Records whose title is actually about this topic. Use a country filter if the list is still too broad.
Records
Bill· HRH.R. 4015 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 November 2009
Family Farm and Small Business Tax Relief Act of 2009 - Extends the estate and gift tax rates in effect in 2009 by eliminating the general terminating date (i.e., December 31, 2010) in the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001 (EGTRRA) applicable to such rates. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) establish a permanent $3.5 million estate tax exclusion (adjusted for inflation) and a maximum estate and gift tax rate of 45% after 2010; (2) restore after 2010 the estate tax deduction for family-owned business interests and increase the amount of such deduction to $8 million (adjusted annually for inflation); and (3) exclude from the gross estate of a decedent the value of farmland used as a farm for farming purposes.
Bill· SS. 2723 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 3 November 2009
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow: (1) increased depreciation of qualified noncommercial aircraft property placed in service in 2010 or 2011; and (2) a three-year recovery period for the depreciation of such property placed in service before 2015. Defines "qualified noncommercial aircraft property" as any aircraft that is not used in the trade or business of transporting persons or property and that is first used after 2009. Allows such increased depreciation as an offset against the alternative minimum tax.
Bill· HRH.R. 4013 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 3 November 2009
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a five-year carryback of net operating losses, including the operating losses of life insurance companies, incurred in 2008 and 2009. Denies such extended loss carryover period to: (1) taxpayers in whom the federal government acquires an equity interest under the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008; (2) the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac); and (3) members of certain affiliated groups. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to make transfers to the general fund to cover reductions in revenues resulting from this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 4007 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 3 November 2009
Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to make grants to five states to establish pilot programs under which: (1) each medical malpractice case is heard in the first instance by a medical tribunal composed of a state trial court judge, a physician, and a lawyer; and (2) the tribunal shall hear all evidence that would be admissible in state court and determine whether it would be sufficient to support a finding for the plaintiff. Permits the plaintiff to pursue a case through the state's usual judicial process: (1) if the tribunal determines that the evidence would be sufficient; or (2) if the tribunal determines that the evidence would be insufficient, but only after filing with the clerk of the court a bond in an amount determined by the state trial court judge. Permits the Secretary to award a grant to only a state that: (1) has an average cost of medical malpractice insurance that exceeds the national average; and (2) has not placed a limit on noneconomic damages in medical malpractice cases or established a medical tribunal program similar to the one described in this Act. Directs the Secretary to collect from each state that receives grant funds, after the end of the third fiscal year, certain data regarding: (1) changes in the average cost of medical malpractice insurance, the number of physicians actively practicing medicine, the number of medical malpractice liability insurance carriers, the amounts paid by such carriers pursuant to settlements or judgments, and the percentage of medical malpractice cases settled prior to trial; and (2) the number of cases that were considered meritorious by the tribunal, and the number that were considered nonmeritorious, that were tried to a judgment and the number of such judgments that were for the plaintiff.
Bill· HRH.R. 4012 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 3 November 2009
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a 5-year recovery period for depreciation purposes for nonresidential real property and a 10-year recovery period for qualified leasehold property placed in service after December 31, 2009, and before January 1, 2012.
Bill· SS. 2661 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 November 2009
Child Care Lending Pilot Act of 2009 - Amends the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 to allow proceeds of loans made through the Small Business Administration (SBA) to be used by certified local development companies to assist a small, nonprofit child care business if: (1) the loan is used for a sound business purpose approved by the SBA; (2) each business meets eligibility requirements applicable to for-profit businesses; (3) one or more individuals has personally guaranteed the loan; (4) each business has clear title to the collateral for the loan; and (5) each business has sufficient cash flow to meet loan obligations and reasonable operating expenses. Prohibits more than 7% of the total number of loans guaranteed in any fiscal year for certified development companies from being awarded under such program.
Bill· HRH.R. 3985 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 November 2009
Second Generation Biofuel Producer Tax Credit Act of 2009 - Amends Internal Revenue Code provisions relating to the cellulosic biofuel producer tax credit to: (1) revise the applicable amount of such credit by linking it to the British thermal unit (BTU) content of second generation biofuels as determined by the Secretary of the Treasury; (2) expand the definition of "qualified feedstock" to include any cultivated algae, cyanobacteria, or lemna; (3) exclude from the definition of "second generation biofuel" certain fuel produced from coprocessing with nonqualified feedstocks and certain unprocessed fuels; (4) require producers of second generation biofuels to register with the Secretary; and (5) allow an additional depreciation allowance for property used to produce second generation biofuel.
Bill· HRH.R. 3979 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 November 2009
Protecting Americans from Drug Marketing Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to deny a business expense tax deduction for expenses relating to advertising or promoting the sale and use of prescription pharmaceuticals.
Bill· SS. 2532 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 30 October 2009
Amends the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States to extend the temporary duty suspensions on certain cotton shirting fabrics. Amends the Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006 to require the Secretary of the Treasury to transfer from the Treasury to the Pima Cotton Trust Fund amounts equal to the duties received in the Treasury from certain imported woven fabrics of cotton since January 1, 2004. Extends the authority of the Secretary to make transfers to the Trust Fund for certain annual distributions (duty refunds) to U.S. manufacturers who certify by affidavit to have used such imported cotton in the manufacture of cotton shirts. Requires annual affidavits from shirting manufacturers and from yarn spinners.
Bill· SS. 2095 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 29 October 2009
Amends the National Great Black Americans Commemoration Act of 2004 to extend, through FY2015, the authorization of appropriations for grants to the Great Blacks in Wax Museum, Inc. in Baltimore, Maryland, to carry out programs related to civil rights and juvenile justice through the National Great Blacks in Wax Museum and Justice Learning Center.
Bill· SS. 2081 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 29 October 2009
Locomotive Fleet Investment Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a business-related tax credit for 30% of the cost of qualified locomotive property. Defines "qualified locomotive property" as any newly built or remanufactured diesel line-haul, passenger, or switch locomotive (whether or not owned by a railroad) which is acquired after December 31, 2009, and which meets applicable standards under the Clean Air Act for emissions from locomotives, as in effect on December 31, 2009. Terminates such credit after December 31, 2013.
Bill· SS. 2051 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 29 October 2009
Mobile Mammography Promotion Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exempt from the motor fuel excise tax fuel used in any highway vehicle designed exclusively to provide mobile mammography services.
Bill· HRH.R. 3967 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 29 October 2009
Amends the National Great Black Americans Commemoration Act of 2004 to extend, through FY2015, the authorization of appropriations for grants to the Great Blacks in Wax Museum, Inc. in Baltimore, Maryland, to carry out programs related to civil rights and juvenile justice through the National Great Blacks in Wax Museum and Justice Learning Center.
Bill· HRH.R. 3971 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 29 October 2009
Health Savings Account Expansion Act of 2009 - Amends Internal Revenue Code provisions relating to health savings accounts (HSAs) to: (1) eliminate the high deductible health plan coverage requirement for HSA participants; (2) eliminate the prohibition against purchasing health insurance from an HSA; and (3) increase to $8,000 the maximum dollar amount of the tax deduction for payments to an HSA. Eliminates after 2009 the tax exclusions for employee benefits under an employer-provided accident or health plan and the tax deductions for the health insurance costs of self-employed individuals, for medical and dental expenses, and for employer payments for employee medical care.
Law· HRH.R. 3962 (111th)enacted
United States · United States Congress · 29 October 2009
Affordable Health Care for America Act - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish: (1) a temporary national high-risk pool program to provide health benefits to certain uninsured individuals who have a medical condition; and (2) a temporary reinsurance program to assist participating employment-based plans with the cost of providing health benefits to retirees and their beneficiaries. Amends the Public Health Service Act, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), and the Internal Revenue Code to set forth provisions governing health insurance plans and issuers, including to: (1) provide for rebates to enrollees based on a plan's medical loss ratio (a ratio of medical expenses paid to premiums received); (2) prohibit rescission of health insurance coverage without clear and convincing evidence of fraud; (3) require the option of extending coverage for children under 27 years of age; (4) limit preexisting condition exclusions; and (5) prohibit aggregate dollar lifetime limits on benefits. Extends COBRA coverage (health insurance continuation benefits) until an individual becomes eligible for health insurance coverage through the Health Insurance Exchange under this Act. Provides for grandfathered health insurance coverage. Establishes standards for qualified health benefits plans, including standards to: (1) prohibit any preexisting condition exclusions; (2) require guaranteed availability and renewability of health insurance coverage; (3) limit premium variances, except for reasons of age, area, or family enrollment; (4) prohibit discrimination based on health status factors; and (5) require parity for mental health benefits. Requires qualified health benefits plans to provide coverage that meets the standards for the essential benefits package. Prohibits an essential benefits package from imposing any annual or lifetime limits on coverage. Lists required covered services, including hospitalization, prescription drugs, mental health services, maternity care, and children's oral health, vision, and hearing services. Prohibits cost-sharing for preventive items and services. Limits annual cost-sharing to $5,000 for an individual and $10,000 for a family. Prohibits abortion services from being required under an essential benefits package or under a qualified health benefits plan. Establishes the Health Choices Administration as an independent agency to be headed by a Health Choices Commissioner. Establishes the Health Insurance Exchange within the Administration to facilitate access of individuals and employers to a variety of choices of affordable, quality health insurance coverage, including a public health insurance option. Requires the Commissioner to: (1) contract with entities to offer health benefit plans through the Exchange to eligible individuals; (2) coordinate the distribution of affordability premium and cost-sharing credits; and (3) establish a risk-pooling mechanism for Exchange-participating health plans. Authorizes state-based Health Insurance Exchanges to operate in a state or group of states instead of the Health Insurance Exchange, with approval of the Commissioner. Requires the Commissioner to establish a Consumer Operated and Oriented Plan program (CO-OP program) under which the Commissioner may make grants and loans for the establishment and initial operation of not-for-profit, member-run, health insurance cooperatives that provide insurance through the Health Insurance Exchange or a state-based Health Insurance Exchange. Requires the HHS Secretary to offer an Exchange-participating health benefits plan. Sets forth provisions regarding the operation of the Public Health Insurance Option. Provides for an affordability premium credit and an affordability cost-sharing credit for low-income individuals participating in the Exchange. Requires employers to offer health benefits coverage to employees and make specified contributions towards such coverage or make contributions to the Exchange for employees obtaining coverage through the Exchange. Exempts businesses with payrolls below $500,000 from such requirement. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) impose a surtax on the income of individuals who do not obtain health care coverage and on employers (other than small business employers) who fail to satisfy health coverage participation requirements; (2) allow a new tax credit for small business employers who provide health care coverage to their employees; (3) increase the penalty for distributions from health savings accounts not used for qualified medical expenses; (4) modify rules and contribution limits for certain employee benefit plans; (5) allow an exclusion from gross income for the value of certain medical care provided to members of Indian tribes; (6) impose a 5.4% surtax on individuals whose adjusted gross income exceeds $500,000 ($1 million for married couples filing joint returns); (7) impose a 2.5% excise tax on medical devices; (8) delay until 2020 tax rules applicable to the foreign tax credit for the worldwide allocation of interest; (9) set forth rules for the application of the economic substance doctrine and impose penalties for underpayments of tax due to transactions lacking economic substance; and (10) extend the tax exemption for employer-provided health care benefits to certain eligible beneficiaries of the taxpayer. Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to revise provisions relating to payment, coverage, and access, including to: (1) permit physician assistants to order post-hospital extended care services, and to provide for recognition of attending physician assistants as attending physicians to serve hospice patients; (2) provide adjustment to Medicare payment localities for physician services; (3) modify the Medicare payment systems to address geographic inequities; (4) limit cost-sharing for individual health services under the Medicare Advantage program; (5) eliminate the coverage gap under Medicare Part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program); (6) eliminate Medicare part D cost-sharing for certain non-institutionalized full dual eligible individuals; (7) cover marriage and family therapist services and mental health counselor services; and (8) expand access to vaccines. Requires the HHS Secretary to establish within the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality a Center for Comparative Effective Research. Establishes accountability requirements for long-term care facilities and provides for transparency with respect to them. Provides enhanced penalties for fraud and abuse. Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the SSA to: (1) expand Medicaid eligibility for low-income individuals and families; (2) require coverage of additional preventive services; and (3) increase payments for primary care services. Sets forth provisions to prevent health care fraud. Sets forth miscellaneous provisions relating to: (1) extension of the qualifying individual (QI) program; (2) the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission; (3) prohibitions against federal Medicaid and CHIP payments for undocumented aliens; (4) the repeal of the comparative cost adjustment program; (5) grants to states for quality home visitation programs for families with young children and families expecting children; (6) establishment of the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation; and (7) application of emergency services laws. Amends the Public Health Service Act to set forth provisions related to: (1) community health centers; (2) health care provider scholarship and loan repayment programs; (3) training programs; (4) health care workforce diversity and data collection; and (5) the 340B drug discount program (a program limiting the cost of covered drugs to certain federal grantees). Requires the HHS Secretary to establish: (1) the Advisory Committee on Health Workforce Evaluation and Assessment; (2) a community-based overweight and obesity prevention program; (3) a demonstration project for medical-legal partnerships to assist patients navigating health-related programs and activities; (4) the Emergency Care Coordination Center; (5) the Council of Emergency Care; (6) the Interagency Pain Research Coordinating Committee; (7) a national pain care education outreach and awareness campaign; and (8) a national medical device registry. Establishes: (1) a Prevention and Wellness Trust for carrying out prevention and wellness activities; (2) the Center for Quality Improvement to focus on quality improvement activities in the delivery of health care services; and (3) the position of Assistant Secretary for Health Information. Provides grants for: (1) school-based health clinics; (2) nurse-managed health centers; (3) federally qualified behavioral health centers; (4) influenza vaccinations to children in elementary and secondary schools; (5) evidence-based education programs to reduce teen pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases; (6) services to children and adults with autism and their families; (7) University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service; (8) medication management services; (9) infant mortality pilot programs; (10) community-based collaborative care networks; and (11) trauma centers and emergency medical care systems. Requires the HHS Secretary to make an incentive payment to each state that has an alternative medical liability law. Provides for: (1) nutrition labeling of standard menu items offered for sale in chain restaurants and vending machines; and (2) standards to make medical diagnostic equipment accessible to, and usable by, individuals with disabilities. Prohibits certain practices related to patent infringement claims against generic drugs. Allows a person to submit an application for licensure of a biological product based on its similarity to a licensed biological product (the reference product). Establishes a national, voluntary disability insurance program to purchase community living assistance services and supports (CLASS program) under which: (1) all employees are automatically enrolled, but are allowed to waive enrollment; (2) payroll deductions pay monthly premiums; and (3) benefits are provided, based on the level of disability, to purchase nonmedical services and supports that the beneficiary needs to maintain independence. Makes states eligible for federal funds under the Public Health Service Act only if they agree to be subject as an employer to the obligations under this Act. Establishes Offices of Women's Health within HHS and its agencies. Indian Health Care Improvement Act Amendments of 2009 - Amends the Indian Health Care Improvement Act to revise requirements for health care programs and services for Indians, Indian tribes, tribal organizations, and urban Indian organizations. Replaces the Urban Health Programs Branch with a Division of Urban Indian Health. Authorizes grants to urban Indian organizations for health information technology, telemedicine services development, and related infrastructure. Directs the HHS Secretary, acting through the Indian Health Service, to provide programs of comprehensive behavioral health, prevention, and treatment. Reauthorizes the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. Amends the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act to direct the HHS Secretary to establish the Native American Health and Wellness Foundation. Expands coverage for qualified Indians in the State Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP, formerly known as SCHIP) under title XXI of the SSA, as well as under Medicare (SSA title XVIII) and Medicaid (SSA title XIX). Authorizes related payments to Indian Health Programs operating in the state.
Bill· HRH.R. 3970 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 29 October 2009
Medical Rights and Reform Act of 2009 - Prohibits federal funds from being used to permit any federal officer or employee to exercise any supervision or control over: (1) the practice of medicine, the practice of other health care professions, or the manner in which health care services are provided; (2) the provision by a physician or a health care practitioner of advice to a patient about the patient's health status or recommended treatment for a condition or disease; (3) the selection, tenure, or compensation of any officer, employee, or contractor of any institution, business, nonfederal agency, or individual providing health care services; or (4) the administration or operation of any such institution, business, nonfederal agency, or individual with respect to the provision of health care services to a patient. Sets forth exceptions for the Veterans Health Administration, the Department of Defense (DOD), the United States Public Health Service, the Indian Health Service, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the Health Resources and Services Administration. Prohibits federal funds from being used by any federal officer or employee to prohibit: (1) any individual from receiving health care services from any provider under terms and conditions mutually acceptable to the patient, the provider, and the patient's group health plan; or (2) any person from entering into a contract with any group health plan, health insurance issuer, or other business for the provision of, or payment to other parties for, health care services. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow self-employed individuals to deduct health insurance costs. Sets forth provisions to reform the health care liability system, including provisions relating to: (1) the speedy resolution of malpractice claims; (2) the award of compensatory and punitive damages; (3) attorney's fees; and (4) the periodic payment of future damages. Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology to publish a strategic plan for applying incentive payments and adjustments to encourage health care providers to adopt health information technology programs. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to study and report to Congress on federal security and confidentiality standards for health information. Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act regarding telehealth services (medical services furnished via a telecommunication system by a physician to Medicare patient). Authorizes payment to eligible telehealth providers or suppliers other than a physician or telemedicine practitioner. Declares that any telemedicine practitioner credentialed by a hospital in compliance with the Joint Commission Standards for Telemedicine shall be considered in compliance with Medicare requirements for participation and reimbursement. Directs the Secretary to treat telehealth services furnished by a home health agency as a home health visit for Medicare purposes. Authorizes coverage of remote patient management services, including home health remote patient management services, for certain chronic health conditions. Directs the Secretary to establish a fee schedule for such services. Expresses the sense of Congress that the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) should be encouraged to: (1) expand the types of medical conditions for which remote patient management services are reimbursed under Medicare; (2) provide for separate, non-bundled Medicare payment for such services; and (3) create, revise, and adjust codes for the accurate reporting and billing for such payment. Establishes the Telehealth Advisory Committee. Requires the Secretary to take its recommendations into account when adding or deleting telehealth services and in establishing related CMS policies. Directs the Secretary to make grants to expand access via telehealth to health care services for individuals in medically underserved rural, frontier, and urban areas. Amends the Public Health Service Act to reauthorize telehealth network and telehealth resource centers grant programs. Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to direct the Secretary to conduct site inspections for suppliers of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, and orthotics and for community mental health centers. Sets forth rules for the Secretary to conduct a background check on any individual or entity that applies for a Medicare provider number. Authorizes the Secretary to exclude from participation in any federal health care program any billing agency or individual that knowingly submitted a false or fraudulent claim for Medicare reimbursement. Denies a discharge in bankruptcy for fraudulent activities by a health care provider or supplier, overpayments to service providers under Medicare, and past-due obligations arising from breach of a scholarship or loan contract. Imposes a criminal penalty for illegal distribution of a Medicare or Medicaid beneficiary identification or provider number with intent to defraud. Authorizes any criminal investigator of the Office of Inspector General of HHS to: (1) obtain and execute any warrant or other process issued under federal authority; and (2) make warrantless arrests in specified circumstances. Requires all claims forms developed or used by the Secretary for Medicare reimbursement to accommodate the use of universal product numbers or bar codes. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow employers a tax credit for the cost of providing employees with a qualified prevention and wellness program. Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary to: (1) award grants to promote prevention and wellness programs to prevent chronic diseases; and (2) encourage states to work with insurance companies to encourage the participation of individuals and families in prevention and wellness programs. Requires states to implement programs to provide reinsurance for health insurance coverage or a high risk pool to mitigate the health care costs of high risk individuals in such states. Amends the Public Health Service Act to allow for the interstate purchase of individual health insurance plans.
Bill· HRH.R. 3964 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 29 October 2009
Spending, Deficit, and Debt Control Act of 2009 - Enhanced Spending Control and Budget Enforcement Act of 2009 - Amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 (CBA) to require joint (currently, concurrent) budget resolutions signed by the President. Repeals the requirement for submission to the House of Representatives of an allocation and sub-allocations, consistent with the discretionary spending levels in the most recently agreed to budget resolution, in the event that no new budget resolution becomes law before April 15 of any year. Prescribes procedures for expedited consideration in each chamber of a presidential veto of a budget resolution. Revises requirements for adjustments for emergencies. Provides for a reserve fund for emergencies. Prescribes requirements for biennial budget resolutions, appropriations Acts, and government strategic and performance plans instead of annual ones if the President and Congress so agree. Spending Enforcement and Reform Act of 2009 - Amends the Balanced Budget and Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act) to establish discretionary spending limits for FY2011-FY2019. Prescribes certain deficit control enforcement mechanisms for such period. Budget Reform and Long-Term Sustainability Act of 2009 - Amends the CBA to require the Director of the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) to: (1) make an annual 75-year projection of total spending, revenue, deficits, and debt as a percentage of gross domestic product (GDP), based on current law levels as modified to maintain current policy; (2) issue a Spending Review Report analyzing the solvency of the Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance (OASDI) Trust Fund and the long-range sustainability of the spending levels of Medicare, Medicaid, and other direct spending. Prescribes procedures for introduction and expedited consideration in each chamber of spending review legislation if such report indicates OASDI Trust Fund insolvency or the non-sustainability of Medicare, Medicaid, and other direct spending. Requires the Government Accountability Office (GAO) and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) each to report on the federal government's financial condition, including the long-term unfunded obligations. . Requires inclusion in a joint budget resolution of specified long-term reconciliation directives in addition to, as under current law, a reconciliation measure. Requires CBO to estimate whether each measure reported from committee (except those under the Committee on Appropriations) causes a net increase in direct spending in excess of $5 billion in any of the four 10-year periods beginning in FY2019-FY2058. Makes it out of order in both chambers, subject to certain waivers or suspensions, to consider any measure that causes such a net increase in deficits Federal Program Sunset Act of 2009 - Establishes the Federal Agency Sunset Commission to review and report to Congress on the efficiency and public need for each federal agency, recommending abolishment or reorganization. Legislative Line-Item Veto Act of 2009 - Amends the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 to authorize the President to propose to Congress the cancellation (line item veto) of any dollar amount of discretionary budget authority, item of direct spending, or targeted tax benefit. Prescribes procedures for expedited consideration in each chamber of legislation to approve such proposal. Authorizes the President to: (1) withhold discretionary budget authority temporarily from obligation; or (2) suspend temporarily direct spending, a limited tariff, or targeted tax benefit. Declares that all such spending reductions related to this title shall be for deficit reduction. Amends Rule XIII (Calendars and Committee Reports), Rule X (Organization of Committees), and Rule XXI (Restrictions on Certain Bills) of the Rules of the House to prescribe procedures for consideration of rescission measures. Commission on the Accountability and Review of Federal Agencies Act of 2009 - Establishes the Commission on the Accountability and Review of Federal Agencies to: (1) evaluate executive agencies and their programs, using specified criteria; and (2) submit to Congress a plan recommending agencies and programs that should be realigned or eliminated, and proposing implementing legislation. Prescribes procedures for congressional consideration of reform proposals. Transparency in Budgeting Act of 2009 - Provides for accrual funding of: (1) the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund; (2) the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System; and (3) the Foreign Service Retirement and Disability System. Establishes in the Treasury: (1) the Public Health Service Commissioned Corps Retirement Fund; (2) the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Commissioned Officer Corps Retirement Fund; and (3) the Coast Guard Military Retirement Fund. Provides for accrual funding of post-retirement health benefits costs for federal employees. Changes the name of the Department of Defense (DOD) Medicare-Eligible Retiree Health Care Fund to Uniformed Services Health Care Fund (thus, providing health care programs for all uniformed service retirees, under certain conditions). Establishes a Joint Select Committee on Earmark Reform. Declares a moratorium on consideration of earmarks until the Joint Select Committee files its report. Revises requirements for limiting the public debt. Repeals Rule XXVIII (the Gephardt Rule, relating to mandatory adjustment of the statutory limit on the public debt to conform to a budget resolution). Amends the Federal Credit Reform Act of 1990 to require adjustment for market risks in the estimation of net present values for calculation of the estimated long-term cost to the federal government of a direct loan or loan guarantee or modification. Budget Enforcement and Congressional Control Act of 2009 - Amends the CBA to prohibit consideration of extraneous appropriations in omnibus appropriations measures, or of more than a 20% increase in new direct spending in reconciliation legislation. Amends Rule XIII (Calendars and Committee Reports) to make it out of order to consider any waiver of spending and deficit limits under this Act or the CBA. Directs the chairs of the congressional budget committees to each maintain a deficit reduction Discretionary Account and a deficit reduction Mandatory Account. Revises Rule X to suspend certain requirements limiting terms of service on the House Budget Committee. Establishes a House select committee to review the effectiveness of such requirements. Provides for expedited judicial consideration and review of a complaint by a Member of Congress or individual who is adversely affected by this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 3953 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 28 October 2009
Back to Work Tax Credit Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow employers a work opportunity tax credit for hiring long-term unemployed individuals. Defines "long-term unemployed individual" as an individual certified as receiving federal or state unemployment compensation for not less than 26 consecutive weeks during the one-year period ending on the hiring date.
Bill· HRH.R. 3947 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 28 October 2009
Locomotive Fleet Investment Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a business-related tax credit for 30% of the cost of qualified locomotive property. Defines "qualified locomotive property" as a newly built or remanufactured diesel line-haul, passenger, or switch locomotive (whether or not owned by a railroad) which is acquired after December 31, 2009, and which meets applicable standards under the Clean Air Act for emissions from locomotives, as in effect on December 31, 2009. Terminates such credit after December 31, 2013.
Bill· HRH.R. 3958 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 28 October 2009
Heating Energy Assistance Tax Credit Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow an individual taxpayer a refundable tax credit, up to $1,000 in a taxable year ($2,000 for a married couple filing a joint tax return), for the cost of heating such taxpayer's principal place of abode. Reduces the amount of such credit for taxpayers whose adjusted gross income exceeds $75,000 ($150,000 for married couples filing joint tax returns).
Bill· HRH.R. 3952 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 28 October 2009
Helping Small Businesses Grow and Prosper Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase the amount of business-related meal and entertainment expenses allowed as a tax deduction for businesses that employ an average of less than 50 employees in a taxable year to 80% (currently, 50%) of such expenses.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 876 (111th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 28 October 2009
Sets forth the rule for consideration of the conference report to accompany the bill (H.R. 2996) making appropriations for the Department of the Interior, environment, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2010.
Bill· SS. 1934 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 October 2009
Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise and add reporting and other requirements relating to income from assets held abroad, including by: (1) requiring foreign financial and nonfinancial institutions to withhold 30% of payments made to such institutions by U.S. individuals unless such institutions agree to disclose the identity of such individuals and report on their bank transactions; (2) denying a tax deduction for interest on non-registered bonds issued outside the United States; (3) requiring any individual who holds more than $50,000 in a depository or custodial account maintained by a foreign financial institution to report on such accounts; (4) imposing an enhanced tax penalty for underpayments attributable to undisclosed foreign financial assets; (5) extending the limitation period for assessment of underpayments with respect to assets held outside the United States; (6) requiring certain tax advisors who assist U.S. individuals in acquiring a direct or indirect interest in a foreign entity to file an information return disclosing the identity of the foreign entity and the individual investors; (7) requiring shareholders of a passive foreign investment company to file informational returns; (8) enhancing tax rules and penalties relating to foreign trusts with U.S. beneficiaries; and (9) requiring withholding of tax on dividend equivalent payments received by foreign individuals.
Bill· SS. 1937 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 October 2009
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a five-year carryback of net operating losses, including the operating losses of life insurance companies, incurred in 2008 and 2009. Denies such extended loss carryover period to: (1) taxpayers in whom the federal government acquires an equity interest under the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008; (2) the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac); and (3) members of certain affiliated groups. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to make transfers to the general fund to cover reductions in revenues resulting from this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 3941 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 October 2009
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish a permanent 6.0% tax rate on wages paid to employees under the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA).
Bill· HRH.R. 3933 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 October 2009
Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise and add reporting and other requirements relating to income from assets held abroad, including by: (1) requiring foreign financial and nonfinancial institutions to withhold 30% of payments made to such institutions by U.S. individuals unless such institutions agree to disclose the identity of such individuals and report on their bank transactions; (2) denying a tax deduction for interest on non-registered bonds issued outside the United States; (3) requiring any individual who holds more than $50,000 in a depository or custodial account maintained by a foreign financial institution to report on such accounts; (4) imposing an enhanced tax penalty for underpayments attributable to undisclosed foreign financial assets; (5) extending the limitation period for assessment of underpayments with respect to assets held outside the United States; (6) requiring certain tax advisors who assist U.S. individuals in acquiring a direct or indirect interest in a foreign entity to file an information return disclosing the identity of the foreign entity and the individual investors; (7) requiring shareholders of a passive foreign investment company to file informational returns; (8) enhancing tax rules and penalties relating to foreign trusts with U.S. beneficiaries; and (9) requiring withholding of tax on dividend equivalent payments received by foreign individuals.
Bill· SS. 1930 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 October 2009
Homebuyer Tax Credit Oversight and Accountability Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code, with respect to the first-time homebuyer tax credit, to: (1) deny such credit to taxpayers under the age of 18; (2) require taxpayers claiming such credit to attach to their returns a properly executed copy of the settlement statement used to purchase their residence and a certified statement of their eligibility for such credit from the real estate broker, settlement agent, or mortgage lender; and (3) prohibit a credit for residences acquired from a spouse. Requires the Commissioner of Internal Revenue to investigate, prosecute, and provide quarterly reports on instances of fraud related to the first-time homebuyer tax credit. Requires tax return preparers to file tax returns electronically unless they reasonably expect to file 100 or fewer individual income returns in a calendar year.
Bill· HRH.R. 3931 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 October 2009
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend through 2011 the taxpayer election to expense qualified film or television production costs in the current taxable year.
Bill· HRH.R. 3929 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 October 2009
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend through 2012 the period for placing in service buildings located in a disaster area that are eligible for allocations of low-income housing tax credit amounts.
Bill· HRH.R. 3921 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 October 2009
First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit Guarantee Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend the first-time homebuyer tax credit for a 90-day period after its termination date (i.e., November 30, 2009) for taxpayers who entered into a written binding contract for the purchase of a principal residence which was in effect on November 30, 2009.
Bill· HRH.R. 3919 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 October 2009
Clean Energy Business Zone Act of 2009 and the Clean Energy Empowerment Zone Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) authorize the Secretary of the Treasury to designate 40 clean energy business zones between 2009 and 2012; (2) allow an increased tax credit for wages paid in such a zone; (3) allow a work opportunity tax credit for wages paid to an employee in such a zone; (4) allow financing of any qualified Green building or clean energy facility with clean renewable energy bonds; (5) allow increased expensing of property in such a zone; and (6) allow an exclusion from gross income of gain from the sale or exchange or any clean energy business zone asset held for more than five years. Amends the Small Business Act and the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 to waive loan fees for qualified Green building and clean energy facility loans made before 2020.
Bill· HRH.R. 3920 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 October 2009
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend through 2010 the suspension of minimum distribution requirements for tax-exempt retirement plans.
Bill· SS. 1835 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 October 2009
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a five-year carryback of net operating losses, including the operating losses of life insurance companies, incurred in 2008 and 2009. Denies such extended loss carryover period to: (1) taxpayers in whom the federal government acquires an equity interest under the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008; (2) the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac); and (3) members of certain affiliated groups. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to make transfers to the general fund to cover reductions in revenues resulting from this Act.
Bill· SS. 1861 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 October 2009
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend through 2011 the increased rehabilitation tax credit for buildings located in the Gulf Opportunity Zone.
Bill· HRH.R. 3909 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 October 2009
Renewable Energy Investment Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) extend through 2014 the tax credit for producing electricity from renewable resources; (2) increase and extend through 2014 the authority for issuing new clean renewable energy bonds; (3) extend through 2018 the energy tax credit for investment in solar energy and fuel cell property, small wind energy property, and geothermal heat pump systems; (4) increase the energy tax credit for investment in advanced energy facilities; and (5) extend through 2011 the income and excise tax credits for alcohol fuels, biodiesel, and renewable diesel. Authorizes appropriations for advanced biofuels research, development, and demonstration that will create fuels that are fungible in existing infrastructure.
Bill· HRH.R. 3901 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 October 2009
Homebuyer Tax Credit Improvement Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code, with respect to the first-time homebuyer tax credit, to: (1) deny such credit to taxpayers under the age of 18; (2) require a taxpayer claiming such credit to attach to their returns a properly executed copy of the settlement statement used to purchase their residence; and (3) prohibit a credit for residences acquired from a spouse. Requires tax return preparers to file tax returns electronically unless they reasonably expect to file 100 or fewer individual income returns in a calendar year.
Bill· HRH.R. 3905 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 October 2009
Estate Tax Relief Act of 2009 - Repeals provisions of the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001 (EGTRRA) eliminating the tax on estates and generation-skipping transfers and the step-up in basis provisions for property acquired from a decedent for estates of decedents dying after 2009. Declares that the sunset provision (general terminating date of December 10, 2010) of EGTRRA shall not apply to title V of such Act (Estate, Gift, and Generation-Skipping Transfer Tax Provisions). Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) allow annual increases in the estate tax exclusion amount until it reaches $5 million in 2019 and inflation adjustments to such amount after 2019; and (2) phase in annual reductions in the estate tax rate between 2009 and 2019 (45% to 35% in 2019 and thereafter) and eliminate the deduction for state estate, inheritance, legacy, or succession taxes over the same period.
Bill· HRH.R. 3903 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 October 2009
Securing Tomorrow by Saving Today Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) allow an exclusion from gross income of interest earned on deposits with certain financial institutions; (2) allow increased contributions, including catch-up contributions, to retirement plans in 2009, 2010, and 2011; and (3) suspend minimum distribution requirements from tax-deferred pension plans and individual retirement accounts between 2008 and 2013.
Bill· HRH.R. 3918 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 October 2009
Thermal Energy Cooling and Heating Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow: (1) a residential energy efficient property tax credit for 30% of expenditures for distributed thermal energy storage property installed in a principal residence; (2) a 30% energy tax credit for investment in qualified distributed thermal storage property prior to 2017; and (3) financing of qualified distributed thermal energy storage property with new clean renewable energy bonds.
Bill· HRH.R. 3908 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 October 2009
Families of Disabled Veterans Work Opportunity Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a work opportunity tax credit for wages paid to a certified family member of a veteran with a service-connected disability who is unable to work.
Bill· HRH.R. 3898 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 October 2009
Small Business Property Reinvestment Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend through 2010 the increased expensing allowance for depreciable business assets.
Bill· HRH.R. 3916 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 October 2009
Amends Internal Revenue Code provisions relating to the tax credit for the production of electricity from renewable resources to: (1) extend permanently the credit period for the production of steel industry fuel; (2) extend through 2011 the placed-in-service date requirement for refined coal production facilities; (3) revise the definition of "steel industry fuel" to allow mixtures of petroleum coke or other coke feedstock in such fuel; and (4) set forth ownership requirements for coal production facilities for purposes of such tax credit.
Bill· HRH.R. 3902 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 October 2009
Amends Internal Revenue Code provisions relating to the first-time homebuyer tax credit to: (1) extend such credit to all purchasers of a principal residence (currently, limited to first-time homebuyers); (2) extend such credit and its waiver of recapture provisions (for sales of principal residences before the required holding period) through June 30, 2010; (3) extend through December 31, 2009, the election to treat, for tax purposes, a residence purchased in 2009 as having been purchased on December 31, 2008; (4) allow taxpayers to treat, for tax purposes, a residence purchased after December 31, 2009, and before July 1, 2010, as having been purchased on December 31, 2009; (5) increase adjusted gross income thresholds for determining eligibility for such credit; and (6) allow a waiver of recapture for members of the Armed Forces who are relocated.
Bill· SS. 1831 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 October 2009
Small Business Venture Capital Act of 2009 - Amends the Small Business Act to reauthorize for FY2010-FY2013 the venture capital program under the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 (a program under which small business investment companies (SBICs) provide capital financing to small businesses). Increases the maximum amounts of outstanding leverage made available to SBICs that invest in women-owned or minority businesses. Allows SBICs who were licensed as participating securities SBICs prior to October 1, 2004, to obtain leverage based on Small Business Administration (SBA)-approved commitments rather than paid-in capital. Increases from 20% to 30% of total available private capital the maximum authorized SBIC investment in a single business (absent specific SBA approval). Requires the SBA Administrator, in selecting investment companies to participate in the New Markets Venture Capital program (NMVC program) (investment in small businesses in low-income areas), to select at least one company from each SBA geographic region. Requires the Administrator to have as a goal to enter into at least one NMVC program agreement with a company engaged primarily in the development of and investment in small manufacturers. Establishes in the Investment Division of the SBA the Office of New Markets Venture Capital. Modifies the definition of low-income geographic area to reflect the new markets tax credit under the Internal Revenue Code. Requires the Administrator to prescribe standard documents for an application for final approval of a company under the NMVC program. Allows NMVC companies to receive operational assistance grants. Requires the Administrator to grant each conditionally-approved NMVC company up to two years to raise the $5 million in private capital required for participation. Reauthorizes the NMVC program for FY2010-FY2013. Reduces the authorization for operational assistance grants.
Bill· SS. 1830 (111th)open
United States · United States Congress · 21 October 2009
Federal Agency Energy Efficiency Improvement Act of 2009 - Requires each federal agency to designate a Chief Conservation Officer. Includes among such Officer's duties: (1) providing assistance to enhance the agency's conservation efforts; (2) collecting data to determine the energy consumption of each building owned or operated by the agency and of major equipment located within each building and providing the results to the Chief Conservation Officers Council; (3) increasing energy efficiency and maintaining or increasing energy security and cost savings; and (4) developing, facilitating, and maintaining the implementation of a sound energy efficiency information technology architecture. Makes such Officer responsible for the management of the agency's energy efficiency. Directs such Officer, in carrying out that responsibility, to: (1) monitor the performance of each energy efficiency program of the agency; (2) evaluate performance on the basis of applicable performance measurements; (3) advise the agency head regarding whether to continue, modify, or terminate any program or project; and (4) prepare an energy usage report, which shall include data regarding the agency's information technology energy usage. Establishes in the executive branch the Chief Conservation Officers Council, which shall function as the principal interagency forum for improving the practices of federal agencies relating to energy efficiency. Defines "environmentally preferable green products and services" for purposes of certain supply schedules. Requires an authorized nonfederal user to act in accordance with the ordering guidance provided by the Administrator of General Services (GSA). Authorizes each executive agency to establish pilot programs for the purchase of power from renewable energy sources located at federal facilities, subject to specified requirements. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to require the President to ensure that a specified amount of the total energy (currently, electric energy) consumed by the government during a fiscal year is renewable energy. Defines "renewable energy" to mean energy (currently, electric energy) generated from specified sources.
Bill· HRH.R. 3889 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 October 2009
Offering Patients True Individualized Options Act of 2009 or the OPTION Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) eliminate restrictions on the tax deduction for medical expenses; (2) expand health care savings accounts (HSAs) and increase the maximum contribution level for such accounts; (3) allow physicians a tax credit for providing charity care; and (4) extend continuation coverage under COBRA (health insurance continuation benefits under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985). Amends title II (Federal Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance Benefits) of the Social Security Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish a procedure to enroll a Medicare Part A beneficiary in the Medicare Reform Voucher Program to buy private health insurance. Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to allow certified medical professionals to assess the nature and extent of an emergency room patient's illness or injury to determine whether an emergency medical condition exists. Amends the Public Health Service Act to allow the sale and purchase of health insurance policies across state lines. Sets forth requirements for and restrictions on such policies. Small Business Health Fairness Act of 2009 - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to provide for establishment and governance of association health plans (AHPs), which are privately-sponsored group health plans that meet certain ERISA certification requirements. Establishes the Association Health Plan Fund to be used by the Secretary of Labor to make payments to an insurer to maintain coverage for a plan if there is a reasonable expectation that, without such payments, claims would not be satisfied by reason of termination of coverage. Allows a state to impose a contribution tax on an association health plan that commences operations in such state after the enactment of this Act.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 853 (111th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 21 October 2009
Sets forth the rule for consideration of the bill (H.R. 3619) to authorize appropriations for the Coast Guard for fiscal year 2010.
Law· SS. 1818 (111th)enacted
United States · United States Congress · 20 October 2009
Morris K. Udall Scholarship and Excellence in National Environmental Policy Amendments Act of 2009 - Amends the Morris K. Udall Scholarship and Excellence in National Environmental and Native American Public Policy Act of 1992 to rename: (1) the Act, the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation Act; (2) the Morris K Udall Scholarship and Excellence in National Environmental Policy Trust Fund, the Morris K Udall and Stewart L. Udall Trust Fund; (3) the Morris K. Udall Scholarship and Excellence in National Environmental Policy Foundation, the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation; and (4) Morris K. Udall Scholars, Udall Scholars. Requires the Executive Director of the Foundation to be paid at a senior executive rate. Directs the Foundation to award grants to the Udall Center for Studies in Public Policy, at the University of Arizona, to conduct training, research, and other activities with regard to the involvement of Native American and Alaska Native professionals in health care and public policy. Allows the use of reasonable amounts of the Trust Fund for official reception and representation expenses, not to exceed $5,000 for a fiscal year. Sets forth administrative provisions that allow the Foundation to: (1) appoint personnel without regard to federal law provisions governing appointments in the competitive service; (2) pay up to four employees, in addition to the Executive Director, at senior executive pay rates; and (3) rent office space in the District of Columbia or its environs.
Bill· SS. 1808 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 20 October 2009
Control Spending Now Act - Fiscal Discipline, Earmark Reform, and Accountability Act - Amends the Standing Rules of the Senate to revise procedures for consideration of points of order against consideration of certain general appropriations bills in the Senate. Amends the Rules to require all conference reports to be searchable online. Congressional Accountability and Line Item Veto Act of 2009 - Amends the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 to authorize the President to propose the repeal of any congressional earmark or the cancellation (line item veto) of any limited tariff or targeted tax benefit. Dedicates any such repeal or cancellation only to deficit reduction or increase of a surplus. Prescribes procedures for expedited consideration in each House of Congress for such proposals. Authorizes the President temporarily to withhold congressional earmarks from obligation or suspend a limited tariff or targeted tax benefit. Expresses the sense of Congress on abuse of proposed repeals and cancellations. Requires Pay-As-You-Go (PAYGO) legislation to include by reference an estimate of its budgetary effects, as determined by the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 (CBA), if timely submitted for printing in the Congressional Record by the chairs of the congressional budget committees (chairs) before the vote on it. Requires the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to maintain and make publicly available a continuously updated document with two specified PAYGO scorecards displaying the budgetary effects of PAYGO legislation, applying certain look-back and averaging requirements. Requires OMB to display as a separate addendum the cost estimates of provisions designated in statute as emergency requirements. Requires OMB to make annual public PAYGO reports and prepare for the President an offsetting sequestration order, which the President shall issue, if such report shows a debit on either PAYGO scorecard for the budget year. Exempts from sequestration: (1) low-income subsidies and catastrophic subsidies under Part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program) of the Social Security Act (SSA); and (2) qualified individual (QI) premiums for Medicare cost-sharing for certain dual eligible low-income Medicare beneficiaries under SSA title XIX (Medicaid). Amends the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act) to specify additional Social Security, veterans, Tier I Railroad Retirement benefits and other programs and activities exempt from a sequestration order as well as certain economic recovery programs. Biennial Budgeting and Appropriations Act - Amends the CBA to require: (1) biennial (currently, annual) budget resolutions; (2) biennial appropriations Acts; and (3) biennial government strategic and performance plans. Defines the budget biennium as the two consecutive fiscal years beginning on October 1 of any odd-numbered year. Amends the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946 to eliminate automatic pay adjustments for Members of Congress. Rescinds a specified amount from funds appropriated under title I of the Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 2010 for specified Members of Congress expense accounts. Amends the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to require all mandatory designations, statements, and reports filed under it to be filed with the Federal Election Commission (FEC). Prohibits the obligation of any amounts by the Secretary of the Treasury from the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) under the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (EESA) after the enactment of this Act. Student Loan Reform Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to end subsidies for private student loan companies. Pharmaceutical Market Access and Drug Safety Act of 2009 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to revise requirements for the importation of prescription drugs. Prohibits the importation of a qualifying drug unless it is imported by a registered importer or an individual for personal use. Establishes registration conditions for importers and exporters. Sets forth requirements for the importation of qualifying drugs different from U.S. label drugs. Prohibits manufacturers from discriminating against registered exporters or importers or engaging in actions to restrict, prohibit, or delay the importation of a qualifying drug. States that the resale in the United States of prescription drugs that were properly sold abroad is not patent infringement. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to educate consumers regarding prescription drug importation. Prescribes requirements for the sale of prescription drugs through an Internet site. Prohibits the introduction of restricted transactions with unregistered foreign pharmacies into a payment system or the completion of such transactions using a payment system. Drug Rebate Equalization Act of 2009 - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to reduce the costs of prescription drugs for enrollees of Medicaid managed care organizations by extending to such organizations the discounts offered under fee-for-service Medicaid plans. Requires also that capitation rates paid to the organization be: (1) based on actual cost experience related to rebates; and (2) subject to the federal regulations requiring actuarially sound rates. Amends SSA title XIX (Medicaid) to increase the Medicaid drug rebate to bring down prices for prescription drugs. Requires the Secretary of Commerce to develop and implement a program to impose fees on businesses that benefit from the trade promotion activities of the International Trade Administration (ITA). Amends the Agricultural Trade Act to reduce the allocation of certain funds by the Commodity Credit Corporation or the Secretary of Agriculture for market access activities (for agriculture commodities exporters). Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to assess, and facilities to pay, a user fee when facilities fail Food and Drug Administration (FDA) quality inspections. Amends the Reclamation Reform Act of 1982 to: (1) modify irrigation and crop insurance subsidies for specified single farm operations; (2) reduce direct payments to large landowners; (3) cut farm subsidies for high-income individuals; (4) eliminate the cotton storage subsidy; and (5) end subsidized grazing fees. Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to extend through FY2019 Federal Communications Commission (FCC) authority to grant a radio broadcasting license or permit to qualified applicants through a competitive bidding system. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to eliminate the percentage depletion allowance for hardrock mining. Amends the Revised Statutes to end subsidies for hardrock mining on public lands by imposing mining royalties and increasing claim maintenance fees. Amends the Mineral Leasing Act to require a 2% deduction (for federal administrative costs) from payments to states from money received from sales, bonuses, royalties including interest charges related to onshore oil, gas, coal, and mineral leases on public lands. Amends the Energy Policy Act to repeal the prohibition against a rulemaking that would enable an increase in fees to recover additional costs related to processing oil and natural gas drilling-related permit applications and use authorizations. Amends the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970 to revise requirements for the disposal of all funds received from the sales, bonuses, royalties, and rentals related to geothermal energy production on public lands. Sets at $5.00 the current uniform fee imposed on passengers of air carriers and foreign air carriers for the cost of providing civil aviation security services. Amends SSA title XVIII (Medicare) part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program) to prescribe a formula for reducing the premium subsidy for Medicare prescription drug assistance based on income. Prohibits the obligation or expenditure of funds for FY2010 to support: (1) a lunar mission under the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Constellation Program scheduled to occur before 2025; (2) the V-22 or V-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft program; (3) the C-17 Globemaster aircraft program; or (4) nondemonstration satellites under the Space Tracking and Surveillance System. Directs the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics to develop an alternative acquisition strategy for high-risk major defense acquisitions (weapons systems), and the Secretary of Defense (DOD) to decide whether or not to terminate a major defense acquisition program in order to meet joint military requirements through a recommended the alternative acquisition strategy. Reduces spending on excess secondary inventory (spare parts) for the Department of the Air Force. Requires DOD to recover $50 million in erroneous overpayments to defense contractors. Amends the National Security Act of 1947 to require the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) to follow specified procedures to: (1) assess and report to Congress on the vulnerability and/or acquisition of major intelligence systems; and (2) submit a Future Year Intelligence Plan and long-term budget projections to congressional intelligence committees. Prescribes a procedure for senior intelligence management officials to correct long-standing material intelligence budget weaknesses. Requires the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to deposit in the Treasury as miscellaneous receipts all the service fees it receives (IRS Slush Fund). Rescinds unspent earmarks meeting specified criteria. Repeals: (1) the Rail-Line Relocation Program; and (2) the Radio Broadcasting to Cuba Act and the Television Broadcasting to Cuba Act (eliminating radio/TV MARTI at the Office of Cuba Broadcasting). Prohibits the use of certain funds to support the military forces of Colombia.
Bill· SS. 1796 (111th)open
United States · United States Congress · 19 October 2009
America's Healthy Future Act of 2009 - Amends the Social Security Act (SSA) to add a new title XXII (Health Insurance Coverage) to ensure that all Americans have access to affordable and essential health benefits coverage. Requires all health benefits plans offered to individuals and employers in the individual and small group market to be qualified health benefits plans (QHBPs). Prohibits QHBPs from excluding coverage for preexisting conditions, or otherwise limiting or conditioning coverage based on any health status-related factors. Requires QHBPs to offer coverage in the individual and small group markets on a guaranteed issue and guaranteed renewal basis. Requires states to: (1) establish rating areas; (2) adopt a specified risk adjustment model; and (3) establish transitional reinsurance programs for individual markets. Requires QHBP offerors in the individual and small group markets to consider all enrollees in a plan to be members of a single risk pool. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish: (1) risk corridors for certain plan years; (2) high risk pools for individuals with preexisting conditions; (3) a temporary reinsurance program for retirees covered by employer-based plans; and (4) a program under which a state establishes one or more QHBPs to provide at least an essential benefits package to eligible individuals in lieu of offering coverage through an exchange. Entitles a qualified individual to the choice to enroll or not to enroll in a QHBP offered through an exchange covering the individual's state as well as QHBPs in the individual market. Requires such individuals to be U.S. citizens or lawful residents. Requires each state to establish: (1) an exchange designed to facilitate enrollment in QHBPs in the individual market; and (2) a Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) exchange designed to assist qualified small employers in facilitating the enrollment of their employees in QHBPs in either the individual or the small group market. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish a system allowing state residents to participate in state health subsidy programs; and (2) study methods exchange QHBPs can employ to encourage health care providers to make increased meaningful use of electronic health records. Prescribes the contents of an essential benefits package, including little or no cost-sharing, no annual or lifetime limits on coverage, and preventive services. Declares that nothing in this Act requires health care benefits plans to provide coverage for abortions. Requires the plan offeror to determine whether or not the plan provides coverage of abortion services for which federal funding: (1) is prohibited; or (2) is allowed. Requires the Secretary to assure that: (1) at least one QHBP covers abortion services for which federal funding is prohibited or allowed; and (2) at least one QHBP that does not cover abortion services for which federal funding is allowed. Prohibits the use of premium credits and cost-sharing subsidies for QHBPs covering abortion services for which federal funding is prohibited. Prohibits QHBPs from discriminating against any individual health care provider or health care facility because of its willingness or unwillingness to provide, pay for, provide coverage of, or refer for abortions. Continues application of state and federal laws regarding abortion. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) allow tax credits related to the purchase of health insurance through the state exchanges; and (2) impose an excise tax on individuals without essential health benefits coverage and on employers who fail to meet health insurance coverage requirements with respect to their full-time employees. Requires the President to: (1) certify annually in the President's Budget whether or not the provisions in this Act will increase the budget deficit in the coming fiscal year; and (2) instruct the HHS Secretary and the Secretary of the Treasury to make required reductions in exchange credits and subsidies. Establishes a new mandatory eligibility category under SSA title XIX (Medicaid) for all non-elderly, nonpregnant individuals who are otherwise ineligible for Medicaid. Revises Medicaid benefits. Rescinds funds available in the Medicaid Improvement Fund for FY2014-2018. Makes appropriations for Aging and Disability Resource Center initiatives. Increases the federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP) for states to offer home and community-based services as a long-term care (LTC) alternative to nursing homes. Creates a Community First Choice Option. Adds a new optional categorically needy eligibility group to Medicaid for individuals: (1) with income that exceeds 133% of the poverty line; and (2) certain other individuals, but only for benefits limited to family planning services and supplies. Directs the Secretary to establish a grants program to support school-based health centers. Removes smoking cessation drugs, barbiturates, and benzodiazepines from Medicaid's excluded drug list. Revises requirements for Medicaid disproportionate share hospital (DSH) payments. Directs the Secretary to establish a Federal Coordinated Health Care Office within the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMMS). Directs the Secretary to establish a Medicaid Quality Measurement Program. Revises requirements for the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission (MACPAC). (CHIP refers to SSA title XXI [Children's Health Insurance Program].) Sets forth special rules relating to American Indians and Alaska Indians. Requires the Secretary to establish procedures for sharing data collected under a federal health care program on race, ethnicity, sex, primary language, type of disability, and related measures and data analyses. Amends SSA title V with respect to the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) block grant program. Provides funding for abstinence education. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to codify and revise the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) wellness program regulations. Elder Justice Act of 2009 - Amends SSA title XX (Block Grants to States for Social Services) with respect to elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation and their prevention. Establishes within the Office of the Secretary an Elder Justice Coordinating Council. Directs the Secretary to establish a hospital value-based purchasing program under Medicare. Extends Physician Quality Reporting Initiative program (PQRI) incentive payments beyond 2010. Modifies the Physician Feedback Program. Requires the Secretary to develop a plan to implement a Medicare value-based purchasing program for home health agencies and skilled nursing facilities (SNFs). Amends SSA title XVIII (Medicare) to direct the Secretary to establish a national strategy to improve the delivery of health care services, patient health outcomes, and population health. Directs the President to convene an Interagency Working Group on Health Care Quality. Amends SSA title XI (General Provisions) to provide for the establishment of a Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation within CMMS. Amends SSA title XVIII to direct the Secretary to establish a shared savings program that promotes accountability for a patient population and coordinates items and services under Medicare parts A (Hospital Insurance) and B (Supplementary Medical Insurance). Creates a Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program. Directs the Secretary to establish a Community-Based Care Transitions Program Revises requirements with respect to residents in teaching hospitals. Increases the Medicare physician payment update. Directs the Secretary to establish a Working Group on Access to Emergency Medical Care. Extends the Medicare-Dependent Hospital Program. Amends the Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006 with respect to the hospital wage index. Establishes a Medicare prescription drug discount program for brand-name drugs for beneficiaries who enroll in Medicare part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program) and have drug spending that falls into the coverage gap. Establishes an independent Medicare Commission to reduce the per capita rate of growth in Medicare spending. Amends SSA title XI to add a new part D (Comparative Effectiveness Research) under which is established a Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute. Establishes in the Treasury the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Trust Fund. Establishes a nationwide program for national and state background checks on direct patient access employees of LTC facilities and providers. Directs the Secretary to establish new procedures for screening providers of medical or other items or services and suppliers under the Medicare, Medicaid, and CHIP programs. Directs the Secretary to establish a self-referral disclosure protocol to enable health care service providers and suppliers to disclose violations. Requires the Secretary to expand the number of areas included in Round Two of the durable medical equipment (DME) competitive bidding program. Extends the period for collection of overpayments due to fraud. Amends the Internal Revenue Code with respect to: (1) an excise tax on the excess benefit of high cost employer-sponsored health coverage; (2) distributions from health savings accounts for drugs and insulin that are prescribed drugs and insulin only; (3) a limitation on salary reduction contributions by employers to a health flexible spending arrangement; (4) expanded information reporting requirements; (5) additional qualifying requirements for charitable hospital organizations; and (6) a qualifying therapeutic discovery project tax credit. Imposes annual fees on: (1) manufacturers and importers of branded prescription pharmaceuticals or of medical devices; and (2) health insurance providers. Increases the threshold for the itemized income tax deduction for medical expenses. Prescribes a special rule to limit excessive remuneration by certain health insurance providers. Excludes from an individual's gross income the value of any qualified Indian health care benefit. Prescribes treatment of small business employers maintaining a simple cafeteria plan.