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Bill· HRH.R. 6247 (110th)open
United States · United States Congress · 11 June 2008
Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to research, develop, and procure new technologies to inspect and screen air cargo carried on passenger aircraft at the earliest date possible. Requires existing checked baggage explosive detection equipment and screeners to be used to screen air cargo carried on such aircraft to the greatest extent practicable at each airport until the new technologies are available. Requires the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security (Transportation Security Administration [TSA]) to work with air carriers and airports to increase incrementally each quarter the screening of air cargo carried on passenger aircraft.
Bill· HRH.R. 6234 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 11 June 2008
Bridge Life Extension Act of 2008 - Allows the Secretary of Transportation to approve federal-aid highway funding for states for bridge reconstruction, replacement, or rehabilitation projects only if the state submits, and the Secretary approves, a corrosion mitigation and prevention plan.
Bill· SS. 3090 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 June 2008
Safe Aviation Facilities Ensure Aircraft Integrity and Reliability Act of 2008 or the SAFE AIR Act of 2008 - Requires the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to: (1) prescribe regulations requiring maintenance work on passenger aircraft to be performed by certain authorized individuals; (2) certify to Congress that the FAA has inspected each foreign repair station that has performed work on U.S. air carrier aircraft or components at least twice in the preceding year and tested persons who perform safety-sensitive functions at such stations for use of alcohol or controlled substances; and (3) develop a plan to identify all noncertified maintenance providers that have performed maintenance work on such aircraft. Prohibits the Administrator from certifying a foreign repair station unless it complies with certain final security regulations.
Bill· HRH.R. 6194 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 June 2008
Sustainable Water Infrastructure Investment Act of 2008 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exempt from state volume caps private facility bonds for sewage and water supply facilities.
Bill· HRH.R. 6167 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 3 June 2008
Prevention and Deterrence of Crimes Against Children Act of 2008 - Amends the federal criminal code to increase criminal penalties for offenses relating to the sexual exploitation of children and child pornography, transportation of minors for illicit sexual purposes, child sex trafficking and prostitution, and sex crimes against children resulting in death. Directs the Attorney General to notify the Secretaries of State and Homeland Security of individuals, including aliens, who are convicted of sex offenses against children. Requires the Secretary of State to deny passports for such individuals and authorizes the Secretary to revoke, restrict, or limit a passport issued to a convicted sex offender if the passport was used to transport a minor for illicit sexual purposes. Requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to place aliens convicted of sex offenses in removal proceedings. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to: (1) render aliens who are convicted of sexual abuse of a minor inadmissible to the United States; and (2) subject aliens convicted of a sex crime against a minor to deportation.
Bill· SS. 3075 (110th)open
United States · United States Congress · 2 June 2008
Amends the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU), with respect to the alternatives analysis program, to change the FY2006-FY2007 project for the South Carolina Department of Transportation Light Rail study to the South Carolina Department of Transportation Corridor study. Revises the item descriptions for certain bus and bus-related facilities projects for FY2006-FY2009. Makes amounts obligated for such projects in FY2006 available for obligation through FY2009.
Bill· SS. 3054 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 May 2008
Requires automobiles manufactured or sold in the United States, beginning with model year 2013, to be equipped with a real time and average fuel economy display that is visible to the driver.
Bill· SS. 3059 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 May 2008
Commercial Truck Fuel Savings Demonstration Act of 2008 - Prohibits any reduction of an apportionment of federal-aid highway funds to a state that allows the operation of certain commercial truck vehicles weighing over 80,000 pounds on Interstate System highways in the state when the weighted average retail price of retail number 2 diesel in the United States is $3.50 or more per gallon. Requires the Comptroller General to study the effects on the overall highway safety in participating states.
Bill· HRH.R. 6154 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 May 2008
Directs the Administrator of the Federal Highway Administration to establish a three-year pilot program to provide states with grants to reimburse commuters (except anyone already receiving mileage reimbursement from an employer) for the cost of gasoline for not more than 30 miles a day. Specifies reimbursement levels based on a commuter vehicle's estimated fuel economy rating by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Requires such a reimbursement to be available to a commuter only if: (1) the average cost of gasoline across the country exceeds $2.75 per gallon; and (2) the state has sufficient funds to provide such reimbursement.
Bill· HRH.R. 6082 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 2008
Medicare Paramedic Intercept Services Coverage Act of 2008 - 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.
Bill· SS. 3021 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 15 May 2008
Safe Truck Operations and Preservation Act - Prohibits a state from prescribing or enforcing any regulation that allows a restricted property-carrying unit (including a trailer or semi-trailer, except one used exclusively for fire-fighting) to operate on the National Highway System (NHS) (including the Interstate System), unless its operation is authorized by the state on June 1, 2003, and in actual and lawful operation on a regular or periodic basis (including seasonal operations) on or before that date. Prohibits a state from allowing the operation of a commercial motor vehicle combination on the NHS (except a vehicle or load with a special state permit that cannot be dismantled or divided easily) with more than one property-carrying unit (excluding truck tractor) whose property-carrying units are more than: (1) the maximum combination trailer, semi-trailer, or other type of length limitation allowed by state law on June 1, 2003; or (2) the length of the property-carrying units of those commercial motor vehicle combinations, by specific configuration, in actual and lawful operation on a regular or periodic basis (including continual seasonal operation) in such state on or before June 1, 2003. Prohibits a state from allowing the operation of a vehicle or combination (other than a longer combination vehicle) exceeding Interstate weight limits on the Interstate System more than one year after enactment of this Act, unless its operation was lawful: (1) on July 1, 1956; (2) in the case of the overall gross weight of any group of two or more consecutive axles, on the date of enactment of the Federal-Aid Highway Amendments of 1974; or (3) under a special permit pursuant to state (grandfather) law. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to waive or limit vehicle weight limits during periods of national emergency. Declares that Interstate weight limitations on vehicles and combinations (other than longer combination vehicles) that operate on the Interstate System shall also apply to those operating on non-Interstate segments of the NHS, unless: (1) such segments are subject to lower state weight limits; or (2) a state allows the operation of any vehicle or combination on an existing non-Interstate segment of the NHS that could be so operated lawfully on June 1, 2003.
Bill· HRH.R. 6049 (110th)open
United States · United States Congress · 14 May 2008
Energy and Tax Extenders Act of 2008 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend various provisions relating to energy production and conservation and to individual and business-related activities. Extends through 2009 the tax credit for producing electricity from wind facilities and through 2011 for closed and open-loop biomass, geothermal, small irrigation, hydropower, landfill gas, and trash combustion facilities. Includes marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy as a renewable resource for purposes of such tax credit. Extends through 2014: (1) the energy tax credits for solar energy, fuel cell, and microturbine property; and (2) the residential energy efficient property tax credit. Increases the authorization levels for new clean renewable energy bonds. Allows tax credits for investment in advanced coal electricity and coal gasification projects. Extends through 2018 the temporary increase in coal excise taxes. Sets forth special rules for refunds of coal excise taxes to certain producers or exporters. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to study and report to Congress on: (1) Internal Revenue Code provisions that have the largest effects on carbon and other greenhouse gas emissions; and (2) current biofuel production. Allows a new tax credit for the production of cellulosic biofuels. Extends through 2009 income and excise tax credits for biodiesel and renewable diesel. Allows a tax credit for new qualified plug-in electric drive motor vehicles. Allows a tax credit against payroll liabilities of New York Liberty Zone governmental units (i.e., New York State, the City of New York, or any agencies or instrumentalities thereof) for expenditures involving transportation infrastructure projects in or connecting with the New York Liberty Zone. Increases and extends through 2010 the tax credit for alternative fuel vehicle refueling property expenditures. Extends through 2013 the tax deduction for energy efficient commercial building expenditures. Extends through 2009 the tax credit for energy efficient appliances. Extends through FY2012 tax-exempt bond financing for qualified green building and sustainable design projects. Extends through 2008: (1) the election to deduct state and local sales taxes in lieu of state and local income taxes; (2) the tax deductions for qualified tuition and related expenses and for certain expenses of elementary and secondary school teachers; (3) the special rules relating to regulated investment companies and for charitable contributions of capital gain real property for conservation purposes; (4) tax-free distributions from individual retirement plans (IRAs) for individuals called or ordered to active military duty and for charitable purposes; (5) the election to include combat pay as earned income for purposes of the earned income tax credit; (6) authority for use of qualified mortgage bonds to finance residences for veterans; (7) the tax exclusion for amounts received under qualified group legal services plans; and (8) the tax credit for nonbusiness energy property. Extends through 2008 various business-related tax provisions, including: (1) the tax credit for increasing research activities; (2) the tax credits for Indian employment and railroad track maintenance; (3) accelerated depreciation for qualified leasehold and restaurant improvements, for motorsports racing track facilities, and for business property on Indian reservations; (4) the expensing allowance for environmental remediation costs; (5) the tax deduction for income attributable to domestic production activities in Puerto Rico; (6) the special rule for the tax treatment of certain payments to tax-exempt organizations by a controlled subsidiary; (7) issuance authority for qualified zone academy bonds; (8) tax incentives for investment in the District of Columbia; (9) the economic development credit for American Samoa; (10) the special rule for charitable contributions of food and book inventories; (11) the increased tax deduction for corporate contributions of computer equipment and technology for educational purposes; (12) the special rule for reductions in the basis of S corporation stock for charitable contributions of property; (13) work opportunity tax credit eligibility for Hurricane Katrina employees; and (14) increases in alcohol excise taxes payable to Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Extends through 2009: (1) the new markets tax credit; (2) the subpart F exemption for active financing income earned on business operations overseas; (3) special rules for the tax treatment of payments between related controlled foreign corporations; and (4) expensing of costs of certain film and television productions. Makes permanent authorities for: (1) Internal Revenue Service (IRS) disclosure of tax information relating to terrorist activities; (2) IRS undercover operations; and (3) Social Security Administration (SSA) disclosure of tax information for veterans' benefit determinations. Allows individual taxpayers an additional standard tax deduction in 2008 for state and local real property taxes. Lowers in 2008 (from $10,000 to $8,500) the earned income threshold amount for determining the refundable portion of the child tax credit. Increases the AMT refundable credit amount for individual taxpayers with long-term unused tax credits in prior taxable years. Abates any underpayment of tax and related interest and penalties attributable to the application of special AMT rules for the treatment of incentive stock options. Allow attorneys a tax deduction in the current taxable year for reimbursable expenses and court costs which they pay or incur in connection with contingency fee cases. Modifies criteria for penalties on tax return preparers who understate tax liabilities. Allows taxpayers who claimed a casualty loss deduction for damage to a personal residence caused by Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, or Wilma and who subsequently received a grant as compensation for such damage to file an amended tax return to disallow the casualty loss deduction without payment of any tax penalty. Waives deadlines for starting construction for property in the Gulf Opportunity (GO) Zone eligible for bonus depreciation. Includes Colbert and Dallas Counties in Alabama within the GO Zone for purposes of tax-exempt bond financing. Sets forth revenue provisions relating to: (1) the inclusion in gross income of deferred compensation paid by certain foreign entities; and (2) increases in estimated tax payments of certain large corporations. Delays until 2019 the application of special rules for the worldwide allocation of interest for purposes of computing the limitation on the foreign tax credit.
Bill· HRH.R. 6052 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 14 May 2008
Saving Energy Through Public Transportation Act of 2008 - Authorizes appropriations for each of FY2008-FY2009 for public transportation formula grants for urbanized areas and for other areas. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to make such grants for: (1) operating costs of equipment and facilities being used to provide the public transportation that the grant recipient is no longer able to pay as a result of reducing fares; and (2) operating and capital costs of equipment and facilities being used to provide transportation services that the recipient incurs as a result of expanding such services. Requires the federal share of the costs for such grants to be 100%. Requires a grant for FY2008-FY2009 that involves acquiring clean fuel or alternative fuel vehicle-related equipment or facilities for the purposes of complying with the Clean Air Act to be for 100% of the net project cost of the equipment or facilities unless the grant recipient requests a lower percentage. Amends the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users to require: (1) qualified federal agency employees serving in urbanized areas of the United States that are served by fixed route public transportation to be offered transit pass transportation fringe benefits; and (2) the Secretary to issue guidance on nationwide implementation of a transportation fringe benefit program. Requires the Secretary to establish a pilot program to carry out vanpool demonstration projects in not more than three urbanized areas and not more than two other areas. Requires a grant for a capital project during FY2008-FY2009 that involves the acquisition of real property for, or the design, engineering, or construction of, additional parking facilities at an end-of-line fixed guideway station to be for 100% of the net capital cost of the project unless the grant recipient requests a lower percentage.
Resolution· SRESS.Res. 560 (110th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 2008
Proclaims the week of May 18-May 24, 2008, as National Public Works Week. Recognizes the contributions of public works professionals to improve public infrastructure.
Bill· HRH.R. 6024 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 2008
Rio Grande Pueblos Irrigation Infrastructure Improvement Act - Directs the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Commissioner of Reclamation, to: (1) conduct a study of irrigation infrastructure for 18 Rio Grande Pueblos in New Mexico; and (2) develop a list of projects recommended to be implemented over a 10-year period to repair, rehabilitate, or reconstruct such infrastructure. Directs the Secretary: (1) in developing that list, to prioritize the projects recommended for implementation based on consideration of specified factors, including the extent of disrepair, economic and cultural impacts, and overall benefits of the project to efficient water operations; and (2) to notify each Rio Grande Pueblo in writing, inviting the Pueblo to consult with the Secretary regarding the study if it notifies the Secretary in writing of such intent within three months after receiving notice. Authorizes the Secretary (subject to specified limitations) to provide grants to the Pueblos to plan, design, construct, or otherwise implement recommended projects to repair, rehabilitate, reconstruct, or replace Pueblo irrigation infrastructure to: (1) increase water use efficiency and agricultural productivity for the benefit of a Pueblo; (2) conserve water; or (3) otherwise enhance water management or help avert water supply conflicts in the Rio Grande Basin. Sets the federal share of the project's cost at 75%, with an exception based on financial hardship. Provides that nothing in this Act shall affect existing project-specific authority, U.S. responsibilities to any such Pueblo, Pueblo water rights, state water law, or an interstate compact governing water.
Bill· SS. 2997 (110th)open
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 2008
Maritime Administration Act for Fiscal Year 2009 - Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation, subject to limitation and sunset, to execute personal service contracts with adjunct professors to meet a United States Merchant Marine Academy temporary need. Requires the Academy's superintendent to prescribe a sexual harassment and sexual violence policy applicable to Academy cadets and other personnel. Amends the John Warner National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2007 to revise provisions concerning riding gang member requirements on vessels under Department of Defense (DOD) contracts. Requires, subject to appropriations, grants, loans, and loan guarantees to small shipyards for capital improvements and assistance for training programs to foster technical skills and operational productivity in communities with economies related to or dependent on the maritime industry. Allows state maritime academy student incentive payments to be made to the academy or the student. Doubles the level of payments, removes a requirement that the student be attending the academy when payments are made, allows the payments to be used for tuition, and requires recipients to accept midshipman and enlisted reserve (currently, enlisted reserve) status in the U.S. Navy Reserve (including the Merchant Marine Reserve). Extends to December 31, 2015, the expiration of the authority of the Secretary to provide war risk insurance and reinsurance.
Bill· HRH.R. 6003 (110th)open
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 2008
Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act of 2008 - Authorizes appropriations for Amtrak for FY2009-FY2013. Authorizes Amtrak to contract for the operation of an intercity rail service or route not included in the national rail passenger transportation system. Requires Amtrak to: (1) implement a modern financial accounting and reporting system; (2) submit an annual budget and business plan and a five-year financial plan; (3) submit grant requests to the Secretary of Transportation for authorizations of appropriations for specified uses; and (4) develop a single, nationwide standardized methodology for establishing and allocating the operating and capital costs among the states and Amtrak associated with trains operated on state supported routes. Requires the Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration and Amtrak jointly to develop or improve metrics and minimum standards for measuring the performance and service quality of intercity passenger train operations. Provides for: (1) a Northeast Corridor state-of-good-repair plan; and (2) a restructuring of Amtrak's indebtedness. Replaces the Northeast Corridor Coordination Board with a Northeast Corridor Infrastructure and Operations Advisory Commission. Authorizes: (1) congestion grants to states for the capital costs of facilities and equipment necessary for high priority rail corridor projects; and (2) state preparation of state rail plans. Requires studies of passenger rail service, locomotive biofuel, and the use of biobased lubricants. Requires Amtrak to establish a Next Generation Corridor Equipment Pool Committee. Directs the Secretary to establish a rail cooperative research program, and the Comptroller General to compare the U.S. passenger rail system with the systems in specified other countries. Authorizes a public transportation authority or rail carrier to submit disputes over trackage use and railroad rights-of-way to the Surface Transportation Board for nonbinding mediation. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to establish a high-speed rail corridor program, including capital project finance grants. Directs the Secretary to solicit proposals for projects for an initial high-speed rail system between Washington, DC, and New York City (Northeast Corridor), as well as for additional projects on any other corridor. Directs the Secretary to conduct an alternatives analysis of the December 1, 1998, extension of the designation of the Southeast High-Speed Rail Corridor.
Bill· HRH.R. 6007 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 2008
Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation, acting through the Administrator of the Maritime Administration, to establish a Port of Guam Improvement Enterprise Program for the planning, design, and construction of projects for the Port of Guam to improve port facilities, relieve congestion, increase port security, and provide greater access to port facilities. Expands intermodal surface freight transfer facility project eligibility for federal loans, loan guarantees, and lines of credit to include an intermodal or marine facility project under the Program. Establishes the Port of Guam Improvement Enterprise Fund.
Bill· HRH.R. 6004 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 2008
Rail Infrastructure Development and Expansion Act for the 21st Century - Amends federal transportation law to authorize the Secretary of Transportation to designate high-speed rail infrastructure bonds if: (1) the bonds are issued by a state, or one or more of the states that have entered into an interstate compact under the Amtrak Reform and Accountability Act of 1997, or by such compact; (2) they are for financing projects that make a substantial contribution to providing the infrastructure required to complete a railroad passenger transportation corridor for high-speed intercity rail passenger service, or for projects for the Alaska Railroad; (3) for a railroad passenger transportation corridor design that includes the use of freight railroad rights-of-way, a written agreement exists between the applicant and the freight railroad regarding such use and other conditions are met; (4) the corridor design eliminates all existing railroad grade crossings that would impede high-speed rail operations; (5) the applicant agrees to comply with certain labor standards with respect to such project; and (6) the applicant agrees not to pay the principal or interest on the bonds using funds derived directly or indirectly from the Highway Trust Fund, except as permitted by existing law. Excludes the interest on such bonds from an individual's gross income. Requires any entity providing high-speed intercity passenger railroad transportation to negotiate over hiring and working conditions with the collective bargaining agent or agents of the employees of any existing rail passenger service it might be replacing. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow certain tax credits to holders of qualified high-speed rail infrastructure bonds.
Bill· HRH.R. 5997 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 2008
Fairness in Trucking Transactions Act - Amends federal transportation law to require certain fuel cost reimbursements by a motor carrier, broker, or freight forwarder providing or arranging truckload transportation or service using fuel for which it does not bear the cost. Requires such a motor carrier, broker, or freight forwarder to reimburse persons (truckers) that do bear fuel costs for any such costs they have paid. Prohibits any person from causing a motor carrier, broker, or freight forwarder to present false or misleading information on a document or in an oral representation about the actual rate, charge, or allowance to any party to the transaction or transportation. Sets forth additional civil penalties (including the award of treble damages by a court) for a motor carrier, broker, or freight forwarder that fails to make a fuel cost payment to the cost bearer. Provides for the confidentiality of information obtained by the Secretary of Transportation or the Surface Transportation Board in investigations of alleged violations of the payment of fuel costs.
Bill· HRH.R. 6002 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 2008
Free Way Act of 2008 - Prohibits a state from collecting a toll from an operator of a high occupany vehicle (HOV) that was permitted to use a HOV lane in the state at no cost before December 31, 2007. (Currently, a state is allowed to collect a toll from any operator of a HOV vehicle that uses an HOV lane in the state.)
Bill· SS. 2986 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 7 May 2008
Amends the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) to redescribe the high priority highway project for I-10 Ryan Street exit ramp, including relocation and realignment of Lakeshore Drive (including portions of Front Street and or Ann Street), and expansion of Contraband Bayou Bridge, for the city of Lake Charles, Louisiana. Redescribes such project as one to make improvements to the on/off ramp system from I-10 to Ryan Street (LA 385), including installation of an exit ramp for eastbound traffic on I-10, incorporating, as necessary, portions of Front Street and Ann Street, including the repair of Lakeshore Drive, and providing for the realignment of Lakeshore Drive and the expansion of Contraband Bayou Bridge.
Bill· SS. 2985 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 7 May 2008
Amends the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) to modify the reference to the New Orleans, Louisiana, project to construct New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal intermodal facilities in Orleans Parish. Revises the project name to Union Passenger Terminal Planning and Master Plan and Infrastructure Improvements in Orleans Parish, Louisiana.
Bill· SS. 2987 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 7 May 2008
Amends the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century to redescribe the high priority highway project to widen Lapalco Boulevard from Barataria Boulevard to Destrehan Avenue in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, as one for Lapalco Boulevard improvements in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana.
Bill· HRH.R. 5983 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 7 May 2008
Homeland Security Network Defense and Accountability Act of 2008 - Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to direct the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to delegate to the Department's Chief Information Officer (CIO) authority for the development, approval, implementation, integration, and oversight of DHS policies, procedures, activities, funding, and systems relating to information management and information infrastructure. Lists CIO qualifications (including at least five years of executive leadership and management experience in information technology and information security) and functions (including establishing an incident response team). Directs the CIO to establish, oversee the deployment of, and regularly update security control testing protocols that ensure that DHS's information infrastructure is effectively protected against known attacks and exploitations of federal and contractor information infrastructure. Requires the Inspector General to conduct performance and programmatic reviews of DHS's information infrastructure to determine the effectiveness of its security policies and controls. Requires the Secretary, before entering into or renewing a covered contract and acting through the CIO, to determine that the contractor has an internal information systems security policy that complies with DHS information security requirements. Delineates contract requirements regarding security (including requiring the contractor to provide contracted services on a continuing basis to DHS in the event of an unplanned or disruptive event) and subcontracting (including requiring the contractor to develop and implement a plan for the award of subcontracts to small business and disadvantaged business concerns).
Bill· HRH.R. 5982 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 7 May 2008
Biometric Enhancement for Airport-Risk Reduction Act of 2008 - Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security, acting through the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security (Transportation Security Administration [TSA] ), to: (1) study and report to Congress on how airports can transition to uniform, standards-based, and interoperable biometric identifier systems for airport workers with unescorted access to secure or sterile areas of an airport; and (2) conduct a risk-based analysis of all Category X and I airports and other airports to identify where implementation of such systems could benefit them. Requires the Secretary to convene a working group to assist with issues pertaining to implementing this Act and aviation and airport security matters generally.
Bill· HRH.R. 5976 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 6 May 2008
United States Commission on Rebuilding America for the 21st Century Act - Establishes the United States Commission on Rebuilding America for the 21st Century to review published materials on the nation's transportation, water, energy, public lands, and housing infrastructure and assess the challenges of meeting the nation's infrastructure needs in the 21st century. Directs the Commission to submit to Congress a report that: (1) documents those challenges and articulates a national vision of infrastructure investments to overcome them; (2) contains specific recommendations on policies and investments to provide for streamlined state and local transportation investment processes, an electric grid that delivers clean, safe, and affordable energy, reductions in greenhouse has emissions, and improved transportation mobility, community health outcomes, water conservation, and public lands infrastructure accommodating user growth without degrading the environment; and (3) contains a set of model principles to ensure that future investments in the nation's infrastructure incorporate the report's findings and recommendations.
Bill· HRH.R. 5977 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 6 May 2008
Trust in Reliable Understanding of Consumer Costs Act, or the TRUCC Act - Amends federal transportation law to require certain fuel costs disclosures and fuel costs reimbursements by a motor carrier, broker, or freight forwarder providing or arranging transportation or service using fuel for which it does not bear the cost. Requires such a motor carrier, broker, or freight forwarder to: (1) reimburse persons (truckers) that do bear fuel costs for any such costs they have paid; and (2) give such persons a written list that identifies any freight charge, brokerage fee or commission, fuel surcharge or adjustment, and any other charges. Prohibits any person from causing a motor carrier, broker, or freight forwarder to present false or misleading information on a document or in an oral representation about the actual rate, charge, or allowance to any party to the transaction or transportation.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 1175 (110th)open
United States · United States Congress · 6 May 2008
Sets forth the rule for consideration of the Senate amendments to the bill (H.R. 3221) moving the United States toward greater energy independence and security, developing innovative new technologies, reducing carbon emissions, creating green jobs, protecting consumers, increasing clean renewable energy production, and modernizing our energy infrastructure, and to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax incentives for the production of renewable energy and energy conservation.
Bill· SS. 2973 (110th)open
United States · United States Congress · 2 May 2008
American Energy Production Act of 2008 - Amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to permit projected lines of states adjacent to the subsoil and seabed of the outer Continental Shelf to be used for oil and gas preleasing and leasing activities. Authorizes the governor of a state with a new producing area within the offshore administrative boundaries beyond the submerged land of the state to petition the Secretary of Energy to make new producing areas available for oil and gas leasing. Sets forth a lease sales program for oil and gas development within the Coastal Plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Prescribes environmental protection procedures for the Coastal Plain. Requires Alaska to establish in its state treasury the Coastal Plain Local Government Impact Aid Assistance Fund to assist designated Alaska entities impacted by the oil and gas exploration and production. Prohibits exportation of oil or gas produced under this Act. Prescribes a refinery permitting process. Suspends petroleum acquisition for the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR). Amends the Clean Air Act to include renewable biomass within its purview. Sets forth an advanced battery manufacturing incentive program. Instructs the Assistant Administrator of the Office of Research and Development of the Environmental Protection Agency to implement a research and development program for adding materials to biofuels to make them more compatible with infrastructure used to store and deliver petroleum-based fuels. Instructs the Secretary of Energy to study and report to Congress on: (1) the feasibility of increasing consumption in the United States of ethanol-blended gasoline with specified levels of ethanol; and (2) specified diesel vehicle attributes. Clean Coal-Derived Fuels for Energy Security Act of 2008 - Directs the President to promulgate regulations to ensure that covered fuel introduced into commerce in the United States on an annual average basis contains a specified volume and percentage of clean coal-derived fuel. Amends the Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2008 to repeal the prohibition against final regulations for commercial oil shale leasing program on public land. Amends the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 to repeal the prohibition against federal agency contracts for procurement of alternative or synthetic fuel. Authorizes the Department of Defense to enter into multiyear contracts to purchase synthetic fuels.
Bill· SS. 2970 (110th)open
United States · United States Congress · 2 May 2008
Climate Change Drinking Water Adaptation Research Act - Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish and provide funding for a program of directed and applied research, to be conducted through a nonprofit water research foundation and sponsored by drinking water utilities, to assist suppliers of drinking water in adapting to the effects of climate change. Requires research areas to include: (1) water quality and quantity impacts and solutions; (2) impacts on groundwater supplies from carbon sequestration; (3) infrastructure impacts and solutions; (4) desalination, water reuse, and alternative supply technologies; (5) energy efficiency and greenhouse gas minimization; (6) regional and hydrological basin cooperative water management solutions; (7) utilities management, decision support systems, and water management models; (8) greenhouse gas emissions reduction and energy demand management; (9) water conservation and demand management; and (10) communications, education, and public acceptance.
Bill· SS. 2972 (110th)open
United States · United States Congress · 2 May 2008
Aviation Investment and Modernization Act of 2008 - Amends federal transportation law to authorize appropriations for FY2008-FY2011 for: (1) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) operations; (2) FAA air navigation facilities and equipment; (3) civil aviation research and development (R&D); (4) airport planning and development and noise compatibility planning programs; (5) certain other aviation programs; and (6) administrative expenses for certain airport programs. Revises passenger facility charge (PFC) provisions granting an eligible public agency that controls a commercial service airport the authority to impose a PFC on passengers boarding an aircraft. Establishes an alternative PFC collection pilot program. Authorizes the FAA Administrator to carry out a pilot program for certain airports to take over operational responsibility for airport terminal area air navigation equipment. Revises the federal share of costs for certain airport improvement projects. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to carry out an environmental mitigation demonstration pilot program to reduce the impact of aircraft in the vicinity of airports. Establishes an Air Traffic Control Modernization Oversight Board. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out a pilot program for non-federal acquisition of Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) ground stations. Requires: (1) the FAA Administrator to make recommendations for the realignment of FAA services and facilities to assist in the transition to next generation facilities; and (2) the head of a participating department or federal agency to establish an office to coordinate its Next Generation Air Transportation System activities with other departments or federal agencies. Requires each air carrier to submit for the Secretary's approval a contingency service plan to provide passengers with: (1) adequate food, potable water, and restroom facilities in cases of a substantially delayed flight departure or disembarkment; and (2) an option to deplane if more than three hours have elapsed, and during any subsequent three-hour periods of delay. Increases additional funding for each fiscal year for the essential air service program. Extends the small community air service development program through FY2011. Establishes an advisory committee for aviation consumer protection. Sets forth requirements with respect to: (1) installation of systems to alert controllers and flight crews to potential runway incursions; (2) the reduction of aircraft fuel tank flammability; and (3) research grant programs to reduce civilian aircraft noise and emissions and to develop jet fuel from clean coal. Establishes pilot projects for the safe integration of unmanned aerial systems into the National Airspace System. Extends the Secretary's authority to provide insurance and reinsurance against loss or damage arising out of any risk from the operation of a domestic or foreign aircraft. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to waive the prohibition against commercial air tour operations over a national park or tribal lands when there are 100 or fewer such operations conducted in a year, or there is a voluntary agreement to manage such operations over the park. American Infrastructure Investment and Improvement Act of 2008 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend through FY2011: (1) the excise tax on the transportation by air of persons and property; and (2) Airport and Airway Trust Fund expenditure authority. Modifies the excise tax on aviation-grade kerosene. Establishes the Air Traffic Control System Modernization Account. Imposes a surtax on fuel used in aircraft which is part of a fractional ownership program.
Bill· SS. 2958 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 May 2008
American Energy Production Act of 2008 - Amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to permit projected lines of states adjacent to the subsoil and seabed of the outer Continental Shelf to be used for oil and gas preleasing and leasing activities. Authorizes the governor of a state with a new producing area within the offshore administrative boundaries beyond the submerged land of the state to petition the Secretary of Energy requesting that the Secretary make new producing areas available for oil and gas leasing. Provides for disposition of outer Continental Shelf revenues from new producing areas to the Treasury and to new producing states and coastal political subdivisions. Sets forth a lease sales program for oil and gas development within the Coastal Plain located on a certain map entitled "Arctic National Wildlife Refuge." Prescribes environmental protection procedures for the Coastal Plain. Requires the State of Alaska to establish in is state treasury the "Coastal Plain Local Government Impact Aid Assistance Fund," to assist designated Alaska entities impacted by the oil and gas exploration and production. Prohibits exportation of oil or gas produced under this Act. Prescribes a refinery permitting process. Suspends petroleum acquisition for the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Amends the Clean Air Act to include renewable biomass within its purview. Sets forth an advanced battery manufacturing incentive program. Instructs the Assistant Administrator of the Office of Research and Development of the Environmental Protection Agency to implement a research and development program for adding materials to biofuels to make the biofuels more compatible with infrastructure used to store and deliver petroleum-based fuels. Instructs the Secretary of Energy to study and report to Congress on: (1) the feasibility of increasing consumption in the United States of ethanol-blended gasoline with specified levels of ethanol; and (2) specified diesel vehicle attributes. Clean Coal-Derived Fuels for Energy Security Act of 2008 - Directs the President to promulgate regulations to ensure that covered fuel introduced into commerce in the United States on an annual average basis contains a specified volume and percentage of clean coal-derived fuel. Grants a temporary exemption to small refineries. Amends the Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2008 to repeal the proscription against final regulations for commercial oil shale leasing program on public land. Amends the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 to repeal the proscription against federal agency contracts for procurement of alternative or synthetic fuel. Authorizes the Department of Defense to enter into multiyear contracts to purchase synthetic fuels.
Bill· SS. 2960 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 May 2008
National Improvised Explosive Device Prevention and Preparedness Act of 2008 - Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to establish the Office for Bombing Prevention, which shall have primary responsibility within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for enhancing the nation's ability, and coordinating its efforts, to deter, detect, prevent, protect against, intercept, and respond to terrorist improvised explosive device (IED) attacks. Transfers to the Office all functions of the current Office for Bombing Prevention of DHS's Office of Infrastructure Protection. Directs the Secretary of DHS to ensure that a Homeland Security Advisory Council subcommittee, to be known as the Senior Advisory Committee on Improvised Explosive Device Prevention and Response, is established. Requires the Committee to: (1) provide policy guidance and recommendations; (2) develop best practices, training, and basic operational procedures; (3) promote interoperability and information sharing between the federal government and IED first responders; and (4) meet annually to review grant applications under the Bomb Prevention and Response Grant Program (established by this Act) and provide advice on proposed grant allocations. Requires the Secretary's annual report on progress in achieving compliance with the correction of Coast Guard identified vulnerabilities in port security and compliance with Area Maritime Transportation Security Plans and facility security plans to include: (1) the identification of modifications necessary in funding to ensure the correction of capability gaps identified by the Coast Guard and the dive team component of the national analysis database on the capabilities of IED first responders (required to be maintained by the Office for Bombing Prevention); and (2) an assessment of progress in completing assessments for the dive team component for all applicable ports.
Bill· HRH.R. 5951 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 May 2008
Safe and Complete Streets Act of 2008 - Requires each state to have in effect within two years a law, or each state department of transportation or metropolitan planning organization an explicit policy statement, that requires all federally-funded transportation projects to accommodate the safety and convenience of all users in accordance with certain complete streets principles. Defines "complete streets principles" as federal, state, local, or regional level transportation laws, policies, or principles which ensure that the safety and convenience of all users of a transportation system, including pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit users as well as children, older people, motorists, and those with disabilities, are accommodated in all phases of project planning and development. Allows such law or policy to make exemptions from such principles only if: (1) affected roadways prohibit specified users by law from using them, the cost of a compliance project would be excessively disproportionate to the need, or the population and employment densities or level of transit service around a roadway is low enough that there is no need to implement such principles; and (2) all project-specific exemptions are properly approved. Requires states to ensure that every agency responsible for a project within an approved transportation improvement program reviews and certifies that the project incorporates complete streets principles. Requires the U.S. Access Board to issue final standards for accessibility of new construction and alterations of pedestrian facilities for public rights-of-way.
Bill· SS. 2941 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 2008
Runway Safety Improvement Act of 2008 - Directs the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to develop and submit to Congress: (1) a strategic runway safety plan; as well as (2) a plan and schedule for installation and deployment of systems to alert air traffic controllers and flight crews of potential runway incursions at commercial airports and general aviation airports that are most at risk of such incursions. Directs the Inspector General of the Department of Transportation (DOT) to review and report annually to Congress on the installation of each advanced surface movement system funded by the Administrator. Authorizes appropriations for the purchase and installation of certain runway incursion avoidance systems. Directs the Administrator to: (1) review runway and taxiway lighting (both at daytime and nighttime) and markings at certain airports for compliance with FAA standards; (2) identify runways on which nonstandard lighting and markings may contribute, or may have contributed, to operational errors or incidents; and (3) submit such review to Congress along with a plan for remedying variance in lighting conditions and markings at nonstandard runways. Directs the Administrator to evaluate for Congress the potential for improving safety and accident investigations through the use of systems that monitor and record the status of lighting systems on the movement areas of, or that are critical to the safe operations at, certain airports. Requires the Administrator to: (1) initiate a rulemaking to revise federal aircraft rescue and firefighting standards to improve the protection of the public from fires and hazardous materials incidents; (2) collect data on aircraft runway overruns that do not result in fatalities or property damage; and (3) report to Congress on potential safety risks identified by such data, including actions taken by airports and the FAA to reduce those risks.
Bill· HRH.R. 5934 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 2008
Trust in Reliable Understanding of Consumer Costs Act, or the TRUCC Act - Amends federal transportation law to require certain fuel costs disclosures and fuel costs reimbursements by a motor carrier, broker, or freight forwarder providing or arranging transportation or service using motor vehicles it does not own and using fuel for which it does not bear the cost. Requires such a motor carrier, broker, or freight forwarder to: (1) reimburse persons (truckers) that do bear fuel costs for any such costs they have paid; and (2) give such persons a written list that identifies any freight charge, brokerage fee or commission, fuel surcharge or adjustment, and any other charges. Prohibits any person from causing a motor carrier, broker, or freight forwarder to present false or misleading information on a document or in an oral representation about the actual rate, charge, or allowance to any party to the transaction or transportation.
Bill· HRH.R. 5931 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 2008
Joint Guam Projects Oversight Act - Establishes the Guam Defense Policy Review Initiative Account to carry out transactions in connection with the realignment and relocation of military personnel on Guam. Expresses the sense of Congress with respect to: (1) the use of special purpose entities for military housing related to such realignment and relocation; and (2) federal assistance to Guam for infrastructure development and other needs in connection with the realignment and relocation. Requires a report from the: (1) Comptroller General concerning interagency requirements related to such realignment and relocation; and (2) Department of Defense (DOD) Inspector General addressing potential waste and fraud associated with the realignment of military forces on Guam. Outlines energy and environmental design requirements related to such realignment and relocation. Makes the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands eligible for DOD military base reuse studies and community planning assistance. Requires the Secretary of Defense to: (1) develop and support programs for training the local workforce on Guam for employment opportunities arising from realignment and relocation; and (2) enter into a cooperative agreement for establishing a Procurement Technical Assistance Center on Guam. Requires construction contractors operating for DOD in connection with military personnel realignment or relocation on Guam to follow certain procedures to demonstrate compliance with Guam tax, employment, and licensing laws.
Bill· HRH.R. 5915 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 29 April 2008
Screening Applied Fairly and Equitably to Truckers Act of 2008, or the SAFE Truckers Act of 2008 - Amends the Homeland Security Act 2002 to require the Secretary of Homeland Security to: (1) designate security sensitive material; and (2) prohibit an individual from operating a motor vehicle in commerce while transporting such material, unless the operator of the motor vehicle holds a transportation security card issued by the Secretary. Directs the Secretary to prohibit a person (shipper) from offering a security sensitive material for transportation by motor vehicle, or causing the transportation of such material by motor vehicle, unless the operator of the motor vehicle holds a transportation security card. Sets forth both civil and criminal penalties for persons who violate the requirements of this Act. Prohibits a motor vehicle registered in Mexico or Canada from transporting security sensitive material in U.S. commerce until the operator of the motor vehicle has undergone a background records check similar to that required for U.S. commercial motor vehicle operators licensed to transport security sensitive materials in U.S. commerce. Requires the Secretary to conduct periodically a named-based background check against the U.S. integrated terrorism watch list of all individuals licensed to operate a motor vehicle to transport a hazardous material in commerce. Establishes task forces on: (1) highway security; and (2) crimes disqualifying individuals from certain transportation-related employment.
Bill· SS. 2910 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 April 2008
Trust in Reliable Understanding of Consumer Costs Act, or the TRUCC Act - Amends federal transportation law to require certain fuel costs disclosures and fuel costs reimbursements by a motor carrier, broker, or freight forwarder providing or arranging truckload transportation or service using fuel for which it does not bear the cost. Requires such a motor carrier, broker, or freight forwarder to: (1) reimburse persons (truckers) that do bear fuel costs for any such costs they have paid; and (2) give such persons a written list that identifies any freight charge, brokerage fee or commission, fuel surcharge or adjustment, and any other charges. Prohibits any person from causing a motor carrier, broker, or freight forwarder to present false or misleading information on a document or in an oral representation about the actual rate, charge, or allowance to any party to the transaction or transportation.
Bill· HRH.R. 5909 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 April 2008
Amends the Aviation and Transportation Security Act to prohibit a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employee or contractor who has notice of an upcoming covert testing of security screening procedures from providing individuals (including security screeners) advance notice of such testing.
Bill· HRH.R. 5890 (110th)open
United States · United States Congress · 24 April 2008
Citizen and Community Preparedness Act of 2008 - Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to establish: (1) a Community Preparedness Division in the Department of Homeland Security (DHS); and (2) a Citizen Corps Program in the Division, through which the Secretary of Homeland Security shall bring community and government leaders together to coordinate efforts to strengthen community involvement in emergency preparedness, planning, mitigation, response, and recovery for acts of terrorism and natural disasters. Gives the Director of that Division primary responsibility within DHS for assisting the efforts of state, local, and tribal governments in preparing citizens for emergencies. Requires the Director to consider the unique preparedness challenges faced by specified underserved populations, including persons with disabilities and limited English proficiency, socially and economically disadvantaged households, the elderly, children, and individuals with pets. Directs the Secretary to make grants to states to: (1) form and sustain a state or local Citizen Corps Council; and (2) develop and implement educational programs for the public on terrorism and natural disaster preparedness and volunteer responsibilities. Conditions receipt of funds by states on outreach efforts to underserved populations, neighborhoods bordering critical infrastructure, and specified communities and community service organizations. Establishes in the Division: (1) a Community Emergency Response Team Program; (2) a Fire Corps Program; and (3) a National Citizen Corps Council. Directs the Secretary to: (1) carry out a public affairs campaign; and (2) commence a pilot program to enhance citizen preparedness at primary and secondary schools and on university and college campuses.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 1150 (110th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 24 April 2008
Urges the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to: (1) continue to enhance security against terrorist attack and other security threats to our nation's rail and mass transit lines, including as provided for in the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007; (2) continue development of the National Explosives Detection Canine Team program; and (3) improve upon the success of the Online Learning Center by providing increased person-to-person professional development programs for persons responsible for securing against such attacks on our transportation systems.
Bill· HRH.R. 5880 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 April 2008
Directs the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to initiate a rulemaking proceeding to establish procedures to prohibit for a period of one year a flight standards inspector from accepting certain employment positions or responsibilities with an air carrier for whom the inspector has conducted inspections or had oversight responsibility in the past.
Bill· HRH.R. 5874 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 April 2008
National MS Disease Registry Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, to: (1) develop a system to collect data on multiple sclerosis (MS); and (2) establish a national surveillance system for the collection and storage of such data, including a population-based registry of U.S. cases of MS. Requires the Secretary to establish the Advisory Committee on the MS National Surveillance System. Allows the Secretary 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 MS. Requires the Secretary to: (1) identify, build upon, expand, and coordinate existing data and surveillance systems, surveys, registries, and other federal public health and environmental infrastructure wherever possible; and (2) provide for research access to MS data. Requires the Secretary to ensure that epidemiological and other types of information collected are made available to agencies such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and the Department of Defense (DOD).
Bill· HRH.R. 5870 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 April 2008
Emergency Neighborhood Reclamation Act of 2008 - Requires the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to make grants to eligible units of general local government for neighborhood reclamation. Specifies grant applicant eligibility requirements, including a comprehensive plan for the demolition of all vacant and abandoned housing and other structures within the local government's jurisdiction that will increase the stability of neighborhoods, or promote the rational utilization of land within that jurisdiction. Requires the use of such grant to fund: (1) the demolition of vacant and abandoned housing, and other vacant and abandoned structures, located in areas that are primarily residential in character; (2) the abatement, before demolition, of any health and safety hazards within such housing or structures, or on the site upon which such housing or other structures are located; and (3) the capping or removal, after demolition, of utility connections and public infrastructure, including street pavements and sewer lines, and the rehabilitation of a site for use as public open space, inclusion in a land bank, or for sale. Prohibits the use of funds made available under this Act to demolish public housing.
Bill· HRH.R. 5860 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 April 2008
Amends federal transportation law to increase the average fuel economy standard for light-duty passenger automobiles of the Federal fleet which the President is required to prescribe. Increases the standard from a minimum of 18 miles per gallon to: (1) at least 27.5 miles per gallon for the year beginning on January 1, 2009; and (2) beginning January 1, 2010, and each year thereafter, at least two miles per gallon above the previous year's average fuel economy, until a requirement of 40 miles per gallon is reached.
Bill· HRH.R. 5788 (110th)open
United States · United States Congress · 15 April 2008
Halting Airplane Noise to Give Us Peace Act of 2008 - Amends federal transportation law to: (1) prohibit any individual (except flight crew members or flight attendants) from engaging in voice communications using a mobile communications device on a passenger aircraft during a flight; and (2) direct the Secretary of Transportation to require all domestic and foreign air carriers to adopt this prohibition. Requires the Secretary to waive this prohibition for air carriers of foreign countries that have negotiated an alternative prohibition on voice communications using such devices during a flight.
Bill· SS. 2841 (110th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 2008
Marine Emergency Protocol and Hull Requirement Act of 2008 - Amends the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 to authorize the Coast Guard's appropriate sector commander, during a time of a terrorist or enemy attack, dangerously low visibility at sea or in port, an oil spill over 5,000 gallons, or any other period of enhanced danger as determined by the Secretary of Homeland Security, to assume direct authority over all vessels within the area and to issue any orders to ensure the health and safety of the individuals located in, and the environment of, the sector. Declares that nothing in the amendments made by this Act limits or otherwise preempts any state from establishing a more stringent law or regulation. Prohibits certain cargo vessels that carry a significant (as determined by the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating) quantity of oil or petroleum-based fuel to power the vessel from operating in the navigable waters or the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of the United States without fuel tanks that have a double hull, or a double containment system as effective as a double hull, for the prevention of a fuel discharge. Phases in the prohibition over a specified period of years, based on vessel age and tonnage.
Bill· SS. 2842 (110th)open
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 2008
Aging Water Infrastructure and Maintenance Act - Directs the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Commissioner of Reclamation, to inspect at least 75% of all project facilities within one year to assess each facility's condition and to estimate the property value and population size that would be at risk if a facility fails, is breached, or otherwise allows flooding to occur. Defines a "project facility" as any part or incidental feature of a reclamation or irrigation project under the Secretary's jurisdiction that is not covered by the Reclamation Safety of Dams Act of 1978. Requires the Secretary: (1) in selecting facilities to inspect, to take into account the risk posed to public health or safety or to property; and (2) to use the data collected to develop detailed schedules for regular facility maintenance and to create a national priorities list of facilities requiring the most urgent maintenance. Requires the Secretary to: (1) carry out periodic reviews of facilities to update the list; (2) publish the list in the Department of the Interior's budget justification; (3) promulgate final regulations to establish standards for the condition and maintenance of facilities and guidelines to implement this Act and ensure compliance with regulations; and (4) carry out or provide financial support to a non-federal entity to carry out any modification determined to be reasonably required to preserve a facility's structural safety. Provides for reimbursement of costs arising from the repair of structurally deficient transferred project facilities.