Records whose title is actually about this topic. Use a country filter if the list is still too broad.
Records
Bill· SS. 1174 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 May 1999
Aviation Investment and Reform Act for the 21st Century - Title I: Airport and Airway Improvements - Subtitle A: Funding - Amends Federal Aviation law to reauthorize through FY 2004: (1) the Airport Improvement Program (AIP); and (2) the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Facilities and Equipment Program. Earmarks specified amounts for the voluntary purchase and installation of universal access systems. (Sec. 103) Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to authorize appropriations for FAA operations through FY 2004. Makes specified allocations, including for: (1) wildlife hazard mitigation measures and management of the wildlife strike database of the FAA; and (2) a university consortium established to provide an air safety and security management certificate program. Sets forth fiscal year limits on amounts appropriated from the Airport and Airway Trust Fund for certain aviation improvement programs. (Sec. 104) Makes specified allocations out of the Trust Fund for the aviation safety accelerated program. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation through FY 2004 to make grants out of such amounts for eligible projects to: (1) reduce delays and congestion at airports and in the air traffic control system; (2) construct airport improvements or acquire air traffic equipment to enhance competition among air carriers; and (3) enhance air service to small and medium-sized communities. Directs the Secretary to establish innovative methods for processing, reviewing, and approving such projects in order to reduce, to the maximum extent practicable, the time required from an applicant's request for project approval through the completion of the project. (Sec. 105) Makes specified changes to the formula for crediting airport improvement fund amounts to the discretionary fund. Revises the apportionment of airport improvement fund amounts to sponsors of primary (including cargo only) airports and to the States for each fiscal year. Provides minimum apportionments for reliever and nonprimary (but excluding primary) commercial service airports. Authorizes the use of airport improvement funds apportioned to Alaska, Puerto Rico, or Hawaii for any of their public airports. Authorizes the use of State-apportioned airport improvement funds for integrated airport system planning that encompasses one or more primary airports. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to permit the use of State highway specifications for airfield pavement construction using airport improvement funds at nonprimary airports serving certain aircraft, provided safety will not be negatively affected and the life of the pavement will not be shorter than it would be if constructed using FAA standards. Increases the apportionment for airport improvement funds for airport noise compatibility programs. Authorizes the use of the supplemental apportionment of airport improvement funds for Alaska for any of its public airports. Repeals a certain limitation on the apportionment of airport improvement funds for commercial service airports in Alaska. (Sec. 106) Provides for an eligible agency to impose a passenger facility fee of more than three dollars (currently, one, two, or three dollars) on each airline passenger of a domestic or foreign air carrier boarding an aircraft at an airport the agency controls to finance an eligible airport-related project, provided certain conditions are met. (Sec. 107) Directs the FAA Administrator to submit to specified congressional committees a copy of the annual budget estimates of the FAA (including line item justifications) at the same time such budget estimates are submitted to the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations. Subtitle B: Airport Development - Revises U.S. policies regarding aviation programs to encourage the funding and use of integrated in-pavement lighting systems for runways and taxiways and other runway and taxiway incursion prevention devices. (Sec. 121) Makes eligible for airport development project funds the installation of emergency call boxes, closed circuit weather surveillance equipment, and windshear detection equipment at public airports. (Sec. 123) Directs the FAA Administrator to study and report to Congress on the feasibility of requiring U.S. airports to install enhanced vision technologies to replace or enhance conventional landing light systems over a ten-year period. Makes the installation of such systems at public airports eligible for airport development projects funds. (Sec. 124) Repeals the pavement maintenance pilot program. Makes routine work to preserve and extend the useful life of runways, taxiways, and aprons at nonprimary airports eligible for airport development project funds. (Sec. 125) Prohibits the approval of a passenger facility fee or airport improvement grant for a covered airport (one that has more than .25 percent of the total number of passenger boardings each year at all commercial service airports, and at which one or two air carriers control more than 50 percent of the passenger boardings) unless it submits a competition plan containing certain airport gate and related facility information. (Sec. 126) Declares that the Government's share of costs shall be: (1) not more than 90 percent for airport improvement projects funded under the State block grant program; (2) 100 percent for airport security projects funded with airport improvement funds; and (3) in FY 2000, 100 percent for any airport improvement funded project at a nonprimary airport, or at a primary airport having less than .05 percent of the total number of passenger boardings each year at all commercial service airports. (Sec. 127) Prohibits the Secretary from requiring an eligible agency to impose a passenger facility fee in order to obtain a letter of intent with respect to airport development projects. (Sec. 128) Provides that the lesser of $15 million or 20 percent of small airport grant funds be set-aside for each of the next four fiscal years to assist sponsors of airports (not located in Alaska and which serve aircraft designed for more than nine but less than 31 passenger seats) in meeting the safety terms in airport operating certificates. Requires the Secretary to notify the grant recipient that the source of the grant is from the small airport fund. Revises the amount of certain funds apportioned to the small airport fund. Authorizes the Secretary to distribute specified percentages of funds from the small airport fund for grants for projects at small hub airports, public-use airports, and certain commercial service airports. Requires the Secretary to give priority consideration to airport development projects to support operations by turbine powered aircraft (if the non-Federal share of project costs is at least 40 percent) when making small airport fund grants to sponsors of public-use airports. (Sec. 129) Authorizes the Secretary to use certain unobligated funds to make discretionary grants for airport planning and development programs. (Sec. 130) Increases from 12 to 20 the number of current or former military airports at any time that may receive airport improvement funds. Increases the amount of discretionary funds that are available to designated sponsors of current or former military airports to construct, improve, or repair airport terminal building facilities and airport surface parking lots, fuel farms, utilities, hangers, and air cargo terminals (50,000 square feet or less). (Sec. 131) Directs the Secretary to establish a pilot program to contract for air traffic control services at Level I air traffic control towers that do not qualify for the Contract Tower Program. Sets forth specified program requirements. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 132) Authorizes the Secretary to approve not more than 25 projects in which airport improvement grant funds may be used for innovative financing techniques for development projects at airports that each have less than .25 percent of the total number of passenger boardings each year at all commercial service airports. (Sec. 133) Directs the Secretary, in order to improve security at public U.S. airports, to carry out not less than one project to test and evaluate innovative airport security systems and related technology. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 134) Directs the Secretary to carry out an inherently low-emission airport vehicle pilot program which makes grants to the sponsors of not more than ten public-use airports eligible for airport development assistance. Makes a public-use airport eligible for such assistance if it is located in an air quality nonattainment area. Directs the Secretary, in selecting an applicant sponsor for a grant, to give priority consideration to applicants that achieve the greatest air quality benefits measured by the amount of emission reduced per dollar of grant funds. (Sec. 135) Revises the amount of certain funds apportioned to the discretionary fund. Declares that an airport development project shall remain eligible for funding from the discretionary fund (subject to the availability of funds) even though the airport's status changes from a primary to a nonprimary airport. Permits certain regulations to authorize a public agency to request waiver of a passenger facility fee for: (1) any class of domestic or foreign air carrier that enplanes not more than one percent of the total number of passengers enplaned annually at an airport; or (2) passengers enplaned on a flight to an airport with scheduled passenger service but fewer than 2,5000 passenger boardings each year, and in a community with a population of less than 10,000 and not connected by land to the National Highway System. (Sec. 136) Requires the Secretary to publish notice in the Federal Register and provide an opportunity for comment before any modification can be made with respect to airport development project grant assurances made by an airport owner or operator (before December 29, 1987) with respect to the disposal of surplus property for the airport. Declares that the Secretary may only release an option of the United States for a reversionary interest in property conveyed to a public agency sponsoring an airport development project after providing notice and an opportunity for public comment. Requires any Federal, executive branch department, agency, or instrumentality to grant priority to a request by a public agency (except another Federal executive branch department, agency, or instrumentality) for surplus property for use at a public airport. Authorizes the Secretary to waive, without charge, a term of a gift of an interest in such property after providing notice and an opportunity for public comment and other conditions are met. Subtitle C: Miscellaneous - Treats as an eligible airport-related project with respect to which an eligible agency may impose a passenger facility fee the construction of a terminal building (and adjacent aircraft fueling facilities), including structural foundations and floor systems, exterior building walls and load-bearing interior columns or walls, windows, door and roof systems, and building utilities (including heating, air conditioning, ventilation, plumbing, and electrical service), but excluding the construction necessary for improvement or final completion of revenue-producing areas and nonpublic use areas within such terminal buildings unless otherwise permitted, if an air carrier not yet serving the airport or accounting for less than 40 percent of passenger boardings at the airport: (1) will initiate or increase scheduled air transportation passenger service at the airport; and (2) will occupy such terminal facilities or equivalent terminal facilities otherwise made available as a result of such terminal construction not more than two years from the date that construction of such terminal facilities is completes. Treats also as such a project for which an eligible agency may impose a passenger facility fee the costs of terminal development at an airport that did not have more than .25 percent of the total U.S. annual passenger boardings and at which total passenger boardings declined by at least 16 percent between 1989 and 1997. (Sec. 152) Makes available to repay money borrowed to pay such development costs any airport planning and development and noise compatibility planning grant funds apportioned to sponsors of an air carrier airport at which terminal development was carried out between June 30, 1970, and July 12, 1976, or, in the case of a commercial service airport which annually had less than .25 percent (currently, .05 percent) of the total enplanements in the United States, between August 1, 1986, and September 30, 1990, or between June 1, 1991, and October 31, 1992. Makes such grants available for repayment if, among other things, the Secretary decides that using the amount to repay the borrowed money will not defer any needed airport development project affecting safety, security, or capacity. Authorizes the Secretary to approve the use of such funds for the repayment of borrowed money for terminal development costs at commercial service airports (nonhub airports) which annually have less than .25 percent (currently, .05 percent) of the total enplanements in the United States. Requires the Secretary to determine whether or not a public airport has at least 2,500 passenger boardings, on the basis of the number of passenger boardings at a public airport in the calendar year that includes the first day of such fiscal year or the preceding calendar year, when determining whether discretionary funds may be distributed to such commercial service airport. (Sec. 153) Extends the instrument landing system (ILS) program through FY 2004. Directs the Secretary to maintain and upgrade Loran-C navigation facilities throughout the transition period to satellite-based navigation. (Sec. 154) Makes charter air transportation a scheduled passenger operation subject to mandatory issuance of an airport operating license if the airport is not in Alaska and serves aircraft designed for between nine and 31 passenger seats. Directs the FAA Administrator to permit such an airport to preclude scheduled passenger operations (including public chartered operations), however, if it notifies the Administrator that it does not intend to obtain a certificate. (Sec. 155) Authorizes the Secretary to obligate airport improvement funds and amounts from the Trust Fund for any project to construct a new runway at an international airport. (Sec. 156) Directs the FAA Administrator to study and report to Congress on the long term physical performance, safety implications, and environmental benefits of using recycled materials (including recycled pavements, waste materials, and byproducts) in aviation pavement. Authorizes appropriations. Title II: Airline Service Improvements - Subtitle A: Service to Airports Not Receiving Sufficient Service - Repeals requirements under the Code of Federal Regulations prohibiting the increase or decrease by the Administrator in the number of takeoffs and landings (the High Density Rule) at airports (except Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport). (Sec. 201) Authorizes the Secretary to grant exemptions from the High Density Rule to air carriers that provide nonstop air transportation using jet aircraft that comply with stage 3 noise levels and whose flights begin or end within 1,250 miles (perimeter rule) between Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and an airport that has had less than two million enplanements, or between Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and an airport that does not have nonstop transportation. Requires the Secretary to treat all commuter air carriers that have cooperative agreements (including code share agreements with other air carriers) equally for determining eligibility for exemptions regardless of the form of the corporate relationship between the commuter air carrier and the other air carrier. (Sec. 202) Increases the authorization of appropriations for the essential air service program for each fiscal year. Earmarks specified funds for: (1) the small community air service program; (2) air carriers to subsidize service to and from an underserved airport (not to exceed three years); (3) underserved airports to obtain jet aircraft service to and from them; (4) implementation of such other measures as the Secretary considers appropriate to improve air service both in terms of costs and availability of such service to consumers; and (5) rural air safety at airports with less than 100,000 annual boardings. Authorizes appropriations. Requires the FAA Administrator to give priority in funding to airports in which the community will provide from local sources a portion of project costs. (Sec. 203) Waives the State or local contribution requirement with respect to the compensation of an air carrier providing air service to certain noneligible places. (Sec. 204) Directs the Secretary, in carrying out aviation policy, to consider as being in the public interest and consistent with public convenience and necessity ensuring that consumers in all regions of the United States, including those in small communities and rural and remote areas, have access to affordable, regularly scheduled air service. (Sec. 205) Prohibits the Secretary from denying airport improvement assistance to small community air service airports solely on the basis that such an airport is located within 70 highway miles of a hub airport if the most commonly used highway route between the airport and the hub airport exceeds 70 miles. Subtitle B: Regional Air Service Incentive Program - Authorizes the Secretary to provide through one or more lenders guaranteed loans (including the extension of credit) to commuter air carriers (maximum seating capacity of 75 or less) for the purchase of regional jet aircraft which are to be used to provide service to underserved markets. Outlines loan conditions and limitations, including that: (1) the maximum amount guaranteed on a loan or extended on credit shall be no more than 50 percent, or $100 million; (2) such aircraft comply with certain Federal noise-level requirements; and (3) the air carrier agrees that the purchased aircraft be used to provide service to an underserved market. Authorizes the Secretary to make use of Federal facilities and assistance in carrying out the incentive program. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 211) Terminates the Secretary's program authority five years after enactment of this Act. Title III: FAA Management Reform - Establishes the Air Traffic Control Oversight Board within the Department of Transportation. Sets forth the Board's responsibilities, including to oversee the FAA in its administration, management, conduct, direction, and supervision of the air traffic control system. (Sec. 303) Provides for the appointment, by the FAA Administrator, and with the approval of the Board, of a Chief Operating Officer for the air traffic control system. (Sec. 304) Provides that the Secretary (instead of, as currently, the President, with the consent of the Senate) shall make subsequent appointments of Federal Aviation Management Advisory Council members. (Sec. 305) Directs the Secretary to develop and implement a coordinated environmental review process for aviation infrastructure projects that require the preparation of an environmental impact statement or environmental assessment under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (or any other environmental review or approval by operation of law). Sets forth the elements of such review process. (Sec. 306) Prohibits the FAA Administrator from issuing a proposed or final regulation that is likely to result in the expenditure by State, local, and tribal governments, or by the private sector, of $250 million (currently, $100 million) or more in aggregate (adjusted annually for inflation), or any regulation which is significant, unless the Secretary approves the issuance of the regulation in advance. (Sec. 307) Directs the Inspector General to conduct an assessment of whether the overall method of calculating FAA costs and attributing such costs to the user is reasonable. Authorizes appropriations. Title IV: Family Assistance - Amends Federal transportation law to revise provisions prohibiting unsolicited communications concerning potential action for personal injury or wrongful death by an attorney to an individual injured in an accident involving a domestic air carrier before the 45th day (currently, 30th day) following the accident to provide that such prohibition include accidents involving a foreign air carrier in the United States. Authorizes the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to bring a civil action in a district court for violations of this title. (Sec. 401) Prohibits a State or political subdivision from preventing nonprofit organization employees with experience in disasters and post-trauma communication with families from providing mental health and counseling services within the 30 day period after an accident. Includes within the definition of "passenger" for purposes of the provision of assistance to families of passengers involved in aircraft accidents: (1) foreign air carrier employees aboard the aircraft; and (2) any other person aboard the aircraft without regard to whether the person paid for the transportation, occupied a seat, or held a reservation for the flight. (Sec. 402) Revises air carrier plans that provide assistance to the families of passengers involved in aircraft accidents to require them to include, at a minimum, an assurance that: (1) upon request of the family of a passenger, the air carrier will inform the family of whether the passenger's name appeared on a preliminary passenger manifest for the flight involved in the accident; and (2) the air carrier will provide adequate training to air carrier employees and agents to meet the needs of survivors and family members following an accident. Prohibits the Secretary from approving an air carrier's application for a certificate of public convenience and necessity unless the applicant has included, among other things, an agreement that in the event that the air carrier volunteers assistance to U.S. citizens within the United States in the case of an aircraft accident outside of the United States involving major loss of life, the carrier will consult with the NTSB and the Department of State on the provision of such assistance. Declares that an air carrier shall not be liable for damages in any action brought in a Federal or State court arising out of its performance in providing information concerning a flight reservation (except in cases of gross negligence or intentional misconduct). (Sec. 403) Makes similar changes to foreign air carrier plans. Title V: Safety - Directs the FAA Administrator to require by regulation that collision avoidance equipment (TCAS-II) be installed on each cargo aircraft with a payload capacity in excess of 15,000 kilograms. (Sec. 502) Declares that an air carrier does not need to obtain the employment records of an applicant pilot who has been employed by a branch of the U.S. armed forces, the National Guard, or reserve before allowing such individual to begin service as a pilot. Provides for electronic access to the employment records of FAA air pilots. (Sec. 503) Provides for the enforcement of whistleblower laws for FAA employees. (Sec. 504) Directs the FAA Administrator to issue guidelines and encourage the development of air safety risk management programs throughout the aviation industry, including self-audits and self-disclosure programs. (Sec. 505) Directs the FAA Administrator to issue a notice of proposed rulemaking: (1) to develop procedures to protect air carriers and their employees from civil enforcement actions under the Flight Operations Quality Assurance program; and (2) on implementing a certain section of title 49 (Federal aviation law) relating to the issuance of airport operating certificates for small scheduled passenger air carrier operations. (Sec. 507) Directs the FAA Administrator to conduct a rulemaking proceeding to require the safe disposition of life-limited parts removed from an aircraft. Sets forth civil penalties for violations of such requirements. (Sec. 508) Subjects to a civil penalty of up to $25,000 any individual who interferes with the duties or responsibilities of the flight crew or cabin crew of a civil aircraft, or who poses an imminent threat to the safety of the aircraft or other individuals on the aircraft. (Sec. 509) Directs the FAA Administrator to report to specified congressional committees on FAA progress in implementing the air transportation oversight system. (Sec. 510) Makes applicable to other specified types of aircraft (currently exempted from them), including turbojet-powered aircraft, certain requirements that commercial aircraft be outfitted with an emergency locator transmitter. (Continues to exempt from such requirements aircraft used in scheduled flights by scheduled air carriers holding certificates issued by the Secretary, training operations conducted entirely within a 50-mile radius of the airport from which the training operations begin, flight operations related to design and testing, the manufacture, preparation, and delivery of aircraft, research and development, showing compliance with regulations, exhibition, air racing, or the aerial application of a substance on agricultural crops.) Title VI: Whistleblower Protection - Amends Federal transportation law to establish a whistleblower protection program for airline employees providing air safety information. (Sec. 601) Prohibits air carriers, contractors, and subcontractors from discharging or otherwise discriminating against an employee as to pay, terms, conditions, or privileges of employment because the employee: (1) is about to provide or has provided to the Federal Government information relating to air safety; or (2) is about to file or has filed a proceeding, or testified, or otherwise participated in a proceeding relating to air safety. Sets forth a Department of Labor complaint procedure for persons who believe they have been discharged or discriminated against in violation of this Act. Provides for award of attorney's fees of up to $5,000 to a prevailing employer for any such complaint found frivolous or brought in bad faith. Specifies civil penalties for violation of this Act. Title VII: Miscellaneous Provisions - Amends Federal aviation safety law to declare that aircraft owned by the Government, State, or local government qualifies as a public aircraft except when used for commercial purposes or to carry an individual other than a crewmember or a qualified non-crewmember. (Sec. 703) Provides that a proposal under a competitive bid process that is in the possession of the FAA Administrator may not be made available to the public under the Freedom of Information Act , with a specified exception. (Sec. 704) Authorizes the FAA Administrator to make a multiyear contract of not more than ten years (currently, such contracts for the procurement of goods and services are limited to no more than five years) for telecommunication services that are provided through the use of a satellite if the FAA Administrator finds that the longer contract period would be cost beneficial. (Sec. 705) Provides that a proposed change to the FAA personnel management system that has not led to an agreement between the FAA employee bargaining unit and the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service shall not become effective until 60 days after the FAA Administrator has submitted the change to Congress. Provides that such period shall not include any period during which Congress has adjourned sine die. Authorizes FAA employees who have been the subject of a major adverse personnel action to contest such action either through any contractual grievance procedure through the employee's collective bargaining unit or through the FAA's internal process relating to review of FAA major adverse personnel actions known as Guaranteed Fair Treatment or a specified section of the Department of Transportation and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1996. Requires such employees who can contest such personnel action through more than one forum to elect the appropriate forum (no more than one). Amends the Department of Transportation and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1996 to authorize FAA employees under the new FAA personnel management system to appeal to the Merit Systems Protection Board and seek judicial review of Board decisions. (Sec. 706) Amends Federal transportation law to prohibit domestic (including interstate) air carriers and foreign air carriers from discriminating against an air passenger on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, or sex. Prohibits foreign air carriers from discriminating against handicapped individuals. Provides a civil penalty for discrimination against handicapped individuals. Directs the Secretary to work with appropriate international organizations and the aviation authorities of other nations to establish higher standards, if appropriate, to accommodate handicapped air passengers, particularly with respect to foreign air carriers that code share with domestic air carriers. (Sec. 707) Defines major air carrier joint venture agreements as agreements with regard to code-sharing, blocked-space arrangements, long-term wet leases of a substantial number of aircraft, or frequent flyer programs, or any other cooperative working arrangement between two or more major air carriers that affects more than 15 percent of the total number of available seat miles offered by such carriers. (Sec. 708) Extends, through December 31, 2004, the aviation war risk insurance program. (Sec. 709) Authorizes the FAA Administrator to make improvements to real property leased for an air navigation facility, regardless of whether the cost of making such improvements exceeds the cost of leasing such property, provided certain requirements are met. (Sec. 710) Authorizes the FAA Administrator to enter into bilateral agreements with the aeronautical authorities of another country to exchange with that country all or part of their respective safety oversight functions and duties with respect to certain domestic and foreign aircraft. (Sec. 711) Provides for the availability of airman certificate records to the public. (Sec. 712) Authorizes a person to file with the NTSB a petition for a ten-day emergency stay of orders revoking an airman's certificate. (Sec. 715) Directs the FAA Administrator to establish new fees for, among other things, FAA services to any entity obtaining such services outside the United States (except no fee shall be imposed for production-certification related service performed outside the United States). (Sec. 717) Amends the Airport Noise and Capacity Act of 1990 to make foreign air carriers eligible for a waiver from stage 3 noise level requirements for certain aircraft. Authorizes the Secretary to provide a procedure under which a person may operate a stage 1 or stage 2 aircraft in nonrevenue service to or from a U.S. airport in order to: (1) sell the aircraft outside the United States; (2) sell the aircraft for scrapping; or (3) obtain modifications to the aircraft to meet stage 3 noise levels. (Sec. 718) Extends the Secretary's authority to approve an application of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority: (1) for airport development project grants; or (2) to impose a passenger facility fee. (Sec. 720) Amends the Centennial of Flight Commemoration Act to make it a nonprimary duty of the Centennial of Flight Commission to publish popular and scholarly works related to the history of aviation or the anniversary of the centennial of powered flight. Requires the Commission to adopt a policy to protect against possible conflicts of interest involving its members and employees. Requires Commission duties related to the designing, use, and licensing of logos, emblems, seals, and marks to be carried out by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). (Sec. 721) Repeals mail rate-setting authority of the U.S. Postal Service with respect the transportation of mail by aircraft in foreign air transportation. (Sec. 722) Declares that a memorandum of agreement between the FAA Administrator and any person that directly obtains aircraft situational display data shall require that such person: (1) demonstrate the capability of selectively blocking the display of any aircraft-situation-display-to-industry derived data related to any identified aircraft registration number; and (2) agree to block selectively the aircraft registration numbers of any aircraft owner or operator upon FAA request. (Sec. 723) Authorizes the Secretary to hire additional personnel to eliminate the backlog of pending equal employment opportunity complaints to the Department of Transportation (DOT) and to ensure that investigations of complaints are completed no later than 180 days after the initiation of the investigation. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 724) Directs the Secretary, subject to specified conditions, to waive any term contained in the deed of conveyance with respect to airport property that is no longer required for purposes of the Newport News-Williamsburg International Airport. (Sec. 725) Authorizes the City of Los Angeles Department of Airports to grant an easement to the California Department of Transportation to lands required to provide a right-of-way for the construction of the California State Route 138 bypass. (Sec. 726) Declares that flight operations conducted by Alaska guide pilots shall be regulated under the general operating and flight rules contained in part 91 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations. Directs the FAA Administrator to conduct a rulemaking proceeding to modify the general operating and flight rules by establishing special rules requiring Alaska guide pilots to: (1) operate aircraft inspected no less often than after 125 hours of flight time; (2) participate in an annual flight review; (3) have at least 500 hours of flight time as a pilot; (4) have a commercial rating; (5) hold at least a second-class medical certificate; and (6) hold a letter of authorization certifying that the pilot is in compliance with the rules issued by the Administrator. (Sec. 727) Directs the FAA Administrator to establish a pilot program to test and evaluate the benefits of long-term capital leasing contracts of aviation equipment and facilities. (Sec. 728) Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish an Aircraft Repair and Maintenance Advisory Panel to review issues related to the use and oversight of aircraft and aviation component repair and maintenance facilities located within, or outside of, the United States; and (2) seek the advice of the panel on methods to increase safety by improving the oversight of aircraft repair facilities. Directs the Secretary to require, by regulation, domestic and foreign air carriers and repair facilities to submit certain information (including the existence of employee drug and alcohol testing programs at foreign repair facilities) in order to assess balance of trade and safety issues with respect to work performed on aircraft used by domestic and foreign carriers and corporate operators. Requires the Secretary to make such information available to the public. (Sec. 729) Directs the FAA Administrator to study and report to Congress on air taxi operators covered by specified regulations. (Sec. 730) Declares the sense of Congress that, as soon as is practicable, the Administrator should complete and begin implementation of the comprehensive national airspace redesign the Administrator is conducting. (Sec. 732) Directs the Secretary to continue to work to develop a new standard for aircraft and aircraft engines that will lead to a further reduction in aircraft noise levels. (Sec. 733) Encourages the Administrator to consider any proposal with a regional consensus submitted by a State aviation authority regarding the expansion of existing airport facilities or the introduction of new airport facilities. Title VIII: National Parks Air Tour Management - National Parks Air Tour Management Act of 1999 - Prohibits a commercial air tour operator from conducting commercial air tour operations over a national park or tribal lands, except in accordance with this Act, conditions prescribed for that operator by the FAA Administrator, and any commercial air tour management plan for the park or tribal lands. (Sec. 803) Sets forth specified requirements with respect to: (1) the granting of authority to commercial air tour operators to conduct air tour operations over national parks or tribal lands, with specified exceptions; and (2) establishment of commercial air tour management plans. Exempts from the requirements of this Act: (1) the Grand Canyon National Park, or any Indian country within or abutting such park; and (2) any land or waters located in Alaska. (Sec. 804) Directs the FAA Administrator and the Director of the National Park Service (Director) to establish, jointly, an advisory group to provide continuing advice and counsel with respect to the operation of commercial air tours over and near national parks. (Sec. 805) Directs the FAA Administrator to report to Congress on the effects proposed overflight fees are likely to have on the commercial air tour industry. Directs the FAA Administrator and the Director to report jointly to Congress on the effectiveness of this Act in providing incentives for the development and use of quiet aircraft technology. Title IX: Truth in Budgeting - Truth in Budgeting Act - Prohibits the receipts and disbursements of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund from being counted as new budget authority, outlays, receipts, or deficit or surplus for purposes of the Federal budget as submitted by the President, the congressional budget, or the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act). Exempts such receipts and disbursements from any general budget limitation imposed by statute on Federal expenditures and net lending (budget outlays). (Sec. 903) Amends Federal aviation law to require the Secretary to estimate annually: (1) what, but for this Act, would be at the close of the next fiscal year the amount of unfunded aviation authorizations; and (2) the net aviation receipts to be credited to the Fund during the fiscal year. Title X: Aviation Spending Guarantee - Amends the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act) to establish discretionary spending categories in budget authority and outlays for the traditional aviation general fund (FAA operation account 69-1301-0-1-402) for FY 2000 through 2004. Provides for the reduction in discretionary spending limits for budget authority and outlays for FY 2000 through 2004. (Sec. 1002) Prohibits the Director of the Office of Management and Budget from making any estimates of changes in direct spending outlays and receipts for any fiscal year resulting from this title. (Sec. 1003) Sets forth FAA guaranteed spending levels for budget resources for FY 2000 through 2004 (including adjustments to align with revenues). Authorizes appropriations for the AIP program. Sets forth estimated aviation income levels for FY 2000 through 2004.
Resolution· SRESS.Res. 109 (106th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 27 May 1999
Declares that the Senate: (1) condemns the National Islamic Front (NIF) Government in Sudan for its support for terrorism and its continued human rights violations; and (2) deplores the slave raids in southern Sudan and calls on such Government to end immediately slavery in Sudan. Calls on the United Nations Security Council to: (1) condemn such slave raids and bring to justice those responsible; (2) implement the existing air embargo and impose an arms embargo on such Government; (3) implement reforms of Operation Lifeline Sudan (OLS) to enhance the independence of that operation from such Government; (4) determine whether or not such Government's war policy constitutes genocide; and (5) implement the recommendations of UN Special Rapporteur for Sudan, Leonardo Franco, who has called for the posting of human rights monitors throughout Sudan. Calls for the President to take leadership on policies to: (1) increase support for relief organizations working outside the umbrella of OLS; (2) instruct the Agency for International Development (AID) and other appropriate to provide additional support to nongovernmental relief organizations that work outside the OLS umbrella and to enhance the independence of OLS from such Government; (3) double the funds that are made available through the STAR Program for the promotion of the rule of law to advance democracy and the enhancement of infrastructure in areas in Sudan controlled by the opposition to such Government; (4) instruct AID to provide humanitarian assistance directly to indigenous service groups in southern Sudan and the Nuba Mountains; (5) intensify and expand U.S. diplomatic and economic pressure on such Government in conjunction with and urging other countries to impose sanctions on such Government that are similar to U.S.-imposed sanctions; (5) continue to enhance the peace process in Sudan supported by the Inter-governmental Authority for Development; and (6) report to Congress on efforts or plans to promote the end of slavery in Sudan.
Bill· HRH.R. 1992 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 May 1999
Continues existing average fuel economy standards for passenger and non-passenger automobiles until such standards are specifically amended or changed by law.
Bill· HRH.R. 1976 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 May 1999
Automobile Emissions Information Act of 1999 - Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to require fuel economy labels for new automobiles to contain an air pollutant emissions index number representing the composite level of controlled emissions (including the range of the air pollutant emissions index numbers of comparable automobiles of all manufacturers) for such automobile. Authorizes a State to enforce its laws or regulations on disclosure of air pollutant emissions for an automobile only if such law or regulation is identical to the Federal disclosure requirements on such emissions. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to calculate, provide to the manufacturer, and publish for each model of automobile and for each model year an air pollutant emissions index number representing the composite level of emissions for such automobile. Provides a waiver to States with respect to Federal pollutant emission disclosure requirements.
Bill· HRH.R. 1990 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 May 1999
Roadside Emergency Safety Act of 1999 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to study and report to Congress on means for improving the safety of persons present at roadside emergency scenes, including motor vehicle accident scenes. Directs the Secretary to establish a program to improve the safety of emergency personnel at roadside emergency scenes. Amends Federal highway law to require State highway safety programs to include, among other things, guidelines to improve the safety of law enforcement, fire department, and emergency medical services personnel, and any other persons who may be called upon to respond, in the case of a roadside emergency.
Bill· SS. 1130 (106th)open
United States · United States Congress · 26 May 1999
Motor Vehicle Rental Fairness Act of 1999 - Amends Federal transportation law to prohibit a State from holding motor vehicle rental or leasing companies liable for harm caused by a person to himself or herself, to another person, or to property resulting from that person's negligent operation of such motor vehicle. Declares that such prohibition does not apply to liability imposed under a State's statutory or common law based on negligence of a motor vehicle owner. Declares that nothing in this Act supersedes any State law: (1) imposing financial responsibility or insurance standards on the owner of a motor vehicle for the privilege of registering and operating a motor vehicle; or (2) imposing liability on such companies for failure to meet financial responsibility or liability insurance requirements under State law.
Bill· SS. 1139 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 May 1999
Amends Federal aviation law to subject to a civil penalty of up to $25,000 any individual who interferes with the duties or responsibilities of the flight crew or cabin crew of a civil aircraft, or who poses an imminent threat to the safety of the aircraft or other individuals on the aircraft. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation, in addition or as an alternative, to prohibit for not more than one year the individual from flying as a passenger on a civil aircraft. Requires the Secretary to notify all air carriers of the prohibition, including its term. Subjects to a civil penalty of up to $25,000 any air carrier which provides air transportation to an individual who has been prohibited from flying on a civil aircraft. (Sec. 2) Establishes a whistleblower protection program for airline employees providing air safety information. Prohibits air carriers, contractors, and subcontractors from discharging or otherwise discriminating against an employee as to pay, terms, conditions, or privileges of employment because the employee: (1) is about to provide or has provided to the Federal Government information relating to any violation of a Federal Aviation Administration order, regulation, or standard, or any other Federal law relating to air carrier safety; or (2) is about to file or has filed a proceeding, or testified, or otherwise participated in a proceeding relating to such violations. Sets forth a Department of Labor complaint procedure for persons who believe they have been discharged or discriminated against in violation of this Act. Specifies civil penalties for violation of this Act. (Sec. 3) Establishes a program under which the Attorney General may deputize State and local law enforcement officers as Deputy U.S. Marshals for the limited purpose of enforcing Federal laws that regulate security on board aircraft, including laws relating to violent, abusive, or disruptive behavior by airline passengers. Provides for the training and law enforcement powers of such marshals.
Bill· SS. 1126 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 May 1999
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Improvements to the Food Safety Import System Title II: Enforcement and Penalties for Importing Contaminated Food Title III: Improvements to Public Health Infrastructure and Awareness Imported Food Safety Improvement Act of 1999 - Title I: Improvements to the Food Safety Import System - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to require imported food to be prepared, packed, and held under a system meeting the requirements of such Act, or determined by the Secretary of Health and Human Services (Secretary) to be equivalent to domestic requirements. Directs the Secretary to: (1) develop an implementation plan; and (2) conduct overseas food system evaluations. Directs the Secretary to establish, for use by the Secretary of the Treasury, a system to deny the entry of imported food from a specific area, producer, manufacturer, or transporter into the United States that: (1) has been repeatedly adulterated or associated with repeated outbreaks of foodborne disease, presents a health danger, and is likely without systematic changes to cause disease or be adulterated again; or (2) in an emergency determination, has been strongly associated with a serious outbreak of foodborne disease. Makes a conforming amendment to the Public Health Service Act. (Sec. 102) Deems as adulterated an imported (or offered for import) food: (1) withheld for review that is distributed prior to the Secretary's authorization of distribution; (2) ordered to be held in secure storage prior to distribution that is not so held; (3) required to be destroyed that is not so destroyed; (4) previously denied admission that is subsequently offered for admission without a showing of appropriate compliance (port shopping); or (5) owned or consigned by a debarred person. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) prohibit distribution of an imported food until the Secretary so authorizes; (2) prohibit distribution and require the secure storage of an imported food if the importer, owner, or consignee of such food is a person against whom the Secretary of the Treasury has assessed certain liquidated damages for failure to redeliver food subject to a bond; (3) order dangerous imported food to be destroyed; and (4) require marking of refused entry (but not ordered destroyed) food until brought into appropriate compliance. Deems as misbranded a refused entry food not so marked. (Sec. 108) Shortens the period before a refused entry article which is not exported shall be destroyed. (Sec. 109) Authorizes the Secretary to provide for the collection and analysis of imported food by entities other than the Food and Drug Administration. Title II: Enforcement and Penalties for Importing Contaminated Food - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to establish increased bonding requirements for persons involved in prior importing of adulterated or misbranded food. (Sec. 202) Authorizes the Secretary to debar a person from importing food into the United States for food import-related repeat or felony activities. (Sec. 203) Authorizes appropriations for additional Food and Drug Administration laboratory, inspection, and compliance personnel. Title III: Improvements to Public Health Infrastructure and Awareness - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Secretary, through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, to make grants to, enter into contracts with, and provide technical assistance to State and local health entities for enhanced surveillance and prevention of foodborne disease, particularly related to imported food. Authorizes appropriations. Authorizes the Secretary, with respect to foodborne disease, to: (1) conduct pathogen detection research and development; and (2) provide for training, education, and public information. Authorizes appropriations. Directs the Secretary to provide related international public health training and technical assistance. Authorizes appropriations.
Bill· HRH.R. 1947 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 May 1999
Harbor Services Fund Act of 1999 - Imposes a fee on services provided to commercial vessels for port use based on vessel category and vessel capacity as specified under this Act. Requires that the aggregate amount of such fees in a fiscal year be sufficient to pay the projected total expenditures of the Department of the Army for harbor development, operation, and maintenance for a fiscal year. Requires such fee, with specified exceptions, to be imposed on a voyage basis for such vessels and to be payable by the operator of such a vessel upon entering a U.S. port from a foreign port or at the originating port for domestic voyages. Establishes the Harbor Services Fund into which all fees collected under this Act shall be deposited as offsetting receipts and to which balances in the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund shall be transferred. Authorizes amounts in the Fund to be made available for each fiscal year to pay 100 percent of the eligible harbor development costs, the eligible operations and maintenance costs assigned to commercial navigation of all ports within the United States, and the eligible costs of maintaining Federal dredging capability for the Nation. Authorizes, in addition, appropriations of up to $100 million per fiscal year from the Fund for the dredging of berthing areas and construction and maintenance of bulkheads associated with a Federally authorized project and for all or a portion of the non-Federal share of project costs of an eligible non-Federal interest participating in the construction, operation, or maintenance of such a project. Reserves from the balances transferred to the Fund such sums to implement legislation to be enacted to establish the Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation as a performance based organization.
Bill· HRH.R. 1945 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 May 1999
Indian Reservation Jobs and Investment Act of 1999 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow an Indian reservation investment credit based on specified amounts. Includes qualified personal property and qualified real property used or located outside an Indian reservation which is connected to existing tribal infrastructure in the reservation, including roads, power lines, water systems, railroad spurs, and communication facilities as a reservation infrastructure investment. Limits the credit based on the Indian unemployment rate. Provides for recapture of the credit in certain cases.
Bill· HRH.R. 1960 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 May 1999
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Helping Disadvantaged Children Meet High Standards Part A: Basic Grants Part B: Even Start Part C: Education of Migratory Children Part D: Neglected and Delinquent Children Part E: Federal Evaluations, Demonstrations, and Transition Projects Part F: General Provisions Part G: Reading Excellence Title II: High Standards in the Classroom Part A: Teaching to High Standards Title III: Technology for Education Part A: Federal Leadership and National Activities Part B: Special Projects Part C: Preparing Tomorrow's Teachers to Use Technology Part D: Regional, State, and Local Educational Technology Resources Title IV: Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Title V: Promoting Equity, Excellence, and Public School Choice Title VI: Class-Size Reduction Title VII: Bilingual Education Act Title VIII: Impact Aid Title IX: Indian, Native Hawaiian, and Alaska Native Education Part A: Indian Education Part B: Native Hawaiian Education Act Part C: Alaska Native Education Title X: Programs of National Significance Title XI: General Provisions, Definitions, and Accountability Title XII: Amendments to Other Laws; Repeals Part A: Amendments to Other Laws Part B: Repeals Educational Excellence for All Children Act of 1999 - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to revise and reauthorize ESEA programs through FY 2005. (Sec. 3) Renames the National Education Goals (currently in title I of the Goals 2000: Educate America Act), as America's Education Goals, revises such Goals, and includes them under ESEA. Title I: Helping Disadvantaged Children Meet High Standards - Extends the authorization of appropriations for the following ESEA title I programs: (1) part A basic grants to States for improving programs of local educational agencies (LEAs); (2) part B Even Start program; (3) part C education of migratory children; (4) part D State agency programs for neglected or delinquent children; (5) part E Reading Excellence program (transferred from title II); and (6) part F Federal activities. (Sec. 103) Requires each State educational agency (SEA) to: (1) reserve a portion (2.5 percent in FY 2001 and 2002, 3.5 percent in subsequent fiscal years) of its annual basic grant under part A of title I to carry out certain LEA assistance and school improvement activities; and (2) allocate at least 70 percent of such reserved amount directly to LEAs in accordance with specified priorities, or use at least that portion of the reserved amount to carry out an alternative system of school and LEA improvement and corrective action described in the State plan and approved by the Secretary of Education. Part A: Basic Grants - Revises requirements for State plans. (Sec. 111) Requires State plan coordination with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Technical Education Act of 1998 (VTEA). Revises provisions relating to assessments of limited English proficient (LEP) children. Requires submission of accountability plans and establishment of accountability systems that are based on challenging standards, include all students, promote continuous improvement, and include rigorous criteria for identifying and intervening in schools and districts in need of improvement. Eliminates a requirement that States identify languages other than English that are present in the participating school population, indicate the languages for which assessments are not available, and make every effort to develop those assessments. Directs the Secretary to include experts on educational standards, assessments, accountability, and the diverse educational needs of students in the peer-review process used to review State plans. (Sec. 112) Revises requirements for LEA plans. Requires LEA plan coordination with IDEA and VTEA. Requires LEA plans to describe any assessments that they will use to determine the literacy levels of first graders and their need for interventions and how they will ensure that those assessments: (1) are developmentally appropriate; (2) use multiple measures to provide information about the variety of relevant skills; and (3) are administered to students in the language most likely to yield valid results. Requires LEA professional development strategies under title I part A to be components of their professional development plans under the new title II, if they receive title II funds. Includes Indian children served under title IX of ESEA among those for whom LEA plans must describe coordination of title I services with other educational services. Requires LEA plans to include descriptions of: (1) the actions an LEA will take to assist its low-performing schools, if any, in making the changes needed to educate all children to the State standards; and (2) how the LEA will promote the use of extended learning time, such as an extended school year, before- and after-school programs, and summer programs. Requires LEA assurances regarding: (1) annual assessment of the English proficiency of all LEP children participating in part A programs, using assessment results to help guide and modify instruction in the content areas, and providing those results to the children's parents; and (2) compliance with specified requirements regarding teacher qualifications and the use of paraprofessionals. Requires States to use a peer-review process in reviewing LEA plans. (Sec. 113) Revises provisions relating to eligible school attendance areas. Authorizes an LEA to: (1) continue serving an attendance area for one year after it loses its eligibility; and (2) allocate greater per-child amounts of title I funds to higher-poverty areas and schools than it provides to lower-poverty areas and schools. Requires LEAs to reserve sufficient funds to serve homeless children who do not attend participating schools. (Sec. 114) Revises provisions for schoolwide programs. Allows use of IDEA funds for such programs under certain conditions. Requires peer review and LEA approval of a schoolwide plan before implementation. (Sec. 115) Revises provisions for targeted assistance schools. Allows preschool children of any age to be served under part A if they can benefit from an organized instructional program. Provides that children who, within the prior two years, had received title I preschool services are eligible for services under part A (as are children who participated in a Head Start or Even Start program in such period). (Sec. 116) Revises provisions relating to assessment and LEA and school improvement. Sets forth examples of criteria to be used by SEAs in designating Distinguished Schools. Requires each participating school identified by an LEA as being in need of improvement, to develop or revise a school plan, in consultation with parents, school staff, the LEA, and a State school support team or other outside experts. Requires an LEA to take at least one of a number of specified corrective actions in the case of a school that fails to make progress within three years of its identification as being in need of improvement. Requires an LEA that has been identified by the SEA as needing improvement to submit a revised part A plan to the SEA for peer review and approval. Requires an SEA to take certain corrective actions in the case of an LEA that fails to make sufficient progress within three years of being identified as in need of improvement. (Sec. 117) Revises provisions for State assistance for school support and improvement. Requires SEAs to provide such assistance according to the following order of priorities: first, to LEAs identified for corrective action and to individual schools for which an LEA has failed to carry out certain responsibilities; next, to other LEAs identified as in need of improvement, but not identified as in need of corrective action; and finally, to other LEAs and schools that need those services in order to achieve the purpose of part A. Directs SEAs to use for such State assistance certain funds available for technical assistance and support. Authorizes SEAs also to use for such State assistance certain State administrative funds. (Sec. 118) Applies to all part A activities the requirement to provide full opportunities for participation by parents with limited English proficiency and parents with disabilities. (Sec. 119) Requires each participating LEA to: (1) hire qualified instructional staff; (2) provide high-quality professional development to staff members; and (3) use for such professional development at least five percent of its part A grant for FY 2001 and 2002, and ten percent of such grant for subsequent fiscal years. Sets forth minimum qualifications for teachers and paraprofessionals in programs supported with part A funds. Revises a list of professional development activities. Includes child-care providers among those with whom an LEA could choose to conduct joint professional development activities. (Sec. 120) Revises provisions for program participation of children enrolled in private schools. Allows LEAs to determine the number of poor children in private schools every year or every two years. Revises provisions relating to consultation with private school officials regarding provision of program services to children. (Sec. 120A) Revises criteria for determining the required comparability of services that a participating LEA provides in title I schools, from State and local sources, with those it provides in its other schools. Requires LEAs to update their records documenting compliance with such comparability requirement annually. (Sec. 120B) Sets forth additional requirements for quality assurance by preschool programs carried out with part A funds. (Sec. 120C) Revises formulas and other requirements for allocations of part A basic grant funds to territories, States, and LEAs. (Sec. 120D) Requires States to report annually to the Secretary on specified program indicators relating to schools participating in the part A program. Part B: Even Start - Revises the ESEA title I part B Even Start program. (Sec. 121) Requires Even Start programs to be based on the best available research on language development, reading instruction, and prevention of reading difficulties. (Sec. 122) Directs the Secretary to reserve five percent of program funds to support national demonstration and model projects for isolated and especially hard-to-reach populations, including projects for: (1) children of migratory workers; (2) the outlying areas; (3) Indian tribes and tribal organizations; and (4) other populations, such as families that are homeless, that have children with severe disabilities, or that include incarcerated mothers of young children. Limits to not more than one percent of program funds the amount which may be reserved to provide technical assistance, program improvement, and replication activities. Makes discretionary, rather than mandatory, the Secretary's making of competitive grants for interagency coordination of statewide family literacy initiatives. Allows for-profit, as well as nonprofit, organizations to qualify as providers of technical assistance. (Sec. 123) Requires States applying for Even Start grants to submit State plans, including State indicators of program quality. (Sec. 124) Includes family literacy services among permissible uses of Even Start program funds. (Sec. 125) Revises required elements of Even Start programs. Allows career counseling and job placement services to be offered to accommodate participants' work schedules and other responsibilities. Requires instructional programs to integrate all elements of family literacy services. Sets forth requirements relating to: (1) qualifications of instructional staff and paraprofessionals; and (2) staff training to obtain certification in relevant instructional areas, as well as necessary skills. Includes individuals with disabilities among those who may be most in need of program services. Revises various provisions relating to retention of families in Even Start programs. (Sec. 126) Includes as eligible for Even Start program participation teenage parents who are attending school, but who are above the State's age for compulsory school attendance. (Sec. 127) Revises application provisions relating to local Even Start plans to require: (1) program improvement emphasis; (2) outcome goals for participating children and families that are consistent with the State's program indicators; (3) addressing of specified program elements; and (4) evaluation plans. (Sec. 128) Revises subgrant award provisions to require a State's review panel to include an individual with expertise in family literacy programs. Makes optional, rather than mandatory, the inclusion of one or more of other specified types of individuals on such panels. Authorizes each State to continue Even Start funding, for up to two years beyond the eight-year limit, for up to two exemplary projects in the State that have been highly successful and that show substantial potential to serve as models for other projects throughout the Nation and as mentor sites for other family literacy projects in the State. (Sec. 130) Sets the end of FY 2000 as the deadline for States to develop certain required indicators of program quality. Adds to such required indicators others relating to the levels of intensity of services and the duration of participating children and adults needed to reach the outcomes the State specifies. (Sec. 130A) Repeals specified provisions relating to research. Part C: Education of Migratory Children - Revises part C title I ESEA provisions for education of migratory children. (Sec. 131) Revises formulas and other requirements for allocation of funds to the States and Puerto Rico. Establishes minimum and maximum annual State allocation amounts. (Sec. 132) Revises State application requirements to include certain elements of the separate comprehensive service-delivery plan requirements removed by this Act. (Sec. 133) Revises authorized activities. Removes requirements that a State develop a comprehensive service-delivery plan that is separate from its application for funds. (Sec. 134) Makes for-profit entities (as well as nonprofit entities) eligible for awards of funds to carry out various activities to support the interstate and intrastate coordination of migrant-education activities. Increases the maximum amount that may be reserved each year from the appropriation for the Migrant Education program to support coordination activities. Authorizes awarding of incentive grants to States that form consortia to improve the delivery of services to migratory children whose education is interrupted. (Current law makes such grant awards mandatory and competitive.) Increases the maximum amount that may be reserved for such grant awards. Part D: Neglected and Delinquent Children - Revises and renames part D title I ESEA as State Agency Programs for Children and Youth Who Are Neglected or Delinquent. (Sec. 143) Revises requirements for payments for part D programs. (Sec. 144) Revises requirements for allocation of part D funds to the States and Puerto Rico. (Sec. 145) Requires State plans to provide that participating children will be held to the same challenging academic standards, as well as given the same opportunity to learn, as they would if they were attending local public schools. (Sec. 147) Repeals provisions for Local Agency Programs. (Sec. 148) Revises program evaluation provisions to require that an SEA to use multiple measures of student progress that are: (1) appropriate for the students and feasible for the SEA; and (2) consistent with the requirement to provide participating children the same opportunities to learn, and to hold them to the same standards that would apply if they were attending local public schools. Part E: Federal Evaluations, Demonstrations, and Transition Projects - Revises provisions relating to evaluations, management information, demonstrations of innovative practices and other Federal activities. Part F: General Provisions - Repeals certain requirements relating to rulemaking and issuance of a program assistance manual. Part G: Reading Excellence - Transfers the Reading Excellence Act program (currently part C of title II of ESEA) to a new part E of title I of ESEA. (Sec. 171) Revises provisions for reading and literacy activities grants to allow an SEA to apply for and receive a subsequent grant. Requires SEA grant applications to include the process and criteria to be used to review and approve LEA applications for local reading improvement subgrants and tutorial assistance subgrants, including a peer-review process with individuals with relevant expertise. (Sec. 172) Requires SEAs receiving part G grants to use such funds as follows: (1) not more than five percent for State administrative costs, including a specified two percent maximum for such costs with respect to a specified program; and (2) award up to 15 percent through at least one tutorial assistance subgrant. (Sec. 173) Limits eligibility for local reading improvement subgrants to LEAs that operate schools for grades one through three. Requires that the schools in which such reading instruction activities are provided serve children in the third grade or below. (Sec. 174) Limits eligibility for tutorial assistance subgrants to LEAs that serve children for grades one through three. Requires that such grant funds serve children in the third grade or below. (Sec. 176) Authorizes the National Institute for Literacy to use a specified amount to pay for the costs of administering information dissemination activities. Authorizes the Secretary to reserve a specified amount for the Reading Excellence program for technical assistance, program improvement, and replication activities. (Sec. 177) Repeals an authorization of appropriations (but transfers the authorization of appropriations for the Reading Excellence program to another part of ESEA). (Sec. 178) Transfers the authority for the Reading Excellence program (currently in part C of title II of ESEA) to part E of title I of ESEA. Title II: High Standards in the Classroom - Revises and renames title II of ESEA as High Standards in the Classroom. Part A: Teaching to High Standards - Authorizes a new program by consolidating the Dwight D. Eisenhower Professional Development Program (current title II ESEA) and Innovative Education Program Strategies (current title VI ESEA) and the current title III of the Goals 2000: Educate America Act. (Sec. 201) Authorizes appropriations for the following part A programs: (1) State and local activities (subpart 2); and (2) national activities for the improvement of teaching and school leadership (subpart 3). Sets forth subpart 2 provisions for State and Local Activities. Sets forth formulas for allocations to the States, the outlying areas, and schools operated or funded by the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA). Requires priority use of part A funds for professional development in mathematics and science. Increases the amount of the current Eisenhower program's set-aside amount for professional development in mathematics and science. Allows such professional development in mathematics and science to include interdisciplinary activities, as long as these activities include a strong focus on mathematics and science. Requires funds in excess of the set-aside amount to be used in one or more of the core academic subjects, including mathematics and science. Sets forth State application requirements. Requires States to submit annual reports to the Secretary on their own program activities and on the progress of subgrant recipients against program performance indicators. Sets forth requirements relating to funds for: (1) State-level activities, program evaluations, and administration, including certain amounts for the State higher education agency (SHEA); and (2) within-State allocations for formula and competitive grants to LEAs. Sets forth authorized State-level activities to promote high-quality instruction. Allows SHEAs to reserve a portion of their allocation for administrative activities and program evaluations and require them, in cooperation with SEAs, to award competitive subgrants to, or enter into contracts or cooperative agreements with, institutions of higher education (IHEs) or nonprofit organizations to provide professional development in the core academic subjects. Requires priority to be given to projects that focus on teacher induction programs. Requires awards to be made only to projects that include an LEA, are coordinated with related activities under title II of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA), and involve the IHE's school or department of education and the school or departments in the specific disciplines in which the professional development will be provided. Sets forth program activities and reporting requirements. Requires SEAs to award competitive subgrants to LEAs, using a peer-review process that includes reviewers knowledgeable in the academic content areas. Requires SEAs to adopt strategies to ensure that LEAs with the greatest need are provided a reasonable opportunity to receive an award. Sets a three-year subgrant period, allowing extension for an additional two years if the SEA determines that the LEA is making substantial progress toward meeting the goals in the LEA's district-wide plan for raising student achievement against State standards and against the performance indicators identified by the Secretary. Sets forth requirements for LEA applications to SEAs for formula or competitive subgrants. Requires a district-wide plan that describes how the LEA will raise student achievement against State standards by: (1) supporting the alignment of curricula, assessments, and professional development to challenging State and local content standards; (2) providing professional development in the core academic content areas; (3) carrying out activities to assist new teachers during their first three years in the classroom; and (4) ensuring that teachers employed by the LEA are proficient in teaching skills and content knowledge. Requires the LEA application also to identify specific goals for achieving program purposes, assure collection of data that measures progress toward program performance indicators, and describe how it will: (1) address the needs of high-poverty, low-performing schools, and of teachers of students with limited English proficiency and other students with special needs; (2) coordinate program funds with professional development activities funded through other State and Federal programs, use its formula subgrant funds to address the items in the district-wide plan, and use any additional funds from a competitive subgrant to implement that plan. Sets forth authorized uses of program funds by LEAs to implement their district-wide plans. Requires LEAs to submit program reports to SEAs. Sets forth formulas for Federal and local shares of program costs. Prohibits subgrantees from using program funds for equipment, computer hardware, textbooks, telecommunications fees, or other items, that would otherwise be provided by the LEA or State, or by a private school whose students receive services under the program. Directs the Secretary to identify indicators of program performance against which recipients would report their progress. Sets forth subpart 3 provisions for National Activities for the Improvement of Teaching and School Leadership. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to, and contracts with LEAs, SEAs, SHEAs, IHEs, educational service agencies, and other public and private nonprofit entities to support: (1) activities of national significance that are not supported through other sources and that will contribute to the improvement of teaching and school leadership in the Nation's schools; (2) activities of national significance that will contribute to the recruitment and retention of highly qualified teachers and principals in high-poverty LEAs; and (3) a national evaluation of the part A program. Directs the Secretary to support: (1) the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards; and (2) the Eisenhower National Clearinghouse for Mathematics and Science Education (Clearinghouse). Authorizes the Secretary to make a grant or contract to continue the Eisenhower National Clearinghouse for Mathematics and Science Education. Sets forth part B provisions for the Transition-to-Teaching program, and the Troops-to-Teachers program, to address the need of high-poverty school districts for highly qualified teachers in subject areas such as mathematics, science, foreign languages, bilingual education, and special education needed by those school districts. Authorizes the Secretary to use part B funds to award grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements to IHEs and public and private nonprofit entities to carry out part B Transition-to-Teaching programs. Requires the Secretary, before making such awards, to: (1) consult with the Secretaries of Defense and Transportation with respect to the appropriate amount of funding necessary to continue and enhance the Troops-to-Teachers program; and (2) transfer such amount to the Department of Defense to carry out such program. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into a written agreement with the Departments of Defense and of Transportation, or take other appropriate steps to ensure effective continuation of such program. Authorizes appropriations. Sets forth part B requirements for applications. Authorizes use of part B funds for: (1) recruitment of program participants; (2) training stipends and other financial incentives for program participants; (3) assistance to IHEs or other teacher training providers to meet particular needs of professionals changing their careers to teaching; (4) placement activities, including identifying high-poverty LEAs with needs for particular skills and characteristics of the newly trained program participants and assisting those participants to obtain employment in those LEAs; and (5) post-placement induction or support activities for program participants. Requires program participants who complete training to teach in a high-poverty LEA for at least three years, or else repay all or a portion of their training stipend or other incentive. Sets forth part C provisions for Early Childhood Educator Professional Development. Directs the Secretary to make competitive grants to eligible partnerships consisting of: (1) at least one IHE (or another public or private, nonprofit entity) that provides professional development for early childhood educators who work with children from low-income families in high-need communities; and (2) one or more public agencies (including LEAs, SEAs, State human services agencies, and State and local agencies administering programs under the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990), Head Start agencies, or private nonprofit entities. Gives priority to applications from partnerships that include one or more LEAs that operate early childhood programs for children from low-income families in high-need communities. Sets forth requirements for applications, selection of grantees, uses of funds, allowable activities, technologies, and data collection, evaluation, and reporting activities necessary to meet program accountability requirements, performance indicators, reports, and cost-sharing. Directs the Secretary (of Education) and the Secretary of Health and Human Services to coordinate activities of this program and other early childhood programs that they administer. Authorizes appropriations. Sets forth part D provisions for technical assistance programs, including the following subparts: (1) strengthening the capacity of SEAs and LEAs to become effective, informed consumers of technical assistance; (2) technical assistance centers serving special needs; (3) technology-based technical assistance information dissemination; and (4) national evaluation activities. Sets forth requirements for allocation of subpart 1 funds, formula grants to SEAs, State applications and uses of funds, direct formula grants to large LEAs, local applications and uses of funds, and equitable services for private schools. Directs the Secretary to establish, through one or more contracts, an independent source of consumer information regarding the quality and effectiveness of technical assistance activities and providers available to States, LEAs, and other recipients of funds under ESEA, in selecting technical assistance activities and providers for their use. Authorizes appropriations. Sets forth subpart 2 provisions for technical assistance centers serving special needs. Sets forth general requirements applicable to all technical assistance providers that receive funds under this subpart 2, all consortia that receive funds under subpart 2 part B title III ESEA, and the educational laboratories, and clearinghouses of the Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC), supported under the Educational Research, Development, Dissemination, and Improvement Act. Authorizes the Secretary to award grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements to public or private nonprofit entities (or consortia of those entities) to operate two centers for technical assistance on the needs of special populations. Requires such centers to provide training and technical assistance to SEAs, LEAs, schools, tribes, community-based organizations, and other recipients of funds under ESEA on: (1) addressing specific linguistic, cultural, or other needs of limited English proficient, migratory, Indian, and Alaska Native students; and (2) educational strategies to enable those students to meet challenging State academic content and performance standards. Requires each center to give priority to providing services to schools, including BIA-funded schools, that educate such students and have the highest percentages or numbers of children in poverty and the lowest student achievement levels. Sets forth accountability requirements. Authorizes appropriations for such centers. Authorizes the Secretary to award grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements for Parental Information and Resource Centers (PIRCs) (currently authorized under Title IV of the Goals 2000: Educate America Act). Provides for such awards to nonprofit organizations that serve parents, particularly those organizations that make substantial efforts to reach low-income, minority, or limited English proficient parents. Requires PIRCs to: (1) coordinate the efforts of Federal, State, and local parent education and family involvement initiatives; and (2) provide training, information, and support to SEAs, LEAs, schools, and organizations that support family-school partnerships. Sets forth requirements for applications, matching funds, and uses of funds. Increases from 50 percent to 75 percent the minimum portion of its award which each recipient of such funds must use to support activities that serve areas with large numbers or concentrations of low-income families. Authorizes the Secretary to reserve a portion of program funds for technical assistance to the PIRCs and evaluations of program activities. Sets forth reporting and general program provisions. Authorizes appropriations for the PIRC program. Revises and authorizes provisions for the Eisenhower Regional Mathematics and Science Education Consortia (currently authorized under part C title XIII ESEA). Authorizes appropriations for the Eisenhower Consortia. Sets forth subpart 3 provisions for technology-based technical assistance information dissemination. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out, through grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements, a national system, through the Worldwide Web and other advanced telecommunications technologies, that supports interactive information sharing and dissemination about ways to improve educational practices throughout the Nation. Directs the Secretary, in designing and implementing such system, to create opportunities for the continuing input of students, teachers, administrators, and other individuals who participate in, or may be affected by, the Nation's educational system. Requires such system to include information on: (1) stimulating instructional materials that are aligned with challenging content standards; and (2) successful and innovative practices in instruction, professional development, challenging academic content and student performance standards, assessments, effective school management, and other appropriate areas. Authorizes the Secretary to require certain technical assistance providers funded under ESEA or the ERIC educational laboratories and clearinghouses to participate in such information dissemination system in specified ways. Directs the Secretary to ensure that such system's dissemination activities are integrated with those of the Office of Educational Research and Improvement (OERI), and that the public has access, through this system, to the latest research, statistics, and other information supported by, or available from, OERI. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out additional activities to assist LEAs, SEAs, tribes, and other ESEA recipients in meeting the requirements of the Government Performance and Results Act of 1993. Authorizes appropriations for subpart 3. Sets forth subpart 4 provisions for national evaluation activities. Directs the Secretary to conduct, directly or through grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements, activities necessary to: (1) determine what constitutes effective technical assistance; (2) evaluate the effectiveness of the technical assistance and dissemination programs authorized by, or assisted under, part E title II ESEA, and the ERIC educational laboratories, and clearinghouses; and (3) increase the effectiveness of those programs. Title III: Technology for Education - Technology for Education Act - Revises and reorganizes title III of ESEA to change its short title to the Technology for Education Act. (Sec. 304) Requires recipients to use title III funds only to supplement, and not to supplant, those non-Federal funds or resources. Part A: Federal Leadership and National Activities - Revises and renames part A title III ESEA as Federal Leadership and National Activities. (Sec. 311) Repeals authority for the Product Development program. (Sec. 312) Directs the Secretary to update the national long-range technology plan and to broadly disseminate the updated plan. Includes among requirements for such plan descriptions of how the Secretary will promote or encourage: (1) full integration of technology into learning, including the creation of new instructional opportunities through access to challenging courses and information that would otherwise not have been available, and independent learning opportunities for students through technology; (2) creation of opportunities for teachers to develop, through the use of technology, their own networks and resources for sustained and intensive, high-quality professional development; and (3) commercial development of effective, high-quality, cost-competitive educational technology and software. (Sec. 313) Replaces the U.S. National Commission on Libraries and Information Systems with the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy on the list of agencies with which the Secretary consults under the program for Federal leadership in promoting the use of technology in education. Authorizes the Secretary to develop a national repository of information on the effective uses of educational technology, including its use for sustained and intensive, high-quality professional development, and the dissemination of that information nationwide. (Sec. 314) Eliminates a requirement that funds be used for a discretionary grant program when appropriations for part A of title III of the ESEA are less than a specified amount, and for a State formula grant program when the appropriation exceeds that amount. Directs the Secretary to develop and carry out a strategy for an ongoing National Evaluation of Education Technology. Authorizes appropriations for the national evaluation strategy, national plan, and Federal leadership activities. Part B: Special Projects - Repeals the following ESEA title III provisions: (1) part B, the Star Schools Program; and (2) part E, the Elementary Mathematics and Science Equipment Program. (Sec. 321) Redesignates and renames the following ESEA title III provisions: (1) part C, Ready-To-Learn Television, as subpart 2 part B title III ESEA, Ready-to-Learn-Digital-Television; and (2) part D, Telecommunications Demonstration Project for Mathematics, as subpart 3 part B title III ESEA. Establishes a program of Next-Generation Technology Innovation Awards, as subpart 1 part B title III ESEA. Authorizes the Secretary, through the Office of Educational Technology (OET), to award grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements on a competitive basis to eligible applicants, which are consortia that include: (1) at least one SEA or LEA; and (2) at least one IHE, for-profit business, museum, library, other public or private entity with appropriate expertise. Sets forth requirements for applications, plans, priorities, uses of funds, and evaluation. Authorizes appropriations for subpart 1, Next-Generation Technology Innovation Awards. (Sec. 322) Authorizes appropriations for the revised subpart 2, Ready-to-Learn-Digital-Television. (Sec. 323) Authorizes appropriations for the Telecommunications Program for Professional Development in the Core Content Areas. (Sec. 324) Establishes a program for Community Technology Centers, as subpart 4 part B title III ESEA. Authorizes the Secretary, through OET, to award grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements to eligible applicants to create or expand community technology centers that expand access to information technology and related training for disadvantaged residents of distressed urban or rural communities or to provide technical assistance and support to such centers. Sets forth requirements for eligibility, applications, required and permissible uses of funds, and cost-sharing. Authorizes appropriations for subpart 4, Community Technology Centers. Part C: Preparing Tomorrow's Teachers to Use Technology - Establishes a part C title III ESEA program, Preparing Tomorrow's Teachers to Use Technology. (Sec. 331) Authorizes the Secretary, through OET, to award competitive grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements to develop or redesign teacher preparation programs to enable prospective teachers to use technology effectively in their classrooms. Requires applicants to be consortia that include at least one IHE that offers a baccalaureate degree and prepares teachers for their initial entry into teaching, at least one SEA or LEA, and at least one other of specified types of entities with the capacity to contribute to the technology-related reform of teacher preparation programs. Sets forth requirements for applications, matching funds, required and permissible uses of funds. Authorizes appropriations. Part D: Regional, State, and Local Educational Technology Resources - Establishes a part D title III ESEA program, Regional, State, and Local Educational Technology Resources, including: (1) subpart 1, the Technology Literacy Challenge Fund (TLCF); and (2) subpart 2, Regional Technology in Education Consortia (RTEC). (Sec. 342) Revises provisions for allotment and reallotment of TLCF funds to include the BIA as a State educational agency for such purposes. Revises provisions for minimum TLCF grant amounts for States and outlying areas. (Sec. 343) Revises requirements under the subpart 1 TLCF, including: (1) State use of grant funds to make subgrants to LEAs; (2) State and local applications; and (3) local uses of funds. (Sec. 347) Repeals a current part D program for National Challenge Grants for Technology in Education (but establishes a similar program, the Next-Generation Technology Innovation Awards program, as the new subpart 1 part C title III ESEA). (Sec. 348) Adds certain definitions to target subpart 1 funds to low-performing schools in needy areas. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 349) Revises requirements under the subpart 2 RTEC. Directs the Secretary to make subpart 2 grants to, or enter into contracts and cooperative agreements with, consortia that meet specified requirements. Authorizes appropriations. Title IV: Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act - Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act - Revises ESEA title IV to change the short title (currently, Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1994). Revises Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities (SDFSC) programs to require: (1) emphasis on environments in and around schools; (2) competitive, as well as non-competitive, awarding funds to LEAs under certain conditions; and (3) increased coordination among related programs. (Sec. 401) Authorizes appropriations. Sets forth title IV part A provisions for State grants for drug and violence prevention programs. Revises requirements for reservations and allotments. Prohibits outlying areas from consolidating SDFSC funds with other Federal education funds. Requires State applications to be jointly submitted by the SEA and Governor and to include descriptions of: (1) procedures the SEA will use for reviewing applications and awarding funds to LEAs competitively, based on need and quality of the ESEA, those the SEA will use for reviewing applications and awarding funds to LEAs non-competitively, based on need and quality; (2) procedures the Governor will use for reviewing applications and awarding funds to eligible applicants competitively, based on need and quality; (3) SEA's and Governor's proposed use of funds reserved for coordinated capacity-building, technical assistance, and program accountability services and activities at the State and local levels; and (4) proposed SEA technical assistance for LEAs not receiving SDFSC State grant funds to improve their programs. Requires part A funds to be used for SEA and LEA programs and activities designed to create and maintain drug-free, safe, and orderly learning environments for learning in and around schools. Requires SEAs to reserve between ten percent and 20 percent of their part A allocations for State-level activities. Authorizes SEAs to use such reserved funds to plan, develop, and implement, jointly with the Governor, capacity building and technical assistance and accountability services to support the effective implementation of local drug and violence prevention activities throughout the State and promote program accountability and improvement. Revises provisions for State administrative costs. Authorizes SEAs and Governors to provide emergency intervention services to schools and communities following a traumatic crisis, such as a shooting or major accident that has disrupted the learning environment. Requires SEAs to: (1) use at least 80 percent of part A funds for local-level activities; (2) use at least 70 percent of their total SDFSC State grant funding for competitive awards to LEAs that the SEA determines have need for assistance; (3) base their competition on the quality of an LEA's proposed program and how closely it is aligned with specified principles of effectiveness; (4) make competitive awards to no more than 50 percent of the LEAs in the State, with certain exceptions; and (5) make their competitive awards to LEAs of sufficient size to support high-quality, effective programs and activities that are designed to create safe, disciplined, and drug- free learning environments in schools, and that are consistent with the needs, goals, and objectives identified in the State's plan. Allows SEAs to use up to ten percent of their total SDFSC State grant funding for non-competitive awards to LEAs with the greatest need for assistance that did not receive a competitive award. Requires, in order for an SEA to make a non-competitive award to an LEA, the SEA must assist the LEA in meeting the information requirements pertaining to LEA needs assessment, results-based performance measures, comprehensive safe and drug-free schools plan, evaluation plan, and assurances, and provide continuing technical assistance to the LEA to build its capacity to develop and implement high-quality, effective programs. Sets forth authorized services and activities of local drug and violence prevention programs. Requires each LEA receiving SDFSC funding to use such funds to support research-based drug and violence prevention services and activities consistent with specified principles of effectiveness. Allows an LEA to use such funds for additional activities other than research-based programming, under specified conditions. Authorizes SEAs to waive, under certain conditions, a 20 percent cap on SDFSC subgrant funds that LEAs may spend for the acquisition or use of metal detectors and security personnel. Requires Governors to: (1) use Governor's Programs funds (20 percent of the State allocation) to support community efforts that directly complement the efforts of LEAs to foster drug-free, safe, and orderly learning environments for learning in and around schools; (2) reserve between ten percent and 20 percent of their allocations for State-level activities to plan, develop, and implement, jointly with the SEA, capacity building, technical assistance, and accountability services to support the effective implementation of local drug and violence prevention activities throughout the State and promote program accountability and improvement; (3) use at least 80 percent of SDFSC State grant funding to make competitive subgrants to community-based organizations, LEAs, and other public entities and private non-profit organizations to support community efforts that directly complement the efforts of LEAs to foster drug-free, safe, and orderly learning environments in and around schools; and (4) base competition for subgrants on the quality of the applicant's proposed program and how closely it is aligned with the principles of effectiveness, and on objective criteria, determined by the Governor, on the needs of the schools or LEAs to be served. Allows subgrants made by Governors to support community efforts on a Statewide, regional, or local basis and the efforts of LEAs and schools that do not receive subgrants. Allows use of such funds to support research-based drug and violence prevention services and activities consistent with the principles of effectiveness, and for additional activities other than research-based programming, under specified conditions. Revises local application requirements to emphasize the applicant's need for assistance and the quality of its proposed programming. Requires each applicant LEA for SEA competitive and formula grants to include assurances that it: (1) has a policy, consistent with State law, that requires the expulsion of students who possess a firearm at school consistent with the Gun-Free Schools Act; (2) has, or will have, a full- or part-time program coordinator whose primary responsibility is planning, designing, implementing, and evaluating the applicant's programs (unless the applicant demonstrates in its application, to the satisfaction of the SEA, that such a program coordinator is not needed); (3) will evaluate its program every two years to assess its progress toward meeting its goals and objectives, and will use the results of its evaluation to improve its program and refine its goals and objectives, as needed; and (4) has, or the schools to be served have, a comprehensive Safe and Drug-Free Schools plan that includes specified elements. Requires any eligible entity that applies to the Governor for a subgrant to include in its application: (1) a description of how the services and activities to be supported will be coordinated with relevant SDFSC State grant programs that are supported by SEAs, including how recipients will share resources, services, and data; (2) a description of how the applicant will coordinate its activities under this part with those implemented under the Drug-Free Communities Act, if any; and (3) an assurance that it will evaluate its program every two years to assess its progress toward meeting its goals and objectives, and will use the results of its evaluation to improve its program and refine its goals and objectives as needed (if the applicant is not an LEA, or other specified assurances if the applicant is an LEA). Requires SEAs to use a peer review process, but allows Governors to use other methods, for reviewing local applications to ensure that SDFSC subgrants are made on the basis of need and quality. Revises national evaluation and data collection requirements under title IV. Directs the Secretary and the Attorney General to publish an annual report on school safety. Revises the State and local report requirements to focus on progress toward attaining performance indicators for achieving drug-free, safe, and orderly learning environments in schools. Requires States to report to the Secretary all school-related suicides and homicides within the State within 30 days of the incident. Requires LEAs to report to SEAs any problems in SDFSC program implementation that warrant provision of SEA technical assistance. Requires SEAs to: (1) review annual LEA reports; and (2) terminate funding for the second or third year of an LEA's program unless the LEA is making reasonable progress toward meeting its objectives. Sets forth annual progress report and program funding review requirements for Governor's award recipients. Sets forth title IV part B provisions for National Programs. Revises the list of authorized national program activities. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out programs for students that promote lifelong physical activity. Establishes a title IV part C program, School Emergency Response to Violence (Project SERV), to provide education-related services to LEAs in which the learning environment has been disrupted due to a violent or traumatic crisis, such as a shooting or major accident. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out Project SERV directly, through contracts, grants, or cooperative agreements with public and private organizations, agencies, and individuals, or through agreements with other Federal agencies. Sets forth authorized activities under Project SERV. Directs the Secretary to establish criteria and application requirements as may be needed to select which LEAs are assisted under Project SERV. Authorizes the Secretary to establish reporting requirements for uniform data and other information from all LEAs assisted under Project SERV. Requires the establishment of a Federal Coordinating Committee on school crises, to coordinate the Federal responses to crises that occur in schools or directly affect the learning environment in schools. Requires the Committee to be composed of the Secretary (who shall serve as Chair), the Attorney General, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy, and such other members as the Secretary shall determine. Gun-Free Schools Act - Revises and transfers to ESEA title IV part D the provisions of the Gun-Free Schools Act (currently under ESEA title XIV part F). Requires each State receiving Federal funds under ESEA to have in effect a State law that: (1) requires LEAs to expel from school, for a period of not less than one year, a student who is determined to have possessed a firearm at school under the jurisdiction of the LEA in that State; and (2) allows the chief administering officer of that LEA to modify the expulsion requirement for a student on a case-by-case basis. Sets forth local and State reporting requirements. Prohibits awarding ESEA funds to any LEA unless it has a policy ensuring that: (1) any student who possesses a firearm at a school served by such agency is referred to the criminal justice or juvenile delinquency system; (2) students who possess a firearm at school are referred to mental health professionals for assessment as to whether they pose an imminent threat of harm to themselves or others and need appropriate mental health services before readmission to school; and (2) any student determined to pose such a threat receives appropriate mental health services, in addition to other services, before being permitted to return to school. Requires drug prevention programs supported under title IV ESEA convey a clear and consistent message that the illegal use of alcohol and other drugs is wrong and harmful. Prohibits the Secretary from prescribing the use of particular curricula for programs under title IV ESEA, but allows the Secretary to evaluate and disseminate information about the effectiveness of such curricula and programs. Prohibits use of title IV ESEA funds for: (1) construction (except for minor remodeling needed to accomplish the purposes of this part); and (2) medical services, drug treatment or rehabilitation, except for pupil services or referral to treatment for students who are victims of, or witnesses to, crime or who use alcohol, tobacco, or drugs. Sets forth a requirement for Drug-Free, Alcohol-Free, and Tobacco-Free Schools. Requires each SEA and LEA that receives title IV ESEA funds to have a policy that prohibits possession or use of tobacco, and the illegal use of drugs or alcohol, in any form, at any time, and by any person, in school buildings, on school grounds, or at any school-sponsored event. Requires LEA applications to include an assurance of compliance with such requirement. Requires annual SEA reports to the Secretary if any LEAs are not in compliance with such requirement. Requires that title IV funds supplement, not supplant, State, local, and other non-Federal funds. Title V: Promoting Equity, Excellence, and Public School Choice - Revises and renames ESEA title V as Promoting Equity, Excellence, and Public School Choice (currently Promoting Equity). (Sec. 502) Revises the Magnet Schools Assistance program under part A to emphasize projects that consider the diversity of the student populations and that have the capacity to continue after the Federal grant has run out. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 503) Revises the Women's Educational Equity program. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 504) Repeals the Assistance to Address School Dropout Problems program (currently in part C). (Sec. 505) Transfers Public Charter Schools provisions to part B (currently in title X part C). (Sec. 506) Establishes a part C program of Options: Opportunities to Improve Our Nation's Schools. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to SEAs and LEAs to support programs that promote innovative approaches to high-quality public school choice, including worksite and college-based schools. Authorizes appropriations. Title VI: Class-Size Reduction - Establishes a new title VI of ESEA, Class-Size Reduction. (Replaces the current title VI, Innovative Education Program Strategies.) (Sec. 601) Establishes a grants program to help States and LEAs recruit, train, and hire 100,000 additional teachers over a seven-year period in order to: (1) reduce class sizes nationally, in grades one through three, to an average of 18 students per classroom; and (2) improve teaching in the early grades so that all students can learn to read independently and well by the end of the third grade. Authorizes appropriations. Sets forth program requirements for: (1) allotments to States; (2) within-State allocations; (3) local uses of funds; (4) cost-sharing; and (5) participation of teachers from private schools in professional development activities. Title VII: Bilingual Education Act - Revises the Bilingual Education Act, which is ESEA title VII (Bilingual Education, Language Enhancement, and Language Acquisition Programs). (Sec. 701) Makes it policy that limited English proficient students be tested in English after three consecutive years in U.S. schools. (Sec. 702) Authorizes appropriations for part A, Bilingual Education, including the following subparts: (1) bilingual education capacity and demonstration grants; (2) research, evaluation, and dissemination; (3) professional development; and (4) transition. (Sec. 703) Establishes a Program Development and Enhancement Grants program (which consolidates activities of the current Program Development and Implementation Grants program and Enhancement Grants program). Requires such grants to be used to: (1) develop and implement comprehensive, preschool, elementary, or secondary education programs for children and youth with limited English proficiency, that are aligned with standards-based State and local school reform efforts and coordinated with other relevant programs and services; (2) provide high-quality professional development; and (3) require annual assessment of student progress in learning English. Revises allowable activities to emphasize effective instructional practice and the use of technology in the classroom. Authorizes the Secretary to give priority to applicants that enroll fewer than 10,000 students and that have limited or no experience in serving limited English proficient students. (Sec. 704) Revises provisions for Comprehensive School Grants for school-wide instructional programs (in coordination with title I ESEA) for children and youth with limited English proficiency, to assist such children and youth to learn English and achieve to challenging State content and performance standards, and to improve, reform, and upgrade relevant programs and operations in schools with significant concentrations of such students or that serve significant numbers of them. Revises conditions for termination or continuation of grant awards. Limits to 90 days the period during which grant funds may be used for planning. Limit to two the number of schools that may be included in the grant. (Sec. 705) Revises provisions for Systemwide Improvement Grants for projects within an entire school district. Revises conditions for termination or continuation of grant awards. Sets forth required activities, including building school district capacity to continue to operate similar instructional programs once Federal funding is no longer available, aligning programs for limited English proficient students with school, district, and State reform efforts and coordinating with other relevant programs, and annually assessing student progress in learning English. Revises allowable activities to emphasize effective instructional practice, developing student proficiency in two languages, and the use of technology in the classroom. (Sec. 706) Revises application requirements with respect to program accountability and related matters. Adds priorities for applicants that experience a dramatic increase in the number of limited English proficient students enrolled and demonstrate that they have a proven record of success in helping children and youth with limited English proficiency learn English and achieve to high academic standards. (Sec. 707) Requires subpart 1 grantee evaluations to: (1) be conducted annually, rather than biennially; (2) use application data as the baseline against which to report academic achievement and gains in English proficiency for students; (2) report on the validity and reliability of all instruments used to measure student progress; (3) enable results to be disaggregated by such relevant factors as a student's grade, gender, and language group, and whether the student has a disability; and (4) include specified types of data, program implementation indicators, and coordination descriptions. Requires the Secretary to establish performance indicators to determine if comprehensive school grant and systemwide improvement grant programs are making continuous and substantial progress. Authorizes establishing such indicators to determine if program development and enhancement grant programs are making such progress. (Sec. 708) Eliminates the requirement that Bilingual Education Program research be conducted through the Office of Educational Research and Improvement in collaboration with the Office of Bilingual Education and Minority Languages Affairs. Includes among allowable research activities: (1) data collection needed for compliance with the Government Performance and Results Act; and (2) identifying technology-based approaches that show effectiveness in helping limited English proficient students reach challenging State standards. (Sec. 709) Establishes a program of discretionary grants to States to make Academic Excellence Awards (which replaces current Academic Excellence provisions for grants, contracts, and cooperative agreements to promote the adoption of promising instructional and professional development programs). Authorizes the Secretary to make such grants to SEAs to assist them in recognizing LEAs and other public and non-profit entities whose programs have demonstrated significant progress in assisting limited English proficient students to learn English and to meet the same challenging State content standards expected of all children and youth, within three years. (Sec. 710) Revises the State Grant Program to require States to use such funds to: (1) assist LEAs with program design, capacity building, assessment of student performance, program evaluation, and development of data collection and accountability systems for limited English proficient students that are aligned with State reform efforts; and (2) collect data on limited English proficient populations in the State and the educational programs and services available to such populations. (Sec. 711) Renames the National Clearinghouse for Bilingual Education as the National Clearinghouse on the Education of Children and Youth with Limited English Proficiency. Eliminates requirements that the Clearinghouse: (1) be administered as an adjunct to the Educational Resources Information Center Clearinghouse system; (2) develop a database management and monitoring system; and (3) develop, maintain, and disseminate a listing of bilingual education professionals. (Sec. 712) Revises provisions for grants to develop, publish, and disseminate instructional materials to include materials: (1) in other low-incidence languages in the United States for which instructional materials are not readily available; and (2) on State content standards and assessments for dissemination to parents of limited English proficient students. Requires the Secretary to give priority to applications for developing instructional materials in languages indigenous to the United States or to the outlying territories and for developing and evaluating instructional materials that reflect challenging State and local content standards, in collaboration with specified assisted activities. (Sec. 713) Revises subpart 3 Professional Development provisions to eliminate a reference to dissemination of information. (Sec. 714) Revises the Training for all Teachers Program to limit grants to ongoing professional development. Authorizes the Secretary to award grants to LEAs or consortia of LEAs and IHEs, SEAs, or nonprofit organizations. Reduces the grant period from five to three years. Requires professional development activities to be of high-quality and long-term. Revises allowable activities to include induction programs, coaching by experienced teachers, and teacher use of education technologies. (Sec. 715) Revises the Bilingual Education Teachers and Personnel Grants program. Limits grants to IHEs for preservice professional development. Requires use of grant funds to put in place a course of study that prepares teachers to serve limited English proficient students, integrate course content relating to meeting the needs of limited English proficient students into all programs for prospective teachers, assign tenured faculty to train teachers to serve limited English proficient students, incorporate State content and performance standards into the institution's coursework, and expand clinical experiences for participants. Authorizes grantees to use funds for activities such as supporting partnerships with LEAs, restructuring higher education course content, assisting other institutions of higher education to improve the quality of relevant professional development programs, and expanding recruitment efforts for students who will participate in relevant professional development programs. (Sec. 716) Revises the Bilingual Education Career Ladder Program to authorize grants to consortia of one or more IHEs and one or more SEAs or LEAs to develop and implement bilingual education career ladder programs. Requires such programs to be designed to provide high-quality, pre-baccalaureate coursework and teacher training to educational personnel who do not have a baccalaureate degree, and to lead to timely receipt of a baccalaureate degree and certification or licensure of program participants as bilingual education teachers or other educational personnel who serve limited English proficient students. Requires grantees to coordinate with programs under title II of the Higher Education Act of 1965, and other relevant programs, for the recruitment and retention of bilingual students in postsecondary programs to train them to become bilingual educators, and make use of all existing sources of student financial aid before using grant funds to pay tuition and stipends for participating students. Eliminates certain special considerations. Requires the Secretary to give special consideration to applications that provide training in English as a second language, including developing proficiency in the instructional use of English and, as appropriate, a second language in classroom contexts. (Sec. 717) Revises the Graduate Fellowships in Bilingual Education Program to eliminate: (1) the authorization for fellowships at the post-doctoral level; and (2) the requirement that the Secretary make a specific number of fellowship awards in any given year. (Sec. 718) Requires SEAs to review and submit written comments on all applications for professional development grants, with the exception of those for fellowships, to the Secretary. (Sec. 719) Revises program evaluation requirements. Requires an annual evaluation. (Sec. 721) Continues the part C Emergency Immigrant Education Program. (Sec. 722) Authorizes States to use up to two percent of their grant for administrative costs if they distribute funds to LEAs within the State on a competitive basis. (Sec. 723) Revises provisions for competitive State grants to LEAs. Eliminates an appropriations trigger on, and a cap for, allowing States each year to reserve funds from their program allotments and award grants, on a competitive basis, to LEAs. (Sec. 724) Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 725) Defines reclassification rate, for purposes of Bilingual Education Program applications and evaluations under subpart 1 of part A, as the annual percentage of limited English proficient students who have met the State criteria for no longer being considered limited English proficient. (Sec. 726) Adds requirements for projects funded under subpart 1 Part A relating to: (1) parental notification of right to withdraw from programs at any time; and (2) the use of paraprofessionals or other instructional staff who are not certified in the field in which they teach. (Sec. 728) Repeals specified provisions under title VII, including a requirement that all professional development grants assist educational personnel in meeting State and local certification requirements. Title VIII: Impact Aid - Revises title VIII of ESEA, Impact Aid, to provide assistance to certain LEAs that are financially burdened as a result of activities of the Federal Government carried out in their jurisdictions, in order to help those LEAs provide educational services to their children, including federally connected children, so that they can meet challenging State standards. (Sec. 802) Revises the program of payments relating to Federal acquisition of real property, which authorizes the Secretary to partially compensate certain LEAs for revenue lost due to the presence of non-taxable Federal property in their jurisdictions. Requires that the Federal property claimed as the basis of eligibility have a current aggregate assessed value that is at least ten percent of the total assessed value of all real property in the LEA. Provides for a three-year phase-out of payments to LEAs that received such payments for FY 1999, but that would no longer be eligible because of the new requirement that Federal property constitute at least ten percent of the current assessed value of all real property in the LEA. (Sec. 803) Revises the program of payments for eligible federally connected children. Eliminates the various "(b)" categories of students. Continues payments with respect to "(a)" categories of students: (1) children of Federal employees who both live and work on Federal property; (2) children of military personnel (and other members of the uniformed services) living on Federal property; (3) children living on Indian lands; and (4) children of foreign military officers living on Federal property. Eliminates the requirement that an LEA have at least 400 eligible students (or that those students constitute at least three percent of its average daily attendance) in order to receive a basic support payment. Revises options for determining an LEA's local contribution rate (LCR), which is used to compute its maximum payment, to include a measure of the amount or proportion of funds that are provided at the local level. Provides that LCRs' local contribution rates are to be determined using data from the third preceding fiscal year. Revises the formula for computing each LEA's "learning opportunity threshold" (LOT), a factor used in determining actual payment amounts when sufficient funds are not available to pay the maximum amounts, to give priority to LEAs with high concentrations of federally connected students. Revises provisions for additional payments to LEAs on behalf of children with disabilities. Eliminates hold-harmless provisions relating to basic support payments. Revises provisions for additional payments to LEAs that are heavily impacted by the presence of federally connected children in their schools. Requires an LEA to meet the following criteria to qualify for a payment: (1) having federally connected children as at least 40 percent of its enrollment, and a tax rate for general-fund purposes of at least 100 percent of the average tax rate of comparable LEAs in the State (or being an LEA whose boundaries are the same as those of a military installation); (2) exercising due diligence to obtain financial assistance from the State and from other sources; and (3) having State aid made available to it on a basis at least as favorable as that for other LEAs. Sets forth a formula that, for each eligible LEA, factors in per-pupil expenditures, number of federally connected children, amount available to it from other sources for current expenditures, and amounts of basic support payments and supplemental payments for children with disabilities it receives. Directs the Secretary, in determining eligibility and payment amounts for heavily impacted LEAs, to use data from the second preceding fiscal year, if that data is provided by the affected LEA (or the SEA) within 60 days of being requested by the Secretary to do so. Prohibits an LEA from receiving a payment on behalf of federally connected children if Federal funds (other than Impact Aid funds) provide a substantial portion of their educational program. Eliminates the requirement that LEAs maintain their fiscal effort for education from year to year as a condition of receiving an impact aid payment. (Sec. 804) Revises requirements concerning LEAs that receive related Impact Aid payments carrying out specified activities to ensure: (1) equitable participation of children residing on Indian lands in LEA programs and activities; and (2) the participation of parents of Indian children and Indian tribes in determining the education of their children. (Sec. 805) Revises requirements for applications for Impact Aid payments. (Sec. 806) Repeals provisions for payments for sudden and substantial increases in attendance of military dependents. (Sec. 807) Revises provisions for grants to certain categories of LEAs to support the construction or renovation of schools. Limits such assistance to LEAs that receive basic support payments and in which children residing on Indian lands make up at least half of the average daily attendance. Requires applicants to include an assessment of their school-construction needs. Allocates grant funds to qualifying LEAs in proportion to their respective numbers of children residing on Indian lands. Sets the maximum Federal portion of the cost of an assisted project at 50 percent. Gives an LEA three years after its proposal is approved to demonstrate that it can provide its share of the project's cost. Allows an LEA to use such a grant only for the minimum initial equipment necessary for the operation of the new or renovated school, as well as for construction. (Sec. 808) Revises provisions relating to certain federally-owned school facilities used by LEAs to serve dependents of military personnel. (Sec. 809) Adds to preconditions for State consideration of Impact Aid payments a requirement that the average per-pupil expenditure in the State be at least 80 percent of that in the 50 States and the District of Columbia. (Sec. 813) Revises the definition of Federal property, as a basis of eligibility for Impact Aid payments, to eliminate special references to certain property not usually regarded as Federal property. (Sec. 814) Authorizes appropriations for Impact Aid programs. Title IX: Indian, Native Hawaiian, and Alaska Native Education - Part A: Indian Education - Revises ESEA title IX part A (Indian Education) with respect to: (1) grants to LEAs; (2) amount of grants to schools operated or supported by the BIA; (3) applications, plans, local assessments, parent committees, and schoolwide programs; (4) authorized services and activities relating to curriculum development, creation and implementation of standards, improvement of student achievement, and gifted and talented education; (5) student eligibility forms and timing of child counts; (6) payments; (7) SEA review; (8) project applications for support for services and activities to improve educational opportunities for Indian children; and (9) professional development and training to perform related work that benefits Indian people, adding grants to consortia to provide in-service training to teachers in LEAs with substantial numbers of Indian children in their schools. (Sec. 911) Repeals specified provisions for fellowships for Indian students, gifted and talented education, tribal administrative planning and development, and adult education. (Sec. 913) Authorizes appropriations. Part B: Native Hawaiian Education Act - Revises ESEA title IX part B (Native Hawaiian Education) to replace a series of categorical programs serving Native Hawaiian children and adults with a single, more flexible authority for the Secretary to assist such program activities. (Sec. 921) Authorizes appropriations. Part C: Alaska Native Education - Revises ESEA title IX part C (Alaska Native Education) to replace a series of categorical programs serving Alaska Native children and adults with a single, more flexible authority for the Secretary to assist such program activities. (Sec. 921) Authorizes appropriations. Title X: Programs of National Significance - Revises ESEA title X Programs of National significance. (Sec. 1001) Revises part A (Fund for the Improvement of Education) with respect to: (1) authorized uses of funds; (2) application goals and objectives; (3) reports; (4) matching funds; and (5) limitation of competitions to particular types of entities, such as SEAs or LEAs. Requires each part A grant recipient to submit to the Secretary, by the mid-point of the program, and no later than one year after program completion, a comprehensive evaluation on the effectiveness of its program in achieving its goals and objectives, including the impact of the program on students, teachers, administrators, and parents. Revises provisions for character education. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out programs of: (1) grants for State and local character education; and (2) grants, contracts, and cooperative agreements for character education research, dissemination, and evaluation. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 1002) Revises part B (Gifted and Talented Children) with respect to peer review, dissemination, and evaluation. Requires the National Center for Research and Development in the Education of Gifted and Talented Children to focus the dissemination of the results of its activities on schools with high percentages of economically disadvantaged students. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 1003) Transfers and redesignates the International Education Exchange program (currently title VI of the Goals 2000: Educate America Act) as part C of title X of ESEA. Makes eligible for such program the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, and any other emerging democracy in a developing country. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 1004) Revises part D (Arts in Education) to include among authorized activities model arts and cultural programs in the arts for at-risk children and youth, particularly programs that use arts and culture to promote students' academic progress. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 1005) Authorizes appropriations for part E (Inexpensive Book Distribution Program). (Sec. 1006) Revises part F (Civic Education) to repeal the civics, government, and law instruction program. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 1007) Repeals the (current part G) Allen J. Ellender Program. (Sec. 1008) Revises and redesignates as part G the (current part I) 21st Century Community Learning Centers program. Authorizes the Secretary to award grants to LEAs and community based organizations (CBOs) (with up to ten percent of the funds appropriated to carry out this part for any fiscal year) on behalf of public elementary or secondary schools in inner-cities, rural areas, and small cities. Limits such awards to schools or CBOs that serve communities with a substantial need for expanded learning opportunities due to: (1) high proportion of low-achieving students; (2) lack of resources to establish or expand community learning centers; or (3) other needs. Retains the current requirement for equitable distribution among the States and urban and rural areas of the United States, but eliminates the requirement for equitable distribution among urban and rural areas of a State. Lengthens the duration of such program grants from three years to five years. Changes the eligible applicant for such a grant from a school to an LEA (which would apply on behalf of one or more schools) or a CBO. Adds requirements relating to matching funds and maintenance of effort. Gives priority to applications that offer a broad selection of services that address community needs. Requires community learning centers to provide expanded learning opportunities, and allows them to also provide services that address health, social service, cultural, and recreational needs of the community. Requires a community learning center operated by an LEA (but not a CBO) to be located within a public elementary or secondary school building. Authorizes appropriations. Allows the Secretary to use part G funds to make continuation awards for projects that were funded with FY 1999 and 2000 funds, under the terms and conditions that applied to the original awards. (Sec. 1009) Repeals part J, Urban and Rural Education Assistance. (Sec. 1010) Establishes a new part H, High School Reform. Authorizes the Secretary to make competitive grants to LEAs to support: (1) planning and implementation of educational reforms in high schools, particularly in urban and rural high schools that educate concentrations of students from low-income families; (2) further development of educational reforms, designed specifically for high schools, that help students meet challenging State standards, and that increase connections between students and adults and provide safe learning environments; (3) positive incentives for serious change in high schools, by offering rewards to participating schools that achieve significant improvements in student achievement; (4) identification of the most effective approaches to high school reform and disseminating information on those approaches so that they can be adopted nationally; and (5) implementation of reforms in at least 5,000 U.S. high schools by the year 2007. Provides for equitable participation of personnel from private schools in any professional development carried out with part H funds. Requires grantees that use part H funds to develop curricular materials to make information about those materials available to private schools at their request. Directs the Secretary to reserve certain part H funds for certain activities relating to the program's purpose, including testing the effect of offering financial rewards to teachers and administrators in high schools if their students demonstrate significant gains in educational outcomes. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 1011) Revises and redesignates the (current part B title VII ESEA) Elementary School Foreign Language Assistance Program to part I title X ESEA. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to SEAs and to LEAs for the Federal share of the cost of specified activities. Allows an SEA to receive a grant if it: (1) has established, or is establishing, State standards for foreign language instruction; or (2) requires the public elementary schools of the State to provide foreign language instruction. Allows an LEA to receive a grant if the program in its application: (1) shows promise of being continued beyond the grant period; (2) would demonstrate approaches that can be disseminated to, and duplicated by, other LEAs; (3) would include performance measurements and assessment systems that measure students' proficiency in a foreign language; and (4) would use a curriculum that is aligned with State standards, if the State has such standards. Requires grants to SEAs to be used to support programs that promote the implementation of high-quality foreign language programs in the elementary schools of the State, which may include specified activities. Requires that grants to LEAs to be used for activities to develop and implement high-quality, standards-based elementary school foreign language programs, which may include specified activities, including support for the expansion of secondary school instruction, so long as that instruction is part of an articulated elementary-through-secondary school foreign language program that is designed to result in student fluency in a foreign language. Authorizes the Secretary, in awarding such grants, to establish priorities, including ones for projects carried out by LEAs that include immersion programs in which instruction is in the foreign language for a major portion of the day or that promote the sequential study of a foreign language for students, beginning in elementary schools. Sets forth application, reporting, cost-sharing, and evaluation requirements. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 1012) Revises and redesignates as part J the (current part K) National Writing Project. Authorizes the Secretary to conduct an independent evaluation of the Project. Authorizes appropriations. Title XI: General Provisions, Definitions, and Accountability - Revises ESEA title XIV (to be redesignated as title XI) (General Provisions) with respect to: (1) definitions; (2) administrative funds; (3) coordination of programs, including optional consolidated State plans and consolidated local plans; (4) waivers; and (5) uniform provisions. (Sec. 1106) Repeals ESEA title XIV part F (Gun Possession), which as the revised Gun-Free Schools Act is transferred to title IV of ESEA. (Sec. 1107) Revises and renames part G of title XIV ESEA as Evaluation and Indicators. Revises evaluation requirements to provide for: (1) national evaluation; (2) an independent review panel; (3) reports; and (4) technical assistance partnerships for performance information. Authorizes the Secretary to establish performance indicators, benchmarks, and targets for each program under ESEA (and under subtitle B of title VII-B of the McKinney Homeless Assistance Act) to assist in measuring program performance. Requires such indicators, benchmarks, and targets to be consistent with the Government Performance and Results Act of 1993, strategic plans adopted by the Secretary under such Act, and specified ESEA provisions. (Sec. 1108) Revises and transfers ESEA title XI (Coordinated Services) to part I of title XI ESEA. Revises provisions for project development and implementation. Provides that an SEA need not require eligible entities to submit an application in order to permit them to carry out coordinated services projects. (Sec. 1109) Redesignates title XIV of ESEA as title XI of ESEA. (Sec. 1110) Revises and redesignates the Education Flexibility Partnership Act of 1999 (P.L. 106-25) Partnerships) as part G of title XI of ESEA. Revises provisions for: (1) State eligibility and accountability; (2) the Federal education programs that are subject to ED-Flex authority; (3) certain waivers. Allows the Secretary to grant an extension of ED-Flex authority, beyond five years, only upon determination that the State has made significant statewide gains in student achievement and is closing the achievement gap between low- and high-performing students. (Sec. 1111) Education Accountability Act of 1999 - Establishes a new part B, Improving Education Through Accountability, of title XI of ESEA. Requires States that receive ESEA assistance to develop and implement a statewide system for holding its LEAs and schools accountable for student performance, including a procedure for identifying LEAs and schools in need of improvement, intervention, and corrective actions. Requires such States to have in effect, at the time they submit accountability plans, State policies with certain required elements to ensure that: (1) students progress through school on a timely basis and master challenging material to reach high standards of performance, and the practices of social promotion and retention are ended; (2) there are qualified teachers in every classroom in the State; (3) its LEAs and schools have in place and implement sound and equitable discipline policies to ensure a safe, and orderly, and drug-free learning environment in every school; (4) requires the development and dissemination of annual report cards regarding the status of education and educational progress in the State and in its LEAs and schools. Requires such States to have on file with the Secretary an approved accountability plan on or after July 1, 2000, and to submit annual progress reports. Authorizes the Secretary to ensure accountability, upon determination that a State has failed substantially to carry out a requirement of this part or its approved accountability plan, or that its performance has failed substantially to meet a performance indicator in its accountability plan. Includes among authorized steps to ensure prompt compliance: (1) providing, or arranging for, technical assistance to the SEA; (2) requiring a corrective action plan; (3) suspending or terminating authority to grant waivers under applicable ED-Flex authority; (4) suspending or terminating eligibility to participate in competitive programs under the ESEA; (5) withholding, in whole or in part, State administrative funds or program funds under the ESEA; (6) imposing one or more conditions upon the Secretary's approval of a State plan or application under the ESEA; (7) taking other actions under part D of the General Education Priorities Act; and (8) taking other appropriate steps, including referral to the Department of Justice for enforcement. Requires the Secretary to take one or more additional steps to bring the State into compliance upon determination that previous steps have failed to correct the State's non-compliance. Directs the Secretary to establish a system to recognize and reward States that have demonstrated significant, statewide achievement gains in core subjects as measured by the National Assessment of Educational Progress for three consecutive years, are closing the achievement gap between low- and high-performing students, and have in place strategies for continuous improvement in reducing the practices of social promotion and retention. Allows rewards to include conferring a priority in competitive programs under the ESEA, increased flexibility in administering programs under the ESEA (consistent with maintaining accountability), and supplementary grants or administrative funds to carry out ESEA purposes. Authorizes appropriations. Directs the Secretary to disseminate information regarding best practices, models, and other forms of technical assistance. (Sec. 1112) Renames the National Education Goals Panel as America's Education Goals Panel. Transfers provisions for the Panel from title II of the Goals 2000: Educate America Act to a new part C of title XI of ESEA. Eliminates certain provisions relating to voluntary national content standards, voluntary national student performance standards, and the resource and technical planning groups on school readiness. Authorizes appropriations for the Panel. (Sec. 1113) Repeals ESEA title XII (School Facilities Infrastructure Improvement, also known as the Education Infrastructure Act of 1994). Title XII: Amendments to Other Laws; Repeals - Part A: Amendments to Other Laws -Amends the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act with respect to: (1) providing that homelessness alone is not sufficient reason to separate students from the mainstream school environment; (2) grants for State and local activities for the education of homeless children and youth; (3) coordination at the State and local levels; (4) State plans; (5) parental involvement; (6) competitive subgrants to LEAs; and (7) national data collection, dissemination, and reports. (Sec. 1201) Authorizes appropriations for the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act. (Sec. 1202) Amends various other Federal laws to reflect the revised ESEA, including specified provisions under the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Applied Technology Act, the higher Education Act of 1965, and the Pro-Children Act of 1994. Part B: Repeals - Repeals ESEA title XIII (Support and Assistance Programs to Improve Education) (new part D title II ESEA contains new technical assistance and information dissemination programs). (Sec. 1211) Repeals the following titles and parts of the Goals 2000: Educate America Act: I, National Education Goals; II, National Education Reform Leadership, Standards, and Assessments; III, State and Local Education Systemic Improvement; IV, Parental Assistance; VII, Safe Schools; VIII, Minority-focused Civics Education; and X-part B, Gun-free Schools. Repeals the following parts of the Educational Research, Development, Dissemination, and Improvement Act of 1994 (title IX of P.L. 103-227): F, Star Schools; G, Office of Comprehensive School Health Education; H, Field Readers; and I, Amendments to the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Applied Technology Act. Repeals title III, Partnerships in Education for Mathematics, Science, and Engineering, of the Education for Economic Security Act.
Bill· SS. 1122 (106th)open
United States · United States Congress · 25 May 1999
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Military Personnel Title II: Operation and Maintenance Title III: Procurement Title IV: Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation Title V: Revolving and Management Funds Title VI: Other Department of Defense Programs Title VII: Related Agencies Central Intelligence Agency Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2000 - Title I: Military Personnel - Appropriates funds for FY 2000 for active-duty and reserve personnel in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force and for National Guard personnel in the Army and Air Force. Title II: Operation and Maintenance - Appropriates funds for FY 2000 for the operation and maintenance (O&M) of the Army, Navy, and Air Force (including a transfer of funds in each case), the Marine Corps, the defense agencies, the reserve components, and the Army and Air National Guards. Appropriates funds for: (1) overseas contingency operations (including a transfer of funds); (2) the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces; (3) environmental restoration for the Army, Navy, Air Force, and defense-wide (including a transfer of funds in each case); (4) environmental restoration at former defense sites (including a transfer of funds); (5) overseas humanitarian, disaster, and civic aid; (6) nuclear threat reduction programs with respect to republics of the former Soviet Union; and (7) renovation of the Pentagon. Title III: Procurement - Appropriates funds for FY 2000 for procurement by the armed forces and its reserve components of aircraft, missiles, weapons, tracked combat vehicles, ammunition, and shipbuilding and conversion and for other procurement. Appropriates funds for defense-wide procurement and for National Guard and reserve equipment. Title IV: Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation - Appropriates funds for FY 2000 for research, development, test, and evaluation by the armed forces and defense agencies. Appropriates funds for the Directors of Test and Evaluation and Operational Test and Evaluation. Title V: Revolving and Management Funds - Appropriates funds for: (1) the defense working capital funds; and (2) programs under the National Defense Sealift Fund (including a transfer of funds). Title VI: Other Department of Defense Programs - Appropriates funds for: (1) the Department of Defense (DOD) medical and health care programs; (2) the Armed Forces Retirement Home; (3) the destruction of lethal chemical agents and munitions; (4) drug interdiction and counter-drug activities, defense (including a transfer of funds); and (5) expenses and activities of the Office of Inspector General in carrying out the Inspector General Act of 1978. Title VII: Related Agencies Central Intelligence Agency - Appropriates funds for: (1) the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System Fund; (2) expenses of the Intelligence Community Management Account (including a transfer of funds); (3) authorized payments to the Kaho'olawe Island Conveyance, Remediation, and Environmental Restoration Fund; and (4) national security scholarships, fellowships, and grants (using funds derived from the National Security Education Trust Fund). Title VIII: General Provisions - Department of Defense - Specifies authorized, restricted, and prohibited uses of appropriated funds. (Sec. 8008) Authorizes procurement funds appropriated under this Act to be used for multiyear procurement contracts for the Longbow Apache helicopter, MLRS Rocket Launcher, Abrams M1A2 upgrade, Bradley M2A3 vehicle, F-A 18E-F aircraft, C-17 aircraft, and F-16 aircraft. (Sec. 8010) Prohibits during FY 2000 the management by end strengths of DOD civilian personnel. (Sec. 8019) Authorizes the Secretary of Defense (Secretary) to establish with host governments of NATO-member countries an account for the deposit of residual value amounts negotiated in the return of U.S. military installations to such countries. (Sec. 8032) Authorizes DOD to incur up to $350 million in obligations for DOD personnel compensation, military construction projects, and supplies and services in anticipation of receipts of contributions from the Government of Kuwait. (Sec. 8033) Earmarks funds from this Act for the Civil Air Patrol Corporation. (Sec. 8034) Prohibits the use of funds from this Act to establish a new DOD federally funded research and development center (FFRDC). Limits the Federal compensation to be paid to FFRDC members or consultants. Prohibits the use of FY 2000 FFRDC funds for new building construction, cost-sharing payments for projects funded by Government grants, absorption of cost overruns, or certain charitable contributions. Limits the staff years of technical effort that may be funded for FFRDCs from FY 2000 funds. (Sec. 8042) Directs the President to include within each fiscal year budget the amounts requested for administrative activities of DOD, the military departments, and the defense agencies. (Sec. 8053) Prohibits the use of funds: (1) by a DOD entity without compliance with the Buy American Act; (2) for assistance to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea unless specifically appropriated for such purpose; (3) to reduce the civilian medical and medical support personnel assigned to military treatment facilities below the September 30, 1999, level; and (4) to transport chemical munitions to the Johnston Atoll for storage or demilitarization (with an exception and an authorized wartime waiver by the President). (Sec. 8050) Earmarks funds appropriated under this Act for the mitigation of adverse environmental impacts on Indian lands resulting from DOD activities. (Sec. 8057) Authorizes DOD to lease real and personal property at the Adak Naval Air Facility, Alaska. (Sec. 8058) Rescinds specified funds from various accounts under prior defense appropriations Acts. (Sec. 8065) Prohibits the transfer to any other department or agency, except as specifically provided in an appropriations law, of funds available to DOD or the Central Intelligence Agency in any fiscal year for drug interdiction and counter-drug activities. (Sec. 8072) Directs the Secretary to report quarterly to specified congressional committees setting forth all costs incurred by DOD in implementing or supporting United Nations (UN) Security Council resolutions. (Sec. 8073) Prohibits current fiscal year DOD funds from being obligated or expended to transfer to another nation or international organization defense articles or services for use in any UN peacekeeping or peace enforcement operation, or for any other international peacekeeping, peace enforcement, or humanitarian assistance operation, unless specified congressional committees are given 15 days' advance notice. (Sec. 8074) Directs the Secretary, to the extent authorized by law, to issue loan guarantees in support of U.S. defense exports not otherwise provided for, with a contingent liability limit of $15 billion. Requires quarterly reports to specified congressional committees on such loan guarantees. (Sec. 8078) Authorizes the use of DOD O&M funds in support of U.S. missions and with eligible organizations and activities outside of DOD. (Sec. 8081) Directs the Secretary, upon the enactment of this Act, to make specified transfers between various DOD accounts. (Sec. 8083) Authorizes the Secretary, during the current fiscal year, to waive reimbursement of certain educational costs of the Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies for military officers and civilian officials of foreign countries if determined to be in the national security interest. (Sec. 8088) Authorizes the Secretary, on a case-by-case basis, to waive limitations on the procurement of defense items from a foreign country if: (1) the Secretary determines that such limitation would invalidate cooperative programs or reciprocal trade agreements for the procurement of defense items; and (2) such country does not discriminate against the same or similar defense items produced in the United States for that country. Provides exceptions. (Sec. 8091) Reduces by $452.1 million the total amount appropriated in this Act to reflect savings from revised economic assumptions, to be allocated among various DOD accounts. (Sec. 8092) Prohibits the use of appropriated funds to support any training program involving security forces of a foreign country if credible information exists that such country has committed a gross violation of human rights, unless all necessary corrective steps have been taken. Requires the monitoring of such information. Authorizes the Secretary to waive such prohibition under extraordinary circumstances. (Sec. 8093) Authorizes the Secretary to distribute surplus DOD dental equipment to Indian health service facilities and federally- qualified health centers. (Sec. 8094) Reduces the total amount appropriated in this Act by: (1) $209.3 million, to reflect savings from the pay of civilian personnel; (2) $206.6 million, to reflect savings from favorable foreign currency fluctuations; and (3) $250.3 million, to reflect savings from reductions in the price of bulk fuel. Allocates such savings among various DOD O&M accounts. (Sec. 8098) Makes Navy-appropriated funds available for the replacement of certain lost and canceled checks. (Sec. 8099) Authorizes the Chief of the National Guard Bureau to waive payments for the lease of personal property to Federal, State, or local governments or youth or charitable organizations. (Sec. 8100) Provides authorized uses of funds appropriated for the Pacific Disaster Center. Authorizes the Secretary to enable the Center and its derivatives to enter into cooperative agreements for the delegation or implementation of all of its missions and to accept grants to carry out its activities. Prohibits the Center from accepting any remuneration or services that compromise national security. (Sec. 8101) Reduces by over $1.8 billion the total amount appropriated under this Act for military personnel, to reflect amounts appropriated in H.R. 1141, as enacted. (Sec. 8104) Earmarks specified O&M funds for combating terrorism inside and outside the United States. Requires each budget to separately state the amount requested for such activities. (Sec. 8106) Authorizes the Secretary of the Air Force to negotiate leases for operational support aircraft. (Sec. 8107) Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to repeal a requirement that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) not begin to commence bidding for commercial licenses for certain reallocated frequency spectrum until after January 1, 2001. Directs the FCC to initiate such bidding during FY 1999 and to ensure that all proceeds of such bidding are deposited no later than September 30, 2000. Provides for the expedited assignment of such frequencies. Requires at least seven days' public notice prior to the granting of an application for an instrument of authorization for any such frequency. (Sec. 8108) Reduces by $3.1 billion the total amount appropriated under titles II and III of this Act, to reflect certain supplemental appropriations provided under Public Law 106-31.
Bill· SS. 1123 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 May 1999
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Improvements to the Food Safety Import System Title II: Enforcement and Penalties for Importing Contaminated Food Title III: Improvements to Public Health Infrastructure and Awareness Imported Food Safety Improvement Act - Title I: Improvements to the Food Safety Import System - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services (Secretary) to establish, for use by the Secretary of the Treasury, a system to deny the entry of imported food from a specific area, producer, manufacturer, or transporter into the United States that: (1) has been repeatedly adulterated or associated with repeated outbreaks of foodborne disease, presents a health danger, and is likely without systematic changes to cause disease or be adulterated again; or (2) in an emergency determination, has been strongly associated with a serious outbreak of foodborne disease. Makes a conforming amendment to the Public Health Service Act. (Sec. 102) Deems as adulterated an imported (or offered for import) food: (1) withheld for review that is distributed prior to the Secretary's authorization of distribution; (2) ordered to be held in secure storage prior to distribution that is not so held; (3) required to be destroyed that is not so destroyed; (4) previously denied admission that is subsequently offered for admission without a showing of appropriate compliance (port shopping); or (5) owned or consigned by a debarred person. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) prohibit distribution of an imported food until the Secretary so authorizes; (2) prohibit distribution and require the secure storage of an imported food if the importer, owner, or consignee of such food is a person against whom the Secretary of the Treasury has assessed certain liquidated damages for failure to redeliver food subject to a bond; (3) order dangerous imported food to be destroyed; and (4) require marking of refused entry (but not ordered destroyed) food until brought into appropriate compliance. Deems as misbranded a refused entry food not so marked. (Sec. 108) Shortens the period before a refused entry article which is not exported shall be destroyed. (Sec. 109) Authorizes the Secretary to provide for the collection and analysis of imported food by entities other than the Food and Drug Administration. Title II: Enforcement and Penalties for Importing Contaminated Food - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to establish increased bonding requirements for persons involved in prior importing of adulterated or misbranded food. (Sec. 202) Authorizes the Secretary to debar a person from importing food into the United States for food import-related repeat or felony activities. (Sec. 203) Authorizes appropriations for additional Food and Drug Administration laboratory, inspection, and compliance personnel. Title III: Improvements to Public Health Infrastructure and Awareness - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Secretary, through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, to make grants to, enter into contracts with, and provide technical assistance to State and local health entities for enhanced surveillance and prevention of foodborne disease, particularly related to imported food. Authorizes appropriations. Authorizes the Secretary, with respect to foodborne disease, to: (1) conduct pathogen detection research and development; and (2) provide for training, education, and public information. Authorizes appropriations. Directs the Secretary to provide related international public health training and technical assistance. Authorizes appropriations.
Bill· SS. 1105 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 May 1999
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Brownfields Liability Relief Title II: Small Business Liability Relief Title III: Settlements for Municipalities and Contributors of Municipal Waste Title IV: Clarification of Liability for Recycling Transactions Title V: Brownfields Cleanup Title VI: Settlement Incentives Title VII: Funding Title VIII: Definitions Superfund Litigation Reduction and Brownfield Cleanup Act of 1999 - Title I: Brownfields Liability Relief - Amends the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA) to absolve from liability for response actions bona fide prospective purchasers to the extent liability at a facility for a release or threat thereof is based solely on ownership or operation of a facility. Gives a lien upon a facility to the United States for unrecovered response costs in any case in which there are unrecovered costs of a response not inconsistent with the National Contingency Plan for which the owner is not liable by reason of this Act and the facility's fair market value has increased above that which existed before the action was taken. (Sec. 102) Amends provisions concerning defenses to liability of an owner of after-acquired property, to deem a person to have made (under current law, "undertaken") appropriate inquiry into the property's previous ownership and uses if the person establishes that a site assessment was conducted which meets specified requirements (compliance with an American Society for Testing and Materials standard or with standards issued by the President) and the person fulfills certain responsibilities concerning information compilation, prevention or cessation of hazardous substance releases at the facility, cooperation with those conducting response actions, and compliance with land use or activity restrictions. Deems the appropriate inquiry requirements to be satisfied by a site inspection and title search that reveal no basis for further investigation in the case of property for residential or similar use purchased by a nongovernmental or noncommercial entity. Exempts from liability under CERCLA certain owners or operators of real property contiguous to property on which there has been a release or threatened release that is not owned or operated by such persons. Authorizes the President to issue an assurance that no enforcement action will be initiated against such individuals. Title II: Small Business Liability Relief - Provides exemptions from liability under CERCLA for: (1) certain pre-May 1999 acts if liability is based solely on arranging for disposal, treatment, or transport of, or accepting, hazardous substances and the total of materials containing such substances did not exceed a specified amount; and (2) certain owners, operators, or lessees of residential property, businesses with fewer than 100 employees, or small nonprofit organizations whose liability is based on arrangement or acceptance provisions with respect to municipal solid waste (MSW). (Sec. 202) Adds to the list of parties eligible for expedited final settlements persons and small businesses who demonstrate an inability or limited ability to pay response costs. Revises conditions of eligibility for such settlements for de minimis parties. Establishes a moratorium on litigation under CERCLA for recovery or contribution of response costs from any person eligible for an expedited settlement within a specified time frame. (Sec. 203) Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish a small business Superfund assistance section within the EPA small business ombudsman office to provide assistance and information regarding CERCLA and the settlement processes and to make recommendations for changes in EPA policies that would better fulfill the goals of this title in assuring equitable, simplified, and expedited settlements for small businesses. Title III: Settlements For Municipalities and Contributors of Municipal Waste - Makes municipalities currently liable for response costs on the basis of ownership or operation of a municipal landfill listed on the National Priorities List (NPL) on or before May 1, 1999, eligible for settlements. Limits liability to 20 percent of total response costs for municipalities with populations exceeding 100,000, but authorizes the President to increase or decrease such percentage to up to 35 percent or to no less than ten percent, respectively, under certain conditions. Limits liability of municipalities with populations of less than 100,000 to a maximum of ten percent of total response costs. Authorizes the President to require such municipalities to perform or participate in response actions at the facility. Considers two or more municipalities that jointly own or operate a facility to be single owners for purposes of calculating settlement offers. Requires municipalities, as a condition of such settlements, to waive claims for response costs, including those for contribution, against other potentially responsible parties (PRPs) unless the President determines that a waiver would be unjust. (Sec. 302) Adds to the list of parties eligible for expedited final settlements: (1) PRPs whose liability is based on arranging for disposal, treatment, transport of, or on accepting, MSW or municipal sewage sludge at an NPL facility; and (2) municipalities with an inability or limited ability to pay response costs. Title IV: Clarification of Liability for Recycling Transactions - Absolves persons (other than owners or operators) who arranged for the recycling of recyclable material from liability for environmental response actions. Considers transactions involving scrap paper, plastic, glass, textiles, or rubber (other than whole tires) to be arranging for recycling if the person who arranged the transaction demonstrates that the following criteria were met: (1) the recyclable material met a commercial specification grade and a market existed for the material; (2) a substantial portion of the material was made available for use as a feedstock for the manufacture of a new saleable product; (3) the material (or product to be made from the material) is a replacement for a virgin raw material; and (4) in the case of transactions occurring 90 days after this Act's enactment, the person exercised reasonable care to determine that the facility where the material would be managed by another was in compliance with Federal, State, or local environmental laws. Considers transactions involving scrap metal to be arranging for recycling if the person who arranged the transaction demonstrates that: (1) the criteria for scrap materials were met; (2) he or she complied with applicable standards regarding activities associated with the recycling of scrap metals; and (3) the scrap metal was not melted prior to the transaction. Considers transactions involving spent lead-acid, nickel-cadmium, or other batteries to be arranging for recycling if the person involved demonstrates that: (1) the criteria for scrap materials were met; and (2) he or she complied with applicable Federal environmental law regarding such batteries. Makes the exemptions from liability under this Act inapplicable if the person: (1) had an objectively reasonable basis to believe at the time of the recycling transaction that the recyclable material would not be recycled or would be burned as fuel or for energy recovery or incineration or that the consuming facility was not in compliance with Federal, State, or local environmental laws; (2) had reason to believe that hazardous substances had been added to the material for purposes other than processing for recycling; or (3) failed to exercise reasonable care with respect to the management of the material. Makes such exemptions inapplicable if the recyclable material contained polychlorinated biphenyls in excess of 50 parts per million or any new Federal standard. Title V: Brownfields Cleanup - Directs the Administrator to establish a program to award grants to States or local governments to inventory and conduct site assessments of brownfield sites. Requires the Administrator to establish a program to award grants to: (1) State or local governments for capitalization of loan programs for brownfield site cleanup by either the State or locality or by an owner or prospective purchaser; and (2) local governments that are not liable under CERCLA for purposes of cleaning up brownfield sites. Requires reports to specified congressional committees regarding the programs established under this title. Imposes funding limitations, including a restriction on the use of grants to meet Federal cost-sharing requirements or to pay fines or penalties. (Sec. 502) Authorizes the Administrator to: (1) award grants, cooperative agreements, or contracts or provide technical assistance to States, Indian tribes, political subdivisions, and other entities for training, technology transfer, and information dissemination programs to strengthen environmental response activities; and (2) provide training and technical assistance to individuals and organizations to inventory and conduct assessments and cleanups of brownfield sites and conduct response actions under CERCLA. (Sec. 503) Requires the Administrator to provide grants to States to develop or enhance State voluntary response programs. (Sec. 504) Provides for auditing of such grants by the EPA Inspector General. Title VI: Settlement Incentives - Authorizes settlements to provide for payment of a portion of response costs at facilities where there are parties that are insolvent or defunct or otherwise have a limited ability to pay. Authorizes the President to evaluate the ability to pay of a PRP and to enter into a settlement based on that ability. Title VII: Funding - Reauthorizes the Hazardous Substance Superfund (Superfund) through FY 2004. Adds purposes for which Superfund may be used, including payments for certain cleanup settlements. (Sec. 703) Reauthorizes certain activities under CERCLA to be carried out by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. (Sec. 704) Authorizes appropriations for the brownfields activities and State voluntary response programs created by this Act. (Sec. 705) Authorizes appropriations to Superfund for FY 2000 through 2004. (Sec. 706) Increases the maximum amount available for certain worker training and education grants under the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986 in FY 2000 through 2004. Title VIII: Definitions - Adds definitions to CERCLA.
Bill· SS. 1089 (106th)open
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 1999
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Authorization Title II: Personnel Management Title III: Marine Safety Coast Guard Authorization Act of 1999 - Title I: Authorization - Authorizes appropriations for the Coast Guard for: (1) operation and maintenance; (2) acquisition, construction, rebuilding, and improvement of aids to navigation, shore and offshore facilities, vessels, and aircraft; (3) research, development, testing, and evaluation; (4) retired pay, payments under the Retired Serviceman's Family Protection and Survivor Benefit Plans, and payments for medical care of retired personnel and their dependents; (5) environmental compliance and restoration at Coast Guard facilities; and (6) alteration or removal of bridges constituting obstructions to navigation. (Sec. 102) Authorizes the Coast Guard end-of-year strength for active duty personnel and its average military training student loads. Title II: Personnel Management - Limits the director of the Coast Guard band to the rank of captain (currently, commander). (Sec. 202) Authorizes the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating to prescribe regulations under which certain members of Ready Reserve forces may receive special pay. (Sec. 203) Adds the Secretary of Transportation (when the Coast Guard is not operating under the Department of the Navy) to the required members of the Board of Governors of the United Service Organizations, Inc. (USO). (Sec. 204) Authorizes compensatory absence from duty for military Coast Guard personnel serving at isolated duty stations (currently, at isolated aids to navigation) in certain circumstances. (Sec. 205) Allows a promotion selection board to recommend officers of particular merit for placement at the top of the list of selectees and requires, if approved by the President, placement of those officers (in seniority order) at the top of the list. Title III: Marine Safety - Amends the Vessel Bridge-to-Bridge Radiotelephone Act to revise requirements regarding the waters on which vessels, dredges, and floating plants must carry a radiotelephone. (Sec. 302) Mandates a report to specified congressional committees on the use of WYTL-class harbor tugs, including their use to perform icebreaking. Prohibits the Coast Guard from planning or implementing decommissioning of such vessels until nine months after report submission. (Sec. 303) Ends a requirement of annual reports regarding all transfers to and expenditures from the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund. (Sec. 304) Allows the Coast Guard to borrow a limited amount from the Fund when the limit of $50 million in unappropriated funds is inadequate to deal with a discharge or threatened discharge. Mandates repayment to the Fund when, and to the extent that, removal costs are recovered from responsible parties.
Bill· SS. 1090 (106th)open
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 1999
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Brownfields Revitalization Title II: State Response Programs Title III: Fair Share Liability Allocations and Protections Title IV: Funding Superfund Program Completion Act of 1999 - Title I: Brownfields Revitalization - Amends the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA) to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish programs to provide grants to eligible entities (including local government units, redevelopment agencies, States, and Indian tribes) for site characterization and assessment of, and performance of response actions at, brownfields facilities. Defines a "brownfield facility," with exceptions, as real property, the expansion or redevelopment of which is complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance. (Sec. 102) Adds CERCLA provisions governing owner-operator status of persons owning or operating property contiguous to a release site. Absolves such persons of liability as owners or operators, subject to certain conditions. (Sec. 103) Absolves from liability for response actions bona fide prospective purchasers to the extent liability at a facility for a release or threat thereof is based solely on ownership or operation of a facility. Gives a lien upon a facility to the United States for unrecovered response costs in any case in which there are such unrecovered costs for which the owner is not liable by reason of provisions limiting liability of fiduciaries and the facility's fair market value has increased above that which existed 180 days before the action was taken. (Sec. 104) Deems a person, with respect to defenses to liability of an owner of after-acquired property, to have undertaken appropriate inquiry into the property's previous ownership and uses if the person establishes that inquiries were undertaken in accordance with specified requirements (compliance with an American Society for Testing and Materials standard or with standards issued by the Administrator). Requires such owners to have exercised appropriate care with respect to the hazardous substance concerned to defend against liability. Deems the appropriate inquiry requirements to be satisfied by a site inspection and title search that reveal no basis for further investigation in the case of property for residential or similar use purchased by a nongovernmental or noncommercial entity. Title II: State Response Programs - Adds CERCLA provisions requiring the Administrator to provide grants to States to establish and expand qualifying State response programs, comprised of elements including public participation opportunities, oversight and enforcement authorities, and certification mechanisms. Restricts authority to take enforcement actions under CERCLA in cases of hazardous substance releases subject to a State response plan. Authorizes the President to bring enforcement actions in certain instances, including cases where a State requests assistance or is unable to conduct a response action or there is a public health or environmental emergency or migration of contamination across State lines. (Sec. 202) Replaces provisions regarding the revision of the National Contingency Plan with those requiring the President to complete the evaluation of facilities classified as awaiting a National Priority List (NPL) decision to determine the risk to public health or welfare or the environment posed by each facility as compared with other facilities. Directs the President, for FY 2000 through 2004, to add a maximum of 30 facilities to the NPL annually. Prohibits additions to the NPL without a request from the Governor of the State in which the affected facility is located. (Sec. 203) Alters the criteria for the continuance of obligations for removal actions to provide that actions shall not continue after $5 million (currently, $2 million) has been obligated or three years (currently, 12 months) have elapsed from the date of initial response to a release or threatened release of hazardous substances. (Sec. 204) Revises conditions for State financial and other assurances with respect to remedial actions to prohibit the Administrator from providing any funding for such actions unless the State enters into an agreement that provides assurances for State payment of ten percent of the costs of the action and operation and maintenance costs. Title III: Fair Share Liability Allocations and Protections - Creates exceptions to liability for response costs at NPL-listed facilities for certain: (1) home owners or renters, small businesses, or small nonprofit organizations with respect to certain arrangements for, or transport of, municipal solid waste (MSW) or sewage sludge; (2) de minimis contributors; and (3) small businesses. Establishes limitations to liability for codisposal landfills (certain MSW or sewage sludge landfills that may have received hazardous waste and that contain predominately MSW or sewage sludge transported from outside the facility). Absolves persons (other than owners or operators) who arranged for the recycling of recyclable material from liability for environmental response actions. Deems transactions involving scrap paper, plastic, glass, textiles, or rubber (other than whole tires) to be arranging for recycling if the person who arranged the transaction demonstrates that the following criteria were met: (1) the recyclable material met a commercial specification grade and a market existed for the material; (2) a substantial portion of the material was made available for use as a feedstock for the manufacture of a new saleable product; (3) the material (or product to be made from the material) could have been a replacement for a virgin raw material; and (4) with respect to transactions occurring 90 days after this Act's enactment, the person exercised reasonable care to determine that the facility where the material would be managed by another was in compliance with Federal, State, or local environmental laws or regulations. Deems transactions involving scrap metal to be arranging for recycling if the person who arranged the transaction demonstrates that: (1) the criteria for scrap materials were met; (2) he or she complied with applicable standards regarding activities associated with the recycling of scrap metals; and (3) the scrap metal was not melted prior to the transaction. Deems transactions involving spent lead-acid, nickel-cadmium, or other batteries to be arranging for recycling if the person involved demonstrates that: (1) the criteria for scrap materials were met; and (2) he or she complied with applicable Federal environmental regulations or standards regarding such batteries. Makes the exemptions from liability under this Act inapplicable if the person: (1) had an objectively reasonable basis to believe at the time of the recycling transaction that the recyclable material would not be recycled or would be burned as fuel or for energy recovery or incineration or that the consuming facility was not in compliance with Federal, State, or local environmental laws or regulations; (2) had reason to believe that hazardous substances had been added to the material for purposes other than processing for recycling; or (3) failed to exercise reasonable care with respect to the management of the material. Makes such exemptions inapplicable if the recyclable material contained polychlorinated biphenyls in excess of 50 parts per million. (Sec. 302) Adds to the list of parties eligible for expedited final settlements certain persons, small businesses, or municipalities that demonstrate an inability or limited ability to pay response costs. Revises conditions of eligibility for such settlements for de minimis parties. (Sec. 303) Requires the President to conduct an impartial fair share allocation of response costs at NPL facilities and to estimate the fair share of each potentially responsible party (PRP) using specified equitable factors. Includes within such allocations response costs at NPL facilities that were not addressed in a settlement or judgment approved by a Federal district court before, or no later than 180 days after, this Act's enactment. Authorizes a party to settle any liability to the United States for response costs for its allocated fair share. Allocates shares attributable to insolvent, defunct, or bankrupt parties, or unattributable shares, among responsible parties, except certain parties with limited liability described by this Act. Sets forth provisions regarding orphan shares. Provides that a statutory orphan share constitutes an obligation of the Hazardous Substance Superfund (Superfund). Stays all contribution and cost recovery actions against parties eligible for expedited final settlements and those eligible for settlements based on certain limitations on liability with respect to the arrangement of MSW and sewage sludge until the Administrator offers a settlement. Suspends any statute of limitations applicable to such actions during the period that a stay is in effect. Bars the President from issuing orders with respect to abatement actions at a facility to any non-Federal party or commencing or maintaining any new or existing action to recover response costs if he fails to fund a statutory orphan share, reimburse a party as required, or include an orphan share estimate in any settlement when required to do so. Declares that settlements under allocation provisions, those regarding expedited final settlements, and settlements for parties with limited liability with respect to the arrangement of MSW and sewage sludge shall provide complete protection from all claims for contribution or cost recovery for response costs addressed in the allocation. Authorizes a party to retain the right to seek cost recovery or contribution for costs outside the scope of an allocation except from certain parties with limited liability described by this Act or those who have settled. Makes persons who commence contribution actions against parties who are not liable or who have resolved liability liable to such persons for all reasonable costs of defending the action. Provides that parties that settle liability under allocation provisions or provisions regarding expedited final settlements or limited liability with respect to the arrangement of MSW or sewage sludge waive rights to seek cost recovery or contribution. Authorizes the President, as a condition of a settlement under allocation provisions or those regarding limited liability for the arrangement of MSW or sewage sludge, to require parties to conduct a response action. Requires the President to reimburse such parties for costs incurred in excess of a party's allocated fair share. Bars a court from approving any settlement under this Act unless it includes an estimate of the statutory orphan share that is fair, reasonable, and consistent. Title IV: Funding - Revises provisions regarding uses of Superfund. Authorizes appropriations from Superfund for the five-year period beginning on this Act's enactment date. Requires the President to use amounts appropriated out of Superfund only to: (1) enter into mixed funding agreements; (2) reimburse a party for response costs incurred in excess of the allocated share as described in a final settlement; and (3) perform response actions to the extent that the total amount in Superfund exceeds specified amounts in each of FY 2000 through 2004. Prohibits claims against Superfund from being valid or paid in excess of the total amount in Superfund at any one time. Bars the President from issuing an order or seeking to recover costs for a response action if the amount in Superfund is insufficient to enable the President to enter into an agreement or reimburse a party at a facility. Authorizes appropriations to make payments if sufficient funds are unavailable to satisfy claims or enter into agreements. Authorizes appropriations to EPA out of the general Treasury fund or Superfund for conducting removal and response actions. Authorizes appropriations for: (1) the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry for health assessments and consultations and related activities; (2) hazardous substance research, demonstration, and training; (3) brownfields grant programs; (4) qualifying State response programs; and (5) the Department of Justice for enforcement.
Bill· SS. 1081 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 19 May 1999
Explosives Protection Act of 1999 - Amends the Federal criminal code to prohibit the sale, delivery, or transfer of explosive materials to, and the shipment, transport, possession, or receipt of explosives by, certain individuals not allowed to engage in such activities with respect to firearms. Sets forth exceptions and waivers for certain aliens and other individuals lawfully admitted to the United States pursuant to a nonimmigrant visa.
Bill· SS. 1080 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 19 May 1999
Gun Kingpin Penalty Act - Amends the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act to prohibit a person who does not have a Federal firearms license from shipping or transporting, or conspiring to ship or transport, five or more firearms from a State into another State during any period of 12 consecutive months, with intent to transfer all of such firearms to another unlicensed person. Subjects persons who violate this Act to a fine and imprisonment for at least: (1) three years for a first violation; (2) five years for a second or subsequent violation; (3) 15 years if the violation involves more than 50 firearms; (4) ten years if an illegally transported firearm is subsequently used by the recipient, or by any person within three years, in an offense in which a person is killed or suffers serious bodily injury; and (5) 25 years if the violation involves more than 50 firearms and one of the firearms is subsequently used in such an offense. Prohibits the court from imposing a probationary sentence or suspending the sentence of a person convicted of a violation of this Act, or from making any term of imprisonment imposed for a violation run concurrently with any other term imposed on such person by a U.S. court. Makes specified firearms-related offenses predicate offenses under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to hire and employ 200 personnel to enforce the amendments made by this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 1872 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 19 May 1999
Interstate Oasis Act of 1999 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish a program to designate as Interstate Oases facilities near the Interstate System that offer products and services to the public.
Bill· HRH.R. 1845 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 18 May 1999
Aviation Bilateral Accountability Act of 1999 - Amends Federal aviation law to require congressional review, according to a specified procedure, of civil aviation agreements establishing air navigation (including air routes and services) between the United States and a foreign country.
Law· SS. 1059 (106th)enacted
United States · United States Congress · 17 May 1999
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Division A: Department of Defense Authorizations Title I: Procurement Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations Subtitle B: Army Programs Subtitle C: Navy Programs Subtitle D: Air Force Programs Subtitle E: Other Matters Title II: Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations Subtitle B: Program Requirements, Restrictions, and Limitations Subtitle C: Ballistic Missile Defense Subtitle D: Research and Development for Long-Term Military Capabilities Title III: Operation and Maintenance Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations Subtitle B: Program Requirements, Restrictions, and Limitations Subtitle C: Environmental Provisions Subtitle D: Other Matters Title IV: Military Personnel Authorizations Subtitle A: Active Forces Subtitle B: Reserve Forces Subtitle C: Authorization of Appropriations Title V: Military Personnel Policy Subtitle A: Officer Personnel Policy Subtitle B: Reserve Component Matters Subtitle C: Military Education and Training Subtitle D: Decorations, Awards, and Commendations Subtitle E: Amendments to Uniform Code of Military Justice Subtitle F: Other Matters Title VI: Compensation and Other Personnel Benefits Subtitle A: Pay and Allowances Subtitle B: Bonuses and Special and Incentive Pays Subtitle C: Travel and Transportation Allowances Subtitle D: Retired Pay, Survivor Benefits, and Related Matters Subtitle E: Other Matters Title VII: Health Care Subtitle A: TRICARE Program Subtitle B: Other Matters Title VIII: Acquisition Policy, Acquisition Management, and Related Matters Title IX: Department of Defense Organization and Management Subtitle A: General Subtitle B: Commission to Assess United States National Security Space Management and Organization Title X: General Provisions Subtitle A: Financial Matters Subtitle B: Naval Vessels and Shipyards Subtitle C: Miscellaneous Report Requirements and Repeals Subtitle D: Other Matters Title XI: Department of Defense Civilian Personnel Title XII: National Military Museum and Related Matters Subtitle A: Commission on National Military Museum Subtitle B: Related Matters Division B: Military Construction Authorizations Title XXI: Army Title XXII: Navy Title XXIII: Air Force Title XXIV: Defense Agencies Title XXV: North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program Title XXVI: Guard and Reserve Forces Facilities Title XXVII: Expiration and Extension of Authorizations Title XXVIII: General Provisions Subtitle A: Military Construction Program and Military Family Housing Program Changes Subtitle B: Real Property and Facilities Administration Subtitle C: Defense Base Closure and Realignment Subtitle D: Land Conveyances Subtitle E: Other Matters Title XXIX: Renewal of Military Land Withdrawals Division C: Department of Energy National Security Authorizations and Other Authorizations Title XXXI: Department of Energy National Security Programs Subtitle A: National Security Programs Authorizations Subtitle B: Recurring General Provisions Subtitle C: Program Authorizations, Restrictions, and Limitations Subtitle D: Safeguards, Security, and Counterintelligence at Department of Energy Facilities Subtitle E: Other Matters Title XXXII: Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board Title XXXIII: National Defense Stockpile Title XXXIV: Panama Canal Commission National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 - Division A: Department of Defense Authorizations - Title I: Procurement - Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations - Authorizes appropriations for FY 2000 to the Army, Navy and Marine Corps, and Air Force for aircraft, missiles, weapons and tracked combat vehicles, ammunition, shipbuilding and conversion, and other procurement. (Sec. 104) Authorizes appropriations for FY 2000 for: (1) defense-wide procurement; (2) the Defense Inspector General; (3) the chemical demilitarization program; and (4) the Defense Health Program. Subtitle B: Army Programs - Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to enter into multiyear procurement contracts, beginning with the FY 2000 program year, for specified Army programs. (Sec. 112) Prohibits Army procurement funds from being used for certain procurements under the close combat tactical trainer program until the Secretary of the Army has reported to the Senate and House defense and appropriations committees concerning the correction of deficiencies under such program, and 30 days have elapsed since such report. (Sec. 113) Directs the Secretary of the Army to report to such committees a comprehensive plan for modernization of the Army's helicopter forces. Provides a funding limitation on the procurement of Army missiles until such report is received. Subtitle C: Navy Programs - Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to procure the amphibious dock ship LHD-8. Earmarks funds authorized under this title for advance procurement and construction of components for such program. (Sec. 122) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1997 to: (1) increase from 12 to 18 the number of Arleigh Burke class destroyers authorized to be procured under multiyear procurement contracts; (2) extend through FY 2003 the authorized period for such contracting program (authorizing the Secretary of the Navy to enter into contracts for advance procurement of such destroyers for FY 2001); and (3) repeal the requirement for annual reports from shipbuilders under certain nuclear attack submarine programs. (Sec. 124) Requires operational test and evaluation before the installation of cooperative engagement equipment under the Navy's Cooperative Engagement Capability program. (Sec. 125) Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy, beginning with the FY 2000 program year, to enter into a multiyear procurement contract for F-A 18E-F aircraft, with a certification requirement. Subtitle D: Air Force Programs - Requires certain certifications from the Secretary of Defense (Secretary) to the defense and appropriations committees before awarding the contract for low-rate initial production under the F-22 aircraft program. Subtitle E: Other Matters - Amends the Armament Retooling and Manufacturing Support Act of 1992 to extend through FY 2001 the authority of the Armament Retooling and Manufacturing Support Initiative. (Sec. 142) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1998 to extend through FY 2001 a pilot program on sales of manufactured articles and services of certain Army industrial facilities without regard to their availability from domestic sources. Extends the deadline for a report from the Defense Inspector General under such pilot program. Title II: Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation - Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations - Authorizes appropriations for FY 2000 for research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E). (Sec. 202) Earmarks specified RDT&E funds for basic and applied research projects. Subtitle B: Program Requirements, Restrictions, and Limitations - Earmarks funds authorized under this title for: (1) contributions for the common-funded civil budget of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO); (2) continued implementation of the micro-satellite technology program under a prior defense authorization Act (requiring the Secretary to develop a plan and submit a report with respect to such program); (3) space control technology development; and (4) the space maneuver vehicle program. (Sec. 215) Amends the defense manufacturing technology program to: (1) strike as a program purpose the promotion of dual-use manufacturing processes; and (2) add as a program purpose the development and application of technologies that involve repair and remanufacturing in support of the operations of system commands, depots, air logistics centers, and shipyards. Requires the Secretary to have manufacturing technology projects selected principally on the basis of the extent to which the projects satisfy such new program purpose, above, as determined by a panel established to review the projects and make selections. Requires the competitive procedures used for selecting projects to include the extent to which a proposal provides for the prospective contract recipient to share in defraying project costs. Subtitle C: Ballistic Missile Defense - Directs the Secretary to establish an acquisition strategy for the upper tier missile defense system with specified requirements. (Sec. 222) Amends the Strom Thurmond National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1999 to repeal the requirement to implement technical and price competition for the Theater High Altitude Area Defense System. (Sec. 223) Directs the Secretary to structure the space-based laser program to include: (1) a near-term integrated flight experiment; and (2) an ongoing activity for developing an objective system design. Expresses the sense of Congress that the structure required be consistent with the joint venture contracting approach and overall objective established by the Department of Defense (DOD) for the space-based laser program. Requires a revised program baseline. Earmarks program funds. (Sec. 224) Prohibits the Secretary of the Air Force from making any modification under the Airborne Laser program until the Secretary of Defense certifies to Congress that such modification is justified on the basis of certain test and analysis. Outlines related program requirements. Subtitle D: Research and Development for Long-Term Military Capabilities - Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1997 to: (1) extend through 2002 a required report from the Secretary on emerging operational concepts; and (2) provide additional matters to be included in such reports after 1999. Amends provisions of such Act relating to an annual joint warfighting science and technology plan to require the Secretary to submit to the defense committees a summary of each technology area review and assessment conducted by DOD in support of that plan. (Sec. 233) Requires the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology to report to the defense and appropriations committees on necessary actions to ensure that the armed forces have the military capabilities necessary to meet national security requirements over the next two to three decades. (Sec. 234) Requires the modification of certain DOD profit guidelines to place increased emphasis on technical risk as a factor for determining appropriate profit margins and to provide an increased profit incentive for contractors to develop and produce complex and innovative new technologies rather than mature technologies with low technical risk. (Sec. 235) Authorizes the Director of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency to carry out a program to award prizes in recognition of outstanding achievements in basic, advanced, and applied research, technology development, and prototype development that have the potential for application to the performance of DOD military missions. Requires a competitive process to be used for the selection of participants. Limits to $10 million the amount that may be awarded in a fiscal year. Requires an annual report from the Director to the defense committees on program administration. (Sec. 236) Authorizes the Secretary to carry out a pilot program to demonstrate improved cooperative relationships with universities and other private sector entities for the performance of research and development functions. Requires the Secretary to consider laboratories where innovative management techniques have been demonstrated. Allows the Secretary to carry out such program at each selected laboratory for three years beginning no later than March 1, 2000. Requires an implementation report from the Secretary to Congress. (Sec. 237) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1995 to exempt defense laboratory employees covered by a personnel demonstration project carried out under such Act from certain defense workforce management personnel restrictions. (Sec. 238) Provides for the use of defense working capital funds for financing RDT&E activities and programs of the military departments. Requires implementation status reports from the Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller) to the defense committees. (Sec. 239) Directs the Secretary to convene a panel of independent experts to conduct an analysis of the resources and capabilities of all DOD laboratories and test and evaluation facilities, including those of the military departments. Requires the panel to report its findings to the Secretary and Congress. Directs the Secretary to develop an appropriate performance review process for rating the quality and relevance of work performed by DOD laboratories. Title III: Operation and Maintenance - Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations - Authorizes appropriations for FY 2000 for operation and maintenance (O&M) for the armed forces and specified activities and agencies of DOD. (Sec. 302) Authorizes appropriations for FY 2000 for: (1) working capital and revolving funds; and (2) the Armed Forces Retirement Home. (Sec. 304) Authorizes the transfer of up to $150 million from the National Defense Stockpile Transaction Fund to specified military O&M accounts for FY 2000. Subtitle B: Program Requirements, Restrictions, and Limitations - Earmarks Army O&M funds for contributions for the common-funded NATO military budget. (Sec. 312) Authorizes the use of humanitarian and civic assistance funds for the pay and allowances of reserve personnel of the Special Operations Command furnishing education and training on the detection and clearance of landmines or related technical assistance. (Sec. 313) Authorizes the head of any Federal agency to enter into a contract for the installation and maintenance of national defense features in one or more commercial vessels owned or controlled by the offeror in accordance with the purposes of the National Defense Sealift Fund. Authorizes advance payments for such features. Requires the vessel to be operated for DOD after the installation of such features and for the contract term. Subtitle C: Environmental Provisions - Directs the Secretary to provide for the management of projects for the research, development, and evaluation of environmental technologies for DOD and the military departments. Outlines related responsibilities of the Secretary in connection with such projects. Requires the appropriate DOD officials to establish, at the beginning of each fiscal year, a performance plan for the environmental technology program within that department or agency. Requires an annual report from the Secretary to Congress on the environmental technology program of DOD during the preceding fiscal year. (Sec. 322) Establishes the: (1) Environmental Restoration Account, Army, Formerly Used Defense Sites; and (2) Environmental Restoration Account, Defense Base Closure and Realignment. Requires funds in the latter Account to be used only for carrying out environmental restoration required as the result of the closure or realignment of a military installation pursuant to a base closure law. Directs the Secretary to transfer funds to the latter Account from the Department of Defense Base Closure Account 1990. Provides for the funding of administrative expenses and technical assistance in connection with such environmental restoration activities. (Sec. 323) Extends through FY 2010 a current limitation on the payment of environmental fines and penalties from the Environmental Restoration Account, Defense, or environmental restoration accounts of the military departments. (Sec. 324) Directs the Secretary to report annually to Congress on progress made in carrying out activities under the environmental quality programs of DOD and the military departments. (Currently, an annual report concerning environmental compliance is required.) (Sec. 325) Replaces the Director of Defense Research and Engineering with the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Science and Technology among the membership of the Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program Council. (Sec. 326) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1998 to extend through FY 2001 a pilot program for the sale of air pollution emission reduction incentives. (Sec. 327) Authorizes the Secretary, using specified military environmental restoration account funds, to pay to the Fresno Drum Special Account within the Hazardous Substance Superfund specified amounts to reimburse the Environmental Protection Agency for environmental response activities undertaken at the Fresno Industrial Supply, Inc. site in Fresno, California. (Sec. 328) Authorizes the Secretary of the Air Force, using Air Force environmental restoration account funds, to pay certain stipulated environmental civil penalties assessed against F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyoming. Subtitle D: Other Matters - Amends the: (1) National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1998 to extend through FY 2000 a pilot program of using commercial sources to improve the collection of DOD claims under aircraft engine warranties; (2) Strom Thurmond National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1999 to provide additional matters to be included in a reporting requirement before prime vendor contracts for depot-level maintenance and repair are entered into; and (3) latter Act to allow certain changes in defense retail systems to be implemented if approved by all of the military department Secretaries (currently, implementation is permitted only if specifically authorized by law). (Sec. 344) Authorizes the Secretary to waive certain conditions in connection with the sale of articles and services of DOD industrial facilities to purchasers outside of DOD if the Secretary determines that such waiver is necessary for national security reasons and notifies Congress of such reasons. (Sec. 346) Directs the Secretary to designate the Department of the Navy as the lead agency for the development and implementation of a Smart Card (a credit card-size device containing certain personal identifying information and technology) program for DOD. Requires the Secretaries of the Army and Air Force to establish Smart Card project offices within their departments, and to coordinate their activities with the lead agency. Directs the Secretary to establish a senior coordinating group to develop and implement DOD-wide interoperability standards for the use of Smart Card technology and a plan to use such technology to enhance readiness and improve business processes. Requires the Secretary of the Navy to establish a business plan to implement the use of Smart Cards in one major naval region of the United States in the area of the U.S. Atlantic Command and one in the area of the U.S. Pacific Command. Earmarks funds authorized under this Act for the increased use of Smart Cards and for demonstration programs. Requires a report from the Secretary to the defense committees on progress made by the senior coordinating group in implementing this section. Repeals a provision of the Strom Thurmond National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1999 requiring the establishment of an Automated Identification Technology Office. (Sec. 347) Directs the Secretary to study, and report to the defense committees on, potential DOD benefits from the use of the Smart Card for addressing DOD needs for a public-private key infrastructure authentication device carrier. (Sec. 348) Extends to military honor guards and law enforcement agencies (currently, only veterans' organizations) the authority of the Secretary of the Army to lend M-1 rifles (currently, obsolete or condemned rifles). Title IV: Military Personnel Authorizations - Subtitle A: Active Forces - Sets forth the authorized end strengths for active-duty forces as of the end of FY 2000. Revises such minimum end strength levels. Revises generally the conditions under which such end strengths may be reduced below the level needed to support two simultaneous major regional contingencies. Subtitle B: Reserve Forces - Sets forth the authorized end strengths as of the end of FY 2000 for members of the Selected Reserve and reserve personnel on active duty in support of the reserves. (Sec. 413) Sets forth the authorized end strengths as of the end of FY 2000 for military technicians (dual status) and military technicians (non-dual status). (Sec. 414) Increases the number of certain officers and enlisted personnel authorized to serve on active duty in support of the reserves. Subtitle C: Authorization of Appropriations - Authorizes appropriations for FY 2000 for military personnel. Title V: Military Policy - Subtitle A: Officer Personnel Policy - Extends through FY 2003 certain provisions concerning a required competitive selection procedure for the designation of joint four-star officers. (Sec. 502) Excludes from three-star officer grade limitations those officers serving as a superintendent of a military academy. Directs the Secretary of the military department concerned (Secretary concerned) to retire a superintendent within that department upon the termination of detail to such position. Requires those accepting the position of superintendent to agree to accept retirement at the end of their detail. (Sec. 503) Increases from 35 to 55 the number of officers authorized to be frocked (to wear the insignia of a higher grade after selection for promotion to such grade but before the promotion date). (Sec. 505) Requires active-duty or retired officers serving on boards of inquiry to be serving in a grade above major or lieutenant commander, or, in the case of the president of such board, in a grade above lieutenant colonel or commander. Excludes retired officers serving on such boards from general and flag officer limitations. Requires officers serving on retention boards for reserve active status officers to hold the same grades as above and to be: (1) in the same armed force as the officer being considered; and (2) senior in rank to such officer. (Sec. 506) Authorizes a promotion selection board to recommend for promotion an officer from below the promotion zone for that position when the number of officers recommended is less than one. (Sec. 507) Prohibits civil employment for regular and reserve officers serving on active duty under a call or order for a period in excess of 270 (currently 180) days. (Sec. 508) Exempts Retiree Council members from recalled retiree limitations. Subtitle B: Reserve Component Matters - Exempts from active-duty general and flag officer limitations up to 25 reserve general and flag officers serving on active duty at any one time under calls or orders specifying periods of 180 days or more. (Sec. 512) Specifies the operations support and other duties authorized for reserve personnel serving on active duty in support of the reserves. Directs the Secretary to review the use of such reserves and to report review results to the defense committees. (Sec. 513) Repeals a limitation on the number of reserves authorized to serve on full-time active duty in support of preparedness for responses to emergencies involving weapons of mass destruction. (Sec. 514) Requires a major or lieutenant commander who has twice failed for promotion to be removed from the reserve active status list on the later of the first day of the month after such member completes 20 years of service (current law) or seven months after the President approves the report of the board which considered such officer for the second time. (Sec. 515) Authorizes the Secretary concerned to: (1) delay the separation or retirement of a reserve officer until the completion of court-martial disciplinary proceedings; and (2) retain reserve officer chaplains until age 67 (currently 60). (Sec. 517) Revises generally provisions concerning the award of reserve service credit for participation in the Armed Forces Health Professions Scholarship and Financial Assistance Program. (Sec. 518) Makes ineligible for promotion a reserve officer serving in an educational delay status in order to attend an approved educational institution to receive advanced training, when such training is subsidized by the military department concerned. Makes such provision retroactive with respect to promotion boards convened before the enactment of this Act. (Sec. 519) Excludes from the computation of creditable years of service for a reserve officer service as a reserve commissioned officer while in a program of advanced education to receive the first professional degree required for appointment, designation, or assignment within various military medical specialties, or a chaplain or judge advocate, provided such service occurs before the officer commences initial active or reserve service in the specialty that results from such degree. (Sec. 521) Establishes within the Coast Guard an Office of the Coast Guard Reserve, headed by a Director. Requires the Director to report annually to the Secretaries of Transportation and Defense on the state of the Coast Guard Reserve and its ability to meet mission requirements. Subtitle C: Military Education and Training - Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 1992 and 1993 to authorize the Secretary concerned to exceed the annual military academy class limitations by not more than five percent (requiring a justification of such increase to the defense committees). (Sec. 532) Repeals current limitations on the amount of reimbursement authorized to be waived for educational costs of foreign students at U.S. service academies. (Sec. 533) Authorizes up to 24 (currently ten) cadets or midshipmen from each service academy to participate in a service academy foreign exchange program. Increases from $50,000 to $120,000 the authorized fiscal year expenditures for each academy under such program. (Sec. 534) Makes permanent (currently terminates September 30, 1999) the authority of the Secretary concerned to allow graduate students to receive financial assistance under the Reserve Officers' Training Corps program. (Sec. 535) Authorizes the Commandant of the United States Army War College to confer the degree of master of strategic studies. (Sec. 536) Authorizes the commander of the: (1) Air Education and Training Command to establish minimum educational requirements for Community College of the Air Force professors and instructors; and (2) Air University to confer the degrees of master of strategic studies and master of military operational art and science. (Sec. 538) Excludes members of the armed forces within the defense acquisition workforce from a limitation on the amount of reimbursement that may be received for tuition and training expenses. (Sec. 539) Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to provide up to $5,200 yearly in financial assistance to certain members of the Marine Corps Reserve for completion of: (1) baccalaureate degree requirements in an educational program that takes less than five years to complete; or (2) doctor of jurisprudence or bachelor of laws degree requirements in programs that take no more than three years to complete. Outlines eligibility requirements, including selection as an officer candidate in the Marine Corps Platoon Leader's Class Program and completion of at least six weeks of military training. Requires graduates to serve at least five years of active duty upon graduation. Prohibits more than 1, 200 individuals from participating in such program at any one time. Provides for the computation of creditable service for officers serving in such positions. Subtitle D: Decorations, Awards, and Commendations - Waives certain time limitations with respect to the award to Mark H. Freeman of Seattle, Washington, of the Coast Guard Commendation Medal for heroic achievements during a rescue operation in September, 1956. Subtitle E: Amendments to Uniform Code of Military Justice - Amends the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) to authorize special courts-martial to adjudicate and execute punishments which include confinement for up to one year (currently six months). (Sec. 562) Reduces from 0.10 to 0.08 the level of blood-alcohol content for determining the UCMJ offense of drunken operation of a vehicle, aircraft, or vessel. Subtitle F: Other Matters - Includes decedents who were members of the Selected Reserve (currently, only veterans) among those eligible for honor guard details at their funerals. Revises honor guard detail requirements (renaming it as a funeral honors detail). Requires such detail, at a minimum, to perform the folding and presentation of the flag, and to play Taps (requiring a recorded version of such song when no bugler is present). Requires at least one detail member to be of the same service branch as the deceased. Authorizes the Secretary concerned to provide certain support services to such details. Authorizes the Secretary to waive any requirements of this section to meet the requirements of war, national emergency, a contingency operation, or other military requirements (requiring notification to the defense committees). Authorizes the acceptance of voluntary services of veterans support organizations with respect to such a detail. Provides the duty status for reserve personnel serving on such details. Authorizes members of the Army or Air National Guard to be ordered to perform such duty, with their consent and the consent of the governor or other appropriate official of the State involved. Requires a minimum of two hours of such duty in order to receive service credit and any authorized allowances. Authorizes members of the Ready Reserve to be ordered to such duty, with their consent, with the appropriate service crediting when performing a minimum of two hours on such detail. Authorizes medical treatment for any illness or injury incurred by a member during, or while traveling to or from, such detail. Authorizes a $50 stipend for members on such detail. (Sec. 572) Increases from 180 to 365 days the period during which a potential recruit may be extended in the delayed entry program. (Sec. 573) Directs the Secretary of the Army to establish a pilot program to assess whether the Army could increase the number and level of qualifications of Army inductees by encouraging recruits to pursue higher education or vocational or technical training before their induction. Authorizes under the program a delayed entry of up to two years in order to pursue such education or training, with a monthly allowance of $150 for persons enlisted in the Individual Ready Reserve during such time. Authorizes the pilot program from October 1, 1999, to September 30, 2004. Requires a program report from the Secretary to the defense committees. (Sec. 574) Reduces from annually to every two years a required report from the Secretary to Congress concerning operation of the Selected Reserve educational assistance program under the Montgomery GI Bill. (Sec. 575) Adds to the military welfare societies authorized to provide services to overseas U.S. military personnel certain overseas entities that promote understanding between U.S. military personnel and the people of the host nation. (Sec. 576) Authorizes the Armed Forces Medical Examiner to conduct forensic pathology investigations, including an autopsy, to determine the cause or manner of death of persons under certain circumstances, including those who die while imprisoned in a military installation or from an injury or illness incurred during active duty or military training. Subjects such authority to the primary jurisdiction of any State or local government, or foreign country in which there is an international agreement with the United States. (Sec. 577) Prohibits the disclosure of the contents of a record of a debriefing, made by an authorized U.S. official, of a missing person returned to U.S. control during the period beginning on July 8, 1959, and ending on February 10, 1996. (Sec. 578) Authorizes the use for public relations purposes of advertising materials developed for military recruitment and retention. (Sec. 579) Revises provisions providing financial assistance to separated military personnel to obtain certification as teachers or teachers' aides (the troops-to-teachers program) to place administration of the program in the hands of the Secretary of Defense, for the armed forces, and the Secretary of Transportation, for the Coast Guard, but to transfer such jurisdiction to the Secretary of Education, such transfer to be completed by October 1, 2001. Requires the administering Secretary to periodically identify local educational agencies for program participation. Makes retired military personnel eligible for such assistance. Revises generally provisions concerning outreach information provided to eligible individuals and the selection of participants. Authorizes the provision of a $10,000 bonus (in lieu of the regular stipend of $5,000) to each participant who agrees to accept full-time employment as an elementary or secondary school teacher or vocational or technical teacher for not less than four years in a high need school. Deletes provisions requiring the administering Secretary to pay specified amounts of the base salary of teachers hired under the program to the local educational agencies involved. Provides additional exceptions to required reimbursement for a participant's failure to complete the agreed-upon period of service as a teacher or aide. Authorizes the administering Secretary to make grants (with grant limits) to States or a consortia of States in order to operate offices to recruit eligible individuals for program participation. Prohibits the administering Secretary from using more than five percent of program funds to establish and maintain program management infrastructure. Provides for the transfer of program administration to the Secretary of Education. Requires such Secretary and the Comptroller General (CG), after such transfer, to report to Congress on program effectiveness. (Sec. 580) Authorizes the Secretary to provide financial assistance to an eligible civilian provider of child care or youth program services that furnishes such services for military personnel and Federal employees if the Secretary determines that providing such assistance: (1) is in DOD's best interest; (2) enables supplementation or expansion of the furnishing of such services for military installations; and (3) ensures that the provider complies with DOD standards for furnishing such care. Outlines provider requirements. Authorizes the use of any DOD funds to provide such assistance. Requires a biennial report from the Secretary to Congress. Allows the Secretary to authorize participation in such programs by children and youth under 19 years of age who are not military or Federal employee dependents. Requires a biennial report on the exercise of such authority. (Sec. 581) Directs the Secretary to establish a Military-Civilian Task Force on Domestic Violence, requiring the Task Force to submit an annual report to Congress concerning responses to domestic violence in the military, pending research on domestic violence, and recommendations for improving the military response to such violence. Requires the Secretary to establish a central database of information on cases of domestic violence involving military personnel. Title VI: Compensation and Other Personnel Benefits - Subtitle A: Pay and Allowances - Waives any FY 2000 military pay increases tied to increases in the General Schedule of Compensation for Government employees. Increases by 4.8 percent, effective on January 1, 2000, the rates of basic pay for military personnel. Revises, effective July 1, 2000, the rates of such pay for commissioned and warrant officers within specified grades. Requires increases in basic pay for each of FY 2001 through 2006 by a specified percentage based on the Economic Cost Index. (Sec. 603) Authorizes the Secretary concerned to pay a monthly special subsistence allowance to military personnel in pay grades E-5 or below who are eligible for food stamp assistance, with conditions and limitations, including a monthly limit of $180 and termination of such assistance if paid for 12 consecutive months. Terminates such authority on September 30, 2004. Requires an annual report from the Secretary to Congress. (Sec. 604) Authorizes the lump-sum payment of accrued unused annual leave upon a member's reenlistment into the armed forces. (Sec. 605) Requires the continuation of authorized pay and allowances for a member listed under a "whereabouts unknown" duty status. (Sec. 606) Provides for the identical treatment, for purposes of pay determination and years of service credit, for officers who completed instruction at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in 1987 and those who graduated in 1986. Subtitle B: Bonuses and Special and Incentive Pays - Extends through 2000 specified authorities currently scheduled to expire at the end of 1999 with respect to certain special pay and bonus programs within the regular and reserve armed forces. (Sec. 614) Requires air battle managers entitled to aviation career incentive pay to receive the higher of such pay or the amount they were receiving prior to such entitlement. (Sec. 615) Extends through 2004 the bonus authority for aviation career officers agreeing to extend their period of duty for at least one year. Repeals the requirement that such officers must have completed at least six, but less than 13 years of active duty in order to be eligible for the bonus. Repeals the lower alternative amount of such bonus for officers agreeing to serve three additional years or less. Allows such an agreement to extend until the officer has completed up to 25 years of aviation service (currently, 14 years of commissioned service). (Sec. 616) Authorizes the payment of career enlisted flyer incentive pay to enlisted personnel who: (1) are entitled to basic pay or inactive duty training pay; (2) hold or are training for a career enlisted occupational or flyer specialty; and (3) are qualified for aviation service. Outlines operational flying duty requirements. Provides for the monthly amounts of such pay, such amount increasing with the years of creditable aviation service performed. Prohibits such pay for members already receiving either hazardous duty incentive pay or diving duty special pay. (Sec. 617) Authorizes special pay for certain special warfare officers who agree to remain on active duty in such service for at least one additional year. Limits such payment to $15,000 for each year under the agreement. Prohibits such agreement term from extending beyond the date on which the officer would complete 14 years of active commissioned service. Requires the pro rata repayment of such bonus for periods not served. (Sec. 618) Authorizes the payment of a retention bonus for surface warfare officers who agree to: (1) remain on active duty for at least two years and through the tenth year of active commissioned service; and (2) complete tours of duty to which the officer may be ordered during such period as a department head afloat. Limits such amount to $15,000 for each year under the agreement. Prohibits such agreement term from extending beyond the date on which the officer would complete ten years of active commissioned service. Requires the pro rata repayment of such bonus for periods not served. (Sec. 619) Authorizes additional special pay for veterinarians in the armed forces and the Public Health Service who have been awarded a diploma in a specialty recognized by the American Veterinarian Medical Association. (Sec. 620) Increases: (1) the rate of diving duty special monthly pay; (2) the reenlistment bonus for active-duty personnel; and (3) the critical skills enlistment bonus (authorizing the lump-sum payment of such bonus). (Sec. 623) Amends provisions authorizing the payment of a Selected Reserve enlistment bonus to: (1) eliminate the six-year minimum period required to receive such bonus; and (2) increase such bonus from $5,000 to $8,000. (Sec. 624) Authorizes special pay for Coast Guard reserve personnel assigned to high priority units of the Selected Reserve. (Sec. 625) Reduces from three to two years the minimum period of Army enlistment in a critical skill area before eligibility for an enlistment bonus. (Sec. 626) Authorizes payment of a prior service enlistment bonus to certain members of the Selected Reserve attaining or occupying positions designated as critically short. (Sec. 627) Increases: (1) certain special pay and bonuses for nuclear-qualified officers; and (2) the monthly foreign language proficiency special pay. Subtitle C: Travel and Transportation Allowances - Authorizes the payment of temporary lodging expenses for members making their first permanent change of duty station. (Sec. 642) Authorizes the use of any airport in the United States at which travel can be arranged at a lower cost in connection with emergency leave travel for military personnel. (Currently, only travel from the closest airport is authorized.) (Sec. 643) Authorizes the Secretary concerned, under certain circumstances, to pay a per diem allowance to certain military technicians (dual status) serving on active duty without pay outside the United States. (Sec. 644) Authorizes reserve personnel to travel in a space required status on military aircraft between the member's home and place of inactive-duty training outside the United States when there is no available road or rail transportation. (Sec. 645) Authorizes the Secretary concerned to reimburse a member for travel expenses incurred in connection with approved leave which is canceled to meet an exigency in connection with U.S. participation in Operation Allied Force. Subtitle D: Retired Pay, Survivor Benefits, and Related Matters - Limits the application of a reduction in retired pay currently required for individuals who first became members of the armed forces after July 31, 1986, and retired with less than 30 years of creditable service to only those who have elected to receive a bonus added by this section. Makes eligible for such bonus those members who became members after the above date, have 15 years or more of active duty, and execute written agreements to complete at least five more years of continuous active duty service. Makes such bonus a lump-sum amount of $30,000. (Sec. 652) Authorizes participation in the Federal Thrift Savings Plan for Ready Reserve members of any pay status. Authorizes all active-duty military personnel to participate in such Plan and to contribute participatory amounts to the Thrift Savings Fund, limiting the maximum annual contribution to five percent of the member's basic pay, as well as any special or incentive pay received. Prohibits matching agency contributions. Adds a representative of the armed forces to the Employee Thrift Advisory Council. Authorizes such participation and contribution as of July 1, 2000, unless postponed by the Secretary under certain circumstances. (Sec. 653) Authorizes the Secretary concerned to enter into an agreement with a member to make contributions to the Fund if such member: (1) is in a critical specialty; and (2) commits to continue to serve on active duty in that specialty for six years. (Sec. 654) Includes reserve retired officers who are employed with the Federal Government on a full-time basis under provisions limiting the amount of military retired pay they may receive during such employment. (Sec. 655) Amends the Strom Thurmond National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1999 to provide a credit toward Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) coverage for months covered by premium payments made during an SBP open enrollment period for persons not previously participating in the SBP. (Sec. 656) Prohibits as of October 1, 2008, the reduction in military retired pay for persons electing to participate in a military annuity program for any month after the later of: (1) 30 years for which such retired pay is reduced; or (2) the month during which the annuitant reaches 70 years of age. (Sec. 657) Makes permanent (currently terminates on September 30, 2001) the authority for the payment of annuities to the surviving spouses of certain reserve personnel. (Sec. 658) Provides for the effectuation of an intended SBP annuity to a former spouse when not accomplished by a member due to his or her death within 21 days after entering into an agreement incident to a divorce to elect such annuity. Subtitle E: Other Matters - Directs the Secretary to report annually to Congress assessing the effect that additional pay and benefits have had on military recruitment and retention. (Sec. 672) Requires the first general or flag officer in the chain of command of a member to manage such member's deployment when the total number of days of which such member has been deployed out of 365 consecutive days is in excess of 180 days. Limits such deployment to 200 out of 365 consecutive days unless a general or admiral in such chain of command approves a continued deployment. Provides for the waiver of such limitations by the Secretary for national security purposes. Authorizes a $100 per diem allowance for members deployed in excess of 220 out of 365 consecutive days (with a national security waiver of such allowance). Makes such provisions inapplicable to the Coast Guard when not operating as a service in the Navy. (Sec. 673) Makes inapplicable to members deployed in a contingency operation or similar operational mission a required limitation in the amount of tuition costs that will be paid for education or training during off-duty periods. (Sec. 674) Includes within the educational loan repayment program members of the Selected Reserve of the Coast Guard Reserve when not operating as a service in the Navy. (Sec. 675) Extends to the Public Health Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration the authority for the presentation of the U.S. flag upon retirement. Title VII: Health Care - Subtitle A: TRICARE Program - Amends the Civilian Heath and Medical Program of the Uniformed Services (CHAMPUS) to require the Secretary to ensure that health care coverage available through TRICARE (a DOD managed health care program) is substantially similar to coverage available under similar health benefits plans offered under the Federal Employees Health Benefits program. Directs the Secretary to minimize the authorization or certification requirements of covered beneficiaries under the TRICARE program as a condition of access to program benefits. Authorizes the Secretary to reimburse health care providers under the TRICARE program at higher rates (with limits) if such rates are necessary to ensure the availability of an adequate number of qualified health care providers. Authorizes collection by military medical treatment facilities of health care costs incurred on behalf of a covered beneficiary of another insurer. Requires an implementation report from the Secretary to Congress. (Sec. 702) Requires the Secretary to establish voluntary enrollment dental plans for members of the Selected Reserve (current law) and Individual Ready Reserve, and authorizes such plans for other reserves, active duty dependents, and Ready Reserve dependents. (Currently, the Secretary is authorized to establish such plans for dependents of military personnel who are on active duty for more than 30 days.) Provides for: (1) plan administration; (2) types of care authorized; (3) premiums and premium sharing plans; (4) copayments; (5) dental care provided outside the United States; and (6) a waiver of plan requirements for dependents of personnel on active duty for more than 30 days. Prohibits the Secretary from reducing plan benefits until notice to the defense committees followed by a one-year waiting period. (Sec. 703) Expresses the sense of Congress calling for the automatic authorization for enrollment into the TRICARE Senior Prime demonstration program of persons already enrolled in a DOD managed care program. (Sec. 704) Provides for the designation and services of TRICARE beneficiary advocates, requiring such designation no later than January 15, 2000. Subtitle B: Other Matters - Provides for the health care at former military medical treatment facilities of active-duty personnel stationed at certain remote locations. (Sec. 712) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1995 to extend through FY 2000 the chiropractic health care demonstration program. (Sec. 713) Directs the Secretary, in the administration of health care contracts, to implement program benefit and administrative changes at the start of each fiscal year rather than throughout the year, except when the Secretary determines that such changes would significantly improve health services to eligible beneficiaries or result in more effective provision of such care. (Sec. 714) Requires CHAMPUS contracts to be awarded to offerors that will provide the best value consistent with high-quality care in a manner that protects the fiscal and other interests of the United States. (Sec. 715) Authorizes the Secretary concerned, with the consent of the member, to order a reserve member to active duty to complete a health surveillance study. (Sec. 716) Authorizes the Secretary, on a case-by-case basis, to continue payment under CHAMPUS for domiciliary or custodial care services to covered beneficiaries who, prior to the effective date of final regulations implementing the individual case management program, were provided such care. Title VIII: Acquisition Policy, Acquisition Management, and Related Matters - Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 1990 and 1991 to extend through FY 2005 a test program for the negotiation of comprehensive small business subcontracting plans. (Sec. 802) Amends provisions of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1991 relating to the Mentor-Protege program (a program to provide incentives to major DOD contractors to award subcontracts to disadvantaged small businesses) to: (1) provide a program participation term of not more than three years, while allowing up to five years in unusual circumstances; (2) authorize (currently require) the Secretary to reimburse a mentor for the total amount of progress or advance payments made to a subcontractor under the program, as well as certain support costs; (3) state that determinations made in a mentor firm's annual performance review shall be a major factor in determining appropriate reimbursement amounts; (4) limit such total reimbursement amount in a fiscal year to $1 million, with an exception; (5) extend such program through FY 2004; (6) require specified reports from the mentor firm, the protege firm, and the Secretary; (7) require an annual performance review of each mentor-protege agreement; and (8) repeal a provision that limits the provision of funding to the end of FY 1999. (Sec. 803) Directs the Secretary to report to Congress the implementation status of the Small Business Innovation Research program transition plan developed under a prior defense authorization Act. (Sec. 804) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1994 to provide for CG review of records concerning prototype projects carried out by the Advanced Research Projects Agency. (Sec. 805) Authorizes the Secretary to carry out a pilot program to treat procurements of certain commercial services as procurements of commercial items under the Office of Federal Procurement Policy Act. Limits such program to a five-year period. Requires the Secretary to: (1) report to Congress on the program; and (2) collect and analyze information on price trends for all services covered by the program. (Sec. 806) Requires the Secretary, before purchasing a product listed in the latest edition of the Federal Prison Industries catalog, to conduct market research to determine whether such product is comparable in price, quality, and delivery time to products available from the private sector, and, if not comparable, to use competitive procedures for the procurement of such product. Provides exemptions, including for the procurement of national security systems. Title IX: Department of Defense Organization and Management - Subtitle A: General - Provides that, as of October 1, 2002, the number of DOD management headquarters and headquarters support personnel may not exceed 65 (currently 75) percent of such number as of October 1, 1989. Repeals provisions requiring a phased reduction of such number. (Sec. 902) Outlines additional matters to be included within annual reports concerning joint warfighting experimentation. (Sec. 903) Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to accept from a donor a qualified guarantee for the completion of a major project (cost of at least $1 million) for the benefit of the U.S. Military Academy. Allows funds for such a project to be obligated and expended without regard to whether they are sufficient to pay for project completion. Requires a qualified account control agreement to be set up between such Secretary, the donor, and a major U.S. investment management firm in order to ensure the availability of sufficient funds to pay the guaranteed amount (along with related assurances and requirements). (Sec. 904) Mandates that the Civil Air Patrol is a nonmilitary, voluntary civilian auxiliary of the Air Force, to be administered by a Chief of Staff under the direction of the Secretary of the Air Force. Requires Patrol headquarters to perform command, control, and administrative functions. Outlines Patrol organizational requirements, including an Executive Director, Safety Officer, and Inspector General. Prohibits a member of the regular Air Force, Air Force Reserve, or Air National Guard serving in such position from receiving compensation for such service other than the pay and allowances provided to military personnel in such positions. (Sec. 905) Repeals the requirement that the DOD strategic plan be updated and revised at least every three years. (Sec. 906) Directs the Secretary, in each year in which a President is inaugurated, to conduct a comprehensive examination of the defense strategy, force structure, force modernization plans, infrastructure, budget plan, and related elements of defense programs and policies with a view toward determining and expressing the U.S. defense strategy and establishing a revised defense plan for the ensuing ten years and a revised defense plan for the ensuing 20 years. Requires during such time the consideration of reports of the National Defense Panel (established herein). Directs the Secretary to report on such review to the defense committees every year such review is conducted. Directs the Secretary to establish the National Defense Panel (nonpartisan and independent) to make certain assessments and recommendations concerning appropriate changes to U.S. defense strategy and to identify the most dangerous threats to U.S. national security during such upcoming periods. Requires the Panel to submit to the Secretary and the defense committees an interim and final report containing appropriate recommendations. Terminates the Panel after submission of its final report. Subtitle B: Commission to Assess United States National Security Space Management and Organization - Establishes the Commission to Assess United States National Security Space Management and Organization to conduct a review of such management and organization and report to Congress its findings and conclusions. Funds the Commission from defense-wide O&M funds for FY 2000. Terminates the Commission 60 days after its report. Title X: General Provisions - Subtitle A: Financial Matters - Authorizes the Secretary, in the national interest, to transfer up to $2 billion of authorizations made available in this Division for FY 2000 between any such authorizations for that fiscal year, with limitations. Requires congressional notification of any such transfers. (Sec. 1002) Outlines matters to be included in the second biennial DOD financial management improvement plan. (Sec. 1003) Allows a contract for the procurement of subsistence items entered into under the prime vendor program of the Defense Logistics Agency to specify a single payment date applicable to an invoice for such items, but prohibits such date to be more than ten days after invoice receipt. (Sec. 1004) Authorizes the Secretary to require the use of electronic funds transfer for the pay, allowances, retired or retainer pay, and any other payments out of funds available to DOD for current and former military personnel, DOD employees or former employees, or dependents. (Sec. 1005) Authorizes the Secretary to pay, out of the proceeds of sales of maps, charts, and other publications of the National Imagery and Mapping Agency (NIMA), any licensing or other fees imposed by foreign countries or international organizations for the acquisition or use of data or products by NIMA. (Sec. 1006) Authorizes DOD disbursing officials to provide operating funds to automated teller machines on naval vessels and to accept transfers of funds made through such machines. (Sec. 1007) Earmarks funds authorized under this Act for DOD missions relating to combating terrorism. Requires the DOD budget for fiscal years after 2000 to set forth separately the amounts requested for such purpose. (Sec. 1008) Provides for U.S. contribution for the common-funded budgets of NATO for FY 2000. Subtitle B: Naval Vessels and Shipyards - Waives certain transfer restrictions if a sale of naval shipyard articles or services is made to a DOD contractor for a nuclear ship in order to facilitate the contractor's fulfillment of the contract. (Sec. 1012) Requires congressional notification followed by a 60-day waiting period prior to the transfer of a vessel which has been stricken from the Naval Vessel Register. Subtitle C: Miscellaneous Report Requirements and Repeals - Preserves certain defense reporting requirements contained in Federal armed forces provisions, prior national defense and military construction Acts, and related Acts, as listed in the report of the Clerk of the House of Representatives to the Speaker of the House on January 5, 1993. (Sec. 1022) Requires a report from the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff to the defense and appropriations committees on the requirements of the combatant commands. (Sec. 1023) Directs the Secretary to report to the defense committees on: (1) assessments of the readiness of the United States to execute the national military strategy; and (2) the inventory and control of DOD military equipment as of the end of FY 1999. (Sec. 1025) Directs the Secretary to develop, and report to the defense and appropriations committees on, a detailed guide for investment in space science and technology, demonstrations of space technology, and planning and development for space technology systems. Requires such guide to include two alternative technology paths. (Sec. 1026) Requires the CG to study the policies, procedures, and practices of the military departments for protecting the confidentiality of communications between a military dependent who is a victim or perpetrator of sexual harassment, sexual assault, or intrafamily abuse and their therapist, counselor, or other person providing professional services. Requires a report from the CG to Congress and the Secretary on the study's results, and a report from the Secretary to Congress on actions taken after such study. (Sec. 1027) Requires a report from the CG to Congress on the anticipated effect of the proposal to reduce the Federal civilian workforce involved in the operation of eight storage sites for lethal chemical agents and munitions. (Sec. 1028) Directs the Secretary to report to Congress on the deployment across State boundaries of rapid assessment and initial detection teams used to respond to incidents involving a weapon of mass destruction. (Sec. 1029) Directs the Secretary to include in quarterly readiness reports an assessment of the readiness, training status, and future funding requirements of all active and reserve units that are considered assets of the Consequence Management Program Integration Office of DOD. Requires the Secretary to prepare a decontamination readiness plan for such Office. (Sec. 1030) Requires the Secretary to report to the: (1) defense and appropriations committees on the relationship between the defense budget and current and emerging threats to national security; and (2) defense committees on implementation of the Defense Capabilities Initiative by NATO nations. Subtitle D: Other Matters - Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1998 to extend through FY 2000 a prohibition on the retirement or dismantlement of specified strategic nuclear delivery systems. Prohibits funds from being obligated for retiring or dismantling: (1) B-52H bomber aircraft below a minimum of 76 (currently 71); and (2) Trident ballistic missile submarines below 14 (currently 18). (Sec. 1042) Prohibits any FY 2000 funds from being used to reduce the number of U.S. strategic nuclear forces below the maximum number currently permitted the United States under the START II Treaty unless the President reports to Congress an assessment that such reductions would not impede U.S. capability to respond militarily to a significant challenge posed by nuclear weapons modernization programs of the People's Republic of China or any other nation. Requires other nations' modernization programs to be taken into account when negotiating the START II Treaty with the Russian Federation. (Sec. 1043) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1994 to extend through FY 2004 the Counterproliferation Program Review Committee. Provides for an executive secretary to such Committee, and revises certain report deadlines. (Sec. 1044) Prohibits funds authorized under this Act from being obligated or expended for assistance for a country under any Cooperative Threat Reduction (CTR) program until the President makes certain certifications to Congress with respect to arms control compliance and related actions of such country. (Sec. 1045) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1996 to revise the period covered by an annual report on accounting for U.S. assistance under CTR programs. (Sec. 1046) Limits to $15 million the total amount of FY 2000 U.S. assistance in support of UN-sponsored efforts to inspect and monitor Iraqi weapons activities. (Sec. 1047) Directs the Secretary to carry out an (defense electronic) information assurance program, to report annually to Congress on such program, and to prepare a DOD information assurance guide for the development of appropriate organizational structures and technologies for information assurance (protection) under the program. Requires development of an information assurance testbed. Provides funding from amounts authorized under this Act. (Sec. 1048) Directs the Secretary to establish a task force of the Defense Science Board to examine the use of radio and television broadcasting as a propaganda instrument and the adequacy of the capabilities of U.S. armed forces to deal with propaganda situations such as the conflict in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Requires a report from the task force to the Secretary, and from the Secretary to the defense and appropriations committees. (Sec. 1049) Requires a non-DOD entity operating a communication system, device, or apparatus on any portion of the frequency spectrum used by DOD to ensure noninterference with DOD communications operated therein. Makes such entity liable for any required redesign or rebuilding of a DOD communication system as a result of such interference. (Sec. 1050) Prohibits the use of any funds to enter into any contract with or issue any broadcast or other license to any entity that broadcasts from outside the United States into the United States on any frequency that is reserved to or used by DOD, unless such broadcasting is authorized by law. (Sec. 1051) Repeals a provision that limits to $50 million in a fiscal year the Federal expenditure for the National Guard civilian youth opportunities program. (Sec. 1052) Authorizes the Secretary, or the Secretary of Transportation with respect to the Coast Guard, to exempt from Federal disclosure requirements information concerning military personnel or DOD or Coast Guard employees assigned to overseas, sensitive, or routinely deployable units. (Sec. 1053) Authorizes the Secretary to exempt from such disclosure requirements: (1) certain operational files of NIMA; and (2) NIMA information having commercial significance. (Sec. 1055) Authorizes the Secretary to continue the enrollment in the DOD domestic dependent elementary and secondary schools program of a military or Federal employee dependent who would otherwise lose their eligibility under such program. (Sec. 1056) Authorizes the Secretary to establish a single school board for all domestic dependent schools in Puerto Rico and a single school board for all such schools in Guam. (Sec. 1057) Authorizes the Secretary to conduct through the military departments a science, mathematics, and technology education improvement program known as the Department of Defense STARBASE Program in order to improve the knowledge and skills of students in kindergarten through twelfth grade in such subject areas. Requires the establishment of at least 25 academies under the program, with specified academic requirements. Requires an annual program report from the Secretary to Congress. (Sec. 1058) Requires the Secretary's program to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Korean War to run during FY 2000 through 2004. Provides program funding during such period through Army O&M funds. (Sec. 1059) Reauthorizes and extends through FY 2000 the Defense Production Act of 1950. (Sec. 1060) Extends to naval aircraft on which one or more Coast Guard members are assigned the authority to engage in certain drug interdiction activities. Title XI: Department of Defense Civilian Personnel - Amends the Strom Thurmond National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1999 to change to October 1, 1999 (currently October 1, 2000) the effective date of revisions made to the voluntary early retirement program. (Sec. 1102) Repeals a provision which authorized the investigation of a complaint of sexual harassment made by a civilian employee under the supervision of a commanding officer or officer in charge of a military unit, vessel, facility, or area (thereby requiring such employees to follow Federal sexual harassment investigatory procedures). (Sec. 1103) Provides for the restoration of earned but unused annual leave in the case of DOD emergency essential employees serving in a combat zone. Authorizes the Secretary or the Secretary of a military department to make such designation, following specified criteria. Makes employees of nonappropriated fund instrumentalities eligible for such designation. (Sec. 1104) Provides leave protection for dual-status military technicians participating in combat as well as noncombat operations outside the United States. (Sec. 1105) Authorizes the Secretary concerned to establish work schedules and premium pay or compensatory time off provisions for civilian faculty members of the military service academies. (Sec. 1106) Provides that certain Federal pay rate and total compensation limitations shall not apply to the authority of the Secretary to prescribe salary schedules and related benefits for faculty and staff of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences. Title XII: National Military Museum and Related Matters - Subtitle A: Commission on National Military Museum - Establishes the Commission on the National Military Museum to conduct a study and make recommendations to Congress regarding authorization for the construction of a national military museum in the National Capital area. Requires, after one year, a report to Congress on its findings, conclusions, and recommendations. Terminates the Commission 60 days after such report. Subtitle B: Related Matters - Prohibits any transfer of Navy Annex property until two years after the later of: (1) the date of submission of a study on the expansion of Arlington National Cemetery (required under a prior joint explanatory statement); or (2) the date of the report of the Commission, above. Division B: Military Construction Authorizations - Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 - Title XXI (sic): Army - Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to acquire real property and carry out military construction projects in specified amounts at specified installations and locations. Authorizes the Secretary to construct or acquire family housing units, carry out architectural planning and design activities, and improve existing military family housing in specified amounts. Authorizes appropriations to the Army for fiscal years after 1999 for military construction, land acquisition, and military family housing functions of the Army. Limits the total cost of construction projects authorized by this title. Title XXII: Navy - Provides, with respect to the Navy, authorizations paralleling those provided for the Army under the previous title. Title XXIII: Air Force - Provides, with respect to the Air Force, authorizations paralleling those provided for the Army. Title XXIV: Defense Agencies - Authorizes the Secretary to acquire real property and carry out military construction projects in specified amounts at specified installations and locations. Authorizes the Secretary to improve existing military family housing units in specified amounts. (Sec. 2403) Earmarks funds authorized under this title for deposit into the Department of Defense Family Housing Improvement Fund. (Sec. 2404) Authorizes the Secretary to carry out certain energy conservation projects. (Sec. 2405) Authorizes appropriations to DOD for fiscal years after 1999 for military construction, land acquisition, and military family housing functions of DOD. Limits the total cost of construction projects authorized by this title. (Sec. 2406) Amends the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1997 to increase the amount authorized for a project at the Pueblo Chemical Activity, Colorado. Title XXV: North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program - Authorizes the Secretary to make contributions for the NATO Security Investment Program and authorizes appropriations for fiscal years after 1999 for such contributions. Title XXVI: Guard and Reserve Forces Facilities - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years after 1999 for the Guard and reserve forces for acquisition, architectural and engineering services, and construction of facilities. Title XXVII: Expiration and Extension of Authorizations - Terminates all authorizations contained in titles XXI through XXVI of this Act on October 1, 2002, or the date of enactment of an Act authorizing funds for military construction for FY 2003, whichever is later, with exceptions. Extends certain prior-year military construction projects. Title XXVIII: General Provisions - Subtitle A: Military Construction Program and Military Family Housing Program Changes - Exempts from certain congressional notification (and waiting period) requirements military construction projects carried out using defense burdensharing contributions and undertaken under a declaration of war or national emergency. Requires that, after the decision to carry out the project is made, the Secretary shall notify the defense committees of such action and its estimated cost. (Sec. 2802) Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the President should request sufficient amounts to fully fund each military construction and family housing project proposed for authorization in a fiscal year; and (2) Congress should authorize and appropriate sufficient amounts to fully fund such projects. Prohibits the Secretary or military department Secretaries from obligating or expending funds for such projects unless the total amount of appropriations allocated for the projects are sufficient, without additional (incremental) funding. (Sec. 2803) Establishes in the Treasury the Defense Chemical Demilitarization Construction Account for use in carrying out military construction projects authorized by law in support of DOD chemical demilitarization activities. (Sec. 2804) Limits the type of ancillary facility that may be included in the acquisition or construction of military family housing units to those that would not be in direct competition with any military resale facility, activity, or service. (Sec. 2805) Authorizes the use of available funds for design (currently, only planning) in connection with the acquisition of reserve facilities. (Sec. 2806) Authorizes the use of unspecified minor construction funds for construction projects costing less than $3 million and intended to correct deficiencies that are a threat to life, health, or safety. Subtitle B: Real Property and Facilities Administration - Extends through FY 2005 the authority of the Secretary to lease property for special operations activities. (Sec. 2812) Authorizes the Secretary concerned, in connection with the conveyance of a utility system, to enter into a contract for utility services for a period not to exceed 50 years. Authorizes the use of military construction project funds to facilitate such conveyances. Subtitle C: Defense Base Closure and Realignment - Amends the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990 and the Defense Authorization Amendments and Base Closure and Realignment Act to authorize the transfer of a former military installation to a local redevelopment authority (RA), without consideration, if such RA's reuse plan provides for the property to be used for the economic benefit or redevelopment of the installation and surrounding community. Authorizes the Secretary to modify earlier transfer agreements to incorporate such authority. Subtitle D: Land Conveyances - Part I: Army Conveyances - Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to convey to Bangor, Maine, the Army Reserve Center in Bangor. Part II: Navy Conveyances - Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to convey to: (1) Newport, Rhode Island, the Ranger Road site in Newport; and (2) Dallas, Texas, the Naval Weapons Industrial Reserve Plant No. 387 in Dallas. Part III: Air Force Conveyances - Authorizes the Secretary of the Air Force to convey to: (1) the Regents of the University of California the McLellan Nuclear Radiation Center in California; and (2) the Pease Development Authority the Newington Defense Fuel Supply Point in Newington, New Hampshire. Subtitle E: Other Matters - Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior, with the consent of the State of Arizona, to acquire by eminent domain all rights and interests of such State to certain unimproved Arizona trust lands in the Fort Huachuca East Range, Cochise County, Arizona. Allows such lands to be withdrawn and reserved for use by the Secretary of the Army for military training and testing. (Sec. 2862) Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to exercise appropriate authority to develop Ford Island, Hawaii, in a manner compatible with the Navy mission, as long as: (1) such Secretary submits to the appropriate congressional committees a master plan for such development; and (2) 30 calendar days has elapsed since such submission. Provides conveyance and lease authorities with respect to such development, requiring the same congressional notification and waiting period. Establishes in the Treasury the Ford Island Improvement Account for development and transaction costs. Prohibits such Secretary from using such funds to acquire, construct, or improve military housing or ancillary supporting facilities on such Island. Authorizes transfers to the Account from specified military housing funds. Title XXIX: Renewal of Military Land Withdrawals - Military Lands Withdrawal Renewal Act of 1999 - Withdraws from all forms of appropriation under the public land laws specified lands in: (1) Maricopa, Pima, and Yuma Counties, Arizona (redesignating the Barry M. Goldwater Air Force Range as the Barry M. Goldwater Range); (2) Otero County, New Mexico; (3) the Big Delta and Granite Creek Areas, Alaska; and (4) the Fourth Judicial District, Alaska. Reserves all such withdrawn lands for specified military uses. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to publish and file maps and legal descriptions of the withdrawn lands. Directs such Secretary, through the Bureau of Land Management, to manage such withdrawn lands pursuant to the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 and related Acts. Allows the continuation of prevailing activities on such lands, but makes all nonmilitary uses subject to the military uses. Authorizes the Secretary concerned to close areas of such lands as necessary for military operations, public safety, or national security. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to develop a management plan for each withdrawn area. Directs such Secretary and the Secretary of the appropriate military department to enter into a memorandum of understanding to implement the management plan. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to report to Congress and the Secretary of Defense on the management of lands withdrawn under this title. (Sec. 2905) States that neither the withdrawals nor any other provisions of this title shall be construed to affect the Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge. (Sec. 2906) Directs the Secretaries of Defense and the Interior to jointly conduct and report to Congress on the feasibility and advisability of establishing a national park from all or portions of land withdrawn under this title. (Sec. 2907) Authorizes the Secretary concerned, ten years after the enactment of this Act and every ten years thereafter, to conduct a land management analysis of withdrawn lands under their jurisdiction. Limits the authorized cost for each analysis. Requires an analysis report from such Secretary to Congress. (Sec. 2908) Requires the Secretary concerned to conduct ongoing environmental restoration of lands withdrawn for their use (requiring a report to specified congressional committees on such activities). (Sec. 2909) Authorizes the Secretary concerned to relinquish any lands used by such Secretary to the Secretary of the Interior, after notification and appropriate decontamination activities. (Sec. 2910) Authorizes delegation of the functions of the Secretaries of Defense or a military department under this title. (Sec. 2911) Provides for the continuation of current water rights, and hunting, fishing, and trapping, on such withdrawn lands (with an exception for lands in the Cabeza Prieta Refuge). (Sec. 2913) Directs the Secretary of the Interior, as soon as practicable after the enactment of this Act and at least every five years thereafter, to determine, with the concurrence of the appropriate military department Secretary, which withdrawn lands are suitable for opening to mining and mineral leasing. Requires the publication of such determination and the opening of such lands. Authorizes the subsequent closure of such lands for national defense or security reasons. (Sec. 2914) Provides Federal immunity from injuries or damages to persons or property suffered in the course of any mining, mineral, or geothermal leasing activity conducted on the withdrawn lands. Division C: Department of Energy National Security Authorizations and Other Authorizations - Title XXXI (sic): Department of Energy National Security Programs - Subtitle A: National Security Programs Authorizations - Authorizes appropriations to the Department of Energy (DOE) for FY 2000 for operating expenses, capital equipment, and plant projects necessary in carrying out the following activities for national security programs: (1) weapons activities; (2) defense environmental restoration and waste management; (3) other defense activities; (4) defense nuclear waste disposal; and (5) defense environmental management privatization activities. Subtitle B: Recurring General Provisions - Prohibits the use of funds appropriated pursuant to this title for: (1) the cost of a program exceeding 110 percent of the program authorization or $1 million more than the amount authorized; or (2) programs which have not been presented to, or requested of, Congress until the Secretary of Energy (Secretary, for purposes of this Division) transmits to the defense and appropriations committees a full statement of the action proposed and 30 days have since expired. (Sec. 3122) Places certain funding limits for general plant and construction projects of DOE. Requires congressional reports when amounts exceed such limits. (Sec. 3124) Authorizes the Secretary to transfer DOE-authorized funds: (1) to other Federal agencies for the performance of work for which such funds were authorized; or (2) between authorizations within DOE, to be merged with and available for the same purposes. Requires notification to the defense committees of any such transfers. (Sec. 3125) Directs the Secretary, before submitting a funding request for a construction project in support of a DOE national security program, to complete a conceptual design for such project. Requires a separate funding request for designs for which the estimated cost exceeds $3 million. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out construction design services in connection with any proposed construction project if the total estimated cost for the design does not exceed $600,000. Requires specific authorization by law for designs exceeding such amount. (Sec. 3126) Authorizes the use of DOE funds for planning, design, and construction activities for any DOE national security program that must proceed expeditiously in order to protect public health and safety, meet the needs of national defense, or protect property. Requires the Secretary to report to the defense and appropriations committees when funds are so used. Makes funds for management and support and for general plant projects under this Subtitle available for all DOE national security programs. (Sec. 3129) Directs the Secretary, during FY 2000, to empower each DOE field office manager with the authority to transfer defense environmental management funds from a program or project under such office's jurisdiction to another program or project in order to address a risk to health, safety, or the environment or to assure the most efficient use of such funds at that field office. Limits such transfers to a total of $5 million per fiscal year. Directs the Secretary to notify Congress within 30 days after any such transfer. Subtitle C: Program Authorizations, Restrictions, and Limitations - Prohibits the use of funds authorized by this Act, or any Act authorizing appropriations for DOD or DOE military activities for fiscal years after 2000, from being used for treatment, storage, or disposal activities at any site designated under the Formerly Utilized Site Remedial Action Program. (Sec. 3132) Directs the Secretary to continue operations and maintain a high state or readiness at the F- and H-canyon facilities at the Savannah River site and to provide technical staff to operate and maintain such facilities. (Sec. 3133) Directs the Secretary to carry out a program for extending the effective life of weapons in the nuclear weapons stockpile. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop a long-term plan for such extension; and (2) report annually to the defense committees (requiring plan updates as appropriate). Expresses the sense of Congress that the President should include in each annual budget sufficient amounts to fund such activities. (Sec. 3134) Directs the Secretary to produce new tritium to meet the requirements of the Nuclear Weapons Stockpile Memorandum at the Tennessee Valley Authority Watts Bar or Sequoyah nuclear power plants. Requires the Secretary, in connection with such production, to design and construct a new tritium extraction facility in the H-Area of the Savannah River Site, South Carolina. (Sec. 3135) Directs the Secretary to secure an independent cost estimate of the Accelerator Production of Tritium. (Sec. 3136) Prohibits more than 40 percent of the post-FY 1999 funds available for the Initiative for Proliferation Prevention (IPP) program from being obligated or expended by DOE national laboratories to: (1) carry out or provide oversight of activities under that program; or (2) increase or otherwise supplement the pay or benefits of a scientist or engineer engaged in activities relating to the development, production, or testing of chemical or biological weapons or a missile system when such engineer was not formerly engaged in such activities. Prohibits any such funds from being made available to an institution or other scientist engaged in such activities. Directs the Secretary to prescribe procedures for the review of projects under the IPP program to ensure their nonmilitary use, and to report to Congress on such procedures. Expresses the sense of Congress that the President should enter into negotiations with the Russian Government to conclude an agreement to provide for the permanent exemption from taxation by the Russian Government of DOE nonproliferation activities under the IPP program. Prohibits amounts authorized for the Nuclear Cities Initiative from being obligated or expended until the Secretary certifies to Congress that Russia has agreed to close some of its facilities engaged in work on weapons of mass destruction. Requires the Secretary to conduct a study of potential economic effects of each commercial program proposed under such Initiative before providing assistance. Requires a report from the Secretary: (1) to Congress on participation in or contribution to the Initiative of each Federal department or agency; and (2) to the defense committees on the IPP program and the Initiative. Subtitle D: Safeguards, Security, and Counterintelligence at Department of Energy Facilities - Department of Energy Facilities Safeguards, Security, and Counterintelligence Enhancement Act of 1999 - Establishes the Commission on Safeguards, Security, and Counterintelligence at Department of Energy Facilities to review the safeguards, security, and counterintelligence activities at DOE facilities in order to: (1) determine the adequacy of such activities against threats to the disclosure of sensitive information, processes, and activities; and (2) make recommendations for appropriate action to ensure that such security is achieved and maintained. Requires an annual Commission activities report to the Secretary and the defense and appropriations committees. Terminates the Department of Energy Security Management Board authorized under a prior defense authorization Act. (Sec. 3153) Requires background investigations of any DOE employee, or contractor employee, at a DOE facility who: (1) carries out duties or responsibilities in or around a location where restricted data is or may be present; or (2) has or may have regular access to such a location. (Sec. 3154) Directs the Secretary to submit to the defense and appropriations committees a plan for conducting periodic polygraph examinations of each DOE employee (or contractor employee) at a DOE facility who has or may have access to restricted data or sensitive compartmented information. Prohibits the obligation or expenditure of more than 50 percent of the amount authorized for DOE travel expenses until such plan is submitted. (Sec. 3155) Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to provide civil monetary penalties of $100,000 per violation for violations of DOE regulations regarding the security of classified or sensitive information or data. (Sec. 3156) Requires the Secretary and the Directors of Central Intelligence and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) (officials) to jointly submit to the defense, appropriations, and intelligence committees a certification that cooperative programs carried out between DOE and the Republic of China, an independent state of the former Soviet Union, or any nation designated as sensitive by the Secretary of State meet specified conditions regarding the safeguarding and security of sensitive information. Prohibits the use of DOE weapons and other defense activities funds for FY 2000 until 30 days after such certification. (Sec. 3157) Increases penalties for the unauthorized communication or receipt of restricted data. (Sec. 3158) Amends the Department of Energy Organization Act to establish within DOE an Office of Counterintelligence, headed by a Director who shall develop and implement security and counterintelligence programs and activities at DOE facilities in order to reduce the threat of disclosure or loss of classified and other sensitive information. Requires such Director to submit to the above officials an annual status report on the effectiveness of measures taken. Establishes within DOE the Office of Intelligence, headed by a Director who shall be responsible for DOE programs and activities relating to the analysis of intelligence with respect to nuclear weapons and materials, other nuclear matters, and energy security. (Sec. 3159) Directs the Secretary to assign to each DOE facility at which restricted data is located an individual to assess security and counterintelligence protection measures at such facility. (Sec. 3160) Directs the Secretary to establish a program to ensure that a DOE employee or contractor employee may not be discharged, demoted, or otherwise discriminated against as a reprisal for disclosing information relating to a possible violation against the protection of classified information to: (1) members of a congressional committee having appropriate oversight responsibilities; (2) staff members of such committees having appropriate security clearance; or (3) the Inspector General, FBI, or any other Federal entity authorized to receive such information. (Sec. 3161) Provides for investigation and appropriate remedial action of alleged reprisals against DOE or contractor employees disclosing such information. (Sec. 3162) Requires the Secretary to submit to the defense and appropriations committees a notification of each serious security or counterintelligence failure at a DOE facility that is likely to cause significant harm or damage to U.S. national security interests. Requires such notification within 30 days after its discovery. Requires the House and Senate to establish procedures to protect classified and other sensitive information furnished under this section. Subtitle E: Other Matters - Provides for the appointment of an interim staff director for the Office of Nuclear and Chemical and Biological Defense Programs until the position of Assistant to the Secretary of Defense for such Programs is filled. Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Energy to jointly submit to the defense committees a plan to revitalize the Joint Nuclear Weapons Council established under prior law. Requires the Secretary of Defense to: (1) report annually to the defense committees on Council activities; and (2) develop and implement a plan to ensure the continued capability of DOD to carry out its nuclear deterrent mission. Directs both Secretaries to submit to the defense committees a plan for retaining core scientific, engineering, and technical skills and capabilities within their departments and contractors in order to maintain indefinitely the U.S. nuclear deterrent force. (Sec. 3172) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1997 to revise required budget and planning elements for DOE national security activities. Directs the Secretary to include in annual budget materials a description of DOE weapons activities funding impacts on the nuclear weapons stockpile. (Sec. 3173) Authorizes DOE to pay voluntary separation incentive payments to qualifying employees who separate before January 1, 2003. (Sec. 3174) Directs the Secretary to develop and submit to the defense and appropriations committees a long-term plan for the integrated management of fissile materials. (Sec. 3175) Authorizes the Secretary to accept loans from DOE contractors carrying out closure projects at DOE defense facilities. (Sec. 3176) Directs the Secretary to carry out a pilot program on the use of project management oversight services for DOE construction projects of not less than $25 million. Requires a program report from the Secretary to the defense committees. (Sec. 3177) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1989 to extend for five additional one-year periods the Environmental Evaluation Group for review of the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant, New Mexico. (Sec. 3178) Directs the Secretary to submit to the defense committees a proposed schedule for the commencement of shipments of waste from the Rocky Flats Plant, Colorado, to the Waste Isolation Pilot Project, New Mexico. Title XXXII: Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board - Authorizes appropriations for FY 2000 for the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board. Title XXXIII: National Defense Stockpile - Authorizes the National Defense Stockpile (NDS) Manager, during FY 2000, to obligate up to $78.7 million of the funds in the National Defense Stockpile Transaction Fund (Fund) for authorized Fund uses, including the disposal of hazardous materials that are environmentally sensitive. Authorizes the NDS Manager to obligate amounts in excess of such amounts 45 days after notifying Congress that extraordinary or emergency conditions necessitate the additional obligations. (Sec. 3302) Amends the Strom Thurmond National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1999 to prohibit the President from disposing of NDS materials in excess of that needed to achieve certain revenue requirements contained therein. Title XXXIV: Panama Canal Commission - Panama Canal Commission Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 - Authorizes the Panama Canal Commission to make such expenditures as necessary for the operation, maintenance, improvement, and administration of the Panama Canal for the period from October 1 through December 31, 1999 (after which Canal ownership reverts to the Republic of Panama), with specified funding limits. (Sec. 3403) Requires Commission funds to be made available for the purchase and transportation to the Republic of Panama of passenger motor vehicles, with a per vehicle cost limit of $26,000. (Sec. 3404) Requires expenditures authorized under this title to be in accordance with the Panama Canal Treaties of 1977 and any laws implementing those treaties. (Sec. 3405) Authorizes the Office of Transition Administration to obligate and expend funds from the Panama Canal Commission Dissolution Fund for authorized Canal ownership transition purposes. Requires the Commission to enter into an agreement with the head of a Federal department or agency to supervise the close-out of Commission affairs with respect to the Canal and to certify the completion of such functions.
Bill· SS. 1060 (106th)open
United States · United States Congress · 17 May 1999
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Procurement Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations Subtitle B: Army Programs Subtitle C: Navy Programs Subtitle D: Air Force Programs Subtitle E: Other Matters Title II: Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations Subtitle B: Program Requirements, Restrictions, and Limitations Subtitle C: Ballistic Missile Defense Subtitle D: Research and Development for Long-Term Military Capabilities Title III: Operation and Maintenance Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations Subtitle B: Program Requirements, Restrictions, and Limitations Subtitle C: Environmental Provisions Subtitle D: Other Matters Title IV: Military Personnel Authorizations Subtitle A: Active Forces Subtitle B: Reserve Forces Subtitle C: Authorization of Appropriations Title V: Military Personnel Policy Subtitle A: Officer Personnel Policy Subtitle B: Reserve Component Matters Subtitle C: Military Education and Training Subtitle D: Decorations, Awards, and Commendations Subtitle E: Amendments to Uniform Code of Military Justice Subtitle F: Other Matters Title VI: Compensation and Other Personnel Benefits Subtitle A: Pay and Allowances Subtitle B: Bonuses and Special and Incentive Pays Subtitle C: Travel and Transportation Allowances Subtitle D: Retired Pay, Survivor Benefits, and Related Matters Subtitle E: Other Matters Title VII: Health Care Subtitle A: TRICARE Program Subtitle B: Other Matters Title VIII: Acquisition Policy, Acquisition Management, and Related Matters Title IX: Department of Defense Organization and Management Subtitle A: General Subtitle B: Commission to Assess United States National Security Space Management and Organization Title X: General Provisions Subtitle A: Financial Matters Subtitle B: Naval Vessels and Shipyards Subtitle C: Miscellaneous Report Requirements and Repeals Subtitle D: Other Matters Title XI: Department of Defense Civilian Personnel Title XII: National Military Museum and Related Matters Subtitle A: Commission on National Military Museum Subtitle B: Related Matters Department of Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000- Title I: Procurement - Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations Authorizes appropriations for FY 2000 to the Army, Navy and Marine Corps, and Air Force for aircraft, missiles, weapons and tracked combat vehicles, ammunition, shipbuilding and conversion, and other procurement. (Sec. 104) Authorizes appropriations for FY 2000 for: (1) defense-wide procurement; (2) the Defense Inspector General; (3) the chemical demilitarization program; and (4) the Defense Health Program. Subtitle B: Army Programs - Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to enter into multiyear procurement contracts, beginning with the FY 2000 program year, for specified Army programs. (Sec. 112) Prohibits Army procurement funds from being used for certain procurements under the close combat tactical trainer program until the Secretary of the Army has reported to the Senate and House defense and appropriations committees concerning the correction of deficiencies under such program, and 30 days have elapsed since such report. (Sec. 113) Directs the Secretary of the Army to report to such committees a comprehensive plan for modernization of the Army's helicopter forces. Provides a funding limitation on the procurement of Army missiles until such report is received. Subtitle C: Navy Programs - Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to procure the amphibious dock ship LHD-8. Earmarks funds authorized under this title for advance procurement and construction of components for such program. (Sec. 122) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1997 to: (1) increase from 12 to 18 the number of Arleigh Burke class destroyers authorized to be procured under multiyear procurement contracts; (2) extend through FY 2003 the authorized period for such contracting program (authorizing the Secretary of the Navy to enter into contracts for advance procurement of such destroyers for FY 2001); and (3) repeal the requirement for annual reports from shipbuilders under certain nuclear attack submarine programs. (Sec. 124) Requires operational test and evaluation before the installation of cooperative engagement equipment under the Navy's Cooperative Engagement Capability program. (Sec. 125) Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy, beginning with the FY 2000 program year, to enter into a multiyear procurement contract for F-A 18E-F aircraft, with a certification requirement. Subtitle D: Air Force Programs - Requires certain certifications from the Secretary of Defense (Secretary) to the defense and appropriations committees before awarding the contract for low-rate initial production under the F-22 aircraft program. Subtitle E: Other Matters - Amends the Armament Retooling and Manufacturing Support Act of 1992 to extend through FY 2001 the authority of the Armament Retooling and Manufacturing Support Initiative. (Sec. 142) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1998 to extend through FY 2001 a pilot program on sales of manufactured articles and services of certain Army industrial facilities without regard to their availability from domestic sources. Extends the deadline for a report from the Defense Inspector General under such pilot program. Title II: Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation - Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations - Authorizes appropriations for FY 2000 for research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E). (Sec. 202) Earmarks specified RDT&E funds for basic and applied research projects. Subtitle B: Program Requirements, Restrictions, and Limitations - Earmarks funds authorized under this title for: (1) contributions for the common-funded civil budget of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO); (2) continued implementation of the micro-satellite technology program under a prior defense authorization Act (requiring the Secretary to develop a plan and submit a report with respect to such program); (3) space control technology development; and (4) the space maneuver vehicle program. (Sec. 215) Amends the defense manufacturing technology program to: (1) strike as a program purpose the promotion of dual-use manufacturing processes; and (2) add as a program purpose the development and application of technologies that involve repair and remanufacturing in support of the operations of system commands, depots, air logistics centers, and shipyards. Requires the Secretary to have manufacturing technology projects selected principally on the basis of the extent to which the projects satisfy such new program purpose, above, as determined by a panel established to review the projects and make selections. Requires the competitive procedures used for selecting projects to include the extent to which a proposal provides for the prospective contract recipient to share in defraying project costs. Subtitle C: Ballistic Missile Defense - Directs the Secretary to establish an acquisition strategy for the upper tier missile defense system with specified requirements. (Sec. 222) Amends the Strom Thurmond National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1999 to repeal the requirement to implement technical and price competition for the Theater High Altitude Area Defense System. (Sec. 223) Directs the Secretary to structure the space-based laser program to include: (1) a near-term integrated flight experiment; and (2) an ongoing activity for developing an objective system design. Expresses the sense of Congress that the structure required be consistent with the joint venture contracting approach and overall objective established by the Department of Defense (DOD) for the space-based laser program. Requires a revised program baseline. Earmarks program funds. (Sec. 224) Prohibits the Secretary of the Air Force from making any modification under the Airborne Laser program until the Secretary of Defense certifies to Congress that such modification is justified on the basis of certain test and analysis. Outlines related program requirements. Subtitle D: Research and Development for Long-Term Military Capabilities - Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1997 to: (1) extend through 2002 a required report from the Secretary on emerging operational concepts; and (2) provide additional matters to be included in such reports after 1999. Amends provisions of such Act relating to an annual joint warfighting science and technology plan to require the Secretary to submit to the defense committees a summary of each technology area review and assessment conducted by DOD in support of that plan. (Sec. 233) Requires the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology to report to the defense and appropriations committees on necessary actions to ensure that the armed forces have the military capabilities necessary to meet national security requirements over the next two to three decades. (Sec. 234) Requires the modification of certain DOD profit guidelines to place increased emphasis on technical risk as a factor for determining appropriate profit margins and to provide an increased profit incentive for contractors to develop and produce complex and innovative new technologies rather than mature technologies with low technical risk. (Sec. 235) Authorizes the Director of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency to carry out a program to award prizes in recognition of outstanding achievements in basic, advanced, and applied research, technology development, and prototype development that have the potential for application to the performance of DOD military missions. Requires a competitive process to be used for the selection of participants. Limits to $10 million the amount that may be awarded in a fiscal year. Requires an annual report from the Director to the defense committees on program administration. (Sec. 236) Authorizes the Secretary to carry out a pilot program to demonstrate improved cooperative relationships with universities and other private sector entities for the performance of research and development functions. Requires the Secretary to consider laboratories where innovative management techniques have been demonstrated. Allows the Secretary to carry out such program at each selected laboratory for three years beginning no later than March 1, 2000. Requires an implementation report from the Secretary to Congress. (Sec. 237) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1995 to exempt defense laboratory employees covered by a personnel demonstration project carried out under such Act from certain defense workforce management personnel restrictions. (Sec. 238) Provides for the use of defense working capital funds for financing RDT&E activities and programs of the military departments. Requires implementation status reports from the Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller) to the defense committees. (Sec. 239) Directs the Secretary to convene a panel of independent experts to conduct an analysis of the resources and capabilities of all DOD laboratories and test and evaluation facilities, including those of the military departments. Requires the panel to report its findings to the Secretary and Congress. Directs the Secretary to develop an appropriate performance review process for rating the quality and relevance of work performed by DOD laboratories. Title III: Operation and Maintenance - Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations - Authorizes appropriations for FY 2000 for operation and maintenance (O&M) for the armed forces and specified activities and agencies of DOD. (Sec. 302) Authorizes appropriations for FY 2000 for: (1) working capital and revolving funds; and (2) the Armed Forces Retirement Home. (Sec. 304) Authorizes the transfer of up to $150 million from the National Defense Stockpile Transaction Fund to specified military O&M accounts for FY 2000. Subtitle B: Program Requirements, Restrictions, and Limitations - Earmarks Army O&M funds for contributions for the common-funded NATO military budget. (Sec. 312) Authorizes the use of humanitarian and civic assistance funds for the pay and allowances of reserve personnel of the Special Operations Command furnishing education and training on the detection and clearance of landmines or related technical assistance. (Sec. 313) Authorizes the head of any Federal agency to enter into a contract for the installation and maintenance of national defense features in one or more commercial vessels owned or controlled by the offeror in accordance with the purposes of the National Defense Sealift Fund. Authorizes advance payments for such features. Requires the vessel to be operated for DOD after the installation of such features and for the contract term. Subtitle C: Environmental Provisions - Directs the Secretary to provide for the management of projects for the research, development, and evaluation of environmental technologies for DOD and the military departments. Outlines related responsibilities of the Secretary in connection with such projects. Requires the appropriate DOD officials to establish, at the beginning of each fiscal year, a performance plan for the environmental technology program within that department or agency. Requires an annual report from the Secretary to Congress on the environmental technology program of DOD during the preceding fiscal year. (Sec. 322) Establishes the: (1) Environmental Restoration Account, Army, Formerly Used Defense Sites; and (2) Environmental Restoration Account, Defense Base Closure and Realignment. Requires funds in the latter Account to be used only for carrying out environmental restoration required as the result of the closure or realignment of a military installation pursuant to a base closure law. Directs the Secretary to transfer funds to the latter Account from the Department of Defense Base Closure Account 1990. Provides for the funding of administrative expenses and technical assistance in connection with such environmental restoration activities. (Sec. 323) Extends through FY 2010 a current limitation on the payment of environmental fines and penalties from the Environmental Restoration Account, Defense, or environmental restoration accounts of the military departments. (Sec. 324) Directs the Secretary to report annually to Congress on progress made in carrying out activities under the environmental quality programs of DOD and the military departments. (Currently, an annual report concerning environmental compliance is required.) (Sec. 325) Replaces the Director of Defense Research and Engineering with the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Science and Technology among the membership of the Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program Council. (Sec. 326) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1998 to extend through FY 2001 a pilot program for the sale of air pollution emission reduction incentives. (Sec. 327) Authorizes the Secretary, using specified military environmental restoration account funds, to pay to the Fresno Drum Special Account within the Hazardous Substance Superfund specified amounts to reimburse the Environmental Protection Agency for environmental response activities undertaken at the Fresno Industrial Supply, Inc. site in Fresno, California. (Sec. 328) Authorizes the Secretary of the Air Force, using Air Force environmental restoration account funds, to pay certain stipulated environmental civil penalties assessed against F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyoming. Subtitle D: Other Matters - Amends the: (1) National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1998 to extend through FY 2000 a pilot program of using commercial sources to improve the collection of DOD claims under aircraft engine warranties; (2) Strom Thurmond National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1999 to provide additional matters to be included in a reporting requirement before prime vendor contracts for depot-level maintenance and repair are entered into; and (3) latter Act to allow certain changes in defense retail systems to be implemented if approved by all of the military department Secretaries (currently, implementation is permitted only if specifically authorized by law). (Sec. 344) Authorizes the Secretary to waive certain conditions in connection with the sale of articles and services of DOD industrial facilities to purchasers outside of DOD if the Secretary determines that such waiver is necessary for national security reasons and notifies Congress of such reasons. (Sec. 346) Directs the Secretary to designate the Department of the Navy as the lead agency for the development and implementation of a Smart Card (a credit card-size device containing certain personal identifying information and technology) program for DOD. Requires the Secretaries of the Army and Air Force to establish Smart Card project offices within their departments, and to coordinate their activities with the lead agency. Directs the Secretary to establish a senior coordinating group to develop and implement DOD-wide interoperability standards for the use of Smart Card technology and a plan to use such technology to enhance readiness and improve business processes. Requires the Secretary of the Navy to establish a business plan to implement the use of Smart Cards in one major naval region of the United States in the area of the U.S. Atlantic Command and one in the area of the U.S. Pacific Command. Earmarks funds authorized under this Act for the increased use of Smart Cards and for demonstration programs. Requires a report from the Secretary to the defense committees on progress made by the senior coordinating group in implementing this section. Repeals a provision of the Strom Thurmond National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1999 requiring the establishment of an Automated Identification Technology Office. (Sec. 347) Directs the Secretary to study, and report to the defense committees on, potential DOD benefits from the use of the Smart Card for addressing DOD needs for a public-private key infrastructure authentication device carrier. (Sec. 348) Extends to military honor guards and law enforcement agencies (currently, only veterans' organizations) the authority of the Secretary of the Army to lend M-1 rifles (currently, obsolete or condemned rifles). Title IV: Military Personnel Authorizations - Subtitle A: Active Forces - Sets forth the authorized end strengths for active-duty forces as of the end of FY 2000. Revises such minimum end strength levels. Revises generally the conditions under which such end strengths may be reduced below the level needed to support two simultaneous major regional contingencies. Subtitle B: Reserve Forces - Sets forth the authorized end strengths as of the end of FY 2000 for members of the Selected Reserve and reserve personnel on active duty in support of the reserves. (Sec. 413) Sets forth the authorized end strengths as of the end of FY 2000 for military technicians (dual status) and military technicians (non-dual status). (Sec. 414) Increases the number of certain officers and enlisted personnel authorized to serve on active duty in support of the reserves. Subtitle C: Authorization of Appropriations - Authorizes appropriations for FY 2000 for military personnel. Title V: Military Personnel Policy - Subtitle A: Officer Personnel Policy - Extends through FY 2003 certain provisions concerning a required competitive selection procedure for the designation of joint four-star officers. (Sec. 502) Excludes from three-star officer grade limitations those officers serving as a superintendent of a military academy. Directs the Secretary of the military department concerned (Secretary concerned) to retire a superintendent within that department upon the termination of detail to such position. Requires those accepting the position of superintendent to agree to accept retirement at the end of their detail. (Sec. 503) Increases from 35 to 55 the number of officers authorized to be frocked (to wear the insignia of a higher grade after selection for promotion to such grade but before the promotion date). (Sec. 505) Requires active-duty or retired officers serving on boards of inquiry to be serving in a grade above major or lieutenant commander, or, in the case of the president of such board, in a grade above lieutenant colonel or commander. Excludes retired officers serving on such boards from general and flag officer limitations. Requires officers serving on retention boards for reserve active status officers to hold the same grades as above and to be: (1) in the same armed force as the officer being considered; and (2) senior in rank to such officer. (Sec. 506) Authorizes a promotion selection board to recommend for promotion an officer from below the promotion zone for that position when the number of officers recommended is less than one. (Sec. 507) Prohibits civil employment for regular and reserve officers serving on active duty under a call or order for a period in excess of 270 (currently 180) days. (Sec. 508) Exempts Retiree Council members from recalled retiree limitations. Subtitle B: Reserve Component Matters - Exempts from active-duty general and flag officer limitations up to 25 reserve general and flag officers serving on active duty at any one time under calls or orders specifying periods of 180 days or more. (Sec. 512) Specifies the operations support and other duties authorized for reserve personnel serving on active duty in support of the reserves. Directs the Secretary to review the use of such reserves and to report review results to the defense committees. (Sec. 513) Repeals a limitation on the number of reserves authorized to serve on full-time active duty in support of preparedness for responses to emergencies involving weapons of mass destruction. (Sec. 514) Requires a major or lieutenant commander who has twice failed for promotion to be removed from the reserve active status list on the later of the first day of the month after such member completes 20 years of service (current law) or seven months after the President approves the report of the board which considered such officer for the second time. (Sec. 515) Authorizes the Secretary concerned to: (1) delay the separation or retirement of a reserve officer until the completion of court-martial disciplinary proceedings; and (2) retain reserve officer chaplains until age 67 (currently 60). (Sec. 517) Revises generally provisions concerning the award of reserve service credit for participation in the Armed Forces Health Professions Scholarship and Financial Assistance Program. (Sec. 518) Makes ineligible for promotion a reserve officer serving in an educational delay status in order to attend an approved educational institution to receive advanced training, when such training is subsidized by the military department concerned. Makes such provision retroactive with respect to promotion boards convened before the enactment of this Act. (Sec. 519) Excludes from the computation of creditable years of service for a reserve officer service as a reserve commissioned officer while in a program of advanced education to receive the first professional degree required for appointment, designation, or assignment within various military medical specialties, or a chaplain or judge advocate, provided such service occurs before the officer commences initial active or reserve service in the specialty that results from such degree. (Sec. 521) Establishes within the Coast Guard an Office of the Coast Guard Reserve, headed by a Director. Requires the Director to report annually to the Secretaries of Transportation and Defense on the state of the Coast Guard Reserve and its ability to meet mission requirements. Subtitle C: Military Education and Training - Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 1992 and 1993 to authorize the Secretary concerned to exceed the annual military academy class limitations by not more than five percent (requiring a justification of such increase to the defense committees). (Sec. 532) Repeals current limitations on the amount of reimbursement authorized to be waived for educational costs of foreign students at U.S. service academies. (Sec. 533) Authorizes up to 24 (currently ten) cadets or midshipmen from each service academy to participate in a service academy foreign exchange program. Increases from $50,000 to $120,000 the authorized fiscal year expenditures for each academy under such program. (Sec. 534) Makes permanent (currently terminates September 30, 1999) the authority of the Secretary concerned to allow graduate students to receive financial assistance under the Reserve Officers' Training Corps program. (Sec. 535) Authorizes the Commandant of the United States Army War College to confer the degree of master of strategic studies. (Sec. 536) Authorizes the commander of the: (1) Air Education and Training Command to establish minimum educational requirements for Community College of the Air Force professors and instructors; and (2) Air University to confer the degrees of master of strategic studies and master of military operational art and science. (Sec. 538) Excludes members of the armed forces within the defense acquisition workforce from a limitation on the amount of reimbursement that may be received for tuition and training expenses. (Sec. 539) Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to provide up to $5,200 yearly in financial assistance to certain members of the Marine Corps Reserve for completion of: (1) baccalaureate degree requirements in an educational program that takes less than five years to complete; or (2) doctor of jurisprudence or bachelor of laws degree requirements in programs that take no more than three years to complete. Outlines eligibility requirements, including selection as an officer candidate in the Marine Corps Platoon Leader's Class Program and completion of at least six weeks of military training. Requires graduates to serve at least five years of active duty upon graduation. Prohibits more than 1, 200 individuals from participating in such program at any one time. Provides for the computation of creditable service for officers serving in such positions. Subtitle D: Decorations, Awards, and Commendations - Waives certain time limitations with respect to the award to Mark H. Freeman of Seattle, Washington, of the Coast Guard Commendation Medal for heroic achievements during a rescue operation in September, 1956. Subtitle E: Amendments to Uniform Code of Military Justice - Amends the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) to authorize special courts-martial to adjudicate and execute punishments which include confinement for up to one year (currently six months). (Sec. 562) Reduces from 0.10 to 0.08 the level of blood-alcohol content for determining the UCMJ offense of drunken operation of a vehicle, aircraft, or vessel. Subtitle F: Other Matters - Includes decedents who were members of the Selected Reserve (currently, only veterans) among those eligible for honor guard details at their funerals. Revises honor guard detail requirements (renaming it as a funeral honors detail). Requires such detail, at a minimum, to perform the folding and presentation of the flag, and to play Taps (requiring a recorded version of such song when no bugler is present). Requires at least one detail member to be of the same service branch as the deceased. Authorizes the Secretary concerned to provide certain support services to such details. Authorizes the Secretary to waive any requirements of this section to meet the requirements of war, national emergency, a contingency operation, or other military requirements (requiring notification to the defense committees). Authorizes the acceptance of voluntary services of veterans support organizations with respect to such a detail. Provides the duty status for reserve personnel serving on such details. Authorizes members of the Army or Air National Guard to be ordered to perform such duty, with their consent and the consent of the governor or other appropriate official of the State involved. Requires a minimum of two hours of such duty in order to receive service credit and any authorized allowances. Authorizes members of the Ready Reserve to be ordered to such duty, with their consent, with the appropriate service crediting when performing a minimum of two hours on such detail. Authorizes medical treatment for any illness or injury incurred by a member during, or while traveling to or from, such detail. Authorizes a $50 stipend for members on such detail. (Sec. 572) Increases from 180 to 365 days the period during which a potential recruit may be extended in the delayed entry program. (Sec. 573) Directs the Secretary of the Army to establish a pilot program to assess whether the Army could increase the number and level of qualifications of Army inductees by encouraging recruits to pursue higher education or vocational or technical training before their induction. Authorizes under the program a delayed entry of up to two years in order to pursue such education or training, with a monthly allowance of $150 for persons enlisted in the Individual Ready Reserve during such time. Authorizes the pilot program from October 1, 1999, to September 30, 2004. Requires a program report from the Secretary to the defense committees. (Sec. 574) Reduces from annually to every two years a required report from the Secretary to Congress concerning operation of the Selected Reserve educational assistance program under the Montgomery GI Bill. (Sec. 575) Adds to the military welfare societies authorized to provide services to overseas U.S. military personnel certain overseas entities that promote understanding between U.S. military personnel and the people of the host nation. (Sec. 576) Authorizes the Armed Forces Medical Examiner to conduct forensic pathology investigations, including an autopsy, to determine the cause or manner of death of persons under certain circumstances, including those who die while imprisoned in a military installation or from an injury or illness incurred during active duty or military training. Subjects such authority to the primary jurisdiction of any State or local government, or foreign country in which there is an international agreement with the United States. (Sec. 577) Prohibits the disclosure of the contents of a record of a debriefing, made by an authorized U.S. official, of a missing person returned to U.S. control during the period beginning on July 8, 1959, and ending on February 10, 1996. (Sec. 578) Authorizes the use for public relations purposes of advertising materials developed for military recruitment and retention. (Sec. 579) Revises provisions providing financial assistance to separated military personnel to obtain certification as teachers or teachers' aides (the troops-to-teachers program) to place administration of the program in the hands of the Secretary of Defense, for the armed forces, and the Secretary of Transportation, for the Coast Guard, but to transfer such jurisdiction to the Secretary of Education, such transfer to be completed by October 1, 2001. Requires the administering Secretary to periodically identify local educational agencies for program participation. Makes retired military personnel eligible for such assistance. Revises generally provisions concerning outreach information provided to eligible individuals and the selection of participants. Authorizes the provision of a $10,000 bonus (in lieu of the regular stipend of $5,000) to each participant who agrees to accept full-time employment as an elementary or secondary school teacher or vocational or technical teacher for not less than four years in a high need school. Deletes provisions requiring the administering Secretary to pay specified amounts of the base salary of teachers hired under the program to the local educational agencies involved. Provides additional exceptions to required reimbursement for a participant's failure to complete the agreed-upon period of service as a teacher or aide. Authorizes the administering Secretary to make grants (with grant limits) to States or a consortia of States in order to operate offices to recruit eligible individuals for program participation. Prohibits the administering Secretary from using more than five percent of program funds to establish and maintain program management infrastructure. Provides for the transfer of program administration to the Secretary of Education. Requires such Secretary and the Comptroller General (CG), after such transfer, to report to Congress on program effectiveness. (Sec. 580) Authorizes the Secretary to provide financial assistance to an eligible civilian provider of child care or youth program services that furnishes such services for military personnel and Federal employees if the Secretary determines that providing such assistance: (1) is in DOD's best interest; (2) enables supplementation or expansion of the furnishing of such services for military installations; and (3) ensures that the provider complies with DOD standards for furnishing such care. Outlines provider requirements. Authorizes the use of any DOD funds to provide such assistance. Requires a biennial report from the Secretary to Congress. Allows the Secretary to authorize participation in such programs by children and youth under 19 years of age who are not military or Federal employee dependents. Requires a biennial report on the exercise of such authority. (Sec. 581) Directs the Secretary to establish a Military-Civilian Task Force on Domestic Violence, requiring the Task Force to submit an annual report to Congress concerning responses to domestic violence in the military, pending research on domestic violence, and recommendations for improving the military response to such violence. Requires the Secretary to establish a central database of information on cases of domestic violence involving military personnel. Title VI: Compensation and Other Personnel Benefits - Subtitle A: Pay and Allowances - Waives any FY 2000 military pay increases tied to increases in the General Schedule of Compensation for Government employees. Increases by 4.8 percent, effective on January 1, 2000, the rates of basic pay for military personnel. Revises, effective July 1, 2000, the rates of such pay for commissioned and warrant officers within specified grades. Requires increases in basic pay for each of FY 2001 through 2006 by a specified percentage based on the Economic Cost Index. (Sec. 603) Authorizes the Secretary concerned to pay a monthly special subsistence allowance to military personnel in pay grades E-5 or below who are eligible for food stamp assistance, with conditions and limitations, including a monthly limit of $180 and termination of such assistance if paid for 12 consecutive months. Terminates such authority on September 30, 2004. Requires an annual report from the Secretary to Congress. (Sec. 604) Authorizes the lump-sum payment of accrued unused annual leave upon a member's reenlistment into the armed forces. (Sec. 605) Requires the continuation of authorized pay and allowances for a member listed under a "whereabouts unknown" duty status. (Sec. 606) Provides for the identical treatment, for purposes of pay determination and years of service credit, for officers who completed instruction at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in 1987 and those who graduated in 1986. Subtitle B: Bonuses and Special and Incentive Pays - Extends through 2000 specified authorities currently scheduled to expire at the end of 1999 with respect to certain special pay and bonus programs within the regular and reserve armed forces. (Sec. 614) Requires air battle managers entitled to aviation career incentive pay to receive the higher of such pay or the amount they were receiving prior to such entitlement. (Sec. 615) Extends through 2004 the bonus authority for aviation career officers agreeing to extend their period of duty for at least one year. Repeals the requirement that such officers must have completed at least six, but less than 13 years of active duty in order to be eligible for the bonus. Repeals the lower alternative amount of such bonus for officers agreeing to serve three additional years or less. Allows such an agreement to extend until the officer has completed up to 25 years of aviation service (currently, 14 years of commissioned service). (Sec. 616) Authorizes the payment of career enlisted flyer incentive pay to enlisted personnel who: (1) are entitled to basic pay or inactive duty training pay; (2) hold or are training for a career enlisted occupational or flyer specialty; and (3) are qualified for aviation service. Outlines operational flying duty requirements. Provides for the monthly amounts of such pay, such amount increasing with the years of creditable aviation service performed. Prohibits such pay for members already receiving either hazardous duty incentive pay or diving duty special pay. (Sec. 617) Authorizes special pay for certain special warfare officers who agree to remain on active duty in such service for at least one additional year. Limits such payment to $15,000 for each year under the agreement. Prohibits such agreement term from extending beyond the date on which the officer would complete 14 years of active commissioned service. Requires the pro rata repayment of such bonus for periods not served. (Sec. 618) Authorizes the payment of a retention bonus for surface warfare officers who agree to: (1) remain on active duty for at least two years and through the tenth year of active commissioned service; and (2) complete tours of duty to which the officer may be ordered during such period as a department head afloat. Limits such amount to $15,000 for each year under the agreement. Prohibits such agreement term from extending beyond the date on which the officer would complete ten years of active commissioned service. Requires the pro rata repayment of such bonus for periods not served. (Sec. 619) Authorizes additional special pay for veterinarians in the armed forces and the Public Health Service who have been awarded a diploma in a specialty recognized by the American Veterinarian Medical Association. (Sec. 620) Increases: (1) the rate of diving duty special monthly pay; (2) the reenlistment bonus for active-duty personnel; and (3) the critical skills enlistment bonus (authorizing the lump-sum payment of such bonus). (Sec. 623) Amends provisions authorizing the payment of a Selected Reserve enlistment bonus to: (1) eliminate the six-year minimum period required to receive such bonus; and (2) increase such bonus from $5,000 to $8,000. (Sec. 624) Authorizes special pay for Coast Guard reserve personnel assigned to high priority units of the Selected Reserve. (Sec. 625) Reduces from three to two years the minimum period of Army enlistment in a critical skill area before eligibility for an enlistment bonus. (Sec. 626) Authorizes payment of a prior service enlistment bonus to certain members of the Selected Reserve attaining or occupying positions designated as critically short. (Sec. 627) Increases from $100 to $300 the monthly foreign language proficiency special pay. Subtitle C: Travel and Transportation Allowances - Authorizes the payment of temporary lodging expenses for members making their first permanent change of duty station. (Sec. 642) Authorizes the use of any airport in the United States at which travel can be arranged at a lower cost in connection with emergency leave travel for military personnel. (Currently, only travel from the closest airport is authorized.) (Sec. 643) Authorizes the Secretary concerned, under certain circumstances, to pay a per diem allowance to certain military technicians (dual status) serving on active duty without pay outside the United States. (Sec. 644) Authorizes reserve personnel to travel in a space required status on military aircraft between the member's home and place of inactive-duty training outside the United States when there is no available road or rail transportation. (Sec. 645) Authorizes the Secretary concerned to reimburse a member for travel expenses incurred in connection with approved leave which is canceled to meet an exigency in connection with U.S. participation in Operation Allied Force. Subtitle D: Retired Pay, Survivor Benefits, and Related Matters - Limits the application of a reduction in retired pay currently required for individuals who first became members of the armed forces after July 31, 1986, and retired with less than 30 years of creditable service to only those who have elected to receive a bonus added by this section. Makes eligible for such bonus those members who became members after the above date, have 15 years or more of active duty, and execute written agreements to complete at least five more years of continuous active duty service. Makes such bonus a lump-sum amount of $30,000. (Sec. 652) Authorizes participation in the Federal Thrift Savings Plan for Ready Reserve members of any pay status. Authorizes all active-duty military personnel to participate in such Plan and to contribute participatory amounts to the Thrift Savings Fund, limiting the maximum annual contribution to five percent of the member's basic pay, as well as any special or incentive pay received. Prohibits matching agency contributions. Adds a representative of the armed forces to the Employee Thrift Advisory Council. Authorizes such participation and contribution as of July 1, 2000, unless postponed by the Secretary under certain circumstances. (Sec. 653) Authorizes the Secretary concerned to enter into an agreement with a member to make contributions to the Fund if such member: (1) is in a critical specialty; and (2) commits to continue to serve on active duty in that specialty for six years. (Sec. 654) Includes reserve retired officers who are employed with the Federal Government on a full-time basis under provisions limiting the amount of military retired pay they may receive during such employment. (Sec. 655) Amends the Strom Thurmond National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1999 to provide a credit toward Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) coverage for months covered by premium payments made during an SBP open enrollment period for persons not previously participating in the SBP. (Sec. 656) Prohibits the reduction in military retired pay for persons electing to participate in a military annuity program for any month after the later of: (1) 30 years for which such retired pay is reduced; or (2) the month during which the annuitant reaches 70 years of age. (Sec. 657) Makes permanent (currently terminates on September 30, 2001) the authority for the payment of annuities to the surviving spouses of certain reserve personnel. (Sec. 658) Provides for the effectuation of an intended SBP annuity to a former spouse when not accomplished by a member due to his or her death within 21 days after entering into an agreement incident to a divorce to elect such annuity. Subtitle E: Other Matters - Directs the Secretary to report annually to Congress assessing the effect that additional pay and benefits have had on military recruitment and retention. (Sec. 672) Requires the first general or flag officer in the chain of command of a member to manage such member's deployment when the total number of days of which such member has been deployed out of 365 consecutive days is in excess of 180 days. Limits such deployment to 200 out of 365 consecutive days unless a general or admiral in such chain of command approves a continued deployment. Provides for the waiver of such limitations by the Secretary for national security purposes. Authorizes a $100 per diem allowance for members deployed in excess of 220 out of 365 consecutive days (with a national security waiver of such allowance). Makes such provisions inapplicable to the Coast Guard when not operating as a service in the Navy. (Sec. 673) Makes inapplicable to members deployed in a contingency operation or similar operational mission a required limitation in the amount of tuition costs that will be paid for education or training during off-duty periods. (Sec. 674) Includes within the educational loan repayment program members of the Selected Reserve of the Coast Guard Reserve when not operating as a service in the Navy. (Sec. 675) Extends to the Public Health Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration the authority for the presentation of the U.S. flag upon retirement. Title VII: Health Care - Subtitle A: TRICARE Program - Amends the Civilian Heath and Medical Program of the Uniformed Services (CHAMPUS) to require the Secretary to ensure that health care coverage available through TRICARE (a DOD managed health care program) is substantially similar to coverage available under similar health benefits plans offered under the Federal Employees Health Benefits program. Directs the Secretary to minimize the authorization or certification requirements of covered beneficiaries under the TRICARE program as a condition of access to program benefits. Authorizes the Secretary to reimburse health care providers under the TRICARE program at higher rates (with limits) if such rates are necessary to ensure the availability of an adequate number of qualified health care providers. Authorizes collection by military medical treatment facilities of health care costs incurred on behalf of a covered beneficiary of another insurer. Requires an implementation report from the Secretary to Congress. (Sec. 702) Requires the Secretary to establish voluntary enrollment dental plans for members of the Selected Reserve (current law) and Individual Ready Reserve, and authorizes such plans for other reserves, active duty dependents, and Ready Reserve dependents. (Currently, the Secretary is authorized to establish such plans for dependents of military personnel who are on active duty for more than 30 days.) Provides for: (1) plan administration; (2) types of care authorized; (3) premiums and premium sharing plans; (4) copayments; (5) dental care provided outside the United States; and (6) a waiver of plan requirements for dependents of personnel on active duty for more than 30 days. Prohibits the Secretary from reducing plan benefits until notice to the defense committees followed by a one-year waiting period. (Sec. 703) Expresses the sense of Congress calling for the automatic authorization for enrollment into the TRICARE Senior Prime demonstration program of persons already enrolled in a DOD managed care program. (Sec. 704) Provides for the designation and services of TRICARE beneficiary advocates, requiring such designation no later than January 15, 2000. Subtitle B: Other Matters - Provides for the health care at former military medical treatment facilities of active-duty personnel stationed at certain remote locations. (Sec. 712) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1995 to extend through FY 2000 the chiropractic health care demonstration program. (Sec. 713) Directs the Secretary, in the administration of health care contracts, to implement program benefit and administrative changes at the start of each fiscal year rather than throughout the year, except when the Secretary determines that such changes would significantly improve health services to eligible beneficiaries or result in more effective provision of such care. (Sec. 714) Requires CHAMPUS contracts to be awarded to offerors that will provide the best value consistent with high-quality care in a manner that protects the fiscal and other interests of the United States. (Sec. 715) Authorizes the Secretary concerned, with the consent of the member, to order a reserve member to active duty to complete a health surveillance study. (Sec. 716) Authorizes the Secretary, on a case-by-case basis, to continue payment under CHAMPUS for domiciliary or custodial care services to covered beneficiaries who, prior to the effective date of final regulations implementing the individual case management program, were provided such care. Title VIII: Acquisition Policy, Acquisition Management, and Related Matters - Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 1990 and 1991 to extend through FY 2005 a test program for the negotiation of comprehensive small business subcontracting plans. (Sec. 802) Amends provisions of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1991 relating to the Mentor-Protege program (a program to provide incentives to major DOD contractors to award subcontracts to disadvantaged small businesses) to: (1) provide a program participation term of not more than three years, while allowing up to five years in unusual circumstances; (2) authorize (currently require) the Secretary to reimburse a mentor for the total amount of progress or advance payments made to a subcontractor under the program, as well as certain support costs; (3) state that determinations made in a mentor firm's annual performance review shall be a major factor in determining appropriate reimbursement amounts; (4) limit such total reimbursement amount in a fiscal year to $1 million, with an exception; (5) extend such program through FY 2004; (6) require specified reports from the mentor firm, the protege firm, and the Secretary; (7) require an annual performance review of each mentor-protege agreement; and (8) repeal a provision that limits the provision of funding to the end of FY 1999. (Sec. 803) Directs the Secretary to report to Congress the implementation status of the Small Business Innovation Research program transition plan developed under a prior defense authorization Act. (Sec. 804) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1994 to provide for CG review of records concerning prototype projects carried out by the Advanced Research Projects Agency. (Sec. 805) Authorizes the Secretary to carry out a pilot program to treat procurements of certain commercial services as procurements of commercial items under the Office of Federal Procurement Policy Act. Limits such program to a five-year period. Requires the Secretary to: (1) report to Congress on the program; and (2) collect and analyze information on price trends for all services covered by the program. (Sec. 806) Requires the Secretary, before purchasing a product listed in the latest edition of the Federal Prison Industries catalog, to conduct market research to determine whether such product is comparable in price, quality, and delivery time to products available from the private sector, and, if not comparable, to use competitive procedures for the procurement of such product. Provides exemptions, including for the procurement of national security systems. Title IX: Department of Defense Organization and Management - Subtitle A: General - Provides that, as of October 1, 2002, the number of DOD management headquarters and headquarters support personnel may not exceed 65 (currently 75) percent of such number as of October 1, 1989. Repeals provisions requiring a phased reduction of such number. (Sec. 902) Outlines additional matters to be included within annual reports concerning joint warfighting experimentation. (Sec. 903) Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to accept from a donor a qualified guarantee for the completion of a major project (cost of at least $1 million) for the benefit of the U.S. Military Academy. Allows funds for such a project to be obligated and expended without regard to whether they are sufficient to pay for project completion. Requires a qualified account control agreement to be set up between such Secretary, the donor, and a major U.S. investment management firm in order to ensure the availability of sufficient funds to pay the guaranteed amount (along with related assurances and requirements). (Sec. 904) Mandates that the Civil Air Patrol is a nonmilitary, voluntary civilian auxiliary of the Air Force, to be administered by a Chief of Staff under the direction of the Secretary of the Air Force. Requires Patrol headquarters to perform command, control, and administrative functions. Outlines Patrol organizational requirements, including an Executive Director, Safety Officer, and Inspector General. Prohibits a member of the regular Air Force, Air Force Reserve, or Air National Guard serving in such position from receiving compensation for such service other than the pay and allowances provided to military personnel in such positions. (Sec. 905) Repeals the requirement that the DOD strategic plan be updated and revised at least every three years. (Sec. 906) Directs the Secretary, in each year in which a President is inaugurated, to conduct a comprehensive examination of the defense strategy, force structure, force modernization plans, infrastructure, budget plan, and related elements of defense programs and policies with a view toward determining and expressing the U.S. defense strategy and establishing a revised defense plan for the ensuing ten years and a revised defense plan for the ensuing 20 years. Requires during such time the consideration of reports of the National Defense Panel (established herein). Directs the Secretary to report on such review to the defense committees every year such review is conducted. Directs the Secretary to establish the National Defense Panel (nonpartisan and independent) to make certain assessments and recommendations concerning appropriate changes to U.S. defense strategy and to identify the most dangerous threats to U.S. national security during such upcoming periods. Requires the Panel to submit to the Secretary and the defense committees an interim and final report containing appropriate recommendations. Terminates the Panel after submission of its final report. Subtitle B: Commission to Assess United States National Security Space Management and Organization - Establishes the Commission to Assess United States National Security Space Management and Organization to conduct a review of such management and organization and report to Congress its findings and conclusions. Funds the Commission from defense-wide O&M funds for FY 2000. Terminates the Commission 60 days after its report. Title X: General Provisions - Subtitle A: Financial Matters - Authorizes the Secretary, in the national interest, to transfer up to $2 billion of authorizations made available in this Division for FY 2000 between any such authorizations for that fiscal year, with limitations. Requires congressional notification of any such transfers. (Sec. 1002) Outlines matters to be included in the second biennial DOD financial management improvement plan. (Sec. 1003) Allows a contract for the procurement of subsistence items entered into under the prime vendor program of the Defense Logistics Agency to specify a single payment date applicable to an invoice for such items, but prohibits such date to be more than ten days after invoice receipt. (Sec. 1004) Authorizes the Secretary to require the use of electronic funds transfer for the pay, allowances, retired or retainer pay, and any other payments out of funds available to DOD for current and former military personnel, DOD employees or former employees, or dependents. (Sec. 1005) Authorizes the Secretary to pay, out of the proceeds of sales of maps, charts, and other publications of the National Imagery and Mapping Agency (NIMA), any licensing or other fees imposed by foreign countries or international organizations for the acquisition or use of data or products by NIMA. (Sec. 1006) Authorizes DOD disbursing officials to provide operating funds to automated teller machines on naval vessels and to accept transfers of funds made through such machines. (Sec. 1007) Earmarks funds authorized under this Act for DOD missions relating to combating terrorism. Requires the DOD budget for fiscal years after 2000 to set forth separately the amounts requested for such purpose. (Sec. 1008) Provides for U.S. contribution for the common-funded budgets of NATO for FY 2000. Subtitle B: Naval Vessels and Shipyards - Waives certain transfer restrictions if a sale of naval shipyard articles or services is made to a DOD contractor for a nuclear ship in order to facilitate the contractor's fulfillment of the contract. (Sec. 1012) Requires congressional notification followed by a 60- day waiting period prior to the transfer of a vessel which has been stricken from the Naval Vessel Register. Subtitle C: Miscellaneous Report Requirements and Repeals - Preserves certain defense reporting requirements contained in Federal armed forces provisions, prior national defense and military construction Acts, and related Acts, as listed in the report of the Clerk of the House of Representatives to the Speaker of the House on January 5, 1993. (Sec. 1022) Requires a report from the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff to the defense and appropriations committees on the requirements of the combatant commands. (Sec. 1023) Directs the Secretary to report to the defense committees on: (1) assessments of the readiness of the United States to execute the national military strategy; and (2) the inventory and control of DOD military equipment as of the end of FY 1999. (Sec. 1024) Directs the Secretary to develop, and report to the defense and appropriations committees on, a detailed guide for investment in space science and technology, demonstrations of space technology, and planning and development for space technology systems. Requires such guide to include two alternative technology paths. (Sec. 1025) Requires the CG to study the policies, procedures, and practices of the military departments for protecting the confidentiality of communications between a military dependent who is a victim or perpetrator of sexual harassment, sexual assault, or intrafamily abuse and their therapist, counselor, or other person providing professional services. Requires a report from the CG to Congress and the Secretary on the study's results, and a report from the Secretary to Congress on actions taken after such study. (Sec. 1026) Requires a report from the CG to Congress on the anticipated effect of the proposal to reduce the Federal civilian workforce involved in the operation of eight storage sites for lethal chemical agents and munitions. (Sec. 1027) Directs the Secretary to report to Congress on the deployment across State boundaries of rapid assessment and initial detection teams used to respond to incidents involving a weapon of mass destruction. (Sec. 1028) Directs the Secretary to include in quarterly readiness reports an assessment of the readiness, training status, and future funding requirements of all active and reserve units that are considered assets of the Consequence Management Program Integration Office of DOD. Requires the Secretary to prepare a decontamination readiness plan for such Office. (Sec. 1029) Requires the Secretary to report to the: (1) defense and appropriations committees on the relationship between the defense budget and current and emerging threats to national security; and (2) defense committees on implementation of the Defense Capabilities Initiative by NATO nations. Subtitle D: Other Matters - Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1998 to extend through FY 2000 a prohibition on the retirement or dismantlement of specified strategic nuclear delivery systems. Prohibits funds from being obligated for retiring or dismantling: (1) B-52H bomber aircraft below a minimum of 76 (currently 71); and (2) Trident ballistic missile submarines below 14 (currently 18). (Sec. 1042) Prohibits any FY 2000 funds from being used to reduce the number of U.S. strategic nuclear forces below the maximum number currently permitted the United States under the START II Treaty unless the President reports to Congress an assessment that such reductions would not impede U.S. capability to respond militarily to a significant challenge posed by nuclear weapons modernization programs of the People's Republic of China or any other nation. Requires other nations' modernization programs to be taken into account when negotiating the START II Treaty with the Russian Federation. (Sec. 1043) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1994 to extend through FY 2004 the Counterproliferation Program Review Committee. Provides for an executive secretary to such Committee, and revises certain report deadlines. (Sec. 1044) Prohibits funds authorized under this Act from being obligated or expended for assistance for a country under any Cooperative Threat Reduction (CTR) program until the President makes certain certifications to Congress with respect to arms control compliance and related actions of such country. (Sec. 1045) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1996 to revise the period covered by an annual report on accounting for U.S. assistance under CTR programs. (Sec. 1046) Limits to $15 million the total amount of FY 2000 U.S. assistance in support of UN-sponsored efforts to inspect and monitor Iraqi weapons activities. (Sec. 1047) Directs the Secretary to carry out an (defense electronic) information assurance program, to report annually to Congress on such program, and to prepare a DOD information assurance guide for the development of appropriate organizational structures and technologies for information assurance (protection) under the program. Requires development of an information assurance testbed. Provides funding from amounts authorized under this Act. (Sec. 1048) Directs the Secretary to establish a task force of the Defense Science Board to examine the use of radio and television broadcasting as a propaganda instrument and the adequacy of the capabilities of U.S. armed forces to deal with propaganda situations such as the conflict in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Requires a report from the task force to the Secretary, and from the Secretary to the defense and appropriations committees. (Sec. 1049) Requires a non-DOD entity operating a communication system, device, or apparatus on any portion of the frequency spectrum used by DOD to ensure noninterference with DOD communications operated therein. Makes such entity liable for any required redesign or rebuilding of a DOD communication system as a result of such interference. (Sec. 1050) Prohibits the use of any funds to enter into any contract with or issue any broadcast or other license to any entity that broadcasts from outside the United States into the United States on any frequency that is reserved to or used by DOD, unless such broadcasting is authorized by law. (Sec. 1051) Repeals a provision that limits to $50 million in a fiscal year the Federal expenditure for the National Guard civilian youth opportunities program. (Sec. 1052) Authorizes the Secretary, or the Secretary of Transportation with respect to the Coast Guard, to exempt from Federal disclosure requirements information concerning military personnel or DOD or Coast Guard employees assigned to overseas, sensitive, or routinely deployable units. (Sec. 1053) Authorizes the Secretary to exempt from such disclosure requirements: (1) certain operational files of NIMA; and (2) NIMA information having commercial significance. (Sec. 1055) Authorizes the Secretary to continue the enrollment in the DOD domestic dependent elementary and secondary schools program of a military or Federal employee dependent who would otherwise lose their eligibility under such program. (Sec. 1056) Authorizes the Secretary to establish a single school board for all domestic dependent schools in Puerto Rico and a single school board for all such schools in Guam. (Sec. 1057) Authorizes the Secretary to conduct through the military departments a science, mathematics, and technology education improvement program known as the Department of Defense STARBASE Program in order to improve the knowledge and skills of students in kindergarten through twelfth grade in such subject areas. Requires the establishment of at least 25 academies under the program, with specified academic requirements. Requires an annual program report from the Secretary to Congress. (Sec. 1058) Requires the Secretary's program to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Korean War to run during FY 2000 through 2004. Provides program funding during such period through Army O&M funds. (Sec. 1059) Reauthorizes and extends through FY 2000 the Defense Production Act of 1950. (Sec. 1060) Extends to naval aircraft on which one or more Coast Guard members are assigned the authority to engage in certain drug interdiction activities. Title XI: Department of Defense Civilian Personnel - Amends the Strom Thurmond National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1999 to change to October 1, 1999 (currently October 1, 2000) the effective date of revisions made to the voluntary early retirement program. (Sec. 1102) Repeals a provision which authorized the investigation of a complaint of sexual harassment made by a civilian employee under the supervision of a commanding officer or officer in charge of a military unit, vessel, facility, or area (thereby requiring such employees to follow Federal sexual harassment investigatory procedures). (Sec. 1103) Provides for the restoration of earned but unused annual leave in the case of DOD emergency essential employees serving in a combat zone. Authorizes the Secretary or the Secretary of a military department to make such designation, following specified criteria. Makes employees of nonappropriated fund instrumentalities eligible for such designation. (Sec. 1104) Provides leave protection for dual-status military technicians participating in combat as well as noncombat operations outside the United States. (Sec. 1105) Authorizes the Secretary concerned to establish work schedules and premium pay or compensatory time off provisions for civilian faculty members of the military service academies. (Sec. 1106) Provides that certain Federal pay rate and total compensation limitations shall not apply to the authority of the Secretary to prescribe salary schedules and related benefits for faculty and staff of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences. Title XII: National Military Museum and Related Matters - Subtitle A: Commission on National Military Museum - Establishes the Commission on the National Military Museum to conduct a study and make recommendations to Congress regarding authorization for the construction of a national military museum in the National Capital area. Requires, after one year, a report to Congress on its findings, conclusions, and recommendations. Terminates the Commission 60 days after such report. Subtitle B: Related Matters - Prohibits any transfer of Navy Annex property until two years after the later of: (1) the date of submission of a study on the expansion of Arlington National Cemetery (required under a prior joint explanatory statement); or (2) the date of the report of the Commission, above.
Bill· HRH.R. 1820 (106th)open
United States · United States Congress · 14 May 1999
Amends title XII (School Facilities Infrastructure Improvement) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to direct the Secretary of Education to make grants to State educational agencies for elementary and secondary school construction, reconstruction, or renovation, or for modernization of information technology for such schools. Sets forth wage requirements for such projects, including Davis- Bacon Act compliance and overtime; but allows exceptions for certain workers who voluntarily donate their services without full compensation. Authorizes appropriations.
Bill· HRH.R. 1823 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 14 May 1999
Authorizes the sponsor of the Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport in California to impose noise restrictions on operations (including curfews and limits on the number of daily take-offs and landings) at the airport without Federal Aviation Administration approval.
Bill· SS. 1051 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 1999
Energy Policy and Conservation Act Amendments - Reformulates the purposes of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA) so as to grant the President specific authority to fulfill U.S. obligations under the international energy program. Repeals its current purposes to: (1) reduce energy demand through implementation of energy conservation plans; (2) increase fossil fuel supply through price incentives and production requirements; and (3) reduce demand for petroleum products and natural gas through programs designed to enhance the use of domestic coal resources. (Sec. 3) Encompasses within EPCA jurisdiction an international energy supply shortage which the President determines to be of an emergency nature. (Sec. 4) Repeals the statutory incentive program to develop underground coal mines. Replaces prohibitions against lease bidding arrangements for oil and natural gas interests located on the Outer Continental Shelf by a major oil company affiliate, with the mandate that the Secretary of Energy (the Secretary) establish a program for setting joint bidding terms for exploration and development of crude oil, natural gas, and minerals located on such Shelf. Mandates that such program consider the goals of ensuring a fair return and encouraging timely and efficient resource development. Repeals restrictions controlling oil or gas production at the maximum efficient rate and temporary emergency production rate. Repeals Federal policy to provide for the creation of an Early Storage Reserve. Removes from the ambit of EPCA jurisdiction: (1) the Early Storage Reserve; (2) the Industrial Petroleum Reserve; (3) the Regional Petroleum Reserve; and (4) other storage reserves. Terminates the SPR Office in the Federal Energy Administration. Repeals the mandate for SPR expansion and for an SPR Plan. Details the authorities conferred upon the Secretary to develop, operate, or maintain the SPR. Repeals guidelines for storage, transport, or exchange of petroleum products, including: (1) fill operation by the President; (2) crude oil from Naval Petroleum Reserve Number 1 and reduction in fill-rate requirements; (3) suspension of fill operations during emergency situations; (4) test program of storage of refined petroleum products; and (5) distribution of the SPR. Replaces SPR distribution guidelines with a directive to the Secretary to: (1) sell SPR petroleum products at public auction to the highest bidder without regard to any Federal, State, or local regulation controlling petroleum product sales; and (2) conduct a continuing evaluation of drawdown and sales procedures. Cites the maximum barrels of petroleum products permissible in any SPR test drawdown, sale or exchange. Repeals the mandate for a study regarding Naval Petroleum Reserve Number 4. Revamps the contents of the Secretary's annual status report to Congress regarding SPR operations. Permits the use of SPR Petroleum Account funds by the Secretary for test drawdown and sales of petroleum products from the Reserve. Repeals guidelines governing: (1) use of the SPR Petroleum Account to meet expenses pertaining to interim storage facilities for SPR petroleum products; and (2) contracts for which no implementing legislation is needed. Extends, from FY 1999 to 2003, the authorities granted to implement domestic supply availability. (Sec. 5) Repeals the statutory plan for: (1) general emergency authorities; and (2) energy emergency preparedness. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1999 through 2003 for domestic renewable energy industry and related service industries. Extends from FY 1999 to 2003 the Federal authorities granted to implement standby energy authorities.
Bill· SS. 1032 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 1999
Freedom To Transport Act of 1999 - Amends the Merchant Marine Act, 1929 and Federal shipping law to exempt from the prohibition against transportation of merchandise in the coastwise trade in any vessel other than one built and documented under U.S. law certain foreign built vessels issued a certificate of documentation for the coastwise trade that are used to transport forest products, bulk cargo (including agricultural products carried in bulk), or livestock.
Bill· HRH.R. 1798 (106th)open
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 1999
Clinical Research Enhancement Act of 1999 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to: (1) support and expand the NIH's involvement in clinical research; (2) support and expand the resources available for the clinical research community; and (3) establish peer review mechanisms. (Sec. 4) Mandates grants to: (1) establish general clinical research centers to provide the infrastructure for clinical research, including clinical research training and career enhancement; (2) support individual careers in clinical research at general clinical research centers or other institutions (to be known as Mentor Patient-Oriented Research Career Development Awards); (3) support individual clinical research projects at general clinical research centers or other institutions (to be known as Mid-Career Investigator Awards in Patient-Oriented Research); and (4) support individuals pursuing master's or doctoral degrees in clinical investigation (to be known as graduate training in clinical investigation awards). Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 5) Increases the limit on the aggregate number of scholarship (regarding professions needed by the NIH) and loan repayment (regarding clinical researchers from disadvantaged backgrounds) contracts under specified provisions. Modifies the loan repayment program to: (1) remove current references to disadvantaged backgrounds; and (2) require a period of service in a general clinical research center, in clinical NIH research, or as a physician receiving a clinical research career enhancement award or a graduate training in clinical investigation award (currently, a period of service as an NIH employee). Requires that at least 50 percent of the loan repayment contracts involve individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the loan repayment provisions. (Sec. 7) Directs the Comptroller General to report to Congress on the extent to which the NIH has complied with requirements of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 1768 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1999
Youth Gun Crime Enforcement Act of 1999 - Title I: Extending and Strengthening the Brady Law - Subtitle A: Extending the Brady Act to Gun Shows - Amends the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act to prohibit any person from organizing, planning, promoting, or operating a gun show without: (1) registering with the Secretary of the Treasury and paying a registration fee; (2) notifying the Secretary, at least 30 days in advance, of the date, time, duration, and location of the show; (3) submitting to the Secretary, at least 72 hours in advance, an updated list of all show vendors planning to participate; (4) verifying the identity of each show vendor participating by examining a valid identification document containing a photograph of the vendor; (5) requiring each vendor to sign a ledger with identifying information and a notice advising the vendor of his or her obligations; (6) notifying each attendee of requirements under the Act; (7) submitting to the Secretary, at least five days after the end of the show, a copy of the ledger and notice; and (8) maintaining a copy of the records described above at the permanent place of business of the show promoter for such period of time and in such form as the Secretary shall require. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) responsibilities of transferors and transferees who are not licensees, including criminal background check requirements; (2) responsibilities of licensees who agree to assist such persons in firearm transfers; and (3) records of licensee transfers. Sets penalties for violations of this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to enter, during business hours, the place of business of any show promoter and any place where a show is held for purposes of examining required records and the inventory of licensees conducting business at the show, without a showing of reasonable cause or a warrant. Increases penalties for violations of criminal background check requirements. Authorizes appropriations. Subtitle B: Establishing a Mandatory Handgun Waiting Period and Giving Law Enforcement More Time to Complete Background Checks - Prohibits a licensed importer, manufacturer, or dealer from transferring a firearm to an unlicensed person unless specified requirements are met, including that: (1) before completion of the transfer, the licensee transmits notice of the proposed firearm transfer to the chief law enforcement officer of the place of residence of the transferee; (2) the system provides the licensee with a unique identification number or five (currently, three) business days have elapsed since the licensee contacted the system and the system has not notified the licensee that the receipt of a firearm by such person would violate the Act; and (3) if the firearm is a handgun or semiautomatic assault weapon, not less than 72 hours have elapsed since the licensee contacted the system, or if the firearm is a handgun, the transferee has presented to the transferor a written statement, issued by the chief law enforcement officer of the transferee's place of residence during the 10-day period ending on the date of the most recent proposal of such transfer by the transferee, stating that the transferee requires access to a handgun because of a threat to the life of the transferee or of a member of the household of the transferee. Requires a chief law enforcement officer who accepts notice of a proposed firearm transfer to destroy any statement or other record containing information derived from the notice, unless such officer determines that the transfer would violate Federal, State, or local law. Directs the Secretary to: (1) promulgate regulations regarding the manner in which licensees shall transmit notice of a proposed transfer to such officer; and(2) exempt licensees from the notice requirement where the Secretary determines such notice does not further the purposes of this subtitle. Subtitle C: Keeping Guns Out Of the Hands of Dangerous Juvenile Offenders - Defines the term "adjudicated delinquent" to mean an adjudication of delinquency based upon a finding of the commission of an act by a person prior to his or her 18th birthday that, if committed by an adult, would be a serious drug offense or violent felony. Provides that for purposes of Federal firearms provisions, any State conviction or adjudication of delinquency which has been expunged or set aside or for which a person has been pardoned or has had civil rights restored by the jurisdiction in which the conviction or adjudication of delinquency occurred shall nevertheless be considered a conviction or adjudication of delinquency unless: (1) the expunction, set aside, pardon, or restoration of civil rights (expunction) is directed to a specific person; (2) the State authority granting the expunction has expressly determined that the circumstances regarding the conviction and the person's record and reputation are such that the person will not act in a manner dangerous to public safety; and (3) the expunction expressly authorizes the person to ship, transport, receive, or possess firearms. Specifies that the requirement for an individualized restoration of rights shall apply whether or not, under State law, the person's civil rights were taken away by virtue of the conviction or adjudication. Prohibits the sale or other disposal of a firearm or ammunition to a person knowing or having reasonable cause to believe that such person has been an adjudicated delinquent. Authorizes appropriations. Title II: Restricting Youth Access to Firearms - Prohibits the sale, delivery, or other transfer: (1) of a handgun, or ammunition that is suitable for use only in a handgun, to a person who the transferor knows or has reasonable cause to believe is under age 21 (currently, such prohibition applies with respect to juveniles); or (2) of a semiautomatic assault weapon or a large capacity ammunition feeding device to persons under 21. Applies the exemption applicable with respect to possession of a handgun in defense against a home intrusion to persons under 21 (currently, juveniles). Adds an exemption with respect to the temporary possession or use of a handgun by a person who is at least 18, but under 21, in the course of employment, in the course of ranching or farming at his or her residence, or for target practice, hunting, or a course of instruction in handgun use. (Sec. 202) Provides for enhanced penalties for youth possession of handguns and semiautomatic assault weapons. Applies specified penalties to the transfer of a handgun, ammunition, semiautomatic assault weapon, or large capacity ammunition feeding device (weapon) to a person under age 21 knowing or having reasonable cause to know that such person intended to possess, discharge, or use the weapon in the commission of a crime of violence. (Sec. 203) Prohibits and sets penalties for the sale, transfer, or delivery of a firearm by a licensed importer, manufacturer, or dealer to any person (other than a licensed importer, manufacturer, or dealer) unless the transferee is provided with a secure gun storage or safety device. Authorizes license suspension or revocation or imposition of a civil penalty of not more than $10,000 if a licensee knowingly violates this provision. (Sec. 204) Prohibits and sets penalties for keeping a loaded firearm, or an unloaded firearm and ammunition for it, knowing, or recklessly disregarding the risk, that a child is capable of gaining access to the firearm and that a child will use the firearm to cause death or serious bodily injury, or that possession of the firearm by the child is unlawful under Federal or State law, if the child uses the firearm to cause death or serious bodily injury, with exceptions. Title III: Combating Illegal Trafficking in Guns - Subtitle A: Restricting the Sources of Illegal Guns - Prohibits the sale, delivery, or transfer of: (1) two or more handguns to any single person during any 30-day period; or (2) a handgun to any single person knowing or having reasonable cause to believe that the transferee has already received one or more handguns within the previous 30 days. Prohibits any person from receiving more than one handgun within any 30-day period. Sets forth provisions regarding exemptions from such restrictions and penalties for violations. Increases penalties for licensees who knowingly make false statements in required records. Requires a licensee, within three days of receiving a request from the prospective transferee, to notify the national instant criminal background check system of any background check conducted within the previous 30 days that did not result in the transfer of a handgun. (Sec. 302) Prohibits a licensed importer, manufacturer, or dealer from storing firearms in their business inventory in a manner not in conformity with regulations issued by the Secretary. Directs the Secretary, in issuing such regulations, to consider the type and quantity of the firearms to be stored, as well as the standards of safety and security recognized in the firearms industry. Sets penalties for violations. Authorizes license suspension or revocation or imposition of a civil penalty of not more than $10,000 if a licensee knowingly violates this provision. Makes it a condition of licensing that within 30 days after the application is approved the firearms inventory of the business will be stored in compliance with the requirements of this section. (Sec. 303) Prohibits a common or contract carrier from failing to report to the Secretary and to the appropriate local authorities the theft or loss of a firearm within 48 hours after the theft or loss is discovered. Authorizes the Secretary to impose a civil fine of up to $10,000 for a violation. (Sec. 304) Increases the number of allowed compliance inspections of firearms dealers from one to three times a year. (Sec. 305) Sets penalties for transferring a firearm having reasonable cause to believe that it will be used to commit a crime of violence. (Sec. 306) Directs licensed importers, manufacturers, and dealers to submit to the Secretary monthly reports of all firearms obtained from non-licensees. Specifies that such information shall be reported on a form to be prescribed by the Secretary and that such reports shall not include the name of or identifying information about the firearm transferors or subsequent purchasers. (Sec. 307) Modifies provisions regarding voluntary submission of a dealer's records to allow: (1) a successor licensee, upon receipt of records, to retain the records of the discontinued business or submit them to the Secretary; and (2) a licensee to voluntarily submit the records required to be kept if such records are at least 20 years old. Subtitle B: Enhancing Penalties for Gun Trafficking - Sets penalties for violating restrictions (in subtitle A) regarding the transfer of multiple handguns. Directs the U.S. Sentencing Commission to review and amend the Federal sentencing guidelines to provide: (1) an appropriate enhancement for violation of the provisions prohibiting any person, except a licensed importer, manufacturer, or dealer, from engaging in the business of importing, manufacturing, or dealing in firearms or, in the course of such business, from shipping, transporting, or receiving any firearm in interstate or foreign commerce; and (2) additional sentencing increases, as appropriate, for offenses involving more than 50 firearms. (Sec. 309) Provides for increased penalties for certain serious recordkeeping offenses, including making false statements or furnishing false identification with respect to a fact material to the lawfulness of the sale or other disposition of a firearm or ammunition. (Sec. 310) Authorizes the Secretary to suspend the license of, or assess a civil penalty of up to $10,000 per violation by, a dealer. (Current law only provides for license revocation) (Sec. 311) Provides for termination of a dealer's license upon the date of a felony conviction. (Sec. 312) Increases penalties for violations involving transactions in firearms with obliterated serial numbers. (Sec. 313) Provides for civil and criminal forfeiture of any conveyance used or intended to be used to commit a gun trafficking offense or conspiracy to commit such an offense, and property traceable to such conveyance. (Sec. 314) Authorizes appropriations. Title IV: Strengthening the Assault Weapons Ban -Prohibits the importation of large capacity ammunition feeding devices. Title V: Combating Criminal Misuse of Firearms - Makes specified firearms-related offenses predicates to a violation of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act. (Sec. 502) Increases the penalty for firearms conspiracy offenses. (Sec. 503) Makes specified firearms-related offenses, and serious juvenile drug trafficking offenses, predicate crimes under the Armed Career Criminal Act. (Sec. 505) Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for a five-year statute of limitations for firearms-related offenses. (Sec. 506) Provides for the civil and criminal forfeiture of firearms used or intended to be used to commit a crime of violence or a felony under Federal law. (Sec. 507) Provides for separate licenses, and license fees, for gunsmiths. Title VI: Enhanced Firearms Enforcement - Authorizes appropriations for intensive firearms prosecution projects implemented by the Department of Justice. (Sec. 602) Directs the Secretary to expand: (1) to 75 the number of city and county law enforcement agencies that, through the Youth Crime Gun Interdiction Initiative (YGCII), submit identifying information relating to all firearms recovered during law enforcement investigations, including from individuals under age 25, to the Secretary to identify the types and origins of such firearms; and (2) the resources devoted to law enforcement investigations of illegal youth possessors and users and of illegal firearms traffickers identified through YGCII, including through the hiring of additional personnel. Directs the Secretary to: (1) select cities and counties for participation in the program established under this section; and (2) establish a system through which State and local law enforcement agencies, through on-line computer technology, can promptly provide firearms-related information to the Secretary and access information derived through YCGII as soon as such capability is available. Sets forth reporting requirements. Authorizes appropriations. Title VII: Combating Criminal Misuse of Explosives - Revises explosives provisions to prohibit any person other than a licensee or permittee from knowingly transporting, shipping, causing to be transported, or receiving any explosive materials, or from distributing explosive materials to any person other than a licensee or permittee. Prohibits a licensed importer, manufacturer, or dealer from transferring explosive materials to any other person who is not a licensee unless: (1) before the completion of the transfer, the licensee contacts the national instant criminal background check system established under the Brady Act; (2) the system provides the licensee with a unique identification number, or five business days have elapsed since the licensee contacted the system and the system has not notified the licensee that the receipt of explosive materials by such other person would violate the Act; (3) the transferor has verified the identity of the transferee by examining a valid identification document of the transferee containing a photograph of the transferee; and (4) the transferor has examined the permit issued to the transferee and recorded the permit number on the record of the transfer. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) further procedures and exceptions, penalties for violations, and Federal, State, and local government immunity for preventing or failing to prevent sales of explosive materials; and (2) remedies for erroneous denial of explosive materials. Requires an application for a license or user permit for explosive materials to include the applicant's fingerprints and photograph. Modifies Federal criminal code (code) provisions to charge the applicant a fee of up to $300 for a license and up to $100 for a permit. Sets penalties for violating the requirement for a background check for purchases of explosives. Prohibits the distribution of explosive materials to: (1) anyone who has been committed to a mental institution; (2) certain aliens; (3) anyone discharged from the armed forces under dishonorable conditions; (4) persons who have renounced their U.S. citizenship; (5) certain persons subject to a court order (such as one involving harassment, stalking, or threatening an intimate partner or their child); (6) anyone convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence; or (7) persons adjudicated delinquent. Sets forth: (1) similar restrictions regarding possession of explosives; and (2) provisions relating to aliens admitted under non-immigrant visas. (Sec. 703) Prohibits the shipment, transport, receipt, or possession of explosive materials by persons under age 21, with an exception involving commercially manufactured black powder. (Sec. 704) Exempts from: (1) Federal explosives prohibitions assembled small arms ammunition and primers not assembled into cartridges (other than bulk smokeless powder); and (2) Federal explosives prohibitions on the transportation and distribution of explosives specified quantities of commercially manufactured black powder intended for sporting or recreational use in antique firearms or devices. (Sec. 705) Authorizes appropriations.
Bill· SS. 1009 (106th)open
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1999
Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 - Title I: Intelligence Activities - Authorizes appropriations for FY 2000 for the conduct of intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the: (1) Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); (2) Department of Defense; (3) Defense Intelligence Agency; (4) National Security Agency; (5) Departments of the Army, Navy, and Air Force; (6) Departments of State, the Treasury, and Energy; (7) Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); (8) National Reconnaissance Office; and (9) National Imagery and Mapping Agency. (Sec. 102) Specifies that the amounts authorized to be appropriated and the authorized personnel ceilings as of September 30, 2000, for such activities are those specified in the classified Schedule of Authorizations, which shall be made available to the Senate and House Appropriations Committees and the President. (Sec. 103) Allows the Director of Central Intelligence (DCI), with the approval of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, to authorize employment of civilian personnel in excess of the number authorized for FY 2000 when the DCI determines that such action is necessary to the performance of important intelligence functions, subject to specified limitations. Requires notification of the Senate and House Intelligence Committees when such authority is exercised. (Sec. 104) Authorizes appropriations for the Community Management Account of the DCI for FY 2000. Authorizes full-time personnel for elements within such Account as of September 30, 2000. Provides for the reimbursement of any U.S. officer or employee, or member of the armed forces, who is detailed to such staff. Earmarks funds authorized under this Act for the National Drug Intelligence Center. Requires a transfer of funds from the DCI to the Attorney General (AG) to operate the Center. Title II: Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System - Authorizes appropriations for FY 2000 for the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability Fund. Title III: General Provisions - Permits appropriations authorized by this Act for salary, pay, retirement, and other benefits for Federal employees to be increased by such additional amounts as may be necessary for increases in such compensation or benefits authorized by law. (Sec. 302) Specifies that the authorization of appropriations by this Act shall not be deemed to constitute authority for the conduct of any intelligence activity which is not otherwise authorized by the Constitution or laws of the United States. (Sec. 303) Amends the National Security Act of 1947 to: (1) extend through January 6, 2001, the authority of the President to stay the application of certain sanctions against a foreign country when such application would undermine U.S. intelligence activities or sources; and (2) permit authorized Federal investigative agencies to access computers used by Federal employees in the performance of government duties. (Sec. 305) Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to allow the naturalization of a person affiliated with a Communist or similar party if such person: (1) is otherwise eligible; (2) is within a proscribed category solely because of past membership in, or affiliation with, such party or organization; (3) does not fall within any other excluded category; and (4) is jointly determined by the DCI, the AG, and the Commissioner if Immigration and Naturalization to have made a contribution to the U.S. national security or national intelligence mission. (Sec. 306) Amends the Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1997 to extend through FY 2001 funding for infrastructure and quality of life improvements at the Menwith Hill and Bad Aibling Stations. Title IV: Central Intelligence Agency - Amends the Central Intelligence Agency Act of 1949 to: (1) extend to nonappropriated fund entities or instrumentalities associated or affiliated with the CIA the provision of items and services under the CIA central services program; (2) provide for additional deposits into the Central Services Working Capital Fund; and (3) extend such program through March 31, 2005. (Sec. 402) Amends the Central Intelligence Agency Voluntary Separation Pay Act to extend such Act through FY 2000. Title V: Department of Energy Intelligence Activities - Department of Energy Sensitive Country Foreign Visitors Moratorium Act - Prohibits the Secretary of Energy from admitting to any classified facility of a national laboratory any citizen of a nation that is named on the current Department of Energy sensitive countries list. Authorizes the waiver of such prohibition on a case-by-case basis in the national security interest, requiring a report to specified congressional committees when such waiver is exercised. (Sec. 503) States that before a citizen of any foreign nation is allowed to enter a national laboratory, the Secretary of Energy shall require a security background check on such individual. (Sec. 504) Requires the Directors of the CIA and the FBI to report to specified congressional committees on counterintelligence activities at national laboratories, including facilities and areas at which unclassified work is performed. Title VI: Foreign Counterintelligence and International Terrorism Investigations - Amends the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to include within the definition of "agent of a foreign power" for purposes of coverage under such Act a person who knowingly enters the United States under a false or fraudulent identity for or on behalf of a foreign power or, while in the United States, knowingly assumes a false or fraudulent identity for or on behalf of a foreign power. (Sec. 602) Amends the Counterintelligence and Security Enhancements Act of 1994 to require the FBI to pass on to the appropriate Federal agency information obtained by the FBI concerning the possible disclosure of classified information by an individual within that agency. (Currently, the FBI must pass on such information only after receiving a report from the head of such agency concerning the possibility of such disclosure.)
Bill· SS. 995 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1999
Youth Gun Crime Enforcement Act of 1999 - Title I: Extending and Strengthening the Brady Law - Subtitle A: Extending the Brady Act to Gun Shows - Amends the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act to prohibit any person from organizing, planning, promoting, or operating a gun show without: (1) registering with the Secretary of the Treasury and paying a registration fee; (2) notifying the Secretary, at least 30 days in advance, of the date, time, duration, and location of the show; (3) submitting to the Secretary, at least 72 hours in advance, an updated list of all show vendors planning to participate; (4) verifying the identity of each show vendor participating by examining a valid identification document containing a photograph of the vendor; (5) requiring each vendor to sign a ledger with identifying information and a notice advising the vendor of his or her obligations; (6) notifying each attendee of requirements under the Act; (7) submitting to the Secretary, at least five days after the end of the show, a copy of the ledger and notice; and (8) maintaining a copy of the records described above at the permanent place of business of the show promoter for such period of time and in such form as the Secretary shall require. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) responsibilities of transferors and transferees who are not licensees, including criminal background check requirements; (2) responsibilities of licensees who agree to assist such persons in firearm transfers; and (3) records of licensee transfers. Sets penalties for violations of this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to enter, during business hours, the place of business of any show promoter and any place where a show is held for purposes of examining required records and the inventory of licensees conducting business at the show, without a showing of reasonable cause or a warrant. Increases penalties for violations of criminal background check requirements. Authorizes appropriations. Subtitle B: Establishing a Mandatory Handgun Waiting Period and Giving Law Enforcement More Time to Complete Background Checks - Prohibits a licensed importer, manufacturer, or dealer from transferring a firearm to an unlicensed person unless specified requirements are met, including that: (1) before completion of the transfer, the licensee transmits notice of the proposed firearm transfer to the chief law enforcement officer of the place of residence of the transferee; (2) the system provides the licensee with a unique identification number or five (currently, three) business days have elapsed since the licensee contacted the system and the system has not notified the licensee that the receipt of a firearm by such person would violate the Act; and (3) if the firearm is a handgun or semiautomatic assault weapon, not less than 72 hours have elapsed since the licensee contacted the system, or if the firearm is a handgun, the transferee has presented to the transferor a written statement, issued by the chief law enforcement officer of the transferee's place of residence during the 10-day period ending on the date of the most recent proposal of such transfer by the transferee, stating that the transferee requires access to a handgun because of a threat to the life of the transferee or of a member of the household of the transferee. Requires a chief law enforcement officer who accepts notice of a proposed firearm transfer to destroy any statement or other record containing information derived from the notice, unless such officer determines that the transfer would violate Federal, State, or local law. Directs the Secretary to: (1) promulgate regulations regarding the manner in which licensees shall transmit notice of a proposed transfer to such officer; and(2) exempt licensees from the notice requirement where the Secretary determines such notice does not further the purposes of this subtitle. Subtitle C: Keeping Guns Out Of the Hands of Dangerous Juvenile Offenders - Defines the term "adjudicated delinquent" to mean an adjudication of delinquency based upon a finding of the commission of an act by a person prior to his or her eighteenth birthday that, if committed by an adult, would be a serious drug offense or violent felony. Provides that for purposes of Federal firearms provisions, any State conviction or adjudication of delinquency which has been expunged or set aside or for which a person has been pardoned or has had civil rights restored by the jurisdiction in which the conviction or adjudication of delinquency occurred shall nevertheless be considered a conviction or adjudication of delinquency unless: (1) the expunction, set aside, pardon, or restoration of civil rights (expunction) is directed to a specific person; (2) the State authority granting the expunction has expressly determined that the circumstances regarding the conviction and the person's record and reputation are such that the person will not act in a manner dangerous to public safety; and (3) the expunction expressly authorizes the person to ship, transport, receive, or possess firearms. Specifies that the requirement for an individualized restoration of rights shall apply whether or not, under State law, the person's civil rights were taken away by virtue of the conviction or adjudication. Prohibits the sale or other disposal of a firearm or ammunition to a person knowing or having reasonable cause to believe that such person has been an adjudicated delinquent. Authorizes appropriations. Title II: Restricting Youth Access to Firearms - Prohibits the sale, delivery, or other transfer: (1) of a handgun, or ammunition that is suitable for use only in a handgun, to a person who the transferor knows or has reasonable cause to believe is under age 21 (currently, such prohibition applies with respect to juveniles); or (2) of a semiautomatic assault weapon or a large capacity ammunition feeding device to persons under 21. Applies the exemption applicable with respect to possession of a handgun in defense against a home intrusion to persons under 21 (currently, juveniles). Adds an exemption with respect to the temporary possession or use of a handgun by a person who is at least 18, but under 21, in the course of employment, in the course of ranching or farming at his or her residence, or for target practice, hunting, or a course of instruction in handgun use. (Sec. 202) Provides for enhanced penalties for youth possession of handguns and semiautomatic assault weapons. Applies specified penalties to the transfer of a handgun, ammunition, semiautomatic assault weapon, or large capacity ammunition feeding device (weapon) to a person under age 21 knowing or having reasonable cause to know that such person intended to possess, discharge, or use the weapon in the commission of a crime of violence. (Sec. 203) Prohibits and sets penalties for the sale, transfer, or delivery of a firearm by a licensed importer, manufacturer, or dealer to any person (other than a licensed importer, manufacturer, or dealer) unless the transferee is provided with a secure gun storage or safety device. Authorizes license suspension or revocation or imposition of a civil penalty of not more than $10,000 if a licensee knowingly violates this provision. (Sec. 204) Prohibits and sets penalties for keeping a loaded firearm, or an unloaded firearm and ammunition for it, knowing, or recklessly disregarding the risk, that a child is capable of gaining access to the firearm and that a child will use the firearm to cause death or serious bodily injury, or that possession of the firearm by the child is unlawful under Federal or State law, if the child uses the firearm to cause death or serious bodily injury, with exceptions. Title III: Combating Illegal Trafficking in Guns - Subtitle A: Restricting the Sources of Illegal Guns - Prohibits the sale, delivery, or transfer of: (1) two or more handguns to any single person during any 30-day period; or (2) a handgun to any single person knowing or having reasonable cause to believe that the transferee has already received one or more handguns within the previous 30 days. Prohibits any person from receiving more than one handgun within any 30-day period. Sets forth provisions regarding exemptions from such restrictions and penalties for violations. Increases penalties for licensees who knowingly make false statements in required records. Requires a licensee, within three days of receiving a request from the prospective transferee, to notify the national instant criminal background check system of any background check conducted within the previous 30 days that did not result in the transfer of a handgun. (Sec. 302) Prohibits a licensed importer, manufacturer, or dealer from storing firearms in their business inventory in a manner not in conformity with regulations issued by the Secretary. Directs the Secretary, in issuing such regulations, to consider the type and quantity of the firearms to be stored, as well as the standards of safety and security recognized in the firearms industry. Sets penalties for violations. Authorizes license suspension or revocation or imposition of a civil penalty of not more than $10,000 if a licensee knowingly violates this provision. Makes it a condition of licensing that within 30 days after the application is approved the firearms inventory of the business will be stored in compliance with the requirements of this section. (Sec. 303) Prohibits a common or contract carrier from failing to report to the Secretary and to the appropriate local authorities the theft or loss of a firearm within 40 hours after the theft or loss is discovered. Authorizes the Secretary to impose a civil fine of up to $10,000 for a violation. (Sec. 304) Increases the number of allowed compliance inspections of firearms dealers from one to three times a year. (Sec. 305) Sets penalties for transferring a firearm having reasonable cause to believe that it will be used to commit a crime of violence. (Sec. 306) Directs licensed importers, manufacturers, and dealers to submit to the Secretary monthly reports of all firearms obtained from non-licensees. Specifies that such information shall be reported on a form to be prescribed by the Secretary and that such reports shall not include the name of or identifying information about the firearm transferors or subsequent purchasers. (Sec. 307) Modifies provisions regarding voluntary submission of a dealer's records to allow: (1) a successor licensee, upon receipt of records, to retain the records of the discontinued business or submit them to the Secretary; and (2) a licensee to voluntarily submit the records required to be kept if such records are at least 20 years old. Subtitle B: Enhancing Penalties for Gun Trafficking - Sets penalties for violating restrictions (in subtitle A) regarding the transfer of multiple handguns. Directs the U.S. Sentencing Commission to review and amend the Federal sentencing guidelines to provide: (1) an appropriate enhancement for violation of the provisions prohibiting any person, except a licensed importer, manufacturer, or dealer, from engaging in the business of importing, manufacturing, or dealing in firearms or, in the course of such business, from shipping, transporting, or receiving any firearm in interstate or foreign commerce; and (2) additional sentencing increases, as appropriate, for offenses involving more than 50 firearms. (Sec. 309) Provides for increased penalties for certain serious recordkeeping offenses, including making false statements or furnishing false identification with respect to a fact material to the lawfulness of the sale or other disposition of a firearm or ammunition. (Sec. 310) Authorizes the Secretary to suspend the license of, or assess a civil penalty of up to $10,000 per violation by, a dealer. (Current law only provides for license revocation) (Sec. 311) Provides for termination of a dealer's license upon the date of a felony conviction. (Sec. 312) Increases penalties for violations involving transactions in firearms with obliterated serial numbers. (Sec. 313) Provides for civil and criminal forfeiture of any conveyance used or intended to be used to commit a gun trafficking offense or conspiracy to commit such an offense, and property traceable to such conveyance. (Sec. 314) Authorizes appropriations. Title IV: Strengthening the Assault Weapons Ban -Prohibits the importation of large capacity ammunition feeding devices. Title V: Combating Criminal Misuse of Firearms - Makes specified firearms-related offenses predicates to a violation of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act. (Sec. 502) Increases the penalty for firearms conspiracy offenses. (Sec. 503) Makes specified firearms-related offenses, and serious juvenile drug trafficking offenses, predicate crimes under the Armed Career Criminal Act. (Sec. 505) Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for a five-year statute of limitations for firearms-related offenses. (Sec. 506) Provides for the civil and criminal forfeiture of firearms used or intended to be used to commit a crime of violence or a felony under Federal law. (Sec. 507) Provides for separate licenses, and license fees, for gunsmiths. Title VI: Enhanced Firearms Enforcement - Authorizes appropriations for intensive firearms prosecution projects implemented by the Department of Justice. (Sec. 602) Directs the Secretary to expand: (1) to 75 the number of city and county law enforcement agencies that, through the Youth Crime Gun Interdiction Initiative (YGCII), submit identifying information relating to all firearms recovered during law enforcement investigations, including from individuals under age 25, to the Secretary to identify the types and origins of such firearms; and (2) the resources devoted to law enforcement investigations of illegal youth possessors and users and of illegal firearms traffickers identified through YGCII, including through the hiring of additional personnel. Directs the Secretary to: (1) select cities and counties for participation in the program established under this section; and (2) establish a system through which State and local law enforcement agencies, through on-line computer technology, can promptly provide firearms-related information to the Secretary and access information derived through YCGII as soon as such capability is available. Sets forth reporting requirements. Authorizes appropriations. Title VII: Combating Criminal Misuse of Explosives - Revises explosives provisions to prohibit any person other than a licensee or permittee from knowingly transporting, shipping, causing to be transported, or receiving any explosive materials, or from distributing explosive materials to any person other than a licensee or permittee. Prohibits a licensed importer, manufacturer, or dealer from transferring explosive materials to any other person who is not a licensee unless: (1) before the completion of the transfer, the licensee contacts the national instant criminal background check system established under the Brady Act; (2) the system provides the licensee with a unique identification number, or five business days have elapsed since the licensee contacted the system and the system has not notified the licensee that the receipt of explosive materials by such other person would violate the Act; (3) the transferor has verified the identity of the transferee by examining a valid identification document of the transferee containing a photograph of the transferee; and (4) the transferor has examined the permit issued to the transferee and recorded the permit number on the record of the transfer. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) further procedures and exceptions, penalties for violations, and Federal, State, and local government immunity for preventing or failing to prevent sales of explosive materials; and (2) remedies for erroneous denial of explosive materials. Requires an application for a license or user permit for explosive materials to include the applicant's fingerprints and photograph. Modifies Federal criminal code (code) provisions to charge the applicant a fee of up to $300 for a license and up to $100 for a permit. Sets penalties for violating the requirement for a background check for purchases of explosives. Prohibits the distribution of explosive materials to: (1) anyone who has been committed to a mental institution; (2) certain aliens; (3) anyone discharged from the armed forces under dishonorable conditions; (4) persons who have renounced their U.S. citizenship; (5) certain persons subject to a court order (such as one involving harassment, stalking, or threatening an intimate partner or their child); (6) anyone convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence; or (7) persons adjudicated delinquent. Sets forth: (1) similar restrictions regarding possession of explosives; and (2) provisions relating to aliens admitted under non-immigrant visas. (Sec. 703) Prohibits the shipment, transport, receipt, or possession of explosive materials by persons under age 21, with an exception involving commercially manufactured black powder. (Sec. 704) Exempts from: (1) Federal explosives prohibitions assembled small arms ammunition and primers not assembled into cartridges (other than bulk smokeless powder); and (2) Federal explosives prohibitions on the transportation and distribution of explosives specified quantities of commercially manufactured black powder intended for sporting or recreational use in antique firearms or devices. (Sec. 705) Authorizes appropriations.
Bill· SS. 1005 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1999
Deadly Driver Reduction Act - Amends Federal transportation law to require the Secretary of Transportation to withhold five percent of the funds authorized for Federal aid highway programs for FY 2003, and ten percent of such amounts for subsequent fiscal years, from any State that has not enacted and is not enforcing a law that provides the following minimum sentences: (1) for a first conviction of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, revocation of the driver's license for six months, imposition of a $500 fine, and an assessment of the individual's degree of alcohol abuse and appropriate treatment; (2) for a first conviction of operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of .16 or greater, revocation of the individual's license for six months, or two years if the individual refused to take a breath test to determine the individual's blood alcohol concentration, imposition of a requirement prohibiting the individual from operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of .05 or greater for five years, impoundment or immobilization of the individual's motor vehicle for 30 days, requiring the installation of an ignition interlock system on the individual's motor vehicle for 180 days, imposition of a $750 fine, ten days' imprisonment or 60 days' community service, and assessment of the individual's degree of alcohol abuse and appropriate treatment; (3) for a third conviction for operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, revocation of license for one year, or two years if the individual refused to take a breath test, imposition of a requirement prohibiting the individual from operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of .05 or greater for five years, impoundment or immobilization of the individual's motor vehicle for 60 days, requiring the installation of an ignition interlock system on the individual's motor vehicle for one year, imposition of a $1,000 fine, ten days' imprisonment or 60 days' community service, and assessment of the individual's degree of alcohol abuse and appropriate treatment; and (4) for a third or subsequent conviction for operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or for a second such conviction if the individual's first conviction was for operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of .16 or greater, permanent revocation of the individual's license (without exception). Allows funds withheld from a State during FY 2003 to be available for up to three fiscal years after such date (to allow a State to meet such requirement within such period), but allows no grace period with respect to funds withheld during the subsequent fiscal years.
Bill· HRH.R. 1757 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1999
Spring Mountain Exchange Act of 1999 - Requires the Secretary of the Interior to convey to Rhodes Design and Development Corporation certain Federal lands in Clark County, Nevada, in exchange for: (1) certain Corporation lands in Nevada; and (2) specified payments by the Corporation to the State of Nevada for use in its general education program and to the Southern Nevada Water Authority for water treatment and transmission facility infrastructure. Provides that such payments shall be considered to be a cost incurred by the Corporation and shall be compensated by the Secretary.
Bill· SS. 993 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 10 May 1999
Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1999 - Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets of 1968 to direct the Attorney General to make grants to States and local governments for planning, establishing, operating, coordinating, and evaluating projects for the development of more effective investigation, prosecution, and punishment of crimes or acts of delinquency committed by juveniles, programs to improve the administration of justice for and ensure accountability by juvenile offenders, and programs to reduce the risk factors (truancy, drugs, alcohol, gang involvement) associated with juvenile crime or delinquency. Provides authorized grant uses, eligibility requirements, and allocation and distribution requirements. (Sec. 3) Amends the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994 (VCCLEA) to authorize the use of community-based justice grants for prosecutors to: (1) allow the hiring of additional prosecutors; (2) provide funding to enable prosecutors to address drug, gang, and youth violence problems more effectively; (3) provide funding to assist prosecutors with funding for technology, equipment, and training to assist prosecutors in reducing the incidence of, and increase the successful identification and speed of, prosecution of young violent offenders; and (4) provide funding to assist prosecutors in their efforts to engage in community prosecution, problem solving, and conflict resolution techniques through collaborative efforts with police, school officials, probation officers, social service agencies, and community organizations. (Sec. 4) Amends the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974 (JJDPA) to authorize appropriations and to allocate appropriations for specified purposes, including grants to develop alternative methods of punishment for young offenders and grants to prosecutors and courts under VCCLEA. (Sec. 5) Reauthorizes appropriations under JJDPA and under the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act. (Sec. 6) Amends the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act (the Act) to prohibit: (1) the sale or other disposition of a firearm or ammunition to any person knowing or having reasonable cause to believe that such person has committed an act of juvenile delinquency; and (2) the shipment, transport, or possession in interstate or foreign commerce of a firearm or ammunition, or the receipt of any firearm or ammunition which has been shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce, by a person who has committed an act of juvenile delinquency. Specifies that: (1) what constitutes an adjudication of an act of juvenile delinquency shall be determined in accordance with the law of the jurisdiction in which the proceedings were held; and (2) any State conviction or adjudication of such an act that has been expunged or set aside, or for which a person has been pardoned or has had civil rights restored by the jurisdiction in which the conviction or adjudication of delinquency occurred, shall nevertheless be considered a conviction or adjudication of delinquency unless specified conditions are met. Amends VCCLEA to extend the Violent Crime Reduction Trust Fund through FY 2002.
Bill· SS. 976 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 6 May 1999
Youth Drug and Mental Health Services Act - Title I: Provisions Relating to Services for Children and Adolescents - Amends the Public Health Service Act (PHSA) with regard to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (Administration) to provide for a program to assist local communities in developing ways to assist children in dealing with violence. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 102) Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to award grants to public and non-profit private entities for: (1) establishing a national as well as regional centers of excellence on psychological trauma response; and (2) developing knowledge with regard to evidence-based practices for treating psychiatric disorders resulting from witnessing or experiencing such stress. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 103) Authorizes the Secretary to make noncompetitive grants to, or contracts or cooperative agreements with, public entities to address emergency substance abuse or mental health needs in local communities. (Sec. 104) Reauthorizes and extends prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation model projects for high risk youth. (Sec. 105) Replaces provisions for outpatient treatment programs and postpartum women with grants, contracts, and cooperative agreements for projects to provide substance abuse and mental health treatment for children and adolescents. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 106) Reauthorizes and extends the grant program for comprehensive community mental health services to children with serious emotional disturbances, with an increase in maximum grant duration from five to six fiscal years. (Sec. 107) Reauthorizes and extends the grant program for providing services to children of substance abusers. Transfers responsibility for the program from the Health Resources and Services Administration to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants for training health, substance abuse, and mental health professionals and other specified providers of services to children and families. Requires grant recipients which are Medicaid providers to identify children who may be eligible for medical assistance under Medicaid or the State's Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Requires a grant recipient to make available to such children drug and alcohol early intervention, treatment, and prevention services. Requires services for affected families to include: (1) aggressive outreach to family members with substance abuse problems; and (2) consumers in the development, implementation, and monitoring of the Family Services Plan. Repeals the mandate for peer review of grant applications. (Sec. 108) Requires the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment to ensure that emphasis is placed on children and adolescents in the development of treatment programs, among other changes in organizational and general provisions. Title II: Provisions Relating to Mental Health - Replaces grant programs for demonstration projects with projects for priority mental health needs of regional and national significance. Directs the Secretary to establish related information dissemination and education programs. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 202) Reauthorizes and extends the grant program for developing and expanding mental health and substance abuse treatment services for homeless individuals. (Sec. 203) Authorizes the Secretary to waive requirements for projects for assistance in transition from homelessness with respect to the Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, Palau, the Marshall Islands, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Reauthorizes and extends formula grants to States for programs for individuals suffering from serious mental illness or substance abuse and for the homeless. (Sec. 204) Revises the criteria for State plans for grants for comprehensive community mental health services for certain individuals, as well as application deadlines. Reauthorizes and extends the program of formula block grants for community mental health services and treatment of mental illness and substance abuse. (Sec. 205) Makes permanent at the level it received for FY 1998 the minimum formula grant allotment of any State for its plan for comprehensive community mental health services for certain individuals. (Currently, such level applies only with respect to FY 1999). (Sec. 206) Renames the Protection and Advocacy for Mentally Ill Individuals Act of 1986 as the Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness Act. Includes as an individual with mental illness one who otherwise meets certain current criteria but lives in a community setting or at home. Authorizes an eligible system (established in a State to protect and advocate the rights of persons with developmental disabilities) to represent an individual with a mental illness only if: (1) its total allotment is $30 million or more; and (2) it gives priority to representing such individuals. Revises an eligible system's minimum allotment, with different specified base amounts for States and for certain territories. Specifies a trigger level of total appropriations at which the Secretary must make an allotment to the eligible system serving the American Indian consortium. Reauthorizes and extends allotments for use in eligible protection and advocacy systems for mentally ill individuals. Title III: Provisions Relating to Substance Abuse - Replaces provisions on residential treatment programs for pregnant and postpartum women with provisions on priority substance abuse treatment needs of regional and national significance. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 303) Repeals the requirement that funding agreements specify certain minimum State expenditures for prevention and treatment activities regarding alcohol and other drugs. Changes from mandatory to discretionary a State's authority to establish a revolving fund to support group homes for recovering substance abusers. Authorizes the Secretary, upon a State's request, to waive requirements with regard to substance abuse prevention and treatment block grant allocations regarding pregnant women and women with dependent children, treatment of intravenous substance abuse, tuberculosis services and HIV early intervention services, and specified kinds of additional agreements. Reauthorizes and extends appropriations. (Sec. 304) Revises the formula for minimum State allotments of block grants for preventing and treating substance abuse, and makes it permanent. Title IV: Provisions Relating to Flexibility and Accountability - Changes the mandate for an Associate Director for Alcohol Prevention and Treatment Policy to an option. Revises peer review requirements, eliminating those for regulations promulgated pursuant to peer review provisions. (Sec. 402) Reduces from three times a year to twice a year the minimum number of times each fiscal year that specified advisory councils on mental health services and substance abuse treatment must meet. (Sec. 403) Directs the Secretary in conjunction with States and other interested groups to develop separate plans for performance partnerships for creating more flexibility among the States and outcome-based accountability for programs for pregnant addicts and for programs for emotionally disturbed children and mentally ill adults. Makes grant payments to States available for obligation and expenditure through the fiscal year following the one for which the payments were made. Repeals the special treatment of grant amounts in the case of a State which has terminated or reduced financial assistance to noncompliant subgrantees. (Sec. 404) Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to, or contracts or cooperative agreements with, States to develop and operate mental health or substance abuse data collection analysis and reporting systems (data infrastructure development) with regard to performance measures including capacity, process, and outcomes measures. Authorizes appropriations.
Bill· SS. 991 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 6 May 1999
Youth Violence Prevention Act of 1999 - Amends the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act (the Act) to prohibit: (1) the sale or other disposition of a firearm or ammunition to any person knowing or having reasonable cause to believe that such person has committed an act of violent juvenile delinquency; and (2) the shipment transport, or possession in interstate or foreign commerce of a firearm or ammunition, or the receipt of any firearm or ammunition which has been shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce, by a person who has committed an act of violent juvenile delinquency. Specifies that: (1) what constitutes an adjudication of an act of violent juvenile delinquency shall be determined in accordance with the law of the jurisdiction in which the proceedings were held; and (2) any State conviction or adjudication of such an act that has been expunged or set aside, or for which a person has been pardoned or has had civil rights restored, shall not be considered a conviction or adjudication of an act of violent juvenile delinquency for purposes of the Act. Amends the Act to set penalties for: (1) straw purchases of firearms (transferring a firearm knowing or having reasonable cause to know that another will carry or otherwise possess, discharge, or use the firearm in the commission of a violent felony); (2) possession by a juvenile of a handgun or ammunition in violation of Act provisions regarding transfer to a person, whom the transferor knows or has reasonable cause to believe is a juvenile, of a handgun or ammunition suitable for use only in a handgun, and, during the same course of conduct, violating provisions regarding possession of a firearm in a school zone, with intent to carry or otherwise possess, discharge, or otherwise use the handgun or ammunition in the commission of a violent felony; and (3) persons other than juveniles who knowingly violate provisions of the Act regarding the transfer to a person, whom the transferor knows or has reasonable cause to believe is a juvenile, of a handgun or ammunition suitable for use only in a handgun, knowing or having reasonable cause to know that another will carry or otherwise possess, discharge, or use the firearm in the commission of a violent felony. Tightens restrictions under the Act on temporary transfers of a handgun or ammunition to, and possession or use by, a juvenile. Makes current exemptions regarding such transfers applicable only if the juvenile's possession and use of a handgun or ammunition are in accordance with State and local law and if specified other conditions apply.
Bill· SS. 983 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 6 May 1999
Amends Federal rail safety law to direct the Secretary of Transportation to issue regulations that require that all cars of freight, passenger, or commuter trains be equipped and, if necessary, retrofitted, with at least one highly visible marker (including reflective tape or appropriate lighting).
Bill· HRH.R. 1717 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 6 May 1999
Violent Youth Accountability Act of 1999 - Amends the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act to provide that any State conviction or adjudication of delinquency which has been expunged or set aside or for which a person has been pardoned or has had civil rights restored shall nevertheless be considered a conviction or adjudication of delinquency unless: (1) the expungement, set-aside, pardon, or restoration of civil rights (expungement) is directed to a specific person; (2) the State authority granting the expungement has expressly determined that the circumstances regarding the conviction and the person's record and reputation are such that the person will not act in a manner dangerous to public safety; and (3) the expungement expressly authorizes the person to ship, transport, receive, or possess firearms. Amends such Act to prohibit: (1) the sale or other disposal of a firearm or ammunition to any person knowing or having reasonable cause to believe that such person has committed an act of juvenile delinquency; and (2) the shipment, transport, possession, or receipt in interstate or foreign commerce of any firearm or ammunition by a person who has committed an act of juvenile delinquency.
Bill· HRH.R. 1738 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 6 May 1999
Amends Federal aviation law to require the Secretary of Transportation, after receiving a joint application from an air carrier and a community primarily served by a small hub airport or a nonhub airport for an exemption to provide nonstop regional jet air service that meets certain Federal noise limits between a small hub airport or nonhub airport and a high density airport, to grant the exemption, provided granting it would: (1) be in accordance with established principles of safety; or (2) not violate the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. Authorizes the Secretary to grant an exemption for: (1) a period of not less than 12 months; (2) a minimum of two daily roundtrip flights; and (3) a maximum of four daily roundtrip flights.
Bill· SS. 967 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 1999
Concealed Firearms Prohibition Act- Prohibits a person from carrying a firearm, any part of which has been transported in interstate or foreign commerce, on his or her person in public. Sets forth exceptions where a person is authorized to carry a firearm: (1) under Federal law; (2) under a State law that grants an exemption based on an individualized determination based on a review of credible evidence that the person should be allowed to carry a firearm because of compelling circumstances (not including a claim of concern about generalized or unspecified risks); or (3) under a State law that provides an exemption for any person who is a law enforcement or retired law enforcement official, a duly authorized private security officer, a person whose employment involves the transport of substantial amounts of cash or other valuables, or anyone the Attorney General determines should be allowed to carry a firearm because of compelling circumstances under regulations that the Attorney General may promulgate.
Law· SS. 964 (106th)enacted
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 1999
Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Equitable Compensation Act - Establishes in the Treasury the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribal Recovery Trust Fund. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to: (1) deposit a specified amount into the Fund out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated; (2) invest such portion of the Fund as is not required to meet current withdrawals; and (3) deposit interest resulting from such investments into the Fund. Establishes a schedule under which the Secretary shall withdraw specified amounts of interest deposited into the Fund and transfer those amounts to the Secretary of the Interior for making payments as requested by the Tribe, pursuant to tribal resolution, for promoting economic and infrastructure development and educational, health, recreational, and social welfare objectives. Authorizes the Tribe to enter into an agreement under which future payments are pledged as security for a loan or other financial transaction. Permits such agreement only in connection with the purchase of land or other capital assets and limits the pledge for any year under the agreement to 40 percent of any payment for that year. Authorizes appropriations.
Bill· HRH.R. 1689 (106th)open
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 1999
Prohibits a State or interstate agency or political agency of two or more States from enforcing any regulation or law that restricts the operation of a motor vehicle providing limousine service between a place in a State and a place in another State. Prohibits a State from enforcing any regulation or law that would require a person engaged in intermunicipal limousine service within a State to obtain a license, permit, or other form of permission from more than one State agency in order to engage in such service. Declares that nothing in this Act shall prohibit any local authority from regulating limousine service if during the course of the service the same passenger is picked up within the local authority's jurisdictional area and the last stop of the passenger's service is also within the local authority's jurisdictional area.
Law· HRH.R. 1695 (106th)enacted
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 1999
Ivanpah Valley Airport Public Lands Transfer Act - Directs the Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) to convey to Clark County, Nevada, certain Federal public lands in Ivanpah Valley, Nevada, for the development of an airport facility and related infrastructure. Prohibits such conveyance from being made until: (1) the County has conducted an airspace assessment to identify any potential adverse effects on access to the Las Vegas basin under visual flight rules that would result from the construction and operation of a commercial or primary airport, or both, on the land to be conveyed; (2) the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration certifies to the Secretary that such assessment is thorough, and that alternatives have been developed to address each adverse effect identified in such assessment; and (3) the County has entered into an agreement with the Secretary to retain ownership of Jean Airport, located at Jean, Nevada, and to maintain and operate such Airport for general aviation purposes. Requires conveyance of small parcels over 20 years as may be needed by the County to construct and develop the airport facility and infrastructure on the lands conveyed. Provides for the deposit of payments received from the County as consideration for the conveyance of each parcel in the special account described in the Southern Nevada Public Land Management Act. Withdraws the conveyed lands from mineral entry under the Act of May 10, 1872, known as the Mining Law of 1872 and the Mineral Leasing Act. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to consult with the Secretary in the development of an airspace management plan for the Ivanpah Valley Airport that shall, to the maximum extent practicable and without adversely impacting safety considerations, restrict aircraft arrivals and departures over the Mojave Desert Preserve in California.
Bill· HRH.R. 1685 (106th)open
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 1999
Internet Growth and Development Act of 1999 - Title I: Authorization of Electronic Signatures in Commerce - Requires all electronic signatures that have been electronically authenticated under provisions of this Act to have standing equal to paper-based, written signatures for purposes of any record, rule, or law that requires a valid signature. Considers an electronic signature authenticated if it: (1) reliably establishes the identity of the maker, sender, or originator of a document or communication in electronic commerce; and (2) reliably establishes that such document or communication has not been altered. Provides methods of proof of such authentication. Title II: Electronic Mail Advertisements - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit a registered user of an electronic mail (e-mail) service provider to use such provider's equipment in violation of provider policy prohibiting or restricting the use of its service or equipment for the initiation of unsolicited e-mail advertisements. Requires compliance by senders with any such policy. States that a provider shall not be required to create such a policy. Provides a right of civil action by providers whose stated policy has been violated. Title III: Online Privacy Protection - Requires any person operating a commercial Internet website to clearly and conspicuously provide notice of its collection, use, and disclosure policies concerning personally identifiable information. Provides for enforcement of such requirement under the Federal Trade Commission Act. Title IV: Broadband Deployment - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to state that the term "interLATA service" shall not include services that consist of or include the transmission of any data or information by means of the Internet or any other network that employs Internet protocol-based or other packet-switched technology. Prohibits any Bell operating company or affiliate from providing through any such technology two-way voice-only interLATA telecommunications services originating in any of its in-region States until the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approves the application of such company for such State. Requires each local (telephone) exchange carrier to submit to the State commission in each State in which it does business a plan to provide broadband telecommunications service in all local exchange areas in which such carrier has telephone exchange service customers as soon as such service is economically reasonable and technically feasible. Requires such plan to include all terms and conditions under which broadband services will be provided. Provides for State commission certification of such plan, followed by plan implementation. Provides conditions under which a local exchange carrier shall no longer be obligated by the terms of such plan, such as the presence of another broadband service or Internet access provider in that local exchange area. Prohibits a State commission from modifying any submitted plan, and prohibits the FCC from approving or rejecting a plan. States that a local exchange carrier's provision of broadband local telecommunications services shall not be subject to FCC unbundled access and resale requirements when such carrier makes certain certifications to the appropriate State commissions with respect to the provision of broadband transmission loops to other carriers. Title V: Antitrust and Criminal Provisions - States that, in any civil action based on Federal antitrust law, evidence that an incumbent local exchange carrier that has market power in the broadband service provider market has willfully and knowingly failed to provide conditioned unbundled local loops when economically reasonable and technically feasible, or restrains the ability of a carrier to compete in such services, shall be sufficient to establish a presumption of an antitrust violation. Makes an identical presumption with respect to a broadband access transport provider's contracts for access to a service provider on terms less favorable than those offered to itself, an affiliate service provider, or another service provider. Makes it unlawful for such a provider to engage in unfair or deceptive acts or practices which discriminate in favor of an affiliated service provider, or to restrain the ability of another service provider from competing in the provision of such services. Amends the Federal criminal code to make it unlawful for any person or entity to: (1) initiate the transmission of a bulk unsolicited e-mail message to a protected computer with knowledge that such message falsifies information concerning the identity of such person or entity; or (2) intentionally sell or distribute any computer program the primary purpose of which is to conceal the source of transmitted information. Provides fines for such violations.
Bill· HRH.R. 1686 (106th)open
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 1999
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Antitrust and Criminal Provisions Title II: Additional Provisions Internet Freedom Act - Title I: Antitrust and Criminal Provisions - Provides that in any civil action based on antitrust violations, evidence that an incumbent local exchange carrier that has market power in the broadband service provider market area has willfully and knowingly failed to provide conditioned unbundled local loops when economically reasonable and technically feasible, or restrains the ability of another carrier to compete in the provision of such services, shall establish a presumption of an antitrust violation. Establishes an identical presumption in the case of a broadband access transport provider that has market power in the broadband service provider market who has offered access to a service provider on terms and conditions less favorable than those otherwise offered, or restrains unreasonably the ability of another provider from competing in the provision of such services. Defines: (1) broadband as a transmission capability in excess of 200 kilobits per second in at least one direction; and (2) a broadband access transport provider as one who engages in the broadband transmission of data between a user and his service provider's point of interconnection with the broadband access transport provider's facilities. Makes it unlawful for a broadband access transport provider to engage in unfair methods of competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in the provision of such services. Amends the Federal criminal code to provide criminal penalties against anyone who intentionally: (1) and without authorization initiates the transmission of a bulk unsolicited electronic mail message to a protected computer with knowledge that such message falsifies an Internet domain, header information, or other identifier; or (2) sells or distributes any computer program designed primarily to conceal the source or routing information on such mail, has only limited commercially significant purpose or use, or is marketed by the violator or another person acting in concert with the violator with the violator's knowledge of such use. Title II: Additional Provisions - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to require each local exchange carrier to submit to the State communications commission in each State in which such carrier does business a plan to provide broadband telecommunications service in all local exchange areas in which such carrier has telephone exchange service customers, as soon as such service is economically reasonable and technically feasible. Considers such plan certified unless rejected within 45 days. Requires plan implementation within 180 days (if reasonable and feasible). Prohibits State or Federal Communications Commission (FCC) modification of such plans. Provides that interLATA services shall not include services that consist of or include the transmission of any data or information by means of the Internet or any other network that employs Internet Protocol-based or other packet-switched technology. Prohibits a Bell operating company or its affiliate from providing, by the Internet or similar network employing such technology, two-way voice only interLATA telecommunications services originating in any of its in-region States until the FCC approves the application of such company for such State.
Bill· HRH.R. 1711 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 1999
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Predisaster Hazards Mitigation Title II: Disaster Preparedness and Mitigation Assistance Disaster Mitigation Act of 1999 - Title I: Predisaster Hazards Mitigation - Authorizes the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to establish a program of technical and financial assistance to States and local governments that implement predisaster mitigation measures to reduce injuries and loss of life and property damage and destruction, including damage to their critical public infrastructure and facilities. Requires the Director to provide financial assistance from the National Predisaster Mitigation Fund (established under this Act) to each State or local government that has identified all natural disaster hazards in its jurisdiction and has demonstrated its ability to form effective public-private disaster mitigation, to be used: (1) principally to implement the predisaster hazard mitigation measures contained in proposals approved by the Director; (2) to support effective public- private partnerships; (3) to ensure that new community growth and construction is disaster resistant; and (4) to improve the assessment of a community's natural hazards vulnerabilities or set a community's mitigation priorities. Requires the Director to take into account when establishing priorities for predisaster mitigation grants: (1) the level and nature of the risks to be mitigated; (2) grantee commitment to reduce damages from future disasters; and (3) commitment by the State or local government to support ongoing non-Federal support for the mitigation measures to be undertaken. Limits grant amounts to 75 percent of the total costs of the mitigation proposal(s) approved by the Director. (Sec. 103) Increases from 15 to 20 percent the maximum contribution for hazard mitigation costs with respect to a major disaster declared under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act after the enactment date of this Act. Title II: Disaster Preparedness and Mitigation Assistance - Amends the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to direct the President to publish rules to require States, communities, or other applicants to protect property through self- insurance or adequate mitigation measures if the appropriate State insurance commissioner makes a certification regarding a reasonable amount of insurance and the President determines that the property is not adequately protected against natural or other disasters. (Sec. 202) Directs the President to: (1) establish management cost rates for disaster preparedness and mitigation assistance grantees and subgrantees; (2) review such rates at least every three years; and (3) promulgate regulations to define costs to be included in management costs. (Sec. 203) Limits the Federal share of assistance provided to 75 percent of the eligible costs of the repair, restoration, reconstruction, or replacement of damaged public and private facilities. Directs the President to publish rules to reduce the Federal share of assistance for such costs for eligible public or private facilities that have previously received significant disaster assistance on multiple occasions. Provides for the determination of eligible costs and the modification of such costs. Requires the President, through the Director of FEMA, to establish an expert panel for the determination of such costs. (Sec. 204) Rewrites temporary housing assistance provisions of such Act. Authorizes the President to provide financial assistance and, if necessary, direct services to disaster victims who, as a direct result of a major disaster, have necessary expenses and serious needs and are unable to meet such expenses or needs through other means, including insurance proceeds or loan or other financial assistance from the Small Business Administration (SBA) or another Federal agency. (Provides that the inability to meet such expenses and needs through loan or other financial assistance from the SBA shall not apply to provisions governing temporary housing rental assistance, or permanent housing construction.) Authorizes the President to provide financial or other appropriate assistance (for up to 18 months) to households that are displaced or whose primary residences are rendered uninhabitable as a result of such a disaster. Authorizes the President to provide the following types of housing assistance: (1) financial assistance to households to rent alternate housing accommodations, existing rental units, manufactured housing, recreational vehicles, or other readily fabricated dwellings; (2) housing units, acquired by purchase or lease, directly to households who would be unable to use such financial assistance; (3) up to $5,000 in financial assistance to households for emergency repairs to return owner-occupied primary residences, utilities, and residential infrastructure damaged by a major disaster to a habitable or functioning condition; and (4) financial or direct assistance to construct permanent housing in insular areas outside the continental United States and in other remote locations if no alternative housing resources are available. Sets forth terms and conditions governing the location and disposal of fabricated dwellings provided under this section. Authorizes the President to provide financial assistance to a household adversely affected by a major disaster: (1) to meet disaster-related medical, dental, or funeral expenses; and (2) to address personal property, transportation, and other expenses or needs. Directs the President to provide for substantial involvement of the affected State in administering assistance under this section. Limits to $25,000 the maximum amount of financial assistance that a household may receive under this section for a single major disaster.
Bill· HRH.R. 1679 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 May 1999
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Service to Airports Not Receiving Sufficient Service Title II: Regional Air Service Incentive Program Airfare Relief Act of 1999 - Title I: Service to Airports Not Receiving Sufficient Service - Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to grant exemptions pertaining to the use of slots (arrival and departure spaces) at high density airports in order to enable air carriers to provide nonstop air transportation using noise-compliant aircraft between a high density airport and a small hub airport or nonhub airport that has unreasonably high airfares. Provides exemption limitations, including a limitation of no more than six exemptions per day for slots at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (with further conditions on the Washington exemptions). Requires exemption decisions to be made by the Secretary within 120 days of application. (Sec. 102) Makes funds not otherwise obligated or expended for the Federal essential air service program available for: (1) air carrier service to airports not receiving sufficient air service; and (2) rural air safety at airports with less than 100,000 annual boardings. Makes 50 percent of any available funds in excess of $50 million in a fiscal year after 1999 available for the rural air safety program. Authorizes appropriations for FY 2000 to provide jet aircraft service to and from small hub or nonhub airports that have unreasonably high airfares. Provides an assistance priority at airports for which a community will provide a portion of the costs incurred. (Sec. 103) Authorizes the Secretary, if it is necessary to enhance competition at a high airfare airport, to require an air carrier that serves an essential airport facility to enter into a joint-fare or interline agreement with a qualifying air carrier that serves a high airfare airport to facilitate air transportation in the market. Title II: Regional Air Service Incentive Program - Authorizes the Secretary to guarantee any lender against loss on any loan made to a commuter air carrier (maximum seating capacity of 75 or less) or new entrant air carrier (less than five years of service) for the purchase of jet aircraft to be used to provide at least two round-trips per day five days per week to underserved markets. Outlines loan conditions and limitations, including that: (1) such aircraft comply with certain Federal noise-level requirements; and (2) the air carrier agrees to provide service to the underserved airport (or airports) for at least two years after being placed in service. Directs the Secretary to repay the holder of a loan guaranteed by the Secretary after the holder has made reasonable collection efforts. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) collect a loan guarantee fee from such lenders; and (2) be given, and make use of, Federal facilities and assistance in carrying out the incentive program. (Sec. 202) Authorizes appropriations.
Bill· HRH.R. 1667 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 May 1999
Safe and Efficient Transportation Act - Authorizes a State to allow a vehicle combination of a truck tractor and one trailer or semitrailer with a consecutive set of tandem and tridem axles that may carry a gross load of 34,000 pounds on tandem axles and 51,000 pounds on tridem axles to use the Interstate System if the overall trailer length is at least 48 feet; except that such overall gross weight may not exceed 97,000 pounds for such a vehicle combination of six or more axles, including all enforcement tolerances.
Bill· HRH.R. 1678 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 May 1999
Airline Competition and Fairness Act of 1999 - Amends Federal aviation law to direct the Secretary of Transportation, whenever a major air carrier is competing with a new entrant air carrier in providing air transportation on a route between a hub airport and another airport, to investigate whether the major air carrier has been or is engaged in an unfair method of competition if: (1) the major air carrier has added seat capacity on the route and has sold such a large number of seats on it at very low fares that the ensuing self-diversion of revenue has resulted in lower local revenue than would have resulted from a reasonable alternative response by the major air carrier to the competition; or (2) the number of passengers that the major air carrier has carried on the route at the new entrant air carrier's low fares has exceeded the new entrant air carrier's total seat capacity (or the number of low-fare passengers carried by the new entrant carrier) on such route, resulting in lower local revenue than would have resulted from a reasonable alternative response by the major air carrier to the competition.
Bill· SS. 947 (106th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 3 May 1999
Interstate Tolls Relief Act of 1999 - Amends the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century to repeal the Interstate System Reconstruction and Rehabilitation pilot program. Amends Federal transportation law to direct the Secretary of Transportation to permit Federal participation in reconstruction or replacement of a toll-free tunnel. Specifies that before the Secretary may permit Federal participation in construction of a highway, bridge, or tunnel located in a State, the public authority having jurisdiction must enter into an agreement with the Secretary which provides that all toll revenues received from the operation of the toll facility will be used only for debt service, reasonable return on investment of any private person financing the project, and the costs necessary for the proper operation and maintenance of the toll facility. Repeals a provision allowing the State, upon certifying annually that the tolled facility is being adequately maintained, to use any toll revenues in excess of amounts so required for any purpose for which Federal funds may be obligated by a State under Federal transportation provisions.
Bill· SS. 937 (106th)open
United States · United States Congress · 3 May 1999
Maritime Administration Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 2000 and 2001 - Authorizes appropriations for the Maritime Administration for: (1) operations and training activities; and (2) the costs of guaranteed loans authorized by the Merchant Marine Act, 1936, as well as for administrative expenses related to loan guarantee commitments. (Sec. 3) Amends the Merchant Marine Act, 1936 to revise loan guarantee escrow fund provisions. Establishes a Treasury fund to hold related collateral, and provides for Secretary-obligor reserve funds. (Sec. 4) Exempts certain foreign-origin dry bulk and breakbulk cargo vessels that have transferred to United States flag registry from the three-year restriction on carrying U.S.- procured, furnished, or financially supported cargo (including agricultural cargo). (Sec. 5) Extends war risk insurance authority. (Sec. 6) Reduces specified United States Maritime Administration reporting requirements. (Sec. 7) Amends Federal law to list one of three specified vessels that may be exempted from provisions relating to inspection and regulation of vessels as belonging to the National Liberty Ship Memorial, Inc., rather than to the United States Maritime Administration.