Environment

United States Noncontiguous Shipping Open Market Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2003

United States Noncontiguous Shipping Open Market Act of 2003 - Amends the Merchant Marine Act, 1920, to make the requirement that all cargo shipping between U.S. ports occur exclusively on U.S. flagged vessels inapplicable with respect to transportation in noncontiguous trade of merchandise on a foreign qualified freight vessel for which the Secretary of Transportation has issued a certificate of documentation. Amends the Shipping Act, 1916, to repeal certain requirements regarding: (1) the percentage of ownership of a corporation operating in coastwise trade owned by U.S. citizens; and (2) seizure and forfeiture of documented vessels. Requires jurisdiction for an action brought for recovery for injury to or death of a seaman against a defendant employer that does not reside or maintain an office in the United States and that engages in any enterprise that makes use of one or more ports in the United States to be under the district court most proximate to the place of the occurrence of the personal injury or death that is the subject of the action. Authorizes the employer of a master or member of the crew of a vessel, at the employer's election, to participate in an authorized compensation plan under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act. Subjects all vessels operating in the U.S. coastwise trade to minimum international labor and environmental standards. Sets requirements for non-citizens irregularly engaging in the U.S. domestic coastwise trade.

Communication from the Commission to the Council, the European Parliament and the European Economic and Social Committee - A simple and paperless environment for Customs and Trade

European Union · European Commission · 24 July 2003

Leistungsbilanz der Ressorts für das Bundesland Oberösterreich

Austria · Federal Council · 23 July 2003

Anfrage der Bundesräte Gottfried Kneifel, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Land- und Forstwirtschaft, Umwelt und Wasserwirtschaft betreffend Leistungsbilanz der Ressorts für das Bundesland Oberösterreich

Leistungsbilanz der Ressorts für das Bundesland Tirol

Austria · Federal Council · 23 July 2003

Anfrage der Bundesräte Hans Ager, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Land- und Forstwirtschaft, Umwelt und Wasserwirtschaft betreffend Leistungsbilanz der Ressorts für das Bundesland Tirol

America's Healthy Forest Restoration and Research Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2003

America's Healthy Forests Restoration and Research Act of 2003 - Permits the Secretary of Agriculture, with respect to National Forest System lands, and the Secretary of the Interior, with respect to public lands administered by the Bureau of Land Management, to plan and conduct hazardous fuels reduction projects (fuels projects) on specified types of Federal lands. Directs the Secretary concerned to give priority to fuels projects that provide for the protection of communities and watersheds. Requires the Secretary concerned to plan and conduct fuels projects in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and other applicable laws, with an exemption from specified provisions of such Act pertaining to analysis of alternative options to proposed agency actions. Directs the Secretary concerned to provide for collaboration among governments, Indian tribes, and interested persons during the formulation of each fuels project. Sets forth special requirements regarding judicial review of fuels projects. Provides injunctive relief for agency actions on Federal lands, including fuels projects, to restore fire-adapted forests or rangeland systems. Authorizes the Secretary concerned to make grants to: (1) improve the commercial value of forest biomass to produce electric energy, sensible heat, transportation fuels, substitutes for petroleum-based products, wood-based products, pulp, or other commercial products; and (2) offset the cost of projects to add value to biomass. Amends the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978 to permit the Secretary of Agriculture, acting through the Forest Service, to provide assistance to State foresters and officials for the purpose of expanding State forest capacities and activities to address watershed issues on non-Federal forested lands and potentially forested lands. Directs the Secretary to: (1) develop a technical assistance program to protect water quality; and (2) establish a watershed forestry cost-share program. Directs the Secretary concerned to establish an accelerated program to conduct, and promote comprehensive information gathering on the effects to forests of insect and disease infestation and severe weather. Allows the Secretary concerned to conduct applied silvicultural assessments on threatened Federal lands. Directs the Secretary concerned to: (1) inventory and monitor Federal and private (with consent) forest stands to identify environmental threats; and (2) develop a comprehensive early warning system for potential catastrophic forest threats. Amends the Biomass Research and Development Act of 2000 to increase Biomass Research and Development Initiative grant uses. Amends the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 to authorize the Secretary of Agriculture to carry out biomass and small-diameter-based rural revitalization programs. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to establish an Upland Hardwood Research Center which shall, in conjunction with the Southern Forest Research Station of the Department of Agriculture, provide a broad research and development program for the upland hardwood resources of the Ozark Mountains and the South. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to establish the healthy forests reserve program for the purpose of restoring and enhancing private forest ecosystems to promote the recovery of threatened and endangered species as well as improve biodiversity and enhance carbon sequestration. Directs the Secretaries to jointly establish a program for the emergency treatment and reduction of nonnative invasive plants. Expresses congressional reaffirmation of the enhanced community fire protection program.

Border Health Security Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2003

Border Health Security Act of 2003 - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the United States members of the United States-Mexico Border Health Commission (the members), to award grants to eligible entities (as defined by this section) to address priorities and recommendations to improve the health of border residents that are established by the Secretary, the members, and the State border health offices. Sets forth uses for grant funds, including for programs relating to: (1) maternal and child health; (2) substance abuse; and (3) environmental health. Directs the Secretary to award grants to eligible entities (as defined by this section) for bioterrorism preparedness in the border area. Sets forth uses for grant funds, including for the: (1) improvement of infrastructure; and (2) education and training of clinicians, epidemiologists, laboratories, and emergency personnel. Allows the Secretary to coordinate with the Secretary of Homeland Security a health alert system that: (1) alerts clinicians and public health officials of emerging disease clusters and syndromes along the border area; and (2) is alerted to health threats or bioterrorism along the border area.

Water Supply, Reliability, and Environmental Improvement Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2003

Water Supply, Reliability, and Environmental Improvement Act - Establishes within the Office of the Secretary of the Interior the Office of the Federal Water Resources Coordinator to be responsible for coordinating activities of the Federal agencies that are signatories to Attachment 3 of the Federal programmatic Record of Decision dated August 28, 2000, addressing water desalination, impaired ground water, brine removal, and water reuse projects and activities authorized under this Act. Directs the Secretary, through the Coordinator, to undertake a competitive grant program to: (1) investigate and identify opportunities for studying, planning, and designing water resources activities; and (2) construct demonstration and permanent facilities or implement other programs, projects, and activities. Authorizes the Federal agencies to participate in the CALFED Bay-Delta Program in accordance with the Objectives and Solution Principles set forth in the Decision. Authorizes the Secretary and the agency heads to carry out Program activities in the following categories if such activities have been subject to environmental review and approval under Federal and State law and have been certified by the Secretary to be consistent with the Decision: water storage; conveyance; water use efficiency; water transfers; the Environmental Water account; integrated regional water management plans; ecosystem restoration; watersheds; water quality; levee stability; monitoring and analysis; program management, oversight, and coordination; and diversification of water supplies. Prohibits the Federal share of the cost of implementing the Program from exceeding 33.3 percent Authorizes appropriations for activities to address issues surrounding the Salton Sea. Directs the Secretary to establish an office in Sacramento, California, and authorizes the Secretary to establish other offices in the capitol of any Reclamation State (Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, Wyoming, or Texas) requesting such an office, for the use of all Federal and State agencies that are likely to be involved in issuing permits and conducting environmental reviews for water supply, water supply capital improvement projects, levee maintenance, and delivery systems. Authorizes the Secretary to establish a program for the construction of rural water systems in the Reclamation States in cooperation with other Federal agencies with rural water programs and non-Federal project entities.

Newlands Project Headquarters and Maintenance Yard Facility Transfer Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2003

Newlands Project Headquarters and Maintenance Yard Facility Transfer Act - Directs the Secretary of the Interior to convey to the Truckee-Carson Irrigation District in Nevada real property within the Newlands Project, Nevada, known as 2666 Harrigan Road, Fallon, Nevada, but only after completion of: (1) compliance with requirements relating to the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and cultural resources; and (2) necessary environmental site assessments, remediation, or removal.

Stop Solid Waste Incineration Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2003

Stop Solid Waste Incineration Act of 2003 - Requires each State to adopt and submit to the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency a three-year implementation plan to achieve: (1) increased recycling by at least 75 percent; (2) water source pollution reduction; (3) restriction of landfill dumping to materials that are not recyclable or compostable; (4) the phasing out of solid waste incineration within four years and six months after this Act's enactment; (5) a waste reduction rate of ten percent; and (6) an increase in composting of ten percent. Provides for Federal implementation plans for States that fail to meet plan submission requirements. Authorizes the Administrator to impose a prohibition on the approval by the Secretary of Transportation of certain highway projects or awarding of highway grants applicable to a State that fails to submit a plan, has a plan submission disapproved, or fails to implement a requirement of an approved plan. Provides for grants to States that phase out the incineration of solid waste prior to the deadline established under this Act. Grants a State the authority to limit or restrict the importation of solid waste on the date the State phases out solid waste incineration.

Pilot Project, Good Samaritan Provision for Abandoned and Inactive Mined Land Remediation Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2003

Pilot Project, Good Samaritan Provision for Abandoned and Inactive Mined Land Remediation Act - Declares that the purpose of this Act is to initiate a ten-year pilot program to facilitate the cleanup of abandoned and inactive mine sites in the Animas River Basin that negatively impact water quality by limiting certain liability under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act for third parties not responsible for the degradation but who take steps to improve water quality. Limits the scope of this Act to abandoned or inactive hardrock mines located in the Animas River watershed above Elk Creek in San Juan County, Colorado. Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to authorize the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, with the concurrence of the State of Colorado, to issue, modify, enforce, or terminate a remediation permit that modifies requirements for discharges associated with remediation activity at an abandoned or inactive mined land. Sets forth procedural guidelines for a remediation permit application for activities at an abandoned or inactive mined land from which there is, or may be, a discharge of pollutants into waters.

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to expand the expensing of environmental remediation costs.

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2003

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) make permanent provisions allowing the expensing of environmental remediation costs; (2) revise the definition of "qualified contaminated site" to include toxic as well as hazardous substances; (3) include within the definition of "hazardous or toxic substances" extremely hazardous substances, as defined by Federal law, and petroleum contaminants; and (4) eliminate the recapture of the expensing deduction upon the sale of environmental remediation property.

Regulation (EC) No 1641/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 22 July 2003 amending Council Regulation (EEC) No 1210/90 on the establishment of the European Environment Agency and the European Environment Information and Observation Network

European Union · EUR-Lex · 22 July 2003

Regulation (EC) No 1382/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 22 July 2003 on the granting of Community financial assistance to improve the environmental performance of the freight transport system (Marco Polo Programme)

European Union · EUR-Lex · 22 July 2003

Community Drinking Water Assistance Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2003

Community Drinking Water Assistance Act - Amends the Safe Drinking Water Act to establish a program of grants to small public water systems located in disadvantaged communities (or those that may become disadvantaged as a result of compliance with drinking water standards) for use in carrying out projects and activities to comply with such standards. Provides temporary relief from enforcement by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of drinking water standards for such systems during and after the grant application process. Delays implementation or enforcement by the Administrator of an arsenic standard in any State until the earlier of January 1, 2006, or the date on which the Administrator certifies that the program has been implemented in that State and the State has made substantial progress in drinking water standards compliance.

Manganese Metal Safety Control Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2003

Manganese Metal Safety Control Act of 2003 - Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to study whether imported electrolytic manganese metal that contains selenium poses any harmful effects to the environment or human health.

Border Health Security Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2003

Border Health Security Act of 2003 - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the United States members of the United States-Mexico Border Health Commission (the members), to award grants to eligible entities (as defined by this section) to address priorities and recommendations to improve the health of border residents that are established by the Secretary, the members, and the State border health offices. Sets forth uses for grant funds, including for programs relating to: (1) maternal and child health; (2) substance abuse; and (3) environmental health. Directs the Secretary to award grants to eligible entities (as defined by this section) for bioterrorism preparedness in the border area. Sets forth uses for grant funds, including for the: (1) improvement of infrastructure; and (2) education and training of clinicians, epidemiologists, laboratories, and emergency personnel. Allows the Secretary to coordinate with the Secretary of Homeland Security a health alert system that: (1) alerts clinicians and public health officials of emerging disease clusters and syndromes along the border area; and (2) is alerted to health threats or bioterrorism along the border area.

To make supplemental appropriations for fiscal year 2003 to ensure the inclusion of commonly used pesticides in State source water assessment programs, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2003

Makes supplemental appropriations for FY 2003 for the Environmental Protection Agency for grants for the drinking water State revolving funds under the Safe Drinking Water Act for State expenses of formulating source water assessment programs. Requires such programs to include the assessment of: (1) specified pesticides; (2) surface water sources; (3) residential drinking wells; and (4) contaminated soil.

Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, 2004

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2003

Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, 2004 - Makes FY 2004 appropriations to the Department of the Army and its Corps of Engineers for: (1) civil functions relating to rivers and harbors, flood control, and shore protection; (2) certain flood control projects on the Mississippi River and its tributaries, Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, and Tennessee; (3) flood control and coastal emergencies; (4) the navigable waters and wetlands regulatory program; (5) formerly utilized sites remedial action program; and (6) general expenses of the Office of Chief of Engineers. Makes FY 2004 appropriations to the Department of the Interior for: (1) the Central Utah Project Completion Account; (2) the Bureau of Reclamation for water and related resources; (3) the Central Valley Project Restoration Fund; (4) a grant program to Indian tribal entities to protect water resources; (5) an endangered species collaborative program; (6) the Tularosa Basin National Desalination Research Facility; and (7) the Hawaii Water Resources Study. Makes FY 2004 appropriations to the Department of Energy (DOE) for: (1) energy supply programs; (2) non-defense site acceleration completion; (3) uranium uranium enrichment facility decontamination and decommissioning; (4) non-defense environmental services; (5) general DOE science activities; (6) nuclear waste disposal; (7) DOE administration and its Office of the Inspector General; (8) National Nuclear Security Administration weapons activities; (9) defense nuclear nonproliferation activities; (10) naval reactors activities; (11) Office of the Administrator of the National Nuclear Security Administration; (12) defense site acceleration completion; (13) defense environmental services; (14) defense environmental services; (15) defense nuclear waste disposal; (16) geographical power marketing administrations; (17) hydroelectric facilities at the Falcon and Amistad Dams, and (18) the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Makes FY 2004 appropriations to the: (1) Appalachian Regional Commission; (2) Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board; (3) Delta Regional Authority; (4) Denali Commission; (5) Nuclear Regulatory Commission and its Office of the Inspector General; and (6) Nuclear Waste Technical Review Board.

A bill to amend the Safe Drinking Water Act to reauthorize the New York City Watershed Protection Program.

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2003

Amends the Safe Drinking Water Act to reauthorize the New York City Watershed Protection Program through 2010.

John Rishel Geothermal Steam Act Amendments of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2003

John Rishel Geothermal Steam Act Amendments of 2003 - Amends the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970 to replace requirements governing bids and competitive bids with leasing procedures under which the Secretary of the Interior shall: (1) accept nominations at any time from qualified companies and individuals; (2) hold biennial competitive lease sales for lands located in areas for which such nominations are pending; and (3) make available for noncompetitive leasing for a two-year period any lands for which a competitive lease sale is held, but for which no competitive lease sale bids have been received. Cites circumstances under which lands leased exclusively for qualified development and direct utilization of geothermal resources shall be leased to the first qualified applicant. Permits existing lessees to convert previous leases to reflect the revisions of this Act. Reduces lease royalty percentages accruing from electricity produced using geothermal steam and associated geothermal resources. Mandates that 100 percent of such royalties received by the United States be paid at the rate of 75 percent to the host States and 25 percent to the pertinent county. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to reimburse certain persons for the costs of project-level analysis, documentation, or related study required under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. Requires an update of the 1978 Assessment of Geothermal Resources. Modifies guidelines governing: (1) cooperative or unit plans of development or operation of geothermal fields; and (2) royalties on byproducts. Repeals authorities of the Secretary to readjust terms, conditions, rentals, and royalties. Credits certain annual rentals towards royalty payments. Revamps lease terms and work commitment requirements. States that all public lands under the jurisdiction of a Secretary of a military department shall be open to the operation of the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970 and related laws and development and utilization of geothermal resources without the necessity for further action by the Secretary or Congress.

To amend the Safe Drinking Water Act to reauthorize the New York City Watershed Protection Program.

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2003

Amends the Safe Drinking Water Act to reauthorize the New York City Watershed Protection Program through 2010.

Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, 2004

United States · United States Congress · 16 July 2003

Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, 2004 - Makes FY 2004 appropriations to the Department of the Army and its Corps of Engineers for: (1) civil functions relating to rivers and harbors, flood control; (2) river and harbor, flood control, shore protection and aquatic ecosystem restoration; (3) certain flood control projects on the Mississippi River and its tributaries (including Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, and Tennessee); (4) the navigable waters and wetlands regulatory program; (5) the formerly utilized sites remedial action program; and (6) flood control and coastal emergencies. Makes FY 2004 appropriations to the Department of the Interior for: (1) the Central Utah Project; (2) the Bureau of Reclamation for water and related resources; and (3) the Central Valley Project Restoration Fund. Makes FY 2004 appropriations to the Department of Energy (DOE) for: (1) energy supply programs; (2) non-defense site acceleration completion; (3) non-defense environmental services (4) uranium enrichment decontamination and decommissioning; (5) general DOE science activities; (6) nuclear waste disposal; (7) DOE administration and its Office of the Inspector General; (8) atomic energy defense weapons; (9) defense nuclear nonproliferation; (10) naval reactors; (11) Office of the Administrator of the National Nuclear Security Administration; (12) defense site acceleration completion; (13) defense environmental services; (14) defense nuclear waste disposal; (15) geographical power marketing administrations of DOE (including hydroelectric facilities at the Falcon and Amistad Dams); and (16) the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Makes FY 2004 appropriations to: (1) the Appalachian Regional Commission; (2) the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board; (3) Delta Regional Authority; (4) the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and its Office of the Inspector General; and (5) the Nuclear Waste Technical Review Board.

California Affordable Quantity and Quality Water Resources Projects Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 15 July 2003

California Affordable Quantity and Quality Water Resources Projects Act of 2003 - Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act and the Safe Water Drinking Act to increase the authorizations of appropriations for Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) conservation grant programs, including the national nonpoint source program, the state nonpoint source management program, state pollution control grants, state water quality cooperative agreements, the clean water state revolving fund, and the drinking water state revolving fund. Authorizes expedited feasibility studies for 22 water projects in California. Requires the Secretaries of the Army and the Interior to give priority to studies that would provide environmental or other benefits, or examine the use of nonstructural or low-impact alternatives to achieving project goals. Lists required components of qualifying studies.

Rebuild America Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 15 July 2003

Rebuild America Act of 2003 - Amends the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century and Federal transportation law to increase, for FY 2003, the: (1) Federal-aid highway program obligation ceiling; (2) authorization of appropriations for formula grants from the Highway Trust Fund and General Fund; (3) Federal Transit Program obligation ceiling; and (4) authorization of appropriations for airport planning and development. Authorizes grants for airport baggage and other security improvement projects. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide a tax credit to holders of qualified AMTRAK bonds. Outlines requirements prior to the written approval by the Secretary of Transportation of qualified high-speed rail projects (which in turn qualify for the AMTRAK tax credit). Directs the National Railroad Passenger Corporation to submit to the President and Congress a multiyear capital spending plan. Expresses the sense of Congress that the proceeds of qualified AMTRAK bonds are intended to finance the construction of qualified high-speed projects. Authorizes appropriations for FY 2003 for AMTRAK capital expenditures. Directs the Secretary to establish a program of capital grants for the rehabilitation, preservation, or improvement of class II and III railroad track used primarily for freight transportation. Amends the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 to: (1) increase the aggregate unpaid principal ceiling on railroad rehabilitation and improvement loans; (2) authorize the Secretary to make grants to supplement such loans and loan guarantees; (3) prohibit the Secretary from requiring such a loan applicant to provide collateral; (4) require loan approval or disapproval within 30 days; and (5) prohibit the Secretary from assessing fees for such loans. Authorizes appropriations for port security grants. Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to: (1) require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to assist States in establishing simplified procedures for small water treatment works to obtain assistance under such Act; (2) add to authorized purposes of State water pollution control revolving funds; (3) extend, from 20 to 30 years, the authorized term for loans made from such funds; (4) allow such funds to be used to provide owners and operators of small treatment works with certain technical and planning assistance; (5) allow an additional subsidization to benefit individual water rate payers; and (6) authorize FY 2003 appropriations for such funds, for sewer water overflow grants, and for safe drinking water revolving funds. Authorizes appropriations for FY 2003 for: (1) Army Corps of Engineers construction, operation, and maintenance activities; (2) public works and economic development; (3) Appalachian, Delta, and Northern Great Plains regional development; and (4) security enhancements for properties of the General Services Administration. Provides with respect to projects under this Act: (1) priority consideration for security enhancement projects; and (2) Buy American requirements. Amends provisions of the Internal Revenue Code concerning tax shelters to provide penalties for failure to include reportable transaction information with respect to a return or statement for a transaction which the Secretary of the Treasury determines has the potential for tax avoidance or evasion. Imposes an accuracy-related penalty of: (1) 20 percent for understatements with respect to reportable transactions (with an exception for reasonable cause shown); and (2) 40 percent for understatements attributable to transactions lacking economic substance. Makes confidentiality of tax-related communications provisions inapplicable to communications between a tax practitioner and a person in connection with tax shelter participation. Requires each material advisor (currently, each tax shelter organizer) to disclose specified information with respect to such tax shelter (adding specified tax shelter threshold amounts). Increases penalties for failure to register tax shelters. Provides penalties for failure to report interests in foreign financial accounts and for frivolous tax submissions. Places limits on the transfer or importation of built-in losses. Provides for the prevention of corporate expatriation in order to avoid U.S. income tax.

Concentrated Livestock Existing Alongside Nature Act

United States · United States Congress · 15 July 2003

Concentrated Livestock Existing Alongside Nature Act - Prohibits the application of animal waste to land where the nitrogen or phosphorus would increase the risk of soil toxicity or surface or ground water pollution. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish: (1) permitted levels for other substances found in animal waste; and (2) minimal distances from environmentally sensitive locations or high density or sensitive populations for the aerial spraying of animal waste. Requires a containment system for the retention of all animal waste, both wet and dry, including the construction and use of certain structures to store excess waste. Stipulates that these systems and structures have sufficient structural integrity and/or emergency shutoff devices and be sited in such a way as to eliminate or contain discharges and pollution. Amends the Clean Air Act to direct the Administrator to promulgate national primary ambient air quality standards for hydrogen sulfide and ammonia as measured at any point on the property line of a concentrated animal feeding operation (CAFO). Directs the Administrator to establish an animal waste management program which requires animal owners to have an approved animal waste management plan designed to prevent the discharge of animal waste into surface or ground water. Requires the Administrator to develop plan requirements in consultation with the Secretary of Agriculture. Requires the Administrator to: (1) compel the closure of any CAFO operating without an approved plan; and (2) review and modify plans where it is administratively determined that a CAFO has caused significant water pollution. Waives Federal requirements where State requirements exist that are equally or more stringent. Amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to exclude the expansion of a CAFO from cost-share payments under that Act. Includes, however, as part of the environmental quality incentives program, an animal waste management plan developed by a livestock operator too small to be considered a CAFO.

A bill to amend the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act to permit the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to register a Canadian pesticide.

United States · United States Congress · 15 July 2003

Amends the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act to permit the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to register a Canadian pesticide that: (1) has not been previously disapproved; (2) is identical or substantially similar in composition to a comparable domestic pesticide already registered; and (3) is registered in Canada by the registrant (or affiliate) of the comparable domestic pesticide. Requires the Administrator to obtain the confidential statement of formula for the pesticide to determine if it is in fact identical or substantially similar to a comparable domestic pesticide. Stipulates that any Canadian pesticide the Administrator registers must bear an approved label which completely covers the original Canadian label. Prohibits actions in Federal court against: (1) the Administrator acting as a registering agency for damages resulting from the use of a product registered under this Act; or (2) registrants for damages resulting from adulteration or compositional alterations of such a product if the registrant could not reasonably have knowledge of such adulteration or alterations.

Underground Storage Tank Compliance Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 15 July 2003

Underground Storage Tank Compliance Act of 2003 - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to distribute to States at least 80 percent of the funds authorized to be appropriated under this Act from the Leaking Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund to pay the reasonable costs incurred under cooperative agreements of: (1) certain corrective actions and compensation programs; (2) directly related administrative expenses; or (3) enforcement of State or local requirements regulating underground storage tanks (USTs). Allows undistributed funds to be used for enforcing UST regulations. Requires the Administrator or a State with an approved program to require compliance inspections of USTs at least once every two years. Directs the Administrator to publish operator training guidelines and States to develop and implement a training strategy consistent with stated requirements. Authorizes the use of funds made available for the petroleum response program to carry out corrective actions with respect to methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) releases. Requires implementation reports by any Federal or State agency responsible for USTs. Authorizes a State or the Administrator to prohibit the delivery of regulated substances (motor fuels) to non-compliant tanks. Provides temporary relief for certain tanks in remote locations. Includes underground storage tank systems and release response activity (as well as underground storage tanks) that are under Federal jurisdiction under the UST control and abatement requirements. Requires implementation reports by any Federal agency responsible for USTs which list the USTs and describe compliance actions. Requires the Administrator and Indian Tribes to correct UST releases on Indian lands. Permits States to establish requirements more stringent than the Federal requirements.

Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 15 July 2003

Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act of 2003 - Requires a manufacturer of a motor vehicle sold or introduced into commerce in the United States to disclose to the vehicle owner, a repair facility, and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) the information necessary to diagnose, service, or repair the vehicle. Sets forth protections for trade secrets. States that manufacturer noncompliance with this Act constitutes an unfair method of competition and an unfair or deceptive act or practice affecting commerce within the purview of the Federal Trade Commission Act. Authorizes a vehicle owner or repair facility to bring a civil action in Federal district court for violations of this Act without regard to the amount in controversy or the citizenship of the parties. Instructs the FTC to prescribe a uniform methodology for manufacturer disclosure in writing, and on the Internet. Prohibits the FTC from prescribing rules that interfere with the authority of the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency regarding motor vehicle emissions control diagnostics systems.

National Defense Rail Act

United States · United States Congress · 15 July 2003

National Defense Rail Act - Requires studies or assessments of: (1) security risks associated with freight and intercity passenger rail transportation; (2) security priorities; (3) rail crossing delay security issues; (4) existing rail safety regulations; (5) foreign rail transport security programs; and (6) the feasibility of passenger, baggage, and cargo screening. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to: (1) establish a national high-speed ground transportation policy; and (2) provide 100 percent financial assistance to develop and implement high-speed rail corridors according to designated priorities, including the elimination of hazards of high-speed railway-highway crossings. Requires such projects to comply with Buy American and competitive bidding requirements, and specified labor standards, including the prevailing wage requirements of the Davis-Bacon Act. Defines the national rail passenger transportation system. Authorizes Amtrak to operate an intercity rail service or route not included in such system. Declares that nothing in this Act is intended to preclude Amtrak from restoring, improving, or developing non-high-speed intercity passenger rail service. Repeals the requirement that Amtrak be self-sufficient. Authorizes additional appropriations for Amtrak for retirement of principal and interest on its debt service, and for improving accessibility for the elderly and people with disabilities, including compliance with environmental regulations. Authorizes appropriations for the Northeast Corridor, long and short distance trains, and State-supported routes. Directs the Secretary to re-establish the Northeast Corridor Safety Committee. Revises requirements concerning the Amtrak board of directors. Requires an independent audit of Amtrak operations and the development of a five-year financial plan. Revises requirements of the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 concerning loans and loan guarantees. Directs the Secretary to establish a rail passenger cooperative research program, including an advisory board.

Ocean and Coastal Observation Systems Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 July 2003

Ocean Observation and Coastal Systems Act - Directs the President, through the National Ocean Research Leadership Council (NORLC), to establish and maintain an integrated ocean and coastal observing system (system) of marine monitoring, data communication and management, data analysis, and research to provide data and information for rapid and timely detection and prediction of changes occurring in the marine environment that impact the Nation's social, economic, and ecological systems. Establishes an Interagency Planning Office (IPO) within NORLC with various functions. Directs the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to report to NORLC and to maintain a Joint Operations Center (JOC) with specified authority. Sets forth system elements and requires subsystem linkages. Requires the system to integrate the capabilities of the Coast Services Center and the National Coastal Data Development Center of NOAA, and other appropriate centers. Requires the research and development program for the system to be conducted under the National Oceanographic Partnership Program (NOPP) and consist of specified elements. Directs NOAA Administrator, through JOC, to work with representatives of entities in each region that provide ocean data and information to users to form regional associations to develop and operate observing systems in the coastal regions extending to the seaward boundary of the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone, including the Great Lakes. Directs NOAA, through IPO, to initiate pilot projects, including infrastructure capital projects, through NOPP. Provides for interagency funding, and authorizes appropriations, for the system under this Act to the following departments and agencies represented on the NORLC: (1) NOAA; (2) the National Science Foundation; (3) the National Aeronautics and Space Administration; (4) the U.S. Coast Guard; (5) the Office of Naval Research; (6) the Office of the Oceanographer of the Navy; and (7) other Federal agencies engaged in ocean and coastal-related activities.

Great Lakes Environmental Restoration Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 July 2003

Great Lakes Environmental Restoration Act - Establishes a Great Lakes Environmental Restoration Grant Program in the Great Lakes National Program Office of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Allocates funds among the Great Lakes States, requiring the funding of at least one project or activity per Great Lakes State per fiscal year. Stipulates that these projects result in tangible improvements in the Great Lakes watershed and address at least one of the priority issues identified by the Great Lakes Environmental Restoration Advisory Board. Prohibits the use of restoration grant funds for: (1) roads not connected with a sewer upgrade; (2) research, monitoring or beautification projects unrelated to tangible improvements to the watershed; or (3) litigation and lobbying expenses. Establishes the Great Lakes Environmental Restoration Advisory Board which includes Federal, State, and local members as well as Canadian and environmental organization observers. Establishes the Great Lakes Federal Coordinating Council. Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to require the Administrator of EPA to: (1) develop and implement science-based indicators of water quality and related environmental factors in the Great Lakes, including measures of accumulated toxic pollutants; (2) establish a Federal network to regularly monitor and collect this data; and (3) make a report available to Congress and the public describing the water quality and related environmental factors of the Great Lakes.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Reauthorization Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 14 July 2003

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Authorization Act of 2003 - Authorizes appropriations for FY 2004 through 2008 to the Secretary of Commerce (Secretary) for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), including specified activities of: (1) the National Weather Service; (2) the Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research; (3) the National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service; (4) the National Ocean Service; (5) the National Marine Fisheries Service; (6) the Office of Program Planning and Integration; (7) NOAA program support; and (8) the Office of Marine and Aviation Operations. Sets forth duties and authorities of the NOAA Administrator with respect to: (1) a business management fund; (2) an external research program; (3) hydrographic service volunteers; (4) an Office of Education; and (5) numbers of NOAA corps officers.

Great Lakes Restoration Financing Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 14 July 2003

Great Lakes Restoration Financing Act of 2003 - Establishes the Great Lakes Advisory Board to: (1) develop a biennial comprehensive Great Lakes management plan; (2) coordinate Great Lakes restoration efforts; and (3) implement a public awareness campaign. Establishes a scientific working group to evaluate the scientific integrity of the Great Lakes restoration effort and assist the Board in its decisionmaking. Requires the management plan to be submitted to the President, appropriate congressional committees, the governor of each Great Lakes State, and the Great Lakes mayors. Includes as possible Great Lakes ecosystem goals: (1) the cleanup of toxic hot spots; (2) the elimination of invasive species; (3) pollution decrease; (4) the restoration and conservation of wetlands and critical coastal habitat; (5) the elimination of dead zones caused by hypoxia and harmful algal bloom; (6) the sustainable use and management of Great Lakes water resources; and (7) public participation in Great Lakes restoration. Requires each Great Lakes State to have in effect a State Great Lakes Management Plan, approved by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency and updated every two years, in order to be eligible for assistance apportionments authorized under this Act. Provides apportioned funding to Great Lakes States for restoration activities. Authorizes the Administrator to appoint a special master to direct the remediation of an area of concern.

Habitat-Schutzgebiete in Österreich kontra Wegefreiheit

Austria · National Council · 11 July 2003

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Mag. Johann Maier, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Land- und Forstwirtschaft, Umwelt und Wasserwirtschaft betreffend Habitat-Schutzgebiete in Österreich kontra Wegefreiheit

Brand in der RPB Recycling Point Blumau

Austria · National Council · 10 July 2003

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Dieter Brosz, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Land- und Forstwirtschaft, Umwelt und Wasserwirtschaft betreffend Brand in der RPB Recycling Point Blumau Wiederaufbereitungsges.m.b.H in der Zeit von 24. September bis 3. Oktober 2002 und behördenseitige Abwicklung

Machbarkeitsstudie für die Überbauung der Wiener Süd-Ost Tangente (A 23) Bereich Kaisermühlen bis Inzersdorf

Austria · National Council · 10 July 2003

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Dr. Ferdinand Maier, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Verkehr, Innovation und Technologie betreffend ergänzende Fragen zur Anfragebeantwortung 382/AB (XXII. GP) auf die Anfrage 390/J (XXII. GP) betreffend eine Machbarkeitsstudie für die Überbauung der Wiener Südosttangente (A 23) Bereich Kaisermühlen bis Inzersdorf

Brand in der RPB Recycling Point Blumau

Austria · National Council · 10 July 2003

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Dieter Brosz, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Justiz betreffend Brand in der RPB Recycling Point Blumau Wiederaufbereitungsges.m.b.H in der Zeit von 24. September bis 3. Oktober 2002 und behördenseitige Abwicklung

Brand in der RPB Recycling Point Blumau

Austria · National Council · 10 July 2003

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Dieter Brosz, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Wirtschaft und Arbeit betreffend Brand in der RPB Recycling Point Blumau Wiederaufbereitungsges.m.b.H in der Zeit von 24. September bis 3. Oktober 2002 und behördenseitige Abwicklung

Verkehrshölle und andere Umweltbelastung für Österreich nach Eröffnung des Outlet Centers bei Kleinhaugsdorf

Austria · National Council · 10 July 2003

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Mag. Ulrike Sima, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Land- und Forstwirtschaft, Umwelt und Wasserwirtschaft betreffend Verkehrshölle und andere Umweltbelastung für Österreich nach Eröffnung des Outlet Centers bei Kleinhaugsdorf

Wasserqualität in Einzelwasserversorgungsanlagen (Hausbrunnen)

Austria · National Council · 10 July 2003

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Mag. Johann Maier, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Land- und Forstwirtschaft, Umwelt und Wasserwirtschaft betreffend Wasserqualität in Einzelwasserversorgungsanlagen (Hausbrunnen)

eklatante Missstände im ARA-System

Austria · National Council · 10 July 2003

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Mag. Ulrike Sima, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Land- und Forstwirtschaft, Umwelt und Wasserwirtschaft betreffend eklatante Missstände im ARA <i>(Altstoff Recycling Austria)</i> -System und die dadurch entstandene Mehrbelastung für die heimischen Konsumenten/innen

Umsetzung Natura 2000

Austria · National Council · 10 July 2003

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Dr. Gabriela Moser, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Land- und Forstwirtschaft, Umwelt und Wasserwirtschaft betreffend Umsetzung Natura 2000, insbesondere im Rannatal

skandalöse Vorgänge in der österreichischen Abfallwirtschaft

Austria · National Council · 10 July 2003

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Dr. Eva Glawischnig, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Land- und Forstwirtschaft, Umwelt und Wasserwirtschaft betreffend skandalöse Vorgänge in der österreichischen Abfallwirtschaft

grenzüberschreitende Umweltverträglichkeitsprüfungsverfahren für verkehrsvermehrende Projekte entlang der Staatsgrenze Österreichs mit Tschechien, Slowakei und Ungarn

Austria · National Council · 10 July 2003

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Dr. Evelin Lichtenberger, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Land- und Forstwirtschaft, Umwelt und Wasserwirtschaft betreffend grenzüberschreitende Umweltverträglichkeitsprüfungsverfahren für verkehrsvermehrende Projekte entlang der Staatsgrenze Österreichs mit Tschechien, Slowakei und Ungarn <i>(im Zusammenhang mit der Eröffnung eines Outlet Centers in</i> <i>Kleinhaugsdorf)</i>

Bewertung des Pflanzenschutzmittels Aldicarb

Austria · National Council · 10 July 2003

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Dr. Gabriela Moser, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an die Bundesministerin für Gesundheit und Frauen betreffend Bewertung des Pflanzenschutzmittels Aldicarb <i>(im Zuckerrübenanbau und in Baumschulen)</i>

Brand in der RPB Recycling Point Blumau

Austria · National Council · 10 July 2003

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Dieter Brosz, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Inneres betreffend Brand in der RPB Recycling Point Blumau Wiederaufbereitungsges.m.b.H in der Zeit von 24. September bis 3. Oktober 2002 und behördenseitige Abwicklung

Bewertung des Pflanzenschutzmittels Aldicarb

Austria · National Council · 10 July 2003

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Dr. Gabriela Moser, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Land- und Forstwirtschaft, Umwelt und Wasserwirtschaft betreffend Bewertung des Pflanzenschutzmittels Aldicarb <i>(im Zuckerrübenanbau un in Baumschulen)</i>

Wasserqualität und Zustand von Einzelwasserversorgungsanlagen (Hausbrunnen) - Schutz der Lebensressource Wasser

Austria · National Council · 10 July 2003

Antrag der Abgeordneten Mag. Johann Maier, Kolleginnen und Kollegen betreffend Wasserqualität und Zustand von Einzelwasserversorgungsanlagen (Hausbrunnen) - Schutz der Lebensressource Wasser

Wasserqualität und Zustand von Einzelwasserversorgungsanlagen (Hausbrunnen) - Schutz der Lebensressource Wasser

Austria · National Council · 10 July 2003

Antrag der Abgeordneten Mag. Johann Maier, Kolleginnen und Kollegen betreffend Wasserqualität und Zustand von Einzelwasserversorgungsanlagen (Hausbrunnen) - Schutz der Lebensressource Wasser

Vorlage eines Bundesrahmengesetzes für die Fischerei durch den Bundesminister für Land- und Forstwirtschaft, Umwelt und Wasserwirtschaft

Austria · National Council · 9 July 2003

Antrag der Abgeordneten Dr. Günther Kräuter, Kolleginnen und Kollegen betreffend Vorlage eines Bundesrahmengesetzes für die Fischerei durch den Bundesminister für Land- und Forstwirtschaft, Umwelt und Wasserwirtschaft