Housing

Senior Navigation and Planning Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2009

Senior Navigation and Planning Act of 2009 - Amends titles XVIII (Medicare) and XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to provide for Medicare and Medicaid coverage of advanced illness care management services. Amends the Public Health Services Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), through grants or contracts, to conduct a national public education campaign on planning for care near the end of life, including advance directives. Directs the Secretary to provide for the establishment of a national, toll-free information telephone line and a clearinghouse regarding advance directive and end-of-life decisions. Directs the Secretary to establish the Senior Navigation Advisory Board. Requires physicians and nurse practitioners to inform individuals with specified diseases about advance directives and other end-of-life planning tools. Requires a service provider, Medicare Advantage organization, or prepaid or eligible organization to give effect to an advance directive executed outside the state in which such directive is presented (portability). Requires medical providers to honor written orders for medical care. Provides incentive payments to hospitals for accreditation and certification in hospice and palliative care. Directs the Secretary to conduct a pilot program under Medicare to test the use of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services discharge checklist. Directs the Secretary to establish or designate an Office on Medicare/Medicaid Integration. Directs the Secretary to establish and maintain a website providing information, online training, and instructional materials for entities, including faith-based organizations, on end-of-life issues. Authorizes grants to such entities to develop such training and materials. Authorizes the Secretary to award grants to entities to develop and provide services for terminally ill individuals who are receiving hospice care in their own homes. Directs the Secretary to study and report to Congress on the storage of advance directives, and the Comptroller General to study and report on the provisions of this Act.

Medical Efficiency and Delivery Improvement of Care Act (MEDIC) of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2009

Medical Efficiency and Delivery Improvement of Care Act (MEDIC) of 2009 - Physician Workforce Enhancement Act of 2009 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), acting through the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), to establish a program to provide loans to eligible hospitals to establish residency training programs. Preserving Patient Access to Primary Care Act of 2009 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to authorize the Secretary of Education to award grants or contracts toenable graduate medical schools to improve primary care education and training for medical students. Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the HHS Secretary, acting through the HRSA Administrator, to award grants to enable critical shortage health facilities to provide scholarships to individuals who agree to serve as physicians at such facilities after completing a residency in a primary care field. Directs the Secretary to establish a program of contracts with eligible individuals who agree to serve as primary care physicians or primary care providers in a primary care field and in an area that is not a health professional shortage area but has a critical shortage of primary care physicians and primary care providers. Requires the Secretary to agree to pay, for each year of such service, up to $35,000 of the principal and interest of the individual's undergraduate or graduate educational loans. Authorizes a similar loan repayment program for physicians in the fields of obstetrics and gynecology and certified nurse midwives. Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to authorize deferment of medical student loans during residency and internships. Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Secretary to award grants to eligible state and local government entities for development of informational materials that promote careers in primary care and encourage medical students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to become primary care physicians. Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act (SSA) with respect to transformation grants to support patient-centered medical homes under Medicaid and SSA title XXI (Children's Health Insurance Program, or CHIP). Amends SSA title XVIII (Medicare) to require the Secretary to: (1) increase budget neutrality limits under the physician fee schedule to account for anticipated savings resulting from payments for certain services and the coordination of beneficiary care; and (2) pay for designated primary care services and comprehensive care coordination services furnished to an individual. Authorizes Medicare coverage of patient-centered medical home services. Directs the Secretary to develop a methodology to increase payments for designated evaluation and management services provided by primary care physicians, primary care providers, and principal care providers. Creates an additional incentive payment program for primary care services furnished in health professional shortage areas. Extends permanently the Medicare incentive payment program for physician scarcity areas. Revises Medicare requirements for preventive services, eliminating the time restriction for an initial preventive physical examination as well as cost-sharing for preventive benefits. Requires additional payments for providing Medicare services to individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP). Requires various studies and reports. Directs the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MEDPAC) to assess the impact of changes in Medicare payment policies in improving access to and equity of payments to primary care physicians and primary care providers. Outlines requirements for distribution of additional residency positions and the counting of resident time in outpatient settings and for didactic and scholarly activities and other activities. Requires the Secretary to establish a process under which, in the case where a hospital with an approved medical residency program closes on or after the date of enactment of the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, the Secretary will increase the otherwise applicable resident limit for other hospitals. Directs the Secretary to revise the 9th Statement of Work under the Quality Improvement Program to require that, in order to be an eligible Quality Improvement Organization (QIO) for the 9th Statement of Work contract cycle, a QIO shall provide assistance, including technical assistance, to physicians under the Medicare program that seek to acquire the elements necessary to be recognized as a patient-centered medical home practice under the National Committee for Quality Assurance's Physician Practice Connections--PCMH module. Medicare Payment Improvement Act of 2009 - Directs the Secretary to determine a value index for each Medicare physician fee schedule area. Home and Community Balanced Incentives Act of 2009 - Amends SSA title XIX to establish an enhanced federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP) for states to: (1) expand provision of non-institutionally-based long-term services and supports; and (2) maintain provision of home and community-based services (HCBS). Authorizes grants to make structural changes to the state Medicaid program. Revises the income eligibility level for HCBS services for elderly and disabled individuals. Revises the income eligibility limit for the state option to provide HCBS services under a waiver. Replaces the income limit of 150% of the poverty line with a limit of 300% of the supplemental security income (SSI) benefit rate. Authorizes additional state options with respect to HCBS services. Applies spousal impoverishment rules to recipients of HCBS. Project 2020: Building on the Promise of Home and Community-Based Services Act of 2009 - Amends the Social Security Act to add a new title XXII (Long-Term Services and Supports), requiring the Secretary to establish and carry out a single-entry point system program, a healthy living program, and an enhanced nursing home diversion program.

Rural Housing Preservation Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2009

Rural Housing Preservation Act of 2009 - Amends the Housing Act of 1949 to require the Secretary of Agriculture to carry out a preservation program to provide financial incentives and other assistance to owners of Section 515 rural multifamily housing projects through long-term use agreements entered into between the project owners and the Secretary. (A Section 515 project is one involving housing and related facilities for elderly persons and families or other persons and families of low income.) Authorizes the Secretary to give priority to applications for eligible projects located on tribal trust lands or other Indian areas, in colonias, or in other small, poor, low-income communities. Requires the Secretary to prepare and approve a long-term viability plan for each eligible project for which the owner requests to participate. Allows the Secretary, subject to certain conditions, to offer a project owner a financial restructuring plan, based on the long-term viability plan, and specified project preservation incentives. Specifies compliance requirements for rents for any eligible households residing in a dwelling unit in any preserved Section 515 project, including: (1) a disregard for certain earned income for residents; and (2) phase-in of rent increases. Establishes conditions that makes certain project owners ineligible to participate in the preservation program. Requires the Secretary to make rural preservation and rural tenant protection vouchers available to certain eligible households. Requires the Secretary to give priority, in entering into contracts involving financing for new construction of a Section 515 project, for projects located in eligible rural areas needing affordable low-income rental housing because of prepayment of Section 515 loans.

Project 2020: Building on the Promise of Home and Community-Based Services Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 12 June 2009

Project 2020: Building on the Promise of Home and Community-Based Services Act of 2009 - Amends the Social Security Act (SSA) to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish a single-entry point system of grants to states for their own single-entry point systems providing information and counseling about public and private long-term services and supports. Directs the Secretary to establish a healthy living program, with grants to state agencies for the federal share of the cost of carrying out evidence-based disease prevention and health promotion programs. Directs the Secretary to establish a diversion program of grants to states for the federal share of the cost of carrying out enhanced nursing home diversion programs enabling individuals ineligible for medical assistance under SSA title XIX (Medicaid) to avoid admission into nursing homes by helping them to obtain alternative home and community-based long-term services and supports.

TRANSPORTATION AND HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2010

United States · United States Senate · 11 June 2009

TRANSPORTATION AND HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2010

United States · United States Senate · 11 June 2009

A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide a tax credit for property owners who remove lead-based paint hazards.

United States · United States Congress · 11 June 2009

Home Lead Safety Tax Credit Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a tax credit for 50 percent of the costs of reducing lead hazards in U.S. homes built before 1960 in which certain low-income children less than six years of age and women of child-bearing age reside. Allows a maximum credit of $3,000 for lead abatement costs and $1,000 for the cost of interim lead control measures.

Senior Navigation and Planning Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 11 June 2009

Senior Navigation and Planning Act of 2009 - Amends titles XVIII (Medicare) and XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to provide for Medicare and Medicaid coverage of advanced illness care management services. Amends the Public Health Services Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), through grants or contracts, to conduct a national public education campaign on planning for care near the end of life, including advance directives. Directs the Secretary to provide for the establishment of a national, toll-free information telephone line and a clearinghouse regarding advance directive and end-of-life decisions. Directs the Secretary to establish the Senior Navigation Advisory Board. Requires physicians and nurse practitioners to inform individuals with specified diseases about advance directives and other end-of-life planning tools. Requires a service provider, Medicare Advantage organization, or prepaid or eligible organization to give effect to an advance directive executed outside the state in which such directive is presented (portability). Requires medical providers to honor written orders for medical care. Provides incentive payments to hospitals for accreditation and certification in hospice and palliative care. Directs the Secretary to conduct a pilot program under Medicare to test the use of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services discharge checklist. Directs the Secretary to establish or designate an Office on Medicare/Medicaid Integration. Directs the Secretary to establish and maintain a website providing information, online training, and instructional materials for entities, including faith-based organizations, on end-of-life issues. Authorizes grants to such entities to develop such training and materials. Authorizes the Secretary to award grants to entities to develop and provide services for terminally ill individuals who are receiving hospice care in their own homes. Directs the Secretary to study and report to Congress on the storage of advance directives, and the Comptroller General to study and report on the provisions of this Act.

Project 2020: Building on the Promise of Home and Community-Based Services Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 11 June 2009

Project 2020: Building on the Promise of Home and Community-Based Services Act of 2009 - Amends the Social Security Act (SSA) to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish a single-entry point system of grants to states for their own single-entry point systems providing information and counseling about public and private long-term services and supports. Directs the Secretary to establish a healthy living program, with grants to state agencies for the federal share of the cost of carrying out evidence-based disease prevention and health promotion programs. Directs the Secretary to establish a diversion program of grants to states for the federal share of the cost of carrying out enhanced nursing home diversion programs enabling individuals ineligible for medical assistance under SSA title XIX (Medicaid) to avoid admission into nursing homes by helping them to obtain alternative home and community-based long-term services and supports.

Home Energy Retrofit Finance Program Act

United States · United States Congress · 11 June 2009

Home Energy Retrofit Finance Program Act - Directs the Secretary to Energy (DOE) to: (1) provide Home Energy Retrofit Finance Program grants to states to establish or expand revolving finance funds to support financing for energy efficiency measures and renewable energy improvements to existing homes and residential buildings; and (2) conduct and report to Congress on an evaluation of such Program.

A resolution celebrating the life and achievements of Millard Fuller, the founder of Habitat for Humanity.

United States · United States Congress · 11 June 2009

Celebrates the life and achievements of Millard Fuller, the founder of Habitat for Humanity. Acknowledges the millions of people he and his organization have served and the inspiration he has given to so many. Encourages all people of the United States to recognize and pay tribute to Millard Fuller's life by following the example of service that he set.

A concurrent resolution recognizing the value and benefits that community health centers provide as health care homes for over 18,000,000 individuals, and the importance of enabling health centers and other safety net providers to continue to offer accessible, affordable, and continuous care to their current patients and to every American who lacks access to preventive and primary care services.

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2009

Expresses the sense of the Sentate that: (1) all individuals should have the choice of a community health center as their health care home; (2) every health center should be appropriately reimbursed for the high-value preventive and primary care they provide; (3) health care reform should include measures to expand community health centers; (4) the current payment mechanisms for federally qualified health centers through Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP, formerly known as SCHIP) are essential to ensuring access to affordable and high-quality preventive and primary care services for program beneficiaries; (5) any expansion of private insurance must include mechanisms to ensure the full participation of, and appropriate reimbursement to, federally qualified health centers and other safety net providers; and (6) ensuring access to all safety net providers is vital to ensuring that health care reform is successful in expanding access, improving quality, and reducing cost.

Taxpayer Protection and Anti-Fraud Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 4 June 2009

Taxpayer Protection and Anti-Fraud Act of 2009 - Amends the Department of Housing and Urban Development Act to prohibit the distribution of any Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) financial assistance to: (1) any organization that has been indicted for a violation under federal or state law relating to an election for federal or state office; or (2) any organization that employs, in a permanent or temporary capacity, any individual indicted for such a violation, has under contract or retains such an individual, or has such an individual acting on the organization's behalf or with its express or apparent authority.

Recognizing the value, benefits, and importance of community health centers as health care homes for millions of people in the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 4 June 2009

Recognizes that: (1) the current payment mechanisms for Federally-Qualified Health Centers in Medicaid, the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP, formerly known as SCHIP), and Medicare are essential to assuring access to quality, affordable, primary, and preventive care servies; and (2) any expansion of private insurance must include mechanisms to ensure the full participation of, and appropriate reimbursement to, such Centers to ensure adequate access to care for the medically underserved and disenfranchised. Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) everyone should have the choice of a community health center as their health care home and every center should be appropriately reimbursed for the care it provides; and (2) health care reform should include measures to expand community health centers.

Preserving Patient Access to Primary Care Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 3 June 2009

Preserving Patient Access to Primary Care Act of 2009 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to authorize the Secretary of Education to award recruitment incentive grants or contracts to graduate medical schools to enable them to improve primary care education and training for medical students. Amends the Public Health Service Act (PHSA) to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration, to: (1) award grants to critical shortage health facilities to enable them to provide scholarships to individuals who agree to serve as physicians at such facilities after completing a residency in a primary care field; (2) establish an educational loan repayment program for individuals who agree to serve as primary care physicians or primary care providers (including nurse practitioners) in an area that is not a health professional shortage area but has a critical shortage of such physicians or providers; and (3) establish an educational loan repayment program for individuals who agree to serve as physicians in the field of obstetrics and gynecology or as certified nurse midwives in an area that is not a health professional shortage area. Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to provide for deferment of education loans during medical residency and internships in a primary care field. Amends the PHSA to direct the Secretary to award grants to eligible state and local government entities for the development of informational materials that promote careers in primary care. Amends the PHSA to extend the authorization of appropriations for training in a family medicine, general internal medicine, general geriatrics, general pediatrics, physician assistance, general dentistry, and pediatric dentistry Authorizes increased appropriations for the national health service corps scholarships and loan repayment programs. Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to allow the use of Medicaid transformation payments for methods for improving medical assistance under Medicaid and SSA title XXI (Children's Health Insurance Program) (CHIP, formerly known as SCHIP) by encouraging certain medical practices to qualify as patient centered medical homes. Amends SSA title XVIII (Medicare) to: (1) increase budget neutrality limits under the physician fee schedule to account for anticipated savings resulting from payments for certain services and the coordination of beneficiary care; and (2) require a separate Medicare payment for designated primary care services and comprehensive care coordination services. Amends SSA title XVIII to cover patient-centered medical home services. Directs the Secretary to develop a methodology to increase payments for designated evaluation and management services provided by primary and principal care providers. Requires: (1) additional incentive payments for primary care services furnished in health professional shortage areas; (2) permanent extension of the floor on the Medicare work geographic adjustment under the physician fee schedule; and (3) permanent extension of the Medicare incentive payment program for physician scarcity areas. Directs the Secretary to study and report to Congress on the process for determining relative value under the Medicare physician fee schedule. Eliminates cost sharing for preventive benefits and the time restriction for initial preventive physical examination. Directs the Secretary to study and report to Congress on: (1) facilitating the receipt of Medicare preventive services by Medicare beneficiaries; (2) increasing the ability of physicians and primary care providers to assist Medicare beneficiaries in obtaining needed prescriptions under Medicare part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program); and (3) developing and implementing mechanisms to promote and increase interaction between physicians or primary care providers and the families of Medicare beneficiaries, as well as other caregivers who support such beneficiaries, for the purpose of improving patient care under the Medicare program. Requires additional payments to physicians for services to individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP). Requires various specified studies. Directs the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MEDPAC) to provide an ongoing assessment of the impact of changes in Medicare payment policies in improving access to and equity of payments to primary care physicians and primary care providers. Authorizes distribution of additional residency positions and the counting of resident time in certain outpatient settings. Establishes rules for counting resident time in a nonhospital setting primarily engaged in furnishing patient care in non-patient care activities, such as didactic and scholarly activities and other activities (but not research not associated with the treatment or diagnosis of a particular patient). Authorizes redistribution of residency slots after a hospital closes or is acquired by another entity with the approval of a bankruptcy court. Directs the Secretary to revise the 9th Statement of Work under the Quality Improvement Program to include a requirement that, in order to be an eligible Quality Improvement Organization (QIO) for the 9th Statement of Work contract cycle, a QIO provide assistance, including technical assistance, to physicians under the Medicare program that seek to acquire the elements necessary to be recognized as a patient centered medical home practice under the National Committee for Quality Assurance's Physician Practice Connections -- PCMH module.

Recognizing National Homeownership Month and the importance of homeownership in the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 3 June 2009

Supports the goals and ideals of National Homeownership Month. Recognizes the importance of homeownership in building strong communities and families. Reaffirms the importance of homeownership in the nation's economy and its central role in our national economic recovery.

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010

United States · United States Congress · 2 June 2009

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010 - Authorizes appropriations for the Department of Defense (DOD) for FY2010. Authorizes appropriations to DOD for: (1) procurement, including for aircraft, missiles, weapons and tracked combat vehicles, ammunition, and shipbuilding and conversion; (2) the Rapid Acquisition Fund; (3) the Joint Improvised Explosive Device Defeat Fund; (4) Defense Production Act purchases; (5) the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicle Fund; (6) research development, test, and evaluation; (7) operation and maintenance; (8) Working Capital Funds; (9) the National Defense Sealift Fund; (10) the Defense Health Program; (11) chemical agents and munitions destruction; (12) drug interdiction and counter-drug activities; (13) the Defense Inspector General; (14) the Armed Forces Retirement Home; and (15) active and reserve military personnel, including end strengths. Sets forth provisions or requirements concerning: (1) military personnel policy; (2) military pay and allowances; (3) acquisition policy and management; (4) DOD organization and management; (5) financial matters; (6) matters relating to foreign nations; and (7) matters relating to military construction, family housing, and real property. Extends through FY2010 DOD authority to provide income equalization payments to reserve personnel experiencing extended and frequent active-duty mobilizations. Provides a special monthly allowance to servicemembers recovering from combat or combat-related catastrophic injuries. Authorizes certain private sector employees to receive instruction at the Defense Cyber Investigations Training Academy operating under the Defense Cyber Crime Center. Provides enhanced DOD authority to acquire products and services produced in Central Asia, Pakistan, and the South Caucasus.

National Centers of Excellence for Regional Smart Growth Planning Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 June 2009

National Centers of Excellence for Regional Smart Growth Planning Act - Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to: (1) designate not fewer than three national centers of excellence for regional smart growth planning, selected from metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs) that have demonstrated regional planning excellence; (2) develop guidelines for the designation and operation of the Centers; and (3) allocate specified funds to each Center to carry out this Act. Authorizes the Administrator to make grants on a competitive basis to eligible entities for: (1) improving the collection of data and the development of models for smart growth planning; (2) implementing comprehensive regional smart growth planning programs; (3) applying planning outcomes in regional transportation plans; and (4) working with local governments to coordinate land use, transportation, and air quality planning. Directs the Centers to: (1) collect and distribute to MPOs information and best practices about regional smart growth planning; (2) make research and development recommendations to EPA and other entities to improve the quality and ease of smart growth analysis; (3) work with institutions of higher education and state and federal agencies to improve smart growth analysis; and (4) provide technical assistance to grant recipients.

Mortgage Foreclosure Rescue and Loan Modification Services Fraud Prevention Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 2 June 2009

Mortgage Foreclosure Rescue and Loan Modification Services Fraud Prevention Act of 2009 - Directs the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to conduct a rulemaking proceeding with respect to mortgage foreclosure rescue and loan modification services. Directs the FTC to include in the rule, among other things, requirements that: (1) any residential real property mortgage foreclosure rescue or loan modification service provided to a homeowner contain a written contract meeting specified criteria; (2) any such contract contain a clearly and prominently disclosed right for the homeowner to cancel within a set number of business days with no penalty or obligation; and (3) prohibits or restricts mortgage foreclosure rescue and loan modification services from requesting or receiving any funds until any such services have been fully performed, results have been achieved, and both have been documented to the consumer.

Next Generation Homes Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 2 June 2009

Next Generation Homes Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) increase the dollar limits on the new energy efficient home tax credit and revise the energy savings requirements for such credit; and (2) allow a new tax credit for the purchase of an energy efficient principal residence.

Expressing the sense of the Congress that the lack of adequate housing must be addressed as a barrier to effective HIV prevention, treatment, and care, and that the United States should make a commitment to providing adequate funding for developing housing as a response to the AIDS pandemic.

United States · United States Congress · 2 June 2009

Declares the sense of the Congress that: (1) stable and affordable housing is an essential component of an effective strategy for HIV prevention, treatment, and care; and (2) the United States should make a commitment to providing adequate funding for developing housing as a response to the AIDS pandemic.

Homes for Heroes Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 1 June 2009

Homes for Heroes Act of 2009 - Amends the Department of Housing and Urban Development Act to establish in the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) a Special Assistant for Veterans Affairs to: (1) ensure veteran access to HUD housing and homeless assistance programs; (2) coordinate all HUD programs and activities relating to veterans; and (3) serve as a HUD liaison with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Directs the HUD Secretary to provide assistance to private nonprofit organizations and consumer cooperatives to expand the supply of supportive housing for very low-income veteran families (that is, families with incomes not exceeding 50% of the area median income). Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to: (1) make housing rental vouchers available to all homeless veterans, regardless of medical condition; and (2) include veterans in public housing planning. Excludes veterans' benefits from income for purposes of HUD assisted housing rental determinations. Requires the Secretary to: (1) make grants to nonprofit entities for technical assistance in sponsoring HUD housing projects for veterans; and (2) report annually to specified congressional committees and the VA Secretary on HUD activities relating to veterans.

STILL POST-KATRINA: HOW FEMA DECIDES WHEN HOUSING RESPONSIBILITIES END

United States · United States House of Representatives · 22 May 2009

Homeowners' Defense Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2009

Homeowners' Defense Act of 2009 - Establishes the National Catastrophe Risk Consortium as a nonprofit, nonfederal entity to: (1) maintain an inventory of catastrophe risk obligations held by state reinsurance funds, state residual insurance market entities, and state-sponsored providers of natural catastrophe insurance; (2) issue, on a conduit basis, securities and other financial instruments linked to catastrophe risks insured or reinsured through Consortium members; (3) coordinate reinsurance contracts; (4) act as a centralized repository of state risk information accessible by certain private-market participants; and (5) establish a database to perform research and analysis that encourages standardization of the risk-linked securities market. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to guarantee holders of debt against loss of principal or interest, or both, on any such debt issued by eligible state programs for purposes of promoting the availability of private capital to provide liquidity and capacity to state catastrophe insurance programs and expediting the payment of claims under such programs and better assist the financial recovery from significant natural catastrophes. Provides separate limits on the total principal amount of such obligations for programs that cover earthquake peril and those that cover all other perils. Directs the Secretary to make contracts for reinsurance coverage available for purchase by eligible state programs. Provides pricing guidelines and a limit on aggregate potential federal liability. Establishes a Federal Natural Catastrophe Reinsurance Fund in the Treasury to be funded by amounts received from the sale of reinsurance coverage contracts, amounts appropriated for liability for claims payment, and earnings on investments. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to establish and carry out a program of grants to eligible entities to develop, enhance, or maintain programs to prevent and mitigate losses from natural catastrophes. Requires a study of the need for and impact of expanding the programs established by this Act to apply to insured losses of eligible state programs for losses arising from commercial insurance policies that provide coverage for properties composed predominantly of residential rental units.

Neighborhood Stabilization Program Reform Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2009

Neighborhood Stabilization Program Reform Act of 2009 - Amends the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008, as amended by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, to revise requirements for the use by state and local governments of emergency assistance provided to them for the redevelopment of abandoned and foreclosed homes and residential properties. Requires any revenue generated, during a specified two-year reinvestment period, from the sale, rental, redevelopment, rehabilitation, or any other eligible use in excess of the cost to acquire and redevelop or rehabilitate an abandoned or foreclosed home or residential property, to be provided to and used by the state or local government in accordance with, and in furtherance of, the intent and provisions of this Act. Requires transfer of the revenue so generated in excess of such cost to the special account established in the U.S. Treasury into which money received as gifts and proceeds from the sale or redemption of gifts shall be deposited. Requires such revenues to be used for public debt reduction only.

Housing Opportunity and Mortgage Equity Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2009

Housing Opportunity and Mortgage Equity Act of 2009 - Directs the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac) (the enterprises) each to implement a program to purchase and securitize qualified new mortgages on single-family housing in accordance with policies and procedures established by the Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA). Sets forth requirements for the purchase and securitization of qualified new mortgages. Terminates the requirement for the enterprises to purchase mortgages two years after the enactment of this Act. Directs Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac each to implement a program to provide for the refinancing of qualified mortgages on single-family housing they own and for the purchase and securitization of such refinancing mortgages in accordance with policies and procedures established by the FHFA Director. Terminates this requirement two years after enactment of this Act. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to purchase securities issued by the enterprises under this Act and such other obligations as the enterprises may issue to carry out this Act. Authorizes the Secretary also, for the purpose of purchasing any such securities and obligations, to use as a public debt transaction the proceeds from the sale of other public debt securities. Treats all redemptions, purchases, and sales by the Secretary of obligations under this Act as public debt transactions of the United States. Limits to $10 billion the aggregate principal amount of outstanding obligations and securities purchased by the Secretary under this Act.

Blue Star/Gold Star Flag Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2009

Blue Star/Gold Star Flag Act of 2009 - States that a condominium association, cooperative association, or residential real estate management association may not adopt or enforce any policy, or enter into any agreement, that would restrict or prevent an association member from displaying a Service Flag on residential property within the association with respect to which such member has a separate ownership interest or a right to exclusive possession or use. (A Service Flag, also known as a "blue star banner," is an official banner authorized by the Department of Defense [DOD] for display by families who have members serving in the Armed Forces during any period of war or hostilities the United States may be engaged in for the duration of such hostilities.) States that nothing in this Act shall be considered to permit any display or use inconsistent with: (1) any DOD regulations regarding rules or customs pertaining to the proper display or use of the Service Flag; or (2) any reasonable restriction pertaining to the time, place, or manner of displaying the flag necessary to protect a substantial interest of the condominium, cooperative, or residential real estate management association.

Medical Homes Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2009

Medical Homes Act of 2009 - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a three-year demonstration project under titles XIX (Medicaid) and XXI (Children's Health Insurance Program) (CHIP, formerly known as SCHIP) of the Social Security Act for the implementation of a patient-centered medical home program to improve the effectiveness and efficiency in providing Medicaid and CHIP assistance to an estimated 500,000 to 1 million targeted beneficiaries.

Community Development Block Grant Improvement Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2009

Community Development Block Grant Improvement Act of 2009 - Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to revise requirements for activities eligible for community development block grant (CDBG) assistance. Increases from 15% to 50% the limitation on the amount of CDBG assistance that may be used to provide public services (e.g., those concerned with employment, crime prevention, child care, health, drug abuse, education, energy conservation, welfare or recreation needs). Repeals certain conditions on the use of such assistance by a local government.

Increasing Homeownership Opportunities Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 May 2009

Increasing Homeownership Opportunities Act - Amends the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation Act and the Federal National Mortgage Association Charter Act to increase limitations on the maximum original principal obligation of mortgages that may purchased by the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation Association (Freddie Mac). Increases such limitations in areas where 125% (currently, 115%) of the median price of residences of a particular size exceed existing mortgage purchase limitations for such residence size. Gives the Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) discretion to increase existing mortgage purchase limitations where an increase is warranted by higher median home prices in an area or sub-area and will have a significant impact on the cost or availability of mortgages for such homes. Amends the National Housing Act to raise limitations on the maximum principal obligation of mortgages that may be insured by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Gives the Secretary discretion to increase mortgage insurance limitations where an increase is warranted by higher median home prices in an area or sub-area and will have a significant impact on the cost or availability of mortgages for such homes.

To authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2010 for military activities of the Department of Defense, for military construction, and for defense activities of the Department of Energy, to prescribe military personnel strengths for such fiscal year, to provide special pays and allowances to certain members of the Armed Forces, expand concurrent receipt of military retirement and VA disability benefits to disabled military retirees, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2009

FHA Enhanced Oversight Act of 2009 - Amends the National Housing Act to change from annual to semiannual: (1) the independent actuarial studies of the Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund of the Federal Housing Administration (FHA); and (2) the report of the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) on the results of each study.

Waiving a requirement of clause 6(a) of rule XIII with respect to consideration of certain resolutions reported from the Committee on Rules.

United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2009

Waives a specified requirement of Rule XIII (Calendar and Committee Reports) to allow consideration of S. 896 (Helping Families Save Their Homes Act of 2009) on the same day it is presented to the House.

American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 15 May 2009

American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 - Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (PURPA) to establish a combined efficiency and renewable electricity standard that requires utilities to supply an increasing percentage of their demand from a combination of energy efficiency savings and renewable energy (6% in 2012, 9.5% in 2014, 13% in 2016, 16.5% in 2018, and 20% in 2021-2039). Provides for: (1) issuing, trading, banking, retiring, and verifying renewable electricity credits; and (2) prescribing standards to define and measure electricity savings from energy efficiency and energy conservation measures. Amends the Clean Air Act (CAA) to require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to: (1) set forth a national strategy to address barriers to the commercial-scale deployment of carbon capture and sequestration; (2) establish an approach to certify and permit geologic sequestration; and (3) promulgate regulations to minimize the risk of escape to the atmosphere of carbon dioxide injected for purposes of geological sequestration. Amends the Safe Drinking Water Act to require the Administrator to promulgate regulations for sequestration wells. Sets forth: (1) a process to establish a Carbon Storage Research Corporation to collect assessments from distribution utilities of fossil fuel-based electricity delivered directly to consumers; and (2) performance standards for new coal-fired power plants. Amends PURPA to provide for the development of electric vehicle infrastructure. Requires the Secretary of Energy (Secretary) to establish: (1) a large-scale vehicle electrification program; and (2) a program to provide financial assistance for the manufacture of plug-in electric drive vehicles. Requires the Administrator to establish a program under which a state may create a State Energy and Environment Development Account. Sets forth provisions concerning the development of a smart grid, including provisions: (1) amending the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to provide for the inclusion of smart grid capability information on appliance energy guide labels; (2) requiring the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to support load-serving entities in developing their peak demand reduction goals; (3) amending the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to reauthorize the energy efficiency public information program and to include smart grid information in it; and (4) reauthorizing the energy efficient and smart appliance rebate program and revising it to include smart-grid features. Amends the Federal Power Act to require FERC to adopt electricity grid planning principles derived from a federal policy (established by this Act) on electric grid planning that facilitates the deployment of renewable and other zero-carbon energy sources for generating electricity to reduce greenhouse gases (GHGs) while ensuring reliability, reducing congestion, ensuring cyber-security, and providing for cost-effective electricity services. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to revise: (1) rules regarding improving energy efficiency in industrial equipment; (2) efficiency standards for electric motors; (3) conservation standards for lighting and appliances; and (4) the Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products Other Than Automobiles. Requires the Secretary to establish Clean Energy Innovation Centers to promote commercial deployment of clean, indigenous energy alternatives to fossil fuels, to reduce GHG emissions, and to ensure that the United States maintains a lead in developing and deploying state-of-the-art energy technologies. Amends the Energy Conservation and Production Act to revise energy conservation standards for new buildings. Requires the Administrator to establish: (1) standards for a national energy and environmental building retrofit policy for residences; and (2) a building energy performance labeling program. Establishes a rebate program to assist low-income households residing in pre-1976 manufactured homes in purchasing new Energy Star qualified manufactured homes. Requires the Secretary to establish a Best-in-Class Appliances Deployment Program. Requires the President to use statutory authorities to set motor vehicle emissions standards. Amends the CAA to require the Administrator to promulgate standards applicable to GHG emissions from specified mobile sources, including heavy-duty vehicles and engines, new marine vessels, locomotives, and aircraft. Establishes within EPA a SmartWay Transport Program, a SmartWay Transport Partnership program, and a SmartWay Financing Program. Requires the Secretary to establish a program to make monetary awards to encourage owners and operators of electric energy generation facilities or thermal energy production facilities using fossil or nuclear fuel to use innovative means of recovering any thermal energy that is a potentially useful byproduct of their processes to: (1) generate additional electric energy; or (2) make sales of thermal energy not used for electric generation, in the form of steam, hot water, chilled water, or desiccant regeneration, or for other commercially valid purposes. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to community development organizations to provide financing to businesses and projects that improve energy efficiency, develop alternative, renewable, and distributed energy supplies, provide technical assistance and promote job and business opportunities for low-income residents, and increase energy conservation in low income rural and urban communities. Safe Climate Act - Amends the CAA to require the Administrator to promulgate regulations to: (1) cap and reduce GHG emissions, annually, so that GHG emissions from capped sources are reduced to 97% of 2005 levels by 2012, 83% by 2020, 58% by 2030, and 17% by 2050; and (2) establish a federal GHG registry. Designates carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, sulfur hexafluoride, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) from a chemical manufacturing process at an industrial stationary source, perfluorocarbons, and nitrogen trifluoride as GHGs and establishes a carbon dioxide equivalent value for each gas. Prohibits any person from manufacturing, introducing into interstate commerce, or emitting a significant quantity of certain fluorinated gas that is generated as a byproduct during the production or use of another fluorinated gas. Requires the Administrator to establish specified emission allowances (annual tonnage limits) for: (1) each of 2012-2049; and (2) 2050 and thereafter. Provides for the establishment and distribution of compensatory allowances for the destruction and conversionary use of fluorinated gases and the nonemissive use of petroleum-based or coal-based liquid or gaseous fuel, petroleum coke, natural gas liquid, or natural gas as a feedstock. Phases in prohibitions against covered entities (including electricity sources, fuel producers and importers, industrial gas producers and importers, geological sequestration sites, industrial stationary sources, industrial fossil fuel-fired combustion devices, natural gas local distribution companies, nitrogen trifluoride sources, algae-based fuels, and fugitive emissions) exceeding allowable emission levels. Requires covered entities to demonstrate compliance through: (1) holding emission allowances (including international emission or compensatory allowances) at least as great as attributable emissions (as specified); or (2) using offset credits. Sets forth penalties for noncompliance. Provides for trading, banking and borrowing, auctioning, selling, exchanging, transferring, holding, or retiring emission allowances. Requires the Administrator to: (1) establish a strategic reserve account and place into that account specified amounts (ranging from 1% to 3%) of the emission allowances for each of calendar years 2012-2050; and (2) auction such strategic reserve allowances once each quarter of each of such years. Requires stationary sources subject to the CAA to have permits that require the covered entity to hold a number of emission allowances at least equal to the total annual amount of carbon dioxide equivalents for its combined emissions and attributable GHG emissions. Authorizes the Administrator to designate an international climate change program as a qualifying international program for purposes of international emission allowances provisions, if certain conditions are met. Establishes the Offsets Integrity Advisory Board. Requires the Administrator, considering the Board's recommendations, to promulgate regulations establishing a program for the issuance of offset credits. Requires the Administrator to promulgate regulations concerning reducing GHG emissions from deforestation in developing countries. Sets forth provisions governing the disposition of emission allowances, including specifying allocations: (1) for supplemental emissions reductions from reduced deforestation; (2) for the benefit of electricity, natural gas, and/or home heating oil and propane consumers; (3) for auction, with proceeds for the benefit of low income consumers and worker investment; (4) to energy-intensive, trade-exposed industries; (5) for the deployment of carbon capture and sequestration technology; (6) to invest in energy efficiency and renewable energy; (7) to be distributed to Clean Energy Innovation Centers; (8) to invest in the development and deployment of clean vehicles; (9) to domestic refiners; (10) for domestic and international adaptation; (11) for domestic wildlife and natural resource adaptation; and (12) for international clean technology deployment. Requires the Administrator to auction off certain unused allowances and to deposit the proceeds for 2012-2025 into the Treasury and for 2026-2050 into the Climate Change Dividend Fund. Requires the President to distribute funds in the Consumer Climate Change Rebate Fund (established by this Act) to U.S. households. Amends the CAA to require the Administrator to promulgate GHG emission performance standards for specified categories of stationary sources that: (1) have uncapped GHG emissions greater than 10,000 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent and are responsible for emitting at least 20% of the uncapped GHG gas emission annually; or (2) are responsible for at least 10% of the uncapped methane emissions. Requires the Administrator to promulgate regulations to phase down the consumption of and regulate the production of HFCs. Specifies consumption allowances for: (1) each of 2012-2032; and (2) 2033 and thereafter. Provides for: (1) the distribution, auction, banking, exchange, and international transfer of such allowances; and (2) the issuance of offset credits for the destruction of chlorofluorocarbons. Establishes the Stratospheric Ozone and Climate Protection Fund, into which the Administrator shall deposit all proceeds from the sale of such allowances. Requires the Administrator to promulgate regulations to reduce emissions of black carbon (light absorbing component of carbonaceous aerosols) or propose a finding that existing CAA regulations adequately regulate such emissions. Prohibits states from implementing a cap and trade program that covers any capped emissions emitted during 2012-2017. Amends the Federal Power Act to require FERC to promulgate regulations for the establishment, operation, and oversight of markets for regulated allowances. Requires the President to establish an interagency working group on carbon market oversight. Amends the Commodity Exchange Act to provide for transactions in derivatives that involve energy commodities. Gives the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) jurisdiction over the establishment, operations, and oversight of markets for regulated allowance derivatives. Amends the CAA to require the Administrator to: (1) distribute emission allowance rebates to eligible industrial sectors (with eligibility based on specified energy, GHG, or trade intensity criteria); and (2) provide for the sale of and require submission of international reserve allowances by U.S. importers of products of industrial sectors that the President determines have suffered certain negative impacts from compliance with GHG emission requirements. Sets forth provisions concerning green jobs and worker transition, including: (1) authorizing the Secretary of Education to award grants to eligible partnerships to develop programs of study focused on emerging careers and jobs in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and climate change mitigation; and (2) providing climate change adjustment assistance to adversely affected workers. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow certain low income taxpayers a refundable energy tax credit to compensate such taxpayers for reductions in their purchasing power, as identified and calculated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), resulting from regulation of GHGs. Requires: (1) the Administrator to implement the Energy Refund Program to give low-income households a monthly cash energy refund equal to the estimated loss in purchasing power resulting from this Act; (2) the Secretary of State to oversee distributions of allowances from the International Clean Technology Account; (3) the President to establish within the United States Global Change Research Program a National Climate Change Adaptation Program; (4) the Secretary of Commerce to establish within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) a National Climate Service; (5) the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to publish a strategic action plan to assist health professionals in preparing for and responding to the impacts of climate change; (6) the President to develop a Natural Resources Climate Change Adaptation Strategy; and (7) the Secretary of State to establish an International Climate Change Adaptation Program.

THE ROLE OF NEIGHBORWORKS AND HOUSING COUNSELING INTERMEDIARIES IN PREVENTING FORECLOSURES

United States · United States House of Representatives · 13 May 2009

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010

United States · United States Congress · 13 May 2009

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010 - Authorizes appropriations for the Department of Defense (DOD) for FY2010. Authorizes appropriations to DOD for: (1) procurement, including aircraft, missiles, weapons and tracked combat vehicles, ammunition, shipbuilding and conversion, and other procurement; (2) the Rapid Acquisition Fund; (3) the Joint Improvised Explosive Device Defeat Fund; (4) Defense Production Act purchases; (5) the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicle Fund; (6) research, development, test, and evaluation; (7) operation and maintenance, including for the Iraq Freedom Fund, the Pakistan Counterinsurgency Capability Fund, environmental restoration, humanitarian aid, and cooperative threat reduction; (8) Working Capital Funds; (9) the National Defense Sealift Fund; (10) the Defense Health Program; (11) chemical agents and munitions destruction; (12) drug interdiction and counter-drug activities; (13) the Defense Inspector General; (14) the Defense Coalition Support Fund; (15) the Armed Forces Retirement Home; (16) active and reserve military personnel, including end strengths; and (17) the Afghanistan Security Forces Fund. Sets forth provisions or requirements concerning: (1) military personnel policy; (2) military pay and allowances; (3) retired pay and survivor benefits; (4) military health care; (5) acquisition policy and management; (6) DOD organization and management; (7) financial matters, including counter-drug activities; (8) civilian personnel matters; (9) matters relating to foreign nations; and (10) matters relating to military construction, family housing, and real property. Provides for reimbursement of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for certain costs associated with the former Nansemond Ordnance Depot Site, Suffolk, Virginia. Establishes in the Treasury the Refined Petroleum Products, Marginal Expense Transfer Account for DOD purchases of refined petroleum products. Provides a special monthly allowance to servicemembers recovering from combat or combat-related catastrophic injuries.

Pregnant Women Support Act

United States · United States Congress · 13 May 2009

Pregnant Women Support Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make grants to increase public awareness of resources available to pregnant women to carry their pregnancy to term and new parents. Amends the Public Health Service Act to allow the Secretary to make grants for the purchase of ultrasound equipment for examinations of pregnant women. Prohibits a health insurance issuer offering individual coverage from imposing a preexisting condition exclusion or a waiting period or otherwise discriminating against a woman on the basis that she is pregnant. Provides for continuation coverage for newborns. Amends title XXI (State Children's Health Insurance Program) (CHIP, formerly known as SCHIP) of the Social Security Act to allow states to extend health care coverage to an unborn child. Requires health facilities that perform abortions to obtain informed consent from a pregnant woman seeking an abortion. Directs the Secretary to provide for: (1) higher education pregnant and parenting student services offices; and (2) programs to work with pregnant or parenting teens to complete high school. Authorizes grants for services to pregnant women who are victims of domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking. Requires states to require a pregnancy determination for homicide victims. Requires the Secretary to provide for supportive services for pregnant women, mothers, and children. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children (WIC program). Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 to increase the eligibility threshold for food stamps. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990. Authorizes grants to provide to eligible mothers education on the health needs of their infants through visits to their homes by registered nurses. Authorizes grants for collecting and reporting abortion surveillance data.

National Park Service and Northwestern State University Collections Conservation Center Act

United States · United States Congress · 13 May 2009

National Park Service and Northwestern State University Collections Conservation Center Act - Amends the Cane River Creole National Historical Park and National Heritage Area Act (the Act) to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to enter into an agreement with Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana, to construct a facility on land owned by the University to be used for: (1) housing the museum collection of the Historical Park; (2) providing additional space for use by the National Center for Preservation Technology and Training; and (3) providing space to the University for educational purposes related to the Williamson Museum collection if the University pays an appropriate rental fee to the National Park Service (NPS), as determined in such agreement. Requires the proceeds from the rental fees collected pursuant to this Act to be made available for the Historical Park.

Family Foreclosure Rescue Corporation Act

United States · United States Congress · 13 May 2009

Family Foreclosure Rescue Corporation Act - Instructs the Secretary of the Treasury to establish the Family Foreclosure Rescue Corporation to acquire, via the sale of bonds, home mortgages and other obligations and liens secured by real estate which are currently in default or at foreseeable risk of default.

Preserving Patient Access to Primary Care Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 12 May 2009

Preserving Patient Access to Primary Care Act of 2009 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to authorize the Secretary of Education to award recruitment incentive grants or contracts to graduate medical schools to enable them to improve primary care education and training for medical students. Amends the Public Health Service Act (PHSA) to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration, to: (1) award grants to critical shortage health facilities to enable them to provide scholarships to individuals who agree to serve as physicians at such facilities after completing a residency in a primary care field; (2) establish an educational loan repayment program for individuals who agree to serve as primary care physicians or primary care providers (including nurse practitioners) in an area that is not a health professional shortage area but has a critical shortage of such physicians or providers; and (3) establish an educational loan repayment program for individuals who agree to serve as physicians in the field of obstetrics and gynecology or as certified nurse midwives in an area that is not a health professional shortage area. Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to provide for deferment of education loans during medical residency and internships in a primary care field. Amends the PHSA to direct the Secretary to award grants to eligible state and local government entities for the development of informational materials that promote careers in primary care. Amends the PHSA to extend the authorization of appropriations for training in a family medicine, general internal medicine, general geriatrics, general pediatrics, physician assistance, general dentistry, and pediatric dentistry Authorizes increased appropriations for the national health service corps scholarships and loan repayment programs. Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to allow the use of Medicaid transformation payments for methods for improving medical assistance under Medicaid and SSA title XXI (Children's Health Insurance Program) (CHIP, formerly known as SCHIP) by encouraging certain medical practices to qualify as patient centered medical homes. Amends SSA title XVIII (Medicare) to: (1) increase budget neutrality limits under the physician fee schedule to account for anticipated savings resulting from payments for certain services and the coordination of beneficiary care; and (2) require a separate Medicare payment for designated primary care services and comprehensive care coordination services. Amends SSA title XVIII to cover patient-centered medical home services. Directs the Secretary to develop a methodology to increase payments for designated evaluation and management services provided by primary and principal care providers. Requires: (1) additional incentive payments for primary care services furnished in health professional shortage areas; (2) permanent extension of the floor on the Medicare work geographic adjustment under the physician fee schedule; and (3) permanent extension of the Medicare incentive payment program for physician scarcity areas. Directs the Secretary to study and report to Congress on the process for determining relative value under the Medicare physician fee schedule. Eliminates cost sharing for preventive benefits and the time restriction for initial preventive physical examination. Directs the Secretary to study and report to Congress on: (1) facilitating the receipt of Medicare preventive services by Medicare beneficiaries; (2) increasing the ability of physicians and primary care providers to assist Medicare beneficiaries in obtaining needed prescriptions under Medicare part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program); and (3) developing and implementing mechanisms to promote and increase interaction between physicians or primary care providers and the families of Medicare beneficiaries, as well as other caregivers who support such beneficiaries, for the purpose of improving patient care under the Medicare program. Requires additional payments to physicians for services to individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP). Requires various specified studies. Directs the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MEDPAC) to provide an ongoing assessment of the impact of changes in Medicare payment policies in improving access to and equity of payments to primary care physicians and primary care providers. Authorizes distribution of additional residency positions and the counting of resident time in certain outpatient settings. Establishes rules for counting resident time in a nonhospital setting primarily engaged in furnishing patient care in non-patient care activities, such as didactic and scholarly activities and other activities (but not research not associated with the treatment or diagnosis of a particular patient). Authorizes redistribution of residency slots after a hospital closes or is acquired by another entity with the approval of a bankruptcy court. Directs the Secretary to revise the 9th Statement of Work under the Quality Improvement Program to include a requirement that, in order to be an eligible Quality Improvement Organization (QIO) for the 9th Statement of Work contract cycle, a QIO provide assistance, including technical assistance, to physicians under the Medicare program that seek to acquire the elements necessary to be recognized as a patient centered medical home practice under the National Committee for Quality Assurance's Physician Practice Connections -- PCMH module.

National Park Service and Northwestern State University Collections Conservation Center Act

United States · United States Congress · 11 May 2009

National Park Service and Northwestern State University Collections Conservation Center Act - Amends the Cane River Creole National Historical Park and National Heritage Area Act (the Act) to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to enter into an agreement with Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana, to construct a facility on land owned by the University to be used for: (1) housing the museum collection of the Historical Park; (2) providing additional space for use by the National Center for Preservation Technology and Training; and (3) providing space to the University for educational purposes related to the Williamson Museum collection if the University pays an appropriate rental fee to the National Park Service (NPS), as determined in such agreement. Requires the proceeds from the rental fees collected pursuant to this Act to be made available for the Historical Park.

GREEN Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 7 May 2009

Green Resources for Energy Efficient Neighborhoods Act of 2009 or the GREEN Act of 2009 - Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to establish annual energy efficiency participation incentives for HUD programs to achieve substantial improvements in energy efficiency. Establishes: (1) basic HUD energy efficiency and conservation standards, including green building standards, for residential single family or multifamily structures; and (2) an energy efficiency and conservation demonstration program for multifamily housing projects assisted with project-based rental assistance. Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1992 to require the Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) to assign an additional housing credit for compliance with Federal Mortgage Insurance Association (Fannie Mae) and Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac) housing goals for energy-efficient and location-efficient mortgages. Amends the Federal Housing Enterprises Financial Safety and Soundness Act of 1992 to require Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to develop loan products and flexible underwriting guidelines to facilitate a secondary market for energy-efficient and location-efficient mortgages for low and moderate income families, for second and junior mortgages made for purposes of energy efficiency or renewable energy, or both. Amends the National Housing Act to require the Secretary, in applying underwriting standards for mortgages on single-family housing, to consider the impact on the income of borrowers under Federal Housing Administration (FHA) mortgage insurance programs and Native American and Native Hawaiian loan guarantee programs from savings on utility costs resulting from energy efficiency standards established by this Act. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to require the Secretary to establish a commission to develop and recommend model mortgage products and underwriting guidelines that provide market-based incentives to incorporate energy efficiency upgrades and location efficiencies in new mortgage loan transactions. Amends the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act of 1975 to require the collection of information on energy-efficient and location-efficient mortgages. Makes it unlawful to deny homeowner insurance for residences that are not connected to or able to receive electricity service from any wholesale or retail electric power provider. Requires the Secretary to: (1) establish mortgage incentives for energy-efficient multifamily housing; (2) develop and implement a pilot program to facilitate the financing of cost-effective capital improvements for certain assisted housing projects to improve their energy efficiency and conservation; and (3) establish and provide incentives for developers of HUD-financed housing to enter into agreements and partnerships with tree-planting organizations, nurseries, and landscapers for the planting and maintenance of trees, shrubs, grasses, and other plants. Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to direct the Secretary to make grants for energy efficiency improvements in new and existing single-family and multifamily housing. Amends the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act to include sustainable development and transportation strategies for affordable housing. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to nonprofit organizations to increase low-income community development capacity. Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to prohibit the Secretary from making a site revitalization grant unless the applicant's proposed revitalization plan meets specified Green Developments, Green Communities, and Green Buildings certification requirements. Amends the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery, and Enforcement Act of 1989 to require real estate appraisals , in determining the value of a property, to consider any renewable energy sources or energy-conserving improvements or features of the property. Directs the Secretary to require entities receiving assistance from the Housing Assistance Council or the HUD Office of Rural Housing and Economic Development to comply with energy efficiency standards established by this Act. Establishes in the Treasury the Alternative Energy Sources State Revolving Fund to provide loans to states and Indian tribes to carry out renewable energy and energy conservation activities. Amends the Federal Deposit Insurance Act to establish and maintain green banking centers to provide energy efficiency information to consumers seeking a mortgage or home equity loan. Requires the Comptroller General to report to Congress on the effect of this Act on the availability or affordability of mortgages. Requires the Secretary to obtain from public housing agencies and report to Congress on information on the energy costs of their housing units. Authorizes the Secretary to make loan guarantees for the financing of renewable energy systems leased for residential use and for the repayment of portions of mortgages used to finance sustainable building elements.

Gulf Coast Civic Works Act

United States · United States Congress · 6 May 2009

Gulf Coast Civic Works Act - Establishes within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of the Federal Coordinator of Gulf Coast Rebuilding the Gulf Coast Civic Works Commission. Authorizes any municipality of over 25,000 people in the affected area to designate a local advisory council to advise the Commission. Requires the Commission to: (1) establish regional taskforces and prepare a regional policy plan; (2) establish and administer a Gulf Coast Civic Works Project that employs a minimum of 100,000 Gulf Coast region residents and evacuees for public works projects to rebuild and develop the Gulf Coast region impacted by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita; (3) establish or support existing job-training programs and apprenticeships to recruit and train qualified workers, with emphasis on women and disadvantaged workers from the Gulf Coast region, for specific job vacancies in approved Civic Works Projects and other recovery, rebuilding, and development projects; (4) ensure that all workers are paid wages at not less than the prevailing locality rate (Davis-Bacon Act); and (5) establish or coordinate other infrastructure projects, including environmental restoration, energy efficiency and conservation, search for affordable workforce housing, and youth works projects. Authorizes the Commission to provide grants to Gulf Coast region residents who possess certain skills for: (1) artistic and cultural projects which reflect or preserve the history and culture of the Gulf Coast region; and (2) projects that chronicle the story of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

Community Building Code Administration Grant Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 5 May 2009

Community Building Code Administration Grant Act of 2009 - Requires the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, to the extent amounts are made available for grants under this Act, to award grants, on a competitive basis and with federal matching funds, to qualified local building code enforcement departments to increase staffing, provide staff training, increase staff competence and professional qualifications, support individual certification or departmental accreditation, or for capital expenditures specifically dedicated to department administration. Sets forth criteria for rating and ranking of grant proposals.

Financial Markets Commission Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 5 May 2009

Financial Markets Commission Act of 2009 - Establishes in the legislative branch the Financial Markets Commission to: (1) examine all causes, domestic and global, of the current financial and economic crisis in the United States, including the collapse of major financial and commercial firms and the deterioration of the credit and housing markets; and (2) investigate the role in the crisis, if any, of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), nationally recognized statistical rating organizations, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac), trading facilities for commodities and self-regulatory organizations, the federal banking agencies, any financial or commercial corporation, partnership, or entity, and any other governmental or non-governmental entity. Requires the Commission to: (1) report its findings and recommendations to the President and Congress; and (2) refer to the U.S. Attorney General and any appropriate state attorney general any person that the Commission finds may have violated federal laws in relation to the crisis.

Don't Let the Bed Bugs Bite Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 5 May 2009

Don't Let the Bed Bugs Bite Act of 2009 - Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to provide grants to to assist states in carrying out inspections of lodging facilities for cimex lectularius, commonly known as the bed bug. Allows states to use grants to conduct inspections, train inspection personnel, contract with a commercial applicator to inspect and treat lodging facilities, and educate lodging proprietors and staff about prevention and eradication of bed bugs. Requires the Secretary to report to Congress on the effectiveness of the grant program. Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to include bed bug prevention and management in public housing agency plans. Amends the Public Health Service Act to include bed bug prevention and control under the block grant program for preventive health services. Requires the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to investigate the public health implications of bed bugs on lodging and housing and report to Congress.

Community Building Code Administration Grant Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 5 May 2009

Community Building Code Administration Grant Act of 2009 - Requires the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, to the extent amounts are made available for grants under this Act, to award grants, on a competitive basis and with federal matching funds, to qualified local building code enforcement departments to increase staffing, provide staff training, increase staff competence and professional qualifications, support individual certification or departmental accreditation, or for capital expenditures specifically dedicated to department administration. Sets forth criteria for rating and ranking of grant proposals.

Mercedes Marquez, of California, to be an Assistant Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, vice Susan D. Peppler, resigned.

United States · United States Senate · 4 May 2009

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow a nonrefundable credit for mentoring and housing young adults.

United States · United States Congress · 4 May 2009

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a tax credit to individuals who provide mentoring services to young adults between the ages of 18 and 22. Requires such individuals to participate in a one-on-one relationship as a positive role model with such young adults and to conduct meetings and activities with them on not less than a monthly basis.

To amend title 38, United States Code, to waive housing loan fees for certain veterans with service-connected disabilities called to active service.

United States · United States Congress · 29 April 2009

Prohibits the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) from collecting a housing loan fee from any veteran who, but for the receipt of active service pay, would be entitled to compensation for a service-connected disability.

Mortgage Assistance Information and Scam Prevention Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 29 April 2009

Mortgage Assistance Information and Scam Prevention Act of 2009 - Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to require that each covered mortgage servicer provide periodic notice to each mortgagor under a first mortgage on residential real property designed principally for occupancy of one to four families. Requires such a notice to: (1) notify the mortgagor of possible eligibility for federal or federally related homeowner assistance; (2) identify specific programs of HUD, the Rural Housing Service of the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the Department of the Treasury, the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae), the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac), the Federal Home Loan Banks, and any other federal or federally related entities that provide mortgage relief, mortgage refinancing, loan modification, mortgage foreclosure mitigation, homeowner stability or affordability, or other homeowner assistance; and (3) explain how to obtain further information regarding such programs.