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

**Contents:**

> **H.Res. 629 ---** Extending the condolences and sympathy of the House
> of Representatives to the Government and the people of Greece for the
> grave loss of life and vast destruction caused by the devastating
> fires raging through Greece since June 2007
>
> **H.R. 3062** --- South Pacific Economic and Educational Development
> Act of 2007
>
> **S. 377---** United States-Poland Parliamentary Youth Exchange
> Program Act of 2007
>
> **H.Res. 34** --- Recognizing the 75th birthday of Desmond Mpilo Tutu,
> South African Anglican Archbishop of Cape Town, and Nobel Peace Prize
> recipient
>
> **H.Res. 508 ---** Recognizing the strong security alliance between
> the Government of Japan and the United States and expressing
> appreciation to Japan for its role in enhancing stability in the
> Asia-Pacific region and its efforts in the global war against
> terrorism
>
> **H.Res. 575 ---** Commending the people and the Government of the
> Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan for their continued commitment to holding
> elections and broadening political participation, and for other
> purposes
>
> **H.R. 954 ---** To designate the facility of the United States Postal
> Service located at 365 West 125th Street in New York, New York, as the
> "Percy Sutton Post Office Building"
>
> **H.Res. 554 ---** Supporting the goals and ideals of National
> Passport Month
>
> **H.Res. 544 ---** Expressing the sympathy and pledging the support of
> the House of Representatives and the people of the United States for
> the victims of the devastating thunderstorms that caused severe
> flooding in 20 counties in eastern Kansas beginning on June 26, 2007
>
> **H.Con.Res. 165 ---** Supporting the goals and ideals of National
> Teen Driver Safety Week
>
> **H.R. 3052 ---** To designate the facility of the United States
> Postal Service located at 954 Wheeling Avenue in Cambridge, Ohio, as
> the "John Herschel Glenn, Jr. Post Office Building"
>
> **H.R. 3106 ---** To designate the facility of the United States
> Postal Service located at 805 Main Street in Ferdinand, Indiana, as
> the "Staff Sergeant David L. Nord Post Office"
>
> **H.R. 3218 ---** To designate a portion of Interstate Route 395
> located in Baltimore, Maryland, as "Cal Ripken Way"
>
> **H.Res. 606---** Honoring the city of Minneapolis, first responders,
> and the citizens of the State of Minnesota for their valiant efforts
> in responding to the horrific collapse of the Interstate Route 35W
> Mississippi River Bridge
>
> **H.Con.Res. 181 ---** Recognizing and commending all volunteers and
> other persons who provide support to the families and children of
> members of the Armed Forces, including National Guard and Reserve
> personnel, who are deployed in service to the United States
>
> **H.Res. \_\_ ---** Honoring the sacrifice and courage of the six
> missing miners and three rescuers who were killed in the Crandall
> Canyon mine disaster in Utah, and recognizing the rescue crews for
> their outstanding efforts in the aftermath of the tragedies

**H.R. 2547 --- FDIC Enforcement Enhancement Act *(Sires, D-NJ)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: H.R. 2547 is scheduled to be
considered on Monday, July 16, 2007, under a motion to suspend the rules
and pass the bill.

**H.Res. 629 --- Extending the condolences and sympathy of the House of
Representatives to the Government and the people of Greece for the grave
loss of life and vast destruction caused by the devastating fires raging
through Greece since June 2007 *(Sarbanes, D-MD)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: H.Res. 629 is scheduled to be
considered on Wednesday, September 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend
the rules and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.Res. 629 would express the sense that the
House of Representatives:

-   "extends its condolences and sympathy to the Government and the
    people of Greece for the grave loss of life and vast destruction
    caused by the devastating fires raging through Greece;

-   "vows its full support and solidarity to a close friend, a strategic
    partner, and a longstanding ally in this painful and difficult hour;

-   "fully supports the Administration's initiatives to provide
    assistance and relief to the people of Greece, including its pledge
    of \$1,500,000 in aid as well as expert and technical assistance;

-   "encourages public institutions, specialized agencies, as well as
    private citizens, to offer their resources; and

-   "expresses confidence that Greece and its people will succeed in
    overcoming the hardships incurred through this tragedy."

The resolution lists the following findings:

-   "more than 3,000 forest fires have been recorded in Greece since
    June 2007;

-   "over a 10-day period, an estimated 4,000 people saw their homes
    destroyed by the wildfires, which razed dozens of villages,
    destroyed livestock and charred an estimated 469,000 acres of mostly
    forest and farmland;

-   "dozens of Greek families have lost their loved ones to the fires;

-   "thousands of Greeks have been left homeless and hundreds of
    thousands of acres of pristine forest have been destroyed;

-   "hundreds of thousands of mature olive trees, vineyards and
    thousands of animals perished in the flames;

-   "damage to the Greek economy is estimated at between \$1,600,000,000
    and \$5,400,000,000;

-   "the United States and Greece have stood side by side in confronting
    world challenges throughout the 20th century, and will stand
    together in confronting this new challenge; and

-   "the United States, through its government, its people and its
    Greek-American community, has already extended significant support
    to the people of Greece during this difficult time."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.Res. 629 was introduced on
Tuesday, September 4, 2007, and referred to the Committee on Foreign
Affairs, 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.R. 3062 --- South Pacific Economic and Educational Development Act
of 2007 *(Faleomavaega, D-AS)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: H.R. 3062 is scheduled to be
considered on Wednesday, September 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend
the rules and pass the bill.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.R. 3062 would authorize \$1 million in both
FY 2008 and FY 2009 for technical assistance for South Pacific
educational exchange programs to be carried out by the Department of
State. The new program would require the United States Agency for
International Development (USAID) to provide technical assistance for
educational exchange programs for the Cook Islands, the Federated States
of Micronesia, the Independent State of Samoa, the Kingdom of Tonga,
Niue, Papua New Guinea, the Republic of Fiji, the Republic of Kiribati,
the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Republic of Nauru, the
Republic of Palau, the Republic of Vanuatu, the Solomon Islands, and
Tuvalu.

H.R. 3062 would also establish an **annual year-long program** to give
Fulbright scholarships to students in the aforementioned Pacific Island
nations to study in the United States. The bill would also require the
Secretary of State to conduct a review regarding the low number of
Pacific Island students that are awarded Fulbright Scholarships and
report the findings to Congress. The bill authorizes \$500,000 for each
of fiscal years 2008 and 2009 for this purpose.

**[Additional Information]{.underline}**: According to findings listed
in the bill, the Department of State awarded 13,176 Fulbright
Scholarships to Asian nations between 1949 and 2003, of which, only 31
have gone to Pacific Island students. In the 2003-2004 academic year,
none of the 315 Fulbright Scholarships from the East Asia and the
Pacific regions went to Pacific Island students.

**[Possible Conservative Concerns]{.underline}**: Some conservatives may
be concerned that H.R. 3062 would authorize the creation of two new
programs without providing a CBO score.

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.R. 3062 was introduced on July 17,
2007, and referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, which reported
the bill by unanimous consent, as amended, on July 20, 2007.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: A CBO score for H.R. 3062 was not
available at press time. However, the bill would authorize \$3 million
over the FY 2008 through FY 2009 period for exchange programs and
scholarships.

**[Does the Bill Expand the Size and Scope of the Federal
Government?]{.underline}** Yes, it creates two new student exchange
assistance and scholarship programs.

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

**[Constitutional Authority]{.underline}**: A House 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.

**S. 377 --- United States-Poland Parliamentary Youth Exchange Program
Act of 2007 (Sen. Lugar, R-IN)**

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: S. 377 is scheduled to be
considered on Wednesday, September 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend
the rules and pass the bill.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: S. 377 would authorize such sums as necessary
in FY 2008 for the Secretary of State **to establish and carry out an
exchange program** between Polish and American students. The program,
known as the "United States-Poland Parliamentary Youth Exchange
Program," would have the stated purpose of demonstrating the "benefits
of friendly cooperation" to the youth of the U.S. and Poland.

Eligible individuals would include United States and Polish citizens
under 19 years of age who are enrolled and in good standing at a
secondary school in their respective nation. Students in the program
would undertake academic studies with an emphasis on the history,
constitution and political development of the host country. While in the
program, students would be eligible to participate in an internship in
the host country.

The Secretary would be required to submit an annual report to Congress
on the status of the program.

**[Additional Information]{.underline}**: According to Senate Report
[110 --
33](http://www.congress.gov/cgi-lis/cpquery/R?cp110:FLD010:@1(sr033)):

> The United States and Poland have enjoyed close bilateral relations
> since the end of the Cold War. Most recently, Poland has been a strong
> supporter of efforts led by the United States to combat global
> terrorism, and has contributed troops to and led coalitions in both
> Afghanistan and Iraq. Poland also cooperates closely with the United
> States on such issues as democratization, human rights, regional
> cooperation in Eastern Europe, and reform of the United Nations. As a
> member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the
> European Union (EU), Poland has demonstrated its commitment to
> democratic values and is a role model in its region.
>
> After receiving for many years international and U. S. financial
> assistance, Poland is now determined to invest its own resources
> toward funding a U.S.-Poland exchange program. To this end the Polish
> Foreign Minister unambiguously stated that Poland welcomed the
> opportunity to be an equal partner in funding important efforts.

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: S. 377 was introduced in the Senate
on January 24, 2007, and referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations,
which ordered the bill to be reported without amendment on March 6,
2007. On March 15, 2007, S 377 passed the Senate by unanimous consent
and the bill was received in the House the next day. On June 26, 2007,
S. 377 was referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, which
held a mark up and reported the bill by unanimous consent.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: According to CBO, S. 377 would
likely require appropriations of \$5 million in FY 2008 and each
additional year that the program continues.

**[Does the Bill Expand the Size and Scope of the Federal
Government?]{.underline}** Yes, it creates a new educational exchange
program.

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

**[Constitutional Authority]{.underline}**: Senate Report 110 -- 33 does
not cite Constitutional authority. 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.Res. 34 --- Recognizing the 75th birthday of Desmond Mpilo Tutu,
South African Anglican Archbishop of Cape Town, and Nobel Peace Prize
recipient *(Jackson-Lee, D-TX)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}:** H.Res. 34 is scheduled to be
considered on Wednesday, September 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend
the rules and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.Res. 34 would express the sense that the
House of Representatives:

-   "recognizes the 75th birthday of Desmond Mpilo Tutu, Archbishop of
    Cape Town, South Africa;

-   "honors the accomplishments of Desmond Mpilo Tutu; and

-   "extols the contributions of Desmond Mpilo Tutu to South Africa, the
    United States, and the international community."

The resolution lists the following findings:

-   "October 7, 2006, marked the 75th birthday of Archbishop Desmond
    Mpilo Tutu;

-   "in 1986, Desmond Tutu was the first black African to be elected
    Archbishop of Cape Town and head of the Anglican Church in South
    Africa;

-   "Desmond Tutu was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984 in
    recognition of his courage, heroism, and use of nonviolence in the
    struggle against apartheid;

-   "Desmond Tutu has been awarded, in addition to the Nobel Peace
    Prize, other prestigious awards including, the Order for Meritorious
    Award (Gold), the Archbishop of Canterbury's Award for Outstanding
    Service to the Anglican Communion, the Prix d'Athene, and the Martin
    Luther King Jr. Non-Violent Peace Prize;

-   "Desmond Tutu has received numerous honorary doctorates from several
    universities including Harvard, Kent, Colombia, Aberdeen, and
    Howard;

-   "Desmond Tutu became the first black African Dean of Mary's
    Cathedral in Johannesburg;

-   "Desmond Tutu was the first black African to become the General
    Secretary of the South African Council of Churches;

-   "Desmond Tutu is an international lecturer, philosopher, author, and
    humanitarian;

-   "Desmond Tutu chaired South Africa's Truth and Reconciliation
    Commission from April 1996 to July 1998 to investigate crimes
    committed during the period of South Africa's apartheid; and

-   "Desmond Tutu has fought for a democratic and just society without
    racial divisions, a common system of education, and a world which
    promotes the rights and opportunities of the marginalized,
    disadvantaged, and disenfranchised."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.Res. 34 was introduced on January
5, 2007, and referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, which held a
mark-up and reported the resolution on July 31, 2007.

**[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}**: Sarah Makin;
<sarah.makin@mail.house.gov>; 202-226-8587.

**H.Res. 508 --- Recognizing the strong security alliance between the
Government of Japan and the United States and expressing appreciation to
Japan for its role in enhancing stability in the Asia-Pacific region and
its efforts in the global war against terrorism (Saxton, R-NJ)**

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: H.Res. 508 is scheduled to be
considered on Wednesday, September 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend
the rules and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.Res. 508 would express the sense that the
House of Representatives:

-   "recognizes that Japan is one of the most reliable security partners
    of the United States;

-   "commends the Government of Japan for its role in enhancing
    stability in the Asia-Pacific Region; and

-   "expresses appreciation for its efforts in the global war against
    terrorism."

The resolution lists numerous findings, including the following:

-   "the United States-Japan alliance is the cornerstone of United
    States security interests in Asia and the Pacific and is fundamental
    to regional stability and prosperity;

-   "the United States-Japan alliance continues to be based on shared
    vital interests and values in the Asia-Pacific region, despite the
    changes in the post-cold war strategic landscape, including the
    preservation and promotion of political and economic freedoms,
    support for human rights and democratic institutions, and securing
    of prosperity for the people of both countries and the international
    community;

-   "on April 27, 2007, during Prime Minister Abe's visit to Washington,
    President Bush and the Prime Minister reconfirmed their commitment
    to these common strategic objectives;

-   "Japan provides military bases and generous financial and material
    support to United States forward-deployed forces, which are
    essential for maintaining stability in the region;

-   "under the United States-Japan Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and
    Security, Japan hosts a carrier battle group, the III Marine
    Expeditionary Force, the 5th Air Force, and elements of the Army's I
    Corps;

-   "the United States currently maintains approximately 50,000 troops
    in Japan, about half of whom are stationed in Okinawa;

-   "in 2005, the two allies agreed on a redefinition of roles,
    missions, and capabilities of alliance forces, which further deepens
    interoperability and coordination between the Japanese Self Defense
    Forces (SDF) and United States Armed Forces;

-   "after the tragic events of September 11, 2001, Japan has
    participated significantly with the global war on terrorism by
    providing troops, aircraft, and logistical support for Operation
    Iraqi Freedom, a commitment which the Japanese Government recently
    renewed;

-   "Japan has also provided major logistical support for United States
    and coalition forces in the Indian Ocean in support of Operation
    Enduring Freedom since 2002;

-   "in that light, the United States and Japan will take appropriate
    measures, in close coordination, in response to ballistic missile
    threats against alliance interests; and

-   "because of the importance of improving the situational awareness of
    United States forces and the SDF, the two sides are committed to the
    routine sharing of BMD and related operational information directly
    with each other on a real-time, continuous basis."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.Res. 508 was introduced on June
21, 2007, and referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, which held a
mark-up and reported the resolution on July 31, 2007.

**[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}**: Sarah Makin;
<sarah.makin@mail.house.gov>; 202-226-8587.

**H.Res. 575 --- Commending the people and the Government of the
Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan for their continued committment to holding
elections and broadening political participation, and for other purposes
*(Baird, D-WA)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}:** H.Res. 575 is scheduled to be
considered on Wednesday, September 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend
the rules and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.Res. 575 would express the sense that the
House of Representatives:

-   "commends the people, the Government of the Hashemite Kingdom of
    Jordan, and His Majesty King Abdullah II for their commitment to
    conducting parliamentary and municipal elections in 2007;

-   "expresses its desire that Jordan's progress toward democratization
    continue and flourish as a model for other Arab countries;

-   "commends His Majesty King Abdullah II and the Jordanian people for
    striving to uphold women's rights and enhance women's participation
    in the political process;

-   "reaffirms the special relationship that exists between the people
    of the United States and the people of Jordan; and

-   "remains committed to assist Jordan, should it so desire, in
    promoting democratic reform."

The resolution lists numerous findings, including the following:

-   "on June 17, 2003, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan held
    parliamentary elections, the fourth since 1989, and the first during
    the reign of His Majesty King Abdullah II;

-   "His Majesty King Abdullah II underscored his commitment to hold the
    next parliamentary elections in Jordan not later than November 2007;

-   "municipal elections for the local councils are scheduled to be held
    on July 31, 2007, under a new reformed municipal elections law
    passed on February 4, 2007, under which the mayors and councils of
    all municipalities in Jordan will be elected;

-   "the new reformed municipal elections law includes a 20 percent
    quota for women in the council seats and reduces the age of eligible
    voters from 19 to 18 years of age in order to expand the voter base;

-   "with the direct assistance of the United States Agency for
    International Development and the Millennium Challenge Corporation,
    Jordan has placed great emphasis in recent years on the rights of
    women to vote and run for public office, thereby serving as a model
    for other countries in the region;

-   "the people and the Government of Jordan are committed to continuing
    this progress; and

-   "Jordan continues to invest in reforming its educational system to
    incorporate democratic values and principles."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.Res. 575 was introduced on July
26, 2007, and referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, which held a
mark-up and reported the resolution on July 31, 2007.

**[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}**: Sarah Makin;
<sarah.makin@mail.house.gov>; 202-226-8587.

> **H.R. 954 --- To designate the facility of the United States Postal
> Service located at 365 West 125th Street in New York, New York, as the
> "Percy Sutton Post Office Building" *(Rangel, D-NY)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: The bill is scheduled for
consideration on Wednesday, September 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend
the rules and pass the bill.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.R. 954 would designate the facility of the
United States Postal Service located at 365 West 125th Street in New
York, New York, as the "Percy Sutton Post Office Building."

**[Additional Background]{.underline}**: According to Congressional
Quarterly, Percy Sutton is an American pilot, lawyer, civil rights
activist, and politician. Born in 1920 in San Antonio, Texas, Sutton
attended three colleges before traveling to New York in 1941, and
joining the Army. Sutton went on to become a member of the Tuskegee
Airman and flew missions in the European theatre.

Following his discharge at the rank of Captain, Sutton returned to New
York and studied law at the Brooklyn College School of Law, where he
earned his law degree in 1951. As a lawyer, Sutton gained notoriety as
the attorney of controversial activist Malcolm X. Following Malcolm X's
assassination in 1965, Sutton began a political career when he was
appointed to fill a vacancy as Manhattan Borough president, where he
served until an unsuccessful run for mayor in 1977.

In 1981, Sutton and a group of private investors bought the historic
Apollo Theatre in Harlem. Sutton managed the theatre until 1992, when
financial difficulties forced him hand over control to a nonprofit
organization.

To read more about Percy Sutton, see [this
biography](http://www.answers.com/topic/percy-sutton).

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.R. 954 was introduced on February
8, 2007, and was referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government
Reform, which held a mark-up and reported the bill by unanimous consent
on July 19, 2007.

[**Cost to Taxpayers**:]{.underline} A CBO score of H.R. 954 is
unavailable, but the only costs associated with a U.S. post office
renaming are those for sign and map changes, none of which significantly
affect the federal budget.

**[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}**: Although no committee report
citing constitutional authority is available, Article I, Section 8,
Clause 9 of the Constitution grants Congress the authority to constitute
tribunals inferior to the Supreme Court; and Article I, Section 8,
Clause 18, the Necessary and Proper Clause, grants Congress the power to
make all laws necessary and proper to carry out the enumerated powers in
Article I, Section 8.

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

**H.Res. 554 --- Supporting the goals and ideals of National Passport
Month *(Lee, D-CA)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}:** H.Res. 554 is scheduled to be
considered on Wednesday, September 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend
the rules and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.Res. 554 would express the sense that the
House of Representatives:

-   "supports the goals and ideals of National Passport Month; and

-   "requests that the President issue a proclamation calling on the
    Federal Government, States, localities, schools, nonprofit
    organizations, businesses, other entities, and the people of the
    United States to observe National Passport Month with appropriate
    ceremonies, programs, and activities."

The resolution lists numerous findings, including the following:

-   "through international travel, Americans can individually play a
    major role towards improving foreign relations by building bridges
    and making connections with citizens of other countries;

-   "interacting with the global community inspires Americans to reflect
    on the diverse multi-cultural background that has defined the United
    States as a great country of cooperation and progress;

-   "having a passport and traveling abroad creates connections with the
    global community, supporting goodwill throughout the world;

-   "having a passport and traveling abroad promotes understanding and
    goodwill throughout the world, opening the doors to increased peace,
    tolerance, and acceptance;

-   "having a passport and traveling abroad opens up a preponderance of
    educational opportunities and experiences for Americans of all ages;

-   "having a passport and traveling abroad enables Americans to see
    first-hand the effect of the United States on the world, including
    the tremendous amount of humanitarian aid given by the United States
    through both public and private sectors;

-   "having a passport and traveling abroad reminds Americans that they
    are members of a global family and gives them opportunities to mend
    rifts around the world;

-   "the more Americans travel outside the United States, the more they
    will experience opportunities to increase their understanding of the
    world and the place of the United States in it; and

-   "travel publishers along with travel editors from the most
    prestigious media outlets in the United States, student travel
    organizations, and book sellers have designated September as
    'National Passport Month' to educate the public about the importance
    of having a passport and the positive impact international travel
    has on individuals."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.Res. 554 was introduced on July
17, 2007, and referred to the Committee on Government Reform, which held
a mark-up and reported the resolution on August 2, 2007.

**[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}**: Sarah Makin;
<sarah.makin@mail.house.gov>; 202-226-8587.

**H.Res. 544 --- Expressing the sympathy and pledging the support of the
House of Representatives and the people of the United States for the
victims of the devastating thunderstorms that caused severe flooding in
20 counties in eastern Kansas beginning on June 26, 2007**

**(Tiahrt, R-KS)**

**[Order of Business]{.underline}:** H.Res. 544 is scheduled to be
considered on Wednesday, September 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend
the rules and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.Res. 544 would express the sense that the
House of Representatives:

-   "expresses its heartfelt sympathy for the victims of the devastating
    thunderstorms that caused severe flooding in 20 counties in eastern
    Kansas beginning on June 26, 2007;

-   "conveys its gratitude to the local, State, and Federal officials
    and emergency personnel who responded swiftly to the crisis,
    including members of the Kansas National Guard and Kansas Highway
    Patrol;

-   "recognizes the generous support of volunteers, private and
    corporate donors, religious groups, and charitable organizations
    that have given generously toward the relief efforts following the
    destructive flooding; and

-   "commends the spirit of the people of Kansas, who consistently
    demonstrate an outpouring of compassionate care for neighbors facing
    adversity and hardship."

The resolution lists numerous findings, including the following:

-   "on June 26, 2007, a storm system lasting several days was
    responsible for bringing heavy and torrential rainfall to eastern
    Kansas;

-   "communities in eastern Kansas received up to 21 inches of rain
    within a four-day period, resulting in devastating floods throughout
    the region;

-   "he flooding led to one person's death and more than 3,100 homes and
    businesses destroyed or sustaining major damage;

-   "communities in at least 20 counties were evacuated;

-   "on July 2, 2007, President George W. Bush declared a major Federal
    disaster for the State of Kansas that included Allen, Anderson,
    Bourbon, Butler, Chautauqua, Cherokee, Coffey, Cowley, Elk,
    Franklin, Linn, Miami, Montgomery, Neosho, Osage, Wilson, and
    Woodson counties;

-   "other surrounding counties in Kansas also suffered damage from
    heavy flooding; and

-   "areas in Oklahoma and Texas experienced devastating floods that
    resulted in loss of human life and millions of dollars in damage to
    homes and businesses."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.Res. 544 was introduced on July
12, 2007, and referred to the Committee on Government Reform, where no
official action was taken.

**[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}**: Sarah Makin;
<sarah.makin@mail.house.gov>; 202-226-8587.

**H.Con.Res. 165 --- Supporting the goals and ideals of National Teen
Driver Safety Week (Dent, R-PA)**

**[Order of Business]{.underline}:** H.Con.Res. 165 is scheduled to be
considered on Wednesday, September 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend
the rules and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.Con.Res. 165 would express the sense that
the House of Representatives:

-   "supports the goals and ideals of National Teen Driver Safety Week;
    and

-   "encourages the people of the United States to observe the week with
    appropriate activities that promote the practice of safe driving
    among the Nation's licensed teenage drivers."

The resolution lists numerous findings, including the following:

-   "motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for
    adolescents and young adults in the United States, and many of these
    deaths are preventable;

-   "almost 7,500 drivers between the ages of 15 and 20 years were
    involved in fatal crashes in 2005 throughout the United States;

-   "the fatality rate in the United States for drivers between the ages
    of 16 and 19 years, based on miles driven, is 4 times the fatality
    rate for drivers between the ages of 25 and 69 years;

-   "the majority of teen driver crashes in the United States are due to
    driver error and speeding, and 15 percent of the crashes are due to
    drunk driving;

-   "roughly two-thirds of the teenagers killed in motor vehicle
    accidents in the United States each year do not use seatbelts;

-   "approximately 63 percent of teen passenger deaths in the United
    States occur while other teenagers are driving;

-   "it is necessary to explore effective ways to reduce the crash risk
    for young drivers by focusing research and outreach efforts on areas
    of teen driving that show the most promise for improving safety; and

-   "designating the third week of October as National Teen Driver
    Safety Week is expected to increase awareness of these important
    issues among teenagers and adults in communities throughout the
    United States, as additional research is conducted to develop and
    test effective interventions that will help teenagers become safer
    drivers."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.Con.Res. 165 was introduced on
June 6, 2007, and referred to the Committee on Government Reform, which
held a mark-up and reported the resolution on July 19, 2007.

**[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}**: Sarah Makin;
<sarah.makin@mail.house.gov>; 202-226-8587.

> **H.R. 3052 --- To designate the facility of the United States Postal
> Service located at 954 Wheeling Avenue in Cambridge, Ohio, as the
> "John Herschel Glenn, Jr. Post Office Building"**
>
> ***(Space, D-OH)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: The bill is scheduled for
consideration on Wednesday, September 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend
the rules and pass the bill.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.R. 3052 would designate the facility of the
United States Postal Service located at 954 Wheeling Avenue in
Cambridge, Ohio, as the "John Herschel Glenn, Jr. Post Office Building."

**[Additional Information]{.underline}**: According to the findings
listed in H.Res. 252, a previous resolution honoring John Glenn's
inaugural flight into space, "John Glenn enlisted in the Naval Aviation
Cadet Program shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor and was
commissioned in the United States Marine Corps in 1943. Glenn served in
combat in the South Pacific and also requested combat duty during the
Korean conflict. As a test pilot, John Glenn set a transcontinental
speed record in 1957 by completing the first flight to average
supersonic speeds from Los Angeles to New York."

"John Glenn was a pioneer in the realm of space exploration and was
selected in 1959 as one of the original 7 astronauts in the United
States space program, entering the National Aeronautics and Space
Administration's (NASA) Project Mercury. On February 20, 1962, John
Glenn piloted the Mercury-Atlas 6 'Friendship 7' spacecraft on the first
manned orbital mission of the United States."

Following his service in the space program, John Glenn began a career as
a politician and served as a Member of the Senate for 24 years.

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.R. 3052 was introduced on July 16,
2007, and was referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government
Reform, which held a mark-up and reported the bill by unanimous consent
on July 19, 2007.

[**Cost to Taxpayers**:]{.underline} A CBO score of H.R. 3052 is
unavailable, but the only costs associated with a U.S. post office
renaming are those for sign and map changes, none of which significantly
affect the federal budget.

**[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}**: Although no committee report
citing constitutional authority is available, Article I, Section 8,
Clause 9 of the Constitution grants Congress the authority to constitute
tribunals inferior to the Supreme Court; and Article I, Section 8,
Clause 18, the Necessary and Proper Clause, grants Congress the power to
make all laws necessary and proper to carry out the enumerated powers in
Article I, Section 8.

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

> **H.R. 3106 --- To designate the facility of the United States Postal
> Service located at 805 Main Street in Ferdinand, Indiana, as the
> "Staff Sergeant David L. Nord Post Office" *(Hill, D-IN)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: The bill is scheduled for
consideration on Wednesday, September 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend
the rules and pass the bill.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.R. 3106 would designate the facility of the
United States Postal Service located at 805 Main Street in Ferdinand,
Indiana, as the "Staff Sergeant David L. Nord Post Office."

**[Additional Information]{.underline}**: According to the Vietnam
Veterans Memorial Fund, David Lee Nord was born in Ferdinand, Indiana in
1948. On June 23, 2007, SSGT Nord was killed as a result of multiple
fragmentation wounds in Bing Long, South Vietnam. Nord, who left behind
a young wife, is honored on Panel 22W, Row 123 of the Vietnam Veterans
Memorial.

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.R. 3106 was introduced on July 19,
2007, and was referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government
Reform, which held a mark-up and reported the bill by unanimous consent
on August 2, 2007.

[**Cost to Taxpayers**:]{.underline} A CBO score of H.R. 3106 is
unavailable, but the only costs associated with a U.S. post office
renaming are those for sign and map changes, none of which significantly
affect the federal budget.

**[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}**: Although no committee report
citing constitutional authority is available, Article I, Section 8,
Clause 9 of the Constitution grants Congress the authority to constitute
tribunals inferior to the Supreme Court; and Article I, Section 8,
Clause 18, the Necessary and Proper Clause, grants Congress the power to
make all laws necessary and proper to carry out the enumerated powers in
Article I, Section 8.

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

> **H.R. 3218 --- To designate a portion of Interstate Route 395 located
> in Baltimore, Maryland, as "Cal Ripken Way"**
>
> ***(Sarbanes, D-MD)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: The bill is scheduled for
consideration on Wednesday, September 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend
the rules and pass the bill.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.R. 3218 would designate a portion of
Interstate Route 395, located in Baltimore, Maryland, as "Cal Ripken
Way."

**[Additional Information]{.underline}**: Hall of Fame baseball player
Cal Ripken, Jr. played his entire career for his hometown Baltimore
Orioles. After winning American League Rookie of the Year honors in
1982, Ripken went on to lead his team to a World Series Championship the
next season. Ripken is most noteworthy, however, for breaking Lou
Gehrig's record of playing in 2,131 consecutive games. Ripken would go
on to extend the streak to 2,632 games, while becoming one of the most
beloved figures in sports.

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.R. 3218 was introduced on July 27,
2007, and was referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government
Reform, which took no further action.

[**Cost to Taxpayers**:]{.underline} A CBO score of H.R. 3218 is
unavailable.

**[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 unavailable.

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

**H.Res. 606 --- Honoring the city of Minneapolis, first responders, and
the citizens of the State of Minnesota for their valiant efforts in
responding to the horrific collapse of the Interstate Route 35W
Mississippi River Bridge *(Ellison, D-MN)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}:** H.Res. 606 is scheduled to be
considered on Wednesday, September 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend
the rules and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.Res. 606 would express the sense that the
House of Representatives:

-   "honors the city of Minneapolis, first responders, and the citizens
    of the State of Minnesota for their valiant efforts in responding to
    the horrific collapse of the Interstate Route 35W Mississippi River
    Bridge;

-   "praises the people of Minneapolis and Minnesota for their great
    courage in this time of crisis;

-   "recognizes the leadership and passionate commitment of the elected
    officials representing the people of Minneapolis, Hennepin County,
    and the State of Minnesota;

-   "honors the emergency responders, within and beyond Minneapolis, for
    their bravery and sacrifice following the tragedy;

-   "extends its heartfelt sympathies to the families of all those lost
    in the tragedy; and

-   "reaffirms its support and commitment to all of the Nation's law
    enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical
    technicians as they selflessly serve their communities, regardless
    of the peril or hazard to themselves."

The resolution lists the following findings:

-   "the Interstate Route 35W Mississippi River Bridge located in
    Minneapolis, Minnesota, collapsed on August 1, 2007, during the
    evening rush hour;

-   "Minneapolis police and fire officials have reported a rising number
    of fatalities and injuries resulting from the tragedy;

-   "because rescue and recovery efforts are ongoing, the effect of the
    tragedy on the community and on Minnesota families is still
    unfolding;

-   "the first emergency personnel on the scene responded to the tragedy
    without hesitation, risking their health and safety to rescue
    victims and to provide emergency care to the injured;

-   "as there are questions that remain unanswered about the tragedy, it
    is clear that the commitment and heroism exhibited by first
    responders in the minutes and hours following the tragedy saved
    countless lives;

-   "the people of Minnesota and the Nation recognize that the
    dedication of first responders will remain steadfast throughout the
    ongoing recovery, repair, and rebuilding efforts;

-   "cores of ordinary people became extraordinary citizens following
    the tragedy by rushing to the aid of their fellow Minnesotans;

-   "the residents of Minneapolis should be commended for their bravery
    and tireless efforts following the tragedy on behalf of their
    neighbors and their city;

-   "there was an immediate outpouring of support and assistance from
    surrounding communities following the tragedy, including over 50
    organizations and local units of government; and

-   "the heartbreaking images coming out of Minneapolis have captured
    the attention and sympathy of the Nation."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.Res. 606 was introduced on August
2, 2007, and referred to the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure, 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}**: Sarah Makin;
<sarah.makin@mail.house.gov>; 202-226-8587.

**H.Con.Res. 181 --- Recognizing and commending all volunteers and other
persons who provide support to the families and children of members of
the Armed Forces, including National Guard and Reserve personnel, who
are deployed in service to the United States**

***(Ortiz, D-TX)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}:** H.Con.Res. 181 is scheduled to be
considered on Wednesday, September 5, 2007, under a motion to suspend
the rules and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.Con.Res. 181 would express the sense that
Congress recognizes and commends "all volunteers and other persons who
provide support to the families and children of members of the Armed
Forces, including National Guard and Reserve personnel, who are deployed
in service to the United States and honors military families and the
non-governmental organizations that support them."

The resolution lists the following findings:

-   "there are 1.2 million children who are the sons or daughters of
    members of the Armed Forces, including more than 153,000 children of
    members of reserve components, and more than one third of these
    children are under the age of five;

-   "the families of members of the Armed Forces, and in particular
    their children, provide unconditional love and support to their
    loved ones serving in the Armed Forces before, during, and after
    their deployment;

-   "the Department of Defense recognizes that the family of a deployed
    member of the Armed Forces also serves and has made a commitment to
    military families by establishing goals for a New Social Compact
    with members of the Armed Forces and their families;

-   "the Government makes significant resources available to families
    and children of members of the Armed Forces who reside on or near a
    military installation, however, resources for families and children
    of deployed Reserve and National Guard members are often difficult
    to access because the families do not reside near a military
    installation;

-   "a number of nonprofit organizations have dedicated themselves to
    ensuring that children of military families receive the support they
    urgently need while they cope with the deployment of parents, in
    particular by providing essential extracurricular activities and
    programs for school-aged children of deployed Reserve and National
    Guard members;

-   "these organizations include Our Military Kids, Inc., Parents as
    Teachers, Citizen Soldier Support program, Operation Homefront Inc.,
    American Military Families, Inc., and Kids Serve 2; and

-   "these programs and organizations have helped children of deployed
    members of the Armed Forces maintain as normal a life as possible by
    allowing funds to be used for a range of activities that might
    otherwise be unavailable to them."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.Con.Res. 181 was introduced on
June 28, 2007, and referred to the Committee on Armed Services, where no
official action was taken.

**[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}**: Sarah Makin;
<sarah.makin@mail.house.gov>; 202-226-8587.

**H.Res. \_\_ --- Honoring the sacrifice and courage of the six missing
miners and three rescuers who were killed in the Crandall Canyon mine
disaster in Utah, and recognizing the rescue crews for their outstanding
efforts in the aftermath of the tragedies** ***(Matheson, D-UT)***

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

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

-   "recognizes Kerry Allred, Don Erickson, Juan Carlos Payan, Brandon
    Phillips, Manuel Sanchez, Jose Luis Hernandez, Gary Jensen, Brandon
    Kimbler, and Dale 'Bird' Black for their sacrifice in the Crandall
    Canyon, Utah coal mine;

-   "extends the deepest condolences of the Nation to the families of
    these men;

-   "recognizes the many volunteers who participated in the rescue
    efforts and provided support for the miners\' families during the
    rescue operations; and

-   "honors the long national heritage of coal mining families and
    supports the tradition for the future."

The resolution lists numerous findings, including the following:

-   "on August 6, 2007, six miners, Kerry Allred, Don Erickson, Juan
    Carlos Payan, Brandon Phillips, Manuel Sanchez, and Jose Luis
    Hernandez, were trapped 1,800 feet below ground in the Crandall
    Canyon mine in Utah;

-   "Federal, State, and local rescue crews worked relentlessly in an
    attempt to locate and rescue the trapped miners;

-   "three rescuers, Gary Jensen, Brandon Kimbler, and Dale 'Bird' Black
    lost their lives during the rescue attempt;

-   "the loss of the miners has had a tremendous effect on the local
    community;

-   "the emergency efforts coordinated by the Emery County Sheriff's
    Department have been exemplary;

-   "Utah is one of the largest coal producing States in the Nation,
    producing over 21 million tons of coal in 2005;

-   "coal continues to be the economic engine for many communities;

-   "during the last century over 100,000 coal miners have been killed
    in mining accidents in the Nation's coal mines;

-   "the Nation is greatly indebted to coal miners for the difficult and
    dangerous work they perform to provide the fuel needed to operate
    the Nation's industries and to provide energy to homes and
    businesses; and

-   "many residents of Emery County and Carbon County, Utah, and the
    surrounding areas, came together to support the miners' families and
    the community has been steadfast in its efforts to help the families
    of the missing and deceased."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.Res. \_\_\_ was introduced on
September 4, 2007, and referred to the Committee on Education and Labor,
which took no further 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.

\###