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Bill· SS. 2503 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 10 May 2002
Commercial Driver's License Devolution Act of 2002 - Amends Federal transportation law to authorize an individual who has not passed commercial motor vehicle written and driving tests meeting certain minimum Federal standards to operate a commercial motor vehicle solely within the borders of a State (intrastate) if such individual meets State-prescribed minimum standards for fitness for operating a commercial motor vehicle and has passed written and driving tests meeting those same standards. Requires States to test the fitness of commercial motor vehicle operators who operate intrastate, including the passing of a written and driving test, consistent with either the minimum standards prescribed by the Secretary of Transportation or State-prescribed minimum standards.
Bill· SS. 2497 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 9 May 2002
Amends Federal aviation law to prohibit the opening of the cockpit door of a passenger aircraft while in flight, unless: (1) the cockpit has double doors monitored by remote camera, the first of which (mantrap door) must be locked before the second can be opened; and (2) the flight crew can prevent unlocking of the door to the flight deck.
Bill· SS. 2484 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 2002
American Indian Welfare Reform Act - Amends part A (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) of title IV of the Social Security Act (SSA) to: (1) reauthorize and extend tribal family assistance grants; and (2) replace grants for Indian tribes under the Job Opportunities and Basic Skills (JOBS) Training Program with tribal human services program infrastructure improvement and other tribal TANF improvement grants; (3) reauthorize and extend the bonus to reward high performance States; (4) reauthorize and extend the contingency fund for State Welfare Programs; and (5) provide for payments to Indian tribes with approved tribal family assistance plans that are operating in situations of increased economic hardship. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to permit Indian tribes to issue tax-exempt qualified Indian private activity bonds. Amends the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century to establish a set-aside for job access and reverse commute grants to Indian tribes and tribal organizations. Amends SSA title IV part A to provide for grants for tribal employment services program. Amends the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990 with respect to benefits of Indian children. Amends SSA title IV part A to ensure equitable State plan benefits and services access for each member of an Indian tribe or tribal organization domiciled in the State who is not eligible for tribal family assistance. Amends SSA title IV part A to provide for parity in treatment of Alaska natives with Indian tribes under the TANF program. Gives Indian tribes authority to receive funds under SSA title IV part E (Foster Care and Adoption Assistance), and to make eligibility determinations under the Food Stamp Act of 1977, SSA titles XIX (Medicaid), and XXI (State Children's Health Insurance). Amends SSA title XX (Block Grants to States for Social Services) to make an Indian tribe or tribal organization that administers a social services program eligible for block grant payments. Amends SSA title IV part A to direct the Secretary to conduct research on tribal family assistance programs and on efforts to reduce poverty among Indians. Directs the Secretary to convene an advisory committee of Indians experts in social services and the spiritual aspects of traditional Indian culture.
Bill· SS. 2476 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 2002
International Cooperation Against Terrorism Act of 2002 - Amends Federal aviation law to establish certain civil penalties for domestic and foreign air carriers which do not transmit passenger and crew manifest data electronically for each flight through the advanced passenger information system (APIS) to the Commissioner of Customs. Amends the Tariff Act of 1931 to require the pilot, operator, or owner of every aircraft required to make entry or obtain clearance under the U.S. customs laws to transmit certain cargo manifest information electronically in advance in the manner, time, and form the Secretary of the Treasury shall prescribe. Specifies civil penalties for noncompliance with such requirements. Authorizes the President to conclude agreements with foreign countries in which such countries agree to require charitable organizations identified as supporting terrorist organizations to report certain information, including the overall sources of organization funds. Amends the Export Administration Act of 1979 to revise the requirement of a validated license for the export of goods or technology to a foreign country supporting international terrorism. Extends such requirement to a country if the Secretary of State determines that: (1) the government of the country is not cooperating with U.S. antiterrorism efforts, including failing to freeze the bank accounts of entities supporting terrorist activities, or failing to share intelligence information regarding terrorist organizations with the United States; and (2) the export to the country of such goods or technology could make a significant contribution to the development of the country's ability to explore for, extract, refine, or transport petroleum or natural gas. Requires a validated license for the financial investment by a U.S. person in a foreign country if the President makes determinations about the country similar to those relating to the export of goods or technology.
Bill· SS. 2479 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 2002
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise the criteria for selecting a project for the low-income housing credit to require such criteria to include infrastructure permitting the use of high-speed Internet technology in each residential unit.
Bill· SS. 2470 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 7 May 2002
Global Nuclear Security Initiative Act of 2002 - Expresses the sense of Congress that the Secretary of Energy should develop a comprehensive program of activities to encourage all countries with nuclear materials to adhere to, or adopt standards equivalent to, the International Atomic Energy Agency standard on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material and Nuclear Facilities relating to the security of stockpiles of highly enriched uranium and plutonium. Directs the Secretary to require the Office of International Materials Protection, Control, and Accounting of the Department of Energy to conduct a study of the feasibility and advisability of developing a program to secure radiological materials outside the United States that pose a threat to U.S. national security. Requires the Secretary to report to Congress on: (1) such study's results; and (2) results of a study by the Secretary of the feasibility and advisability of various actions to reduce the risks associated with terrorist attacks on nuclear power plants outside the United States. Expresses the sense of Congress that the President should encourage amendment of the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Materials to make it: (1) apply to both domestic and international use and transport of nuclear materials; (2) incorporate fundamental practices for the physical protection of such materials; and (3) address protection against sabotage involving nuclear materials.
Bill· SS. 2452 (107th)open
United States · United States Congress · 2 May 2002
National Homeland Security and Combating Terrorism Act of 2002 - Establishes the Department of National Homeland Security to: (1) develop policies and plans for homeland security; (2) develop a National Strategy for Combating Terrorism and Homeland Security Response to counter terrorist threats; (3) plan, coordinate, and integrate Government border security, critical infrastructure protection, and emergency preparedness activities and act as the focal point regarding crises and emergency planning and response; (4) annually develop a Federal response plan for homeland security and emergency preparedness; and (5) implement a coordinating center with representatives from other Federal agencies with security responsibilities. Transfers to the Department the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Customs Service, specified law enforcement components of the Immigration and Naturalization Service, the Coast Guard, the Critical Infrastructure Assurance Office of the Department of Commerce, the National Infrastructure Protection Center and the National Domestic Preparedness Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and a specified portion of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service of the Department of Agriculture. Establishes: (1) within the Department Directorates of Border and Transportation Protection, Critical Infrastructure Protection, and Emergency Preparedness and Response and an Office of Science and Technology (OST); (2) an Acceleration Fund for Research and Development of Homeland Security Technologies; (3) in OST a Homeland Security Science and Technology Senior Steering Group and Coordination Committee; (4) within the Executive Office of the President the National Office for Combating Terrorism; (5) a National Combating Terrorism and Homeland Security Response Council; and (6) a National Combating Terrorism Strategy Panel. Requires development of an annual consolidated proposed National Terrorism Prevention and Response Program Budget.
Resolution· SCONRESS.Con.Res. 104 (107th)open
United States · United States Congress · 2 May 2002
Recognizes the American Society of Civil Engineers on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of its founding and encourages it to continue its tradition of excellence in service to the profession of civil engineering and to the public. Commends the many achievements of the Nation's civil engineers.
Bill· HRH.R. 4653 (107th)open
United States · United States Congress · 2 May 2002
Aeronautics Research and Development Revitalization Act of 2002 - Establishes an Office of Aeronautics responsible for planning, budgeting, and managing all aeronautics research, development, and demonstration activities undertaken by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Directs the NASA Administrator to establish certain initiatives to develop technologies that would: (1) significantly reduce aircraft noise, harmful emissions, and fuel consumption; (2) make certain performance improvements to existing rotorcraft; and (3) enable overland flight of supersonic civil transport aircraft with certain performance characteristics. Directs the NASA Administrator to provide specified congressional committees a plan for the implementation of such initiatives. Directs the NASA Administrator to: (1) award grants to establish university-based Centers for Research on Aviation Training; and (2) establish NASA aeronautics scholarships for U.S. citizens enrolled in accredited Masters degree programs in aeronautical engineering at institutions of higher education. Authorizes appropriations for certain Federal Aviation Administration research and development projects and activities. Requires certain aviation-related studies and assessments.
Bill· HRH.R. 4641 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 May 2002
Wireless Technology Investment and Digital Dividends Act of 2002 - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to establish in the Treasury the Digital Dividends Trust Fund to be used for: (1) human capital telecommunications investments; and (2) broadband infrastructure investments for public access and rural technological development. Amends the National Telecommunications and Information Administration Organization Act to make funds from such Fund available to the Secretary of Commerce to carry out a: (1) Human Capital Telecommunications Investment Program; and (2) Public Broadband Infrastructure Investments Program. Earmarks a specified amount of funds for the latter program for converting public broadcasting facilities to digital technology. Directs the Secretary to prepare, make publicly available, and submit to the President, Congress, and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) a report that: (1) designates bands of frequencies for reallocation for the provision of advanced commercial mobile (ACM) services; (2) establishes a plan for the relocation or modification of Federal stations currently occupying frequencies located at 1710-1850 megahertz; and (3) designates two specified bands of frequencies for reallocation to the public for unlicensed use. Requires the FCC to allocate some of the 1710-1850 megahertz frequencies for ACM services. Authorizes the relocation of Federal entities from the frequencies reallocated to ACM services. Establishes a Spectrum Relocation Trust Fund for relocation costs. Requires a division of the proceeds from spectrum auctions for ACM services between the Relocated Federal Entities Trust Fund and the Digital Dividends Trust Fund.
Bill· HRH.R. 4650 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 May 2002
Aviation Biometric Badge Act - Amends Federal aviation law to direct the Under Secretary of Transportation for Security to require by regulation that each security screener (or employee who has unescorted access, or may permit other individuals to have unescorted access, to an aircraft or a secured area of the airport) be issued a biometric security badge that identifies a person by fingerprint or retinal recognition.
Bill· HRH.R. 4660 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 May 2002
National Homeland Security and Combating Terrorism Act of 2002 - Establishes the Department of National Homeland Security to: (1) develop policies and plans for homeland security; (2) develop a National Strategy for Combating Terrorism and Homeland Security Response to counter terrorist threats; (3) plan, coordinate, and integrate Government border security, critical infrastructure protection, and emergency preparedness activities and act as the focal point regarding crises and emergency planning and response; (4) annually update a Federal response plan for homeland security and emergency preparedness; and (5) implement a coordinating center with representatives from other Federal agencies with security responsibilities. Transfers to the Department the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Customs Service, specified portions of the Immigration and Naturalization Service responsible for law enforcement and border management, the Coast Guard, the Critical Infrastructure Assurance Office, the National Infrastructure Protection Center and the National Domestic Preparedness Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and a specified portion of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service of the Department of Agriculture. Establishes: (1) within the Department Directorates of Prevention, Critical Infrastructure Protection, and Emergency Preparedness and Response and an Office of Science and Technology; (2) an Acceleration Fund for Research and Development of Homeland Security Technologies; (3) within the Executive Office of the President the National Office for Combating Terrorism; (4) a National Combating Terrorism and Homeland Security Council; and (5) a National Homeland Security Panel. Requires development of an annual consolidated proposed National Terrorism Prevention and Response Program Budget.
Bill· HRH.R. 4635 (107th)open
United States · United States Congress · 1 May 2002
Arming Pilots Against Terrorism Act - Amends Federal law to direct the Under Secretary of Transportation for Security to establish a program to: (1) deputize qualified volunteer pilots of passenger aircraft as Federal flight deck officers; and (2) provide training, supervision, and equipment for such officers. Directs the Under Secretary to authorize flight deck officers to carry firearms and to use force, including lethal force, when they judge the security of an aircraft is at risk. Shields air carriers from liability for damages in Federal or State court arising out of the actions or omissions of a flight deck officer defending a plane from criminal violence or air piracy. Shields flight deck officers from liability except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct.
Bill· HRH.R. 4633 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 May 2002
Driver's License Modernization Act of 2002 - Amends Federal highway provisions to require each State, within five years, to have in effect a driver's license and identification card program under which a State shall: (1) include in each new or renewed license or card a computer chip containing card or license text data in electronic form, biometric data on the license or card holder, and security features or optical image layers to assist in visual verification that the license or card is valid; (2) obtain and maintain such biometric data; (3) participate in a program to link State motor vehicle databases electronically; and (4) implement procedures for accurately documenting the identity and residence of an individual before issuing a license or card. Authorizes grants to each State: (1) by the Secretary of Transportation to assist in developing and implementing such program and computer technologies and databases required to link State motor vehicle databases; and (2) the National Science Foundation for implementing programs that utilize such embedded computer chips for innovative uses that enhance government services. Sets forth requirements regarding transition from the National Driver Register. Prohibits forgery or false use of, tampering with, or unlawfully accessing data in a driver's license or identification card.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 405 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 May 2002
Declares that the House of Representatives: (1) stands in solidarity with Israel's right to take military action to end terrorist attacks, dismantle the terrorist infrastructure, and provide security for its people; (2) remains committed to Israel's right to self-defense and to assisting Israel in exercising that right; and (3) will continue to assist Israel in strengthening its homeland defenses. Condemns Palestinian suicide bombings and the support and coordination of terror by Yassir Arafat and other members of the Palestinian leadership. Calls for the Palestinian Authority to fulfill its commitment to dismantle the terrorist infrastructure in the Palestinian areas. Urges: (1) all Arab states to declare their unqualified opposition to all forms of terrorism and to act in concert with the United States to stop the violence; (2) Israel to make clear its willingness to withdraw from occupied territories in the context of a full settlement; and (3) all parties in the region to pursue efforts to establish a, lasting peace in the Middle East.
Bill· HRH.R. 4622 (107th)open
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 2002
Gateway Communities Cooperation Act of 2002 - Requires the National Park Service, United States Forest Service, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Bureau of Land Management to: (1) provide for public involvement by government officials of local gateway communities (communities adjacent to or near public lands) in the development of land use plans, programs, regulations, and decisions, transportation plans, general management plans, and any other public land plans, decisions, or policies that will have a significant impact; (2) provide such communities with early public notice of such proposed decisions; (3) offer training sessions for officials for understanding and participating in agency planning processes; (4) assign an employee or contractor to work with such a community to develop data and analysis relevant in the preparation of agency plans, decisions, and policies; and (5) assist in conducting a review of plans likely to affect such community. Allows a Federal land manager to enter into a cooperative agreement with gateway communities to provide for coordination between Federal, State, local, and tribal governments in land use inventory, planning, and management activities. Requires the consolidation and coordination of the plans and planning processes of two or more Federal agencies to facilitate an affected gateway community's participation. Provides for Federal land managers to certify gateway communities as cooperating agencies in order to comply with National Environmental Policy Act requirements. Allows such a manager to make grants to enable an eligible gateway community (population under 10,000) to: (1) participate in Federal land planning or management processes; (2) obtain professional land use or transportation planning assistance necessary a result of Federal action; (3) address and resolve public infrastructure impacts that are a likely result of the Federal land management decisions and for which sufficient funds are not otherwise available; and (4) provide information and interpretive services.
Bill· SS. 2390 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 29 April 2002
Preserving Health Care in Rural America Act of 2002 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to provide for: (1) payment adjustment for low-volume hospitals; and (2) revision in the Medicare disproportionate share hospital (DSH) payment adjustment for rural hospitals equalizing DSH payment amounts. Amends the Public Health Service Act (PHSA) to establish: (1) a capital infrastructure revolving loan program under which the Secretary of Health and Human Services may make described loans to any rural entity for projects for capital improvements from the loan and loan guarantee fund under PHSA; and (2) a high technology acquisition grant and loan program under which the Secretary may award grants and make loans to any eligible entity for any costs incurred by the entity in acquiring eligible equipment and services for improving the quality of health care in rural areas.
Bill· SS. 2329 (107th)reported
United States · United States Congress · 25 April 2002
Ship, Seafarer, and Container Security Act - Requires certain vessels to be equipped with an automatic identification system when operating in U.S. navigable waters. Requires the Secretary of Transportation to initiate a rulemaking to implement such requirement. Urges the Secretary to negotiate an international agreement (or amendments to such an agreement) that: (1) provides for a uniform, comprehensive, international system of identification for seafarers that will enable the United States and other countries to establish the identity of any seafarer aboard a vessel within the jurisdiction, including the territorial waters, of the United States or such other country; (2) provides greater transparency with respect to the registration and ownership of vessels entering or operating in U.S. territorial waters; and (3) establishes marine container integrity and anti-tampering standards for marine containers. Requires the Secretary to submit draft legislation to specified congressional committees if negotiations do not result in an agreement or the amendment process fails within a specified period after enactment of this Act. Directs the Commandant of the Coast Guard to establish: (1) a risk-based system for use in evaluating the potential threat to the national security of the United States of vessels entering U.S. territorial waters; and (2) a system of security zones for U.S. ports, territorial waters, and waterways.
Bill· HRH.R. 4605 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 April 2002
Nuclear Waste Transportation Protection Amendments Act of 2002 - Amends the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982 to direct the Secretary of Energy to develop a comprehensive safety program governing the transportation of nuclear waste to a Yucca Mountain repository that includes: driver selection, independent inspections, bad weather protocols, road condition reporting, safe parking areas, advance notice, real time tracking and monitoring, emergency response, medical preparedness, equipment standards, training and exercises, mutual aid agreements, emergency alternative routing, program evaluation, and public information. Prohibits the Secretary from transporting high-level radioactive waste through certain populated communities unless the waste originates in such community. Instructs the Secretary to ensure that the oldest spent nuclear fuel is transported before other spent nuclear fuel. Mandates transportation of spent nuclear fuel or high-level radioactive waste in packages whose design has been certified by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and tested at full scale to demonstrate compliance with Commission performance standards. Mandates consultation with affected State, local, and tribal governments in the selection of routes for the transportation of spent nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste. Prohibits private sector transportation of spent nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste. Requires the Secretary to provide advance notification to States, Indian tribes, and local communities through whose jurisdiction the Secretary plans to transport spent nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste. Sets forth security precautions for all transportation of spent nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste.
Bill· HRH.R. 4615 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 April 2002
Amends the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 to identify as a high priority corridor on the National Highway System the Southwest Passage Initiative for Regional and Interstate Transportation Corridor (or SPIRIT Corridor), which extends along U.S. Route 54 from its starting point in Texas on the border between the United States and Mexico, through New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Kansas, and ending in Wichita, Kansas.
Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 387 (107th)open
United States · United States Congress · 25 April 2002
Acknowledges the American Society of Civil Engineers for its 150th Anniversary and encourages it to continue its tradition of excellence in service to the profession of civil engineering and to the public. Commends the many achievements of the Nation's civil engineers.
Bill· SS. 2242 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 April 2002
Amends Federal law to prohibit the collection of tolls from vehicles and military equipment owned by the Department of Defense for the use of any toll facility (toll highway, bridge, or tunnel on a public road, or toll ferry boat operating on a route classified as a public road) when the vehicle or military equipment is under the actual physical control of a uniformed member of the Armed Forces.
Bill· SS. 2241 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 April 2002
Amends the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States to provide duty-free treatment for certain log forwarders with cranes, designed for off-highway use and certain parts of log forwarders. Applies certain staged rate reductions to such items. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to authorize the Secretary of the Treasury to enter into a written agreement allowing any taxpayer to make installment payments of any tax if the Secretary determines that such agreement will facilitate partial or full (currently only full) collection of such liability. Requires such agreements to be reviewed every two years.
Bill· SS. 2245 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 April 2002
Railroad Competition, Arbitration, and Service Act of 2002 - Amends Federal transportation law to declare the primary objectives of U.S. rail transportation policy with respect to rail carrier competition, reasonable rates, and consistent and efficient rail transportation service for shippers. Requires arbitration of certain rail rate, service, and other disputes according to specified procedures. Prohibits the Surface Transportation Board from issuing a railroad construction and operation certificate authorizing a specified activity, or exempting from certificate requirements an activity involving a railroad line interest transfer by a Class I rail carrier to a Class II or III rail carrier, if the activity directly or indirectly would result in a restriction of: (1) the ability of the Class II or Class III rail carrier to interchange traffic with other carriers; or (2) competition between or among rail carriers in the region affected by the activity in a manner or to an extent that would violate Federal antitrust laws. Prescribes a process for review of any alleged restriction. Authorizes any person who uses or seeks to use rail service for major train load shipments to or from a facility that has physical access solely to one rail carrier to request, according to a specified procedure, that rail service for such shipments be provided by an existing Class I, Class II, or Class III rail carrier, or a new rail service meeting certain requirements.
Bill· HRH.R. 4545 (107th)open
United States · United States Congress · 23 April 2002
Amtrak Reauthorization Act of 2002 - Authorizes appropriations for Amtrak for FY 2003 for: (1) capital expenditures; (2) operating expenses; (3) payment to the Treasury in an amount equal to the tax Amtrak must pay as an employer under the Railroad Retirement Tax Act that is more than the amount needed for anticipated benefits for Amtrak retirees and for their beneficiaries; and (4) certain rail security projects. Requires Amtrak to transmit to the Secretary of Transportation a comprehensive business plan, including targets for ridership, revenues, and capital and operating expenses, and quarterly assessments of the extent to which the business plan goals have been achieved.
Resolution· SRESS.Res. 247 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 April 2002
Declares that the Senate: (1) stands in solidarity with Israel as it takes necessary steps to provide security to its people by dismantling the terrorist infrastructure in the Palestinian areas; (2) remains committed to Israel's right to self-defense; and (3) will continue to assist Israel in strengthening its homeland defenses. Condemns Palestinian suicide bombings. Demands that the Palestinian Authority fulfill its commitment to dismantle the terrorist infrastructure in the Palestinian areas. Urges: (1) all Arab states, particularly Egypt and Saudi Arabia, to declare their unqualified opposition to all forms of terrorism, particularly suicide bombing, and to act in concert with the United States to stop the violence; and (2) all parties in the region to pursue vigorous efforts to establish comprehensive peace in the Middle East.
Bill· SS. 2195 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 18 April 2002
Investing for Tomorrow's Schools Act of 2002 - Authorizes the Secretary of Education to enter into cooperative agreements with States to establish State infrastructure banks and multistate infrastructure banks to make loans to: (1) local educational agencies for building or repairing elementary or secondary public schools; and (2) public libraries for building or repairing library facilities. Grants consent of Congress to States to enter into a cooperative agreement with the Secretary, as well as an interstate compact, to establish a multistate infrastructure bank. Prescribes infrastructure bank requirements. Requires infrastructure bank loans to be used to supplement, not supplant, other Federal, State, and local funds. Prohibits construing Federal contributions to such infrastructure banks as a Federal commitment, guarantee, or obligation to any third party. Directs the Secretary to review the financial condition of each infrastructure bank.
Bill· HRH.R. 4481 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 18 April 2002
Airport Streamlining Approval Process Act of 2002 - Amends Federal transportation law to direct the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to take action to encourage the construction of airport capacity enhancement projects at congested airports. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to develop and implement a coordinated review process for such projects, which shall provide that all environmental reviews, analyses, opinions, permits, licenses, and approvals that must be issued or made by a Federal agency or airport sponsor for such a project will be conducted concurrently in cooperation with specified Federal and State environmental agencies. Authorizes the Secretary, at the request of an airport sponsor for a congested airport, to approve a restriction on use of a runway to be constructed at the airport to minimize potentially significant adverse noise impacts from the runway, if certain criteria are met. Authorizes the Secretary, in specified circumstances, to allow an airport sponsor carrying out such a project to make payments, out of airport revenues (including local taxes on aviation fuel), for measures to mitigate the environmental impacts of the project, including aircraft noise. Permits the FAA Administrator to accept funds from an airport sponsor to hire additional staff or obtain the services of consultants in order to facilitate the timely processing, review, and completion of environmental activities associated with an airport development project. Repeals the requirement that the Secretary approve a project grant application only if the chief executive officer of the State in which the project will be located certifies that there is reasonable assurance that the project will be located, designed, constructed, and operated in compliance with applicable air and water quality standards. Revises the approval criteria without the requirement of an environmental impact statement for an airport development project that does not involve the location of an airport or runway, or a major runway extension, at an existing airport. Allows such a project without an environmental impact statement if completing the project would allow airport operations involving aircraft complying with the noise standards prescribed for "stage 3" aircraft (currently "stage 2" aircraft).
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 392 (107th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 18 April 2002
Expresses: (1) solidarity with Israel as it takes necessary steps to provide security to its people by dismantling the terrorist infrastructure in the Palestinian areas; and (2) commitment to Israel's right to self-defense and support for additional U.S. assistance. Condemns the recent wave of Palestinian suicide bombings and the ongoing support and coordination of terror by Yasir Arafat and other members of the Palestinian leadership. Demands that the Palestinian Authority fulfill its commitment to dismantle the terrorist infrastructure in the Palestinian areas. Expresses concern that Arafat's actions are not those of a viable partner for peace. Urges all Arab states to declare their unqualified opposition to all forms of terrorism, particularly suicide bombing, and all parties in the region to pursue peace in the Middle East. Commends the President for his leadership in addressing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 391 (107th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 18 April 2002
Designates majority membership on the House Committees on Education and the Workforce, and on Transportation and Infrastructure.
Bill· SS. 2182 (107th)open
United States · United States Congress · 17 April 2002
Cyber Security Research and Development Act - Authorizes appropriations, to the National Science Foundation (NSF) and to the Secretary of Commerce for the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), to establish new programs and to increase funding for certain current programs for computer and network security research and development and research fellowships. Requires the NSF Director to award grants for computer and network security through the following: (1) basic research in innovative approaches to the structure of their hardware and software; (2) multidisciplinary research centers, through institutions of higher education (IHEs) or their consortia which may partner with government laboratories or for-profit institutions; (3) undergraduate and master's degree programs, as well as education-related grants under the Scientific and Advanced Technology Act of 1992; (4) graduate traineeships; and (5) graduate research fellowships. Amends the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 to include among NSF functions leading in supporting research and education activities to improve networked information systems' security. Amends the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act to require the NIST Director to establish a program of assistance to IHEs that enter into partnerships with for-profit entities to support research to improve the security of computer systems. Requires NIST to carry out specified types of intramural computer security research. Requires the NIST Director to arrange with the National Research Council of the National Academy of Sciences to study and report to Congress on critical infrastructure weaknesses.
Bill· HRH.R. 4466 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 17 April 2002
National Transportation Safety Board Reauthorization Act of 2002 - Amends Federal transportation law to reauthorize appropriations for the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Authorizes appropriations to the NTSB for necessary expenses of the NTSB Academy. Requires a NTSB employee, in any case in which he or she determines that an accident has occurred during the operation of an aircraft, to notify the aircraft's owner or operator of the right to appeal such determination to the NTSB. Requires the NTSB, in cases where it has relinquished investigative priority with respect to an aircraft accident or a railroad accident, to assist, to the maximum extent possible, the agency to which it has relinquished investigative priority in assisting families with respect to the accident. Sets forth certain responsibilities of the Chairman of the NTSB and the NTSB after being notified of a rail passenger accident resulting in a major loss of life, including to: (1) publish information on the person responsible for acting as a point of contact within the Federal Government for the families of passengers involved in the accident; (2) designate an independent nonprofit organization to provide emotional care and support to such families; and (3) facilitate the recovery and identification of fatally injured passengers and communicate with the families as to the roles of the Government agencies, the organization, and the rail passenger carrier involved, with respect to the accident and post-accident activities. Requires a rail passenger carrier to submit to the Secretary of Transportation and the Chairman of the NTSB a plan for addressing the needs of the families of passengers involved in a rail passenger accident resulting in a major loss of life.
Bill· HRH.R. 4404 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 16 April 2002
Amends the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States to provide duty-free treatment for certain log forwarders with cranes, designed for off-highway use and certain parts of log forwarders. Applies certain staged rate reductions to such items.
Bill· SS. 2077 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 9 April 2002
Securing Our States Act of 2002 or the SOS Act - Requires the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to make grants to States to improve public safety in order to prepare for and respond to terrorist threats. Requires such grants to be used to: (1) fund additional law enforcement, fire, emergency medical, and border security resources; (2) purchase and refurbish personal protective equipment for fire, police, and emergency personnel and to acquire technology to improve communication systems; (3) improve protection of critical infrastructure; (4) assist State and local emergency planning organizations so that public agencies can design, review, and improve disaster response systems; (5) assist States and localities in coordinating their efforts and sharing information with all relevant agencies; (6) establish timely notification systems that enable States and localities to communicate with each other and the Federal Government; and (7) improve communication systems to inform the public about any threat and precautions they should take.
Bill· SS. 2071 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 2002
Prohibits any toll from being collected from any military vehicle or equipment owned by the Department of Defense for the use of any toll highway, bridge, tunnel, or ferry when such vehicle or equipment is under actual physical control of a member of the armed forces. Requires any such toll facility, during a period of national emergency declared by the President and upon request of the Secretary of Defense, to reserve a toll lane for the exclusive use of such vehicles or equipment.
Resolution· SCONRESS.Con.Res. 100 (107th)open
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 2002
Sets forth the congressional budget for the Government for FY 2003, setting forth the appropriate budgetary levels for each of FY 2004 through 2012. Lists recommended budgetary levels and amounts for FY 2003 through 2012 with respect to: (1) Federal revenues; (2) new budget authority; (3) budget outlays; (4) surpluses; (5) public debt; and (6) debt held by the public. Sets forth specified amounts of revenues and outlays of the Federal Old-Age and Survivors and Disability Insurance Trust Funds. Lists the appropriate levels of new budget authority and budget outlays for FY 2003 through FY 2012 for specified major functional categories. Provides for specified budgetary restraints and reserve funds. Expresses the sense of the Senate concerning: (1) estimates of the cost of small business credit programs; (2) Federal employee pay; (3) broadband capabilities for underserved areas; (4) reductions in guaranteed social security benefits; (5) mental health parity; (6) beneficiary access to health services; (7) cost of prescription drugs and competition; (8) equal access to medicare; (9) home health care; (10) medicare equity; (11) access to affordable health care coverage for the uninsured; (11) stockpile for childhood immunizations; (12) a medicaid commission; (13) child care funding; (14) child tax credit; (15) defense science and technology; (16) Department of Defense review of Tail-to-Tooth Commission; (17) the National Guard; (18) concurrent receipt of military retired pay and Veterans' Administration Disability Compensation; (19) full funding for the assistance to Firefighters Grant Program; (20) the National Infrastructure Protection Center; (21) tribal colleges and universities; (22) the Pell Grant; (23) Superfund; (24) PILT funding; (25) State and local costs of providing services to illegal immigrants; and (26) a balanced budget constitutional amendment.
Bill· SS. 2046 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 March 2002
Rural Health Care Facility Improvement Act of 2002 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a loan guarantee program for rural health facilities. Defines rural health facility to include the following facilities found in rural areas: health clinics, critical access hospitals, hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, health centers, federally qualified health centers, and nursing homes. Covers the purchase of new and the repair of existing infrastructure and technology. Sets forth loan limits. Entitles the United States to subrogation and makes such loan guarantees incontestable. Authorizes the Secretary to take such action as may be necessary to prevent a default, subject to the requirements of the Federal Credit Reform Act of 1990. Permits the Secretary to foreclose, as specified.
Bill· SS. 2039 (107th)open
United States · United States Congress · 20 March 2002
National Aviation Capacity Expansion Act of 2002 - Directs the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to implement the redesign and reconstruction of Chicago O'Hare International Airport in Cook and Dupage Counties, Illinois, in accordance with a specified runway design plan, and the development of a south suburban airport in the Chicago metropolitan region, by facilitating their approval, funding, construction, and implementation. Requires an implementation plan to be prepared by the State of Illinois under the Clean Air Act for regulating emissions associated with activity at commercial service airports. Makes the Administrator's approval of an airport layout plan submitted by Chicago that includes the runway redesign plan conditional on the meeting of specified requirements. Requires the withholding of all airport grant funds for O'Hare (other than grants involving national security and safety) until January 1, 2026, unless specified conditions with respect to operations at Merrill C. Meigs Field have been met.
Bill· SS. 2038 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 20 March 2002
Homeland Security Block Grant Act of 2002 - Authorizes the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to make homeland security block grants to States, local governments, and Indian tribes. Requires grantees to: (1) prepare a statement of homeland security objectives and projected fund use; and (2) provide the Director with a certification that they have developed a homeland security plan that meets short- and long-term security needs and that they will comply with applicable laws. Directs: (1) each grantee to submit to the Director a performance and evaluation report concerning the use of funds, together with an assessment of the relationship of such use to security objectives; and (2) the Director to encourage and assist national associations of eligible grantees, States, and local governments in non-qualifying areas to develop and recommend uniform record-keeping, performance reporting, evaluation reporting, and auditing requirements, to establish such requirements, and to make specified reviews and audits at least annually. Lists activities eligible for assistance under this Act, including funding additional law enforcement, fire, and emergency resources, improving cyber and infrastructure security, and devising a homeland security plan. Provides that grants may be used to cover costs incurred for eligible activities on or after September 11, 2001. Sets forth provisions regarding allocation and distribution of funds and matching requirements. Earmarks specified sums for State and regional homeland defense planning, Statewide training facilities and homeland best-practices clearinghouses, and first responder communication systems. Mandates nondiscrimination in programs and activities. Sets forth remedies for noncompliance with Act requirements.
Bill· HRH.R. 4063 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 20 March 2002
Border Economic Recovery Act for Health and the Environment - Amends the United States-Mexico Border Health Commission Act to authorize appropriations. Amends the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 with respect to funding for State-furnished emergency health services for undocumented aliens in the United States-Mexico border area ("border area"). Amends the Child Nutrition Act of 1966, with respect to the special supplemental nutrition program, to require the Secretary of Agriculture to utilize partnerships for increased coordination of food and nutrition assistance for residents of colonias in the border area. Amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to increase funding for grants and loans for water and waste facilities in communities whose residents face significant health risks. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to make grants to selected colleges in Arizona, California, New Mexico, and Texas to provide community resource centers to serve colonias. Amends the Public Health Service Act with respect to funding of: (1) tuberculosis prevention activities in the border area; and (2) interdisciplinary, community-based linkages and centers addressing unmet health care needs in such area and in the State of Florida. Authorizes funding for the Border Center for the Application of Prevention Technologies (concerning youth substance abuse prevention in the border area). Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make awards of grants or cooperative agreements to: (1) conduct cancer screenings in the border area and report diagnosis information to the appropriate State cancer registry; (2) expand a diabetes study; and (3) support community-based sexually transmitted disease control programs. Provides funding for the Department of HUD's Healthy Homes Initiative, reserving specified amounts for border area activities. Provides funding for: (1) the Materials Corridor Partnership Initiative; (2) the Southwest Center for Environmental Research and Policy; (3) environmental infrastructure projects carried out by the International Boundary and Water Commission (and requires a long-range water supply strategic plan); (4) the U.S. contribution to the Commission for Environmental Cooperation; (5) innovative water conservation programs; (6) the International Consortium for the Environment established at Brooks Air Force Base; (7) the Border Environmental Cooperation Commission for environmental infrastructure projects; and (8) grants for high-priority projects carried out through the North American Development Bank's Border Environmental Infrastructure Fund.
Bill· HRH.R. 4059 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 20 March 2002
Homeland Security Block Grant Act of 2002 - Authorizes the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to make homeland security block grants to States, local governments, and Indian tribes. Requires grantees to: (1) prepare a statement of homeland security objectives and projected fund use; and (2) provide the Director with a certification that they have developed a homeland security plan that meets short- and long-term security needs and that they will comply with applicable laws. Directs: (1) each grantee to submit to the Director a performance and evaluation report concerning the use of funds, together with an assessment of the relationship of such use to security objectives; and (2) the Director to encourage and assist national associations of eligible grantees, States, and local governments in non-qualifying areas to develop and recommend uniform record-keeping, performance reporting, evaluation reporting, and auditing requirements, to establish such requirements, and to make specified reviews and audits at least annually. Lists activities eligible for assistance under this Act, including funding additional law enforcement, fire, and emergency resources, improving cyber and infrastructure security, and devising a homeland security plan. Provides that grants may be used to cover costs incurred for eligible activities on or after September 11, 2001. Sets forth provisions regarding allocation and distribution of funds and matching requirements. Earmarks specified sums for State and regional homeland defense planning, Statewide training facilities and homeland best-practices clearinghouses, and first responder communication systems. Mandates nondiscrimination in programs and activities. Sets forth remedies for noncompliance with Act requirements.
Bill· HRH.R. 4012 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 20 March 2002
Rural Wireless Telecommunications Consumer Enhancement Act of 2002 - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to require the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), in adopting rules that apply to small rural wireless carriers (carriers with fewer than one percent of the Nation's wireless subscribers), to separately evaluate the burden that any proposed regulatory, compliance, or reporting requirement would have on such carriers. Requires forbearance in the imposition of any requirement that would cause such carriers to divert resources from improving existing and advanced services, making infrastructure investments, and undertaking other initiatives for the benefit of businesses and residents in rural areas, so long as such forbearance is in the public interest. Requires the FCC to act within 90 days on a petition from such a carrier for reconsideration or other review of an FCC rule, policy, or other requirement. Establishes in the FCC an Office of Rural Advocacy to undertake specified activities with respect to the promotion and provision of wireless telecommunications services for rural populations.
Bill· HRH.R. 4077 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 20 March 2002
Amends Federal aviation law to authorize the Secretary of Transportation to grandfather, that is, apportion airport development and noise compatibility program funds to a primary airport sponsor in a fiscal year in an amount equal to that apportioned to such sponsor in the previous fiscal year if the Secretary finds: (1) passenger boardings at such airport are below 10,000 in the calendar year used to calculate the apportionment as a result of the discontinuance of air carrier service to and from the airport in any of the three calendar years preceding the calendar year used for such calculations; and (2) the airport had at least 10,000 passenger boardings in any of such three preceding calendar years.
Bill· HRH.R. 4016 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 20 March 2002
Amends Federal transportation law to extend, beginning on September 22, 2001 through December 31, 2003, the period of time during which air carrier liability for third party damages as a result of a terrorist act may be limited to no more than $100 million, in the aggregate, for all claims arising out of such act.
Bill· SS. 2034 (107th)open
United States · United States Congress · 19 March 2002
Municipal Solid Waste Interstate Transportation and Local Authority Act of 2002 - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to prohibit a facility that received municipal solid waste (MSW) before this Acts's enactment from receiving out-of-State MSW for disposal unless the waste is received pursuant to a new or existing host community agreement or certain other State authorization. Sets forth requirements regarding the effect of host community agreements and receipt of waste by other facilities. Bars the receipt of such waste at any time the State determines that a facility is not in compliance with specified laws and regulations. Authorizes States in which facilities received more than 650,000 tons of out-of-State MSW in 1993 to establish limits on the quantity of such waste authorized to be received by facilities receiving such waste in 1993 in declining percentages of the 1993 quantity. Requires notification of such limits by a State to each State from which MSW was received in 1993. Prohibits a State from exercising the authority for general MSW limits if it exercises the authority for limits provided under this paragraph. Allows States to impose cost recovery surcharges on the processing of out-of-State MSW in the State. Imposes requirements regarding temporary waste storage. States conditions for: (1) permit denial; (2) State-imposed annual limitations, including on construction and demolition waste; and (3) the exercise of State or local flow control authority (directing materials to particular facilities). Prohibits a State or political subdivision from requiring any person to transport such waste or materials to any active portion of an MSW landfill if its contamination is a basis for listing on the National Priorities List established under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980, unless the person has been indemnified by the government or the owner-operator against all liability with respect to such materials. Provides for the enforceability of certain legally binding interim contracts that obligate the delivery of a minimum quantity of MSW or recyclables to a designated facility and obligate the government to pay or be liable for such materials.
Bill· HRH.R. 3994 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 19 March 2002
Afghanistan Freedom Support Act of 2002 - Authorizes the President to provide assistance for Afghanistan through 2004 for the following activities: (1) urgent humanitarian needs; (2) repatriation and resettlement of refugees and internally displaced persons; (3) counternarcotics efforts; (4) reestablishment of food security, rehabilitation of the agriculture sector, improvement in health conditions, and the reconstruction of basic infrastructure; (5) reestablishment of Afghanistan as a viable nation-state through support for the development and expansion of democratic and market-based institutions; and (6) support for the establishment of a market economy, private financial institutions, the development of a telecommunications infrastructure, and trade and commercial links. Earmarks funds for assistance in the major opium producing regions, including areas within the Badakshan, Helmand, and Qandahar provinces. Urges the President to: (1) designate within the Department of State a coordinator for such assistance and U.S. interests in Afghanistan; and (2) utilize the expertise of Afghan-Americans. Expresses the sense of Congress that, during the transition to fully representative government, the U.S. should support: (1) the development of a civilian-controlled and centrally-governed standing Afghanistan army that respects human rights; (2) the creation and training of a professional civilian police force that respects human rights; and (3) a multinational security force in Afghanistan. Authorizes the President to provide and direct the drawdown of defense articles and services and military education to the Government of Afghanistan. Makes other foreign countries or international organizations eligible for such assistance. Permits the provision of counter-narcotics, crime control, police training services and other specified support.
Bill· HRH.R. 3983 (107th)open
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 2002
Maritime Transportation Antiterrorism Act of 2002 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to: (1) assess port vulnerability; and (2) prepare a National Maritime Transportation Antiterrorism Plan for deterring catastrophic emergencies. Requires the Plan to: (1) coordinate Federal, State, and local efforts; (2) identify security resources; and (3) include a system of surveillance and notice to ensure earliest possible identification of emergencies. Requires Federal Maritime Antiterrorism Coordinators to develop, update, and integrate Area Maritime Transportation Antiterrorism Plans, as needed. Requires owners or operators of vessels or facilities to prepare an antiterrorism plan for deterring a catastrophic emergency. Requires the Secretary or Under Secretary of Transportation for Security to establish certain antiterrorism measures, including: (1) response plans for vessels; (2) transportation security cards; (3) maritime antiterrorism teams to protect vessels, ports, facilities, and cargo in U.S. waters; (4) a cargo identification and screening system; (5) requirements for the advance electronic transmission of passenger and crew manifests from arriving commercial vessels; (6) the assessment of antiterrorism measures maintained at specified foreign ports; (7) requirements for all commercial vessels entering the territorial sea of the United States to provide specified information as a condition of entry; (8) authorization of the use of qualified armed Coast Guard personnel as sea marshals on facilities or vessels; and (9) requirements for specified vessels operating in U.S. navigable waters to be equipped with a position indicating transponder. Extends the jurisdiction of the United States to include all waters of the territorial sea of the United States as described in Presidential Proclamation 5928. Extends the coverage of the Deepwater Port Act to natural gas.
Bill· SS. 2024 (107th)open
United States · United States Congress · 15 March 2002
Amends Federal highway provisions to make an exception to the prohibition against the use of motorized vehicles on trails and pedestrian walkways for an "electric personal assistive mobility device," when permitted by State or local regulations. (Defines such a device as a self-balancing, non-tandem-wheeled device that is designed to transport only one person with personal baggage, is powered solely by an electric propulsion system, and has a top speed of 20 miles per hour.)
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 369 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 March 2002
Recognizes specified goals and objectives of the Intelligent Transportation Systems Caucus.
Bill· SS. 2007 (107th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 March 2002
General Aviation Industry Reparations Act of 2002 - Directs the President to take certain actions to compensate general aviation entities and their employees for economic injuries incurred by them as a result of the terrorist attacks on the United States on September 11, 2001, including to: (1) issue them federal credit instruments; and (2) compensate them and employees for direct losses incurred as a result of any Federal ground stop order or flight restrictions for a period of one week or more imposed in response to the increased security required by such attacks, as well as certain incremental losses, especially those incurred by employees of an entity receiving assistance who lost their jobs (other than for cause) as a result of such attacks. Authorizes the Air Transportation Stabilization Board to enter into agreements with one or more obligors to issue such instruments. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to provide insurance or reinsurance, or reimbursement of insurance costs increases, to a general aviation entity against loss or damage arising from the operation of nonmilitary aircraft while in the United States. Authorizes the President to issue a Federal credit instrument to a general aviation entity if it has entered into a binding agreement to: (1) pay costs attributable to providing health insurance coverage for former and current employees who lost their jobs and coverage because of the terrorist attacks; and (2) maintain current health benefit and contribution levels for currently insured employees. Defines "general aviation entity" to mean any person (non-air carrier) that: (1) operates nonmilitary aircraft to conduct its primary business; (2) manufactures nonmilitary aircraft with a maximum seating capacity of fewer than 20 passengers, or aircraft parts to be used in such aircraft; (3) provides services necessary for nonmilitary operations; or (4) operates a nonprimary airport meeting certain criteria. Includes fixed based operators, flight schools, manufacturers of general aviation aircraft and products, persons engaged in nonscheduled aviation enterprises, and general aviation independent contractors.