Sioux Tribal Development Trust Fund. Requires the governing body of the Oglala Sioux Tribe of South Dakota to prepare a plan for the use of payments to the Tribe out of the Fund. Prohibits distribution of any payment to any member of the Tribe on a per capita basis. States that no payment made to the Tribe shall result in the reduction or denial of any entitlement service or program.

Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 4421) making appropriations for the Environmental Protection Agency for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2005, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2004

Sets forth the rule for consideration of the bill (H.R. 4421) making appropriations for the Environmental Protection Agency for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2005.

Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2005

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2004

Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2005 - Makes appropriations for FY 2005 for: (1) the Department of Veterans Affairs; (2) the Department of Housing and Urban Development; (3) the American Battle Monuments Commission; (4) the Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board; (5) the Department of the Treasury, Community Development Financial Institutions Fund Program Account; (6) the Consumer Product Safety Commission; (7) the Corporation for National and Community Service; (8) the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims; (9) the Department of Defense-Civil; (10) the Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health; (11) the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry; (12) the Environmental Protection Agency; (13) the Hazardous Substance Superfund, including transfers of funds; (14) the Executive Office of the President; (15) the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation; (16) the General Services Administration; (17) the Interagency Council on the Homeless; (18) the National Aeronautics and Space Administration; (19) the National Credit Union Administration; (20) the National Science Foundation; (21) the Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation; and (22) the Selective Service System. Specifies certain uses and limits on or prohibitions against the use of funds appropriated by this Act

Transportation, Treasury, and General Government Appropriations Act, 2005

United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2004

Transportation, Treasury, and General Government Appropriations Act, 2005 - Makes appropriations for FY 2005 for: (1) the Office of the Secretary of Transportation; (2) the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA); (3) the Federal Highway Administration (FHA); (4) the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration; (5) the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA); (6) the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), earmarking a specified amount for the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak); (7) the Federal Transit Administration (8) the Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation; (9) the Maritime Administration; (10) the Research and Special Programs Administration; (11) the Office of Inspector General; (12) the Surface Transportation Board; (13) the Department of the Treasury; (14) the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network; (15) the Financial Management Service; (16) the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau; (17) the United States Mint; (18) the Bureau of the Public Debt; (19) the Internal Revenue Service (IRS); (20) the Executive Office of the President; (21) the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board; (22) Committee For Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled; (23) the Election Assistance Commission; (24) the Federal Election Commission (FEC); (25) the Federal Labor Relations Authority; (26) the Federal Maritime Commission; (27) the General Services Administration (GSA); (28) the Merit Systems Protection Board; (29) the Morris K. Udall Scholarship and Excellence in National Environmental Policy Foundation; (30) the National Archives and Records Administration; (31) the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB); (32) the Office of Government Ethics; (33) the Office of Personnel Management (OPM); (34) the Office of Special Counsel; (35) the United States Postal Service; and (36) the United States Tax Court.

Federal Hydroelectric and Environmental Enhancement Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 9 September 2004

Federal Hydroelectric and Environmental Enhancement Act of 2004 - Directs the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of the Army to study and report to Congress on: (1) the potential for creating or increasing electric power production capability at facilities under their respective administrative jurisdiction; and (2) operational methods and water scheduling techniques to increase operational efficiencies at certain-sized hydroelectric power plants. Requires each Secretary to coordinate with the Administrator of each Federal power marketing administration in determining how the value of electric power produced by each hydroelectric power facility that produces power marketed by the administration can be optimized.

Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2005

United States · United States Congress · 9 September 2004

Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2005 - Makes appropriations for FY 2005 for: (1) the Department of Veterans Affairs; (2) the Department of Housing and Urban Development; (3) the American Battle Monuments Commission; (4) the Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board; (5) the Department of the Treasury, Community Development Financial Institutions Fund Program Account; (6) the Consumer Product Safety Commission; (7) the Corporation for National and Community Service; (8) the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims; (9) the Department of Defense-Civil; (10) the Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health; (11) the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry; (12) the Environmental Protection Agency; (13) the Hazardous Substance Superfund, including transfers of funds; (14) the Executive Office of the President; (15) the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation; (16) the General Services Administration; (17) the Interagency Council on the Homeless; (18) the National Aeronautics and Space Administration; (19) the National Credit Union Administration; (20) the National Science Foundation; (21) the Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation; and (22) the Selective Service System. Specifies certain uses and limits on or prohibitions against the use of funds appropriated by this Act.

Commending the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and its employees for its dedication and hard work during Hurricanes Charley, Frances, and Ivan.

United States · United States Congress · 9 September 2004

Declares that Congress commends, for their extraordinary dedication and hard work during Hurricanes Charley and Frances, the employees of the National Weather Service, especially the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Tropical Prediction Center/National Hurricane Center, Hydrometeorological Prediction Center, and National Data Buoy Center; the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron of the 403rd Wing of the Air Force Reserve Command at Keesler Air Force Base, Biloxi, Mississippi; the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Aircraft Operations Center at MacDill Air Force Base, Tampa, Florida; the Hurricane Liaison Team; the National Ocean Service; and the National Environmental Satellite Data and Information Service. Commends also, for their extraordinary dedication and hard work during those hurricanes, the Southern and Eastern Region Weather Forecast Offices of San Juan, Miami, Tampa Bay, Key West, Melbourne, Jacksonville, Tallahassee, Atlanta, Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile, Morristown, Charleston, Morehead City, Wilmington, Wakefield, and Taunton. Extends the thanks of Congress to the commercial and media meteorologists for their contributions in disseminating the NOAA forecasts and warnings to the public.

Transportation, Treasury, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2005

United States · United States Congress · 8 September 2004

Transportation, Treasury, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2005 - Makes appropriations for FY 2005 for: (1) the Office of the Secretary of Transportation; (2) the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA); (3) the Federal Highway Administration (FHA); (4) the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration; (5) the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA); (6) the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), earmarking a specified amount for the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak); (7) the Federal Transit Administration (8) the Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation; (9) the Maritime Administration; (10) the Research and Special Programs Administration; (11) the Office of Inspector General; (12) the Surface Transportation Board; (13) the Department of the Treasury; (14) the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network; (15) the Financial Management Service; (16) the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau; (17) the United States Mint; (18) the Bureau of the Public Debt; (19) the Internal Revenue Service (IRS); (20) the Executive Office of the President; (21) the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board; (22) the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB); (23) the Federal Election Commission (FEC); (24) the Election Assistance Commission; (25) the Federal Labor Relations Authority; (26) the Federal Maritime Commission; (27) the General Services Administration (GSA); (28) the Merit Systems Protection Board; (29) the Morris K. Udall Scholarship and Excellence in National Environmental Policy Foundation; (30) the National Archives and Records Administration; (31) the Office of Government Ethics; (32) the Office of Personnel Management (OPM); (33) the Office of Special Counsel; (34) the United States Postal Service; and (35) the United States Tax Court.

Safety for Americans from Nuclear Weapons Testing Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 September 2004

Safety for Americans from Nuclear Weapons Testing Act - Deems each of the following actions undertaken by a Federal agency to be a major Federal action significantly affecting the quality of the human environment for which a separate environmental impact statement is required under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969: (1) the resumption of underground nuclear testing at the Nevada Test Site (Site); or (2) the use of any other location for such testing. Outlines information required to be included in such statement, including: (1) the possibility of radiation containment failure and the effects of such failure; (2) possible long-term effects on the water table from underground radiation leakage; and (3) information with respect to certain kiloton categories of weapons. Prohibits the United States from resuming any such testing unless authorized by a law enacted after the enactment of this Act. Requires: (1) advance (seven days) public notice of each test; (2) prompt notice of each release of radiation resulting from a test at the Site; and (3) a study by the National Academy of Sciences on the safety and health of citizens in the vicinity of the Site. Establishes a Nevada Test Site Citizens Review Board to address environmental, health, and safety issues related to nuclear testing at the Site. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to make grants to institutions of higher education to acquire and operate for ten years radiation detection equipment and sensors. Directs the Secretary of Energy, through the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Environmental Protection Agency, to monitor the nature and extent of any radiation released into the atmosphere as a result of such testing. Requires: (1) DOE radiation containment assessment; and (2) public notice of monitoring data. Requires the: (1) Director of the National Institutes of Health to make a grant to establish the National Center for the Study of Radiation and Human Health; and (2) Secretary of Health and Human Services to conduct a study of individuals exposed to nuclear weapons tests.

John H. Chafee Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor Sustainability Report Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 September 2004

John H. Chafee Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor Sustainability Report Act - Requires the Director of the National Park Service (NPS) to prepare a report on the sustainability of the John H. Chafee Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Requires the report to: (1) document progress made in accomplishing the purpose of the law establishing the Corridor and the strategies and goals set forth in the Cultural Heritage and Land Management Plan for the Corridor, including historic preservation, interpretation and education, environmental recovery, recreational development, and economic improvement; (2) identify further actions and commitments needed to protect, enhance, and interpret the Corridor; (3) determine the extent of Federal funding and determine how such funds have leveraged additional Federal, State, local, and private funding for the Corridor since its establishment; and (4) evaluate the John H. Chafee Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Commission's form of authority and management structure for the Corridor, and identify and evaluate options for a permanent NPS designation or a State park or regional entity as a sustainable framework to achieve the national interest of the Blackstone Valley. Directs that: (1) the Director prepare the report in coordination with the NPS Advisory Board; and (2) funding to prepare the report be made available from annual appropriations for the Commission.

Water Resources Development Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 25 August 2004

Water Resources Development Act of 2004 - Sets forth provisions providing authorizations for, modifications to, deauthorizations of, and study requirements for inland waterway, port and harbor, flood damage reduction, coastal storm damage reduction, ecosystem restoration, environmental remediation, water storage, water quality, and watershed planning projects or programs throughout the country. Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to: (1) engage in activities in support of foreign governments; and (2) include individuals from the private sector in Corps of Engineers training classes. Establishes the Corps of Engineers River Stewardship Commission. Directs: (1) the Secretary to establish within the civil works function of the Department of the Army a Water Resource Planning Council; (2) the Inspector General of the Army to convene an independent peer review panel; and (3) the Secretary to carry out a program to provide public access to water resource and related water quality data in the Corps' custody. Directs the Secretary to: (1) carry out ecosystem restoration projects regarding the Upper Mississippi River and Illinois River; (2) develop a system to rank proposed projects; and (3) carry out (over at least a ten-year period) a pilot program to restore and protect fish and wildlife habitat in the middle Mississippi River. Establishes: (1) the Coastal Louisiana Ecosystem Protection and Restoration Task Force; and (2) a Coastal Louisiana Ecosystem Science and Technology Program. Directs the Secretary to establish a Science Board to review and comment on Program activities. Enacts Executive Order 13340 entitled "Establishment of Great Lakes Interagency Task Force and Promotion of a Regional Collaboration of National Significance for the Great Lakes." Directs the Secretary to: (1) develop a general management plan for ecosystem restoration of the Upper Connecticut River ecosystem; and (2) complete work on the San Pablo Bay watershed, California. Modifies provisions regarding the Mississippi River Headwaters Reservoir. Authorizes the Secretary to provide technical assistance to the Secretary of Agriculture to carry out the Conservation Corridor Demonstration Program, Delaware and Maryland. Designates the Division Engineer, North Atlantic Division, of the Corps, the ex officio U.S. member under the Susquehanna River Basin Compact and the Delaware River Basin Compact.

John S. Shaw, of the District of Columbia, to be an Assistant Secretary of Energy (Environment, Safety and Health), vice Beverly Cook, resigned.

United States · United States Senate · 22 July 2004

Bus Utility and Safety in School Transportation Opportunity and Purchasing Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2004

Bus Utility and Safety in School Transportation Opportunity and Purchasing Act of 2004 - Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to provide grants, on a competitive basis, to rural local educational agencies (LEAs) to pay the Federal share (75 percent) of costs of purchasing new school buses. Requires the Administrator in providing such grants to give priority to rural LEAs that: (1) are transporting students in a bus manufactured before 1977; (2) have a grossly depleted fleet of school buses; or (3) serve a school that is required by law to provide transportation to students to enable them to transfer to another public school served by the rural LEA.

Commission on the Future of the United States Economy Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2004

Commission on the Future of the United States Economy Act of 2004 - Establishes the Commission on the Future of the United States Economy. Requires the Commission to conduct a study of the economy and the competitiveness of U.S. companies and workers and, in conducting such study, to: (1) review the findings and recommendations of previous commissions and studies; (2) analyze the current economic environment and competitive challenges facing U.S. workers and companies; (3) review the strategies of other countries for responding to the competitive challenges of the new economic environment and analyze the impact of those strategies on the future of the U.S. economy; and (4) formulate recommended policies and actions on specified issues relating to the development of the Nation's skill-base and innovative capacity. Directs the Commission to submit to Congress and the President a report regarding its findings and recommendations. Authorizes interim or special reports in the Commission's discretion. Addresses Commission personnel matters. States that the Commission shall terminate 90 days after the date on which it submits its final report.

Rural Community Arsenic Relief Act

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2004

Rural Community Arsenic Relief Act - Amends the Safe Drinking Water Act to require States exercising primary enforcement responsibility for public water systems to exempt any nonprofit small public water system (serving 10,000 or fewer persons) that so requests in accordance with this Act from the requirements of any national primary drinking water regulation for naturally occurring contaminants, including arsenic, radon, radium, and uranium. Requires exemption requests to demonstrate that the system's compliance with applicable national primary drinking water regulations: (1) is not economically feasible; (2) has a disproportionate and adverse impact on low-income families; (3) is substantially impeded by limited access to innovative and affordable technology; or (4) is not necessary because the drinking water provided by the system does not pose an unreasonable health risk. Sets forth alternative arsenic standards for those systems receiving arsenic exemptions. Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to establish a university-based arsenic research consortium comprised of specified institutions of higher education. Authorizes the Administrator to provide grants to the consortium to carry out its duties.

Northwest Rural Employment and Forest Restoration Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2004

Northwest Rural Employment and Forest Restoration Act of 2004 - Requires each Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management administrative unit containing Westside Forest land to identify: (1) different forest land management allocations, as amended by the Northwest Forest Plan; and (2) the location, acreage, and age of old growth stands, young managed stands, and other naturally occurring stands. Requires such administrative units to: (1) plan and implement projects to enhance the forest health of Westside Forest land managed by the administrative unit; and (2) prioritize projects so that significant acreage identified in the inventory are planned for treatment, and treatment has begun, before planning other projects. Sets forth priorities for such projects. Prohibits such administrative units from planning, advertising, contracting or implementing any harvest of timber for matrix land containing old growth stands, except for noncommercial use or noncommercial purposes in an emergency situation. Allows such administrative units to prepare programmatic environmental documentation pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 to study the significant environmental effects of the major Federal actions contemplated in projects authorized by this Act.

To amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to reauthorize programs to improve the quality of coastal recreation waters, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2004

Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to reauthorize appropriations for coastal recreation water quality monitoring and notification grants through FY 2010. Amends the Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health Act of 2000 to reauthorize appropriations to carry out that Act through FY 2010.

Municipal Solid Waste Responsibility Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2004

Municipal Solid Waste Responsibility Act of 2004 - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to prohibit a landfill or incinerator (facility) from receiving out-of-State municipal solid waste unless the owner or operator of the facility obtains explicit authorization from the affected local government. Directs affected local governments, prior to taking formal action on a request for such authorization, to: (1) notify the Governor, contiguous local governments, and any contiguous Indian tribes; and (2) provide public notice and an opportunity for comment. Creates exceptions to the authorization requirement for owners or operators who held certain authorizations prior to enactment of this Act, where the facility received shipments of out-of-State municipal solid waste during 1993, or where the waste was generated within the bi-State metropolitan statistical area in which the facility is located. Authorizes States to: (1) limit the amount of out-of-State municipal solid waste received annually by facilities; (2) impose cost recovery surcharges on the combustion or disposal of such waste; and (3) enact laws imposing limitations on the receipt and disposal of foreign municipal solid waste. Prohibits persons from importing, transporting, or exporting municipal solid waste for final disposal or incineration in violation of the Agreement Between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of Canada Concerning the Transboundary Movement of Hazardous Waste. Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to conduct studies and develop recommendations concerning the benefits of alternatives to open field disposal of agricultural solid wastes (including biomass).

Ocean and Coastal Observation Systems Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2004

Ocean and Coastal Observation Systems Act of 2004 - Directs the President, acting through the National Ocean Research Leadership Council (NORLC), to carry out a pilot program to establish an integrated ocean and coastal observing system (IOOS) of monitoring, data communication and management, analysis, modeling, and research to provide data and information for the timely detection and prediction of changes occurring in the marine and coastal environment that impact the Nation's social, economic, and ecological systems. Establishes within NORLC an interagency program office (OceanUS) which shall be responsible for program planning and coordination of the IOOS. Requires the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to be the lead Federal agency for implementation and operation of the IOOS. Requires regional associations to be responsible for the development and operation of regional ocean and coastal observing systems to meet the information needs of the users groups in the region while adhering to national standards.