110 HR 3624 IH: Consumer Food Safety Act of

U.S. House of Representatives
2007-09-20
text/xml
EN
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		I
		110th CONGRESS
		1st Session
		H. R. 3624
		IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

			September 20, 2007
			Mr. Pallone
			 introduced the following bill; which was referred to the
			 Committee on Energy and
			 Commerce

		A BILL
		To establish a comprehensive program to ensure the safety
		  of food products intended for human consumption which are regulated by the Food
		  and Drug Administration.

		1.Short title; table of
			 contents
			(a)Short
			 titleThis Act may be cited as the Consumer Food Safety Act of 2007.
			(b)Table of
			 contents

					Sec. 1. Short title; table of
				contents.
					Sec. 2. Definitions.
					Title I—National food safety
				program
					Sec. 101. Administration of national
				program.
					Sec. 102. Process controls to reduce the
				adulteration of food products.
					Sec. 103. Inspections of processors and
				importers.
					Sec. 104. Tolerances for contaminants in
				food.
					Sec. 105. State and Federal
				cooperation.
					Sec. 106. Imports.
					Title II—Research and education
					Sec. 201. Public health assessment
				system.
					Sec. 202. Public education and advisory
				system.
					Sec. 203. Research.
					Title III—Enforcement
					Sec. 301. Amendments to the
				Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic
				Act.
					Title IV—Authorization of
				appropriations
					Sec. 401. Authorization of
				appropriations.

			2.DefinitionsFor purposes of this Act:
			(1)The term
			 contaminants includes bacteria, chemical contaminants, natural
			 toxins, viruses, parasites, and physical hazards that when found on or in food
			 can cause human illness or injury.
			(2)The term
			 facility includes any factory, warehouse, establishment, or
			 importer that handles or processes food.
			(3)The
			 term process means the commercial harvesting, preparation,
			 manufacture, or transportation of food products.
			(4)The term
			 Secretary means the Secretary of Health and Human Services.
			INational food
			 safety program
			101.Administration
			 of national program
				(a)In
			 generalPersons who produce or process food for human consumption
			 have the responsibility to prevent or minimize food safety hazards related to
			 their products. The Secretary shall administer a national program for the
			 purpose of protecting human health by ensuring that the food industry has
			 effective programs in place to assure the safety of food products consumed in
			 the United States.
				(b)Program
			 requirementsThe program shall—
					(1)be based on a
			 comprehensive analysis of the hazards associated with different food products
			 and with the harvesting, processing, and handling of different food products,
			 including the identification and evaluation of—
						(A)the severity of the
			 potential health risks;
						(B)the sources and
			 specific points of potential contamination that may render food products unsafe
			 for human consumption; and
						(C)the potential for
			 persistence, multiplication, or concentration of naturally occurring or added
			 contaminants in foods and food products;
						(2)take into
			 consideration the distinctive characteristics of food production and
			 processing;
					(3)establish
			 inspection and oversight procedures to monitor that facilities are utilizing
			 preventive controls to minimize or eliminate identifiable hazards; and
					(4)require each food
			 processing facility to annually register with the Secretary.
					(c)Additional
			 program elementsThe program shall provide for—
					(1)implementation of
			 a national system for the registration and quarterly inspection of facilities
			 and importers, which quarterly inspections may be waived by plants that meet
			 the Secretary’s standards for exceptional or negligible-risk facilities or
			 importers;
					(2)development of a
			 program to oversee the implementation of process controls in food processing
			 facilities;
					(3)the establishment
			 and enforcement of health-based standards for—
						(A)substances which
			 may contaminate food; and
						(B)safety and
			 sanitation in the processing and handling of food products;
						(4)implementation of
			 a sampling program to ensure that industry programs to prevent food
			 contamination are effective and that food products meet the standards
			 established under paragraph (1);
					(5)implementation of
			 procedures and requirements to ensure the safety of imported food
			 products;
					(6)coordination with
			 other Federal agencies or State governments in carrying out inspection,
			 enforcement, and monitoring;
					(7)implementation of a
			 national surveillance system to assess the health risks associated with the
			 human consumption of food products, in cooperation with the Secretary of
			 Agriculture and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention;
					(8)development of
			 public education and advisory programs; and
					(9)implementation of
			 a research program in furtherance of the purposes of this Act.
					102.Process controls
			 to reduce the adulteration of food products
				(a)In
			 generalThe Secretary shall, upon the basis of the best available
			 scientific and technological data, prescribe regulations to—
					(1)limit the presence
			 of human pathogens and other potentially harmful substances in food
			 products;
					(2)ensure that all
			 registered facilities implement appropriate measures to control and reduce the
			 presence and growth of human pathogens and other potentially harmful substances
			 on food products;
					(3)ensure that all
			 fully processed or ready-to-eat food products are processed in a sanitary
			 manner, using reasonably available techniques and technologies to eliminate any
			 human pathogens or other potentially harmful substances likely to cause
			 foodborne illness; and
					(4)ensure that food
			 products intended for final processing outside commercial establishments are
			 labeled with instructions for handling and preparation for consumption which,
			 when adhered to, will destroy any human pathogens or other potentially harmful
			 substance likely to cause foodborne illness.
					(b)RegulationsThe
			 Secretary shall, within one year of the enactment of this Act, issue
			 regulations that require all registered facilities to adopt processing controls
			 adequate to protect public health and to limit the presence and growth of human
			 pathogens and other potentially harmful substances in food products prepared in
			 any registered facility. Such regulations shall—
					(1)set standards for
			 sanitation;
					(2)set tolerances for
			 biological, chemical, and physical hazards as appropriate;
					(3)require process
			 controls to assure that food is safe and that relevant regulatory and safety
			 standards are met;
					(4)require
			 recordkeeping to monitor compliance;
					(5)require sampling
			 to assure that processing controls are effective and that regulatory standards
			 are being met; and
					(6)provide for agency
			 access to records kept by official establishments and submission of copies of
			 such records to the Secretary as the Secretary deems appropriate.
					Public
			 access to records that relate to the adequacy of measures taken by official
			 establishments to protect the public health and to limit the presence and
			 growth of human pathogens and other potentially harmful substances shall be
			 governed by section 552 of title 5, United States Code. The Secretary may, as
			 the Secretary deems necessary, require any person, firm, or corporation with
			 responsibility for or control over food ingredients to adopt processing
			 controls, where such processing controls are needed to assure the protection of
			 public health.103.Inspections of
			 processors and importers
				(a)Nature of
			 inspections
					(1)The inspection
			 system shall provide for frequent unannounced inspections of food processing
			 and importing facilities to determine whether such facilities are operated in a
			 sanitary manner and whether food products are unsafe for human consumption, or
			 adulterated or misbranded under the Federal
			 Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 301 et seq.). Inspections
			 shall include review of processing records and sampling of food
			 products.
					(2)Inspections shall
			 be conducted at least quarterly, unless the Secretary determines that the
			 facility is an exceptional or negligible-risk facility under standards
			 established by the Secretary.
					(3)Standards for
			 exceptional or negligible-risk facilities shall consider the hazards associated
			 with the type of product being produced; and the facility’s history of
			 compliance, food safety problems and such other factors as the Secretary may
			 deem appropriate. The Secretary shall specify an alternative inspection
			 frequency for each facility which is deemed exceptional or negligible-risk.
			 Each inspection shall include an examination of whether the facility continues
			 to meet the standards for exceptional or negligible-risk facilities.
					(b)Conduct of
			 inspections
					(1)An inspection
			 under subsection (a) of any domestic, foreign, or importing facility shall
			 extend to all things therein (including records required to be maintained under
			 subsection (e), processes, controls, and premises) that bear on whether food
			 products are in compliance with this Act or the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21
			 U.S.C. 301 et seq.). Access to records may include the copying of such
			 records.
					(2)In conducting such
			 inspections, officers or employees duly designated by the Secretary, upon
			 presenting appropriate credentials to the owner, operator, or agent in charge,
			 are authorized—
						(A)to enter at
			 reasonable times any facility in which persons are engaged in the food
			 processing or importing of food products, or to enter any vehicle being used to
			 transport or hold such food products;
						(B)to inspect in a
			 reasonable manner such facility or vehicle and all pertinent equipment,
			 finished and unfinished materials, containers, labeling, processes, controls,
			 and premises; and
						(C)to collect and
			 retain samples of food products or ingredients or of any other items found
			 during an inspection that may contribute to a finding of whether such food
			 products are unsafe for human consumption or adulterated or misbranded under
			 the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 301 et seq.).
						(3)Immediately after
			 completion of inspection, the officer or employee making the inspection shall
			 give to the owner, operator, or agent in charge a report in writing setting
			 forth any conditions or practices observed which indicate that either
			 processing controls are inadequate to prevent or minimize food safety hazards
			 or that any food from such facility is unsafe for human consumption, or
			 adulterated or misbranded under the Federal
			 Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 301 et seq.).
					(c)Product
			 detention and condemnation
					(1)If, during an
			 inspection conducted under this section, an officer or employee making the
			 inspection has reason to believe that a food product is unsafe for human
			 consumption, or adulterated or misbranded under the
			 Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
			 (21 U.S.C. 301 et seq.), such officer or employee may order the food product
			 segregated, impounded, and if objection is not made within 48 hours, condemned.
			 If objection is made, such food products that are in perishable form may be
			 processed to the extent necessary to prevent spoilage, and a hearing shall be
			 commenced expeditiously.
					(2)If the Secretary
			 determines that, through relabeling or other action, such food products can be
			 brought into compliance with this Act and the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21
			 U.S.C. 301 et seq.), the food may be released following a determination by the
			 Secretary that such relabeling or other action as specified by the Secretary
			 has been performed.
					(3)Any food product
			 condemned without objection, or after hearing and judicial review, shall be
			 destroyed under supervision of the Secretary.
					(d)Official
			 markThe Secretary shall prescribe by regulation the conditions
			 under which any food product shall display an official mark, when needed to
			 facilitate exports, that signifies that the food product has been processed in
			 accordance with standards approved by the Secretary. Such a mark may be subject
			 to a fee.
				(e)Maintenance of
			 recordsEach facility or person registered under this section
			 shall maintain and make available for inspection by the Secretary such records
			 as the Secretary may prescribe. Such records shall be maintained for a
			 reasonable period of time as determined by the Secretary. The records shall
			 include, but are not limited to, information concerning—
					(1)the origin,
			 receipt, delivery, sale, movement, holding, and disposition of food products or
			 ingredients; the identity and amount of ingredients used in the food; the
			 processing of the food; the results of laboratory, sanitation, or other quality
			 control tests performed on the food or in the facility; consumer complaints
			 concerning the food or its packaging; and
					(2)other matters
			 reasonably related to whether food products may be unsafe for human
			 consumption, or adulterated or misbranded under the
			 Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
			 (21 U.S.C. 301 et seq.).
					(f)Other inspection
			 rights and dutiesSection 704 of the
			 Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
			 (21 U.S.C. 374) is amended by adding at the end the following new
			 subsection:

						(h)The rights and
				duties under this section of duly designated officers and employees and of
				other persons shall apply to enforcement of the
				Consumer Food Safety Act of
				2007 to the same extent and in the same manner as they apply to
				enforcement of this
				Act.
						.
				104.Tolerances for
			 contaminants in food
				(a)TolerancesThe
			 Secretary shall establish tolerances limiting the quantity of contaminants,
			 except for pesticide residues regulated under section 408 or food additives
			 regulated under section 409 of the Federal
			 Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 301 et seq.), that, when
			 found in food products, may render such products unsafe for human consumption.
			 Contaminants include but are not limited to bacteria, chemical contaminants,
			 natural toxins, viruses and parasites that when found on or in food can cause
			 human illness. Such tolerances may include indicators (including indicator
			 organisms) from which it may reasonably be inferred that a contaminant is
			 present in a food product. In developing a tolerance, the Secretary shall take
			 into account the extent to which consumers may be exposed to such contaminant
			 from sources other than food, and the extent to which such contaminant can be
			 avoided or minimized in the commercial handling and processing of such
			 food.
				(b)Regulations
					(1)The Secretary,
			 after notice and an opportunity for comment, shall promulgate regulations to
			 implement subsection (a) within 48 months after the date of enactment of this
			 Act. In promulgating such regulations, the Secretary shall establish tolerances
			 for the contaminants that the Secretary determines are having the greatest
			 public health impact as early as feasible after implementation of this
			 Act.
					(2)A
			 tolerance established under this section shall be based on—
						(A)a scientific
			 analysis of the health risks attributable to the contaminant for which the
			 tolerance is established; and
						(B)analysis of the
			 risks for sensitive groups, such as children, elderly, pregnant women and the
			 immune compromised.
						(3)The Secretary
			 shall, in a timely manner, issue revisions to the regulations under paragraph
			 (1) which take into account new information. The Secretary may contract with
			 the National Academy of Sciences to provide such data or assistance as the
			 Secretary deems necessary.
					(c)ReportThe
			 Secretary shall report to the Congress on the progress of the Secretary in
			 establishing tolerances under this section. The report shall include a
			 description of the research that has been conducted with respect to such
			 tolerances and the research that must be conducted before additional tolerances
			 may be established, the health significance of the lack of such additional
			 tolerances, a timetable for the establishment of such tolerances, and the
			 estimated costs, including costs of research, associated with the establishment
			 of such tolerances. The report shall be transmitted on or about the end of the
			 18th month after the date of enactment of this Act, and biennially thereafter
			 during the 6-year period that begins on such date of enactment.
				105.State and Federal
			 cooperation
				(a)In
			 generalThe Secretary shall work with the States in undertaking
			 activities and programs that contribute to the national food safety program so
			 that State and Federal programs function in a coordinated and cost-effective
			 manner. With the assistance provided in subsection (b), the Secretary shall
			 encourage States to—
					(1)continue,
			 strengthen, or establish State food safety programs, especially with respect to
			 the regulation of retail commercial food establishments, transportation,
			 harvesting, and fresh markets; and
					(2)establish
			 procedures and requirements for ensuring that food products under the
			 jurisdiction of the State are not unsafe for human consumption.
					(b)Assistance
					(1)The Secretary may
			 provide to a State, for planning, developing, and implementing a food safety
			 program—
						(A)advisory
			 assistance;
						(B)technical and
			 laboratory assistance and training (including necessary materials and
			 equipment); and
						(C)financial and
			 other aid.
						(c)Service
			 agreementsThe Secretary may, under agreements entered into with
			 Federal, State, or local agencies, use on a reimbursable basis or otherwise the
			 personnel, services, and facilities of such agencies in carrying out their
			 responsibilities under this Act. Such an agreement shall provide that any
			 compliance records, notices, or reports issued in connection with activities
			 under the agreement and in the possession of the agency or government which
			 entered into the agreement shall be made available in accordance with section
			 552 of title 5, United States Code. Agreements with a State under this
			 subsection may provide for training of State employees.
				106.Imports
				(a)Role of
			 SecretaryWithin 24 months after the date of enactment of this
			 Act, the Secretary shall establish and administer a comprehensive and efficient
			 system to ensure the safety of food imported into the United States. The
			 Secretary shall routinely inspect processing facilities in exporting nations
			 and imports at ports of entry into the United States. The Secretary shall
			 assure the effective operation through verification and other activities as the
			 Secretary considers necessary.
				(b)Import
			 requirements
					(1)No
			 food product may enter the United States, or be withdrawn from a warehouse, for
			 consumption in the United States if such food product—
						(A)appears unsafe for
			 human consumption, or adulterated or misbranded under the
			 Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
			 (21 U.S.C. 301 et seq.);
						(B)is not marked or
			 labeled as required by regulations for domestic or imported articles; or
						(C)does not comply
			 with the requirements of this section.
						(2)Upon entry for
			 consumption in the United States, food products that are not prohibited from
			 entry or from withdrawal from a warehouse under paragraph (1) shall be deemed
			 to be and treated as domestic food products, except that all labeling of such
			 products shall clearly identify the country of origin to facilitate the
			 identification of products linked to outbreaks of illness.
					(c)Inspection of
			 imports
					(1)Food products that
			 are offered for importation, or withdrawn from a warehouse, for consumption in
			 the United States, shall be subject to examinations inspections, sampling, and
			 such other procedures at the port of entry or in the exporting nation by
			 officers or employees duly designated by the Secretary. Such procedures shall
			 be conducted with such frequency and in such manner as the Secretary may
			 prescribe by regulation.
					(2)Food products from
			 a nation that is certified for such food products under subsection (e)(3) shall
			 be subject to random examinations, inspections, sampling, and other procedures.
			 Food products from a nation that is not certified for such food products under
			 subsection (e)(3) shall be subject to such intensified examinations,
			 inspections, sampling, and other verification procedures, including inspection
			 in the country of origin, as the Secretary determines are necessary to ensure
			 compliance with this Act.
					(d)Detention of
			 imported food productIf during an inspection or other
			 verification procedure carried out under this section, an officer or employee
			 conducting the procedure has reason to believe that a food product is unsafe
			 for human consumption, or adulterated or misbranded under the
			 Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
			 (21 U.S.C. 301 et seq.), such officer or employee may order the food product
			 segregated, impounded, and if objection is not made within 48 hours, condemned.
			 If objection is made, such food products that are in perishable form may be
			 processed to the extent necessary to prevent spoilage, and a hearing shall be
			 commenced expeditiously. The final condemnation or other disposition of such
			 food product shall be subject to the provisions of section 103(c).
				(e)Agreements with
			 foreign nations
					(1)The Secretary may
			 enter into an agreement with any nation desiring to export food products to the
			 United States. Prior to concluding such an agreement, the Secretary shall
			 evaluate the food safety program of the foreign nation to determine if such
			 program provides at least the same level of protection, with respect to food
			 products intended for export to the United States, as domestic laws that affect
			 the safety of the food supply. In such evaluation, the Secretary shall
			 consider—
						(A)the potential for
			 health, sanitary, environmental, or other conditions within the foreign nation
			 to adversely affect the safety of food products exported from such nation;
			 and
						(B)how well the food
			 safety programs of the foreign nation functions to minimize any adverse effects
			 on such safety.
						(2)Any
			 agreement under this subsection with a nation desiring to export food products
			 to the United States shall—
						(A)require that the
			 exporting nation shall—
							(i)establish and
			 maintain a food safety system that is adequate to ensure that the food products
			 intended for export to the United States are safe for human consumption, and
			 not adulterated or misbranded under the Federal
			 Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 301 et seq.); and
							(ii)promptly notify
			 the Secretary of any violations affecting the safety of food products exported
			 or intended for export to the United States;
							(B)provide for such
			 activities (whether in the exporting nation or at the port of entry during
			 importation) by the Secretary, including examinations, inspections, sampling,
			 and testing, at such stages in the growth or harvest of food, or in the
			 processing or handling of food products, as the Secretary considers appropriate
			 to ensure that the food safety program of the exporting nation continues to
			 provide at least the same level of protection, with respect to food products
			 intended for export to the United States, as domestic laws that affect the
			 safety of the food supply; and
						(C)provide for
			 reciprocity with respect to the treatment of food imports and exports between
			 the United States and the exporting nation.
						(3)If the Secretary
			 determines that a nation desiring to export food products to the United States
			 has a program that provides at least the same level of protection, with respect
			 to food products intended for export to the United States, as domestic laws
			 that affect the safety of the food supply, the Secretary shall, upon entry into
			 force of an agreement under subsection (e)(1), certify the types of food
			 products for which the nation maintains such a program.
					(4)(A)The Secretary shall
			 periodically or for good cause, and not less than once every 3 years, review
			 certifications made under paragraph (3), and shall revoke the certification of
			 any nation that the Secretary determines is not maintaining a food safety
			 program that provides at least the same level of protection, with respect to
			 food products intended for export to the United States, as domestic laws that
			 affect the safety of the food supply.
						(B)The Secretary shall review and modify,
			 as needed, an agreement made under paragraph (1) with any nation whose
			 certification has been revoked under subparagraph (A) of this paragraph.
						IIResearch and
			 education
			201.Public health
			 assessment system
				(a)Cooperation with
			 the Centers for Disease Control and PreventionThe Secretary
			 shall work, through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, to include
			 food in an active surveillance system, based on a representative proportion of
			 the population of the United States, and to assess more accurately the
			 frequency and sources of human illness in the United States associated with the
			 consumption of food.
				(b)Public health
			 sampling
					(1)Within 12 months
			 after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary in cooperation with the
			 Secretary of Agriculture shall establish guidelines for a sampling system under
			 which the Secretary and the Secretary of Agriculture shall take and analyze
			 samples of food products to assist the Secretary in carrying out this Act and
			 the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic
			 Act (21 U.S.C. 301 et seq.), and to more accurately assess the
			 nature, frequency of occurrence, and amounts of contaminants in food
			 products.
					(2)Such sampling
			 system shall provide—
						(A)statistically
			 valid monitoring, including market-basket studies, on the nature, frequency of
			 occurrence, and amounts of contaminants in food products available to
			 consumers; and
						(B)at the request of
			 the Secretary, such other information, including analysis of monitoring and
			 verification samples, as the Secretary determines may be useful in assessing
			 the occurrence of contaminants in food products.
						(c)Assessment of
			 health hazardsThrough the surveillance system referred to in
			 subsection (a) and the sampling system described in subsection (b), the
			 Secretary shall rank food categories based on their hazard to human health and
			 identify appropriate industry and regulatory approaches to minimize hazards in
			 the food supply. Such analysis could include—
					(1)the safety of
			 commercial harvesting and processing, as compared with the health hazards
			 associated with food products that are harvested for recreational or
			 subsistence purposes and prepared noncommercially;
					(2)the safety of food
			 products that are domestically harvested and processed, as compared with the
			 health hazards associated with food products that are harvested or processed
			 outside the United States; and
					(3)contamination
			 originating from handling practices that occur prior to or after sale of food
			 products to consumers.
					202.Public
			 education and advisory system
				(a)Public
			 educationThe Secretary, in cooperation with private and public
			 organizations, including the cooperative extension services and appropriate
			 State entities, shall design and implement a national public education program
			 on food safety. The program shall provide—
					(1)information to the
			 public regarding Federal standards and good practice requirements and promotion
			 of public awareness understanding and acceptance of such standards and
			 requirements;
					(2)information to
			 health professionals so that they may improve diagnosis and treatment of
			 food-related illness and advise individuals whose health conditions place them
			 in particular risk; and
					(3)such other
			 information or advice to consumers and other persons as the Secretary
			 determines will promote the purposes of this Act.
					(b)Health
			 advisoriesThe Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of
			 Agriculture and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, shall
			 work with the States and other appropriate entities to—
					(1)develop and
			 distribute regional and national advisories concerning food safety;
					(2)develop
			 standardized formats for written and broadcast advisories; and
					(3)incorporate State
			 and local advisories into the national public education program required under
			 subsection (a).
					203.Research
				(a)In
			 generalThe Secretary shall conduct research to assist in the
			 implementation of this Act, including studies to—
					(1)improve sanitation
			 and food safety practices in the processing of food products;
					(2)develop improved
			 techniques for the monitoring of food and inspection of food products;
					(3)develop efficient,
			 rapid, and sensitive methods for determining and detecting the presence of
			 contaminants in food products;
					(4)determine the
			 sources of contamination of food and food products with contaminants;
			 and
					(5)develop
			 consumption data with respect to food products.
					(b)Contract
			 authorityThe Secretary is authorized to enter into contracts and
			 agreements with any State, university, other government agencies or other
			 persons to carry out the activities under this section.
				IIIEnforcement
			301.Amendments to
			 the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
				(a)In
			 generalThe Federal Food, Drug,
			 and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 301 et seq.) is amended by adding after
			 section 416 the following new sections:

						417.Notification
				and recall
							(a)Notice to
				Secretary of adulteration or misbrandingAny person (other than a
				household consumer or other individual who is the intended consumer of an
				article of food) that has a reasonable basis for believing that any article of
				food introduced into or in interstate commerce, or held for sale (whether or
				not the first sale) after shipment in interstate commerce, may be adulterated
				or misbranded or otherwise in violation of the
				Consumer Food Safety Act of
				2007 shall immediately notify the Secretary, in such manner and
				by such means as the Secretary may by regulation prescribe, of the identity and
				location of such article.
							(b)Recall and
				consumer notification
								(1)Voluntary
				proceduresIf the Secretary finds, upon notification under
				subsection (a) or otherwise, that any article of food is adulterated or
				misbranded when introduced into or while in interstate commerce or while held
				for sale (whether or not the first sale) after shipment in interstate commerce
				and there is a reasonable probability that such article, if consumed, would
				present a threat to public health, as determined by the Secretary, the
				Secretary shall provide the appropriate persons (including the manufacturers,
				importers, distributors, or retailers) with an opportunity to—
									(A)cease distribution
				of such article;
									(B)notify all
				persons—
										(i)producing,
				manufacturing, packing, processing, preparing, treating, packaging,
				distributing, or holding such article; or
										(ii)to which such
				article has been distributed, transported, or sold, to immediately cease
				distribution of such article;
										(C)recall such
				article;
									(D)provide, in
				consultation with the Secretary, notice to consumers to whom such article was,
				or may have been, distributed; or
									(E)take any
				combination of the above measures, as appropriate in the circumstances.
									(2)Pre-hearing
				order to cease distribution and give noticeIf such person
				refuses to or does not voluntarily cease distribution, make notification,
				recall such article, or provide notice to consumers, as applicable, within the
				time and in the manner prescribed by the Secretary, the Secretary shall, by
				order, require, as the Secretary deems necessary, such person to—
									(A)immediately cease
				distribution of such article;
									(B)immediately notify
				all persons—
										(i)producing,
				manufacturing, packing, processing, preparing, treating, packaging,
				distributing, or holding such article; or
										(ii)to which such
				article has been distributed, transported, or sold, to immediately cease
				distribution of such article; or
										(C)immediately take
				the actions specified in both subparagraphs (A) and (B).
									(3)Notification of
				consumers by SecretaryThe Secretary shall, as the Secretary
				deems necessary, provide notice to consumers to whom such article was, or may
				have been, distributed.
								(c)Hearing on
				orderThe Secretary shall provide any person subject to an order
				under subsection (b) with an opportunity for a hearing, to be held as soon as
				possible but not later than 2 days after the issuance of the order, on the
				actions required by the order and on why the article that is the subject of the
				order should not be recalled.
							(d)Post-hearing
				recall order
								(1)Amendment of
				orderIf, after providing opportunity for a hearing under
				subsection (c), the Secretary determines that there is a reasonable probability
				that the article that is the subject of an order under subsection (b), if
				consumed, presents a threat to public health, the Secretary, as the Secretary
				deems necessary, may—
									(A)amend the order to
				require recall of such article or other appropriate action;
									(B)specify a timetable
				in which the recall shall occur;
									(C)require periodic
				reports to the Secretary describing the progress of the recall; and
									(D)provide notice to
				consumers to whom such article was, or may have been, distributed.
									(2)Vacation of
				orderIf, after such a hearing, the Secretary determines that
				adequate grounds do not exist to continue the actions required by the order,
				the Secretary shall vacate the order.
								(e)Remedies not
				exclusiveThe remedies provided in this section shall be in
				addition to and not exclusive of other remedies that may be available.
							418.Civil
				penalties
							(a)In
				general
								(1)Acts subject to
				penalty; penalty amountAny person that commits an act that
				violates this Act with respect to food or the Consumer Food Safety Act of 2007 may be
				assessed a civil penalty by the Secretary of not more than $100,000 for each
				such act. Each such act and each day during which such act continues shall be a
				separate offense.
								(2)Notice and
				hearingNo penalty shall be assessed by the Secretary under this
				section unless such person is given notice and opportunity for a hearing on the
				record before the Secretary in accordance with sections 554 and 556 of title 5,
				United States Code.
								(3)Other
				requirementsThe amount of such civil penalty shall be assessed
				by the Secretary by written order, taking into account the gravity of the
				violation, degree of culpability, size and type of business, and any history of
				prior offenses; and may be reviewed only as provided in subsection (b).
								(b)Judicial
				reviewAn order assessing a civil penalty under subsection (a)
				shall be final and conclusive unless the person files, within 30 days from the
				effective date of the order, an application for judicial review in the Court of
				Appeals of the United States for the circuit in which such person resides or
				has its principal place of business or in the United States Court of Appeals
				for the District of Columbia Circuit by filing a notice of appeal in such court
				and by simultaneously sending a copy of such notice by certified mail to the
				Secretary. The Secretary shall promptly file in such court a certified copy of
				the record upon which such penalty was assessed. The findings of the Secretary
				shall be set aside only if found to be unsupported by substantial evidence on
				the record as a whole.
							(c)Collection
				actionsIf any person fails to pay an assessment of a civil
				penalty after it has become a final and unappealable order, or after the
				appropriate court of appeals has entered final judgment in favor of the
				Secretary, the Secretary shall refer the matter to the Attorney General, who
				shall institute a civil action to recover the amount assessed in an appropriate
				district court of the United States. In such collection action, the validity
				and appropriateness of the Secretary’s order imposing the civil penalty shall
				not be subject to review.
							(d)Penalties paid
				into treasuryAll penalties collected under authority of this
				section shall be paid into the Treasury of the United States.
							(e)Secretary’s
				discretion to prosecuteNothing in this Act shall be construed as
				requiring the Secretary to report for prosecution, or for the institution of
				libel or injunction proceedings, violations of this Act whenever the Secretary
				believes that the public interest will be adequately served by assessment of
				civil penalties.
							(f)Remedies not
				exclusiveThe remedies provided in this section shall be in
				addition to and not exclusive of other remedies that may be available.
							419.Whistleblower
				protection
							(a)In
				generalNo employee or other person may be harassed, prosecuted,
				held liable, or discriminated against in any way because that person—
								(1)has commenced,
				caused to be commenced, or is about to commence a proceeding, testified or is
				about to testify at a proceeding, or assisted or participated or is about to
				assist or participate in any manner in such a proceeding or in any other action
				to carry out the purposes, functions, or responsibilities of the
				Consumer Food Safety Act of
				2007, the Federal Food, Drug, and
				Cosmetic Act, the Meat Inspection Act, or the Poultry Products
				Inspection Act; or
								(2)is refusing to
				violate or assist in violation of law, rule, or regulation.
								(b)ProceduresThe
				process and procedures with respect to prohibited discrimination under
				subsection (a) shall be governed by the applicable provisions of section 31105
				of title 49, United States Code, unless the party bringing an action under this
				subsection chooses alternative dispute resolution procedures such as mediation
				or arbitration.
							(c)Burdens of
				proofThe legal burdens of proof with respect to prohibited
				discrimination under subsection (a) shall be governed by the applicable
				provisions of sections 1214 and 1221 of title 5, United States Code.
							420.Administration
				and enforcement; applicability of penalty provisions; conduct of inquiries;
				power and jurisdiction of courtsFor the efficient administration and
				enforcement of this chapter, the provisions (including penalties) of sections
				6, 8, 9, and 10 of the Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 46, 48, 49, and
				50) (except subsections (c) through (h) of section 6 of such Act), are made
				applicable to the jurisdiction, powers, and duties of the Secretary in
				administrating and enforcing the provisions of this chapter and to any person
				with respect to whom such authority is exercised. The Secretary, in person or
				by such agents as he may designate, may prosecute any inquiry necessary to his
				duties under this chapter in any part of the United States, and the powers
				conferred by said sections 9 and 10 if the Federal Trade Commission Act (15
				U.S.C. 49, 50) on the district courts of the United States may be exercised for
				the purposes of this chapter by any appropriate court.
						421.TracebackThe Secretary may impose on a food product
				requirements for the traceability of such type or class of food product
				whenever such requirements are necessary to assure the protection of the public
				health. Traceability requirements shall be established in accordance with
				regulations and guidelines issued by the Secretary.
						422.Citizen’s civil
				actionsAny person may
				commence a civil action against—
							(1)any person who
				violated any rule, tolerance, order, or other action of the Secretary to ensure
				the safety of food products; or
							(2)the Secretary
				where there is alleged a failure of the Secretary to perform any act or duty to
				ensure the safety of food products, which is not discretionary.
							The district
				courts shall have jurisdiction, without regard for the amount in controversy,
				or the citizenship of the parties, to enforce such rule, tolerance, order, or
				other action of the Secretary, or to order the Secretary to perform such act or
				duty. The suit shall be commenced in the district in which the defendant
				resides or is found or has an agent. The court may award damages sustained and
				if the court determines it to be in the interest of justice, may award the
				plaintiff the costs of suit, including reasonable attorney’s fees, reasonable
				expert witness fees, and penalties. The remedies provided for in this section
				shall be in addition to and not in lieu of any other remedies provided by
				common law or under Federal or State
				law..
				(b)Conforming
			 amendment; prohibited ActSection 301 of the
			 Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
			 (21 U.S.C. 331) is amended by adding at the end the following:

						(jj)The failure or refusal to comply
				with an order issued under section 417(b)(2) or 417(d).
						(kk)The failure to comply with the
				Consumer Food Safety Act of
				2007.
						.
				IVAuthorization of
			 Appropriations
			401.Authorization
			 of appropriations
				(a)In
			 generalThere are authorized to be appropriated, to carry out
			 this Act, such sums as may be necessary for fiscal years 2008 through
			 2012.
				(b)Assistance to
			 StatesOf the funds authorized to be appropriated under
			 subsection (a), there are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be
			 necessary for fiscal years 2008 through 2012, for carrying out State program
			 assistance activities under section 105.
				(c)Research program
			 authorizationOf the funds authorized to be appropriated under
			 subsection (a), there are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be
			 necessary for fiscal years 2008 through 2012, for carrying out the research
			 program authorized by section 203.


115 SRES 478 ATS: Designating the week of April 21, 2018, through April 29, 2018, as “National Park Week”.
U.S. Senate
2018-04-19
text/xml
EN
Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain.

III115th CONGRESS2d SessionS. RES. 478IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATESApril 19, 2018Mr. Daines (for himself, Mr. King, Ms. Hirono, Mr. Cotton, Mr. Whitehouse, Ms. Collins, Mr. Warner, Mr. Alexander, Mr. Brown, Mr. Wicker, Ms. Heitkamp, Mr. Cassidy, Mrs. Feinstein, Mr. Rubio, Mr. Reed, Mr. Gardner, Ms. Klobuchar, Mr. Barrasso, Ms. Stabenow, Mr. Boozman, Mr. Wyden, Mr. Portman, Mr. Manchin, Mr. Tillis, Mr. Sanders, Mrs. Capito, Mr. Blumenthal, Mr. Enzi,  and Mr. Hoeven) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed toRESOLUTIONDesignating the week of April 21, 2018, through April 29, 2018, as National Park Week.

 Whereas, on March 1, 1872, Congress established Yellowstone National Park as the first national park for the enjoyment of the people of the United States;
 Whereas, on August 25, 1916, Congress established the National Park Service with the mission to preserve unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of current and future generations;
 Whereas the National Park Service continues to protect and manage the majestic landscapes, hallowed battlefields, and iconic cultural and historical sites of the United States;
 Whereas the units of the National Park System can be found in every State and many territories of the United States and many of the units embody the rich natural and cultural heritage of the United States, reflect a unique national story through people and places, and offer countless opportunities for recreation, volunteerism, cultural exchange, education, civic engagement, and exploration;
 Whereas the national parks of the United States attracted record-breaking visitation during the National Park Service Centennial, with over 330,000,000 recreational visits to these incredible places both in 2016 and 2017;
 Whereas visits and visitors to our national parks are important economic drivers for the economy responsible for $18,400,000,000 in spending in 2016;
 Whereas the dedicated employees of the National Park Service carry out their mission to protect the national parks of the United States so that the vibrant culture, diverse wildlife, and priceless resources of the parks will endure for perpetuity; and
 Whereas the people of the United States have inherited the remarkable legacy of the National Park System and are entrusted with the preservation of the National Park System throughout its second century: Now, therefore, be it

 That Congress— (1)designates the week of April 21, 2018, through April 29, 2018, as National Park Week; and
 (2)encourages the people of the United States and the world to visit and experience the treasured national parks of the United States.


		II
		112th CONGRESS
		2d Session
		S. 2408
		IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES

			April 26, 2012
			Mr. Schumer introduced
			 the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the
			 Committee on
			 Finance

		A BILL
		To suspend temporarily the duty on lenses for digital
		  cameras with a focal length 55 mm or more but not over 300 mm.

		1.Lenses for digital cameras
			 with a focal length 55 mm or more but not over 300 mm
			(a)In
			 generalSubchapter II of chapter 99 of the Harmonized Tariff
			 Schedule of the United States is amended by inserting in numerical sequence the
			 following new heading:

								9902.01.00Lenses for digital cameras with a focal length 55 mm or more
						but not over 300 mm inclusive, not exceeding 590 grams in weight (provided for
						in subheading 9002.11.90) FreeNo changeNo changeOn or before 12/31/2015

					.
			(b)Effective
			 dateThe amendment made by subsection (a) applies to goods
			 entered, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after the 15th day
			 after the date of the enactment of this Act.


117 SRES 231 ATS: Expressing support for the designation of May 17, 2021, as “DIPG Pediatric Brain Cancer Awareness Day” to raise awareness of and encourage research on diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma tumors and pediatric cancers in general.
U.S. Senate

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EN
Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain.

III117th CONGRESS1st SessionS. RES. 231IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATESMay 24, 2021Mr. Rubio (for himself, Mr. Reed, Mrs. Hyde-Smith, Mr. Casey, Mr. Braun, Mrs. Feinstein, Mr. Marshall, and Mrs. Fischer) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed toRESOLUTIONExpressing support for the designation of May 17, 2021, as DIPG Pediatric Brain Cancer Awareness Day to raise awareness of and encourage research on diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma tumors and pediatric cancers in general.Whereas diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (referred to in this preamble as DIPG) tumors regularly affect 130 to 300 children in the United States each year;Whereas brain tumors are the leading cause of cancer-related death among children;Whereas DIPG tumors are the leading cause of pediatric brain cancer deaths;Whereas, with respect to a child who is diagnosed with a DIPG tumor and receives treatment for a DIPG tumor, the median amount of time that the child survives after diagnosis is only 9 months;Whereas, with respect to an individual who is diagnosed with a DIPG tumor, the rate of survival 5 years after diagnosis is approximately 2 percent;Whereas the average age at which a child is diagnosed with a DIPG tumor is between 5 and 10 years, resulting in a life expectancy approximately 70 years shorter than the average life expectancy in the United States; andWhereas the prognosis for children diagnosed with DIPG tumors has not improved over the past 50 years: Now, therefore, be itThat the Senate—(1)supports—(A)designating May 17, 2021, as DIPG Pediatric Brain Cancer Awareness Day; and(B)efforts to—(i)better understand diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma tumors;(ii)develop effective treatments for diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma tumors; and(iii)provide comprehensive care for children with diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma tumors and their families; and(2)encourages all individuals in the United States to become more informed about—(A)diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma tumors;(B)pediatric brain cancer in general; and(C)challenges relating to research on pediatric cancers and ways to advance such research.


113 HR 3578 : To establish requirements for the adoption of any new or revised requirement providing for the screening, testing, or treatment of an airman or an air traffic controller for a sleep disorder, and for other purposes.
U.S. House of Representatives

text/xml
EN
Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain.

		II
		113th CONGRESS2d Session
		H. R. 3578
		IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES
		February 12, 2014ReceivedAN ACT
		To establish requirements for the adoption of any new or revised requirement providing for the
			 screening, testing, or treatment of an airman or an air traffic controller
			 for a sleep disorder, and for other purposes.

		1.Medical certification requirements for airmen and air traffic controllers relating to sleep
			 disorders
			(a)In generalThe Secretary of Transportation may, consistent with accepted medical standards and practices,
			 implement or enforce a requirement providing for the screening, testing,
			 or treatment (including consideration of all possible treatment
			 alternatives) of an airman or an air traffic controller for a sleep
			 disorder—
				(1)in the case of an airman, only if the requirement is adopted pursuant to a rulemaking proceeding;
			 and
				(2)in the case of an air traffic controller, only if the Federal Aviation Administration meets its
			 obligations pursuant to chapter 71 of title 5, United States Code.
				(b)ApplicabilitySubsection (a) shall not apply to a requirement that was in force before November 1, 2013.
			(c)DefinitionsIn this section, the following definitions apply:
				(1)AirmanThe term airman has the meaning given that term in section 40102(a) of title 49, United States Code.
				(2)Air traffic controllerThe term air traffic controller means a civilian employee of the Department of Transportation described in section 2109 of title 5, United States Code.
				(3)Sleep disorderThe term sleep disorder includes obstructive sleep apnea.

	Passed the House of Representatives February 11, 2014.Karen L. Haas,Clerk.


IV
111th CONGRESS
2d Session
H. RES. 1323
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

May 4, 2010
Mr. McCotter (for himself, Mr. Lipinski, Ms. Ros-Lehtinen, Mr. Smith of New Jersey, Mr. Pascrell, Mrs. Bachmann, Mr. Tonko, Mr. Franks of Arizona, Mr. Dingell, Ms. Kaptur, and Mr. Wolf) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs

RESOLUTION
Commemorating the 70th anniversary of the Katyn massacre.

Whereas following the August 24, 1939, signing of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact between Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union, a secret agreement to divide Poland between the two countries, Germany and the Soviet Union invaded the Republic of Poland;
Whereas more than 200,000 members of the Polish military became prisoners of war at the hands of their Soviet aggressors;
Whereas, on March 5, 1940, the Soviet secret police, the People’s Commissariat for Internal Affairs (NKVD) was directed by Joseph Stalin and other members of the Politburo to carry out a systematic murder of approximately 22,000 Polish military officers, doctors, lawmakers, professors, police officers, and other intelligentsia;
Whereas between April and May 1940, Polish prisoners of war were transported from internment camps in the Soviet Union to three execution sites in and around the Katyn Forest;
Whereas, on April 11, 1943, radio stations in Nazi Germany announced the discovery of mass graves of over 4,000 Polish officers in the Katyn Forest who were murdered by a bullet shot in the back of the head;
Whereas upon learning of this massacre, the Polish government in exile requested the International Red Cross be allowed to investigate this discovery;
Whereas the Soviet Union refused to allow such an investigation and subsequently broke off diplomatic relations with the Polish government in exile;
Whereas the Soviet Union repeatedly and deliberately used film footage and other propaganda methods to suppress the truth and accused the Nazis of the massacre;
Whereas, on September 18, 1951, the House of Representatives established the Select Committee to Conduct an Investigation and Study of the Facts, Evidence, and Circumstances of the Katyn Forest Massacre;
Whereas, on July 2, 1952, the Committee recommended the Soviets be tried before the International World Court of Justice for committing a crime at Katyn which was in violation of the general principles of law recognized by civilized nations;
Whereas, on December 22, 1952, the Committee unanimously concluded in its final report that the Soviet NKVD committed the mass murders of the Polish officers and intellectual leaders in the Katyn Forest stating, there has not been a scintilla of proof or even any remote circumstantial evidence presented that could indict any other nation in this international crime;
Whereas the Soviet Union did not admit responsibility for this atrocity until President Mikhail Gorbachev’s statement on April 13, 1990;
Whereas since the collapse of the Soviet Union, the government of the Russian Federation has refused to declassify and disclose all of its official records pertaining to the massacre;
Whereas, on November 30, 2004, the Polish Institute of National Remembrance—Departmental Commission for the Prosecution of Crimes against the Polish Nation initiated its own investigation into the Katyn massacre;
Whereas the year 2010 marks the 70th anniversary of the Katyn massacre;
Whereas, on April 7, 2010, Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin became the first Russian or Soviet leader to join Polish officials in commemorating the anniversary of the murders; and
Whereas despite the suppression of Polish freedoms by the Soviet Union during the Cold War, the United States and the Republic of Poland have preserved a strong and important friendship based on shared history and sacrifice: Now, therefore, be it

That the House of Representatives—
(1)honors the lives and legacies of the approximately 22,000 Polish prisoners of war and intelligentsia who were massacred by the Soviet People’s Commissariat for Internal Affairs (NKVD) in and around the Katyn Forest 70 years ago;
(2)expresses its deepest sympathies to the families of the Katyn victims for their profound loss;
(3)expresses continued solidarity and unwavering support for the Polish people as they continue to investigate crimes committed against them;
(4)urges the Government of the Russian Federation to fully declassify and disclose all official records pertaining to the Katyn massacre; and
(5)urges the Government of the Russian Federation to fully cooperate with any pending investigation or inquiry pertaining to the massacre of Polish prisoners by the Soviet authorities.


		II
		111th CONGRESS
		1st Session
		S. 1971
		IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED
		  STATES

			October 28, 2009
			Mr. Crapo introduced the
			 following bill; which was read twice and referred to the
			 Committee on
			 Finance

		A BILL
		To extend the temporary suspension of duty
		  on Mesosulfuronmethyl.

		1.Mesosulfuronmethyl
			(a)In generalHeading 9902.11.48 of the Harmonized Tariff
			 Schedule of the United States (relating to Mesosulfuronmethyl) is amended by
			 striking 12/31/2009 and inserting
			 12/31/2011.
			(b)Effective
			 dateThe amendment made by
			 subsection (a) applies with respect to goods entered, or withdrawn from
			 warehouse for consumption, on or after the 15th day after the date of the
			 enactment of this Act.


		III
		112th CONGRESS
		1st Session
		S. RES. 91
		IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES

			March 3, 2011
			Mr. Casey (for himself,
			 Ms. Snowe, and Mrs. Hagan) submitted the following resolution;
			 which was considered and agreed to

		RESOLUTION
		Supporting the goals and ideals of Multiple
		  Sclerosis Awareness Week.

		Whereas multiple sclerosis can impact men and women of all
			 ages, races, and ethnicities;
		Whereas more than 400,000 Americans live with multiple
			 sclerosis;
		Whereas approximately 2,100,000 people worldwide have been
			 diagnosed with multiple sclerosis;
		Whereas every hour of every day, someone is newly
			 diagnosed with multiple sclerosis;
		Whereas an estimated 8,000 to 10,000 children and
			 adolescents are living with multiple sclerosis;
		Whereas the exact cause of multiple sclerosis is still
			 unknown;
		Whereas the symptoms of multiple sclerosis are
			 unpredictable and vary from person to person;
		Whereas there is no laboratory test available that
			 definitively diagnoses a case of multiple sclerosis;
		Whereas multiple sclerosis is not genetic, contagious, or
			 directly inherited, but studies show that there are genetic factors that
			 indicate that certain individuals may be susceptible to the disease;
		Whereas multiple sclerosis symptoms occur when an immune
			 system attack affects the myelin in nerve fibers of the central nervous system,
			 damaging or destroying the myelin and replacing the myelin with scar tissue,
			 thereby interfering with or preventing the transmission of nerve
			 signals;
		Whereas in rare cases, multiple sclerosis is so
			 progressive that the disease is fatal;
		Whereas there is no known cure for multiple
			 sclerosis;
		Whereas the Multiple Sclerosis Coalition, an affiliation
			 of multiple sclerosis organizations dedicated to the enhancement of the quality
			 of life for all those affected by multiple sclerosis, recognizes and celebrates
			 Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week;
		Whereas the mission of the Multiple Sclerosis Coalition is
			 to increase opportunities for cooperation and provide greater opportunity to
			 leverage the effective use of resources for the benefit of the multiple
			 sclerosis community;
		Whereas the Multiple Sclerosis Coalition recognizes and
			 celebrates Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week for 1 week in March of each
			 year;
		Whereas the goals of Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week
			 are—
			(1)to invite people
			 to join the movement to end multiple sclerosis;
			(2)to encourage each
			 individual in the United States to do something that demonstrates a commitment
			 to moving toward a world free of multiple sclerosis; and
			(3)to acknowledge
			 those individuals who have dedicated their time and talent to helping to
			 promote multiple sclerosis research and programs; and
			Whereas in 2011, the week of March 14, 2011, through March
			 20, 2011, has been designated as Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week: Now,
			 therefore, be it

		That the Senate—
			(1)supports the
			 goals and ideals of Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week;
			(2)encourages the
			 States, territories, possessions, and localities of the United States to
			 support the goals and ideals of Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week by issuing
			 proclamations designating Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week;
			(3)encourages media
			 organizations to participate in Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week by helping to
			 educate the public about multiple sclerosis;
			(4)commends the
			 efforts of the States, territories, possessions, and localities of the United
			 States that support the goals and ideals of Multiple Sclerosis Awareness
			 Week;
			(5)recognizes and
			 reaffirms the commitment of the United States to creating a world free of
			 multiple sclerosis by—
				(A)promoting
			 awareness about people who are living with multiple sclerosis; and
				(B)promoting new
			 education programs, supporting research, and expanding access to medical
			 treatment;
				(6)recognizes all
			 people in the United States living with multiple sclerosis and expresses
			 gratitude to their family members and friends who are a source of love and
			 encouragement to those individuals; and
			(7)salutes the
			 health care professionals and medical researchers who—
				(A)provide
			 assistance to those individuals in the United States living with multiple
			 sclerosis; and
				(B)continue to work
			 to find ways to stop the progression of the disease, restore nerve function,
			 and end multiple sclerosis forever.


116 S4849 IS: Ambassador Oversight and Transparency Act
U.S. Senate
2020-10-22
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EN
Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain.

II116th CONGRESS2d SessionS. 4849IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATESOctober 22 (legislative day, October 19), 2020Mr. Kaine introduced the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on Foreign RelationsA BILLTo require additional disclosures with respect to nominees to serve as chiefs of missions, and for other purposes.1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the Ambassador Oversight and Transparency Act.2.Additional disclosures required with respect to nomineesSection 304 of the Foreign Service Act of 1980 (22 U.S.C. 3944) is amended—(1)in subsection (a)(4), by adding at the end the following: Each such report shall explain the source of, and the extent to which such nominee obtained knowledge of, the principal language or dialect of the country, region, or institution in which the nominee has been nominated to serve as chief of mission and the manner and extent to which such nominee meets the criteria described in paragraph (1), particularly with respect to the source and extent of such individual’s knowledge and understanding of the history, culture, economics, politics, and interests of the people of such country, region, or institution.; and(2)in subsection (b)—(A)in paragraph (2)—(i)by striking Each and inserting the following: “(A) In this paragraph—(i)the term bundled contribution has the meaning given such term in section 304(i)(8)(A) of the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 (52 U.S.C. 30104(i)(8)(A)).(ii)the term contribution has the meaning given such term in section 301(8) of the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 (52 U.S.C. 30101(8)); and (iii)the term immediate family means—(I)the spouse of the nominee;(II)any child, parent, grandparent, brother, or sister of the nominee; and (III)the spouse of any of the individuals described in subclause (II).(B)Each;(ii)in subparagraph (B), as redesignated, by striking fourth calendar year and inserting tenth calendar year;(iii)by striking The report and inserting the following:(C)The report shall include the disclosure of all bundled contributions facilitated by the nominee during the period described in subparagraph (B), in accordance with section 304(i)(8) of the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 (52 U.S.C. 30104(i)(8)), and;(iv)by striking The chairman and inserting the following:(D)The chairman ;(v)in subparagraph (D), as redesignated, by adding at the end the following: The Secretary of State shall publish each such report and each Certificate of Competency issued pursuant to subsection (a)(4)(A) on a publicly available website of the Department of State.; and(vi)by striking As used in this paragraph and all that follows; and(B)by adding at the end the following:(3)The President shall certify to the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate that any contributions made by each individual nominated to be a chief of mission or members of the nominee’s immediate family, whether or not included in the report described in paragraph (2), played no role in such nomination..3.Additional inspections required for certain diplomatic and consular posts(a)Noncareer member of the Foreign Service definedIn this section, the term noncareer member of the Foreign Service means a person who, on the date on which such person is nominated to serve as a chief of mission for a diplomatic or consular post, had not served as a career member of the Foreign Service (as described in section 301(d) of the Foreign Service Act of 1980 (22 U.S.C. 3941(d)).(b)Inspections requiredThe Inspector General of the Department of State and the Foreign Service shall annually conduct the inspections described in section 209(b) of the Foreign Service Act of 1980 (22 U.S.C. 3929(b)) with respect to not fewer than 25 percent of the diplomatic or consular posts at which the chief of mission was a noncareer member of the Foreign Service as of July 1 of the most recently concluded fiscal year. The Inspector General may not inspect the same diplomatic or consular post in consecutive fiscal years unless the Secretary of State authorizes such consecutive inspections, on a case-by-case basis.(c)Public availabilityThe findings from each inspection required under subsection (b) shall be made publicly available on an internet website of the Department of State.


116 HR 4036 IH: Volunteer Emergency Services Recruitment and Retention Act of 2019
U.S. House of Representatives
2019-07-25
text/xml
EN
Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain.

I116th CONGRESS1st SessionH. R. 4036IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVESJuly 25, 2019Mr. King of New York (for himself and Mr. Pascrell) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the  Committee on Education and Labor, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such
			 provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concernedA BILLTo amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide a better defined recruitment and retention
			 incentive program for volunteer emergency service workers.

 1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the Volunteer Emergency Services Recruitment and Retention Act of 2019. 2.Elective treatment of length of service award plans as eligible deferred compensation plans (a)In generalSection 457(e) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:

					(19)Additional special rules applicable to length of service award plans
 (A)In generalThe term eligible deferred compensation plan includes, at the election of its sponsor, any length of service award plan described in paragraph (11)(A)(ii) which meets the requirements of paragraph (11)(B). Any such election, once made, shall be irrevocable.
 (B)Special rulesIn the case of a length of service award plan whose sponsor has elected to have such plan treated as an eligible deferred compensation plan—
 (i)In generalSuch sponsor shall be treated as an eligible employer described in subsection (e)(1)(A), and, except as provided in clauses (ii) and (iii), such plan shall be administered in a manner consistent with the requirements of this section.
 (ii)Maximum deferral amountSubsection (b)(2) shall be applied by substituting the limitation on accruals in effect under paragraph (11)(B) for the lesser of— and all that follows through compensation, in subparagraph (B) thereof. (iii)Distribution requirementsSubsection (d)(1)(A) shall be applied by deeming a severance from employment to have occurred for purposes of clause (ii) thereof on the payment date under the terms of the plan..
 (b)Exemption from Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974For purposes of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, a length of service award plan described in section 457(e)(11)(A)(ii) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 whose sponsor has elected under section 457(e)(19) of such Code to have such plan treated as an eligible deferred compensation plan shall not be treated as an employee pension benefit plan or a pension plan under section 3(2) of such Act (29 U.S.C. 1002(2)).
 (c)Effective dateThe amendment made by this section shall apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2019.


117 HRES 5 EH:
U.S. House of Representatives
2021-01-03
text/xml
EN
Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain.

IV
117th CONGRESS
1st Session
H. RES. 5
In the House of Representatives, U. S.,

January 3, 2021

RESOLUTION

That the Clerk be instructed to inform the President of the United States that the House of Representatives has elected Nancy Pelosi, a Representative from the State of California as Speaker, and Cheryl L. Johnson, a citizen of the State of Louisiana as Clerk, of the House of Representatives of the One Hundred Seventeenth Congress.  Cheryl L. Johnson,Clerk.


116 S3122 IS: To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress an annual report on suicide among veterans, and for other purposes.
U.S. Senate
2019-12-19
text/xml
EN
Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain.

II116th CONGRESS1st SessionS. 3122IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATESDecember 19, 2019Ms. McSally introduced the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans' AffairsA BILLTo amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to
			 Congress an annual report on suicide among veterans, and for other
			 purposes.

 1.Annual report on suicide among veteransSection 1720F of title 38, United States Code, is amended— (1)by redesignating subsection (k) as subsection (l); and
 (2)by inserting after subsection (j) the following new subsection (k);  (k)Annual report on suicide among veterans(1)Not less frequently than annually, in carrying out the comprehensive program, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs of the Senate and the Committee on Veterans' Affairs of the House of Representatives a report on suicide among veterans.
 (2)Each report submitted under paragraph (1) shall, for the year covered by the report— (A)specify the number of veterans who committed suicide, disaggregated by age, sex, race, and ethnicity; and
 (B)include such other matters as the Secretary considers appropriate..


		II
		111th CONGRESS
		1st Session
		S. 1847
		IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES

			October 22, 2009
			Mr. Nelson of Nebraska
			 introduced the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the
			 Committee on
			 Finance

		A BILL
		To modify and extend the suspension of duty on
		  clodinafop-propargyl.

		1.Clodinafop-propargyl
			(a)In
			 generalHeading 9902.12.55 of
			 the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (relating to
			 clodinafop-propargyl) is amended—
				(1)by striking 1.7% and
			 inserting 3.9%; and
				(2)by striking the date in the effective
			 period column and inserting 12/31/2011.
				(b)Effective
			 dateThe amendments made by subsection (a) applies to goods
			 entered, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after the 15th day
			 after the date of the enactment of this Act.


114 HR 4049 IH: Volcker Rule Relief Act of 2105
U.S. House of Representatives
2015-11-17
text/xml
EN
Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain.

		I
		114th CONGRESS
		1st Session
		H. R. 4049
		IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

			November 17, 2015
			Mrs. Love (for herself, Mr. Neugebauer, and Mr. Huizenga of Michigan) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Financial Services

		A BILL
		To amend the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956 to exempt certain non-financial companies and smaller
			 banking entities from the application of the Volcker Rule.

 1.Short TitleThis Act may be cited as the Volcker Rule Relief Act of 2105.2.Treatment of certain non-financial companiesSection 13(h)(1) of the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956 (12 U.S.C. 1851(h)(1)) is amended— (1)in subparagraph (D), by redesignating clauses (i) and (ii) as subclauses (I) and (II), respectively, and moving such subclauses 2 ems to the right;
 (2)by redesignating subparagraphs (A), (B), (C), and (D) as clauses (i), (ii), (iii), and (iv), respectively, and moving such clauses 2 ems to the right;
 (3)by striking The term and inserting the following:  (A)In generalThe term; and
 (4)by adding at the end the following:  (B)Certain non-financial companiesNotwithstanding subparagraph (A), the term banking entity does not include any entity that—
						(i)
 (I)is not predominantly engaged in financial activities, as defined under section 102 of the Financial Stability Act of 2010 (12 U.S.C. 5311);
 (II)is not a bank holding company or a nonbank financial company supervised by the Board; and (III)is not a direct or indirect subsidiary of a bank holding company or a nonbank financial company supervised by the Board; or
 (ii)would be a banking entity solely due to its control of an entity described under clause (i). . 3.Exemption for smaller banking entitiesSection 13 of the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956 (12 U.S.C. 1851) is amended by adding at the end the following:

 (i)Exemption for smaller banking entitiesThis section shall not apply to a banking entity with total consolidated assets of $10,000,000,000 or less..


 S3105 ENR: To designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 456 North Meridian Street in Indianapolis, Indiana, as the “Richard G. Lugar Post Office”.
U.S. Senate

text/xml
EN
Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain.

One Hundred Sixteenth Congress of the United States of America2d SessionBegun and held at the City of Washington on Friday, the third day of January, two thousand and twentyS. 3105IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATESAN ACTTo designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 456 North Meridian Street
 in Indianapolis, Indiana, as the Richard G. Lugar Post Office.1.Richard G. Lugar Post Office(a)DesignationThe facility of the United States Postal Service located at 456 North Meridian Street in Indianapolis, Indiana, shall be known and designated as the Richard G. Lugar Post Office.(b)ReferencesAny reference in a law, map, regulation, document, paper, or other record of the United States to the facility referred to in subsection (a) shall be deemed to be a reference to the Richard G. Lugar Post Office.Speaker of the House of RepresentativesVice President of the United States and President of the Senate


		II
		112th CONGRESS
		2d Session
		S. 3131
		IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES

			May 10, 2012
			Mrs. Hagan introduced
			 the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the
			 Committee on
			 Finance

		A BILL
		To suspend temporarily the duty on
		  imdaziflam.

		1.Imdaziflam
			(a)In
			 generalSubchapter II of chapter 99 of the Harmonized Tariff
			 Schedule of the United States is amended by inserting in numerical sequence the
			 following new heading:

								9902.01.00N-[(1R,2S)-2,3-dihydro-2,6-dimethyl-1H-inden-1-yl]-6-(1-fluoroethyl)-1,3,5-triazine-2,4-diamine
						(imdaziflam) (CAS No. 950782–86–2) (provided for in subheading
						3808.93.15)FreeNo changeNo changeOn or before 12/31/2015

					.
			(b)Effective
			 dateThe amendment made by subsection (a) applies with respect to
			 goods entered, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after the
			 15th day after the date of the enactment of this Act.


117 SRES 265 ATS: Honoring the memory of the victims of the heinous attack at the Pulse nightclub on June 12, 2016.
U.S. Senate

text/xml
EN
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III117th CONGRESS1st SessionS. RES. 265IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATESJune 9, 2021Mr. Scott of Florida (for himself and Mr. Rubio) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed toRESOLUTIONHonoring the memory of the victims of the heinous attack at the Pulse nightclub on June 12, 2016. Whereas, on June 12, 2016, a gunman inspired by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria targeted the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida, where he killed 49 innocent victims and wounded dozens more in a despicable attack;Whereas the attack at the Pulse nightclub was an attack on the LGBTQ community, the Hispanic community, the City of Orlando, the State of Florida, and the United States;Whereas the Orlando community continues to mourn the tragic loss of life, but has demonstrated remarkable strength, unity, and resilience in the aftermath of the horrendous event;Whereas June 12 is designated as Pulse Remembrance Day in the State of Florida to honor the victims and survivors of the senseless attack;Whereas the people of the United States continue to pray for those affected by the tragedy; andWhereas June 12, 2021, marks 5 years since the lives of the 49 innocent victims were tragically cut short by the senseless act of terrorism: Now, therefore, be itThat the Senate—(1)commemorates the 49 victims killed in the attack at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida, on June 12, 2016, and offers heartfelt condolences to the families, loved ones, and friends of the victims;(2)honors the dozens of survivors of the attack and pledges continued resolve to stand against terrorism and hate; and(3)expresses gratitude to the brave law enforcement and emergency medical personnel who responded to the attack.


		I
		112th CONGRESS
		2d Session
		H. R. 5907
		IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

			June 7, 2012
			Mr. Costa introduced
			 the following bill; which was referred to the
			 Committee on Natural
			 Resources

		A BILL
		To modify the boundary of Yosemite National Park, and for
		  other purposes.

		1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the
			 Yosemite National Park Boundary
			 Expansion Act of 2012.
		2.PurposeThe purpose of this Act is to modify the
			 boundary of Yosemite National Park to protect from potential development the
			 scenic and biological value of property adjacent to the Park.
		3.DefinitionsIn this Act:
			(1)MapThe
			 term map means the map entitled Yosemite National Park
			 Location Map for Boundary Line Adjustment (BLA) Areas.
			(2)ParkThe
			 term Park means the Yosemite National Park in the State of
			 California.
			(3)SecretaryThe
			 term Secretary means the Secretary of the Interior.
			4.Yosemite national
			 park
			(a)Acquisition of
			 land
				(1)In
			 generalThe Secretary may acquire the land or an interest in the
			 land described in subsections (b) and (c) for addition to the Park.
				(2)MeansAn
			 acquisition of land under paragraph (1) may be made by donation, purchase from
			 a willing seller with donated or appropriated funds, or exchange.
				(b)Description of
			 landThe land referred to in subsection (a)(1) is the
			 approximately 1,575 acres of land adjacent to the Park, as generally depicted
			 on the map.
			(c)Availability of
			 mapThe map shall be on file and available for inspection in the
			 appropriate offices of the National Park Service.
			(d)Boundary
			 modificationThe boundary of the Park shall be revised to reflect
			 the acquisition of the land under subsection (a).
			(e)AdministrationThe
			 Secretary shall administer any land or interest in land acquired under
			 subsection (a)(1) as part of the Park in accordance with the laws (including
			 regulations) applicable to the Park.


115 HR 3094 IH: On-the-Job Training Act of 2017
U.S. House of Representatives
2017-06-28
text/xml
EN
Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain.

I115th CONGRESS1st SessionH. R. 3094IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVESJune 28, 2017Mr. Crowley introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Education and the WorkforceA BILLTo authorize a national grant program for on-the-job training.

 1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the On-the-Job Training Act of 2017. 2.On-the-job training (a)In generalSubtitle D of title I of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act is amended by inserting after section 172 the following new section:

					173.On-the-job  training
 (a)DefinitionIn this section, the term federally recognized tribal organization means an entity described in section 166(c)(1). (b)GrantsFrom the amount made available under subsection (i), and subject to subsection (e)—
 (1)the Secretary shall make grants on a discretionary basis to eligible entities described in subsection (c) for adult on-the-job training, or dislocated worker on-the-job training, carried out under section 134 and for State functions described in subsection (g); and
 (2)using an amount that is not more than 10 percent of the funds made available under subsection (i), the Secretary shall make grants to such eligible entities for developing on-the-job training programs, including providing capacity building activities for local staff who will be engaged in the development of the programs, in consultation with the Secretary.
 (c)Eligible entitiesThe following entities are eligible to receive a grant under this section: (1)States.
 (2)Units of local government and local boards. (3)Indian tribes.
 (4)Institutions of higher education. (5)Business trade associations.
 (6)Local educational agencies. (d)ApplicationTo be eligible to receive a grant under subsection (b), an eligible entity shall submit an application to the Secretary at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require. In preparing such an application for a grant under subsection (b)(1), a local board shall consult with the corresponding State.
 (e)Reimbursement of wage ratesNotwithstanding the limitation in section 101(31)(B), in making the grants described in subsection (b)(1) the Secretary may allow for higher levels of reimbursement of wage rates the Secretary determines are appropriate based on factors such as—
 (1)employer size, in order to facilitate the participation of small- and medium-sized employers; (2)target populations, in order to enhance job creation for persons with barriers to employment; and
 (3)the number of employees that will participate in the on-the-job training, the wage and benefit levels of the employees (before the training and anticipated on completion of the training), the relationship of the training to the competitiveness of the employer and employees, and the existence of other employer-provided training and advancement opportunities.
 (f)Administration by SecretaryThe Secretary may use an amount that is not more than 1 percent of the funds made available under subsection (i) for the administration, management, and oversight of the programs, activities, and grants, funded under subsection (b), including the evaluation of, and dissemination of information on lessons learned through, the use of such funds.
 (g)State oversight and monitoringA local board that receives a grant under subsection (b)(1) and is located in a State, shall provide not less than 5 percent of the grant funds to the State for State functions described in sections 136(f), 184, and 185.
 (h)Rule of constructionNothing in this section shall be construed to affect the manner in which subtitle B is implemented, for activities funded through amounts appropriated under section 137.
 (i)Authorization of appropriationsThere is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section such sums as may be necessary for fiscal year 2015 and each subsequent fiscal year..
 (b)Table of contentsThe table of contents in section 1(b) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 172 the following:

						Sec. 173. On-the-job training..


110 HCON 221 IH: Honoring all Americans serving in the Armed

U.S. House of Representatives
2007-10-01
text/xml
EN
Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain.

		IV
		110th CONGRESS
		1st Session
		H. CON. RES. 221
		IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

			October 1, 2007
			Mr. Udall of Colorado
			 (for himself, Ms. Hooley,
			 Ms. Jackson-Lee of Texas,
			 Ms. Schakowsky,
			 Mr. Lantos,
			 Mr. Grijalva,
			 Mrs. Maloney of New York,
			 Mr. Davis of Illinois,
			 Mrs. Christensen,
			 Mr. Kucinich,
			 Mr. Oberstar,
			 Mr. DeFazio,
			 Ms. Corrine Brown of Florida,
			 Ms. Kilpatrick,
			 Mr. Fattah,
			 Mr. Stark,
			 Mr. McGovern,
			 Mr. Doyle,
			 Ms. Watson, and
			 Ms. Clarke) submitted the following
			 concurrent resolution; which was referred to the
			 Committee on Armed
			 Services

		CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
		Honoring all Americans serving in the Armed
		  Forces of the United States and condemning the attack by broadcaster Rush
		  Limbaugh on the integrity and professionalism of some of those
		  Americans.

		Whereas on September 26, 2007, the broadcaster Rush
			 Limbaugh told a nationwide radio audience that members of the Armed Forces who
			 have expressed disagreement with current policies of the United States
			 regarding military activities in Iraq are phony soldiers;
			 and
		Whereas such a description constitutes an unwarranted slur
			 on the integrity and professionalism of members of the Armed Forces who
			 exercise their constitutional right to express their opinions regarding public
			 policy in a manner consistent with good order and discipline: Now, therefore,
			 be it

		1.Congress makes the following
			 findings:
			(1)Americans serving
			 in the United States Armed Forces have volunteered for such service and have
			 not been drafted for that purpose.
			(2)Those who serve in
			 the Armed Forces deserve the respect of all Americans for their willingness to
			 undertake that service.
			(3)Those who serve in
			 the Armed Forces do not relinquish their constitutional right to express their
			 opinions regarding public policy in a manner consistent with good order and
			 discipline.
			(4)The dedication and
			 honor of Americans serving in the Armed Forces should not be impugned because
			 of their exercise of such right.
			2.Congress—
			(1)recognizes the
			 service of all members of the Armed Forces serving in good standing and with
			 honor to defend the United States, and the personal sacrifices made by them and
			 their families;
			(2)commits to judge
			 the merits of the opinions of members of the Armed Forces regarding the
			 policies of the United States, including those related to military actions in
			 Iraq, without prejudice or personal bias, including refraining from unwarranted
			 personal attacks;
			(3)condemns in the
			 strongest possible terms the personal attacks made by the broadcaster Rush
			 Limbaugh impugning the integrity and professionalism of Americans serving in
			 the Armed Forces who have expressed opinions regarding military actions in
			 Iraq;
			(4)honors all members
			 of the Armed Forces and civilian personnel serving in harm's way, as well as
			 their families; and
			(5)pledges to debate
			 any supplemental funding request or any policy decisions regarding the war in
			 Iraq with the solemn respect and the commitment to integrity that the
			 sacrifices of these members of the Armed Forces and civilian personnel
			 deserve.


		IV
		112th CONGRESS
		2d Session
		H. RES. 647
		IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

			May 9, 2012
			Ms. Wasserman Schultz
			 (for herself and Ms. Ros-Lehtinen)
			 submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the
			 Committee on Foreign
			 Affairs

		RESOLUTION
		Recognizing the 100th anniversary of
		  Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America in 2012.

		Whereas Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of
			 America, Inc. was established on February 24, 1912;
		Whereas Hadassah is the largest Jewish women's
			 organization in the world, with members in every Congressional district;
		Whereas Hadassah was nominated for the 2005 Nobel Peace
			 Prize for its ongoing initiatives to use medicine as a Bridge to Peace, and
			 conducts a wide variety of training programs for medical personnel and students
			 throughout the world;
		Whereas in Israel, Hadassah initiates and supports
			 pace-setting health care, education, and youth institutions;
		Whereas the Hadassah Medical Organization is among the
			 most advanced medical facilities in the world, renowned for its cutting edge
			 medical research;
		Whereas the Hadassah Medical Organization is currently
			 constructing the Sarah Wetsman Davidson Hospital Tower at Hadassah Medical
			 Center as a gift to Israel, to be officially dedicated at the Centennial
			 Convention in 2012;
		Whereas in the United States, Hadassah enhances the
			 quality of United States and Jewish life through its education and Zionist
			 youth programs, promotes health awareness, and provides personal enrichment and
			 growth for its members;
		Whereas Hadassah helps promote young people by providing
			 scholarships for students and educating disadvantaged children; and
		Whereas Hadassah provides programs for young people to
			 help, educate, inform, and expand their horizons: Now, therefore, be it

		That the House of
			 Representatives—
			(1)recognizes Hadassah on the centennial
			 anniversary of its founding; and
			(2)commends and
			 honors Hadassah and all its members for a century of work improving the quality
			 of United States life, strengthening the United States-Israel relationship, and
			 ensuring the continuity of Jewish heritage and community.


113 SRES 208 ATS: Designating the week beginning September 8, 2013, as National Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week.
U.S. Senate
2013-07-31
text/xml
EN
Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain.

		III
		113th CONGRESS
		1st Session
		S. RES. 208
		IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES

			July 31, 2013
			Mr. Cardin (for himself,
			 Ms. Collins, Ms. Warren, Mr.
			 Grassley, Mr. Brown,
			 Mr. Rockefeller, and
			 Mr. Murphy) submitted the following
			 resolution; which was considered and agreed to

		RESOLUTION
		Designating the week beginning September 8,
		  2013, as National Direct Support Professionals Recognition
		  Week.

		Whereas direct support professionals, direct care workers,
			 personal assistants, personal attendants, in-home support workers, and
			 paraprofessionals (referred to in this preamble as direct support
			 professionals) are the primary providers of publicly funded long-term
			 supports and services for millions of individuals;
		Whereas a direct support professional must build a close,
			 trusted relationship with an individual with disabilities;
		Whereas a direct support professional assists an
			 individual with disabilities with the most intimate needs on a daily
			 basis;
		Whereas direct support professionals provide a broad range
			 of support, including—
			(1)preparing
			 meals;
			(2)managing
			 medications;
			(3)bathing;
			(4)dressing;
			(5)helping with
			 mobility;
			(6)providing
			 transportation to school, work, and religious, and recreational activities;
			 and
			(7)helping with
			 general daily affairs;
			Whereas a direct support professional provides essential
			 support to help keep an individual with disabilities connected to the family
			 and community of the individual;
		Whereas direct support professionals enable individuals
			 with disabilities to live meaningful, productive lives;
		Whereas a direct support professional is the key to
			 allowing an individual with disabilities to live successfully in the community
			 and avoid more costly institutional care;
		Whereas the majority of direct support professionals are
			 female, and many are the sole breadwinners of their families;
		Whereas direct support professionals work and pay taxes,
			 but many are impoverished and are eligible for the same Federal and State
			 public assistance programs on which the individuals with disabilities served by
			 the direct support professionals must depend;
		Whereas Federal and State policies, as well as the Supreme
			 Court in Olmstead v. L.C., 527 U.S. 581 (1999), assert the right of an
			 individual to live in the home and community of the individual;
		Whereas, in 2013, the majority of direct support
			 professionals are employed in home- and community-based settings, and this
			 trend is projected to increase during this decade;
		Whereas there is a documented critical and growing
			 shortage of direct support professionals in every community throughout the
			 United States; and
		Whereas many direct support professionals are forced to
			 leave jobs due to inadequate wages and benefits, creating high turnover and
			 vacancy rates that research demonstrates adversely affects the quality of
			 support provided to individuals with disabilities: Now, therefore, be it

		That the Senate—
			(1)designates the
			 week beginning September 8, 2013, as National Direct Support
			 Professionals Recognition Week;
			(2)recognizes the
			 dedication and vital role of direct support professionals in enhancing the
			 lives of individuals of all ages with disabilities;
			(3)appreciates the
			 contribution of direct support professionals in supporting the needs that are
			 beyond the capacities of millions of families in the United States;
			(4)commends direct
			 support professionals as integral in supporting the long-term support and
			 services system of the United States; and
			(5)finds that the
			 successful implementation of the public policies of the United States depends
			 on the dedication of direct support professionals.


115 S1663 IS: CO2 Regulatory Certainty Act
U.S. Senate
2017-07-27
text/xml
EN
Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain.

II115th CONGRESS1st SessionS. 1663IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATESJuly 27, 2017Mr. Hoeven introduced the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on FinanceA BILLTo amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to enhance the requirements for secure geological
			 storage of carbon dioxide for purposes of the carbon dioxide sequestration
			 credit.

 1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the CO2 Regulatory Certainty Act. 2.Secure geological storage of carbon dioxideParagraph (2) of section 45Q(d) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended to read as follows:

				(2)Secure geological storage
 (A)In generalNot later than December 31, 2017, the Secretary, in consultation with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, the Secretary of Energy, and the Secretary of the Interior, shall establish regulations for determining adequate security measures for the geological storage of carbon dioxide under paragraph (1)(B) or (2)(C) of subsection (a) such that the carbon dioxide does not escape into the atmosphere.
 (B)RequirementsThe regulations established pursuant to subparagraph (A) shall provide that— (i)for purposes of paragraph (1)(B) of subsection (a), carbon dioxide shall be considered disposed of in secure geological storage if such carbon dioxide is stored in compliance with rules promulgated by the Environmental Protection Agency under subpart RR of part 98 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on the date of the enactment of this paragraph), under the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.) and rules under the Safe Drinking Water Act (42 U.S.C. 300f et seq.) which are applicable to carbon dioxide disposed of in secure geological storage and not used as a tertiary injectant in a qualified enhanced oil or natural gas recovery project, and
 (ii)for purposes of paragraph (2)(C) of subsection (a), carbon dioxide shall be considered disposed of in secure geological storage if such carbon dioxide is stored in compliance with rules promulgated by the Environmental Protection Agency which are applicable to carbon dioxide used as a tertiary injectant in a qualified enhanced oil or natural gas recovery project under—
 (I)subpart UU of part 98 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on the date of the enactment of this paragraph), under the Clean Air Act, and
 (II)subpart C of part 146 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on the date of the enactment of this paragraph), under the Safe Drinking Water Act, to the extent such rules are applicable to Class II wells..
 3.Qualified enhanced oil or natural gas recovery projectParagraph (4) of section 45Q(d) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended— (1)by striking by substituting and inserting “determined—

 (A)by substituting—, (2)by striking the period and inserting , and, and
 (3)by inserting at the end the following:  (B)without regard to subparagraph (A)(iii) thereof..