Housing

Second Chance Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2004

Second Chance Act of 2004: Community Safety Through Recidivism Prevention or Second Chance Act of 2004 - Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to reauthorize, rewrite, and expand provisions regarding adult and juvenile offender reentry demonstration projects, including by authorizing funds to: (1) provide structured post-release housing and transitional housing through which offenders are provided supervision and services immediately following reentry into the community; (2) facilitate specified collaboration to promote the employment of people released from prison and jail; and (3) establish or expand the use of reentry courts. Sets forth grant priorities and requirements, including that each State or local government recipient establish a Reentry Task Force or other relevant convening authority. Authorizes the Attorney General to make a grant to provide for the establishment of a National Adult and Juvenile Offender Reentry Resource Center. Directs the Attorney General to establish an interagency task force on Federal programs and activities relating to offender reentry. Authorizes the National Institute of Justice and the Bureau of Justice Statistics to conduct research on offender reentry. Directs: (1) the Secretary of Health and Human Services to review the role of State child protective services at the time of arrest and to establish services for the preservation of families impacted by the incarceration of a family member; and (2) the Secretary of Labor to implement a program to educate employers about existing incentives to the hiring of former prisoners and to make grants to community-based organizations to provide mentoring and other transitional services essential to reintegrating ex-offenders.

Financing Homes for Rural Americans Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2004

Financing Homes for Rural Americans Act - Amends the Housing Act of 1949 to allow borrowers under the rural single family housing guaranteed loan program to finance the amount of the guarantee fee.

Energy Policy Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 3 June 2004

Energy Policy Act of 2004 - Sets forth a program to spur diverse energy research and development including the following: (1) energy efficiency; (2) renewable energy; (3) oil and gas; (4) coal; (5) Indian energy; (6) nuclear matters and security; (7) vehicles and motor fuels, including ethanol; (8) hydrogen; (9) electricity; and (10) energy tax incentives. Amends the National Energy Conservation Policy Act to revise energy reduction goals and performance requirements for Federal buildings. Institutes grant programs for low-income community energy efficiency and energy efficient public buildings. Revises energy conservation standards for: (1) additional consumer products; (2) affordable housing and assisted housing; and (3) Federal Housing Administration (FHA) mortgage insurance incentives for energy efficient housing. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to prescribe incentive payments for renewable energy production facilities. John Rishel Geothermal Steam Act Amendments of 2004 - Amends the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970 to revamp guidelines governing leasing and permitting for geothermal development of public and National Forest System lands, including those withdrawn for military purposes. Amends the Federal Power Act to prescribe guidelines for hydroelectric licensing proposals for alternative conditions and requirements governing project works within a Federal reservation. Instructs the Secretary of Energy to make incentive payments to promote hydroelectric production. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to make permanent: (1) the authority of the Secretary of Energy to operate the Strategic Petroleum Reserve; and (2) standby energy authorities governing the International Energy Program, including summer fill and fuel budgeting programs. Sets forth a program of production incentives that includes: (1) oil and gas royalties in kind; (2) marginal property production; (3) natural gas production in the Gulf of Mexico; and (4) oil and gas leasing in the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska. Directs the President to establish the Office of Federal Energy Project Coordination in the same manner and with the same mission as the White House Energy Projects Task Force established by a specified Executive Order. Prescribes implementation guidelines for access to Federal land for: (1) oil and gas leasing; (2) expedited permits; (3) energy rights-of-way and corridors on public and Federal lands; (4) renewable energy on Federal land; and (5) electricity transmission line rights of way on public land. Alaska Natural Gas Pipeline Act - Requires the President and the Secretaries of the Interior and of Energy to expedite the Federal decision-making process for access to Federal lands for energy projects. Prescribes parameters for Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) authorization of an Alaska natural gas transportation project and pipeline expansion following an expedited approval process. Instructs the Secretary of Labor to award grants to train adult and dislocated workers in Alaska in the skills required to construct and operate an Alaska gas pipeline system. Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to offer Federal loan guarantees to specified certificated entities for infrastructure projects. Sets forth a Clean Coal Power Initiative campaign that includes grants to universities to establish Centers of Excellence for Energy Systems of the Future. Authorizes Federal loan guarantees for designated coal gasification projects, including: (1) a loan to the owner of a specified experimental plant; (2) a coal gasification project that produces power in deregulated energy generation markets; and (3) a petroleum coke gasification polygeneration project. Modifies statutory requirements governing Federal coal leases, including acreage limitations, mining plans, and advance royalty payments. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to direct the Secretary of Energy to implement a program to facilitate production and generation of coal-based power and the installation of pollution control equipment. Indian Tribal Energy Development and Self-Determination Act of 2004 - Amends the Department of Energy Organization Act and the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to establish the Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs to promote Indian tribal energy resource development through a program of grants and loans. Price-Anderson Amendments Act of 2003 [sic] - Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to modify and extend indemnification authority and liability limits for Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) licensees and Department of Energy (DOE) contractors. Prohibits assumption by the U.S. Government of liability for certain foreign incidents. Addresses general nuclear matters, including: (1) establishment of an NRC training and fellowship program for individuals with critical nuclear safety regulatory skills; (2) elimination of pension offset; (3) a DOE decommissioning pilot program; (4) uranium sales; (5) special demonstration projects for the uranium mining industry; (6) whistleblower protection prescriptions; (7) medical isotope production; (8) uranium enrichment facilities; and (9) the national uranium stockpile. Instructs the Secretary of Energy to establish an Advanced Reactor Hydrogen Co-Generation Project. Prescribes implementation guidelines for a training program to respond to threats against designated nuclear facilities, including use of firearms by licensee security personnel and NRC certificate holders. Sets forth a transportation fuels program that uses: (1) alternative fuels for dual-fueled vehicles; (2) fuel credits for medium and heavy duty dedicated vehicles; and (3) lease condensates. Sets forth implementation guidelines for pilot programs that target: (1) alternative fueled vehicles; (2) fuel cell vehicles; (3) advanced vehicles; and (4) hybrid vehicles. Instructs the Secretary of Energy, in partnership with the private sector, to conduct programs that address production of hydrogen from diverse energy sources. Directs the President to establish an interagency task force on hydrogen fuel infrastructure for hydrogen-carrier fuels, including fleet transportation. Directs the Secretary of Energy to implement initiatives that target research, development, and commercial application in the areas of: (1) energy efficiency; (2) distributed energy and electric energy systems; (3) renewable energy; (4) nuclear energy; (5) fossil energy; (6) ultra-deepwater and unconventional natural gas, and other petroleum resource exploration and production; (7) science; and (8) energy and the environment (including international cooperation). Electric Reliability Act of 2004 - Amends the Federal Power Act to grant FERC regulatory jurisdiction over an Electric Reliability Organization. Prescribes guidelines for electric reliability standards, including electric transmission infrastructure, operation and transmission rates. Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to: (1) require electric utilities to make net metering and smart metering available upon consumer request; and (2) terminate mandatory purchase and sale requirements pertaining to cogeneration and small power production utilities. Public Utility Holding Company Act of 2004 - Repeals the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935. Amends the Federal Power Act to: (1) direct FERC to promulgate market transparency rules governing sales of electric energy at wholesale in interstate commerce, or transmission services in interstate commerce; and (2) prohibit round trip trading. Authorizes the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to issue rules that prohibit in the absence of consumer consent: (1) the change of selection of an electric utility ("slamming"); and (2) the sale of goods and services to an electric consumer ("cramming"). Mandates review of Federal agency review authorities over mergers to determine if duplicative authorities exist. Revises Federal Power Act prescriptions governing electric utility mergers. Energy Tax Policy Act of 2004 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish energy tax credits affecting: (1) residential and business property; (2) alternative motor vehicles and fuels; (3) low sulfur diesel fuel; (4) clean coal technology units; and (5) certain alternative minimum tax provisions. Amends the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 to authorize Federal grants to rural and remote communities with specified electricity costs for improved electric generation, transmission, and distribution facilities. Provides royalty payment relief for offshore oil and gas production leases under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act. Amends the Tennessee Valley Authority Act of 1933 to change the composition, operation, and duties of the Board of Directors of the Tennessee Valley Authority. Retains the effect of a specified Department of Energy Order regarding transmission security. Extends the attainment date for certain downwind ozone nonattainment areas. Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (Administrator) to establish criteria for safe and environmentally protective use of specified granular mine tailings. Amends the Clean Air Act to direct the Administrator to promulgate regulations ensuring that domestic motor vehicle fuel consumption includes renewable fuel containing ethanol. Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to make grants to provide assistance to merchant producers of methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) in making the transition from producing MTBE to producing iso-octane, iso-octene, alkylates, or renewable fuels. Prohibits the use of MTBE in motor vehicle fuel by December 31, 2014, in any State that does not specifically authorize it. Authorizes the President to determine by June 30, 2014, that this prohibition against the use of MTBE in motor vehicle fuel shall not take place and that the legal authority to prohibit its use in motor vehicle fuel shall become null and void. Eliminates the oxygen content requirement for reformulated gasoline. Conditions the Administrator's approval of State fuel restrictions upon a finding that they will neither cause fuel supply or distribution interruptions nor have a significant adverse impact on fuel producibility. Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to: (1) make loan guarantees for private sector construction of facilities for the processing and conversion of municipal solid waste and cellulosic biomass into fuel ethanol and other commercial byproducts; and (2) provide grants for construction of ethanol production facilities. Underground Storage Tank Compliance Act of 2004 - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to require the Administrator to distribute specified fund percentages from the Leaking Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund to States to pay costs incurred for regulation of underground storage tanks (USTs). Allows undistributed funds to be used for enforcing UST regulations.

Small Disaster Assistance Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 3 June 2004

Small Disaster Assistance Act of 2004 - Amends the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to authorize the President, after an event that results in major damage to or destruction of 100 homes or fewer, to declare, at the request of a Governor, that a major disaster exists and provide Federal assistance upon determining that such assistance is necessary due to the existence of one or more of the following factors in the affected area: (1) a large population of historically and economically disadvantaged individuals; (2) a median family income level below the national, State, or local average; (3) high unemployment; (4) a large population of uninsured homeowners or renters; (5) a large elderly population; (6) a high concentration of damage; and (7) a high level of trauma, including injuries, deaths, disruption of community services, and emergency needs.

Carin M. Barth, of Texas, to be Chief Financial Officer, Department of Housing and Urban Development, vice Angela Antonelli.

United States · United States Senate · 1 June 2004

Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 1 June 2004

Veterans' Benefits Improvements Act of 2004 - Increases the voluntary contribution amount that active duty members of the Armed Forces may make in order to receive increased monthly educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB). Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program that allows veterans to extend their eligibility period for using MGIB education benefits to obtain specified instruction or training. Excludes veterans' education benefits from the determination of eligibility for, or the amount of, Federal education grants and loans (except for campus-based student financial assistance that exceeds a veteran's cost of attendance when combined with such benefits). Requires the Secretary to collect required contributions from Reservists before they use MGIB educational assistance (currently, required at the beginning of active duty period). Increases the maximum housing loan guarantee amount for which veterans are eligible. Gives the Secretary permanent authority to guarantee adjustable rate mortgages (ARMs) and hybrid ARMs, and to modify interest rates applicable to hybrid ARMs. Terminates the collection of housing loan fees from veterans rated eligible for compensation at pre-discharge disability examinations. Extends administrative and judicial remedies for violations of veterans' preference requirements to all veterans (currently, limited to preference eligible veterans). Prohibits the collection of copayments from veterans receiving hospice care from the Department of Veterans Affairs. Extends certain authorities relating to benefits for veterans that are set to expire. Modifies the definition of minority group member for purposes of the Advisory Committee on Minority Veterans.

Homeownership Opportunities for Native Americans Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 1 June 2004

Homeownership Opportunities for Native Americans Act of 2004 - Amends the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act of 1996 to require Federal guarantees for tribal housing activities to guarantee repayment of 95 percent of the unpaid principal and interest due on the notes or other obligations.

A bill to clarify the calculation of per-unit costs payable under expiring annual contributions contracts for tenant-based rental assistance that are renewed in fiscal year 2004.

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2004

Amends the Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2004 to revise the per-unit cost calculation for expiring tenant-based rental assistance contracts under section 8 of the United States Housing Act of 1937.

Making appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2005, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2004

Makes appropriations for FY 2005 for the Department of Veterans Affairs for: (1) the Veterans Health Administration for the maintenance and operation of hospitals, nursing homes, and domiciliary facilities; (2) the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Care Collections Fund; (3) medical and prosthetic research; (4) medical administration and miscellaneous operating expenses; (5) general departmental operating expenses; (6) National Cemetery Administration operation and maintenance; (7) the Office of Inspector General; (8) construction, major projects; (9) construction, minor projects; (10) the parking revolving fund; (11) grants for the construction of State nursing home and domiciliary facilities; and (12) grants for establishing, expanding, or improving State veterans' cemeteries.

Making appropriations for the Departments of Agriculture, Education, Health and Human Services, and Transportation for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2005, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2004

Appropriates FY 2005 appropriations to the Department of Agriculture for the: (1) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service; (2) Rural Community Advancement Program; (3) Rural Housing Service; and (4) Rural Utilities Service (rural telephone bank program account, and distance learning, telemedicine, and broadband program). Appropriates FY 2005 appropriations to the Department of Education for the rural education achievement program. Appropriates FY 2005 appropriations to the Department of Health and Human Services for rural programs of the Health Resources and Services Administration. Appropriates FY 2005 appropriations to the Department of Transportation for air carrier payments. States that for taxpayers with adjusted gross income in excess of $1 million for calendar year 2004 the amount of the tax reduction resulting from enactment of the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 and enactment of the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001 shall be reduced by 5.1 percent.

Making appropriations for military construction and family housing for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2005, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2004

Appropriates funds for FY 2005 for: (1) military construction for the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Air Force Reserve; and (2) family housing construction for the Army, Navy and Marine Corps, and Air Force. Reduces by 6.3 percent the amount of tax reduction for taxpayers with adjusted gross incomes in excess of $1 million for calendar year 2004 resulting from enactment of the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 and the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001.

Revitalizing Older Communities Through Housing Improvements Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2004

Revitalizing Older Communities Through Housing Improvements Act of 2004 - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to authorize, under specified circumstances, a public housing agency to establish an increased voucher program payment standard in situations of: (1) low lease success rate or voucher holder concentration in high-poverty areas; and (2) disability accommodations. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to issue implementing regulations with respect to certain voucher program recommendations made by the Millenial Housing Commission. Requires each housing assistance voucher contract to provide that it shall be a breach of contract for the owner to fail to pay State or local real estate taxes, fines, or assessments relating to an assisted dwelling unit or the building in which the unit is located. Establishes the Commission to Revitalize Older Communities Through Housing Improvements which shall study and report on: (1) the public housing community service requirement; and (2) voucher concentration reduction. Terminates the Commission 30 days after report submission.

Fair Housing Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2004

Fair Housing Protection Act - Amends the Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2004 to revise the per-unit cost calculation for expiring tenant-based rental assistance contracts under section 8 of the United States Housing Act of 1937. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to develop a plan to end section 8 waiting lists. States that if the Secretary withdraws amounts from the reserve account for any public housing agency, or takes any other action that reduces reserve accounts without agency approval, the Secretary shall: (1) notify the agency of such withdrawal or action; and (2) before the commencement of the quarter of the fiscal year first commencing after such withdrawal or action, replenish the reserve account with the full amount of such withdrawal or reduction. Prohibits a zero balance withdrawal by the Secretary without prior notice to, and written approval from, a public housing agency. Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1987 to authorize additional appropriations for the fair housing initiatives program.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that there should be established a National Community Health Center Week to raise awareness of health services provided by community, migrant, public housing, and homeless health centers.

United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2004

Calls for the establishment of a National Health Center Week (beginning on August 8, 2004) to raise awareness of the health services provided by community, migrant, public housing, and homeless health centers.

Helping Hands for Homeownership Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 13 May 2004

Helping Hands for Homeownership Act of 2004 - Amends the Housing Opportunity Program Extension Act of 1996 to permit a homeowner under the sweat equity model program to perform required construction time on more than one dwelling.

To require the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to provide tenant-based rental housing vouchers for certain residents of federally assisted housing.

United States · United States Congress · 12 May 2004

Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, upon full payment of the mortgage for the East Crown Heights Apartments in Akron, Ohio, to: (1) terminate specified agreements relating to such property; and (2) make tenant-based housing voucher assistance available to the Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority for 108 families residing in the property as of the date of such agreements' termination.

Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005

United States · United States Congress · 11 May 2004

Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005 - Authorizes the Secretary of Defense (Secretary) and the Secretaries of each military department to acquire real property and carry out military construction projects in specified amounts at specified installations and locations. Authorizes each department Secretary to construct or acquire family housing units and improve existing military family housing in specified amounts. Authorizes appropriations to the Department of Defense (DOD) and each military department for fiscal years after 2004 for military construction, land acquisition, and military family housing functions. Limits the total cost of authorized construction projects. Modifies certain prior-year construction projects. Authorizes the Secretary to make contributions for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program and authorizes appropriations for fiscal years after 2004 for such Program. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years after 2004 for the Guard and reserve forces for acquisition, architectural and engineering services, and construction of facilities. Terminates all authorizations contained in this Act on October 1, 2007, or the date of enactment of an Act authorizing funds for military construction for FY 2008, whichever is later, with exceptions. Extends certain prior-year military construction projects. Authorizes specified military land conveyances. Authorizes the: (1) Secretary to carry out a DOD follow-on laboratory revitalization demonstration program; and (2) Secretary of the Army to enter into an agreement for the design, construction, and operation of a heritage center for the National Museum of the United States Army.

Ronald W. Reagan National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005

United States · United States Congress · 11 May 2004

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005 - Authorizes appropriations for the Department of Defense (DOD), military construction, and national security programs of the Department of Energy for FY 2005. Authorizes appropriations to DOD for: (1) procurement, including aircraft, missiles, weapons and tracked combat vehicles, ammunition, shipbuilding and conversion, and other procurement; (2) research, development, test, and evaluation, including science and technology projects and ballistic missile defense; (3) operation and maintenance, including environmental restoration, defense working capital funds, the defense health program, and chemical agents and munitions destruction; (4) active and reserve military personnel, including end strengths; (5) the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program; (6) Guard and Reserve forces facilities; and (7) the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board. Extends certain bonus, special, and incentive pay authorities. Authorizes certain: (1) travel and transportation allowances; and (2) military retired pay and survivor benefits. Sets forth provisions or requirements concerning: (1) environmental provisions, including cleanup costs at certain military installations; (2) active and reserve military personnel policy, including joint officer duties and management and DOD policy and procedures on prevention and response to sexual assaults involving members of the Armed Forces; (3) military health care, including establishment of a chiropractic health care benefits advisory committee; (4) acquisition policy and management, including major defense acquisition programs, establishment of the Commission on the Future of the National Technology and Industrial Base, and management of the defense acquisition and support workforce; (5) DOD organization and management, including establishment of the Commission on the National Guard and Reserves, and a United States Military Cancer Institute; (6) budget and financial matters, including defense business systems investment management, a space posture review, and a panel on the future of military space launch; (7) additional defenses against terrorism; (8) matters relating to other nations, including assistance to Iraq and Afghanistan military and security forces; (9) DOD civilian personnel policy, including intelligence personnel and personnel of nonappropriated fund instrumentalities; (10) cooperative threat reduction with states of the former Soviet Union; and (11) the national defense stockpile. Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005 - Authorizes military construction, military family housing, and certain military land conveyances.

To provide for the transfer of the Nebraska Avenue Naval Complex in the District of Columbia to facilitate the establishment of the headquarters for the Department of Homeland Security, to provide for the acquisition by the Department of the Navy of suitable replacement facilities.

United States · United States Congress · 11 May 2004

Directs the Secretary of the Navy to transfer the parcel of Department of the Navy real property in the District of Columbia known as the Nebraska Avenue Complex to the administrative jurisdiction of the Administrator of General Services to accommodate the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Authorizes the Secretary of DHS (the Secretary) to establish the Complex as DHS headquarters. Makes the Secretary responsible for the payment of the costs to move furnishings and equipment related to the initial relocation of the Navy Department activities from the Complex and costs incident to the initial occupancy by such activities of interim leased space. Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to retain administrative jurisdiction over that portion of the Complex that is currently being used to provide family housing to the Navy. Directs that Secretary to: (1) complete the transfer of administrative jurisdiction by January 1, 2005; (2) relocate Department of the Navy activities at the Complex to other locations; and (3) submit to the Director of the Office of Management and Budget and Congress an initial estimate of sums necessary to cover the costs to permanently relocate Department of the Navy activities from the Complex.

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow the low-income housing credit without regard to whether moderate rehabilitation assistance is provided with respect to a building.

United States · United States Congress · 5 May 2004

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to eliminate the disqualification under the low-income housing tax credit for buildings receiving moderate rehabilitation assistance under the Housing Act of 1937.

To clarify the calculation of per-unit costs payable under expiring annual contributions contracts for tenant-based rental assistance that are renewed in fiscal year 2004.

United States · United States Congress · 4 May 2004

Amends the Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2004 to revise the per-unit cost calculation for expiring tenant-based rental assistance contracts under section 8 of the United States Housing Act of 1937.

Homeless Veterans Assistance Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 29 April 2004

Homeless Veterans Assistance Reauthorization Act of 2004 - Extends through FY 2008 the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make grants to furnish the following assistance to homeless veterans: (1) outreach; (2) rehabilitative services; (3) vocational counseling and training; and (4) transitional housing. Increases and extends through FY 2008 the authorization of appropriations for homeless assistance to veterans furnished through the Department of Veterans Affairs.

A resolution expressing the Sense of the Senate that Congress should expand the supports and services available to grandparents and other relatives who are raising children when their biological parents have died or can no longer take care of them.

United States · United States Congress · 28 April 2004

Expresses the sense of the Senate that Congress should establish new and expanded supports and services, such as respite care, housing, and subsidized guardianship, for grandparents and other relatives who are raising children inside and outside of the foster care system. Recognizes the commitment of grandparents and other relatives raising children whose parents are unable or unwilling to do so. Urges institutions and government entities to promote public policies that support such caregivers.

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow for the expansion of areas designated as renewal communities based on 2000 census data and to treat certain census tracts with low populations as low-income communities for purposes of the new markets tax credit.

United States · United States Congress · 22 April 2004

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) authorize the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, at the request of all governments that nominated an area as a renewal community, to expand an area designated as such a community to include certain census tracts of general distress or with increased poverty rates based on 2000 census data; and (2) treat population census tracts with populations of less than 2,000 that are within empowerment zones and that are contiguous to a low income community as low-income communities for purposes of the new markets tax credit.

Ronald W. Reagan National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005

United States · United States Congress · 22 April 2004

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005 - Authorizes appropriations for the Department of Defense (DOD) for FY 2005. Authorizes appropriations to DOD for: (1) procurement, including for aircraft, missiles, weapons and tracked combat vehicles, ammunition, and shipbuilding and conversion; (2) research, development, test, and evaluation, including ballistic missile defense capabilities; (3) operation and maintenance, including for defense working capital funds, the Armed Forces Retirement Home, the Defense Health Program, and chemical agents and munitions destruction; and (4) active and reserve military personnel, including end strengths. Extends certain bonus, special, and incentive pay authorities. Provides bonus repayment requirements with respect to unserved periods. Expands certain travel and transportation allowances. Sets forth provisions or requirements concerning: (1) active and reserve military personnel policy, including revised promotion and duty requirements for joint officers, the extension of age limits for active-duty general and flag officers, and revised retirement rules for officers; (2) ROTC and the military service academies, including the establishment of a Board of Visitors at each academy; (3) acquisition policy and management, including defense acquisition workforce changes and the privatization of military utilities located on non-Federal lands; (4) DOD organization and management; (5) budget and financial matters; (6) the establishment of auxiliaries for military departments and a National Defense Heritage Foundation; (7) DOD civilian personnel policy, including a priority placement program for displaced civilian employees and pay parity with respect to certain DOD civilian personnel; and (8) matters relating to other nations, allies, and friendly foreign nations. Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005 - Authorizes the Secretaries of Defense and the military departments to acquire real property and carry out specified military construction projects. Authorizes appropriations for: (1) military construction, land acquisition, and military family housing functions; (2) the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Security Investment Program; (3) chemical demilitarization construction; and (4) National Guard and reserve forces facilities. Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to establish the Museum Center of the National Museum of the United States Army at Fort Belvoir, Virginia.

Efficient Energy Through Certified Technologies and Electricity Reliability (EFFECTER) Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 22 April 2004

Efficient Energy Through Certified Technologies and Electricity Reliability (EFFECTER) Act of 2004 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide tax incentives affecting: (1) energy efficient commercial building property; (2) new energy efficient homes; (3) certain energy efficient property used in business; (4) nonbusiness energy property; (5) combined heat and power system property; and (6) energy efficient appliances. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to expand the scope of consumer products that fall within the Energy Conservation Program (other than automobiles). Directs the Federal Trade Commission to initiate a rulemaking regarding: (1) the effectiveness of the current consumer products labeling program in assisting consumers to make purchasing decisions and to improve energy efficiency; and (2) changes to the labeling rules that would improve the effectiveness of consumer product labels. Amends the National Energy Conservation Policy Act to prescribe guidelines under which the head of an executive agency shall procure either an Energy Star product; or a Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP)-designated product in order to meet agency requirements for an energy consuming product. Repeals the termination of authority to enter into new energy savings performance contracts (thereby making such authority permanent). Amends the Energy Conservation and Production Act to direct the Secretary of Energy to establish certain revised Federal building energy efficiency performance standards. Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to include within the mandatory activities funded by the Capital Fund: (1) installing fixtures and fittings to improve energy and water-use efficiency; and (2) integrated utility management and capital planning to maximize energy conservation and efficiency measures. Amends the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act to direct the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development and the Secretary of Agriculture to promulgate energy efficiency standards for rehabilitation and new construction of certain public and assisted housing. Amends the Federal Power Act to grant the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) jurisdiction over the FERC-certified Electric Reliability Organization, including any regional entities, and all users, owners and operators of the bulk-power system for purposes of approving specified reliability standards.

A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify that per diem payments by the Department of Veterans Affairs for the care of veterans in State homes shall not be used to offset or reduce other payments made to assist veterans.

United States · United States Congress · 21 April 2004

Amends Federal veterans' benefits provisions to state that per diem payments by the Department of Veterans Affairs for the care of veterans in State homes shall not be considered a liability of a third party, or otherwise utilized to offset or reduce any other payment made to assist veterans.

Efficient Energy Through Certified Technologies and Electricity Reliability (EFFECTER) Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 8 April 2004

Efficient Energy Through Certified Technologies and Electricity Reliability (EFFECTER) Act of 2004 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide tax incentives affecting: (1) energy efficient commercial building property; (2) new energy efficient homes; (3) certain energy efficient property used in business; (4) nonbusiness energy property; (5) combined heat and power system property; and (6) energy efficient appliances. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to expand the scope of consumer products that fall within the Energy Conservation Program (other than automobiles). Directs the Federal Trade Commission to initiate a rulemaking regarding: (1) the effectiveness of the current consumer products labeling program in assisting consumers to make purchasing decisions and to improve energy efficiency; and (2) changes to the labeling rules that would improve the effectiveness of consumer product labels. Amends the National Energy Conservation Policy Act to prescribe guidelines under which the head of an executive agency shall procure either an Energy Star product; or a Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP)-designated product in order to meet agency requirements for an energy consuming product. Repeals the termination of authority to enter into new energy savings performance contracts (thereby making such authority permanent). Amends the Energy Conservation and Production Act to direct the Secretary of Energy to establish certain revised Federal building energy efficiency performance standards. Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to include within the mandatory activities funded by the Capital Fund: (1) installing fixtures and fittings to improve energy and water-use efficiency; and (2) integrated utility management and capital planning to maximize energy conservation and efficiency measures. Amends the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act to direct the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development and the Secretary of Agriculture to promulgate energy efficiency standards for rehabilitation and new construction of certain public and assisted housing. Amends the Federal Power Act to grant the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) jurisdiction over the FERC-certified Electric Reliability Organization, including any regional entities, and all users, owners and operators of the bulk-power system for purposes of approving specified reliability standards.

Condemning ethnic violence in Kosovo.

United States · United States Congress · 2 April 2004

States that the Senate: (1) urges all people in Kosovo to immediately stop the violence that begun on March 17, 2004, end the destruction of homes, churches, and other cultural and religious sites, and cooperate with North Atlantic Treaty Organization's Kosovo Force (KFOR), the United Nations Interim Administration in Kosovo (UNMIK), and the Kosovo Police in identifying for prosecution the perpetrators of violence and property destruction; (2) expresses its deep condolences to the families of those who have been killed in the recent violence; (3) condemns the destruction of personal and religious property in Kosovo; (4) urges political leaders to take action to allow the more than 4,000 Kosovo Serbs and other minorities displaced during the violence to return to their communities; (5) encourages all political leaders in Kosovo to renounce the use of violence, and to proceed with efforts to establish a peaceful, multiethnic society; (6) recommends that the United Nations review the structure of UNMIK; and (7) urges reinvigoration of Belgrade-Pristina dialogue toward establishment of an environment guaranteeing freedom of movement and human rights in Kosovo.

FHA Single Family Loan Limit Adjustment Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 1 April 2004

FHA Single Family Loan Limit Adjustment Act of 2004 - Amends the National Housing Act to increase Federal Housing Administration (FHA) single family mortgage limits.

A resolution condemning ethnic violence in Kosovo.

United States · United States Congress · 31 March 2004

States that the Senate: (1) urges all people in Kosovo to immediately stop the violence, end the destruction of homes, churches, and other cultural and religious sites, and cooperate with North Atlantic Treaty Organization's Kosovo Force (KFOR), the United Nations Interim Administration in Kosovo (UNMIK), and the Kosovo Police in identifying for prosecution the perpetrators of violence and property destruction; (2) expresses its deep condolences to the families of those who have been killed in the recent violence; (3) condemns the destruction of personal and religious property in Kosovo; (4) urges political leaders to take action to allow the more than 4,000 Kosovo Serbs and other minorities displaced during the violence to return to their communities; (5) encourages all political leaders in Kosovo to renounce the use of violence, and to proceed with efforts to establish a peaceful, multiethnic society; (6) recommends that the United Nations review the structure of UNMIK; and (7) urges reinvigoration of Belgrade-Pristina dialogue toward establishment of an environment guaranteeing freedom of movement and human rights in Kosovo.

Meningococcal Vaccination Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 31 March 2004

Meningococcal Vaccination Act of 2004 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to require entering students who will reside in on-campus housing at postsecondary institutions to have received meningococcal vaccinations.

Renewal Communities Expansion and Technical Improvements Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 31 March 2004

Renewal Communities Expansion and Technical Improvements Act of 2004 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) qualify employees who reside in any renewal community for purposes of the empowerment zone employment credit; (2) extend the exemption from the limitation on the use of community development block grants for provision of public services to renewal communities; and (3) authorize the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to expand the boundaries of a renewal community to include other adjacent and noncontiguous areas, including areas of high economic distress.

Samaritan Initiative Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 30 March 2004

Samaritan Initiative Act of 2004 - Amends the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act to establish a program through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under which a participating Federal agency shall make grants to eligible entities, including faith-based and community-based organizations, for permanent housing (provision of housing or rental assistance) and related treatment (including health and drug and alcohol treatment) and support services for chronically homeless persons. Requires: (1) a participating Federal agency to establish an interagency implementation and monitoring team; and (2) a grantee to establish a homeless management information system. Obligates specified authorizations of appropriations for: (1) HUD; (2) the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS); and (3) the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Authorizes the participation of other Federal agencies.

Veterans Housing Affordability Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 30 March 2004

Veterans Housing Affordability Act of 2004 - Increases the maximum amount of Department of Veterans Affairs-guaranteed home loans to veterans for the purchase or construction of a home from $60,000 to the dollar amount equal to 22.5 percent of the Freddie Mac conforming loan limitation determined under the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation Act, as adjusted for the year involved.

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005

United States · United States Congress · 24 March 2004

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005 - Authorizes appropriations for the Department of Defense (DOD) for FY 2005. Authorizes appropriations to DOD for: (1) procurement, including for aircraft, missiles, weapons and tracked combat vehicles, ammunition, and shipbuilding and conversion; (2) research, development, test, and evaluation, including ballistic missile defense capabilities; (3) operation and maintenance, including for defense working capital funds, the Armed Forces Retirement Home, the Defense Health Program, and chemical agents and munitions destruction; and (4) active and reserve military personnel, including end strengths. Extends certain bonus, special, and incentive pay authorities. Expands certain travel and transportation allowances. Sets forth provisions or requirements concerning: (1) environmental policy, including the protection of sunken State craft and the remains of their crews; (2) active and reserve military personnel policy, including the extension of age limits for reserve and National Guard general and flag officers, and revised retirement rules for officers; (3) ROTC and the military service academies, including the establishment of a Board of Visitors at each academy; (4) acquisition policy and management, including enhanced small business participation in defense contracting; (5) DOD organization and management; (6) budget and financial matters; (7) the establishment of auxiliaries for military departments and a National Defense Heritage Foundation; (8) DOD civilian personnel policy; and (9) matters relating to other nations, allies, and friendly foreign nations. Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005 - Authorizes the Secretary of Defense and the Secretaries of the military departments to acquire real property and carry out specified military construction projects. Authorizes appropriations for: (1) military construction, land acquisition, and military family housing functions; (2) the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Security Investment Program; (3) chemical demilitarization construction; and (4) National Guard and reserve forces facilities. Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to establish the Museum Center of the National Museum of the United States Army at Fort Belvoir, Virginia.

State Veterans Home Nurse Recruitment Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 24 March 2004

State Veterans Home Nurse Recruitment Act of 2004 - Amends Federal veterans' benefits provisions to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make payments to States for assisting State veterans' homes in the hiring and retention of nurses and the reduction of nursing shortages at such homes. Makes eligible for such assistance State homes that: (1) currently receive per diem payments from the Secretary for the care of veterans; and (2) have in effect an employee incentive scholarship or other program designed to promote the hiring and retention of nursing staff and reduce nursing shortages. Limits such assistance to no more than 50 percent of the fiscal year costs of such a program. Requires the assistance program to be implemented as expeditiously as possible, so that payments are made to eligible States commencing no later than January 1, 2005.

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to establish a 15-year recovery period for depreciation of designated low-income buildings and to allow passive losses and credits attributable to qualified low-income buildings.

United States · United States Congress · 24 March 2004

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) allow a 15-year recovery period for depreciation of certain low-income buildings eligible for the tax credit for low-income housing; and (2) exempt such buildings from provisions disallowing certain passive investment activity tax losses and credits.

Honoring Donald J. Smith for his commitment to providing housing and economic assistance opportunities to Los Angeles-area low-income families.

United States · United States Congress · 23 March 2004

States that Congress recognizes and honors Donald J. Smith for his commitment to providing housing and economic assistance opportunities to Los Angeles-area low-income families.

FOSTER Act

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 2004

Foster Opportunities for Success Through Higher Education Reform - FOSTER Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) to establish a program of foster care youth outreach and housing services. Directs the Secretary of Education to make grants to institutions of higher education to provide: (1) technical assistance and supportive services to foster care youth who are prospective students to prepare for, enter, and remain in such institutions; and (2) basic housing during the regular academic school year, including interim housing during regular periods of dormitory closing other than summer break, for those foster care youth living in college dormitories. Requires program coordination with: (1) the John H. Chafee foster care independence program under the Social Security Act; and (2) TRIO and GEAR UP programs under HEA. Revises HEA financial need analysis to provide fair treatment for foster care youth.

Romolo A. Bernardi, of New York, to be Deputy Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, vice Alphonso R. Jackson.

United States · United States Senate · 11 March 2004

A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify that per diem payments by the Department of Veterans Affairs for the care of veterans in State homes shall not be used to offset payments that are made under the medicaid program for the purpose of assisting veterans.

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 2004

Amends Federal veterans' benefits provisions to state that per diem payments by the Department of Veterans Affairs for the care of veterans in State homes shall not be considered a liability of a third party for any purpose under Medicaid (title XIX of the Social Security Act). (Such payments, if considered a liability, would be required to be offset from the amount of authorized Medicaid assistance.)

Expanding Housing Opportunities Through Education and Counseling Act

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 2004

Expanding Housing Opportunities Through Education and Counseling Act - Amends the Department of Housing and Urban Development Act to establish, in the Office of the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Office of Housing Counseling. Directs the Office to carry out HUD homeownership and rental counseling functions, including related research, grant administration, public outreach, and development of policy and performance measures. Amends the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968 to direct the Secretary to: (1) establish homeownership (including mortgage loan) and rental counseling procedures, and a related a toll-free telephone number and World Wide Web site; (2) certify computer software programs for consumer evaluation of residential mortgage loans; (3) establish a housing counseling multimedia outreach program aimed at elderly persons, persons with language barriers, low-income persons, and other potentially vulnerable consumers; (4) assist States, local government, and non-profit organizations with consumer education programs about mortgage, refinancing, home equity, or home repair loans; and (5) make grants for State, local government, and non-profit organization housing counseling assistance. Directs the Secretary to conduct a home loan default and foreclosure study. Requires organizations to use HUD-certified counselors in order to qualify for specified HUD assistance. Amends the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act of 1974 to revise the mortgage information booklet.

Temporary Agricultural Work Reform Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2004

Temporary Agricultural Work Reform Act of 2004 - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to revise the H-2A (temporary agricultural worker) program. Eliminates the labor certification process and instead requires employers seeking H-2A workers to provide attestations concerning: (1) wages and working conditions; (2) the nondisplacement of U.S. workers; (3) the lack of a strike or lockout; and (4) compliance with prior H-2A approvals. Establishes penalties for failing to meet, or misrepresentations concerning, attestations. Replaces the adverse effect wage rate with a prevailing wage rate. Requires employers of H-2A workers to: (1) pay the greater of the prevailing wage or the applicable State minimum wage; (2) offer to provide housing or a housing allowance; (3) reimburse costs of initial transportation to the place of employment and provide transportation to the work site; and (4) guarantee employment for a specified period of time. Requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish a procedure for the expedited adjudication of H-2A petitions. Renders inadmissible and ineligible for H-2A status those aliens who previously violated the terms of their admission. Provides a one-time waiver for those who are outside the United States. Amends the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 to prohibit the Legal Services Corporation from: (1) providing legal assistance to aliens unless those aliens are present in the United States as H-2A workers; and (2) bringing a civil action on behalf of H-2A workers unless the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service has attempted to mediate the dispute.

To convey for public purposes certain Federal lands in Riverside County, California, that have been identified for disposal.

United States · United States Congress · 2 March 2004

Directs the Secretary of the Interior to convey to S.C.D.P. Management, Inc. (doing business as Father Joe's Villages), without consideration and subject to valid existing rights, specified Federal lands in Riverside County, California, to provide a homeless shelter, a training center, and affordable housing.

Child Nutrition Improvement and Integrity Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 March 2004

Child Nutrition Improvement and Integrity Act - Amends the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act (NSLA) and the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 (CNA) to reauthorize various programs, including the national school lunch and breakfast, child and adult care food, after-school snack, summer food service, and special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children (WIC). Revises requirements relating to eligibility for and access to such programs. Reauthorizes, without any termination date, the exclusion of military housing allowances from consideration as income in determining eligibility for free or reduced price lunches. Includes as automatically eligible for free lunches and breakfasts: (1) children or youth defined as homeless under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act; and (2) youth served under the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act. Makes eligible also for such special payments any new schools which draw attendance from schools receiving severe need assistance. Extends through FY 2009 the summer food pilot projects and the summer food service program for children. Allows nonprofit organizations to participate in such programs. Revises the child and adult care food program. Extends indefinitely the period during which private day care providers with at least 25 percent of served children eligible for free and reduced price lunch are eligible to participate. Extends, from three years to five years, the period of a tier classification of a family or group day care home. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture (the Secretary) to issue regulations requiring States to develop and use a standard form of agreement between each family or group home day care sponsoring organization and their homes participating in the program. Extends through FY 2006 the period during which the Secretary is required to reserve funds for providing training and technical assistance to States to improve program management and oversight. Authorizes the Secretary or a State agency to disregard any overpayment to an institution if the total overpayment does not exceed a collection cost amount consistent with other disregards, except where there is evidence of a violation of criminal law or civil fraud law. Allows children up to age 18 (currently 12) to be served program meals while residing at homeless or domestic violence shelters. Directs the Secretary, in conjunction with States and participating institutions, to examine the feasibility of reducing paperwork under the program. Revises eligibility and certification requirements for free and reduced price lunches. Directs the Secretary to base income eligibility guidelines on nonfarm income poverty guidelines issued by the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS). Requires applications and related descriptive materials for free and reduced price lunches to be distributed at least annually to parents and guardians in clear and understandable format and language. Requires descriptive material to contain: (1) only the income levels for reduced price lunches, and an explanation that lower income levels may mean eligibility for free lunches; and (2) notice that WIC participants in the program are eligible for free or reduced price lunches. Allows applications to be submitted by an adult of the household: (1) as a single application for all children in the household; and (2) electronically if the filing system meets confidentiality standards. Directs local education agencies (LEAs) to verify information in a sample of approved applications, with variations in such samples according to specified formulae based non-response rates. Provides for direct certification of children as eligible for free meals, without further application, based on their being in households receiving assistance under the food stamp program or the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program under title IV part A of the Social Security Act. Sets forth privacy protections. Prohibits requiring LEAs to submit free and reduced price meal policy statements to State agencies after the initial submission unless there is a substantive change in such policy. Requires, with certain exceptions, a child's eligibility for free and reduced price lunches to remain in effect from the date of approval for the current school year until the beginning of school in a subsequent school year, or as otherwise specified by the Secretary. Transfers responsibility for local administration of school lunch and breakfast programs from local school food authorities (LSFAs) to LEAs (including appropriate entities determined by the Secretary in cases of private nonprofit school food authorities). Makes LEAs, as well as LSFAs, responsible for program compliance and accountability. Directs the Secretary to give priority consideration to States that will use reallocated funds for technology and information management improvements. Requires States to describe how they will use technology and information management systems to improve program integrity in certain ways. Raises the amount of the minimum State administrative expense grant, and guarantees that such a grant shall not be less than the one received in a previous fiscal year. Permits eligibility for special assistance to be determined district-wide, as an alternative to determining it on an individual school basis. Directs the Secretary to develop and distribute training and technical assistance materials relating to administration of school meals programs. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) provide training and technical assistance related to administrative practices to improve program integrity and administrative accuracy to State educational agencies (SEAs), LSFAs, and LEAs; and (2) assist SEAs in reviewing administrative practices of LSFAs. Establishes additional administrative and performance review requirements for selected LSFAs and LEAs that have demonstrated high levels of or high risks for administrative errors. Directs SEAs, where such a selected LSFA or LEA fails to meet performance criteria established by the Secretary, to: (1) require such entity to develop and carry out a plan of corrective action; (2) provide technical assistance; and (3) conduct a follow-up review. Authorizes the Secretary require the SEA to recover funds that were expended in error and use them to improve program integrity and administrative accuracy. Requires States to provide annual training and technical in administrative practices, emphasizing requirements established under this Act. Requires the Secretary to assist the State or provide such training and technical assistance or directly. Authorizes the Secretary or the State to contract with a third party conducting such activities. Requires each LSFA or LEA to insure that an individual conducting or overseeing such administrative procedures receives such training at least annually. Authorizes the Secretary to assist States in carrying out State training and administrative reviews of selected LSFAs and LEAs with excessive error rates. Requires LEAs participating in school meals programs to establish local school wellness policies with: (1) goals for nutrition education, physical activity, and other school-based activities; (2) nutrition guidelines for all foods sold on school campus during the school day in order to promote health and reduce obesity; (3) a plan to ensure policy implementation, including designating persons with operational responsibility; and (4) involvement of parents, students, and representatives of the LSFA, school board, school administrators, and the public. Revises the system of nutrition education grants to SEAs to provide assistance to State agencies, schools, and nonprofit entities for the Team Nutrition Network (TNN) program and other nutrition education projects that improve student understanding of healthful eating patterns, the quality of school meals, and access to local foods in schools and institutions operating programs under NSLA and CNA. Establishes TNN to: (1) promote the Nation's schoolchildren's health through nutrition education, physical fitness, and other activities supporting healthy lifestyles; (2) provide grants to States to develop Statewide, comprehensive, and integrated nutrition education and physical fitness programs; and (3) provide training and technical assistance to States, school and community nutrition programs, and child nutrition food service professionals. Requires State TNN Coordinators to: (1) administer and coordinate a comprehensive integrated statewide nutrition education program; and (2) coordinate efforts with the Food and Nutrition Service and State agencies responsible for children's health programs. Directs the Secretary to provide assistance for the following types of three-year pilot projects: (1) to States on a competitive basis for State TNN Coordinators to create model nutrition education and physical fitness programs for school students; and (2) to not more than 100 LEAs, at least one per State, to promote healthy eating habits and increase physical fitness among school students. Authorizes the Secretary to provide: (1) technical assistance to SEAs to improve school meal quality; and (2) technical assistance and competitive matching grants to schools and nonprofit entities to improve access to local foods in schools and institutions. Includes fruits and vegetables among the foods to be emphasized in commodity distribution. Revises fruit and vegetable pilot program requirements to direct the Secretary to make available fresh and dried fruits and fresh vegetables to 25 schools in each of four additional States and one Indian reservation, with an emphasis on low-income schools. Requires schools to serve milk in a variety of fat contents. Permits substitute nutritionally-equivalent nondairy beverages to be reimbursable, if a note is provided from a medical authority or the child's parent or guardian. Extends the period during which weighted averages are not required to be used in nutrient analysis of foods under the school lunch program, if school food authority has an equivalent nutrient analysis system. Directs the Secretary to: (1) promulgate rules, based on Federal nutrition guidelines, to increase the presence of whole grains in foods offered in school nutrition programs; and (2) enter into an agreement with a science-based organization to study, determine, and report on appropriate nutritional standards for foods available to students in school, considering total daily dietary intake of students participating in the school foods program. Revises WIC program (under CNA) definitions of: (1) nutrition education to include child development and physical activity; and (2) supplemental foods to provide for consideration of the most recent Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Revises certification requirements for WIC program participation to allow: (1) a State to certify breastfeeding women for up to one year or until they stop breastfeeding, whichever is earlier; (2) a local agency to waive the physical presence requirement for infants under eight weeks of age; and (3) applicants or participants to reschedule appointments to apply or be recertified. Directs the Secretary to: (1) promulgate a rule updating the prescribed supplemental foods available through the WIC program, within six months of receiving the review of the WIC food package undertaken by the National Academy of Sciences, Institute of Medicine in September 2003; and (2) beginning in 2013, and at least every ten years thereafter, conduct scientific reviews of supplemental foods available in the WIC program and recommend changes to reflect nutrition science, current public health concerns, and cultural eating patterns. Requires State agencies to notify vendors in writing of violations, unless the notification would compromise an investigation. Authorizes State agencies to round up to the next whole can of infant formula to ensure all infants receive the full-authorized nutritional benefit. Revises WIC program competitive bidding provisions to require infant formula: (1) rebate invoices to provide reasonable estimates or actual counts of numbers of units sold to program participants; and (2) bid solicitations amounts to be adjusted on a cent-by-cent basis according to changes in the lowest national wholesale truckload price. Authorizes demonstration projects, in up to ten local sites, to evaluate inclusion of fresh, frozen, or canned fruits and vegetables, to be made available through private funds, as an addition to supplemental food provided under the WIC program. Revises WIC program provisions for management information systems to require: (1) States to comply with certain standards for electronic benefit systems; and (2) the Secretary to implement a national Universal Product Code Database for use by all State agencies. Requires participating vendors in the WIC program to purchase infant formula from a State-maintained list of approved manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, and retailers. Prohibits State alliances from exceeding 200,000 infant participants (except alliances with such numbers as of October 2003). Allows any State agency serving under 5,000 participants, or any Indian Tribal Organization, to request to join any State alliance. Increases from one to three percent the maximum portion of nutrition services and administration funds a State may expend during the subsequent fiscal year for allowable expenses incurred during a fiscal year. Extends through FY 2009 the authorization of appropriations for: (1) the WIC program; (2) WIC nutrition services and administrative funds; and (3) WIC farmers' market nutrition program. Revises requirements relating to training and technical assistance under NSLA, CNA, and other federally-assisted feeding programs. Directs the Secretary to develop policy and establish procedures regarding the purchase, distribution, notice of consumption, and provision of information regarding irradiated foods in Federal school meals programs. Extends through FY 2009 the authorization of appropriations for: (1) State administrative expenses (CNA); (2) the commodity distribution program (NSLA and the Commodity Distribution Reform Act and WIC Amendments of 1987); (3) purchases of locally produced foods (NSLA); (4) training, technical assistance, and food service management institute (NSLA); and (5) compliance and accountability (NSLA).

Rural Housing Equity Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 24 February 2004

Rural Housing Equity Act of 2004 - Makes Casa Grande, Arizona, eligible for loan and grant programs in the Rural Development mission area.

Energy Policy Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 12 February 2004

Energy Policy Act of 2003 - Sets forth a program to spur diverse energy research and development including the following: (1) energy efficiency; (2) renewable energy; (3) oil and gas; (4) coal; (5) Indian energy; (6) nuclear matters and security; (7) vehicles and motor fuels, including ethanol; (8) hydrogen; (9) electricity; and (10) energy tax incentives. Amends the National Energy Conservation Policy Act to revise energy reduction goals and performance requirements for Federal buildings. Institutes grant programs for low-income community energy efficiency and energy efficient public buildings. Revises energy conservation standards for: (1) additional consumer products; (2) affordable housing and assisted housing; and (3) Federal Housing Administration (FHA) mortgage insurance incentives for energy efficient housing. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to prescribe incentive payments for renewable energy production facilities. John Rishel Geothermal Steam Act Amendments of 2003 - Amends the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970 to revamp guidelines governing leasing and permitting for geothermal development of public and National Forest System lands, including those withdrawn for military purposes. Amends the Federal Power Act to prescribe guidelines for hydroelectric licensing proposals for alternative conditions and requirements governing project works within a Federal reservation. Instructs the Secretary of Energy to make incentive payments to promote hydroelectric production. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to make permanent: (1) the authority of the Secretary of Energy to operate the Strategic Petroleum Reserve; and (2) standby energy authorities governing the International Energy Program, including summer fill and fuel budgeting programs. Sets forth a program of production incentives that includes: (1) oil and gas royalties in kind; (2) marginal property production; (3) natural gas production in the gulf of Mexico; and (4) oil and gas leasing in the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska. Directs the President to establish the Office of Federal Energy Project Coordination in the same manner and with the same mission as the White House Energy Projects Task Force established by specified Executive Order. Prescribes implementation guidelines for access to Federal land for: (1) oil and gas leasing; (2) expedited permits; (3) energy rights-of-way and corridors on public and Federal lands; (4) renewable energy on Federal land; and (5) electricity transmission line rights of way on public land. Alaska Natural Gas Pipeline Act - Requires the President and the Secretaries of the Interior and of Energy to expedite the Federal decision-making process for access to Federal lands for energy projects. Prescribes parameters for Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) authorization of an Alaska natural gas transportation project and pipeline expansion following an expedited approval process. Instructs the Secretary of Labor to award grants to train adult and dislocated workers in Alaska in the skills required to construct and operate an Alaska gas pipeline system. Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to offer Federal loan guarantees to specified certificated entities for infrastructure projects. Sets forth a Clean Coal Power Initiative campaign that includes grants to universities to establish Centers of Excellence for Energy Systems of the Future. Authorizes Federal loan guarantees for designated coal gasification projects, including: (1) a loan to the owner of a specified experimental plant on such terms and conditions as the Secretary of Energy determines, including interest rates and upfront payments; (2) a coal gasification project that produces power in deregulated energy generation markets; and (3) a petroleum coke gasification polygeneration project. Modifies statutory constraints governing Federal coal leases, including acreage limitations, mining plans, and advance royalty payments. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to direct the Secretary of Energy to implement a program to facilitate production and generation of coal-based power and the installation of pollution control equipment. Indian Tribal Energy Development and Self-Determination Act of 2003 - Amends the Department of Energy Organization Act and the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to establish the Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs to promote Indian tribal energy resource development through a program of grants and loans. Price-Anderson Amendments Act of 2003 - Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to modify and extend indemnification authority and liability limits for Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) licensees and Department of Energy (DOE) contractors. Prohibits assumption by the United States Government of liability for certain foreign incidents. Addresses general nuclear matters, including: (1) establishment of an NRC training and fellowship program for individuals with critical nuclear safety regulatory skills; (2) elimination of pension offset; (3) a DOE decommissioning pilot program; (4) uranium sales; (5) special demonstration projects for the uranium mining industry; (6) whistleblower protection prescriptions; (7) medical isotope production; (8) uranium enrichment facilities; and (9) the national uranium stockpile. Instructs the Secretary of Energy to establish an Advanced Reactor Hydrogen Co-Generation Project. Prescribes implementation guidelines for a training program to respond to threats against designated nuclear facilities, including use of firearms by licensee security personnel and NRC certificate holders. Sets forth a transportation fuels program that uses: (1) alternative fuels for dual-fueled vehicles; (2) fuel credits for medium and heavy duty dedicated vehicles; and (3) lease condensates. Sets forth implementation guidelines for pilot programs that target: (1) alternative fueled vehicles; (2) fuel cell vehicles; (3) advanced vehicles; and (4) hybrid vehicles. Instructs the Secretary of Energy, in partnership with the private sector, to conduct programs that address production of hydrogen from diverse energy sources. Directs the President to establish an interagency task force on hydrogen fuel infrastructure for hydrogen-carrier fuels, including fleet transportation. Directs the Secretary of Energy to implement Initiatives that target research, development, and commercial application in the following areas: (1) energy efficiency; (2) distributed energy and electric energy systems; (3) renewable energy; (4) nuclear energy; (5) fossil energy; (6) ultra-deepwater and unconventional natural gas, and other petroleum resource exploration and production; (7) science; and (8) energy and the environment (including international cooperation). Electric Reliability Act of 2003 - Amends the Federal Power Act to grant FERC regulatory jurisdiction over an Electric Reliability Organization. Prescribes guidelines for electric reliability standards, including electric transmission infrastructure, operation and transmission rates. Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to: (1) require electric utilities to make net metering and smart metering available upon consumer request; and (2) terminate mandatory purchase and sale requirements pertaining to cogeneration and small power production utilities. Public Utility Holding Company Act of 2003 - Repeals the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935. Amends the Federal Power Act to: (1) direct FERC to promulgate market transparency rules governing sales of electric energy at wholesale in interstate commerce, or transmission services in interstate commerce; and (2) prohibit round trip trading. Authorizes the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to issue rules that prohibit in the absence of consumer consent: (1) the change of selection of an electric utility ("slamming"); and (2) the sale of goods and services to an electric consumer ("cramming"). Mandates review of Federal agency review authorities over mergers to determine if duplicative authorities exist. Revises Federal Power Act prescriptions governing electric utility mergers. Energy Tax Incentives Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish energy tax credits in the following areas: (1) renewable electricity production; (2) alternative motor vehicles and fuels; (3) energy efficiency; (4) clean coal technologies; (5) oil and gas, including Alaska natural gas; and (6) electric utility restructuring. Prescribes tax treatment of tax shelters and corporate expatriation. Amends the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 to authorize Federal grants to rural and remote communities with specified electricity costs for improved electric generation, transmission, and distribution facilities. Provides royalty payment relief for offshore oil and gas production leases under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act. Amends the Tennessee Valley Authority Act of 1933 to change the composition, operation, and duties of the Board of Directors of the Tennessee Valley Authority. Retains the effect of a specified Department of Energy Order regarding transmission security. Extends the attainment date for certain downwind ozone nonattainment areas. Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (Administrator) to establish criteria for safe and environmentally protective use of specified granular mine tailings. Amends the Clean Air Act to direct the Administrator to promulgate regulations ensuring that domestic motor vehicle fuel consumption includes renewable fuel containing ethanol and other biomass components. Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to make grants to provide assistance to merchant producers of methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) in making the transition from producing MTBE to producing other fuel additives. Authorizes the President to make a determination by 2014 that the prohibitions against the use of MTBE in motor vehicle fuel under this Act shall not take place and that the legal authority to prohibit its use in motor vehicle fuel shall become null and void. Conditions the Administrator's approval of State fuel restrictions upon a finding that such restrictions will neither cause fuel supply or distribution interruptions nor have a significant adverse impact on fuel producibility. Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to: (1) make loan guarantees for private sector construction of facilities for the processing and conversion of municipal solid waste and cellulosic biomass into fuel ethanol and other commercial byproducts; and (2) provide grants for construction of ethanol production facilities. Underground Storage Tank Compliance Act of 2003 - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to require the Administrator to distribute specified fund percentages from the Leaking Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund to States to pay costs incurred for regulation of underground storage tanks (USTs). Allows undistributed funds to be used for enforcing UST regulations.

Cathy M. MacFarlane, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, vice Diane Leneghan Tomb, resigned.

United States · United States Senate · 11 February 2004

Dennis C. Shea, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, vice Alberto Faustino Trevino, resigned.

United States · United States Senate · 11 February 2004