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Resolution· SRESS.Res. 267 (106th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2000
Directs the Secretary of the Senate to return specified treaties to the President, including: (1) the Optional Protocol of Signature Concerning the Compulsory Settlement of Disputes; (2) the International Convention on Civil Liability for Oil Pollution Damage done in Brussels at the International Legal Conference on Marine Pollution Damage; (3) the International Convention on the Establishment of an International Fund for Compensation for Oil Pollution Damage; (4) Certain Amendments to the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution of the Sea by Oil of 1954, relating to Tanker Tank Size and Arrangement and the Protection of the Great Barrier Reef; (5) the Trademark Registration Treaty; (6) the Treaty Between the United States of America and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics on the Limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms and the Protocol Thereto; (7) the Convention with Denmark for the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with Respect to Taxes on Income; (8) the Convention on the Recognition of Studies, Diplomas and Degrees Concerning Higher Education in the States Belonging to the Europe Region; (9) the Protocol Amending the Convention of August 16, 1916, for the Protection of Migratory Birds in Canada and the United States of America; (10) the Supplementary Convention on Extradition Between the United States of America and the Kingdom of Sweden; (11) the Protocol, together with an exchange of letters, Amending the Convention Between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark for the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with Respect to Taxes on Income; (12) the Consular Convention Between the United States of America and the Republic of South Africa; (13) the Protocol Amending the Interim Convention on Conservation of North Pacific Fur Seals Between the United States, Canada, Japan, and the Soviet Union; (14) the Protocol of 1984 to Amend the International Convention on Civil Liability for Oil Pollution Damage, 1969; (15) the Protocol of 1984 to Amend the International Convention on the Establishment of an International Fund for Compensation for Oil Pollution Damage, 1971; (16) the Treaty Between the United States of America and the Republic of Haiti Concerning the Reciprocal Encouragement and Protection of Investment, with Protocol; (17) the Consular Convention Between the United States of America and the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia; (18) the Treaty on the International Registration of Audiovisual Works; (19) the Treaty Between the Government of the United States of America and the Federal Republic of Nigeria on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters; and (20) the Protocol Amending the Convention Between the United States of America and Canada with Respect to Taxes on Income and on Capital.
Bill· HRH.R. 3886 (106th)open
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2000
International Counter-Money Laundering Act of 2000 - Title I: International Counter-Money Laundering Measures - Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury (the Secretary) to require domestic financial institutions and agencies to take special measures (listed below) if the Secretary finds that reasonable grounds exist for concluding that a jurisdiction outside the United States, one or more financial institutions operating outside the United States, or one or more classes of transactions within or involving a jurisdiction outside the United States is of primary money laundering concern. Directs the Secretary to consider: (1) whether similar action has been or is being taken by other nations or multilateral groups; (2) whether the imposition of any particular special measure would create a significant competitive disadvantage for financial institutions organized in the United States; and (3) the extent to which the action would have a significant adverse systemic impact on the international payment, clearance, and settlement system, or on legitimate business activities involving the particular jurisdiction. Lists the special measures that the Secretary may take: (1) requiring record keeping and reporting of certain financial transactions; (2) requiring the identification of beneficial owners; (3) requiring disclosure of information relating to certain payable-through accounts; (4) requiring disclosure of information relating to certain correspondent accounts; and (5) prohibiting or placing conditions on opening or maintaining certain correspondent or payable-through accounts. Directs the Secretary to: (1) consult with the Secretary of State and the Attorney General in making a finding that reasonable grounds exist for concluding that a jurisdiction, institution, or transaction is of primary money laundering concern; and (2) consider such information as the Secretary considers to be relevant, such as (in the case of a particular jurisdiction) the extent to which that jurisdiction or financial institutions operating therein offer bank secrecy or special tax or regulatory advantages to nonresidents or non-domiciliaries. Title II: Currency Transaction Reporting Amendments and Related Improvements - Revises Federal monetary law relating to reporting suspicious activities to provide that financial institutions and certain of their staff and independent public accountants who audit such institutions: (1) shall not be liable under Federal, State, or local law or under any contract for making certain disclosures of possible violations of laws to a government agency; and (2) may not notify any person involved in the transaction that the transaction has been reported. Prohibits any officer or employee of the Government or any State, local, tribal, or territorial government from disclosing to any person involved in the transaction that the transaction has been reported other than to fulfill duties required by law, with an exception involving employment references. (Sec. 202) Sets civil and criminal penalties for violation of geographic targeting orders and certain record keeping requirements. Lengthens the effective period of such orders. (Sec. 203) Amends the Federal Deposit Insurance Act to authorize any insured depository institution, and any director, officer, employee, or agent of such institution, to disclose in any written employment reference relating to a current or former institution-affiliated party of such institution which is provided to another insured depository institution in response to a request from such other institution, information concerning the possible involvement of such institution-affiliated party in potentially unlawful activity.
Bill· HRH.R. 3897 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2000
Digital Empowerment Act - Title I: One-Stop Shop for Technology Education - Amends the Department of Education Organization Act to provide that the Office of Educational Technology (OET) shall be administered by an Assistant Secretary (currently a Director) of Educational Technology. (Sec. 101) Requires OET to: (1) be a one-stop shop for all technology education programs within the Department of Education; (2) provide schools and community groups with information on technology education programs and sources of funds; and (3) serve as a clearinghouse for information on public and private efforts to bring technology to areas underserved by technology. (Sec. 102) Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to include, among specified uses of Federal leadership funds for national programs of technology in education, the development of a national repository of information on the effective uses of educational technology and the dissemination of that information nationwide. Title II: Digital Education - Amends ESEA to require State educational agencies (SEAs), in awarding school technology resource grants under a program of national challenge grants for technology in education, to give priority to local educational agencies (LEAs) that have: (1) the highest numbers or percentages of children in poverty; and (2) a substantial need for assistance in acquiring and using technology. (Sec. 201) Authorizes appropriations for such grants program. (Sec. 202) Includes among required local uses of such grant funds: (1) providing intensive training in the use of technology to school librarians and library media specialists; and (2) providing technical support and services to assist schools in maintaining their educational technology. (Sec. 203) Requires local grant applications to describe how the LEA will ensure that school libraries and media centers possess equipment and trained personnel that enables them to provide access to information in formats made possible by new information and communication technologies. (Sec. 204) Authorizes the Secretary of Education to award: (1) formula grants to SEAs to establish Teacher Technology Preparation Academies for teachers, librarians, and library media specialists; (2) competitive grants to institutions of higher education to train students entering the teaching workforce to use technology effectively in the classroom; and (3) grants to SEAs to provide school library technology and training for school librarians and library media specialists. Authorizes appropriations for such grants. Title III: Expansion of Universal Service Assistance - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to authorize additional uses of universal service assistance (the e-rate program) by educational providers. (Sec. 301) Includes structured after-school activities among the educational purposes for which schools and libraries are to receive discount rates (E-rates) on telecommunications services. Allows schools to use specified offset funds, which they may receive in lieu of such discount E-rates, for maintenance and repair of technology necessary to use such services. (Sec. 302) Makes eligible for universal service assistance E-rates Head Start agencies and organizations that receive Federal job training funds. Title IV: E-Corps Programs - Amends the National and Community Service Act of 1990 to provide for E-Corps programs. (Sec. 401) Includes, among types of national service programs eligible for program assistance, an E-Corps program that involves participants who are proficient in technology and who provide service in a community by developing and assisting in carrying out technology programs in elementary schools, secondary schools, and community centers. Requires the Corporation for National and Community Services to ensure that specified funds are used only for E-Corps programs. Authorizes appropriations in a specified amount to carry out E-Corps programs and provide national service educational awards to E-Corps program participants. Title V: Community Technology Centers - Amends ESEA to establish a program for Community Technology Centers (CTCs). (Sec. 501) Authorizes the Secretary, through OET, to award competitive grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements, of up to three-years' duration, for: (1) creating or expanding CTCs; or (2) providing technical assistance and support to CTCs. Sets forth provisions for eligibility, applications, matching share of costs, and required and permissible uses of funds. Authorizes appropriations for such CTC program. Title VI: Neighborhood Networks for Public Housing - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to provide for onsite computer access and training resources for public housing residents. (Sec. 601) Authorizes computer centers in and around public housing, through a Neighborhood Networks initiative and related activities, to be established, operated, and assisted by the use of: (1) public housing capital and operating funds, and certain technical assistance; and (2) demolition, site revitalization, replacement housing, and tenant-based assistance grants for projects. Title VII: Incentives for Technology Assistance - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise provisions for a tax deduction for corporate donations of computer technology and equipment for educational purposes (currently for elementary and secondary school purposes). (Sec. 701) Includes Head Start centers, structured after-school programs, and certain public libraries and community centers (in addition to elementary and secondary schools) as eligible donees of such deductible donations. Allows such deductible donations to include training or maintenance services with respect to such computer technology or equipment. Extends such deduction to donations made on or before June 30, 2004. Title VIII: Demonstration Project in K-12 Education Technology - Directs the Secretary of Education to carry out a demonstration project that: (1) delivers a highly flexible educational system designed for grade three through grade 12, or a component thereof, that includes hardware, software, training, and ongoing support and professional development; (2) implements an Internet-based, one-to-one pilot project that specifically targets the educational needs of students in grade three through grade 12 who reside in low-income school districts; and (3) is conducted by an organization with proven expertise in the research and development of education technology designed for grade three through grade 12. (Sec. 801) Requires the demonstration project to provide for: (1) a laptop computer for every student participating in the project; (2) an infrared wireless connection to the school's local area network; (3) a low-cost, high-speed Internet connection; (4) customized, professional development for technical and instructional staff; (5) an academic information system that provides alignment between curricula, State standards, assessment, and teacher resources; and (6) a parental training component. Allows the Secretary to contract with a private company or organization to carry out such a demonstration. Requires the Secretary to coordinate project implementation and oversight with an LEA and a private company, if such a company is used in the project. Requires, to the extent practicable, the project to be conducted in a location where a similar program is already at least partially underway. Sets forth reporting requirements. Authorizes appropriations for such demonstration project.
Bill· HRH.R. 3881 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2000
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to reduce the motor fuel excise taxes.
Bill· HRH.R. 3898 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2000
Zero Gravity, Zero Tax Act of 2000 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exclude from gross income: (1) space-related income; and (2) gain on the sale or exchange of any stock of a qualified space corporation.
Bill· HRH.R. 3874 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2000
Small Business Tax Relief Act of 2000 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code and other Acts with respect to, among other things: (1) extending permanently the work opportunity and welfare-to-work credit; (2) a 100 percent deduction of health insurance costs for the self-employed; (3) compensation and retirements limits for certain multiemployer, governmental, and other plans; (4) increased business deductions and credits; (5) school construction and modernization bonds; (6) increased estate tax benefits; (7) tax rules for expatriates; (8) the disallowance of noneconomic tax attributes; (9) built-in losses; and (10) offsets.
Bill· SS. 2215 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2000
Noncommercial Broadcasting Eligibility Act of 2000 - Requires the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to treat a nonprofit private foundation, corporation, or association (entity) as a noncommercial educational broadcast station or public broadcast station, for purposes of FCC licensing requirements, if the majority of the radio or television broadcast by such entity is substantially related to a tax-exempt purpose as defined under the Internal Revenue Code. Directs the FCC to use tax-exempt standards of the Internal Revenue Service for making such determination.
Bill· SS. 2220 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2000
American Social Security Protection and Debt Repayment Act - Prohibits, beginning with FY 2001, budgeted outlays from exceeding budgeted revenues. Requires actual revenues to exceed actual outlays in order to provide for the reduction of the Federal debt held by the public. Provides for a reduction in the public debt of $15 billion in FY 2001, increased by an additional $15 billion every fiscal year until the entire debt has been paid. Requires the surplus funds in the Federal Old Age and Survivors and Disability Insurance Trust Funds to be used to reduce the debt owed to the public until Congress enacts major social security reform legislation. Defines "social security reform legislation" as legislation that: (1) insures the long-term financial solvency of the social security system; and (2) includes an option for private investment of social security funds by beneficiaries. Provides a point of order against consideration of any concurrent resolution on the budget that does not comply with this Act. Authorizes a waiver of this Act for any fiscal year in which a declaration of war is in effect. Bars any bill to increase revenues from being deemed to have passed the House of Representatives or the Senate unless approved by a majority of each House. Directs Congress to review actual revenues on a quarterly basis and adjust outlays to assure compliance with this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 3859 (106th)open
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2000
Social Security and Medicare Safe Deposit Box Act of 2000 - Provides that the net surplus of any trust fund for part A of Medicare shall not be counted as a net surplus for purposes of the Federal or congressional budgets or the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act). Amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to provide a point of order in the House of Representatives or the Senate against consideration of any concurrent budget resolution or conference report or amendment pertaining thereto that would set forth an on-budget deficit for any fiscal year. Makes it out of order in the House or the Senate to consider any bill, joint resolution, amendment, motion, or conference report if the enactment of the reported bill or resolution, the adoption and enactment of an amendment, or the enactment of a bill or resolution in the form recommended in the conference report would cause or increase an on-budget deficit for any fiscal year. Includes the receipts, outlays, and surplus or deficit in the Federal Old-Age and Survivors and Disability Insurance Trust Funds within the content of the concurrent budget resolution. Authorizes a waiver or suspension in the Senate of points of order under this Act only with a three-fifths majority. Requires the same majority to sustain an appeal on a ruling on such points of order. Prohibits the Federal Government budget submitted by the President from recommending an on-budget deficit for any covered fiscal year. Applies the amendments made by this Act to FY 2001 and subsequent fiscal years.
Bill· HRH.R. 3849 (106th)open
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2000
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to reduce by 4.3 cents the tax on aviation gasoline and fuel, diesel fuel, and kerosene.
Bill· HRH.R. 3857 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2000
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to repeal the inclusion of certain workmen's compensation benefits as social security benefits for purposes of gross income determinations.
Bill· HRH.R. 3851 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2000
Authorizes a qualified S corporation to make a one-time corporate conversion under special tax treatment which shall: (1) in the case of a transfer to partnership form result in no shareholder gain or loss recognition on transferred money or property; and (2) treat other money or property transfers as payment for such corporation's stock. Requires the partnership to maintain a five- year continuity of business in order to avoid a conversion recapture tax.
Bill· HRH.R. 3844 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2000
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to reduce by 4.3 cents the tax on non-aviation gasoline, diesel fuel, and kerosene.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 434 (106th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2000
Sets forth the rule (closed) for the consideration of H.R. 3081 (minimum wage increase and tax benefits for small businesses). Sets forth the rule (modified closed) for the consideration of H.R. 3846 (minimum wage increase). Directs the Clerk of the House, in the engrossment of H.R. 3081, to await disposition of H.R. 3846, add its text at the end of H.R. 3081, and make appropriate conforming changes.
Bill· SS. 2203 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 7 March 2000
Fair Tax Treatment for Fishermen Act of 2000 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) extend income averaging to income from the trade or business of catching, taking, or harvesting fish intended to enter commerce through sale, barter, or trade; and (2) disregard income averaging for farmers and commercial fishermen in computing the regular alternative minimum tax. Allows a limited deduction to fishermen for amounts paid into a Fishing Risk Management Account.
Bill· SS. 2181 (106th)open
United States · United States Congress · 6 March 2000
Conservation and Stewardship Act - Title I: Land and Water Conservation Fund - Land and Water Conservation Fund Act Amendments of 2000 - Amends the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965 to provide for a permanent annual appropriation to the Land and Water Conservation Fund. Establishes the Non-Federal Lands of Regional or National Interest Fund. Title II: Coastal Stewardship - Coastal Stewardship Act of 2000 - Amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to establish the Ocean and Coast Conservation Fund and Outer Continental Shelf Impact Assistance Fund. Title III: Wildlife Conservation and Restoration - Wildlife Conservation and Restoration Act of 2000 - Amends the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act to provide for the deposit of an additional annual amount into the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Fund. Establishes a wildlife conservation and restoration subaccount in such fund. Title IV: Endangered and Threatened Species Habitat Protection - Establishes the Endangered and Threatened Species Recovery Fund for recovery agreements with landowners. Title V: Historic Preservation Fund - Amends the National Preservation Act to provide for the deposit into the Historic Preservation Fund of a specified annual amount. Allocates amounts to State, local governmental, and tribal historic preservation programs, the American Battlefield Protection Program, and matching grant programs. Title VI: Natural Resource Restoration Programs - Establishes the National Park System Resource Protection Fund and the Coral Reef Resources Restoration Fund. Title VII: Urban Park and Forestry Programs - Amends the Urban Park and Recreation Recovery Act of 1978 to establish the Urban Park and Recreation Recovery Fund. Amends the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978 to establish the Urban and Community Forestry Assistance Fund. Title VIII: Conservation Easements - Establishes the Forest Legacy Fund, the Farmland Protection Fund, and the Ranchland Protection Fund. Title IX: Natural Resource Community Investment Programs - Amends the Youth Conservation Corps Act of 1970 to establish the Youth Conservation Corps Fund. Amends the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978 to establish the Forest Service Rural Development Fund. Amends the National Forest-Dependent Rural Communities Economic Diversification Act to establish the Forest Service Rural Community Assistance Fund. Title X: Payment in Lieu of Taxes - Establishes the Payment in Lieu of Taxes Fund.
Bill· HRH.R. 3839 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 6 March 2000
Poverty Trap Study Act - Establishes the National Commission on Marginal Tax Rates for the Working Poor to: (1) determine the total effective marginal rate of tax from all taxes and benefit program phaseouts that persons are subject to at all earnings levels between $7,000 and $30,000 per year for at least five States, including Wisconsin and California; and ( 2) report to Congress. Authorizes appropriations. Terminates the Commission 30 days after the submission of its report.
Bill· HRH.R. 3836 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 6 March 2000
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to expand the credit for expenditures to provide access to disabled individuals to include modifications enabling inter-city buses to meet Americans with Disabilities Act requirements.
Bill· HRH.R. 3832 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 6 March 2000
Small Business Tax Fairness Act of 2000 - Title I: Small Business Provisions - Amends the Internal Revenue Code (the Code) to increase a self-employed individual's deduction for the health insurance costs of self and family to 100 percent. Denies such deduction only for any month the individual actually participates in an employer-subsidized health plan (currently, for any month the individual is eligible to participate). (Sec. 102) Increases to $30,000 the aggregate cost taken into account for the option to expense certain depreciable business assets of small businesses. (Sec. 103) Increases from 50 percent to: (1) 60 percent in 2000 and 55 percent for taxable years beginning in 2001 the deduction for meal and entertainment expenses; and (2) 80 percent the deduction of business meal expenses for individuals subject to Federal limitations on hours of service. (Sec. 105) Amends the Code to: (1) extend income averaging to income from the trade or business of catching, taking, or harvesting fish intended to enter commerce through sale, barter, or trade; and (2) disregard income averaging for farmers and commercial fishermen in computing the regular alternative minimum tax. (Sec. 106) Repeals specified occupational taxes relating to distilled spirits, wine, and beer. Revises the record-keeping requirements for wholesale and retail liquor dealers. Makes it unlawful for any liquor dealer (except one selling beer exclusively) to purchase distilled spirits from any person but a wholesale liquor dealer (excluding a wholesale dealer exclusively in beer) subject to specified record-keeping requirements. (Sec. 107) Amends the Code (as amended by the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999) to repeal revisions to the Code (made by the Act) which repealed the use of the installment method of accounting for accrual method taxpayers and modified the pledge rules of installment obligations. Title II: Pension Provisions - Subtitle A: Expanding Coverage - Increases limits on benefits and contributions under qualified pension plans. (Sec. 202) Amends the Code with regard to the tax on prohibited transactions, and in particular certain transactions involving trusts which are part of an owner-employee plan, and which are not exempted from the tax. Limits the meaning of owner-employee, with respect to any non-exempt loan of any part of the corpus or income of a plan to an owner-employee or family member (subchapter S owner, partner, or sole proprietor), to: (1) a participant or beneficiary of an individual retirement plan; or (2) an employer or association of employees which establishes such a plan. (Sec. 203) Modifies top-heavy rules. Redefines certain key employees to: (1) eliminate the ten employees each of whom earns over $30,000 per year and owns the largest interests in the employer; and (2) include an officer of the employer earning more than $150,000 per year. Provides that employer matching contributions shall be taken into account for minimum contribution requirements. Declares that aggregate distributions during the last year (or, for in-service distributions, during the past five years) shall be taken into account when determining: (1) the present value of the cumulated accrued benefit for any employee; or (2) the amount of any employee's account. Excludes from the meaning of top-heavy plan any plan which consists solely of: (1) a cash or deferred arrangement using certain alternative methods of meeting nondiscrimination requirements; and (2) matching contributions which meet certain requirements of a specified additional alternative method of satisfying nondiscrimination tests. Exempts from the minimum benefit requirement, and determination of any employee's years of service with an employer, any service with an employer occurring during a plan year when the plan benefits no current or former employee (frozen plan). Declares that, with respect to top-heavy plans, determination of constructive stock ownership by a five-percent owner shall disregard family attribution requirements. (Sec. 204) Exempts elective deferrals of employer contributions not includable in an employee's gross income from specified limitations on an employer's deductions for such contributions to an employees' trust or annuity plan and compensation under a deferred payment plan. (Sec. 205) Repeals coordination requirements for deferred compensation plans of State and local governments and tax-exempt organizations. (Sec. 206) Eliminates the user fee for requests to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for determination letters with respect to the qualified status of any pension plan maintained solely by one or more eligible employers or any trust which is a part of the plan. (Sec. 207) Subjects participant's compensation to specified limits on deductions for employer contributions. (Sec. 208) Establishes an option to treat employee elective deferrals as qualified plus contributions (which shall not, however, be excludable from gross income). Subtitle B: Enhancing Fairness for Women - Amends the Code to allow eligible participants age 50 or over to make additional elective deferrals (catch-up contributions) in any plan year according to a schedule of percentage increments (from ten percent to 40 percent) between 2001 and 2004 and thereafter. (Sec. 222) Increases from 25 percent to 100 percent of compensation (up to $30,000) the maximum allowable annual addition to a participant's plan account. (Sec. 223) Provides for faster vesting of certain employer matching contributions. (Sec. 224) Directs the Secretary of the Treasury (Secretary) to simplify and finalize the regulations relating to specified minimum distribution requirements, and modify them to: (1) reflect current life expectancy; and (2) revise the required distribution methods so that, under reasonable assumptions, the amount of the required minimum distribution does not decrease over a participant's life expectancy. (Sec. 225) Amends the Code to provide for distribution or payment (division of benefits) from an eligible deferred compensation plan upon divorce. (Sec. 226) Directs the Secretary to revise the hardship distribution regulations to provide that six months is the period an employee is prohibited from making elective and employee contributions in order for a distribution to be deemed necessary to satisfy financial need (safe harbor relief for hardship withdrawals from cash or deferred arrangements). Subtitle C: Increasing Portability for Participants - Amends the Code to provide for rollovers among various specified kinds of plans. Revises the requirements for tax-exempt rollovers of individual retirement accounts (IRAs) into eligible (workplace) retirement plans. (Sec. 233) Exempts from certain limitations on the amount of a tax-exempt rollover from an exempt trust: (1) any portion of a distribution transferred in a direct trustee-to-trustee transfer to a qualified trust in a defined contribution plan, which is also separately accounted for; and (2) any portion transferred to an eligible retirement plan. (Sec. 234) Provides a hardship exception to the requirement that a tax-exempt rollover be made within 60 days after distribution. (Sec. 235) Amends the Code to revise the treatment of a plan as failing to meet minimum vesting standards if a participant's accrued benefit is decreased by amendment of the plan. Declares that a defined contribution plan shall not be treated as failing to meet such requirements merely because the transferee plan does not provide some or all of the forms of distribution previously available under another defined contribution plan in specified circumstances. (Sec. 236) Revises certain restrictions on distributions from qualified cash or deferred arrangements. Eliminates a corporation's disposition of assets or of an interest in a subsidiary as events for which lump-sum distributions are covered (while retaining termination of a plan as a covered event). Changes separation from service to severance from employment as a threshold event for the covered distribution of amounts from a qualified cash or deferred arrangement. (Sec. 237) Excludes from gross income any amount transferred to a defined benefit governmental plan in a direct trustee-to-trustee transfer if it is for: (1) purchase of a permissive service credit; or (2) a repayment of cash-outs to which certain limitations on contributions do not apply. (Sec. 238) Amends the Code with respect to restrictions on certain mandatory distributions to allow employers to disregard rollover contributions when determining the present value of nonforfeitable accrued benefits for cash-out purposes. (Sec. 239) Amends the Code, with respect to deferred compensation plans of State and local governments and tax-exempt organizations, to repeal certain additional minimum distribution requirements. Revises requirements for inclusion of deferred compensation in a participant's gross income to limit the taxable year: (1) to the taxable year in which the compensation or income is paid to the participant in the case of a State or local government; and (2) to the taxable year in which the compensation or income is paid or otherwise made available to the participant or other beneficiary in the case of a tax-exempt organization. Subtitle D: Strengthening Pension Security and Enforcement - Amends the Code, with respect to the full-funding limitation, to repeal the current liability funding limit percentage in the case of plan years beginning in 1999 or 2000. Sets the applicable percentage of current liability at 160 percent in 2001, 165 percent in 2002, 170 percent in 2003, and nothing afterwards. (Sec. 242) Revises the special rule for an employer's maximum deductible contribution to change the minimum amount, for plans with more than 100 participants, from the unfunded current liability to the unfunded termination liability. Excludes from termination liability, for plans with under 100 participants, any liability attributable to benefit increases for highly compensated employees resulting from a plan amendment made or effective within the last two years before the termination date. (Sec. 243) Amends the Code with respect to the excise tax on nondeductible contributions to a qualified employer plan. Allows an employer, in determining the amount of nondeductible contributions, to elect not to take into account any contributions to a defined benefit plan except to the extent they exceed the full-funding limitation. (Sec. 244) Establishes an excise tax (of $100 per applicable individual per day) on a defined benefit plan for failing to give notice to participants of any plan amendment providing for a significant reduction in the rate of future benefit accrual. Subtitle E: Reducing Regulatory Burdens - Amends the Code, with respect to annual valuation of a plan's liability, to require actual valuation only once every three years of a plan whose assets are at least 125 percent of its current liability. Permits use of prior year valuations for any two consecutive plan years, so long as an actual valuation takes place in the third year. (Sec. 262) Amends the Code to allow the reinvestment in qualifying employer securities of any employee stock ownership plan dividend paid by a C corporation, without loss of the corporation's deduction from gross income. (Sec. 263) Amend the Tax Reform Act of 1986 to repeal, as of December 31, 2000, the transition rule relating to certain highly compensated employees. (Sec. 264) Directs the Secretary to modify Treasury Regulations to provide that employees of tax-exempt organizations who are eligible to make contributions under a salary reduction agreement may be treated as excludable from a 401 (k) plan or 401 (m) plan if: (1) no such employee is eligible to participate in such 401(k) plan or 401(m) plan; and (2) 95 percent of other employees are eligible to participate in such a plan. (Sec. 265) Amends the Code to make a fringe benefit exclusion from gross income of any qualified retirement planning services provided to an employee and his spouse by an employer maintaining a qualified employer plan. (Sec. 266) Directs the Secretary to modify the annual return filing requirements for one-participant retirement plans (covering only the employer and spouse where the employer owns the entire business, or only one or more partners and spouses in a business partnership) to ensure that any plans with assets of $250,000 or less as of the close of the plan year need not file a return for that year. (Sec. 267) Directs the Secretary to continue to update and improve the Employee Plans Compliance Resolution System (or any successor program), giving special attention to certain tasks. (Sec. 268) Amends Code provisions regarding a tax exclusion for cash reimbursements to repeal the requirement that a voucher or similar item which may be exchanged for a transit pass is not readily available for direct distribution. (Sec. 269) Repeals the Secretary's mandate, with respect to the nondiscrimination test for matching contributions and employee contributions, to prescribe regulations to prevent the multiple use of the alternative limitation for any highly compensated employee. (Sec. 270) Directs the Secretary to provide that a plan shall be deemed to satisfy nondiscrimination requirements if it satisfies the facts and circumstances test as in effect before January 1, 1994, but only if: (1) it satisfies conditions prescribed by the Secretary to appropriately limit the availability of such test; and (2) it is submitted to the Secretary for a determination of whether it satisfies such test. Revises minimum coverage requirements to allow a plan that otherwise fails to meet such requirements to constitute a qualified plan if it meets certain requirements that were in effect immediately before enactment of the Tax Reform Act of 1986. (Such requirements stated that the plan must at least benefit employees qualifying under a classification set up by the employer and found by the Secretary not to be discriminatory in favor of employees who are officers, shareholders, or highly compensated.) Directs the Secretary to modify certain existing regulations with respect to employers operating separate lines of business to expand the ability of a pension plan to demonstrate compliance with the line of business requirements based upon the facts and circumstances surrounding the design and operation of the plan, even though the plan is unable to satisfy the mechanical tests currently used to determine compliance. (Sec. 271) Amends the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997 to extend to international organizations the moratorium on application of certain nondiscrimination rules applicable to State and local governmental plans. (Sec. 272) Increases from 90 to 180 days certain notice and consent periods regarding distributions. Directs the Secretary to modify certain consent regulations to provide that the description of a participant's right, if any, to defer receipt of a distribution shall also describe the consequences of failing to defer such receipt. Subtitle F: Plan Amendments - Prescribes application requirements for plan or contract amendments. Title III: Estate Tax Relief - Subtitle A: Reductions of Estate and Gift Tax Rates - Amends the Code to repeal the two highest estate tax brackets and replace them with a top bracket of "Over $2,500,000", for which the estate tax rate shall be $1,025,800, plus 50 percent of the excess over $2,500,000. Repeals the phase out of graduated rates and the unified credit. Requires additional reductions in estate and gift tax rates of one percent for calendar 2003 and two percent for calendar 2004 and thereafter. (Sec. 302) Declares that it is the sense of Congress that the death tax relief in this Act is considered a first step in the effort to repeal this tax. Subtitle B: Unified Credit Replaced With Unified Exemption Amount - Repeals the unified credits against the estate and gift taxes, and replaces them with a unified exemption amount, determined by specified formulae involving amounts ranging from $675,000 in calendar year 2001 up to $1 million in calendar year 2006 and thereafter. Grants up to a $60,000 exemption to the estate of a nonresident, non-U.S. citizen, with specified variations for residents of U.S. possessions. Subtitle C: Modifications of Generation-Skipping Transfer Tax - Declares that, if any individual makes an indirect skip during such individual's lifetime, any unused portion of such individual's generation-skipping transfer (GST) exemption shall be allocated to the property transferred to the extent necessary to make the inclusion ratio for such property zero. Requires allocation to the property transferred of the entire unused portion if the amount of the indirect skip exceeds such unused portion. (Sec. 322) Declares that, if a trust is severed in a qualified severance, the trusts resulting from such severance shall be treated as separate trusts thereafter. (Sec. 323) Revises valuation rules for gifts for which a gift tax return was filed or deemed allocation made. Provides that, if an allocation of the GST exemption to any transfers of property is deemed to have been made at the close of an estate tax inclusion period, the value of the property shall be its value at such time. (Sec. 324) Directs the Secretary to prescribe circumstances and procedures under which extensions of time will be granted to make an allocation of GST exemption or an election not to apply specified allocation requirements to certain lifetime direct skips, indirect skips, or transfers to a particular trust. Subtitle D: Conservation Easements - Redefines land subject to a qualified conservation easement, for estate tax purposes, to mean land, on the decedent's date of death, located in or within: (1) 50 miles (currently, 25 miles) of a metropolitan area; (2) 50 miles (currently, 25 miles) of a national park or wilderness area; or (3) 25 miles (currently, ten miles) of an Urban National Forest. Title IV: Tax Relief for Distressed Communities and Industries - Subtitle A: American Community Renewal Act of 2000 - American Community Renewal Act of 2000 - Amends the Code to authorize the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to designate (upon local or State nomination) up to 15 renewal communities, of which at least three shall be in rural areas. Requires for nomination purposes that: (1) the area be experiencing high rates of poverty and unemployment and general distress; and (2) State and local governments enter into written contracts with community organizations to promote specified economic growth and employment activities. Excludes from gross income capital gains on the sale or exchange of a qualified community asset (stock, business property, or partnership interest) held for more than five years. Allows a specified deduction for amounts paid into a family development account on behalf of an individual or another qualified individual who is a renewal community resident. Excludes from gross income account distributions used for qualified family development expenses (postsecondary education, first-home purchase, business capitalization, medical, and rollovers). Provides a penalty (with exceptions) in addition to inclusion as gross income for nonqualifying distributions. Authorizes: (1) designation of earned income tax credit payments for family development account deposit; (2) a commercial building revitalization tax deduction; (3) increased first year expensing for renewal community businesses; (4) extension of environmental remediation cost expensing and the work opportunity credit for renewal communities; and (5) similar tax treatment of renewal communities and enterprise zones for specified youth residence requirements. (Sec. 405) Permits a deduction for contributions to a family development account whether or not a taxpayer itemizes. Makes conforming amendments to provisions respecting: (1) tax on excess contributions and prohibited transactions; (2) trust and annuity information; (3) tax exemption applications; and (4) the commercial revitalization credit. Subtitle B: Timber Incentives - Amends the Code, with respect to the deductible amortization of reforestation expenditures, to increase the limitation on the aggregate amount of amortizable basis acquired during the taxable year from $10,000 to $25,000 (and from $5,000 to $12,500 in the case of a separate return by a married individual), but suspends the application of such limitation between December 31, 1999, and January 1, 2004. Title V: Real Estate Provisions - Subtitle A: Improvements in Low-Income Housing Credit - Amends the Code, with respect to the low-income housing credit, to revise the formula for the State housing credit ceiling. Replaces the set multiplicand of $1.25 (to be multiplied by the State population) with a graduated applicable multiplicand rising from $1.35 for calendar year 2001 to $1.65 for calendar year 2004 and thereafter, and a maximum product of $2 million. Provides for cost-of-living adjustments to the State ceiling. (Sec. 502) Revises the housing priority selection criteria a housing credit agency must use to develop a qualified plan for allocating housing credit dollar amounts among projects. Requires such criteria to include: (1) whether the project would use existing housing as part of a community revitalization plan; (2) tenant populations of individuals with children; and (3) projects intended for eventual tenant ownership. Drops from such criteria participation of local tax-exempt organizations. Requires a qualified allocation plan to: (1) give preference in making allocations to projects located in qualified census tracts whose development contributes to a concerted community revitalization plan; and (2) provide a procedure for agency monitoring for noncompliance with habitability standards through regular site visits. (Sec. 503) Requires housing credit agencies to: (1) provide for a comprehensive market study (by a disinterested party, at the developer's expense) of the housing needs of low-income individuals in the area to be served by the project before the credit allocation is made; and (2) make public a written explanation for any allocation of a housing credit dollar amount not made in accordance with the agency's established priorities and selection criteria. (Sec. 504) Revises special rules for the determination of the adjusted basis of buildings eligible for the low-income housing credit. Requires adjusted basis to include property used throughout the taxable year in providing any community service facility designed to serve primarily individuals (even if they are not tenants) whose income is 60 percent or less of area median income. Declares that assistance under the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act of 1996 shall be disregarded in determining whether a building is federally subsidized for purposes of the low-income housing credit. (Sec. 505) Revises the definition of a qualified building (placed in service not later than the second calendar year following a housing credit dollar amount allocation) with respect to which the amount of a low-income housing credit may exceed the credit amount allocated to the building. Sets an alternative date for valuation of the taxpayer's actual basis in the project of which the building is a part (where the actual basis is more than ten percent of the taxpayer's reasonably expected basis). Allows the valuation of the actual basis to be as of the later of the date which is six months after the date that the allocation was made or (as currently) the close of the calendar year in which the allocation is made. Revises the formula for determination of the amount of State housing credit ceiling returned in a calendar year to include the dollar amount previously allocated to a project which fails to meet the ten percent test on a date after the close of the calendar year in which the allocation was made. Revises special rules for the increased basis of a building located in certain high cost areas to redefine a qualified census tract to include, as an alternative to existing criteria, a tract with a poverty rate of at least 25 percent. (Sec. 506) Revises the formula for determining unused housing credit carryovers allocated among certain States. Subtitle B: Private Activity Bond Volume Cap - Provides for an accelerated phase-in of specified increases in the volume cap on private activity bonds. Subtitle C: Exclusion From Gross Income for Certain Forgiven Mortgage Obligations - Excludes from gross income the discharge of qualified residential indebtedness. Limits such exclusion to the excess (if any) of the outstanding principal amount of such indebtedness (immediately before discharge) over the sum of any sales proceeds and any other outstanding principal indebtedness secured by such property.
Bill· SS. 2159 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 2000
Excellent Schools for All Our Children Act - Title I: Funding for Elementary and Secondary Education - Requires the Secretary of Education to make direct awards to local educational agencies (LEAs) to support programs or activities, for kindergarten through grade 12 students, deemed appropriate by the LEAs. (Sec. 103) Bases award amounts on LEA's average daily attendance relative to that of such students in all States for the preceding year. (Sec. 104) Requires any failing LEA, which is classified as unaccredited or failing under performance-based standards by its State educational agency (SEA), to use such an award only for purposes directly related to improving elementary and secondary school students' academic performance consistent with specified provisions. Requires any funds provided to a failing LEA under title I (Helping Disadvantaged Children Meet High Standards) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to be spent in accordance with this Act. Makes inapplicable to a failing LEA certain provisions of title I of ESEA, other than specified allocation and allotment provisions. Requires failing LEAs to submit to the Secretary plans that: (1) describe the activities to be funded under this Act consistent with specified requirements; and (2) may request an exemption from the uses of funds restrictions under such requirements for schools served by the failing LEA that met SEA performance-based accreditation or categorization standards for the previous fiscal year. Requires failing LEAs, upon the Secretary's approval of their plans, to widely disseminate such plans throughout the area they serve and to post their plans on the Internet. Permits each failing LEA to use the direct award provided under this Act and the funds provided under title I of ESEA, for the fiscal year of the approved plan, only to: (1) recruit, retain, and reward high-quality teachers; (2) focus on teaching basic educational skills; (3) provide remedial instruction in core academic subjects assessed by SEA or LEA standards; (4) fund mentoring programs for elementary and secondary school students needing assistance in reading, writing, or arithmetic; (5) use proven methods of instruction, such as phonics, based upon reliable research; (6) provide for extended day learning; (7) ensure that parents realize they play a significant role in their child's educational success, and encourage parents to become active in their child's education; and (8) provide any other activity that an LEA proposes, and the Secretary approves, as one that relates directly to improving students' academic performance. Requires failing LEAs to submit annual reports to the Secretary on their use of funds and the annual performance of all their children as measured by their SEA standards. Requires individual student privacy protections in, and wide dissemination and Internet posting of, such reports. Makes such requirements for failing LEAs inapplicable to any such LEA if it meets SEA standards for two consecutive fiscal years after it is required to use funds in accordance with such requirements. Allows such an LEA to receive a bonus award from specified funds, to use for purposes such as providing professional development opportunities to, and otherwise rewarding, teachers and principals who improved student performance. Provides that the LEA shall determine how to distribute such bonus award to individual elementary and secondary schools, and that a school receiving such an award shall determine how it will be spent. Authorizes appropriations for such bonus awards. Penalizes failing LEAs for improper use of funds under this Act. (Sec. 105) Authorizes audits and enforcement of certain sanctions to ensure proper use of funds under this Act. (Sec. 106) Authorizes appropriations to carry out this title. Directs the Secretary to use such funds appropriated for each fiscal year to continue to make payments to eligible recipients pursuant to any multiyear award made prior to the date of enactment of this Act under certain provisions of law repealed under this Act. (Sec. 107) Repeals: (1) specified ESEA provisions for demonstration project grants to improve student achievement; (2) specified ESEA provisions for school technology resource grants; (3) title VI (Innovative Education Program Strategies) of ESEA; (4) part C (Emergency Immigrant Education Program)of title VII of ESEA; (5) part A (Fund for the Improvement of Education) of title X of ESEA; (6) title III (State and Local Education Systemic Improvement) of the Goals 2000: Educate America Act (G2000EAA); (7) title IV (Parental Assistance) of G2000EAA; (8) the School-to-Work Opportunities Act of 1994; (9) subtitle B (Education for Homeless Children and Youth) of title VII of the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act; and (10) specified provisions for funds to reduce class size in elementary and secondary schools, and alternative uses of such funds, under the Department of Education Appropriations Act, 1999. Title II: Good Student Scholarships - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to direct the Secretary to award achievement-based college scholarships to students graduating from failing or unaccredited schools or school districts (Good Student Scholarships program). (Sec. 201) Makes eligible for such a scholarship any secondary school student who: (1) graduates from a public secondary school or a public or private secondary school in a school district that is failing or unaccredited, as determined by the SEA; (2) has been in attendance at that school for at least two years; (3) ranks in the top ten percent academically in such student's class; (4) has an average ACT or SAT score that is equal to or greater than the national average; and (5) is in a family with income not more than $100,000. Makes each such award equal to the maximum appropriated Federal Pell Grant for such year. Authorizes appropriations for the Good Student Scholarships program.
Bill· SS. 2161 (106th)open
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 2000
American Transportation Recovery and Highway Trust Fund Protection Act of 2000 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for a one year moratorium on the 24.3 per gallon excise tax on diesel fuel. Sets the rate of such tax on such fuel at 4.3 cents per gallon after September 30, 2005. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to transfer from the general fund, out of amounts not otherwise appropriated, to the Highway Trust Fund amounts equal to the amounts which the Secretary determines are not appropriated to such Fund as a result of the preceding amendments.
Bill· SS. 2180 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 2000
Senior Citizens' Financial Freedom Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) to terminate a specified increase in the tax on social security benefits after December 31, 2000. Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act to repeal the limitation on the amount of outside income which beneficiaries who have attained retirement age may earn (earnings test) without incurring a reduction in benefits. Amends the IRC to provide for a graduated increase in age from calendar year 2000 to 2014 and thereafter for required distributions from qualified trusts.
Bill· HRH.R. 3829 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 2000
FECA Reform Act of 2000 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to require the Commissioner of Social Security and the Secretary of the Treasury, upon written request, to disclose to the Department of Labor current retirement income and tax return information only for purposes of, and to the extent necessary for, the administration of Federal workers' compensation law. Amends Federal workers' compensation law to authorize the Secretary of Labor (Secretary) to require a totally disabled employee to report his or her earnings from employment or self-employment. Requires the inclusion of the value of housing, board, lodging, and other benefits which are part of such earnings. Forfeits any authorized disability compensation for employees not reporting such earnings. Considers refunds to the United States by an employing Federal agency from third person recoveries against an employee as employee compensation for purposes of authorized continuation of pay during a period of disability. Authorizes the conversion upon a conditional date of basic compensation for total or partial disability to an annuity. Makes such annuity amount two-thirds of the basic compensation amount. Revises compensation amounts and time periods of payments for the loss, or loss of use, of specified body parts or functions. Repeals provisions allowing augmented compensation for disabled employees with one or more dependents. Decreases from 75 to 66 and two-thirds percent of total pay the maximum amount of monthly pay authorized to be received as disability compensation for Federal employees of specified pay grades. Authorizes an employee to receive a schedule award while receiving disability compensation. Prohibits benefits from being paid for wage loss during any period which the individual is confined in a penal institution or correctional facility after conviction for an offense constituting a felony or other crime. Requires the names and social security numbers of such individuals to be made available to the Secretary to enforce such prohibition. Authorizes an employee to use annual leave, sick leave, or leave without pay for the first three days of a disability (during which period such employee is currently not entitled to compensation). Increases the monthly compensation authorized, in the case of an employee's death, with respect to a surviving spouse with at least one child and for children having no surviving spouse. Limits total compensation received to 66 and two-thirds percent of the employee's current compensation. Authorizes such pay to a survivor of an individual who converted his or her disability compensation into an annuity under this Act.
Bill· SS. 2132 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2000
Vaccines for the New Millennium Act of 2000 - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to restate as the goal for the protection of children from immunizable diseases the universal protection of all children from such diseases by December 31, 2009. (Sec. 4) Authorizes appropriations for FY 2001 and 2002 for U.S. contributions to: (1) the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunizations; and (2) the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative. Requires the President to include in a required report for such fiscal years information on the effectiveness of the above Global Alliance in meeting its immunization and research and development goals. (Sec. 5) Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide a business tax credit of 50 percent of the excess of the qualified vaccine research expenses for a taxable year over a defined base amount. Includes as appropriate vaccine research research with respect to malaria, tuberculosis, HIV, or any infectious disease which causes over one million deaths annually. Prohibits such credit from being taken into account when determining the current credit allowed for increasing research expenditures. Expresses the sense of Congress that if such credit is allowed, then the corporation receiving such credit should certify to the Secretary of the Treasury that, within one year after that vaccine is licensed, such corporation will develop a good faith plan to maximize international access to high quality and affordable vaccines. Directs the Secretary to conduct a study of the effectiveness of such credit in stimulating vaccine research, and to report study results to Congress. (Sec. 6) Provides a lifesaving vaccine sale credit equal to the amount of qualified vaccine sales for a taxable year. Defines a lifesaving vaccine as one which is approved by the Food and Drug Administration and used for malaria, tuberculosis, HIV, or any infectious disease which causes over one million deaths annually. Provides total credit limits for 2002 through 2010 (zero credit after 2011). Provides credit limit allocation and authorized carryover. (Sec. 7) Establishes in the Treasury the Lifesaving Vaccine Purchase Fund for purchases of eligible vaccines defined earlier under this Act and vaccine distribution to developing countries. Limits to $100 million Fund expenditures in a fiscal year. Appropriates funds for the Fund. (Sec. 8) States that the President should enter into negotiations with officials of foreign governments and other interested parties for the establishment of an international vaccine purchase fund that would: (1) accept contributions from governments of developed countries; (2) use such contributions to purchase and distribute eligible vaccines in developing countries; and (3) be a significant market incentive for private sector vaccine research. Requires an annual report from the President to Congress. (Sec. 9) Expresses the sense of Congress that flexible or differential pricing for vaccines which provide lower prices for the poorest countries is one of several valid strategies to accelerate the introduction of vaccines in developing countries.
Bill· HRH.R. 3812 (106th)open
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2000
Vaccines for the New Millennium Act of 2000 - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to restate as the goal for the protection of children from immunizable diseases the universal protection of all children from such diseases by December 31, 2009. (Sec. 4) Authorizes appropriations for FY 2001 and 2002 for U.S. contributions to: (1) the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunizations; and (2) the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative. Requires the President to include in a required report for such fiscal years information on the effectiveness of the above Global Alliance in meeting its immunization and research and development goals. (Sec. 5) Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide a business tax credit of 30 percent of qualified vaccine research expenses for a taxable year. Includes as appropriate vaccine research research with respect to malaria, tuberculosis, HIV, or any infectious disease which causes over one million deaths annually. Prohibits such credit from being taken into account when determining the current credit allowed for increasing research expenditures. Prohibits the credit for any research conducted outside the United States. Expresses the sense of Congress that if such credit is allowed, then the corporation receiving such credit should certify to the Secretary of the Treasury that, within one year after that vaccine is licensed, such corporation will develop a good faith plan to maximize international access to high quality and affordable vaccines. Directs the Institute of Medicine to conduct a study of the effectiveness of such credit in stimulating vaccine research, and to report study results to Congress. (Sec. 6) Provides a lifesaving vaccine sale credit equal to the amount of qualified vaccine sales for a taxable year. Defines a lifesaving vaccine as one which is approved by the Food and Drug Administration and used for malaria, tuberculosis, HIV, or any infectious disease which causes over one million deaths annually. Provides total credit limits for 2002 through 2010 (zero credit after 2011). Provides credit limit allocation and authorized carryover. (Sec. 7) Establishes in the Treasury the Lifesaving Vaccine Purchase Fund for purchases of eligible vaccines defined earlier under this Act for distribution to developing countries. Limits to $100 million Fund expenditures in a fiscal year. Appropriates funds for the Fund. (Sec. 8) States that the President should enter into negotiations with officials of foreign governments and other interested parties for the establishment of an international vaccine purchase fund that would: (1) accept contributions from governments of developed countries; (2) use such contributions to purchase and distribute eligible vaccines in developing countries; and (3) be a significant market incentive for private sector vaccine research. Requires an annual report from the President to Congress. (Sec. 9) Establishes the Lifesaving Vaccine Advisory Commission to: (1) review the progress of national and international efforts to develop eligible vaccines; (2) examine the merits of innovative vaccine research financing that combines public subsidies with private sector research and development efforts; and (3) develop consensus among industry and public health advocates on policy recommendations for ways in which the Federal Government can further advance public-private partnerships in vaccine research and development. Requires a final report from the Commission to the President and Congress. (Sec. 10) Expresses the sense of Congress that flexible or differential pricing for vaccines which provide lower prices for the poorest countries is one of several valid strategies to accelerate the introduction of vaccines in developing countries.
Bill· HRH.R. 3771 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2000
Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to eliminate the cap on aliens eligible to adjust status from asylee to permanent resident in any fiscal year.
Bill· HRH.R. 3769 (106th)open
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2000
Prohibits any funds appropriated or otherwise available to the Department of Defense from being used to carry out the destruction of any intercontinental ballistic missile silo in the United States during FY 2001.
Bill· HRH.R. 3819 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2000
Telework Tax Incentive Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a tax credit of up to $500 annually for "qualified teleworking expenses." Defines such expenses.
Bill· HRH.R. 3811 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2000
Layoff Tax Relief Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exclude from gross income up to $2,000 of any "qualified severance payment." Defines such payment. Excludes from such definition payments exceeding $150,000.
Bill· SS. 2123 (106th)open
United States · United States Congress · 29 February 2000
Conservation and Reinvestment Act of 1999 - Requires: (1) Governors of each State receiving monies from the Conservation and Reinvestment Act Fund (established under this Act) to report on June 15 of each year to the Secretaries of the Interior or of Agriculture, as appropriate, accounting for the money received for the previous fiscal year, including the funded projects and activities; and (2) the Secretary of the Interior to report annually to Congress on monies the Departments of the Interior and of Agriculture have spent out of the Fund, including a summary of such Governors' reports. (Sec. 5) Establishes the Conservation and Reinvestment Act Fund (CRAF). Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to deposit into CRAF certain Outer Continental Shelf revenues, undisbursed amounts under title I of this Act, and certain interest earned on CRAF investments. Transfers all amounts deposited into the CRAF as follows: (1) to the Secretary of the Interior for payment of $1 billion to States for impact assistance and coastal conservation, $125 million for the Urban Park and Recreation Recovery Act of 1978, $100 million for the National Historic Preservation Act, and $150 million ($100 million for permanent conservation easement and $50 million for endangered and threatened species recovery); (2) to the Secretaries of the Interior and of Agriculture for payment of $200 million for Federal and Indian land restoration; (3) to the Land and Water Conservation Fund in the amount of $900 million; and (4) to the Federal Aid to Wildlife Restoration Fund (FAWRF) established under the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act in the amount of $350 million. Provides that any shortfalls less than $2.825 billion in a fiscal year, after FY 2000, proportionally reduce such sums for that fiscal year. (Sec. 6) Limits the amount available for administrative expenses to two percent. Provides that nothing in this Act shall affect the prohibition contained in the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act (as amended by this Act) that bars the use of funds transferred to the FAWRF by this Act for administrative or execution of program expenses. (Sec. 7) Requires off-budget treatment of the receipts and disbursements of funds under this Act. (Sec. 9) Prohibits a State or local government from receiving funds under this Act during any fiscal year: (1) when its expenditures of non-Federal funds for recurrent expenditures for programs for which such funding is provided will be less than its expenditures were for such programs during the preceding fiscal year; or (2) for a program unless the Secretary of the Interior is satisfied that such a grant will be used to supplement and, to the extent practicable, increase the level of State, local, or other non-Federal funds available for such program. Exempts a State or local government from such prohibition if the Secretary determines that a reduction in expenditures is attributable to a non-selective reduction in the expenditures in the programs of all executive branch agencies of such entity. Treats all funds received by a State or local government under this Act as Federal funds for purposes of compliance with provisions in effect under other law requiring that non-Federal funds be used to provide a portion of the funding for any program or project. (Sec. 11) Prohibits: (1) the taking of private property in whole or in part, without just compensation; and (2) Federal agencies, using funds appropriated by this Act, from applying any regulation on any lands until the lands or water or an interest therein is acquired, unless authorized to do so by another Act of Congress. (Sec. 12) Requires the Secretary of the Interior to design a standardized sign and, where appropriate, require its installation at sites receiving funds under this Act. Title I: Impact Assistance and Coastal Conservation - Directs the Secretary of the Interior to allocate such transferred CRAF payments to coastal States for impact assistance and coastal conservation only if such States have: (1) a Secretary-approved Coastal State Conservation and Impact Assistance Plan; (2) agreed to provide specified reports; and (3) certain necessary fiscal control and fund accounting procedures. (Sec. 101) Sets forth the formula for allocating such funds to coastal States and coastal political subdivisions. (Sec. 102) Requires the development and submission of a Coastal State Conservation and Impact Assistance Plan by each coastal State seeking to receive grants under this title (and in the case of a producing State, the Governor) to incorporate the plans of the coastal political subdivisions into the Statewide plan for transmittal to the Secretary of the Interior for approval or disapproval before the disbursement of CRAF funds. Specifies authorized uses of the CRAF funds. Title II: Land and Water Conservation Fund Revitalization - Amends the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965 to provide that all CRAF funds transferred to the Land and Water Conservation Fund shall be covered into the Fund. (Sec. 203) Makes $900 million available each fiscal year after FY 2001 for expenditure without further appropriation, to be allocated as follows: (1) 50 percent for Federal purposes; and (2) 50 percent for State grants. (Sec. 205) Prohibits the obligation or expenditure of the Federal portion of such funds for any land or water interest acquisition except those specified and approved by Congress in the appropriate appropriations Act. Prescribes: (1) a procedure for preparing and transmitting to Congress of a list of proposed Federal acquisitions; and (2) notification to specified officials of affected areas with respect to such proposed acquisitions. (Sec. 206) Revises the formula used to allocate amounts made available for State purposes from the Fund each fiscal year. Makes all federally recognized Indian tribes and Native Corporations eligible to receive shares of such apportionment in accordance with a competitive grant program established by the Secretary of the Interior. Requires each State, with an exception, to make available as grants to local governments at least 50 percent of its annual apportionment or an equivalent amount made available from other sources. (Sec. 207) Revises the requirement that a State have a comprehensive statewide outdoor recreation plan as a prerequisite to consideration by the Secretary of the Interior of financial assistance for acquisition or development projects. Allows each State to define its own priorities and criteria for selection of outdoor conservation and recreation acquisition and development projects eligible for grants under this Act if it provides for public involvement in this process and publishes an accurate and current State Action Agenda for Community Conservation and Recreation, within five years after enactment of this Act, indicating the needs it has identified and the priorities and criteria it has established. Allows an existing Comprehensive State Plan to remain in effect until the appropriate State adopts a State Action Agenda. (Sec. 209) Requires the Secretary to approve, subject to certain conditions, the conversion of property (other than for public outdoor recreation use) acquired or developed with assistance under the Act only if the State demonstrates no prudent or feasible alternative exists. Exempts from such requirement those properties that no longer meet the criteria within the State Plan or Agenda as an outdoor conservation and recreation facility due to changes in demographics, or that must be abandoned because of environmental contamination which endangers public health and safety. (Sec. 210) Provides that nothing in this title shall affect any State or Federal water law or an interstate compact governing water, alter any allocations of water rights, or create any new water rights. Title III: Wildlife Conservation and Restoration - Amends the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act (FAWRA) to require CRAF funds transferred for FAWRA purposes to be deposited in a new subaccount in the FAWRF, to be made available without further appropriation, for apportionment in each fiscal year for State wildlife conservation and restoration programs. (Sec. 304) Sets forth requirements for: (1) apportionment of such subaccount funds; (2) applications for approval of, and development grants for, State wildlife conservation and restoration programs; and (3) coordination. Prohibits such funds from being used for expenses incurred in the administration and execution of programs. Limits to ten percent the use of such funds for wildlife-associated recreation. (Sec. 305) Allows the subaccount funds to be used for a wildlife conservation education program. Exempts education efforts, projects, or programs that promote or encourage opposition to the regulated taking of wildlife. (Sec. 306) Prohibits a State from receiving FAWRA matching funds if it diverts any funds from wildlife conservation purposes. Title IV: Urban Park and Recreation Recovery Program Amendments - Amends the Urban Park and Recreation Recovery Act of 1978 to make transferred CRAF funds available to the Secretary of the Interior, without further appropriation, to assist local governments in improving their park and recreation systems. Sets forth limits on the use of such funds. (Sec. 404) Provides for the development of new recreation areas and facilities (including the acquisition of lands for such development) under the urban park and recreation recovery program. (Sec. 406) Revises requirements for: (1) Federal assistance grant eligibility; (2) matching grants to local governments for rehabilitation, development, and innovation purposes; (3) local park and recreation recovery action programs; (4) State action incentives; and (5) conversion of recreation property for any other purposes other than public recreation purposes. (Sec. 411) Repeals sunset provisions and congressional reporting requirements with respect to: (1) the impact of the urban park and recreation recovery program; and (2) the annual achievements of the innovation grant program. Title V: Historic Preservation Fund - Amends the National Historic Preservation Act to provide that amounts transferred from the CRAF each fiscal year shall be deposited into the Historic Preservation Fund to be available without further appropriation, in that fiscal year, to carry out the Act. (Sec. 501) Requires at least one half of the funds obligated or expended each fiscal year under this Act to be used for preservation projects on historic properties (giving priority to the preservation of endangered historic properties). (Sec. 502) Authorizes a State to provide financial assistance to the management entity for any national heritage area or national heritage corridor to support cooperative historic preservation planning and development. Title VI: Federal and Indian Lands Restoration - Makes CRAF funds transferred to the Secretaries of the Interior and of Agriculture available to be used as a dedicated source of funding for a coordinated program on Federal and Indian lands to restore degraded lands, protect resources that are threatened with degradation, and protect public health and safety. Allocates: (1) 60 percent to the Secretary of the Interior for lands within the National Park System, National Wildlife Refuge System, and public lands administered by the Bureau of Land Management; (2) 30 percent to the Secretary of Agriculture for lands within the National Forest System; and (3) ten percent to the Secretary of the Interior for competitive grants to qualified Indian tribes (giving priority to projects based upon the protection of significant resources, the severity of damages or threats to resources, and the protection of public health). (Sec. 603) Requires the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture to: (1) each establish priority lists for the use of funds (giving priority to projects based upon the protection of significant resources, the severity of damages or threats to resources, and the protection of public health or safety); and (2) jointly establish a coordinated program for tracking the progress of activities carried out with amounts made available by this title and determining the extent to which demonstrable results are being achieved. Title VII: Conservation Easements and Endangered and Threatened Species Recovery - Subtitle A: Conservation Easements - Provides that CRAF funds transferred to the Secretary of the Interior shall be used by the Secretary to establish the Conservation Easement Program to provide grants, under specified conditions, to an eligible entity (State or local government, an Indian Tribe, or certain private organizations) to provide the Federal share of up to 50 percent of the total cost of purchasing permanent conservation easements in land with prime, unique, or other productive uses. Subtitle B: Endangered and Threatened Species Recovery - Makes CRAF funds transferred from the CRAF for this title in a fiscal year available to the Secretary of the Interior without further appropriations, in that fiscal year, to provide financial assistance to persons for development and implementation of Endangered and Threatened Species Recovery Agreements entered into under this title. Requires the Secretary to give priority to the development and implementation of Agreements that: (1) implement actions identified under recovery plans approved by the Secretary; (2) have the greatest potential for contributing to the recovery of an endangered or threatened species; and (3) require use of the assistance on land owned by a small landowner or on a family farm by the owner or operator. (Sec. 713) Prohibits the Secretary from providing financial assistance for any action that is required by a permit or an incidental take statement issued under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 or that is otherwise required under Federal law. (Sec. 714) Authorizes the Secretary to enter into such Agreements and sets forth Agreement requirements, including: (1) requiring activities not otherwise mandated by law that contribute to species recovery; and (2) specifying species recovery goals. Requires the Secretary to review Agreements in compliance, periodically monitor the implementation of each Agreement, and disburse financial assistance to implement the Agreement.
Bill· SS. 2121 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 29 February 2000
Rural Education Initiative Act of 1999 - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to establish a new part J, Rural Education Initiative (REI), under title X Programs of National Significance. (Replaces the current part J, Urban and Rural Education Assistance and its provisions for demonstration grants for, and White House Conferences on, urban and rural education.) Establishes an REI subpart 1 Small and Rural School Program. Makes an local educational agency (LEA) eligible for alternative use formula grants from States, and for direct grants from the Secretary of Education if: (1) the total number of students in average daily attendance at all of the schools served by the LEA is less than 600; and (2) all of the schools served by the LEA are located in a rural community (with a Rural-Urban Continuum Code of 6, 7, 8, or 9; but allows waiver of this requirement where the LEA is certified as located in a rural area by a State agency). Provides, under the alternative use formula grant program, that an eligible LEA may use applicable funding that it is eligible to receive from the State educational agency (SEA) for a fiscal year to support local or statewide education reform efforts intended to improve the achievement of elementary school and secondary school students and the quality of instruction provided for the students. Defines applicable funding as funds received under the following ESEA provisions: (1) title II (Dwight D. Eisenhower Professional Development Program); (2) title IV (Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities); (3) title VI (Innovative Education Program Strategies); (4) part A and part C of title VII; and (5) part I of title X. Requires each SEA receiving applicable funding to disburse it to LEAs for alternative uses at the same times it disburses it to LEAs that do not intend to use it for alternative uses for that fiscal year. Authorizes the Secretary to award grants to eligible LEAs to support local or statewide education reform efforts intended to improve the achievement of elementary school and secondary school students and the quality of instruction provided for the students. Sets forth formulas for determining the amounts of such grants, based on numbers of children in average daily attendance at schools served by the LEAs, minus amounts received under applicable funding. Sets forth accountability requirements. Requires LEAs that receive REI alternative use formula grants or competitive grants to administer tests to assess the academic achievement of students in their schools. Requires each SEA that receives applicable funding to: (1) determine, after the second year of an LEA's participation in either subpart 1 grant program, whether the LEA's students performed in accordance with specified requirements; and (2) only allow continued participation by LEAs that met certain requirements. Establishes an REI subpart 2 Low-Income and Rural School Program. Directs the Secretary to make grants to SEAs for elementary and secondary education development by LEAs that are eligible if: (1) 20 percent or more of the children aged five through 17, whom the LEA serves, are from families with incomes below the poverty line; and (2) all of the schools served by the LEA are located in a rural community (with a Rural-Urban Continuum Code of 6, 7, 8, or 9). Reserves a specified portion of grant funds for schools operated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Sets forth an allotment formula for grants to State educational agencies (SEAs) to make grants to eligible LEAs. Authorizes the Secretary to make direct competitive grants to specially qualified eligible rural LEAs in nonparticipating States. Requires LEAs or their schools to use grant funds for: (1) educational technology, including software and hardware; (2) professional development; (3) technical assistance; (4) teacher recruitment and retention; (5) parental involvement activities; or (6) academic enrichment programs. Requires SEAs to award grants on a competitive or formula basis. Limits to five percent that portion of a subpart 2 grant which may be used for State administrative costs. Requires subpart 2 program reports by SEAS, specially qualified LEAs, and the Secretary. Authorizes appropriations. Requires that such amounts for REI be distributed equally between the subpart 1 and subpart 2 programs.
Bill· HRH.R. 3766 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 29 February 2000
Truthfulness, Responsibility, and Accountability in Contracting Act - Prohibits any Federal agency from making a decision to privatize, outsource, contract out, or contract for the performance of a function currently performed by such agency or to conduct a study to convert a function from Federal to contractor performance. Authorizes any agency to apply to the Director of the Office of Management and Budget for a waiver of such prohibition with respect to a particular function. Authorizes the Director to grant such waiver when: (1) necessary for the preservation of national security; (2) critical for the provision of patient care; or (3) necessary to prevent extraordinary economic harm. Requires waiver requests to be published in the Federal Register. Provides additional exceptions for functions with respect to which a labor organization is accorded exclusive recognition. (Sec. 5) Requires each agency to: (1) establish a centralized reporting system that allows it to generate periodic reports on its contracting efforts during the preceding and current fiscal years; and (2) generate and annually submit to the Director such reports. Requires each agency to report to specified congressional committees on the number of Federal employee positions and positions held by non-Federal employees under a contract between such agency and an individual or entity that has been subject to public-private competition. Requires such reports to be made available through the Internet. (Sec. 6) Requires, after the termination of the contracting prohibition, any decision by an agency to privatize, outsource, or contract out for the performance of a function to be based on the results of a public-private competition process that: (1) formally compares the costs of Federal employee performance of such function with the costs of performance by a contractor; (2) employs the most efficient organizational process; and (3) is conducted in consultation or through bargaining with the exclusive representative of the Federal employees performing the function, if applicable. (Sec. 7) Requires an agency to either conduct a new public-private competition or convert a function to performance by Federal employees if a report indicates that: (1) contracting out costs exceed costs of performance by Federal employees; or (2) contracting out fails to meet quality control standards. (Sec. 8) Directs the Secretary of Labor to conduct a survey of the wages and quantifiable benefits provided by contractors to non-Federal personnel working under contract and to report survey results to specified congressional committees. Requires the Director to review the survey and report findings. (Sec. 9) Requires the Comptroller General to report on compliance by Federal agencies with requirements of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 3749 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 29 February 2000
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for a ten-cents-per-gallon tax reduction on the rates of tax on highway gasoline, diesel fuel, and kerosene for a period of 180 days beginning on the 7th day following enactment. Sets forth floor stock provisions. Expresses the sense of the Congress that the benefit of the reduction be passed on to consumers and requires a study and report to determine if there has been a passthrough.
Bill· HRH.R. 3711 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 29 February 2000
America's Transportation Recovery Act of 2000 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for a one year moratorium on the 24.3 cents per gallon excise tax on diesel fuel. Sets the rate of such tax on such fuel at 4.3 cents per gallon after September 30, 2005. States that the previous provisions of this Act shall cease to be effective if the Secretary of the Treasury determines that the average refiner acquisition costs for crude oil are equal to or less than such costs were on December 31, 1999.
Bill· HRH.R. 3709 (106th)open
United States · United States Congress · 29 February 2000
Internet Non-discrimination Act - Amends the Internet Tax Freedom Act to permanently extend provisions which prohibited a State or political subdivision from imposing, during the period beginning on October 1, 1998, and ending 3 years after the date of the enactment of such Act: (1) taxes on Internet access, unless such tax was generally imposed and actually enforced prior to October 1, 1998; and (2) multiple or discriminatory taxes on electronic commerce.
Bill· HRH.R. 3700 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 29 February 2000
High-Speed Rail Investment Act of 2000 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a limited tax credit to holders of qualified intercity passenger rail carrier bonds. Sets forth definitions, State matching requirements, and other rules.
Bill· SS. 2107 (106th)open
United States · United States Congress · 28 February 2000
Competitive Market Supervision Act - Amends the Securities Act of 1933 to: (1) eliminate the general revenue fees on securities for the cost of the securities registration process; (2) set a uniform and higher rate for the offsetting collection fee schedule for FY 2001 through 2006; and (3) set a permanent rate for FY 2007 and thereafter (presently such rates phase out after FY 2006). (Sec. 3) Amends the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to revise the filing fees related to the purchase of securities by issuers and to preliminary proxy solicitations to reflect such modified offsetting collection fee schedule. Mandates that fees collected during any fiscal year be deposited and credited as offsetting collections. (Sec. 4) Replaces the statutory transaction fee formula for either a national securities exchange or national securities association with a transaction offsetting collection rate which is the uniform rate required to reach a specified transaction fee cap for the fiscal year. (Sec. 5) Prescribes guidelines for adjustments to fee rates, including: (1) estimates of collections; (2) a floor for total fee collections; and (3) a cap on total fee collections. Instructs the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to explain to certain congressional committees the methodology used to make its estimates of collections. Shields SEC determinations and actions from judicial review. Requires the SEC to notify each national securities exchange or national securities association prior to taking action with respect to either a total fee collection floor or a total fee collection cap. (Sec. 7) Revises guidelines governing SEC employee appointment and compensation to include conformance with guidelines covering Federal agency employees under the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery, and Enforcement Act of 1989.
Bill· SS. 2103 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 2000
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to add to the list of 501(c) organizations (tax-exempt organizations) any nonprofit association created before January 1, 1999, by State law and organized and operated exclusively to provide property and casualty insurance coverage for losses occurring due to the effect of natural catastrophic events for property located within the State for which the State has determined that coverage in the authorized insurance market is limited or unavailable at reasonable rates.
Bill· SS. 2099 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 2000
Handgun Safety and Registration Act of 2000 - Amends chapter 53 (Machine Guns, Destructive Devices, and Certain Other Firearms) of the Internal Revenue Code to, among other things: (1) require the registration of handguns in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record; (2) provide for the sharing of registration information with Federal, State and local law enforcement agencies; and (3) provide for the imposition of the five dollar transfer tax on handguns and a $50 tax upon the making of each handgun. Authorizes appropriations.
Bill· SS. 2104 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 2000
Amends the Tax Reform Act of 1984 to revise a special arbitrage rule. Provides, under the revision, that securities or obligations are not State and local bonds and are not subject to yield restrictions to the extent that on the date of issue of a bond issue which is payable from the investment earnings on such securities or obligations such securities or obligations are held in a fund: (1) which, except to the extent of the investment earnings on such securities or obligations, cannot be used, under State constitutional or statutory restrictions continuously in effect since October 9, 1969, through the date of issue of the bond issue, to pay debt service on the bond issue or to finance the facilities that are to be financed with the proceeds of the bonds; or (2) the annual distributions from which cannot exceed seven percent of the average fair market value of the assets held in such fund except to the extent distributions are necessary to pay debt service on the bond issue.
Bill· SS. 2096 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 2000
Caregivers Assistance and Resources Enhancement (CARE) Tax Credit Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise and rename section 24 (Child Tax Credit). Renames such section the Family Care Credit. Includes, in addition to the $500 per child credit, a credit which increases incrementally to $3,000 annually for the year 2005 and following years per household-member requiring specified long-term care.
Bill· SS. 2090 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 2000
America's Transportation Recovery Act of 2000 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for a one year moratorium on the 24.3 cents per gallon excise tax on diesel fuel. Sets the rate of such tax on such fuel at 4.3 cents per gallon after September 30, 2005. States that the previous provisions of this Act shall cease to be effective if the Secretary of the Treasury determines that the average refiner acquisition costs for crude oil are equal to or less than such costs were on December 31, 1999.
Resolution· SRESS.Res. 260 (106th)open
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 2000
Resolution to Expand Access to Community Health Centers (REACH) Initiative - Expresses the sense of the Senate that appropriations for consolidated health centers under the Public Health Service Act should be increased by 100 percent over the next five fiscal years in order to double the number of individuals who receive health care services at community, migrant, homeless, and public housing health centers.
Bill· SS. 2087 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 2000
Military Health Care Improvements Act of 2000 - Title I: Demonstration Programs - Subtitle A: TRICARE Demonstration Programs for Seniors - Amends the Strom Thurmond National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1999 to extend through December 31, 2005, the TRICARE Senior Supplement Program (a demonstration program under which certain Medicare-eligible senior citizens are given medical care and services under TRICARE (a Department of Defense (DOD) managed health care program) for which DOD is reimbursed through the Medicare program). Amends the Social Security Act to extend through the same date a similar demonstration program known as TRICARE Senior Prime. Authorizes the latter program to be offered at major medical centers of DOD (currently limited to six military treatment facilities). Subtitle B: Other Demonstration Programs - Amends a demonstration program offering health care coverage to certain military personnel, spouses, and dependents through the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program to allow eligible beneficiaries who will be at least 65 years of age on December 31, 2002, to enroll, or extend a previous enrollment, during a two-year period of open enrollment for the year 2003. Extends such demonstration program through December 31, 2005. Repeals the ten-site limit for the program. (Sec. 107) Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to charge an enrollment fee for participation in the TRICARE pharmacy system (a program for providing reduced-cost pharmaceuticals to TRICARE-eligible beneficiaries). Authorizes the Secretary to impose one or more cost-sharing requirements upon such participants. Allows participants to pay required premiums on a monthly or annual basis. Title II: TRICARE Prime Permanent Authorities - Amends the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Uniformed Services (CHAMPUS) relating to medical and dental care provided to certain members and former members of the armed forces to: (1) make eligible for such services members and former members of the Coast Guard when not operating as a service in the Navy, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the Public Health Service; (2) require coverage for immediate family members of eligible individuals to be comparable to coverage for medical care and standards for timely access to such care under TRICARE Prime; and (3) entitle dependents of members performing duty in remote locations who reside with such member to the same care and waiver of such care under CHAMPUS as the members themselves. (Sec. 202) Prohibits a member from being charged a copayment for care provided under TRICARE Prime to an immediate family member. (Sec. 203) Directs the Secretary to improve certain business practices used when administering the access of eligible persons to health care services through the TRICARE program. Title III: Other Defense Health Program Matters - Directs the Secretary to carry out a program that permits the following eligible persons to obtain prescription pharmaceuticals from DOD by mail: (1) individuals 65 years old or older who would be eligible for medical care under CHAMPUS except for also being entitled to hospital insurance benefits under Medicare; and (2) individuals 65 years old or older who are enrolled in the supplemental medical insurance program under part B of Medicare. Authorizes the Secretary to impose an annual program deductible of up to $150. (Sec. 302) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 to extend the provision of domiciliary and custodial care for certain CHAMPUS beneficiaries to include a person who formerly was an eligible beneficiary and is enrolled in the TRICARE Senior Prime plan under the Medicare subvention demonstration project for military retirees. Provides a program cost limitation for FY 2000 and thereafter. (Sec. 303) Directs the Secretary to carry out two studies to assess the feasibility and desirability of financing the military health care program for military retirees on an accrual basis. Title IV: Joint Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs Initiatives - Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly: (1) prescribe a centralized process for the reporting, compiling, and analysis of errors in the provision of health care under their respective departments that endanger patients beyond the normal risks associated with such care and treatment; and (2) develop a system for the use of bar codes for the identification of pharmaceuticals. Requires the Secretary of Defense to experiment with the use of such bar codes in the current DOD mail order pharmaceuticals demonstration project.
Bill· SS. 2083 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 February 2000
Commuter Benefits Equity Act of 2000 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to raise the $65 transportation fringe benefit limitation (applicable to commuter highway vehicles and transit passes) to an amount ($175) that equals the amount permitted for qualified parking (thus providing for a uniform dollar limitation for all types of transportation fringe benefits). Amends provisions of Federal law concerning Government organization and employees to permit a taxable cash payment to Federal employees in lieu of an agency-provided parking space.
Bill· SS. 2085 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 February 2000
Retired Americans Right of Employment Act I (RARE Act I) - Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act to repeal the limitation on the amount of outside income which beneficiaries who have attained early retirement age may earn (earnings test) without incurring a reduction in benefits. Provides for the use of all years of earnings in benefit computation, actuarial adjustment for early retirement, and acceleration of increase in delayed retirement credit. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to reduce by ten percent the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) tax rate on the income of every individual who has attained early retirement age.
Bill· SS. 2084 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 February 2000
Hunger Relief Tax Incentive Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to set forth a rule for determining the amount of the deduction allowable for a charitable contribution of food inventory.
Bill· SS. 2077 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 February 2000
Charitable Giving Tax Relief Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to permit non-itemizers to deduct a portion of their charitable contributions.
Bill· SS. 2086 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 February 2000
Retired Americans Right of Employment Act II (RARE Act II) - Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act to repeal the limitation on the amount of outside income which beneficiaries who have attained early retirement age may earn (earnings test) without incurring a reduction in benefits. Provides for the use of all years of earnings in benefit computation, actuarial adjustment for early retirement; and acceleration of increase in delayed retirement credit. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a nonrefundable credit against income tax for qualified individuals who have attained early retirement age.
Law· HRH.R. 3671 (106th)enacted
United States · United States Congress · 16 February 2000
Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Programs Improvement Act of 2000 - Title I: Wildlife Restoration - Amends the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act to specify the amounts authorized to be set aside for FY 2001 and thereafter for expenses of the Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) in administering such Act. Authorizes any administrative portions remaining in a fiscal year to be apportioned among the States for purposes of such Act. Directs the Secretary to: (1) certify to the Secretary of the Treasury the amounts so apportioned as well as amounts obligated for administrative expenses; and (2) publish the amounts so certified in the Federal Register. Specifies authorized administrative uses of such amounts. Prohibits the Secretary from using such amounts to supplement any function for which general appropriations are made for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) or any other entity of the Department of the Interior (Department). Requires the Department's Inspector General to conduct biennial audits of such expenditures, and requires an annual expenditure certification report from the Secretary and the Assistant Director for Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Programs (Assistant Director) (established under this Act). Earmarks funds under such Act other than administrative funds for grants for hunter education programs, hunter and sporting firearm safety programs, and hunter development programs, including the construction or enhancement of firearm shooting and archery ranges. Limits to 75 percent the Federal share of any grant activity or program. Earmarks funds under such Act for multi-State conservation grants under which the Secretary makes grants that will benefit at least 26 States for wildlife restoration projects submitted each fiscal year by State fish and game departments acting through the International Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (Association). Prohibits grant funds from being used for activities that promote or encourage opposition to regulated hunting or trapping of regulated wildlife. Title II: Sport Fish Restoration - Amends the Federal Aid in Fish Restoration Act to make post-administrative amounts under such Act available each fiscal year to the Secretary for making multi-State (at least 26 States benefitting) conservation grants for sportfish restoration projects prepared and submitted by State fish and game departments acting through the Association. Prohibits grant funds from being used for activities that promote or encourage opposition to the regulated taking of fish. Earmarks fiscal year grant amounts for specified marine fisheries commissions. Specifies the amounts authorized to be set aside for FY 2001 and thereafter for expenses of the Secretary in administering such Act. Authorizes remaining administrative portions in a fiscal year to be apportioned among the States for purposes of such Act. Specifies authorized administrative uses of such amounts. Prohibits the Secretary from using such amounts to supplement any function for which general appropriations are made for the USFWS or another Department entity. Requires the Department's Inspector General to conduct biennial audits of such expenditures, and requires an annual expenditure certification report from the Secretary and the Assistant Director. Directs the Secretary to: (1) certify to the Secretary of the Treasury and each State fish and game department the amounts so apportioned as well as amounts obligated for administrative expenses; and (2) publish the amounts so certified in the Federal Register. Title III: Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Programs - Designates the programs established under the amended Acts as the Federal Assistance Program for State Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Programs. Establishes within the USFWS an Assistant Director for Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Programs to administer, manage, and oversee the wildlife and sport fish restoration programs under the amended Acts. Abolishes the position of Chief of the Division of Federal Aid of the Department of the Interior and places responsibilities of such position with the Assistant Director. Makes the Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks of the Department of the Interior ultimately responsible for the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Programs.
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