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United States · United States Congress · 9 January 2015
Constitutional Amendment Limits Members of the Senate to two terms and Members of the House of Representatives to six terms.
United States · United States Congress · 9 January 2015
Constitutional Amendment Limits Members of the House of Representatives to three terms and Members of the Senate to two terms.
United States · United States Congress · 9 January 2015
No More Ghost Money Act Prohibits any federal department, agency, or federal government contractor from making a monetary payment to any official of a foreign country for the purposes of bribery, coercion, or any illegal activity that undermines the rule of law or corrupts a public official. Requires the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) to report to Congress on all monetary payments made by the CIA to officials of the Government of Afghanistan on or after September 11, 2001. Authorizes the President to waive the requirements of this Act if compliance would harm U.S. national security or members of the Armed Forces.
United States · United States Congress · 8 January 2015
John Tanner Fairness and Independence in Redistricting Act Prohibits a state that has been redistricted after an apportionment from being redistricted again until after the next apportionment of Representatives, unless the state is ordered by a court to conduct such a subsequent redistricting in order to: (1) comply with the U.S. Constitution, or (2) enforce the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Requires such redistricting to be conducted through a plan developed by the independent redistricting commission established in the state, or if such plan is not enacted into law, the redistricting plan selected by the state's highest court or developed by a U.S. district court. Prescribes requirements for: (1) establishment of a state independent redistricting commission (including provisions for holding each of its meetings in public and maintaining a public Internet site); (2) development of a redistricting plan (including soliciting and considering public comments) and its submission to the state legislature (with public notice of plans at least seven days prior to such submission); (3) selection of a plan, under specified conditions, by the state's highest court or the U.S. district court for the district in which the capital of the state is located; (4) special rules for redistricting conducted under a federal court order; and (5) Election Assistance Commission payments to states for carrying out redistricting.
United States · United States Congress · 7 January 2015
Enumerated Powers Act Requires each Act of Congress, bill, resolution, conference report, or amendment to contain a concise explanation of the specific constitutional authority relied upon as the basis for enacting each portion of the measure. Permits a statement of constitutionality, to the extent that a measure limits or abolishes any federal activity, spending, or power overall, to cite the 9th or the 10th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Declares that invoking one or more specified parts of the following clauses in a statement of constitutionality is not sufficient to satisfy the requirements of this Act: (1) the enumerated spending clause; (2) the necessary and proper clause; or (3) the commerce clause for any purpose other than the regulation of the buying and selling of goods or services, or their transportation, across boundaries with foreign nations, across state lines, or with the Indian tribes. Declares that failure to comply with this requirement shall give rise to a point of order in either chamber.
United States · United States Congress · 7 January 2015
Nepal Trade Preferences Act Authorizes the President to give preferential treatment to certain articles imported directly from Nepal into the U.S. customs territory if that country meets certain requirements under the African Growth and Opportunity Act, including a market-based economy and the rule of law, the protection of human rights and internationally-recognized worker rights, elimination of trade barriers to the United States, and non-engagement in activities that undermine U.S. national security or foreign policy interests or support acts of international terrorism. Requires Nepal also to meet certain eligibility criteria for designation as a beneficiary developing country under the Trade Act of 1974. Authorizes certain import-sensitive articles (watches, electronic articles, steel articles, footwear and certain other apparel, and glass products) imported directly from Nepal to enter the U.S. customs territory duty-free if: (1) the article is the growth, product, or manufacture of Nepal; (2) the President determines, after receiving advice from the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC), that the article is not import-sensitive; and (3) the sum of the cost or value of the materials produced in, and the manufacturing costs performed in, Nepal or the U.S. customs territory is at least 35% of the appraised value of the article at the time it is entered. Limits to 15% of the appraised value of the article at the time it is entered the cost or value of the materials produced in, and the manufacturing costs performed in, the U.S. customs territory, and attributed to the 35% requirement. Grants duty-free treatment to certain textile or apparel articles: (1) wholly assembled in Nepal, without regard to the country of origin of the yarn or fabric used to make them; and (2) imported directly from Nepal into the U.S. customs territory. Prescribes requirements for handloomed, handmade, folklore articles or ethnic printed fabrics. Terminates the extension of preferential treatment to Nepal after December 31, 2025.
United States · United States Congress · 6 January 2015
Constitutional Amendment This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment prohibiting total outlays for a fiscal year from exceeding total receipts for that fiscal year or 18% of the U.S. gross domestic product unless Congress authorizes the excess by a two-thirds vote of each chamber. The prohibition excludes outlays for repayment of debt principal and receipts derived from borrowing. The amendment requires a two-thirds vote of each chamber of Congress to levy a new tax, increase the rate of any tax, or increase the debt limit. The amendment provides any Member of Congress with standing and a cause of action to seek judicial enforcement of this amendment if authorized by a petition signed by one-third of the Members of either house of Congress. Courts are prohibited from ordering any increase in revenue to enforce this amendment.
United States · United States Congress · 6 January 2015
Restoration of Parental Rights and State Sovereignty Act of 2015 Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to prohibit the Secretary of Education from forcing a state to satisfy any requirement imposed as a condition of receiving assistance under an ESEA grant program. Prohibits the Secretary from releasing assistance to a state under an ESEA grant program unless the state's legislature has by law expressly approved the program. Allows that approval to be accomplished by a vote to affirm a state budget that includes the use of such federal funds, but requires that budget to expressly include any requirement imposed as a condition on the state's receipt of those funds. Prohibits ESEA funds that are not allocated to a state due to the state's failure to affirmatively agree to their receipt from being reallocated among the other states. Expresses the intent of Congress that control over public education and parental rights to control their children's education is vested exclusively within the authority reserved to the states and individual Americans by the Constitution, except when states expressly approve federal terms or conditions on educational assistance or the federal government is obliged to enforce minimum federal equal protection or due process standards.
United States · United States Congress · 6 January 2015
Coretta Scott King Mid-Decade Redistricting Prohibition Act of 2015 Prohibits any state whose congressional districts have been redistricted after a decennial census from carrying out another redistricting until after the next apportionment of Representatives following a decennial census, unless a court requires such state to conduct a subsequent redistricting to comply with the Constitution or enforce the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Makes this Act applicable to any congressional redistricting which occurs after the regular decennial census conducted during 2020.
United States · United States Congress · 6 January 2015
Preventing Executive Overreach on Immigration Act of 2015 Prohibits the executive branch of the government from: exempting or deferring from removal, by executive order, regulation, or any other means, categories of aliens considered under the immigration laws to be unlawfully present in the United States; treating such aliens as if they were lawfully present or had a lawful immigration status; or treating them other than as unauthorized aliens. States that such prohibition shall not apply: to the extent prohibited by the Constitution; upon the request of federal, state, or local law enforcement agencies for purposes of maintaining aliens in the United States to be tried for crimes or to be trial witnesses; or for humanitarian purposes where the aliens are at imminent risk of serious bodily harm or death. Declares that any executive branch action intending to circumvent the objectives of this Act shall be null and void and without legal effect. States that this Act shall take effect as if enacted on November 20, 2014, and shall apply to requests submitted on or after that date for: (1) work authorization; or (2) exemption from, or deferral of, removal.
United States · United States Congress · 6 January 2015
Domestic Violence Enhanced Penalty Act of 2015 or Candace's Law Directs a state to provide by law enhanced sentencing requirements for persons convicted of committing, or attempting to commit, an act of domestic violence in the presence of minor children. Prohibits a state that fails within two years to implement this Act substantially from receiving 20% of the funds that would otherwise be allocated to it for the fiscal year under the Violence Against Women Act of 2000. Allows for reasonable alternative procedures or accommodations for compliance by a state that is unable to implement this Act substantially because of a conflict with the state constitution.
United States · United States Congress · 6 January 2015
Constitutional Amendment Grants Congress the power to prohibit the physical desecration of the U.S. flag.
United States · United States Congress · 6 January 2015
Constitutional Amendment States that no treaty, executive order, or any agreement with any nation or group of nations or any of the provisions of such agreements, shall be construed to diminish any of the rights or privileges guaranteed to U.S. citizens under the Constitution and federal law.
United States · United States Congress · 6 January 2015
Constitutional Amendment This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment prohibiting total outlays for a fiscal year from exceeding total receipts for that fiscal year unless Congress authorizes the excess by a three-fifths roll call vote of each chamber. The prohibition excludes outlays for repayment of debt principal and receipts derived from borrowing. The amendment prohibits total outlays for any fiscal year from exceeding one-fifth of the economic output of the United States, unless two-thirds of each house of Congress provides a specific increase in outlays above this amount. The amendment requires a three-fifths roll call vote of each chamber of Congress to increase the public debt limit or to increase revenue. It also requires the President to submit a balanced budget to Congress annually. Congress is authorized to waive these requirements when a declaration of war is in effect or if the United States is engaged in a military conflict which causes an imminent and serious military threat to national security.
United States · United States Congress · 6 January 2015
Constitutional Amendment This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment prohibiting total outlays for a fiscal year from exceeding total receipts for that fiscal year or 18% of the U.S. gross domestic product unless Congress authorizes the excess by a two-thirds vote of each chamber. The prohibition excludes outlays for repayment of debt principal and receipts derived from borrowing. The amendment requires a two-thirds vote of each chamber of Congress to levy a new tax, increase the rate of any tax, or increase the debt limit. Approval by a majority of the state legislatures is required to increase the federal debt. The amendment provides any Member of Congress with standing and a cause of action to seek judicial enforcement of this amendment if authorized by a petition signed by one-third of the Members of either house of Congress. Courts are prohibited from ordering any increase in revenue to enforce this amendment.
United States · United States Congress · 6 January 2015
Constitutional Amendment This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment prohibiting total outlays for a fiscal year from exceeding total receipts for that fiscal year unless Congress authorizes the excess by a two-thirds vote of each chamber. The prohibition excludes outlays for repayment of debt principal and receipts derived from borrowing. The amendment prohibits total outlays for any fiscal year from exceeding 18% of the gross domestic product of the United States, unless two-thirds of each house of Congress provides for a specific increase above this amount. The amendment requires a two-thirds vote of each chamber of Congress to impose a new tax, increase the statutory rate of any tax, or increase the aggregate amount of revenue. It requires a three-fifths vote of each chamber to increase the limit on the debt of the United States. The President is required to submit an annual budget in which total outlays do not exceed total receipts and 18% of the gross domestic product of the United States. The amendment prohibits a court from ordering a revenue increase to enforce the provisions of the amendment. Congress is authorized to waive specified provisions of the amendment when the United States is engaged in a military conflict which causes an imminent and serious military threat to national security.
United States · United States Congress · 6 January 2015
Constitutional Amendment This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment prohibiting total outlays for a fiscal year from exceeding total receipts for that fiscal year unless Congress authorizes the excess by a three-fifths roll call vote of each chamber. The prohibition excludes outlays for repayment of debt principal and receipts derived from borrowing. The amendment requires a three-fifths roll call vote of each chamber of Congress to increase the public debt limit or to increase revenue. It also requires the President to submit a balanced budget to Congress annually. Congress is authorized to waive these requirements when a declaration of war is in effect or if the United States is engaged in a military conflict which causes an imminent and serious military threat to national security.
United States · United States Congress · 6 January 2015
Constitutional Amendment Limits Members of the House of Representatives to four terms and Members of the Senate to two terms.
United States · United States Congress · 6 January 2015
Constitutional Amendment This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment prohibiting total outlays for a fiscal year from exceeding total receipts for that fiscal year unless Congress authorizes the excess by a three-fifths roll call vote of each chamber. The prohibition excludes outlays for repayment of debt principal and receipts derived from borrowing. The amendment requires a three-fifths roll call vote of each chamber of Congress to increase the public debt limit. It requires a majority roll vote of each chamber to increase revenue. It also requires the President to submit a balanced budget to Congress annually. Congress is authorized to waive these requirements when a declaration of war is in effect or if the United States is engaged in a military conflict which causes an imminent and serious military threat to national security.
United States · United States Congress · 6 January 2015
FairTax Act of 2015 This bill is a tax reform proposal that imposes a national sales tax on the use or consumption in the United States of taxable property or services in lieu of the current income and corporate income tax, employment and self-employment taxes, and estate and gift taxes. The rate of the sales tax will be 23% in 2017, with adjustments to the rate in subsequent years. There are exemptions from the tax for used and intangible property, for property or services purchased for business, export, or investment purposes, and for state government functions. Under the bill, family members who are lawful U.S. residents receive a monthly sales tax rebate (Family Consumption Allowance) based upon criteria related to family size and poverty guidelines. The states have the responsibility for administering, collecting, and remitting the sales tax to the Treasury. Tax revenues are to be allocated among: (1) the general revenue, (2) the old-age and survivors insurance trust fund, (3) the disability insurance trust fund, (4) the hospital insurance trust fund, and (5) the federal supplementary medical insurance trust fund. No funding is allowed for the operations of the Internal Revenue Service after FY2019. Finally, the bill terminates the national sales tax if the Sixteenth Amendment to the Constitution (authorizing an income tax) is not repealed within seven years after the enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 6 January 2015
Authorizes the Speaker of the House of Representatives to initiate or intervene in civil actions on behalf of the House of Representatives in a federal court of competent jurisdiction to seek any appropriate relief regarding the failure of the President, the head of any department or agency, or any other executive branch officer or employee to act in a manner consistent with that official's duties under the Constitution and laws of the United States regarding immigration laws or laws pertaining to illegal aliens, undocumented immigrants, or non-American citizens. Directs the Speaker to notify the House of a decision to initiate or intervene in any such civil action. States that the Office of the General Counsel of the House shall represent the House in any such civil action, and may employ outside counsel and other experts.
United States · United States Congress · 6 January 2015
Due Process Guarantee Act of 2015 Amends the federal criminal code to expand provisions prohibiting the United States from imprisoning or otherwise detaining a citizen except pursuant to an Act of Congress, to: (1) prohibit such imprisonment or detention of a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident except consistent with the Constitution and pursuant to an Act of Congress that expressly authorizes such imprisonment or detention; and (2) prohibit construing a general authorization to use military force, a declaration of war, or any similar authority, on its own, to authorize the imprisonment or detention without charge or trial of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident apprehended in the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 6 January 2015
Constitutional Amendment Limits Members of the House of Representatives to three terms and Members of the Senate to two terms.
United States · United States Congress · 12 December 2014
Preventing Executive Overreach on Immigration Act of 2014 - Prohibits the executive branch of the government from: exempting or deferring from removal, by executive order, regulation, or any other means, categories of aliens considered under the immigration laws to be unlawfully present in the United States; treating such aliens as if they were lawfully present or had a lawful immigration status; or treating them other than as unauthorized aliens. States that such prohibition shall not apply: to the extent prohibited by the Constitution; upon the request of federal, state, or local law enforcement agencies for purposes of maintaining aliens in the United States to be tried for crimes or to be trial witnesses; or for humanitarian purposes where the aliens are at imminent risk of serious bodily harm or death. Declares that any executive branch action intending to circumvent the objectives of this Act shall be null and void and without legal effect. States that this Act shall take effect as if enacted on November 20, 2014, and shall apply to requests (whether the request is original or for reopening of a previously denied request) submitted on or after that date for: (1) work authorization; or (2) exemption from, or deferral of, removal.
United States · United States Congress · 10 December 2014
Recognizes the 66th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the celebration of Human Rights Day. Supports the ideals of human rights and reaffirms the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Encourages all nations to continue working towards freedom, peace, and security which can be achieved only through democracy, respect for human rights, and the rule of law.
United States · United States Congress · 3 December 2014
Declaration of War against the Organization known as the Islamic State - Declares, pursuant to article I, section 8, clause 11 of the Constitution, that a state of war exists between the United States and the organization referring to itself as the Islamic State, also known as the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) and the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) (ISIL/ISIS). Authorizes and directs the President to use the U.S. Armed Forces to protect U.S. personnel and facilities in Iraq and Syria from ISIL/ISIS. States that nothing in this Act shall be construed as declaring war or authorizing force against any organization: (1) other than ISIL/ISIS, or (2) based on affiliation with ISIL/ISIS. States that nothing in this Act shall be construed as authorizing the use of ground combat forces except for: protection or rescue of U.S. Armed Forces members or U.S. citizens from imminent danger posed by ISIL/ISIS, limited operations against high value targets, or advisory and intelligence gathering operations. States that: (1) this Act is intended to constitute specific statutory authorization within the meaning of section 5(b) of the War Powers Resolution, and (2) nothing in this resolution supersedes any requirement of the War Powers Resolution. Repeals the authorization for the Use of Military Force Against Iraq Resolution of 2002. States that The Authorization for the Use of Military Force (Public Law 107-40) does not authorize the use of military force against ISIL/ISIS, and shall not be construed as providing such authority. Sunsets one year after the date of enactment of this joint resolution: (1) The Authorization for the Use of Military Force, and (2) the declaration and authorization in this joint resolution.
United States · United States Congress · 1 December 2014
Boko Haram Disarmament and Northeast Nigeria Recovery Act of 2014 - Directs the President to develop and submit to Congress a regional strategy to guide U.S. support for multilateral efforts to: (1) eliminate the threat to civilians and regional stability from Boko Haram, and (2) enforce the rule of law and ensure full humanitarian access in Boko Haram-affected areas. States that such strategy should include a plan to work with Nigeria and other international partners to liberate Boko Haram's kidnapping victims. Authorizes the President to provide humanitarian and development assistance to the populations in Boko Haram-affected areas. Makes funds available for such assistance pursuant to final judgment of a specified legal case. Expresses the sense of Congress that the President should support efforts by the people of Boko Haram-affected areas and the governments of Nigeria, Chad, Cameroon, and Niger to: assist internally displaced people and returnees; enhance the administrative competency of state and local governance institutions and public agencies in northeast Nigeria; provide all children with a quality basic education while ensuring student and faculty safety; strengthen the operational capacity of the civilian police in Nigeria, and strengthen measures to prevent corruption; and promote programs to address physical harm and psychosocial trauma. Expresses the sense of Congress that: the Secretary of State and Administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) should work with Congress to increase future assistance to support reconstruction activities if Nigeria demonstrates a commitment to transparent reconstruction in Boko Haram-affected areas of Nigeria, and the Secretary should withhold assistance if Nigeria is not committed to transparent reconstruction and reconciliation in the Boko Haram-affected areas of Nigeria.
United States · United States Congress · 20 November 2014
Calls on the government of Burma to: develop a non-discriminatory and comprehensive solution that addresses Rakhine State's needs for peace and development under equitable application of the rule of law; end all forms of persecution and discrimination of the Rohingya people, and ensure respect for internationally recognized human rights for all ethnic and religious minority groups within Burma; respect the Rohingya's right to self-identification; support an international and independent investigation into the violence that has occurred in Rakhine State and prosecute the perpetrators consistent with due process; and conform to international norms on the provision of unrestricted humanitarian access by international organizations. Welcomes Burma's announcement that Medecins Sans Frontieres has been invited back to work in Rakhine State. Calls on the regional governments to protect the rights of Rohingya asylum seekers and refugees, as well as to respect the international legal principle of non-refoulement. Calls on the U.S. government and the international community to call on the government of Burma to end the persecution of the Rohingya population and to protect the fundamental rights of all ethnic and religious minority groups in Burma.
United States · United States Congress · 20 November 2014
Executive Amnesty Prevention Act of 2014 - States that no provision of the Constitution, the Immigration and Nationality Act, or other federal law shall be interpreted or applied to authorize the executive branch of the government to exempt, by executive order, regulation, or any other means, categories of persons unlawfully present in the United States from removal under the immigration laws. Declares any action by the executive branch with the purpose of circumventing the objectives of this statute null and void and without legal effect. Makes this Act effective retroactively, applying to any such exemption made at any time.
United States · United States Congress · 20 November 2014
Honoring Workers' Rights Act - Redesignates the Department of Labor building located at 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C., as the "Reed Larson Building."
United States · United States Congress · 19 November 2014
Defending Internet Freedom Act of 2014 - Prohibits the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information from relinquishing the responsibilities of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) with respect to Internet domain name functions (including Internet Assigned Numbers Authority [IANA] functions) unless the Assistant Secretary certifies to Congress that a proposal has been received that ensures: control over the management of the Internet domain name system (DNS) will not be exercised by a governmental or intergovernmental body; standards for freedoms of speech, of the press, of assembly, and of association are at least as protective as the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution; the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) will increase the transparency of its deliberations and adopt disclosure procedures that are at least as protective of public access as the Freedom of Information Act; a private, nonprofit corporation, to be known as the IANA Consortium, will be established to manage the content of root zones listing DNS domains available on the Internet; an Internet Freedom Panel will be established to review and veto DNS changes proposed by ICANN that the Panel considers a threat to freedom of expression, the openness, stability, resiliency, or security of the Internet, responsiveness to the user community, or other commitments undertaken by ICANN in the Affirmation of Commitments in effect between the NTIA and ICANN; ICANN will remain subject to U.S. law; the U.S. government will be granted ownership of the ".gov" and ".mil" top-level domains and specified servers will be maintained in the United States; audits of ICANN and the IANA Consortium; and establishment of a joint office of inspector general for ICANN and the IANA Consortium. Requires such a certification to also ensure amendments to ICANN bylaws concerning: (1) advice from the Governmental Advisory Committee; (2) a required supermajority of the board of directors for votes regarding changes to bylaws or fees; and (3) terms of office and removal procedures for ICANN's directors, president, secretary, and chief financial officer. Requires the Assistant Secretary, if such a certification is not submitted to Congress by a specified deadline, to: (1) extend the existing contract between the NTIA and ICANN if an option exists to extend the contract during the base period of performance ending on September 30, 2015, or during subsequent option periods for an extended contract, or (2) seek to enter a new contract subject to certain conditions for the performance of such functions if there is not an option to extend the existing contract.
United States · United States Congress · 17 November 2014
Authorizes the Speaker of the House of Representatives to initiate or intervene in civil actions on behalf of the House of Representatives in a federal court of competent jurisdiction to seek any appropriate relief regarding the failure of the President, the head of any department or agency, or any other executive branch officer or employee to act in a manner consistent with that official's duties under the Constitution and laws of the United States regarding immigration laws or laws pertaining to illegal aliens, undocumented immigrants, or non-American citizens. Directs the Speaker notify the House of a decision to initiate or intervene in any such civil action. States that the Office of the General Counsel of the House shall represent the House in any such civil action, and may employ outside counsel and other experts.
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 2014
Authorization for Use of Military Force Against ISIL Resolution - Expresses the sense of Congress that: the President has rightly committed limited forces in Iraq to protect U.S. diplomatic and military personnel against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL); the President should be commended for authorizing military operations to protect ethnic and religious minorities from ISIL and for providing assistance to prevent a humanitarian disaster; the President should be commended for working with North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) allies to form a coordinated response to ISIL; the President should seek United Nations (U.N.) Security Council consensus prior to pursuing a multilateral military campaign against ISIL, and should endeavor to form a broad coalition of allies, including members of the Arab League; and a negotiated political solution among ethnic groups is the only sure solution to end sectarian violence and reach permanent peace. Authorizes the President to use the Armed Forces to: defend U.S. national security against ISIL, and enforce a Security Council resolution adopted on or after the date of the enactment of this joint resolution that provides for multilateral action against ISIL and authorizes a coalition military force under Security Council auspices to degrade ISIL's capacities to commit terrorist acts and destabilize peaceful governments. Authorizes the President, in the absence of a requested Security Council resolution, to use the Armed Forces to defend U.S. national security against ISIL, other than in direct ground combat operations, upon a certification to Congress and enactment of a joint resolution. Requires expedited congressional consideration of such a joint resolution. Directs the President to report to Congress at least every 60 days on matters relevant to this joint resolution. States that: the authorization to use military force under this joint resolution is intended to constitute specific authorization within the meaning of section 5(b) of the War Powers Resolution, nothing in this joint resolution is intended to limit the President's authority to use military force in self-defense pursuant to the Constitution and the War Powers Resolution, and this joint resolution (with a specified exception) shall expire two years after its enactment.
United States · United States Congress · 18 September 2014
Fairness and Independence in Redistricting Act - Prohibits a state that has been redistricted after an apportionment from being redistricted again until after the next apportionment of Representatives, unless the state is ordered by a court to conduct such a subsequent redistricting in order to comply with the U.S. Constitution or enforce the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Requires such redistricting to be conducted through a plan developed by the independent redistricting commission established in the state, or if such plan is not enacted into law, the redistricting plan selected by the state's highest court or developed by a U.S. district court. Prescribes requirements for: (1) establishment of a state independent redistricting commission (including provisions for holding each of its meetings in public and maintaining a public Internet website); (2) development of a redistricting plan (including soliciting and considering public comments) and its submission to the state legislature (with public notice of plans at least seven days prior to such submission); (3) selection of a plan, under specified conditions, by the state's highest court or the U.S. district court for the district in which the capital of the state is located; (4) special rules for redistricting conducted under a federal court order; and (5) Election Assistance Commission payments to states for carrying out redistricting.
United States · United States Congress · 18 September 2014
Domestic Violence Enhanced Penalty Act of 2014 or Candace's Law - Directs a state to provide by law enhanced sentencing requirements for persons convicted of committing, or attempting to commit, an act of domestic violence in the presence of minor children. Prohibits a state that fails within two years to implement this Act substantially from receiving 20% of the funds that would otherwise be allocated to it for the fiscal year under the Violence Against Women Act of 2000. Allows for reasonable alternative procedures or accommodations for compliance by a state that is unable to implement this Act substantially because of a conflict with the state constitution.
United States · United States Congress · 18 September 2014
Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits a bill that increases entitlement spending or creates a new entitlement program from becoming law unless it: (1) is approved by a two-thirds majority of each house of Congress, or (2) provides that the increase or program shall terminate after not more than seven years. Prohibits a bill that increases entitlement spending or creates a new entitlement program from becoming law unless it is spending neutral or creates net savings to the government. Requires the President to implement and Congress to prescribe spending reductions if the law is not spending neutral or does not create net savings when averaged over the previous two fiscal years.
United States · United States Congress · 18 September 2014
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the Republic of Argentina has failed to meet its membership responsibilities in the Group of Twenty Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors (G20). Calls upon the President and the Secretary of the Treasury to work with the G20 governments to terminate Argentina's G20 participation until the President reports to Congress that Argentina has ended its defiance of international norms of economic relations and reestablished its commitment to the rule of law.
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 2014
Constitution and Citizenship Day Act of 2014 - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to direct the Secretary of Education to establish a Constitution Day Grant Program awarding competitive grants to local educational agencies and charter schools to commemorate, and enhance educational programs that teach students about, the U.S. Constitution and their state constitution. Requires such program to occur annually on Constitution Day, September 17, or the following Monday if that day falls on a weekend, and give students the ability to register to vote.
United States · United States House of Representatives · 9 September 2014
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2014
Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015 - Title I: Intelligence Activities - Authorizes FY2015 appropriations for the conduct of intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the: (1) Office of the Director of National Intelligence (DNI); (2) Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); (3) Department of Defense (DOD); (4) Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA); (5) National Security Agency (NSA); (6) Departments of the Army, Navy, and Air Force; (7) Coast Guard; (8) Departments of State, the Treasury, Energy (DOE), and Justice (DOJ); (9) Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); (10) Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); (11) National Reconnaissance Office; (12) National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency; and (13) Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Specifies that the amounts authorized and the authorized personnel ceilings as of September 30, 2015, for such activities are those in the classified Schedule of Authorizations, which shall be made available to the congressional appropriations committees and the President. Allows the DNI to authorize employment of civilian personnel in excess of the number authorized for FY2015 when necessary for the performance of important intelligence functions. Requires notification to the intelligence committees on the use of such authority. Requires the DNI to establish guidelines to govern the treatment under such authorized personnel levels of employment or assignment in: (1) a student or trainee program; (2) a reserve corps or as a reemployed annuitant; or (3) details, joint duty, or long term, full-time training. Authorizes appropriations for the Intelligence Community Management Account for FY2015, as well as for personnel positions for elements within such Account. Title II: Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System - Authorizes appropriations for FY2015 for the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability Fund. Title III: General Provisions - Subtitle A: General Matters - Permits appropriations authorized by this Act for salary, pay, retirement, and other benefits for federal employees to be increased by such additional or supplemental amounts as necessary for increases in such compensation or benefits authorized by law. Prohibits the authorization of appropriations by this Act from being deemed to constitute authority to conduct any intelligence activity not otherwise authorized by the Constitution or laws of the United States. Amends the National Security Act of 1947 to require the DNI to conduct a quadrennial intelligence strategic review that delineates a national intelligence strategy addressing capabilities, structure, policies, infrastructure, budget plans, and other aspects of U.S. intelligence activities to meet national security objectives for the next 10 years. Requires consultation with federal agencies; each element of the intelligence community; state, local, and tribal governments; Congress; private sector representatives; and academics. Requires the DNI to prepare plans for financial intelligence activities and the application of private sector best practices to employee access and monitoring systems. Requires each element of the intelligence community to adopt Attorney General-approved procedures to prohibit retention for a period in excess of five years of nonpublic telephone or electronic communications to or from a U.S. person that are acquired without a court order and without the consent of a person who is a party to the communication unless: the communication constitutes, or is necessary to understand or assess, foreign intelligence or counterintelligence; the communication constitutes evidence of a crime and is retained by a law enforcement agency; the communication is enciphered or reasonably believed to have a secret meaning; all parties to the communication are reasonably believed to be non-U.S. persons; retention is necessary to protect against an imminent threat to human life or for technical assurance or compliance purposes ; or the head of an element of the intelligence community approves retention for a longer period if necessary to protect U.S. national security and upon a certification to Congress. Requires the DNI to report to Congress regarding the feasibility of consolidating classified cyber threat indicator and malware sample databases in the intelligence community. Expresses the sense of Congress concerning U.S.-Ukraine cooperation on cybersecurity policies and extradition of cybercriminals. Urges the President to take certain actions regarding Ukraine's anti-cybercrime efforts and U.S. cooperation and assistance in those efforts. Requires the Secretary of State to ensure that every supervisory position at a U.S. diplomatic facility in the Russian Federation is occupied by a U.S. citizen who has passed, and is subject to, a thorough background check. Directs the Secretary to submit to Congress a plan to further reduce the reliance on locally employed staff in such facilities. Requires restricted access space to be included in each U.S. diplomatic facility that is constructed in, or undergoes a construction upgrade in, the Russian Federation, any country that shares a land border with the Russian Federation, or any country that is a former member of the Soviet Union. Subtitle B: Reporting - Requires the DNI to report to Congress regarding: (1) the declassification process of the intelligence community, (2) violations of law or executive orders by personnel of an element of the intelligence community, and (3) political prison camps in North Korea. Requires the DHS Under Secretary for Intelligence and Analysis to report to Congress regarding a plan to enhance the coordination of department-wide intelligence activities to achieve greater efficiencies in the performance of DHS intelligence functions. Expresses the sense of Congress that the President, working with the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), should provide the government and armed forces of Ukraine with intelligence sharing support. Directs the DNI and the DOD Secretary to report to Congress every 180 days with an assessment of U.S. intelligence sharing with Ukraine.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2014
Constitutional Amendment - Requires each bill, order, resolution, or vote which must be submitted to the President under the U.S. Constitution to embrace no more than one subject. Requires the subject to be clearly and descriptively expressed in the title of the bill, order, resolution, or vote.
United States · United States House of Representatives · 30 July 2014
United States · United States Congress · 29 July 2014
Constitutional Amendment - Declares that nothing in the Constitution shall be construed to prohibit Congress or any state from imposing content-neutral limitations on contributions or expenditures used to refer to a federal election candidate, including contributions or expenditures made independently from a candidate or a candidate's campaign during any period Congress or the state may establish which is proximate to the date of the election in which the candidate is running. Declares that nothing contained in this article shall be construed to abridge the freedom of the press.
United States · United States Congress · 29 July 2014
Sets forth the rule for consideration of the resolution (H. Res. 676) providing for authority to initiate litigation for actions by the President or other executive branch officials inconsistent with their duties under the Constitution of the United States; providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 935) to amend the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to clarify Congressional intent regarding the regulation of the use of pesticides in or near navigable waters, and for other purposes; and providing for proceedings during the period from August 1, 2014, through September 5, 2014.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2014
Protect Children and Families Through the Rule of Law Act - Prohibits a federal agency or instrumentality from using federal funding or resources to: consider or adjudicate any new or previously denied application of any alien requesting consideration of deferred action for childhood arrivals, as authorized by executive memorandum on August 15, 2012, or by any other succeeding executive memorandum authorizing a similar program; or authorize any alien to work in the United States who was not lawfully admitted into the United States and who is not in lawful U.S. status on the date of enactment of this Act. Amends the William Wilberforce Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2008 to declare that any unaccompanied alien child (UAC) who has not been a victim of a severe form of trafficking in persons or does not have a credible fear of persecution on returning to his or her country of nationality or of last habitual residence shall be: (1) placed in removal proceedings, (2) eligible for voluntary departure at no cost to the child, and (3) provided with access to counsel. (Currently such expedited removal requirements apply only to unaccompanied children from countries that are contiguous to the United States.) Directs the Secretary of State to negotiate agreements regarding the repatriation of children with Canada, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, and any other appropriate foreign country. (Currently such agreements are to be negotiated between the United States and countries contiguous to the United States.) Requires a UAC to be placed within seven days of initial screening in a proceeding to expedite due process and screening. Prohibits removal of a UAC from U.S. custody during preliminary proceedings until repatriation or unless placed in removal proceedings. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to establish a proceeding to expedite due process and screening for UACs. Requires an immigration judge to: conduct a proceeding to inspect and determine the status of a UAC who applies for U.S. admission not later than 7 days after initial screening, determine within 72 hours of the proceeding's conclusion whether a UAC is likely to be admissible (or eligible for relief from removal) or is lawfully present in the United States, and place a UAC in further proceedings if such conditions have been met or order a UAC removed from the United States without further hearing or review unless there is a claim of asylum or a fear of persecution. States that: if a UAC intends to make a claim of asylum or fear of persecution he or she shall be referred to an asylum officer who shall determine in an interview whether there is a credible fear of persecution; if there is no credible fear of persecution a UAC shall be ordered removed without further hearing or review; and a UAC shall be held in protective Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) custody pending a final determination of credible fear of persecution, or removal. Sets forth due process protections for UACs, including protective HHS custody. Directs the Attorney General (DOJ) to hire or reassign up to 40 immigration judges to conduct expedited inspection and screening of UACs. Prohibits the Secretary of HHS from placing a UAC in the custody of an individual who has been convicted of a sex offense or a crime involving a severe form of trafficking in persons. Requires related biometric criminal background checks. Declares that, if the governor of a state deploys National Guard personnel in response to the apprehension of 6,000 or more UACs who are nationals of countries other than Canada or Mexico, the Secretary of Defense (DOD) shall reimburse the state for any expenses incurred as a result of such deployment. Directs the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to enhance law enforcement preparedness, humanitarian responses, and operational readiness along the southern border through Operation Stonegarden. Authorizes National Guard personnel who are deployed to conduct homeland defense activities near an international border to detain any person, and transfer such person to the custody of U.S. Border Patrol or another federal law enforcement agency, if there is probable cause that such person has violated federal law regarding immigration, drug trafficking, human trafficking, or terrorism.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2014
Values the historic U.S. commitment to Africa, and affirms the partnership of the people and government of the United States with the African people. Affirms a future commitment to increased economic partnership with Africa. Supports African-led efforts to improve peacekeeping, prevent atrocities, and combat violent extremism and terrorism. Encourages African leaders to strengthen good governance, the rule of law, and democracy. Supports efforts to protect and promote women and children, including through investments in education and maternal, newborn, and child health. Reaffirms the U.S. investment in health care in Africa. Commends and supports African investments in preventing wildlife trafficking. Supports the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit to be held in the United States from August 4 through August 6, 2014.
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2014
Authorizes the Speaker of the House of Representatives to initiate or intervene in one or more civil actions, on behalf of the House, in a federal court of competent jurisdiction to seek any appropriate relief regarding the failure of the President, the head of any department or agency, or any other executive branch officer or employee, to act in a manner consistent with that official's duties under the U.S. Constitution and federal laws with respect to implementation of requirements of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), certain PPACA-related requirements in the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010, including any amendment made by them, or any other related provision of law, including a failure to implement it. Requires the Speaker to notify the House of a decision to initiate or intervene in any such civil action. Requires the Office of the General Counsel of the House, at the direction of the Speaker, to represent the House in the civil action initiated, or in which the House intervenes. Authorizes the Office to employ the services of outside counsel and other experts for this purpose.
United States · United States Congress · 14 July 2014
Constitutional Amendment - Authorizes Congress and the states to set reasonable limits on the raising and spending of money by candidates and others to influence elections. Grants Congress and the states the power to implement and enforce this amendment by appropriate legislation. Allows them to distinguish between natural persons and corporations or other artificial entities created by law, including by prohibiting such entities from spending money to influence elections. Declares that nothing in this amendment shall be construed to grant Congress or the states the power to abridge the freedom of the press.
United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2014
Iran Human Rights Accountability Act of 2014 - Amends the Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Divestment Act of 2010 to expand the list of persons subject to sanctions for human rights abuses and other acts of violence and intimidation committed on behalf of the Iranian government. Amends the Iran Threat Reduction and Syria Human Rights Act of 2012 to expand the list of Iranian government officials and others (listed individuals) subject to U.S. entry restrictions because of their involvement in Iran's: (1) illicit nuclear activities or proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, (2) support for international terrorism, or (3) commission of serious human rights abuses. Subjects listed individuals to the blocking of property and property interests that are in the United States, come within the United States, or are in the possession or control of a U.S. person. States that entry restrictions shall not apply to the head of state of Iran or related staff if necessary to comply with the Agreement between the United Nations (U.N.) and the United States regarding the U.N. Headquarters. Directs the President to: (1) impose five or more sanctions against any person who knowingly sells, supplies, or transfers goods or services to a listed individual; and (2) prohibit the opening, and prohibit or impose strict conditions on the maintaining, in the United States of a correspondent account or a payable-through account by any foreign financial institution that has knowingly conducted or facilitated a significant financial transaction on behalf of a listed individual. Expresses the sense of Congress that: the United States should support Iranians who work to advance political, economic, and social reforms; Department of State programs to support reform in Iran have not resulted in a more democratic Iran; the government of Iran continues to play a pernicious role in the Middle East, undermining democratic consolidation in Iraq, supporting international terrorism through Hezbollah, and aiding the autocratic regime of Bashar al-Assad in Syria; the Secretary of State should directly support people working in Iran to implement Department programs; and oversight and implementation of Department programs to support reform in Iran should be under the direction of the Special Coordinator on Human Rights and Democracy in Iran, in consultation with the Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor. Authorizes the Secretary through December 31, 2018, to provide assistance to qualifying individuals and entities working in Iran to promote the rule of law, civil society, and economic opportunity. Directs the President to designate within the Department a Special Coordinator on Human Rights and Democracy in Iran to oversee and coordinate activities relating to human rights, democracy, and political and religious freedoms in Iran. Requires that Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty and the Voice of America (VOA) broadcasting to Iran: (1) increase programing services and emphasize analytical journalism provided by Iranian or pro-Iranian media outlets; (2) strengthen civil society by promoting democratic processes, respect for human rights, and freedom of the press and expression; and (3) establish fellowships for Iranian journalists who have fled the country to learn about free media. Expresses the sense of Congress that the United States should work with the European Union (EU) and other countries to explore the possibility of establishing a formal multilateral mechanism to advocate for human rights, democracy, and political and religious freedoms in Iran. Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the U.N. has a significant role to play in improving human rights in Iran, (2) the United States should support the work of the U.N. Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Iran, and (3) the egregious human rights violations in Iran warrant country-specific attention and continued reporting by the Special Rapporteur. States that nothing in this Act shall be construed as a declaration of war or an authorization of the use of force.
United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2014
Reaffirms that it is U.S. policy to support the Republic of Moldova's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. Supports the Strategic Dialogue as a means to strengthen relations between the Republic of Moldova and the United States and enhance the democratic, economic, rule of law, and security reforms being implemented by the Republic of Moldova. Encourages: (1) the President and the Department of State to enhance U.S. cooperation with the government of Moldova and civil society organizations, and (2) the President to expedite implementation of the Act relating to "United States International Programming to Ukraine and Neighboring Regions." Urges the President to consider increasing security and intelligence cooperation with Moldova. Supports increased U.S.-Moldova educational exchanges. Affirms the Republic of Moldova's sovereign right to determine its own partnerships free of external coercion and affirms Moldova's right to associate with the European Union (EU) or any regional organization. Urges the EU to continue to work for greater political, economic, and social integration with the Republic of Moldova. Calls upon the government of Russia to: (1) withdraw its military forces from within the internationally recognized territory of the Republic of Moldova, (2) refrain from economic coercion, and (3) cease actions that support separatist movements in Moldova. Supports confidence-building measures between the government of Moldova and the authorities in the Transnistria region in order to secure a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Affirms that lasting stability and security in Europe is a key U.S. priority that can only be achieved if the territorial integrity and sovereignty of all European countries are respected.