![](media/image1.jpeg){width="6.489583333333333in"
height="1.15625in"}**Legislative
Bulletin...............................................July 9, 2008**

**Contents**:

> **H.R. 6382---**Pension Protection Technical Corrections Act of 2008
>
> **H. Con. Res. 375**---To honor the goal of the International Year of
> Astronomy, and for other purposes
>
> **H. Res. 1313**---Celebrating the 25th anniversary of the first
> American woman in space, Dr. Sally K. Ride
>
> **H. Res. 1312**---Commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Space
> Foundation
>
> **H. Res. 1315**---Commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the National
> Aeronautics and Space Administration
>
> **H.R. 4174**---The Federal Ocean Acidification Research and
> Monitoring Act of 2007

**H.R. 6216**---Asset Management Improvement Act

> **H.R. 3329**---Homes for Heroes Act
>
> **H.R. 6184**---America's Beautiful National Parks Quarter Dollar Coin
> Act
>
> **H.R. 4461**---Community Building Code Amendment Grant Act
>
> **H.R. 5541**---Federal Land Assistance, Management and Enhancement
> Act
>
> **H. Res. 1322**---Commending the firefighters from California and
> throughout the United States for their courageous actions and
> sacrifices in fighting wildfires
>
> **S. 2607**---DTV Transition Assistant Act
>
> **H. Res. 1260**--- Supporting the goals and ideals of "National
> Internet Safety Month"
>
> **H.R. 6061---**To designate the facility of the United States Postal
> Service located at 219 East Main Street in West Frankfort, Illinois,
> as the "Kenneth James Gray Post Office Building"

**H.R. 6382**--- **Pension Protection Technical Corrections Act of
2008**

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

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: The bill is scheduled to be
considered on Wednesday, July 9, 2008, under a motion to suspend the
rules and pass the bill.\
\
**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.R. 6382 would make a number of technical
corrections and conforming changes to titles I through XII of the
[Pension Protection Act of
2006](http://www.house.gov/hensarling/rsc/doc/LB_072806_pensionnew.doc),
which amends the Employee Retirement Security Act of 1974 (ERISA).
According to the Minority staff on the House Ways and Means Committee,
this bill contains two sections. The first section is technical in
nature, mirroring [H.R.
3361](http://www.house.gov/hensarling/rsc/doc/lb_031208_suspensions.doc),
the Pension Protection Technical Corrections Act of 2007 (Rangel) which
passed the House on March 12, 2008 by a voice vote. The second section
of the bill contains six "side-car" items, four of which are not
considered technical. Those "side-car" items are:

1.  [Smoothing]{.underline}--- This provision has been requested by many
    companies that sponsor pension plans. "Smoothing" refers to allowing
    pension plans to use averages of interest rates to determine how
    much money must be contributed by a company to fund its pension
    plan. Spikes and drops in interest rates cause pension plan funding
    to be very uncertain and forces short term problems for pension fund
    managers. By "smoothing" interest rates, plans become more
    predictable and companies are more likely to be willing to continue
    to sponsor them. Critics of the provision claim that this undermines
    the aim of the original bill, while proponents of the provision say
    that the original bill was too draconian and this change prevents
    short term instability. The Treasury has interpreted the Pension
    Protection Act (PPA) as prohibiting smoothing. According to the
    Minority staff on Ways and Means, this provision increases revenue
    by \$72 million over ten years.

2.  [ADEA / State and Local Plans]{.underline}--- This provision allows
    state and local governments to get the same Age Discrimination in
    Employment Act (ADEA) clarification that was provided to private
    sector hybrid pension plans in the original PPA. Private sector
    hybrid pension plans were deemed to be in compliance with ADEA and
    that interest rates were not age discriminatory. This change was
    made in ERISA---the Labor law that governs pensions. Due to state
    and local pension plans are not being covered by ERISA, this change
    is being made in the tax code that does apply to them. Critics of
    this provision would argue that the main purpose is to increase the
    pensions of state workers and because of the manner in which these
    benefits are calculated, it is arguably age discriminatory. If the
    states were limited to using the PPA market interest rate (i.e. a
    lower interest rate in some cases), distributions would likely be
    smaller. States are generally not willing to increase the amount of
    contributions to the pension plans in place of the higher interest
    crediting rates due to their budget shortfalls.

3.  [Bankrupt Airlines]{.underline}---This provision would benefit
    employees (often pilots) of airlines who get a payout in lieu of
    their projected future benefit accruals (and also possibly in lieu
    of other compensation) as part of bankruptcy proceedings filed
    between September 12, 2001 and December 31, 2006.  Under current
    law, the payouts constitute taxable income to the employee.  This
    proposal would waive the AGI and contribution limitations and allow
    the employees to roll the payments into Roth Individual Retirement
    Accounts, thus making them taxable on receipt but allowing tax-free
    build-up in the accounts.  According to the Minority staff on Ways
    and Means, this provision reduces revenue by \$82 million over ten
    years. This provision is also a stand-alone bill, which enjoys wide
    bipartisan support.

4.  [Health Trusts]{.underline}---Minnesota and Michigan have Section
    105 health care trusts for their state employees.  Funds are
    contributed by the employees on a tax-free basis and can be used for
    qualifying medical expenses (including premiums) upon retirement. 
    If the plan participant dies, a surviving spouse or dependent child
    can use remaining funds in the account for medical expenses on a
    tax-free basis.  If the plan participant dies without a surviving
    spouse or dependent child, the remainder in the trust can be passed
    to another designated beneficiary.  However, the IRS recently ruled
    that amounts paid to a non-spouse/non-dependent child beneficiary
    disqualify the tax-exempt status of the entire trust.  This
    provision would allow plan participants who die without a spouse or
    dependent child to designate another beneficiary, but the amount
    received would be taxable. According to Minority staff on Ways and
    Means, this provision increases revenue by \$3 million over ten
    years.

5.  [Lump Sums]{.underline}---This provision would allow certain small
    employer plans to use a use a fixed interest rate of 5.5% when
    making calculations about whether a lump sum distribution violates
    maximum benefit payout rules instead of using a market rate of
    return.  Sponsors argue this provides needed certainty when making
    decisions about their plans. American Society of Pension
    Professionals & Actuaries (ASPPA) stressed the need for small plans
    to have some certainty in calculating distributions to be made in a
    year. Critics of this provision are concerned that if a fixed
    interest rate were below current rates it would be improper to allow
    lump sums because it could potentially be a massive windfall for
    employees, resulting in further plan underfunding. ASPPA has been
    trying to use a fixed, 5.5% rate since the 2002 pension bill, and
    each year Congress has determined it to be inappropriate. This
    provision represents ASPPA's lobbied provision. According to
    Minority staff on the Ways and Means Committee, this provision
    reduces revenue by \$59 million over ten years.

6.  [Failure to File Penalties]{.underline}---The bill increases
    penalties for failure to file partnership and S corporation tax
    returns. According to Minority staff on Ways and Means Committee,
    this provisions increases revenue by \$80 million over ten years.

A comprehensive summary document prepared by the Minority staff on the
Committee on Ways and Means is available
[online](http://waysandmeans.house.gov/media/pdf/110/ppat.pdf).

**[Additional Information]{.underline}**: The Pension Protection Act of
2006 amended ERISA and the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to reform the
funding rules for pensions. The bill was passed in the House on July 28,
2006, by a vote of
[279-131](http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2006/roll422.xml). On August 17,
2006, the bill was signed by the President and became Public Law No.
109-280. According to the Minority staff on the House Ways and Means
Committee, H.R. 6382 would make clerical changes to the Pension
Protection Act of 2006 and as well as other substantive changes that
would alter the bill's significant provisions. The changes made by H.R.
6382 will be applied as if they were enacted in the original version of
the legislation.

**[Possible Conservative Concerns]{.underline}**: Some conservatives may
be concerned that there are non-technical provisions in this "technical
corrections" bill, which is contrary to how we have historically handled
tax technical corrections bills. Generally, non-technical provisions are
only allowed in technical corrections bill if there is an overwhelming
agreement between both parties to fix a provision. Some conservatives
may be concerned that by diverting from this, the tax technical
corrections bill becomes another moving revenue vehicle.

[Committee Action]{.underline}: H.R. 6382 was introduced on June 26,
2008, and referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, as well as the
Committee on Education and Labor, where no official action was taken.

[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}: No CBO score is available, and the
Joint Committee on Taxation has yet to release a review of this
legislation's revenue effects.

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

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

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

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

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

**H. Con. Res. 375**--- **To honor the goal of the International Year of
Astronomy, and for other purposes *(Giffords, D-AZ)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: The resolution is scheduled to be
considered on Wednesday, July 9, 2008, under a motion to suspend the
rules and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H. Con. Res. 375 would express the sense that
the House or Representatives:

-   "honors the goal of the International Year of Astronomy to celebrate
    astronomical discoveries;

-   "encourages the public to participate in IYA celebrations and
    activities and discover more about the Universe and the science of
    astronomy; and

-   "applauds the efforts of the employees, centers, and laboratories of
    the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and the National
    Science Foundation in promoting public understanding of the
    astronomical sciences during the celebration of the International
    Year of Astronomy."

The resolution lists a number of findings, including:

-   "the year 2009 represents the 400th Anniversary of Galileo's
    astronomical use of the telescope;

-   "the year 2009 has been designated the International Year of
    Astronomy (IYA) by the United Nations and UNESCO;

-   "astronomical observations and discoveries have profound
    implications for the development of science, philosophy, culture,
    and our general conception of our place in the Universe;

-   "astronomy is one of the oldest basic sciences and contributes
    fundamentally to the ultimate context of all other sciences;

-   "astronomy and astronomical discoveries continue to capture the
    imagination of the American people;

-   "the United States is the home of the most advanced astronomical
    research in the world;

-   "the many creative programs and activities planned in the United
    States for IYA 2009 are strongly supported by the staff, missions,
    and observatories of the National Science Foundation and the
    National Aeronautics and Space Administration;

-   "science and technology awareness and education play a critical role
    in the economic success of the United States; and

-   "the astronomical sciences inspire students to study science,
    mathematics, engineering, and technology."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H. Con. Res. 375 was introduced on
June 20, 2008, and referred to the House Committee on Science and
Technology, which took no official action.\
\
**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: The resolution does not authorize
expenditures.\
\
**[Does the Bill Expand the Size and Scope of the Federal
Government?]{.underline}** No.\
\
**[Does the Bill Contain Any New State-Government, Local-Government, or
Private-Sector Mandates?]{.underline}** No.\
\
**[RSC Staff Contact]{.underline}**: Sarah Makin;
<sarah.makin@mail.house.gov>; 202-226-0718.

**H. Res. 1313**--- **Celebrating the 25th anniversary of the first
American woman in space, Dr. Sally K. Ride, and honoring her
contributions to the space program and to science education *(Lampson,
D-TX)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: The resolution is scheduled to be
considered on Wednesday, July 9, 2008, under a motion to suspend the
rules and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H. Res. 1313 would express that it is the
sense of the United States House of Representatives:

-   "celebrates the 25th anniversary of Dr. Sally K. Ride as the first
    American woman in space; and

-   "extends its appreciation and gratitude for Dr. Ride's excellence in
    service to the Nation as an astronaut, educator, and advocate for
    the next generation of women scientists and engineers."

The resolution lists a number of findings, including:

-   "Sally K. Ride of Los Angeles, California, a physicist by training
    and an accomplished athlete, was selected as a National Aeronautics
    and Space Administration (NASA) astronaut candidate in 1978, as part
    of the eighth class of NASA astronauts and one of only six women in
    the class;

-   "on June 18, 1983, Dr. Ride was lofted into space aboard the Space
    Shuttle Challenger as part of the STS-7 crew, making her the first
    American woman in space;

-   "the STS-7 crew launched two communications satellites from the
    Shuttle and accomplished many first steps for the United States
    space program, including the first release and capture of a
    satellite using the Shuttle's robotic arm, the first demonstration
    of a Shuttle's flight in formation with a free-flying satellite, and
    the first United States-German cooperative material science
    experiments aboard the Shuttle, as well as the conduct of other
    science experiments;

-   "on October 5, 1984, Dr. Ride made her second spaceflight as a
    mission specialist on STS 41-G, a mission that demonstrated the
    ability to refuel satellites in orbit and launched NASA's Earth
    Radiation Budget Satellite, which spent over 20 years providing
    valuable scientific data on the Earth\'s absorption and re-radiation
    of solar energy;

-   "when training for Dr. Ride's third spaceflight assignment ceased
    after the tragic loss of the Space Shuttle Challenger and her crew
    in 1986, Dr. Ride was called to serve on the Presidential Commission
    on the Space Shuttle Challenger Accident;

-   "Dr. Ride has continued to serve the Nation's space program with
    distinction, authoring the 1987 report, Leadership and America's
    Future in Space, and serving on the Columbia Accident Investigation
    Board;

-   "as an educator, author of children's books, and advocate for the
    next generation of women in science, mathematics, and technology,
    Dr. Ride's work has contributed to the wellbeing of our youth; and

-   "Dr. Ride has worked tirelessly and passionately to encourage young
    women to follow the sciences, mathematics, and technology by
    promoting science festivals, camps, and other opportunities through
    which young women can acquire hands-on learning about science."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H. Res. 1313 was introduced on June
26, 2008, and referred to the House Committee on Science and Technology,
which took no official action.\
\
**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: The resolution does not authorize
expenditures.\
\
**[Does the Bill Expand the Size and Scope of the Federal
Government?]{.underline}** No.\
\
**[Does the Bill Contain Any New State-Government, Local-Government, or
Private-Sector Mandates?]{.underline}** No.

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

**H. Res. 1312**--- **Commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Space
Foundation (Lamborn, R-CO)**

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: H. Res. 1312 is scheduled to be
considered on Wednesday, July 9, 2008, under a motion to suspend the
rules and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H. Res. 1312 would express that it is the
sense of the United States House of Representatives:

-   "recognizes the contributions made by the Space Foundation; and

-   "commemorates the Space Foundation's 25 years of excellence and
    support to the Nation."

The resolution lists a number of findings, including:

-   "on March 21, 1983, the United States Space Foundation was founded
    by a small group of pioneering individuals in Colorado Springs,
    Colorado;

-   "2008 marks the 25th year of excellence and service of the Space
    Foundation;

-   "the mission of the Space Foundation is to advance space-related
    endeavors to inspire, enable, and propel humanity;

-   "the Space Foundation has become the leading nonprofit organization
    advancing the exploration, development, and use of space and space
    education for the benefit of all humankind;

-   "the Space Foundation embraces all aspects of space including
    commercial, civil, and national security;

-   "the current national security environment requires extensive use
    and advancement of space-based assets;

-   "the Space Foundation has contributed to space education programs in
    all 50 States and also in Europe and Asia;

-   "the Space Foundation is regarded internationally as a leading space
    advocacy organization, and is a member of the United States
    Delegation to the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of
    Outer Space; and

-   "the Space Foundation hosts the National Space Symposium and
    Strategic Space and Defense, 2 of the top conferences for space
    professionals."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H. Res. 1312 was introduced on June
26, 2008, and referred to the House Committee on Science and Technology,
which took no official action.\
\
**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: The resolution does not authorize
expenditures.\
\
**[Does the Bill Expand the Size and Scope of the Federal
Government?]{.underline}** No.\
\
**[Does the Bill Contain Any New State-Government, Local-Government, or
Private-Sector Mandates?]{.underline}** No.

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

**H. Res. 1315**--- **Commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the National
Aeronautics and Space Administration (McCaul, R-TX)**

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: H. Res. 1315 is scheduled to be
considered on Wednesday, July 9, 2008, under a motion to suspend the
rules and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H. Res. 1315 would express that it is the
sense of the United States House of Representatives:

-   "honors the men and women of the National Aeronautics and Space
    Administration on the occasion of its 50th Anniversary;

-   "acknowledges the value of NASA's discoveries and accomplishments;
    and

-   "pledges to maintain America's position as the world leader in
    aeronautics and space exploration and technology."

The resolution lists a number of findings, including:

-   "the National Aeronautics and Space Administration was established
    on July 29, 1958;

-   "on May 5, 1961, NASA successfully launched America's first manned
    spacecraft, Freedom 7, piloted by Alan B. Shepard, Jr.;

-   "in July of 1969 President John Kennedy's vision of landing a man on
    the moon and returning him safely to Earth was realized with the
    Apollo 11 mission, commanded by Neil A. Armstrong, Lunar Module
    Pilot Edwin 'Buzz' Aldrin, Jr., and Command Module pilot Michael
    Collins;

-   "on April 12, 1981, NASA began a new era of human space flight and
    exploration with the launch of the first Space Shuttle Columbia,
    commanded by John W. Young and piloted by Robert L. 'Bob' Crippen;

-   "NASA has greatly expanded our knowledge and understanding of our
    planet and solar system through various unmanned vehicles utilized
    on numerous missions;

-   "during the Cold War, NASA's achievements served as a source of
    national pride and captured the imagination of the world by
    demonstrating a peaceful use of our technological capabilities;

-   "NASA now serves as a model for international cooperation and
    American leadership through the International Space Station and
    other scientific endeavors;

-   "thanks to NASA and the far-reaching gaze of the Hubble Space
    Telescope, we have seen further into our universe than ever before;

-   "NASA space probes have landed on or flown by eight of the planets
    in our solar system;

-   "the aeronautics research by NASA has led to great discoveries and
    advances in aircraft design and aviation;

-   "the work done by NASA has expanded the scope of human knowledge,
    created new technologies, and inspired young men and women to enter
    scientific and engineering careers;

-   "in the last fifty years, NASA has positively impacted almost every
    facet of our lives; and

-   "thanks to the heroism, courage, and supreme sacrifice of our
    astronaut corps over the last five decades, we are now able to live
    and work in space for the benefit of all men."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H. Res. 1315 was introduced on June
26, 2008, and referred to the House Committee on Science and Technology,
which took no official action.\
\
**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: The resolution does not authorize
expenditures.\
\
**[Does the Bill Expand the Size and Scope of the Federal
Government?]{.underline}** No.\
\
**[Does the Bill Contain Any New State-Government, Local-Government, or
Private-Sector Mandates?]{.underline}** No.

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

**H.R. 4174**--- **Federal Ocean Acidification Research And Monitoring
Act of 2007**

***(Allen, D-ME)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: The bill is scheduled to be
considered on Wednesday, July 9, 2008, under a motion to suspend the
rules and pass the bill.\
\
**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.R. 4174 would establish an Interagency
Committee on Ocean Acidification to oversee the planning, establishment,
and coordination of a plan designed to understand the role of increased
ocean acidification on marine ecosystems and identify and develop
techniques to conserve marine ecosystems as they adjust to increased
ocean acidification. The bill requires that this Committee report to
Congress on their findings.

The bill also requires that the Committee implement a "strategic
research and implementation plan for coordinated Federal activities."
The bill would require the Secretary of the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to establish and maintain an ocean
acidification program within the NOAA to implement activities consistent
with the strategic research and implementation plan developed by the
Committee.

The bill authorizes \$6 million for FY 2009, \$8 million for FY 2010,
\$11 million for FY 2011, and \$30 million for FY 2012 and each fiscal
year thereafter.

**[Additional Information]{.underline}**: Ocean acidification is a term
which describes the decrease in the pH (pH is the measure of acidity) of
the Earth's oceans, thought to be caused by the uptake of atmospheric
carbon dioxide.

A cursory search for ocean acidification research shows that there are
numerous private organizations and networks that are already performing
extensive research in this area. In addition, NOAA has already developed
a five year interdisciplinary program on ocean acidification, which
includes establishing coral reef monitoring stations, research on the
physiological responses of various organisms to increasing ocean
acidity, modeling of ocean acidification and its socioeconomic effect,
and development of technology for measuring and monitoring carbon
dioxide in the oceans. NOAA is also already funding research programs on
ocean acidification.

**[Possible Conservative Concerns]{.underline}**: H.R. 4174 authorizes a
new Interagency Committee within NOAA, as well as numerous new programs
to be implemented by the Committee. Furthermore, much of the research
that would be done by the Interagency Committee would be duplicative of
current efforts at NOAA.

[Committee Action]{.underline}: H.R. 4174 was introduced on November 14,
2008, and referred to the House Committee on Science and Technology. On
June 25, 2008, the Committee held a mark-up and ordered the bill
reported, as amended, by voice vote.

[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}: While no CBO score is available, the
bill would authorize \$55 million for FY 2009---2012 and \$30 million
per year thereafter.

**[Does the Bill Expand the Size and Scope of the Federal
Government?]{.underline}** Yes, H.R. 4174 authorizes a new Interagency
Committee within NOAA, as well numerous new programs to be implemented
by the Committee.

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

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

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

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

H.R. 6216---Asset Management Improvement Act (*Sires, D-NJ*)

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: The bill is scheduled to be
considered on Wednesday, July 9^th^, under a motion to suspend the rules
and pass the bill.

[Major Changes Since the Last Time This Legislation Was Before the
House]{.underline}: On February 26, 2008, the House considered (under a
rule) [**H.R.
3521**](http://www.house.gov/hensarling/rsc/doc/lb_022608_publichousingassets.doc),
the [**Public Housing Asset Management Improvement
Act**](http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d110:h.r.03521:/), which
was pulled from the House floor after Rep. Michele Bachmann (R-MN)
offered a motion to recommit the bill back to the Financial Services
Committee with instructions that the committee report the bill back to
the House floor [promptly]{.underline} with the following amendment:

-   Prohibits the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary from
    accepting as reasonable any Public Housing Authority (PHA) fees for
    enforcing any provision of a dwelling lease agreement or other
    similar agreement that requires the registration, or prohibits the
    possession, of any firearm:

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```
-   That an individual has for his or her personal protection or for
    sport; and

-   The possession of which is not prohibited, or the registration of
    which is not required, by existing law.

Democrats claimed that this motion would "kill the bill," [which is
false]{.underline}. If passed, the "promptly" directive in the motion
would have sent the bill back to committee along with the instructions
(the amendment).  Though the motion would not have instantaneously
amended the bill, as would a "forthwith" directive, the committee could
have convened a special meeting that same day, the following day, or any
day of its choosing to consider the bill and potentially send it back to
the House. The Rules Committee would just have to meet and report
another rule for consideration of the newly amended bill.

Instead, the Democrats pulled H.R. 3521 from the floor.

One significant change in H.R. 6216, as compared to H.R. 3521, is
language allowing a public housing agency or an owner of federally
assisted housing to terminate the tenancy or assistance for any
household with a member:

-   "Who the public housing agency or owner determines is illegally
    using a firearm; or

-   "Whose illegal use of a firearm is determined by the public housing
    authority or owner to interfere with the health, safety, or right to
    peaceful enjoyment of the premises by other residents."

Some conservatives may be concerned with allowing determinations of
illegal firearms use to be made by housing authorities and owners.

A second significant change in H.R. 6216 is language allowing a public
housing agency that elects to be exempt from asset management
requirements to retain the same number of separate public housing
projects, for purposes of determining its operating fund allocation.

H.R. 6216, as indicated below, otherwise contains the same provisions as
H.R. 3521 (as reported from committee) plus the Sires and Meek
amendments to H.R. 3521 (which the House passed on the floor in
February) and the language of the Bachmann motion to recommit.

**[Background]{.underline}**: The following background is provided by
the Republican staff of the Financial Services Committee:

> PHAs \[Public Housing Authorities\] are public agencies established by
> state or local governments for the purpose of operating and
> maintaining public housing.  PHAs are eligible to receive two sources
> of funding from HUD \[Department of Housing and Urban Development\]:
> operating funds and capital funds.  Operating funds are granted to
> PHAs to cover operating and management costs, including
> administration, routine maintenance, resident participation in
> management, insurance and energy. Capital funds are distributed to
> PHAs based on a formula and are intended to further the core purposes
> of public housing, including construction, operation, and maintenance
> of affordable housing units. 
>
> The Quality Housing and Work Responsibility Act (QHWRA), passed by
> Congress in 1998, included a requirement for negotiated rulemaking to
> develop a new public housing operating fund formula. Rulemaking
> concluded in 2004, after a three-year, \$4 million Operating Cost
> Study was conducted, and in 2005, HUD issued the Public Housing
> Operating Fund Final Rule. 
>
> This rule requires PHAs that manage [250]{.underline} or more public
> housing units to begin transitioning in 2007 to a new property
> management system known as asset management.  Currently, PHAs manage
> their assets on an agency-wide basis.  However, implementation of
> asset management would require PHAs to utilize project-based
> administration, including project-based funding, budgeting,
> accounting, management, and performance management.  There is a
> general consensus among industry groups and HUD that asset management
> is desirable, but housing agency groups have been critical of several
> components of the negotiated rule.  Due to pressure from Chairman
> Frank and other Members of Congress, including some Republicans, HUD
> agreed to delay the implementation in an effort to give PHAs
> additional time to comply with the negotiated rule.

In other words, the negotiated rule would require more unit-by-unit,
project-by-project accountability for public housing, rather than
accountability based on a PHA's entire portfolio.

[NOTE]{.underline}: HUD has pointed out that the negotiated rule would
already exempt 74% of PHAs from its application (since the vast majority
of PHAs control less than 250 units).

**[Summary, as amended (comparisons to H.R. 3521 noted parenthetically
in red-bold below)]{.underline}**:

H.R. 6216 would prohibit the HUD Secretary from imposing restrictions or
limitations on the amount of management and related fees with respect to
a public housing project that the PHA determines to be "reasonable,"
unless such restriction or limitation is:

-   Determined pursuant to a negotiated rulemaking convened by the
    Secretary no earlier than April 1, 2009, with representatives from
    interested parties; and

-   Effective only on or after January 1, 2011.

**(same as in H.R. 3521)**

HUD could not deem a Public Housing Authority (PHA) as non-compliant
with asset management rules as a result of the PHA determining its fees
in accordance with the underlying bill. **(language from the Sires
amendment to H.R. 3521)**

The bill would also allow any PHA that owns or operates fewer than
**[500]{.underline}** public housing units to elect to be exempt from
asset management requirements imposed by the HUD Secretary. (This would
double the 250-unit threshold under the current negotiated rule and
would, according to HUD, have the effect of exempting 88% of PHAs from
its asset management rule.) **(same as in H.R. 3521)**

A PHA that elects to be exempt from asset management requirements to
retain the same number of separate public housing projects, for purposes
of determining its operating fund allocation. **(new language not in
H.R. 3521)**

Additionally, HUD would be prohibited from imposing any requirement,
regulation, or guideline relating to asset management that restricts or
limits in any way the use by PHAs of amounts for Capital Fund assistance
for costs of any PHA central office. In other words, the bill would
prohibit restrictions on the use of appropriated funds for PHAs for
administrative purposes (within the 20% cap on administrative expenses
from the Capital Fund and other administrative allowances in current
law). **(same as in H.R. 3521)**

HUD would be directed to ensure that PHAs encourage the "reasonable
efforts" of resident tenant organizations to represent their members and
of tenants to organize, relating to any public housing asset management
issue. **(same as in H.R. 3521)**

HUD (or any receiver) would be prohibited from abrogating, waiving,
repealing, or modifying any agreement between the PHA and the resident
or tenant association entered into before the commencement of
receivership. HUD would be responsible, in the case of receivership, for
performing the same federally-set responsibilities that PHAs have
regarding consultation with resident or tenant associations before
building public housing. A receiver is a person or entity appointed to
hold in trust and administer property under litigation or during
reorganization. **(language from the Meek amendment to H.R. 3521)**

HUD would have to encourage participation by public housing residents in
the implementation of asset management and the development of local
policies for such purposes. **(same as in H.R. 3521)**

H.R. 6216 would restate current law that "immigrants who are not
lawfully present in the United States shall be ineligible for financial
assistance" under the Housing and Community Development Act of 1980 (42
U.S.C. 1436a). **(language from the Sires amendment to H.R. 3521)**

The bill would prohibit HUD from accepting as reasonable any PHA fees
for enforcing any provision of a dwelling lease agreement or other
similar agreement that requires the registration, or prohibits the
possession, of any firearm:

-   That an individual has for his or her personal protection or for
    sport; and

-   The possession of which is not prohibited, or the registration of
    which is not required, by existing law.

**(language from the Bachmann motion to recommit H.R. 3521)**

H.R. 6216 would also allow a PHA or an owner of federally assisted
housing to terminate the tenancy or assistance for any household with a
member:

-   "Who the public housing agency or owner determines is illegally
    using a firearm; or

-   "Whose illegal use of a firearm is determined by the public housing
    authority or owner to interfere with the health, safety, or right to
    peaceful enjoyment of the premises by other residents."

**(new language not in H.R. 3521)**

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.R. 6216 was introduced on June 9,
2008, and referred to the Financial Services Committee, which, on June
25^th^, marked up and ordered the amended bill reported to the full
House by voice vote.

**[Possible Conservative Concerns]{.underline}**: Some conservatives may
be concerned that this bill would:

-   Allow determinations of illegal firearms use to be made by housing
    authorities and owners;

-   Increase the number of PHAs that do not have to comply with the
    proposed unit-by-unit asset management accountability system;

-   Increase the availability of funds for administrative overhead,
    since every dollar used for overhead is a dollar less for
    renovations, repairs, and upkeep of public housing; and

-   Negate a rule that was delicately negotiated over several years
    amongst HUD, resident groups, and housing industry representatives.

**[Administration Position]{.underline}**: Although a Statement of
Administration Policy (SAP) for H.R. 6216 was not available at press
time, the SAP for H.R. 3521 indicated that the Administration "[strongly
opposes](http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/legislative/sap/110-2/saphr3521-r.pdf)"
the legislation.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: Although a CBO cost estimate for
H.R. 6216 was not available at press time, CBO estimated that H.R. 3521
would have "no significant impact on the federal budget." The same
analysis would likely apply to H.R. 6216.

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

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

**[Does the Bill Comply with House Rules Regarding Earmarks/Limited Tax
Benefits/Limited Tariff Benefits?]{.underline}**: The Financial Services
Committee, in [House Report
110-521](http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/cpquery/R?cp110:FLD010:@1(hr521)/),
asserts that, "H.R. 3521 does not contain any congressional earmarks,
limited tax benefits, or limited tariff benefits as defined in clause 9
of rule XXI." No committee report for H.R. 6216 will be available.

**[Constitutional Authority]{.underline}**: The Financial Services
Committee, in [House Report
110-521](http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/cpquery/R?cp110:FLD010:@1(hr521)/),
cites constitutional authority for H.R. 3521 in Article I, Section 8,
Clauses 1 (the congressional power to provide for the
**[general]{.underline}** welfare of the United States) and 3 (the
congressional power to regulate interstate **[commerce]{.underline}**).
*(emphasis added)* No committee report for H.R. 6216 will be available.

**[Outside Organizations]{.underline}**: The following organizations
have [supported]{.underline} H.R. 3521:

-   Council of Large Public Housing Authorities;

-   National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials; and

-   Public Housing Authorities Directors Association.

A list of organizations opposing the legislation was not available at
press time.

**[RSC Staff Contact]{.underline}**: Paul S. Teller,
<paul.teller@mail.house.gov>, (202) 226-9718

**H.R. 3329**--- **Homes for Heroes Act of 2007**

***(Green, D-TX)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: The bill is scheduled to be
considered on Wednesday, July 9, 2008, under a motion to suspend the
rules and pass the bill.\
\
**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.R. 3329 creates a Special Assistant for
Veterans Affairs within the Department of Housing and Urban Affairs
(HUD) and creates a new \$200 million capital advance grant program for
new construction for very-low income and homeless veterans. In addition,
it authorizes an additional 20,000 new vouchers for homeless veterans.

The following background and summary was provided by the Minority staff
on the Financial Services Committee:

> The Department of Veterans Affairs estimates that as of September
> 2006, there were 24 million veterans living in the United States and
> Puerto Rico. According to an August 2007 report from the Government
> Accountability Office[^1], 2.3 million veteran households are
> low-income renters, 1.3 million of whom have housing affordability
> problems. GAO also found that low income veteran households were less
> likely to receive HUD assistance than other low-income households, due
> in part to the lack of housing preferences for veterans among public
> housing agencies. Furthermore, the VA estimates that at least 194,000
> veterans were homeless in FY 2005.
>
> There are several federal programs designed to serve the needs of
> homeless veterans. The majority of these programs are operated by the
> Department of Veterans Affairs, although the Department of Housing and
> Urban Development and the Department of Labor also have veterans
> housing programs as well. According to Congressional Research Service,
> the VA programs provide health care and rehabilitation services for
> homeless veterans (the Health Care for Homeless Veterans and
> Domiciliary Care for Homeless Veterans programs); employment
> assistance (Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program and Compensated
> Work Therapy program); transitional housing (Grant and Per Diem and
> Loan Guarantee programs) as well as other supportive services.
> Overall, veteran-specific federal programs received an estimated \$270
> million in federal funding level in 2007.
>
> In addition to these programs, the VA and HUD jointly administer the
> HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Program (HUD-VASH). HUD-VASH
> was established in 1992 and Congress statutorily authorized the
> program under the Homeless Veterans Comprehensive Assistance Act of
> 2001. In December 2006 Congress extended the program's authorization
> through 2011. HUD-VASH provides homeless veterans with chronic mental
> illness or chronic substance abuse problems permanent supportive
> housing via Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers. HUD plans to expand the
> HUD-VASH program to serve up to 20,000 veterans. In FY 2008 \$75
> million was appropriated to provide approximately 10,000 additional
> HUD-VASH vouchers. In the FY 2009 HUD requested another \$75 million
> to add an additional 9,800 vouchers to the program. The 20,000
> vouchers that are authorized in H.R. 3329 would be in addition to the
> vouchers funded in the 2008 and 2009 HUD appropriations.
>
> The primary goals of H.R. 3329 are threefold---create a new Special
> Assistant for Veterans Affairs, expand the supply of housing for very
> low-income veterans, and increase the number of vouchers for homeless
> veterans.
>
> The Special Assistant for Veterans Affairs would ensure veterans
> received proper access to HUD's housing assistance programs,
> coordinate all HUD programs and activities pertaining to veterans, and
> would act as a liaison between HUD and the Department of Veterans
> Affairs.
>
> The bill authorizes appropriations for housing assistance for very
> low-income and homeless veterans. \[A very low-income veteran family
> has an income not exceeding 50% of area median income.\] A
> \$200,000,000 authorization would provide capital advances and
> planning grants to private non-profits and consumer cooperatives for
> the construction and rehabilitation of permanent supportive housing
> for very low income veterans. The \$200,000,000 authorization may also
> be used for project rental assistance. The bill also authorizes
> appropriations necessary to provide 20,000 additional housing choice
> vouchers for homeless veterans for FY 2008 and each year thereafter.
>
> Other provisions in the bill include: (1) the exclusion of veterans
> benefits amounts from rental subsidy calculations for all federally
> funded housing programs; (2) an authorization of \$1,000,000 in
> technical assistance grants to non-profits to who provide veterans
> housing or provide assistance to veterans seeking housing; (3) an
> authorization of \$1,000,000 for annual reports to Congress on
> veterans housing assistance and (4) requirements for veteran
> participation in housing planning.

In addition, the bill would permit the use of private financing and Low
Income Housing Tax Credits in combination with authorized capital funds
by enabling for-profit limited partnerships to own such properties,
under the condition that the sole or managing general partner be a
private non-profit organization. The bill would also prevent undue
benefits should a project cease to provide housing assistance to
low-income veterans. An exception is made for projects that cease
providing this housing if the owner is doing so due to the failure of
federal rental assistance to be provided.

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.R. 3329 was introduced on August
2, 2007, and referred to the House Committee on Financial Services. On
June 24, 2008, the Committee held a mark-up and reported the bill, as
amended, by voice vote.

[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}: While no CBO score is available, the
bill authorizes \$200 million for FY 2008, and such sums as may be
necessary for each fiscal year thereafter.

**[Does the Bill Expand the Size and Scope of the Federal
Government?]{.underline}** Yes, H.R. 3329 creates a Special Assistant
for Veterans Affairs within the Department of Housing and Urban Affairs
(HUD) and creates a new \$200 million capital advance grant program for
new construction for very-low income and homeless veterans. In addition,
it authorizes an additional 20,000 new voucher for homeless veterans.

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

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

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

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

**H.R. 6184**---**America's Beautiful National Parks Quarter Dollar Coin
Act of 2008**

**(Castle, R-DE)**

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: H.R. 6184 is scheduled to be
considered on Wednesday, July 9, 2008, under a motion to suspend the
rules and pass the bill.\
\
**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.R. 6184 would require quarter dollars,
issued beginning in 2010, to have designs on the reverse emblematic of
one national site in each state, the District of Columbia and territory
of the United States. The bill instructs the Secretary of the Treasury
to select in each state a national park or other national site to be
honored with a coin. The bill would require five coin designs in each
year of the period of issuance. The bill also instructs the Secretary to
strike and make available for sale silver bullion coins that are exact
duplicates of such quarter dollars. The bill authorizes the Director of
the National Park Service to purchase for resale or distribution
numismatic items issued under this Act.

[Committee Action]{.underline}: H.R. 6184 was introduced on June 4,
2008, and referred to the House Committee on Financial Services. On June
25, 2008, the Committee held a mark-up and reported the bill by a vote
of 58---0.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: No CBO score is 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.

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

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

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

**H.R. 4461**---**Community Building Code Administration Grant Act of
2007**

***(Moore, D-KS)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: H.R. 4461 is scheduled to be
considered on Wednesday, July 9, 2008, under a motion to suspend the
rules and pass the bill.\
\
**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.R. 4461 would establish a new grant program
administered by the Department of Housing and Urban Development to
assist local governments with the administration and enforcement of
building codes. The bill specifies that the maximum amount of any
individual grant will be \$1 million.

The bill would require that each grant applications be:

-   Competitively evaluated;

-   Scored in consideration of the financial condition of the community;

-   Scored on demonstration of benefits to the local community of an
    adequately funded code enforcement office;

-   Scored on demonstrated capability to work cooperatively with other
    code enforcement offices and public safety agencies.

In addition, the bill would require that each grant application include
the following elements:

-   A demonstration of need for resources to aid local building code
    enforcement;

-   A specific plan for the use of the grant funds that addresses the
    demonstrated needs;

-   A plan for how the grant recipient will self-sustain the new level
    of code enforcement activities after the grant;

-   A plan to inform and educate the public about the purpose and use of
    the grant funded programs;

-   A plan to ensure administrative and judicial action in enforcement
    of building, fire and health codes.

The bill specifies that federal funds may be used for the following:

-   An increase in staffing;

-   Staff training, professional certification and departmental
    accreditation;

-   Capital expenditures dedicated to building code enforcement;

-   Similar expenses that directly support enhanced building and fire
    code enforcement.

The bill also sets the following requirements for matching funds from
local resources:

-   Matching requirements shall be scaled to as little as five percent
    depending upon local need and population;

-   Matching funds may include in-kind contributions;

-   Local match can be waived hardship reasons and for jurisdictions
    that dedicate permit fees to the local code enforcement program.

The bill authorizes this grant program for five years at \$100 million
per year and allows HUD to reserve five percent for its own
administrative expenses.

[Committee Action]{.underline}: H.R. 4461 was introduced on December 12,
2007, and referred to the House Committee on Financial Services. On June
24, 2008, the Committee held a mark-up and reported the bill, as
amended, by voice vote.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: No CBO score is available, however,
the bill authorizes \$100 million per year, for five years.

**[Does the Bill Expand the Size and Scope of the Federal
Government?]{.underline}** Yes, the bill authorizes a new grant program
under the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

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

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

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

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

**H.R. 5541**--- **Federal Land Assistance, Management and Enhancement
Act or FLAME Act**

***(Rahall, D-WV)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: H.R. 5541 is scheduled to be
considered on Wednesday, July 9, 2008, under a motion to suspend the
rules and pass the bill.\
\
**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.R. 5541 would establish the Federal Land
Assistance, Management, and Enhancement Fund (the Flame Fund). The bill
would require that amounts in the Flame Fund be made available to the
Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture to pay the
costs of catastrophic emergency wild land fire suppression activities
that are separate from amounts annually appropriated for the predicted
annual workload for such activities. The Flame Fund would finance some
fire suppression activities managed by the Forest Service and the Bureau
of Land Management (BLM). The bill also would authorize the Forest
Service and the BLM to provide grants to certain communities to improve
local firefighting capabilities.

The bill would require that the Secretaries establish an accounting and
reporting system for the Flame Fund. In addition, it requires the
Secretaries to annually report on the use of the funds from the Flame
Fund, and submit a report that contains a cohesive wildland fire
management strategy.

[Committee Action]{.underline}: H.R. 5541 was introduced on March 6,
2008, and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources, as well as the
Committees on Agriculture, and the Budget. On April 17, 2008, the
Committee on Natural Resources held a mark-up of the bill and ordered it
reported, as amended, by voice vote.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: According to CBO, "creating the
Flame Fund and authorizing appropriations to that fund for fire
suppression would have no effect on the federal budget because agencies
already receive appropriations under existing authorities and have
permanent authority to transfer funds from other accounts to cover fire
suppression costs. Implementing this legislation might change the timing
of appropriations for fire suppression but not the total cost of that
activity. CBO estimates that carrying out other provisions of the bill,
including new reporting requirements and grant programs, would cost
\$100 million over the 2009-2013 period, assuming appropriation of the
necessary amounts. Enacting the legislation would not affect revenues or
direct spending."

**[Does the Bill Expand the Size and Scope of the Federal
Government?]{.underline}** Yes, the bill creates new grant programs for
fire suppression activities.

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

**[Does the Bill Comply with House Rules Regarding Earmarks/Limited Tax
Benefits/Limited Tariff Benefits?]{.underline}** According to the
Committee on Natural Resources House Report
[110-704](http://www.congress.gov/cgi-lis/cpquery/R?cp110:FLD010:@1(hr704):),
"H.R. 5541 does not contain any congressional earmarks, limited tax
benefits, or limited tariff benefits as defined in clause 9(d), 9(e) or
9(f) of rule XXI."

**[Constitutional Authority]{.underline}**: The Committee on Natural
Resources House Report
[110-704](http://www.congress.gov/cgi-lis/cpquery/R?cp110:FLD010:@1(hr704):)
cites Article I, section 8 of the Constitution with the authority to
enact this bill. **This constitutional authority statement fails to cite
a foregoing power of Congress.** 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}**: Sarah Makin;
<sarah.makin@mail.house.gov>; 202-226-0718.

**H. Res. 1322**--- **Commending the firefighters from California and
throughout the United States for their courageous actions and sacrifices
in fighting the California wildfires *(Farr, D-CA)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: H. Res. 1322 is scheduled to be
considered on Wednesday, July 9, 2008, under a motion to suspend the
rules and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H. Res. 1322 would express that it is the
sense of the United States House of Representatives:

-   "commends firefighters from California and throughout the United
    States for their courageous actions and sacrifices in fighting
    wildfires on National Forest System land and other public lands in
    California;

-   "acknowledges the continued work of firefighters to protect National
    Forest System land, other public lands, and private property from
    further damage;

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

-   "extends its heartfelt sympathies to the families of those who have
    lost loved ones or their homes, businesses, or other property in the
    wildfires."

The resolution lists a number of findings, including:

-   "since June 20, 2008, there have been 1,781 wildfires in California
    started by natural causes, including lightning, or by human
    activity;

-   "630,886 acres of land have burned in these wildfires, and, as of
    July 8, 2008, there are 323 wildfires still burning in California;

-   "significant portions of National Forest System land and wilderness
    areas continue to burn in the Los Padres, Klamath, Shasta, Trinity,
    Mendocino, Plumas, Eldorado, Tahoe, Six Rivers, and Lassen National
    Forests;

-   "areas of Butte, Monterey, Santa Barbara, and Shasta counties are
    under evacuation orders, and precautionary evacuation orders
    currently exist in areas of Kern, Mendocino, Monterey, Santa
    Barbara, and Plumas counties;

-   "the wildfires are threatening 8,874 residences, 168 commercial
    buildings, and 2,085 outbuildings, but the heroic efforts of
    firefighters have limited the destruction to 40 residences, 1
    commercial building, and 61 outbuildings;

-   "firefighters have already been working for weeks on the front lines
    of a fire season that is just beginning;

-   "firefighters have risked their lives and endured great hardship to
    protect life, property, and the environment;

-   "there are currently 18,415 personnel committed, as well as 1,403
    fire engines, 388 hand crews, 269 bulldozers, 392 water tenders, 31
    air tankers, 30 incident management teams, and 95 helicopters;

-   "40 States and the District of Columbia have provided assistance to
    fight the wildfires:

-   "the cooperative, unified approach to addressing wildland fires by
    Federal, State, local, tribal, and volunteer agencies have worked as
    one team under California\'s innovative incident command system;

-   "the wildfires have been fought in a manner consistent with
    wilderness and wildlife protection, including protection of
    endangered species such as the Southern Sea Otter;

-   "the people of California and the United States recognize that the
    dedication of the firefighters will remain steadfast throughout the
    ongoing suppression, repair, and rebuilding efforts;

-   "firefighters continue to make progress in containing wildfires
    throughout California, and, as of July 8, 2008, more than 1,400
    fires have been contained due to the diligent and tireless efforts
    of firefighters from California and throughout the United States;
    and

-   "several firefighters have been injured and one firefighter has
    given his life while fighting the wildfires."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H. Res. 1322 was introduced on July
8, 2008, and referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources, which
took no official action.\
\
**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: The resolution does not authorize
expenditures.\
\
**[Does the Bill Expand the Size and Scope of the Federal
Government?]{.underline}** No.\
\
**[Does the Bill Contain Any New State-Government, Local-Government, or
Private-Sector Mandates?]{.underline}** No.

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

**S. 2607**--- **DTV Transition Assistance Act**

**(Snowe, R-ME)**

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: S. 2607 is scheduled to be
considered on Wednesday, July 9, 2008, under a motion to suspend the
rules and pass the bill.\
\
**[Summary]{.underline}**: Under current law, the National
Telecommunications and Information Administration

(NTIA) is authorized to reimburse certain low-power television stations
in fiscal year 2009 for their costs to upgrade analog equipment to
broadcast digital signals. The payments are to be made from spectrum
auction proceeds deposited in the Digital Television Transition and
Public Safety Fund. S. 2607 would extend NTIA's authority to make those
reimbursements through fiscal year 2012 and amend contradictory
direction in current law regarding when such payments would start.

[Committee Action]{.underline}: S. 2607 was introduced on February 7,
2008, and referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, where
no further action was taken. On June 19, 2008, the bill passed the
Senate, with an amendment, by unanimous consent.

**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: According to CBO, "Based on
information from NTIA, CBO estimates that enacting S. 2607 would not
change the agency's anticipated spending patterns, and thus would have
no effect on direct spending. Enacting the bill would not affect
revenues or spending subject to

appropriation."

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

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

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

**[Constitutional Authority]{.underline}**: No House Report exists.

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

**H. Res. 1260**--- **Supporting the goals and ideals of "National
Internet Safety Month" *(Farr, D-CA)***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: H. Res. 1260 is scheduled to be
considered on Wednesday, July 9, 2008, under a motion to suspend the
rules and pass the resolution.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H. Res. 1260 would express that it is the
sense of the United States House of Representatives:

-   "supports the goals and ideals of 'National Internet Safety Month';

-   "recognizes that 'National Internet Safety Month' provides the
    citizens of the United States with an opportunity to learn more
    about the importance of being safe and responsible online;

-   "commends and recognizes national and community organizations for
    promoting the safe use of the Internet; and providing information
    and training that develops critical thinking and decision making
    skills that are needed to use the Internet safely; and

-   "calls on parents, educators, Internet safety organizations, law
    enforcement, community leaders, Internet service providers, and
    volunteers to increase their efforts to raise the level of awareness
    for the need for online safety in the United States."

The resolution lists a number of findings, including:

-   "during the 110th Congress, the House of Representatives has passed
    several bills aimed at protecting children online and promoting
    Internet safety education;

-   "on June 12, 2007, the House of Representatives passed H. Res. 455
    recognizing 'National Internet Safety Month';

-   "on May 22, 2008, the Senate passed S. Res. 567 designating June
    2008 as 'National Internet Safety Month';

-   "the Federal Trade Commission, in coordination with several other
    Federal agencies, maintains OnGuard Online, a Web-based resource to
    educate all Americans on Internet safety;

-   "law enforcement, educators, community leaders, nonprofit
    organizations, and Internet service providers have sought to raise
    awareness for Internet safety across the United States;

-   "America's youth will need to master the Internet to stay
    competitive in a global information economy;

-   "there are more than 1,000,000,000 Internet users worldwide;

-   "in the United States, more than 35,000,000 children in kindergarten
    through grade 12 have Internet access;

-   "93 percent of children between 12 and 17 years old use the
    Internet;

-   "more than half of all of online children between 12 and 17 years
    old use an online social networking site;

-   "43 percent of teens between 13 and 17 have experienced
    cyberbullying within the past year;

-   "approximately 24 percent of students in grades 5 through 12 have
    hidden their online activities from their parents;

-   "61 percent of the students admit to using the Internet unsafely or
    inappropriately;

-   "68 percent of parents have household rules about what type of
    Internet sites their child can or cannot visit;

-   "56 percent of parents feel that online bullying of children is an
    issue that needs to be addressed;

-   "65 percent of parents report that after their child has been on the
    Internet, they check to see what Web sites he or she viewed;

-   "47 percent of parents feel that their ability to monitor and
    shelter their children from inappropriate material on the Internet
    is limited; and

-   "61 percent of parents want to be more personally involved with
    Internet safety."

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H. Res. 1260 was introduced on June
10, 2008, and referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce,
which took no official action.\
\
**[Cost to Taxpayers]{.underline}**: The resolution does not authorize
expenditures.\
\
**[Does the Bill Expand the Size and Scope of the Federal
Government?]{.underline}** No.\
\
**[Does the Bill Contain Any New State-Government, Local-Government, or
Private-Sector Mandates?]{.underline}** No.

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

**H.R. 6061---To designate the facility of the United States Postal
Service located at 219 East Main Street in West Frankfort, Illinois, as
the "Kenneth James Gray Post Office Building" *(Costello, D-IL) ***

**[Order of Business]{.underline}**: H.R. 6061 is scheduled for
consideration on Tuesday, July 8, 2008, under a motion to suspend the
rules and pass the bill.

**[Summary]{.underline}**: H.R. 6061 would designate the facility of the
United States Postal Service located at 219 East Main Street in West
Frankfort, Illinois, as the "Kenneth James Gray Post Office Building".

**[Additional Information]{.underline}**: Kenneth James Gray was a
Democratic Representative from Illinois. During the Second World War he
served from January 1943 as a crew chief with the Twelfth Air Force in
North Africa; served with the combat engineers of the Fifth Army in
Italy; returned to the Twelfth Air Force and participated in combat over
southern France and central Europe until discharged as a first sergeant
in December 1945. He was elected as a Democrat and served from
1955---1974.

**[Committee Action]{.underline}**: H.R. 6061 was introduced on May 14,
2008, and referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform,
which ordered the bill reported by voice vote.

[**Cost to Taxpayers**:]{.underline} A CBO score for H.R. 6061 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.\
\
**[Does the Bill Comply with House Rules Regarding Earmarks/Limited Tax
Benefits/Limited Tariff Benefits?]{.underline}** A Committee Report
citing compliance with rules regarding earmarks, limited tax benefits,
or limited tariff benefits was not available. Such a report is not
required because the bill is being considered under a suspension of the
rules.

**[Constitutional Authority]{.underline}**: Although no committee report
citing constitutional authority is available, Article I, Section 8,
Clause 7 of the Constitution grants Congress the authority to establish
Post Offices and post roads.

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

[^1]: GAO-07-1012. "Rental Housing: Information on Low-Income Veterans'
    Housing Conditions and Participation in HUD's Programs.