114 HR 1468 IH: Global Brain Health Act of 2015
U.S. House of Representatives
2015-03-19
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.

I
114th CONGRESS 1st Session
H. R. 1468
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

March 19, 2015
Mr. Smith of New Jersey (for himself, Mr. Fattah, and Ms. Maxine Waters of California) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, 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 concerned

A BILL
To galvanize United States Government programs in support of brain health for global victims of autism, hydrocephalus and Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, and for other purposes.

1.Short title This Act may be cited as the Global Brain Health Act of 2015. 2.Findings Congress finds the following:
(1)The brain is the center of the human nervous system, exerting centralized control over all other organs of the body. (2)Abnormalities in sections of the brain—namely the corpus callosum (which facilitates communication between the two hemispheres of the brain), the amygdala (which affects emotion and social behavior) and the cerebellum (which is involved with motor activity, balance and coordination)—usually occur during prenatal development.
(3)Three main brain disorders are autism, hydrocephalus and Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. They impact people in both the developed and developing world, but weigh more heavily on sufferers in developing countries due to lack of effective health care, lack of access to health care or cultural influences that inhibit treatment of sufferers of one of these conditions. (4)Autism is a complex neurological disorder that affects an individual in the areas of social interaction and communication. Because it is a spectrum disorder, it affects each individual differently and to varying degrees of severity. People with autism process and respond to information in unique ways. In some cases, coexisting medical issues and aggressive or self-injurious behavior may be present.
(5)The occurrence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) has increased during the past decade from an estimated one in 500 to an estimated one in 110, according to data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in December 2009. CDC classified as suffering from ASD children whose behaviors were consistent with the DSM–IV–TR criteria for Autistic Disorder, Asperger Disorder, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder—Not Otherwise Specified (PDD–NOS). (6)The increased number of children diagnosed with autism is a growing and urgent concern for families, health care professionals, and educators, as the health and education systems struggle to respond to the needs of this population in a comprehensive manner.
(7)The prevalence of autism in developing countries is also growing rapidly, and health and education systems in these countries are particularly ill-equipped to deal with these issues. According to the World Health Organization, tens of millions of individuals in Africa are affected by autism. (8)Children with autism who receive intensive and appropriate educational services before age 5 often make significant functional improvements. In the United States, significant efforts are being pursued to expand early diagnosis and the provision of these services. In a report on the identification, evaluation and management of children with autism, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended in November 2007 that all children should be screened for autism twice by the age of two, even if they have no symptoms. Early screening and services for autism are sorely lacking in most of the developing world. An opportunity exists to use United States expertise to significantly aid children and families in developing countries, for relatively small costs.
(9)Hydrocephalus, also known as water on the brain, is a medical condition in which an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricles or cavities of the brain causes increased intracranial pressure inside the skull and progressive enlargement of the head. If left untreated, hydrocephalus leads to physical and mental disabilities and eventually death. (10)Hydrocephalus is an extremely painful condition that most commonly occurs in infants and young children as a result of a congenital abnormality (anatomic abnormality, aqueductal stenosis, spina bifida or encephalocele), or post-infectious hydrocephalus (PIH) caused by infections acquired after birth, such as meningitis, that attack the brain.
(11)Three to five out of every 1,000 newborns in developing countries are either born with hydrocephalus or acquire it due to neonatal infections in the first few months of life. It is conservatively estimated that more than 300,000 children are born with or acquire hydrocephalus in the developing world each year. (12)Children with hydrocephalus who are not effectively treated or who are not treated in the early stages of the condition suffer from cognitive deficiencies or physical disabilities or both.
(13)Families of children who have hydrocephalus in developing countries rarely know that it is a treatable condition, where to go for treatment, or how to care for a child suffering from the condition. (14)Many children with hydrocephalus in developing countries are abandoned, ostracized, or abused due to their appearance and physical and mental disabilities.
(15)Hydrocephalus can be treated, and advances in innovative medical procedures such as ETV/CPC have the potential to save thousands of lives annually and prevent or mitigate physical and mental disabilities in thousands of children in developing countries. (16)A number of international studies show that between 3.5 to 15 percent of all patients diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia actually have Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus. Such significant incidents of misdiagnosis illustrate the need for greater awareness among members of the medical profession and the general public of adult hydrocephalus, as well as the need for adopting a holistic approach towards brain health instead of a siloed one.
(17)Dementia is a degenerative condition caused by disease of the brain—usually of a chronic or progressive nature in which there is disturbance of multiple higher cortical functions, including memory, thinking, orientation, comprehension, calculation, learning capacity, language and judgment. Between 5 to 7 percent of the world’s population age 60 and above are estimated to have dementia. (18)Dementia can be caused by various factors, including traumatic or localized brain injury, a temporary interruption of the brain’s supply of blood or oxygen, infection, stroke, brain hemorrhage, prolonged seizures or even excessive alcohol use.
(19)According to Alzheimer’s Disease International, more than 44,000,000 people worldwide are suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia, a figure that will expand to more than 75,000,000 people by 2030 and more than 115,000,000 people by 2050 if the current trajectory of the disease remains unchanged. Globally, a new case of dementia occurs every four seconds. More than 62 percent of people with dementia globally live in low-to-middle income countries, and by 2050 this percentage will exceed 70 percent. (20)Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias impose a devastating, unsustainable and rapidly growing toll on the health and fiscal well-being of the United States and all countries. In 2010, the annual global societal economic cost of Alzheimer’s and dementia was estimated to be $604,000,000,000, about 1 percent of the world’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
IGlobal Autism Assistance
101.Global Autism Assistance Program
(a)Establishment and purposeThe Administrator for the United States Agency for International Development shall establish and administer a health and education grant program to be known as the Global Autism Assistance Program to— (1)support activities under subsection (c)(2) by nongovernmental organizations and other service providers, including advocacy groups, focused on autism in developing countries; and
(2)establish a teach the teachers program under subsection (d) to train health and education professionals working with children with autism in developing countries. (b)Designation of eligible regionsNot later than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Administrator, in consultation with knowledgeable autism organizations such as the World Autism Organization, the Autism Society of America, and Autism Speaks, shall designate not fewer than two regions in developing countries that are determined to—
(1)require assistance in dealing with autism; and (2)have sufficient familiarity with issues related to autism to make effective use of the Global Autism Assistance Program.
(c)Selection of implementing NGO
(1)In generalNot later than 180 days after the designation of eligible regions pursuant to subsection (b), the Administrator shall select and award a grant under this section to a nongovernmental organization with experience in autism-related issues to implement the Global Autism Assistance Program through selection and awarding of grants to local service providers and advocacy groups focused on autism. (2)ActivitiesA local service provider or advocacy group that receives a grant under paragraph (1) may use such grant to carry out any of the following activities (including, as appropriate, the translation into local languages of relevant English-language publications):
(A)Education and outreach to the publicUse public service announcements and other public media to help the public become more aware of the signs of autism so that children with autism can be diagnosed and treated earlier. (B)Support to familiesDevelopment of resources for families, such as online web resource centers in local languages, dissemination of materials to parents of newly diagnosed children, such as information contained in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s publication entitled Learn the Signs, Act Early, or other suitable alternatives, and dissemination of educational aids and guides to help parents with their children’s development.
(C)Support to educational institutionsFunding for schools or other educational institutions, focusing on teachers of the youngest students, and including the distribution of equipment or of the materials referred to in subparagraph (B). (D)Support to clinics and medical centersProvision of funding to clinics and medical centers with proven records in addressing autism to assist with operating expenses, including personnel, equipment supplies, and facilities, development of assessment testing for autism, and acquisition of specialized equipment, such as augmentative communication devices.
(3)Applications for grants
(A)Submission of applicationsTo be eligible to receive a grant from the implementing nongovernmental organization, a local service provider or advocacy group shall submit to such implementing nongovernmental organization an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as such implementing nongovernmental organization may require. (B)Establishment of screening board (i)In generalThe implementing nongovernmental organization responsible for implementing the Global Autism Assistance Program shall establish a screening board to be known as the Project Advisory Board to review for content and appropriateness applications from local service providers or advocacy groups submitted in accordance with subparagraph (A).
(ii)MembershipThe members of the Project Advisory Board shall be appointed by the implementing nongovernmental organization, in consultation with the Administrator, and in accordance with the following provisions: (I)Each member shall serve for a term of one year and each member may serve as many as three consecutive terms.
(II)A member of the Project Advisory Board may continue to serve after the expiration of the term of such member until such time as a successor is appointed. (III)Membership of the Project Advisory Board shall include at least seven voting members who are members of autism advocacy groups, professionals working with autism, or otherwise associated with the autism community. Among the voting members of the Board shall be at least two parents from different families of individuals with autism, one medical professional working with autism, one teacher of individuals with autism, and one individual who has autism. Efforts shall be made to include on the Project Advisory Board individuals with experience working in the developing world.
(IV)Membership of the Project Advisory Board shall include non-voting members as determined appropriate by the Administrator. (V)Membership of the Project Advisory Board shall be chosen so as to ensure objectivity and balance and to reduce the potential for conflicts of interest.
(4)Support and assistanceThe implementing nongovernmental organization shall provide, contract for, and coordinate technical assistance in support of its mission in meeting the goals and purposes of this Act. (d)Teach the teachersThe implementing nongovernmental organization, acting on behalf of the Administrator, in consultation with the Project Advisory Board, shall establish a program, to be known as the Teach the Teachers Program, to—
(1)identify health and education professionals to receive specialized training for teaching and working with youth with autism, including training conducted in two- or three-day workshops at locations within one of the two regions designated pursuant to subsection (b); and (2)conduct training through two- or three-day biomedical conferences in the two regions designated pursuant to subsection (b), including bringing medical and psychological specialists from the United States to train and educate parents and health professionals who deal with autism, including training related to biomedical interventions that can affect autism, how nutrition and various metabolic issues can impact behavior, the role of applied behavioral analysis, and various occupational and speech therapies in fighting autism.
(e)FundingTo carry out this title, the Administrator shall allocate amounts that have been appropriated or otherwise made available to the United States Agency for International Development. (f)Autism definedFor purposes of this title, the term autism means all conditions consistent with autism spectrum disorders described in section 2(5).
IIInternational Hydrocephalus Treatment and Training
201.Assistance to treat hydrocephalus and train surgeonsChapter 1 of part I of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2151 et seq.) is amended— (1)by redesignating the second section 135 (as added by section 5(a) of the Senator Paul Simon Water for the Poor Act of 2005 (Public Law 109–121; 119 Stat. 2536)) as section 136; and
(2)by adding at the end the following:  137.Assistance to treat hydrocephalus and train surgeons (a)PurposesThe purposes of assistance authorized by this section are—
(1)to ensure that life-saving treatment of hydrocephalus is an important priority of United States bilateral foreign assistance, including through promotion of innovative treatments and training of medical practitioners from the developing world in the latest treatment protocols and best practices for the treatment of hydrocephalus, including— (A)surgery and post-surgery care in developing countries;
(B)the creation of a comprehensive hydrocephalus training program based in the developing world for surgeons and key members of their medical team; and (C)the training of medical practitioners based in the developing world in ETV/CPC and other appropriate treatment protocols; and
(2)to promote research to reduce the incidence of PIH epidemiology, pathophysiology, and disease burden, and to improve treatment of hydrocephalus. (b)AuthorizationTo carry out the purposes of subsection (a), the President is authorized to provide assistance to support a network of trained medical practitioners to treat hydrocephalus in children at pediatric hospitals and hydrocephalus treatment centers in developing countries with a high incidence of hydrocephalus.
(c)Activities supported
(1)Comprehensive program
(A)In generalAssistance provided under subsection (b) shall, to the maximum extent practicable, be used to establish a comprehensive program to administer global hydrocephalus treatment and training activities utilizing a network of pediatric hospitals capable of performing endoscopic surgery in developing countries. (B)AdministrationThe program described in subparagraph (A) shall be administered by health care executives and neurosurgeons with expertise in the treatment of hydrocephalus.
(C)ResponsibilitiesThe responsibilities of the administrators described in subparagraph (B) shall include— (i)developing an appropriate education and training curriculum;
(ii)establishing quality control standards; (iii)instituting safety guidelines and standards; and
(iv)developing monitoring and evaluation protocols. (2)Training hospital (A)In generalAssistance provided under subsection (b) shall, to the maximum extent practicable, be used to establish a surgeon training program within a pediatric hospital based in a developing country with a high incidence of hydrocephalus with the goal of training four surgeons annually and a total of 20 surgeons over a 5-year period to treat hydrocephalus utilizing the ETV/CPC technique.
(B)TimelineTo the maximum extent practicable, the surgeon training program described in subparagraph (A) should be operational no later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this section.  (C)Training admissions criteriaCandidates for the surgeon training program established under subparagraph (A) shall—
(i)have a demonstrated commitment to providing medical assistance in the developing world; and (ii)certify that the candidate intends to remain and practice medicine in the developing world following completion of the program.
(D)Training program methodologyThe surgeon training program established under subparagraph (A) shall— (i)be conducted by a neurosurgeon with a minimum of 3 years of full-time operating experience in the developing world;
(ii)be a hands-on operating room experience in the developing world; (iii)utilize a hydrocephalus treatment protocol with an emphasis on ETV/CPC as the preferred treatment when medically appropriate; and
(iv)require that each trainee complete a minimum of 50 ETV/CPC or ETV procedures and at least 25 VP shunt procedures.  (3)Treatment centers (A)In generalAssistance provided under subsection (b) shall, to the maximum extent practicable, be used to establish at least 20 hydrocephalus treatment centers located at public and private hospital in developing countries with a high incidence of hydrocephalus, which shall include treatment costs, endoscopy equipment and medical supplies necessary to provide ETV/CPC procedures to treat hydrocephalus.
(B)StaffingThe treatment centers described in subparagraph (A) shall be staffed by— (i)one or more surgeons who have successfully completed the surgeon training program provided pursuant to paragraph (2); and
(ii)a patient care administrator. (C)TreatmentThe treatment centers described in subparagraph (A) shall—
(i)provide surgery to treat hydrocephalus in children; (ii)perform at least 50 hydrocephalus surgeries annually including a minimum of 25 ETV or ETV/CPC surgeries; and
(iii)provide post-surgery care and support for the children treated in accordance with clause (i). (4)Medical records and dataAssistance provided under subsection (b) shall, to the maximum extent practicable, include the maintenance of medical records which track patient care activities and information about the causes and incidence rates of PIH.
(d)DefinitionsIn this section: (1)CPCThe term CPC means choroid plexus cauterization, a surgical procedure to reduce the production of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain.
(2)ETVThe term ETV means endoscopic third ventriculostomy, a shunt-less surgical procedure in which an opening is created in the floor of the third ventricle of the brain allowing cerebrospinal fluid to bypass any obstruction and flow directly to the basal cisterns. (3)ETV/CPCThe term ETV/CPC means the shunt-less surgical method for treating hydrocephalus through the combination of ETV and CPC surgical procedures.
(4)HydrocephalusThe term hydrocephalus means a medical condition in which an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricles or cavities of the brain causes increased intracranial pressure inside the skull and progressive enlargement of the head. (5)Medical practitionersThe term medical practitioners means physicians, nurses and other clinicians.
(6)PIHThe term PIH means post-infectious or acquired hydrocephalus which is the onset of hydrocephalus after birth due to the affects of an infection, such as meningitis, that has attacked the brain. (7)VP shuntThe term VP shunt means a ventriculoperitonea shunt which is a plastic tube that is regulated by a valve and surgically placed in a brain ventricle that allows the cerebrospinal fluid to flow out of the brain through the tube and into the patient’s abdomen.
(e)Authorization of appropriationsOf the amounts made available to carry out this chapter for child survival and maternal health programs, there are authorized to be appropriated to the President such sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years 2016 through 2020 to carry out this section.. IIIInternational Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Programs 301.Global Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Action Plan (a)In generalThe Secretary of Health and Human Services shall enter into negotiations with the World Health Organization to develop a plan for addressing Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia globally, to be known as the Global Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Action Plan, focused on the following areas:
(1)Research, including— (A)clinical research; and
(B)development of a stable and sustained international commitment to research. (2)Regulatory issues.
(3)Clinical care. (4)Supportive services for patients and caregivers, including supports using innovative technologies.
(5)Clinical care. (6)Supportive services for patients and caregivers, including supports using innovative technologies.
(7)Prevention and health promotion. (8)Public awareness and education, particularly efforts aimed at reducing stigmas and increasing the inclusion of persons with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia within civil society.
(b)International partnerships
(1)In generalIn developing the plan under subsection (a), the Secretary of Health Services— (A)shall seek—
(i)to enter into partnerships with other nations that have in place national plans for addressing Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia; and (ii)to the greatest extent possible, ensure that the plan under subsection (a) is compatible with the plans of such other nations; and
(B)in the case of other nations that do not have such plans in place, shall encourage such nations to develop and implement such plans. (2)Sense of CongressIt is the sense of the Congress that the Group of Eight (G8) nations, working with the Group of Twenty (G20) nations, the Group of Seventy-Seven (G77) nations, and other organizations including the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) should investigate systems to monitor and provide care to individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia in developing countries to help build care delivery capacity.
302.Global Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Fund
(a)In generalThe Secretary of Health and Human Services, working with the Secretary of the Treasury, other nations, nongovernmental organizations, and private entities, shall seek to establish a fund, to be known as the Global Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Fund, to provide resources to support implementation of the Global Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Action Plan. (b)Early-Stage effortsIn the early stages of carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary of Health and Human Services shall establish priority areas of focus and a governance structure for the Global Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Fund.
303.Alzheimer’s disease and dementia coordinatorThe President shall appoint a high-level official to lead and coordinate all efforts of the Federal Government with respect to developing the Global Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Action Plan and the Global Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Fund. 304.Foreign aid implicationsThe Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development, in collaboration with the heads of other relevant Federal departments and agencies, shall—
(1)investigate the foreign aid implications of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia; and (2)inform Congress as to the need for possible changes to health care-related foreign assistance.
305.Public-private partnershipsThe President shall encourage and facilitate partnerships between the Federal Government and the private sector, such as the partnerships in effect between the National Institutes of Health and pharmaceutical companies, to identify new approaches to treat Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.


116 S2303 IS: Freedom for Americans to Travel to Cuba Act of 2019
U.S. Senate
2019-07-29
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. 2303IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATESJuly 29, 2019Mr. Leahy (for himself, Ms. Baldwin, Mr. Bennet, Mr. Blumenthal, Mr. Boozman, Mr. Brown, Ms. Cantwell, Mr. Cardin, Mr. Carper, Mr. Casey, Ms. Collins, Mr. Coons, Ms. Duckworth, Mr. Durbin, Mr. Enzi, Mrs. Feinstein, Mrs. Gillibrand, Ms. Harris, Ms. Hassan, Mr. Heinrich, Ms. Hirono, Mr. Jones, Mr. Kaine, Mr. King, Ms. Klobuchar, Mr. Manchin, Mr. Markey, Mr. Merkley, Mr. Moran, Mr. Murphy, Mrs. Murray, Mr. Peters, Mr. Reed, Mr. Sanders, Mr. Schatz, Mr. Schumer, Mrs. Shaheen, Ms. Smith, Ms. Stabenow, Mr. Tester, Mr. Udall, Mr. Van Hollen, Mr. Warner, Ms. Warren, Mr. Whitehouse, and Mr. Wyden) introduced the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on Foreign RelationsA BILLTo allow United States citizens and legal residents to travel between the United States and Cuba.

 1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the Freedom for Americans to Travel to Cuba Act of 2019.
 2.FindingsCongress makes the following findings: (1)During the more than 50 years since the United States initially restricted travel by Americans to Cuba—
 (A)the Soviet Union has dissolved into a dozen independent states; and (B)the United States has resumed diplomatic and trade relations with the communist governments of China and of Vietnam.
 (2)There are no such restrictions on travel by Americans to any other country except North Korea. (3)While restrictions on travel by Cuban Americans were lifted in 2009, continuing restrictions on, and requirements of licenses for, travel by non-Cuban Americans are discriminatory and without justification.
 (4)Since 2013, the Government of Cuba— (A)has ended restrictions on foreign travel for most Cubans;
 (B)has permitted Cubans to buy and sell real property; (C)has permitted hundreds of thousands of Cubans to work as private entrepreneurs; and
 (D)has greatly expanded public access to the Internet. (5)Restrictions on travel by Americans to Cuba have resulted in a significant loss of revenue for private Airbnb hosts, restaurants, taxi drivers, and other small businesses in Cuba.
 (6)Many companies in Europe, Canada, Russia, and other countries regularly send their representatives to Cuba, while American companies cannot do so, preventing American companies, including banks and credit card companies, from providing services to Americans who travel to Cuba under a general license issued by the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the Department of the Treasury.
 (7)A majority of Americans from every region of the country and in both major political parties consistently support normalizing travel by Americans to Cuba.
 (8)Ending restrictions on travel to Cuba, and transactions incident to such travel would— (A)pose no threat to the security of the United States;
 (B)advance United States national interests in the hemisphere; and (C)foster free enterprise and democracy in Cuba.
 3.Travel to CubaSubject to section 4, on or after the date of the enactment of this Act— (1)the President may not prohibit or otherwise restrict travel to or from Cuba by United States citizens or legal residents, or any of the transactions incident to such travel, including banking transactions; and
 (2)any law, regulation, or policy in effect on such date of enactment that prohibits or otherwise restricts travel to or from Cuba by United States citizens or legal residents, or any of the transactions incident to such travel, including banking transactions, shall cease to have any force or effect.
			4.Exceptions
 (a)Savings provisionsNothing in this Act may be construed to limit the authority of the President to restrict travel described in section 3, or any transaction incident to such travel, on a case-by-case basis, if the President determines that such restriction—
 (1)is necessary to protect the national security of the United States; or (2)is necessary to protect the health or safety of United States citizens or legal residents resulting from traveling to or from Cuba.
 (b)Written justificationNot later than 5 days before restricting travel described in section 3 or a transaction incident to such travel, pursuant to the authority referred to in subsection (a), the President shall submit a written justification for such restriction to—
 (1)the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate; (2)the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate;
 (3)the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives; and (4)the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives.
 5.InapplicabilityThe provisions of this Act shall apply notwithstanding section 102(h) of the Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity (LIBERTAD) Act of 1996 (22 U.S.C. 6032(h)) and section 910(b) of the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act of 2000 (22 U.S.C. 7209(b)).


109 HR 3089 IH: To suspend temporarily the duty on 1,3-bis(4-Aminophenoxy)benzene (RODA).
U.S. House of Representatives
2005-06-28
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.

I
109th CONGRESS 1st Session
H. R. 3089
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

June 28, 2005
Mr. Hobson introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Ways and Means

A BILL
To suspend temporarily the duty on 1,3-bis(4-Aminophenoxy)benzene (RODA).

1.Temporary extension of suspension of duty
(a)In generalHeading 9902.05.15 of subchapter II of chapter 99 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States, relating to 1,3-bis(4-aminophenoxy)benzene (CAS # 2479–46–1) is amended by striking 12/31/2006 and inserting 12/31/2009.
(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 enactment of this Act.


110 HR 4726 IH: To extend the temporary reduction of duty on Pyrithiobac-sodium.
U.S. House of Representatives
2007-12-17
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
110th CONGRESS
1st Session
H. R. 4726
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

December 17, 2007
Mr. Castle introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Ways and Means

A BILL
To extend the temporary reduction of duty on Pyrithiobac-sodium.

1.Pyrithiobac-sodium
(a)In generalHeading 9902.13.45 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (relating to Pyrithiobac-sodium) is amended by striking the date in the effective period column and inserting 12/31/2011.
(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.


116 HR 4492 IH: Consumer Financial Choice and Capital Markets Protection Act of 2019
U.S. House of Representatives
2019-09-25
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. 4492IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVESSeptember 25, 2019Ms. Moore (for herself, Mr. Stivers, Mr. Hastings, Mr. Gonzalez of Texas, Mr. Michael F. Doyle of Pennsylvania, Mr. Estes, and Mr. Mooney of West Virginia) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Financial ServicesA BILLTo protect the investment choices of investors in the United States, and for other purposes.

 1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the Consumer Financial Choice and Capital Markets Protection Act of 2019. 2.Treatment of money market funds under the Investment Company Act of 1940The Investment Company Act of 1940 (15 U.S.C. 80a–1 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following:

				66.Money market funds
 (a)DefinitionsIn this section— (1)the term covered Federal assistance means Federal assistance used for the purpose of—
 (A)making any loan to, or purchasing any stock, equity interest, or debt obligation of, any money market fund;
 (B)guaranteeing any loan or debt issuance of any money market fund; or (C)entering into any assistance arrangement (including tax breaks), loss sharing, or profit sharing with any money market fund; and
 (2)the term Federal assistance means— (A)insurance or guarantees by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation;
 (B)transactions involving the Secretary of the Treasury; or (C)the use of any advances from any Federal Reserve credit facility or discount window that is not part of a program or facility with broad-based eligibility established in unusual or exigent circumstances.
							(b)Election To be a stable value money market fund
 (1)In generalNotwithstanding any other provision of this title, any open-end investment company (or a separate series thereof) that is a money market fund that relies on section 270.2a–7 of title 17, Code of Federal Regulations, may, in the prospectus included in its registration statement filed under section 8 state that the company or series has elected to compute the current price per share, for purposes of distribution or redemption and repurchase, of any redeemable security issued by the company or series by using the amortized cost method of valuation, or the penny-rounding method of pricing, regardless of whether its shareholders are limited to natural persons, if—
 (A)the objective or principal investment strategy of the company or series is not inconsistent with the generation of income and preservation of capital through investment in short-term, high-quality debt securities;
 (B)the board of directors of the company or series elects, on behalf of the company or series, to maintain a stable net asset value per share or stable price per share, by using the amortized cost valuation method, as defined in section 270.2a–7(a) of title 17, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulation), or the penny-rounding pricing method, as defined in section 270.2a–7(a) of title 17, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulation), and the board of directors of the company has determined, in good faith, that—
 (i)it is in the best interests of the company or series, and its shareholders, to do so; and (ii)the money market fund will continue to use such method or methods only as long as the board of directors believes that the resulting share price fairly reflects the market-based net asset value per share of the company or series; and
 (C)the company or series will comply with such quality, maturity, diversification, liquidity, and other requirements, including related procedural and recordkeeping requirements, as the Commission, by rule or regulation or order, may prescribe or has prescribed as necessary or appropriate in the public interest or for the protection of investors to the extent that such requirements and provisions are not inconsistent with this section.
 (2)Exemption from default liquidity fee requirementsNotwithstanding section 270.2a–7 of title 17, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulation), no company or series that makes the election under paragraph (1) shall be subject to the default liquidity fee requirements of section 270.2a–7(c)(2)(ii) of title 17, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulation).
 (c)Prohibition against Federal Government bailouts of money market fundsNotwithstanding any other provision of law (including regulations), covered Federal assistance may not be provided directly to any money market fund.
					(d)Disclosure of the prohibition against Federal Government bailouts of money market funds
 (1)In generalNo principal underwriter of a redeemable security issued by a money market fund nor any dealer shall offer or sell any such security to any person unless the prospectus of the money market fund and any advertising or sales literature for such fund prominently discloses the prohibition against direct covered Federal assistance as described in subsection (c).
 (2)Rules, regulations, and ordersThe Commission may, after consultation with and taking into account the views of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, and the Department of the Treasury, adopt rules and regulations and issue orders consistent with the protection of investors, prescribing the manner in which the disclosure under this subsection shall be provided.
 (e)Continuing obligation To meet requirements of this titleA company or series that makes an election under subsection (b)(1) shall remain subject to the provisions of this title and the rules and regulations of the Commission thereunder that would otherwise apply if those provisions do not conflict with the provisions of this section..


114 S542 IS: Counterterrorism Border Security Enhancement Act
U.S. Senate
2015-02-24
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.

II114th CONGRESS1st SessionS. 542IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATESFebruary 24, 2015Mr. Coats introduced the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on the JudiciaryA BILLTo enhance the homeland security of the United States, and for other purposes.

 1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the Counterterrorism Border Security Enhancement Act.
		2.Border security assessment
 (a)In generalNot later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of State, shall—
 (1)conduct a review and assessment examining how existing border security and entry procedures could be improved and strengthened as a response to—
 (A)threats to the homeland emanating from the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (commonly known as ISIS); and (B)growing participation by United States and European nationals as foreign fighters in Syria and Iraq and in terrorist activity; and
 (2)submit a report to Congress containing the results of the assessment conducted pursuant to paragraph (1).
 (b)FocusThe assessment conducted pursuant to subsection (a) shall focus on the Visa Waiver Program requirements for travelers and program countries, including—
 (1)the information collected from aliens applying for travel authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization and whether additional information, such as dual nationality, travel history, all travel document data, proposed travel plans, and co-traveler information, should be required;
 (2)cooperation by program countries with current information sharing efforts under paragraphs (2)(D), (2)(F), and (9)(D) of section 217(c) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1187(c)); and
 (3)whether program countries shall be required to establish programs for the collection of advance passenger information to counter terrorist travel.
				3.Visa Waiver Program
			(a)Electronic System for Travel Authorization
 (1)Validity of travel eligibilitySection 217(h)(3)(C)(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1187(h)(3)(C)(i)) is amended to read as follows:

						(i)In general
 (I)RulemakingSubject to subclauses (II) through (IV), the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of State, shall prescribe regulations that provide for a period, not to exceed 3 years, during which a determination of initial eligibility to travel under the program will be valid.
 (II)ApplicationAn alien may submit an application through the System without imminent travel plans, at which time the alien will be charged the fee established under subparagraph (B).
 (III)Travel plansAn alien may not travel to the United States under the program unless, before such travel— (aa)the alien submits or updates an application with the alien’s proposed travel plans; and
 (bb)the Secretary of Homeland Security approves through the System.
 (IV)RevocationNotwithstanding any other provision in this section, the Secretary may revoke approval of eligibility to travel at any time and for any reason..
 (2)Authority to amend information collected and eligibility questionsThe Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of State, is authorized to amend regulations promulgated pursuant to section 217(h)(3) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1187(h)(3)) to ensure that each applicant is required—
 (A)to provide biographical information and answer eligibility questions relevant to current security risks identified in the assessment conducted under section 2; and
 (B)to include information listed in subsection (b)(1) of such section. (b)Report on cooperation (1)In generalNot later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and every 6 months thereafter, the Secretary of Homeland Security and the Secretary of State shall jointly submit a report to Congress that—
 (A)details each Visa Waiver Program country’s cooperation with information sharing efforts described in paragraphs (2)(F) and (9)(D) of section 217(c) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1187(c)); and
 (B)identifies all the countries that are not fully cooperating with the efforts referred to in subparagraph (A).
					(2)Effect of noncooperation
 (A)In generalNot later than 30 days after a country designated as a Visa Waiver Program country under section 217(c) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1187(c)) is identified as not fully cooperating under paragraph (1), the Secretary of Homeland Security—
 (i)shall terminate such designation; and (ii)may no longer approve any applications submitted by nationals of such country under the Electronic System for Travel Authorization.
 (B)ReinstatementNot sooner than 90 days after the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of State, determines that a country described in subparagraph (A) is fully cooperating, the Secretary of Homeland Security may redesignate such country as a Visa Waiver Program country.
 (c)Security risk updatesSection 217(c)(5)(A)(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1187(c)(5)(A)(i)) is amended by striking the matter preceding subclause (I) and inserting the following:

 (i)In generalNot later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of the Counterterrorism Border Security Enhancement Act, and semiannually thereafter, the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of State—.
 4.Visa application processThe Secretary of State shall submit a plan to Congress for training consular officers on visa interviewing techniques that—
 (1)emphasizes counterterrorism efforts; and (2)includes any budgetary implications of implementing the plan.
			5.United States citizens engaged in terrorist activities
 (a)In generalNot later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Homeland Security, the Secretary of State, and the Attorney General shall jointly submit to Congress a plan for—
 (1)increasing, upon arrival at any United States port of entry, the scrutiny of private United States citizens who have recently traveled to Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, or Libya; and
 (2)enhancing the capabilities and authorities of the Department of Justice and other Federal agencies to investigate, arrest, charge, and prosecute United States citizens who are suspected of engaging in terrorist acts or involvement with a terrorist organization, including proposals for legislative action that would enhance such capabilities and authorities.
 (b)Revocation of passportsThe Act entitled An Act To regulate the issue and validity of passports, and for other purposes, approved July 3, 1926 (44 Stat. 887; 22 U.S.C. 211a et seq.), is amended by adding at the end the following:

 5.The Secretary of State may revoke and confiscate any passport issued to a United States citizen who—
 (1)is suspected of engaging in terrorist activities (as defined in section 212(a)(3)(B)(iv) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1182(a)(3)(B)(iv))) outside of the United States; or
 (2)has demonstrated an intent to engage in the activities referred to in paragraph (1).. (c)Definition of treasonSection 2381 of title 18, United States Code, is amended by inserting (including terrorist organizations, as defined in section 212(a)(3)(B)(vi) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1182(a)(3)(B)(vi))) after enemies.


115 HRES 665 IH: Recognizing the crew of the San Antonio Rose, B–17F, who sacrificed their lives during World War II, and honoring their memory during the week of the 75th anniversary of that tragic event.
U.S. House of Representatives
2017-12-15
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.

IV115th CONGRESS1st SessionH. RES. 665IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVESDecember 15, 2017Mr. Himes (for himself, Mr. Espaillat, Mr. Ben Ray Luján of New Mexico, Ms. Michelle Lujan Grisham of New Mexico, Mr. Quigley, Ms. Norton, and Mr. Serrano) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Armed ServicesRESOLUTIONRecognizing the crew of the San Antonio Rose, B–17F, who sacrificed their lives during World War
			 II, and honoring their memory during the week of the 75th anniversary of
			 that tragic event.

 Whereas, in 1943, the ongoing fighting against the Japanese in the Pacific during World War II was treacherous, a decisive outcome hung in the balance, and every victory against the Japanese contributed to the ultimate success in the region;
 Whereas, on January 5, 1943, six B–17s of the 43rd Bombardment Group and six B–24s of the 90th Bombardment Group left from Port Moresby, New Guinea, to bomb shipping at Rabaul, New Britain, to break up a major Japanese reinforcement convoy;
 Whereas, with the San Antonio Rose, B–17F (No. 41–24458), in the lead, the twelve bombers of the anti-shipping strike proceeded to Rabaul splitting the formation to target shipping in Blanche Bay, Simpson Harbor, Keravia Bay, and Vunapope;
 Whereas the American attack surprised the Japanese, and they did not fire anti-aircraft artillery until after the American bombs had been successfully dropped on their targets;
 Whereas, when bombers rejoined formation, the San Antonio Rose was no longer in the lead and did not rejoin the formation;
 Whereas the San Antonio Rose was last reported to have smoke trailing from the aircraft while being pursued by Japanese fighters into the clouds heading south just east of Vunakanau, New Britain Island, in what is now Papua New Guinea;
 Whereas the San Antonio Rose was never sighted again; Whereas the crew onboard the San Antonio Rose were declared missing in action on January 5, 1943, and subsequently declared killed in action on December 12, 1945;
 Whereas the members of the crew of the San Antonio Rose included— Pilot, Major Allen Lindberg, New York, New York
 Co-Pilot, Captain Benton H. Daniel, Hollis, Oklahoma Bombardier, 2nd Lieutenant Robert L. Hand, Fields Store, Texas
 Navigator, 1st Lieutenant John W. Hanson, Missoula, Montana Engineer, Technical Sergeant Dennis T. Craig, New York, New York
 Radio, Staff Sergeant Quentin W. Blakely, Washington, District of Columbia Gunner, Sergeant Leslie A. Stewart, East Chicago, Illinois
 Gunner, Private First Class Leland W. Stone, Oakland, California Gunner, Private First Class William G. Fraser, Jr., San Antonio, Texas
 Observer, Lieutenant Colonel Jack W. Bleasdale, San Fernando, California Observer, Brigadier General Kenneth N. Walker, Cerillos, New Mexico; and
 Whereas the crew of the San Antonio Rose, including Brigadier General Kenneth N. Walker, Medal of Honor recipient and highest ranking officer missing in action from World War II, have never been recovered and brought home to rest: Now, therefore, be it

 That the House of Representatives— (1)recognizes that the heroic actions and selflessness of the crew of the San Antonio Rose, B–17F (No. 41–24458), led to lessons learned that directly impacted the success of subsequent missions, including the Battle of the Bismarck Sea;
 (2)commemorates the 75th anniversary of the loss of the San Antonio Rose and its crew; (3)expresses gratitude to the Airmen who served aboard the San Antonio Rose for their faithful service; and
 (4)honors the memory of the crew of the San Antonio Rose with a pledge to never forget their sacrifice by encouraging the continued search and recovery of their remains, and to fulfill the promise to finally bring them home.


110 HR 3709 IH: To authorize inter-tribal transfers of authority in leases between the Ewiiaapaayp Band of Kumeyaay and the Viejas Band of Kumeyaay, and for other purposes.
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.

I
110th CONGRESS 1st Session
H. R. 3709
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

October 1, 2007
Mr. Filner introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Natural Resources

A BILL
To authorize inter-tribal transfers of authority in leases between the Ewiiaapaayp Band of Kumeyaay and the Viejas Band of Kumeyaay, and for other purposes.

1.Leases between the Ewiiaapaayp and viejas bandsThe Act of August 9, 1955 (25 U.S.C. 415) is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:

(h)
(1)Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians of Alpine, California, may lease to the Ewiiaapaayp Band of Kumeyaay of Alpine, California, any portion of land held in trust by the United States for the Viejas Band within the boundaries of the Viejas Reservation.
(2)A lease entered into under paragraph (1) shall be—
(A)made under terms and conditions established by the lessor and lessee in their sole discretion;
(B)considered to be a lawful and enforceable lease without any further Federal approval; and
(C)deemed in vest in the lessee Ewiiaapaayp Band the sole proprietary interest and responsibility for all activities conducted by the lessee Ewiiaapaayp Band on the leased land.
(3)Land leased pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be considered Indian land—
(A)of the lessee Ewiiaapaayp Band;
(B)within the jurisdiction of the lessee Ewiiaapaayp Band; and
(C)over which the lessee Ewiiaapaayp Band has and exercises governmental power..


115 HR 5525 IH: Lake Fannin Conveyance Act
U.S. House of Representatives
2018-04-16
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 CONGRESS2d SessionH. R. 5525IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVESApril 16, 2018Mr. Ratcliffe introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on AgricultureA BILLTo direct the Secretary of Agriculture to transfer certain National Forest System land in the State
			 of Texas.

 1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the Lake Fannin Conveyance Act. 2.DefinitionsIn this Act:
 (1)CountyThe term County means the County of Fannin, Texas. (2)MapThe term map means the map entitled Lake Fannin Conveyance and dated November 21, 2013.
 (3)SecretaryThe term Secretary means the Secretary of Agriculture, acting through the Chief of the Forest Service. 3.Conveyance of land and improvements (a)In generalSubject to the provisions of this Act, if the County submits a written request for conveyance not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall convey to the County all right, title, and interest of the United States in and to approximately 2,025 acres of National Forest System land, as generally depicted on the map.
			(b)Map
 (1)Availability of mapThe map shall be kept on file and available for public inspection in the appropriate office of the Forest Service.
 (2)Correction of errorsThe Secretary may correct minor errors in the map. (c)Terms and conditionsThe conveyance under subsection (a) shall be—
 (1)subject to valid existing rights; (2)made without consideration;
 (3)made by quitclaim deed; and (4)subject to any other terms and conditions as the Secretary considers appropriate to protect the interests of the United States.
 (d)CostsAs a condition for the conveyance under subsection (a), the County shall pay for all costs associated with the conveyance, including—
 (1)the survey to Federal standards required by subsection (e); and (2)any environmental analysis and resource surveys determined necessary by Federal law.
				(e)Survey
 (1)In generalThe actual acreage and legal description of the National Forest System land to be conveyed under subsection (a) shall be determined by a survey satisfactory to the Secretary.
 (2)Casastral surveysThe Secretary may perform and approve any cadastral surveys required to be conducted for purposes of the conveyance referred to in paragraph (1).


		III
		111th CONGRESS
		1st Session
		S. RES. 264
		IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES

			September 14, 2009
			Mr. Dodd (for himself,
			 Mr. Kerry, Mr.
			 Reid, Mr. McConnell,
			 Mr. Akaka, Mr.
			 Alexander, Mr. Barrasso,
			 Mr. Baucus, Mr.
			 Bayh, Mr. Begich,
			 Mr. Bennet, Mr.
			 Bennett, Mr. Bingaman,
			 Mr. Bond, Mrs.
			 Boxer, Mr. Brown,
			 Mr. Brownback, Mr. Bunning, Mr.
			 Burr, Mr. Burris,
			 Mr. Byrd, Ms.
			 Cantwell, Mr. Cardin,
			 Mr. Carper, Mr.
			 Casey, Mr. Chambliss,
			 Mr. Coburn, Mr.
			 Cochran, Ms. Collins,
			 Mr. Conrad, Mr.
			 Corker, Mr. Cornyn,
			 Mr. Crapo, Mr.
			 DeMint, Mr. Dorgan,
			 Mr. Durbin, Mr.
			 Ensign, Mr. Enzi,
			 Mr. Feingold, Mrs. Feinstein, Mr.
			 Franken, Mrs. Gillibrand,
			 Mr. Graham, Mr.
			 Grassley, Mr. Gregg,
			 Mrs. Hagan, Mr.
			 Harkin, Mr. Hatch,
			 Mrs. Hutchison, Mr. Inhofe, Mr.
			 Inouye, Mr. Isakson,
			 Mr. Johanns, Mr. Johnson, Mr.
			 Kaufman, Ms. Klobuchar,
			 Mr. Kohl, Mr.
			 Kyl, Ms. Landrieu,
			 Mr. Lautenberg, Mr. LeMieux, Mr.
			 Leahy, Mr. Levin,
			 Mr. Lieberman, Mrs. Lincoln, Mr.
			 Lugar, Mr. McCain,
			 Mrs. McCaskill, Mr. Menendez, Mr.
			 Merkley, Ms. Mikulski,
			 Ms. Murkowski, Mrs. Murray, Mr. Nelson of
			 Nebraska, Mr. Nelson of
			 Florida, Mr. Pryor,
			 Mr. Reed, Mr.
			 Risch, Mr. Roberts,
			 Mr. Rockefeller,
			 Mr. Sanders, Mr. Schumer, Mr.
			 Sessions, Mrs. Shaheen,
			 Mr. Shelby, Ms.
			 Snowe, Mr. Specter,
			 Ms. Stabenow, Mr. Tester, Mr.
			 Thune, Mr. Udall of Colorado,
			 Mr. Udall of New Mexico,
			 Mr. Vitter, Mr.
			 Voinovich, Mr. Warner,
			 Mr. Webb, Mr.
			 Whitehouse, Mr. Wicker, and
			 Mr. Wyden) submitted the following
			 resolution; which was considered and agreed to

		RESOLUTION
		Designating the Caucus Room of the Russell
		  Senate Office Building as the Kennedy Caucus
		  Room.

		Whereas, during the last century, few rooms have borne
			 witness to as much history as the Caucus Room of the Russell Senate Office
			 Building;
		Whereas, during the last century, few families have played
			 as integral a role in the history of the United States as has the Kennedy
			 family;
		Whereas the Senate mourns the passing of Senator Edward
			 Moore Kennedy, one of the most accomplished, effective, and beloved Senators of
			 all time;
		Whereas Senator Edward Moore Kennedy played a role in
			 every major national debate during the last 50 years, serving as a constant
			 champion of the disadvantaged and overlooked;
		Whereas the legacy of Senator Edward Moore Kennedy
			 includes not only his prolific achievements on behalf of the people of the
			 United States, but the enduring friendships he formed with colleagues on both
			 sides of the aisle;
		Whereas the wit and passion of Senator Edward Moore
			 Kennedy and his perseverance in the face of adversity will be remembered in
			 equal measure to his impressive legislative and rhetorical skills;
		Whereas Senator Edward Moore Kennedy was part of a proud
			 family tradition of public service, which included 2 other distinguished
			 Senators;
		Whereas never before have 3 brothers served in the Senate,
			 and rarely have any 3 brothers served the United States so well;
		Whereas John Fitzgerald Kennedy served the people of
			 Massachusetts with distinction in the Senate, before being elected the 35th
			 President of the United States;
		Whereas Robert Francis Kennedy served the people of New
			 York with distinction in the Senate, after serving as the 64th Attorney
			 General;
		Whereas Edward Moore Kennedy served the people of
			 Massachusetts with distinction in the Senate for nearly half a century, acting
			 as a tireless advocate for those who might otherwise have been without an
			 advocate;
		Whereas the Senate has been greatly enriched by the
			 dedication, compassion, and talent of the 3 Kennedy brothers who served as
			 Senators;
		Whereas, in the Caucus Room of the Russell Senate Office
			 Building, the people of the United States have commemorated tragedy, celebrated
			 triumph, and held hearings of great importance on the most important issues
			 facing the Nation;
		Whereas it was in the Caucus Room of the Russell Senate
			 Office Building that both Senator John Fitzgerald Kennedy and Senator Robert
			 Francis Kennedy announced their intention to run for the office of the
			 President of the United States;
		Whereas a spirit of passionate advocacy and deep respect
			 for the institution of the Senate should govern the deliberations that take
			 place in the Caucus Room of the Russell Senate Office Building; and
		Whereas the Senate wishes to honor the life and work of
			 Senator Edward Moore Kennedy, to recognize the contributions of the 3 Kennedy
			 brothers who served as Senators, and to celebrate the spirit of public service
			 exemplified by the Kennedy family: Now, therefore, be it

		That the Senate designates room 325
			 of the Russell Senate Office Building, commonly referred to as the
			 Caucus Room, as the Kennedy Caucus Room, in
			 recognition of the service to the Senate and the people of the United States of
			 Senators Edward Moore Kennedy, Robert Francis Kennedy, and John Fitzgerald
			 Kennedy.


		I
		111th CONGRESS
		1st Session
		H. R. 1268
		IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

			March 3, 2009
			Ms. Ginny Brown-Waite of
			 Florida (for herself, Mr.
			 Rohrabacher, Mrs. Myrick,
			 Mr. Duncan, and
			 Mr. Gallegly) introduced the following
			 bill; which was referred to the Committee
			 on Financial Services

		A BILL
		To amend the Truth in Lending Act to prohibit issuance of
		  residential mortgages to any individual who lacks a Social Security account
		  number.

		1.Mortgages prohibited for
			 principal residences of individuals who lack Social Security account
			 numbers
			(a)In
			 generalChapter 2 of the
			 Truth in Lending Act (15 U.S.C. 1631 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end
			 the following new section:

					140.Mortgages
				prohibited for principal residences of individuals who lack Social Security
				account numbersNotwithstanding any provision of State law,
				no credit may be extended by any creditor to any consumer who lacks a Social
				Security account number in any consumer credit transaction in which a security
				interest, including any such interest arising by operation of law, is or will
				be retained or acquired in any property located within the United States which
				is or, upon the completion of the transaction, will be used as the principal
				residence of such
				consumer.
					.
			(b)Clerical
			 amendmentThe table of sections for chapter 2 of the Truth in
			 Lending Act is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 139 the
			 following new item:

						140. Mortgages prohibited for principal
				residences of individuals who lack Social Security account
				numbers.

					.


		I
		112th CONGRESS
		1st Session
		H. R. 2955
		IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

			September 15, 2011
			Mr. Michaud
			 introduced the following bill; which was referred to the
			 Committee on Armed
			 Services

		A BILL
		To amend title 10, United States Code, to clarify the
		  requirement of the Department of Defense to procure footwear from American
		  sources.

		1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the
			 American Shoes for American
			 Servicemembers Act.
		2.Clarification of
			 requirement of Department of Defense to procure footwear from American
			 sourcesSection 2533a(b)(1)(B)
			 of title 10, United States Code, is amended—
			(1)by inserting
			 , including footwear, before and the materials;
			 and
			(2)by striking
			 (and the materials and components thereof) and inserting
			 , including footwear, and the materials and components
			 thereof.


110 HRES 1173 EH: Recognizing AmeriCorps

U.S. House of Representatives
2008-05-14
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
		2d Session
		H. RES. 1173
		In the House of Representatives, U.
		  S.,

			May 14, 2008

		RESOLUTION
		Recognizing AmeriCorps
		  Week.

		Whereas the AmeriCorps national service program, since its
			 inception in 1994, has proven to be a highly effective way to engage Americans
			 in meeting a wide range of local needs, national response directives, and
			 promote the ethic of service and volunteering;
		Whereas over $5,000,000,000 in AmeriCorps funds invested
			 in nonprofit, community, educational, and faith-based community groups since
			 1994 have leveraged hundreds of millions of dollars in additional funds and
			 in-kind donations from other sources;
		Whereas each year, AmeriCorps provides opportunities for
			 75,000 citizens across the Nation to give back in an intensive way to our
			 districts, our States, and our Nation;
		Whereas a total of 542,000 citizens since 1994 across the
			 Nation haven taken the AmeriCorps pledge to get things done for
			 America by becoming AmeriCorps members;
		Whereas those same individuals have served a total of more
			 than 705,000,000 hours nationwide, helping to improve the lives of our Nation’s
			 most vulnerable citizens, protect our environment, contribute to our public
			 safety, respond to disasters, and strengthen our educational system;
		Whereas AmeriCorps members last year recruited and
			 supervised more than 1,700,000 community volunteers, demonstrating AmeriCorps
			 value as a powerful volunteer catalyst and force multiplier;
		Whereas AmeriCorps members nationwide, in return for their
			 service, have earned nearly $1,430,000,000 to use to further their own
			 educational advancement at our Nation’s colleges and universities;
		Whereas AmeriCorps members, after their terms of service
			 end, remain engaged in our communities as volunteers, teachers, and nonprofit
			 professional in disproportionately high levels;
		Whereas AmeriCorps members served 4,100 nonprofit
			 organizations, schools, and faith-based and community organizations last year;
			 and
		Whereas 2008’s AmeriCorps Week, observed May 11 through
			 May 18, is an opportune time for the people of the United States to salute
			 current and former AmeriCorps members for their powerful impact, thank all of
			 AmeriCorps’ community partners in our Nation who make the program possible and
			 bring more Americans into service: Now, therefore, be it

		That the House of
			 Representatives—
			(1)encourages all
			 citizens to join in a national effort to salute AmeriCorps members and alumni,
			 and raise awareness about the importance of national and community
			 service;
			(2)acknowledges the
			 significant accomplishments of the AmeriCorps members, alumni, and community
			 partners;
			(3)recognizes the
			 important contributions to the lives of our citizens by AmeriCorps members;
			 and
			(4)encourages citizens
			 of all ages to consider serving in AmeriCorps.

			Lorraine C. Miller,
			Clerk.


117 S2775 IS: Financial Compensation for CFPB Whistleblowers Act
U.S. Senate
2021-09-21
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.

II117th CONGRESS1st SessionS. 2775IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATESSeptember 21, 2021Ms. Cortez Masto (for herself, Mr. Brown, Mr. Durbin, Ms. Warren, Ms. Smith, Mr. Blumenthal, and Mr. Merkley) introduced the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban AffairsA BILLTo amend the Consumer Financial Protection Act of 2010 to provide for whistleblower incentives and protection.1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the Financial Compensation for CFPB Whistleblowers Act.2.Bureau whistleblower incentives and protection(a)In generalThe Consumer Financial Protection Act (12 U.S.C. 5481 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end of section 1017 the following:1017A.Whistleblower incentives and protection(a)DefinitionsIn this section:(1)Administrative proceeding or court actionThe term administrative proceeding or court action means any judicial or administrative action brought by the Bureau that results in monetary sanctions exceeding $1,000,000.(2)FundThe term Fund means the Consumer Financial Civil Penalty Fund established under section 1017(d)(1).(3)Monetary sanctionsThe term monetary sanctions means, with respect to any administrative proceeding or court action, any monies, including penalties, disgorgement, restitution, interest, ordered to be paid or other amounts of relief obtained under section 1055(a)(2).(4)Original informationThe term original information means information that—(A)is derived from the independent knowledge or analysis of a whistleblower;(B)is not known to the Bureau from any other source, unless the whistleblower is the original source of the information;(C)is not exclusively derived from an allegation made in a judicial or administrative hearing, in a governmental report, hearing, or from the news media, unless the whistleblower is a source of the information; and(D)is not exclusively derived from an allegation made in an audit, examination, or investigation.(5)Successful enforcementThe term successful enforcement includes, with respect to any administrative proceeding or court action brought by the Bureau, any settlement of such proceeding or action.(6)WhistleblowerThe term whistleblower means any individual, or 2 or more individuals acting jointly, who provides original information relating to a violation of Federal consumer financial law, consistent with any rule or regulation issued by the Bureau under this section.(b)Awards(1)In generalIn any administrative proceeding or court action the Bureau, subject to regulations prescribed by the Bureau and subject to subsection (c), shall pay an award or awards to 1 or more whistleblowers who voluntarily provided original information that led to the successful enforcement of the covered administrative proceeding or court action in an aggregate amount equal to—(A)not less than 10 percent, in total, of the civil money penalties collected by the Bureau in the action; and(B)not more than 30 percent, in total, of the civil money penalties collected by the Bureau in the action.(2)Payment of awardsAny amount paid under paragraph (1) shall be paid from the Fund.(3)Award minimumIf the Bureau collects less than $1,000,000 in civil money penalties in the action, the Bureau shall provide for an award to any single whistleblower equal to the greater of—(A)10 percent of the civil money penalties collected; or(B)$50,000.(c)Determination of amount of award; denial of award(1)Determination of amount of award(A)DiscretionThe determination of the percentage amount of an award made under subsection (b) shall be in the discretion of the Bureau.(B)CriteriaIn determining the percentage amount of an award made under subsection (b), the Bureau shall take into consideration—(i)the significance of the information provided by the whistleblower to the successful enforcement of the administrative proceeding or court action;(ii)the degree of assistance provided by the whistleblower and any legal representative of the whistleblower in an administrative proceeding or court action;(iii)the programmatic interest of the Bureau in deterring violations of Federal consumer financial law (including applicable regulations) by making awards to whistleblowers who provide information that leads to the successful enforcement of such laws; and(iv)such additional relevant factors as the Bureau may establish by rule or regulation, including the amount available in the Fund.(2)Denial of awardNo award under subsection (b) shall be made—(A)to any whistleblower who is, or was at the time the whistleblower acquired the original information submitted to the Bureau, a member, officer, or employee of an entity described in subclauses (I) through (V) of subsection (h)(1)(C)(i);(B)to any whistleblower who is convicted of a criminal violation related to the administrative proceeding or court action for which the whistleblower otherwise could receive an award under this section;(C)to any whistleblower who is found to be liable for the conduct in the administrative proceeding or court action, or a related action, for which the whistleblower otherwise could receive an award under this section;(D)to any whistleblower who planned and initiated the conduct at issue in the administrative proceeding or court action for which the whistleblower otherwise could receive an award under this section;(E)to any whistleblower who submits information to the Bureau that is based on the facts underlying the administrative proceeding or court action previously submitted by another whistleblower; and(F)to any whistleblower who fails to submit information to the Bureau in such form as the Bureau may, by rule or regulation, require.(d)Representation(1)Permitted representationAny whistleblower who makes a claim for an award under subsection (b) may be represented by counsel.(2)Required representation(A)In generalAny whistleblower who anonymously makes a claim for an award under subsection (b) shall be represented by counsel if the whistleblower submits the information upon which the claim is based.(B)Disclosure of identityPrior to the payment of an award, a whistleblower shall disclose the identity of the whistleblower and provide such other information as the Bureau may require, directly or through counsel of the whistleblower.(e)No contract necessaryNo contract or other agreement with the Bureau is necessary for any whistleblower to receive an award under subsection (b), unless otherwise required by the Bureau by rule or regulation.(f)AppealsAny determination made under this section, including whether, to whom, or in what amount to make awards, shall be in the discretion of the Bureau. Any such determination, except the determination of the amount of an award if the award was made in accordance with subsection (b), may be appealed to the appropriate court of appeals of the United States not more than 30 days after the determination is issued by the Bureau. The court shall review the determination made by the Bureau in accordance with section 706 of title 5.(g)Reports to CongressNot later than December 31 of each year, the Bureau shall transmit to the House Committee on Financial Services and the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs a report on the Bureau’s whistleblower award program under this section, including a description of the number of awards granted and the types of cases in which awards were granted during the preceding fiscal year.(h)Protection of whistleblowers(1)Confidentiality(A)In generalExcept as provided in subparagraphs (B) and (C), the Bureau and any officer or employee of the Bureau, shall not disclose any information, including information provided by a whistleblower to the Bureau, which could reasonably be expected to reveal the identity of a whistleblower, except in accordance with the provisions of section 552a of title 5, United States Code, unless and until required to be disclosed to a defendant or respondent in connection with a public proceeding instituted by the Bureau or any entity described in subparagraph (C). For purposes of section 552 of title 5, United States Code, this paragraph shall be considered a statute described in subsection (b)(3)(B) of such section 552.(B)EffectNothing in this paragraph is intended to limit the ability of the Attorney General to present such evidence to a grand jury or to share such evidence with potential witnesses or defendants in the course of an ongoing criminal investigation.(C)Availability to government agencies(i)In generalWithout the loss of its status as confidential in the hands of the Bureau, all information referred to in subparagraph (A) may, in the discretion of the Bureau, when determined by the Bureau to be necessary or appropriate, be made available to—(I)the Department of Justice;(II)an appropriate department or agency of the Federal Government, acting within the scope of its jurisdiction;(III)a State attorney general in connection with any criminal investigation;(IV)an appropriate department or agency of any State, acting within the scope of its jurisdiction; and(V)a foreign regulatory authority.(ii)Maintenance of informationEach of the entities, agencies, or persons described in clause (i) shall maintain information described in that clause as confidential, in accordance with the requirements in subparagraph (A).(2)Rights retainedNothing in this section shall be deemed to diminish the rights, privileges, or remedies of any whistleblower under section 1057, any other Federal or State law, or under any collective bargaining agreement.(i)Rulemaking authorityThe Bureau shall have the authority to issue such rules and regulations as may be necessary or appropriate to implement the provisions of this section consistent with the purposes of this section.(j)Original informationInformation submitted to the Bureau by a whistleblower in accordance with rules or regulations implementing this section shall not lose its status as original information solely because the whistleblower submitted such information prior to the effective date of such rules or regulations, provided such information was submitted after the date of enactment of this section.(k)Provision of false informationA whistleblower who knowingly and willfully makes any false, fictitious, or fraudulent statement or representation, or who makes or uses any false writing or document knowing the same to contain any false, fictitious, or fraudulent statement or entry, shall not be entitled to an award under this section and shall be subject to prosecution under section 1001 of title 18, United States Code.(l)Unenforceability of certain agreements(1)No waiver of rights and remediesExcept as provided under paragraph (3), and notwithstanding any other provision of law, the rights and remedies provided for in this section may not be waived by any agreement, policy, form, or condition of employment, including by any predispute arbitration agreement.(2)No predispute arbitration agreementsExcept as provided under paragraph (3), and notwithstanding any other provision of law, no predispute arbitration agreement shall be valid or enforceable to the extent that it requires arbitration of a dispute arising under this section.(3)ExceptionNotwithstanding paragraphs (1) and (2), an arbitration provision in a collective bargaining agreement shall be enforceable as to disputes arising under subsection (a)(4), unless the Bureau determines, by rule, that such provision is inconsistent with the purposes of this title..(b)Consumer Financial Civil Penalty FundSection 1017(d)(2) of the Consumer Financial Protection Act of 2010 (12 U.S.C. 5497(d)(2)) is amended, in the first sentence, by inserting and for awards authorized under section 1017A before the period at the end.


109 HR 5229 IH: Pet Safety and Protection Act of 2005
U.S. House of Representatives
2006-04-27
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.

I
109th CONGRESS
2d Session
H. R. 5229
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

April 27, 2006
Mr. English of Pennsylvania (for himself, Mr. Doyle, Mr. Ackerman, Ms. Eddie Bernice Johnson of Texas, Ms. Kilpatrick of Michigan, Mr. Conyers, Mr. DeFazio, Mr. Delahunt, Mr. Emanuel, Mr. Evans, Mr. Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania, Mr. Hinchey, Mrs. Johnson of Connecticut, Mrs. McCarthy, Mr. George Miller of California, Mr. Moran of Virginia, Mr. Murtha, Mr. Olver, Mr. Pallone, Mr. Platts, Mr. Rothman, Ms. Schakowsky, Mr. Schiff, Mr. Shays, Mr. Simmons, Mr. Smith of New Jersey, Mr. Towns, Mr. Udall of Colorado, Mr. Van Hollen, Mr. Weldon of Pennsylvania, Mr. Berman, Mr. Brady of Pennsylvania, Mr. Israel, Mr. Sabo, and Ms. Hart) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Agriculture

A BILL
To amend the Animal Welfare Act to ensure that all dogs and cats used by research facilities are obtained legally.

1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the Pet Safety and Protection Act of 2005.
2.Protection of pets
(a)Research facilitiesSection 7 of the Animal Welfare Act (7 U.S.C. 2137) is amended to read as follows:

7.Sources of dogs and cats for research facilities
(a)Definition of personIn this section, the term person means any individual, partnership, firm, joint stock company, corporation, association, trust, estate, pound, shelter, or other legal entity.
(b)Use of dogs and catsNo research facility or Federal research facility may use a dog or cat for research or educational purposes if the dog or cat was obtained from a person other than a person described in subsection (d).
(c)Selling, donating, or offering dogs and catsNo person, other than a person described in subsection (d), may sell, donate, or offer a dog or cat to any research facility or Federal research facility.
(d)Permissible sourcesA person from whom a research facility or a Federal research facility may obtain a dog or cat for research or educational purposes under subsection (b), and a person who may sell, donate, or offer a dog or cat to a research facility or a Federal research facility under subsection (c), shall be—
(1)a dealer licensed under section 3 that has bred and raised the dog or cat;
(2)a publicly owned and operated pound or shelter that—
(A)is registered with the Secretary;
(B)is in compliance with section 28(a)(1) and with the requirements for dealers in subsections (b) and (c) of section 28; and
(C)obtained the dog or cat from its legal owner, other than a pound or shelter;
(3)a person that is donating the dog or cat and that—
(A)bred and raised the dog or cat; or
(B)owned the dog or cat for not less than 1 year immediately preceding the donation;
(4)a research facility licensed by the Secretary; and
(5)a Federal research facility licensed by the Secretary.
(e)Penalties
(1)In generalA person that violates this section shall be fined $1,000 for each violation.
(2)Additional penaltyA penalty under this subsection shall be in addition to any other applicable penalty.
(f)No required sale or donationNothing in this section requires a pound or shelter to sell, donate, or offer a dog or cat to a research facility or Federal research facility..
(b)Federal research facilitiesSection 8 of the Animal Welfare Act (7 U.S.C. 2138) is amended—
(1)by striking Sec. 8. No department and inserting the following:

8.Federal research facilitiesExcept as provided in section 7, no department;
(2)by striking research or experimentation or; and
(3)by striking such purposes and inserting that purpose.
(c)CertificationSection 28(b)(1) of the Animal Welfare Act (7 U.S.C. 2158(b)(1)) is amended by striking individual or entity and inserting research facility or Federal research facility.
3.Effective dateThe amendments made by section 2 take effect on the date that is 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act.


115 HR 1623 IH: To repeal the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Incentive Program.
U.S. House of Representatives
2017-03-17
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.

I115th CONGRESS1st SessionH. R. 1623IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVESMarch 17, 2017Mr. Russell introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Energy and CommerceA BILLTo repeal the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Incentive Program.

		1.Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Incentive Program repeal
 (a)Cessation of authorityEffective on the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Energy may not make any additional awards or loans under section 136 of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (42 U.S.C. 17013).
 (b)RepealUpon the repayment, in accordance with the terms of the loan agreements, of all loans made before the date of enactment of this Act under subsection (d) of such section, section 136 of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (42 U.S.C. 17013) is repealed.