Transport

360 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Transport, in the event of an owner of a motor vehicle which ought to have undergone the national car test, who disposes of the car prior to same, to a new owner, is it correct to state, when the NCT is taken by the new owner, that the certificate will be issued for a shorter period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18153/02]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 15 October 2002

360 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Transport, in the event of an owner of a motor vehicle which ought to have undergone the national car test, who disposes of the car prior to same, to a new owner, is it correct to state, when the NCT is taken by the new owner, that the certificate will be issued for a shorter period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18153/02]

359 Mr. O'Dowd asked the Minister for Transport the reason the rates for rail users travelling from Drogheda to Dublin are so high; the way in which the current prices are compiled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18003/02]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 15 October 2002

359 Mr. O'Dowd asked the Minister for Transport the reason the rates for rail users travelling from Drogheda to Dublin are so high; the way in which the current prices are compiled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18003/02]

358 Mr. Kirk asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the serious overcrowding on the Dundalk to Dublin trains at certain times; if he will have the matter urgently examined. [17995/02]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 15 October 2002

358 Mr. Kirk asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the serious overcrowding on the Dundalk to Dublin trains at certain times; if he will have the matter urgently examined. [17995/02]

357 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Transport whether, if a person does the theory part of the driving test in England and passes it, that theory test can suffice here as an Irish theory test; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18380/02]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 15 October 2002

357 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Transport whether, if a person does the theory part of the driving test in England and passes it, that theory test can suffice here as an Irish theory test; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18380/02]

356 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Transport the training received by driving testers; if this is on an ongoing basis; and the steps taken to ensure consistency of standards in such tests. [18019/02]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 15 October 2002

356 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Transport the training received by driving testers; if this is on an ongoing basis; and the steps taken to ensure consistency of standards in such tests. [18019/02]

355 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Transport if an application for a written theory test can be brought forward for a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17973/02]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 15 October 2002

355 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Transport if an application for a written theory test can be brought forward for a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17973/02]

233 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Education and Science when free primary school transport will be provided for a disabled pupil who is confined to a wheelchair and has failed to locate a wheelchair-accessible taxi to go to a school (details supplied). [18325/02]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 15 October 2002

233 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Education and Science when free primary school transport will be provided for a disabled pupil who is confined to a wheelchair and has failed to locate a wheelchair-accessible taxi to go to a school (details supplied). [18325/02]

Driver's License Fraud Prevention Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2002

Driver's License Fraud Prevention Act - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to complete an assessment of the personal information and characteristics recorded by States to identify individuals for purposes of issuing driver's licenses, including potential methods uniquely identifying individuals such as biometric identifiers, and the cost and effects of using such identifiers to identify drivers nationwide. Amends Federal transportation law to require the Secretary to prescribe regulations setting forth: (1) minimum standards for processing driver's license and identification card applications, including proof of the identity of an applicant for the license or identification card; and (2) minimum security standards that shall be applied by a State to prevent fraud in the issuance or use of a driver's license or identification card. Prohibits a State from issuing a driver's license to an individual: (1) who currently holds a valid driver's license issued by that State or by another State; and (2) during a period in which such individual is disqualified from operating a motor vehicle. Authorizes the Secretary to award grants to States to: (1) develop the Driver License Agreement to promote the sharing of driver's license information and conviction records among the States; and (2) implement innovative programs to verify driver identity, prevent fraud in the procurement of driver's licenses, and demonstrate the use of technology to create tamper resistant, secure driver's licenses. Amends Federal criminal law to revise requirements governing the disclosure of personal information from State motor vehicle records to permit the disclosure of such information by a State department of motor vehicles for purposes of preventing fraud, or to verify information relating to the employment of an individual. Sets forth both civil and criminal penalties for: (1) the fraudulent issuance, renewal, upgrade, or transfer of a driver's license; and (2) the unauthorized use of State motor vehicle agency records and equipment by any person. Sets forth requirements: (1) requiring the consolidation of the National Driver Register, the Commercial Driver's License Information System, and information on all licensed drivers into a new Driver Record Information Verification System, among other things, prevent the issuance to an individual of more than one State-issued driver's license; and (2) prohibiting the disclosure or display of social security numbers on motor vehicle records.

Denali Transportation System Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2002

Denali Transportation System Act - Amends the Denali Commission Act of 1998 to direct the Secretary of Transportation to establish a program to pay the design and construction costs of the Denali transportation system in Alaska. Authorizes the Commission to construct marine connections and other transportation access infrastructure for communities that would otherwise lack access to the National Highway System. Makes each completed highway on the Denali transportation system a part of the National Highway System. Authorizes the Commission to give preference to the use of Alaskan construction firms and Alaskan materials used in the construction of the Denali transportation system.

To direct the Secretary of Transportation to conduct a study to determine the feasibility of constructing a highway in California connecting State Route 130 in Santa Clara County with Interstate Route 5 in San Joaquin County.

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2002

Directs the Secretary of Transportation to conduct a study to determine the feasibility of constructing a highway in California, connecting State Route 130 in Santa Clara County with Interstate Route 5 in San Joaquin County, open only to passenger vehicles.

Opinion of Mr Advocate General Alber delivered on 10 October 2002. # Libor Cipra and Vlastimil Kvasnicka v Bezirkshauptmannschaft Mistelbach. # Reference for a preliminary ruling: Unabhängiger Verwaltungssenat im Land Niederösterreich - Austria. # Road transport - Social legislation - Regulation (EEC) No 3820/85 - Breaks and rest periods - Crew consisting of more than one driver - Jurisdiction of the Court to interpret the AETR Agreement - Principle of legal certainty. # Case C-439/01.

European Union · Court of Justice of the European Union · 10 October 2002

Air transport: insurance requirements for air carriers and airport operators

European Union · European Parliament · 9 October 2002

Airline Worker Relief Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 9 October 2002

Airline Worker Relief Act of 2002 - Directs the Secretary of Labor to provide adjustment assistance (similar to assistance provided to workers adversely affected by import competition under the Trade Act of 1974) to certain eligible airline workers who lost their jobs as the result of the terrorist attacks on the United States on September 11, 2001.

Judgment of the Court of First Instance (Second Chamber) of 9 October 2002. # Hans Fuchs Versandschlachterei KG v Commission of the European Communities. # Regulation (EC) No 111/1999 - Regulation (EC) No 1135/1999 - Food-aid to Russia - Invitation to tender for mobilisation - Invitation to tender for transport - Contractual relationship - Arbitration clause - Claim for performance of a contract - Admissibility - Provision of certificates for each means of transport - Default interest. # Case T-134/01.

European Union · Court of Justice of the European Union · 9 October 2002

A bill to require reports to Congress related to airports that will not deploy explosive detection systems by December 31, 2002, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 8 October 2002

Amends Federal aviation law to require the Under Secretary of Transportation for Security of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to make specified reports to Congress if TSA is unable to deploy explosive detection systems at all airports by December 31, 2002.

Sudan Peace Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 October 2002

Sudan Peace Act - Condemns violations of human rights on all sides of the conflict in Sudan (including the Government of Sudan), the ongoing slave trade there, the Government's use and organization of "murahalliin" (or "mujahadeen"), Popular Defense Forces (PDF), and regular Sudanese Army units into raiding and slaving parties in Bahr al Ghazal, the Nuba Mountains, Upper Nile, and Blue Nile regions, and its aerial bombardment of civilian targets. Recognizes that the use of raiding and slaving parties is a tool for creating food shortages as a systematic means to destroy the societies, culture, and economies of the Dinka, Nuer, and Nuba peoples in a policy of low-intensity ethnic cleansing. Provides increased assistance to areas of Sudan that are not controlled by the Government of Sudan to prepare the population for peace and democratic governance. Requires the President to take specified actions against Sudan if the President determines and certifies to the appropriate congressional committees that the Government of Sudan has not engaged in good faith negotiations with the Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM) to achieve a peace agreement, or is not in compliance with the terms of any negotiated peace agreement with the SPLM. Expresses the sense of Congress that the United Nations (UN) should help facilitate peace and recovery in Sudan. Directs the President to develop a contingency plan to provide, outside UN auspices, the greatest amount of U.S. Government and privately donated relief to all affected areas in Sudan, including the Nuba Mountains, Upper Nile, and the Blue Nile regions, in the event the Government of Sudan imposes a ban on Operation Lifeline Sudan air transport relief flights. Directs the Secretary to collect information about possible war crimes by all parties to the conflict in Sudan, including slavery, rape, and aerial bombardment of civilian targets.

Urging the States to include in their driver's license exams at least one question about highway-rail grade crossings safety by fiscal year 2005.

United States · United States Congress · 8 October 2002

Urges the States by FY 2005 to include in their driver's license exams (including commercial driver's license exams) at least one question regarding highway-rail grade crossings safety.

Opinion of Mr Advocate General Alber delivered on 8 October 2002. # Georgios Stylianakis v Elliniko Dimosio. # Reference for a preliminary ruling: Monomeles Dioikitiko Protodikeio Irakleiou - Greece. # Article 8a of the EC Treaty (now, after amendment, Article 18 EC) - European citizenship - Article 59 of the Treaty (now, after amendment, Article 49 EC) - Freedom to provide services - Community air transport - Airport tax - Discrimination - Regulation (EEC) No 2408/92. # Case C-92/01.

European Union · Court of Justice of the European Union · 8 October 2002

Higher-Risk Impaired Driver Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 October 2002

Higher-Risk Impaired Driver Act - Requires the Secretary of Transportation to transfer an increasing percentage (two percent on October 1, 2006; four percent on October 1, 2007; and six percent on October 1, 2008) of a State's Federal-aid highway funds to that State's apportionment solely for impaired driving programs if the State has not enacted or is not enforcing a higher risk impaired driver law. Defines such a law as one that provides certain minimum penalties for: (1) a second or subsequent offense of driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving under the influence (DUI) within a minimum of five consecutive years, of DWI or DUI with a blood alcohol concentration of .15 percent or greater, or of driving-while-suspended if the suspension was the result of a DUI conviction; or (2) refusing a blood alcohol concentration test while under arrest or investigation for involvement in a fatal or serious injury crash. Includes among such penalties: (1) driver's license suspension; (2) motor vehicle impoundment or immobilization; (3) assessment by a certified substance abuse official and assignment to treatment; (4) imprisonment, attachment of an electronic monitoring device, or assignment to a DUI/DWI specialty facility; (5) a $1,000 fine; (6) required restitution; (7) probation; and (8) required attendance of a treatment program and a victim impact panel.

Captive Wildlife Safety Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 October 2002

Captive Wildlife Safety Act - Amends the Lacey Act Amendments of 1981 to define "prohibited wildlife species" as any live lion, tiger, leopard, cheetah, jaguar, or cougar. Declares it a prohibited act for any person to import, export, transport, sell, receive, acquire, or purchase in interstate or foreign commerce any prohibited wildlife species. Exempts from this prohibition licensed zoos, circuses, accredited sanctuaries, federally-licensed breeders, State entities (universities, wildlife rehabilitators or veterinarians), any incorporated humane society, animal shelter, or society for the prevention of cruelty to animals, persons transporting prohibited wildlife species to any such facility, and specified related organizations.

Maggie's Law: National Drowsy Driving Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 3 October 2002

Maggie's Law: National Drowsy Driving Act of 2002 - Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to enter into agreements with, and make grants to, State highway offices and other driving safety organizations to obtain and distribute national, State, and local drowsy driving education programs and supporting materials. Directs that grant funds be used to: (1) implement programs designed to prevent deaths and injuries due to drivers who are impaired by fatigue and sleep deprivation; (2) develop a standardized curriculum on the risks and prevention of drowsy driving and fall-asleep motor vehicle crashes; (3) collaborate with national drowsy driving campaigns to distribute information and educational messages and to review existing State model programs; (4) adopt policy statements and work plans for the installation and expansion of continuous shoulder rumble strips for interstate highways; (5) adopt codes on accident report forms to report fatigue-related or fall-asleep crashes; (6) provide training in the detection and reporting of drowsy driving as a factor in motor vehicle crashes; and (7) provide education programs to the police and the courts regarding the sanctions available for drowsy driving accidents. Directs the Secretary to study the scope of the problem of fatigue-related automobile crashes.

MEGA Stream Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 October 2002

Maximum Economic Growth for America Through Environmental Streamlining Act (MEGA Stream Act) - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish a program under which States carry out Federal responsibilities with respect to one or more highway or transit projects (or classes of projects) under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA), provisions of this Act, or such other environmental review or decision-making authority of the Secretary as the Secretary deems appropriate. Sets conditions regarding State assumption of responsibility for projects located within the State for which environmental impact statements are required. Grants the U.S. district courts exclusive jurisdiction over any civil action against a State for failure to carry out any State responsibility under this Act. Requires the Secretary to conduct audits to ensure State compliance. Designates the Department of Transportation as the lead agency for purposes of compliance with NEPA. Sets forth provisions regarding statements of purpose and need for a highway or transit project, determination of alternatives, and public comment. Makes the Secretary responsible for: (1) developing a schedule for the NEPA process; (2) coordinating efforts to identify and resolve issues that could cause any other Federal agency to oppose or deny project approval or cause delay in completion of the process; (3) developing an agency coordination plan; (4) requesting each relevant Federal agency to participate in the process; and (5) preparing or ensuring that any required environmental impact statement is completed in accordance with the NEPA process.

Sudan Peace Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 October 2002

Sudan Peace Act - Condemns violations of human rights on all sides of the conflict in Sudan (including the Government of Sudan), the ongoing slave trade there, the Government's use and organization of "murahalliin" (or "mujahadeen"), Popular Defense Forces (PDF), and regular Sudanese Army units into raiding and slaving parties in Bahr al Ghazal, the Nuba Mountains, Upper Nile, and Blue Nile regions, and its aerial bombardment of civilian targets. Recognizes that the use of raiding and slaving parties is a tool for creating food shortages as a systematic means to destroy the societies, culture, and economies of the Dinka, Nuer, and Nuba peoples in a policy of low-intensity ethnic cleansing. Provides increased assistance to areas of Sudan that are not controlled by the Government of Sudan to prepare the population for peace and democratic governance. Requires the President to take specified actions against Sudan if the President determines and certifies to the appropriate congressional committees that the Government of Sudan has not engaged in good faith negotiations with the Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM) to achieve a peace agreement, or is not in compliance with the terms of any negotiated peace agreement with the SPLM. Expresses the sense of Congress that the United Nations (UN) should help facilitate peace and recovery in Sudan. Directs the President to develop a contingency plan to provide, outside UN auspices, the greatest amount of U.S. Government and privately donated relief to all affected areas in Sudan, including the Nuba Mountains, Upper Nile, and the Blue Nile regions, in the event the Government of Sudan imposes a ban on Operation Lifeline Sudan air transport relief flights. Directs the Secretary to collect information about possible war crimes by all parties to the conflict in Sudan, including slavery, rape, and aerial bombardment of civilian targets.

District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 2003

United States · United States Congress · 2 October 2002

District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 2003 - Makes appropriations to the District of Columbia for FY 2003, including amounts for the Federal payments: (1) for District of Columbia Resident Tuition Support; (2) for emergency planning and security costs in the District; (3) to District of Columbia Courts; (4) for Defender Services in District of Columbia Courts; (5) to the Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency for the District of Columbia (including transfer of funds); (6) to the Department of Transportation in the District; (7) to the Chief Financial Officer of the District; (8) to continue improvements on the Potomac Southwest Waterfront; (9) to reimburse Fairfax County, Virginia, for asbestos remediation on the former site of the Lorton Correctional Complex; (10) to the D.C. Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department to repair, renovate, and rehabilitate fire stations in need of capital improvements; (11) to the D.C. Public Education System for special education transportation services and satellite facilities; (12) to the Credit Enhancement Revolving Fund; (13) for the Family Literacy Program; (14) to the D.C. Water and Sewer Authority to begin implementing the Combined Sewer Overflow Long-Term Plan; and (15) for capital infrastructure development. Appropriates specified sums out of the District's general fund and/or other funds for the current fiscal year for: (1) operating expenses (with limitations); (2) governmental direction and support; (3) economic development and regulation; (4) public safety and justice; (5) the public education system (including transfer of funds); (6) human support services (including transfer of funds); (7) public works; (8) the Reserve; (9) the Emergency and Contingency Reserve Fund; (10) repayment of certain loans and interest; (11) repayment of General Fund Recovery Debt; (12) payment of interest on short-term borrowing; (13) for principal and interest payments on the District's Certificates of Participation, issued to finance the ground lease underlying the building located at One Judiciary Square; (14) refunds and for the payment of legal settlements or judgments that have been entered against the District government; (15) the John A. Wilson Building; (16) workforce investments; (17) the Tobacco Settlement Trust Fund; (18) for certain non-departmental agency costs; (19) pay-as-you-go capital in lieu of capital financing; (20) for the District's costs of public safety expenses related to National Special Security Events and for the costs of providing support to respond to immediate and specific terrorist threats or attacks in the District or surrounding jurisdictions; (21) the Water and Sewer Authority; (22) the Washington Aqueduct; (23) the Stormwater Permit Compliance Enterprise Fund; (24) the Lottery and Charitable Games Enterprise Fund; (25) the Sports and Entertainment Commission; (26) the District of Columbia Retirement Board; (27) the Washington Convention Center Enterprise Fund; (28) the National Capital Revitalization Corporation; and (29) capital outlay (including rescissions).

To amend title 23, United States Code, to waive certain limitations.

United States · United States Congress · 2 October 2002

Provides increased weight limitations for vehicles hauling sand, gravel, wood chips, wood shavings, sawdust, fill dirt, agricultural products, or unprocessed forestry products, or any combination thereof, on Interstate routes 59, 55, 20, or 10 in Mississippi.

Anton's Law

United States · United States Congress · 1 October 2002

Child Safety Enhancement Act of 2002 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to: (1) initiate a rulemaking proceeding to establish performance requirements for child restraints, including booster seats, for children weighing more than 50 pounds; (2) develop, evaluate, and initiate a rulemaking proceeding to adopt an anthropomorphic test device that simulates a ten-year old child for use in testing child restraints used in passenger motor vehicles; (3) complete a rulemaking proceeding to amend Federal motor vehicle safety standard No. 208 relating to occupant crash protection in order to require a lap and shoulder belt assembly for each rear designated seating position in a passenger vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 pounds or less; and (4) initiate an evaluation of integrated or built-in child restraints and booster seats.

United States Cruise Tourism Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 1 October 2002

United States Cruise Tourism Act of 2002 - Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to approve the transportation of passengers on foreign-flag cruise vessels not otherwise qualified to engage in the coastwise trade between ports in the United States, directly or by way of a foreign port, except with respect to coastwise trade served by a U.S.-flag cruise vessel. Requires termination of any such foreign-flag cruise vessel passenger service within three years after a U.S.-flag cruise vessel commences such service between the same ports. Requires the owner or charterer of a qualified foreign-flag cruise vessel to have any vessel repairs performed in the United States, unless the vessel requires repairs or service while at a distant foreign port. Directs the Secretary to terminate the coastwise trade privileges of the owner or charterer of a foreign-flag cruise vessel if such repairs have not been made in the United States. Provides for a waiver of such requirements in emergencies.

Aviation Industry Stabilization and Reform Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 1 October 2002

Aviation Industry Stabilization and Reform Act of 2002 - Amends Federal transportation law to extend through calendar 2003 the authority of the Secretary of Transportation to declare an air carrier a victim of terrorism not liable for third party claims arising out of acts of terrorism. Grants the Secretary authority to extend through calendar 2003 the termination date of any insurance policy issued to an air carrier. Extends the period for applying for certain loan guarantees under the Air Transportation Safety and System Stabilization Act. Requires the Under Secretary for Transportation Security, after all cockpit doors are strengthened, to reconsider and report to Congress on whether it is necessary to require Federal air marshals to be seated in the first class cabin of an aircraft with strengthened cockpit doors. Requires the Under Secretary to: (1) undertake action necessary to improve the screening of mail so that it can be carried on passenger flights; and (2) reimburse air carriers for certain screening and related activities as well as the cost of fortifying cockpit doors. Prohibits the Transportation Security Administration and the Federal Aviation Administration from issuing or enforcing a final rule requiring the strengthening or locking of cockpit doors on all-cargo aircraft until the Under Secretary has considered and determined that it is necessary for aviation security. Prescribes requirements for reorganization of the Air Traffic Services Subcommittee of the Aviation Management Advisory Council into the Air Traffic Services Board Specifies additional duties for the Under Secretary. Revises requirements relating to: (1) nondisclosure of security activities; (2) safety regulations; (3) passenger and property screening; and (4) employment standards, training, investigations, and restrictions. Directs the Under Secretary to establish a process to permit an individual who was convicted of a crime of a specified type to obtain a waiver, in certain circumstances, to permit the individual's employment.

Recognizing the importance of surface transportation infrastructure to interstate and international commerce and the traveling public and the contributions of the trucking, rail, intercity bus, and passenger transit industries to the economic well being of the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 1 October 2002

Recognizes the trucking, railroad, and passenger transit industries, and the workers in industries which operate, design, build, and maintain the rights of way along which trucks, freight trains, buses, and commuter trains travel for their: (1) contribution to the economy by facilitating international and interstate commerce; (2) contribution to the freedom of the traveling public which uses roads, highways, and railways for business and leisure; and (3) conscientious effort to improve safety, increase efficiency, and better the environment in communities throughout the United States.

MEGA Safe Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2002

Maximum Economic Growth for America Through Safety Improvements Act (MEGA Safe Act) - Directs the Secretary of Transportation: (1) before making an apportionment for the Interstate and National Highway System program, the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement program, or the Surface Transportation program for a fiscal year, to set aside specified funds to carry out a program to assist local governments in placing fluorescent yellow-green signs to mark school zone crossing and other pedestrian and bicycle highway crossing zones; and (2) to establish a rural local roads safety pilot program to carry out construction, improvement, and maintenance activities that provide a safety benefit. Designates the left lane of each highway on the Interstate System as a national passing lane. Directs the Secretary to provide not less than $1 million to each State and the District of Columbia to inform the public that: (1) passing lanes should be used for passing only; and (2) motor vehicle operators in the left lane should always move to the right to permit other vehicles to pass. Requires the Secretary to provide jointly to the American Trucking Association and the American Automobile Association a $1 million grant to identify the most effective means by which drivers of passenger vehicles and commercial trucks may be educated concerning the hazards, and the safest manner, of driving in each other's presence. Directs the Secretary to require that a trained and certified person be responsible for ensuring the effective administration of any traffic control plan of a highway project that uses Federal funds.

Tribal Government Homeland Security Coordination and Integration Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2002

Tribal Government Homeland Security Coordination and Integration Act - Establishes the Office of Tribal Government Homeland Security (Office) within the Department of Homeland Security. Requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to appoint a Director to head the Office. Prescribes the Secretary's and the Director's duties of coordination, infrastructure and equipment readiness, training, and inclusion of Indian tribes in homeland security preparedness. Requires the Secretary to treat Indian tribes as States, as appropriate for the purpose of homeland security. Authorizes the Secretary to delegate to Indian tribes primary responsibility for homeland security activities within their respective jurisdictions. Requires the Secretary to integrate the roles of the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Indian Health Services with regard to homeland security. Requires the Secretary to provide assistance to enhance Information Technology capabilities of tribes and ensure the participation of Indian tribes in the coordination with Federal, State, and local governments and the private sector as related to Homeland Security activities. Declares Indian tribes to be eligible to apply for, receive, direct, and supervise any homeland security-related Federal grant program. Authorizes the Secretary to award grants to Indian tribes for specified homeland security purposes. Requires the Secretary to provide Indian tribes with: (1) technical assistance in developing, implementing, and managing emergency response plans; (2) Department of Homeland Security expertise and programs; (3) the cooperation of the heads of appropriate Federal agencies; and (4) any other activity the Secretary considers appropriate to provide homeland security technical assistance to Indian tribes. Requires the Secretary to provide funds to assess the existing capacity of Indian tribes with regard to Homeland Security prevention, protection, and response.

Amended proposal for a Decision of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Decision No 1692/96/EC on Community guidelines for the development of the trans-European transport network

European Union · European Commission · 26 September 2002

Regional Comprehensive Emergency Preparedness, Coordination, and Recovery Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2002

Regional Comprehensive Emergency Preparedness, Coordination, and Recovery Act of 2002 - Directs regional councils to convene: (1) all local governments, Federal, State, and private sector interests within a region to coordinate the development of emergency preparedness, response, mitigation, and recovery plans for the entire region; and (2) all stakeholders (Federal, State, local, private, and nonprofit entities) within that region. Requires such a regional emergency response plan to include: (1) an assessment of potential targets for destruction, available equipment and manpower to respond, and equipment needs; (2) establishment of a regional communication system among stakeholders and a secure repository for information needed to coordinate stakeholder responsibilities; and (3) information on response resources, support facilities, infrastructure, transportation facilities, at-risk populations, potential targets, and debris disposal. Requires planning activities to include: (1) analyzing and documenting the possibility of a disaster and the potential consequences or impacts upon life, property, and the environment; and (2) planning for utilization of Geographic Information Systems to assess hazards and evaluate the consequences of potential emergencies or disasters. Requires plans to be approved by the designated regional planning agency's governing body and Governor(s), reviewed annually, and updated as needed based on revised threats assessments, training, and drills. Sets forth requirements for: (1) the security of mapping and infrastructure information contained within such plans; and (2) funding the preparation, review, and updating of regional plans.

Expediting Project Delivery to Improve Transportation and the Environment Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2002

Expediting Project Delivery To Improve Transportation and the Environment Act - Designates the Federal Highway Administration (FHA), the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), or the two agencies jointly as the lead agency for the surface transportation process for preparing a detailed environmental impact statement, assessment, or other document under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 with respect to certain highway or transit projects eligible for Federal assistance from the Highway Trust Fund (HTF). Lists lead agency responsibilities, including: (1) determining the purpose and need for the proposed action, the alternatives to be considered, and the appropriate methodologies for measuring transportation impacts; and (2) coordinating efforts to identify and resolve expeditiously issues that could cause other Federal agencies to oppose or deny project approval or delay process completion. Authorizes the Governor of a State to request the assistance of the Secretary of Transportation in resolving issues that could result in the denial of necessary permits or approvals or cause project delays. Prohibits the Secretary from approving a transportation project that has a significant impact on a protected resource, with exceptions. Directs the Secretary to: (1) conduct a survey biennially of State agencies participating in environmental assessments involving HTF funds; (2) establish a comprehensive program to stimulate the adoption of innovative methods for expediting and improving the environmental review process; (3) transfer to States certain Federal environmental responsibilities with respect to highway or transit projects; and (4) carry out a program to accelerate the procurement of large transit buses by transportation authorities that are recipients of financial assistance from FTA, with exceptions.

Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Land Exchange Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2002

Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Land Exchange Act of 2002 - Requires the Secretary of the Interior to exchange the Ravensford tract, currently in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, for the Yellow Face tract adjacent to the Waterrock Knob Visitor Center on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Requires the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (Eastern Band) to deed specified parcels of land to the United States. Requires the deeds for specified lands be held in trust by the United States for the benefit of the Eastern Band as part of the Cherokee Indian Reservation. Requires the Secretary to file a legal description of the areas held in trust by the United States for the benefit of the Eastern Band. Requires the Director of the National Park Service and the Eastern Band to: (1) enter into government-to-government consultations and develop protocols to review planned construction on the Ravensford tract; and (2) develop mutually agreed upon standards for size, impact, and design of construction consistent with the Eastern Band's need to develop educational facilities and support infrastructure. Authorizes the Director to enter into cooperative agreements with the Eastern Band for the purpose of providing training, management, protection, and preservation of the natural and cultural resources on the Ravensford tract. Requires the Secretary to give first preference of employment for service in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to qualified members of the Eastern Band.

To direct the Secretary of Transportation to maintain flight restrictions over major sporting events and other major open assemblies of people.

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2002

Directs the Secretary of Transportation to maintain the restrictions imposed under specified Federal Aviation Administration Notices to Airmen (relating to flight restrictions over major sporting events and other major open assemblies of people). Cancels any existing waiver of or exemption from such restrictions. Prohibits the Secretary from granting any new waivers or exemptions to waivers for aircraft, except a waiver to any aircraft, approved by the Under Secretary for Security of the Transportation Security Administration, to provide aerial television coverage and an aerial security platform for security personnel for any event covered under the Notices. Requires in such an instance that such Notices adhere to security requirements set forth by the Transportation Security Administration.

Kundenorientierung der ÖBB

Austria · National Council · 20 September 2002

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Dr. Evelin Lichtenberger, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Verkehr, Innovation und Technologie betreffend Kundenorientierung der ÖBB

Sparpaket für die ÖBB

Austria · National Council · 19 September 2002

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Helmut Dietachmayr, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Finanzen betreffend Sparpaket für die ÖBB

Menschenrechtskoordinator/in im Bundesministerium für Verkehr, Innovation und Technologie

Austria · National Council · 19 September 2002

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Mag. Terezija Stoisits, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Verkehr, Innovation und Technologie betreffend Menschenrechtskoordinator/in im Bundesministerium für Verkehr, Innovation und Technologie

Koralmbahn

Austria · National Council · 19 September 2002

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Ludmilla Parfuss, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Verkehr, Innovation und Technologie betreffend Koralmbahn

Sparpaket für die ÖBB

Austria · National Council · 19 September 2002

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Helmut Dietachmayr, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Verkehr, Innovation und Technologie betreffend Sparpaket für die ÖBB

Test der ÖBB Euro-City-Züge

Austria · National Council · 19 September 2002

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Theresia Haidlmayr, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Verkehr, Innovation und Technologie betreffend Test der ÖBB Euro-City <i>(-Züge) (behindertengerechte Ausstattung)</i>

Aeronautics Research and Development Revitalization Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 19 September 2002

Aeronautics Research and Development Revitalization Act of 2002 - Directs the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Administrator to develop technologies that would: (1) significantly reduce aircraft noise, harmful emissions, and fuel consumption; (2) make certain performance improvements to existing rotorcraft; and (3) enable overland flight of supersonic civil transport aircraft with certain performance characteristics. Directs the NASA Administrator to provide specified congressional committees a plan for the implementation of such initiatives. Directs the NASA Administrator to establish NASA aeronautics scholarships for U.S. citizens enrolled in accredited Masters degree programs in aeronautical engineering at institutions of higher education. Directs the Administrators of NASA and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to participate in a national initiative to define and develop an air traffic management system that meets national long-term aviation security, safety, and capacity needs. Sets forth certain things that the system shall do, including that it ensure seamless global operations for system users. Provides for grants from the FAA Administrator for university-based Centers for Research on Aviation Training. Authorizes appropriations for certain FAA research and development projects and activities. Requires certain aviation-related studies and assessments.

A bill to identify certain routes in the States of Colorado, Nebraska, and South Dakota as part of the Heartland Expressway, a high priority corridor on the National Highway System.

United States · United States Congress · 19 September 2002

Amends the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 to identify specified routes in Colorado, Nebraska, and South Dakota as part of the Heartland Expressway, a high priority corridor on the National Highway System.

To provide for the annual audit of the White County Bridge Commission, for the New Harmony Bridge over the Wabash River, Indiana and Illinois, for the filling of vacancies in the membership thereof, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 19 September 2002

Requires the White County Bridge Commission to provide for the annual audit of its financial transactions (with respect to the New Harmony Bridge over the Wabash River) as prescribed by the Governors of the States of Indiana and Illinois. Directs the General Accounting Office to give advice on such audits. Requires the Commission to submit a copy of the audit report to the Governors and the Secretary of Commerce. Allows each Governor or the Secretary of Commerce to provide for the conduct of further audits as they see fit. Declares that the Commission shall bear all expenses of the annual audit. Directs the Commission to submit an annual report to the Governors and the Secretary covering operations and fiscal transactions. Allows the Commission to transfer all functions, powers, duties, and other specified elements to the highway department or other agency of either of the two States, upon which action the Commission shall cease to exist.

Federal Aviation Administration Research, Engineering, and Development Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 17 September 2002

Federal Aviation Administration Research, Engineering, and Development Act of 2002 - Amends Federal aviation law to authorize appropriations out of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund for the Federal Aviation Administration for specified aviation research and development (R&D) projects. Requires the submission to specified congressional committees of an updated integrated civil aviation R&D plan that coordinates national aviation safety and security research programs of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Sets forth requirements calling for: (1) the continuation of a research program to improve airfield pavements; (2) a national initiative that defines and develops an air traffic management system designed to meet national long-term aviation security, safety, and capacity needs; (3) an assessment of the FAA's proposed wake turbulence R&D program; (4) FAA research to promote the development of analytical tools to improve existing certification methods and to reduce the overall costs to manufacturers for the certification of new products; (5) the establishment of a research program to answer questions about cabin air quality of aircraft; and (6) the review and assessment of the specific causes of airport delay at the 31 airports identified in the Airport Benchmarking Study, on an airport-by-airport basis.

Aviation Security Improvement Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 September 2002

Aviation Security Improvement Act - Amends Federal aviation law to require the Under Secretary of Transportation for Security of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to make specified reports to Congress if TSA is unable to deploy explosive detection systems at all airports by December 31, 2002. Requires the screening of cargo that is to be transported in passenger aircraft operated by domestic and foreign air carriers in interstate and intrastate air transportation (currently, only those transported by all-cargo aircraft). Sets forth certain measures to increase the safety and security of air cargo, including the establishment of systems that: (1) provide for the regular inspection of shipping facilities for cargo shipment; (2) provide an industry-wide data base of known shippers of cargo; (3) provide a training program for air cargo handlers to ensure that cargo is properly handled and safe-guarded from security breaches; and (4) require air carriers operating all-cargo aircraft to have an approved security plan for their operations. Directs the Under Secretary to develop protocols to provide guidance for detection of false or fraudulent passenger identification. Authorizes the Under Secretary to establish and carry out a program to require the installation and use at airports of appropriate identification verification technologies to assist in the screening of air passengers. Sets forth both civil and criminal penalties for persons who intentionally circumvent airport security systems and procedures. Provides for the extension for a specified period of time of aviation war risk insurance policies to domestic and foreign air carriers, including a provision to amend such policies to provide coverage for losses or injuries to hull, passengers, and crew, in addition to coverage for injury to third parties. Requires a report to Congress regarding the use of blast-resistant cargo container technology.

National Transportation Safety Board Reauthorization Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 17 September 2002

National Transportation Safety Board Reauthorization Act of 2002 - Amends Federal transportation law to reauthorize appropriations for the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Authorizes appropriations necessary to increase the NTSB emergency fund to, and maintain it at, a level not to exceed a certain amount (such amount available for NTSB expenses for accident investigations). Authorizes appropriations to the NTSB for necessary expenses of the NTSB Academy. Authorizes the Board to impose and collect a fee as an offsetting collection for NTSB Academy services. Requires the NTSB, in cases where it has relinquished investigative priority with respect to an aircraft accident or a railroad accident, to assist, to the maximum extent possible, the agency to which it has relinquished investigative priority in assisting families with respect to the accident. Authorizes the Board, with respect to its duties to investigate transportation-related accidents, to enter into contracts without regard to laws requiring a competitive bid process if it is necessary to expedite an investigation.

Coast Guard Readiness Act of 2002

United States · United States Congress · 17 September 2002

Coast Guard Readiness Act of 2002 - Requires the Secretary of Homeland Security establish a system of Interagency Homeland Security Fusion Centers (Centers) composed of members from specified Federal agencies and foreign governments. Directs the Centers to: (1) coordinate maritime homeland security information focusing on air and sea approaches to the United States; (2) facilitate information sharing between specified Federal agencies and foreign governments; and (3) provide intelligence to the appropriate Federal Agencies concerning maritime threats to homeland security. Requires Centers to: (1) have access to all databases and information systems of member Federal agencies; (2) collect, compile, analyze, and disseminate agency information to identify and locate potential threats to homeland security; and (3) alert all pertinent government agencies regarding potential homeland security threats. Provides that no budget request submitted to Congress for FY 2004 or 2005 may contain a request for reductions in Coast Guard appropriations for specified non-homeland security mission areas below the larger of the FY 2002 or 2003 levels appropriated and allocated for each area.

21st Century Nanotechnology Research and Development Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 September 2002

21st Century Nanotechnology Research and Development Act - Directs the President to establish a National Nanotechnology Research Program. Requires such Program, through appropriate Federal agencies, councils, and the National Coordination Office, to: (1) establish goals, priorities, grand challenges (fundamental problems in science and engineering that will require the application of nanotechnology), and metrics for evaluating Federal nanotechnology research, development, and other activities; (2) invest in Federal research and development (R&D) programs in nanotechnology and related sciences to achieve those goals; and (3) provide for coordination of Federal nanotechnology activities. Requires the Program, through its participating agencies, to develop, fund, and manage Federal research programs concerning: (1) long-term basic nanoscience and engineering research; (2) essential grand challenges and interdisciplinary research and education teams; (3) interdisciplinary nanotechnology research centers; (4) research infrastructure and equipment; (5) the Center for Ethical, Societal, Educational, Legal, and Workforce Issues Related to Nanotechnology to be established by the Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF); and (6) technology transition. Directs the National Science and Technology Council to oversee the planning, management, and coordination of the Program, including establishment of an Information Services and Applications Council. Directs the President to establish a National Nanaotechnology Advisory Panel and a National Nanotechnology Coordination Office. Provides for the National Research Council of the National Academy of Sciences to conduct a triennial evaluation of the Program and a biennial study of the relative position of the United Sates compared to other nations with respect to nanotechnology R&D. Provides for the Program to monitor the United States' standing in key research fields that support technological innovation. Requires the NSF Director to: (1) collect and disseminate studies on the societal, ethical, educational, and workforce implications of nanotechnology; and (2) collect data on the size of the anticipated nanotechnology workforce needed and assess the adequacy of the trained talent pool to fill such needs.