![](media/image1.jpeg){width="6.489583333333333in"
height="1.15625in"}**Legislative
Bulletin................................................March 11, 2008**

> **Contents:**
>
> **H.R. 5492---**To authorize the Board of Regents of the Smithsonian
> Institution to construct a greenhouse facility at its museum support
> facility in Suitland, Maryland, and for other purposes
>
> **H.Res. 936---**Honoring the 200th anniversary of the Gallatin Report
> on Roads and Canals, celebrating the national unity the Gallatin
> Report engendered, and recognizing the vast contributions that
> national planning efforts have provided to the United States
>
> **H.Res. 854---**Expressing gratitude to all of the member states of
> the International Commission of the International Tracing Service
> (ITS) on ratifying the May 2006 Agreement to amend the 1955 Bonn
> Accords granting open access to vast Holocaust and other World War II
> related archives located in Bad Arolsen, Germany
>
> **H.Con.Res. 290**---Commemorating the 175th anniversary of the
> special relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of
> Thailand
>
> **H.Res. 1024**---Recognizing the 187th anniversary of the
> independence of Greece and celebrating Greek and American democracy
>
> **H.Res. 945**---Raising awareness and promoting education on the
> criminal justice system by establishing March 2008 as "National
> Criminal Justice Month"
>
> **H.R. 4056**---Federal Law Enforcement Officers Congressional Badge
> of Bravery Act of 2007
>
> **H.R. 1312**--- Arts Require Timely Service (ARTS) Act
>
> **H.R. 3361**---Pension Protection Technical Corrections Act of 2007\
> **H.R. 5563**---To reauthorize and reform the national service laws
>
> **S. 2733**---To temporarily extend the programs under the Higher
> Education Act of 1965
>
> **H.Res. 953**---Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives
> that all Americans should participate in a moment of silence to
> reflect upon the service and sacrifice of members of the United States
> Armed Forces both at home and abroad

**H.R. 5492---To authorize the Board of Regents of the Smithsonian
Institution to construct a greenhouse facility at its museum support
facility in Suitland, Maryland, and for other purposes *(Matsui,
D-CA)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: The bill is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, March 11, 2008, under a motion to suspend the
rules and pass the bill.\
\
**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.R. 5492 would authorize the Board of
Regents of the Smithsonian Institution to construct a greenhouse
facility at its museum support facility in Suitland, Maryland. The
purpose of the greenhouse would be to maintain the horticultural
operations of, and preserve the orchid collection held in trust by, the
Smithsonian Institution. The bill would authorize \$12 million for the
cost of the greenhouse.

**[Additional Background]{.underline}**: The Smithsonian Institute
support center library in Suitland, Maryland, is one of 20 branch
libraries that are operated by the Smithsonian. According to the support
center's Website, "the Museum Support Center (MSC) is a museum
collections management facility designed for the purposes of collections
storage, research, and conservation. One of the first such facilities in
the world of its kind, the MSC was dedicated in May 1983. The facility
covers 4 ½ acres of land and contains over half a million square feet of
space." According to the Smithsonian's FY 2009 budget proposal, the
Museum Support Center will operate on an estimated budget of \$1.8
million.

The facility is funded by the Smithsonian Museum. In FY 2008 the
Smithsonian was appropriated \$562 million for operations by Congress
and received \$119 million from private donations and investments. The
U.S. Botanical Garden, which is located on the National Mall just east
of the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, is operated by the U.S.
Congress through the Architect of the Capitol. Therefore, funding for
the 4,000 plants on display in the Botanical Garden is paid for by
Congress and not the Smithsonian.

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.R. 5492 was introduced on February
26, 2008, and referred to the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure, which took no official action.

**[Possible Conservative Concerns]{.underline}**: Some conservatives may
be concerned that H.R. 5492 would authorize \$12 million for the
creation of a greenhouse at the Smithsonian Museum support center
library in Suitland, Maryland. Some conservatives may be concerned that
added expenses for new construction and development projects at the
Smithsonian should be taken from the museum's current budget, which rose
from \$635 million to \$683 million (\$48 million or 7.6 percent)
between FY 2007 and FY 2008.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: According to CBO, H.R. 5492 would
cost \$12 million over the FY 2009 through FY 2013 period.

**[Does the Bill Expand the Size and Scope of the Federal
Government?]{.underline}** Yes, it would create a new greenhouse
facility at the Smithsonian Museum support facility in Suitland,
Maryland.

**[Does the Bill Contain Any New State-Government, Local-Government, or
Private-Sector Mandates?]{.underline}** No.

**[Does the Bill Comply with House Rules Regarding Earmarks/Limited Tax
Benefits/Limited Tariff Benefits?]{.underline}** A Committee Report
citing compliance with rules regarding earmarks, limited tax benefits,
or limited tariff benefits was not available. Such a report is not
required because the bill is being considered under a suspension of the
rules.

**[Constitutional Authority]{.underline}**: A Committee Report citing
constitutional authority was not available.

**[RSC Staff Contact]{.underline}**: Andy Koenig;
<andy.koenig@mail.house.gov>; 202-226-9717.

H.Res. 936---Honoring the 200th anniversary of the Gallatin Report on
Roads and Canals, celebrating the national unity the Gallatin Report
engendered, and recognizing the vast contributions that national
planning efforts have provided to the United States *(Blumenauer, D-OR)*

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: H.Res. 936 is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, March 11, 2008, under a motion to suspend the
rules and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.Res. 936 would express the sense that the
House:

-   "Reaffirms the goals and ideals that formed the impetus for
    Gallatin's national plan two hundred years ago;

-   "Calls on the Federal Government, States, localities, schools,
    nonprofit organizations, businesses, and the citizens of the United
    States to mark this important anniversary by recalling the important
    legacy of public investment in infrastructure that connects and
    enhances the economies, communications, and communities of our
    several States; and

-   "Supports the creation of a new national plan to align the demands
    for economic development with the resources of the Nation."

The resolution lists a number of findings, including:

-   "President Thomas Jefferson commissioned his Secretary of the
    Treasury Albert Gallatin to provide a new vision for transportation
    that would unite the young Republic;

-   "2008 marks the bicentennial of the report that Secretary Gallatin
    presented to President Jefferson, which proposed transportation
    improvements not as ends in themselves but as means to further
    national unity, which was part of the promise of the American
    Revolution, as James Madison, writing in *The Federalist No. 14*,
    emphasized, \`Let it be remarked . . . that the intercourse
    throughout the Union will be facilitated by new improvements. Roads
    will everywhere be shortened, and kept in better order;
    accommodations for travelers will be multiplied and meliorated; an
    interior navigation on our eastern side will be opened throughout,
    or nearly throughout, the whole extent of the 13 States', and whose
    words have served as a worthy reminder of the needs for
    transportation infrastructure since that time;

-   "Gallatin incorporated the legacy Benjamin Franklin bequeathed to
    the country through his improvements to the Postal Service,
    including Franklin's route surveys, his placement of milestones on
    principal roads, and his development of shorter transportation
    routes;

-   "The United States, as a result of Gallatin's legacy, has a record
    of successful infrastructure partnerships any national planning
    endeavor, to be regarded as a success, must address and reconcile
    the needs of different regions of the country;

-   "The genius of the Gallatin plan was its alignment of the hopes of
    the Nation with the opportunities presented by access to new
    markets, populations, and territories;

-   "The United States currently faces new challenges financing the
    infrastructure necessary for the future economic needs of the
    country; and

-   "America must have a plan for its future if it is to succeed in a
    world of increasing international competition."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.Res. 936 was introduced on January
23, 2008, and referred to the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure, which referred the bill to three subcommittees the
following day but took no further official action.

**[Cost to Taxpayers:]{.underline}** The resolution does not authorize
expenditures.\
\
**[Does the Bill Expand the Size and Scope of the Federal
Government?]{.underline}** No.\
\
**[Does the Bill Contain Any New State-Government, Local-Government, or
Private-Sector Mandates?]{.underline}** No.\
\
**[RSC Staff Contact]{.underline}**: Andy Koenig;
<andy.koenig@mail.house.gov>; 202-226-9717.

H.Res. 854---Expressing gratitude to all of the member states of the
International Commission of the International Tracing Service (ITS) on
ratifying the May 2006 Agreement to amend the 1955 Bonn Accords granting
open access to vast Holocaust and other World War II related archives
located in Bad Arolsen, Germany *(Hastings, D-FL)*

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: H.Res. 854 is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, March 11, 2008, under a motion to suspend the
rules and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.Res. 854 would express the sense that the
House:

-   "Commends in the strongest terms all States that worked to
    expeditiously ratify the amendments to the Bonn Accords to allow for
    open access to the Holocaust Archives located in Bad Arolsen,
    Germany;

-   "Congratulates the dedication, commitment, and collaborative efforts
    of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, the Department of
    State, and the International Committee of the Red Cross to open the
    archives;

-   "Encourages the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and the
    International Committee of the Red Cross to act with all possible
    urgency to create appropriate conditions to ensure survivors, their
    families, and researchers have direct access to the archives, and
    are offered effective assistance in navigating and interpreting
    these archives;

-   "Remembers and pays tribute to the murder of 6,000,000 innocent Jews
    and more than 5,000,000 other innocent victims during the Holocaust
    committed by Nazi perpetrators and their collaborators; and

-   "Must remain vigilant in combating global anti-Semitism,
    intolerance, and bigotry."

The resolution lists a number of findings, including:

-   "For the past 62 years, until their ultimate release on November 28,
    2007, the International Tracing Service ('ITS') archives located in
    Bad Arolsen, Germany remained the largest closed Holocaust-era
    archives in the world;

-   "While Holocaust survivors and their descendants have had limited
    access to individual records at Bad Arolsen, reports suggest that
    they faced long delays, incomplete information, and even
    unresponsiveness;

-   "Beginning in the late 1990s, the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum
    ('Holocaust Museum'), Holocaust survivor organizations, and others
    began exerting pressure on International Commission members to allow
    unfettered access to the ITS archives;

-   "On May 15, 2007, the International Commission voted in favor of a
    United States proposal to allow a transfer of a digital copy of
    archived materials to any of the 11 member States that have adopted
    the May 2006 amendments to the Bonn Accords; thereafter, transfer of
    materials to both the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and
    Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Martyrs' and Heroes' Remembrance Authority
    in Israel was initiated;

-   "Despite overwhelming international recognition of the
    unconscionable horrors of the Holocaust and its devastating impact
    on World Jewry, there has been a sharp increase in global
    anti-Semitism and Holocaust denial in recent years; and

-   "It is critical that the international community continue to heed
    the lessons of the Holocaust, one of the darkest periods in the
    history of humankind, and take immediate and decisive measures to
    combat the scourge of anti-Semitism."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.Res. 854 was introduced on
December 10, 2007, and referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs,
which held a mark up and reported the bill by voice vote on February 27,
2008.

**[Cost to Taxpayers:]{.underline}** The resolution does not authorize
expenditures.\
\
**[Does the Bill Expand the Size and Scope of the Federal
Government?]{.underline}** No.\
\
**[Does the Bill Contain Any New State-Government, Local-Government, or
Private-Sector Mandates?]{.underline}** No.\
\
**[RSC Staff Contact]{.underline}**: Andy Koenig;
<andy.koenig@mail.house.gov>; 202-226-9717.

H.Con.Res. 290---Commemorating the 175th anniversary of the special
relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Thailand
(Manzullo, R-IL)

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: H.Con.Res. 290 is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, March 11, 2008, under a motion to suspend the
rules and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.Con.Res. 290 would express the sense that
the House:

-   "Commemorates the 175th anniversary of United States and Thailand
    relations;

-   "Offers its sincere congratulations to the Kingdom of Thailand and
    the Thai people for their democratic, free, and fair election;

-   "Commemorates the 80th birthday of His Majesty King Bhumibol
    Adulyadej of Thailand and offers its sincere congratulations and
    best wishes for the continued prosperity of the Kingdom of Thailand;
    and

-   "Looks forward to continued, enduring ties of friendship between the
    Thai and American people."

The resolution lists a number of findings, including:

-   "The United States will celebrate the 175th anniversary of its
    relationship with the Kingdom of Thailand since the signing of the
    original Treaty of Amity and Commerce in 1833 during President
    Andrew Jackson's administration and the reign of King Rama III;

-   "The Kingdom of Thailand was the United States' first treaty ally in
    the Asia-Pacific region and remains a steadfast friend with shared
    values of freedom, democracy, and liberty;

-   "Thailand was designated as a major non-NATO ally in December 2003,
    which improved the security of both nations, particularly through
    joint counterterrorism efforts;

-   "On December 5, 2007, the people of Thailand celebrated the 80th
    birthday of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the world's longest
    serving monarch, who is loved and respected by Thai for his lifelong
    dedication to the social and economic development of the Thai
    people;

-   "On December 23, 2007, the Royal Thai Government held nationwide
    parliamentary elections that are paving the way for a successful
    return of democracy to Thailand;

-   "Approximately 500,000 Americans of Thai descent are living in the
    United States and share in the mutual pursuit of the American Dream;

-   "Thailand is America's 20th largest trading partner with bilateral
    trade totaling \$30,600,000,000 per year; and

-   "The bonds of friendship and mutual respect between the United
    States and Thailand are strong."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.Con.Res. 290 was introduced on
February 7, 2008, and referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs,
which held a mark up and reported the bill by voice vote on February 27,
2008.

**[Cost to Taxpayers:]{.underline}** The resolution does not authorize
expenditures.\
\
**[Does the Bill Expand the Size and Scope of the Federal
Government?]{.underline}** No.\
\
**[Does the Bill Contain Any New State-Government, Local-Government, or
Private-Sector Mandates?]{.underline}** No.\
\
**[RSC Staff Contact]{.underline}**: Andy Koenig;
<andy.koenig@mail.house.gov>; 202-226-9717.

H.Res. 1024---Recognizing the 187th anniversary of the independence of
Greece and celebrating Greek and American democracy

(Ros-Lehtinen, R-FL)

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: H.Res. 1024 is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, March 11, 2008, under a motion to suspend the
rules and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.Res. 1024 would express the sense that the
House:

-   "Extends warm congratulations and best wishes to the people of
    Greece as they celebrate the 187th anniversary of the independence
    of Greece;

-   "Expresses support for the principles of democratic governance to
    which the people of Greece are committed; and

-   "Notes the important role that Greece has played in the wider
    European region and in the community of nations since gaining its
    independence 187 years ago.

The resolution lists a number of findings, including:

-   "The ancient Greeks developed the concept of democracy, in which the
    supreme power to govern was vested in the people;

-   "The Founding Fathers of the United States drew heavily on the
    political experience and philosophy of ancient Greece in forming our
    representative democracy;

-   "Greek Commander in Chief Petros Mavromichalis, a founder of the
    modern Greek state, said to the citizens of the United States in
    1821 that \`it is in your land that liberty has fixed her abode and
    . . . in imitating you, we shall imitate our ancestors and be
    thought worthy of them if we succeed in resembling you';

-   "Greece played a major role in the World War II struggle to protect
    freedom and democracy through such bravery as was shown in the
    historic Battle of Crete, which provided the Axis land war with its
    first major setback, setting off a chain of events that
    significantly affected the outcome of World War II;

-   "In August 2004, the Olympic games came home to Athens, Greece, the
    land of their ancient birthplace 2,500 years ago and the city of
    their modern revival in 1896;

-   "March 25, 2008, the National Day of Celebration of Greek and
    American Democracy, marks the 187th anniversary of the beginning of
    the revolution that freed the Greek people from the Ottoman Empire
    and celebrates the aspirations for democracy that the peoples of
    Greece and the United States share; and

-   "It is proper and desirable for the United States to celebrate this
    anniversary with the Greek people and to reaffirm the democratic
    principles from which these two great nations were born."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.Res. 1024 was introduced on March
6, 2008, and referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, which took no
official action.

**[Cost to Taxpayers:]{.underline}** The resolution does not authorize
expenditures.\
\
**[Does the Bill Expand the Size and Scope of the Federal
Government?]{.underline}** No.\
\
**[Does the Bill Contain Any New State-Government, Local-Government, or
Private-Sector Mandates?]{.underline}** No.\
\
**[RSC Staff Contact]{.underline}**: Andy Koenig;
<andy.koenig@mail.house.gov>; 202-226-9717.

H.Res. 945---Raising awareness and promoting education on the criminal
justice system by establishing March 2008 as "National Criminal Justice
Month" (Poe, R-TX)

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: H.Res. 945 is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, March 11, 2008, under a motion to suspend the
rules and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.Res. 945 would express the sense of the
House that:

-   "National Criminal Justice Month provides an opportunity to educate
    Americans on the criminal justice system; and

-   "Americans should be aware of the causes and consequences of crime,
    how to prevent crime, and how to respond to crime; and

-   "The House of Representatives urges policymakers, criminal justice
    officials, educators, victim service providers, nonprofits,
    community leaders, and others to promote awareness of how to prevent
    and respond to crime through National Criminal Justice Month."

The resolution lists a number of findings, including:

-   "There are approximately three million Americans employed within the
    justice system;

-   "Approximately seven million adults are on probation, parole, or are
    incarcerated;

-   "Millions of Americans have been victims of crime and, consequently,
    lost income, incurred medical expenses, and suffered emotionally;

-   "The cost of crime to individuals, communities, businesses, and the
    various levels of government exceeds the billions of dollars spent
    each year in administering the criminal justice system;

-   "Approximately thirty-five percent of Americans have very little or
    no confidence in the criminal justice system and the negative
    effects of crime in regard to confidence in governmental agencies
    and overall social stability are immeasurable;

-   "Crime rates have dropped since the early 1990s, but most Americans
    believe that the rate of crime is increasing;

-   "Federal, State, and local governments increased their spending for
    police protection, corrections, judicial, and legal activities in
    fiscal year 2005 by 5.5 percent or \$204 billion; and

-   "There is a need to educate Americans and to promote awareness
    within American society as to the causes and consequences of crime,
    as well as the strategies and developments for preventing and
    responding to crime."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.Res. 945 was introduced on January
28, 2008, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary. On February 4,
2008, the resolution was referred to the Subcommittee on Crime,
Terrorism, and Homeland Security, which took no official action.

**[Cost to Taxpayers:]{.underline}** The resolution does not authorize
expenditures.\
\
**[Does the Bill Expand the Size and Scope of the Federal
Government?]{.underline}** No.\
\
**[Does the Bill Contain Any New State-Government, Local-Government, or
Private-Sector Mandates?]{.underline}** No.\
\
**[RSC Staff Contact]{.underline}**: Andy Koenig;
<andy.koenig@mail.house.gov>; 202-226-9717.

**H.R. 4056---Federal Law Enforcement Officers Congressional Badge of
Bravery Act of 2007 *(Ellsworth, D-IN)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: The bill is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, March 11, 2008, under a motion to suspend the
rules and pass the bill.\
\
**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.R. 4056 would create the Congressional
Badge of Bravery which would be presented to a federal law officer for
sustaining a physical injury while in the line of duty. The badge would
be presented by a Member of Congress or the Attorney General.

The bill would establish a nomination process by which federal officers
may be nominated for the badge by their respective federal agency. The
bill would require that each nominee:

-   Receive physical injury while carrying out their duty;

-   Put themselves at risk while performing their duty; and

-   Injure themselves during "some form of conduct characterized as
    bravery by the agency head making the nomination."

H.R. 4056 would also create a Congressional Badge of Bravery Board
(CBBB) to design and produce the badge and make recommendations
regarding nominees. The CBBB would be responsible for presenting badges
annually. Four of the seven members of the board would be members of the
[Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association](http://www.fleoa.org/)
appointed by their Executive Board. The final three would be
individually selected by the House, the Senate, and the Attorney General
respectively. The CBBB would be granted the power to hold hearings, call
witnesses, keep information, and travel to carry out the purposes of the
bill. H.R. 4056 would also establish the Congressional Badge of Bravery
Office within the Department of Justice (DOJ) to provide staff support
for the CBBB.

Finally, the bill would authorize "such sums as are necessary" for the
Attorney General to establish the Congressional Badge of Bravery Board.

**[Additional Background]{.underline}**: According to the DOJ, there are
an average of 150 federal law officers injured by suspects annually.
There is currently no congressionally recognized award given
specifically to federal officers who are injured in the live of duty.
H.R. 4056 is supported by the Federal Law Enforcement Officers
Association, a non-profit special interest group which represents more
than 25,000 federal officers.

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.R. 4056 was introduced on November
1, 2007, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary Subcommittee on
Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security, which took no official action.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: A CBO score for H.R. 4056 was not
available at press time.

**[Does the Bill Expand the Size and Scope of the Federal
Government?]{.underline}** No.

**[Does the Bill Contain Any New State-Government, Local-Government, or
Private-Sector Mandates?]{.underline}** No.

**[Does the Bill Comply with House Rules Regarding Earmarks/Limited Tax
Benefits/Limited Tariff Benefits?]{.underline}** A Committee Report
citing compliance with rules regarding earmarks, limited tax benefits,
or limited tariff benefits was not available. Such a report is not
required because the bill is being considered under a suspension of the
rules.

**[Constitutional Authority]{.underline}**: A Committee Report citing
constitutional authority was not available.

**[RSC Staff Contact]{.underline}**: Andy Koenig;
<andy.koenig@mail.house.gov>; 202-226-9717.

**H.R. 1312---** **Arts Require Timely Service (ARTS) Act**

***(Berman, D-CA)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: The bill is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, March 11, 2008, under a motion to suspend the
rules and pass the bill.\
\
**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.R. 1312 would extend the time period that
the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is given to adjudicate special
visa requests for certain artists and performers from 14 to 30 days. If
DHS failed to process the visa request within 30 days, H.R. 1312 would
require that the department provide specified artists and entertains
with "premium processing services" without charging a \$1,000 fee that
is currently required by law.

**[Additional Background]{.underline}**: Under current law, certain
artists and entertainers wishing to enter the U.S. for performance
purposes are granted a speedy process for non-immigrant visa
adjudication. The DHS is required to process such requests within two
weeks of receiving an application. However, CBO reports that it actually
takes DHS about eight weeks to process the applications. Such delays
have caused problems for American groups attempting to bring
entertainers and artists to the U.S. to perform temporarily. DHS allows
for groups who wish to pay \$1,000 for "premium processing services" to
have applications adjudicated faster. H.R. 1312 would extend the initial
time the DHS is given to process a request to 30 days and waive the fee
for premium processing services if the application is not adjudicated by
that time.

Non-immigrant visas under this legislation may be given to an alien who:

-   "Has extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education,
    business, or athletics which has been demonstrated by sustained
    national or international acclaim or, with regard to motion picture
    and television productions a demonstrated record of extraordinary
    achievement, and whose achievements have been recognized in the
    field through extensive documentation, and seeks to enter the United
    States to continue work in the area of extraordinary ability; or

-   "Seeks to enter the United States temporarily and solely for the
    purpose of accompanying and assisting in the artistic or athletic
    performance by an alien who is admitted under clause (i) for a
    specific event or events." ([8 U.S.C.
    1184(c)101(a)(15)(O)(i)](http://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/8/1184(c).html)).

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.R. 1312 was introduced on March 5,
2007, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary Subcommittee on
Immigration, Citizenship, Refugees, Border Security, and International
Law. On September 25, 2007, a subcommittee mark-up was held and the bill
was forwarded to the full committee by a vote of 7-5. On November 7,
2007, the full committee held a mark-up and amended the bill. The
amended version was reported by voice vote on the same day.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: According to CBO, H.R. 1312 would
not have a significant cost to the government. CBO estimates that the
bill could reduce the number of premium processing service fees that DHS
collects, but that the reduction "would not be significant in any year."

**[Does the Bill Expand the Size and Scope of the Federal
Government?]{.underline}** No.

**[Does the Bill Contain Any New State-Government, Local-Government, or
Private-Sector Mandates?]{.underline}** No.

**[Does the Bill Comply with House Rules Regarding Earmarks/Limited Tax
Benefits/Limited Tariff Benefits?]{.underline}** [Committee Report
110---540](http://www.congress.gov/cgi-lis/cpquery/R?cp110:FLD010:@1(hr540))
states that, "H.R. 1312 does not contain any congressional earmarks,
limited tax benefits, or limited tariff benefits as defined in clause
9(d), 9(e), or 9(f) of Rule XXI."

**[Constitutional Authority]{.underline}**: The Committee on the
Judiciary, in [House Report
110---540](http://www.congress.gov/cgi-lis/cpquery/R?cp110:FLD010:@1(hr540)),
cites constitutional authority in Article I, Section 8, Clause 4, which
grants Congress the power to "establish a uniform rule of
naturalization."

**[RSC Staff Contact]{.underline}**: Andy Koenig;
<andy.koenig@mail.house.gov>; 202-226-9717.

**H.R. 3361---Pension Protection Technical Corrections Act of 2007**

***(Rangel, D-NY)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: The bill is scheduled to be
considered on Monday, March 11, 2008, under a motion to suspend the
rules and pass the bill.\
\
**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.R. 3361 would make a number of technical
corrections and conforming changes to titles I through XII of the
[Pension Protection Act of
2006](http://www.house.gov/hensarling/rsc/doc/LB_072806_pensionnew.doc),
which amends the Employee Retirement Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). For a
comprehensive summary of all the technical changes made by H.R. 3361,
please see a Joint Committee on Taxation description here:
<http://www.house.gov/jct/x-60-07.pdf>.

It is possible that the text of this bill will change prior to floor
consideration. If the revised text contains any non-technical
provisions, the RSC will alert its offices accordingly.

**[Additional Background]{.underline}**: The Pension Protection Act of
2006 amended ERISA and the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to reform the
funding rules for pensions. The bill was passed in the House on July 28,
2006, by a vote of
[279-131](http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2006/roll422.xml). On August 17,
2006, the bill was signed by the President and became Public Law No.
109-280. According to the Minority staff on the House Ways and Means
Committee, H.R. 3361 would make only clerical changes to the Pension
Protection Act of 2006 and would not alter any of the bill's significant
provisions. The changes made by H.R. 3361 will be applied as if they
were enacted in the original version of the legislation.

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.R. 3361 was introduced on August
3, 2007, and referred to the Committee on Education and Labor and the
Committee on Ways and Means. On September 19, 2007, the bill was
referred to the Education and Labor Subcommittee on Health, Employment,
Labor, and Pensions, which took no official action.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: A CBO score for H.R. 3361 was not
available at press time. A Joint Committee on Taxation description of
the bill does not indicate whether it will effect spending or revenues.

**[Does the Bill Expand the Size and Scope of the Federal
Government?]{.underline}** No.

**[Does the Bill Contain Any New State-Government, Local-Government, or
Private-Sector Mandates?]{.underline}** No.

**[Does the Bill Comply with House Rules Regarding Earmarks/Limited Tax
Benefits/Limited Tariff Benefits?]{.underline}** A Committee Report
citing compliance with rules regarding earmarks, limited tax benefits,
or limited tariff benefits was not available. Such a report is not
required because the bill is being considered under a suspension of the
rules.

**[Constitutional Authority]{.underline}**: The Committee Report citing
constitutional authority was not available.

**[RSC Staff Contact]{.underline}**: Andy Koenig;
<andy.koenig@mail.house.gov>; 202-226-9717.

H.R. 5563---To reauthorize and reform the national service laws

*(McCarthy, D-NY)*

**[NOTE]{.underline}: Some funds authorized for the programs in this
bill have previously been diverted to Planned Parenthood, ACORN, and
state-level Legal Services associations. See details below.**

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: The bill is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, March 11, 2008, under a motion to suspend the
rules and pass the bill.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.R. 5563 would amend the National and
Community Service Act of 1990 (NCSA) and the Domestic Volunteer Service
Act of 1973 (DVSA) to revise their programs and reauthorize their
appropriations through FY2012.

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.R. 5563 was introduced on March
10, 2008 and referred to the committee on House Committee on Education
and Labor, where no official action was taken.

**[Additional Information]{.underline}**: On Thursday, March 6, 2008,
the House took up H.R. 2857, the Generations Invigorating Volunteerism
and Education Act. After debate, the House passed ten amendments but did
not conclude debate on final passage. A Republican motion to recommit
(MTR) was offered, and the bill was then pulled off of the floor by the
majority because of the Republican MTR. H.R. 5563 was introduced last
night and includes the ten amendments that passed the House, and the
Republican MTR (the Flake amendment was not agreed to). For information
on the underlying bill and the amendment summaries, please see the
following:

[RSC Legislative Bulletin, H.R. 2857---GIVE
Act](http://www.house.gov/hensarling/rsc/doc/lb_030608_give.doc)

[RSC Legislative Bulletin, H.R. 2857---GIVE Act
Amendments](http://www.house.gov/hensarling/rsc/doc/lb_030608_giveamdts.doc)

**[Republican MTR]{.underline}**: The Republican MTR, offered by Mr.
Kuhl on Thursday, March 6, 2008, has been added to the underlying bill.
The following is the summary of the MTR sent out by the RSC:

> **[Summary of Motion]{.underline}**: The motion would recommit H.R.
> 2857, the Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and Education Act,
> back to the House Education and Labor Committee with instructions that
> the committee report the bill back to the House floor
> [promptly]{.underline} with the following amendment:
>
> The Republican Motion to Recommit (MTR) will ensure that all
> applicants seeking federally-funded national service positions undergo
> criminal background checks. The MTR also helps protect individuals who
> are serviced by these programs, as well as other program participants,
> by prohibiting sex offenders and murderers from holding any
> federally-funded national service position. This MTR will prevent
> dangerous felons from receiving federal benefits---such as education
> awards, health care and child care---for volunteering, and ensure that
> our children, elderly, disabled and other vulnerable populations are
> safe.
>
> **[Process]{.underline}**: This MTR moves to recommit the bill (with
> instructions) "promptly."  If passed, the promptly directive would
> actually send the bill back to committee along with the MTR
> instructions.  It would NOT instantaneously amend the bill, as would a
> "forthwith" directive, nor would this motion kill the bill (as the
> majority will assert).  In this instance, the committee is not
> *required* to act upon the bill.  However, the committee could convene
> a special meeting to consider the bill and potentially send it back to
> the House, but the Rules Committee would have to meet and report
> another rule for consideration of the bill.
>
> **[Bonus Fact]{.underline}**: According to the [[Office of Inspector
> General]{.underline}](http://www.cncsig.gov/criminal_background_checks.htm),
> "Recent program audits conducted by the Office of Inspector General
> (OIG) have detected a disturbing pattern of non-compliance with
> \[current\] criminal background check grant provision requirements. In
> some cases, programs have failed to conduct the checks. Just as
> disturbing, other programs have failed to retain documentation proving
> that background checks were conducted for members working with youth
> and other vulnerable persons."

**[Additional Background on AmeriCorps]{.underline}**: In the past, the
RSC has suggested that funding for the National and Community Service
Act be eliminated from the budget. According to this [RSC
report](http://www.house.gov/hensarling/rsc/doc/RSC_2007_BUDGET.pdf),
AmeriCorps, which receives the bulk of the funding under the Act, is an
inefficient and expensive way of assisting individuals to pay for
college by stretching the notion of what constitutes a "volunteer." In
addition, AmeriCorps is not means-tested. As a result, children of
wealthy people can edge out low-income children for participation.

According to the
[AmeriCorps](http://americorps.gov/for_individuals/faq/index.asp)
website, the following questions address the benefits that AmeriCorps
"volunteers" receive:

> **Do I get paid?**
>
> For all AmeriCorps programs, members receive a modest living
> allowance, and some programs provide housing. You may not save much
> money during your year of service, but most members find the living
> allowance to be adequate to cover their needs. AmeriCorps members who
> complete a term of service also receive an AmeriCorps Education Award.
>
> **What if I'm out of school and not interested in the education award?
> Can I get that money in cash?**
>
> If you're part of AmeriCorps\*VISTA, you may opt for a cash payment of
> \$100 per month of service instead of the education award. All other
> AmeriCorps members are eligible only for the education award.
>
> **Can I defer student loans during my service with AmeriCorps?**
>
> You may qualify for postponement, or forbearance, of the repayment of
> your loans during your service. The education award will help you pay
> off qualified student loans when you're finished. Contact your lender
> for more specific information or to confirm your loan status during
> AmeriCorps service.
>
> **What are the benefits of serving with AmeriCorps\*NCCC?**
>
> AmeriCorps\*NCCC members receive a living allowance of approximately
> \$4,000 for the 10 months of service (about \$200 every two weeks
> before taxes), housing, meals, limited medical benefits, up to \$400 a
> month for childcare, if necessary, member uniforms, and an education
> award of \$4,725 upon successful completion of the program.
>
> **What do the medical benefits cover?**
>
> The medical benefits plan covers all injuries and/or illnesses
> suffered during service and most pharmacy needs. The plan does not
> cover medical care for pre-existing medical illnesses and/or injuries.
>
> **Can I bring my child/children with me to the campus?**
>
> Children are not permitted to live with members at the campus.
> AmeriCorps\*NCCC members with children must make arrangements for
> someone to care for their child/children while they are in the
> program. Members that have custody of their children are eligible for
> up to \$400 per month to help pay for child care while they serve with
> the program.

In addition, according to CRS (reflecting current law):

> **AmeriCorps State and National Grants (Title I-C).** ***Benefits:*
> AmeriCorps members receive a living allowance and, in some cases,
> student-loan forbearance (i.e., loan postponement), health coverage,
> and child care for those who qualify. AmeriCorps members can receive
> an educational award** **of up to \$4,725 per year of full-time
> service, the amount is reduced based on service term or part-time
> hours (see** Table 1**).**
>
> **Table 1.** **Educational Awards by Service Term**

+----------------------+----------------------+-----------------------+
| > **Member service   | > **Number of        | > **Educational       |
| > term**             | > hours**            | > award**             |
+----------------------+----------------------+-----------------------+
| > Full time          | > at least 1,700     | > \$4,725.00          |
+----------------------+----------------------+-----------------------+
| > Half time          | > at least 900       | > \$2,362.50          |
+----------------------+----------------------+-----------------------+
| > Reduced half time  | > at least 675       | > \$1,800.00          |
+----------------------+----------------------+-----------------------+
| > Quarter time       | > at least 450       | > \$1,250.00          |
+----------------------+----------------------+-----------------------+
| > Minimum time       | > at least 300       | > \$1,000.00          |
+----------------------+----------------------+-----------------------+

> **Source:** CNCS, FY2007 Congressional Budget Justification.

**Note:** Educational awards are being increased in this bill to at
least \$5,000 for full time students.

Furthermore, the following questionable programs have been funded by
AmeriCorps:

  ------------ ------------ --------------------------------- -------------------
  **State**    **City**     **Program Name**                  **Funded Through**

  Wyoming      Cheyenne     Wyoming Legal Services            AmeriCorps \* VISTA

  Washington   Seattle      Planned Parenthood of Western     AmeriCorps \* VISTA
                            Washington                        

  Washington   Tacoma       Planned Parenthood of Western     AmeriCorps \* VISTA
                            Washington                        

  Ohio         Columbus     Legal Aid Ex-Offenders Re-entry   AmeriCorps \* VISTA
                            Project                           

  Ohio         Marion       Legal Aid Ex-Offenders Re-entry   AmeriCorps \* VISTA
                            Project                           

  New York     Rochester    Legal Assistance of Western New   AmeriCorps \* VISTA
                            York                              

  New York     Geneva       Access to Justice Project         AmeriCorps \* State

  Montana      Miles City   Montana Legal Services            AmeriCorps\* VISTA
                            Association                       

  Montana      Missoula     Montana Legal Services            AmeriCorps\* VISTA
                            Association                       

  Montana      Polson       Montana Legal Services            AmeriCorps\* VISTA
                            Association                       

  Montana      Helena       Montana Legal Services            AmeriCorps\* VISTA
                            Association                       

  Montana      Helena       Montana PBLC                      AmeriCorps\*
                                                              National

  Montana      Kalispell    Montana Legal Services            AmeriCorps\* VISTA
                            Association                       

  Montana      Livingston   Montana Legal Services            AmeriCorps\*VISTA
                            Association                       

  Montana      Anaconda     Montana Legal Services            AmeriCorps\*VISTA
                            Association                       

  Montana      Billings     Montana Legal Services            AmeriCorps\* VISTA
                            Association                       

  Montana      Bozeman      Montana Legal Services            AmeriCorps\*VISTA
                            Association                       

  Montana      Great Falls  Montana Legal Services            AmeriCorps\*VISTA
                            Association                       

  Montana      Red Lodge    Montana Legal Services            AmeriCorps\* VISTA
                            Association                       

  Montana      Ronan        Montana Legal Services            AmeriCorps\*VISTA
                            Association                       

  Missouri     St. Joseph   Students Taking Action Against    AmeriCorps\* State
                            Drugs                             

  Minnesota    St. Paul     LawHelpMN                         AmeriCorps\* VISTA

  Hawaii       Honolulu     Project Laulima                   AmeriCorps\*State

  Iowa         Des Moines   Iowa Legal Aid AmeriCorps Project AmeriCorps\*State

  Illinois     Chicago      Legal Assistance Foundation of    AmeriCorps\* VISTA
                            Chicago                           

  Colorado     Johnstown    Wyoming Legal Services            AmeriCorps\* VISTA

  Alaska       Juneau       Risk Reduction for Juneau Youth   AmeriCorps\* VISTA

  Alabama      Anniston     Legal Services Alabama            AmeriCorps\* VISTA

  Alabama      Birmingham   Legal Services Alabama            AmeriCorps\*VISTA

  Alabama      Dothan       Legal Services Alabama            AmeriCorps\*VISTA

  Alabama      Florence     Legal Services Alabama            AmeriCorps\*VISTA

  Alabama      Mobile       Legal Services Alabama            AmeriCorps\*VISTA
  ------------ ------------ --------------------------------- -------------------

**Source:** <http://americorps.gov/Default.asp>

Many of the programs reauthorized and expanded in H.R. 5563 are
ineffective and inefficient. ExpectMore.gov, a website developed by the
U.S. Office of Management and Budget, whose goal is to assess the
performance of every Federal program in order to hold programs
accountable for improvement, has audited these programs. According to
ExpectMore.gov, the programs included in H.R. 5563 have been audited as
follows:

[Learn and Serve]{.underline}: Not Performing; Results Not Demonstrated

[AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps]{.underline}: Not
performing; Ineffective

[AmeriCorps State and National Grants]{.underline}: Performing; Adequate

[AmeriCorps Volunteers in Service to America]{.underline}: Performing;
Adequate

**[Conservative Concerns]{.underline}**: Many conservatives are
concerned that H.R. 5563 would expand and authorize programs that have
been audited and considered ineffective by the U.S. Office of Management
and Budget (see above). In addition, many conservatives may be concerned
with AmeriCorps history of funding projects that some conservatives find
objectionable (ex. Planned Parenthood of Western Washington). Along with
Planned Parenthood of Washington, the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center
(LAGLC) has received funding from AmeriCorps as well. According to [this
article](http://www.fff.org/freedom/1100d.asp), published in 2000, the
LAGLC was given AmeriCorps funding to go into schools and prevent
"anti-gay" bias:

> The Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center (LAGLC), the nation's largest
> gay rights organization, has received more than \$200,000 in support
> from AmeriCorps. The LAGLC AmeriCorps program is "focusing on
> society's last 'acceptable' prejudice: anti-gay bias," according to a
> LAGLC program update. AmeriCorps members distributed a survey in L.A.
> schools that implied that students should report to school authorities
> any time they heard any student make a derogatory comment to any other
> student. An example of anti-gay bias that Gwen Baldwin, the LAGLC
> executive director, offered was "one person not being invited to a
> lunch table."

According to the [Heritage
Foundation](http://www.heritage.org/Research/UrbanIssues/BG1564.cfm),

> ... AmeriCorps participants should be prohibited from working for
> programs that promote abortion or refer individuals to abortion
> providers. The Delaware chapter of Planned Parenthood, for instance,
> currently advertises its AmeriCorps grant for 20 participants "to
> provide human sexuality education and referrals for services to teens
> and their parents."

According to an annual [report from Planned Parenthood of Houston and
Southeast Texas](http://www.pphouston.org/upload/ANNUAL REPORT FY01.pdf)
(PPHSET),

> In 2000-2001 PPHSET initiated the Planned Parenthood Sex Education
> Team (PPHset), which was comprised of six AmeriCorps youth. This
> creative group developed program performances featuring dance, music
> and drama to educate peers in 42 schools in Houston and southeast
> Texas.

AmeriCorps grant money has also been given to ACORN and used to increase
their membership, which is a violation of federal guidelines. The
funding given by AmeriCorps has no restrictions on its political use.

Not only are many potentially contentious organizations receiving funds
through AmeriCorps, many of these organizations are double, and triple
dipping at the federal "trough". For example, AmeriCorps funds numerous
legal services organizations (see above) who may already be receiving
funds under the Legal Services Corporation Act ([42 U.S.C. Sect.
2996](http://www.lsc.gov/pdfs/pr_act.pdf)). Some conservatives may be
concerned that this is an egregious example of wasteful government
spending.

Furthermore, many conservatives may not agree that individuals who are
paid monthly stipends, compensated for living expenses, and granted
healthcare benefits should be classified as volunteers---AmeriCorps
indentifies their participants as volunteers.

Some conservatives may also be concerned that a notable provision
championed by Republicans was left out of H.R. 5563. This provision
would have ensured that AmeriCorps funding is not used to operate
programs directed at youth that are designed to promote or encourage
sexual activity; to distribute obscene materials to minors on school
grounds; to provide sex education that is not age appropriate and
excludes discussion of abstinence; to provide HIV-prevention instruction
that is not age appropriate and excludes discussion of abstinence or the
risks of HPV; or to operate a program of contraceptive distribution in
schools. As was previously noted, AmeriCorps funding has been used for
sex education programs, including programs put on by Planned Parenthood.
Some conservatives may be concerned that this provision, that would have
provided a safeguard against activities that many parents deem
inappropriate for their children, was disregarded by the Majority.

Many conservatives may be concerned that the programs authorized and
expanded in this bill reflect a big government response to local and
community needs---instead of a more effective encouragement of community
and individual response to such need.

Furthermore, this bill was introduced last night with no committee
hearings or mark-ups. Some conservatives may be concerned with the lack
of process that this bill underwent before coming before the House for a
final passage vote.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: A CBO score for H.R. 5563 is not
available at press time. According to CBO, H.R. 2857 would authorize
appropriations of about \$1 billion for fiscal year 2008. CBO estimates
that authorizations under H.R. 2857 would total \$6.2 billion over the
2008-2012 period for grants and other activities, including education
awards for participants in national service activities.

Assuming appropriation of the authorized and estimated amounts, CBO
estimates that enactment of the bill would result in additional outlays
of \$277 million in 2008 and

\$4.1 billion over the 2008-2012 period. Enacting the bill would not
affect direct spending or revenues.

**[Does the Bill Expand the Size and Scope of the Federal
Government?]{.underline}** Yes, the bill creates new programs under the
National Community Service Act of 1990, increases authorizations, and
expands the authority of such programs.

**[Does the Bill Contain Any New State-Government, Local-Government, or
Private-Sector Mandates?]{.underline}** No.

**[Does the Bill Comply with House Rules Regarding Earmarks/Limited Tax
Benefits/Limited Tariff Benefits?]{.underline}**: Currently, no House
Report exists.

**[Constitutional Authority]{.underline}**: Currently, no House Report
exists.

**[RSC Staff Contact]{.underline}**: Sarah Makin; 202-226-0718;
<sarah.makin@mail.house.gov>

S. 2733---To temporarily extend the programs under the Higher Education
Act of 1965 *(Sen. Kennedy, D-MA)*

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: S. 2733 is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, March 11, 2008, under a motion to suspend the
rules and pass the bill.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: S. 2733 would extend the authorization (at
current, FY04 levels) for the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) through
April 30, 2008 (currently set to expire on March 31, 2008).

**[Additional Background]{.underline}**: The Higher Education Act of
1965 (HEA) provides the majority of the federal government's s higher
education financial aid programs. According to CRS, HEA programs
comprise the government's "major student aid programs to support
postsecondary education attendance, as well as other significant
programs such as those providing aid to special groups of institutions
of higher education and support services to enable disadvantaged
students to complete secondary school and enter and complete college."
The HEA has been operating under temporary extensions while a long-term
extension of the program is negotiated. On February 7, 2008, the House
passed H.R. 4137, the College Opportunity and Affordability Act of 2007,
which would extend the HEA through FY 2014. The bill has yet to be taken
up by the Senate. The last temporary extension of the HEA was passed in
October and extended programs through March 31, 2008.

[**Committee Action**:]{.underline} S. 2733 was introduced and passed in
the Senate by unanimous consent on March 7, 2008. The same day the bill
was sent to the House, which took no official action.

[**Cost to Taxpayers**:]{.underline} A CBO score for S. 2733 is not
available.

[**Does the Bill Expand the Size and Scope of the Federal
Government?**:]{.underline} No.

[]{.mark}

**[Does the Bill Contain Any New State-Government, Local-Government, or
Private-Sector Mandates?]{.underline}**: No.

**[Constitutional Authority]{.underline}**: A committee report citing
constitutional authority is unavailable.

**[RSC Staff Contact]{.underline}**: Andy Koenig;
<andy.koenig@mail.house.gov>; 202-226-9717.

H.Res. 953---Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that
all Americans should participate in a moment of silence to reflect upon
the service and sacrifice of members of the United States Armed Forces
both at home and abroad (Knollenberg, R-MI)

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: H.Res. 953 is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, March 11, 2008, under a motion to suspend the
rules and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.Res. 953 would express the sense of the
House that "all Americans should participate in a moment of silence to
reflect upon the service and sacrifice of members of the United States
Armed Forces both at home and abroad."

The resolution lists a number of findings, including:

-   "It was through the brave and noble efforts of the Nation's
    forefathers that the United States first gained freedom and became a
    sovereign nation;

-   "There are more than 1,500,000 active and reserve component members
    of the Armed Forces serving the Nation in support and defense of the
    values and freedom that all Americans cherish;

-   "The members of the Armed Forces deserve the utmost respect and
    admiration of their fellow Americans for putting their lives in
    danger for the sake of the freedoms enjoyed by all Americans;

-   "Members of the Armed Forces are defending freedom and democracy
    around the globe and are playing a vital role in protecting the
    safety and security of all Americans;

-   "The Nation officially celebrates and honors the accomplishments and
    sacrifices of veterans, patriots, and leaders who fought for
    freedom, but does not yet officially pay tribute to those who
    currently serve in the Armed Forces;

-   "All Americans should participate in a moment of silence to support
    our troops; and

-   "March 26th, 2008, is designated as 'National Support Our Troops
    Day.'"

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.Res. 953 was introduced on January
29, 2008, and referred to the Committee on Armed Services. On February
11, 2008, the bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Military
Personnel, which took no official action.

**[Cost to Taxpayers:]{.underline}** The resolution does not authorize
expenditures.\
\
**[Does the Bill Expand the Size and Scope of the Federal
Government?]{.underline}** No.\
\
**[Does the Bill Contain Any New State-Government, Local-Government, or
Private-Sector Mandates?]{.underline}** No.\
\
**[RSC Staff Contact]{.underline}**: Andy Koenig;
<andy.koenig@mail.house.gov>; 202-226-9717.