Healthcare

Tobacco-Free Youth Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 1997

Tobacco-Free Youth Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make block grants for substance abuse prevention and treatment only to States having in effect a law barring the sale of tobacco products to individuals under age 21 (currently, age 18).

Family Planning and Choice Protection Act of 1997

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 1997

TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Prevention Subtitle A: Family Planning Subtitle B: Prescription Equity and Contraceptive Coverage Subtitle C: Emergency Contraceptives Title II: Research Title III: Choice Protection Family Planning and Choice Protection Act of 1997 - Title I: Prevention - Subtitle A: Family Planning - Amends the Public Health Service Act (PHSA) to authorize appropriations for voluntary family planning projects. (Sec. 102) Amends the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to prohibit, notwithstanding any other provision of law, any authority of the United States, in or through any health care services or information program or activity administered or assisted by that authority, from limiting any person's right to provide or receive nonfraudulent information regarding reproductive health care services. Subtitle B: Prescription Equity and Contraceptive Coverage - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) and the PHSA to prohibit a group health plan, and an insurer providing coverage in connection with a group plan, from restricting benefits for prescription contraceptive drugs, devices, or outpatient services if the plan provides benefits for other outpatient prescription drugs, devices, or services. Prohibits related denial of eligibility or enrollment, monetary payments or rebates to covered individuals, and penalties or incentives to health care professionals. Amends the PHSA to apply these prohibitions to insurers in the individual market. Declares that this paragraph does not preempt State law providing greater enrollee protections. Subtitle C: Emergency Contraceptives - Mandates development and dissemination to the public and health care providers of information on drugs or devices designed to be used after sexual relations to prevent pregnancy. Authorizes appropriations. Title II: Research - Declares the sense of the Congress regarding adequate funding for PHSA provisions regarding sexually transmitted diseases, breast and cervical cancers, and research on contraception and infertility. Title III: Choice Protection - Declares that it is the sense of the Congress that: (1) Federal and State governments should provide funding for abortion services to women eligible for assistance through title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act; (2) Federal resources are necessary to ensure safety for women and health professionals regarding reproductive health facilities and services; and (3) it is necessary and appropriate to use Federal resources to combat violence and harassment against reproductive health centers. (Sec. 303) Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to: (1) ensure that a Food and Drug Administration decision to approve the drug called Mifepristone or RU-486 is made only on the basis provided in law; and (2) assess initiatives to promote the testing, licensing, and manufacturing in the United States of the drug or other antiprogestins. (Sec. 304) Prohibits a State from restricting a woman's freedom to choose pregnancy termination before fetal viability. Allows a State to: (1) restrict that freedom after viability unless termination is necessary to preserve the woman's life or health; and (2) impose requirements on abortions if the requirements are medically necessary to protect the woman's health. (Sec. 306) Amends Federal law to allow funds available to the Department of Defense (DOD) to be used for abortions when the pregnancy resulted from rape or incest or when the abortion is medically necessary or appropriate. Replaces provisions prohibiting (with exceptions) the use of DOD facilities to perform abortions with provisions declaring that certain provisions do not limit performing abortions in a uniformed services facility outside the 48 contiguous States if the cost is fully paid by non-DOD funds, abortions are not prohibited by the facility's jurisdiction, and the abortion would otherwise be permitted under laws regarding health care for uniformed services members and former members and their dependents in that facility.

Medicare Beneficiary Freedom To Contract Act of 1997

United States · United States Congress · 18 September 1997

Medicare Beneficiary Freedom To Contract Act of 1997 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to revise provisions added by the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 regarding the use of private contracts by Medicare beneficiaries for professional services. Outlines specific requirements for private contracts between Medicare beneficiaries and physicians or health care practitioners for services for which no Medicare claims may be submitted.

Medicare Beneficiary Freedom To Contract Act of 1997

United States · United States Congress · 18 September 1997

Medicare Beneficiary Freedom To Contract Act of 1997 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to revise provisions added by the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 regarding the use of private contracts by Medicare beneficiaries for professional services. Outlines specific requirements for private contracts between Medicare beneficiaries and physicians or health care practitioners for services for which no Medicare claims may be submitted.

Continued Dumping or Subsidy Offset Act of 1997

United States · United States Congress · 18 September 1997

Continued Dumping or Subsidy Offset Act of 1997 - Amends the Tariff Act of 1930 to declare that, whenever continued dumping or subsidization is found to exist by the administering authority or by operation of law, any duties assessed shall be distributed as continued dumping or subsidy offsets to the affected domestic producers for qualifying expenditures on an annual basis. Limits qualifying expenditures to expenditures incurred since the issuance of the antidumping duty finding or order or countervailing duty order in any or all of the categories of plant, equipment, research and development, personnel training, acquisition of technology, employer-paid employee health care and pension benefits, and environmental equipment, training and-or technology. Directs the Commissioner of the U.S. Customs Service to prescribe offset disbursement procedures. Sets forth general procedures for notification of eligible parties. Requires the Commissioner to establish a special account in the Treasury to receive all antidumping or countervailing duties, including interest, for distribution according to this Act, within 14 days after an antidumping or countervailing duty order takes effect.

Expressing support for the goals of National Mammography Day.

United States · United States Congress · 18 September 1997

Supports National Mammography Day and urges all American women to take an active role in the fight against breast cancer by all means available to them. Calls for recognition of the role played by community organizations and health care providers in promoting awareness of the importance of regular mammograms and in helping to expand the availability of low-cost mammograms.

Expressing the sense of the Congress that the United States should develop, promote, and implement policies to achieve the voluntary stabilization of the population growth of the Nation.

United States · United States Congress · 18 September 1997

Calls upon the United States to develop, promote, and implement, at the earliest possible time and by voluntary means consistent with human rights and individual conscience, the policies necessary to stabilize the population growth of the United States.

To amend part C of title XVIII of the Social Security Act to speed up by 1 year the application of risk adjustment factors under the Medicare+Choice Program.

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 1997

Amends part C (Medicare+Choice) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act, as amended by the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, to accelerate from January 1, 2000, to January 1, 1999, the application of risk adjustment factors under the Medicare+Choice program.

David Satcher, of Tennessee, to be Medical Director in the Regular Corps of the Public Health Service, subject to qualifications therefor as provided by law and regulations, and to be Surgeon General of the Public Health Service for a term of four years, vice M. Jocelyn Elders.

United States · United States Senate · 12 September 1997

Food and Nutrition Information Reform Act of 1997

United States · United States Congress · 11 September 1997

TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Improving the Regulation and Labeling of Food Title II: Effective Date Food and Nutrition Information Reform Act - Title I: Improving the Regulation and Labeling of Food - Amends Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act provisions relating to food nutrition levels and health-related claims to allow certain regulations to be effective on publication at the discretion of the Secretary of Health and Human Services. (Sec. 102) Modifies requirements regarding petitions to issue a regulation on health-related claims. (Sec. 103) Allows a health or nutrient content claim not authorized by the Secretary if: (1) a U.S. governmental scientific body with public health protection or research responsibility directly relating to human nutrition has published an authoritative statement, currently in effect, about the relationship to which the health claim refers or setting forth a basis for the nutrient claim; (2) a person has notified the Secretary; (3) the claim and food are in compliance with certain requirements; and (4) the claim is stated in a way that it is an accurate representation of the authoritative statement and in a way that it enables the public to understand the information and its significance. (Sec. 105) Requires, if a nutrient claim is made and the food contains a nutrient at a level that increases to persons in the general population the risk of a disease or health-related condition that is diet-related, that the label contain, close to the claim, a statement referring to the nutrition information elsewhere on the label. (Sec. 107) Revises oleomargarine sale and labeling requirements. Repeals provisions relating to: (1) a congressional declaration of policy regarding oleomargarine sales; and (2) noncontravention of State oleomargarine laws. Title II: Effective Date - Sets forth the effective date of this Act.

To amend the Social Security Act with respect to limiting the use of automatic stays and discharge in bankruptcy proceedings for provider liability for health care fraud.

United States · United States Congress · 11 September 1997

Amends part A (General Provisions) of title XI and title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to exempt from the automatic stay requirements of the bankruptcy code and to make nondischargeable in bankruptcy proceedings: (1) any civil monetary penalty or program exclusion imposed on a health care provider by the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services; and (2) any recoupment of a Medicare overpayment.

To make medical savings accounts available in connection with certain health plans under chapter 89 of title 5, United States Code, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 11 September 1997

Amends Federal law relating to health insurance for Federal employees to authorize the Office of Personnel Management to contract for or approve one or more high deductible plans providing specified benefits. Allows the Government contribution for high deductible plans to be 100 percent of the subscription charge. Requires that, if 60 percent of the average subscription charge exceeds the total subscription charge of an employee's or annuitant's plan, the excess be paid into the employee's or annuitant's medical savings account. Determines that average disregarding high deductible plans. Amends Internal Revenue Code medical savings account provisions to require, for those provisions, treating the Federal Government as a small employer. Exempts individuals in high deductible plans from provisions limiting: (1) the medical savings account deduction to the compensation of the individual (provides for coordination with the exclusion for employer contributions); and (2) the number of taxpayers having medical savings accounts.

Children's Environmental Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 September 1997

Children's Environmental Protection Act - Amends the Toxic Substances Control Act to state U.S. policy regarding protection of vulnerable subpopulations from exposure to environmental pollutants. Defines "vulnerable subpopulations" as children, pregnant women, the elderly, individuals with a history of serious illness, and other subpopulations identified by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as likely to experience elevated health risks from environmental pollutants. Directs the Administrator to: (1) consistently and explicitly evaluate environmental health risks to vulnerable subpopulations in all risk assessments and characterizations, environmental and public health standards, and general regulatory decisions; (2) ensure that all EPA standards protect such subpopulations with an adequate margin of safety; (3) develop and use a separate assessment with respect to such subpopulations; and (4) issue revised standards, after reevaluation, that meet the criteria of this Act. Requires the Administrator to: (1) identify pollutants commonly used or found in areas reasonably accessible to children; (2) create and review at least annually a list of substances with known, likely, or suspected health risks to children and a list of safer-for-children substances and products for use in such areas; (3) establish guidelines to reduce and eliminate exposure to pollutants in such areas, including advice on integrated pest management; (4) create a family right-to-know information kit; and (5) make all information described above publicly available. Directs the Administrator and the Secretaries of Agriculture and of Health and Human Services to: (1) coordinate and support the development and implementation of research initiatives to examine the health effects and toxicity of pesticides and other pollutants on vulnerable subpopulations; and (2) report to the Congress. Authorizes appropriations.

District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 1998

United States · United States Congress · 9 September 1997

District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 1998 - Makes appropriations for the District of Columbia for FY 1998, including amounts for: (1) the Federal payment for management reform; (2) the Federal contribution toward costs of operating the District government; (3) Federal payments to the District's Corrections Trustee for operations and correctional facilities; and (4) the Federal payment to the District courts. Appropriates specified sums out of the District's general fund (and other funds, in some cases) for the current fiscal year for: (1) governmental direction and support; (2) economic development and regulation; (3) public safety and justice; (4) the public education system; (5) human support services; (6) public works; (7) financing and other uses; (8) enterprises and other uses; (9) the Water and Sewer Authority and the Washington Aqueduct; (10) the Lottery and Charitable Games Control Board; (11) the Starplex Fund; (12) D.C. General Hospital; (13) the D.C. Retirement Board; and (14) the Washington Convention Center Enterprise Fund. Makes appropriations for: (1) the District's Financial Responsibility and Management Assistance Authority (Authority); (2) capital outlays; and (3) deficit reduction and revitalization. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, such funds. Bars the use of revenues from Federal sources to support the operations of the D.C. Statehood and Statehood Compact Commissions. Requires the District to identify the sources of funding for Admission to Statehood from its own locally-generated revenues. (Sec. 110) Prohibits funds appropriated in this Act from being available to pay the salary of any District government employee whose name, title, grade, salary, work experience, and salary history are not available for inspection by specified congressional committees and subcommittees and the District Council. (Sec. 114) Bars the D.C. Mayor from borrowing any funds for capital projects without prior approval of the District Council. (Sec. 124) Applies any sequestration orders under the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act) to each account appropriating Federal funds in this Act rather than to the aggregate total of such accounts. Requires the Mayor, in the event such an order is issued after amounts appropriated to the District have been paid, to pay sequestered amounts to the Secretary of the Treasury (Secretary). (Sec. 128) Bars the use of Federal funds provided in this Act to provide for salaries or other expenses associated with the offices of U.S. Senator or Representative under the District of Columbia Statehood Constitutional Convention Initiatives of 1979. (Sec. 130) Makes the evaluation process and instruments for evaluating District public school employees a non-negotiable item for collective bargaining purposes. (Sec. 132) Amends the District of Columbia Self-Government and Governmental Reorganization Act to require the Authority (currently, the Mayor) to submit certain annual reports and plans on performance accountability of the District government to specified congressional committees and the Comptroller General. Requires the Chief Financial Officer (currently, the Mayor) to submit annual plans and reports regarding financial accountability as well as quarterly financial reports. Changes the deadline for the initial plans and reports. (Sec. 133) Sets forth conditions regarding the Mayor's nomination of department heads pursuant to the National Capital Revitalization and Self-Improvement Act of 1997. (Sec. 134) Prohibits the expenditure of funds appropriated under this Act for abortions except where the mother's life would be endangered if the fetus were carried to term or in cases of rape or incest. (Sec. 135) Bars the use of funds made available by this Act to implement any system of registration of unmarried, cohabitating couples for purposes of extending benefits to such couples on the same basis as such benefits are extended to married couples or to implement the District Domestic Partner Act (also known as the District of Columbia Health Care Benefits Expansion Act of 1992). (Sec. 140) Establishes a ceiling on total operating expenses for the District for FY 1998. Permits increases of such amount for: (1) one-time emergency or unanticipated operating or capital needs transactions approved by the Authority; and (2) additional approved expenditures which the Chief Financial Officer certifies will produce additional revenues during such fiscal year at least equal to 200 percent of such expenditures. Sets forth conditions under which grants excluded from such ceiling may be accepted. (Sec. 141) Amends the District of Columbia Retirement Reform Act to exclude up to 50 police officers and 50 fire and emergency medical services members who were hired before February 14, 1980, and who retire on disability before the end of 1998 from the computation of the rate of disability retirements for purposes of reducing the authorized Federal payment to the District of Columbia Police Officers and Fire Fighters' Retirement Fund. (Sec. 142) Directs the District of Columbia Emergency Transitional Education Board of Trustees to: (1) develop a comprehensive plan to identify and accomplish energy conservation measures to achieve maximum cost-effective energy and water savings; (2) enter into innovative financing and contractual mechanisms for such purposes; and (3) encourage District agencies to participate in programs conducted by utilities for the management of electricity or gas demand or energy or water conservation. (Sec. 143) Amends the District of Columbia Self-Government and Governmental Reorganization Act to require all Special Masters appointed by the District Superior Court or the U.S. district court for the District circuit to any District government agency to submit annual estimates of expenditures and appropriations to the Authority for inclusion in the annual budget. (Sec. 144) Authorizes the Secretary to reimburse the District government for District law enforcement services, personnel, equipment, and facilities used for protection of the President and Vice-President. Repeals provisions of Federal law that authorize the U.S. Government and the District government to enter into intergovernmental service agreements. (Sec. 145) Makes additional appropriations for U.S. Park police operations in the District. (Sec. 146) Requires the District government to maintain funding for homeless services in FY 1998 at FY 1997 levels. (Sec. 147) Directs the Authority and the Chief Executive Officer of the District public schools to report to specified congressional committees on measures to be taken to ensure that the District's public schools open on time to begin the 1998-99 academic year.

Disapproving the cancellation transmitted by the President on August 11, 1997, regarding Public Law 105-33.

United States · United States Congress · 9 September 1997

Disapproves the President's cancellation (line item veto) of a provision in the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 that deems certain taxes, fees, or assessments collected by New York State from a health care provider before June 1, 1997, for which a specified waiver has been sought, to be permissible broad-based health care related taxes in compliance with Medicaid law (thus exempting such taxes, fees, or assessments from the requirement that provider-specific taxes be subtracted from the State share of Medicaid expenditures for purposes of Federal share calculation).

To provide for a waiver for the State of New York of certain health care provider tax provisions under Medicaid.

United States · United States Congress · 9 September 1997

Deems to be permissible broad-based health care related taxes certain taxes, fees, or assessments under title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act which were collected by New York State from a health care provider before June 1, 1997, for which a specified waiver has been applied, or would be but for this provision (thus exempting such tax, fees, or assessments from the requirement that provider-specified specific taxes be subtracted from the State share of Medicaid expenditures for purposes of Federal share calculation).

To extend the National Bone Marrow Donor Program, and to establish a provision regarding the bone marrow registry and persons of mixed ancestry.

United States · United States Congress · 5 September 1997

Amends the Public Health Service Act to add references to persons of mixed ancestry to provisions requiring the National Bone Marrow Donor Registry to increase the representation of individuals from racial and ethnic minority groups in the pool of potential donors. Authorizes appropriations to carry out provisions mandating establishment and maintenance of the Registry.

Nursing Home Public Information Act of 1997

United States · United States Congress · 5 September 1997

Nursing Home Public Information Act of 1997 - Mandates dissemination of information concerning final adverse actions against and quality of care in nursing facilities. Requires updating of the information at least monthly.

Fight Hospital Fraud in Medicare Act of 1997

United States · United States Congress · 5 September 1997

Fight Hospital Fraud in Medicare Act of 1997 - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to devise plans for random investigations of hospitals for potential violations of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA). Directs the Administrator of the Health Care Financing Administration to establish a program to educate hospitals on compliance with Medicare regulations. Directs the Comptroller General to study and report to the Congress on the extent to which fines, settlements, and overpayments under the Medicare program are associated with for-profit hospitals. Amends SSA title XVIII to authorize the Secretary to impose fees for hospital agreements, except in the case of for-profit hospitals, with respect to which the Secretary is required to impose such fees. Requires that collected fees be credited to a special fund in the Treasury to remain available until expended for specified purposes. Outlines similar provisions for fees for issuance of standard health care identifiers.

Substance Abuse Treatment Parity Act of 1997

United States · United States Congress · 4 September 1997

Substance Abuse Treatment Parity Act of 1997 - Amends the Public Health Service Act, Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, and the Internal Revenue Code to require parity and nondiscriminatory application of treatment limitations and financial requirements to substance abuse treatment benefits under private group and individual health plans which offer such treatment benefits in addition to medical and surgical benefits. Exempts from this Act small employers with 50 or fewer employees.

Substance Abuse Treatment Parity Act of 1997

United States · United States Congress · 4 September 1997

Substance Abuse Treatment Parity Act of 1997 - Amends the Public Health Service Act, Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, and the Internal Revenue Code to require parity and nondiscriminatory application of treatment limitations and financial requirements to substance abuse treatment benefits under private group and individual health plans which offer such treatment benefits in addition to medical and surgical benefits. Exempts from this Act small employers with 50 or fewer employees.

To amend section 1128B of the Social Security Act to repeal the criminal penalty for counseling or assisting an individual to dispose of assets in order to become eligible for Medicaid benefits.

United States · United States Congress · 4 September 1997

Amends title XI of the Social Security Act to repeal the criminal penalty for counseling or assisting an individual regarding disposition of assets in order to become eligible for Medicaid benefits.

A bill disapproving the cancellation transmitted by the President on August 11, 1997, regarding Public Law 105-33.

United States · United States Congress · 3 September 1997

Disapproves the President's cancellation (line item veto) of a provision in the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 that deems certain taxes, fees, or assessments collected by New York State from a health care provider before June 1, 1997, for which a specified waiver has been sought, to be permissible broad-based health care related taxes in compliance with Medicaid law (thus exempting such taxes, fees, or assessments from the requirement that provider-specific taxes be subtracted from the State share of Medicaid expenditures for purposes of Federal share calculation).

Patient Abuse Prevention Act

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1997

Patient Abuse Prevention Act - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish under the Social Security Act (SSA) title XI health care fraud and abuse data collection program the National Registry of Abusive Workers, which shall collect and maintain data from State registries and other entities on covered health care workers who have been the subject of reports of patient abuse. Outlines requirements for the submission of such information. Requires each covered health care facility to provide for: (1) State criminal background checks for covered health care workers; and (2) a probationary period of employment for such workers pending the completion of such procedures. Provides penalties for violations of such requirement. Provides for a mandatory lifetime exclusion from participation in Medicare and State health care programs of any individual or entity: (1) convicted of a criminal offense involving a crime against bodily security, including child or elder abuse; or (2) found to have knowingly continued to employ an individual so convicted in a position involving direct patient care, or to have knowingly failed to report an individual who has been determined to have committed such a criminal offense. Authorizes the Secretary to exclude from such programs any individual or entity that is or has been the subject of a specific documented finding of patient abuse by a State. Applies such exclusions to any entity eligible for reimbursement under a Federal health care program. Directs the Secretary to establish a demonstration program to provide grants to develop information on best practices in patient abuse prevention training for managers and staff of hospital and health care facilities. Authorizes appropriations.

Lifetime Caps Discrimination Prevention Act

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1997

Lifetime Caps Discrimination Prevention Act - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 and the Public Health Service Act to prohibit a group health plan (and a health insurer providing coverage under a group plan) from imposing an aggregate dollar lifetime limit less than specified amounts. Exempts plans offered to or maintained for employees of employers with fewer than 20 employees.

Recognizing suicide as a national problem, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1997

Declares that the House of Representatives recognizes suicide as a national problem and declares suicide prevention a national priority, acknowledges that no single prevention program will be appropriate for all populations or communities, and encourages certain initiatives, including the development (and the promotion of accessibility and affordability) of mental health services to enable all persons at risk for suicide to obtain services without fear of stigma.

To improve the regulation of radiopharmaceuticals.

United States · United States Congress · 30 July 1997

Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to issue regulations regarding the approval of radiopharmaceuticals designed for diagnosis and monitoring of diseases and conditions.

Medicare Fraud and Abuse Control Act of 1997

United States · United States Congress · 30 July 1997

Medicare Fraud and Abuse Control Act of 1997 - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a Federal program to prevent, detect, and control fraud and abuse under Medicare. Requires the Secretary to pay a portion of any civil monetary penalty for a Medicare violation to any person or entity whose information led to the imposition of that penalty. Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to: (1) require that a statement soliciting information of any fraud or abuse be included with every explanation of benefits received and notice of payment made under Medicare; and (2) double the amount of criminal and civil monetary penalties that are assessed for various Medicare violations.

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to exclude from income capital gain from the sale of a principal residence.

United States · United States Congress · 30 July 1997

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exclude all gain on the sale of a principal residence if owned and used as the principal residence for periods aggregating at least three years during the five-year period prior to sale or exchange. Sets forth special rules relating to: (1) jointly held property; (2) a deceased spouse; (3) a cooperative housing tenant-stockholder; (4) partial principal residence use; (5) determination of marital status; (6) acquisition after involuntary conversion; and (7) periods of out-of-residence health care.

Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act Amendments of 1997

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 1997

Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act Amendments of 1997 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to exempt a physician clinical office laboratory from certification requirements, except when such laboratory performs a pap smear (Papanicolaou Smear) analysis.

Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1998

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 1997

TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Department of Labor Title II: Department of Health and Human Services Title III: Department of Education Title IV: Related Agencies Title V: General Provisions Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1998 - Makes appropriations for FY 1998 for the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education and related agencies. Title I: Department of Labor - Department of Labor Appropriations Act, 1998 - Makes appropriations for the Department of Labor for: (1) training and employment services; (2) community service employment for older Americans; (3) Federal unemployment benefits and allowances; (4) State unemployment insurance and employment service operations; (5) advances to the Unemployment Trust Fund and other trust funds; (6) employment and training program administration; (7) the Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration for salaries and expenses and the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation; (8) the Employment Standards Administration; (9) certain special benefits; (10) the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund; (11) the Occupational Safety and Health Administration; (12) the Mine Safety and Health Administration; (13) the Bureau of Labor Statistics; (14) departmental management; and (15) the Office of Inspector General. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, funds appropriated under this title. Title II: Department of Health and Human Services - Department of Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 1998 - Makes appropriations for the Department of Health and Human Services for: (1) the Health Resources and Services Administration; (2) Federal interest subsidies for medical facilities; (3) health education assistance loans; (4) the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program Trust Fund; (5) the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; (6) the National Institutes of Health, including amounts for the John E. Fogarty International Center, the National Library of Medicine, the Office of the Director, and buildings and facilities; (7) the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration; (8) retirement pay and medical benefits for Public Health Service commissioned officers; (9) the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research; (10) the Health Care Financing Administration for grants to States for Medicaid, payments to health care trust funds, program management, and the Health Maintenance Organization Loan and Loan Guarantee Fund; (11) the Administration for Children and Families for family support payments to States; (12) low income home energy assistance; (13) refugee and entrant assistance; (14) the child care and development block grant; (15) the social services block grant; (16) children and families services programs; (17) family preservation and support; (18) payments to States for foster care and adoption assistance; (19) the Administration on Aging; (20) the Office of the Secretary for general departmental management; (21) the Office of Inspector General; (22) the Office for Civil Rights; and (23) policy research. Rescinds FY 1998 funds for a sample study of child welfare. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, funds appropriated under this title. (Sec. 211) Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to provide for the relocation of the Gillis W. Long Hansen's Disease Center in Carville, Louisiana. Sets forth administrative provisions with respect to relocation of patients and separation of employees. (Sec. 212) Prohibits funds appropriated in this Act from being made available under title X (population research and voluntary family planning) of the Public Health Service Act unless the applicant for the award certifies to the Secretary that it encourages family participation in the decision of minors to seek family planning services and provides counseling to minors on resisting attempts to coerce minors into engaging in sexual activities. Title III: Department of Education - Department of Education Appropriations Act, 1998 - Makes appropriations for the Department of Education for: (1) education reform; (2) education for the disadvantaged; (3) impact aid; (4) school improvement activities; (5) literacy; (6) Indian education; (7) bilingual and immigrant education; (8) special education; (9) rehabilitation services and disability research; (10) special institutions for persons with disabilities; (11) vocational and adult education; (12) student financial assistance; (13) the Federal family education loan program account; (14) higher education; (15) Howard University; (16) college housing and academic facilities loans program; (17) the historically black college and university capital financing program account; (18) education research, statistics, and improvement; (19) libraries; (20) departmental management; (21) the Office for Civil Rights; and (22) the Office of the Inspector General. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, funds appropriated under this title. (Sec. 301) Prohibits funds appropriated in this Act from being used to: (1) transport teachers or students in order to overcome racial imbalance in any school or to carry out a racial desegregation plan; or (2) prevent the implementation of programs of voluntary prayer and meditation in public schools. (Sec. 306) Requires the Secretary of Education, from funds appropriated under the Fund for the Improvement of Education, to make an award to the National Academy of Sciences to evaluate and report to specified congressional committees on certain items related to the Clinton Administration's proposed national tests in fourth grade reading and eighth grade math. Prohibits the Department of Education from administering any final version of such tests until such report is completed. Title IV: Related Agencies - Makes appropriations for the: (1) Armed Forces Retirement Home; (2) Corporation for National and Community Service; (3) Corporation for Public Broadcasting; (4) Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service; (5) Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission; (6) National Commission on Libraries and Information Science; (7) National Council on Disability; (8) National Education Goals Panel; (9) National Labor Relations Board; (10) National Mediation Board; (11) Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission; (12) Physician Payment Review Commission; (13) Prospective Payment Assessment Commission; (14) Railroad Retirement Board for the dual benefits payments account, Federal payments to the railroad retirement accounts, administration, and the Office of Inspector General; (15) Social Security Administration for payments to the social security trust funds, special benefits for disabled coal miners, the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Program, administrative expenses, and the Office of Inspector General; and (16) U.S. Institute of Peace. Title V: General Provisions - Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, funds appropriated under this Act. (Sec. 506) Sets forth Buy American provisions. (Sec. 508) Prohibits the expenditure of funds appropriated under this Act for an abortion except when made known to the Federal entity to which funds are appropriated that such procedure is necessary to save the life of the mother or that the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest. (Sec. 511) Prohibits the use of funds made available in this Act for: (1) the creation of a human embryo for research purposes; or (2) research in which a human embryo is destroyed or knowingly subjected to risk of injury or death greater than that allowed for research on fetuses in utero under Federal regulations and the Public Health Service Act. (Sec. 512) Prohibits the use of funds made available in this Act for activities to promote the legalization of a controlled substance unless there is significant medical evidence of a therapeutic advantage to the use of such substance or that federally-sponsored trials are being conducted to determine such advantage. (Sec. 514) Amends the Social Security Act to increase fees required from States for Federal administration of State supplementary payments under the SSI program. Provides for the deposit of a portion of such fees into a special fund and authorizes appropriations from the fund for administrative expenses of the SSI program. (Sec. 515) Amends the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1997 to extend certain voluntary separation incentive payments to Federal employees who separate before December 31, 1997 (currently, September 30, 1997).

Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 1998

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 1997

TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Military Personnel Title II: Operation and Maintenance Title III: Procurement Title IV: Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation Title V: Revolving and Management Funds Title VI: Other Department of Defense Programs Title VII: Related Agencies Title VIII: General Provisions Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 1998 - Title I: Military Personnel - Appropriates funds for FY 1998 for active-duty and reserve personnel in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force and for National Guard personnel in the Army and Air Force. Title II: Operation and Maintenance - Appropriates funds for FY 1998 for the operation and maintenance of the Army, Navy, and Air Force (including a transfer of funds in each case), the Marine Corps, the defense agencies, the reserve components, and the Army and Air National Guards. Appropriates funds for: (1) the Overseas Contingency Operations Transfer Fund (including a transfer of funds); (2) the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces; (3) environmental restoration for the Army, Navy, and Air Force and defense-wide (including a transfer of funds in each case); (4) environmental restoration at formerly used defense sites (including a transfer of funds); (5) overseas humanitarian, disaster, and civic aid programs; and (6) former Soviet Union threat reduction. Title III: Procurement - Appropriates funds for FY 1998 for procurement by the armed forces and reserve components of aircraft, missiles, weapons, tracked combat vehicles, ammunition, and shipbuilding and conversion and for other procurement. Appropriates funds for defense-wide procurement and for National Guard and reserve equipment. Title IV: Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation - Appropriates funds for FY 1998 for research, development, test, and evaluation by the armed forces and defense agencies. Appropriates funds for the Directors of Test and Evaluation and Operational Test and Evaluation. Title V: Revolving and Management Funds - Appropriates funds for: (1) the Defense Working Capital Funds; and (2) programs under the National Defense Sealift Fund. Title VI: Other Department of Defense Programs - Appropriates funds for: (1) Department of Defense (DOD) medical and health care programs; (2) the destruction of lethal chemical agents and munitions; (3) drug interdiction and counter-drug activities, defense (including a transfer of funds); and (4) the Office of the Inspector General. Title VII: Related Agencies - Appropriates funds for: (1) the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System Fund; (2) the Intelligence Community Management Account; (3) payment to the Kaho'olawe Island Conveyance, Remediation, and Environmental Restoration Fund; and (4) national security scholarships, fellowships, and grants (using funds derived from the National Security Education Trust Fund). Title VIII: General Provisions - Specifies authorized, restricted, and prohibited uses of appropriated funds. (Sec. 8008) Authorizes appropriated procurement funds to be used for multiyear procurement contracts for Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles. (Sec. 8010) Prohibits during FY 1998 the management by end strengths of DOD civilian personnel. (Sec. 8018) Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to establish with host governments of NATO-member countries an account for the deposit of residual value amounts negotiated in the return of U.S. military installations to such countries. (Sec. 8029) Authorizes DOD to incur obligations of up to $350 million for DOD personnel compensation, military construction projects, and supplies and services in anticipation of receipts of contributions from the Government of Kuwait. (Sec. 8031) Directs the Secretary to reduce by $55 million the total amounts appropriated in titles II through IV to reflect savings from the DOD use of defense federally funded research and development centers (FFRDCs). Reduces by $86.3 million the total amounts appropriated in title II to reflect savings from the decreased use of non-FFRDC consulting services. (Sec. 8032) Provides Buy American requirements with respect to the DOD procurement of carbon, alloy, or armor steel plating. Requires the Secretary to report to the Congress on the amount of DOD purchases from foreign entities in FY 1998. (Sec. 8045) Prohibits the use of funds for the modification of an aircraft, weapon, ship, or other equipment that the military department concerned plans to retire or otherwise dispose of within five years after completion of the modification. (Sec. 8050) Prohibits the use of funds: (1) by a DOD entity without compliance with the Buy American Act; (2) to establish additional field operating agencies of DOD elements or to hire additional personnel for such agencies, except for those funded within the National Foreign Intelligence Program; (3) for assistance to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea unless specifically appropriated; and (4) to reduce the civilian medical and medical support personnel assigned to military treatment facilities below the September 30, 1997, level. (Sec. 8055) Rescinds specified funds from various accounts under prior defense appropriations Acts. (Sec. 8071) Directs the Secretary to report quarterly to specified congressional committees on all costs incurred by DOD during the preceding quarter in implementing or supporting United Nations (UN) resolutions. (Sec. 8072) Prohibits the use of FY 1997 funds to transfer to another nation or international organization any defense articles or services (other than intelligence services) for use in international peacekeeping or peace enforcement activities. (Sec. 8078) Directs the Secretary to make specified transfers between various DOD appropriation accounts. (Sec. 8079) Directs the Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller) to submit to the defense committees a report identifying any activity for which the FY 1999 budget request was reduced because the Congress appropriated funds above the President's budget request for that activity for FY 1998. (Sec. 8080) Prohibits DOD funds from being obligated or expended to reimburse a defense contractor for restructuring costs associated with a business combination unless certain savings are realized by DOD as a result of such restructuring. Requires a related report from the Comptroller General. (Sec. 8082) Authorizes the Chief of the National Guard Bureau to permit the use of equipment of the National Guard Distance Learning Project on a space-available, reimbursable basis. (Sec. 8093) Reduces by specified amounts the total amount appropriated in this Act to reflect savings due to: (1) excess inventory; (2) shared cleanup costs; and (3) the repeal of provisions requiring certain defense contractor guarantees with respect to major weapon systems. (Sec. 8098) Directs the Secretary to submit to specified congressional committees: (1) an aviation safety plan of navigational safety upgrades for all DOD aircraft, along with funding requirements; and (2) a report on alternatives for current theater combat simulations. (Sec. 8101) Requires each annual Federal budget beginning with FY 1999 to include budget activity groups which separately identify all DOD costs incurred to support NATO expansion. (Sec. 8102) Prohibits DOD funds for any fiscal year from being obligated for the deployment of U.S. troops in Bosnia and Herzegovina after: (1) June 30, 1998; or (2) such later date as specifically prescribed by law. Provides exceptions. Prohibits any such funds from being used for the conduct or support of law enforcement activities in such areas, except for the training of law enforcement personnel or to prevent imminent loss of life. Directs the President to report to the Congress on the political and military conditions in such countries.

Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1998

United States · United States Congress · 24 July 1997

TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Department of Labor Title II: Department of Health and Human Services Title III: Department of Education Title IV: Related Agencies Title V: General Provisions Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1998 - Makes appropriations for FY 1998 for the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education and related agencies. Title I: Department of Labor - Department of Labor Appropriations Act, 1998 - Makes appropriations for the Department of Labor for: (1) training and employment services; (2) community service employment for older Americans; (3) Federal unemployment benefits and allowances; (4) State unemployment insurance and employment service operations; (5) advances to the Unemployment Trust Fund and other trust funds; (6) employment and training program administration; (7) the Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration for salaries and expenses and the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation; (8) the Employment Standards Administration; (9) certain special benefits; (10) the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund; (11) the Occupational Safety and Health Administration; (12) the Mine Safety and Health Administration; (13) the Bureau of Labor Statistics; (14) departmental management; and (15) the Office of Inspector General. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, funds appropriated under this title. Title II: Department of Health and Human Services - Department of Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 1998 - Makes appropriations for the Department of Health and Human Services for: (1) the Health Resources and Services Administration; (2) Federal interest subsidies for medical facilities; (3) health education assistance loans; (4) the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program Trust Fund; (5) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; (6) the National Institutes of Health, including amounts for the John E. Fogarty International Center, the National Library of Medicine, the Office of the Director, and buildings and facilities; (7) the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration; (8) retirement pay and medical benefits for Public Health Service commissioned officers; (9) the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research; (10) the Health Care Financing Administration for grants to States for Medicaid, payments to health care trust funds, program management, and the Health Maintenance Organization Loan and Loan Guarantee Fund; (11) the Administration for Children and Families for family support payments to States; (12) low income home energy assistance; (13) refugee and entrant assistance; (14) the child care and development block grant; (15) the social services block grant; (16) children and families services programs; (17) family preservation and support; (18) payments to States for foster care and adoption assistance; (19) the Administration on Aging; (20) the Office of the Secretary for general departmental management; (21) the Office of Inspector General; (22) the Office for Civil Rights; and (23) policy research. Rescinds FY 1998 funds for a sample study of child welfare. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, funds appropriated under this title. Title III: Department of Education - Department of Education Appropriations Act, 1998 - Makes appropriations for the Department of Education for: (1) education reform; (2) education for the disadvantaged; (3) impact aid; (4) school improvement activities; (5) Indian education; (6) bilingual and immigrant education; (7) special education; (8) rehabilitation services and disability research; (9) special institutions for persons with disabilities; (10) vocational and adult education; (11) student financial assistance; (12) the Federal family education loan program account; (13) higher education; (14) Howard University; (15) the college housing and academic facilities loans program; (16) the historically black college and university capital financing program account; (17) education research, statistics, and improvement; (18) a child literacy initiative; (19) the Institute of Museum and Library Services; (20) departmental management; (21) the Office for Civil Rights; and (22) the Office of the Inspector General. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, funds appropriated under this title. (Sec. 301) Prohibits funds appropriated in this Act from being used to: (1) transport teachers or students in order to overcome racial imbalance in any school or to carry out a racial desegregation plan; or (2) prevent the implementation of programs of voluntary prayer and meditation in public schools. Title IV: Related Agencies - Makes appropriations for the: (1) Armed Forces Retirement Home; (2) Corporation for National and Community Service; (3) Corporation for Public Broadcasting; (4) Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service; (5) Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission; (6) National Commission on Libraries and Information Science; (7) National Council on Disability; (8) National Education Goals Panel; (9) National Labor Relations Board; (10) National Mediation Board; (11) Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission; (12) Physician Payment Review Commission; (13) Prospective Payment Assessment Commission; (14) Railroad Retirement Board for the dual benefits payments account, Federal payments to the railroad retirement accounts, administration, and the Office of Inspector General; (15) Social Security Administration for payments to the social security trust funds, special benefits for disabled coal miners, the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Program, administrative expenses, and the Office of Inspector General; and (16) U.S. Institute of Peace. Title V: General Provisions - Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, funds appropriated under this Act. (Sec. 506) Sets forth Buy American provisions. (Sec. 508) Prohibits the expenditure of funds appropriated under this Act for an abortion except when made known to the Federal entity to which funds are appropriated that such procedure is necessary to save the life of the mother or that the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest. (Sec. 511) Prohibits the use of funds made available in this Act for: (1) the creation of a human embryo for research purposes; or (2) research in which a human embryo is destroyed or knowingly subjected to risk of injury or death greater than that allowed for research on fetuses in utero under Federal regulations and the Public Health Service Act. (Sec. 512) Prohibits the use of funds made available in this Act for activities to promote the legalization of a controlled substance unless there is significant medical evidence of a therapeutic advantage to the use of such substance or that federally-sponsored trials are being conducted to determine such advantage. (Sec. 514) Amends the Social Security Act to increase fees required from States for Federal administration of State supplementary payments under the SSI program. Provides for the deposit of a portion of such fees into a special fund and authorizes appropriations from the fund for administrative expenses of the SSI program. (Sec. 515) Amends the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1997 to extend certain voluntary separation incentive payments to Federal employees who separate before December 31, 1997 (currently, September 30, 1997). (Sec. 516) Cancels a specified amount of budgetary resources available to agencies funded in this Act for salaries and expenses during FY 1998, to be allocated by the Office of Management and Budget. Makes this provision inapplicable to the Food and Drug Administration and the Indian Health Service.

Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act Amendments of 1997

United States · United States Congress · 24 July 1997

Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act Amendments of 1997 - Exempts a physician clinical office laboratory from Public Health Service Act certification requirements, except when such laboratory performs a pap smear (Papanicolaou Smear) analysis.

Office of National Drug Control Policy Reauthorization Act of 1997

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 1997

Office of National Drug Control Policy Reauthorization Act of 1997 - Amends the National Narcotics Leadership Act of 1988 (the Act) to revise definitions, including by: (1) including within the definition of "demand reduction" activities to reduce the underage use of tobacco or alcoholic beverages; and (2) defining "intergovernmental relations" as domestic activities conducted by a National Drug Control Program agency that are intended to reduce the availability and use of drugs. Modifies provisions of the Act regarding establishment of the Office of National Drug Control Policy (the Office) to: (1) set forth the responsibilities of such Office (to develop national drug control policy, coordinate and oversee its implementation, assess and certify the adequacy of national drug control programs and budgets, and evaluate their effectiveness); and (2) provide for Deputy Directors of National Drug Control Policy, for International Drug Policy, and for Intergovernmental Relations. Establishes in the Treasury a fund for the receipt of gifts to aid or facilitate the work of the Office. Prohibits Federal officers in the Office from participating in Federal election campaign activities, except for making contributions to individual campaigns. Sets forth or modifies provisions regarding the responsibilities of national drug control program agencies, the drug certification process, and coordination with executive branch departments and agencies in supply and demand reduction and intergovernmental relations. Amends provisions regarding the National Drug Control Strategy to require: (1) the President to submit to the Congress by February 1, 1997, a Strategy which sets forth a comprehensive ten-year plan for reducing drug abuse and its consequences in the United States by limiting the availability of and reducing the demand for illegal drugs and the first of annual reports on progress in implementing the Strategy; and (2) the Director of National Drug Control Policy to include with the annual Strategy Report a description of the national drug control performance measurement system. Establishes in the Office a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Program. Amends provisions regarding the Counter-Drug Technology Assessment Center to have it headed by a Director of Technology and to specify duties of such Director, such as identifying demand reduction basic and applied research needs and initiatives. Requires the Departments of Defense and Health and Human Services to render assistance and support to the Office and its Director in the conduct of counter-drug technology assessment. Terminates the Office on September 30, 2009. Authorizes appropriations.

Veterans Health Programs Improvement Act of 1997

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 1997

Veterans Health Programs Improvement Act of 1997 - Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, in providing care and services to veterans suffering from serious mental illness, including homeless veterans, to provide: (1) outreach services; (2) care, treatment, and rehabilitative services (including the use of halfway houses); and (3) therapeutic transitional housing assistance and outpatient care. Authorizes the Secretary to operate residences and facilities as therapeutic housing, with specified conditions, including the requirement of a house manager at each residence and payments by residents to cover board expenses. Directs the Secretary to operate a program to expand and improve the provision of veterans' benefits to homeless veterans. Requires the establishment of at least eight sites as centers for the provision of comprehensive services to homeless veterans. Directs the Secretary to coordinate such services with other Federal departments and agencies, State and local governments, and nongovernmental organizations. Requires assessments of the needs of homeless veterans living in each area served by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Amends the Homeless Veterans Comprehensive Service Programs Act of 1992 to extend through FY 1999 the homeless veterans comprehensive service grant program. Amends the Veterans' Benefits Improvements Act of 1994 to require additional information on program effectiveness in a required report concerning assistance provided to homeless veterans. Extends permanently a pilot program for the furnishing of noninstitutional alternatives to veterans' nursing home care. Authorizes (current law requires) the Secretary to furnish appropriate health-related services solely through contracts with public and private agencies and to designate Department health-care employees to furnish case management services to veterans furnished such services. Amends the Veterans Health Care Act of 1992 to require counseling to Persian Gulf War veterans to include verbal counseling along with the provision of written materials. Authorizes the Secretary to provide hospital care and services to a veteran who was exposed to a toxic substance, radiation (current law), or other conditions (currently, an environmental hazard) while performing military service. Directs the Secretary to carry out a program of demonstration projects to test new approaches to treating, and improving treatment satisfaction of, Persian Gulf veterans who suffer from undiagnosed and ill-defined disabilities. Requires the program to be established no later than July 1, 1998, at up to ten geographically dispersed Department medical centers. Provides funding. Excludes from Federal personnel reduction requirements employees of the Veterans Health Administration who: (1) provide or supervise others who provide care and services to patients; or (2) conduct research. Empowers the Secretary with sole authority to establish Department canteens and to fix the prices of merchandise sold in such canteens. Allows such canteens to provide support services to Department medical facilities.

To require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to take no further action on a proposed regulation relating to the use of chlorofluorocarbons in metered-dose inhalers.

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 1997

Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to: (1) take no action to promulgate a final rule on a proposed regulation of the Food and Drug Administration to designate the use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in metered-dose inhalers (MDI) as non-essential, making MDIs that use CFCs an adulterated device; and (2) focus efforts on implementing existing Montreal Protocol decisions that will facilitate a transition to CFC-free by the year 2005.

Genetic Protection in Insurance Coverage Act

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 1997

Genetic Protection in Insurance Coverage Act - Sets forth a limitation on the disclosure and use of genetic information by life and disability insurers.

HIV Prevention Outreach Act of 1997

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 1997

HIV Prevention Outreach Act of 1997 - Mandates grants to States and their political subdivisions for projects making sterile hypodermic needles available to the public without charge as part of a program for the prevention of infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Requires that amounts be reserved for the grants from amounts appropriated under the Public Health Service Act, but prohibits reserving amounts from appropriations under that Act for any substance abuse treatment program.

Consumers' Nutrition and Health Information Act

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 1997

Consumers' Nutrition and Health Information Act - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to allow a health claim to be made regarding the relationship of a food to a disease or health-related condition if: (1) an authoritative Federal scientific body with official responsibility for public health protection or research directly relating to human nutrition or the National Academy of Sciences has published a statement recognizing that the relationship between the nutrient and disease or health-related condition is supported by pertinent scientific evidence; (2) a person has notified the Secretary of the claim; and (3) the food is not misbranded.

Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 1998

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 1997

TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Department of Veterans Affairs Title II: Department of Housing and Urban Development Title III: Independent Agencies Title IV: General Provisions Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 1998 - Makes appropriations for FY 1998 for the Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development and for sundry independent agencies. Title I: Department of Veterans Affairs - Makes appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs for: (1) veterans' compensation, pensions, and readjustment benefits; (2) veterans' insurance and indemnities; (3) veterans' housing, education, and vocational rehabilitation loan accounts; (4) veterans' medical care; (5) medical and prosthetic research; (6) medical administration; (7) the General Post Fund, national homes; (8) departmental administration; (9) the National Cemetery System; (10) the Office of Inspector General; (11) construction; (12) the parking revolving fund; and (13) grants to States for construction of extended care facilities and cemeteries. Prohibits the obligation of funds provided under previous legislation for a replacement hospital at Travis Air Force Base in Fairfield, California, and makes such funds available to implement capital facility recommendations contained in a report regarding veterans' health care needs in northern California. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, funds made available under this title. Title II: Department of Housing and Urban Development - Makes appropriations for the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for: (1) public and Indian housing; (2) the Public Housing Capital and Operating Funds; (3) drug elimination grants for low-income housing; (4) revitalization of severely distressed public housing; (5) Native American housing block grants; (6) Indian housing loan guarantees; (7) housing opportunities for persons with AIDS; (8) community development block grants; (9) the HOME investment partnerships program; (10) homeless assistance grants; (11) housing for special populations; (12) the Federal Housing Administration; (13) the Government National Mortgage Association; (14) housing policy development and research; (15) fair housing activities; (16) management and administration; (17) the Office of Inspector General; and (18) carrying out the Federal Housing Enterprise Financial Safety and Soundness Act of 1992. Sets forth provisions regarding the Capital Grants - Capital Loans Preservation Account and makes certain excess amounts recaptured from interest reduction payment contracts available for properties eligible for assistance under the Low-Income Housing Preservation and Resident Homeownership Act of 1990 or the Emergency Low Income Housing Preservation Act of 1987. Rescinds specified amounts for: (1) the Supportive Housing Demonstration Program; (2) the Shelter Plus Care program; and (3) rental housing assistance. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, funds made available under this title. (Sec. 201) Extends certain provisions regarding contributions for low-income housing projects and the demolition, disposition, or conversion to home ownership of public housing. Amends the Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 1996 to extend provisions regarding the streamlining of Section 8 tenant-based assistance. Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to extend provisions regarding Section 8 rent adjustments. Amends the Balanced Budget Downpayment Act, I to extend provisions regarding delays in the reissuance of Section 8 vouchers and certificates. (Sec. 210) Amends the National Housing Act to authorize HUD to make partial guaranteed mortgage loan payments for health care facilities. (Sec. 211) Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1992 to extend the Secretary of HUD's authority to enter into certain risk-sharing agreements to determine Federal credit enhancements for loans for affordable multifamily housing. Increases the number of units to which those agreements may apply in FY 1998. (Sec. 213) Incorporates the Multifamily Assisted Housing Reform and Affordability Act of 1997 (title II of S. 947, the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, as passed by the Senate) into this Act by reference. Title III: Independent Agencies - Makes appropriations for: (1) the American Battle Monuments Commission; (2) the Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board; (3) the Consumer Product Safety Commission; (4) the Corporation for National and Community Service; (5) the Office of Inspector General; (6) the Court of Veterans Appeals; and (7) the Department of Defense for Army cemeterial expenses. Appropriates funds for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for: (1) science and technology activities; (2) environmental programs and management; (3) the Office of Inspector General; (4) buildings and facilities; (5) Superfund; (6) the leaking underground storage tank program; (7) oil spill response programs; and (8) assistance to States and Indian tribes for environmental programs and infrastructure. Makes the Working Capital Fund available to EPA for maintenance and operation of administrative services without fiscal year limitation. Appropriates funds for: (1) the Executive Office of the President for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, the Council on Environmental Quality, and the Office of Environmental Quality; and (2) the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General. Makes appropriations for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for: (1) disaster relief; (2) disaster assistance direct loans; (3) salaries and expenses; (4) the Office of Inspector General; (5) emergency management planning and assistance; (6) a specified emergency food and shelter program; and (7) the National Flood Insurance Fund. Requires the Director of FEMA to promulgate a methodology for collection of fees applicable to persons subject to FEMA's radiological emergency preparedness regulations. Permits collection of such fees only during FY 1998. Makes appropriations for: (1) the General Services Administration for the Consumer Information Center; (2) the National Aeronautics and Space Administration for human space flight, science, aeronautics, and technology research and development, mission support, and the Office of Inspector General; (3) the National Credit Union Administration's Central Liquidity Facility; (4) the National Science Foundation for research, major construction projects, science and engineering education and human resources programs, salaries and expenses, and the Office of Inspector General; (5) the Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation; and (6) the Selective Service System. Sets forth authorized uses of, and limitations on, such funds. Title IV: General Provisions - Sets forth provisions regarding availability, and prohibitions on the use, of funds appropriated by this Act. (Sec. 415) Expresses the sense of the Congress that all equipment and products purchased with funds made available in this Act should be American-made. (Sec. 417) Requires amounts necessary for FY 1998 pay raises for programs funded by this Act to be within levels appropriated. (Sec. 419) Authorizes certain corporations and agencies of HUD to make commitments without regard to fiscal year limitations as necessary to carry out provisions under the Government Corporation Control Act. Allows any collections by such corporations and agencies to be used for new loan or mortgage purchase commitments to the extent provided under this Act, with specified exceptions. (Sec. 421) Makes funds to carry out the termination of the Office of Consumer Affairs available from those appropriated to the Department of Health and Human Services for FY 1998.

National Center for Bioengineering Research Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 1997

National Center for Bioengineering Research Act - Establishes a National Center for Bioengineering Research within the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute to: (1) promote basic research in bioengineering; and (2) establish an office to enhance and improve coordination of bioengineering research conducted within the National Institutes of Health and throughout the Federal Government. Authorizes appropriations.

National Bone Marrow Registry Reauthorization Act of 1998

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 1997

National Marrow Donor Program Reauthorization Act of 1997 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to replace provisions relating to the National Bone Marrow Donor Registry with provisions mandating establishment, by contract, of a program to assist patients needing a blood stem cell transplant in searching for biologically unrelated donor individuals. Sets forth program functions, including: (1) maintaining one or more donor and one or more recipient registries; (2) educational activities (including donor recruitment and professional and public information); and (3) establishing the Office of Patient Advocacy and Case Management. Mandates: (1) standards regarding quality, tissue typing, donor informed consent, and patient advocacy; (2) donor selection criteria; (3) stem cell collection and transportation procedures; (4) confidentiality standards; and (5) procedures for integrating participating donor registries and centers. Mandates criminal penalties for confidentiality violations. Authorizes appropriations. Mandates a plan to effectuate efficiencies in the relationship between the program and donor centers.

Genetic Privacy and Nondiscrimination Act of 1997

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 1997

Genetic Privacy and Nondiscrimination Act of 1997 - Amends the Public Health Service Act and the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 to prohibit a group health plan, and a health insurance issuer offering group coverage, from discriminating in eligibility based on a request for, or receipt of, genetic information or a genetic test. Prohibits such entities from: (1) using genetic information to discriminate in issuance, renewal, premium rates, or benefits; or (2) disclosing or being compelled, by subpoena or any other means, subject to exception, to disclose genetic information about an individual unless authorized by the individual. Amends the Public Health Service Act to apply these prohibitions to coverage in the individual market. Amends Federal law relating to veterans' benefits to mandate standards, consistent with the prohibitions in this Act, regarding genetic information use and disclosure in connection with medical care provided under those provisions. Makes it an unlawful employment practice for an employer to attempt to acquire, acquire, or use genetic information, or to require a genetic test, of an employee or applicant to discriminate or restrict any right or benefit. Regulates employer disclosure of and access to genetic information. Provides for enforcement through the powers, remedies, and procedures in specified provisions of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Mandates a report by the National Bioethics Advisory Commission to the Congress regarding standards to provide increased protection for the collection, storage, and use of DNA samples and genetic information.

Equity in Prescription Insurance and Contraceptive Coverage Act of 1997

United States · United States Congress · 16 July 1997

Equity in Prescription Insurance and Contraceptive Coverage Act of 1997 - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 and the Public Health Service Act to prohibit a group health plan, and a health insurance issuer providing group coverage, from: (1) excluding or restricting benefits for prescription contraceptive drugs, devices, and outpatient services if the plan provides benefits for other outpatient prescription drugs, devices, or outpatient services; (2) denying eligibility based on use or potential use of such items or services; (3) providing monetary payments or rebates to a covered individual to encourage acceptance of less than the minimum protections available; (4) penalizing, reducing, or limiting a professional's reimbursement because the professional prescribed such drugs or devices or provided such services; or (5) providing incentives to a professional to induce the professional to withhold drugs, devices, or services. Amends the Public Health Service Act to apply those prohibitions to coverage offered in the individual market.

Screening Mammography Act of 1997

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 1997

Screening Mammography Act of 1997 - Amends the Public Health Service Act and the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 to require that a group health plan (and a health insurance issuer offering group coverage) that provides coverage for diagnostic mammography for any class of participants or beneficiaries also cover annual screening mammography for that class under terms that are not less favorable. Prohibits: (1) denying screening coverage on the basis that it is not medically necessary or not pursuant to a referral or recommendation; (2) denying eligibility, enrollment, or renewal solely to avoid this requirement; (3) providing monetary incentives to participants or beneficiaries to encourage them to accept less; or (4) penalizing or providing incentives to providers. Allows State laws providing at least these protections. (Sec. 3) Amends the Public Health Service Act to apply the requirements of the above paragraph to health coverage in the individual market. (Sec. 4) Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to prohibit payment for a screening mammography performed more often than annually. (Sec. 5) Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to mandate coverage of annual screening mammographies.

Community Ambulance Support Act of 1997

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 1997

Community Ambulance Support Act of 1997 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide for coverage of paramedic intercept services under Medicare part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance).

Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 1998

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 1997

TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Military Personnel Title II: Operation and Maintenance Title III: Procurement Title IV: Research, Development, Test and Evaluation Title V: Revolving and Management Funds Title VI: Other Department of Defense Programs Title VII: Related Agencies Title VIII: General Provisions Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 1998 - Title I: Military Personnel - Appropriates funds for FY 1998 for active-duty and reserve personnel in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force and for National Guard personnel in the Army and Air Force. Title II: Operation and Maintenance - Appropriates funds for FY 1998 for the operation and maintenance (O&M) of the Army, Navy, and Air Force (including a transfer of funds in each case), the Marine Corps, the defense agencies (including a transfer of funds), the reserve components, and the Army and Air National Guards. Appropriates funds for: (1) overseas contingency operations (including a transfer of funds); (2) the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces; (3) environmental restoration for the Army, Navy, Air Force, and defense-wide (including a transfer of funds in each case); (4) environmental restoration at former defense sites (including a transfer of funds); (5) overseas humanitarian, disaster, and civic aid; (6) nuclear threat reduction programs with respect to republics of the former Soviet Union; and (7) quality of life enhancements, defense. Title III: Procurement - Appropriates funds for FY 1998 for procurement by the armed forces and its reserve components of aircraft, missiles, weapons, tracked combat vehicles, ammunition, shipbuilding and conversion, and for other procurement. Appropriates funds for defense-wide procurement and for National Guard and reserve equipment. Title IV: Research, Development, Test and Evaluation - Appropriates funds for FY 1998 for research, development, test and evaluation by the armed forces and defense agencies. Appropriates funds for the Directors of Test and Evaluation and Operational Test and Evaluation. Title V: Revolving and Management Funds - Appropriates funds for: (1) the defense working capital funds; and (2) programs under the National Defense Sealift Fund. Title VI: Other Department of Defense Programs - Appropriates funds for: (1) the Department of Defense (DOD) medical and health care programs; (2) the destruction of lethal chemical agents and munitions; (3) drug interdiction and counter-drug activities, defense (including a transfer of funds); and (4) expenses and activities of the Office of the Inspector General in carrying out the Inspector General Act of 1978. Title VII: Related Agencies - Appropriates funds for: (1) the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System Fund; (2) expenses of the Intelligence Community Management Account; (3) authorized payments to the Kaho'olawe Island Conveyance, Remediation, and Environmental Restoration Trust Fund; and (4) national security scholarships, fellowships, and grants (using funds derived from the National Security Education Trust Fund). Title VIII: General Provisions - Specifies authorized, restricted and prohibited uses of appropriated funds. (Sec. 8009) Authorizes procurement funds appropriated under this Act to be used for multiyear procurement contracts for the Apache Longbow radar, T-45 aircraft, and AV-8B aircraft. (Sec. 8011) Prohibits during FY 1998 the management by end strengths of DOD civilian personnel. (Sec. 8020) Authorizes the Secretary of Defense (Secretary) to establish with host governments of NATO-member countries an account for the deposit of residual value amounts negotiated in the return of U.S. military installations to such countries. (Sec. 8035) Authorizes DOD to incur up to $350 million in obligations for DOD personnel compensation, military construction projects, and supplies and services in anticipation of receipts of contributions from the Government of Kuwait. (Sec. 8036) Earmarks funds from this Act for the Civil Air Patrol. (Sec. 8037) Prohibits the use of funds from this Act to establish a new DOD federally funded research and development center (FFRDC). Limits the Federal compensation to be paid to DOD FFRDC members or consultants. Prohibits the use of FY 1998 DOD FFRDC funds for new building construction, cost-sharing payments for projects funded by Government grants, or absorption of cost overruns. Limits the staff years of technical effort that may be funded for DOD FFRDCs from FY 1998 funds. Directs the Secretary to report to the defense committees concerning such staff year allocations. (Sec. 8042) Reduces by $300 million the total amounts appropriated in titles I through IV of this Act to reflect savings from the DOD use of advisory and assistance services. (Sec. 8047) Directs the President to include within each fiscal year budget the amounts requested for administrative activities of DOD, the military departments, and the defense agencies. (Sec. 8053) Prohibits the use of funds: (1) for the modification of an aircraft, weapon, ship, or other equipment that the military department concerned plans to retire or otherwise dispose of within five years after completion of the modification; (2) to transport chemical munitions to the Johnston Atoll for storage or demilitarization (with an exception and an authorized wartime waiver by the President); (3) by a DOD entity without compliance with the Buy American Act; (4) for assistance to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea unless specifically appropriated for such purpose; and (5) to reduce the civilian medical and medical support personnel assigned to military treatment facilities below the September 30, 1996, level. (Sec. 8056) Earmarks funds appropriated under this Act for the mitigation of adverse environmental impacts on Indian lands resulting from DOD activities. (Sec. 8063) Authorizes DOD to lease real and personal property at the Adak Naval Air Facility, Alaska. (Sec. 8064) Rescinds specified funds from various accounts under prior defense appropriations Acts. (Sec. 8076) Appropriates funds to DOD for transfer to the Coast Guard. (Sec. 8078) Directs the Secretary to report quarterly to specified congressional committees setting forth all costs incurred by DOD in implementing or supporting United Nations (UN) Security Council resolutions. (Sec. 8079) Prohibits FY 1997 DOD funds from being obligated or expended to transfer to another nation or international organization defense articles or services for use in any UN peacekeeping or peace enforcement operation, or for any other international peacekeeping, peace enforcement, or humanitarian assistance operation, unless specified congressional committees are given 15 days' advance notice. (Sec. 8080) Directs the Secretary, to the extent authorized by law, to issue loan guarantees in support of U.S. defense exports not otherwise provided for, with a contingent liability limit of $15 billion. Requires quarterly reports to specified congressional committees on such loan guarantees. (Sec. 8085) Authorizes the use of DOD O&M funds in support of U.S. missions and with eligible organizations and activities outside of DOD. (Sec. 8087) Authorizes a specified amount for Air Force aircraft procurement from a prior-year defense appropriations Act to remain available for expenditure until the end of FY 2003. (Sec. 8089) Directs the Secretary, upon the enactment of this Act, to make specified transfers between various DOD appropriation accounts. (Sec. 8090) Prohibits DOD funds from being used to reimburse a defense contractor for restructuring costs associated with a business combination unless: (1) certain DOD cost savings are achieved as a result of such restructuring; and (2) a related report required under prior law is submitted to the Congress. (Sec. 8091) Restricts the purchase of security locks used to protect critical national security information or other classified material. (Sec. 8093) Authorizes the Secretary to waive reimbursement of certain educational costs of the Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies for military officers and civilian officials of foreign countries if determined to be in the national security interest. (Sec. 8096) Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to exchange or sell one Army C-20 aircraft and apply the proceeds to the acquisition of one C-37 aircraft. (Sec. 8097) Earmarks funds from this Act to assist a pilot project that will facilitate the transfer of commercial cruise ship shipbuilding technology and expertise to U.S. shipbuilding yards, utilize the experience and expertise of existing U.S.-flag cruise ship operators, and enable the operation of one U.S.-flag foreign-built cruise ship and two newly-constructed U.S.-flag cruise ships.

A bill to specify the frequency of screening mammograms provided to women veterans by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 1997

Amends the Veterans Health Care Act of 1992 to require screening mammograms to be provided in accordance with current recommendations of the American Cancer Society relating to the age of the recipient and frequency of receipt.

To permit Medicare-eligible retired members of the Armed Forces and their Medicare-eligible dependents to enroll in the Federal Employees Health Benefits program.

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 1997

Directs the Secretary of Defense to enter into an agreement with the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) under which current or former military personnel who are or become entitled to hospital insurance benefits under part A of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act are offered enrollment in a Federal employees health benefits plan in lieu of receiving care in military treatment facilities or through the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Uniformed Services (CHAMPUS). Allows such enrollment for any dependent of such individual if the dependent is entitled to health care under CHAMPUS and is or becomes entitled to hospital insurance benefits under Medicare. Outlines provisions concerning: (1) contributions for such coverage; (2) management of member participation; and (3) cancellation of coverage. Directs the Secretary and the OPM Director to report jointly to the Congress each year on the provision of such services to eligible persons during the preceding fiscal year. Requires the Secretary to offer such health benefits option no later than October 1, 1997.