109 HR 4940 IH: Fishery Management Amendments of 2006
U.S. House of Representatives
2006-03-13
text/xml
EN
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I
109th CONGRESS 2d Session
H. R. 4940
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

March 13, 2006
Mr. Frank of Massachusetts (for himself and Mr. Tierney) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Resources

A BILL
To amend the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, and for other purposes.

1.Short title; table of contents
(a)Short titleThis Act may be cited as the Fishery Management Amendments of 2006.
(b)Table of contentsThe table of contents for this Act is as follows:

Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
Sec. 2. Amendment of Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act.
Sec. 3. Rebuilding depleted fisheries.
Sec. 4. Economic and social impacts of fishery management actions.
Sec. 5. Improvements in fishery science and research.
Sec. 6. Fishing safety.
Sec. 7. Bycatch.
Sec. 8. Capacity reduction.
Sec. 9. Individual fishing quotas.
Sec. 10. Compliance with National Environmental Policy Act of 1969.
Sec. 11. Grants for construction or repair of wharves and related facilities.
Sec. 12. Fishery science education program.
Sec. 13. Authorization of Appropriations.
2.Amendment of Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act Except as otherwise expressly provided, whenever in this Act an amendment or repeal is expressed in terms of an amendment to, or repeal of, a section or other provision, the reference shall be considered to be made to a section or other provision of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.).
3.Rebuilding depleted fisheries
(a)Treatment of stocks as depleted; prevention of unsustainable fishing
(1)DefinitionsSection 3 (16 U.S.C. 1802) is amended—
(A)by striking paragraph (29);
(B)by redesignating the last paragraph (relating to the definition of waters of a foreign nation) as paragraph (46); and
(C)by adding at the end the following:

(47)The term depleted means, with respect to a stock of fish, that, based on the best scientific information available, the stock of fish is below 50 percent of the population level that is necessary to produce maximum sustainable yield for the stock of fish on a continuing basis.
(48)The term unsustainable fishing means, with respect to a stock of fish, a rate of fishing mortality that, based on the best scientific information available, is likely, if such rate is maintained, to result over time in a reduction in the stock of fish below a population level that is consistent with producing maximum sustainable yield for the stock of fish on a continuing basis. .
(2)Substitution of termsThe Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act is amended—
(A)by striking overfished each place it appears and inserting depleted;
(B)by striking overfished each place it appears and inserting depleted; and
(C)by striking overfishing each place it appears and inserting unsustainable fishing.
(b)Ensuring scientific determinations of depleted conditionsSection 304(e)(1) (16 U.S.C. 1854(e)(1)) is amended by adding at the end the following: All determinations by the Secretary under this subsection that a fishery is depleted or approaching a condition of being depleted shall be based on the best scientific information available, shall be subject to peer review in accordance with section 404(d), and shall include an explanation of the cause or causes of the depleted condition of the fishery.
(c)Rebuilding flexibilitySection 304(e) (16 U.S.C. 1854(e)) is amended—
(1)in paragraph (4)(A)(ii) by inserting after other environmental conditions, the following: a need to alleviate a projected significant negative economic impact on fishing communities (subject to the requirements in paragraph (10)),;
(2) in paragraph (4) by striking and after the semicolon at the end of subparagraph (B), by striking the period at the end of subparagraph (C) and inserting ; and, and by adding at the end the following:

(D)for a multispecies fishery in which more than one stock of fish within the fishery is subject to a fishery management plan, plan amendment, regulation, or proposed regulation pursuant to paragraph (3) or (5), provide that the rebuilding deadline may be extended for an individual stock of fish within the fishery subject to the management measures in such plan, amendment, or regulation, for an additional time period that is not longer than the time period specified for the fishery under subparagraph (A), if—
(i)such stock is not projected to be rebuilt at the conclusion of the time period specified under subparagraph (A);
(ii)taking into account the biology of the several stocks of fish in the multispecies fishery—
(I)the aggregate average population for all of the stocks of fish in the multispecies fishery that are subject to the management measures is projected, under a formula established by the Secretary in accordance with paragraph (8), to remain at a level that is consistent with producing maximum sustainable yield on a continuing basis; and
(II)no individual stock of fish that is subject to the management measures is depleted or projected to be depleted; and
(iii)the Secretary, taking into account the biology of the stock of fish for which the deadline is extended, certifies that such stock of fish is projected, using the best scientific information available, to continue rebuilding.  ; and
(3)by adding at the end the following:

(8)The Secretary shall issue a regulation that establishes the formula for calculating the aggregate average of all stocks of fish in a multispecies fishery for purposes of paragraph (4)(D). The Secretary shall provide an opportunity for submission of public comment on such formula for a 6-month period. The formula shall be based on the best scientific information available, and shall take into account the relative sizes of the populations of the various stocks of fish in the fishery. The Secretary shall ensure that any finding, based on such formula, as to whether a multispecies fishery is rebuilt shall be subject to peer review in accordance with section 404.
(9)The Secretary may extend the rebuilding time period under paragraph (4)(A)(ii), if—
(A) the biomass rebuilding target is substantially increased during the rebuilding period;
(B)the extension will apply only to those species for which the new biomass targets exceed the targets in the existing plan;
(C)the extension does not exceed 10 years; and
(D)the best scientific information available shows that the extension will allow continued rebuilding and completion of rebuilding by the end of the extension.
(10)The Secretary may extend the rebuilding time period under paragraph (4)(A)(ii) to alleviate projected significant negative economic impact on fishing communities, if—
(A)the determination of economic impact has been subject to peer review in accordance with section 404;
(B)the best scientific information available shows that rebuilding will be achieved in no more than twice the number of years of the original rebuilding period; and
(C)the best scientific information available shows that the extension will allow continued rebuilding and completion of rebuilding by the end of the extension.
(11)The Secretary or the Council may, during a rebuilding period, amend a rebuilding plan to allow an increase in the rate of harvest of the depleted stock of fish concerned, if—
(A)the Secretary determines during the rebuilding period that the depleted stock of fish is rebuilding at a significantly faster rate than the rate that was projected at the beginning of the rebuilding period; and
(B)the best scientific information available shows that the increased rate will allow continued rebuilding and completion of rebuilding by the end of the rebuilding period..
(d)Consideration of environmental conditions and natural fluctuationsSection 304(e)(1) (16 U.S.C. 1854(e)(1)) is further amended by inserting environmental conditions, natural biological fluctuations, after fishery resource size,.
(e)Actions following determination of depleted stateSection 304(e) (16 U.S.C. 1854(e)) is further amended—
(1)in paragraph (2) by striking the first sentence and inserting the following: (A) If the Secretary determines at any time that a fishery is depleted, and that unsustainable fishing is a cause of the depleted state of the fishery, the Secretary shall immediately notify the appropriate Council and request that action be taken to end unsustainable fishing in the fishery in a manner consistent with section 304(e)(3) and to implement conservation and management measures to rebuild affected stocks of fish.;
(2)by adding at the end of paragraph (2) the following:

(B)If the Secretary determines that environmental conditions or other factors not directly related to fishing have contributed to the depleted state of the fishery, the Secretary—
(i)shall immediately notify the appropriate Council and may request that action be taken to end unsustainable fishing in the fishery in a manner consistent with section 304(e)(3) and to implement conservation and management measures to rebuild the fishery; and
(ii)shall consult with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency or other appropriate Federal Government officials on additional methods of alleviating such conditions or factors.;
(3)in paragraph (3) by striking or after the semicolon at the end of subparagraph (A), by striking the period at the end of subparagraph (B) and inserting ; or and by adding at the end the following:

(C)coordinate other actions to alleviate the depleted condition of the fishery with other Federal Government officials.;
(4)in paragraph (4)—
(A)in the matter preceding subparagraph (A) by striking shall;
(B)in each of subparagraphs (A), (B), and (C) by inserting shall after the subparagraph designation; and
(C)by striking and after the semicolon at the end of subparagraph (B), by striking the period at the end of subparagraph (C) and inserting and, and by adding at the end the following:

(D)may temporarily permit fishing during a rebuilding period at rates that, if such temporary rates were maintained until the end of the rebuilding period, could result in rebuilding not being completed by the end of the rebuilding period, if the mortality rates associated with such temporary rates (and any adjustments to such mortality rates that are required pursuant to fishery management measures adopted during the rebuilding period) are projected to produce continued rebuilding and lead to a completion of rebuilding by the end of the rebuilding period (or the end of any extension of the rebuilding period under paragraph (9) or (10)).;
(5)in paragraph (5) by striking the Secretary shall prepare and all that follows through the end of the sentence and inserting the Secretary shall, within 9 months after the end of such one-year period, prepare under subsection (c) a fishery management plan or plan amendment and any accompanying regulations that may be necessary to rebuild affected stocks of fish, including, if necessary, measures to stop, or reduce the rate of, unsustainable fishing.;
(6)in paragraph (6) by striking the last sentence; and
(7)in paragraph (7) in the second sentence by striking ending overfishing and.
4.Economic and social impacts of fishery management actions
(a)Restoring balance between national standards on unsustainable fishing and economic impactSection 301 (16 U.S.C. 1851) is amended by adding at the end the following:

(c)Rule of construction regarding national standard (8)Paragraph (8) of subsection (a) shall be construed to be of equal importance as the other paragraphs of subsection (a). The Secretary shall ensure that paragraph (8) of subsection (a)—
(1)is applied to the same extent as the other paragraphs of subsection (a); and
(2)is given consideration that is substantially the same as the consideration given to the other paragraphs of subsection (a), with respect to all fishery management plans, decisions, and actions under this Act..
(b)Cumulative economic and social impactSection 301(a)(8) (16 U.S.C. 1851(a)(8)) is amended by inserting after the importance of fishery resources to fishing communities the following: and the cumulative economic and social impact of fishery conservation and management measures on such communities.
(c)Required provisions of fishery management plansSection 303(a)(9) (16 U.S.C. 1853(a)(9)) is amended by inserting before the semicolon the following: , including the likely economic and social impacts of the plan or amendment on the affected participants and fishing communities.
(d)Amendment to definition of fishing communitySection 3(16) (16 U.S.C. 1802(16)) is amended—
(1)by striking “and crew” and inserting “crew”; and
(2)by inserting “, and other shore side businesses that have substantial involvement in the fishing industry,” after “processors”.
(e)Fishing industry health care coverage demonstration program
(1)Grants program authorizedThe Secretary shall carry out a program of grants in accordance with this subsection to organizations for planning, implementation, and administration of qualifying health care coverage programs that provide benefits to individuals who are employed in the fishing industry (and their families), and—
(A)who are in general ineligible for existing health care coverage programs because of the sporadic and transient nature of employment opportunities in the fishing industry;
(B)whose ability to acquire health care coverage is negatively affected by the nature of the fishing industry or fishery management actions; or
(C)whose ability to acquire health care coverage is negatively affected by a natural disaster that has a harmful economic impact on commercial fishing.
(2)Grant program requirementsThe Secretary shall award grants under this subsection—
(A)on a competitive basis;
(B)after consultation with government officials or representatives of organizations who are familiar with the commercial fishing industry in the affected area;
(C)according to the terms and limits described in paragraphs (4), (5), and (6), except that grants that are awarded under paragraphs (5) and (6) shall include a requirement for non-Federal matching funds equal to 40 percent of the grant amount;
(D)to programs in no more than 10 States, and to no more than one such program in each State, except as provided in paragraph (7);
(E)pursuant to such application procedures as the Secretary may require; and
(F)subject to any review, financial standards, or other requirements the Secretary may establish to ensure compliance with the purposes of the grants on an ongoing basis.
(3)Qualified health insurance programA program shall be considered a qualifying health care coverage programs under this subsection if the program—
(A)is administered by a non-profit fishing-related organization with an independent board of directors that includes commercial fishing industry representatives;
(B)provides high quality, affordable, preventive health care coverage to individuals described in paragraph (1);
(C)provides health care on a sliding scale premium rate structure that includes provisions that, for the purposes of determining rates, take into account the economic conditions of the fishing industry in the program’s service area, and the condition of the fish stocks that are important to the fishing industry in such area;
(D)provides ongoing enrollment, outreach, and other activities to expand the program’s coverage; and
(E)establishes a reserve fund, maintains aggregate and specific reinsurance coverage, and meets any other risk management controls and financial standards required by the Secretary.
(4)Program planning grantsThe Secretary may award grants, up to a maximum amount of $100,000 per year for no more than two years, to organizations to conduct initial research and planning for the development of a qualifying health care coverage program. Any grantee under this paragraph shall—
(A)conduct a demographic survey of the affected State’s fishing industry and such industry’s health care needs;
(B)develop a strategic plan for implementation of a qualifying health care coverage program within the affected State, including a detailed financial plan; and
(C)transmit to the Secretary the information described in subparagraphs (A) and (B), and any other information and assurances that may be required by the Secretary.
(5)Program implementation grantsThe Secretary may award grants, up to a maximum amount of $2,000,000 per year for no more than two years, to an organization for initial implementation of qualifying health care coverage programs that are developed with a grant under paragraph (4) (or that are developed through other sources of funds, regardless of whether such implementation occurred prior to enactment of this paragraph), if, pursuant to review, application requirements, and other standards established by the Secretary, such organizations—
(A)satisfactorily complete the actions described in subparagraphs (A), (B), and (C) of paragraph (4); and
(B)demonstrate the capability to successfully implement a qualifying program.
(6)Administration of programsThe Secretary may award grants, up to a maximum amount of $3,000,000 per year for no more than five years, to organizations for administration of programs that are implemented by means of grants awarded under paragraph (5) (or that are implemented through other sources of funds, regardless of whether such implementation occurred prior to enactment of this paragraph), if, pursuant to review, application requirements, and other standards established by the Secretary, such organizations—
(A)satisfactorily complete the actions described in paragraph (5); and
(B)demonstrate the capability to successfully administer a qualifying health care coverage program.
(7)Extended grant eligibilityThe Secretary may provide grants, up to a maximum of $3,000,000 per year, to organizations that have been previously awarded grants for 5 years under paragraph (6), for continued implementation of a qualifying health care coverage program, if, pursuant to regulations issued by the Secretary, the economic conditions of the fishing industry in the program’s service area, or the condition of the fish stocks that are important to the fishing industry in such area, jeopardize the ability of such programs to continue providing affordable health care coverage.
(8)Multistate programs
(A)Notwithstanding the limitations in subparagraph (2)(D), the Secretary may award grants under this subsection for the establishment of a multistate qualifying health care coverage program to consortiums of organizations located in more than one State.
(B)A multistate program shall be considered as a single program under paragraph (2)(D).
(C)The Secretary may increase the funding limits in paragraphs (4), (5), and (6), taking into account the size of the population to be served by such program.
(9)Third-party contract authorityOrganizations that are awarded grants under this subsection may contract with third parties to conduct the activities described in paragraphs (5) and (6).
(10)Authorization of appropriationsIn addition to the other amounts authorized by this Act, for grants under this section there are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary the following sums:
(A)$5,000,000 for fiscal year 2007.
(B)$5,000,000 for fiscal year 2008.
(C)$10,000,000 for fiscal year 2009.
(D)$10,000,000 for fiscal year 2010.
(E)$20,000,000 for fiscal year 2011.
(f)Study of benefits for individuals employed in the fishing industry
(1)In generalThe Secretary of Commerce shall conduct a study of the options for, and the feasibility of, establishing programs to provide economic benefits, including pensions, to crewmembers and other individuals employed in the fishing industry and members of their families—
(A)who are in general ineligible for existing programs that provide such benefits because of the sporadic nature of employment opportunities in the fishing industry; or
(B)whose benefits are negatively affected by the nature of the fishing industry of fishery management actions.
(2)ReportThe Secretary shall submit a report submit a report to the Congress by not later than 2 years after the date of the enactment of this Act on the findings, conclusions, and recommendations of the study under this subsection.
5.Improvements in fishery science and research
(a)Best scientific information available definedSection 3 (16 U.S.C. 1802) is further amended by adding at the end the following:

(49)The term best scientific information available—
(A)means information that—
(i)is directly related to the specific matter under consideration;
(ii)is based on a statistically valid sample;
(iii)has undergone an independent peer review process, that is carried out in accordance with peer review requirements (if any) that apply under this Act to such consideration;
(iv)has been collected within a time frame that is reasonably related to the specific matter under consideration;
(v)is based on information that is reasonably reflective of the present status of the fishery to which it relates, and does not rely substantially on data from previous time periods for which fish abundance estimates are primarily anecdotal, or data that is of unknown reliability given the technology and scientific knowledge during such periods;
(vi)is developed through reasonably transparent processes in which scientific findings, and the analyses that produced such findings, are available to the public, subject to regulations issued by the Secretary; and
(vii)takes into account to the extent possible the movement between habitat areas of different stocks of the same species;
(B)takes into account significant economic and social impacts, including cumulative economic and social impacts;
(C)may include information obtained by scientifically valid research that is conducted in cooperation between the Department of Commerce and a person that is not an officer or employee of the Department, or by a person other than an officer or employee of the Department;
(D)may include, but may not be limited to, landing data, sales and auction data, and anecdotal information collected during the harvesting and processing of fish; and
(E)shall to the extent practicable include more than one scientific model. .
(b)Peer review of stock assessments and economic and social analysis
(1)Scientific Review CommitteesSection 302(g) (16 U.S.C. 1852(g)) is amended by adding at the end the following:

(6)
(A)Each Council shall establish a scientific review committee which shall, with respect to fisheries under the Council’s jurisdiction, conduct an independent peer review of the scientific research findings that are the basis for each new stock assessment used to develop a fishery management plan, significant substantive amendment to such a plan, or other significant substantive fishery management action under this Act.
(B)The findings of any peer review conducted under this paragraph shall be included in any relevant documents that are made available to the public with respect to the matter that is reviewed.
(C)A committee established under this paragraph by a Council shall, at a minimum, consist of—
(i)at least one member from each of the committees established under paragraphs (1) and (3) by the Council, of whom at least one shall be a member who is not affiliated with the persons who wrote or prepared the scientific information reviewed by the committee; and
(ii)such other members as the Council (excluding the persons who wrote or prepared the scientific information reviewed by the committee) considers appropriate.  .
(2)Economic and social impact review committeesSection 302(g) (16 U.S.C. 1852(g)) is further amended by adding at the end the following:

(7)
(A)Each Council shall establish an economic and social impact review committee which shall, with respect to fisheries under the Council’s jurisdiction, conduct an independent peer review of the economic and social impacts associated with a fishery management plan, significant substantive amendment to such plan, or other significant substantive fishery management action under this Act.
(B)The findings of any peer review conducted under this paragraph shall be included in any relevant documents that are made available to the public with respect to the matter that is reviewed.
(C)The membership of a committee established under this paragraph by a Council—
(i)may include members of other committees established by the Council;
(ii)may include such other members as the Council (other than the persons who wrote or prepared the economic and social information reviewed by the committee) considers appropriate; and
(iii)shall include at least one member who is not affiliated with the persons who wrote or prepared the economic and social information reviewed by the committee..
(c)Independent peer reviewSection 404 (16 U.S.C. 1881c) is amended by adding at the end the following:

(d)Independent peer review
(1)In generalThe Secretary shall ensure that there is conducted an independent peer review of the scientific research findings that are the basis for each new stock assessment used to develop a fishery management plan, significant substantive amendment to such a plan, or other significant substantive fishery management action under this Act.
(2)ReviewersThe persons conducting review under this subsection—
(A)shall include one or more individuals who are not officials or employees of the Federal Government; and
(B)may include persons who are employed in the fishing industry.
(3)Consideration of recommendationsA review under this subsection shall consider the recommendations of any scientific review committee established under section 302(g)(6) with respect to the fishery that is the subject of the matter under review.
(4)Treatment of findingsThe findings of any independent peer review conducted under this paragraph shall be included in any relevant documents that are made available to the public with respect to the matter that is reviewed.
(5)Waiver of requirements
(A)General authorityThe Secretary shall issue regulations under which the Secretary may waive any of the independent peer review requirements under this subsection if—
(i) the Secretary determines that—
(I)there is an emergency (as described in the regulations);
(II) completion of the peer review process has been unreasonably delayed; or
(III)the time required to complete the review could compromise fishermen’s safety; or
(ii)the Council having jurisdiction over the fishery requests the waiver, in accordance with a vote by the Council, and explains in writing the reasons for requesting the waiver.
(B)Notice and commentThe Secretary shall—
(i)provide notice of each waiver under this paragraph to the Council having jurisdiction over the fishery;
(ii)publish the notice in the Federal Register; and
(iii)provide a 30-day period for the submission by the public of comments on the waiver..
(d) Cooperative research and independent researchSection 404 (16 U.S.C. 1881c) is further amended by adding at the end the following:

(e)Cooperative research and independent research
(1)Requirement for fishery management plansEach fishery management plan that is prepared by a Council, or by the Secretary, with respect to any fishery shall—
(A)include provisions to create a cooperative research component, including the use of fishing vessels engaged in commercial fishing or charter fishing, and the captains and crews of such vessels, for the gathering of data on stock abundance, composition, distribution, or other relevant information for the implementation of the plan; research on gear technology, bycatch reduction, and safety; and oceanic, atmospheric, weather, and environmental research that relates to fishery management, in a manner that ensures there is no loss of days at sea or other fishing allocation for participants in the fishing industry individuals who participate in such cooperative research; and
(B)include provisions to create an independent research component involving educational and research institutions, other than institutions designated as Member Institutions of the Fishery Research Network established under subsection (f).
(2)Authorization of appropriationsIn addition to the other amounts authorized by this Act, for cooperative research and independent research under provisions included in fishery management plans under this subsection, there is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary $5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2007 through 2011.  .
(e)Establishment of Fishery Research NetworkSection 404 (16 U.S.C. 1881c) is further amended by adding at the end the following:

(f)Fishery Research Network
(1)EstablishmentThe Secretary shall establish the Federal Fishery Research Network.
(2)CompositionThe Network shall be composed of non-governmental educational or research institutions that have significant fishery research expertise and that are designated by the Secretary under this subsection (in this subsection referred to as a Member Institutions). The Secretary shall designate 3 Member Institutions with respect to each Council. Each Member Institution must be located in a State that is represented on the Council with respect to which the Member Institution is designated, or in a State that borders such a represented State.
(3)Research role of Member InstitutionsThe Secretary shall ensure that each Member Institution plays a continuing role in—
(A)gathering data for use in implementing this Act;
(B)advising the Council with respect to which it is appointed and the Secretary;
(C) performing peer review under this Act; and
(D)otherwise assisting with and conducting ongoing research on fishery management issues affecting the area in which the Member Institution is located, including—
(i)the economic and social impacts of fishery management proposals;
(ii)analysis of the impacts of fishery management proposals on fishing safety; and
(iii)ways of improving safety within the fishing industry.
(4)Consultation with Member InstitutionsThe Secretary and each Council shall—
(A)consult with the relevant Member Institutions regarding fishery management plans and amendments to such plans that affect the area in which the Member Institutions are located; and
(B)provide to Member Institutions appropriate data regarding such plans and amendments.
(5)Responsibilities of Member InstitutionsThe Secretary shall require each Member Institution to submit to the Secretary and the Council with respect to which it is designated an analysis of each fishery management plan, and each significant amendment to such a plan, that affects the area in which the Member Institution is located.
(6)Authorization of appropriationsIn addition to the other amounts authorized by this Act, to carry out this subsection there is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary $15,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2007 through 2011..
(f)Fisheries management research grantsSection 404 (16 U.S.C. 1881c) is further amended by adding at the end the following:

(g)Fisheries management research grants
(1)In generalThe Secretary shall award grants for research to acquire the knowledge and information referred to in subsection (a).
(2)Eligibility for grantsTo be eligible for a grant under this subsection a person must be—
(A)a participant in a fishery administered under this Act that is the subject of the research to be carried out with the grant;
(B)an educational or scientific institution;
(C)a non-profit organization; or
(D)a State or municipal government.
(3)Grant procedures
(A)In generalThe Secretary shall award grants under this subsection on a competitive basis.
(B)Consultative role of councilsThe Secretary shall consult with each Council on, and each Council shall make recommendations on, possible research topics to be funded by grants under this subsection.
(4)Ensuring research regarding economic and social aspects, and safetyThe Secretary shall establish by regulation a formula or system for allocating the funds available to carry out this section that ensures that a reasonable percentage of such funds is used for grants for research regarding the economic and social aspects of fishery management and for research regarding fishing safety.
(5)Authorization of appropriationsIn addition to the other amounts authorized to carry out this Act, for grants under this subsection there is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary $5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2007 through 2011..
6.Fishing safety
(a)Rule of construction for national standard (10)Section 301 (16 U.S.C. 1851) is further amended by adding at the end the following:

(d)Rule of construction regarding national standard (10)Paragraph (10) of subsection (a) shall be construed to be of equal importance as the other paragraphs of subsection (a). The Secretary shall ensure that paragraph (10) of subsection (a)—
(1)is applied to the same extent as the other paragraphs of subsection (a); and
(2)is given consideration that is substantially the same as the consideration given to the other paragraphs of subsection (a), with respect to all fishery management plans, decisions, and actions under this Act..
(b)Required provisions of fishery management plansSection 303(a) (16 U.S.C. 1853(a)) is amended—
(1)in paragraph (9) by striking and after the semicolon at the end of subparagraph (A), by striking the period at the end of subparagraph (B) and inserting ; and, and by adding at the end the following:

(C)the safety of human life at sea, with a specific focus on whether and to what extent such measures may affect the safety of participants in the fishery.; and
(2)by striking ; and after the semicolon at the end of paragraph (12), by striking the period at the end of paragraph (13) and inserting ; and, and by adding at the end the following:

(14)to the extent practicable ensure that management measures, including restricted area and broken trip requirements, minimize the extent to which participants in the fishery are likely, in order to avoid a loss of harvest allocation or other financial loss, to continue fishing in unsafe circumstances, including when—
(A) operating during severe weather conditions;
(B) a crewmember has an injury or illness that significantly affects the crewmember’s ability to assist in the safe operation of the vessel; or
(C)important safety equipment on the vessel is defective or inoperable..
(c)Safety instruction and drillsNot later than 6 months after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall amend part 28.270 of title 46, Code of Federal Regulations, to require that the operator of each fishing vessel that is subject to that part maintain and make available for inspection by any Federal officer or employee authorized to enforce this Act a written record of safety instruction and emergency drills that are required to be performed under that part, that includes for each drill the following information:
(1)The date of the drill.
(2)The elapsed time of the drill.
(3)The activities conducted during the drill.
(4)The name of the person who led the drill.
(5)The name of each crewmember who participated in the drill.
(d)Stability and watertight integrity standardsNot later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall amend subpart E of part 28 of title 46, Code of Federal Regulations, to apply to fishing vessels that are between 50 feet in length and 79 feet in length the stability and watertight integrity standards that apply to vessels greater than 79 feet in length.
(e)Grant program
(1)Authorization of grantsTitle III (16 U.S.C. 1851 et seq.) is further amended by adding at the end the following:

316.Fishing vessel safety grants
(a)Grants authorizedThe Secretary shall establish a program for providing grants to municipalities, port authorities, other appropriate public entities, qualified non-profits, and other persons—
(1)to conduct fishing vessel safety training and instruction sessions (in addition to those otherwise required under Federal law or regulations); and
(2)for purchase of safety equipment for use in safety training sessions or for use on fishing vessels.
(b)Competitive basis; consultationThe Secretary shall award grants under this subsection—
(1)on a competitive basis; and
(2)in consultation with, and based on recommendations of, the Councils.
(c)Cost sharingThe Federal share of the cost of any activity carried out with a grant under this section shall not exceed 75 percent.
(d)Language requirementThe Secretary shall require that training and instruction carried out with a grant under this section shall be made available in languages other than English, as appropriate for the fishing port in which the training or instruction is offered.
(e)Data base
(1)In generalThe Secretary shall establish a publicly accessible electronic data base that lists the names of individuals who have participated in training sessions carried out with assistance under this section.
(2)Retraining requirementThe Secretary shall require, as a condition of including the name of an individual in such database for any period longer than 18 months, that the individual complete retraining.
(f)Authorization of appropriationsIn addition to the other amounts authorized by this Act, for grants under this section there is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary $3,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2007 through 2011..
(2)Clerical amendmentThe table of contents in the first section is further amended by inserting after the item relating to section 315 the following:

Sec. 316. Fishing vessel safety grants..
7.Bycatch
(a)Retention of bycatch for charitable purposesSection 303 (16 U.S.C. 1853) is amended—
(1)in subsection (b) by striking and after the semicolon at the end of paragraph (11), by striking the period at the end of paragraph (12) and inserting ; and, and by adding at the end the following:

(13)allow the retention and donation or sale for charitable purposes, subject to the requirements established under subsection (e)(2), of dead bycatch that cannot otherwise be avoided under terms that ensure that such retention and donation do not allow the evasion of vessel trip limits or other conservation and management measures.; and
(2)by adding at the end the following:

(e) Retention of bycatch for charitable purposes
(1)RegulationsThe Secretary shall issue regulations that establish requirements for the retention of bycatch for charitable purposes pursuant to subsection (b)(13).
(2)RequirementsRegulations under this subsection shall require that—
(A)the total amount of bycatch retained pursuant to subsection (b)(13) on a voyage shall not exceed a percentage of the total weight of the total authorized catch for that voyage of the target species, that shall be established by the Secretary and shall not exceed 20 percent of such total weight;
(B)the proceeds of any sale of bycatch shall be donated to charitable organizations that provide economic assistance, job training, health care, or other assistance to individuals involved in the fishing industry and their families, who reside in fishing communities located—
(i)in the area where the vessel that harvested the bycatch is based; or
(ii)in the area where the bycatch was harvested; and
(C)in making such donations, preference shall be given to organizations that assist individuals who have become unemployed or experienced significant negative economic impacts because of fishery management actions by the Federal Government.
(3)Prevention of conflicts of interestRegulations under this subsection shall include provisions to prevent conflicts of interest, including prohibiting a person from retaining bycatch to directly benefit any charitable organization—
(A)from which the person derives a direct, personal benefit; or
(B)over which the person exercises any control with respect to the activities of the organization or its provision of benefits..
(b)Study
(1)In generalThe Secretary shall conduct a study of the utility and feasibility of establishing a bycatch exchange program comprised of a system—
(A)under which fishermen may—
(i)retain bycatch in order to minimize discard of fish; and
(ii)trade or exchange credits based on the retained bycatch, with other fishermen who are involved in the directed fishery in which the bycatch is harvested; and
(B)that prevents the evasion of trip limits, total allowable catch levels, or other conservation and management measures.
(2)ReportThe Secretary shall submit a report to the Congress within two years after the date of the enactment of this Act on the results and recommendations of the study.
8.Capacity reduction
(a)Use of proceeds of fishing capacity reduction programsSection 312(b) (16 U.S.C. 1861a) is amended by adding at the end the following:

(5)Programs for assisting affected individuals
(A)In generalA fishing capacity reduction program shall, in accordance with regulations issued by the Secretary and subject to the availability of appropriations, include the provision of financial assistance for programs providing economic assistance, job training, and health insurance to crew members and other individuals employed in the fishing industry or in shoreside businesses that have substantial involvement in the fishing industry, with an emphasis on such crew members and individuals who experience job loss or other significant negative economic impacts because of a decline in employment opportunities as a result of the program.
(B)Regulations; formulasThe Secretary shall issue regulations governing the provision of assistance under this paragraph, including formulas for calculating the amount of assistance provided with respect to a fishing capacity reduction program.
(C)Allocation of fundsOf the total amount of funds obligated or expended under this subsection for a fishing capacity reduction program, the Secretary shall use to carry out this paragraph a percentage that the Secretary determines is sufficient to ensure the availability of a reasonable level of assistance for individuals involved in the fishing industry who experience job loss or other significant negative economic impacts because of a decline in employment opportunities as a result of the program.
(D)RegulationsThe Secretary shall issue regulations that to the extent practicable fairly distribute funds used under subparagraph (C), taking into account local and regional economies, fishing communities, participants in the fishery, boat sizes and gear types, and employment history in the fishery..
(b)Vessel buybacksSection 312(b) (16 U.S.C. 1861a(b)) is amended by adding at the end the following:

(5)
(A)The Secretary shall ensure for each vessel buyback program, that a specific percentage of the funds made available under this section are used for retirement of vessels that were active in the affected fishery, but no longer comply with relevant safety standards as a result of the application, under the Fishery Management Amendments of 2005, of the stability and watertight integrity standards of subpart E of part 28 of title 46, Code of Federal Regulations, to fishing vessels that are between 50 feet and 79 feet in length.
(B)The Secretary shall issue regulations for each vessel buyback program that establish the percentage referred to in subparagraph (A) and procedures and requirements for implementing subparagraph (A)..
9.Individual fishing quotas
(a)Holding of quota by fish processorSection 303(d)(5) (16 U.S.C. 1853(d)(5)) is amended by striking and after the semicolon at the end of subparagraph (B), by striking the period at the end of subparagraph (C) and inserting a semicolon, and by adding at the end the following:

(D)requires as a condition of eligibility for individual fishing quotas that persons, other than entry-level fishermen, must demonstrate a present or historic participation in harvesting activity in the fishery; and
(E)takes into account the level of present or historic participation in harvesting activity in the fishery in determining allocation of quotas..
(b)Citizenship of holders of quotasSection 303(d) (16 U.S.C. 1853(d)) is further amended by adding at the end the following:

(7) Citizenship of holders of quotasA person is eligible to be issued an individual fishing quota only if—
(A)the person—
(i)is a United States citizen; or
(ii)is an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the United States; and
(B)the individual quota system under which the quota is issued is approved in a referendum conducted in accordance with paragraph (8). .
(c)Referendum requirementsSection 303(d) (16 U.S.C. 1853(d)) is further amended by adding at the end the following:

(8)Referendum requirements
(A)In generalA Council may not submit, and the Secretary may not approve or implement, any fishery management plan, plan amendment, or regulation under this Act that creates an individual fishing quota program, unless development of the plan, amendment, or regulation is approved by a referendum conducted in accordance with this paragraph.
(B)Conduct by SecretaryThe Secretary—
(i)shall conduct each referendum required under this paragraph; and
(ii)shall conduct a referendum under this paragraph upon the request of a Council.
(C)Vote requirementA fishery management plan, plan amendment, or regulation referred to in subparagraph (A) shall be approved in a referendum required under this paragraph only by the affirmative vote of two-thirds of the votes cast by persons who are determined by the Council, based upon requirements issued by the Secretary, to be eligible to vote in the referendum.
(D)Eligibility to voteThe Secretary shall issue requirements for procedures and voting eligibility for referenda under this paragraph. The requirements shall be designed to ensure that—
(i)such referenda are conducted in a fair and equitable manner;
(ii)individuals who are permit holders are eligible to vote; and
(iii)crew members who make a significant percentage of their income from the fishery that would be subject to the proposed fishing quota system, and a significant share of their total income from fishing, are eligible to vote..
(d)Limitation on application to existing programsThis section and the amendments made by this section shall not apply with respect to any individual fishing quota program established before the date of the enactment of this Act.
10.Compliance with National Environmental Policy Act of 1969
(a)Plans deemed to comply with NEPA
(1)In generalTitle III is amended by adding at the end following:

315.Compliance with National Environmental Policy Act of 1969Any fishery management plan, amendment to such a plan, or regulation implementing such a plan that is prepared in accordance with applicable provisions of sections 303 and 304 is deemed to have been prepared in compliance with the requirements of section 102(2)(C) of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4332(2)(C))..
(2)Clerical amendmentThe table of contents in the first section is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 314 the following:

Sec. 315. Compliance with National Environmental Policy Act of 1969..
(b)Required fishery management plan provision; fishery impact statementSection 303(a)(9) (16 U.S.C. 1853(a)(9)) is amended to read as follows:

(9)include a fishery impact statement for the plan or amendment (in the case of a plan or amendment submitted to or prepared by the Secretary after the date of the enactment of the Fishery Management Amendments of 2006), that shall—
(A)assess, specify, and describe the likely effects, including the cumulative impacts, of the conservation and management measures on—
(i)the fisheries, participants in the fisheries, and fishery communities affected by the plan or amendment; and
(ii)on participants in the fisheries conducted in adjacent areas under the authority of another Council, after consultation with such Council and representatives of those participants;
(B)describe reasonable alternatives to the measures that were considered by the Council;
(C)assess, specify, and describe the likely effects, including the cumulative impacts, of such alternatives on the fisheries, participants in the fisheries, and fishery communities that would be affected by the alternatives; and
(D)include the Council’s evaluation of each such alternative;.
11.Grants for construction or repair of wharves and related facilities
(a)Authorization of grantsTitle III (16 U.S.C. 1851 et seq.) is further amended by adding at the end following:

317.Grants for construction or repair of wharves and related facilities
(a)In generalThe Secretary shall establish a program to award grants to State governments, local governments, nonprofit organizations, or fishing cooperatives to construct or improve wharves or other facilities in coastal areas for use in the commercial fishing industry.
(b)Project eligibilityIn determining whether to award a grant under this section for a project, the Secretary shall consider—
(1)the economic significance of the project to the commercial fishing industry in the area in which the project will be carried out; and
(2)whether a business plan or a harbor development plan exists for the area in which the project will be carried out, and whether the project is consistent with such plan.
(c)Cost sharing
(1)In generalThe amount of a grant awarded under this section to carry out a project may not exceed 75 percent of the total cost of a project.
(2)Non-federal shareThe non-Federal share of the cost of a project carried out with a grant under this section may be provided in cash or in kind, including by a donation of land.
(d)RegulationsThe Secretary shall issue regulations governing grants under this section, including—
(1)application requirements;
(2)eligibility standards;
(3)procedures for ensuring that projects are not converted to uses that are inconsistent with the purposes for which a grant is awarded; and
(4)allowable administrative costs.
(e)Authorization of appropriationsIn addition to the other amounts authorized by this Act, for grants under this section there is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary $10,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2007 through 2011..
(b)Clerical amendmentThe table of contents in the first section is further amended by inserting after the item relating to section 316 the following:

Sec. 317. Grants for construction or repair of wharves and related facilities..
12.Fishery science education program
(a)In generalThe Secretary of Commerce shall establish the Fishery Science Education Program, which shall consist of—
(1)the Centers for Fishery Science Excellence Program established under subsection (c); and
(2)the Fishery Science Scholars Program established under subsection (d).
(b)Program purposeThe purpose of the Fishery Science Education Program is to facilitate an increase in the number of persons with post-baccalaureate degrees in subjects related to fishery science, including fishery oceanography, fishery ecology, and fishery anthropology, who have the ability, upon completion of their post-baccalaureate degrees, to conduct high quality scientific research in fishery stock assessment, fishery population dynamics, and related fields, for government, non-profit, and private sector entities.
(c)Centers for Fishery Science Excellence Program
(1)In generalThe Secretary shall establish the Centers for Fishery Science Excellence Program, under which—
(A)such Centers shall be established in accordance with this subsection at institutions of higher education in States that are within Fishery Management Council regions; and
(B)at least one such Center shall be established in each Fishery Management Council region.
(2)PurposeThe purpose of the program is to promote the development of high quality post-baccalaureate level programs in subjects referred to in subsection (b) at institutions of higher education.
(3)EligibilityAn institution shall be eligible to participate in the program if—
(A)the institution is an institution of higher education that demonstrates a strong, ongoing commitment to high quality education in subjects referred to in subsection (b), including the granting of post-baccalaureate degrees in such fields; and
(B)the institution agrees to the establishment at the institution of a Center for Fishery Science Excellence, and to conduct the actions described in paragraph (4) and other actions the Secretary may prescribe by regulation as conditions for participation in the program.
(4)Conditions for participationThe Secretary shall require that each participating institution shall—
(A)designate one or more faculty members to manage its Center for Fishery Science Excellence;
(B)develop strategies for recruiting qualified students to participate in the program at such institution; and
(C)ensure that the courses of study pursued by participating students include a significant emphasis on subjects referred to in subsection (b).
(5)ApplicationEach institution desiring to participate in the Program under this subsection shall submit an application to the Secretary at such time, in such manner, and containing such information and assurances as the Secretary may require. If an institution’s application is approved, such institution shall be considered a participating institution for purposes of this subsection.
(6)Grants for institutions
(A)Grant authorityThe Secretary shall award competitive grants—
(i)to participating institutions to assist such institutions in program development, faculty development and training, participation in, or hosting, of conferences, or purchase of laboratory and research equipment; or
(ii)to institutions that are not participating institutions to assist such institutions in improving their existing post-baccalaureate programs in the subjects referred to in subsection (b) to a level that increases the likelihood of such institutions being eligible for future participation in the program.
(B)Match requirementAny institution receiving a grant under this paragraph shall be required to provide matching funds from non-Federal sources equal to 25 percent of the total cost of the activities that are funded by the grant.
(C)LimitationsFunds provided as a grant under this paragraph shall not be used for construction or for the payment of salaries, except that the Secretary may prescribe by regulation an allowable percentage of grant funds that may be used for payments to employees of a participating institution for administration of the program.
(D)ApplicationsAny institution of higher education that desires to apply for a grant under this paragraph shall prepare and submit to the Secretary an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require.
(d)Fishery Science Scholars Program
(1)In generalThe Secretary shall establish the Fishery Science Scholars Program.
(2)PurposeThe purpose of the program is to expand the post-baccalaureate educational opportunities available to students who desire to pursue careers as government, private sector, or nonprofit research scientists in the subjects referred to in subsection (b).
(3)Limitation on participationA maximum of 25 students per year shall be eligible to begin participation in the program, and no student shall be eligible to participate for more than 3 years.
(4)Eligibility
(A)In generalTo be eligible to participate in the program, a student must be admitted to a participating institution in a course of study that—
(i)leads to a post-baccalaureate degree in one of the subjects referred to in subsection (b); and
(ii)includes significant emphasis on subjects referred to in subsection (b).
(B)Remaining eligibleIn order to remain eligible to participate in the program, a student must maintain an acceptable level of academic standing, and demonstrate sufficient progress toward completing the post-baccalaureate studies and receiving a post-baccalaureate degree.
(5)StipendsEach participating student shall receive a stipend in the amount of $20,000 annually, contingent upon—
(A)remaining a student in good standing who is making satisfactory progress toward completing a course of post-baccalaureate studies described in paragraph (3)(A), and
(B)receiving a post-baccalaureate degree.
(6)ApplicationsA student who has been admitted to a participating institution to pursue a course of study leading to a post-baccalaureate degree as described in paragraph (3)(A), and who desires to participate in the Fishery Science Scholars Program, shall prepare and submit to the Secretary an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require.
(e)RegulationsThe Secretary shall issue such regulations as may be necessary to administer the Fishery Science Education Program, including—
(1)application procedures for students to apply for participation in the program and for stipends;
(2)application procedures for institutions to apply for participating status, and for grants;
(3)methods for assessing programs at institutions for the purpose of determining eligibility;
(4)a system of regular reviews of the programs at each school to ensure that the purposes of the program are being met;
(5)establishing an allowable level of administrative costs for the participating institutions;
(6)establishing allowable administrative expenditures for the management of the program by the Secretary;
(7)provisions for revoking participating institution status; and
(8)provisions for revoking participation in the program by individuals, including revocation of stipends.
(f)Institution of higher education definedIn this section, the term institution of higher education has the meaning given that term in section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001).
(g)Authorization of AppropriationsTo carry out this section there are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary—
(1)$1,000,000 for fiscal year 2006;
(2)$2,000,000 for fiscal year 2007; and
(3)$3,000,000 for fiscal year 2008 and each fiscal year thereafter.
13.Authorization of Appropriations
(a)In generalSection 4 (16 U.S.C. 1803) is amended to read as follows:

4.Authorization of appropriationsThere are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary for the purposes of carrying out this Act (other than any provision for which amounts are otherwise specifically authorized) such sums as are necessary for each of fiscal years 2007 through 2011. .
(b)Clerical amendmentThe table of contents in the first section is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 3 the following:

Sec. 4. Authorization of appropriations..


IV
111th CONGRESS
2d Session
H. RES. 1418
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

May 28, 2010
Mr. Cantor (for himself and Mr. Ross) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce

RESOLUTION
Expressing support for increasing awareness of craniofacial anomalies.

Whereas there are 100,000 children born each year in the United States with a craniofacial anomaly affecting the head, neck, extremities, or organs;
Whereas craniofacial treatment will often last from infancy to adulthood;
Whereas it is not uncommon for one to undergo multiple surgeries before reaching adulthood;
Whereas most craniofacial conditions affect individuals and their families physically, mentally, and socially;
Whereas in the past 30 years, many medical procedures have been developed to help improve the quality of life for those affected by craniofacial anomalies;
Whereas the number of physicians specializing in treating these rare and complex conditions is very small; and
Whereas many groups have developed to help advocate on the behalf of those with craniofacial anomalies and to encourage greater acceptance and support of individuals with craniofacial anomalies: Now, therefore, be it

That the House of Representatives supports—
(1)increasing public awareness and acceptance of those living with craniofacial anomalies; and
(2)promoting continued development of groundbreaking research and medical procedures for individuals living with craniofacial anomalies.


 S2673 ENR: United States-Israel Strategic Partnership Act of 2014
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 Thirteenth 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
			 fourteenS. 2673IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATESAN ACTTo enhance the strategic partnership between the United States and Israel.1.Short
			 titleThis Act may be cited as
			 the United States-Israel Strategic Partnership Act of 2014.2.FindingsCongress makes the following
			 findings:(1)The people and the Governments of the
			 United States and of Israel share a deep and unbreakable bond, forged by
			 over
			 60
			 years of shared interests and shared values.(2)Today, the people and Governments of the
			 United States and of Israel are facing a dynamic and rapidly changing
			 security
			 environment in the Middle East and North Africa, necessitating deeper
			 cooperation on a range of defense, security, and intelligence matters.(3)From Gaza, Hamas continues to deny Israel’s
			 right to exist and persists in firing rockets indiscriminately at
			 population
			 centers in Israel.(4)Hezbollah—with support from Iran—continues
			 to stockpile rockets and may be seeking to exploit the tragic and volatile
			 security situation within Syria.(5)The Government of Iran continues to pose a
			 grave threat to the region and the world at large with its reckless
			 pursuit of
			 nuclear weapons.(6)Given these challenges, it is imperative
			 that the United States continues to deepen cooperation with allies like
			 Israel
			 in pursuit of shared policy objectives.3.Statement of
			 policyIt is the policy of the
			 United States—(1)to reaffirm the unwavering support of the
			 people and the Government of the United States for the security of Israel
			 as a
			 Jewish state;(2)to reaffirm the principles and objectives
			 enshrined in the United States-Israel Enhanced Security Cooperation Act of
			 2012
			 (Public Law 112–150) and ensure its implementation to the fullest
			 extent;(3)to reaffirm the importance of the 2007
			 United States-Israel Memorandum of Understanding on United States
			 assistance to
			 Israel and the semi-annual Strategic Dialogue between the United States
			 and
			 Israel;(4)to pursue every opportunity to deepen
			 cooperation with Israel on a range of critical issues including defense,
			 homeland security, energy, and cybersecurity;(5)to continue to provide Israel with robust
			 security assistance, including for the procurement of the Iron Dome
			 Missile Defense System; and(6)to support the Government of Israel in its
			 ongoing efforts to reach a negotiated political settlement with the
			 Palestinian
			 people that results in two states living side-by-side in peace and
			 security.4.Sense of
			 Congress on Israel as a major strategic partnerIt is the sense of Congress that Israel is a
			 major strategic partner of the United States.5.Extension of war
			 reserves stockpile authority(a)Department of
			 Defense Appropriations Act, 2005Section 12001(d) of the
			 Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2005 (Public Law 108–287; 118
			 Stat.
			 1011) is amended by striking more than 10 years after and
			 inserting more than 11 years after.(b)Foreign
			 Assistance Act of 1961Section 514(b)(2)(A) of the Foreign
			 Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2321h(b)(2)(A)) is amended by striking
			 and 2014 and inserting , 2014, and 2015.6.Eligibility of
			 Israel for the strategic trade authorization exception to certain export
			 control licensing requirements(a)FindingsCongress
			 finds that Israel—(1)has adopted high standards in the field of export controls;(2)has declared its unilateral adherence to the
			 Missile Technology Control Regime, the Australia Group, and the Nuclear
			 Suppliers Group; and(3)is a party
			 to—(A)the Convention on
			 Prohibitions or Restrictions on the Use of Certain Conventional Weapons
			 which
			 may be Deemed to be Excessively Injurious or to Have Indiscriminate
			 Effects,
			 signed at Geneva October 10, 1980;(B)the Protocol for
			 the Prohibition of the Use in War of Asphyxiating, Poisonous or Other
			 Gases,
			 and of Bacteriological Methods of Warfare, signed at Geneva June 17, 1925;
			 and(C)the Convention on
			 the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material, adopted at Vienna on October
			 26,
			 1979.(b)Eligibility for
			 strategic trade authorization exceptionThe President, consistent with the commitments of the United States under international
			 arrangements, shall take steps so that Israel may be included in the list
			 of countries eligible for
			 the
			 strategic trade authorization exception under section 740.20(c)(1) of
			 title 15,
			 Code of Federal Regulations, to the requirement for a license for the
			 export,
			 reexport, or in-country transfer of an item subject to controls under the
			 Export Administration Regulations.7.United States-Israel cooperation on energy, water, homeland security, agriculture, and alternative
			 fuel technologies(a)In
			 generalThe President is
			 authorized, subject to existing law—(1)to undertake activities in cooperation with Israel; and(2)to
			 provide assistance promoting cooperation in the fields of energy, water,
			 agriculture, and alternative fuel technologies.(b)RequirementsIn carrying out subsection (a), the
			 President is authorized, subject to existing requirements of law and any
			 applicable agreements or understandings between the United States and
			 Israel—(1)to share and exchange with Israel research,
			 technology,
			 intelligence, information, equipment, and personnel, including through
			 sales, leases, or exchanges in kind, that the President
			 determines will advance the national security interests of the United
			 States
			 and are consistent with the Strategic Dialogue and pertinent provisions of
			 law; and(2)to enhance scientific cooperation between
			 Israel and the United States.(c)Cooperative research pilot programsThe Secretary of Homeland Security, acting through the Director of the Homeland Security Advanced
			 Research Projects Agency and with the concurrence of the Secretary of
			 State, is authorized, subject to existing law, to enter
			 into cooperative research pilot programs with Israel to enhance Israel’s
			 capabilities in—(1)border, maritime, and aviation security;(2)explosives detection; and(3)emergency services.8.Report on
			 increased United States-Israel cooperation on cybersecurityNot later than 180
			 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the President shall
			 submit to
			 Congress a report, in a classified format or including a classified annex,
			 as appropriate, on the feasibility and advisability of expanding United
			 States-Israeli cooperation on cyber issues, including
			 sharing and advancing technologies related to the prevention of
			 cybercrimes.9.Statement of policy regarding the Visa Waiver ProgramIt shall be the policy of the United States to include Israel in the list of countries that
			 participate in the visa waiver program under section 217 of the
			 Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1187) when Israel satisfies, and
			 as long as Israel continues to satisfy, the requirements for inclusion in
			 such program specified in such section.10.Status of
			 implementation of section 4 of the United States-Israel Enhanced Security
			 Cooperation Act of 2012Not
			 later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the
			 President
			 shall, to the extent practicable and in an appropriate manner, provide an
			 update to the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate, the
			 Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives, the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate, and  the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives on current and future efforts undertaken by the President to fulfill the
			 objectives of section 4 of the United States-Israel Enhanced Security
			 Cooperation Act (22 U.S.C. 8603).11.Improved reporting on enhancing Israel’s qualitative military edge and security posture(a)Biennial assessment reevaluationsSection 201(c) of the Naval Vessel Transfer Act of 2008 (22 U.S.C. 2776 note) is amended by adding
			 at the end the following:(3)Biennial updatesTwo years after the date on which each quadrennial report is transmitted to Congress, the
			 President shall—(A)reevaluate the assessment required under subsection (a); and(B)inform	and consult with the appropriate congressional committees on the results of the
			 reevaluation conducted pursuant to subparagraph (A)..(b)Certification requirements for major defense equipmentSection 36(h) of the Arms Export Control Act (22 U.S.C. 2776(h)) is amended—(1)by redesignating paragraph (2) as paragraph (3); and(2)by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:(2)Requirements with respect to determination for major defense equipmentA determination under paragraph (1) relating to the sale or export of major defense equipment
			 shall include—(A)a detailed explanation of Israel’s capacity to address the improved capabilities provided by such
			 sale or export;(B)a detailed evaluation of—(i)how such sale or export alters the strategic and tactical balance in the region, including relative
			 capabilities; and(ii)Israel’s capacity to respond to the improved regional capabilities provided by such sale or export;(C)an identification of any specific new capacity, capabilities, or training that Israel may require
			 to address the regional or country-specific capabilities provided by such
			 sale or export; and(D)a description of any additional United States security assurances to Israel made, or requested to
			 be made, in connection with, or as a result of, such sale or export..12.United States-Israel energy cooperation(a)FindingsSection 917(a) of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (42 U.S.C. 17337(a)) is amended—(1)in paragraph (1), by striking renewable and inserting covered;(2)in paragraph (4)—(A)by striking possible many and inserting “possible—(A)many; and(B)by adding at the end the following: “and(B)significant contributions to the development of renewable energy and energy efficiency through the
			 established programs of the United States-Israel Binational Industrial
			 Research and Development Foundation and the United States-Israel
			 Binational Science Foundation;;(3)in paragraph (6)—(A)by striking renewable and inserting covered; and(B)by striking and at the end;(4)in paragraph (7)—(A)by striking renewable and inserting covered; and(B)by striking the period at the end and inserting a semicolon; and(5)by adding at the end the following:(8)United States-Israel energy cooperation and the development of natural resources by Israel are
			 in the strategic interest of the United States;(9)Israel is a strategic partner of the United States in water technology;(10)the United States can play a role in assisting Israel with regional safety and security issues;(11)the National Science Foundation of the United States, to the extent consistent with the National
			 Science Foundation’s mission, should collaborate with the Israel Science
			 Foundation and the United States-Israel Binational Science Foundation;(12)the United States and Israel should strive to develop more robust academic cooperation in—(A)energy innovation technology and engineering;(B)water science;(C)technology transfer; and(D)analysis of emerging geopolitical implications, crises and threats from foreign natural resource
			 and energy acquisitions, and the development of domestic resources as a
			 response;(13)the United States supports the goals of the Alternative Fuels Administration of Israel
			 with respect to expanding the use of alternative fuels;(14)the United States strongly urges open dialogue and continued mechanisms for regular engagement and
			 encourages further cooperation between applicable departments, agencies,
			 ministries, institutions of higher education, and the private sector of
			 the United States and Israel on energy security issues, including—(A)identifying policy priorities associated with the development of natural resources of Israel;(B)discussing and sharing best practices to secure cyber energy infrastructure and other energy
			 security matters;(C)leveraging natural gas to positively impact regional stability;(D)issues relating to the energy-water nexus, including improving energy efficiency and the overall
			 performance of water technologies through research and development in
			 water desalination, wastewater treatment and reclamation, water treatment
			 in gas and oil production processes, and other water treatment refiners;(E)technical and environmental management of deep-water exploration and production;(F)emergency response and coastal protection and restoration;(G)academic outreach and engagement;(H)private sector and business development engagement;(I)regulatory consultations;(J)leveraging alternative transportation fuels and technologies; and(K)any other areas determined appropriate by the United States and Israel;(15)the United States—(A)acknowledges the achievements and importance of the Binational Industrial Research and Development
			 Foundation and the United States-Israel Binational Science Foundation; and(B)supports continued multiyear funding to ensure the continuity of the programs of the foundations
			 specified in subparagraph (A); and(16)the United States and Israel have a shared interest in addressing immediate, near-term, and
			 long-term energy, energy poverty, energy independence, and environmental
			 challenges facing the United States and
			 Israel, respectively..(b)Grant programSection 917(b) of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (42 U.S.C. 17337(b)(1)) is
			 amended—(1)in paragraph (1), by striking renewable energy or energy efficiency and inserting covered energy;(2)in paragraph (2)—(A)in subparagraph (F), by striking and at the end;(B)in subparagraph (G), by striking the period at the end and inserting a semicolon; and(C)by adding at the end the following:(H)natural gas energy, including conventional and unconventional natural gas technologies and other
			 associated technologies, and natural gas projects conducted by or in
			 conjunction with the United States-Israel Binational Science Foundation
			 and the United States-Israel Binational Industrial Research and
			 Development Foundation; and(I)improvement of energy efficiency and the overall performance of water technologies through research
			 and development in water desalination, wastewater treatment and
			 reclamation, and other water treatment refiners.; and(3)in paragraph (3)(A), by striking energy efficiency or renewable and inserting covered.(c)International partnerships; regional energy cooperation(1)International partnershipsSection 917 of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (42 U.S.C. 17337) is amended—(A)by striking subsection (d);(B)by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (e);(C)by inserting after subsection (b) the following:(c)International partnerships(1)In generalThe Secretary, subject to the availability of appropriations, may enter into cooperative
			 agreements supporting and enhancing dialogue and planning involving
			 international partnerships between the Department, including National
			 Laboratories of the Department, and the Government of Israel and its
			 ministries, offices, and institutions.(2)Federal shareThe Secretary may not pay more than 50 percent of Federal share of the costs of implementing
			 cooperative agreements
			 entered into pursuant to paragraph (1).(3)Annual reportsIf the Secretary enters into agreements authorized by paragraph (1), the Secretary shall submit an
			 annual report to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate, the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate, the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate, the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives, the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives, the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives, and the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives that describes—(A)actions taken to implement such agreements; and(B)any projects undertaken pursuant to such agreements.(d)United States-Israel energy centerThe Secretary may establish a joint United States-Israel Energy Center in the United States
			 leveraging the experience, knowledge, and expertise of institutions of
			 higher education and entities in the private sector, among others, in
			 offshore energy
			 development to further dialogue and collaboration to develop more robust
			 academic cooperation in energy innovation technology and engineering,
			 water science, technology transfer, and analysis of emerging geopolitical
			 implications, crises and threats from foreign natural resource and energy
			 acquisitions, and the development of domestic resources as a response.; and(D)in subsection (e), as redesignated, by striking the date that is 7 years after the date of enactment of this Act and inserting September 30, 2024.(2)Constructive regional energy cooperationThe Secretary of State shall continue the ongoing diplomacy efforts of the Secretary of State in—(A)engaging and supporting the energy security of Israel; and(B)promoting constructive regional energy cooperation in the Eastern Mediterranean.Speaker of the House of RepresentativesVice President of the United States and President of the Senate


		II
		112th Congress
		1st Session
		S. 1561
		IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES

			September 15, 2011
			Ms. Stabenow (for
			 herself, Mr. Thune,
			 Mr. Brown of Ohio,
			 Mr. Bennet, Mr.
			 Wyden, Mr. Coons,
			 Mr. Blunt, Mr.
			 Cochran, and Mr. Inhofe)
			 introduced the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the
			 Committee on
			 Finance

		A BILL
		To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide for
		  the deductibility of charitable contributions to agricultural research
		  organizations, and for other purposes.

		1.Short
			 titleThis Act may be cited as
			 the Charitable Agricultural Research
			 Act.
		2.Deductibility of
			 charitable contributions to agricultural research organizations
			(a)In
			 generalSubparagraph (A) of section 170(b)(1) of the Internal
			 Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by striking or at the end of
			 clause (vii), by striking the comma at the end of clause (viii) and inserting
			 , or, and by inserting after clause (viii) the following new
			 clause:

					(ix)an agricultural
				research organization directly engaged in the continuous active conduct of
				agricultural research (as defined in section 1404 of the Agricultural Research,
				Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977) in conjunction with a land-grant
				college or university (as defined in such section) or a non-land grant college
				of agriculture (as defined in such section), and during the calendar year in
				which the contribution is made such organization is committed to spend such
				contribution for such research before January 1 of the fifth calendar year
				which begins after the date such contribution is
				made,
					.
			(b)Expenditures To
			 influence legislationParagraph (4) of section 501(h) of the
			 Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by redesignating subparagraphs (E) and
			 (F) as subparagraphs (F) and (G), respectively, and by inserting after
			 subparagraph (D) the following new subparagraph:

					(E)section
				170(b)(1)(A)(ix) (relating to agricultural research
				organizations),
					.
			(c)Effective
			 dateThe amendments made by this section shall apply to
			 contributions made on and after the date of the enactment of this Act.


		II
		111th CONGRESS
		1st Session
		S. 1227
		IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES

			June 10, 2009
			Mr. DeMint (for himself,
			 Mr. Wicker, Mr.
			 Bunning, and Mr. Vitter)
			 introduced the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the
			 Committee on Health, Education, Labor,
			 and Pensions

		A BILL
		To amend the National Labor Relations Act to protect
		  employer rights.

		1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the
			 Truth in Employment Act of
			 2009.
		2.FindingsCongress finds that:
			(1)An atmosphere of
			 trust and civility in labor-management relationships is essential to a
			 productive workplace and a healthy economy.
			(2)The tactic of
			 using professional union organizers and agents to infiltrate a targeted
			 employer's workplace, a practice commonly referred to as
			 salting, has evolved into an aggressive form of harassment not
			 contemplated when the National Labor Relations Act was enacted and threatens
			 the balance of rights which is fundamental to the system of collective
			 bargaining of the United States.
			(3)Increasingly,
			 union organizers are seeking employment with nonunion employers not because of
			 a desire to work for such employers but primarily to organize the employees of
			 such employers or to inflict economic harm specifically designed to put
			 nonunion competitors out of business, or to do both.
			(4)While no employer
			 may discriminate against employees based upon the views of employees concerning
			 collective bargaining, an employer should have the right to expect job
			 applicants to be primarily interested in utilizing the skills of the applicants
			 to further the goals of the business of the employer.
			3.PurposesThe purposes of this Act are—
			(1)to preserve the
			 balance of rights between employers, employees, and labor organizations which
			 is fundamental to the system of collective bargaining of the United
			 States;
			(2)to preserve the
			 rights of workers to organize, or otherwise engage in concerted activities
			 protected under the National Labor Relations Act; and
			(3)to alleviate
			 pressure on employers to hire individuals who seek or gain employment in order
			 to disrupt the workplace of the employer or otherwise inflict economic harm
			 designed to put the employer out of business.
			4.Protection of
			 employer rightsSection 8(a)
			 of the National Labor Relations Act (29 U.S.C. 158(a)) is amended by adding
			 after and below paragraph (5) the following:

				Nothing
				in this subsection shall be construed as requiring an employer to employ any
				person who seeks or has sought employment with the employer in furtherance of
				other employment or agency
				status..


114 HR 3285 IH: Reducing Disparities Using Care Models and Education Act of 2015
U.S. House of Representatives
2015-07-29
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.

		I
		114th CONGRESS
		1st Session
		H. R. 3285
		IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

			July 29, 2015
			Mr. Pascrell (for himself, Mr. Cohen, Mr. Capuano, Ms. Linda T. Sánchez of California, Mr. Larson of Connecticut, Mr. Danny K. Davis of Illinois, Mr. Grijalva, Ms. Brown of Florida, Ms. Michelle Lujan Grisham of New Mexico, Mr. Bishop of Georgia, Mr. David Scott of Georgia, Mr. Honda, Mr. Payne, Ms. Judy Chu of California, Mr. Takai, Mr. Rangel, Mr. Pocan, Ms. Lee, Mr. Gutiérrez, Mr. Ellison, and Mr. Thompson of California) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, 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 provide for a study by the Institute of Medicine on health disparities, to direct the Secretary
			 of Health and Human Services to develop guidelines on reducing health
			 disparities, and for other purposes.

 1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the Reducing Disparities Using Care Models and Education Act of 2015. 2.FindingsThe Congress finds as follows:
 (1)The infant death rate among African-Americans is more than double that of Whites. (2)The death rate for all cancers is 30-percent higher for African-Americans than for Whites; for prostate cancer, it is more than double that for Whites.
 (3)Black women have a higher death rate from breast cancer despite having a mammography screening rate that is nearly the same as the rate for White women.
 (4)In 2013, Asian-Americans and Pacific Islanders were the only racial group where cancer was the number one cause of death. Asian-Americans have the lowest screening rates for breast (64.1 percent), cervical (75.4 percent), and colorectal (46.9 percent) cancer, compared to all other racial groups; the cervical cancer rate for Vietnamese-American women is five times higher than for non-Hispanic Whites.
 (5)Diabetes incidence is highest among Native Americans, at 15.9 percent, followed by 13.2 percent for African-Americans, 12.8 percent for Hispanics, 9.0 percent for Asians, and 7.6 percent for Whites. In 2012, the percentage of Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders with diabetes was nearly two times higher than that of Whites.
 (6)New cases of hepatitis and tuberculosis are higher in Asians and Pacific Islanders living in the United States than in Whites. Half of all persons living with hepatitis B in the United States are Asian-American.
 (7)Individuals in same-sex couples were more likely than individuals in different-sex couples to report a delay in getting necessary prescriptions.
 (8)Infants born to Black women are 1.5 to 3 times more likely to die than those born to women of other races or ethnicities, and American Indian and Alaska Native infants die from sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) at nearly 2.5 times the rate of White infants.
 (9)Low-income children have higher rates of mortality (even with the same condition), have higher rates of disability, and are more likely to have multiple conditions.
 (10)White children are half as likely as Black and Latino children not to be in excellent or very good health.
 (11)As of 2012, 38.9 percent of United States adults were obese, with the highest rate among African-Americans at 47.9 percent, followed by Hispanics at 42.5 percent, Whites at 32.6 percent, and Asians at 10.8 percent. Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders are 30-percent more likely to be obese than non-Hispanic Whites. Lack of disaggregated data among Asians can mask differences in the burden of obesity among ethnic groups.
 (12)The risk of stroke is twice as high for African-Americans as for Whites, and African-Americans are more likely to die of stroke. Other ethnic minorities also have higher risk than Whites. Overall, strokes are most prevalent in the Southeast United States, and less so in the Northeast.
 (13)African-Americans accounted for 44 percent of all those infected with HIV, despite being only 12 percent of the United States population.
 (14)Black men who have sex with men (MSM) ages 13 to 24 had the most new infections among youth. (15)Asian-Americans have the lowest rate of testing for HIV, with only four in 10 having ever been tested; Asian-American and Pacific Islander women have the lowest proportion (17.2 percent) of having ever been tested for HIV compared to other races.
 (16)Globally, transgender women are 49 times more likely to acquire HIV than the general population; in the United States, transgender women are 34 times more likely than the general population.
 (17)One study found that among heterosexuals living in the same urban community, those below the poverty line were twice as likely to contract human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
 (18)Persons with less than a high school diploma (6.7 percent) and high school graduates (4.0 percent) were more likely to report major depression than those with at least some college education (2.5 percent).
 (19)Only about 10 percent of physicians practice in rural America despite the fact that nearly one-fourth of the population lives in these areas.
 (20)Rural residents are less likely to have employer-provided health care coverage or prescription drug coverage, and the rural poor are less likely to be covered by Medicaid benefits than their urban counterparts.
 (21)Twenty percent of nonmetropolitan counties lack mental health services versus 5 percent of metropolitan counties.
 (22)Forty-one percent of transgender people have reported attempting suicide compared to 1.6 percent of the general population.
 (23)Fifteen percent of persons with disabilities report not seeing a doctor due to cost in comparison to 6 percent of the general population.
 (24)Nineteen percent of transgender people have been refused medical care because of their gender identity. Twenty-eight percent have been harassed in a doctor’s office.
 (25)More than 20 percent of the United States population speaks a language other than English at home. Among Asian-Americans, 32 percent are limited English proficient, meaning they speak English less than very well or not at all. Lack of linguistically accessible care presents health access challenges and can contribute to disparities for limited English speakers.
			3.Institute of Medicine study
 (a)In generalNot later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall enter into an arrangement with the Institute of Medicine under which the Institute agrees to study—
 (1)the extent of health disparities in the type and quality of preventive interventions, health services, and outcomes in all populations, including children, in the United States;
 (2)the factors that may contribute to inequities in such disparities; (3)existing programs and policies intended to reduce such disparities;
 (4)best practices and successful strategies in programs that aim to reduce such disparities; (5)priorities for successful intervention programs targeting such disparities; and
 (6)potential opportunities for expanding or replicating such programs. (b)ReportThe arrangement under subsection (a) shall provide for submission by the Institute of Medicine to the Secretary and Congress, not later than 20 months after the date of enactment of this Act, of a report on the results of the study.
			4.Guidelines for development and implementation of Health Disparities Reduction Programs and
			 Activities
 (a)GuidelinesNot later than 90 days after the submission of the report described in section 3(b), and taking such report into consideration, the Secretary shall develop guidelines for entities to develop and implement programs and activities to reduce health disparities in all populations, including children.
 (b)Use by HHSThe Secretary shall, where appropriate, incorporate the use of the guidelines developed under subsection (a) into the programs and activities of the Department of Health and Human Services.
			(c)Grants for disparities reduction activities
 (1)In generalThe Secretary may award grants to entities for the development and implementation of programs and activities to reduce health disparities in all populations, including children, in accordance with the guidelines described in subsection (a).
 (2)ApplicationsTo seek a grant under this subsection, an entity shall submit an application to the Secretary at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require.
 (3)Minimum contentsThe Secretary shall require that an application for a grant under this subsection contains at a minimum—
 (A)a description of the population and public health concern the program will target and an outreach plan to ensure that the most in need populations will benefit;
 (B)a description of the strategies the entity will use— (i)to develop and implement its programs and activities in accordance with the guidelines developed under subsection (a); and
 (ii)to make the interventions sustainable; and (C)an agreement by the entities to periodically provide data with respect to—
 (i)the population served; (ii)improvements in reducing health disparities; and
 (iii)effectiveness of the interventions used. (d)AppropriationsTo carry out this section, there are authorized to be appropriated $5,000,000 for fiscal year 2017 and such sums as may be necessary for each of fiscal years 2018 through 2021.
			5.Testing alternative payment and delivery models to reduce health disparities
 (a)In generalThe Secretary acting through the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation under section 1115A of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1315a) shall provide for the testing of a payment and service delivery model that includes incentives for reducing health disparities in all populations, including children, consistent with the cost and quality criteria otherwise applicable to the testing of models under such section.
 (b)Documentation requirement for model testingIn carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary shall require that an application to conduct such testing of such a model include at least—
 (1)documentation of at least one health disparity targeted for reduction; (2)a root-cause analysis of the health disparity targeted for reduction;
 (3)identification and selection of performance targets for such reduction; (4)a proposal to make payments in some way contingent on a reduction in health disparities; and
 (5)a reliable method for monitoring progress in achieving such a reduction. 6.DefinitionsIn this Act:
 (1)The term health disparity means significant disparity in the overall rate of disease incidence, prevalence, morbidity, mortality, or survival rates in a population as compared to the health status of the general population.
 (2)The term intervention means an activity taken by an entity on behalf of individuals or populations to reduce health disparities.
 (3)The term Secretary means the Secretary of Health and Human Services.


111 HR 212 IH: Bonus Depreciation Extension Act of 2009
U.S. House of Representatives
2009-01-06
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
		111th CONGRESS
		1st Session
		H. R. 212
		IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

			January 6, 2009
			Mr. Wilson of South
			 Carolina introduced the following bill; which was referred to the
			 Committee on Ways and
			 Means

		A BILL
		To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend
		  bonus depreciation for 2 years.

		1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the
			 Bonus Depreciation Extension Act of
			 2009.
		2.Two-year
			 extension of bonus depreciation
			(a)In
			 generalParagraph (2) of section 168(k) of the Internal Revenue
			 Code of 1986 is amended—
				(1)by striking
			 January 1, 2010 and inserting January 1, 2012,
			 and
				(2)by striking
			 January 1, 2009 and inserting January 1,
			 2011.
				(b)New York Liberty
			 ZoneThe last sentence of section 1400L(b)(2)(A) of such Code is
			 amended by striking December 31, 2006 (December 31, 2009 and
			 inserting December 31, 2008 (December 31, 2011.
			(c)Conforming
			 amendments
				(1)The heading for
			 subsection (k) of section 168 of such Code is amended by striking
			 January 1,
			 2009 and inserting January 1, 2011.
				(2)The heading for
			 clause (ii) of section 168(k)(2)(B) of such Code is amended by striking
			 pre-January 1,
			 2009 and inserting pre-January 1, 2011.
				(3)Section
			 168(l)(5)(B) of such Code is amended by striking January 1, 2009
			 and inserting January 1, 2011.
				(4)Subparagraph
			 1400N(d)(3) of such Code is amended by striking January 1, 2009
			 and inserting January 1, 2011.
				(d)Effective
			 dateThe amendments made by this section shall apply to property
			 placed in service after December 31, 2009.


114 HR 943 IH: Medicare Employer Relief Act of 2015
U.S. House of Representatives
2015-02-12
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. 943
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

February 12, 2015
Mr. Lewis (for himself and Mr. Reichert) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, 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 amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to repeal the requirement for employer disclosure of information on health care coverage of employees who are Medicare beneficiaries, and for other purposes.

1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the Medicare Employer Relief Act of 2015. 2.Repealing section 1862(b)(5) of the Social Security Act (a)In generalSection 1862(b) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395y(b)) is amended by striking paragraph (5).
(b)Effective dateThe amendment made by subsection (a) shall take effect on the date of the enactment of this Act and shall apply to information required to be provided on or after January 1, 2016.


		III
		111th CONGRESS
		2d Session
		S. RES. 502
		IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES

			April 27, 2010
			Mr. Wyden (for himself
			 and Mr. Grassley) submitted the following
			 resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Rules and
			 Administration

		RESOLUTION
		Eliminating secret Senate holds.

		1.Eliminating secret Senate
			 holdsRule VII of the Standing
			 Rules of the Senate is amended by adding at the end the following:

				7.
				(a)The majority and minority leaders of the Senate or their
				designees shall recognize a notice of intent of a Senator who is a member of
				their caucus to object to proceeding to a measure or matter only if the
				Senator—
					(1)submits the
				notice of intent in writing to the appropriate leader or their designee and
				grants in the notice permission for the leader or designee to object in the
				Senator’s name; and
					(2)not later than 2
				session days after the submission under clause (1), submits for inclusion in
				the Congressional Record and in the applicable calendar section described in
				subparagraph (b) the following notice:
					I,
				Senator ___, intend to object to proceeding to ___, dated ___..
				(b)The Secretary of
				the Senate shall maintain for both the Senate Calendar of Business and the
				Senate Executive Calendar a separate section entitled Notices of Intent
				to Object to Proceeding. Each section shall include the name of each
				Senator filing a notice under subparagraph (a)(2), the measure or matter
				covered by the calendar that the Senator objects to, and the date the objection
				was filed.
				(c)A Senator may
				have an item relating to that Senator removed from a calendar to which it was
				added under subparagraph (b) by submitting for inclusion in the Congressional
				Record the following notice:
				I,
				Senator ___, do not object to proceeding to ____, dated
				____..
				.