![](media/image1.jpeg){width="6.489583333333333in"
height="1.15625in"}**Legislative
Bulletin...........................................June 5, 2007**

> **Contents:**
>
> **H.Res. 390 ---** Recognizing the importance of the Ouachita National
> Forest on its 100th anniversary
>
> **H.Res. 401 ---** Supporting the goals and ideals of National Trails
> Day
>
> **H.Con.Res. 116** --- Expressing the sense of Congress that the
> National Museum of Wildlife Art, located in Jackson, Wyoming, shall be
> designated as the "National Museum of Wildlife Art of the United
> States"
>
> **H.Con.Res. 94 ---** Encouraging the elimination of harmful fishing
> subsidies that contribute to overcapacity in commercial fishing fleets
> worldwide and that lead to the overfishing of global fish stocks
>
> **H.Res. 341 ---** Supporting the goals and ideals of "American Eagle
> Day", and celebrating the recovery and restoration of the American
> bald eagle, the national symbol of the United States
>
> **H.Con.Res. 54 ---** Expressing the support of Congress for the
> creation of a National Hurricane Museum and Science Center in
> Southwest Louisiana
>
> **H.R. 1175 ---** To amend the Reclamation Wastewater and Groundwater
> Study and Facilities Act to increase the ceiling on the Federal share
> of the costs of phase I of the Orange County, California, Regional
> Water Reclamation Project
>
> **H.R. 1139 ---** Riverside-Corona Feeder Water Supply Act
>
> **H.R. 1736 ---** To amend the Reclamation Projects Authorization and
> Adjustment Act of 1992 to provide for conjunctive use of surface and
> groundwater in Juab County, Utah
>
> **H.R. 361 ---** Lower Rio Grande Valley Water Resources Conservation
> and Improvement Act of 2007
>
> **H.R. 1469** --- Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Foundation Act of
> 2007
>
> **H.Con.Res. 152** --- Relating to the 40th anniversary of the
> reunification of the City of Jerusalem
>
> **H.Res. 397 ---** Condemning violence in Estonia and attacks on
> Estonia\'s embassies in 2007, and expressing solidarity with the
> Government and the people of Estonia
>
> **H.Res. 412 ---** Expressing gratitude to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth
> II and His Royal Highness, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, for their
> State Visit to the United States and reaffirming the friendship that
> exists between the United States and the United Kingdom
>
> **H.Res. 422 ---** Calling on the Government of the People's Republic
> of China to use its unique influence and economic leverage to stop
> genocide and violence in Darfur, Sudan
>
> **H.Res. 430 ---** Calling on the Government of the Islamic Republic
> of Iran to immediately release Dr. Haleh Esfandiari
>
> **H.Res. 390 --- Recognizing the importance of the Ouachita National
> Forest on its 100th anniversary (*Ross, D-AR)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}:** H.Res. 390 is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, June 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend the rules
and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.Res. 390 would express that, "on the 100th
anniversary of the creation of the Ouachita National Forest, the House
of Representatives recognizes the important contributions of the
Ouachita National Forest to the success of the United States in
conserving the environment and ensuring that our natural resources
remain sources of pride for our citizens, our communities, and our
Nation."

The resolution lists the following findings:

-   "on December 18, 1907, President Theodore Roosevelt created by
    proclamation the Arkansas National Forest on reserved public domain
    lands south of the Arkansas River;

-   "on April 29, 1926, President Calvin Coolidge issued an Executive
    Order to change the name of the Arkansas National Forest to the
    Ouachita National Forest to reflect both the name of the mountains
    embraced by the national forest and the name of the principal river
    which drains the national forest;

-   "Ouachita is the French spelling of a Native American word meaning
    'good hunting ground';

-   "Ouachita National Forest today encompasses approximately 1.8
    million acres in Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma and offers a variety
    of recreation areas, scenic areas, wilderness areas, historic
    resources, and timber and other forest products to the Nation; and

-   "the Ouachita National Forest is the largest and oldest national
    forest in the southern region of the United States."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.Res. 390 was introduced on May 9,
2007, and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources. On May 11,
2007, the resolution was referred to the Subcommittee on National Parks,
Forests, and Public Lands, which took no official action.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: The resolution authorizes no
expenditure.

**[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. 401 --- Supporting the goals and ideals of National Trails Day
*(Thompson, D-CA)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}:** H.Res. 401 is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, June 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend the rules
and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.Res. 401 would express that the House of
Representatives,

-   "supports the goals and ideals of National Trails Day; and

-   "honors the contributions National Trails Day has made to inspire
    the public and trail enthusiasts to discover, learn about, maintain,
    and celebrate trails."

The resolution lists the following findings:

-   "June 2, 2007, is observed as National Trails Day;

-   "there are over 200,000 miles of trails in the United States,
    providing access to public lands for recreational and educational
    opportunities;

-   "trails enrich communities throughout the United States by helping
    to protect habitats, watersheds, and cultural and historic
    artifacts;

-   "72.1 percent of all Americans age 16 and older participate in at
    least one of twenty-two designated outdoor activities, including
    hiking, backpacking, and trail running;

-   "National Trails Day events take place in all 50 States, the
    District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the United States
    Virgin Islands to celebrate trails, recognize volunteers, and
    maintain local trails;

-   "thousands of volunteers and event coordinators throughout the
    United States make National Trails Day events possible; and

-   "2007 is the 15th Anniversary Celebration of National Trails Day."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.Res. 401 was introduced on May 14,
2007, and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources. On May 18,
2007, the resolution was referred to the Subcommittee on National Parks,
Forests, and Public Lands, which took no official action.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: The resolution authorizes no
expenditure.

**[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. 116 --- Expressing the sense of Congress that the National
Museum of Wildlife Art, located in Jackson, Wyoming, shall be designated
as the "National Museum of Wildlife Art of the United States" (Cubin,
R-WY)**

**[Order of Business]{.underline}:** H.Con.Res. 116 is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, June 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend the rules
and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.Con.Res. 116 would express the sense of the
House of Representatives "that the National Museum of Wildlife Art,
located at 2820 Rungius Road, Jackson, Wyoming, shall be designated as
the 'National Museum of Wildlife Art of the United States'."

The resolution lists several findings, including:

-   "the National Museum of Wildlife Art in Jackson, Wyoming, is devoted
    to inspiring global recognition of fine art related to nature and
    wildlife;

-   "the National Museum of Wildlife Art, which was founded in 1987 with
    a private gift of a collection of art, has grown in stature and
    importance and is recognized today as the world's premier museum of
    wildlife art;

-   "the National Museum of Wildlife Art is the only public museum in
    the United States with the mission of enriching and inspiring public
    appreciation and knowledge of fine art, while exploring the
    relationship between humanity and nature by collecting fine art
    focused on wildlife;

-   "the National Museum of Wildlife Art is housed in an architecturally
    significant and award-winning 51,000-square foot facility that
    overlooks the 28,000-acre National Elk Refuge and is adjacent to the
    Grand Teton National Park;

-   "the National Museum of Wildlife Art is accredited with the American
    Association of Museums, continues to grow in national recognition
    and importance with members from every State, and has a Board of
    Trustees and a National Advisory Board composed of major benefactors
    and leaders in the arts and sciences from throughout the United
    States; and

-   "the National Museum of Wildlife Art is a destination attraction in
    the Western United States with annual attendance of 92,000 visitors
    from all over the world and an award-winning website that receives
    more than 10,000 visits per week."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.Con.Res. 116 was introduced on May
18, 2007, and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources. On May 19,
2007, the resolution was referred to the Subcommittee on National Parks,
Forests, and Public Lands, which held a mark-up on the same day and
forwarded the resolution to the full committee, which took no official
action.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: The resolution authorizes no
expenditure.

**[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. 94 --- Encouraging the elimination of harmful fishing
subsidies that contribute to overcapacity in commercial fishing fleets
worldwide and that lead to the overfishing of global fish stocks
*(Bordallo, D-Guam) ***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}:** H.Con.Res. 94 is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, June 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend the rules
and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.Con.Res. 94 would express the sense of the
House of Representatives that "the United States should continue to
promote the elimination of harmful fishing subsidies that promote
overcapitalization; overfishing; illegal, unregulated, and unreported
fishing; and destructive fishing practices that would not otherwise be
economically viable."

The resolution lists several findings, including:

-   "nearly 1,000,000,000 people around the world depend on fish as
    their primary source of dietary protein;

-   "scientists have estimated that a significant percentage of big
    predator fish such as tuna, marlin, and swordfish are gone from the
    world's oceans and warn of a global collapse within this century of
    all species now fished if current trends in overfishing are not
    reversed;

-   "the global fishing fleet capacity is estimated to be up to 250
    percent greater than is needed to catch what the ocean can
    sustainably produce;

-   "the Congress recognized the threat of overfishing to our oceans and
    economy and therefore included the requirement to end overfishing in
    the United States by 2011 in the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery
    Conservation and Management Reauthorization Act of 2006 (Public Law
    109-479);

-   "harmful fishing subsidies are concentrated in relatively few
    countries, putting other fishing countries, including the United
    States, at an economic disadvantage;

-   "the United States is a world leader in advancing policies to
    eliminate harmful fishing subsidies that support overcapacity and
    promote overfishing; and

-   "a wide range of countries are currently engaged in historic
    negotiations to end harmful fishing subsidies that contribute to
    overcapacity and overfishing."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.Con.Res. 94 was introduced on
March 20, 2007, and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources. On
March 22, 2007, the resolution was referred to the Subcommittee on
Fisheries, Wildlife, and Oceans, which took no official action.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: The resolution authorizes no
expenditure.

**[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. 341 --- Supporting the goals and ideals of "American Eagle
Day", and celebrating the recovery and restoration of the American bald
eagle, the national symbol of the United States (Davis, R-TN)**

**[Order of Business]{.underline}:** H.Res. 341 is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, June 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend the rules
and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.Res. 341 would express that the House of
Representatives supports the goals and ideals of "American Eagle Day"
and encourages:

-   "educational entities, organizations, businesses, conservation
    groups, and government agencies with a shared interest in conserving
    endangered species to collaborate on education information for use
    in schools; and

-   "the people of the United States to observe American Eagle Day with
    appropriate ceremonies and other activities."

The resolution lists several findings, including:

-   "the bald eagle is the central image used in the Great Seal of the
    United States and the seals of the President and Vice President;

-   "the image of the bald eagle is displayed in the official seal of
    many branches and departments of the Federal Government;

-   "the bald eagle is an inspiring symbol of the American spirit of
    freedom and democracy;

-   "the image, meaning, and symbolism of the bald eagle have played a
    significant role in American art, music, history, literature,
    architecture, and culture since the founding of our Nation;

-   "the habitat of bald eagles exists only in North America;

-   "by 1963, the number of nesting pairs of bald eagles in the lower 48
    States had dropped to about 417;

-   "by 2006, the number of bald eagles in the lower 48 States had
    increased to approximately 7,000 to 8,000 nesting pairs;

-   "the initial recovery of the bald eagle population was accomplished
    by the concerted efforts of numerous government agencies,
    corporations, organizations, and individuals; and

-   "the sustained recovery of the bald eagle populations will require
    the continuation of recovery, management, education, and public
    awareness programs, to ensure that the populations and habitat of
    bald eagles will remain healthy and secure for future generations."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.Res. 341 was introduced on April
26, 2007, and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources. On April
27, 2007, the resolution was referred to the Subcommittee on Fisheries,
Wildlife, and Oceans, which took no official action.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: The resolution authorizes no
expenditure.

**[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. 54 --- Expressing the support of Congress for the creation
of a National Hurricane Museum and Science Center in Southwest Louisiana
(Boustany, R-LA)**

**[Order of Business]{.underline}:** H.Con.Res. 54 is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, June 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend the rules
and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.Con.Res. 54 would express that "Congress
supports and encourages the creation of a National Hurricane Museum and
Science Center in southwest Louisiana."

The Resolution lists the following findings:

-   "the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road District Board of
    Commissioners has begun to create and develop a National Hurricane
    Museum and Science Center in the southwest Louisiana area;

-   "protecting, preserving, and showcasing the intrinsic qualities that
    make Louisiana a one-of-a-kind experience is the mission of the
    Creole Nature Trail All-American Road;

-   "the horrific experience and the devastation long-term effects of
    Hurricanes Katrina and Rita will play a major role in the history of
    the United States;

-   "a science center of this caliber will educate and motivate young
    and old in the fields of meteorology, environmental science,
    sociology, conservation, economics, history, communications, and
    engineering;

-   "It is only appropriate that the effects of hurricanes and the
    rebuilding efforts be captured in a comprehensive center such as a
    National Hurricane Museum and Science Center to interpret the
    effects of hurricanes in and outside of Louisiana; and

-   "it is critical that the history of past hurricanes be preserved so
    that all people in the United States can learn from this history."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.Con.Res. 54 was introduced on
February 2, 2007, and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources. On
February 7, 2007, the resolution was referred to the Subcommittee on
National Parks, Forests, and Public Lands, took no official action.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: The resolution authorizes no
expenditure.

**[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. 1175 --- To amend the Reclamation Wastewater and Groundwater
Study and Facilities Act to increase the ceiling on the Federal share of
the costs of phase I of the Orange County, California, Regional Water
Reclamation Project *(Sanchez, D-CA)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}:** H.R 1175 is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, June 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend the rules
and pass the bill.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.R. 1175 would amend current law to
**increase** the limit on the federal share of the cost of a local
project --- phase I of the Orange County Regional Water Reclamation
Project for FY2007-FY2016.

The bill would increase the federal share limits to:

-   \$22,000,000 for fiscal year 2007

-   \$24,200,000 for fiscal year 2008

-   \$26,620,000 for fiscal year 2009

-   \$29,282,000 for fiscal year 2010

-   \$32,210,200 for fiscal year 2011

-   \$35,431,220 for fiscal year 2012

-   \$38,974,342 for fiscal year 2013

-   \$42,871,776 for fiscal year 2014

-   \$47,158,953 for fiscal year 2015

-   \$51,874,849 for fiscal year 2016

**[Additional Information]{.underline}**: The Orange County Water
Reclamation Project, which was created to retrieve and reuse wastewater
in the Orange County, California, area, was designed in three distinct
phases. According to Bureau of Reclamation, Phase I of the project will
supply 50,000 acre-feet per year (AFY) of fresh water. Each subsequent
phase will provide approximately 25,000 AFY to the residents in the
region. One AFY is enough to supply eight people with water for a year.

Under current law the federal government is authorized to participate in
the design, planning and construction of the project, **and the federal
share of the cost may not exceed 25 percent**. H.R. 1175 would authorize
funding to the levels above, regardless of the percentage of the federal
share.

**[Possible Conservative Concerns]{.underline}: Some conservatives may
be concerned that H.R. 1175 states specific levels of authorization for
a local project that is currently authorized based on a percentage of
the federal share of the total cost of the project. In addition, a CBO
estimate of this legislation is not available.**

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.R. 1175 was introduced on February
16, 2007, and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources. On
February 27, 2007, the bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Water
and Power, which took no official action.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: A CBO score for H.R. 1175 is not
currently available. However, as noted above, the bill would allow the
federal government to spend \$350 million over ten years on this local
project.

**[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.

**[Constitutional Authority]{.underline}**: A committee report citing
constitutional authority is not available. However, House Rule XIII,
Section 3(d)(1), requires that all committee reports contain "a
statement citing the *specific* powers granted to Congress in the
Constitution to enact the law proposed by the bill or joint resolution"
*\[emphasis added\]*.

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

**H.R. 1139 --- Riverside-Corona Feeder Water Supply Act**

**(Calvert, R-CA)**

**[Order of Business]{.underline}:** H.R 1139 is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, June 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend the rules
and pass the bill.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.R. 1139 would **authorize \$50 million**
for the Secretary of the Interior to participate with the Western
Municipal Water District in the panning, design and construction of the
Riverside-Corona Feeder water supply project. The project would include
20 groundwater wells, groundwater treatment facilities, water storage
and pumping facilities, and 28 mile of water pipeline.

The federal share for the construction and design would be limited to 25
percent of the total cost and the federal share for planning studies
would be limited to 50 percent. The local federal cost for the project
could not exceed \$50 million and the Secretary could not use funds for
the operation or maintenance of the project.

**[Additional Information]{.underline}**: According to Riverside
County's Western Municipal Water District, the Riverside/Corona Feeder
project will reduce the community's dependency on imported water be
collecting and conveying local water runoff. The runoff water would be
stored in San Bernardino Valley groundwater basins and delivered to
consumers via a system of 20 wells and a 28 mile-long pipeline that
would be built, in part, with federal funds authorized by H.R. 1139. The
total cost of the project is estimated at \$151 million, with state and
local governments assuming \$100 million of the cost.

**[Possible Conservative Concerns]{.underline}: Some conservatives may
be concerned that H.R. 1139 authorizes \$50 million for a local water
project. In addition, a CBO score is not available for this
legislation.**

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.R. 1139 was introduced on February
16, 2007, and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources. On
February 27, 2007, the bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Water
and Power, which took no official action.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: A CBO score for H.R. 1139 is not
currently available.

**[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.

**[Constitutional Authority]{.underline}**: A committee report citing
constitutional authority is not available. However, House Rule XIII,
Section 3(d)(1), requires that all committee reports contain "a
statement citing the *specific* powers granted to Congress in the
Constitution to enact the law proposed by the bill or joint resolution"
*\[emphasis added\]*.

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

**H.R. 1736 --- To amend the Reclamation Projects Authorization and
Adjustment Act of 1992 to provide for conjunctive use of surface and
groundwater in Juab County, Utah (Cannon, R-UT)**

**[Order of Business]{.underline}:** H.R 1739 is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, June 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend the rules
and pass the bill.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.R. 1739 adds Juab County, Utah to the
current list of Utah counties eligible to receive federal funding in a
current \$10 million study and development project by the Utah Division
of Water Resources of systems to allow ground water recharge,
management, and the conjunctive use of surface water resources with
ground water resources. The current list of counties includes: Salt
Lake, Utah, Davis, Wasatch, and Weber.

**[Additional Information]{.underline}**: According to a CBO estimate
for H.R. 4013, an identical bill that passed by voice vote during the
second session of the 109^th^ Congress, conjunctive use projects are a
type of water distribution system that stores water runoff from the
surface in groundwater aquifers. Under the Reclamation Projects
Authorization and Adjustment Act of 1992, the counties listed above are
eligible to receive federal funding for conjunctive use projects.

According to the Committee Report for H.R. 4013 (CR 109-443), the
"federal Central Utah Project has enabled the State of Utah to
beneficially use a substantial portion of its allotted share of Colorado
River water under the Colorado River Compact. During initial Project
feasibility studies, planners had envisioned developing water supplies
in the northern mountainous region and delivering them through a series
of reservoirs, tunnels and pipelines to the southern basin areas,
including Juab County. That plan never materialized because it was
initially determined that the water would stay north to meet the growing
population demands of the northern counties rather than agricultural
needs in the southern counties. Although Juab County continues to pay
into the Project, it is not receiving benefits. As local water demands
grow, Juab County is seeking to more effectively use its existing water
supplies through conjunctive use of surface and groundwater sources."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.R. 1736 was introduced on March
28, 2007 and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources. On April
17, 2007, the bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Water and Power,
which took no official action.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: Although a CBO score for H.R. 1736
is not available, a CBO estimate for H.R. 4013 stated that the federal
share of a project in Juab County would be \$5 million, subject to
appropriations.

**[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.

**[Constitutional Authority]{.underline}**: A committee report citing
constitutional authority is not available. However, House Rule XIII,
Section 3(d)(1), requires that all committee reports contain "a
statement citing the *specific* powers granted to Congress in the
Constitution to enact the law proposed by the bill or joint resolution"
*\[emphasis added\]*.

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

H.R. 361 --- Lower Rio Grande Valley Water Resources Conservation and
Improvement Act of 2007 (*Hinojosa, D-TX*)

**[Order of Business]{.underline}:** H.R 361 is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, June 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend the rules
and pass the bill.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.R. 361 would authorize **\$85 million to
create eighteen new projects** for water conservation and improvement in
Cameron, Hidalgo, Willacy, Hudspeth, and El Paso counties, Texas.

The bill would allow the Secretary of the Interior, through the
Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation, to conduct and participate in
any project that includes:

-   replacement of irrigation canals and lateral canals with buried
    pipelines;

-   impervious lining of irrigation canals and lateral canals;

-   installation of water level, flow measurement, pump control, and
    telemetry systems;

-   renovation and replacement of pumping plants; and

-   activities that will result in the conservation of water or an
    improved supply of water.

**[Possible Conservative Concerns]{.underline}: Some conservatives may
be concerned that this legislation would authorize \$85 million to fund
eighteen broadly defined water reclamation projects without a CBO
estimate.**

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.R. 361 was introduced on January
10, 2007 and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources. On February
7, 2007, the bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Water and Power,
which took no official action.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: A CBO score for H.R. 361 is not
currently available

**[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.

**[Constitutional Authority]{.underline}**: A committee report citing
constitutional authority is not available. However, House Rule XIII,
Section 3(d)(1), requires that all committee reports contain "a
statement citing the *specific* powers granted to Congress in the
Constitution to enact the law proposed by the bill or joint resolution"
*\[emphasis added\]*.

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

H.R. 1469 --- Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Foundation Act of 2007
*(Lantos, D-CA)*

**[Order of Business]{.underline}:** H.R 1469 is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, June 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend the rules
and pass the bill.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.R. 1469 would authorize **\$80 million per
year to establish the Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Foundation**, a
public corporation under the executive branch that would create grants
for students to study abroad. The foundation would consist of a board of
directors, which would be chaired by the Secretary of State and managed
by a CEO. The board would be responsible for encouraging students to
study abroad by offering grants to universities, nongovernmental
institutions, consortiums, and individuals that promote, conduct, and
participate in study abroad programs.

The bill would require the foundation to make flexible grants available
to **minority** students, students with financial need, and
"**nontraditional**" students (undefined, but often refers to adult
students) and students traveling to developing nations. The foundation
would also be directed to raise private sector funds and to minimize
administrative costs as much as possible.

H.R. 1469 would set requirements, procedures, and rules the foundation's
CEO and board of directors and establish the rules by which the
foundation would organize and operate. The bill also outlines the powers
of the foundation and requires the foundation to make annual reports to
Congress.

The bill lists as its purposes:

-   "to significantly enhance the global competitiveness and
    international knowledge base of the United States by ensuring that
    more United States students have the opportunity to acquire foreign
    language skills and international knowledge through significantly
    expanded study abroad;

-   "to enhance the foreign policy capacity of the United States by
    significantly expanding and diversifying the talent pool of
    individuals with non-traditional foreign language skills and
    cultural knowledge in the United States who are available for
    recruitment by United States foreign affairs agencies, legislative
    branch agencies, and nongovernmental organizations involved in
    foreign affairs activities;

-   "to ensure that an increasing portion of study abroad by United
    States students will take place in nontraditional study abroad
    destinations such as the People's Republic of China, countries of
    the Middle East region, and developing countries; and

-   "to create greater cultural understanding of the United States by
    exposing foreign students and their families to United States
    students in countries that have not traditionally hosted large
    numbers of United States students."

The bill also lists a number of findings, including:

-   "Studies consistently show that United States students score below
    their counterparts in other advanced countries on indicators of
    international knowledge. This lack of global literacy is a national
    liability in an age of global trade and business, global
    interdependence, and global terror;

-   "Americans believe that it is important for their children to learn
    other languages, study abroad, attend a college where they can
    interact with international students, learn about other countries
    and cultures, and generally be prepared for the global age;

-   "Study abroad has proven to be a very effective means of imparting
    international and foreign-language competency to students;

-   "Less than 10 percent of the students who graduate from United
    States institutions of higher education with bachelors degrees have
    studied abroad;

-   "The Final Report of the National Commission on Terrorist Attacks
    Upon the United States (The 9/11 Commission Report) recommended that
    the United States increase support for 'scholarship, exchange, and
    library programs'. The 9/11 Public Discourse Project, successor to
    the 9/11 Commission, noted in its November 14, 2005, status report
    that this recommendation was 'unfulfilled,' and stated that 'The
    U.S. should increase support for scholarship and exchange programs,
    our most powerful tool to shape attitudes over the course of a
    generation'. In its December 5, 2005, Final Report on the 9/11
    Commission Recommendations, the 9/11 Public Discourse Project gave
    the government a grade of 'D' for its implementation of this
    recommendation; and

-   "An enhanced national study abroad program could help further the
    goals of other United States Government initiatives to promote
    educational, social, and political reform and the status of women in
    developing and reforming societies around the world, such as the
    Middle East Partnership Initiative."

**[Additional Information]{.underline}**: According to Committee Report
110-138, this bill is intended to "dramatically increase study abroad
participation to at least one million college students per year within
10 years of the date of enactment." That figure would represent nearly
50 percent of the number of degrees given by accredited institutions of
higher learning each year. According to CBO, about 200,000 college or
university students currently travel abroad to receive academic credit
annually. Although these students are not given specific grants for
study abroad programs, federal financial aid grants and loans may be
used by many students who study overseas.

According to College Board, more than 60 percent of all college and
university students use Stafford Loans, PLUS Loans, Perkins Loans, Pell
Grants, or education tax benefits, all of which can be used for study
abroad programs, to help finance their education. Currently, there are
no government restrictions against using any of the \$70 billion the
federal government spends annually on financial aid for education
abroad. In addition to federal aid, websites like
[www.studyabroadfunding.org](http://www.studyabroadfunding.org/), list
as many as 236 different public and private loan opportunities
specifically tailored for students to study abroad.

**[Possible Conservative Concerns]{.underline}: Some conservatives may
be concerned that this legislation would authorize \$80 million per
year, in perpetuity, to fund a new grant program that is duplicating
numerous other federal efforts. Conservatives might also be concerned
that the foundation would give preference to students based on
"minority" and "non-traditional" status.**

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.R. 1469 was introduced on March
12, 2007 and referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs which held a
mark up and reported the bill by voice vote of March 27, 2007.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: According to CBO, H.R. 1469 would
cost \$40 million in FY 2008 and \$345 million over a five year period.
Also, the bill would increase governmental receipts and direct spending
because the foundation would receive and spend gift donations. CBO
estimates that the amounts would be inconsequential initially, but could
become significant in later years.

**[Does the Bill Expand the Size and Scope of the Federal
Government?]{.underline}** Yes. It creates a new federal foundation
under the Executive Branch that would provide federal grants to certain
minority and special status students in order to study abroad.

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

**[Constitutional Authority]{.underline}**: Committee Report 110-138
does not cite Constitutional authority for H.R. 1469. However, House
Rule XIII, Section 3(d)(1), requires that all committee reports contain
"a statement citing the *specific* powers granted to Congress in the
Constitution to enact the law proposed by the bill or joint resolution"
*\[emphasis added\]*.

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

H.Con.Res. 152---Relating to the 40th anniversary of the reunification
of the City of Jerusalem (*Lantos, D-CA*)

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: The resolution is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, June 5^th^, under a motion to suspend the rules
and pass the bill.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.Con.Res. 152 would resolve that Congress:

-   "congratulates the citizens of Israel on the 40th anniversary of the
    Six Day War in which Israel defeated enemies aiming to destroy the
    Jewish State;

-   "congratulates the residents of Jerusalem and the people of Israel
    on the 40th anniversary of the reunification of that historic city;

-   "commends those former combatant states of the Six Day War, Egypt
    and Jordan, who in subsequent years had the wisdom and courage to
    embrace a vision of peace and coexistence with Israel;

-   "commends Israel for its administration of the undivided city of
    Jerusalem for the past 40 years, during which Israel has respected
    the rights of all religious groups;

-   "reiterates its commitment to the provisions of the Jerusalem
    Embassy Act of 1995 and calls upon the President and all United
    States officials to abide by its provisions; and

-   "urges the Palestinians and Arab countries to join with Israel in
    peace negotiations to resolve the Arab-Israeli conflict, including
    realization of the vision of two democratic states, Israeli and
    Palestinian, living side-by-side in peace and security."

The resolution also notes that, "Jerusalem is also a holy city for the
Christian and Muslim faiths."

**[Additional Background]{.underline}**: As the resolution notes, the
Jewish population of the historic Old City of Jerusalem was driven out
by force during the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. From 1948 to 1967, Jerusalem
was a divided city, and Israeli citizens of all faiths, as well as Jews
of all nationalities, were denied access to holy sites in eastern
Jerusalem, including the Old City, in which the Western Wall and the
Church of the Holy Sepulchre are located.

The Jerusalem Embassy Act of 1995 (Public Law 104-45) states, as a
matter of United States policy, that Jerusalem should remain the
undivided capital of Israel.

**[RSC Bonus Fact]{.underline}**: Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC) and Rep. Mike
Pence (R-IN) introduced a Jerusalem reunification resolution
([H.Con.Res.
131](http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d110:h.con.res.00131:)) one
month before the introduction of H.Con.Res. 152. While the two
resolutions are similar, the Wilson-Pence resolution does not make
reference to Jerusalem as a holy city for Muslims, includes
congratulations for the 59^th^ anniversary of Israel's independence, and
"reaffirms Israel's right to take necessary steps to prevent any future
division of Jerusalem."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: On May 22, 2007, H.Con.Res. 152 was
referred to the Foreign Affairs Committee, which, on the following day,
marked up the resolution and, by unanimous consent, agreed to seek House
floor consideration of the resolution under suspension of the rules.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: The resolution would authorize no
expenditure.

**[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}**: Paul S. Teller,
<paul.teller@mail.house.gov>, (202) 226-9718

**H.Res. 397 --- Condemning violence in Estonia and attacks on
Estonia\'s embassies in 2007, and expressing solidarity with the
Government and the people of Estonia (Shimkus, R-IL)**

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: H.Res. 397 is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, June 5, 2007 under a motion to suspend the rules
and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.Con.Res. 397 would express the sense of the
House of Representatives that "the Soviet Union's brutal, decades-long
occupation of Estonia was illegal, illegitimate, and a patent violation
of Estonia's sovereignty and right to self-determination," and that the
House of Representatives:

-   "expresses its strong support for Estonia as a sovereign state and a
    member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the
    Organization of Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) as it
    deals with matters internal to its country;

-   "condemns recent acts of violence, vandalism, and looting that have
    taken place in Estonia;

-   "condemns the attacks and threats against Estonia\'s embassies and
    officials in Russia and other countries;

-   "urges all activists involved to express their views peacefully and
    reject violence;

-   "honors the sacrifice of all those, including soldiers of the Red
    Army, that gave their lives in the fight to defeat Nazism;

-   "condemns any and all efforts to callously exploit the memory of the
    victims of the Second World War for political gain; and

-   supports the efforts of the Government of Estonia to initiate a
    dialogue with appropriate levels of the Government of the Russian
    Federation to resolve the crisis peacefully and to sustain
    cooperation between their two sovereign, independent states."

The resolution also urges the governments of all countries to:

-   "condemn the violence that has occurred in Estonia, Moscow, and
    elsewhere in 2007 and to urge all parties to express their views
    peacefully;

-   "assist the Government of Estonia in its investigation into the
    source of cyber-attacks; and

-   "fulfill their obligations under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic
    Relations, done at Vienna April 18, 1961."

The resolution lists a number of findings, including:

-   "on April 27, 2007, the Bronze Soldier Soviet monument in central
    Tallinn was moved to a prominent location in the Garrison Military
    Cemetery as a result of a decision by the Government of Estonia;

-   "the Government of Estonia communicated its reasons for this
    decision to the Government of the Russian Federation and offered to
    work with Russian officials during the process, which the Russian
    officials declined to do;

-   "on April 27, 2007, a crowd of more than 1,000 demonstrators
    gathered at the site of the memorial and riots broke out across
    Tallinn;

-   "more than 153 people were injured as a result of the riots, and one
    died as a result of stabbing by another rioter;

-   "on May 2, 2007, Prime Minister of Estonia Andrus Ansip stated that
    a 'sovereign state is under a heavy attack' and that the events
    constitute 'a well-coordinated and flagrant intervention with the
    internal affairs of Estonia';

-   "on May 2, 2007, the European Commission expressed its solidarity
    with Estonia and urged Russia to respect its obligations to the
    Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, done at Vienna April 18,
    1961, and end the blockade of the Embassy of Estonia in Moscow; and

-   "the Embassy of Estonia in Russia has been closed since April 27,
    2007, and Estonia has suspended consular services to Moscow because
    conditions remain unsafe for Embassy officials."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: On May 10, 2007, H.Res. 367 was
referred to the Foreign Affairs Committee, which, on the May 23, 2007,
marked up the resolution and, by unanimous consent, agreed to seek House
floor consideration of the resolution under suspension of the rules.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: The resolution would authorize no
expenditure.

**[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) 226-9718

**H.Res. 412 --- Expressing gratitude to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
and His Royal Highness, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, for their
State Visit to the United States and reaffirming the friendship that
exists between the United States and the United Kingdom**

**(Boozman, R-AR)**

**[Order of Business]{.underline}:** H.Res. 412 is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, June 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend the rules
and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.Res. 412 would express that the House of
Representatives "is deeply appreciative of the State Visit recently
conducted by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and His Royal Highness,
Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, and celebrates the State Visit as
having been an occasion to reaffirm the value and depth of the
friendship that exists between the United States and the United
Kingdom."

The resolution lists the following findings:

-   "Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and His Royal Highness Prince
    Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, traveled to the United States for a State
    Visit from May 3 to May 8, 2007, celebrating the special
    relationship that exists between the United States and the United
    Kingdom;

-   "the United States and the United Kingdom enjoy a trans-Atlantic
    friendship sustained by a commitment to democratic traditions,
    liberty, and the spread of freedom, as well as common economic and
    cultural foundations;

-   "in a rapidly changing world, Queen Elizabeth II has been a force of
    stability and constancy and has provided inspiration to the world in
    times both peaceful and tumultuous;

-   "Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip serve as ambassadors for the
    British people and the goodwill engendered by their visit serves as
    a reminder, for the people of the United States and the United
    Kingdom alike, of our joint values and priorities;

-   "the United Kingdom, like the United States, has suffered loss of
    life on its own shores from terrorist elements; and

-   "thousands of British troops today fight side-by-side with United
    States forces on the War on Terror's most dangerous battlefields."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.Res. 412 was introduced on May 17,
2007, and referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, which held a
mark up on May 23, 2007, and, by unanimous consent, agreed to seek House
floor consideration of the resolution under suspension of the rules.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: The resolution authorizes no
expenditure.

**[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. 422 --- Calling on the Government of the People's Republic of
China to use its unique influence and economic leverage to stop genocide
and violence in Darfur, Sudan *(Lee, D-CA)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}:** H.Res. 422 is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, June 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend the rules
and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.Res. 422 would express that the House of
Representatives:

1\) "Calls upon the Government of the People's Republic of China to:

-   "acknowledge publicly and condemn the atrocities taking place in
    Darfur;

-   "cease all military arms, ammunition, and related military equipment
    sales to the Government of Sudan; and

-   "take steps to immediately suspend economic cooperation with the
    Government of Sudan and investment in Sudan until and unless the
    Government of Sudan:

    -   "stops its attacks on civilians;

    -   "complies with all United Nations Security Council resolutions
        related to Darfur; and

    -   "engages in good faith negotiations with Darfur rebel groups to
        achieve a sustainable negotiated peace agreement.

2\) "Recognizes the close relationship between China and Sudan and
strongly urges the Government of the People\'s Republic of China to use
its full influence to:

-   "urge the regime in Khartoum to comply with the deployment of the
    peacekeeping force authorized by United Nations Security Council
    Resolution 1706;

-   "call for Sudanese compliance with United Nations Security Council
    Resolutions 1556 and 1564, and the Darfur Peace Agreement, all of
    which demand that the Government of Sudan disarm militias operating
    in Darfur;

-   "call on all parties to the conflict to adhere to the 2004 N'Djamena
    ceasefire agreement and the recently-agreed United Nations
    communique which commits the Sudanese Government to improve
    conditions for humanitarian organizations and ensure they have
    unfettered access to the populations they serve;

-   "emphasize that there can be no military solution to the conflict in
    Darfur and that the formation and implementation of a legitimate
    peace agreement between all parties will contribute toward the
    welfare and stability of the entire nation and broader region;

-   "urge all rebel groups to unify and assist all parties to come to
    the negotiating table in good faith;

-   "urge the Government of southern Sudan to play a more active role in
    pressing for legitimate peace talks and take immediate steps to
    support and assist in the revitalization of such talks along one
    single coordinated track;

-   "engage collaboratively in high-level diplomacy and multilateral
    efforts toward a renewed peace process; and

-   "join the international community in imposing economic and other
    consequences on the Government of Sudan if that Government continues
    to carry out or support attacks on civilians and frustrate
    diplomatic efforts.

3\) "Recognizes that the spirit of the Olympics, which is to bring
together nations and people from all over the world in peace, is
incompatible with any actions directly or indirectly supporting acts of
genocide."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: On May 21, 2007, H. Res. 422 was
referred to the Foreign Affairs Committee, which, on May 23, 2007,
marked up the resolution and, by unanimous consent, agreed to seek House
floor consideration of the resolution under suspension of the rules.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: The resolution authorizes no
expenditure.

**[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. 430 --- Calling on the Government of the Islamic Republic of
Iran to immediately release Dr. Haleh Esfandiari *(Van Hollen, D-MD)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}:** H.Res. 430 is scheduled to be
considered on Tuesday, June 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend the rules
and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.Res. 430 would express that the House of
Representatives "calls on the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran
to immediately release Dr. Haleh Esfandiari, replace her lost travel
documents, and cease its harassment tactics."

The resolution would also express the sense that:

-   "the United States Government, through all appropriate means and
    diplomatic channels, should encourage the Government of Iran to
    release Dr. Esfandiari and offer her an apology; and

-   "the United States should coordinate its response with its allies
    throughout the Middle East, other governments, and all appropriate
    international organizations."

The resolution lists a number of findings, including:

-   "Dr. Haleh Esfandiari, Ph.D., holds dual citizenship in the United
    States and the Islamic Republic of Iran;

-   "Dr. Esfandiari taught Persian language and literature for many
    years at Princeton University, where she inspired untold numbers of
    students to study the rich Persian language and culture;

-   "Dr. Esfandiari is a resident of the State of Maryland and the
    Director of the Middle East Program at the Woodrow Wilson
    International Center for Scholars in Washington, DC

-   "for the past decade, Dr. Esfandiari has traveled to Iran twice a
    year to visit her ailing 93-year-old mother;

-   "in December 2006, on her return to the airport during her last
    visit to Iran, Dr. Esfandiari was robbed by 3 masked, knife-wielding
    men, who stole her travel documents, luggage, and other effects;

-   "when Dr. Esfandiari attempted to obtain replacement travel
    documents in Iran, she was invited to an interview by a
    representative of the Ministry of Intelligence of Iran;

-   "Dr. Esfandiari was interrogated by the Ministry of Intelligence for
    7 to 8 hours per day;

-   "the lengthy interrogations of Dr. Esfandiari by the Ministry of
    Intelligence of Iran stopped on February 14, 2007, but she heard
    nothing for 10 weeks and was denied her passport;

-   "on May 7, 2007, Dr. Esfandiari was summoned to the Ministry of
    Intelligence and taken immediately to Evin prison, where she is
    currently being held;

-   "the Ministry of Intelligence has yet to produce any evidence of
    wrong-doing on Dr. Esfandiari\'s behalf to justify its actions
    toward her; and

-   "the Government of Iran should immediately and unconditionally
    release Dr. Esfandiari and all other individuals being detained for
    participating in the free exchange of scholarship and ideas."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: On May 22, 2007, H.Res. 430 was
referred to the Foreign Affairs Committee, which, on the following day,
marked up the resolution and, by unanimous consent, agreed to seek House
floor consideration of the resolution under suspension of the rules.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: The resolution authorizes no
expenditure.

**[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.

**\###**