Transport

Better Healthcare Through Information Technology Act

United States · United States Congress · 30 June 2005

Better Healthcare Through Information Technology Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to establish the Office of the National Coordinator of Health Information Technology to develop a nationwide interoperable health information technology infrastructure. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish the public-private American Health Information Collaborative to recommend to the President uniform policies to support the widespread adoption of health information technology and modifications to standards for the electronic exchange of health information. Requires the President to review and, if appropriate, provide for the adoption of such standards. Prohibits any federal agency from expending federal funds to purchase hardware, software, or support services that are inconsistent with adopted standards. Requires all federal agencies collecting health data to comply with the adopted standards. Requires the Secretary to develop criteria to: (1) ensure uniform and consistent implementation of any standards voluntarily adopted by private entities; and (2) ensure and certify hardware, software, and support services compliance with adopted standards. Allows the Secretary to award grants to: (1) facilitate the purchase and enhance the utilization of qualified health information technology systems; and (2) carry out demonstration projects to develop academic programs integrating qualified health information technology systems in the clinical education of health professionals. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop quality measurement systems for the purposes of measuring the quality of care patients receive; and (2) study methods to create efficient reimbursement incentives for improving health care quality. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director of the Agency for Healthcare Quality and Research (AHRQ), to develop a Center for Best Practices for the effective use health information technology. Allows the Director of AHRQ to establish a demonstration program to award grants or contracts to support health information network planning, implementation, and evaluation activities. Amends the Social Security Act to allow physicians to receive financial support regarding the electronic exchange of health information.

ALS Registry Act

United States · United States Congress · 30 June 2005

ALS Registry Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to: (1) develop a system to collect data on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS); and (2) establish a national registry for the collection and storage of ALS data. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director, to establish the Advisory Committee on the National ALS Registry to study and make recommendations to the Secretary concerning: (1) the development and maintenance of the registry; (2) the type of information to be included; (3) the manner in which data is to be collected; (4) the use and availability of such data; and (5) the collection of information about diseases and disorders that primarily affect motor neurons that are considered essential to furthering the study and cure of ALS. Allows the Secretary, acting through the Director, to award grants to, and enter into contracts and cooperative agreements with, public or private nonprofit entities for the collection, analysis, and reporting of data on ALS. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director, to: (1) identify, build upon, expand, and coordinate among existing data and surveillance systems, surveys, registries, and other federal public health and environmental infrastructure wherever possible; and (2) provide for public access to an electronic national database that accepts data from state registries, health care professionals, and others as recommended by the Advisory Committee in a manner that protects personal privacy. Requires the Secretary to ensure that epidemiological and other types of information is made available to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Passenger Security Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 30 June 2005

Passenger Security Act of 2005 - Amends federal transportation law to repeal the security screening opt-out program (under which an airport operator may apply to the Under Secretary of Transportation for Security of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to have the screening of passengers and property at the airport be carried out by the screening personnel of a qualified private screening company).

Alaska Water Resources Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 29 June 2005

Alaska Water Resources Act of 2005 - Directs the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Commissioner of Reclamation and the Director of the United States Geological Survey, to conduct a study that includes: (1) a survey of accessible water supplies, including aquifers, on the Kenai Peninsula in the municipality of Anchorage and the Matanuska-Susitna borough; (2) a survey of water treatment needs and technologies applicable to the water resources of Alaska; and (3) a review of the need for enhancement of the streamflow information collected by the Geological Survey in the state relating to critical water needs in areas such as infrastructure risks to state transportation, flood forecasting, resource extraction, and fire management.

Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2005, Part II

United States · United States Congress · 29 June 2005

Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2005, Part II - Extends federal highway, highway safety, motor carrier safety, and transit programs, and authorizes appropriations, through July 19, 2005. Amends the Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Act to extend through July 19, 2005, funding for national outreach and communications programs related to sport fishing and boating safety. Amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to authorize through July 19, 2005, expenditures for obligations under the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21) from the following Accounts: (1) the Highway Trust Fund; (2) the Mass Transit Account; and (3) the Aquatic Resources Trust Fund.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that a Chinese state-owned energy company exercising control of critical United States energy infrastructure and energy production capacity could take action that would threaten to impair the national security of the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 29 June 2005

Declares the sense of the House of Representatives that: (1) the Chinese state-owned China National Offshore Oil Corporation, through control of Unocal Corporation obtained by the proposed acquisition, merger, or takeover of Unocal Corporation, could take action that would threaten to impair the national security of the United States; and (2) if Unocal Corporation enters into an agreement of acquisition, merger, or takeover of Unocal Corporation by the China National Offshore Oil Corporation, the President should initiate immediately a thorough review of the proposed acquisition, merger, or takeover.

Renewable Fuels Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2005

Renewable Fuels Act of 2005 - Amends the Clean Air Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish a program to require U.S. motor vehicle fuel to contain a certain volume of renewable fuel. Defines "renewable fuel" to include cellulosic biomass ethanol, waste derived ethanol, and biodiesel. Establishes a system of: (1) tradeable credits for motor vehicle fuel containing more renewable fuel than required; (2) waivers for states and small refineries; and (3) safe harbor standards to protect manufacturers of renewable fuels from civil liability. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to require federal agency heads to ensure that ethanol-blended gasoline and biodiesel-blended diesel fuel are purchased for agency vehicles in areas where such fuel is available at competitive prices. Amends the Clean Air Act to eliminate the oxygen content requirement for reformulated gasoline. Requires the Administrator: (1) to establish standards for toxic air pollutants from the use of reformulated gasoline; and (2) within 30 days of enactment of this Act, to determine the adequacy of any petition from a state governor to exempt gasoline sold in the state from certain requirements for reformulated gasoline. Directs the Administrator (currently, discretionary) to require fuel manufacturers to conduct tests to determine potential public health and environmental effects of fuels and fuel additives prior to registering such fuels. Permits states in the ozone transport region to opt into the reformulated gasoline program. Requires the Administrator, at the request of a state, to enforce state controls on fuel and fuel additives. Sets forth various data collection and reporting requirements.

Clean Water Infrastructure Financing Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2005

Clean Water Infrastructure Financing Act of 2005 - Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to eliminate certain restrictions on capitalization grants to states under the water pollution control revolving fund program and to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to make such grants to accomplish the purposes of the Act. Revises certain requirements for the construction of publicly-owned treatment works under capitalization grant agreements. Directs the Administrator to assist states in establishing simplified procedures for small water systems (serving populations of 20,000 or less) to obtain assistance under the Act. Requires state water pollution control revolving funds to be used only for providing assistance for activities which have as a principal benefit the improvement or protection of water quality of navigable waters. Makes revisions concerning uses of funds for: (1) innovative technologies; (2) administrative expenses; (3) small system technical, planning, and management assistance; (4) financially distressed communities; and (5) construction assistance. Authorizes states to give priority to financially distressed communities in making loans from revolving funds. Reauthorizes appropriations for FY2006-2010 for the water pollution control revolving fund program.

To extend the aviation war risk insurance program for 3 years.

United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2005

Amends federal transportation law to extend through December 31, 2008, the Secretary of Transportation's authority to: (1) issue war risk insurance policies to air carriers; and (2) certify that an air carrier is a victim of an act of terrorism and not liable for losses suffered by third parties that exceed $100 million, as well as immunity from punitive damages (with the federal government responsible for any liability above $100 million).

To amend the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States to provide a new subheading for certain log forwarders used as motor vehicles for the transport of goods for duty-free treatment consistent with other agricultural use log handling equipment.

United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2005

Amends the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States to provide a new subheading for certain log forwarders used as motor vehicles for the transport of goods for duty-free treatment consistent with other agricultural use log handling equipment.

Alternative Fuel Utilization and Infrastructure Development Incentives Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2005

Alternative Fuel Utilization and Infrastructure Development Incentives Act of 2005 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow tax credits for: (1) 50 percent of the cost of any residential or commercial alternative fuel vehicle refueling property to store or dispense E-85 fuel (alternative vehicle fuel consisting of at least 85 percent ethanol) that is placed in service; and (2) the retail sale of E-85 fuel for use in an alternative fuel motor vehicle.

Medicare Paramedic Intercept Services Coverage Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2005

Medicare Paramedic Intercept Services Coverage Act of 2005 - Amends the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 to revise requirements for payment for paramedic intercept service providers in rural communities. Changes from discretionary to mandatory the authority of the Secretary of Health and Human Services, in promulgating regulations for coverage of ambulance services, to cover advanced life support intercept services (ALS intercept services), regardless of the area involved. (Currently they must be provided in a rural area). Includes new conditions of coverage that define ALS intercept services as consisting of a qualified paramedic providing ALS level services in connection with the transport of a patient by an ambulance qualified to provide only a basic life support level of services. Requires that: (1) the entity providing the ambulance transportation be a public, non-profit, or volunteer organization; and (2) the paramedic providing such services is not employed or compensated by the entity providing the ambulance transportation. (Currently the ALS intercept services must be provided under a contract with one or more volunteer ambulance services which are required to be prohibited by State law from billing for any such services.) Requires, in addition, that: (1) such services be medically necessary based on the medical condition for which they are dispatched (currently they must be medically necessary based on the health condition of the individual being transported); and (2) the paramedic providing the intercept services accompanies and provides an ALS assessment or ALS intervention to the patient during the transport. Prohibits the Secretary from taking into account any payments made pursuant to this Act in determining payment amounts under the Medicare ambulance fee schedule, or the aggregate amount of payments under such fee schedule, for any year.

Eastern Santa Clara River Basin Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2005

Eastern Santa Clara River Basin Protection Act - Requires the Secretary of the Army to participate in studies and other investigative activities and in the construction, planning, and design of projects determined by the Secretary to offer a long-term solution to groundwater perchlorate contamination in the Eastern Santa Clara River Basin in Santa Clarita, California. Requires investigative activities and projects to include sites that are sources of perchlorate and located in Santa Clarita. Amends the Water Resources Development Act of 1992 to authorize the Secretary to provide environmental infrastructure and construction assistance for such projects. Directs the Secretary to allow credit for in-kind services provided by a non-Federal sponsor before initiation of a project.

Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2005

Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2005 - Authorizes appropriations for FY2006 and FY2007 for the Coast Guard (CG). Sets forth authorized FY2006 levels of CG active duty military personnel and average military training student loads. Sets forth civil penalties for continuing violations of the Maritime Transportation Security Act. Establishes a pilot program for dockside safety and survivability examinations for uninspected U.S. commercial fishing vessels. Directs the Secretary of the department in which the CG is operating (Secretary) to conduct a pilot program for the long-range tracking of vessels by satellite to aid maritime security and response to maritime emergencies. Directs the Secretary to: (1) work with foreign officials to enhance flag state oversight and enforcement of security, environmental, and other agreements adopted within the International Maritime Organization; (2) undertake outreach programs to reduce pollution from boats using two-stroke engines; (3) integrate vessel monitoring system data into CG maritime operations databases to improve enforcement of federal fisheries laws; and (4) report to Congress on CG efforts to improve its detection and interdiction of illegal foreign fishing vessel incursions into the U.S. exclusive economic zone. Revises criteria for determining grade distribution of CG Reserve officers. Authorizes the Secretary during an act of terrorism or transportation security incident to order CG Ready Reserve members to active duty to no more than 60 days (currently, 30 days) in any four-month period and no more than 120 days (currently, 60 days) in any two-year period. Directs the Secretary to provide to Congress a proposal and cost analysis for construction of an enclosed hangar at Air Station Barbers Point. Makes conforming amendments to reflect the Department of Homeland Security.

Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 20 June 2005

Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act of 2005 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a monthly benefit of $1,000 to certain honorably-discharged veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine who served between December 7, 1941, and December 31, 1946 (or to their survivors). Includes service in the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service. Exempts benefits paid under this Act from taxation. Provides for benefits for World War II Merchant Mariners under title II (Old Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance) (OASDI) of the Social Security Act.

True Reinvestment for Amtrak Infrastructure in the 21st Century Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 June 2005

True Reinvestment for Amtrak Infrastructure in the 21st Century Act - Amends federal transportation law to authorize appropriations for Amtrak for FY2006-2011 for: (1) capital expenditures and operating expenses; (2) certain mandatory payments; and (3) Amtrak's contractual obligations for commuter and state-supported passenger rail service. Requires Amtrak to transmit annually to the Secretary of Transportation and Congress a comprehensive business plan, including targets for ridership and for each intercity train route (including Autotrain), revenues, and capital and operating expenses. Prohibits the use of amounts appropriated under this Act to subsidize operating losses of commuter rail passenger or rail freight transportation. Requires rail infrastructure improvement projects financed by this Act to comply with specified employee labor standards, including the prevailing wage requirements of the Davis-Bacon Act. Amends the Amtrak Reform and Accountability Act of 1997 to repeal establishment of the Amtrak Reform Council. Establishes an Enhanced Rail Service Corridor Pilot Program to support certain corridor rail infrastructure projects undertaken by states or multi-state compacts, using funding provided through the Rail Infrastructure Finance Corporation (established by this Act). Amends federal transportation law to authorize states to prepare and maintain a state rail plan that sets forth state policy involving freight and passenger rail transportation, including commuter rail operations. Amends federal highway law to designate additional high-speed rail corridors as eligible for surface transportation funds for the elimination of hazards of railway-highway crossings. Establishes a nonprofit and nonpolitical Rail Infrastructure Finance Corporation to provide financial support for certain rail infrastructure improvement projects through issuance of qualified rail infrastructure bonds. Establishes a Rail Infrastructure Finance Trust. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a tax credit to a holder of a qualified rail infrastructure bond.

Marc and Chelsea's Law

United States · United States Congress · 17 June 2005

Pipeline Safety Emergency Notification Act or Marc and Chelsea's Law - Amends federal transportation law to revise certain one-call notification system minimum requirements to require a person (including a government employee or contractor) who, while engaged in demolition, excavation, tunneling, or construction in the vicinity of a pipeline, becomes aware of damage to the pipeline that may endanger life or cause serious bodily harm or damage to property, or damages the pipeline in such a manner, to promptly report the damage to the pipeline operator and to other appropriate authorities (notification of medical, law enforcement, and fire prevention public authorities, or calling 9-1-1). Sets forth both civil and criminal penalties for violation of such requirements.

Health TEQ Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2005

Health Technology to Enhance Quality Act of 2005 or the Health TEQ Act of 2005 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to establish the Office of the National Coordinator of Health Information Technology to carry out programs and activities to develop a nationwide interoperable health information technology infrastructure. Requires the Coordinator to establish a permanent Electronic Health Information Standards Development Working Group to review existing standards, identify deficiencies, and recommend modifications. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to review and provide for the adoption by the federal government of any recommended modification or standard. Requires the Secretary to develop criteria to: (1) ensure uniform and consistent implementation of any standards voluntarily adopted by private entities; and (2) ensure and certify hardware, software, and support services compliance with adopted standards. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Coordinator, to direct and coordinate federal spending related to the electronic exchange of health information and the adoption of recommendations of the Working Group. Prohibits any federal agency from expending federal funds to purchase hardware, software, or support services for implementation of a standard related to the electronic exchange of health information that is not an adopted standard. Allows the Secretary to award grants for the implementation of regional or local health information plans. Requires the Secretary to establish: (1) a safe harbor for group purchasing of hardware, software, and support services; and (2) guidelines that permit certain arrangements between health plans and issuers and health care providers. Requires the heads of relevant federal agencies to adopt and review uniform health care quality measures. Requires the Secretary to establish a Medicare value based purchasing pilot program and authorize waivers for states to establish value based purchasing programs for state Medicaid programs.

Hazardous Materials Vulnerability Reduction Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2005

Hazardous Materials Vulnerability Reduction Act of 2005 - Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security (Secretary) to issue regulations for the rail shipment and storage of extremely hazardous materials by railroad owners and operators, including requirements relating to high threat corridors and protocols for the coordination of federal, state, and local law enforcement authorities in creating a plan to respond to a terrorist attack, sabotage, or accident involving a rail shipment of extremely hazardous materials that causes the release of such materials. Authorizes the Secretary to award grants to local governments and owners and operators of railroads to conduct training in safety procedures for handling and responding to emergencies involving extremely hazardous materials. Amends federal transportation law to direct the Secretary of Transportation to make grants to experienced national nonprofit employee organizations to train railway HAZMAT workers. Directs the Secretary to study and report to Congress on the benefits and availability of technology and procedures that may be utilized to: (1) reduce the likelihood of a terrorist attack on a rail shipment of extremely hazardous materials; (2) reduce the likelihood of a catastrophic release of extremely hazardous materials in the event of a terrorist attack; and (3) enhance the ability of first responders to respond to a terrorist attack on a rail shipment of extremely hazardous materials. Prohibits discrimination against any employee of a railroad for disclosing to the Secretary, the Attorney General, or any federal supervisory agency a possible violation of this Act by a railroad owner or operator. Allows any state or local government to bring a civil action in a U.S. district court for redress of injuries caused by a violation of this Act against any person (other than an individual) who transports, loads, unloads, or is otherwise involved in the shipping of extremely hazardous materials by rail. Provides for administrative penalties of up to $1 million for each failure to comply with this Act.

To amend the International Air Transportation Competition Act of 1979 to modify restrictions on the provisions of air transportation to and from Love Field, Texas.

United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2005

Amends the International Air Transportation Competition Act of 1979 to add Tennessee to the number of States outside Texas between which and Love Field, Texas, flights are authorized, if the air carrier: (1) does not offer or provide any through service or ticketing with another air carrier or foreign air carrier; and (2) does not offer for sale transportation to or from, and the flight or aircraft does not serve, any point which is outside Tennessee.

Rural Renaissance Act II of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2005

Rural Renaissance Act II of 2005 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow holders of rural renaissance bonds a nonrefundable tax credit of 25 percent of the annual credit amount as determined by the Secretary of the Treasury. Defines "rural renaissance bond" as any bond issued by a nonprofit cooperative lender that is used for capital expenditures for qualified projects in rural areas, including projects for water or waste treatment, affordable housing, community facilities (e.g., hospitals, fire and police stations, nursing facilities, etc.), rural utility infrastructure, broadband technology, and rural teleworks. Sets forth rules for maturity limitations, arbitrage, and expenditures, including a requirement that 95 percent of the proceeds from the sale of a bond issue be spent on qualified projects within five yeas from the date of a bond issuance.

To amend title 49, United States Code, to require the installation of counter-MANPADS systems on certain passenger aircraft.

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2005

Amends federal transportation law to direct the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to require by regulation the installation of a counter-MANPADS system on certain new passenger aircraft by a specified date. Requires the Administrator to study the feasibility of installing and operating counter-MANPADS systems on similar aircraft that provide all-cargo air transportation. Defines MANPADS as a surface-to-air missile system designed to be man-portable and carried and fired by a single individual, or any other surface-to-air missile system designed to be carried, operated, and fired by more than one individual acting as a crew.

To provide protection, conservation, and restoration of the wetlands, estuaries, barrier islands, and related land and features in the Louisiana coastal area, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2005

Directs the Secretary of the Army to submit to Congress: (1) a report recommending modifications to the Mississippi River Gulf Outlet to address navigation, salt water intrusion, channel bank erosion, mitigation, and threats to life and property; (2) a report recommending a plan to restore the Barataria-Terrebonne Estuary, Louisiana; (3) a report recommending near-term ecosystem restoration measures for the Chenier Plain, Louisiana; (4) a recommended framework for developing a long-term program for the protection, conservation, and restoration of the wetlands, estuaries, barrier islands, and related land and features that protect critical resources, habitat, and infrastructure in the coastal Louisiana ecosystem from the impacts of coastal storms, hurricanes, erosion, and subsidence; and (5) a feasibility study recommending a comprehensive, long-term plan for the protection, conservation, and restoration of the coastal Louisiana ecosystem. Establishes the Coastal Louisiana Ecosystem Protection and Restoration Task Force. Directs the Secretary to carry out, in accordance with the Plan of the Chief of Engineers for ecosystem restoration for the Louisiana Coastal Area dated January 31, 2005, a coastal Louisiana ecosystem program to identify uncertainties about, and to improve state knowledge of, the physical, chemical, geological, biological, and cultural baseline conditions in the coastal Louisiana ecosystem.

Highway Reauthorization and Excise Tax Simplification Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 14 June 2005

Highway Reauthorization and Excise Tax Simplification Act of 2005 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend through FY2011 excise taxes for certain buses, special motor fuels, alcohol fuels, heavy trucks and trailers, tires, and certain taxable fuels. Extends through FY2009 expenditure authority for the Highway Trust Fund and the Aquatic Resources Trust Fund. Revises or adds provisions relating to: (1) the gas guzzler excise tax; (2) the excise tax on certain fishing equipment; (3) excise tax exemptions for agricultural aerial applicators fixed-wing aircraft engaged in forestry operations; (4) excise tax exemptions for seaplane transportation and sightseeing flights; and (5) tax filing requirements for taxpayers with distilled spirit excise tax liability of not more than $50,000. Repeals the special occupational tax on producers and marketers of alcoholic beverages. Revises or adds recordkeeping and registration requirements for wholesale and retail dealers of alcoholic beverages. Allows an income tax credit for the the cost of carrying federal excise taxes on distilled spirits. Establishes a Motor Fuel Tax Enforcement Advisory Commission to review motor fuel revenue collections. Establishes a National Surface Transportation Infrastructure Financing Commission. Authorizes funding for studies of supplemental or alternative financing for the Highway Trust Fund. Directs the Delta Regional Authority to conduct a study of the transportation assets and needs of states in the Delta region. Establishes the Build America Corporation as a nonprofit, nongovernment corporation for the purpose of issuing Build America bonds to finance certain highway and transportation projects. Adds or increases penalties for: (1) frivolous tax submissions; (2) tax fraud and false statements; and (3) underpayments of tax resulting from certain offshore financial arrangements. Requires chief executive officers of corporations to independently verify annual corporate income tax returns.

Water Resources Development Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 13 June 2005

Water Resources Development Act of 2005 - Authorizes and provides for specified water resources development and conservation projects. Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to carry out specified projects for navigation, environmental restoration, ecosystem restoration, hurricane and storm damage reduction, and flood damage reduction. Directs the Secretary to conduct studies and carry out specified projects for emergency streambank protection, navigation, improvement of the quality of the environment, aquatic ecosystem restoration, and shoreline protection. Amends the Water Resources Development Act of 1986 to prohibit the Secretary from soliciting contributions from non-federal interests for costs of constructing authorized water resources development projects in excess of the non-federal share assigned to the appropriate project purposes, or conditioning federal participation on the receipt of such contributions. Directs the Secretary to: (1) issue policies for partnership agreements that delegate specified authority to the district engineers; (2) initiate procedures to establish a schedule for consolidating federal, state, and local agency and Indian tribe environmental assessments, project reviews, and issuance of all permits for the construction or modification of a project, upon request of the non-federal interest; (3) implement a coordinated review process for water resources projects; and (4) carry out a program to provide public access to water resource and related water quality data in the custody of the Corps of Engineers. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) provide to State and local governments assessment, planning, and design assistance for remediation, environmental restoration, or reuse of specified areas; (2) recommend a project without the need to demonstrate that the project is justified solely by national economic development benefits upon determining that the community to be served is at least 70 miles from the nearest surface accessible commercial port and has no direct rail or highway link and where specified other conditions apply; (3) develop plans for regional management of sediment obtained in conjunction with the construction, operation, or maintenance of water resources projects; and (4) include individuals not employed by the Department of the Army in training classes offered by the Corps under specified circumstances. Makes project studies subject to peer review by an independent panel of experts. Modifies: (1) provisions authorizing specified water projects in various states; and (2) project authorizations regarding South Florida. Deauthorizes listed projects. Provides for specified land conveyances. Directs the Secretary to: (1) conduct various studies, including a study of drought conditions in the southwestern United States; (2) evaluate the structural integrity of flood damaged reduction projects, at the request of a non-federal interest; (3) submit to Congress a recommended framework for developing a long-term program of protection, conservation, and restoration of wetlands, critical habitat, and infrastructure in coastal Louisiana (and establishes the Coastal Louisiana Ecosystem Protection and Restoration Task Force); and (4) undertake navigation improvements and ecosystem restoration for the Upper Mississippi River and Illinois Waterway System.

A bill to require the Commandant of the Coast Guard to convey the Coast Guard Cutter MACKINAW, upon its scheduled decommissioning, to the City and County of Cheboygan, Michigan, to use for purposes of a museum.

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2005

Directs the Commandant of the Coast Guard, upon the decommissioning of the Coast Guard Cutter MACKINAW, to convey all right, title, and interest of the United States in and to such vessel to the City and County of Cheboygan, Michigan (recipient), if the recipient meets specified conditions, including that it: (1) use the vessel for purposes of a museum; and (2) hold the government harmless for claims arising from exposure to asbestos and other hazardous materials after the conveyance.

Information Technology for Health Care Quality Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2005

Information Technology for Health Care Quality Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to establish the Office of Health Information Technology to: (1) improve the quality and efficiency of health care delivery through the use of health information technology; (2) provide national leadership relating to such technology; (3) direct all federal health information technology activities; (4) facilitate the interaction between the federal government and the private sector relating to the development and use of such technology; and (5) develop a national strategy for improving the quality and enhancing the efficiency of health care through the use of such technology and the creation of a National Health Information Infrastructure. Requires the Director of the Office to approve or disapprove the policies of federal departments or agencies that would significantly affect the use of such technology, and provide for the adoption and dissemination of government standards that promote the efficient exchange of data between health information technology systems. Prohibits the Secretary of Health and Human Services from purchasing any health care information technology system that is not in compliance with such standards. Requires the Director to guarantee payment of the principal and interest on loans made to eligible entities, and award competitive matching grants, to: (1) implement local health information infrastructure to facilitate the development of interoperability across health care settings; or (2) facilitate the purchase and adoption of health information technology. Requires the Secretary, the Secretary of Defense, and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish uniform health care quality measures and public reporting requirements across all federally supported health delivery programs.

Energy Policy Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2005

Energy Policy Act of 2005 - Sets forth a program to spur diverse energy research and development, including: (1) energy efficiency; (2) renewable energy; (3) oil and gas; (4) coal; (5) Indian energy; (6) nuclear matters; (7) vehicles and motor fuels; (8) hydrogen; (9) electricity infrastucture; and (10) federal loan guarantees for commercial projects that target energy pollutant reduction. Establishes federal programs that target energy savings in public facilities. Establishes energy assistance programs that include: (1) weatherization assistance; (2) state energy programs; (3) energy efficient appliance rebates; and (4) low income community energy efficiency. Establishes programs for energy efficient products including energy conservation initiatives and energy efficiency in housing. Sets forth renewable energy initiatives that address: (1) renewable energy resources and production; (2) renewable content of motor vehicle fuel; (3) federal agency purchasing requirements for ethanol-blended gasoline and biodiesel fuel; (4) a sugar cane ethanol program; (5) an advanced biofuels technology program; (6) a biomass commercial utilization program; (7) geothermal energy enterprises; and (8) hydroelectric power projects. Sets forth an oil and gas program that includes: (1) the Petroleum Reserve and home heating oil; (2) oil and gas production incentives; (3) oil and gas activities on federal land; (4) a coastal impact assistance program; (5) natural gas enterprises; and (6) federal coalbed methane regulation. Sets forth a Clean Coal Power Initiative campaign that includes grants to universities to establish Centers of Excellence for Energy Systems of the Future. Modifies statutory constraints governing federal coal leases, including acreage limitations, mining plans, and advance royalty payments. Indian Tribal Energy Development and Self-Determination Act of 2005 - Amends the Department of Energy Organization Act and the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to establish the Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs to promote Indian tribal energy resource development through a program of grants and loans. Price-Anderson Amendments Act of 2005 - Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to modify and extend indemnification authority and liability limits for Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) licensees and Department of Energy (DOE) contractors. Addresses general nuclear matters, including: (1) extension of indemnification authority; (2) treatment of modular reactors; (3) medical isotope production; (4) safe disposal of greater-than-class-C radioactive waste; (5) a prohibition on nuclear exports to countries that sponsor terrorism; and (5) a DOE decommissioning pilot program. Directs the Secretary of Energy (Secretary) to establish the Next Generation Nuclear Plant Project, a prototype plant that includes a nuclear reactor, to generate electricity and to produce hydrogen. Revises requirements governing: (1) federal agency use of alternative fuels by dual-fueled vehicles; and (2) alternative compliance. Directs the Secretary to establish a cost-shared, public-private research partnership involving the federal government, railroad carriers, locomotive manufacturers and equipment suppliers, and the Association of American Railroads, to develop and demonstrate railroad locomotive technologies that increase fuel economy, reduce emissions, and lower costs of operation. Establishes within the Department of Transportation the Conserve by Bicycling Program. Prescribes guidelines for the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to review reduction of engine idling of heavy-duty vehicles. Directs the Secretary to initiate a project, in partnership with diesel engine, diesel fuel injection system, and diesel vehicle manufacturers and diesel and biodiesel fuel providers, to provide biodiesel testing in advanced diesel engine and fuel system technology. Sets forth a program of federal and state procurement of fuel cell vehicles and hydrogen energy systems. Revamps the Spark M. Matsunaga Hydrogen Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of 1990 to create a statutory framework to: (1) promote development and commercialization of hydrogen and fuel cell technology in partnership with industry; (2) establish the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Task Force; (3) direct the Secretary to provide for the transfer of critical hydrogen and fuel cell technologies to the private sector; and (4) create a hydrogen supply and fuel cell demonstration program. Energy Research, Development, Demonstration, and Commercial Application Act of 2005 - Prohibits appropriations authorized in this Act for energy efficiency research and development from being used for: (1) issuance or implementation of energy efficiency regulations; (2) the weatherization program established under the Energy Conservation and Production Act (ECPA); (3) a state energy conservation plan established under ECPA; or (4) a federal energy management measure implemented under the National Energy Conservation Policy Act. Directs the Secretary to implement initiatives that target research, development, and commercial application in: (1) energy efficiency; (2) distributed energy and electric energy systems; (3) renewable energy; (4) nuclear energy; (5) fossil energy; (6) science; and (8) international cooperation within the Western Hemisphere and with Israel. Sets forth guidelines governing DOE management, including creation of: (1) a national energy research and development advisory boards; (2) a Technology Transfer Working Group; and (3) a Technology Infrastructure Program. Prescribes guidelines for recruitment and training of skilled technical personnel in energy technology industries and educational programs in science and mathematics. Electricity Modernization Act of 2005 - Amends the Federal Power Act to grant Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regulatory jurisdiction over an Electric Reliability Organization. Prescribes guidelines for electric reliability standards, including electric transmission infrastructure, operation and transmission rates. Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to: (1) require electric utilities to make net metering and smart metering available upon consumer request; and (2) terminate mandatory purchase and sale requirements pertaining to cogeneration and small power production utilities. Amends the Federal Power Act to: (1) direct FERC to promulgate market transparency rules governing sales of electric energy at wholesale in interstate commerce, and transmission services in interstate commerce; and (2) prohibit energy market manipulation. Public Utility Holding Company Act of 2005 - Repeals the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935.

To prohibit the use of remote control locomotives to carry hazardous materials, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2005

Prohibits a railroad carrier from operating or causing to be operated a remote control locomotive to carry hazardous materials. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to issue a rule requiring that: (1) railroad carriers inventory and maintain continuous accounting of remote control transmitters, such transmitters be kept in a secure location when not in use, and be assigned only to personnel with proper identification and authorization to use them; and (2) the manual operational control area of any remote control locomotive be kept under lock and key when such locomotive is operated without personnel of the railroad carrier present. Sets forth civil penalties for a railroad carrier that violates such requirements, including criminal penalties if such violation involves the release of a hazardous material that results in death or bodily injury.

Community Beaches Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2005

Community Beaches Protection Act - Rewrites provisions regarding the federal shore protection program to: (1) provide for the protection and restoration of beaches and other coastal infrastructure, as well as shore protection; and (2) include the purpose of promoting healthful recreation. Includes among areas to be given preference areas: (1) where regional sediment management plans have been adopted; and (2) that promote human health and safety and the quality of life. Directs the Secretary of the Army to pay the federal share of the cost of carrying out beach nourishment projects and research that encourages the protection, restoration, and enhancement of shores, sandy beaches, and other coastal infrastructure. Sets forth revised provisions regarding the federal share of the cost, which shall be equal for beach erosion control projects for purposes of recreation or for storm damage protection or environmental restoration. Directs the Secretary, at the request of a nonfederal interest and with congressional approval, to extend the period of federal participation in certain beach nourishment projects. Amends the Water Resources Development Act of 1986 to prohibit the Secretary from: (1) soliciting contributions, in excess of the nonfederal share assigned to specified project purposes, from nonfederal interests for costs of constructing authorized projects; or (2) conditioning federal participation on the receipt of such contributions. Makes permanent the national shoreline erosion control development and demonstration program. Requires the program to include provisions for technology transfers to educational institutions. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into cost-sharing agreements with nonfederal interests, and to modify existing shoreline protection projects, under specified circumstances.

Rural Colorado Water Infrastructure Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2005

Rural Colorado Water Infrastructure Act - Authorizes the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Chief of Engineers, to establish a pilot program to provide environmental assistance to non-federal interests in Colorado, which may be provided in the form of design and construction assistance for water-related environmental infrastructure and resource protection and development projects. Requires projects to be publicly owned as a prerequisite for assistance. Directs the Secretary to enter into local cooperation agreements with non-federal interests for project design and construction. Sets the federal share of project costs under local cooperation agreements at 75 percent. Sets the non-federal share of operation and maintenance costs for projects constructed with assistance under this Act at 100 percent.

Expressing the importance of immediately reopening the famous Beartooth All-American Highway from Red Lodge, Montana, to Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming.

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2005

Recognizes the critical importance of ensuring unfettered access to visitors of Yellowstone National Park and preserving the economy of Red Lodge, Montana. Urges the President to take, without hesitation, all necessary actions to assist the Governor of Montana in reopening, as quickly as possible, the scenic Beartooth Highway that provides access to Yellowstone National Park.

Commercial Airline Missile Defense Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 June 2005

Commercial Airline Missile DefenseAct - Directs the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security for the Transportation Security Administration to: (1) issue regulations that require all turbojet aircraft used by an air carrier for scheduled air services to be equipped with a missile defense system; and (2) purchase and make available to an air carrier such missile defense systems as may be necessary for it to comply with such regulations. Makes an air carrier responsible for installing and operating a missile defense system purchased and made available by the Assistant Secretary.

Commercial Airline Missile Defense Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 June 2005

Commercial Airline Missile DefenseAct - Directs the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security for the Transportation Security Administration to: (1) issue regulations that require all turbojet aircraft used by an air carrier for scheduled air services to be equipped with a missile defense system; and (2) purchase and make available to an air carrier such missile defense systems as may be necessary for it to comply with such regulations. Makes an air carrier responsible for installing and operating a missile defense system purchased and made available by the Assistant Secretary.

Promotion Responsibility for Our U.S. Aviation Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 7 June 2005

Promotion Responsibility for Our U.S. Aviation Act of 2005 - Amends federal transportation law to direct the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), in carrying out safety regulation, to consider as being in the public interest: (1) regulating air commerce in a way that best promotes development of safety; and (2) promoting civil aeronautics.

Clean Water Infrastructure Financing Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 26 May 2005

Clean Water Infrastructure Financing Act of 2005 - Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to remove certain requirements for States with respect to construction of treatment works under capitalization grant agreements. Requires architectural and engineering contracts to be awarded consistent with procedures under the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 or an equivalent State qualifications-based requirement. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to assist States in establishing simplified procedures for small water systems to obtain assistance under the Act. Requires revolving funds to be used only for providing assistance for activities which have as a principal benefit the improvement or protection of water quality of navigable waters. Makes revisions concerning uses of funds for: (1) innovative technologies; (2) administrative expenses; (3) small system technical, planning, and management assistance; and (4) financially distressed communities. Revises requirements related to consistency with plans and eligibility of treatment works not considered publicly owned. Requires States to make grants to financially distressed communities in any fiscal year in which the Administrator has more than $1.4 billion available for obligation and allows a State to give priority to such communities in making loans. Directs the Administrator to provide technical and financial assistance to owners and operators of publicly-owned treatment works for: (1) inventorying critical treatment works assets; (2) evaluating the performance and condition of these assets; and (3) developing a plan for maintaining and replacing treatment works. Reauthorizes appropriations for FY2006-2010 for the revolving fund program.

Railroad Retirement Fairness Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 May 2005

Railroad Retirement Fairness Act - Amends the Railroad Retirement Act of 1974 to provide that an individual who, at the time the individual makes an inquiry to the Railroad Retirement Board, has a current connection with the railroad industry shall not be deemed to have lost that current connection thereafter: (1) if the Board misleads or fails to properly inform that individual about that requirement; and (2) if that conduct by the Board, according to the principles of equity, should stop the Board from deeming the individual to have lost that current connection. (Current law deems an individual to have "a current connection with the railroad industry" at the time an annuity begins to accrue to that individual and at death, provided certain conditions exist.)

Strengthen Aviation Security Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 May 2005

Strengthen Aviation Security Act - Amends federal transportation law to direct the Secretary of Homeland Security (Secretary) to establish a system to inspect 100% of the cargo transported on passenger aircraft operated by an air carrier or foreign air carrier in air transportation or intrastate air transportation Prescribes requirements for deployment of federal law enforcement officers not part of the Federal Air Marshall Service as alternative security personnel on commercial aircraft. Requires the Secretary to ensure the deployment of federal marshals on flights of all-cargo air transportation where sufficient risk of terrorist activity has been determined. Amends the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 to require the Assistant Secretary for Homeland Security (Transportation Security Administration (TSA)) to study and report to Congress on the viability of devices to enable discreet, wireless communications between flight attendants, pilots, federal air marshals, and ground-based personnel during a flight to improve coordination of planning and activities in the event of an act of terrorism. Prescribes requirements for mandatory basic security training program for flight attendants. Directs the Secretary to: (1) require aircraft engaged in cargo air transportation or intrastate air transportation to have secured cockpit doors between the cargo and pilot compartments; and (2) establish during high threat levels no-fly zones around sensitive nuclear and chemical facilities. Directs the Secretary to: (1) require airport operators to complete vulnerability assessments of airport facilities; and (2) develop a plan for addressing such vulnerabilities. Directs the Secretary to require airports serving operators of general aviation aircraft to: (1) require that all aircraft while parked at airports be secured by a visible immobilizing device; and (2) ensure that all individuals with access to such aircraft be subject to a background check. Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to direct the Secretary to issue regulations to: (1) improve control over access to secured areas of each U.S. airport, including background checks for, and metal detector screening of, airport workers; and (2) prohibit any entity other than an airport operator from issuing a security badge to provide access to the airport's secure area. Sets forth certain whistleblower protection requirements for airport workers (including TSA employees). Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) airport screening functions should continue to be performed by federal employees; and (2) the Secretary should pursue resolution of all issues that have delayed implementation of the mandate to check passenger information against the government watchlist (no-fly list) before departures of international flights to or from the United States.

Community Economic Development Expertise Enhancement Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 26 May 2005

Community Economic Development Expertise Enhancement Act of 2005 - Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to make grants to increase the capacity and expertise of qualifying community-based economic development organizations. Directs the Secretary to: (1) conduct an assessment of such organizations' capability needs; and (2) establish the Advisory Council on Community Economic Development. Directs the President to include with each annual budget request a report regarding Federal financial support for community economic development. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide a limited housing infrastructure business credit for qualified housing infrastructure property placed in service. Defines such property as property located in an empowerment zone, enterprise community, or renewal community, when substantially all of the use of which is to provide water, sewer, electricity, or natural gas service to residents. Doubles, and extends through 2009 (currently 2005), for employment beginning after the enactment of this Act, the: (1) work opportunity credit; (2) welfare-to-work credit; (3) empowerment zone employment credit; and (4) renewal community employment. Increases, through 2009, the Indian employment credit. Increases and extends, through 2009, deductions for expensing the cost of certain depreciable business assets, commercial revitalization, and environmental remediation. Extends, through 2009, the special deduction for property used on Indian reservations.

Hunger-Free Communities Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 26 May 2005

Hunger-Free Communities Act of 2005 - Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) Congress is committed to achieving domestic hunger goals and ending hunger by 2015; (2) federal food and nutrition programs should receive adequate funding; and (3) the entitlement nature of the child and adult care food program, the food stamp program, the school breakfast and lunch programs, and the summer food service program should be preserved. Directs: (1) the American Communities Survey to collect and submit food security information to the Secretary of Agriculture; and (2) the Secretary to conduct an annual study of hunger in the United States and develop recommendations on reducing domestic hunger. Directs the Secretary to make: (1) hunger-free communities collaborative grants to eligible public food program service providers or nonprofit organizations; (2) hunger-free communities infrastructure grants to eligible emergency feeding organizations; and (3) hunger-free communities training and technical assistance grants to eligible national or regional nonprofit organizations. (States that such grants' federal share shall not exceed 80 %.) Sets forth grant priorities.

Guaranteeing Airport Physical Screening Standards Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 26 May 2005

Guaranteeing Airport Physical Screening Standards Act of 2005 - Amends federal transportation law to set a deadline of 120 days after enactment of this Act for the Under Secretary for Border and Transportation Security of the Department of Homeland Security to require screening (at a minimum, screening for metal objects) or inspection of all individuals, goods, property, vehicles, and other equipment before entry into a secured area of a U.S. airport. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security (Secretary) to require random screenings and inspections until such deadline is met. Authorizes the Secretary to hire additional passenger and baggage screeners to ensure aviation security. Directs the Secretary to require airport personnel accessing airport sterile areas from unrestricted areas to undergo security screening. Requires the Secretary to ensure that all unescorted airport personnel accessing airport sterile and secured areas have undergone a background check. Directs the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security (Transportation Security Administration) to report to Congress on ongoing efforts and projected timelines for: (1) developing and implementing uniform screening standards for airport personnel with access to sterile areas; (2) completing, and making available to airport operators, an assessment of available technologies applicable to securing airport perimeters; and (3) developing and implementing a standardized approach to conducting airport vulnerability assessments and compliance inspections.

North American Cooperative Security Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 May 2005

North American Cooperative Security Act - Directs the Secretary of State to provide a framework for enhanced security management, communication, and coordination among the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Directs the Secretary to report to the appropriate congressional committees every six months regarding: (1) security, cargo security, and the movement of goods; (2) border infrastructure and wait times; (3) security clearances and document integrity; (4) immigration and visa management; (5) visa policy coordination and immigration security; (6) North American visitor overstay program; (7) terrorist watch lists; (8) money laundering, income tax evasion, currency smuggling, and alien smuggling; (9) counterterrorism programs; (10) law enforcement cooperation; (11) biosecurity cooperation; (12) protection against nuclear and radiological threats; (13) emergency management cooperation; (14) cooperative energy policy; and (15) feasibility of a common external tariff and development assistance with Mexico. Authorizes the Secretary, in coordination with the Secretary of Homeland Security, to negotiate border-related information sharing agreements with Mexico. Directs the Secretary, in coordination with the Secretary of Homeland Security, to establish a program to: (1) improve Mexico's southern border security, including U.S., Canadian, and Mexican financial and technical assistance to Belize and Guatemala to help secure their borders; (2) establish a database to track Central American gangs; (3) examine the feasibility of an agreement with Panama and other Central American countries regarding the aerial interdiction program that in similar contexts is commonly referred to as Airbridge Denial; and (4) negotiate with other countries to accept the International Civil Aviation Organization Annex 9 one-time travel document in lieu of official travel documents if an inadmissible alien has not presented official travel documents or has presented fraudulent ones, and facilitate the removal and repatriation of inadmissible aliens from the United States, with a focus on criminal aliens who are dangerous or potential terrorists. Directs the Secretary of Defense to examine the feasibility of strengthening institutions for consultations on intelligence sharing and defense and border issues among the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Right to Fly Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 May 2005

Right to Fly Act - Amends the International Air Transportation Competition Act of 1979 to repeal the restriction to certain charter, commuter, and flights to contiguous states of air transportation for compensation or hire between Love Field, Texas, and one or more points outside the State of Texas.

THE U.S. JET TRANSPORT INDUSTRY: GLOBAL MARKET FACTORS AFFECTING U.S. PRODUCERS

United States · United States House of Representatives · 25 May 2005

Hunger-Free Communities Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2005

Hunger-Free Communities Act of 2005 - Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) Congress is committed to achieving domestic hunger goals and ending hunger by 2015; (2) federal food and nutrition programs should receive adequate funding; and (3) the entitlement nature of the child and adult care food program, the food stamp program, the school breakfast and lunch programs, and the summer food service program should be preserved. Directs: (1) the American Communities Survey to collect and submit food security information to the Secretary of Agriculture; and (2) the Secretary to conduct an annual study of hunger in the United States and develop recommendations on reducing domestic hunger. Directs the Secretary to make: (1) hunger-free communities collaborative grants to eligible public food program service providers or nonprofit organizations; (2) hunger-free communities infrastructure grants to eligible emergency feeding organizations; and (3) hunger-free communities training and technical assistance grants to eligible national or regional nonprofit organizations. (States that such grants' federal share shall not exceed 80 %.) Sets forth grant priorities.

Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 24 May 2005

Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2005 - Amends the Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2003 to extend through June 30, 2005, and in certain circumstances through FY 2004, authorizations for Federal highway, highway safety, motor carrier safety, transit, and other specified Federal-aid highway programs. Amends the Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Act to extend through June 30, 2005, funding for national outreach and communications programs related to sport fishing and boating safety. Amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to authorize until July 1, 2005, expenditures for obligations under the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21) from the following Accounts: (1) the Highway Trust Fund; (2) the Mass Transit Account; and (3) the Aquatic Resources Trust Fund. Extends through FY 2006 the taxable period for the excise tax on the use of certain heavy vehicles.

A bill to extend the aviation war risk insurance program for 3 years.

United States · United States Congress · 23 May 2005

Amends federal transportation law to extend through December 31, 2008, the Secretary of Transportation's authority to: (1) issue war risk insurance policies to air carriers; and (2) certify that an air carrier is a victim of an act of terrorism and not liable for losses suffered by third parties that exceed $100 million, as well as immunity from punitive damages (with the federal government responsible for any liability above $100 million).

Transportation Security Improvement Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 17 May 2005

Transportation Security Improvement Act of 2005 - Amends Federal transportation law to authorize appropriations for FY2006-2008 to: (1) the Transportation Security Administration (TSA); and (2) the Department of Transportation (DOT). Authorizes the Under Secretary of Homeland Security for Border and Transportation Security (Under Secretary), acting through the TSA, to establish the position of Intermodal Manager throughout regions of the nation to: (1) serve as regional coordinator of the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security's response to terrorist incidents and threats to maritime and land assets; and (2) coordinate efforts related to maritime and land security with other Department officials, state and local law enforcement, and other public and private entities. Prohibits the Under Secretary from imposing a passenger security service fee in FY2007 and later unless: (1) such fee is imposed by rule promulgated by the Under Secretary; and (2) Congress approves. Requires the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security (TSA) to: (1) report to Congress on the adequacy of training for TSA screeners; and (2) establish an employee internship program for training students to perform screening of passengers and property at airports. Rail Security Act of 2005 - Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish a task force (including the TSA, the DOT, and other appropriate agencies) to complete a vulnerability and risk assessment of freight and passenger rail transportation. Requires the Secretary, based on the assessment, to develop specific prioritized recommendations for improving rail security. Authorizes the Secretary of Homeland Security to make grants to Amtrak for certain systemwide security upgrades. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to make grants to Amtrak for certain fire and life-safety improvements and infrastructure upgrades to Amtrak tunnels on the Northeast Corridor. Authorizes the Secretary of Homeland Security to make grants to freight railroads (including Amtrak), hazardous materials shippers, universities and research centers, and state and local governments for freight and passenger rail security upgrades to prevent or respond to acts of terrorism or sabotage. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to carry out a research and development (R&D) program to improve freight and intercity passenger rail security. Directs Amtrak to submit to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Secretary of Transportation a plan to address the needs of families of passengers involved in rail passenger accidents involving an Amtrak intercity train and resulting in a loss of life. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security and the Secretary of Transportation to develop and issue guidance for a rail worker security training program to prepare front-line workers for potential threat conditions. Sets forth certain whistleblower protections for rail employees or other persons who have provided information regarding a perceived threat to security to the employer, Federal Government, or Congress, or who have refused to violate or assist in the violation of any regulation related to rail security. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to require rail carriers transporting high hazardous materials to develop high hazard material security threat mitigation plans containing appropriate measures to address assessed risks to high consequence targets. Directs the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to set forth certain standards for welded rail and tank car safety improvements. Requires certain rail security studies, including one on the rail passenger transportation security programs in Japan, European Union (EU) member nations, and other foreign countries. Prohibits a commercial motor vehicle operator registered to operate in Mexico and Canada from operating a commercial motor vehicle transporting a hazardous material in U.S. commerce until the operator has undergone a background records check similar to the background records check required for commercial motor vehicle operators licensed in the United States to transport hazardous materials in commerce. Sets forth provisions requiring: (1) written route plans for hazardous material motor carriers; (2) the equipping of certain commercial motor vehicles that transport high hazardous materials with wireless terrestrial or satellite communications technology; (3) the review of hazardous materials security plans of shippers or carriers of hazardous materials; (4) the development of a Pipeline Security and Incident Recovery Protocols Plan; (5) the review of pipeline operator adoption of certain recommendations, including pipeline security plans and critical facility inspections; and (6) the development of a national public sector response system to respond to accidents, threats, and other safety and security risks or incidents. Directs the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security to make grants to private operators of over-the-road buses for certain system-wide security improvements to their operations. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish joint operational centers for port security at all Tier 1 ports in order to improve interagency cooperation and sharing of intelligence information so as to provide greater protection for port and intermodal transportation systems against terrorism. Amends federal shipping law to require the Administrator of the Maritime Administration to identify foreign assistance programs that could facilitate implementation of port security antiterrorism measures in foreign countries. Requires importers shipping goods to the United States via cargo container to supply entry data under an advance notification system. Increases the number of overseas U.S. Customs Service inspectors for inspecting intermodal shipping containers being shipped to the United states. Calls for random inspection of shipping containers. Requires the promulgation of standards and procedures for the inspection and screening of cargo in foreign ports intended for shipment to the United States. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to promulgate a strategic plan for transportation R&D. Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to establish within the Directorate of Science and Technology of the Department of Homeland Security a competitive research program that supports projects related to homeland security research.

Federal Employee Commuter Benefits Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 12 May 2005

Federal Employee Commuter Benefits Act of 2005 - Requires each Federal agency in the National Capital Region to implement a program under which all qualified Federal employees serving in or under such agency shall be offered transit pass transportation fringe benefits as required under Executive Order 13150. Authorizes the use of a passenger carrier to transport a Federal officer or employee between his or her place of employment and a mass transit facility. Requires a Federal agency that provides such service to: (1) absorb the cost; (2) when possible, use alternative fuel vehicles; and (3) coordinate such transportation with other Federal agencies.

Suburban Core Opportunity, Restoration, and Enhancement (SCORE) Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 12 May 2005

Suburban Core Opportunity, Restoration, and Enhancement (SCORE) Act of 2005 - Defines "SCORE project area" as any area that: (1) is ineligible for renewal community designation under the Internal Revenue Code (the Code); (2) is not smaller than a census-designated place; and (3) includes some of the following, proximity to existing development and infrastructure (including mass transit), substandard or underutilized residential, commercial, and industrial properties, or an economically obsolescent regional mall (Greyfield mall), has an average housing cost-burden of at least 50 percent of gross income, or a 30 percent higher than average commercial vacancy rate. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to: (1) designate SCORE project areas from among local government entity-designated areas; (2) make SCORE project area planning and revitalization grants. Requires a local government grantee to establish a SCORE Reinvestment Fund. Sets forth provisions respecting housing units, businesses, and economic development projects in SCORE project areas that are receiving community development block grant funds. Amends the Code to: (1) include SCORE project areas within the work opportunity tax credit; and (2) permit an additional first-year depreciation amount for certain SCORE project area residential real property or residential rental property.