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Bill· HRH.R. 2651 (111th)open
United States · United States Congress · 2 June 2009
Maritime Workforce Development Act - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish a maritime career training loan program. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Administrator of the Maritime Administration, to make maritime career training loans available to eligible students at federal, state, and commercial maritime training institutions, including state maritime academies, and nonprofit training organizations. Makes undergraduate students at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy ineligible for such loans. Allows loans to a student of up to $15,000 in a calendar year or $60,000 in the aggregate. Establishes certain student eligibility and loan requirements. Requires the Secretary to establish a revolving loan fund consisting of receipts from the repayment of loans to cover the administrative costs of the program. Directs the Secretary, acting through the Administrator, to publish in the Federal Register a plan that describes the demonstration, research, and multistate project priorities of the Department of Transportation (DOT) regarding merchant mariner recruitment, training, and retention for the three-year period following the publication of the plan. Authorizes the Secretary to award competitive grants to maritime training institutions to carry out demonstration projects and other eligible projects that implement DOT priorities in a way to address merchant mariner recruitment, training, and retention issues.
Bill· HRH.R. 2663 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 June 2009
Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act of 2009 or TIFIA of 2009 - Revises terms of secured loans and lines of credit used to finance certain transportation infrastructure projects to increase the maximum loan amount for such projects from the lesser of 33% to the lesser of 49% of the eligible project costs or, if the loan does not receive an investment grade rating, the amount of the senior project obligations. Increases the total amount of the line of credit for such projects from 33% to 49% of the reasonably anticipated eligible project costs. Declares that, in the event of the obligor's bankruptcy, insolvency, or liquidation, a direct loan from the Secretary of Transportation for an infrastructure project shall not be subordinated to the claims of any holder of project obligations entered into after (not including such obligations issued to refund prior project obligations), or not contemplated by the parties at the time, the Secretary's agreement to provide the line of credit is entered into. Authorizes appropriations for FY2010-FY2015 for such projects.
Bill· HRH.R. 2650 (111th)open
United States · United States Congress · 2 June 2009
Coast Guard Modernization Act of 2009 - Revises provisions concerning the organization of the Coast Guard. Requires the Coast Guard's Commandant to: (1) promote maritime safety according to specified priorities; (2) designate Coast Guard positions constituting the marine safety workforce; and (3) establish a management information system for that workforce. Requires there to be a chief of marine safety in each Coast Guard sector. Authorizes the Commandant to establish and operate one or more Centers of Expertise for Marine Safety. Requires the Commandant, by policy, to establish a program under which a Coast Guard person may be assigned to a private entity to further Coast Guard interests regarding marine safety, including to train the person. Directs the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to develop a long-term strategy for improving vessel safety and the safety of individuals on vessels, including annual issuance of a plan and schedule for achieving specified goals. Requires, except for the Commandant, that any individual adjudicating an appeal or waiver of a marine safety decision either have certain training, experience, and qualifications or be advised by a senior staff member who meets those requirements and concurs in the decision on appeal. Requires a marine safety curriculum at the Coast Guard Academy and during other officer accession programs.
Bill· HRH.R. 2652 (111th)open
United States · United States Congress · 2 June 2009
Maritime Safety Act of 2009 - Amends the American Fisheries Act to allow the owner of an eligible vessel, in order to improve vessel safety and operational efficiencies (including fuel efficiency), to rebuild or replace that vessel with a vessel documented with a fishery endorsement. Authorizes the North Pacific Fishery Management Council to recommend for approval by the Secretary of Commerce conservation and management measures, including size limits and measures to control fishing capacity, to ensure that the effectiveness of fishery management plans of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Management Area or the Gulf of Alaska is not diminished. Sets forth special rules, including rules pertaining to vessel size limits, certain catcher vessels, fishery endorsement limitations, and replacement vessels in the Gulf of Alaska. Directs the Commandant of the Coast Guard to report to specified congressional committees on the efficacy of the Coast Guard's cold weather survival training. Revises safety requirements for uninspected commercial fishing industry vessels. Requires the Secretary to establish: (1) a Fishing Safety Training Grants Program; and (2) a Fishing Safety Research Grant Program. Requires U.S. vessels (except those on a voyage from the United States to Canada) that are subject to inspection to have an official logbook with specified entries. Authorizes any individual authorized to: (1) enforce federal merchant marine law to remove a vessel's certificate for unsafe operation; (2) order the individual in charge of a vessel without a certificate on board to return the vessel to a mooring; and (3) direct an individual in charge of a vessel operated in an unsafe condition to take steps necessary for the safety of individuals on board. Requires the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating (Secretary) to establish vessel equipment standards based on performance using the best available technology economically achievable that is operationally practical. Prohibits the Secretary from approving a survival craft as a safety device unless it ensures that no part of an individual is immersed in water. Applies certain vessel management requirements to a passenger vessel or small passenger vessel that transports more passengers than a number prescribed by the Secretary based on the number of individuals on the vessel that could be killed or injured in a marine casualty. Specifies additional acts related to marine safety for which a seaman may not be discharged or discriminated against, such as that the seaman testified in a maritime safety law enforcement proceeding or cooperated with a safety investigation. Replaces requirements for civil actions by a seaman alleging discharge or discrimination with requirements for administrative complaint. Requires certain new U.S. vessels with a construction contract date after enactment of this Act, or delivered after January 1, 2011, to comply with specified oil fuel tank protection standards. Repeals the requirement of oaths for applicants for a merchant seaman license or certificate of registry and holders of merchant mariners' documents. Allows eight-month advance renewals of merchant mariners' documents, merchant seamen's licenses, and merchant seaman certificates of registry. Prohibits the Secretary from requiring the fingerprinting of an individual for the issuance or renewal of a license, a certificate of registry, or a merchant mariner's document if the individual was fingerprinted upon applying for a transportation security card. Authorizes the Secretary to extend the duration of expiring licenses, certificates of registry, and merchant mariner documents for up to one year to enable the Coast Guard to eliminate an applications backlog. Directs the Secretary to develop an interim clearance process for issuance of a merchant mariner document to enable a newly hired seaman to begin working on an offshore supply vessel or towing vessel, provided the seaman does not pose a safety and security risk. Directs the Commandant of the Coast Guard to make a merchant mariner assistance report to specified congressional committees. Directs the Secretary to designate by regulation the areas of the approaches to and waters of Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts, if any, on which certain vessels are not required to be under the direction and control of a pilot. Sets forth pilot licensing requirements applicable to any area of Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts, where a single-hull tanker or tank vessel carrying 5,000 or more barrels of oil or other hazardous material is required to be under a pilot's direction and control. Revises tonnage and minimum number of licensed mate and engineer requirements for certain off-shore supply vessels. Directs the Secretary to promulgate regulations to require the installation, maintenance, and use of life preservers and other lifesaving devices for individuals on board uninspected vessels. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security, acting through the Coast Guard Commandant, to study and report to specified congressional committees on the use, safety, and performance of blended fuels in marine applications. Extends the authorization of certain advisory committees through FY2020. Revises requirements for the Navigation Safety Advisory Council.
Bill· SS. 1144 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2009
Rural Transit Improvement and Flexibility Act of 2009 - Revises the apportionment of nonurbanized formula grants for amounts remaining after apportionment for grants to Indian tribes for public transportation on Indian reservations for FY2006-FY2009. Increases from 20% to 25% the amount of remaining funds to be apportioned to a state based on its land area. Decreases correspondingly from 80% to 75% the amount of remaining funds to be apportioned to a state based on population in nonurbanized areas. Limits to 25% of its apportionment for a formula grant for a capital project for the special needs of elderly individuals and individuals with disabilities the amount a state may use for operating costs of equipment and facilities. Limits a grant for operating assistance from exceeding 50% of the net operating project costs. Increases such limit to 62.5% of the government share of project costs in the case of a state containing nontaxable Indian lands, individual and tribal, and public domain lands (both reserved and unreserved), national forests, and national parks and monuments. Requires the Secretary of Transportation to establish a pilot program for the award of grants to states to establish transit centers to improve transit service (buses and other transit vehicles) in urbanized areas with a population of less than 200,000 and in nonurbanized areas.
Bill· SS. 1135 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2009
Drive America Forward Act of 2009 - Establishes in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) a Drive America Forward Program through which the Secretary of Transportation shall: (1) authorize the issuance of an electronic voucher to offset the purchase or lease price for a new fuel efficient automobile upon the surrender of an eligible trade-in vehicle to a participating dealer; (2) certify dealers for Program participation; (3) make electronic payments to them for vouchers they accept between March 30, 2009, and one year after Program implementing regulations are promulgated; (4) provide for the payment of rebates to qualifying persons; and (5) establish and provide for the enforcement of measures to prevent and penalize fraud under the Program. Prescribes requirements, including combined fuel economy, for $3,500 and $4,500 vouchers to offset the purchase or lease price for a qualifying passenger automobile or truck. Limits the number of vouchers to one per customer, including joint registered owners of a single eligible trade-in vehicle. Requires a dealer to certify about each eligible trade-in vehicle that the dealer: (1) has not and will not sell, lease, exchange, or otherwise dispose of the vehicle for use as an automobile in the United States or in any other country; and (2) will transfer the vehicle to an entity that will ensure that the vehicle will be crushed or shredded within the Program period, and has not been, and will not be, sold, leased, exchanged, or otherwise disposed of for use as an automobile anywhere in the world. Makes any person who purchased or leased a new fuel efficient vehicle after March 30, 2009, and before the enactment of this Act eligible for a cash rebate equivalent to the appropriate voucher amount. Prescribes standards which any regulations issued by the Secretary for the Program must meet. Makes it unlawful for any person to knowingly violate this Act or any regulations issued under it, particularly by fraud. Prescribes civil penalties for any such violation. Directs the Secretary to make Program information available on an Internet website and through other means.
Bill· SS. 1115 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2009
Freedom from Tolls Act of 2009 - Prohibits the use of highway funds to impose a toll on any segment of a federal-aid system highway that as of enactment of this Act: (1) has had its construction completed; (2) is not tolled; (3) was constructed with federal assistance; and (4) is in actual operation. Excepts from this prohibition, thus allowing tolls on, high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes as well as any highway segment that, as of the date on which a toll is imposed on it, will have the same number of non-toll lanes as were in existence before that date. Amends the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century to decrease from three to two the number of facilities a state may establish on a highway, bridge, or tunnel on the Interstate System to collect tolls for reconstructing and rehabilitating Interstate highway corridors under the Interstate System reconstruction and rehabilitation pilot program.
Bill· SS. 1124 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2009
Revises provisions concerning fishery endorsements for specified vessels that are either over 165 feet, more than 750 or 1,900 gross measured tons, or with more than 3,000 shaft power and that have a certificate of documentation issued for a fishery endorsement effective after September 25, 1997, and not placed under foreign registry after October 21, 1998, to also require for eligibility purposes that the vessel be either a rebuilt or replacement vessel under specified provisions of the American Fisheries Act relating to requirements for rebuilding and replacing vessels that are being revised by this Act and be otherwise eligible. Sets forth rules under such provisions of the American Fisheries Act relating to requirements for rebuilding and replacing vessels that are being revised by this Act concerning: (1) recommendations of the North Pacific Council for the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Management Area or the Gulf of Alaska; (2) certain catcher vessels; (3) limitations on fishery endorsements; and (4) Gulf of Alaska groundfish fisheries limitations. Amends the American Fisheries Act with respect to: (1) the exemption of specified vessels; and (2) fishery allowances and the removal of a catcher vessel from the directed pollock fishery.
Bill· SS. 1157 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2009
Craig Thomas Rural Hospital and Provider Equity Act of 2009 - 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 (MIHPA); (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) permission for physician assistants to order post-hospital extended care services or hospice care; (11) Medicare home health care planning; (12) rural health clinics; (13) community health center collaborative access; (14) the temporary Medicare payment increase for home health services furnished in a rural area; (15) increased Medicare payments for rural ground ambulance services; and (16) 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. Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to extend Medicare part A (Hospital Insurance) coverage and payment, on a reasonable cost basis, to anesthesia services furnished by a physician anesthesiologist in certain rural hospitals in the same manner as payment is made for anesthesia services furnished by a certified registered nurse anesthetists in such hospitals. Establishes the floor at 1.00 on: (1) the practice expense geographic index for services furnished during a specified period in certain rural areas under the Medicare physician fee schedule; and (2) the Medicare hospital area wage index for certain hospitals for discharges during the same period. Revises the standard for designation of sole community hospitals.
Bill· SS. 1156 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2009
Safe Routes to School Program Reauthorization Act - Amends the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) to reauthorize appropriations for FY2010-FY2014 for the safe routes to school program. Revises program requirements to specify children kindergarten through 12th grade as the ones to be benefited by the program. Revises apportionments to replace the current specific dollar amounts with formulae. Includes projects for other nonmotorized modes of transportation besides walking and bicycling as noninfrastructure-related projects. Authorizes states to set-aside up to 10% of apportioned funds for infrastructure improvements that create safe routes to bus stops located outside of the vicinity of schools. Requires any state that receives an apportionment of funds to form a multidisciplinary state advisory committee. Prescribes requirements for the treatment of noninfrastructure and infrastructure projects. Requires the Secretary of Transportation to: (1) develop and implement a comprehensive plan for evaluating the effectiveness of safe routes to school; and (2) establish a working group of federal agencies, states, and stakeholders to examine the issue of school siting.
Resolution· SRESS.Res. 158 (111th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2009
Commends the American Sail Training Association for: (1) advancing character building experiences for youth at sea; and (2) acting as the national sail training association of the United States. Encourages people of all nations to join in the celebration of Tall Ships Atlantic Challenge 2009 and in the character building and educational experience that it represents for youth.
Bill· HRH.R. 2569 (111th)open
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2009
Directs the Administrator of the Research and Innovative Technology Administration (RITA) within the Department of Transportation (DOT) to: (1) develop a strategic plan annually to guide DOT surface transportation research, development, and technology transfer activities for the following three years; (2) develop and execute a review process to assess the performance of university transportation centers (UTCs); and (3) report to Congress on how best to strengthen the transfer of transportation-related technology, including through the establishment of transportation technology extension centers at UTCs. Authorizes the Administrator, in order to expand the workforce of transportation professionals, to establish a grant program to fund internships for students participating in the UTC program. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish a visiting committee on surface transportation research. Moves the Office of Climate Change and Environment into RITA and requires it to coordinate research, development, and technology transfer activities: (1) that focus on transportation-related emissions and energy reduction strategies; and (2) on the impacts of climate change on surface transportation infrastructure. Revises the surface transportation, research, development, and technology program to direct the Administrator to make grants to institutions of higher education (including consortia) to establish regional UTCs to carry out research, development, and technology transfer activities in the field of green transportation infrastructure (i.e., infrastructure that preserves and restores natural processes, utilizes natural design techniques, and minimizes energy consumption and pollution). Directs the Administrator to: (1) contract with the National Research Council to review the research, development, and technology transfer activities at the Turner Fairbank Highway Research facility; and (2) establish a pavement research, deployment, and education program. Reauthorizes: (1) the surface transportation research, development, and technology program; and (2) university transportation research.
Bill· HRH.R. 2547 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2009
Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act - Prohibits, in any case arising out of the administration of laws and benefits by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, considering any person who is mentally incapacitated, deemed mentally incompetent, or experiencing an extended loss of consciousness from being considered adjudicated as a mental defective for purposes of the right to receive or transport firearms without the order or finding of a judge, magistrate, or other judicial authority of competent jurisdiction that such person is a danger to himself or herself or others.
Bill· HRH.R. 2640 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2009
Consumer Assistance to Recycle and Save Act - Establishes in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) a Cash for Clunkers Temporary Vehicle Trade-in Program through which the Secretary of Transportation shall: (1) authorize the issuance of an electronic voucher to offset the purchase or lease price for a new fuel efficient automobile upon the surrender of an eligible trade-in vehicle to a participating dealer; (2) certify dealers for Program participation; (3) make payments to them for vouchers they accept between March 30, 2009, and April 1, 2010; (4) provide for the payment of rebates to qualifying persons; and (5) establish and provide for the enforcement of measures to prevent and penalize fraud under the Program. Prescribes requirements, including combined fuel economy, for $3,500 and $4,500 vouchers to offset the purchase or lease price for a qualifying passenger automobile or truck. Limits the number of vouchers to one per customer, including joint registered owners of a single eligible trade-in vehicle. Requires a dealer to certify that each eligible trade-in vehicle: (1) will be crushed or shredded, or transferred to an entity that will ensure it will be crushed or shredded, within the period of the Program; and (2) has not been, and will not be, sold, leased, exchanged, or otherwise disposed of for use as an automobile in the United States or in any other country. Makes any person who purchased or leased a new fuel efficient vehicle after March 30, 2009, and before the enactment of this Act eligible for a cash rebate equivalent to the appropriate voucher amount. Prescribes standards which any regulations issued by the Secretary for the Program must meet. Makes it unlawful for any person to violate this Act or any regulations issued under it, particularly by fraud. Prescribes civil penalties for any such violation. Directs the Secretary to make Program information available on an Internet website and through other means.
Bill· HRH.R. 2552 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2009
Medical Waste Management Act of 2009- Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to: (1) revise the definition of "medical waste"; (2) require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to promulgate regulations listing types of medical waste; and (3) require the Administrator to conduct a medical waste management program to protect human health and the environment from medical waste and promulgate regulations on tracking, labeling, packaging, storing, handling, monitoring, and disposing of medical waste. Requires generators of medical waste (including tattoo and body art establishments) to: (1) provide waste transporters with written assurance that the generator has complied with labeling, packaging, and storage requirements and a manifest form for transporting such waste; (2) register with the Administrator; and (3) provide the Administrator with the names of all waste transporters. Requires transporters to: (1) not accept medical waste from a generator without receiving such assurance; (2) register with the Administrator; and (3) disclose to the Administrator the number and type of vehicles used to transport medical waste and the equipment and methods used to ensure segregation and handling of such waste. Requires owners or operators of storage and disposal facilities to: (1) provide notice of the disposal of medical waste to the generator; and (2) register with the Administrator. Sets forth provisions concerning inspections, public records, and enforcement under this Act. Requires the Administrator to: (1) establish a program to educate the public about, and increase access to, acceptable methods for disposal of used syringes; (2) study and report to Congress on medical waste generated and its management and disposal; and (3) consult with the International Joint Commission on tracking medical waste entering the United States from Canada.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 484 (111th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2009
Supports the designation of National Pipeline Safety Day.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 472 (111th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2009
Congratulates and salutes the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) for celebrating its 70th anniversary. Commends the AOPA for: (1) creating the AOPA Air Safety Foundation nearly 60 years ago to improve general aviation safety; (2) helping lead the recovery of the United States general aviation light aircraft manufacturing industry; and (3) setting the stage for development of the Next Generation Air Transportation System.
Bill· SS. 1113 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2009
Safe Roads Act of 2009 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish a national clearinghouse for positive alcohol and controlled substance test results and test refusals of commercial motor vehicle operators. Prohibits the release of clearinghouse information to a commercial motor carrier employer unless there has been compliance with all applicable federal privacy laws and regulations. Authorizes the Secretary to collect fees from such employers and other authorized users for informational requests. Prohibits an employer from hiring an individual to operate a commercial motor vehicle unless the employer has determined that the individual, for the preceding three-year period, has: (1) been tested for use of alcohol and controlled substances; (2) not tested positive for their use, or tested positive but has completed the return-to-duty process; and (3) not refused to be tested. Directs the Secretary to establish a process: (1) to require employers to request and review any clearinghouse records of individuals before their employment as a commercial motor vehicle operator; and (2) for an individual and a state licensing authority to request and receive information from the clearinghouse. Subjects persons who violate the requirements of this Act to both civil and criminal penalties. Requires the Secretary to take certain actions to enhance Department of Transportation (DOT) oversight of testing sites.
Bill· SS. 1098 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2009
EnergySmart Transport Corridors Act of 2009 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation (DOT) to: (1) establish an EnergySmart Transport Corridor program; and (2) coordinate the planning and deployment of measures, as well as designate EnergySmart transport corridors, to increase the energy efficiency of the Interstate System and reduce the emission of greenhouse gases and other environmental pollutants. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to states to assist in the development of corridors. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to authorize appropriations through FY2015 for the Idle Reduction and Energy Conservation Deployment Program.
Bill· HRH.R. 2535 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2009
Blueprint for Health Act of 2009 - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to create the Blueprint for Health program to provide a national infrastructure for disease prevention, health promotion, and education about, and better management of, chronic conditions. Sets forth elements to be included in the Blueprint, including: (1) a strategic plan for designing an integrated medical home model of care; (2) chronic management programs; (3) incentives for the prevention of chronic diseases, including investments in health and sustainable local and regional food systems; and (4) a plan for the assessment of current health information technology initiatives. Requires the Secretary to convene an executive committee to advise the Secretary on the creation and implementation of the Blueprint for Health. Requires the Blueprint for Health to promote the effective, efficient, national use of health care information technology initiatives. Directs the Secretary to commission an assessment that examines the implementation of the health information technology provisions of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Requires the Secretary to recommend to Congress legislation to implement the Blueprint for Health, including the establishment of programs designed to enhance primary care, promote multidisciplinary care coordination, prevent disease, improve quality, contain costs, more effectively manage chronic illness, and promote good health and prevention initiatives.
Bill· HRH.R. 2521 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2009
National Infrastructure Development Bank Act of 2009 - Establishes the National Infrastructure Development Bank as a wholly owned government corporation. Makes the Bank's Board of Directors responsible for monitoring and overseeing energy, environmental, telecommunications, and transportation infrastructure projects. Authorizes the Board to: (1) issue public benefit bonds and provide direct subsidies to infrastructure projects; (2) borrow on the global capital market and lend to entities and commercial banks for funding infrastructure projects; and (3) purchase, pool, and sell infrastructure-related loans and securities on such market. Requires the Board to establish criteria for determining project eligibility for financial assistance under this Act. Sets forth the duties of the Bank's executive committee and audit committee. Requires the Bank to establish a risk management committee, which shall: (1) create financial, credit, and operational risk management guidelines for the Bank; (2) set standards to ensure diversification of lending activities by both region and infrastructure project type; and (3) create conforming standards for infrastructure finance securities. Exempts all notes, debentures, bonds or other such obligations issued by the Bank, and the interest on or credits with respect to such bonds or other obligations, from state or local government taxation. Terminates the Bank after 15 years.
Bill· HRH.R. 2530 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2009
Freight Rail Economic Development Act of 2009 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation (DOT) to make capital grants to a class I, class II, or class III railroad or a state or local government for freight rail economic development projects, particularly projects to construct freight rail switches and sidings. Prescribes prevailing wage rate requirements for such projects in accordance with the Davis-Bacon Act.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 465 (111th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2009
Recognizes the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Association on the occasion of its 10th anniversary. Commends the achievements of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Association and encourages its continued tradition of excellence in service to Waterway users.
Bill· SS. 1078 (111th)open
United States · United States Congress · 19 May 2009
AmericaView Geospatial Imagery Mapping Program Act - Directs the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Director of the United States Geological Survey (USGS), to establish and maintain a national remote sensing education, outreach, and research program within USGS (AmericaView program) to advance the availability, timely distribution, and widespread use of geospatial imagery for education, research, assessment, and monitoring purposes in each state. Requires the Secretary, acting through the USGS data archive, development, maintenance, and product distribution program conducted at the Earth Resources Observation and Science Data Center (AmericaView project), to support the geospatial imagery mapping research and educational programs of each state by cooperating with states to identify new geospatial imagery mapping needs and infrastructure and to define, consolidate, and maintain the data requirements of the AmericaView project. Directs the Secretary to maintain AmericaView in each state for specified purposes, including: (1) to share and cooperate in the development of geospatial imagery mapping applications, education, and training infrastructure in each state; and (2) to promote cooperation and sharing of expertise regarding geospatial imagery among and within participating states. Requires the Secretary to: (1) provide grants, annually, to sustain and develop StateView programs (AmericaView programs of individual states, comprised of educational institutions and state and local governments); and (2) maintain an advisory committee to advise the Director regarding the AmericaView program.
Bill· HRH.R. 2503 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 19 May 2009
Requires the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security (Transportation Security Administration), in coordination with the Terrorist Screening Center, to include on the no fly list any individual who was a detainee housed, on or after January 1, 2009, at the Naval Station in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.
Bill· HRH.R. 2497 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 19 May 2009
Transportation Job Corps Act of 2009 - Requires the Administrator of the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) to establish: (1) a National Joint Workforce Development Council; and (2) regional workforce development councils and governing boards in each of its 10 regions. Replaces the current discretionary grant and contract programs addressing human resource needs as they apply to public transportation activities. Directs the Secretary of Transportation, acting through the Administrator, to establish programs for the award of grants to: (1) nonprofit organizations and educational institutions to introduce disconnected youth (ages 16 through 24 who are out of school and unemployed) to careers in the transit industry by providing them with basic skills education and pre-apprenticeship skills; (2) partnerships of transit agencies and unions representing non-managerial employees (partnerships), as well as providers of management and technical programs for managerial employees, to develop education programs to improve job skills of transit employees and to provide education and training to assist individuals to enter the transit profession; and (3) the same or similar partnerships to develop special projects to increase education opportunities for disadvantaged transit industry individuals, including racial and ethnic minorities underrepresented in transit management, by providing student scholarships, pre-entry preparation, and retention activities.
Bill· HRH.R. 2489 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 19 May 2009
AmericaView Geospatial Imagery Mapping Program Act - Directs the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Director of the United States Geological Survey (USGS), to establish and maintain a national remote sensing education, outreach, and research program within USGS (AmericaView program) to advance the availability, timely distribution, and widespread use of geospatial imagery for education, research, assessment, and monitoring purposes in each state. Requires the Secretary, acting through the USGS data archive, development, maintenance, and product distribution program conducted at the Earth Resources Observation and Science Data Center (AmericaView project), to support the geospatial imagery mapping research and educational programs of each state by cooperating with states to identify new geospatial imagery mapping needs and infrastructure and to define, consolidate, and maintain the data requirements of the AmericaView project. Directs the Secretary to maintain AmericaView in each state for specified purposes, including: (1) to share and cooperate in the development of geospatial imagery mapping applications, education, and training infrastructure in each state; and (2) to promote cooperation and sharing of expertise regarding geospatial imagery among and within participating states. Requires the Secretary to: (1) provide grants, annually, to sustain and develop StateView programs (AmericaView programs of individual states, comprised of educational institutions and state and local governments); and (2) maintain an advisory committee to advise the Director regarding the AmericaView program.
Bill· SS. 1059 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2009
Idaho Efficient Vehicle Demonstration Act of 2009 - Prohibits any reduction of the apportionment of federal-aid highway funds to Idaho if: (1) it permits a commercial combination vehicle weighing up to 129,000 pounds to operate on specified routes of the Interstate System within the state; (2) such vehicle does not exceed state weight limits for operation on state highways; and (3) the vehicle is limited to travel only on certain portions of Interstate Routes 15, 84, and 86. (Under current law, the federal-aid highway funds of a state shall be reduced if it permits a commercial combination vehicle with a weight in excess of federal weight limits to operate on Interstate System highways within the state.)
Bill· HRH.R. 2464 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2009
Catching Operational Vulnerabilities by Ensuring Random Testing Act of 2009 or the COVERT Act of 2009 - Requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to make sure that advance notice of a covert test of a transportation security system is not provided to any individual (including any security screener) before completion of the test, except: (1) that such information may be provided to certain federal, state, and local government employees, officers, and contractors (including military personnel); and (2) an individual conducting such a test may disclose his or her status if a security screener or other non-covered employee identifies such tester as a potential threat. Requires the head of each covert testing office to make sure that a covert testing person or group is accompanied by a cover team to monitor the test and confirm the identity of personnel involved. States, however, that a cover team is not required to be present during a test of the screening of persons or baggage at an aviation security checkpoint if the test: (1) is approved by the Federal Security Director for the airport; and (2) is administered under an aviation screening assessment program of the Department of Homeland Security. Directs the Secretary to study the impact of implementing covert testing procedures under this Act on the Department's efforts to improve transportation security.
Bill· HRH.R. 2454 (111th)open
United States · United States Congress · 15 May 2009
American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 - Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (PURPA) to establish a combined efficiency and renewable electricity standard that requires utilities to supply an increasing percentage of their demand from a combination of energy efficiency savings and renewable energy (6% in 2012, 9.5% in 2014, 13% in 2016, 16.5% in 2018, and 20% in 2021-2039). Provides for: (1) issuing, trading, banking, retiring, and verifying renewable electricity credits; and (2) prescribing standards to define and measure electricity savings from energy efficiency and energy conservation measures. Amends the Clean Air Act (CAA) to require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to: (1) set forth a national strategy to address barriers to the commercial-scale deployment of carbon capture and sequestration; (2) establish an approach to certify and permit geologic sequestration; and (3) promulgate regulations to minimize the risk of escape to the atmosphere of carbon dioxide injected for purposes of geological sequestration. Amends the Safe Drinking Water Act to require the Administrator to promulgate regulations for sequestration wells. Sets forth: (1) a process to establish a Carbon Storage Research Corporation to collect assessments from distribution utilities of fossil fuel-based electricity delivered directly to consumers; and (2) performance standards for new coal-fired power plants. Amends PURPA to provide for the development of electric vehicle infrastructure. Requires the Secretary of Energy (Secretary) to establish: (1) a large-scale vehicle electrification program; and (2) a program to provide financial assistance for the manufacture of plug-in electric drive vehicles. Requires the Administrator to establish a program under which a state may create a State Energy and Environment Development Account. Sets forth provisions concerning the development of a smart grid, including provisions: (1) amending the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to provide for the inclusion of smart grid capability information on appliance energy guide labels; (2) requiring the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to support load-serving entities in developing their peak demand reduction goals; (3) amending the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to reauthorize the energy efficiency public information program and to include smart grid information in it; and (4) reauthorizing the energy efficient and smart appliance rebate program and revising it to include smart-grid features. Amends the Federal Power Act to require FERC to adopt electricity grid planning principles derived from a federal policy (established by this Act) on electric grid planning that facilitates the deployment of renewable and other zero-carbon energy sources for generating electricity to reduce greenhouse gases (GHGs) while ensuring reliability, reducing congestion, ensuring cyber-security, and providing for cost-effective electricity services. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to revise: (1) rules regarding improving energy efficiency in industrial equipment; (2) efficiency standards for electric motors; (3) conservation standards for lighting and appliances; and (4) the Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products Other Than Automobiles. Requires the Secretary to establish Clean Energy Innovation Centers to promote commercial deployment of clean, indigenous energy alternatives to fossil fuels, to reduce GHG emissions, and to ensure that the United States maintains a lead in developing and deploying state-of-the-art energy technologies. Amends the Energy Conservation and Production Act to revise energy conservation standards for new buildings. Requires the Administrator to establish: (1) standards for a national energy and environmental building retrofit policy for residences; and (2) a building energy performance labeling program. Establishes a rebate program to assist low-income households residing in pre-1976 manufactured homes in purchasing new Energy Star qualified manufactured homes. Requires the Secretary to establish a Best-in-Class Appliances Deployment Program. Requires the President to use statutory authorities to set motor vehicle emissions standards. Amends the CAA to require the Administrator to promulgate standards applicable to GHG emissions from specified mobile sources, including heavy-duty vehicles and engines, new marine vessels, locomotives, and aircraft. Establishes within EPA a SmartWay Transport Program, a SmartWay Transport Partnership program, and a SmartWay Financing Program. Requires the Secretary to establish a program to make monetary awards to encourage owners and operators of electric energy generation facilities or thermal energy production facilities using fossil or nuclear fuel to use innovative means of recovering any thermal energy that is a potentially useful byproduct of their processes to: (1) generate additional electric energy; or (2) make sales of thermal energy not used for electric generation, in the form of steam, hot water, chilled water, or desiccant regeneration, or for other commercially valid purposes. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to community development organizations to provide financing to businesses and projects that improve energy efficiency, develop alternative, renewable, and distributed energy supplies, provide technical assistance and promote job and business opportunities for low-income residents, and increase energy conservation in low income rural and urban communities. Safe Climate Act - Amends the CAA to require the Administrator to promulgate regulations to: (1) cap and reduce GHG emissions, annually, so that GHG emissions from capped sources are reduced to 97% of 2005 levels by 2012, 83% by 2020, 58% by 2030, and 17% by 2050; and (2) establish a federal GHG registry. Designates carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, sulfur hexafluoride, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) from a chemical manufacturing process at an industrial stationary source, perfluorocarbons, and nitrogen trifluoride as GHGs and establishes a carbon dioxide equivalent value for each gas. Prohibits any person from manufacturing, introducing into interstate commerce, or emitting a significant quantity of certain fluorinated gas that is generated as a byproduct during the production or use of another fluorinated gas. Requires the Administrator to establish specified emission allowances (annual tonnage limits) for: (1) each of 2012-2049; and (2) 2050 and thereafter. Provides for the establishment and distribution of compensatory allowances for the destruction and conversionary use of fluorinated gases and the nonemissive use of petroleum-based or coal-based liquid or gaseous fuel, petroleum coke, natural gas liquid, or natural gas as a feedstock. Phases in prohibitions against covered entities (including electricity sources, fuel producers and importers, industrial gas producers and importers, geological sequestration sites, industrial stationary sources, industrial fossil fuel-fired combustion devices, natural gas local distribution companies, nitrogen trifluoride sources, algae-based fuels, and fugitive emissions) exceeding allowable emission levels. Requires covered entities to demonstrate compliance through: (1) holding emission allowances (including international emission or compensatory allowances) at least as great as attributable emissions (as specified); or (2) using offset credits. Sets forth penalties for noncompliance. Provides for trading, banking and borrowing, auctioning, selling, exchanging, transferring, holding, or retiring emission allowances. Requires the Administrator to: (1) establish a strategic reserve account and place into that account specified amounts (ranging from 1% to 3%) of the emission allowances for each of calendar years 2012-2050; and (2) auction such strategic reserve allowances once each quarter of each of such years. Requires stationary sources subject to the CAA to have permits that require the covered entity to hold a number of emission allowances at least equal to the total annual amount of carbon dioxide equivalents for its combined emissions and attributable GHG emissions. Authorizes the Administrator to designate an international climate change program as a qualifying international program for purposes of international emission allowances provisions, if certain conditions are met. Establishes the Offsets Integrity Advisory Board. Requires the Administrator, considering the Board's recommendations, to promulgate regulations establishing a program for the issuance of offset credits. Requires the Administrator to promulgate regulations concerning reducing GHG emissions from deforestation in developing countries. Sets forth provisions governing the disposition of emission allowances, including specifying allocations: (1) for supplemental emissions reductions from reduced deforestation; (2) for the benefit of electricity, natural gas, and/or home heating oil and propane consumers; (3) for auction, with proceeds for the benefit of low income consumers and worker investment; (4) to energy-intensive, trade-exposed industries; (5) for the deployment of carbon capture and sequestration technology; (6) to invest in energy efficiency and renewable energy; (7) to be distributed to Clean Energy Innovation Centers; (8) to invest in the development and deployment of clean vehicles; (9) to domestic refiners; (10) for domestic and international adaptation; (11) for domestic wildlife and natural resource adaptation; and (12) for international clean technology deployment. Requires the Administrator to auction off certain unused allowances and to deposit the proceeds for 2012-2025 into the Treasury and for 2026-2050 into the Climate Change Dividend Fund. Requires the President to distribute funds in the Consumer Climate Change Rebate Fund (established by this Act) to U.S. households. Amends the CAA to require the Administrator to promulgate GHG emission performance standards for specified categories of stationary sources that: (1) have uncapped GHG emissions greater than 10,000 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent and are responsible for emitting at least 20% of the uncapped GHG gas emission annually; or (2) are responsible for at least 10% of the uncapped methane emissions. Requires the Administrator to promulgate regulations to phase down the consumption of and regulate the production of HFCs. Specifies consumption allowances for: (1) each of 2012-2032; and (2) 2033 and thereafter. Provides for: (1) the distribution, auction, banking, exchange, and international transfer of such allowances; and (2) the issuance of offset credits for the destruction of chlorofluorocarbons. Establishes the Stratospheric Ozone and Climate Protection Fund, into which the Administrator shall deposit all proceeds from the sale of such allowances. Requires the Administrator to promulgate regulations to reduce emissions of black carbon (light absorbing component of carbonaceous aerosols) or propose a finding that existing CAA regulations adequately regulate such emissions. Prohibits states from implementing a cap and trade program that covers any capped emissions emitted during 2012-2017. Amends the Federal Power Act to require FERC to promulgate regulations for the establishment, operation, and oversight of markets for regulated allowances. Requires the President to establish an interagency working group on carbon market oversight. Amends the Commodity Exchange Act to provide for transactions in derivatives that involve energy commodities. Gives the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) jurisdiction over the establishment, operations, and oversight of markets for regulated allowance derivatives. Amends the CAA to require the Administrator to: (1) distribute emission allowance rebates to eligible industrial sectors (with eligibility based on specified energy, GHG, or trade intensity criteria); and (2) provide for the sale of and require submission of international reserve allowances by U.S. importers of products of industrial sectors that the President determines have suffered certain negative impacts from compliance with GHG emission requirements. Sets forth provisions concerning green jobs and worker transition, including: (1) authorizing the Secretary of Education to award grants to eligible partnerships to develop programs of study focused on emerging careers and jobs in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and climate change mitigation; and (2) providing climate change adjustment assistance to adversely affected workers. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow certain low income taxpayers a refundable energy tax credit to compensate such taxpayers for reductions in their purchasing power, as identified and calculated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), resulting from regulation of GHGs. Requires: (1) the Administrator to implement the Energy Refund Program to give low-income households a monthly cash energy refund equal to the estimated loss in purchasing power resulting from this Act; (2) the Secretary of State to oversee distributions of allowances from the International Clean Technology Account; (3) the President to establish within the United States Global Change Research Program a National Climate Change Adaptation Program; (4) the Secretary of Commerce to establish within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) a National Climate Service; (5) the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to publish a strategic action plan to assist health professionals in preparing for and responding to the impacts of climate change; (6) the President to develop a Natural Resources Climate Change Adaptation Strategy; and (7) the Secretary of State to establish an International Climate Change Adaptation Program.
Bill· SS. 1041 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 14 May 2009
Amends the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 to provide that double hulled tankers over 5,000 gross tons transporting oil in bulk in Prince William Sound, Alaska, shall be escorted by at least two towing vessels or other appropriate vessels (currently, only single hulled tankers receive such escorts).
Bill· SS. 1036 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 14 May 2009
Federal Surface Transportation Policy and Planning Act of 2009 - Declares it is U.S. policy to develop a national surface transportation system that advances the national interest and defense, interstate and foreign commerce, the efficient and safe interstate mobility of people and goods, and the protection of the environment. Sets forth certain U.S. policy objectives and goals, including to: (1) reduce national per capita motor vehicle miles traveled annually; (2) reduce national surface transportation-generated carbon dioxide levels by 40% by 2030; (3) reduce national surface transportation (including passenger and freight) delays and congestion at U.S. points of entry; (4) increase the total usage of public transportation, intercity passenger rail services, and non-motorized transportation; and (5) ensure adequate transportation of domestic energy supplies. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to: (1) develop performance criteria and data collections systems to evaluate the effectiveness of federal surface transportation programs; (2) implement such programs to meet the policy, objectives, goals, and performance criteria established by this Act; and (3) develop and implement a National Surface Transportation Performance Plan. Authorizes the Secretary to amend the goals established under this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 2428 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 14 May 2009
Broadband Conduit Deployment Act of 2009 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to require states to install broadband conduits (conduits for fiber optic cables or wireless facilities that support broadband service) in certain highway construction projects.
Bill· HRH.R. 2444 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 14 May 2009
Changes from discretionary to mandatory the funding of nondiscrimination requirements for federal-aid highway projects under the surface transportation and bridge programs.
Bill· SS. 1035 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 2009
Drinking Water Adaptation, Technology, Education, and Research (WATER) 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 the utilities in adapting to the effects of climate change. Requires research areas to include: (1) water quality impacts and solutions; (2) impacts on groundwater supplies from carbon sequestration; (3) water quantity impacts and solutions; (4) infrastructure impacts and solutions for water treatment and wastewater treatment facilities and underground pipelines; (5) desalination, water reuse, and alternative supply technologies; (6) energy efficiency and greenhouse gas minimization; (7) regional and hydrological basin cooperative water management solutions; (8) utility management, decision support systems, and water management models; (9) greenhouse gas emissions reduction and improvement of energy demand management; (10) water conservation and demand management; and (11) communications, education, and public acceptance.
Bill· HRH.R. 2401 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 2009
No Fly, No Buy Act of 2009 - Amends the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act to prohibit: (1) the sale or other disposition of a firearm or ammunition to any person knowing or having reasonable cause to believe that such person is an individual required to be prevented from boarding an aircraft; and (2) the shipment, transport, possession, or receipt of a firearm or ammunition by such individuals.
Bill· HRH.R. 2385 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 2009
Requires the Secretary of Energy, acting through the Assistant Secretary of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, to assemble a team of technical, policy, and financial experts to address the energy needs of Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the Northern Mariana Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Republic of Palau, and the U.S. Virgin Islands to: (1) reduce reliance and expenditures on imported fossil fuels; (2) increase the use of indigenous, nonfossil fuel energy sources; (3) improve the performance of energy infrastructure through projects to improve the energy efficiency of power generation, transmission, and distribution and increase consumer energy efficiency; (4) improve the performance of energy infrastructure through enhanced planning, education, and training; (5) adopt research-based and public-private partnership-based approaches; (6) stimulate economic development and job creation; and (7) enhance the engagement by the federal government in international efforts to address such energy needs. Requires the team to provide assistance to each utility of each island and to each island's government to develop and implement an energy Action Plan to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels through increased efficiency and use of indigenous clean-energy resources. Requires the Secretary to consider including regional utility organizations in the establishment of the team and providing assistance through regional utility organizations.
Bill· SS. 1023 (111th)open
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 2009
Travel Promotion Act of 2009 - Establishes the Corporation for Travel Promotion as a nonprofit corporation that is not an agency or establishment of the U.S. government. Makes the Corporation subject to the provisions of the District of Columbia Nonprofit Corporation Act. Expresses the sense of Congress that the Corporation should not engage in lobbying activities. Requires the Corporation, among other things, to provide useful information to people interested in traveling to the United States, counter and correct misperceptions regarding U.S. entry policy, and promote U.S. travel. Requires the Corporation to establish and maintain a publicly accessible website. Establishes in the Treasury the Travel Promotion Fund. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to require (under current law, authorize) the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish and collect a fee for the use of an electronic data sharing system concerning the admissibility of certain aliens into the United States that will ensure recovery of the full costs of providing and administering such system. Terminates such fee following FY2014. Authorizes the Corporation to impose an annual assessment on U.S. members of the travel and tourism industry represented on the Board of Directors of the Corporation. Establishes in the Department of Commerce the Office of Travel Promotion, to be headed by a Director. Amends the International Travel Act of 1961 to require that the Office of Travel and Tourism Industries expand its research and development activities to promote international travel to the United States.
Bill· SS. 1024 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 2009
Great Lakes Icebreaker Replacement Act - Authorizes appropriations to the Secretary of Homeland Security for necessary expenses of the Coast Guard relating to the design, acquisition, and construction of a combined buoy tender-icebreaker to replace icebreaking capacity on the Great Lakes.
Resolution· SRESS.Res. 145 (111th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 2009
Designates the week of May 17-May 23, 2009, as National Public Works Week. Recognizes the important contributions of public works professionals to improving U.S. public infrastructure and to the communities they serve.
Resolution· SRESS.Res. 147 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 2009
Designates the week beginning on the second Saturday in May of each year as National Travel and Tourism Week.
Bill· HRH.R. 2355 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 2009
Making Opportunities Via Efficient and More Effective National Transportation Act of 2009 or the MOVEMENT Act of 2009 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to carry out a National Goods Movement Improvement Program to provide funding for projects to improve the movement of goods in interstate commerce, to provide security for such goods in transit, and to mitigate environmental damage caused by the movement of goods. Terminates such program after FY2018. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) establish the National Goods Movement Improvement Fund to finance the projects authorized by this Act; and (2) impose the harbor maintenance excise tax on commercial cargo entering the customs territory of the United States other than by port use following foreign port use.
Bill· SS. 1005 (111th)open
United States · United States Congress · 7 May 2009
Water Infrastructure Financing Act - Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (commonly known as the Clean Water Act or CWA) to: (1) authorize the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish a competitive grant program to provide technical assistance to small and medium treatment works on wastewater and stormwater approaches; (2) expand the list of projects eligible for state water pollution control revolving loan fund (commonly known as the Clean Water State Revolving Fund or CWSRF) assistance; (3) provide assistance, including loan forgiveness, for disadvantaged communities; (4) allow states to forgive repayment of a portion of a loan for alternative approaches to wastewater and stormwater controls; (5) establish a priority system for providing financial assistance from the CWSRF; (6) allow a transfer of capitalization grants between revolving loan funds for water pollution control and safe drinking water treatment; (7) extend through FY2014 the authorization of appropriations for CWSRF and to set forth the percentage of such allocation that will be allotted to each state, to U.S. territories, and to Indian tribes; and (8) revise provisions concerning sewer overflow control grants, including extending through FY2014 the authorization of appropriations for such grants. Directs the Administrator to establish a grant program for watershed restoration through the protection or improvement of water quality. Amends the Safe Drinking Water Act to: (1) establish a priority system for providing assistance to enable small public water systems to achieve and maintain compliance with national primary drinking water regulation; (2) require the Administrator to give grants to provide technical assistance for the design, operation, construction, and maintenance of household wells and small shared well-systems that provide drinking water; (4) authorize appropriations through FY2014 for such a grant program; (4) expand the list of projects eligible for state drinking water treatment revolving loan funds (commonly known as the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund [DWSRF]); and (5) extend through FY2014 the authorization of appropriations for the DWSRF. Directs the Administrator to: (1) establish a grant program to assist community water systems in meeting the requirements of the Safe Drinking Water Act; (2) establish a grant program to provide assistance for lead reduction projects; (3) establish a grant program to research and develop the use of innovative and alternative technologies and approaches to improve water quality, drinking water supply, or water use efficiency and conservation; (4) establish a nationwide demonstration grant program to promote such technologies and approaches and reduce costs to municipalities incurred in complying with the CWA; (5) enter into an arrangement with the National Academy of Sciences for a study of innovative, effective, and systematic approaches for the management of water supply, wastewater, and stormwater; (6) provide capitalization grants to states for agricultural watershed sustainability technology revolving funds; and (7) identify ways to improve the state revolving fund review process. Authorizes the Administrator to implement training programs, provide technical assistance, and disseminate information regarding effective utility management strategies. Establishes within EPA the WaterSense Program to promote voluntary approaches to increase water efficiency.
Bill· SS. 1003 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 7 May 2009
Immunization Improvement Act of 2009 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to: (1) allow states to purchase vaccines recommended for routine use at rates negotiated by the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS); (2) require the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to establish a demonstration program to improve the delivery of vaccines recommended for routine use; (3) reauthorize the program for free immunizations for children, adolescents, and adults; (4) require group health plans to provide coverage for routine immunizations without cost sharing (i.e., copayments or deductibles); and (5) require the improvement and expansion of immunization information systems as part of the health information technology infrastructure. Amends the Social Security Act to provide: (1) Medicare and Medicaid coverage for vaccines recommended for routine use; and (2) reimbursement to health care providers for administering vaccines to children under the Vaccines for Children program. Requires the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and the CDC Director to jointly review and update the regional maximum charge for state vaccine administration established under the Vaccines for Children program.
Bill· HRH.R. 2335 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 7 May 2009
Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to carry out a program to develop a travel credential or system that incorporates biometric technology and other technologies to limit air travel disruptions, and verify the identities, of individuals who have metal implants.
Bill· HRH.R. 2337 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 7 May 2009
Southwestern Transit Corridor Planning and Fuel Use Reduction Act - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to make a grant to: (1) the New Mexico Mid Region Council of Governments to study the feasibility of extending the New Mexico rail runner express commuter rail service south from Belen, New Mexico, to El Paso, Texas, or to intermediate points; and (2) the city of Las Cruces, New Mexico, and the city of El Paso, Texas, to study the feasibility for a public transit system, including the option of commuter rail, that would connect Las Cruces and El Paso.
Bill· HRH.R. 2311 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 7 May 2009
United States-China Diplomatic Expansion Act of 2009 - Authorizes FY2010 appropriations for: (1) public diplomacy programming, hiring of additional local public diplomacy personnel, and public diplomacy information technology infrastructure in the People's Republic of China (PRC); (2) construction of one additional U.S. consulate in the PRC (in addition to the number in existence on the date of the enactment of this Act); (3) 10 additional U.S. diplomatic posts in the PRC (in addition to the number in existence on the date of the enactment of this Act); (4) a U.S. financial contribution to Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation; (5) rule of law initiatives in the PRC; and (6) specified Chinese language exchanges.
Bill· SS. 983 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 6 May 2009
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 a large or medium hub airport; or (2) is fewer than 210 miles from a large or medium hub airport and providing such air transportation would require a per passenger subsidy in excess of $200 for calendar year 2010, including any increase or decrease 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 large or medium hub airport. Establishes within the Office of the Secretary the Office of Rural Aviation. 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. 2269 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 6 May 2009
Gulf Coast Civic Works Act - Establishes within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of the Federal Coordinator of Gulf Coast Rebuilding the Gulf Coast Civic Works Commission. Authorizes any municipality of over 25,000 people in the affected area to designate a local advisory council to advise the Commission. Requires the Commission to: (1) establish regional taskforces and prepare a regional policy plan; (2) establish and administer a Gulf Coast Civic Works Project that employs a minimum of 100,000 Gulf Coast region residents and evacuees for public works projects to rebuild and develop the Gulf Coast region impacted by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita; (3) establish or support existing job-training programs and apprenticeships to recruit and train qualified workers, with emphasis on women and disadvantaged workers from the Gulf Coast region, for specific job vacancies in approved Civic Works Projects and other recovery, rebuilding, and development projects; (4) ensure that all workers are paid wages at not less than the prevailing locality rate (Davis-Bacon Act); and (5) establish or coordinate other infrastructure projects, including environmental restoration, energy efficiency and conservation, search for affordable workforce housing, and youth works projects. Authorizes the Commission to provide grants to Gulf Coast region residents who possess certain skills for: (1) artistic and cultural projects which reflect or preserve the history and culture of the Gulf Coast region; and (2) projects that chronicle the story of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
Bill· SS. 971 (111th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 2009
Jason's Law - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to: (1) implement a pilot program to allocate funds to states, metropolitan planning organizations, and local governments that submit an application approved by the Secretary for eligible projects to establish long-term parking facilities for commercial motor vehicles (trucks) on the National Highway System; and (2) give priority to applicants that demonstrate a severe shortage of truck parking capacity and whose proposed projects are likely to have positive effects on highway safety, traffic congestion, or air quality.