Healthcare

Tobacco Free Internet for Kids Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 9 September 2003

Tobacco Free Internet for Kids Act of 2003 - Prohibits: (1) a delivery seller from selling or delivering a tobacco product to a minor or causing such a sale or delivery; or (2) persons in the business of manufacturing, distributing, or selling tobacco products from making unrequested deliveries of tobacco products to any home, residence, or consumer for personal consumption. Requires: (1) delivery sellers of tobacco products to be registered with a State before making such delivery sales or related deliveries within the State; and (2) the verification of certain submitted proofs of consumer's age, identity, and residential address before accepting the sale order or making the delivery. Mandates, under specified conditions, the confidentiality in the use of the consumer's information by the seller. Sets forth provisions relating to: (1) payment methods; (2) verification of order; (3) delivery addresses; (4) delivery requirements; (5) delivery service duties; (6) minimum and maximum sale amounts; and (7) prohibition on selling any tobacco product through an Internet website, except under certain conditions. Establishes civil and criminal penalties for violations of this Act.

Medication Errors Reduction Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 9 September 2003

Medication Errors Reduction Act of 2003 - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to provide grants to eligible hospitals and skilled nursing facilities for costs related to purchasing, leasing, developing, and implementing standardized clinical health care informatics systems designed to improve patient safety and reduce adverse events and health care complications resulting from medication errors. Gives special consideration to eligible entities serving a large number of Medicare, Medicaid, and State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) eligible individuals. Reserves a certain percentage of grant funds for rural hospitals. Terminates grant authority on September 30, 2013.

Environmental Health Research Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 5 September 2003

Environmental Health Research Act of 2003 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences to make grants for the development and operation of not more than six centers to conduct multidisciplinary research on environmental factors that may be related to the development of women's health conditions. Requires each center to conduct basic and clinical research, develop training protocols, conduct training, develop model continuing education programs, and disseminate information to professionals and the public, with priority to prevention activities. Requires each center to: (1) collaborate with community organizations; and (2) use the facilities of a single institution or be formed from a consortium of institutions. Limits support to five years but allows extensions under specified circumstances. Authorizes appropriations. Requires the Director of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences to establish a comprehensive research program on the impact and occurrence of hormone disrupting chemicals as they affect human, ecological, and wildlife health. Requires the program to: (1) compile scientifically valid information, with an emphasis on the effect of low doses during critical life stages and the extent of human and wildlife exposure; (2) research the mechanisms by which such chemicals interact with biological systems as well as their screening and tracking; and (3) include the participation of the U.S. Geological Survey. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish the Hormone Disruption Research Interagency Commission. Establishes a Hormone Disruption Research Panel within the Institute.

National Bone Marrow Donor Registry Reauthorization Act

United States · United States Congress · 5 September 2003

National Bone Marrow Donor Registry Reauthorization Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize appropriations for the National Bone Marrow Donor Registry. Revises specified Registry provisions. Defines "bone marrow" and "marrow" to include bone marrow and any other source of hematopoietic progenitor cells the acquisition or use of which is not inconsistent with Federal law.

To amend chapter 89 of title 5, United States Code, and chapter 55 of title 10, United States Code, to provide that any health benefits plan which provides obstetrical benefits shall be required also to provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of infertility.

United States · United States Congress · 5 September 2003

Amends Federal laws concerning civilian and military health care to require any health benefits plan under the Federal Employees Health Benefit Program or TRICARE (a Department of Defense managed health care program) that provides obstetrical benefits to also provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of infertility, including nonexperimental assisted reproductive technology procedures.

Family Building Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 4 September 2003

Family Building Act of 2003 - Amends the Public Health Service Act, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), the Federal Employees Health Benefits Plan, and defense health care plan provisions to require health plans to provide benefits for treatment of infertility in accord with specified standards.

National All Schedules Prescription Electronic Reporting Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 4 September 2003

National All Schedules Prescription Electronic Reporting Act of 2003 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services, through the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration, to establish an electronic system for practitioner monitoring of the dispensing of any schedule II, III, or IV controlled substance to patients. Directs dispensers to report the information required under this Act to the Secretary, with specified exceptions. Directs the Secretary to specify the electronic format for information reporting. Allows the Secretary to provide monitoring system information to practitioners and specified government personnel under certain circumstances. States that this Act shall not preclude any authority from securing information as otherwise authorized by law. Directs the Secretary to make reasonable efforts to implement a real-time electronic system. Specifies the circumstances under which monitoring system information may be subsequently transmitted. Assesses civil monetary penalties for the failure to communicate information requested by the Secretary and for the unauthorized disclosure of information transmitted by the Secretary. Allows a State to have its own prescription monitoring system so long as such system provides the Federal program with the required information.

Josephine Butler United States Health Service Act

United States · United States Congress · 4 September 2003

Josephine Butler United States Health Service Act - Establishes the United States Health Service (Service) as an independent executive branch entity. Provides that the authority of the Service shall be exercised by a National Health Board of the Service (Board) and by local and regional authorities affiliated with the Board. Requires the Board to establish health care delivery regions. Affords every user of the Service the right to receive high quality care and supplemental services from any facility within the Service capable of providing such services without charge and without discrimination. Sets forth a list of other basic health rights. Declares all individuals in the United States eligible to receive health care and supplemental services under this Act. Requires the Service to provide specified services. Provides for the reimbursement of emergency health services costs. Requires the establishment of health care facilities as necessary to provide services. Sets forth provisions concerning job categories, certification standards, qualifications, and the education of health workers. Requires the establishment of a health advocacy program to ensure patients rights. Imposes on individuals, estates and trusts, and on corporations additional taxes of specified percentages of the total taxes otherwise imposed, creates the Health Service Trust Fund, and appropriates to such Fund such additional taxes, the Federal Hospital Insurance employment taxes, and a Government contribution equal to 40 percent of the amount so appropriated. Transfers to the Fund all assets and liabilities of the Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund and the Federal Supplementary Medical Insurance Trust Fund.

A bill to provide for the continuation of the Pediatric Research Initiative.

United States · United States Congress · 3 September 2003

Requires the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to continue the Pediatric Research Initiative.

To amend the Indian Health Care Improvement Act to require that certain technical medical employees of the Indian Health Service be compensated for time during which they are required to be on-call.

United States · United States Congress · 3 September 2003

Amends the Indian Health Care Improvement Act to provide for certain technical medical employees of the Indian Health Service to be paid for such time as they are officially scheduled to be on call outside their regular hours or on a holiday for such time as they may be called back to work.

A bill to authorize the expansion of the pilot program of the Department of Veterans Affairs on assisted living for veterans to include three additional health care regions of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

United States · United States Congress · 2 September 2003

Amends the Veterans Millennium Health Care and Benefits Act to authorize three additional health care regions for the Department of Veterans Affairs assisted living for veterans pilot program. (Limits service in such additional areas to three years.)

Compassionate Assistance for Rape Emergencies Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2003

Compassionate Assistance for Rape Emergencies Act - Requires hospitals, as a condition of receiving Federal funds, to provide emergency contraception to a woman who is a victim of sexual assault.

Comprehensive Tuberculosis Elimination Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2003

Comprehensive Tuberculosis Elimination Act of 2003 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to prescribe composition requirements for the Advisory Council for the Elimination of Tuberculosis, and direct it to make recommendations on: (1) a national plan to eliminate tuberculosis in the United States; and (2) a plan to guide U.S. involvement in global tuberculosis-control activities, with a focus on high incidence countries and on access to a comprehensive package of tuberculosis control measures. Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services, directly or through grants, to carry out tuberculosis research, demonstration projects, and public information and education programs. Authorizes the Director of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to make awards: (1) to faculty of schools of medicine or osteopathic medicine to support the development of high quality curricula to assist interested individuals in learning the principles and practices of preventing, managing, and controlling tuberculosis; and (2) to support the career development of clinically trained professionals committed to pulmonary infection research. Authorizes the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases of NIH to work to develop a tuberculosis vaccine. Requires the John E. Fogarty International Center for Advanced Study in the Health Sciences to carry out an international training program regarding tuberculosis.

Fair Care for the Uninsured Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2003

Fair Care for the Uninsured Act of 2003 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow an individual a tax credit in an amount equal to the amount paid for qualified health insurance, subject to stated limitations. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to make payments to the provider of an individual's qualified health insurance equal to such individual's qualified health insurance credit advance amount with respect to such provider. Amends the Public Health Service Act, as inserted by the Trade Act of 2002, to extend funding for State high risk health insurance pools. Amends the Public Health Service Act to allow health benefits coverage through individual membership associations. Sets forth association requirements. Requires associations to include a minimum of two health insurance coverage options.

Reliable Medical Justice Act

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2003

Reliable Medical Justice Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services to award up to seven demonstration grants to States for the development, implementation, and evaluation of alternatives to current tort litigation for resolving disputes over injuries allegedly caused by health care providers or health care organizations.

A bill to amend title XXI of the Social Security Act to make a technical correction with respect to the definition of qualifying State.

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2003

Amends title XXI (State Children's Health Insurance) (SCHIP) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to make a technical amendment to the definition of qualifying State used for purposes of giving certain States operating under waivers of specified State plan requirements the authority to use up to 20 percent of their FY 1998 through 2001 SCHIP allotments, for fiscal years in which they are available, for paying the costs of covering under Medicaid (SSA title XIX) certain low-income children whose family income meets an income eligibility standard under such waivers of at least 185 percent of the poverty line. Reduces such percentage of the poverty line from 185 percent to 184 percent with respect to any one or more categories of children (other than infants) who are Medicaid-eligible.

A bill to amend title XIX of the Social Security Act to extend medicare cost-sharing for qualifying individuals through 2004.

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2003

Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to extend Medicare cost-sharing for qualifying individuals through FY 2004.

A bill to establish a Tick-Borne Disorders Advisory Committee, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2003

Establishes the Tick-Borne Disorders Advisory Committee in the Office of the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS). Directs the Committee to advise the Secretary and the Assistant Secretary of HHS regarding how to: (1) assure interagency coordination and communication in efforts to address tick-borne disorders; (2) identify opportunities to coordinate efforts with other Federal agencies and private organizations; and (3) develop informed responses to constituency groups regarding HHS' efforts and progress. Authorizes appropriations for FY 2004 and 2005 to fund the Committee in accordance with the Federal Advisory Committee Act. Authorizes appropriations for FY 2004 through 2008 for: (1) research and educational activities concerning Lyme disease and other tick-borne disorders; and (2) efforts to prevent such illnesses. Expresses the sense of the Senate that the Secretary should consider carrying out a five-year plan to: (1) develop a diagnostic test for Lyme disease and other tick-borne disorders for use in clinical testing; (2) determine the prevalence of such illnesses in the United States; and (3) develop the capabilities at HHS to design and implement improved strategies for the prevention and control of such illnesses.

Steve Grissom Relief Fund Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2003

Steve Grissom Relief Fund Act of 2003 - Establishes the Steve Grissom Relief Fund in the Treasury. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make single payments to individuals infected with HIV or diagnosed with AIDS as a result of HIV- contaminated blood, blood components, human tissue or organs. Includes lawful spouses, as specified. Sets forth documentation, petition, determination, and payment procedures. States that such payments do not create or admit any claim or constitute income for income tax, supplemental security income benefits, and other purposes. Prohibits the assignment or transfer of rights under this title. Limits petitions to one per victim. Terminates the program after five years. Excludes payments from consideration as compensation or reimbursement for a loss as it concerns insurance or worker's compensation.

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate in support of improving American defenses against the spread of infectious diseases.

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2003

Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) field epidemiology training programs and related epidemic services and global surveillance programs should receive full support; (2) the President should require an annual national intelligence estimate on the global infectious disease threat and its implications for the United States; (3) the President should propose that the G-8 develop a foreign epidemiological specialists training program in the developing world; and (4) the international community should increase funding for the World Health Organization's (WHO) global disease surveillance capability.

Cristina Beato, of New Mexico, to be Medical Director in the Regular Corps of the Public Health Service, subject to the qualifications therefor as provided by law and regulations, and to be an Assistant Secretary of Health and Human Services, vice Eve Slater, resigned.

United States · United States Senate · 30 July 2003

Project BioShield Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2003

Project BioShield Act of 2003 - Amends the Public Health Service Act regarding preparations for public health emergencies affecting national security, including a bioterrorist attack. Grants the Secretary of Health and Human Services (Secretary), through the National Institutes of Health (NIH), certain authority with respect to the research and development of qualified biomedical countermeasures, including: (1) expedited procurement authority; (2) expedited peer authority; and (3) authority for personal services contracts. Directs: (1) the Secretary of Homeland Security to assess current and emerging chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats, and determine which present a material risk to the United States; and (2) the Secretary to assess the public health consequences of such threats, and the availability and appropriateness of countermeasures. Authorizes the Secretaries to jointly propose to the President appropriate countermeasures and procurement. Directs the Secretaries, upon presidential approval, to procure the necessary countermeasures for stockpiling. Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to allow the Secretary to declare a national emergency under specified conditions and authorize the release into interstate commerce of a drug or device intended for use in an emergency. Directs the Secretary, as feasible, to: (1) impose requirements on such authorization, including emergency product labeling and ensuring that health care professionals administering the product and persons to whom the product is administered are informed about benefits, risks, and alternatives; and (2) periodically review, or revoke as circumstances warrant, an authorization. Provides civil monetary penalties for violations of such provisions. Allows the President, under specified circumstances involving the Armed Forces, to waive the requirement that individuals be allowed to refuse administration of a countermeasure. Amends the Social Security Act to revise the Secretary's authority to waive specified requirements during a national emergency.

Health Workforce Advisory Commission Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2003

Health Workforce Advisory Commission Act of 2003 - Directs the Comptroller General to establish a Health Workforce Advisory Commission. Includes among the duties of the Commission: (1) reviewing the impact of Federal health workforce policies and other factors on the ability of the health care system to provide optimal services; (2) analyzing the role and global implications of internationally trained professionals and personnel in the United States workforce; and (3) making recommendations to Congress concerning health workforce policy issues. Specifies duties the Commission shall perform concerning reports and reviews.

A bill to amend title XXI of the Social Security Act to make a technical correction with respect to the definition of qualifying State.

United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2003

Amends title XXI (State Children's Health Insurance) (SCHIP) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to make a technical amendment to the definition of qualifying State used for purposes of giving certain States operating under waivers of specified State plan requirements the authority to use up to 20 percent of their FY 1998 through 2001 SCHIP allotments, for fiscal years in which they are available, for paying the costs of covering under Medicaid (SSA title XIX) certain low-income children whose family income meets an income eligibility standard under such waivers of at least 185 percent of the poverty line. Requires that the income eligibility standard of at least 185 percent of the poverty line be determined by rounding to the nearest whole percentage.

A bill to amend title XXI of the Social Security Act to make a technical correction with respect to the definition of qualifying State.

United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2003

Amends title XXI (State Children's Health Insurance) (SCHIP) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to make a technical amendment to the definition of qualifying State used for purposes of giving certain States operating under waivers of specified State plan requirements the authority to use up to 20 percent of their FY 1998 through 2001 SCHIP allotments, for fiscal years in which they are available, for paying the costs of covering under Medicaid (SSA title XIX) certain low-income children whose family income meets an income eligibility standard under such waivers of at least 185 percent of the poverty line. Allows New Mexico to use such portion of its unspent SCHIP funds for covering such children under Medicaid.

Cancer Survivorship Research and Quality of Life Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2003

Cancer Survivorship Research and Quality of Life Act of 2003 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to include demonstration, education, and other programs concerning cancer survivorship among the activities of the National Cancer Institute (Institute) within the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Requires the Director of NIH, acting through the Director of the Institute, to: (1) expand and coordinate NIH activities related to cancer survivorship; and (2) establish an Office on Survivorship within the Institute. Creates the position of Associate Director for Survivorship. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Protection, to study the health challenges associated with cancer survivorship and carry out projects and interventions. Requires the Secretary to make grants for the monitoring and evaluation of cancer care and survivorship.

Preservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003

Preservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act of 2003 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to provide for a phased elimination of the nontherapeutic use in food-producing animals of critical antimicrobial animal drugs. Defines "critical antimicrobial animal drug" and "nontherapeutic use." Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to make payments to livestock or poultry producers to defray the costs of reducing such drugs' use, with priority given to family-owned or small farms and ranches. Amends the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to direct the Secretary to provide grants for university research and demonstration programs to phase out the nontherapeutic use of critical antimicrobial animal drugs in livestock or poultry. Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to require manufacturers of a critical antimicrobial animal drug or an animal feed for food-producing animals containing such a drug to report annual sales information.

Positive Aging Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003

Positive Aging Act of 2003 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the Center for Mental Health Services, to make grants for evidence-based demonstration projects to integrate mental health services for older patients into primary care settings. Requires the inclusion of collaborative care, screening services, referrals, and protocols for prevalent mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, dementia, and substance abuse. Requires the Director to make grants to community-based providers of geriatric mental health services for multi-disciplinary health outreach teams. Authorizes cooperative agreements with senior centers, adult day care programs, assisted living facilities, and other places providing services to senior citizens under the Older Americans Act. Requires the Director to designate a Deputy Director for Geriatric Mental Health Services to develop and implement research programs, demonstration projects, models, and model training programs. Revises the membership of the Advisory Council for the Center for Mental Health Services to include representatives of older Americans, their families, and geriatric mental health specialists. Revises the criteria for State plans under Community Mental Health Services Block Grants to include goals and initiatives for improving access to services for older adult patients.

A resolution designating the month of September 2003 as "National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month".

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003

Designates the month of September 2003 as National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Declares that the Federal Government has a responsibility to: (1) raise awareness about the importance of screening methods and treatment of prostate cancer; (2) increase research funding that is commensurate with the burden of the disease so that the causes of, and improved screening, treatments, and a cure for, prostate cancer may be discovered; and (3) continue to consider ways for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for detecting and treating prostate cancer. Requests the President to call upon Americans, interested groups, and affected persons to promote awareness of prostate cancer, to take an active role in ending the devastating effects of prostate cancer on individuals, their families, and the economy, and to observe the month of September 2003 with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

States' Right To Innovate in Health Care Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003

States' Right To Innovate in Health Care Act of 2003 - Amends the Social Security Act to add a new title XXII (State Comprehensive Health Care and Cost Containment Demonstration Projects) to allow up to ten States to receive from the Secretary of Health and Human Services a planning grant and a demonstration grant to achieve a cost-effective delivery system of universal, comprehensive health care with simplified administration.

To amend title XIX of the Social Security Act to include podiatrists as physicians for purposes of covering physicians services under the Medicaid Program.

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003

Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to include podiatrists as physicians in order to cover their services under the Medicaid program.

Preservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003

Preservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act of 2003 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to provide for a phased elimination of the nontherapeutic use in food-producing animals of critical antimicrobial animal drugs. Defines "critical antimicrobial animal drug" and "nontherapeutic use." Requires manufacturers of a critical antimicrobial animal drug or an animal feed for food-producing animals containing such a drug to report annual sales information.

MediFair Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003

MediFair Act of 2003 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a system for making adjustments to the amount of payment made to entities and individuals for items and services provided under the original Medicare fee-for-service program under parts A (Hospital Insurance) and B (Supplementary Medical Insurance). Requires the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MEDPAC) to develop recommendations on policies and practices that would encourage: (1) healthy outcomes and quality care under the Medicare program in States with respect to which payments are reduced under such system; and (2) the efficient use of payments made under the Medicare program in such States.

Nuclear Waste Terrorist Threat Assessment and Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003

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

Bringing America Home Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003

Bringing America Home Act - Recognizes housing as a basic human right, and declares Congress' goal to end homelessness in the Unites States. Amends the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act to establish the National Affordable Housing Trust Fund, which shall be used to fund specified housing and related programs. Authorizes appropriations for specified housing and related programs. Federal Homelessness to Housing Mutual Mortgage Association Act - Establishes the Federal Homelessness to Housing Mutual Mortgage Association (Hollie May), which shall provide housing and homeownership opportunities for the homeless in cooperative housing associations. Amends the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act to: (1) provide for the use of surplus Federal property to assist the homeless; and (2) revise and consolidate specified homeless assistance programs. Establishes in the Treasury the Emergency Rent Relief Fund. Exempts work performed in public housing from consideration as income under specified housing programs. Sets forth conditions for postal delivery service for the homeless. Authorizes grants for public housing police forces. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) establish a temporary ex-offender low-income housing credit; (2) limit mortgage interest deductions; and (3) repeal the exclusion of gain on a principal residence sale. Expresses the sense of Congress against local ordinances that disadvantage the homeless. Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) every person in the United States should have access to affordable and comprehensive medical care; and (2) Medicaid should be expanded. Authorizes appropriations for specified health and homeless programs. Amends the Public Health Service Act, with respect to substance abuse, mental health services, and the homeless, to: (1) require the establishment of Federal plans on addiction, mental illness, HIV/AIDS, and homelessness; (2) provide grants for treatment; (3) revise the projects for assistance in transition from homelessness (PATH) program; (4) revise the Ryan White Comprehensive AIDS Resources Emergency Act of 1990. Expresses the sense of the Congress regarding the right to a living wage or similar benefits. Amends the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act to authorize grants for a homebuild program for affordable housing construction and apprenticeship. Authorizes a Department of Labor apprenticeship program for working people experiencing homelessness. Sets forth day laborer and temporary worker employment and related provisions. Amends the Social Security Act to: (1) require supplemental security income (SSI) and old age, survivors, and disability insurance (OASDI) outreach programs for the homeless; and (2) increase SSI asset limits, and provide presumptive eligibility for persons experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

Medicare Payment Update for Certified Nurse-Midwives Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003

Medicare Payment Update for Certified Nurse-Midwives Act - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide for the coverage of and payment for certified midwife services (currently only certified nurse-midwife services are covered) under Medicare part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance). Declares that nothing precludes certified nurse-midwives and certified midwives from teaching or supervising an intern or resident-in-training. Extends Medicare coverage to items and services at a free-standing birth center.

Making Health Care Available for Low Income Workers Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003

Making Health Care Available for Low-Income Workers Act of 2003 - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to provide grants to States for demonstration programs to reduce the premiums for health benefits coverage under group health plans for individuals: (1) who are eligible for benefits under a State's Medicaid (title XIX of the Social Security Act) program (or, at the State's option, who would be so eligible but for their eligibility or coverage under a group health plan); and (2) whose income does not exceed 185 percent of the income official poverty line applicable to a family of the size involved.

Nuclear Accountability Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003

Nuclear Accountability Act - Prohibits operation of any nuclear utilization facility unless the Nuclear Regulatory Commission finds that the State in which the facility is located, as well as each affected county or county equivalent located within a ten-mile radius, has certified within the last year a radiological emergency response plan which provides reasonable assurance that public health and safety are not endangered by the operation of the facility.

To provide for the expansion and coordination of activities of the National Institutes of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention with respect to research and programs on cancer survivorship, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003

Cancer Survivorship Research and Quality of Life Act of 2003 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to include demonstration, education, and other programs concerning cancer survivorship among the activities of the National Cancer Institute (Institute) within the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Requires the Director of NIH, acting through the Director of the Institute, to: (1) expand and coordinate NIH activities related to cancer survivorship; and (2) establish an Office on Survivorship within the Institute. Creates the position of Associate Director for Survivorship. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Protection, to study the health challenges associated with cancer survivorship and carry out projects and interventions. Requires the Secretary to make grants for the monitoring and evaluation of cancer care and survivorship.

Prescription Drug Tampering Prevention Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003

Prescription Drug Tampering Prevention Act of 2003 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to provide for fines or imprisonment, or both, for an individual for knowingly violating certain provisions by selling or trading adulterated or misbranded prescription drugs. Punishes an individual also for buying or trading for a prescription drug while knowing or having reason to know that the drug was knowingly caused to be adulterated or misbranded. States that in either instance an individual shall be fined in accordance with Federal law relating to crimes and criminal procedure, imprisoned for any term of years or for life, or both. Modifies provisions pertaining to criminal penalties for committing certain prohibited acts involving food, drugs, devices, or cosmetics. Makes a violation punishable by a fine in accordance with Federal law relating to crimes and criminal procedure, imprisonment for not more than one year, or both. (Current law prescribes a fine of up to $1,000 and/or imprisonment for not more than one year). Makes a second violation, or a violation committed with intent to defraud or mislead, punishable by a fine in accordance with Federal law, imprisonment for not more than three years, or both. (Current law prescribes a fine of up to $10,000 and/or imprisonment for not more than three years.) Makes a violation of provisions pertaining to prescription drug marketing punishable by a fine in accordance with Federal law, imprisonment for not more than ten years, or both. (Current law prescribes a fine of up to $250,000 and/or imprisonment for not more than ten years.)

National Health Information Infrastructure Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003

National Health Information Infrastructure Act of 2003 - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to appoint a National Health Information Officer (the Officer) for the Department of Health and Human Services to maintain national leadership in the planning, development, and adoption of a national health information infrastructure (the infrastructure). Directs the Officer, in cooperation with key stakeholders, to develop a strategic plan for such infrastructure which shall contain various components, including a national agenda to guide policymaking, technology investments, and research. Specifies certain goals for the infrastructure, which include minimizing preventable medical errors and reducing redundant paperwork. Directs the Officer to advise the Secretary on various topics, including to help make an assessment of the best current practices in the development, purchase, and maintenance of medical information technology. Directs the Secretary to develop or adopt (and to periodically update) voluntary, national data and communications standards that promote the interoperability of health information technology systems across all public and private health care settings. Allows the Secretary to: (1) enter into contracts to carry out this Act; and (2) test potential national data and communications standards.

To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to recognize the services of respiratory therapists under the plan of care for home health services.

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide for Medicare recognition of the services of respiratory therapists that are furnished as part-time or intermittent nursing care or physical therapy services under a plan of care for home health services. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to study and report to Congress on the impact of paying for the services of respiratory therapists as a separate benefit under part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) of Medicare, and as an explicit component of the several benefits under part A (Hospital Insurance) of Medicare.

Community Protection and Response Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2003

Community Protection and Response Act of 2003 - Amends the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (the Act) to include a terrorist attack, dispersion of radioactive or other contaminants, dispersion of hazardous substances, or other catastrophic event as a "major disaster" eligible for relief under the Act. Includes as a "private nonprofit facility" for purposes of damages coverage in a major disaster private for-profit telecommunications, phone services, and utilities when losses occur during a homeland security event and are not covered by insurance. Authorizes the President, at the request of a State governor, to declare that a major disaster constitutes a homeland security event and is of such severity and magnitude that effective response is beyond the capacity of the affected State and local government. Provides specified Federal assistance under the Act upon such a declaration, including reimbursement and grant assistance for lost compensation, sustained losses, and required repairs. Includes as critical services under the Act education systems, providers of counseling, and providers of assistance to the homeless. Removes the $5 million limit on community disaster loans provided under the Act. Requires or provides for: (1) standards for reporting information concerning disasters involving homeland security events; (2) a special commission to review air quality following a homeland security event; (3) guidelines concerning health risks associated with the release of materials following a homeland security event and associated monitoring and analysis; and (4) grants for data collection during public health emergencies, research on assisting victims, advance preparation for public health emergencies, and disaster relief for local educational agencies.

Living Well with Fatal Chronic Illness Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2003

Living Well with Fatal Chronic Illness Act of 2003 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a limited refundable long-term care credit. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to: (1) carry out research, demonstration, and education programs with respect to fatal chronic illness through the Public Health Service; and (2) conduct studies on end-of-life care. Directs the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to expand activities with respect to epidemiology and public health in fatal chronic illness. Directs the Director of the National Institutes of Health to expand, intensify, and coordinate the activities of the National Institutes of Health with respect to research on fatal chronic illness. Provides for Medicare pilot programs for the treatment of fatal chronic illnesses. Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) develop and carry out programs to improve the delivery of appropriate health and support services for patients with fatal chronic illnesses; and (2) make grants to support volunteer and community support of veterans living at home who have fatal chronic illnesses.

Improving Access to Prescription Drug Benefits for Veterans Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2003

Improving Access to Prescription Drug Benefits for Veterans Act of 2003 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a prescription drug benefit program under which drugs and medicines are furnished to eligible veterans on prescription of a duly licensed physician or other authorized health care professional who is not an employee of the Department of Veterans Affairs, subject to the payment of any required premium and copayment. Makes eligible for the program any veteran who: (1) is enrolled in the Department health care system; (2) seeks an initial appointment with a Department physician or other health-care provider to obtain a prescription; and (3) can not obtain such an appointment until more than 30 days later. Requires the Secretary to: (1) establish required premiums and copayments; (2) maintain records of the costs of the program; and (3) implement a computerized patient profile system for program participants.

To amend title XXI of the Social Security Act to extend the availability of allotments for fiscal years 1998 through 2001 under the State Children's Health Insurance Program, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2003

Amends title XXI (State Children's Health Insurance Program) (SCHIP) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to revise the special rule for the redistribution and availability of unexpended FY1998 and 1999 SCHIP allotments, including to: (1) extend the availability of FY 1998 and 1999 reallocated funds through FY 2004; and (2) permit 50 percent of the total amount of unexpended FY 2000 and 2001 SCHIP allotments that remain available to a State through the end of FY 2002 and 2003 to remain available for expenditure by the State through the end of FY 2004 and 2005, respectively. Makes this amendment effective as though it had been enacted on September 30, 2002. Grants authority to qualifying States, with respect to FY 1998 through 2001 SCHIP allotments, for fiscal years in which such allotments are available, to elect to use not more than 20 percent of them (instead of for expenditures under SCHIP) for Medicaid medical assistance payments with respect to certain children under SSA title XIX. Amends the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 to make a technical amendment with respect to State eligibility for an increase in its Federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP) or an increase in the cap on Medicaid payments to territories. Makes such amendment effective as if included in the enactment of the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003.

Small Employer Health Benefits Program Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2003

Small Employer Health Benefits Program Act of 2003 - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to direct the Secretary of Labor to establish the Small Employer Health Benefits Program under which: (1) qualifying small employers are provided access to qualifying health insurance coverage for their employees; and (2) such employees may elect alternative forms of coverage offered by various health insurance issuers. Limits such program to small employers that elect to: (1) offer health insurance coverage to each individual employed for three months or longer; and (2) pay at least half the total premium for qualifying health insurance coverage for such individual. Provides for coverage of part-time employees. Requires the Secretary to enter into contracts with health insurance issuers for the offering of such insurance coverage. Reduces by five percent the total premium otherwise payable by such employer if an average of fewer than 25 employees were employed during the preceding calendar year. Requires the Secretary to provide premium subsidies (calculated according to specified formulae) to: (1) employers for coverage of employees whose individual income is at or below 200 percent of the poverty line; as well as (2) such employees.

Cord Blood Stem Cell Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2003

Cord Blood Stem Cell Act of 2003 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration, to enter into contracts with qualified cord blood stem cell banks to assist in the establishment, provision, and maintenance of a National Network of Cord Blood Stem Cell Banks. Lists the purposes of qualifying donor banks and requirements qualifying donor banks must meet. Directs the Secretary, acting through the Administrator, to establish as part of the Network a National Cord Blood Stem Cell Registry. Sets forth the functions of the Registry, which shall include: (1) operating a system for identifying, acquiring, and distributing donated units or cord blood; and (2) maintaining a database with certain information, including the clinical outcomes of all transplantations related to the Network.

Pediatric Research Equity Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2003

Pediatric Research Equity Act of 2003 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to require license applications for new drugs and biological products to assess such drug's or product's safety and effectiveness for relevant pediatric subpopulations, including dosage. Permits deferral of such assessments under specified circumstances. Permits full waiver of such assessments under certain conditions, including if: (1) studies are highly impractical or impossible; or (2) there is no meaningful therapeutic advantage or benefit in the pediatric population and the drug or biological product is not likely to be used in a substantial number of pediatric patients. Permits partial waivers at the request of an applicant for a specific pediatric subpopulation if any of the full waiver grounds apply to that subpopulation or reasonable attempts for a pediatric formulation for that subpopulation have failed. Requires labels to provide indication in cases in which a waiver has been granted due to evidence a product would be unsafe or ineffective in pediatric populations. Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to specify a date for submission of pediatric assessments if: (1) the drug or biological product would represent a meaningful therapeutic benefit for pediatric patients for one or more claimed indications and the absence of adequate labeling could pose significant risks to pediatric patients; or (2) it is used for a number of pediatric patients for the labeled indications and the absence of adequate labeling could pose significant risks to pediatric patients. Sets forth criteria for full waiver and partial waivers of such requirement. Requires labels to provide indication in cases in which a waiver has been granted due to evidence a product would be unsafe or ineffective in pediatric populations. Requires the Secretary to issue a written request for related pediatric studies under the Public Health Service Act or under this Act before requiring an assessment for a drug. Directs the Secretary, after determining that there is no agreement to such a written request, to certify whether the Secretary has sufficient funds to conduct the study under the Public Health Service Act, taking into account prioritization of drugs for which pediatric studies are needed. States that if a person fails to submit an assessment under this Act, or a request for approval of a pediatric formulation, the relevant drug or biological product may be considered misbranded solely because of that failure and subject to enforcement action.

To amend title XXVII of the Public Health Service Act to improve the affordability of health insurance coverage for small employers.

United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2003

Amends the Public Health Service Act to remove language requiring, subject to certain provisions, health insurance issuers that offer health insurance coverage in the small group market in a State to accept every small employer that applies for such coverage.