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Bill· HRH.R. 2763 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2007
Biofuels Research and Development Enhancement Act - Directs the Secretary of Energy to establish an information center on research, development, and commercial application of technologies related to biofuels and biorefineries, including: (1) biochemical and thermochemical conversion technologies to make fuels from lignocellulosic feedstocks; (2) biotechnology processes that emphasize enzyme-based processing systems; and (3) other advanced processes and technologies that will enable biofuel development. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to instruct the Secretary to implement a research, development, and demonstration program relating to: (1) existing transportation fuel distribution infrastructure and new alternative distribution infrastructure, focusing on the physical and chemical properties of biofuels and prevention of or mitigation against certain adverse impacts; (2) bioresearch centers located in Petroleum Administration for Defense Districts, with a focus on biofuels; and (3) increased energy efficiency and reduced energy consumption in biorefinery facilities. Directs the Secretary to make grants for research, development, demonstration, and commercial application of biofuel production technologies in states with low rates of ethanol production and of cellulosic biomass ethanol. Requires the Secretary to study and report to Congress on: (1) research and development challenges in increasing to 5% biodiesel fuel sold in the United States; (2) the feasibility of increasing domestic consumption of ethanol-blended gasoline with specified levels of ethanol; (3) whether optimizing flexible fueled vehicles to use E-85 fuel would increase their fuel efficiency; and (4) the effects of biodiesel upon engine durability.
Bill· SS. 1632 (110th)open
United States · United States Congress · 14 June 2007
Vessel Conveyance Act - Subjects the conveyance of a U.S. government vessel to an eligible entity for use as an educational, cultural, historical, charitable, or recreational or other public purpose to conditions that such vessel will be maintained and used for such purposes. Requires a vessel that is not maintained and used for such purposes to revert to the United States. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to convene a working group composed of representatives from the Maritime Adminsitration, the Coast Guard, and the U.S. Navy to review and make recommendations on a common set of conditions for the conveyance of U.S. vessels to eligible entities. Sets forth civil penalties for violations of the requirements of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 2717 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 14 June 2007
Access to Medical Treatment Act - Gives an individual the right to be treated by a health care practitioner with any medical treatment that the individual desires, including a treatment that is not approved, certified, or licensed by the Secretary of Health and Human Services, if: (1) the practitioner has personally examined the individual and agrees to treat the individual; and (2) the administration of such treatment does not violate licensing laws. Authorizes health care practitioners to provide any method of treatment to such an individual if certain requirements are met, including that: (1) there is no reason to conclude that such treatment will cause danger to the individual; and (2) the patient is informed in writing that such treatment has not been approved, certified, or licensed by the Secretary. Requires a practitioner to report: (1) administering such treatment and discovering it to be a danger to an individual; and (2) the positive effects of an unconventional medical treatment for a life-threatening medical condition. Allows an individual to introduce or deliver into interstate commerce, or to produce, transport, receive, or hold, a food, drug, device, or equipment solely for use in accordance with this Act if there have been no advertising claims made by the manufacturer, distributor, or seller with respect to a medical treatment. States that nothing in this Act shall in any way adversely affect the distribution or sale of dietary supplements.
Bill· HRH.R. 2722 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 14 June 2007
Integrated Deepwater Program Reform Act - Prohibits the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating from using a private sector entity as a lead systems integrator for future Integrated Deepwater Systems Program (Program) procurements. Directs the Secretary, subject to exception, to use full and open competition for certain Deepwater Program acquisitions. Imposes other Program requirements, including certain required contract terms, development of a life cycle cost estimate, and assignment of a separate contract officers. Requires the Coast Guard commandant to appoint or designate a career reserved employee as Chief Acquisition Officer for the Coast Guard to monitor Coast Guard acquisition activities, increase the use of full and open competition, and ensure the use of detailed performance specifications when performance-based contracting is used. Directs the Secretary to cause each cutter, other than a National Security Cutter, acquired after enactment of this Act to be classed by the American Bureau of Shipping. Requires certain other testing and certification to be done by independent third parties. Requires the Secretary to cause the first in class of a major asset acquisition of a cutter or an aircraft to be subjected to an assessment of operational capability conducted by the Secretary of the Navy. Requires specified reports concerning National Security Cutters, the Program, and other matters.
Bill· SS. 1605 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 June 2007
Craig Thomas Rural Hospital and Provider Equity Act of 2007 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act with respect to: (1) the Medicare disproportionate share hospital (DSH) adjustment for rural hospitals; (2) revision of the temporary increase in payments to certain rural hospitals (Medicare hold harmless provision); (3) the definition of low-volume hospital for purposes of the Medicare inpatient hospital payment adjustment; (4) Medicare wage index reclassifications for certain hospitals; (5) Medicare reasonable costs payments for certain clinical diagnostic laboratory tests furnished to hospitals in certain rural areas; (6) critical access hospitals; (7) the capital infrastructure revolving loan program; (8) the Medicare incentive payment program for physician scarcity areas; (9) the 1.00 floor on Medicare work geographic adjustment to payments for physician services; (10) Medicare home health care planning; (11) rural health clinics; (12) community health center collaborative access; (13) the temporary Medicare payment increase for home health services furnished in a rural area; (14) increased Medicare payments for rural ground ambulance services; and (15) coverage of marriage and family therapist services and mental health counselor services under Medicare part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance). Amends the Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP Benefits Improvement and Protection Act of 2000 to provide for the extension of treatment of certain physician pathology services under Medicare. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to: (1) conduct pilot projects to provide incentives to home health agencies to utilize remote home monitoring and communications technologies; and (2) facilitate the provision of telehealth services across state lines.
Bill· SS. 1611 (110th)open
United States · United States Congress · 13 June 2007
Makes technical corrections to the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users or SAFETEA-LU and other laws related to public transportation. Excludes sightseeing from the term "public transportation." Names a certain program authorizing the Secretary of Transportation to carry out qualified projects to enhance the protection and enjoyment of national parks and public lands as the Paul S. Sarbanes Transit in Parks Program. Makes specified allocations for fixed guideway modernization through FY2009. Increases the total obligation ceiling for FY2008 for the Mass Transit Account. Makes specified changes to: (1) certain project authorizations for new fixed guideway capital projects; (2) certain projects for bus and bus-related facilities; and (3) the hydrogen fuel cell shuttle deployment demonstration program.
Bill· SS. 1610 (110th)open
United States · United States Congress · 13 June 2007
Foreign Investment and National Security Act of 2007 - Amends the Defense Production Act of 1950 to revise provisions concerning presidential authority to review certain, mergers, acquisitions, and takeovers (transactions) which could result in foreign control of any person engaged in interstate commerce (covered transaction) to direct the President, acting through the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), to review such transaction to determine its effects on national security. Authorizes the review of certain previously-reviewed or investigated transactions. Directs the President to conduct an investigation of the effects of certain covered transactions on national security and to take any necessary steps to protect national security. Includes within such investigations transactions which may impair national security, will result in control of any U.S. critical infrastructure by a foreign person, or are foreign government-controlled. Requires the Director of National Intelligence to conduct an analysis of any threat to national security posed by a covered transaction. Establishes: (1) CFIUS as a multi-agency statutory committee and revises its membership; and (2) an additional Assistant Secretary of the Treasury to perform CFIUS-related duties. Adds several factors to be considered by the President in evaluating a covered transaction, including whether the proposed transaction: (1) has national security-related effects on U.S. critical technologies; and (2) is a foreign government-controlled transaction. Authorizes CFIUS or a lead agency to enter into agreements with parties to a covered transaction to mitigate any threat to national security. Authorizes the President to suspend or prohibit any covered transaction that threatens to impair national security. Requires the President to consider specified factors (including those added in this Act) when determining whether to suspend or prohibit a covered transaction. Requires: (1) upon request, CFIUS to brief certain Members of Congress of covered transactions for which action has concluded; and (2) CFIUS annual reports to Congress after completed investigations. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to annually study foreign direct investments in the United States, especially investments in critical infrastructure and industries affecting national security by foreign governments which comply with any boycott of Israel or do not ban terrorist organizations. Requires the certification of information submitted by a party to a covered transaction.
Bill· HRH.R. 2698 (110th)open
United States · United States Congress · 13 June 2007
Federal Aviation Research and Development Reauthorization Act of 2007 - Authorizes appropriations for FY2008-FY2011 for specified Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) civil aviation research and development (R&D) projects and activities. Amends the Vision 100-Century of Aviation Reauthorization Act to: (1) provide for a Director to head of the Next Generation Air Transportation System Joint Planning and Development Office; (2) revise Office responsibilities; and (3) reauthorize the Office through FY2011. Requires each one of specified federal agencies to designate a senior official to implement its agency's Next Generation Air Transportation System activities with the Office. Authorizes the conduct of developmental work and service testing to improve unmanned aircraft for eventual integration into the national airspace system. Directs the FAA Administrator to establish: (1) a research initiative to assess the impact of aviation on the climate and to evaluate approaches to mitigate such impact; (2) a program of research grants to universities and non-profit research foundations for research and technology demonstrations to improve runway surfaces; (3) a joint research program on methods to improve certification of new technologies for introduction into the national airspace system; (4) a permanent airport cooperative research program; (5) a research grant program involving colleges and universities to conduct research by undergraduate students on subjects of relevance to the FAA; and (6) a research program on the impact of space weather on aviation. Requires the Administrator to continue R&D into technologies to modify aviation piston engines to operate using leaded aviation fuel. Increases the federal share of costs of establishing and operating regional centers of air transportation excellence and related research activities. Sets the federal share of costs for individual grants to institutions of higher education to establish and operate such centers at no more than 90%.
Bill· HRH.R. 2694 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 June 2007
Motor Vehicle Owners Right to Repair Act of 2007 - Requires the manufacturer of a motor vehicle sold, leased, or otherwise introduced into U.S. commerce to: (1) provide to the vehicle owner and service providers all information necessary to diagnose, service, maintain, or repair the vehicle; (2) offer for sale to consumers and service providers any related tool or equipment; and (3) provide the information necessary to enable aftermarket tool companies to manufacture tools with the same functional characteristics. Exempts trade secrets, so long as the information is not disclosed to authorized dealers or service providers. Authorizes enforcement of this Act by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and civil actions by state attorneys general, consumers, and service providers.
Bill· SS. 1594 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 June 2007
Maritime Hazardous Cargo Security Act - Amends port security provisions to direct the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to: (1) establish an international committee for the safe and secure handling and transportation of especially hazardous cargo to the United States; (2) develop and implement a voluntary program under which foreign ports and facilities can certify their compliance with International Ship and Port Facility Code (ISPFC) standards (including a program under which independent, third-party entities are certified to validate such ports' and facilities' compliance with such standards); and (3) establish a strategic plan (under current law, program) to utilize assistance programs to assist foreign ports and facilities that lack effective antiterrorism measures in implementing port security antiterrorism measures. Authorizes the Coast Guard (CG) to lend, lease, or otherwise provide equipment and technical training and support to foreign ports and facilities to assist them in complying, and validating such compliance, with ISPFC standards. Authorizes the Secretary to establish a security cost-share plan to assist the CG in providing security for the transportation of especially hazardous cargo to facilities located on or adjacent to U.S. navigable waters. Includes the establishing of regional response and recovery protocols to prepare for, respond to, mitigate against, and recover from a transportation security incident in area maritime transportation security plans. Directs the CG Commandant to develop a CG national resource allocation plan to meet safety and security requirements associated with the handling of especially hazardous cargo at U.S. ports and facilities. Directs the Secretary to ensure that federal, state, and local personnel responsible for the safety and security of vessels in port carrying especially hazardous cargo complete CG incident command system training. Authorizes the Secretary to convey (with or without compensation) national defense reserve fleet vessels to owners or operators of U.S. or foreign ports for use in port safety or security operations. Directs the Secretary to ensure that interoperable communications technology is deployed at all interagency operational centers for port security located at high-priority ports.
Bill· SS. 1601 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 June 2007
Energy Infrastructure Tax Reform and Incentives Act of 2007 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) treat income and gains from certain electric transmission property as qualifying income of a publicly traded partnership; (2) allow accelerated depreciation of qualified energy management devices, cellulosic biomass ethanol plant property, coal-to-liquid plant property, and dedicated ethanol pipelines; (3) allow a tax credit for pollution abatement equipment; (4) modify certain rules and definitions relating to clean renewable energy bonds; (5) extend through 2013 the tax credit for producing electricity from renewable resources; and (6) allow an energy tax credit for investment in thermal storage systems or daylight dimming technologies.
Bill· SS. 1602 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 June 2007
Clean, Reliable, Efficient and Secure Energy Act of 2007 - Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to establish the Appliance Efficiency Standards Commission. Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to: (1) require an electric utility to demonstrate that alternative investments in advanced grid technologies have been considered before undertaking investments in nonadvanced grid technologies; and (2) prescribe a Clean Energy Portfolio Standard, including a credit program. Establishes the Clean Energy Technology Trust Fund. Transfers to the Secretary of Energy (Secretary) specified lands for use for high-level radioactive waste disposal and spent nuclear fuel. Amends the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982 to require the Secretary to apply to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for a license to construct and operate facilities to receive and store spent nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste at the Yucca Mountain (Nevada) site. Instructs the Secretary to construct the FutureGen Facility to demonstrate integrating commercial-scale gasification combined cycle power plant technologies with advanced clean coal energy technologies. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to: (1) prescribe average fuel economy standards for automobiles; and (2) implement a traffic signal coordination program. Amends the Clean Air Act to instruct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to promulgate regulations to ensure that diesel fuel contains a certain volume of biodiesel fuel. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to: (1) authorize appropriations for coal-to-liquid and gas-to-liquid projects; (2) establish the Appliance Efficiency Standards Commission [ sic ]; and (3) revise requirements for the national greenhouse gas emissions registry. Requires the total amount of fuel utilized by the Department of Defense in a calendar year to be coal-to-liquid fuel, gas-to-liquid fuel, or both. Amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to revise requirements about the availability of certain areas of the Outer Continental Shelf for leasing. Prescribes requirements governing energy efficiency in federal buildings and public schools. Instructs the Secretary of Interior to develop a methodology for conducting a national assessment of the geological storage capacity for carbon dioxide. Establishes the Regulatory Reform for Carbon Sequestration Commission. Requires studies and reports to Congress on: (1) replacement of residential HVCAR equipment that does not meet minimum efficiency requirements; (2) fuel economy standards for heavy trucks; (3) synthetic fuel in commercial aircraft; (4) infrastructure needs for renewable fuels; and (5) strategic natural gas reserve. Directs the Secretary to implement an education program to increase public awareness of measures that consumers can take to increase energy efficiency. Reestablishes the Office of Technology Assessment in the legislative branch.
Bill· HRH.R. 2673 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 June 2007
Federal Aviation Administration Fair Labor Management Act of 2007 - Requires, after May 31, 2007, that where the services of the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service have led to an impasse between the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and its employees in reaching an agreement with respect to the implementing of proposed changes to the FAA personnel management system: (1) the Service issue a written certification of such impasse; and (2) the negotiating parties request the Federal Service Impasses Panel to consider and resolve the matter not later than 60 days after issuance of the certification. (Currently, the FAA Administrator's proposed change shall not take effect until 60 days have elapsed after the Administrator transmits the proposed change, along with the objections of the exclusive bargaining representatives to the change, and the reasons for such objections, to Congress.)
Bill· HRH.R. 2684 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 June 2007
FAA Aviation Safety Research Assessment Act of 2007 - Directs the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to enter into an arrangement with the National Research Council to provide for an independent review of the FAA's aviation safety-related research programs.
Bill· HRH.R. 2663 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 11 June 2007
Amends prescreening of international airline passengers provisions to extend the Department of Homeland Security 's (DHS) authority to compare passenger information against the consolidated and integrated terrorist watchlist maintained by the federal government before departure of an international flight to any international flight that overflies the United States (Under current law, DHS is limited to comparing passenger information against a watchlist before departure of any international flight to or from the United States).
Bill· HRH.R. 2653 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 11 June 2007
Directs the Secretary of Transportation, in providing assistance for projects to eliminate hazards of railway-highway crossings, to give priority consideration to emergency grade crossing safety improvements at railroad grade crossings where there have been multiple serious collisions.
Bill· HRH.R. 2662 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 11 June 2007
Directs the Secretary of Transportation to: (1) require each air carrier that submits an airline service quality performance report to the Secretary to also submit a monthly report on each diverted flight and canceled flight of the air carrier; and (2) publish such data on the Department of Transportation's website.
Law· HRH.R. 2638 (110th)enacted
United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2007
Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2008 - Makes appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for FY2008, for: (1) the Offices of the Secretary, the Under Secretary for Management, the Chief Financial Officer, the Chief Information Officer, the Federal Coordinator for Gulf Coast Rebuilding, and the Inspector General; (2) Customs and Border Protection (CBP); (3) Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), including for the Federal Protective Service; (4) the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), including for Federal Air Marshals; (5) the Coast Guard; (6) the Secret Service; (7) the Office of the Under Secretary for National Protection and Programs, the National Protection Planning Office, and the U.S. Visitor and Immigrant Status Indicator Technology (U.S.-VISIT) project; (8) the Office of Health Affairs; (9) the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), including for the U.S. Fire Administration; (10) Citizenship and Immigration Services (CIS); (11) the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center; (12) the Office of the Under Secretary for Science and Technology; and (13) the Domestic Nuclear Detection Office. Withholds specified funding until expenditure plans are submitted with respect to the Coast Guard's Deepwater acquisition program and the SBInet border technology and infrastructure procurement program. Requires the Secretary to obtain information monthly from every prison, jail, and correctional facility in the United States to identify incarcerated aliens who may be deportable and make every reasonable effort to remove such aliens judged deportable upon their release from custody. Prohibits the use of funds for deployment or implementation, on other than a test basis, of the Secure Flight program or other passenger prescreening program until specified requirements have been met. Directs: (1) the Secretary of DHS to research, develop, and procure new technologies to inspect and screen air cargo carried on passenger aircraft; and (2) TSA to utilize existing checked baggage explosive detection equipment and screeners to screen cargo carried on passenger aircraft to the greatest extent practicable at each airport and to report air cargo inspection statistics quarterly. Amends the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2007 to: (1) require chemical facility site security plans to be treated as sensitive security information; and (2) not preclude or deny the right of any state or political subdivision to adopt or enforce any chemical facility security regulation that is more stringent than one issued under such Act. Directs the Commissioner of CBP to establish a new classification for the CBP officer position that shall include eligibility for retirement benefits accorded to law enforcement officers. Prohibits funds from being used by CIS to grant an immigration benefit to any individual unless all required criminal history and other background checks have been completed.
Bill· SS. 1571 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 7 June 2007
Rural Aviation Improvement Act - Repeals the Essential Air Service Local Participation Program. Prohibits the Secretary of Transportation from compensating an air carrier for providing essential air service to an eligible community in the 48 contiguous states if such community: (1) is located fewer than 70 miles from the nearest large or medium hub airport; or (2) is fewer than 210 miles from the nearest large or medium hub airport and requires a per passenger subsidy for such service in excess of $200 for calendar year 2008, including any increase for each ensuing calendar year. Authorizes a state or local government to submit a proposal to the Secretary to: (1) compensate an air carrier for essential air service to an eligible community above the $200 per passenger subsidy cap; (2) compensate a preferred air carrier for providing such service (i.e., an air carrier preferred by the affected community although it is not the lowest bidder); and (3) restore the eligibility of a community to receive subsidized essential air service. Requires the Secretary, in determining compensation (or eligibility for it) for essential air service based on highway mileage, to use the highway mileage of the most commonly used route between the eligible community and the nearest medium hub airport or large hub airport. Establishes within the Office of the Secretary the Office of Rural Aviation. Extends through FY2011 the Secretary's authority under the essential air service program to make agreements to provide assistance to underserved airports. Requires adjustment of compensation to air carriers for providing essential air service in order to take into account significant increases in fuel costs. Directs the Secretary to treat passenger boardings on aircraft operated by charter air carriers at airports receiving essential air service as passenger boardings for purposes of making apportionments of airport improvement grant funds.
Bill· HRH.R. 2604 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 7 June 2007
United Nations Population Fund Women's Health and Dignity Act - Authorizes the President to make a voluntary contribution on a grant basis to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to: (1) provide and distribute equipment, medicine, supplies, and expertise to ensure safe childbirth and emergency obstetric care; (2) make contraceptives available for the prevention of pregnancy and sexually-transmitted infections, including HIV/AIDS; (3) reduce abortion and related maternal mortality; (4) reduce and eliminate coercive family planning practices; (5) reduce and eliminate sex selection; (6) prevent and treat cases of obstetric fistula; (7) promote abandonment of harmful traditional practices, including female genital cutting and child marriage; (8) reestablish maternal health services in areas where medical infrastructure has been destroyed by natural disasters; and (9) promote the access of unaccompanied women and other vulnerable people to vital services, including access to water, sanitation facilities, food, and health care, in emergency situations.
Bill· HRH.R. 2603 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 6 June 2007
High Threat Helicopter Flight Area Act - Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security (Secretary) to designate an area at high risk for an attack by one or more terrorists as a high threat helicopter flight area. Directs the Secretary to provide screening of all passengers and property transported from a high threat flight helicopter area on a passenger helicopter equivalent to that provided for passengers and property carried aboard a domestic passenger aircraft. Requires the Secretary to develop a plan for acquiring and training personnel, including acquiring equipment, to provide such screening. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to take necessary action to ensure that: (1) no passenger helicopter flies in a high threat flight area, except on approach for landing, or departure after takeoff, in such area; (2) a passenger helicopter when flying in such area, to the maximum extent practicable, flies over water; and (3) a helicopter pilot when in flight over such area remains in contact with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regarding its flight path, irrespective of its altitude. Exempts from such requirement helicopters carrying out military, police, medical, or other operations as the Secretary of Transportation deems appropriate.
Bill· HRH.R. 2594 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 6 June 2007
Safe and Fuel Efficient Driving Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation and the Secretary of Energy to jointly develop a multiyear public relations and education campaign to promote responsible and fuel-efficient driving in the United States.
Bill· SS. 1542 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 June 2007
Investing for Tomorrow's Schools Act of 2007 - Authorizes the Secretary of Education to enter into cooperative agreements with states under which: (1) they establish state and multistate infrastructure banks for education; and (2) the Secretary awards grants to states for initial capital to make loans through such banks to local educational agencies and public libraries for construction, reconstruction, or renovation of public elementary or secondary schools and public library facilities. Grants congressional consent to states for interstate compacts to establish multistate infrastructure banks. Requires states to contribute from nonfederal sources at least 25% of the amount of each federal grant for an infrastructure bank. Lists types of projects eligible for such bank loans. Directs the Secretary to establish Healthy, High Performance School Guidelines for the construction and renovation of schools, educational facilities, and libraries relating to energy efficiency, renewable energy, water use, building materials, indoor environmental quality, and other appropriate matters. Requires any local educational agency or public library using a loan under this Act to fund a new construction or renovation project to ensure that the project conforms, to the maximum extent practicable, to such Healthy, High Performance School Guidelines.
Bill· HRH.R. 2573 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 June 2007
Investing for Tomorrow's Schools Act of 2007 - Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to enter into cooperative agreements with states for the establishment of state infrastructure banks and multistate infrastructure banks for making loans to local educational agencies and public libraries for building or repairing public elementary or secondary schools and public library facilities. Grants congressional consent to states for interstate compacts to establish multistate infrastructure banks. Directs the Secretary to make grants to such banks to provide initial capital for such loans. Requires states to contribute from nonfederal sources at least 25% of the amount of each federal capitalization grant made to the state and contributed to the bank. Lists types of projects eligible for such bank loans. Directs the Secretary to establish Healthy, High Performance School Guidelines for the construction and renovation of schools, education facilities, and libraries relating to energy efficiency, renewable energy, water use, building materials, indoor environmental quality, and other appropriate matters. Requires any local educational agency or public library using a loan under this Act to fund a new construction or renovation project to ensure that the project conforms, to the maximum extent practicable, to such Healthy, High Performance School Guidelines.
Bill· HRH.R. 2560 (110th)failed
United States · United States Congress · 5 June 2007
Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2007 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to make it unlawful for any person, including a governmental entity, to: (1) perform or attempt to perform human cloning; or (2) ship, mail, transport, or receive the product of human somatic cell nuclear transfer technology knowing that such product is for the purpose of human cloning. Sets forth criminal and civil penalties for violations of this Act.
Bill· SJRESS.J.Res. 15 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 May 2007
United States Policy in Iraq Resolution of 2007 - Repeals the Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq Resolution of 2002 (P.L. 107-243). Authorizes the President to continue participation by U.S. Armed Forces in Multi-National Force--Iraq, or as part of a successor force, for the purposes of: (1) protecting U.S. and coalition personnel and infrastructure; (2) training, equipping, and providing logistical support to Iraqi security forces; (3) conducting targeted counter-terrorism operations; and (4) assisting the government of Iraq maintain border security. States that such authorization shall expire 12 months after the date of enactment of this joint resolution unless extended by Congress. Directs the President to: (1) promptly transition the mission of U.S. forces in Iraq to such purposes; and (2) begin the phased redeployment of U.S. forces from Iraq not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this joint resolution, with the goal of redeploying by March 31, 2008, all U.S. combat forces from Iraq except for those essential for such purposes. Prohibits anything in this joint resolution from being construed to: (1) limit measures to provide for the security of the MultiNational Force-Iraq, including U.S. Armed Forces; and (2) authorize offensive combat activities by U.S. Armed Forces in Iran, Syria, or any other state in the Middle East.
Bill· SS. 1516 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 May 2007
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%. Sets the non-federal share of operation and maintenance costs for projects constructed with assistance under this Act at 100%.
Bill· SS. 1491 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 May 2007
Ethanol Education and Expansion Act of 2007 - Amends the Agricultural Risk Protection Act of 2000 to direct the Secretary to make grants to majority-controlled producer-based business ventures to install E-85 fuel infrastructure, including infrastructure necessary: (1) for the direct retail sale of E-85 fuel, including E-85 fuel pumps and storage tanks; and (2) to directly market E-85 fuel to gas retailers, including in-line blending equipment, pumps, storage tanks, and load-out equipment; and Provides for infrastructure installation subgrants to direct retailers of E-85 fuel located in a rural area. Defines "E-85 fuel" as a blend of gasoline at least 85% derived from ethanol (or any other percentage, not below 70%, as determined by the Secretary for requirements relating to cold start, safety, or vehicle functions). Requires a grant equal to 20% of the total installation costs. Amends the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to direct the Secretary to establish a program, funded by the Commodity Credit Corporation, to make competitive grants to eligible nonprofit organizations or institutions of higher education to educate governmental and private entities that operate vehicle fleets, other interested entities, and the public about the benefits of E-85 fuel use.
Bill· HRH.R. 2556 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 May 2007
Energy Savings Act of 2007 - Biofuels for Energy Security and Transportation Act of 2007 - Sets forth a schedule for motor vehicle fuel, home heating oil, and boiler fuel to contain specified volumes of renewable fuel by calendar year 2022. Prescribes a pilot program to establish refueling infrastructure corridors for gasoline blends containing renewable fuel. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to: (1) increase funding for bioenergy research and development; (2) establish bioresearch centers that target biofuels; and (3) authorize loan guarantees for renewable fuel facilities. Establishes a grants program for: (1) renewable fuel production in states with low rates of ethanol production; and (2) transportation of biomass to local biorefineries. Directs the Secretary of Energy to establish a biorefinery information center. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to direct the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to impose a fuel tank cap labeling requirement for alternative fueled vehicles. Requires studies on specified renewable fuels and biofuels. Energy Efficiency Promotion Act of 2007 - Amends the National Energy Conservation Policy Act regarding advanced lighting technologies. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to prescribe new energy efficiency standards. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 with respect to high efficiency vehicles, advanced batteries, and energy storage. United States Energy Storage Competitiveness Act of 2007 - Instructs the Secretary of Energy to: (1) implement a research and development program for energy storage systems for motor transportation and electricity transmission and distribution; and (2) establish an Energy Storage Advisory Council. Sets forth national goals for: (1) energy savings in transportation; and (2) national energy efficiency improvement. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act regarding federal fleet conservation requirements. Prescribes implementation of energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives with respect to federal facilities. Extends programs assisting state and local governments with energy efficiency programs. Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 regarding utility energy efficiency programs. Provides: (1) technical assistance to governmental entities for energy efficiency and demand response programs, including an energy and environmental block grant; and (2) energy efficiency grants to institutions of higher education. Carbon Capture and Sequestration Act of 2007 - Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to establish a carbon capture and storage research and demonstration program.
Bill· HRH.R. 2541 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 May 2007
Tribal Economic Development and Infrastructure Support Act of 2007 - Amends the Native American Housing and Self-Determination Act of 1996 to: (1) authorize Indian tribes to issue notes and other obligations (guarantee loans) to finance community and economic development activities; and (2) require at least 70% of the aggregate funds received by an Indian tribe or tribally designated housing entity as a result of a guarantee under such Act to be used for the support of activities that benefit low-income Indian families on Indian reservations and other Indian areas.
Bill· HRH.R. 2485 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 May 2007
Safety, Efficiency, and Accountability in Transportation Projects Through Public Inspection Act of 2007 - Requires public employees to perform construction inspections on all surface transportation projects receiving federal funding.
Bill· SS. 37 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 2007
Nuclear Waste Access to Yucca Act - Withdraws specified lands in Nye County, Nevada, permanently from any form of entry, appropriation, or disposal under the public land laws, including: (1) the mineral leasing laws; (2) the geothermal leasing laws; (3) materials sales laws; and (4) the mining laws. Transfers jurisdiction over such lands to the Secretary of Energy. Reserves use of such lands for certain activities associated with the disposal of high-level radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel under the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982. Requires the Secretary to manage the lands so withdrawn, and submit to Congress and the state of Nevada a management plan for their use. Amends the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982 to direct the Secretary to apply to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for a license to construct and operate facilities to receive and store spent nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste at the Yucca Mountain site. Authorizes the Secretary to begin construction of connected infrastructure facilities after completion of a final environmental impact statement evaluating the activities involved. Requires the Secretary to acquire rights-of-way for construction and operation of railroad facilities to transport spent nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste from existing rail systems to the site of surface facilities within the geologic repository operations area for the receipt, handling, packaging, and storage of spent nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste prior to emplacement. Revises requirements for new plant contracts.
Bill· SS. 1446 (110th)open
United States · United States Congress · 22 May 2007
National Capital Transportation Amendments Act of 2007 - Amends the National Capital Transportation Act of 1969 to authorize the Secretary of Transportation to provide additional funding through grants to the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority to finance in part the capital and preventive maintenance projects included in the Capital Improvement Program. Prohibits funding to the Transit Authority until it notifies the Secretary that certain amendments to the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority Compact have taken effect. Establishes within the Transit Authority the Office of Inspector General. Requires the Comptroller General to study and report to Congress on the use of funds provided under this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 2446 (110th)open
United States · United States Congress · 22 May 2007
Afghanistan Freedom and Security Support Act of 2007 - Amends the Afghanistan Freedom Support Act of 2002 to extend authorization of appropriations for counternarcotics efforts. Authorizes appropriations for a pilot program (established by this Act) of crop substitution for poppy production. Provides for assistance with respect to: (1) infrastructure reconstruction; (2) education, and anti-corruption, including implementation of the Afghan action plan on transitional justice; (3) assistance to women and girls; (4) energy development and short-term energy supply; and (5) capacity building. Prohibits, as of FY2009, assistance to a local or provincial government of Afghanistan if the President certifies to Congress that one or more senior officials from such provincial or local government is engaged in or benefits from the narcotics trade or is engaged in terrorist or criminal activities. Establishes a pilot program to provide scholarships to Afghan university students for public policy internships in the United States. Extends the Afghanistan Freedom Support Act of 2002. Directs the President to: (1) appoint a Coordinator for U.S. assistance programs for Afghanistan; (2) direct U.S. Armed Forces to continue to support counter-narcotics interdiction operations in Afghanistan; (3) encourage Afghanistan-Pakistan military cooperation; (4) report every six months on security in Afghanistan; and (5) formulate a comprehensive interagency strategy for long-term security in Afghanistan. Authorizes the President to: (1) provide training for foreign military personnel that are to be deployed to Afghanistan; and (2) appoint a special envoy for Afghanistan-Pakistan cooperation. States that it shall be U.S. policy to encourage Pakistan to permit Indian shipments across Pakistan territory of equipment and material to Afghanistan in support of Indian reconstruction and development projects in Afghanistan. Authorizes appropriations for Radio Free Afghanistan.
Bill· HRH.R. 2426 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 May 2007
Ethanol Infrastructure Expansion Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Energy, in coordination with the Secretary of Transportation, to: (1) award up to $1 million to one or more eligible firms to conduct feasibility studies for the construction of one or more dedicated ethanol pipelines; and (2) award up to $1 million to one or more eligible firms to carry out a program to address technical factors that prevent the transportation of ethanol and biodiesel in existing hazardous liquid interstate transmission pipelines.
Bill· HRH.R. 2443 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 May 2007
Federal Aviation Administration Facility Consolidation Moratorium Act of 2007 - Suspends the authority of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to realign FAA air traffic control facilities and services until January 1, 2009.
Bill· HRH.R. 2442 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 May 2007
Rural America Job Assistance and Creation Act - Directs the Secretary of Labor to make matching grants to regional consortia meeting specified criteria to improve the job skills necessary for employment in specific industries. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to make grants to establish and support entities that provide business incubator services (necessary to initiate and sustain operations of a newly established business, including legal, intellectual property, and technology services and planning) for small- and medium-sized businesses. Directs the Comptroller General to study how rural infrastructure, venture capital, and federal programs can enhance rural areas. Amends the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act to require employer notification of federal and state elected officials (as well as local ones) before dislocation of workers. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to require submission of H-1B labor condition applications at same time as H-1B nonimmigrant classification petitions. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) exclude certain amounts of severance payments from gross income; and (2) expand the work opportunity tax credit to include qualified small business employees.
Bill· HRH.R. 2431 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 May 2007
Border Infrastructure and Technology Modernization Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to: (1) increase, during FY2008-FY2012, the number of agents in the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement of the DHS and the number of officers and agricultural specialists in the U.S. Customs and Border Protection of the DHS; and (2) provide such agents, officers, and agricultural specialists new technology training to a level of proficiency acceptable to protect U.S. borders. Directs the Commissioner of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection to review and update, and submit to Congress, the Port of Entry Infrastructure Assessment Study and the nationwide strategy to prioritize and address the infrastructure needs at the land ports-of-entry. Directs the Secretary to prepare annually, and submit to Congress, a National Land Border Security Plan that includes a vulnerability assessment of each port of entry located on the U.S. northern and southern borders. Authorizes the Secretary to establish one or more port security coordinators at such ports of entry. Directs the Commissioner to: (1) develop a plan to expand the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism program or other voluntary government-private sector programs to improve overall international supply chain security, including security along the U.S. northern and southern borders; and (2) establish a demonstration program to develop a cooperative trade security system to improve supply chain security along the southern border. Directs the Secretary to carry out a technology demonstration program to test and evaluate new port of entry technologies that enhance port of entry inspections and the detection of weapons of mass destruction, and to train personnel in its use. Sets forth streamlining procedures and certain local employment requirements for projects and programs under this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 2422 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 May 2007
Requires railroad carriers to annually transmit to the Secretary of Transportation a plan for providing notification to local emergency responders before transporting hazardous materials through their jurisdictions. Directs the Secretary to require carriers to periodically demonstrate that the plan's procedures provide local emergency responders adequate notice.
Bill· SS. 1438 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2007
Railroad Crossing and Hazardous Materials Transport Safety Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to conduct a review of the safety of all highway-rail grade crossings in the United States and to submit to Congress a priority list of highway-rail grade crossings most in need of safety improvements. Directs the Secretary to: (1) maintain a national database of information on the safety of highway-rail grade crossings; (2) investigate the cause of each fatal crossing accident; and (3) prescribe regulations for improving crossing safety, maintenance, and surveillance. Establishes the position of Special Advisor for Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Safety in the office of the Under Secretary of Transportation for Policy. Requires annual safety reviews by crossing inspectors. Increases civil penalties for crossing safety requirement violations. Authorizes grants for enforcement of crossing safety laws, rail infrastructure safety improvements, and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Increases civil penalties for violations of hazardous materials transportation requirements. Requires revocation of any compliance order if a railroad carrier commits a gross violation of such order that results in a hazardous materials accident. Sets inspection requirements for tank cars carrying hazardous materials. Requires a rail carrier to provide comprehensive lists of all hazardous materials scheduled to be transported through a state to a state homeland security coordinator if requested. Directs the Secretary to double the number of hazardous materials inspectors employed by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA).
Bill· HRH.R. 2406 (110th)open
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2007
Requires the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to establish an initiative for advancing health care information enterprise integration within the United States. Allows the Director to assist health care representatives and organizations and federal agencies in the development of technical roadmaps that identify the remaining steps needed to ensure that standards will be in place. Requires the Director to develop or adopting existing technology-neutral information technology infrastructure guidelines and standards to enable federal agencies to effectively select and utilize health care information technologies in a manner that is: (1) sufficiently secure and provides adequate privacy to meet needs; and (2) interoperable, to the maximum extent possible. Requires the Undersecretary of Commerce for Technology to establish a Senior Interagency Council on Federal Healthcare Information Technology Infrastructure to coordinate: (1) the development and deployment of health care information technology solutions; (2) the associated technology transfer to and from the private sector; and (3) federal funding and participation in private, voluntary standards development organizations as related to electronic health care records system. Requires the Director to establish a program of assistance to institutions of higher education to establish multidisciplinary Centers for Healthcare Information Enterprise Integration in order to: (1) generate innovative approaches to health care information enterprise integration; and (2) develop and use information technologies and other complementary fields. Directs the National High-Performance Computing Program to coordinate federal research and development programs related to the development and deployment of health information technology.
Bill· HRH.R. 2407 (110th)open
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2007
National Hurricane Research Initiative Act of 2007 - Requires the Under Secretary for Oceans and Atmosphere of the Department of Commerce and the Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF) to establish a National Hurricane Research Initiative and to cooperate with other specified federal agencies to carry it out. Requires such Initiative to set research objectives (based on a National Science Board report on the need for such Initiative) to: (1) make recommendations to the Board and to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Science Advisory Board; (2) assemble the science and engineering expertise of state or local government agencies and nongovernmental entities through a multi-agency effort focused on improving severe tropical storm forecasting capabilities, on durable and resilient infrastructure, and on mitigating impacts on coastal populations, the coastal built environment, and the natural coastal environment; and (3) make grants for hurricane research, including regarding storm internal dynamics, predicting high winds, tornadoes, and storm surge, and improving measurements of hurricanes and tropical storms through specified technologies. Directs the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, through the National Science and Technology Council, to coordinate U.S. activities related to the Initiative as a formal program with a well-defined organizational structure and execution plan. Directs the Under Secretary and the Director to: (1) issue a request for proposals to undertake the basic and applied research with a sufficient annual budget to accomplish the desired research results during a 10-year term; (2) establish a National Infrastructure Database; and (3) develop a National Hurricane Research Model.
Bill· SS. 1419 (110th)open
United States · United States Congress · 17 May 2007
Renewable Fuels, Consumer Protection, and Energy Efficiency Act of 2007 - Biofuels for Energy Security and Transportation Act of 2007 - Sets forth a schedule for motor vehicle fuel, home heating oil, and boiler fuel to contain specified volumes of renewable fuel by calendar year 2022. Prescribes a pilot program to establish refueling infrastructure corridors for gasoline blends containing renewable fuel. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to: (1) increase funding for bioenergy research and development; (2) establish bioresearch centers that target biofuels; and (3) authorize loan guarantees for renewable fuel facilities. Establishes a grants program for: (1) renewable fuel production in states with low rates of ethanol production; and (2) transportation of biomass to local biorefineries. Directs the Secretary of Energy to establish a biorefinery information center. Directs the Federal Trade Commission to impose a fuel tank cap labeling requirement for alternative fueled vehicles. Requires studies on specified renewable fuels and biofuels. Energy Efficiency Promotion Act of 2007 - Amends the National Energy Conservation Policy Act regarding advanced lighting technologies. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to prescribe new energy efficiency standards. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 with respect to high efficiency vehicles, advanced batteries, and energy storage. United States Energy Storage Competitiveness Act of 2007 - Instructs the Secretary of Energy to: (1) implement a research and development program for energy storage systems for motor transportation and electricity transmission and distribution; and (2) establish an Energy Storage Advisory Council. Sets forth national goals for: (1) energy savings in transportation; and (2) national energy efficiency improvement. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act regarding federal fleet conservation requirements. Prescribes implementation of energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives with respect to federal facilities. Extends programs assisting state and local governments with energy efficiency programs. Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 regarding utility energy efficiency programs. Provides: (1) technical assistance to governmental entities for energy efficiency and demand response programs, including an energy and environmental block grant; and (2) energy efficiency grants to institutions of higher education. Carbon Capture and Sequestration Act of 2007 - Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to establish a carbon capture and storage research and demonstration program. Public Buildings Cost Reduction Act of 2007 - Provides a framework for: (1) the Administrator of General Services to establish a program to accelerate the use of more cost-effective technologies and practices at GSA facilities; and (2) the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Program to provide competitive grants that target local government buildings. Ten-in-Ten Fuel Economy Act - Amends federal transportation law to increase average fuel economy standards for automobiles, medium-duty trucks, and heavy duty trucks. Petroleum Consumer Price Gouging Protection Act - Prohibits price gouging regarding oil, gasoline, or petroleum distillates during any period declared an energy emergency by the President. Energy Diplomacy and Security Act of 2007 - Expresses the sense of Congress on energy diplomacy and security. Urges the Secretary of State, in coordination with the Secretary of Energy, to take certain actions with respect to: (1) strategic energy partnerships; (2) international energy response mechanisms; and (3) a hemisphere energy cooperation forum.
Bill· SS. 1432 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 17 May 2007
Food Outreach and Opportunity Development for a Healthy America Act of 2007 - Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 to: (1) extend assistance for community food projects; and (2) obligate funds for food stamp nutrition education. Amends the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to: (1) extend the fresh fruit and vegetable program; (2) extend the farm-to-cafeteria program; and (3) authorize Department of Agriculture and Department of Defense (DOD) geographic preferences to purchase locally produced agricultural or food products. Amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to revise the farmland protection program. Gives priority to farm and ranchland with prime, unique, or other productive soils at risk of nonagricultural development. Provides for: (1) grants to eligible state or local entities to purchase conservation easements; and (2) grant agreements with eligible state or local entities to purchase conservation easements using a combination of their own funds and grant funds. Amends the Farmer-to-Consumer Direct Marketing Act of 1976 to establish the Farmers' Market Promotion Program Plus to make grants to eligible entities to establish and promote direct farmer-to-consumer marketing opportunities. Amends the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to extend the seniors farmers' market nutrition program. Amends the Specialty Crops Competitiveness Act of 2004 to direct the Secretary of Agriculture, through the Agricultural Marketing Service, to: (1) establish a grant program for eligible entities to conduct enterprise feasibility studies, including studies of consumer preference; and (2) provide loans and loan guarantees to eligible entities and individual producers to develop processing, distribution, and information infrastructure for locally or regionally produced food.
Bill· SS. 1422 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 17 May 2007
Farm Risk Management Act for the 21st Century - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to contract with eligible operators and producers (risk management account contracts) to: (1) provide a reserve to assist in the stabilization of farm income during low-revenue years; (2) assist operators and producers to invest in value-added farms; and (3) recognize high levels of environmental stewardship. Sets forth risk management account contract provisions, including: (1) administration; (2) direct payments; (3) stewardship payments; (4) account transfers; and (5) tax treatment. Extends counter-cyclical payments. Amends the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to: (1) replace current national dairy market loss payment provisions with dairy payment provisions through FY2012; (2) revise and extend funding authority for the McGovern-Dole international food for education and child nutrition program; (3) extend funding for testing of biobased products for the federal biobased procurement program; (4) revise and extend the biorefinery development program; (5) revise and extend the rural renewable energy development program; and (6) replace current renewable and energy systems and energy improvements provisions with the rural energy for America program (funds through FY2014). Establishes a recourse loan program for each loan commodity through crop year 2014. Amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to extend: (1) the wetlands reserve program and increase maximum program acreage enrollment; (2) the environmental quality incentives program; (3) the conservation innovation grants program; and (4) the ground and surface water conservation program. Increases grassland reserve program maximum acreage enrollment. Extends authority to use Commodity Credit Corporation funds and facilities to carry out specified conservation-related programs. Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 with respect to: (1) combat pay and retirement account exclusions; (2) standard deduction increases; (3) child care deduction limits; (4) state cost-sharing during natural disasters; (5) minimum benefits; (6) program reauthorization; (7) program administration; (8) cash payment pilot projects; (9) block grants for Puerto Rico and American Samoa; (10) the commodity distribution program; (11) outreach grants; (12) the emergency food assistance program; and (13) community food projects. Establishes a community food assistance and food bank infrastructure grant program for eligible emergency feeding organizations. Amends the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to extend: (1) the fruit and vegetable program; and (2) the farm to school program. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to offer to enter into a contract or grant agreement with a primary nongovernmental organization to establish the National Food for the Hungry Transportation Fund to track, collect, and deliver time-sensitive food products. Extends: (1) the forest land enhancement program; (2) the healthy forests reserve program; (3) the biomass research and development program; (4) the federal crop insurance adjusted gross revenue insurance pilot program; (5) the farmers' market promotion program; and (6) the fruit and vegetable nutrition promotion program.
Bill· HRH.R. 2364 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 17 May 2007
Local Food and Farm Support Act - Amends the Agricultural Risk Protection Act of 2000 to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a grant program to support value-added agricultural products which shall include a socially disadvantaged farmer and rancher component and may include a small and individual producer grant component. Directs the Secretary to establish a Family Rancher and Rancher Viability and Innovation Fund. Amends the Specialty Crops Competitiveness Act of 2004 to direct the Secretary, through the Agricultural Marketing Service, to: (1) establish a grant program for eligible entities to conduct enterprise feasibility studies, including studies of consumer preference; and (2) provide loans and loan guarantees to eligible entities and individual producers to develop processing, distribution, and information infrastructure for locally or regionally produced food. Amends the Farmers-to-Consumers Direct Marketing Act of 1976 to direct the Secretary to carry out a direct to consumer marketing assistance program to make grants to eligible entities for projects to establish, expand, and promote farmers' markets and other farmer to consumer direct marketing opportunities. Extends: (1) the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) farmers' market nutrition program; (2) the senior farmers' market nutrition program; (3) the food stamp community food project program; and (4) the farm-to cafeteria program. Establishes: (1) the food stamp fruit and vegetable incentive program; and (2) the urban agriculture production program.
Bill· HRH.R. 2328 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 15 May 2007
Amends provisions under the airport noise and access restriction review program for stage two and stage three aircraft to exempt from review under such program local restrictions limiting the hours of operation of an airport provided the airport owner had maintained such a restriction which was disallowed by a court before 1985 and certain other requirements are met.
Bill· SS. 1388 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 14 May 2007
Commercial Truck Highway Safety Demonstration Program Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation (Secretary) to carry out a program to demonstrate the effects on the safety of the highway network in Maine of permitting operation on the Interstate System highways within the state of a vehicle that weighs over 80,000 pounds, that consists of a three-axle tractor unit hauling a single trailer or semitrailer, and that does not exceed any vehicle weight limitation applicable under Maine law. Waives highway funding reduction relating to weight of vehicles using Interstate System highways with respect to vehicles allowed pursuant to this program. Provides for program termination and for the responsibilities of the state of Maine, including: (1) submitting a plan to the Secretary; (2) establishing a highway safety committee; and (3) collecting data on the net effects of the operation of such vehicles on safety.
Law· SS. 1382 (110th)enacted
United States · United States Congress · 14 May 2007
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 other motor neuron disorders that can be confused with ALS, misdiagnosed as ALS, or progress to ALS; and (2) establish a national registry for the collection and storage of such data. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director, to establish the Advisory Committee on the National ALS Registry to review information 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 and other motor neuron disorders. 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 research access to ALS data 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.
Bill· HRH.R. 2296 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 14 May 2007
Future Fuels Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow an investment credit to eligible manufacturers for an advanced technology motor vehicle. Amends federal transportation law to revise the fuel economy calculations for manufacturing incentives for dual fueled and gaseous fuel dedicated automobiles. Sets forth a calendar schedule for an increased percentage of alternative fueled automobiles or flexible fuel vehicles. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to carry out: (1) evaluation projects to determine how technology can best be applied to assess mileage-based road user charges on major highways at peak-commuting times; and (2) a national evaluation pilot project to assess how offering commuters the option to receive the cash value of their workplace parking place, if any, instead of free parking can reduce oil usage, lessen highway congestion, and expand travel alternatives. Instructs the Secretary of Transportation (Secretary) to: (1) establish an incentives program for insurance providers to sell automobile insurance policies on a per-mile basis; (2) designate at least 20 transit-oriented development corridors in urbanized areas by 2015, and 50 by 2025; (3) award transit grants to construct or improve transit facilities, bicycle transportation facilities, and pedestrian walkways in such corridors, including capital projects; and (4) establish a transit-oriented development corridors research and development program for best practices and performance criteria. Directs the Secretary to develop a national tire fuel efficiency program for tires designed for use on passenger cars and light trucks.